NKJV Study Bible For Kids

Colorful, fun, engaging...this Bible has everything! There's a fine line between being appealing to kids and being too "childish". Thomas Nelson found that balance. My 10-year-old daughter, who I thought would think this Bible more suitable for her younger brother, surprised me by snapping it up and making it "hers". (Her brother loved it so much that I got one for him for Christmas.)

Although I prefer leather-like covers to hardback, it didn't seem to bother my kids at all; I like the idea that the hardback will hold up a little longer. I like that the Scripture references are on the edge of the pages, making it easier for the kids to thumb through and find what they're looking for. The features throughout the Bible include book introductions, timelines, maps, personality profiles,  articles, and other helps that bring ideas of the passage to life, and assist the reader in applying truths to current circumstances in their lives. In the back is a list of book abbreviations, dictionary-concordance and an index of articles.

Although I prefer the ESV version for daily reading, this Bible works just great for my kiddos, and that's good enough for me.

5 out of 5 stars.



I received this book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review. The opinions stated are my own. 

apartment therapy, complete + happy home

Interior decorating books are particularly interesting to me now, as my husband and I dream of finally buying our own home. Honestly, my decorating style is so eclectic that I don't even know what it is. I've gone from the brass sconces with ivy swags and floral curtains to vintage/retro to a version of the Good Luck Charlie house. And when we move, I don't know which direction to go! I am fairly confident, however, that I will not be going back to the 90's look.

A hefty book, apartment therapy, is gorgeously bound. This book will be displayed prominently. (I have a book addiction; decorating with them helps to justify that.) Open the cover, and get ready for a lot more pretty...but not just that. apartment therapy isn't just pleasing to look at: this book is packed with info. From explanations of house styles to defining light sources, there was far more here in practicality than I expected.

Sections on choosing and setting up your home, and living in and maintaining your space are further organized by type such as finishing touches and rooms, and presented in such a fun way. I love the section on color, (pg. 31) and who doesn't need a better idea of how a "fairy-tale living room" (p. 109) differs from "the scandinavian living room"?  (p. 110) 

This one was a real winner for me. I highly recommend apartment therapy,  whether or not you are actually planning on a new home, redecorating or just need something to curl up with and read while you sip your coffee. 

5 out of 5 stars from me. 

I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Standing Tall--On One Leg

It's one of a parent's worst nightmares...their child being diagnosed with cancer. Joel was an athletic 16 year old in seemingly great health before his diagnosis and the subsequent amputation of his leg. In Standing Tall, Joel's mother, Kathy, tells the story from a mother's point of view, with Joel's input. Kathy relates her heartache and the trials of the entire family during Joel's incredibly difficult battle with cancer, as well as Joel's faith, courage, and the the way their community stepped in to support them.

Osteocarcoma, a childhood cancer, took the life of a dear friend of ours just one year and a half ago. Because of this, Joel's story was even more poignant to me.

3 out of 5 stars.

More about the book:

Book Description

When Joel Soukup was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of 16, the diagnosis changed him and his family forever. This family traveled down an unknown path and emerged from their journey in a way they never expected. Read how this young patient and his family handled the devastating diagnosis with strength, love and faith in God.

About the Author

Kathy Soukup was born and raised in Minnesota and resides near the town of Pine River. She and her husband, Verdale, have raised three sons and now have six grandchildren. Kathy continued to work, mostly part time, during the years her sons were growing up. She now enjoys spending more time enjoying outdoor activities, as well as quilting, gardening, cooking, visiting with friends and neighbors, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Joel Soukup grew up in northern Minnesota near the town of Pine River. He is the youngest of three boys. Joel is attending college at St. Cloud State University in central Minnesota and will soon receive his degree in community psychology. He hopes to use his education and experience to help others who have been handed an unforeseen, life-altering diagnosis such as the one he received at the age of sixteen. When he is not busy with school, he enjoys outdoor activities and sports, hanging out with friends, watching movies, listening to music (especially attending concerts), and rebuilding motorcycles with his brother

Thank you to BookLook Bloggers for my review copy.