Free Krispy Kreme Doughnut

Today, head over to your favorite Krispy Kreme, in your Halloween costume, and receive a FREE
doughnut! Head over here for more details!

FREE Scary Face Pancake

Today from 7 am to 10 pm, IHOP is offering kids under 12 a FREE scary face pancake! Kids can create a scary face on their pancake using strawberries, whipped topping, candy corn and mini Oreos. You can then post their creation to IHOP's Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using the hashtags, #scaryfacepancake and #entry for the chance to win cool prizes. This is only valid at participating locations and only 1 pancake per child. The scary face pancakes are a fun treat to celebrate Halloween with your children. Click here for more details.

Things to Do in Boise: Week of October 30 - November 5, 2017

Are you looking for things to do this week? Here's a listing of some of the fun things happening in Boise:

• Monday, October 30, 2017: Toddletales at the Main Library from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for toddlers 2-3. Click here for more details. 
• Monday, October 30, 2017: Veterans Housing Outreach at the Main Library from 10:30 am -12 pm. Learn about housing and medical care opportunities for veterans. Click here for more information.
• Monday, October 30, 2017: Family Storytime and Craft Night at the Main Library from 7-7:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 31, 2017: Tinkertots at the Main Library from 10:30 -11 am. Enjoy a story and playtime. For ages 0-5. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 31, 2017: Tasty Tales at Guru Donuts at 10 and 10:30 am. Come bring your kids to listen to a free storytime. For more information, click here. 
• Tuesday, October 31, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 1:30-2 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 31, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 2-2:30 pm. Fun for ages 3-5 years old. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 31, 2017: Library Pokemon League at the Main Library from 4-5:30 pm. Come battle it out with other Pokemon fans. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 31, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 10-11 am. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• November 1, 3, 4: Idaho Steelheads vs. Colorado at 7:10 am at the Centurylink Arena. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Toddle Tales Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, count and more! For ages 2-3. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday November 1, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: STEAM Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and more! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Tiny Explorers at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Explore, learn and play at the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Mid-day Meditation from 12:15-12:45 pm at Library! at Cole & Ustick. Come relax and meditate. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Stitch Niche at Library! at Bown Crossing from 1-2 pm.  Bring your knitting, crochet and stitch projects to the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Teens Weekly Meet-up from 3:30-4:45 pm at Library! at Hillcrest. Enjoy a variety of fun activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Geeks and Gizmos from 4-5 pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Enjoy science and technology activities from legos to robots. For ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 20017: Teen Anime Streaming at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Weekly on Wednesday at Library! at Collister from 4-5pm. Learn from a variety of themes and activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Wild Card Wednesdays at Library! at Bown Crossing. Ages 6-12 are welcome to have fun at the library and enjoy arts and crafts, robots, presenters and more. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: NaNoWriMo Meetup at the Main Library from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, November 1, 2017: Discoveries in Place and Time at the Library! at Hillcrest from 7-8 pm. Learn about life in another country. Click here for more information.
•  November 2-5, 2017: NewDance at Esther Simplot Performing Arts Academy. Tickets run from $20-25. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Fit and Fall Proof Class at Library! at Collister from 9:15-10 am. Work on simple exercises to increase your balance and strength. Click here for more information.  
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11:15 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. This is also a workshop for parents to learn these skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for children of all ages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Little Logic Learners at Library! at Main from 10:30-11:15 am. Come to a fun and interactive storytime that will also introduce preschoolers to technology and math skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Bown Crossing from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Paint, Paper and Scissors at Library! at Hillcrest from 2-4 pm. Create one of a kind multi-media collages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 2-4 pm. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Tech and Games at Library! at Collister from 3:30 -5 pm. Have fun with tech and toys. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Friends Fall Holiday Sale at 762 River St. from 4-8 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Start-up and Nonprofits Legal Clinic from 4-6 pm at Library! at Main. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: School Age Fun at Library! at Main from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Teen Night at Library! at Bown Crossing from 7-8 pm. Enjoy a special program for teens.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, November 2, 2017: Dia de Muertos at Jack Urban's Meeting Place from 5-8 pm. FREE community event with pan de muerto and hot chocolate, face painting and fun activities. Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Friends Fall Holiday Sale at 762 River St. from 9 am -8 pm. Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 10-11 am. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Babies Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Play and Learn Time from 10:30-11:30 am at Library! at Collister for ages 0-4. Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Tots and Toddlers from 11-11:30 am at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Come listen to stories, sing songs, and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Afterschool Adventures at Library! at Hilcrest from 4-5 pm. Kids from kindergarten to 6th grades are invited to join fun science experiments, book themed parties and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, November 3, 2017: Lego Club at Library! at Bown Crossing. Come build with legos. For kids ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Friends Fall Holiday Sale at 762 River St. from 9 am -8 pm. Click here for more information. 
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Boise Veterans Day Parade at 9:45 am in Downtown Boise. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Your Health Idaho Open Enrollment from 10 am to 5 pm at the Library! Main. Learn answers to your questions about Your Health Idaho and enroll. Click here for more information. 
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Capital City Public Market from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on 8th St. - Main to State Streets. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017:  Boise Farmers Market from 9 am to 1 pm at the Republic parking lot, 10th and Grove St. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: International Games Day Celebration at Library! at Collister from 12-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys Experience at the Library! at Main from 2-4 pm. Search for clues around the library to solve a mystery. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, November 4, 2017: Zeitgeist Half Marathon at 10 am at the Optimist Youth Sports Complex. Click here for more information.
• Sunday, November 5, 2017: Friends Fall Holiday Sale at 762 River St. from 10 am - 5 pm. Click here for more information.

Kroger Friday Freebie

Today only you can download a coupon for download your coupon for 1 FREE Mtn Dew Kickstart (12 or 16 fl. oz., any variety) (you must have an online account and store card registered). The coupon is good at Kroger and Kroger Affiliates and must be redeemed by Sunday, November 12. Click here for more details.

ESV Illuminated Bible Review and Giveaway

The ESV Illuminated Bible contains full ESV text with over 500 hand-lettered gold ink illustrations by Dana Tanamachi. Tanamachi works have been featured by Google, The Wall Street Journal, USPS, Target, and Random House. The ESV Illuminated Bible's printed on thick cream paper and has extra wide margins allowing for space to write notes and thoughts. To discover more about the ESV Illuminated Bible, click here.


The ESV Illuminated Bible contains gorgeous illustrations. The illustrations are subtle and add additional beauty to several of the verses. Several of the pages are so gorgeous that I can easily see them as a print for a picture frame. Even though there are extra wide margins to leave space for writing, this bible seems too fine for writing or notes. This would be an amazing family bible and would be fun to to pull out at Christmas time to read the Christmas Story as a family. I also liked how the numbers for the verses are smaller and less noticeable.

The sponsor has allowed me to giveaway a copy of ESV Illuminated Bible to one lucky reader. You can enter to win by entering the Rafflecopter below.  The giveaway will run until 12 am on November 6, 2017  wherein I will select 1 winner through Rafflecopter. This is for continental U.S. residents only and 18+ please. I will notify the winner via email. Please respond within 24 hours or the prize maybe forfeited to another winner. Please read the disclosure down below. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Please note that this post also contains an affiliate link in one of the images.

 

Classics for Halloween

Are you looking for something to read? There are a lot of great classics that are perfect for the Halloween season. Here are some of my recommendations:



The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a classic spooky short story. This classic has been made into a television series, movie, cartoon and more.



The Haunting of Hill House (Penguin Classics)
Shirley Jackson wrote the famous short story, "The Lottery" and the spooky tale of The Haunting of Hill House. This is a classic story with terror and perfect for Halloween.




The Turn of the Screw (Dover Thrift Editions)
Henry James' The Turn of the Screw is widely popular literary ghost story.




 Frankenstein
The Hollywood versions of Frankenstein differ from the book. It's always worth reading the original.



Edgar Allan Poe: Complete Tales and Poems
Edgar Allan Poe is the master of creepy, spooky and chilling stories and poems. His works are perfect for Halloween.

What do you like to read before Halloween?


Please note that this post contains affiliate links.

Kroger Rice Bitz Review

Kroger has numerous store brand cereals that are cost effective for consumers and delicious. Kroger sent me Rice Bitz to try. We decided to mix it in with yogurt and it was delicious.

The Rice Bitz Cereal is easy to mix in with other things: milk, yogurt, fruit. You could even mix-in pretzels, nuts and seasonings to make a great snack mix. Rice Bitz doesn't contain high-fructose corn syrup or artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Kroger also has Raisin Brand, Fruit Rings and Honey Nut Toasted Oat cereals.

What flavor would you want to try?


I received this product free to sample. This does not influence my opinion.

Things to Do in Boise: Monday October 23 - Sunday October 29, 2017

Are you looking for fun things to do in Boise this week? Check out these events:

• Monday, October 23, 2017: Toddletales at the Main Library from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for toddlers 2-3. Click here for more details. 
• Monday, October 23, 2017: Veterans Housing Outreach at the Main Library from 10:30 am -12 pm. Learn about housing and medical care opportunities for veterans. Click here for more information.
• Monday, October 23, 2017: Family Storytime and Craft Night at the Main Library from 7-7:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017: Tinkertots at the Main Library from 10:30 -11 am. Enjoy a story and playtime. For ages 0-5. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 1:30-2 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 2-2:30 pm. Fun for ages 3-5 years old. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017: Library Pokemon League at the Main Library from 4-5:30 pm. Come battle it out with other Pokemon fans. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017: Tasty Tales at Guru Donuts at 10 and 10:30 am. Come bring your kids to listen to a free storytime. For more information, click here. 
• Tuesday, October 24, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Toddle Tales Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, count and more! For ages 2-3. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and more! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Tiny Explorers at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Explore, learn and play at the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Stitch Niche at Library! at Bown Crossing from 1-2 pm.  Bring your knitting, crochet and stitch projects to the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Teens Weekly Meet-up from 3:30-4:45 pm at Library! at Hillcrest. Enjoy a variety of fun activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Geeks and Gizmos from 4-5 pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Enjoy science and technology activities from legos to robots. For ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Weekly on Wednesday at Library! at Collister from 4-5pm. Learn from a variety of themes and activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Wild Card Wednesdays at Library! at Bown Crossing. Ages 6-12 are welcome to have fun at the library and enjoy arts and crafts, robots, presenters and more. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 25, 2017: Ombre Mobiles from 7-8:30 pm at Library! at Bown Crossing. Learn how to make an ombre mobile. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11:15 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. This is also a workshop for parents to learn these skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for children of all ages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Little Logic Learners at Library! at Main from 10:30-11:15 am. Come to a fun and interactive storytime that will also introduce preschoolers to technology and math skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Bown Crossing from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Paint, Paper and Scissors at Library! at Hillcrest from 2-4 pm. Create one of a kind multi-media collages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 3-4 pm. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Tech and Games at Library! at Collister from 3:30 -5 pm. Have fun with tech and toys. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: School Age Fun at Library! at Main from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Strings Attached at Main Library from 4-6 pm. Bring your projects to a social knitting club. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Boise Edelweiss Band at the Main Library from 5:30-6:30 pm.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Discover Your Art Side: Introduction to Italic Calligraphy from 6:30-8pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Learn the basics of calligraphy.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 26, 2017: Teen Night at Library! at Bown Crossing from 7-8 pm. Enjoy a special program for teens.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 10-11 am. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Babies Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Music and Movement from 10:30-11 am at the Library! at Main. Dance and have fun with music for ages, 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Play and Learn time from 10:30-11:30 am at Library! at Collister for ages 0-4. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Tots and Toddlers from 11-11:30 am at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Come listen to stories, sing songs, and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Afterschool Adventures at Library! at Hilcrest from 4-5 pm. Kids from kindergarten to 6th grades are invited to join fun science experiments, book themed parties and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Lego Club at Library! at Bown Crossing. Come build with legos. For kids ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 27, 2017: Harry Potter Alliance at Library! at Main from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017 - Capital City Public Market from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on 8th St. - Main to State Streets. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017 - Boise Farmers Market from 9 am to 1 pm at the Republic parking lot, 10th and Grove St. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: Harvest Fest Spectacular Weekend: Pumpkin Carving from 1-4 pm at the Library! at Ustick & Cole. Carving supplies and pumpkins will be provided (while supplies last). Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: Guerrilla Kindness: Kindness Cookies from 1-2 pm at Library! at Collister. Make felt fortune cookies and leave out in public for strangers. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: Boo at the Zoo at Zoo Boise from 10 am to 5 pm. Check out the new giraffe, enter the Halloween Contest, enjoy face painting, candy and more. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: Candy in the Corn at the Farmstead from 3-6pm. Have a fun and safe trick or treating experience at the Farmstead. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: Halloween Run at Ann Morrison Park at 5:14 pm. Wear costumes and have fun! Click here to learn more and to register.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: The Great Pumpkin Smash Finale at the Farmstead from 6-8 pm. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 28, 2017: College 101 Workshop at Library! Main from 2-4:30 pm. Free workshop for students and parents. Click here for more information.
• Sunday, October 29, 2017: Harvest Fest Spectacular Weekend: Spooky Movie and Pizza from 2-3:30 pm at the Library! at Ustick & Cole. Click here for more information.

What's your favorite?

To request your family friendly event to be added, please email me by clicking here. To have a blog post dedicated to your organization or company, please request our media kit, by clicking here.

Kroger Friday Freebie

Today only you can download a coupon for download your coupon for 1 FREE Idahoan Potato Soup (6.6-7.1 oz., any variety) (you must have an online account and store card registered). The coupon is good at Kroger and Kroger Affiliates and must be redeemed by Sunday, November 5. Click here for more details.

Free Birthday Perks for Kids

We love birthday freebies and perks. There are several companies that offer perks for kids' birthdays. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Toys R Us: This year my son received a coupon for $3 off his purchase of $3 or more and a Lego birthday toy. With his $3 off coupon, he picked out three Hot Wheels Race Tracks that were on sale. I ended up spending .09 out of pocket. The Lego Birthday toy has a Lego figure, cake and present. The program is fun for kids! To learn more and to sign up for the birthday club program, click here.
2. Baskin Robbins: Baskin Robbins will send via email a coupon for a free scoop of ice cream. Click here for more details.
3. JcPenney Portraits: JcPenney sends a high value coupon if your children are a members of the birthday club. Last year (and this year) we got a $15 off purchase that we applied to our yearly portraits. Since I am also a member and we only get 3 standard print sheets, I usually don't pay anything out of pocket. To learn more, click here.
4.  Littlest Prince Couture: The Littlest Prince also has a birthday club. Members can get a code for a free tie on their birthday (but you still need to pay shipping). To learn more, click here.

What are some of your favorite places for kid's birthday perks?

All That Makes Life Bright: The Life and Love of Harriet Beecher Stowe Review

Harriet Beecher marries Calvin Stowe. Harriet's sister, Catharine, warns Harriet that she will lose her identity and her chance to pursue writing opportunities. Harriet is determined and believes Calvin will support her. Right before Calvin leaves on a trip to Europe, Harriet discovers she is pregnant. Her life becomes harder and filled with many unexpected challenges. When Calvin returns from Europe, she realizes that his expectations in life are different from hers. Harriet struggles to find her identity as a wife, mother and a writer as she realizes that Cavin is still in love with his first wife. Can Calvin and Harriet set aside their differences and find love?

All That Makes Life Bright: The Life and Love of Harriet Beecher Stowe by Josi Kilpack is not a common love story. Harriet and Calvin marry in the beginning of the story and much of the book is about the struggles within their marriage and the different expectations they each have. I love the characterization of Harriet and it seems like most women can identify with trying to find their place within the expectations of different roles. The bedroom scenes were a little too descriptive for my tastes. The historical background was interesting and the story kept my attention. To learn more, click here.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links.

Halloween Book Recommendations for Kids

Halloween is coming up fast! We love celebrating holidays by reading children's books. Here are some of our favorites for Halloween:




Corduroy's Best Halloween Ever!
My daughter loves the Corduroy books. The illustrations and the stories are cute, easy to understand and fun for little kids. This book also shares an example of being kind to your friends.



Click, Clack, Boo!: A Tricky Treat (A Click, Clack Book)
We are huge fans of Doreen Cronin's "Click, Clack" books or what we call at home, "Duck" books. Everyone on the farm is excited for Halloween except Farmer Brown.


 
It's Pumpkin Day, Mouse!
Mouse is getting ready for Halloween by decorating pumpkins. The illustrations are fun, the text is easy for kids to understand and introduces how to recognize emotions based on expressions.


 
One Halloween Night
Anything can happen on Halloween night, right? In One Halloween Night, a group of friends discover the magic within a Halloween night. This book is cleverly written and a fun story to read in preparation for Halloween.



Little Boo
A little pumpkin seed is not big enough to scare anyone. The wind advises him to wait. As the little seed waits he grows and becomes a pumpkin! Little Boo goes through the life cycle of a pumpkin. It's a cute and fun book to read in preparation for Halloween.

What are some of your favorite Halloween stories?

Please note that this post contains affiliate links.

Things to Do in Boise: Week of October 16 to October 22, 2017

It's October and Halloween is creeping closer. Boise is crawling with great events and activities. Here's a listing of what's going on this week: 

• Monday, October 16, 2017: Toddletales at the Main Library from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for toddlers 2-3. Click here for more details. 
• Monday, October 16, 2017: Veterans Housing Outreach at the Main Library from 10:30 am -12 pm. Learn about housing and medical care opportunities for veterans. Click here for more information.
• Monday, October 16, 2017: Family Storytime and Craft Night at the Main Library from 7-7:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 17, 2017: Tinkertots at the Main Library from 10:30 -11 am. Enjoy a story and playtime. For ages 0-5. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 17, 2017: Tasty Tales at Guru Donuts at 10 and 10:30 am. Come bring your kids to listen to a free storytime. For more information, click here. 
• Tuesday, October 17, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 2-2:30 pm. Fun for ages 3-5 years old. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 17, 2017: Library Pokemon League at the Main Library from 4-5:30 pm. Come battle it out with other Pokemon fans. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 17, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Toddle Tales Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, count and more! For ages 2-3. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and more! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Tiny Explorers at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Explore, learn and play at the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Stitch Niche at Library! at Bown Crossing from 1-2 pm.  Bring your knitting, crochet and stitch projects to the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Teens Weekly Meet-up from 3:30-4:45 pm at Library! at Hillcrest. Enjoy a variety of fun activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Geeks and Gizmos from 4-5 pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Enjoy science and technology activities from legos to robots. For ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Weekly on Wednesday at Library! at Collister from 4-5pm. Learn from a variety of themes and activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: Wild Card Wednesdays at Library! at Bown Crossing. Ages 6-12 are welcome to have fun at the library and enjoy arts and crafts, robots, presenters and more. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 18, 2017: DIY Cat Halloween Costumes from 6:30-8:30 pm at Library! at Hillcrest. Learn how to make halloween costumes for your cat. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11:15 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. This is also a workshop for parents to learn these skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for children of all ages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Little Logic Learners at Library! at Main from 10:30-11:15 am. Come to a fun and interactive storytime that will also introduce preschoolers to technology and math skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Bown Crossing from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Paint, Paper and Scissors at Library! at Hillcrest from 2-4 pm. Create one of a kind multi-media collages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 3-4 pm. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Tech and Games at Library! at Collister from 3:30 -5 pm. Have fun with tech and toys. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: School Age Fun at Library! at Main from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Teen Science and Engineering Cafe at Main Library from 6:30-8:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 19, 2017: Teen Night at Library! at Bown Crossing from 7-8 pm. Enjoy a special program for teens.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 10-11 am. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Discover Family History at Library! at Hillcrest from 10 am - 5 pm. Come learn the basics of family history, activities, classes, crafts and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Babies Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Music and Movement from 10:30-11 am at the Library! at Main. Dance and have fun with music for ages, 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Play and Learn time from 10:30-11:30 am at Library! at Collister for ages 0-4. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Tots and Toddlers from 11-11:30 am at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Come listen to stories, sing songs, and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Afterschool Adventures at Library! at Hilcrest from 4-5 pm. Kids from kindergarten to 6th grades are invited to join fun science experiments, book themed parties and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Lego Club at Library! at Bown Crossing. Come build with legos. For kids ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Wizards World Club at Library! at Main from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 20, 2017: Eric O'Grey - Author Talk at Rediscovered Books at 7 pm. Eric O'Grey was overweight and had type 2 diabetes. Eric went to a new doctor who prescribed getting a shelter dog. Eric adopted Peety, an over-weight, middle-aged forgotten dog. Together they lost weight and became healthier. Click here to learn more. 
• Saturday, October 21, 2017 - Capital City Public Market from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on 8th St. - Main to State Streets. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 21, 2017 - Boise Farmers Market from 9 am to 1 pm at the Republic parking lot, 10th and Grove St. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 21, 2017 - Watershed Weekend - Fall Festival at the Boise Watershed from 10 am to 1 pm. Come create festive fall crafts, explore the exhibit hall, take a harvest photo, meet live reptiles, and take a hay ride tour. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 21, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 21, 2017: Discover your Art Side: Mobiles for Babies at Library! at Bown Crossing. Come and make a mobile for your baby! Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 21, 2017: Patch's Pumpkin Party at the Farmstead from 12 to 5 pm. Includes a pumpkin-pie eating contest, pumpkin-seed spitting contest, pumpkin relays and more. Click here for more information. 
• Saturday, October 21, 2017: Barber to Boise at Barber Park starting at 8:30 am. 5k and 10k runs. Click here to learn more information and to register.

What event are you most excited about?

If you would like to have your family friendly event listed, please contact me here.  If you would like to sponsor a post or work with me, click here to contact me and ask for a media kit (only family friendly).

Kroger Friday Freebie

Today only you can download a coupon for download your coupon for 1 FREE M&M’s Milk Chocolate, Peanut or Peanut Butter Single (1.63-1.7 oz.) (you must have an online account and store card registered). The coupon is good at Kroger and Kroger Affiliates and must be redeemed by Sunday, October 29. Click here for more details.

Ozeri Touch II Scale Giveaway

Ozeri Touch II 18 lbs. Digital Kitchen Scale is an industry exclusive scale that features Microban
antimicrobial product protection. Mircroban Antimicrobial protections helps prevent stain and odor causing bacteria from growing. The Ozeri Touch II 18lbs Digital Kitchen scale has two touch-sensitive buttons that are easy to use. The scale also had a capacity of .05 oz to 18 lbs, easy to use and comes in a variety of colors. To learn more about this product, click here.

Ozeri has graciously allowed me to giveaway a white Ozeri Touch II 18 lbs. Digital Kitchen Scale to one lucky reader. You can enter to win by entering the Rafflecopter below.  The giveaway will run until 12 am on October 19, 2017  wherein I will select 1 winner through Rafflecopter. This is for continental U.S. residents only and 18+ please. I will notify the winner via email. Please respond within 24 hours or the prize maybe forfeited to another winner 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Many thanks to the sponsor for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Wrong for You Review

Lane Bishop moves to Chapel Hill, North Carolina for a job. Shortly after she arrives, a bunch of girls drag her out to watch a soccer game. Lane isn't content on sitting on the sidelines and catches the eye of the "undateable and unattainable" Jamie. Jamie needs all the help he can get to win over Lane. He relies on the advice of his brother, Simon. Simon's advice helps Jamie seem like the "perfect" guy for Lane. As she gets to know both brothers, Lane begins to wonder if she's dating the right guy?

Wrong for You by Jenny Proctor contained a lot of drama between the characters. Some of the story seemed a little unrealistic and the drama a little far-flung, but I think it's just supposed to be a fun story. The ideal age to read this book is teen - young adult. It's a fast, clean and fun read. Each of the characters had their own unique personality and traits. The characters drove the plot within their own drama and conflicts. To learn more about Wrong for You, click here.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links.

Things to Do in Boise: October 9-October 15, 2017

It's October and Halloween is creeping closer. Boise is crawling with great events and activities. Here's a listing of what's going on this week:

• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Tinkertots at the Main Library from 10:30 -11 am. Enjoy a story and playtime. For ages 0-5. Click here for more information. 
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Tasty Tales at Guru Donuts at 10 and 10:30 am. Come bring your kids to listen to a free storytime. For more information, click here. 
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 1:30-2 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 2-2:30 pm. Fun for ages 3-5 years old. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Library Pokemon League at the Main Library from 4-5:30 pm. Come battle it out with other Pokemon fans. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 3-4 pm. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Career Pathways from 5:30-7:30 pm. Assistance for Refugees that are underemployed or have dead-end jobs. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Baby Bownders at the Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come listen to baby storytime. Great for ages 0-2. Click here for more information.
• Tuesday, October 10, 2017: Teen Night at Library! at Main from 7-8 pm. Enjoy a special program for teens.  Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 10-11 am. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Toddle Tales Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, count and more! For ages 2-3. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Cole & Ustick from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017:  Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Listen to stories and more! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Tiny Explorers at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Explore, learn and play at the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Stitch Niche at Library! at Bown Crossing from 1-2 pm.  Bring your knitting, crochet and stitch projects to the library. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Teens Weekly Meet-up from 3:30-4:45 pm at Library! at Hillcrest. Enjoy a variety of fun activities. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Teen Anime Streaming from 4-5 pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick.  Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Geeks and Gizmos from 4-5 pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Enjoy science and technology activities from legos to robots. For ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Cardboard Challenge from 4-6 pm at Library! at Collister. Come and build things with cardboard! Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Equality and Diversity Teen Reading Group from 6-8 pm at Library! at Hillcrest. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Wild Card Wednesdays at Library! at Bown Crossing from 4-5 pm. Ages 6-12 are welcome to have fun at the library and enjoy arts and crafts, robots, presenters and more. Click here for more information.
• Wednesday, October 11, 2017: Game Night at the Library! at Main from 6-8:30 pm. This event is for teens and adults. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Preschool Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11:15 am. Listen to stories and learn math for ages 3-5. This is also a workshop for parents to learn these skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Bloomin Babies Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Storytime at Library! at Collister from 10:30-11 am. Storytime for children of all ages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Little Logic Learners at Library! at Main from 10:30-11:15 am. Come to a fun and interactive storytime that will also introduce preschoolers to technology and math skills. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Music and Movement at Library! at Bown Crossing from 10:30 -11 am. Come sing and dance to music. For ages 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Paint, Paper and Scissors at Library! at Hillcrest from 2-4 pm. Create one of a kind multi-media collages. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 3-4 pm. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Tech and Games at Library! at Collister from 3:30 -5 pm. Have fun with tech and toys. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: School Age Fun at Library! at Main from 4-5 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Teens and Gaming at Library! at Ustick and Cole from 3:30-4:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Discover Your Art Side: Introduction to Italic Calligraphy from 6:30-8pm at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Learn the basics of calligraphy.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 6:30-7 pm. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Thursday, October 12, 2017: Teen Night at Library! at Bown Crossing from 7-8 pm. Enjoy a special program for teens.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Technology Basics at Library! at Collister from 10-11 am. Learn from email to e-reader technology basics. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Babies Storytime at Library! at Hillcrest from 10:30-11 am. Come listen to stories, puppets and songs (ages 0-23 months)! Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Music and Movement from 10:30-11 am at the Library! at Main. Dance and have fun with music for ages, 2-5. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Tots and Toddlers from 11-11:30 am at Library! at Cole and Ustick. Come listen to stories, sing songs, and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Play and Learn time from 10:30-11:30 am at Library! at Collister for ages 0-4. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Bown Crossing from 11-11:30 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime.  Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Afterschool Adventures at Library! at Hilcrest from 4-5 pm. Kids from kindergarten to 6th grades are invited to join fun science experiments, book themed parties and more. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Lego Club at Library! at Bown Crossing. Come build with legos. For kids ages 6-12. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Elisabeth McKetta - Author Talk at Rediscovered Books from 7-8:30 pm. McKetta wrote a book about Dr. John J. McKetta Jr, the godfather of chemical engineering. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Teen Night at Library! at Collister from 6:30-8:30 pm. Click here for more information.
• Friday, October 13, 2017: Dog Day at the Farmstead from 4-8 pm. Bring your well-behaved dogs to the Farmstead to enjoy some fun. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Touch a Tractor at the Farmstead from noon to dark. Included with admission. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Run for Resilience Ostomy 5k. Click here for more information.  
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: TVDSA Buddy Walk at 11 am at Capitol Park to Julia Davis Park. Come support the Treasure Valley Down Syndrome Association. Click here for more information.
• Saturday and Sunday, October 14-15, 2017: Gowen Thunder with the Idaho National Guard. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017 - Capital City Public Market from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on 8th St. - Main to State Streets. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017 - Boise Farmers Market from 9 am to 1 pm at the Republic parking lot, 10th and Grove St. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Indie Author Day at the Library! Main from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Come listen to panels, discussions and meet Indie Authors. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Foothills Family Days - Creep, Crawly Creatures! from 10 am - 1 pm at Jim Halls Foothill Learning Center. Come learn about different bugs, from pollination to pest control. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Family Storytime at Library! at Main from 10:30-11 am. Come as a family and enjoy storytime. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Sing Along with Mr. Don Ritchy at the Main Library from 11-11:30. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: College 101 Workshop at Library! Main from 2-4:30 pm. Free workshop for students and parents. Click here for more information.
• Saturday, October 14, 2017: Raqs Shaki at Library! Main from 2-3 pm. The whole family can learn the art of belly dancing. Click here for more information.
• Sunday, October 15, 2017: Harrison Kids Classic at Harrison Blvd at 3 pm. A mile run for kids ages 13 and under. Click here for more information.  

What event are you most excited about?

If you would like to have your family friendly event listed, please contact me here.  If you would like to sponsor a post or work with me, click here to contact me and ask for a media kit (only family friendly).