0 In 2023/ Book Review

The Final Books I read in 2023

Click here to read the reviews of the first 23 books I read in 2023.

The other books I read this year:

24. Benjamin Franklin by Janet Benge

Rating: 10/10

Janet Benge writes amazing biographies. I hope to read every book she’s written because they are written like a movie. Benjamin Franklin was such an interesting man. He was a writer, printer, inventor, and politician. What I loved most about him was that he continually looked for ways to improve himself and the world around him – and was so creative in his approach!

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25. In Pieces by Sally Field

6/10

While Sally shines on the screen, her personal life is quite sad. Reading this book reinforces why I put the rule in place to read only books rated 4.0 and higher. This was rated less on goodreads and now I know why. Skip this one.

26. Born Again by Charles Colson

Rating: 10/10

Review: After reading Katharine Graham’s book last year, I noticed she mentioned Chuck Colson in her book several times – and NOT in a positive light. It wasn’t the Chuck Colson I was familiar with. I was curious about his life and conversion. Once I started “Born Again,” I could not put it down. This book was outstanding. It shares how Colson was an attorney who worked for President Nixon. Colson wasn’t afraid to break the rules and lie ‘for the greater good.’ Those choices landed him in prison. Just before going to jail, he had an encounter with Jesus that changed his life. While serving time, he saw many gaps and failures in the prison system. From the time Chuck Colson was released from prison, he’s spent the rest of his life creating and running a ministry called “Prison Fellowship.” He fights for prison reform, for the families of prisoners, and teaches prisoners how to live a life differently than the one that led to incarceration. Nearly all the prisoners who go through the Prison Fellowship program never go back to jail, but go on to lead productive lives.

The book explores themes of redemption, faith, and the transformative power of a spiritual awakening in the midst of personal and public crises. It’s an excellent story and worth reading!

27. Wooden by John Wooden

Rating: 9/10

Review: With a house full of athletes, I decided to read this book by the great coach John Wooden. I was excited to read that he was from Indiana and was a teacher, just like me! This small book is packed full of life lessons and practical advice. I admire his work ethic and values-driven coaching and approach to life. I’d recommend this book to a high school or college athlete.

Here are some powerful quotes from the book:

Parents often expect teacher and coaches to do what they are not doing at home. Parents must set the foundation of faith and values.
Success is when you work hard to become the best version of you. Did I win? Wrong question. ‘Did I make my best effort?’ Success is a direct result of the self-satisfaction of knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.
Learn from the past but don’t live in it.
Individual praise can be dangerous. It was given for something done in the past and can take your mind off what you need to do in the present to prepare for the future. The harder you work, the more luck you have.
Valid self- analysis is crucial for improvement.
Promise yourself you will talk health and happiness as often as possible.
Promise yourself to tell your friends there is something special about them and you value you them.
Wear a cheerful appearance at all times.
My role is to help mold character, instill productive principles and values, and provide a positive example to those under my supervision. It’s a privilege to have that responsibility.
Discipline is for correction not punishment.
Focus your effort on what is in your power to control.
Education serves you throughout your whole life. Sports are temporary.
Always try to be the best you can be. Learn from others, but don’t try to be better than them. You have no control over that. Be the best you can be.
The best time to make friends is before you need them.

28. You are My Sunshine by Sean Dietrich

Rating: 8/10

Review: A humorous memoir about the author and his wife and a bike adventure.

29. She is Free by Aldi Andrew

Rating: 8/10

Review: We say we’re free in Christ, but many of us are still living in captivity–to fear, anger, shame, isolation, unforgiveness, and control. We’re good at faking it around others, but we’re exhausted. Andi Andrew explores how to ‘break free’ in this book.

My favorite chapter was that on fear:

The truth about Fear – fear is the root of anxiety, control, manipulation, worry, anger, shame, insecurity, unbelief, addiction and people-pleasing. Fear is rooted in self preservation. When we doubt the goodness of God, we turn to ourselves for preservation and prosperity. Fear can make us physically sick. Fear is void of the love of God. Are you allowing fear to give you orders or are you silencing it at its first whisper?

Jesus and his words have authority over fear. What are you putting your faith in? Fear is actually faith in the wrong kingdom.

John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you. I don’t give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid, because I have overcome the world.”

We don’t go out of the house without wearing clothes. We shouldn’t go out of our house without wearing Christ. If we went out naked, we’d be assaulted by the weather and probably by the police. If we go out without being covered in Christ, we’re assaulted by negative thoughts, discouragement, and depression. Wrap yourself in the love of Christ.

30. Paul Bland by Janet Benge

Rating: 10/10

Review: Discovering Paul Brand has been a delight! Although his name eluded me until now, I’m immensely grateful for the introduction through this book and his life!

Paul was born to English parents who were medical missionaries in India. He returned to England at the age of 9 and stayed until he’d finished school. During medical school, he crossed paths with Margaret, and their shared journey led them to become doctors, partners in marriage, and missionaries in India.

Paul’s pioneering work in performing surgeries on lepers, a group often shunned by many, showcases his exceptional dedication and care for the “least of these.” Rockefeller provided him a ‘scholarship’ to travel the world and learn from others – but as he traveled, other surgeons were learning from him and asking him to teach! What he was doing with lepers in India was groundbreaking. His expertise and knowledge even to benefited the diabetic community facing similar challenges.

Towards the twilight of his life, Paul collaborated with Philip Yancey to author several books, which I’ve now added to my ever-growing “to read” list!

What captivated me most was how Paul’s seemingly small acts of faithfulness rippled out to touch the lives of the world’s most vulnerable. His influence, beginning with those in dire need, gradually radiated to transform the entire medical community through his dedicated practice and groundbreaking research.

31. Endurance by Alfred Lansing

Rating: 10/10

Review: A fascinating, hard-to-believe real life adventure story of a group of men who set out to explore Antarctica, until their ship becomes locked in ice and eventually goes under. They evacuate to an ice berg with three small boats and whatever materials they could get from the boat before it sank. This book shares the harrowing tail of how they all survived! This fantastic book I recommend for anyone 12 and up.

32. Prevail by Susie Larson

Rating: 10/10

Review: This 365-page devotional is written chronologically through the Bible. I love the way Susie writes and gives interesting perspectives and insight into God’s world. I recommend this to anyone looking for a devotional!

33. Oral Roberts Life Story

Rating: 9/10

Review: Because Oral Roberts University is on the list of colleges for George, I decided to read the founder’s life story. It was interesting and full of miracles that happened throughout Oral Robert’s life. Here’s one story from his younger years:

While Oral Robert’s dad was away working, his mom and siblings ran out of food and money. Their mom took them out for a walk and a neighbor invited them in for dinner. Mrs. Roberts declined the invitation because the woman was a widow and had very little. The boys said, “But mom, we are so hungry, why didn’t you say YES when our neighbor invited us to eat with her.” Their mom didn’t explain but replied that God would take care of them. She began thanking God in advance for what He would do. When they got home, there were bags of groceries waiting for them – a full ham, potatoes, and ingredients for fresh bread. That night, dinner never tasted so good as they realized that God had indeed taken care of them.

34. Growing Up Ziglar by Julie Ziglar Norman

Rating 9/10

Review: This memoir, penned by Zig Ziglar’s daughter, defied my initial expectations. Instead of a narrative filled with ‘butterflies’ and ‘sunshine,’ the author candidly recounts a series of unfortunate decisions that brought considerable pain and heartache to both herself and her family. In the face of alcoholism and an impending divorce, she reached her breaking point and initiated transformative changes in her life. The author openly reflects on the profound impact that faith and honesty had on her journey toward health and restoration.

35. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson

Rating: 10/10

Review: This beloved children’s book revolves around the unruly Herdman children who decide to participate in the local Christmas pageant. The Herdman’s have little knowledge of the Christmas story and challenge the traditional narrative. “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” is funny, endearing, and most importantly – reminds us of the reason we get to celebrate Christmas. I recommend it for all ages.

36. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

Rating: 6/10

37. It Begins with Us by Colleen Hoover

Rating: 6/10

38. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste NG

Rating 8/10

39. The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

Rating: 10/10

Review: This book was so good that it needs it’s own blog post!

Hurry kills relationships, joy, gratitude and appreciation. Wisdom is slow, it grows with time and reflection. There is zero correlation between hurry and productivity. It takes practice to live with attention and awareness. I want to live a grateful life, full of appreciation, wonder and worship. I want to live with freedom and focus. I want to be present: to God, to people and to the moment. The gravitational pull towards hurry is overwhelming at times. Hence this book. Read it! It’s going on my ‘best books of the year’ list and I purchased one to give away. Stay tuned for the upcoming post!

Please subscribe so you won’t miss my “Best Books of the Year” post and a giveaway!

Book have affiliate links.

December 16, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023

The Great Lake Rescue: The Story Behind the Book

What started as a simple drop off, turned into a grand adventure.

My son Paul had been invited to spend the night at his friend Isaiah’s house. As he jumped out of the car, he asked if we could come to the backyard before we left. Paul, with his boundless curiosity and love for nature, had discovered a nest full of baby birds in a blue spruce tree next to the lake.

While we all gazed at the adorable baby birds, Clark’s eyes were fixed on the lake. Something captured his full attention. “Mom, look at that Tiki boat – it’s stuck, and there are people on it. We should go help!”

With permission from Isaiah’s mom, George and Clark borrowed life jackets, launched the canoe into the water, and paddled out to assist, followed by Paul and his friend Isaiah in the paddle boat.

The stranded women, initially fearing they’d have to wade through muck and mud with designer shoes and purses over their heads, couldn’t stop praising the brave young men who came to their rescue. The absence of motor boats on the lake made the Tiki boat their sole lifeline, and the unexpected assistance from the boys turned an ordinary afternoon into one they’ll never forget.

George and Landon waiting on the Tiki Boat

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones you never saw coming.

And sometimes, that memorable moment becomes a children’s book for all to enjoy:

The Great Lake Rescue: A true & heartwarming adventure story, where the Egly brothers learn the importance of helping others & inspire young readers to make a positive difference in the world around them.

Click here to order a signed copy

After the book was published, we went back to place the where the adventure unfolded, and snapped some pictures.

Here’s one of Paul and his friend Isaiah, standing on the canoe that is featured in the book:

Order a signed copy here

Share the joy of this unforgettable adventure with your young ones, as they embark on a journey of bravery, kindness, and unexpected heroism.

Order on amazon here

(affiliate link)

Click here to discover Book #3: Turtle Trouble!

Thanks for reading and subscribe so you never miss an Egly adventure!

December 5, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Family/ Motherhood

Thanksgiving Activity: ABCs of Gratitude

Help your family remember that Thanksgiving is more than turkey and pumpkin pie with this fun and rewarding activity.

If your children need a little motivation to make a gratitude list – call it a “Turkey Ticket” or “Pie Points” and in order to earn their turkey dinner – or dessert – list the ABCs of gratitude. It would be fun to save these and compare them year after year!

On this Thanksgiving, embrace the beauty in simple moments. Remember that ordinary days have extraordinary blessings. Give thanks for what you have, and for the opportunity to make a difference and share God’s goodness with others.

Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!

Here are some fun Thanksgiving Game Ideas!

November 21, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Making money/ Product Recommendations

My 4 Favorite Money Making Apps

Whether you want to add a few dollars to your monthly budget, have some extra spending money, or just get Starbucks for free – here are 4 apps that will allow you to do that!

These are my four favorite money making apps that you can download today:

1. Upside – Save money on Gas!

This app saves me up to 20 cents PER gallon every time I fill up!

Click this link or use promo code KATHRYN39226 to get an extra $7 bonus if you make a purchase before December 5, 2023. Click here to start earning: https://upside.app.link/KATHRYN39226

2. Fetch – earn points on every receipt

I earn 25 points for every reciept I upload, plus lots of points for extra things I already buy. These points translate into free gift cards to Target, paypal, Starbucks and more.

All you have to do is download the app, take a picture of any receipt (within 14 days), and hit submit.

Just like that, you’ll get points back (literally, you get 25 points just for submitting the receipt!)

You can then cash in these points for fantastic gift cards to help you stretch your budget a little further OR be able to afford some fun splurges!

Come save money on Fetch with me! Sign up w/ code 8AVYPX & get 500 pts: https://referral.fetch.com/vvv3/referralsocial?code=8AVYPX. See you there!

Click here to start earning: https://referral.fetch.com/vvv3/referralsocial?code=8AVYPX

3. Shopkick – earn points for shopping

Earn points for simply walking into stores, more points for scanning products, more points for purchases. Points translate into gift cards to Target, Walmart, Starbucks, and more.

it’s a free app that rewards you for shopping. Sign up with my code to get bonus kicks: SHOP348890

Click here to start earning: https://get.shopkick.com/96Rn/3s3gax9m

4. Ibotta – cash back for in store purchases

I get cash back for buying things I already need. Grapes, cereal, ice cream, deodorant etc.

Click here to start earning: https://ibotta.onelink.me/iUfE/1005cd3f?friend_code=8gsa

And one more things to mention, this isn’t an app but a website that gives cash back on online purchases:

Rakuten

To use: Go to Rakuten.com, type in the name of the online store you are about to buy something from (ie Target.com), then click on their link. I make my normal purchases and get a percentage back in cash!

Click here to start earning: www.rakuten.com/r/KATHRY3518?eeid=28187

Which of these do you want to try first?

Thanks for reading! Please consider subscribing!

November 9, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In Family/ Inspiration/ Joy/ Raising boys

15 BiG Benefits of a Simple Smile!

Smiling offers a wide range of physical, psychological, and social benefits. Here are 15 benefits of lifting those cheeks and showing the world your smile:

1. Improved Mood: Smiling can trigger the “feel-good” hormones, which can instantly boost your mood.

Our joy causes us to SMILE, but did you know that smiling actually causes you to feel more joy?! You can’t smile on the outside without feeling better on the inside.

2. Stress Reduction/Mental Health: Smiling, even when you don’t initially feel like it, can lower stress levels by reducing the release of cortisol, a stress hormone.

3. Pain Relief: Endorphins released through smiling can act as natural painkillers.

4. Better Health: A positive outlook and reduced stress can strengthen the immune system, making you more resilient to illnesses.

5. Better Relationships: Smiling is a universal sign of friendliness and approachability. It can improve relationships.

6. Makes you Prettier/More Handsome: People tend to find those who smile more attractive and likable.

7. Better Communication: A smile conveys warmth and connection, making you a more effective and engaging communicator.

8. Longevity: Research suggests that people with a positive outlook, often marked by smiling, tend to live longer and experience better overall health.

9. Conflict Resolution: When faced with conflicts, approaching the situation with a smile can make it easier to find common ground.

Peace begins with a smile.
-Mother Teresa

10. Better Decision-Making: A positive mood from smiling can lead to more optimistic and rational decision-making.

11. Heart Health: Smiling may lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart-related conditions.

12. Enhanced Memory: A positive mood induced by smiling can improve memory retention and recall.

13. Snowball Effect: Your smile can have a contagious effect, brightening the mood of those around you. Smile first!

14. Improved Confidence: Regular smiling can boost self-esteem and self-confidence, leading to a more positive self-image.

15. Promotion of Well-Being: Overall, the act of smiling contributes to a sense of well-being and a more optimistic outlook on life.

I hope you have a BIG SMILE on your face after reading these 15 amazing benefits!

Click here to read more how a SMILE impacts MOTHERHOOD!

Click here to read more Family Tips:

Family Tip #1 – Model Gratitude

Family Tip #2 – Play

Family Tip #4 – Teach your children how to introduce themselves

Family Tip #5 – Don’t Compare yourself with others

November 4, 2023 By Kathryn

2 In Faith/ Finding our place/ Inspiration/ My Journey

Light In The Dark: Trusting God When Life Feels Heavy

Lately, headlines have felt especially heavy. News of violence in schools, the shooting of Charlie Kirk, and so many other tragedies can leave us reeling, wondering how to hold hope in a world that seems so fragile. Pair that with the ordinary challenges of family, work, and everyday life, and it’s easy to feel discouraged or even numb.

Not long ago, I found myself in a difficult season—disheartened and worn thin. We had uprooted our lives once again, landing in a new state just as one of the coldest winters in years settled in. Friends were scarce, the days were short and gray, and sickness seemed to circle endlessly through our home. The demands of raising four energetic boys were high, but my energy was at an all-time low. I felt physically drained, emotionally weary, and increasingly isolated. As the weeks dragged on, I struggled to find purpose, motivation, or even a clear sense of who I was in this unfamiliar place.

I’m usually the person who’s positive, who sees the bright side … but I couldn’t in this season. What made it harder was comparing myself – to myself! The person I’d been just a year ago was so different than the girl I saw in the mirror.

The previous year was marked by remarkable growth and progress.

Then all of that changed. We moved to a new place. I no longer wanted to set goals, to write, and was living in (what felt like) Antarctica.

Isn’t life supposed to move up and to the right?

It was certainly moving to the ‘right’ as time continued its relentless march forward. The “up” part seemed elusive. Why had things shifted so drastically?

In my quest for answers and to regain a sense of equilibrium, I realized I needed to make some changes. It was time to unplug from the constant noise, to halt both the input and output, and just be. After all, we are human beings, not human doings.

I took a break from writing and blogging. I removed Facebook and Instagram from my phone. I unsubscribed from the podcasts that left me discouraged and overwhelmed.

Instead, I listened to positive music, I played with my boys, I prayed, read my Bible and a couple of life-giving books, and carved out time to make new friends.

To burst out of a cold, dark winter… Into the brightness and life of spring takes a lot of SHOVELING of gray thoughts that have become a blizzard in our minds… So thick we can’t even see our hands in front of our face.
Deb Freeman

Through this process, I learned a valuable lesson: Life doesn’t always follow a linear path. It ebbs and flows, bringing both good and challenging times. It oscillates between loneliness and fullness, happiness and sadness, ugly and beautiful.

The lows serve to deepen our appreciation for the highs.

Life is like a book. You take it one chapter at a time. Often one page at a time or one paragraph at a time. Some paragraphs are written better than others.

What I WANTED my life to look like was different from ‘reality.’

My previous assessment of life was a linear progression. Growth and more growth! Life and more life! Up and further up! Add, don’t subtract.

However, I’ve come to understand that ‘reality’ is far more complex. Life involves a series of steps forward, with occasional steps backward, sideways meanders, and even a few ‘loop-de-loops.’

In a world characterized by constant change, I’m thankful for a God who never changes. Who’s love is always certain.

I am deeply grateful for the nourishing wisdom found in the pages of the Bible, for the solace and inspiration that uplifting books and music provide. For the gift of prayer. My heart brims with gratitude for the friendships that have woven their way into my life and the ‘date nights’ shared with Ted. I’m grateful for the ways my boys make me laugh and how they teach me knew things. I love that nature soothes and time heals. Every day that passed made me stronger, more able to live in (and even love!) this new place.

Look for the good, even in the dark. Once you train your eyes for little glimpses of goodness, you’ll get better at seeing them.
Shauna Niequist

Each of these elements brought me back to a place of joy. In the midst of this journey, I rediscovered that my truest calling was wife, mother, and cherished child of God. All other pursuits, at this moment in time, occupy the periphery.

I am learning that seasons shift, but God’s love doesn’t. Even in the dark, He is steady, kind, and near. When we anchor ourselves in Him, we find the strength to endure and the courage to hope. If you’re walking through a heavy season, may you feel His presence holding you close.

______________________________________________________________________

If you’re walking through a tough season, here are two books and two devotionals that deeply encouraged me — maybe they’ll do the same for you.

Anonymous by Alicia Britt Chole

I opened the book and instant tears as I read:

“Have you ever moved to a new place or entered a new environment where no one knew who you were, what you could do, or what dreams ignite your soul?”

Jesus’ hidden years gave him time to grow and become. It was sacred. Time for rest. Unapplauded but not unproductive.”

The author suggests how to rest:

“Take long walks through the woods. Paint a picture no one will see. Watch the stars. Wander through an art museum. Play piano when only God can listen. Write in your journal. Plant a garden.”

Savor the anonymous season. Respect it’s potential.
-Alicia Britt Chole

This book was everything I needed for that season. If you are in a “new, waiting, or starting over” season – Anonymous may be the perfect book for you!

I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet: Discovering New Ways of Living When the Old Ways Stop Working by Shauna Niequist

This book shares Shauna’s journey back to joy in the midst of some really challenging circumstances. Here are bits of advice she gives:

Get outside and be on the lookout for beauty, especially in nature, read books for comfort. Fresh air helps everything. The world is still good, still beautiful, still interesting and worth savoring. God is still good, still faithful, still kind.

Keep walking, keep loving, keep writing, keep praying. Keep learning, keep forgiving, keep apologizing, keep moving forward. Keep inviting, keep listening, keep opening my arms to all of life.

It doesn’t help to pretend everything is okay. Tell the truth. Allow yourself to be supported by friends and family.

I’m learning home isn’t singular. You don’t lose one, instead, your world and your heart expand with each new home and new set of experiences. The old ones stay and the new ones make your heart and your world bigger.“

I’m thankful authors who can eloquently put into words what I feel so deeply and can’t exactly articulate. They let me know I am not alone and brighter days are ahead.

Prevail by Susie Larson

This daily devotional is designed to guide readers through the entire Bible over the course of a year. Each entry includes a Scripture passage, insightful commentary, thought-provoking questions, and practical application steps. Here is just one powerful quote from this book

Take Back Your Life by Levi Lusko

This is a 40-day devotional that is PACKED with goodness and EXCELLENT book to read in a challenging season. Here are two powerful quotes from the author:

Thoughts are like trains, they take you somewhere. Instead of stopping a thought, REPLACE it. You have to actively FEED the POSITIVE and STARVE the negative.
God loves the people in your life so much that He put YOU in their lives. He gave you a means to communicate with them so they could be better off because they encountered YOU!

(Books are affiliate links)

These books brought me SO MUCH JOY as I realized I am NOT alone. Others have been through similar challenges and came out stronger. And God is always with me, cheering me on.

How about you? What sustains you during life’s challenging moments? Where do you find hope and support? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please leave a comment by clicking on the little box by the title.

Want more?

Check out this post about how to have more JOY in your life.

Feeling Lonely? I was too. Read this.

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

October 26, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In Family/ Memories/ Raising boys

Halloween Costumes through the Years…

In 2008, George had just turned one. His wobbly walk reminded us of Frankenstein…so that’s the costume he wore that year.

2010-2013 George and Clark LOVED costumes and dressing up as different characters.

halloween — George and Clark as Woody and Buzz

This was 2015 – our first year in Colorado. All the boys were superheroes. I was well protected!

2018 – our first Halloween in Minnesota. George was AntMan, Clark and Paul were Ninjas and Luke was superman (a costume that all the boys have worn and loved).

Clark was a football player. Our friend’s daughter was a football!

Luke and his friend were “bad guys” – guilty of being TOO CUTE!
Our friends and neighbors were the police -on patrol and handing out tickets!

Who wore it better?

This year, Luke and his friends were MINIONS and Gru. I was Mrs. Universe and yes, for a couple hours, the Universe revolved around me!

Click here to get your sash and create your own costume!

Have fun and be safe!

October 23, 2023 By Kathryn

0 In 2023/ Minnesota/ Things to do in Minnesota

A Peek into Two Multi-Million Dollar Homes in Minnesota

When a neighbor mentioned that he needed some help with a Parade of Home’s Artisan Home Tour, I thought, “Why not? It’s a chance to see some stunning houses and meet new people in the process!”

You can see these dreamy homes (and 18 others!) today through Sunday. Visit one house for $5 or all of them for $25 (with promo code HOLIDAY). All the details are just a click away, so check out more info by tapping right here.

Here’s the scoop on two fabulous homes I played host to over on the west side of Minneapolis.

Which one of these jaw-dropping homes could you see yourself living in?

A 3400-square-foot modern masterpiece out in Medina, MN. It sits on 7 forested acres (yet is still close to restaurants and shopping).
Or, maybe you’re more into the 6700-square-foot, 3 story beauty (with an elevator) on Lake Minnetonka.

House #1 in Medina, MN built by City Homes

I was crazy about this blue porcelain shower.

Here’s an inside tour:

House #2 in Orono, MN on Lake Minnetonka built by Lecy Brothers

This property has been in the family for over half a century, but the house itself is brand new. The top level is an ’apartment’ for the grandparents who bought this property in the 60s. The elevator takes them to every level where the next two generations live.

The main living area with an art TV and lake view

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Watch this video for a tour:

Which is your favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comment section by giving that little box next to the post title a gentle click.

And if you’re on the hunt for more design inspiration, follow my sister at Krista Lynn Designs. She’s an interior designer with phenomenal taste!
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Thanks for stopping by! Please consider subscribing!

October 20, 2023 By Kathryn

1 In 2023/ Inspiration/ Motherhood/ Raising boys

The Power of Playing with Your Kids

Are your kids saying “I’m Bored?”

Are you needing to ‘de-stress’ a little?

Here’s an idea for you: Take your kids to the backyard and play a GAME together.

It’s a refreshing departure from the ever-encroaching high-tech world of gadgets, which often leaves little room for imagination.

Playing with your kids is an opportunity to move, laugh, and learn as a family.

Here’s the good news, it doesn’t have to take all day. Just carving out 10 minutes to play strengthens the bond between parent and child and lowers stress and anxiety for all ages!

The opposite of play is NOT work. The opposite of play is depression.
Dr. Stuart Brown

Playing with your kids lowers your stress level and strengthens the bond with your kids! So, let’s embrace the enchantment of play and reap the joys it can bring to our lives.

Need game ideas?

TAG!! Good, old-fashioned TAG! When my kids ask me to play TAG, I want to say: “No, I’m too old … too tired.” However, I push that feeling aside, realizing this is an opportunity to connect with my kids and burn some calories! You don’t have to play for HOURS! Usually in 5 to 10 minutes we are worn out from running and laughing so hard! Try it!
Hide and Seek
Kick a ball
Throw a ball into different baskets/buckets
Don’t Eat Pete – Click for instructions
Would You Rather?
Other Backyard games
More Backyard Games

What game do play with your kids? Leave me a comment!

Thanks for reading and please consider subscribing.

October 14, 2023 By Kathryn

1 In 2023/ Book Review/ Motherhood/ Product Recommendations/ Raising boys

Four of my Favorite Parenting Books

There are endless parenting books on the market – many good ones, a few really bad (or just plain BORING), and a few GREAT ones! Here are four of my favorites:

1. Knights in training by Heather Haupt

This book contains practical ideas and inspiration for raising boys who are honorable, courageous and compassionate.

“We need to start training them now to be ready to take the reins of leadership – to live with integrity, to think outside of themselves, and to value the people around them. We need boys who will use their strength for the protection of others rather than to prey on others. With power and strength comes great responsibility.”
Heather Haupt, author of of Knights in Training

2. Growing grateful kids by Susie Larson

I consider this a must-read for every Christian parent. It’s filled with page after page of Biblical truth and practical encouragement.

We have this one life, this short time on earth to make our mark and to make life count. We have these children in our care for a blink of an eye. NOW is the time to be engaged and fully present. Now is the time to rise up and be the parent who trains and prepares our children to become the individuals they were created to be.
Susie Larson, author of Growing Grateful kids

God promises to give wisdom if we ask him. We need wisdom because every child is different. The Lord will show you how to parent each of your children in a way that will help him or her to grow to be the person they were created to be.
Susie Larson

3. The Blessing of a Skinned Knee: Raising Self-Reliant Kids by Dr. Wendy Mogul

This book was written by a parent and psychologist. I found it practical, extremely helpful, and even inspiring. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it so much that I went online and purchased a hard-copy. Topics include respect, chores, homework, helping your child deal with a ‘bad day,’ and building ‘faith practices’ in your home (though you don’t have to be a person of faith to find IMMENSE value in this book)! I highly recommend it to all parents.

Unsure how to find grace and security in the complex world we’ve inherited, we try to fill up the spaces in our children’s lives with stuff: birthdays, lessons, rooms full of toys and equipment, tutors and therapists. But material pleasures can’t buy peace of mind, and all the excess leads to more anxiety—parents fear that their children will not be able to sustain this rarefied lifestyle and will fall off the mountain the parents have built for them.
Dr. Wendy Mogul, author of The Blessing of a Skinned Knee

4. Talking to your kids about God: 30 Conversations Every Christian Parent Must Have by Natasha Crain

To care for the physical needs of others while ignoring their spiritual needs is like giving a hamburger to a hungry man sitting on train tracks and not telling him a train is coming. The Bible calls Christians to care for both physical and spiritual needs, and ignoring either puts people in serious danger.
Natasha Crain, author of Talking to Your Kids about God

Natasha Crain discusses the evidence for the existence of God, how science confirms the God of the Bible, how Christianity is different from other religions, and how all these things apply to us and the world around us. An excellent book for Christian parents who want to know how to answer their child’s questions. I recommend it to any Christian parent or parent who may be curious about God.