Sunday, July 13, 2025

Book Review: The Psychologist's Menopause Solution: Beat Your Symptoms, Embrace Your Wisdom, Navigate Medical Menopause & Reclaim Your Joy by CE Davidson Cibelli

  




 
The Psychologist's Menopause Solution: Beat Your Symptoms, Embrace Your Wisdom, Navigate Medical Menopause & Reclaim Your Joy by CE Davidson Cibelli 
Lot of explanations about what's really going on in your body and mind when you hit menopause. Parts I liked the best were sleeping as I still struggle from that. There are so many more steps I can put into place that will aide my sleep. Have tried about 5 of them so far to no avail and there's quite a few more I had not heard of prior to reading this book. There are refereneces at the end.  So many  other categories are listed also to help you get through it.
 

Book Review: Power of Creating Your Living Trust: Safeguard Assets & Heirs, Maximize Tax Savings, Reduce Probate Risk, and Choose the Right Executor — All on a Budget by Russ Falls

   

 
Power of Creating Your Living Trust: Safeguard Assets & Heirs, Maximize Tax Savings, Reduce Probate Risk, and Choose the Right Executor — All on a Budget by Russ Falls 
This boo has so much information with a lot of scenarios that will guide you from step 1 through setting up your estate.  Explains all about the topics and what you would need depending on your circumstances. So easy to understand they way it's all laid out.
Great reference book to keep handy. 

Friday, July 11, 2025

Book Review: Alaska Deadly by J. L. Askew

  


  
Alaska Deadly by J. L. Askew
What an awesome read. There is something for everyone in this book: so many mysteries, shapeshifters, abductions, child trafficking, cult, and missing people all in the middle of Alaska.
Loved learning more about Alaska, the terrain, climate, scenery that is out of this world and the team effort of helping others who live there. So many twists and turns.
The PI is sent to Alaska to find a missing child. He has some clues but gets help from others in town who might know of the tribe and it's events that take place at midnight...
The father of the child shows up and so do scientists who are there for their own reasons. One is studying wolves and I love learning about that aspect of this book. 
Love how they are able to help a plane land, collect the passengers get on board and take off again while being shot at. What strategy, so crazy it works!
Love hearing about the fire pit and how it has a secret there.
There is so much to this story, easy to keep everybody straight and learning about the people that live there. Grand finale, well one of them is the house with moveable walls.
Can't wait to read from this author. Super descritpvive I felt I was there and could feel what they were feeling, the smells, sounds and the sights.
 

Book Review: Cherish or Perish: Strengthen Your Intellect; Save The World! by Prabha Karan

  


 
Cherish or Perish: Strengthen Your Intellect; Save The World! by Prabha Karan 
Like this deep thinking book that makes a lot of sense to me. It talks about 3 parts of your body that rule your body and how they work together.  Like summary at the end of the chapters to make sure you're on track still. It's a deep read with some light areas that help the book along with real stories.
Like the way you can advance your learning  to strengthen your intellect, many of which I have been doing for years as I'm well over 65 now. Keep track of your progress and see the difference from month  to  month.
 

Book Review: Hack Your Life Teen Money Skills 10 Secrets to Raise Your Financial IQ: Create Smart Money Habits

  

  
Hack Your Life Teen Money Skills 10 Secrets to Raise Your Financial IQ: Create Smart Money Habits Earn Budget Save Invest with Confidence AI Applications to Accelerate Success by Freeman Publishing 
Like that this book starts out with ow many states require an education in financial things before they graduate. Each chapter starts with a secret and then the chapter discusses how to achieve that.
 Love the  examples on how kids can start earing money but doing simple tasks.
There are case studies throughout the book with how others achieved their goals. Never thought about investing when I was younger. I would just set the money aside and not use it til i got enough for the goal i had set.
 When I was growing up we had nothing digital it was all hands on. After mom started her craft business she'd have me make hundreds of Irish Fisherman sweaters and other things others wanted. I'd get paid and not have to worry about all the business paperwork behind the scenes.
 Love breakdown of expenses we had to do one for our financial advisor and it's easy to update every year. Proved we could live within our means even after retiring. We have some no spend months so when we travel we can splurge.
Such easy common sense strategies. 

Thursday, July 10, 2025

Book Review: Calm Your Inflammation: Diet and Lifestyle Hacks: Holistic Approach to Restore Gut Health, Reduce Stress, and Optimize your Immune System for a Pain-free Life by Dr. Susan Hamilton

  

Calm Your Inflammation Diet and Lifestyle Hacks by Dr. Susan Hamilton


 

Calm Your Inflammation: Diet and Lifestyle Hacks: Holistic Approach to Restore Gut Health, Reduce Stress, and Optimize your Immune System for a Pain-free Life by Dr. Susan Hamilton 
This book starts out with a lot of information about your gut health and so much more. All kinds of signs to watch for to find out where your issue is in your body. There are charts showing shopping lists, 7 day meal plan for 3 meals a day, sleep checklist, etc.
There are also personal stories about how one person solved their issues.
There are so many ways to help your issues with simple natural things. Like ways to improve your sleeping.  At the end of the chapter there is a summary of what the main points are.
Recipes are included also. Each starts  with a title and some have a color photo. List of ingredients are included and step by step instructions in how to make the dish.
There is no nutritional information but the ingredients are healthy.
They all seem to be so yummy. References are included at the end. 

Book Review: The Memory Lane Quiz Book (Large Print): A Gift Book of British Nostalgia & Trivia: Fun Quizzes, Classic Memories & Thought-Provoking Prompts About Life in 1940s–1980s Britain Kindle Edition by PuzzlePlayPress

 




The Memory Lane Quiz Book (Large Print): A Gift Book of British Nostalgia & Trivia: Fun Quizzes, Classic Memories & Thought-Provoking Prompts About Life in 1940s–1980s Britain [Print Replica] 
by PuzzlePlayPress 
What I like about this book is that it's based on BBC trivia and it's so much fun. Categories start with the years and go through music, culture, tv shows and so much more from 1920's to 1980's
Each question has a choice of 4 and you get to pick one. The answers are listed at the back of the book. I can see having a trivia night with friends, this would be the perfect book to use.
After the year categories there are then Music, tv shows, sports, food and shopping,  and royal moments in time. There are sections right after the questions that allow you to write your memories of the time frame.  Very entertaining.
  

Book Review: Galactic Explorers: A Space activity book for young astronauts 8+ by Jennifer Corral

   


Galactic Explorers by Jennifer Corral


Galactic Explorers: A Space activity book for young astronauts 8+ by Jennifer Corral
Love that this book includes different types of puzzles, to get you thinking: word search, crossword, sudoku, maze, trivia, riddles, how to draw space items, I spy game, and dot to dot puzzles.
Each puzzle contains clues or words to search for, on nice themed background page with big letters. Most contain 12 pages and they come with answer page after that section.
Drawing section grabbed my attention because they appear so easy to draw with the instructions step by step process they show you.  Super book to take on a trip, car or airplane and there's such a wide variety the child will not become bored.
 

Book Review: The Call of Destiny – Codename Violette by Hannah Bryon

  


The Call of Destiny by Hannah Byron




The Call of Destiny – Codename Violette by Hannah Bryon
Story follows two different sets of characters.
Albert and Sigal are from 2020's (covid throughout the world) and he is able to educate her about her past. She had gotten separated from her father when her parents divorced and he headed to US. Her mom remarried and they stayed in England area. She wants to lend her aide for SOE.

1930's Muriel  We find Codename Violette as she has gone through training and is ready to head to France to help with coding messages.  She has gotten a special compact from Maurice and keeps it with her always. They do meet up from time to time in France and he's proposed to her...
Story also follows Sigall's grandmother and Albert's grandfather during the war.

What I like about this book are the emotions that come through that eally make a difference to the story and plot. There are twists and turns during the war as they struggle to serve England by helping others in war torn countries.

Violette knows how to avoid the troops that could capture her, she changes her route daily.
Love how the whole lot of them are connected by blood.  At times it just didnt' seem possibl eto me. What  ag reat mystery and romantic story.

Descriptions are so detailed I can sense the calm while sitting near the stone wall looking at the water and birds are singing. To think they are within a mile of the war...
Love ending from the author and how she wrote the story and who is who. Love bonus chapters, brings the whole book together, past meets the future. 

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Book Review: Montana Delta Rodeo Cowboy: Body Guard Protector by Debra Parmley

  


 
Montana Delta Rodeo Cowboy: Body Guard Protector by Debra Parmley
What a super read, Has so much to it, for everybody: romance, cartel, rodeo terms, ranch life, weapons and so much more. Love is to die for!
This story starts out with Emma receiving a travel  vacation from her boss. She's to go to Montana and all the arrangements have been made. She is to take no one and no one is to know exactly where she is. Things go great, She even sits near a nice man on the plane. Upon arrival when he's trying to get a date with her and number her ride shows up and he leaves her alone. She's taken in the limo til things get out of hand: they are being followed, The body guard finds another vehicle and they are still being followed, he throws her phone out the window and the cops are behind them in the distance. The truck is being shot at and they are both hit. She learns her boss died.
They recuperate in the hospital and head to a new location where no one knows them...
She needs to contact her mother and is upset with how things are going...
Loved hearing about the rodeo, never been and have read hundreds of books but none described the events and who was involved til I read this book, SO  connected to the events now. Love hearing about the food, yum. Weapons I had to ask others about as I have shot an AR and yes I am blind. Love how this whole story comes together. Easy to keep track of the characters and keep them straight.
So very memorable for me. Hated to see it end!
SUPER TREASURE KEEPER! 

Jul 8 Book Review: A Whisper of Summer Magic by Sinclair Jayne

 
   

   
A Whisper of Summer Magic by Sinclair Jayne 
This story starts out with the women and they are all gathered around and it lays out who is dating who, married to, etc.  G. Millie is heading to the hospital and the story picks up a month later. The women are all home bound to G. Millie's house.  One women is making a garden and plans to sell items, even growing olive trees for oils. Another is a lawyer and another an accountant. Chole is getting married and they go through the engagement party and everybody loves the groom.  Love hearing of the struggles, ussies with the estate and the solutions. Book mainly focuses on Chole and the girls inform her of her mother... What a bomb, never saw that coming.  Love how they handle it for the upcoming wedding. Other estate issues come to light and really upset Meghan and her relationship with Jackson, a family friend but more than that now, til it's not...
Love all the different relationships as each are going through different struggles. So interesting to hear how the book progresses forward.  Can't wait for the next book.
LOVE all the recipes and the processes of making the foods from the special magic spells cookbook. 

Monday, July 7, 2025

Book Review: More Than Enough by Akilah Trinay

  


 
The Debra Tucker story
Story starts out with Debra, how she grew up and how her life went further as she got older. Story also follows Derek, her husband, at one time. They end up in counseling to  strengthen their marriage.  With descriptions detailed and the thoughts running through their minds this would make a great movie or series.  There are outside things going on, pregnancies, one returning from jail, another family, etc
Like the ending a lot, never saw it going as such.
 Swearing and adult situations. Enjoyed learning about all the different types of relationships.  

Sunday, July 6, 2025

Book Review: Unpacking AI - Why Artificial Intelligence Matters: Your Practical Introduction and Roadmap to Leveraging AI Ethically in Everyday Life and Career Success ... Pioneering the Future Together) by Christian Siregar

  



 

Unpacking AI - Why Artificial Intelligence Matters: Your Practical Introduction and Roadmap to Leveraging AI Ethically in Everyday Life and Career Success ... Pioneering the Future Together) by Christian Siregar 
This book concnedtrates on so many advanced practces of using AI. Like the discussions about using AI for cooking and craft businesses. At the end of each chapter there is a key takeaways summarizing 
what you've learned. There are references listed at the end under many different categories.
Like that the author urges you to just advance yourself and go further. Love the little quotes at the start of the chapters.
Love ending where the author talks about his life from an early age and throughout and how he got into AI.
Very technical discussions and there is a glossary at the end.
  

Book Review: Retirement Financial Planning: Proven Strategies on How to Grow Your Wealth, Eliminate Debt, and Make Your Money Last to Retire Stress-Free by Jane Kwan

  


 

Retirement Financial Planning: Proven Strategies on How to Grow Your Wealth, Eliminate Debt, and Make Your Money Last to Retire Stress-Free by Jane Kwan  
Like this book because of all the valuable information enclosed. There are so many things one should learn about before they retire. I felt we were very well prepared except on annuities.  Was glad to refresh what we need to discuss with our financial advisor about the one we do own and the options available.
Love the section even on medicare as many are not prepared for that. Like that we can switch once a year, really do your homework on what you need for medical before you choose the right plan for yourself.
So many money cost ways to save and keep money in your pocket. 

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Books read Jun 2025

  



 
Wall Pilates Workouts for Women: 10-Minute Fat-Burning Routines for Core Strength, Stability, and Weight Loss—Includes 28-Day Transformation Challenge, ... (Mindful Movement for Holistic Fitness) by Claudia Lynne 
Have never done Pilates but I can see the big difference from my regular yoga poses. Although they seem to be about the same with Pilates there are multiple muscle groups worked at the same time
There is a  28 day menu plan included and at the end of the book is the nutritional information including: calories, carbs, fat and sugars, serving size and Ingredients for just one serving along with directions.
Starts with deeper information about the 6 principles of Pilates. Other chapters discuss what you will need with consideration to the wall  material itself, flooring, lighting and ventilation. Tips are included about the right wall  for you. Equipment is also discussed, and how to use the items.
The exercises and warming up give the title, a summary of the exercise, pictures of how it's done and then instructions on how it's done Modifications are also included and tips for each exercise. Breathing is also discussed in detail as it's very important you breathe correctly, and also stand up straight for your spine.
Index of movements is listed at the end along with references.
Great resource book, keep this one handy!

 
    




10-Minute Somatic Yoga for Weight Loss: A 28-Day Rejuvenation Plan with Exclusive Video Course and Expert Guidance to Burn Belly Fat and Gain Strength ... & Anxiety (The Somatic Exercise Club) by Wellness Print
Intro discusses the stress and weight gain and how this book can help you. Signs to watch for: body more reactive, disrupted sleep, no focus. among other things.
Another chapter  explains what somatic yoga is, origins, principles mind/body connection, benefits
for somatic yoga, props you will need at the ready, comfortable area,  equipment and space,  and preparing emotionally and mentally.
What I particularly like is the exercise starts out with a title and has QR code to watch a youtube video, picture o f the pose is shown, starting position along with words that tell you how to make the full movement. Tells you how long to hold the pose and what to focus on and how to release. Gives you hints and tips about reflecting and foundation you're building over the weeks.
Certain exercises also target  different issues, love the section on weight loss.
Great resource book to keep handy!
 



 
Only Guide You Need - Fun Things to Do in Retirement: Simple Steps To Stay Active, Combat Boredom, Boost Well-Being, and Create a Fulfilling Life by Patti Gomas 
This is a  fun book to read. Starts out with the author giving you advice about finding your creativeness and they give many examples and where to find them online, making a space for yourself.  Haven't tried the painting yet but have done, knit, crochet and many other needle arts.
Finding all the right things: calm, peace, mindfulness and hwo to give back to the community, volunteer at local nature parks, etc. We do all this and more already, just feels right and maked you feel good.
Love idea of journaling, memory box and leaving a legacy for the kids to find, good times.
Love meditations: yoga i do and qi gong, tried tai chi and felt it was more combative than qi gong.
Love that each chapters has a wrap up of the chapter to summarize it all for you.
Friendships, dating, digital tools, jobs,  and SO much more.  Thing I like the best is most of the items do not cost a cent, you don't need to travel there is so much to do around you.
Wicked fun book, check it out!
 

 
Spellbound Sophomore: An 18+ Magical Academy Harem Fantasy with Political Heat (Spellbound University Book 2) by Marko Duskborn
This book with the same characters from the first book continues on the spring semester at the university for magic. Like that Marcus' roommate, Derek is actually one of them also...
Wow within minutes of walking into the dining room Marcus is bombarded with others who some are transfer students to others from government agencies to internationals are asking to join him. They all want a piece of his knowledge.  The others have their own problems and they network and try to find other ways around them. The others are set, now for Marcus to figure it out so they don't sell his secrets to cause harm to others....
So many diversions from all angles that really throw Marcus off. Love how they present the initiative to the international group and concerns for the government are met separately.
Like where this series is going for the next installment: summer.
Great read, fun magic and major decisions about their lives. 
  


 

Riddle Quest: The Golden Book Of Wonders by Mr. Bob  
What a fantastic read. This story starts out with Ellie whose father is busy with deadlines and she tells her friend Max he doesn't have time for her. Max tells Ellie that his mom is always busy with the new baby and no time for him anymore.
They decide at the library to go find an adventure. They do find a book and it's about riddles and it takes them places after the solve the riddle. What I like about this book is each location teaches them something important that they already know but they think about it more. Love all the places and clues and I actually solved the riddles, I never get them right.
By the end the magic really happens...
Children's, educational, colorful riddle story with meaning. 


 

 
Travel Bucket List Toolkit by Eden Nichols
This book is a treasure of information, even digital things for you while traveling. It focuses on solo travel and what to do, who to meet and where to go to be with others who are solo.
Also has chapters on  a couples travel, even if they are not the same thing each want to do.
Lot of the places mentioned around the US we have been to, although we've not been a lot on the western side but are famous locations.
Some chapters give you an idea of what to do on the Maine coast, small towns along the coast but there are NOT specific locations written.
Love start of the book how it informs you of how to the use book, how to pack, that was a fun one, learned a lot of things and what to pack.
Keep records because you book so far in advance of when you are going, the weather that time of year, etc.  Love the ones where you stay at hosts family's houses and help them do the chores, etc, get a real taste of their lives and culture.
Chapters are 14 are mostly overseas, which I don't see us ever traveling to as we are 70 already and want to see more of the US first. So much information about the travel mode with each of the countries and what to do there.
Great resource book with references at the end. 
  



 
The Ultimate Guide of Fun Things to Do in Retirement: Enjoyable and Stimulating Activities to Make New Friends, Improve Mental Clarity, Find New Passions and Dive Into Global Adventures by Victoria Blaine
What I like about this book are the so many different things to consider when you are done working. First take care of yourself, discover things you used to do and  explore new things to try and learn. Love travel section and how to keep track of everything.
Love volunteering items and also many resources to tap into to meet new friends and old ones alike.
Very useful and fun, entertaining. 
  


  
The Ultimate Greenhouse Gardening Guide for Beginners: From Design to Harvest, Build Your Sustainable Haven for Growing Diverse, Pest-Free Plants Affordably All Year by Sandy Brundle 
What I like about this book is that it tells you exactly what you need for the zone you are in.  Not only what to use for the greenhouse materials but everything else to consider, water and heat if needed in your zone.  There are many sections detailing tools, seeds, dirt, and a larger section on composting. Not only that but how to troubleshoot if your kitchen waste is not producing dirt like compost for you. Very helpful information there.  Has pictures of the greenhouses in other areas of the US along with what to look for and when to start planting.  
References included at the end.
Keep this one handy. Very useful. 
        



Understand Your Gut Microbiome: Relieve Digestive Issues, Boost Metabolism, Improve Mood, Strengthen Immunity and Restore Balance for More Energy, Better Health and a Happier You by Sandy Brundle
In this book there are discussions, some are quite intense and technical. I can follow along with most of it and appreciate what it's teaching me about gut health. Like the tips along the way.
There are so many things you gut has a connection to: brain, heart, etc  There are so many suggestions into getting your gut back to being healthy again. Love the exact things to avoid and those that you should be eating. Even sleep and stress play a big part in the health of your gut. Follow the suggestions and you should get back  to haveing a healthy gut.
References are included at the end.
Keep this one handy and make your own foods at home where you control what goes into the meals.

 


 
The Posture Reset: A Starter Guide to Improve Your Posture, Address Tech Neck, Ease Pain, and Work Better From Home by Mallory Morrison  
Have tried with exercising to straighten up a lot more. I also with walking sticks am able to wait with back straight. I remember my grandfather would run his fingernail up my mothers back so she'd straighten up. I even tried back braces to help. Now I just do exercises, many of which are outlined in this book.
Dived right into this book and appreciate all the technical things dealing with pecs and back muscles and the spine.
Like the analogy of stretched muscles, so easy to understand what's going on.
Book also shows diagrams of where these are all located making it easy to follow along.
There are specific parts of the spine along with their real name and how to tend to them.
Major sections describe what to do at work for not only exercises but the desk, chair and mouse an, keyboard and monitor to help you sit up straight. Also a list of different brands of seats are discussed.
Parts I like the best are where the exercises are. I already do exercises to strengthen bone density and some of the exercises are what I have been doing 3 times a week. 
Even sleep positions is discussed in detail. I do sleep on my back which is what they prefer you to do.
Breathing and mindfulness is also a major thing for your back.
Lots of exercises for you to do while at work when you have a break. You can easily do them at home as well.
Each exercise has a title with brief summary paragraph of what part it targets. A section where it states what muscles are targeted.
How to do it is simple words and tell you how to do the exercise and there is a sample of a person doing the exercise so you can make sure you have it right.
Definitely some to add to my normal routine. Book finishes with references.
A KEEPER, keep this one handy for daily movements. 
      



 
Spellbound Freshman: A Slice Of Life Magical Academy Harem (Spellbound University Book 1) by Marko Duskborn
I enjoyed this book because of the theme. It's not my usual genre so it was easy to follow everything as the story progressed.
Story starts out with Marcus and he acquires abilities he didn't know he had.
He ends up going to an academy where he can learn more about his abilities and how to control them. Nobody even knew the level he was at.
The team consists of Sage who's a brilliant researcher with master in magical theory, Kira half fae  and like Marcus, trying to find her place among them all, and Elena who's family has connections.
Besides them all becoming friends they learn of others who want to expel Marcus because he wasn't born with the magic in his bloodline.
With help from them all Marcus is able to show enough power to take one assassin down and leave another unconscious in front of the elite party who are trying to expel him.
There are just a few involved and the researcher has found all the underlying evidence in plain sight and Victor goes under scrutiny from the panel...
Very entertaining book with sides of human, sci fic and magic and mystical overtures. 
        

 
Undone: a small town, second chance, cowboy romance Poplar springs, Book 1 by Mary Sue Jackson
This story starts out with Josh on his family ranch and his sister has Invited Zoe to stay with them a while to straighten out the website and bring more people to the ranch events.
He feels a spark when he shakes her hand to hand it all over to her to redo the website.
she will use it for her grad school education to further herself. They will spend a lot of time together so she can become familiar with his ideas and what he does already. Others do breeding, Josh offers horse rides, etc.
Zoe had left once before and Josh did not want to do long distance relationship. Now that she's back the spark is ignited again. She finds a grad school in NY and also one online.
Because of all the work she had done with the website everybody wants to come to the ranch and some days there is no one available to run the horse rides. Josh wants to fit in everywhere and he's burning the candle at both ends. He finally realizes he can dole jobs out to others and trust them to do them.
After she leaves he feels a loss. His sister is still in touch with Zoe and knows some more secrets. She has a talk with Josh and their sister Fiona who's also offered to help out at the ranch... Will the intervention help them to get back together...
Adult explicit scenes.
Love learning about the ranch, the environment, and all the activities. Love the bridal bunch, I would've shaken my head with what they had on their heads LOL
Super love Zoe's job and how good she does it with computer. 
Have read this author before and love her style and so glad this is the first of a new series for me. Next one is in a few months time.
 Received this review copy from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

  

 
Practical AI for Beginners: Unlock the Power of Artificial Intelligence with Simple Tools to Boost Productivity, Save Time, and Make Smarter Decisions in Everyday Life by Paco Barker 
This book starts out with what AI is and there are many examples they give as to what is using it: vacuums, machines, smartphones, goggle assistant, siri, alexa.  There is a list of the last 3 and explains what they are good at, vs the others. Like the idea of setting up meal prep and shopping-using other apps that they also list for you and give you the benefits of using them.
A clock to keep track of how long you are spending on certain work items per day.
Fearful for the authors who write for a living. You can't get a copyright if no human input but only AI is used, but who can tell? they also note how it's used to spruce up photographs, I'm not sure I'd be able to see the differences of a fake.
They list apps like grammerly and otters and explain how to log in and create an account and how to use it.
Same with note taking there are many apps they suggest, depending on what you want to do with AI.
Even for my blog I'd rather write my own words, not have it generated from me. They would use words I don't even know what they mean.
ChatGPT also has a big section on how to use it and with examples of what it can do for you.
At the end of each chapter there is a summary to give you a quick overview.
References at included at the end.
 

 

AI BEYOND THE BASICS FOR KIDS (2 BOOKS IN 1): A KID’S GUIDE TO MASTERING AI SKILLS FOR FUTURE DREAM JOBS (STEM MADE SIMPLE FOR KIDS) by Kabe Perry 
Love how this book works. IT's for kids to read the story about Zip and he comes up with days when friends approach him asking for his help. With his AI intelligence he can figure out most anything and he explains how it's done during the story. It's a cool story also.  After that there are sections  about zip's mystery log including fun facts, life lessons, quick guide. Then the parents corner to keep them up to speed, simplify exercises, discuss ethics. Mini challenge are also included along with picture the scene, basic mode, quick mode and full mood, group option, practice the hunt, guide to the patch, check your work, common mistakes, and tips, parent tips, share it, why it helps. Drawing activity and reflection question.
At chapter 25 more technical focus of what you've learned. The quizzes tell you how long it will take, materials needed, format, scoring and then the multiple choice questions about the chapter.  then true/false questions, short answer quiz, a word search puzzle to find tech words, the list is included.
Answer key is also included for each of the chapters. 
Part two is another adventures, more advanced quests 
Story is set with Nova and then instructions on how to play.  has same setup as previous book chapters. FAQ of tech questions are included at the end then the quiz for points.
Answer key for all mini challenges are included at the end. Glossary for Zip and Nova's quests are included at the end.
About the author ends this read.
Love the format and the game of learning in a fun way. 


 
The Power of Parenting Boys with ADHD: Easy Proven Methods to Manage Impulsive Behavior, Improve Focus, Strengthen Emotional Resilience, and Reinforce Academic Success by Beacon House Press, Lorena S. Toscano 
Think my duahter ms've read this book because everything they tell you to do she has done. They ahve charts up for daily challenges, organizational charts, grandson loves organizing anything. When we go to visit he loves to bake with us. takes a bit longer because you can no spill dough on muffin tins or you have to clean it first before filling another one. It's challenging but a peaceful chore and he loves to help. He has so many skills and brain power I wish I had and I can tell when he asnwers that he's thought about something deeply and it's something over my head.  Love how his brain works, it's helped in crisis on top fo Mt. Rainier and we had to be towed back home, some few hundred miles away.
Book explains how the brain works for boys, and what  signs to look for during their lives. I even know some of the triggers before he blows up so we can all prepare. He definitely has daily routines with everything organized. He has pre sets or clothes to wear in cubicles in his room for the week. Bathroom cabinets are labelled and only certain things can go in some of them. He did allow us to place a bathmat in tub, grab bars and even a stone mat when you leave the tub. It dries your automatically, like a clay pot sucking up the water. He is ok with some changes. Sometimes when he doesn't want to go with us to a store he will sit in the car and play with his animal friends or transformer.
Love family challenges listed also. We always have game day while there playing different card games, chess and board games, such fun.
If you know anyone who needs assistance with raising a ADHD boy this is the book for you. References are listed at the end. 



 

Relationship Communication Skills: Talk Without Fighting, Rebuild Trust, and Deepen Intimacy with Solutions to Reconnect by Sam Writze 
This book starts out with introduction material and it's very engaging. There are many forms to carry on communication and this book discusses them all.
There are many samples of real life instinces of conversations that didn't go quite right and how to  do better. The listening, with full attention is one I really like. Show the other you can fully involved. Love the phrase to repeat what they said in your own words to make them know you got it. Like how they determine what your style is and how to figure out which of them you belong in. Like exercises they urge you to try to resolve conflict. Love the no phone zone, that's not an issue with us, we are married to each not not the phone or computer.  Like the idea of a journal and to check in every so often to see how the plan is working for you.
Role playing sounds cool as other people. References are listed at the end. 


 

Somatic Exercises for Beginners: 69+ Simple Techniques to Reset Your Nervous System, Relieve Trauma, Unlock Balance & Flexibility, & Rediscover Inner Peace in Just 20 Minutes a Day by K. D. Anne 
This book starts out with an introduction and discusses all about Somatic exercises.
The parts I love the most are the actual exercises, the written step by step and also the sketch of a person doing them, to be sure you are doing them right. The exercises start out with telling the what party of your body the exercise will help. Then the step by step instructions, sketches and sometimes variations to make it simpler for you.
Love daily routine and I do most of them with a program I'm currently doing. Love the explanations of which part it will help as I sometimes need help with my hips or legs.
There are charts that are included that show a 7 day core stability challenge.
Customization program where you can select from the exercise library the exercises you want to do. There are sections to keep a log of what you do, like a journal. You will see that the exercises will bring you calm and they will become easier to do when you do them as a  routine.
There are quizzes at the end that you can access with QR code scan. Love the nutrition tips at the end also.  The important vitamins and foods you should be eating already.
Video tutorials are also linked to the web at the end.  References are also included.
SO much knowledge in this book, super for the exercises for seniors.

 


 
The Perfect Cocktail for any Holiday by Paul Wintergerst 
The things I lie about this book is that the recipes are so simple to do at home. It's all in the presentation and the drinks have that information also.
Starts with intro and there's a lot of useful information: what to make, tools you will need, glasses and so much more.
Each recipe starts with the ingredient list-all fruit is fresh and you can just taste what the combination of all the ingredients will taste like. Some even have an option to add alcohol. 
Author tells you how to combine it, in what order and what type of glass to put it in. Then he also tells you how to set the theme, mood making the presentation flawless.
All the regular holidays are listed with a favorite blend of drinks for them but you can make them any time of the year.
One of my favorites would be blueberry and lemonade-everything is fresh and I like the blend and it's almost blueberry season here. Another is cranberry-anything added is a plus.
There are references included at the end.
A KEEPER to keep handy. 




COMPANION PLANTING ESSENTIALS FOR BEGINNERS: EASY STEPS TO BOOST SOIL FERTILITY AND ATTRACT BENEFICIAL INSECTS FOR AN ORGANIC GARDEN THAT THRIVES, EVEN WITHOUT A GREEN THUMB by Davis Eklund
What a really great resource book. It has everything you would ever want to know about how to plant a garden. Love that they go over the tools, dirt, containers and everything else you would need.
Love conversations about composting, layering and especially the three sisters. Love planting like the Pilgrims were taught from the Indians.
Love the charts where they tell you want to plant near another so both will thrive.
There is also a chart about insects that can harm the crop but they tell you how to naturally combat them. We have used ladybugs for aphids and praying mantis now when we plant squash we wait til June 21 then there will be no bugs, in our zone.
Have planted the main raised garden and have a few containers still free so I will do some companion gardening in them.
SUPER KEEPER!
 

  
   

   
A Whisper of Summer Magic by Sinclair Jayne 
This story starts out with the women and they are all gathered around and it lays out who is dating who, married to, etc.  G. Millie is heading to the hospital and the story picks up a month later. The women are all home bound to G. Millie's house.  One women is making a garden and plans to sell items, even growing olive trees for oils. Another is a lawyer and another an accountant. Chole is getting married and they go through the engagement party and everybody loves the groom.  Love hearing of the struggles, ussies with the estate and the solutions. Book mainly focuses on Chole and the girls inform her of her mother... What a bomb, never saw that coming.  Love how they handle it for the upcoming wedding. Other estate issues come to light and really upset Meghan and her relationship with Jackson, a family friend but more than that now, til it's not...
Love all the different relationships as each are going through different struggles. So interesting to hear how the book progresses forward.  Can't wait for the next book.
LOVE all the recipes and the processes of making the foods from the special magic spells cookbook. 



 
Brains Wired for Brilliance ADHD + OCD Power Collection: Practical Tools to Reframing Thinking, Harness Focus, and Thrive Personally & Professionally by Eric Von Jares  
Wanted to read this book because 19 year old grandson has ADHD and wanted to be sure we are doing everything we can for him. He has many struggles and we find music helps calm him down. There are so many other solutions to issues that arise that I can't wait to try.
Also have granddaughter 25 who was just diagnosed and she's struggling but managing and this also helps us to guide her, as she lives far away from family now. 
References are included
Next section is about OCD, and again the grandson has this. It has a lot of advantages for the job market as he loves organing things at home. Each chapter also has a summary of what you've learned in that chapter.  Lots of things to try when we next visit with them.
Reference are included in this section also.
GREAT resource book to keep handy.
 
    

 
Ultimate Turkey Travel Guide: How Anyone Can Plan a Hassle Free Trip, Gather Deep and Historical and Cultural Insights, While Experiencing Lesser Known Destinations For an Authentic Experience by Christine Ricchini  
What I like about this book is the author covers it all. There are even they suggest while in the country, more up to date information is available.
Love hearing the different areas and what makes them so special and what is there to see or you'd miss it because these aren't in other books.
Author explain how to pack, how to travel and why you shouldn't take one form of transportation for certain areas. References are included.
Love all the culture and foods the most.
 



 
The Cowboy's Best Friend by Megan Crane
This story is about Boone and he lives and works on the family ranch. He has his own house that he built along with an apartment in the barn. His best friend in life since he was very young is Sierra and she works at her fathers law firm. She was married to Matty who she knew cheated on her and he kept her around for eye candy. She finally has had enough and leaves him and explains to her parents and moves into the apartment at the barn. She is helping Boone with the dairy business and he wants to expand it to include cheeses and yogurts. His othe brothers give hima real hard time about her because they all know he loves her but is treating her like a best friend. She delivers milk to the locals and enjoys her time with the cows and making facebook pages for them along with paperwork. The divorce is a bit messy and leaves her edgy.Zeke shares a few moments with Boone and lets him in on  a secret.
They start dating and she gets to see what she missed out on. Love how things go from then. Love hearing of the businesses all gathering together to sell their homemade wares.
Adult situations . Love this series and can't wait to read about Knox 
    



 

The Whispering Trees of Yellowstone by Kerry Anne Boer  
Story written about Tilda who walks through the trees and hears the whispers.
She knows every turn of the creek and all landmarkings. There is also a lyrical poem before the story starts. Like all the characters she comes upon. So mystical, magical and so very calming and peaceful. Even a bonus chapter is included at the end. First writing was 1957.
This Yellowstone is in Australia, not in the USA..

  


 
Who Banged the Big Bang!: Trans-scientific Mysteries: Decoded, Simplified! by Prabha Karan 
Author explains all about this theory and about many others that relate to it, your body, mind and consciousness. There is so much to this book about so many other things going on in your mind and he has good explanations for them all. It's not for everybody to read but for those who will explore and not dwell on things too deeply.    A lot of what is discussed was also in a n earlier book by the author.   This book was a bit over my heard, even though I kept looking up words.
 
  


 

The YOU in ME, Forever...: A Romantic Approach to Your INTELLECT by Prabha Karan
What I like about this read is that the author describes things in easy terms but at times uses words I've not heard of. They are kind of like Latin words that really mean something in our everyday lives. I like the parts that are broken up into smaller ones so you can take your time to digest it before it's brought back to the big picture. I am familiar with a few of the yoga's and appreciated learning what it all means.  The phrases used in this book I am not familiar with. Was hoping they exploit more of the movements in the various yoga sections. It's really, to me, a state of mind. Think this book was a bit over my head. 



  


 
Glow: An Inspiring Chapter Book for Girls about Anxiety by Emma Meyer 
This is a fantastic story about  Mia and she lives with her mother in Brooklyn. Mia goes to school and has many friends there, She feels very comfortable in her city and the activates she is able to do. Her mother has bad news for them one night and Mia finds out they must leave the city and head to where the grandfather lives. She is sad to part with her friends and her anxiety is really bad along the trip. It takes them longer than a day in the rusty, old, leaking truck with their things. When they arrive Mia is shocked by the dead town. Nobody is outside and stores appear to be closed. After a nap she wakes up to find hikers come into her grandfather's place and he feeds them. He runs a hiking lodge of sorts and is always busy. 
Mia does not like the place, nor the town nor the woods all around them. 
She finds others who are about her age and they bond after some time.
I like this story because Mia has to learn patience and she even opens up to her grandfather who helps her out. Love the library and how things with friends are so important to feel a part of something. Each time something good happens Mia glows inside. She even turns the glow onto her mother who is also beginning to love the place. Home is where your heart is and they have found home again. Love hearing of  all the treasures the locals show her and how she's able to learn to survive and help others when in need.
Great story, can't wait to read the rest in the seriers.
 


   





The Complete Excel Bible 2025 by Excelwise Press 
Book intro tells you about the different types of skills you can learn from this book. I use excel myself and love a lot of things about this book.
It explains how to set up the ribbon task bar and how to remove things you don't want there.
Loe that it explains how to create your first workbook and actually has you do everything yourself. You can take your time and if you get interrupted you can restart where you left off. There are step by step instruction making it so easy for anybody to use. It also explains how to input data and what to type, as examples so you can become familiar with the layout.
 It has you do a few tasks also with the data, rearranging things and how to save, open and close files.
There are chapters about how to display the data as a chart as some are visual learners. There are so many more instructions to use that format or many others in the program.
There are a few things I would never use as I don't have a business but some things like a grocery list is very helpful.
What I love the best are the 104 shortcuts they tell you about at the end of the book. I never learned all but 'sum' function so this is new to me and so very helpful.  Macros would be helpful to others and those instructions are included also. 
References are included also.
A KEEPER, one to keep close by til you get used to the shortcut keys.






















KIDS BOOKS:








  




Inspiring AI Stories For Kids: Captivating Tales To Motivate Young Minds And Equip Kids For Safe, Proper, and Prosperous Use Of Artificial Intelligence (Inspiring Stories For Kids + Workbooks Series) by VERCEY PUBLISHING 
In the book there are   stories that kids can relate to as the ones in the books took early interest in Ai and the like educational paths.  Not only is there a story they can picture themselves in but author also included a bio of what the child did as a youngster and another section about their educational training.  These are famous people and they are so smart in many different areas of AI.
Love sections on talking to Chatgpt and seeing how they will form a review for you, after you give them your age and some material to work with.  At that age, 10 I do not expect to see very difficult or hard technical words. Even the technical things are explained further in the stories making it easy for 70 year old to understand things fully.
There are many stories, you should read them with the child, one a night for several days.
So educational and fun, there are even pictures in the book.
References are included at the end.



 





Hip and The Kindness Tree by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's educational book.  Book starts out with about the author.
Story starts at chapter 1 with its title. Love that each page is a different chapter and has it's own title and text in the chapter explains more about the title.
Hip finds an empty spot and wants to plant a garden, he has an idea that he hopes will work.
He plants a seed and sits back to watch it grow.
Seed has special powers that if others do a good deed for others the seed grows higher, even blossoms with a flower. Everybody in th jungle is doing a good deed. One day no one does a good deed and the plant starts to die. Hip starts all over again with a good deed and others pitch in also. Love hearing from all the other animals in the jungle. Colorful pictures in every chapter.
Moral of the story: Every little act counts.


 




Hip and The Missing Muffins by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's educational book.  Book starts out with about the author. 
I am a baker of muffins myself and know where they all are but sometimes I leave the room for minute...
Book starts where the chapte has its own title. There are color pictures and then more is explained, about the title.
Hip declares Muffin Monday and gets busy in the kitchen. He leaves the room for a minute and when he returns all muffins are gone...
He starts to follow the crumbs and comes upon Marvin. Wasn't him..Toucan had a nibble only. Detective Hip does find out who the culprit was and now he leaves a note: Please ask before you snack. The others feel bad so go back to the kitchen with Hip to make more muffins, They all pitch in and have such a fun time. They will now all make muffins on Monday.
Love hearing more from the animals in the jungle.






Hip Learns to say Sorry by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's educational book.  Book starts out with about the author. 
I am a baker of muffins myself and know where they all are but sometimes I leave the room for minute...
Book starts where the chapter has its own title. There are color pictures and then more is explained, about the title.
Hip is enjoying the sunny day at the park. Others are there, Benny the Bunny and they are playing leaf chase game.
Because of Hips size he didn't realize he had bumped into Benny by accident.
Hip thinks he's ruined the fun. Marvin helps Hip understand that you should say sorry for bumping into you.
Hip did not mean to bump Benny at all. He found the bunny sniffling and they talk to one another. After that they went off to play again.
Saying sorry made everything better.
Love hearing more from the animals in the jungle. 


 



Hip and the Sharing Shells by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's educational book.  Book starts out with about the author. 
Book starts where the chapter has its own title. There are color pictures and then more is explained, about the title. 
Hip and his friends head the beach for the day. Hip spots  a shiny shell and claims it as his. He collects a bunch more and they are all for him. Ellie wants to see them by Hip tells her no they are all his. She walks away. Now Hip feels lonely. He has a talk with Marvin  and one shell tumbles out of the pile into the water. He still feels lonely but others are laughing and having a great time.  He decides he needs to share the shells with other. They all build  a cstle and put shells on it. 
Love hearing more from the animals in the jungle.
Moral: sharing really does make everything better. 


  

 

Hip and the Wiggly Tooth  by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's educational book.  Book starts out with about the author. 
Book starts where the chapter has its own title. There are color pictures and then more is explained, about the title. 
In this book Hip finds he has a loose tooth. He doesn't want it to fall out during story time. Tessa the Toucan explains what is happening with the tooth, it meals you are growing up.
 He wiggles it a bit and declares nope it's not ready.
 Ellie the elephant talks more to him to not be afraid.
Love hearing about the tooth fairy again.
Love hearing more from the animals in the jungle.


 
Hip and the Day We Remember (A Memorial Day Story) by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's educational book.  Book starts out with about the author. 
Book starts where the chapter has its own title. There are color pictures and then more is explained, about the title. 
Hip notices in the jungle thee is peace and calm and why does it feel so different. He goes to investigate.
He notices the little flags planted. Ellie explains it all to him what Memorial Day is really all about.
Jungle animals all gather and pause, feel and remember.
Love hearing more from the animals in the jungle.
Memorial Day: A day to pause. A day to feel. A day to remember.


 


 

Hip and the Great Jungle Race by Sandra Blake
Colorful, children's, educational, fun story to read with another.
Book starts out with about the author. The story is set up where the chapters are titled and in each chapter is the title, color photo and the words to the picture, story.
This story is centered around the great race. All the animals can  participate.
When Hip gets going he does fine and keeps up with others. Then he notices One animal that can't go further and he helps them out.  Hip continues to run and helps another with a problem. By the end of the race he can see many ahead of him but he's just happy to have finished the race. He has a big surprise when he is finished. Whole gang is there to witness it. He is a true winner.