1 . . .

Today’s the day . . . the last day on the 100 Days to Disney Countdown.  I hope you’ve enjoyed counting down with me and my family. 

Now, we are ready to head out for our actual trip to Disney.  In just a few days, we’ll be seeing and doing all the things that we’ve shared about on our countdown over the past  few months.  This time, we’re leaving our dog and my parents at home to watch over things for us (next time, maybe we’ll shake things up a bit and bring them along – my parents, that is, not the dog!) 

Anyway, here’s what I absolutely cannot wait to see – what makes me feel like I’ve returned home after that 18 hour drive . . .

Bring it on!

Reviews COMING SOON

Here’s just a little sneak peek at some reviews that you’ll be seeing at Heidi’s Head AFTER my vacation. 

Be sure to check back in a few weeks – because these are going to be fun reviews to share! 

2 . . .

Yesterday, I talked about the monorail – and, as much as I love it, I must say that I think I prefer the ferry when it comes to that  first trip from the Transportation and Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom.  Usually, the lines for the ferry are shorter; so, while the ride itself is longer, if there is a crowd at the parks, it’s sometime the better option to take the ferry.  We usually always do – at least on our first MK visit each trip. 

I’ll be the first person to admit that sometimes we are set in our ways – but traditions are fun, right? 

So, which do you prefer?  Ferry or monorail?

Guess what’s coming to theaters on September 14th?!

Academy Award^®-winning Best Animated Feature “Finding Nemo” returns to the big screen for the first time ever in thrilling Disney Digital 3D™. In this stunning underwater adventure, with memorable characters, humor and heartfelt emotion, “Finding Nemo” follows the comedic and momentous journey of an overly protective clownfish named Marlin (voice by Albert Brooks) and his son Nemo (voice by Alexander Gould)––who become separated in the Great Barrier Reef when Nemo is unexpectedly taken far from his ocean home and dumped into a fish tank in a dentist’s office. Buoyed by the companionship of Dory (voice by Ellen DeGeneres), a friendly-but-forgetful Pacific regal blue tang, Marlin embarks on a dangerous trek and finds himself the unlikely hero of an epic effort to rescue his son––who hatches a few daring plans of his own to return safely home.

Here are some interesting facts about Finding Nemo:

· “Finding Nemo” won the 2003 Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature.

· The film won a Golden Globe® Award for Best Motion Picture–Musical or Comedy.

· At the time of its release, “Finding Nemo” was the highest grossing G-rated movie of all time.

· Ellen DeGeneres won an MTV Movie Award for Best Comedic Performance.

· In 2008, The American Film Institute named “Finding Nemo” among the top 10 greatest animated films ever made.

Wanna see a sneak peek?

3 . . .

If the only thing to do at Walt Disney World was to ride the monorail, I have a little boy who would be just fine with that!  Ian adores the monorail!  It’s his all-time favorite thing at WDW – and he can’t wait to board it.  And, the truth is, I’m pretty excited myself.  Because, once you get on that monorail, you just kinda feel like you are home, you know? 

Do you have a favorite monorail color?

4 . . .

See the look on Ian’s face in the picture to the right?!  LOL  That’s what you look like when you’re really hot and tired, and waiting for the Walt Disney World Railroad to pull into the station so you can finally climb around and take a ride around the park. 

You know what’s ironic, though?  We finally boarded that thing, only to journey through Frontierland and catch a glimpse of Woody & Jessie greeting friends – and Ian declared that we had to get off so that we could meet them too.

I seriously don’t remember the last time we’ve made the entire trip around the park – if ever!  So, I am bound and determined to change that status in just a few short days.  I’m staying ON the train this year!

5 . . .

# 5 on the countdown is my absolute favorite thrill ride at Walt Disney World.  Man, if there wasn’t a line, I could ride this thing 10 times in a row, laughing the entire time!  I love it.  Yep, it’s the Tower of Terror.

While others in my family may not necessarily agree (namely: Gracie), I think it’s the top of the charts (and I’d pick it over Rock ‘n Roller Coaster any day of the week)! 

So, yep, I’m anxious to get back on this thing for another elevator drop in just a few short days . . .

How about you?

6 . . .

The last snack on our must-try list and the last snack to make the 100 Days to Disney Countdown series here on my blog is the Butterfinger Cupcake. My friend Jackie posted a picture of this treat on her blog – go look, and I can almost guarantee that you’ll be adding it to your next Disney countdown list too!

7 . . .

So, I really don’t know what took us so long, but our family just finally caught onto the whole Pirates of the Caribbean craze this past year.  We had ridden the ride various times throughout the years, but we’ve always avoided the movies.  Not sure what changed in me – but one day, a few months back, I mentioned that I thought maybe we should give the movies a chance.  We bought the first one – loved it – and went on to buy the rest (in quick succession!) 

Really, I’m still kinda shaking my head in shock over the fact that we like them so much – I can’t explain it, as they really aren’t our normal style.  But, alas, we do love them!  So much so that . . . well, the rest is a story for another day.

But, we are anxious for another ride on  the Pirates of the Caribbean ride – now that it has new meaning to us as a family!

A Mile in His Shoes

We love movies!  But, it’s not always easy to find movies that are family-friendly, is it?  Sometimes I get a little frustrated that so many family-friendly movies seem to be about either an animal (horses and dogs seem to be big ones) or sports.  Sports is so not my thing!  But, so many of our favorite family movies seem to center around one sport or another. 
Recently, I received the opportunity to review a new movie called A Mile in His Shoes.  I have to admit that when I  glanced at the cover, I thought to myself “oh no, not another baseball movie!” 
Then, I read the description and knew this was a movie that my family would enjoy:

From the director of "Angels In the Outfield" comes an inspiring story about a special boy with an amazing gift, and the coach who believed. Dean Cain and Luke Schroder star in the gmc movie based on the book "The Legend of Mickey Tussler".

Yep, that’s it; but it was enough.  You see, Mickey – the main character in this movie – has Aspergers Syndrome, which is a mild form of autism.  One of my dearest friends has a son with this same condition.  I’ve enjoyed watching from the sidelines as he has grown and overcome so much over the past few years.  I knew this movie would be an inspiration as well. 
And I was right!  We really, really enjoyed A Mile in His Shoes – and I know it’ll be a movie we’ll reach for over and over again when we have family movie nights.


I have the opportunity to bless one of you with a copy of this movie as well!  If you would like to add A Mile in His Shoes to your family movie collection, please read on and follow the rafflecopter directions to sign up for your chance to win. 

The Mulligans of Mt Jefferson by Don Reid

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Mulligans of Mt Jefferson David C. Cook (January 1, 2012) by Don Reid

Cal, Harlan, and Buddy grow up together in a small Virginia town in the years before the second World War. United by age, proximity, and temperament, they get into—and out of—all the trouble that boys manage to find. They even earn a nickname from a local restaurateur who gives the boys their first jobs and plenty of friendly advice. “Uncle” Vic calls them the Mulligans, because they always seem to find a way through a thicket of trouble—family problems, girls, college, war—to success. Cal and Harlan and Buddy have been blessed with second chances.

Now it’s 1959, and police lieutenant Buddy receives an early-morning phone call: his friend Harlan, a store owner, has been shot in a break-in. Cal, now a preacher, meets Buddy at the hospital, and together, as professionals and as friends, they begin to unravel what might have happened to Harlan.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Mulligans of Mt Jefferson, go HERE.

Don is one of the original members of the STATLER BROTHERS, the most award-winning act in the history of country music. He and his brother and two friends began singing in their hometown of Staunton, Virginia when Don was only fourteen years old. Working all over their home and neighboring states as a part time group, they were discovered in 1964 by Johnny Cash and given their first record contract. By the time Don was 20 years old, the STATLERS had their first major, world-wide hit record with FLOWERS ON THE WALL, which started a string of hits that generated a career in the music industry that lasted for four decades. The STATLERS have been recipients of multiple industry awards.

It wasn’t until the STATLER BROTHERS decided to retire from traveling in 2002 that Don pursued his writing career to another level. Having songwriting and scriptwriting under his belt, the next obvious step was to write a book. And that book was the scripture based HEROES AND OUTLAWS OF THE BIBLE published in June of 2002 by New Leaf Press. He has since writeen two other non-fiction books; and, in 2008, saw another dream come true for Don when he released his first novel, O LITTLE TOWN. Novel number two came in the form of ONE LANE BRIDGE, and THE MULLIGANS OF MT. JEFFERSON, is a sequel to O LITTLE TOWN.

Don is the father of two sons. Debo and his wife, Julie, and daughters Sela Mae and Adra, live within a stone’s throw. You may have seen Debo’s name on many songs written with Don on albums over the years.

Heidi Says . . . I was raised on country music, and the Statler Brothers were always a popular record choice in our home.  As a very little girl, I could be heard singing their songs throughout the house; and, to this day, I know many of those songs by heart (and especially enjoy singing the harmony parts). Some of my earliest favorites were Countin’ Flowers on the Wall and Bed of Roses.

In the 80’s, I remember watching their TV show.  I have an aunt who used to visit Staunton yearly for the  big Statler Brothers event that would take place there.  Now, I have a cousin who lives in Staunton – I believe her father-in-law is actually one of the people mentioned in the song Class of ‘57.  For my parents’ anniversary one year, I bought them tickets to see the Statlers in concert in Hershey, PA.  (Don, if you’re reading this, I think I was the only person on my feet in the crowd! LOL) Yes, we’re a family who loves the Statler Brothers, so we were all sad when we heard they were retiring.

Last year, while searching YouTube, my daughter Ashley and I discovered Grandstaff.  Grandstaff is a vocal duo made up of Wil and Langdon Reid, sons of Harold and Don Reid, of the original Statler Brothers.  We quickly purchased their album, Live and Well, and really enjoy their music (especially their tributes to the Statlers!)

Through some videos of Grandstaff, we heard about a book that Harold and Don had co-written, called The Statler Brothers: Random Memories.  I quickly ordered a copy for my mom for Christmas (but I confess – I read a good bit of it before gifting it to her!) 

So, all this to say that a few months ago, when I was visiting Amazon in search of some books to add to my Kindle, I discovered O Little Town by Don Reid.  Yes, I got excited!  And, I really, really liked the  book.  I passed my Kindle on to my mom so she could read it too. 

When the opportunity presented itself to review The Mulligans of Mt. Jefferson, how could I pass it up?  Here was a chance to read a book that follows on the heals of O Little Town, is written by one of my childhood heroes, and gives me that Statler Brothers connection.

The Mulligans of Mt. Jefferson, along with its predecessor O Little Town, is a great book.  It speaks so well of life in the 50’s in small town America.  The characters are believable and real, they are far from perfect.  You can get drawn into the stories and feel as though you actually know and live among these people.  You cheer for them – and, sometimes, you get mad at them.  I’m amazed at Don’s ability to write a book containing so many characters.  Sometimes, books with lots of characters are hard to follow – not so with Don’s books, where each character is well thought-out and described, and easily remembered. 

Yes, I’m a professed Statler Brothers fan – and I’d definitely recommend this book!  I hope there will be more  to come!

8 . . .

I’ve spoken a few times earlier in the countdown about the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot.  One of the things that I really enjoy watching here is the Fife & Drum Corps.  Not only do I love their music, but I love the authenticity (like everything else at Walt Disney World).  These guys really look like they stepped right out of the American Revolution! 

If you’ve never seen/heard them, look them up on YouTube!

9 . . .

OK, we’re finally down to single digits in the  countdown!  Yahoo!!! 

I have to confess that, as I get older, those rides that spin in circles really lose their appeal!  I’ve been avoiding them at local amusements parks for some time now.  But, you just can’t avoid them at Disney.  And, I know that Gracie (especially) will be wanting to ride the Teacups. 

On our last trip, she and I took a teacup spin, while Brian and Ian rode the Indy cars.  This year, I think we’ll all partake in both rides.  We’ll see . .  .

Disney Snacks . . . YUM!

Welcome to the first stop aboard Magical Blogorail Orange. Enjoy the ride as we share with you our favorite Disney snacks.

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My family is counting the days to our next Disney trip (we’re talking single digits, people!) and we are excited to be participating in the Disney Dining Plan for the first time.  We love the whole dining experience at Disney – everything from snacks to sit-down meals.  We’re looking forward to trying some new things as well as enjoying some old favorites on this next trip.

One of the things that I’m particularly looking forward to about the DDP is the opportunity to  try some different and new-to-us Disney snacks.  I must say that my absolute favorite Disney snack is the Pineapple Dole Whip Float.  And even though I’ve had them several times before, I couldn’t possibly even think about a trip to Disney without at least one.

In the past, my family has enjoyed the Mickey Ice Cream bars, Mickey Ice Cream sandwiches, and chocolate covered bananas.  Yum!

On our last trip, we enjoyed some new indulgences – including one of my favorite all-time treats (a caramel apple) – and some pastries from the Norway pavilion.

So, what’s on our list of absolute must-try snacks?  Here are a few of the things we’d like to try (but I’m sure our stomachs can’t possibly hold it all):

At Magic Kingdom:

• Dole Whip Float  *also serve Root Beer Float
• Warm Cinnamon Rolls
• Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich
• Ice Cream Sundae or Fruit Smoothie

At Epcot:

• Egg Rolls
• Churros
• Crepes
• School Bread
• Cloudberry Horn
• Butterfinger Cheesecake
• Baklava

At Hollywood Studios:

• Butterfinger Cupcake
• Tiramasu
• Carrot Cake Cookie
• Roasted Nuts

And at Animal Kingdom:

• Paw Print Brownie
• Pork Egg Rolls
• Yummy cupcakes

Now, tell me about your favorite snacks at Disney.  Is there something that I simply must add to my list?  Do tell!

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Thank you for joining me today. Your next stop on the Magical Blogorail Loop is Disney on Wheels.

Here is the map of our Magical Blogorail Loop should you happen to have to make a stop along the way and want to reboard:

1^st Stop ~ Heidi’s Head (you are here!)

2^nd Stop ~ Disney on Wheels

3^rd Stop ~ A Glass Slipper Vacation

4^th Stop ~ Your Highway in the Sky

Final Stop ~ Focused on the Magic

10 . . .

One of the meals that I am most looking forward to is probably ‘Ohana (at the Polynesian Resort).  This is one that we’ve never done before, but have heard lots of good things about, so we’re very anxious to try it. 

You can see the full menu here at AllEars.net. I’m anxious to get my hands on some of that pineapple-coconut bread (pina-colada bread?!  seriously?!  this stuff has to be good!) and the mixed greens with mango-poppy seed dressing.  Knowing me, I’ll be full by the time the main course arrives at the table.  We better plan to eat slow!  LOL

Have you enjoyed this meal experience yet?  If so, do share!

11…

The Epcot Fountains is something that we always enjoy watching! The way that the fountains always spring up so high is so beautiful and enthralling to watch! We also enjoy watching them at night because the lights are so pretty! 

~Ashley

photo courtesy of passporter.com

12…

Something that the WHOLE family enjoys is Toy Story Mania in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! We absolutely cannot get enough of this ride, and we always enjoy it!
The only problem is that the line is always so long, so we have to get a fast-pass, and can only ride it once! Since we’re having a full-fledged vacation this time, though, I’m hoping that we’ll have time to ride it twice during our trip!

~Ashley

13…

Next up on the countdown is Living With the Land in the Land Pavilion in Epcot. I, personally, think this ride is really boring. But it IS nice if you need to sit down for a while and relax. Mom loves this ride, and Gracie enjoys it too!

It’s been an interesting week

It’s hard to believe it’s Friday already.  Last week, at this time, I was getting ready to go for my first mammogram (I never got a chance to report on how that went – but it really wasn’t as bad as I had expected – and everything was fine, so that’s a praise!)  Last Friday evening, I took my first Disney test for my travel agent position.  Looking back now, I realize that I took that test in a bit of a “blur” state.  I think the TGA was already starting to set it.

I was given strict orders for this week – take it easy!  no work!  That’s kinda difficult for someone who was glued to my calendar and always meeting some sort of deadline.  Needless to say, I’ve  been feeling a bit stir-crazy this week.  Last night somebody told me (and I quote) “If this is resting, may I say you are really a big fat failure at it!”  Yep, that’s me. 

And, as much as I just want things to get back to “normal” around here, when Brian announced last night that he’d be home early and would take Gracie, Ian, and me out for supper and for  groceries, I cringed.  I mean, sure, the supper part sounds like fun; but the groceries?!  Am I the only one who hates going to the grocery store?  It’s not so much the experience of the store itself, it’s preparing for it.  We try to make a menu, so we only have to buy the things we need.  I don’t mind it so much when it’s a family-affair; but when it’s all my responsibility . . . ugh! 

That being said, I recently received The Works from Christi the Coupon Coach.  I’ve read through over half the book, and I’m slightly confused.  I’m going to attribute it to my recent memory loss – and hope that I can eventually figure the whole  thing out because it looks really cool (and fun!)

If you’ve got a handle on saving tons of money on groceries, please leave me a comment and tell me how you do it!  We recently started shopping at Aldi’s and have been saving lots of money there. Tonight we’ll go there, and to BJ’s.

Later this morning, I have an appointment to get my hair done.  This was the second “before Florida” appointment that I made for myself – and definitely the one I was most looking forward to!  I’m not sure exactly what I’ll have done – I was originally thinking of getting colored, but I’m not sure I want to have to maintain that (both with time and money!), so I’m leaning toward highlights and a trim.  We’ll see. 

What are your weekend plans?

My blog’s name has a whole new meaning

You may have noticed that my daughter Ashley has taken over posting our 100 Days to Disney countdown posts.  What you maybe didn’t know is WHY.

On Saturday, I experienced a major loss of memory, which resulted in a trip to the hospital.  The other week, I posted about some of the changes in my life.  Apparently, all the changes have been a lot more stressful than I was allowing myself to believe.  I went to bed Friday night praying for some sort of relief – and that relief came in the form of amnesia.

Yesterday, I had a visit with a neurologist who diagnosed me with exactly what we already suspected – Transient Global Amnesia.  Here is some of what the Mayo Clinic has to say about this condition:

Transient global amnesia is a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss . . .

During an episode of transient global amnesia, your recall of recent events simply vanishes, so you can't remember where you are or how you got there. You may also draw a blank when asked to remember things that happened a day, a month or even a year ago. With transient global amnesia, you do remember who you are, and recognize the people you know well, but that doesn't make your memory loss less disturbing.

Fortunately, transient global amnesia is rare, seemingly harmless and unlikely to happen again. Episodes are usually short-lived, and afterward your memory is fine.

A common feature of transient global amnesia includes repetitive questioning, usually of the same question — for example, "What am I doing here?" or "How did we get here?"  (mine were “Did I quit my job?”, “When?”, and “Is that a good thing”.  I also asked about my friend Sue repeatedly.)

The underlying cause of transient global amnesia is unknown. There appears to be a link between transient global amnesia and a history of migraines, though the underlying factors that contribute to both conditions aren't fully understood.  (I do suffer from migraines.)

A commonly reported event that may trigger transient global amnesia is acute emotional distress, as might be provoked by bad news, conflict or overwork.  (Oh, yeah – I have some stories I could tell about this – maybe in another post.)

Anyway, that’s probably more than you cared to know -  but it’s where I’ve been.  I have no memory of Saturday, beyond what I’m told.  Today is the first day that I’m finally starting to feel like ME again. 

Now you know what’s really going on – or not going on – in Heidi’s Head. Continued prayers are appreciated, as I need to learn to keep myself from getting to a point of severe stress like I was in last week. 

14…

Walking into Disney’s Magic Kingdom, the thing that makes it feel the most like Disney is Main Street USA. You can walk down Main Street, and see the castle in front of you, and you know that you’re at Disney World! The shops are great, and we love to walk through them, and see everything that Disney has!
We also enjoy getting our picture taken on Main Street, in front of the castle. The last time that I was there, we took two of my friends along, and we met some of Main Street’s “residents”. It was so cool! :)
I can’t wait to walk down Main Street USA in just two  weeks!

~Ashley

17, 16 & 15…

17 - Next up on our countdown is the Flame Tree Barbeque in Animal Kingdom. We have never eaten there before, but we are definitely looking forward to eating there in a few weeks. :)

16 – One of mine ( and Gracie’s ) favorite rides is the Rockin’ Roller Coaster in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! I love the “launch”, and that it’s in the dark! I haven’t been on it in a few years – because I’ve been riding on the Tower of Terror, but this year, I can’t wait to get back to riding it again!

15 – Because she’s never been on it – this trip, Gracie wants to ride on the Primeval Whirl. I rode this when I was 11, and I remember enjoying it – so I’ll probably be the one to ride it with her. Especially since I’m also the only one who is okay with spinning & going backwards on rides!

~Ashley

18….

Last year, for the first time – Gracie decided to try out Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! She & Ian really enjoyed it, so it’s definitely on our list of things to do on this trip!

Last May was actually the first time in all long time that I had ridden on it! I loved it, and I can’t wait to do it again this year!

~Ashley

19….

This is Ashley, filling in for Mom for the next week or so, while she is recuperating from an illness that she has has for the last couple of days. Thanks for everyone who is currently praying, prayers are much appreciated.

Today on the countdown is Disney’s Electrical Parade. This is something that my family & I definitely enjoy watching after a long day of walking around the Magic Kingdom, seeing attractions.

We didn’t watch this show last year, so it’s definitely on our list for this one!

20 . . .

Ian really enjoyed Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin last May.  When we were making our must-do list for our next trip, this was one of the things he was quick to remind us to add to the list.

I hadn’t written it for many years, so I have to admit that I really liked it too.  We’ll be anxious to compete again in a few weeks!   

21 . . .

Something that I’ve seen others bragging about and we’re anxious to try using our DDP snack credits on our next trip are the pastries in the France pavilion at Epcot.  They look so yummy!

Have you enjoyed snacks in France?  If so, please share your favorite and why you think we should try it. 

Do you wear glasses?

I do.  And so do both of my girls.  In fact, we just got new glasses yesterday.  My husband wears contacts.  Because the majority of our family relies on some sort of corrective lenses in order to be able to see, I think it’s important to be informed about our vision, our eye doctor visits, and our glasses purchases. 

Recently, I was introduced to Zeiss.  Their website is very important and I think that the Zeiss educational tools are something worth sharing with my blog readers.  These tools were created to enable eyeglass wearers to better understand their vision correction needs, ensure they get the most out of their next eye exam, and receive the best lenses to regain sharp vision. 

When visiting the website, you’ll find the educational tools divided into 4 main sections:

1. Facts to Know about Vision and Lenses
   Here you will find the differences between an Optometrist, an Opthalmologist, and an Optician.  You’ll also find out when your child should have his/her first eye exam and how often both children and adults should visit the eye doctor.  In addition, you’ll learn about various options for selecting prescription lenses.
   
2. Tips for Selecting an Eye Doctor
   It’s very important to choose an eye care professional that you can trust (I have personally been visiting the same eye doctor for the past 30 years now.)  Here you will learn how to make an educated decision in selecting your eye doctor, based on various factors including your health insurance plan.
   
3. Questions to Ask at Your Next Eye Appointment
   This section of the website is filled with important questions that you should know the answers to!  Don’t be afraid to ask questions – that’s how you learn.
   
4. Facts to Know about Age-Related Vision Changes
   I turned 40 a few years ago, and I have noticed many changes in my body since that time.  It’s certainly not a “magic number” but it is an age when you should be prepared to start seeing some changes – and one of those is in your vision.  I found this portion of the website very informative as it made me feel a bit more normal and less worried about the changes I’ve been experiencing, as well as what to expect in the future.

If you visit the website, I hope that you will find it informative and that you’ll be able to take these tools and use them to make educated decisions concerning your vision and possible future lens purchases.

I found this quote particularly insightful and would like to end my post by sharing it with you:

Every eye is just as unique as a fingerprint.
More than any other sensory organ,
our eyes allow us to experience and perceive our environment.

Please take that into consideration and be serious about your (and your family’s) eye care needs.

22 . . .

Last year, while someone was outside the American Adventure Pavilion stealing our stroller and my camera bag/equipment, we were inside listening to the Voices of Liberty.  If you’ve never heard them, look them up on YouTube.  You’ll be pleased!  I’m anxious to hear them again.

I shared about them on my blog a few weeks ago when we were working through the alphabet – Disney style.  You can see that post – complete with video – here.

The Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Rose of Winslow Street Bethany House (January 1, 2012)
by Elizabeth Camden

The last thing Libby Sawyer and her father expected upon their return from their summer home was to find strangers inhabiting a house that had been in their family for decades. Widower Michael Dobrescu brought his family from Romania to the town of Colden, Massachusetts with a singular purpose: to claim the house willed to him long ago. Since neither party has any intention of giving up their claim, a fierce legal battle ensues between the two families.

When important documents go missing from the house, Libby suspects Michael is the culprit. Determined to discover the truth behind the stolen papers, Libby investigates, only to find more layers of mystery surrounding Michael and his family. Despite their rivalry, Libby finds herself developing feelings for this man with the mysterious past.

As a decision about the house looms in the courts, Libby must weigh the risks of choosing to remain loyal to her family or give her heart to a man whose intentions and affections are less than certain.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Rose of Winslow Street, go HERE.

A research librarian and associate professor, Elizabeth Camden has a master’s in history from the University of Virginia and a master’s in library science from Indiana University. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband in central Florida.

 

Roxie’s Review . . . Having previously read Ms. Camden’s book, The Lady of Bolton Hill, I was anxious to read this one as well.  It took me until the end of chapter 3 to really get into it; but after  that, I really enjoyed this book.

It was good to have the significance of family ties and family history stressed along with Christian values and a budding romance. As is true with many people “in real life”, the characters in this book have secrets and memories from the past that weaken them and affect their present life in strange ways.

Elizabeth Camden’s characters triumphed over these odds and that sends a heartwarming message to the reader.

Kids & Chores

Currently, my kids are saving money for an upcoming Disney trip, so it’s easy to get them to do their chores.  (I posted about our Disney chore charts earlier this year.) However, I must say that I have been putting a lot of thought into how I am going to keep them doing their chores when we return from our vacation.  Ideally, it would be nice to always have some big upcoming event to “bribe” them with; but that’s not always possible.

I’ve been looking for an alternative method of encouraging my kids to do chores; so when I came across an online Chore Chart, I got nothing short of excited.  My kids absolutely love being online!  And while, as a parent, I try to limit the time they spend on the computer, I knew having a chore chart like that would totally appeal to them. 

I immediately set out to create a chore chart for Ian (5).  You are  given the opportunity name your chart, and set it up for e-mail reminders (if desired). There is a nice selection of background images to choose from, so you can really customize the charts to suit your child’s personality.  Once you’ve decided on the theme, you are then further able to customize the chart by adding in the responsibilities.  These fall into categories – Chores & Responsibilities, Behavior Goals, Healthy Habits, and even an area where you can create a custom addition.

After you’ve done that, you have an online chore chart that your kids can see, access, and add “stickers” to as they complete their required tasks.  These, too, have lots of options – so there’s definitely something your child will love!

So, what do I love about this?  Well, first of all, it’s FREE.  Secondly, it’s online and interactive, which means I don’t have to print out a chore chart each week (wasting paper and computer ink) and make sure I always have stickers on hand. Also, the homeschool mom in me likes the fact that a system like this could help teach kids, tweens & teens many important lessons, including:

• Responsibility; A Chore Chart is an ideal way to help your kids feel like they are making a contribution to their family by doing their part around the house.
• Understanding right from wrong; Setting behavior goals is an important way to help children strengthen their character and judgment.
• Healthy Habits; Teaching good habits involving nutrition and physical activity are the cornerstone of prevent obesity in children and adolescents.
• Money Matters; The optional point system teaches children three important lessons for managing money; earning, spending and saving.

What do you do to keep your kids active with their chores?  Would you consider an online program like  this?  If so, what appeals to you about it?

23 . . .

One of my favorite things to see at Animal Kingdom are these guys:

Yes, the gorillas!  I could stand and watch them for hours.  There’s just something about their personalities that just draws me in.  We haven’t seen them on our past few trips; so we’ll definitely take the time for a visit next time!

Celebrate the Journey with Apologia Live!

Last July, I shared about a luncheon that I attended in Baltimore with the ladies from the Apologia Live Retreats.  It was a great time of fellowship with other homeschool moms (who are in the trenches just like me) and refreshment (for me, personally).  At that time, I mentioned that I would be giving away a ticket to an upcoming Apologia Live event.  And guess what?  Now is the time!

This year’s Apologia Live theme is Celebrate the Journey - - -

Celebrate the Journey of homeschooling, wifehood, and being a mom during the good times, the bad times and yes, even the ugly times.  Join us as we look at the scriptures and seek encouragement from veteran homeschool moms on how to Celebrate the Journey!

Apologia Live invites you to a retreat designed to encourage and support homeschool moms.

Meetings will be held this spring in Baltimore, MD (March 9 – 10) and Atlanta, GA (March 23 – 24).

I have one regular ticket to give away to one of my readers!  This ticket is valued at $115 and includes the Live Event only (6 General Sessions and 2 Prayer Sessions on Friday afternoon and evening, starting at 3:30 pm and running through Saturday at 4:15 pm. The Retreat price also includes lunch on Saturday.)  Hotel reservations and the additional Nuts & Bolts pre-Live session will be the winner’s responsibility.  Winner will have their choice of attending either the Baltimore or Atlanta event. 

If you are looking for refreshment, encouragement, and fellowship, I’d highly encourage attending Apologia Live!  I have never attended before – but I’ve spent time with some of the speakers and know them personally and I’ve been listening to past Live events on cd. 

If you’d like to register on your own, you are more than welcome to do so.  They are offering a great Buy 2,  Get 1 Free Special.

FYI: I plan to attend the event in Baltimore and would love to meet you!

Now, on to the giveaway . . .

I want to keep this simple so we’ll just have one mandatory entry – simply leave a comment to this post telling me why you would like to win this ticket to Apologia Live and which location you will be attending if you win. 

If you’d like more opportunities to win, you can choose from the following list (please leave a separate comment for each on that you do do):

• Visit the Apologia Live Blog and look around.  Come back here and tell me one thing that you learned about the Apologia Live conferences.
• Like Apologia on FB to learn more about the Live events.
• Follow Apologia Live on Twitter.

I will leave this contest open for 2 weeks and will select a winner on Monday, January 16th.

NOTE: The ticket for this giveaway is being provided by Apologia Live. I will also be attending the event for free as a gift to me in exchange for helping to promote the event.  I do not promote anything on my blog that I don’t personally believe in.

24 . . .

As the countdown numbers get smaller, our excitement gets bigger!  Today, we are looking forward to an old favorite – a classic at the Magic Kingdom – but one that, no matter how many times we ride, we still smile and laugh every time.  Any guesses?  It’s the Jungle Cruise!

I can’t help it – I just love those crazy jokes that the guides tell as they take you on a journey through the jungle.  The effects are so much less than Disney is capable of creating nowadays – but there’s just something about this attraction that makes me feel at home when I’m visiting.

We love the signs along the queue too:

The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Maid of Fairbourne Hall Bethany House (January 1, 2012) by Julie Klassen

Pampered Margaret Macy flees London in disguise to escape pressure to marry a dishonorable man. With no money and nowhere else to go, she takes a position as a housemaid in the home of Nathaniel Upchurch, a suitor she once rejected in hopes of winning his dashing brother. Praying no one will recognize her, Margaret fumbles through the first real work of her life. If she can last until her next birthday, she will gain an inheritance from a spinster aunt--and sweet independence. But can she remain hidden as a servant even when prying eyes visit Fairbourne Hall?

Observing both brothers as an "invisible" servant, Margaret learns she may have misjudged Nathaniel. Is it too late to rekindle his admiration? And when one of the family is nearly killed, Margaret alone discovers who was responsible. Should she come forward, even at the risk of her reputation and perhaps her life? And can she avoid an obvious trap meant to force her from hiding?

On her journey from wellborn lady to servant to uncertain future, Margaret must learn to look past appearances and find the true meaning of "serve one another in love."

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, go HERE.

Julie worked in publishing for sixteen years (first in advertising, then as a fiction editor) and now writes full time. Two of her books, The Girl in the Gatehouse and The Silent Governess won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. The Girl in the Gatehousealso won a Midwest Book Award and The Silent Governess was a finalist in Romance Writers of America's RITA awards.
She graduated from the University of Illinois and enjoys travel, research, BBC period dramas, long hikes, short naps, and coffee with friends. Julie and her husband have two sons and live near St. Paul, Minnesota.

Heidi Says . . . It’s  been a busy few weeks since receiving this book in the mail and I haven’t had time to read it yet.  I’ve loved past books of Julie’s though – and expect to feel the same about this one.  I’ll come back and add my personal thoughts later. 

The Disney Moms are giving away a Disney Dooney & Bourke Handbag!!!

Earlier this year, I was lucky enough to win a 40th Anniversary Dooney & Bourke Handbag!  Prior to that time, I would have thought it was wasteful to spend that kind of money on a purse.  But, since winning the bag and using it, it’s become clear  to me that not only is this a bag that is  going to last FOREVER (we’re talking great quality here, people), but it’s also a bag that I love to carry (it generates all kinds of responses and comments!) 

So, I’m thrilled to announce that The Disney Moms have a Disney Dooney & Bourke Handbag to give away this month.  You can learn more about The Disney Moms here or by visiting our website.  We’ve been having so much fun sharing our passion for Disney with our readers – and now we want to give something back!

I know you want to know which bag we are giving away, right?  It’s the Denim Disney Erica Bag (in the turquoise color pictured at the far right).  This bag retails for $145!  I think it’s absolutely adorable and wish I could win it.  But, alas, because I am a Disney Mom, I am ineligible. :(

I’d love to see one of my readers win it though!  We are hosting our giveaway via Rafflecopter.  There are TONS of ways to enter – some of which are mandatory (and require following various members of The Disney Moms via blogs, FB, Twitter, etc.), others are optional.  In order to have the  best chance to win, I’d encourage entering in as many ways as you possibly can.  Trust me when I say that you will ADORE this bag!

The contest will run throughout the month of January, ending on the 27th. 
You can enter below, or on another Disney Mom’s blog, or on The Disney Mom’s FB fan page.  You only need enter at one place and your entries are recorded everywhere.  Entry is quick and simple. 

Please be sure to share this contest with all your friends!
Good luck!

Click on the "read more" button below to enter . . .

Catching up with the countdown (28 – 25)

Life has  been so busy lately – lots of changes coming in 2012 – and I’ve fallen behind in my 100 Days to Disney countdown posts.  Here’s the catch-up:

#28 ~ I’ll be the first person to admit that I’m not a very patient person, so standing in long lines really isn’t my thing.  I’m anxious for the Fantasyland expansion, as I think the addition of the 2nd Dumbo ride will help that line to move faster.  I’m rarely willing to wait.  So, a great alternative to that ride – for us – has been the Magic Carpets of Aladdin.  It’s the same sort of ride, and the lines are always considerably shorter.  Plus, the spitting camel lends itself to excitement!

#27 ~ One of my all-time favorite classic attractions at Hollywood Studios is the Great Movie Ride.  I love  the whole Chinese Theater thing on the outside – even if you have to wait  for this ride, there is so much to see outside with the handprints on the sidewalk, etc.  Once inside the building, the queue is filled with neat things also.  While the ride itself could possibly use a bit of an update, I still really enjoy it and can’t imagine a trip to the Studios without it.

#26 ~ Something that we NEVER take the time to do is visit Tom Sawyer’s Island in the Magic Kingdom.  I’m not sure why – I guess because we’re always on the go and it hasn’t ever held much appeal.  But, I’m determined on this next trip to jaunt over  there and spend some time exploring.  Who knows?  Maybe we’ll even find that infamous hidden paintbrush! 

#25 ~ On our last trip to the World in May of 2011, we spent some time resort-hopping with friends.  They introduced us to the Wilderness Lodge.  Wow – I could sit in that lobby for hours – seriously!  They also told us that dinner at the Whispering Canyon Cafe is, in their opinion, one of the most entertaining dining experiences on Disney property.  So, when we decided to return and found out that we’d be enjoying the DDP on this next trip, that was one of the first meals that we scheduled.  The food sounds great – but the interaction with the Cast Members sounds even more fun.  We’re all looking forward to this one!

What about you?  Are any of these favorites of yours?  Or things you’re maybe looking forward to trying?

Out with 2011 ~ In with 2012

There’s an awful lot going on in Heidi’s Head, but little time to sit down and share it.  2012 is bringing lots of changes – new opportunities, things to look forward to, etc.  I wanted to take a minute to check in and share . . .

Early last week, I resigned from my job.  It was a decision that I did not make lightly.  I absolutely loved my job – especially the position that I was in with the Homeschool Crew.  The Crew has been a source of  blessings on so many different levels over the past 4 years of my life.  Lessons were learned, friendships were formed.  But, I felt God’s leading to step back from that position, and move on to new things in my life.  It was a very time-consuming job – and, right now, my family needs to have a bit more of my attention.  I don’t want to be looking back 20 years from now with regrets and feeling like I missed out because I was too busy, you know?

At the beginning of December, I took on a second (very) part-time, work-at-home job with Miaplaza, Inc. – the company behind Always Icecream and Clever Dragons.  So, you’ll most likely see and hear me bragging on these great websites for kids.  I’m excited about this job because it’s a company that is on the move – and it will be fun to see where it goes over the next few years.

Toward the end of last week, I got some exciting news that I’m not yet at liberty to share here on my blog (but if you’re a FB friend, you can look there for a “hint” of what’s to come).  I think I can probably safely share that it’s another new job opportunity that I feel will be the perfect fit for me.

My family is still counting down the days to our upcoming Disney trip – despite the fact that I’ve been lax in posting those.  I plan on writing a catch-up post today; so all is not lost!  With all that’s been going on around here, a vacation is exactly what we all need!

Be sure to watch my blog tomorrow --- I will be introducing not one, but TWO big contests that you’ll definitely want to be a part of. 

I am looking forward to the new year.  I hope you’ll stick around here at Heidi’s Head – I love receiving all your comments and e-mails and look forward to getting to know you better in 2012!