Tidbits and Snippets for January 8th

Restoring Chivalry and Civility - A great discussion on teaching children - with two extremely useful printables! (Cultivated Lives)

Is Eating Placenta Cannibalism? - Excellent points that even I, as an ardent placentophagist, had not considered.  (Holy Temple Under Renovation)

In Defense of Domesticity - Too much awesomeness to describe in a sound byte. Definitely catch this masterpiece of social commentary. (Crisis Magazine)

You Don't Need a Date Night - A good thing, too, since the last date night I had with my husband was approximately seven years ago. (Challies.com)

Not that there's anything wrong with date nights. There isn't, and they're great. But there is no doubt that date nights have, in modern times, been elevated to the status of an idol. Date nights are fun, but they're not the One Essential Ingredient to a good marriage. I think Ma and Pa Ingalls (who never had a date night, ever) might agree. 

Mommy Life and Getting Past Survival - Great thoughts here. See the comments for additional discussion. (Jess Connell)

It's Worth the Effort - "Keep teaching your children, mamas... Real parenting is tiring work that stretches and grows us, but it is so important." (Contentment Acres)

"I am seeing the gardens in my children's hearts, which I tended so carefully and prayed over so sincerely, bear fruit. Not only do I see God's work in their lives, but I am touched by it as they now minister to me. This has been surprising because I didn't expect to receive anything in return as I mothered them. I kept at it because I wanted them to know the Lord and do what was right. All my weary and often flawed efforts combined with God's grace has turned around and is blessing me in so many ways. Keep going, mamas. I know the road is rough, but it's worth the journey."

From the Bookshelf

Moving toward my goal of catching up on all the children's literature I missed the first time through...

The Mysterious Benedict Society

I've heard of this book for years, and finally decided to tackle it.
And... wow. It was awesome. A gripping story-line, insanely inventive language and plot... it was definitely a page-turner of the highest order.

My only caution is that this book can get a wee bit on the scary-creepy side. Don't hand it off to any easily-scared children. However, I think most teens should be able to handle this. 

Anyone else read this one?

The Penderwicks in Spring

This past week I finished reading the four Penderwick books, of which this one is the last. Did I like it? Yes and no. I liked it because I like the Penderwick series, but the actual story line I found both horrifying and sickening. Also, the resolution was weak - at best.

I am considering writing a review of the Penderwick series, simply to sort out my feelings about these books. I really have a love-hate relationship with them, and I'm not yet sure which predominates.

Any other readers out there who have read these books? Your thoughts?

Meet Julie

Question: How much feminist ideology can be put into one children's book?

Answer: More than I thought possible.

Whether you think that's a good thing or not depends on whether or not you are a fan of feminist ideology, and of teaching it to your daughters.

For myself, I was deeply and profoundly disappointed in this book.

Kildee House

A gentle book about a hermit, his animal friends, and the girl who befriends him. Slow-paced, enjoyable, and especially fun for animal lovers.

The Fifth of March

A fictionalized story of the time surrounding the Boston massacre, from the perspective of a female servant in the Adams household. Beyond a few minor complaints, it's an enjoyable read.















From the Recipe Box

Crockpot Enchilada Stuffed Green Peppers - These were fast, easy, and superb! I used this enchilada sauce recipe and a homemade spice packet using this recipe (I omited the cornstarch, sugar, coriander, and cayenne). I also added a couple of onions, sauteed, to stretch the meat.

Cookie Pizza - It only took me four and a half years after printing this recipe to try it. But YUM, it instantly became a family favorite. Do try it!

Have a wonderful week, dear readers!