children's books

April 16, 2016

Mrs. G

Save Money on Toys & Books with Groupon Coupons!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post by Groupon Coupons. All opinions expressed are my own.

I recently downsized my kids toy collection since it was starting to get out of hand, especially the amount of battery operated toys. Ugh! Now that we’ve minimized, my goal is to find a way to have toys without having the toys take over the house. I love seeing toys around the house here and there because I know this stage is fleeting. I like my children to feel that the house is a place to play and have fun, however, I don’t want the toys to be out of control and nearly impossible to clean up.

After getting rid of so many toys, I purchased some educational toy replacements including many books. And since I love saving money, Groupon Coupons was my go-to website for finding the best deals on both books and educational toys.

There’s no doubt that many people have saved an impressive amount of money by using Groupon Coupons. It’s a treasure trove for savings on all sorts of items and services. You can save anywhere from 10 – 50% or more on items like: toys, books, clothing, restaurant discounts and more! The best part? It’s totally FREE!

From the Groupon Coupons website you can check out the best offers of the day. After that, you can start a search for the exact item(s) that you need either by category or store. Right now Barnes & Noble has a coupon for 15% off any one item and Melissa & Doug is offering up to 20% off arts & crafts items.

Here are some of my favorite retailers that have great deals:

If your kids’ toy situation is out of control and you want to get a handle on it, why not turn it into a spring cleaning project? Replace all of those battery-operated toys or ones they’ve outgrown with some good quality toys by taking advantage of the amazing deals that Groupon Coupons offers. Happy purging and shopping!

Connect with Groupon Coupons!
Facebook | Twitter

Your turn: Do you ever use Groupon Coupons to save money and pay for toys, books or everyday necessities? Feel free to share in the comments.

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Connecticut

April 14, 2016

Mrs. G

Passport to Connecticut Libraries Week 2

Happy National Library Week! Last week Mother Nature wasn’t on our side. We experienced sun, wind, rain, and snow all in one week. I still can’t believe we had snow in April! Despite the weather, we made it to 10 libraries around the state one of which ended up being an unexpected new addition from our original list.

This week the weather has been much more favorable which has been great since we didn’t get to go to any of the outdoor parks or destinations I had lined up for last week. That’s ok though because summer is right around the corner so there will be plenty of opportunities to explore those parks and many more in the coming months.

Here are the libraries we plan to visit during the second week of the Passport to Connecticut Libraries Program:

~~Meriden Public Library (Meriden)~~
~~Berlin-Peck Memorial Library (Berlin)~~
~~Windsor Public Library (Windsor)~~
~~Wallingford Public Library (Wallingford)~~

Since my daughter is on spring break from school this week we have other activities planned so we’ll just be visiting the individual libraries without going to any kid-friendly places afterwards. I’ll be sure to have some additional kid-friendly places to visit around the state for weeks 3 and 4. We have a special outing planned for the last week in April that I’m really looking forward to sharing with you. Stay tuned!

Enjoy a few highlights from our travels last week below.

Your turn: If you live in Connecticut, have you also been participating in this wonderful program? Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews

April 14, 2016

Mrs. G

Miles & Mia A to Z: A Book Review

Miles & Mia A to Z by Michaela Alexander
Pages: 40
Recommended for children ages: birth to 7 years old

Synopsis
Miles & Mia A to Z is an educational, picture book that teaches children different letters of the alphabet in a fun way. Featuring rhyming text and colorful original illustrations, Miles & Mia A to Z is sure to delight children of all ages as well as parents.

Reflection
I first learned about this book from my favorite social media platform, Instagram. I literally could not wait for it to be released so I could read it with my kids and share it with my readers! Now that I finally received my copy in the mail I can tell you all about it.

First off, let me acknowledge the author and illustrator of this book for penning an alphabet book that features Black children. Although I read a variety of different books with my kids, I get the most enjoyment from seeing their eyes light up when they see characters in books that they can relate to who look like them.

When I showed this book to the kids for the first time they both looked at the book cover and said, “That’s me!” That truly made my heart sing and actually tear up a little bit because I’m so happy they have the opportunity to see diverse characters being represented in children’s books. That’s something I never had growing up as a child.

Miles & Mia A to Z is such a a fun and adorable rhyming book! Not only does it teach children the letters of the alphabet, but it also incorporates additional learning and some great vocabulary words for little readers like: guava, hummingbird, sushi, and zephyrosaurus. The illustrations are so lively and colorful and show Miles & Mia experiencing a variety of things from sailing on a pirate ship to traveling to the planet Neptune in outer space.

I also appreciate the fact that this book was shipped in such high quality and durable packaging. The customer service and attention to detail are impeccable! We received a personal signed copy addressed to both of my children and some cute little Miles & Mia stickers that my kids adore! I love it when companies take the initiative to go the extra mile for their customers and add their own personal touch.

I think this book is a definite must have alphabet book for your child’s home library, especially for little readers from diverse backgrounds. To me, there is something so magical about a child seeing themselves being represented in books which in turns helps them to establish a lifelong love of reading. Pick this one up for your little bookworms! Order your copy here!

About Miles & Mia

Born out of a love of stories, young Miles & Mia are the inspiration for the Miles & Mia collective of tales, based on their adventures of growing up in London, UK.

Meet Miles, a smart six year-old that loves to play football and being outdoors. Miles says that running around at the football match means he is helping himself to grow healthy and strong. When he is not kicking a ball about, Miles loves geography and learning about the history of the world. Every country is his favorite, he says, and he hopes he can visit many places and write about them when he grows up.

Miles’ partner-in-adventure is his little sister, Mia. Four years old and full of energy, which is definitely needed as it helps keep her on her, dancing toes at ballet club. Mia also loves to sing and draw and made sure that she wore her favorite black and white stripy tights in every Miles & Mia adventure as they make her dance and run faster, she says!

Together, this close sibling duo along with their Pomeranian dog Major, spend their time giggling and taking on the world as they make new friends, discover and learn new things and occasionally get into a little hot water.

Keeping this vibrant tribe ticking along like clockwork is mommy Michaela. Michaela makes sure Miles & Mia mind their ps and qs, but most importantly that they look after each other and are kind to people. Every day is an adventure for young Miles & Mia and they would love you to join them on their journey.

Connect with Miles & Mia!
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

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

Your turn: Are you looking forward to reading this book with your little ones? If you’ve already read, did your kids enjoy it? Feel free to share in the comments.

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children's books

April 14, 2016

Mrs. G

Book of the Week: Lionheart by Richard Collingridge

Lionheart by Richard Collingridge

Age Range: 3 – 5 Years Old
32 Pages

This book has instantly turned me into a new fan of Richard Collingridge’s work. I featured this book in my ultimate list of 2016 picture books and I knew back then just from looking at the cover and reading the synopsis it was going to be an amazing book – I was right!

I read this book myself first which certainly helped to make my reading aloud more entertaining and suspenseful for the kids (at least I think it did).

Lionheart introduces us to a little boy named Richard who hears something in his bedroom before laying down to go to sleep, but what is it? Is it a monster? Richard goes on a quest outside to find out walking through thick grass and trees until he reaches a magical jungle where there are animals all around. He keeps running and running until he encounters Lionheart – his Lionheart. (Lionheart is Richard’s stuffed animal toy.)

With Lionheart, Richard is not afraid. In fact, he forgets all about the monster. When Lionheart , Richard and all the animals finally see the monster face-to-face, Richard looks at Lionheart and instantly he knows what to do…he roars!

This book is so well done! From the text, to the illustrations, to the heart pounding suspense. And the overall message of conquering your fears is terrific! I love how Lionheart teaches Richard to be brave which in turn helps him to stop being afraid of monsters.

A few days after reading this book I heard the kids playing “monster” together. My son was the monster chasing my daughter and then she turned around and roared and said, “I’m not afraid of you monster!”

I think this is the perfect book if your little readers are afraid of monsters, being in the dark, or if you want to teach them bravery and confidence.

You can watch the trailer for the book here.

Your turn: Have you read this book with your little readers yet? Feel free to share in the comments.

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family fun

April 9, 2016

Mrs. G

11 Kids Movies We Can’t Wait to See in 2016 (Plus Bonus Movies for Adults)!

As much as I like to read, I also love going to the movie theater to watch movies! Especially when the movie first debuts or if I’m lucky enough to attend a pre-screening prior to the movie being released to the general public. I don’t get a chance to watch much TV at home so going to the movies and being able to actually sit and watch an entire movie from start to finish is a real treat for me…(it’s the little things).

The kids and I have seen our fair share of kids movies over the past couple of years from Zootopia to The Good Dinosaur. And while some parents of two and three year olds may not be so willing to bring their kids to the movies, I would take my kids to a new movie every other weekend or at the very least once a month if there were enough supply of kids movies to meet our demand. Surprisingly, my kids actually do sit and watch the movies, but only when we’re in the theater – at home is a totally different story. Go figure!

There are some great kids and family movies coming out this year that we’re really looking forward to seeing. Here’s the top 11 we’re most excited about:

Title: The Jungle Book
Release Date: April 15th, 2016
Rating: PG

Directed by Jon Favreau (“Iron Man”), based on Rudyard Kipling’s timeless stories and inspired by Disney’s classic animated film, “The Jungle Book” is an all-new live-action epic adventure about Mowgli (newcomer Neel Sethi), a man-cub who’s been raised by a family of wolves. But Mowgli finds he is no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan (voice of Idris Elba), who bears the scars of Man, promises to eliminate what he sees as a threat. Urged to abandon the only home he’s ever known, Mowgli embarks on a captivating journey of self-discovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera (voice of Ben Kingsley), and the free-spirited bear Baloo (voice of Bill Murray).

Title: Ratchet & Clank
Release Date: April 29th, 2016
Rating: PG

Ratchet and Clank tells the story of two unlikely heroes as they struggle to stop a vile alien named Chairman Drek from destroying every planet in the Solana Galaxy. When the two stumble upon a dangerous weapon capable of destroying entire planets, they must join forces with a team of colorful heroes called The Galactic Rangers in order to save the galaxy. Along the way they’ll learn about heroism, friendship, and the importance of discovering one’s own identity.

Title: Finding Dory
Release Date: June 17th, 2016
Rating: G

“Finding Dory” takes place about a year after the first film, and features returning favorites Marlin, Nemo and the Tank Gang, among others. Set in part along the California coastline, the story also welcomes a host of new characters, including a few who will prove to be a very important part of Dory’s life.

Title: Ice Age: Collision Course
Release Date: July 22nd, 2016

Scrat’s epic pursuit of the elusive acorn catapults him into the universe where he accidentally sets off a series of cosmic events that transform and threaten the Ice Age World. To save themselves, Sid, Manny, Diego, and the rest of the herd must leave their home and embark on a quest full of comedy and adventure, traveling to exotic new lands and encountering a host of colorful new characters.

Title: The BFG
Release Date: July 1st, 2016

Have you read this book yet? I love it!

The exciting tale of a young London girl and the mysterious Giant who introduces her to the wonders and perils of Giant Country. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, “The BFG” (Big Friendly Giant) was published in 1982 and has been enchanting readers of all ages ever since. Dahl’s books, which also include “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “James and the Giant Peach,” “Matilda” and “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” are currently available in 58 languages and have sold over 200 million copies worldwide.

Title: The Secret Life of Pets
Release Date: July 8th, 2016
Rating: G

For one bustling Manhattan apartment building, the real day starts after the folks on two legs leave for work and school. That’s when the pets of every stripe, fur, and feather begin their own nine-to-five routine: hanging out with each other, trading humiliating stories about their owners or auditioning adorable looks to get better snacks. The buildings top dog, Max (voiced by Louis C.K.) a quick witted terrier rescue who’s convinced he sits at the center of his owner’s universe, finds his pampered life rocked when she brings home Duke (Eric Stonestreet), a sloppy, massive mess of a mongrel with zero interpersonal skills. When this reluctant canine due find themselves out on the mean streets pf New York, they have to set aside their differences and unite against a fluffy-yet cunning bunny named Snowball (Kevin Hart), who’s building an army of ex-pets abandoned by their owners and out to turn the tables on humanity…all before dinner time.

Title: Storks
Release Date: September 23rd, 2016

Storks deliver babies…or at least they used to. Now they deliver packages for global internet giant Cornerstore.com. Junior, the company’s top delivery stork, is about to be promoted when he accidentally activates the Baby Making Machine, producing an adorable and wholly unauthorized baby girl. Desperate to deliver this bundle of trouble before the boss gets wise, Junior and his friend Tulip, the only human on Stork Mountain, race to make their first-ever baby drop – in a wild and revealing journey that could make more than one family whole and restore the storks’ true mission in the world.

Title: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
Release Date: September 30th, 2016

I haven’t read this book yet, but the movie looks like it will be fantastic!

From director Tim Burton and based upon the best-selling novel, comes an unforgettable, thrilling and haunting tale. Sixteen-year-old Jacob follows clues that take him to a mysterious island where he discovers the crumbling ruins of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores the abandoned bedrooms and hallways, he discovers that its former occupants were far more than peculiar; they possessed incredible powers. And they may still be alive.

Title: Trolls
Release Date: November 4th, 2016

The film will be a grand scale musical comedy centering around how the Trolls came into their vibrant and colorful hair.

Title: Moana
Release Date: November 23rd, 2016

Kudos to Disney for creating a new multicultural Polynesian princess!

In the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, Moana, a born navigator, sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her incredible journey, she teams up with her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui, to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore.

Title: Sing
Release Date: December 21st, 2016

This movie looks like it will be hilarious!

Illumination has captivated audiences all over the world with the beloved hits Despicable Me, Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, Despicable Me 2 and Minions, now the second-highest-grossing animated movie in history. Following the release of The Secret Life of Pets in summer 2016, Illumination presents Sing at the holidays. Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane, Scarlett Johansson, John C. Reilly, Taron Egerton and Tori Kelly star in a musical comedy about finding the shining star that lives inside all of us.

Bonus Movies for Adults (Based on Best-Selling Novels)

Title: Me Before You
Release Date: June 3, 2016

I cannot wait to see this movie! I absolutely LOVED the book!

Young and quirky Louisa “Lou” Clark (Emilia Clarke) moves from one job to the next to help her family make ends meet. Her cheerful attitude is put to the test when she becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor (Sam Claflin), a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from an accident two years earlier. Will’s cynical outlook starts to change when Louisa shows him that life is worth living. As their bond deepens, their lives and hearts change in ways neither one could have imagined.

Title: The Light Between Oceans
Release Date: September 2nd, 2016
Rating: PG-13

This book has been on my TBR list forever! Maybe I’ll finally get around to reading it before the movie comes out.

After four harrowing years on the Western Front, Tom Sherbourne returns to Australia and takes a job as the lighthouse keeper on Janus Rock, nearly half a day’s journey from the coast. To this isolated island, where the supply boat comes once a season, Tom brings a young, bold, and loving wife, Isabel. Years later, after two miscarriages and one stillbirth, the grieving Isabel hears a baby’s cries on the wind. A boat has washed up onshore carrying a dead man and a living baby.

Tom, who keeps meticulous records and whose moral principles have withstood a horrific war, wants to report the man and infant immediately. But Isabel insists the baby is a “gift from God,” and against Tom’s judgment, they claim her as their own and name her Lucy. When she is two, Tom and Isabel return to the mainland and are reminded that there are other people in the world. Their choice has devastated one of them.

Title: The Girl on the Train
Release Date: October 7th, 2016

Confession: I started reading this book last year, but for some reason it didn’t hold my attention. I know lots of other people raved about it. I’ll just wait for the movie to come out to see what the hype around this book is all about.

Emily Blunt, Rebecca Ferguson, Justin Theroux, Haley Bennett, Edgar Ramirez and Allison Janney star in DreamWorks Pictures’ THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN, from director Tate Taylor (The Help, Get on Up) and producer Marc Platt (Bridge of Spies, Into the Woods). In the thriller, Rachel (Blunt), who is devastated by her recent divorce, spends her daily commute fantasizing about the seemingly perfect couple who live in a house that her train passes every day, until one morning she sees something shocking happen there and becomes entangled in the mystery that unfolds. Based on Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel, The Girl on the Train is adapted for the screen by Erin Cressida Wilson and Taylor. The film’s executive producers are Jared LeBoff and Celia Costas, and it will be released by Universal Pictures.

Your turn: What movies are you excited to see on the big screen in the theater this year? Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews

April 7, 2016

Mrs. G

The Genius of Leonardo da Vinci: A Book Review

The Genius of Leonardo da Vinci by Guido Visconti, illustrated by Bimba Landmann
Age Range: 5 to 11 years

Synopsis
Meet Leonardo da Vinci: artist, engineer, pacifist and inventor. Told through the eyes of da Vinci’s young apprentice, this stunning book will fascinate youngsters — and inspire everyone! Features original words and drawings from da Vinci’s notebooks to spark curiosity about STEAM and offer a unique glimpse into this boundary-busting thinker.

Reflection
Since this book was much longer than I expected it to be (it’s 40 pages, but the text per page is a bit lengthy), I chose not to read it aloud with the kids because I didn’t think it would hold their attention too long. However, I read this book on my own and found it to be both interesting and enjoyable.

The book is a biography of Leonardo’s life told through the eyes of his mischievous 10 year-old assistant, Giacomo. I was surprised to learn that Leonard was not only an artist, but he was also an engineer, map maker, scientist, inventor, and musician. No wonder why he’s often referred to as being a genius. Although he is very wise, I like the fact that he didn’t appear to be too cocky or a “know-it-all”, just a regular down to earth guy who just happened to be very intelligent and talented.

Little Giacomo is quite mischievous in the book often annoying Leonardo. I think kids will be able to relate to his character. Leonardo refers to him as being “a liar, a thief and a greedy brute who eats as much as two boys and causes as much trouble as four.”

The book also includes a series of Leonardo’s wonderful quotes, original sketches and a glimpse of the his later years, including his paintings of the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. My favorite quote is: “A person’s life is just a moment in infinity.”

Although I didn’t read this book aloud with my children, I definitely plan to when they are a bit older. This book is filled with gorgeous illustrations, original works of art and awesome vocabulary building words for little readers. I’d recommend this book for older children ages 6 -12. It’s perfect for helping students research Leonardo’s life for a biography homework assignment.

Your turn: Have you read this book yet with your little readers? Feel free to share in the comments.

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Books for Adults

April 6, 2016

Mrs. G

My Lit Box Subscription Box Plus a Giveaway!

Calling all book lovers…there’s a new subscription box in town: My Lit Box! I had the pleasure of connecting with Sanura Williams, owner and founder of My Lit Box via Instagram a few days ago. She recently launched this subscription box last week and I’m so excited to share it with you!

I’ve featured a few different subscription boxes before on my blog, but this is the first one geared towards adults. Read on to learn more.

Q: How did you come up with the idea for this subscription box?

A: I had one of those Oprah “ah-ha” moments where I realized that life I was living wasn’t the life I SHOULD have been living. I knew this was largely attributed to the fact that I wasn’t passionate about what I was doing for a living. My Lit Box is the result of my brainstorming on how to make my passion a bigger part of my life. I love to read but unfortunately, I found that I wasn’t doing it as often as I would like. Then I thought, wouldn’t it be cool if there was no guess work? What if I could count on a new book being delivered to me monthly? From this, My Lit Box was born!

Q: What can book lovers expect to be included inside of each box?

A: Each month’s box will include a newly released novel by a writer of color as well as 1-2 quality bookish items that relate to that month’s theme. When it comes to the contents of each month’s box, you may open it and find journals, tote bags, candles, bookmarks, keepsakes, etc. The possibilities are endless!

Q: How are the items selected?

A: I’m constantly scouring the Internet for upcoming releases so I usually start with the novel. Once that is in place, and I’ve drawn a theme from the novel, then I begin to select products. It’s extremely important to me that I not just throw a bunch of stuff in a box. I want my subscribers to feel as if they are receiving a box that has been carefully curated.

Q: Why writers of color?

A: I noticed that when I read lists compiling the greatest writers of our time, be it past or present, very few of the writers (1) looked like me or any other minority and (2) they weren’t any of my favorite writers. This is just my effort to shine light on an often overlooked segment of talented writers and put their works into the hands of book lovers worldwide.

Q: Ok, this all sounds great, but how much is it?

A: My Lit Box offers two month-to-month subscription options:

Full Plan ($25/month) – With this option you will receive one newly released novel as well as 1-2 quality bookish items
Book Only Plan ($17/month) – With this option you will receive one newly released novel monthly

Q: Is there a discount?

A: Here Wee Read subscribers can receive 10% off their first order by using promo code HEREWEEREAD at checkout! Order your box today!

Connect with My Lit Box!

The Giveaway!
I’m so excited to be hosting the very FIRST giveaway for this subscription box! One (1) lucky winner will win a FREE subscription box courtesy of My Lit Box. The box will ship on May 5, 2016. Good luck!

My LitBox Subscription Box Giveaway

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children's books

April 1, 2016

Mrs. G

Beverly Cleary’s 100th Birthday Book Giveaway!

On April 12th, beloved author Beverly Cleary is turning 100 years old! Best known for her stories about Ramona Quimby, her sister Beezus, and their friend Henry, Cleary has written more than 40 books. Her stories have been captivating readers of all ages for more 60 years. From the Mouse and the Motorcycle to Socks the Cat, her characters and the tales they inhabit are still going strong all these decades later.

Inspiring kids to love reading, especially struggling readers like herself as a child, has been a lifelong mission for Cleary who grew up on a farm in Yamhill, Oregon—a town so small it had no library.

Today, people all across the world celebrate Cleary on her birthday. In fact, Harper Collins Publishing recognizes April 12th—as “DROP EVERYTHING AND READ” (D.E.A.R.) Day. Check out the official website here.

To celebrate Beverly Cleary’s 100th birthday, I’ve collaborated with three other awesome bloggers to give you a chance to win our “Beverly Cleary 100th Birthday Prize Pack.”

Before I mention what the prize pack contains, let me tell you who all of the generous bloggers are that helped sponsor this fantastic giveaway.

Lizzie from Photosynthesis206
Stephanie from Pin Up Girl Beauty
Tiffany from unRehearsed

Each of us have pitched in and spent our own money to purchase all of the books for this giveaway. Why? Because we all adore Beverly Cleary, but most importantly we wanted to give something back to you – yes, YOU!

Ok, so what’s included in the prize pack?

Here’s what we have up for grabs for all of our fellow Beverly Clearly loving readers:

1 copy of Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary
1 copy of Ellen Tebbits by Beverly Cleary
1 copy of The Luckiest Girl by Beverly Cleary
1 boxed set of books: The Ramona Collection Volume 1 which includes these 4 books: Beezus and Ramona, Ramona the Brave, Ramona the Pest, and Ramona and Her Father

Note: Due to high shipping costs, this giveaway is only open to US Residents age 18 and older. (Sorry, international friends!)

Sounds wonderful! My kids and I love Beverly Cleary, how can I enter?
Please use the Rafflecopter entry form to enter the giveaway. One (1) winner will be chosen on April 13, 2016. The winner will have 48 hours to respond once notified. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours an alternate winner will be chosen. All books within this prize pack will be shipped individually by each of our sponsors. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Connecticut

March 31, 2016

Mrs. G

Passport to Connecticut Libraries: Week 1

Tomorrow is the day! The start to the 2nd annual Passport to Connecticut Libraries program. I recently told you about my plans to participate in this program for the second time, but now I’m bringing the kids with me. Yes, we’re hitting the road and going “mobile” to explore some of the great libraries our state has to offer. You can read my previous post here to learn more about the program.

Here are the libraries we plan to visit during the first week of the program:

~~Cromwell Belden Public Library (Cromwell)~~
~~Portland Public Library (Portland)~~
~~Cora J. Belden Public Library (Rocky Hill)~~
~~Russell Library (Middletown)~~
~~Wethersfield Public Library (Wethersfield)~~
~~East Hartford Public Library (East Hartford)~~
~~Lucy Robbins Welles Library (Newington)~~
~~Levi E. Coe Public Library (Middlefield)~~
~~Welles-Turner Memorial Library (Glastonbury)~~
~~New Britian Public Library (New Britian)~~ – New addition!

After exploring each library and getting our “passports” stamped, we also plan to visit a few nearby kid-friendly places within close proximity to each library. Our plan is to work on this project during the weekends and on some weeknights after I finish working. I’m looking forward to hitting the library trail once again this time with my two little ones (and maybe some friends) in tow!

Here are a few of the places we plan to visit during week 1:

Riverfront Park Playground (Glastonbury, CT) – This new playground is simply beautiful…we love it!
Romp & Roll (Wethersfield, CT) – An extremely fun place for kids to roll around and get exhausted!
Pierson Park Playground (Cromwell, CT) – My kids love going to this playground and it’s so close to the library!
Kid City Children’s Museum (Middletown, CT) – We frequent this place at least once a month. It’s located directly across the street from the library – so convenient!
Cherry Berry (Middletown, CT) – Because who doesn’t love fresh frozen yogurt! Located around the corner from the library within walking distance if it’s a nice day outside.
Lyman Orchards (Middlefield, CT) – We adore Lyman Orchards for both their food and activities for children!
Dinosaur State Park (Rocky Hill, CT) – One of the largest dinosaur track sites in North America! We plan to walk on the dinosaur trail which is free and open to the public.
Peckham Park (Middlefield, CT) – Peckham Park has a nice variety of equipment and activities for kids of all ages.
New Britian Youth Museum (New Britian, CT) – Located directly across from the library in the same parking lot!

Hope to see you on the library trail!

Want us to visit and feature your kid-friendly place of business on our travels throughout the state? Please e-mail me at: hereweeread{at}gmail.com.

Your turn: If you live in Connecticut, will you also be joining in the fun and participating in this program? Feel free to share in the comments.

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Books for Adults

March 31, 2016

Mrs. G

What I’m Reading (in April 2016)

I can’t believe the last time I shared the books I’m reading was in January! The months of February and March flew by…wow! I assure you I was reading books, I just didn’t post them…my bad! Sometimes I get so caught up in all of the amazing children’s books that I tend to forget to update you on the books for us adults. By the way, if you’re a woman I highly recommend reading the book, Woman Code by Alisa Vitti. I read that book in February and found it to be very informative and useful. Essential reading for women of all ages.

Below are the books I’m planning to read in the month of April. Feel free to join me if you’d like!

Recently, NPR featured a fantastic article on their website about how adults can encourage kids to be original thinkers. Did you see it on my Facebook page? You can read the full article here. I love NPR! Anyway, I found the article to be fascinating and I immediately added the book Originals to my list of books to read.

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World by Adam Grant

Synopsis
Using surprising studies and stories spanning business, politics, sports, and entertainment, Grant explores how to recognize a good idea, speak up without getting silenced, build a coalition of allies, choose the right time to act, and manage fear and doubt; how parents and teachers can nurture originality in children; and how leaders can build cultures that welcome dissent. Learn from an entrepreneur who pitches his start-ups by highlighting the reasons not to invest, a woman at Apple who challenged Steve Jobs from three levels below, an analyst who overturned the rule of secrecy at the CIA, a billionaire financial wizard who fires employees for failing to criticize him, and a TV executive who didn’t even work in comedy but saved Seinfeld from the cutting-room floor. The payoff is a set of groundbreaking insights about rejecting conformity and improving the status quo.

The Lifeboat Clique by Kathy Parks

I tend to read a lot of personal development books, but I like reading fiction books too. Reading fiction books allow me to escape the daily grind of my own life, especially if it’s a really interesting or funny book. I’ve heard this book is funny and since I love to laugh, I’m going to check it out even though it’s a YA (Young Adult) novel.

Synopsis
Mean Girls meets Life of Pi in this darkly humorous, compulsively readable teen novel that’s perfect for fans of Libba Bray and Andrew Smith. A hilariously dark and twisted story that sparkles with a remarkably fresh voice, The Lifeboat Clique is Kathy Parks’s irreverent yet insightful novel about how to survive in the most unthinkable circumstances.

Your turn: What are your reading plans for the month of April? I’d love to hear what you’re reading! Also, do you enjoy hearing about the books I’m reading or do you prefer to read about children’s books? Feel free to share in the comments.

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Book Reviews

March 28, 2016

Mrs. G

Leo Can Swim by Anna McQuinn: A Book Review

Leo Can Swim by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Ruth Hearson
Recommended Age Range: 0 – 3
24 Pages

Synopsis
Leo, Lola’s little brother from Leo Loves Baby Time, is back in a new adventure at the pool.

Leo and Daddy go to swim class where they kick, bounce, and dive like little fish. Joining other babies and their caretakers as they get ready for the pool, sing songs, and kick and splash in the water.

Reflection
I literally could not wait to share this book with my kids during story time! It’s extremely well done and super cute! Once I finally read it with the kids they wanted to read it over and over again – no kidding!

We first met Leo in his older sister Lola’s book Lola Reads to Leo, part of the Lola at the Library series. Now little Leo is back in his own spin-off series and he’s making a big splash in this adorable new picture book for babies and toddlers.

What I love most about this book is the fact that Leo’s father accompanies him to swim class instead of his mother. You often hear of many Black fathers being absent from their children’s lives, so it was refreshing to see Leo and his father bonding – so precious. I also love how well this book showcases diversity. There are babies and caregivers of all different skin tones and hair types/colors featured throughout.

This book was very familiar to the kids as we’ve taken a swim class before as a family. We followed the same sequence of events from getting ready in the changing room to kicking and splashing in the pool. So fun!

Other reasons why we adore this book:

The illustrations are so bright and cheerful.
The text uses fun phrases that appeal to little ones like: “splish and sploosh”, “swish and swoosh”, “sloshy soap”, and “sloppy lotion”. (My kids like sloppy lotion the most.)
The pages are sturdy and the book is the perfect size for my kids to hold and turn the pages on their own.
It builds a foundation for water safety for babies and toddlers.

Overall, I think this book would be a wonderful addition to any baby or toddler’s home library. Pick this one up for your water-loving little readers!

Available in bookstores nationwide May 10, 2016. Pre-order your copy today by clicking here!

About the Author
Anna McQuinn is the author of more than twenty-five books for children including If You’re Happy and You Know It! (Barefoot) and more! She lives in Slough, England.

About the Illustrator
Ruth Hearson has illustrated several chlidren’s books including Leo Loves Baby Time and Cinnamon’s Fairy Sleepover. Ruth lives in York, England.

Be sure to check out the wonderful other books in this series too!

Your turn: Are you looking forward to reading this book with your little readers? What’s your favorite Anna McQuinn book? Feel free to share in the comments.

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children's books

March 24, 2016

Mrs. G

5 Last-Minute Ways We’re Celebrating Easter

I love this time of year. For me, Easter is a time of celebration, joy and hope. There’s much realization for me about the power of the cross and God’s presence in this season of my life. Easter is my yearly reminder of God’s transcendent love, and a reminder of our responsibility to “pay it forward”.

This year I really wanted to be intentional with Easter and come up with some fun activities to engage my kids. However, I was traveling for work for a few days, so I didn’t have time to plan out activities and fun things to do like I did last year during Holy Week. And now with Easter being just three days away, I have no time to worry about elaborate crafts or fancy Pinterest activities. Can you relate?

I just want to use the next few days to introduce the Easter story and plant seeds for important conversations about God’s sacrifice. I want to keep it as simple, purposeful and straight forward as possible for my kids’ short attention spans.

In addition to reading some great books, here are the other activities we have lined up for the next few days leading up to Easter.

1. We’re Going on a Nature Walk
Weather permitting, we’ll be going on a Good Friday nature walk at a nearby park. This is a simple activity and it won’t cost you a thing (except a few cents to print out the free printables). The Unlikely Homeschool has put together these wonderful cards to help guide conversation during your walk as a family or group. The cards walk children through a scriptural account of Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem, His crucifixion, and His resurrection, all while they spend time outside appreciating God’s creation. {free printable}

2. We’re Reading the Bible
This is one of my favorite Bibles that the children own. The kids love it too! Over the next few days we’ll be reading select passages and stories from this Bible related to the resurrection.

This incredibly clear and easy to understand Storybook Bible uses the rich, full-color illustrations of African-American artist Victor Hogan. The easy to read text is adapted from the International Children’s Bible, the Children of Color Storybook shows African-American and other children of color that they are an important part of God’s Word and His plan for the world. These 61 well-known stories of biblical characters and events helps children build self-esteem and serve as foundation for building Christian character and moral values. Both you and the child will love this book and it’s clarity.

3. We’re Cooking
There are so many wonderful Easter-themed recipes available to help teach kids the true meaning of Easter and the resurrection. Below are a few that I like. What are some of your favorites to try?

Resurrection Rolls | Resurrection Cookies | Empty Tomb Rolls Easter Tomb Biscuits Empty Tomb Cake

4. We’re Coloring
Coloring certainly won’t help your kids understand the true meaning of Easter, but it’s something fun and doesn’t require much effort. Plus, coloring is a great way to enhance those fine motor skills! Here are the coloring sheets we’ll be using. {free printables}

5. We’re Planting Magic Jelly Beans
This is a really cute Easter tradition I started with the kids last year…planting magic jelly beans on Easter Eve! Simply plant some jelly beans into your own homemade wheat grass or use the grass outside in your yard. Do this with the kids. Then, early in the morning before the kids wake up (or right after they fall asleep at night) “plant” some lollipops in place of the jelly beans. The kids will be so excited when they wake up and see their magic jelly beans have turned into a mini garden of lollipops. So fun! {free magic jelly beans packet printable}

I hope these simple ideas help you and your kids celebrate Easter this weekend while having some fun. Happy Easter!

Your turn: How will you celebrate the deeper meaning of Easter with your little ones this year? How does your family celebrate Easter? Do you have any fun crafts, games, recipes or activities you do? Feel free to share in the comments.

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