Tag Archives: Opinion

03.02.18
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Book Review #55: “Stars, Stripes, and Surprises: A Molly Classic 2”

Stars Stripes and Surprises

Image Credit: Amazon

If you haven’t already, I recommend first reading my Book Review of Molly’s Classic Volume 1:

Volume 2 covers the other three books in Molly’s original Classic Series:

  • Happy Birthday, Molly!
  • Molly Saves The Day
  • Changes for Molly

This volume starts in the spring of 1944. Molly is excited to celebrate her birthday. Her family also receives some exciting news – A girl, Emily, is coming all the way from London, England, to live with her aunt. When Emily’s aunt falls ill, Mrs. McIntire offers to help out. Molly is happy – A girl her own age! After a few stumbles and culture shock, Molly and Emily become friends and celebrate their birthdays together. There’s also a few birthday surprises!

As school lets out, Molly, Linda, and Susan head to Camp Gowonagin for two weeks! I remember loving this story in particular as a kid, and made up countless stories about summer camps!

Along the way, the girls learn many things, including the camp’s hallmark event of Color War. They end up on different teams, so who will win?

The final chapters breeze through the fall, winter, and find Molly in the spring of 1945. The war is coming to an end, and everyone in town is putting on the “Hurray for the U.S.A.!” show. Molly’s family receives an exciting telegram from Dad – He’s being reassigned to the local Veterans Hospital and coming home for good! Yay! Molly really wants to be Miss Victory, the tap dancer with the big solo in the show. But, she wants to transform her stick-straight hair into big, beautiful curls before the show. Her sister, Jill, is happy to help. Will everything work out the way Molly hopes it will? And, will Dad arrive in time to see the show?

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Like Volume 1, I miss the original illustrations. But, the writing is so vivid, I feel like I’m beside Molly the whole time!

4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

02.27.18
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Book Review #54: “A Winning Spirit: A Molly Classic 1”

A Winning Spirit

Image Credit: Amazon

Finally! The new BeForever books for Molly were released last week!

Some of you may know that I fell in love with Molly’s character as a kid. I read and re-read her six-book Classic Series over and over. I loved everything that was featured in the catalogs. In 2013, I finally realized one of my biggest childhood dreams by buying the Molly doll from American Girl, shortly before she was archived.

Now, on to the review!

Like the other BeForever series, this first volume covers Molly’s original three books:

  • Meet Molly
  • Molly Learns A Lesson
  • Molly’s Surprise

We first meet Molly around Halloween, with her friends, Linda and Susan. They live in Jefferson, Illinois. They are planning their Halloween costumes in the fall of 1943, as World War II continues. Molly’s father, James McIntire, is an Army doctor, currently stationed in England helping sick and wounded soldiers. Molly misses him dearly, but has a full house at home, with her mom, the housekeeper, Mrs. Gilford, and her three siblings – Older sister, Jill; older brother, Ricky; and younger brother, Brad.

After multiple tricks and treats at Halloween, Molly learns several lessons about lending a hand, cooperation, jealousy, and speaking up when it counts the most.

Christmas is challenging with Dad still away and the war, but the Merry McIntires make the most of it. Molly works together with her sister to pull off one great surprise, and someone in the family has a surprise of their own to share!

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I certainly miss the beautiful illustrations from the Classic Series, but Valerie Tripp’s writing, as always, carried me back in time, right alongside Molly, her family, and her friends.

4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

 

02.26.18
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Commentary #63: “Awareness vs. Understanding”

Image Credit: TOBYMAC

I started following Caralyn’s awesome blog, Beauty Beyond Bones, a while back. She is an awesome, amazing woman. I love all of her posts!

She always shares something profound, or thought-provoking, every week. This past week was no exception.

Here’s the link to her post, published on February 22nd:

Caralyn’s focus is her journey after her eating disorder (ED). She’s a beautiful woman, who is an activist for so many causes. She posts recipes, too!

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This particular post shined a spotlight on Weight Watchers being in the news last week, and not for a good reason.

They announced they would be offering free memberships to teens, ages 13-17.

Naturally, this caused almost immediate backlash.

I’m with Caralyn. I don’t agree with Weight Watchers offering these free memberships. Teens, ages 13-17, have enough to deal with in their lives. Yes, obesity remains a significant issue. Caralyn cited several statistics, including some from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). But, for Weight Watchers to offer these free memberships to this very vulnerable age group is not the answer.

She tied the Weight Watchers news in with National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDA), which starts today, February 26th, and runs through March 3rd.

I see her point about viewing NEDA with somehow glorifying the disease, and so on. But, then she realized that the news about Weight Watchers is one reason why conversations need to be had.

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And then, she hit on the Awareness vs. Understanding point, which I think is so important.

There is a difference.

Awareness is certainly important, and a good thing – Share stories, come together as a community, and so on.

However, understanding is even more paramount. With something like eating disorders, moving beyond awareness into understanding is critical.

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With that said, I cannot say that I empathize with Caralyn, or say that blanket statement of “I understand” at all. I have never had an eating disorder. I know what they are, how they start, the basics. You could say that Laura Beth is aware of eating disorders.

Caralyn, however, truly understands eating disorders. She is a survivor. She is an advocate. She works hard to discuss ED, her own journey, and help others, which I find incredibly admirable. In her post, she writes that “an eating disorder is a mental illness.”

She closed her post with wanting to “foster understanding on this anorexia recovery blog” and “answering any and all questions about eating disorders, recovery, treatment, how to support. Nothing is off limits.”

I think this is wonderful! She, of all people, knows what she’s talking about. She writes beautifully and humbly, too.

So, if you’re interested in asking questions or learning more, check out her blog!

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Image Credit: BeautyBeyondBones

To me, Caralyn is a source of inspiration. Thank you for being amazing!!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

02.09.18
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Book Review #53: “Bright-Sided: How Positive Thinking Is Undermining America”

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Image Credit: Amazon

This was the second book that Al gave me for Christmas. He’s heard me talk about Barbara Ehrenreich before. I read her book Nickel and Dimed (2001) for one of my early college classes, and it’s stuck with me ever since.

Right out of the gate, Ehrenreich writes about her own battle with breast cancer, and how “fighting cancer with a positive attitude” has permeated our culture. Although this book was published in 2009, nearly 10 years ago, the same sentiments appear to be holding strong. I have my own opinions about breast cancer charities and the amount of money that is spent on research (Susan G. Komen in particular), but let’s just say that Ehrenreich’s words and research fell in line with my thoughts.

Ehrenreich continues with chapters about the economy, life coaches, how “coaching” entered into corporate culture, and so on. One review compared positivity and positive thinking to a fake orgasm. “Fake it ’til you make it” is referenced a lot, and not always in a good way. But, Ehrenreich says, that’s okay. It’s actually healthier to not be positive all the time. Her main point is to not get brainwashed, and make sure you remain in control of your emotions.

While I was reading, I couldn’t help but think of the Pixar movie Inside Out (2016), where the viewers are inside the head of 11-year-old Riley and seeing her emotions (Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Fear, and Anger) interact. If you haven’t seen the movie, you should. And I wondered if Ehrenreich had seen it, and what she thought about it. A lot of her writing in this book, years before the movie was released, was spot on with the messages Pixar was sending to moviegoers. We all have Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Fear, and Anger among us and in us for a reason and a purpose.

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I’m glad that I put this book on my Amazon wish list. I had been thinking about Ehrenreich and Nickel and Dimed a lot last year, and I found myself searching for more books written by her. I was not disappointed. I plan to read several more of her works in the future:

Despite this compelling read, I still have a positive attitude. I’ve always been an optimist – One nonfiction book isn’t going to turn me into a pessimist. However, I’m definitely going to pay closer attention to my surroundings, try not to get caught up in hype, and stay in control of my emotions.

4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

02.03.18
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Book Review #52: “The Woman in Cabin 10”

The Woman in Cabin 10 - Amazon

Image Credit: Amazon

This is one of three books that my wonderful husband gave to me for Christmas!

I first learned about this book, and the author, in September 2017 thanks to a book review from Thrice Read. Don’t worry, the ladies have spoiler-free reviews, and this is one of them. I immediately added this book to my Amazon wish list!

Once I started reading, I could hardly put this book down. Ever since I read The Girl On The Train, I wanted to find and read more thrillers. Ware’s writing is amazing, and spellbinding. I did not want to put this book down. She seamlessly takes you from London, to Scandinavia, and back again.

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I will say that I’m glad I didn’t read this book on a boat or on a cruise, and I recommend that you don’t either. Ware is so talented at making you feel like you’re a fly on the wall, watching main character Laura’s (Lo’s) every single move on the luxury yacht.

And once you think you’ve figured it all out, there’s a twist. And another. And another. I felt for Lo, I caught myself holding my breath several times! It’s very much like a murder mystery, with psychological horror thrown in.

I’m amazed I didn’t have nightmares, since I typically read before going to bed. Ware is such a good storyteller!

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I look forward to reading In a Dark, Dark Wood very soon! I hope she continues writing, because Ruth Ware is quickly rising toward the top of my favorite authors list.

5 out of 5 stars.

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

01.20.18
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Book Review #51: “Grace and Grit: My Fight for Equal Pay and Fairness at Goodyear and Beyond”

Grace and Grit - Amazon

Image Credit: Amazon

I first heard about this book from my church bulletin, almost a year ago. One of the women’s circles were reading it and planning a discussion. I was intrigued, and remember purchasing it through Amazon shortly thereafter.

It took me a long while to start reading it, but once I started, I couldn’t stop. Lilly’s story pulled me in. I plowed through the first five chapters in one night!

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This was the perfect book to pull me out of my reading slump. I’ve always enjoyed memoirs and true stories, but this one really spoke to me.

Lilly was born in Alabama, and quickly learned that the best-paying jobs was at the nearby Goodyear plant. She was one of the first women to be a manager at the plant. Nearly 20 years later, she was anonymously notified that her salary was thousands less than the male managers.

She decided to fight, and took her battle all the way to the Supreme Court. Eventually, her name was put on President Obama’s first official piece of legislation. Throughout the years, Lilly’s dedication to this cause inspired many.

Lilly’s story covers her upbringing, her marriage, raising children, working different jobs, and learning the complicated ins and outs of the American legal system. Her never-quit attitude, in spite of so much adversity, losses, and harassment, was incredibly inspiring, and motivating.

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This is one of those books that I plan to share with my future children. The future generations need to know about the fight for equal pay. We still have a long way to go, but reading Lilly’s story was encouraging in so many ways.

4 1/2 out of 5 stars.

Until the next headline, Laura Beth

12.27.17
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Writing Prompt #90: “52 Weeks of Gratitude Challenge” (Week 52)

52-weeks-of-gratitude-challenge

First found on Life Lessons Around The Dinner Table.

Week #52: Did This Challenge Change You?

I firmly believe this challenge changed me. I enjoyed doing a post every Wednesday during 2017. It caused me to stretch my brain, use my imagination, and focus on little things. It was a great exercise throughout this year. Thanks to Kristian for inspiring me in the first place!

Someone asked me if I plan to do a similar challenge in 2018. The answer is yes! I’ve been actively researching them over the last week or so. I plan to reveal it sometime next week!

Happy New Year, everyone!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

12.20.17
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Writing Prompt #89: “52 Weeks of Gratitude Challenge” (Week 51)

52-weeks-of-gratitude-challenge

First found on Life Lessons Around The Dinner Table.

Week #51: 100 Things To Be Thankful For.

This was a tough one! I definitely have a lot to be thankful for in my wonderful, blessed life.

  1. My amazing parents.
  2. My wonderful husband.
  3. Having a loving family.
  4. Marrying into a huge family!
  5. Being a part of the PEO sisterhood.
  6. Being a sister of Alpha Sigma Tau.
  7. The ability to travel.
  8. A beautiful house.
  9. Air conditioning and heat.
  10. A great job.
  11. Access to quality education.
  12. Being able to get fresh food.
  13. Having spending money.
  14. Building savings.
  15. Being able to access the Internet at virtually any time.
  16. Being raised in a loving church.
  17. Access to public libraries.
  18. Having a reliable car.
  19. Having the skills / ability to fix my car, and other things.
  20. Being able to communicate effectively.
  21. Having a variety of skills.
  22. Access to books.
  23. Clean air.
  24. Clean water.
  25. Having a cup of coffee every morning.
  26. Being part of a team, many times over.
  27. Learning critical thinking.
  28. Being one small part of an amazing blogging community.
  29. Freedom of the press.
  30. Freedom of religion.
  31. Freedom of speech.
  32. The right to vote.
  33. Being an American citizen.
  34. Being able to get a passport.
  35. Being able to see movies in the theaters.
  36. The opportunity to have seen so many different cities and countries already.
  37. Access to a gym to work out and keep my body healthy.
  38. Having decent health insurance.
  39. The ability to problem-solve.
  40. Stress relievers.
  41. Having a bathtub for those days where a long bath with a fizzy bath bomb is warranted.
  42. Budgeting.
  43. Having a shredder.
  44. Clearing the clutter.
  45. Improving our home.
  46. Collecting things for my American Girl dolls.
  47. Having an amazing support system.
  48. The ability to celebrate big things, and small things.
  49. Those who aren’t afraid to tell it like it is.
  50. Nostalgia.
  51. Warm hugs.
  52. Comfort food.
  53. Fleece blankets.
  54. Spending time with family and friends.
  55. Trying new things.
  56. Feeling amazing after a haircut.
  57. Being able to get a massage at the chiropractor’s office.
  58. Disney movies.
  59. Star Wars.
  60. Having a camera to explore photography.
  61. Making people smile.
  62. Making people laugh.
  63. Helping others.
  64. Giving blood.
  65. Encouraging others to give blood.
  66. Feeling satisfaction when a plan comes together.
  67. Chocolate mousse.
  68. A warm bed for sleeping.
  69. Concerts.
  70. Art.
  71. Music.
  72. Flowers.
  73. Nature.
  74. Animals.
  75. Dogs.
  76. Sending care packages.
  77. The first responders that work incredibly hard every single day – The police, firefighters, EMTs.
  78. Doctors and nurses.
  79. Everyone in our military, past and present.
  80. The times when I don’t have to set an alarm.
  81. Being able to come home to my husband every weekday.
  82. Using my talents.
  83. Trivia nights.
  84. Podcasts.
  85. National Public Radio.
  86. Popcorn.
  87. Sushi.
  88. Colorful gel pens.
  89. Amusement parks.
  90. Roller coasters.
  91. The seasons.
  92. The Muppets.
  93. Sesame Street.
  94. All the teachers in my life.
  95. Holidays.
  96. Mental health days.
  97. Surprises.
  98. Brunch.
  99. The occasional mimosa.
  100. Learning something new every single day.

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

12.13.17
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Writing Prompt #88: “52 Weeks of Gratitude Challenge” (Week 50)

52-weeks-of-gratitude-challenge

First found on Life Lessons Around The Dinner Table.

Week #50: Lessons Learned This Year.

I feel like I learn more things every year. This year, 2017, was no exception.

I’ve learned more about being a wife, and a homeowner.

I’ve learned more about my job, and my career aspirations. I learned how to deal with the devastation of a supervisor leaving for a better opportunity. It hurts, but I’m so happy for them.

I learned how to have fun while balancing work and school. I’m giving more time to myself to enjoy little things, like playing Roller Coaster Tycoon for a few hours on the weekend!

I’ve definitely grown this year, and looking to grow even more in 2018!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

12.06.17
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Writing Prompt #87: “52 Weeks of Gratitude Challenge” (Week 49)

52-weeks-of-gratitude-challenge

First found on Life Lessons Around The Dinner Table.

Week #49: Things You Like About Winter.

This post comes as we’re preparing for some of the coldest weather since the beginning of the year. It was 70 degrees yesterday, and today it’s falling into the 40s! It’s possible that we will see some snow flurries on Friday night, too. That’s exciting to think about!

I’m grateful for simple things, like working heat at our house. Being cold-natured, I also love different blankets. A few years ago, a friend gave me a fleece blanket that’s red and green and Christmas-themed. It’s time to pull it out of the closet!

As much as I gripe about being cold, I enjoy seeing the snow on the trees and the ground. The cold weather also seems to make the sunrises and sunsets prettier.

We’re planning to put up our Christmas tree this week. I love listening to Christmas music while we work – Al used Spotify last year, and it was awesome! With recent car issues (All good now) and some stress at work, I’m in need of some holiday spirit.

I drink more hot chocolate in the winter. I also love making peppermint bark! Delicious!

Winter is colder, and it gets darker sooner, but I love feeling the warmth, celebrating the Christmas season, and ringing in the New Year!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂