This Christmas is very different

 This Christmas is very different, and at first, I felt horrible. Then I kept seeing post after post about others who were late putting up their trees, hadn't started shopping, lost a loved one, didn't feel in the Christmas Spirit, posts from families looking for help this Christmas season, etc. and I realized we weren't alone. 

Prices are higher everywhere, and people are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, keep food on the table, and clothe their families, there is war and turmoil throughout the world, overdoses, suicide, genocide, crime, you name it. I am sure you or someone close to you is having a rough time too.

Our family is falling apart, we have had our share of bumps this year that have turned our world upside down. Have we given up? Most certainly not, we just need to regroup and trudge forward. In the end, we will come out stronger and wiser. 

Life is a never-ending path of feeling hopeless and accomplished, feeling clueless and learning, falling and picking oneself up, going without and helping others, feeling idol, and then growing by leaps and bounds. 

This year my faith has been tested more times than I can count. My heart has been broken in so many ways it felt like I was going to die. People have said many awful things to me and about me, all I can do is keep praying and know that we are not alone, others are struggling just like our family. 

I am thankful to have friends who have been there for me through it all, checking up on me, listening to me, cheering me on, giving me advice, and trying to cheer me up by posting funny memes, words of wisdom, or verses from the Bible, as well as praying for our family. Most of all I am glad I have Jesus because even when I feel most alone I am reminded that he never leaves my side.

So for those who are struggling this year with Christmas or any of the Holidays know you are not alone. 

Getting ready for Christmas

 

Last year I knew going into the Holidays that we needed a new Christmas Tree and some decorations. Our old tree got moldy from a leak in our basement and most of our ornaments didn't make our last move. We decided on a red, white, and silver theme and went with that. I ordered a 7.5 foot tree with lights that could be either white or colored depending on how you feel each day. This tree was originally like 300.00 and I got it for I believe 43.13. I have to say it is the best tree we have had so far. Easy to set up and take down. We are very happy with it. 

I also bought new garland, penguin ornaments, gingerbread man decorations, and white, silver, and white decorations to go with everything. We even made a few decorations from crafts I had stashed for years. I also ordered a star in red. It isn't quite what we were looking for so I will be looking at new toppers for next year. The star goes well with the multi-colored lights but not so well with the white so we just left the star off when we had the white lights on. We live on a strict budget so buying things on sale is a must. I also ordered one of those glass trees with multi-colored lights because they remind me of my grandmother and aunts. It was also something my mom always wanted but never got. For a splurge, I bought a family of Moose decorations for our home. They are so cute. 

This year I would like to add a tree skirt (ours went missing) or tree box, a lighted wreath, some lighted pine garland, and some of those deer sets that light up for our porch. If I had to splurge I would buy those lamps that look like the lamps out of Narnia. I also want to get letters for each of the stockings so it is easier to keep track of whose stocking is whose. 

I showed my husband several ideas for how I want to hang the stockings this year and with a little thinking outside the box we are going to be able to make what I would like with things we already have on hand. Can't wait to show you all later in the year. Anyways those are my goals for Christmas this year. 

Great Gift Idea for mulitple people

One of the best things we did this year for Christmas that I would like to share with you was buying an assortment of candles. We got a great deal during the candle deal from Yankee Candle. The best part is that they were all shipped to my home. We still do most of our shopping from home. 

We placed them all on the desk in our living room and each of my children's family chose two scents they would like to take home with them as a gift and the rest we would use throughout the year to come. I think this went over well and I am going to do this again.

I did have a little insight into the scents they liked so I chose around those and then ordered some new to us scents. I loved a few that were chosen so we will be ordering those scents again. I know this is late but an early idea for next year for those who have multiple families to gift to. 

Easter Basket Idea for Toddlers

Today I am talking about this set of toddler puzzles you see above. Isn't the lady bug puzzle adorable?  My grandsons are still quite young so these will be going into my oldest grandson's Easter basket this year with a few small treats. In a few years his little brother will be able to play with them too. He loves back packs so I was really excited to see that this set of 4 puzzles comes with a little draw string back pack so they can be toted along for fun on the go. 

My suggestion once opened as long as you are keeping an eye on your child is to put the puzzle pieces to each puzzle in a zip bag so when playtime is open you can hand the board and pieces and they can put the puzzle together and not worry about mixed up pieces. Also as they get quicker at doing the puzzles you can add two puzzles and their pieces to make it a bit harder and keep adding till they have all four empty puzzles, as well as all of the pieces to challenge them even more. 

These are rated for children three years of age, but my son who is my grand sons father was doing 25 piece puzzles by the time he was 18 months old, so depending on my grandson who seems to be following in his footsteps these may be too easy. I always say go with caution. A parent knows their child best, if using with younger children make sure to be watchful and not leave your child alone while playing with small toys. 

Each puzzle board is 5.8 inches by 5.8 inches. Perfect for toddlers and a great gift idea.

Check them out at Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Disclosure: MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation. If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Puzzles to Go

Today I am talking about the super cute toddler puzzles you see above. Aren't just the sweetest? My grandsons are still quite young so these will be going into my oldest grandson's Easter basket this year with a few small treats. In a few years his little brother will be able to play with them too. He loves back packs so I was really excited to see that this set of 4 puzzles comes with a little draw string back pack so they can be toted along for fun on the go. 

My suggestion once opened as long as you are keeping an eye on your child is to put the puzzle pieces to each puzzle in a zip bag so when playtime is open you can hand the board and pieces and they can put the puzzle together and not worry about mixed up pieces. Also as they get quicker at doing the puzzles you can add two puzzles and their pieces to make it a bit harder and keep adding till they have all four empty puzzles, as well as all of the pieces to challenge them even more. 

These are rated for children three years of age, but my son who is my grand sons father was doing 25 piece puzzles by the time he was 18 months old, so depending on my grandson who seems to be following in his footsteps these may be too easy. I always say go with caution. A parent knows their child best, if using with younger children make sure to be watchful and not leave your child alone while playing with small toys. 

Each puzzle board is 5.8 inches by 5.8 inches. Perfect for toddlers and a great gift idea.

Check them out at Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Summer Slime Fun

Looking for a great gift idea or something to keep the kids busy this summer? Look no further. Slime is in. Check out this set by Explorer's Choice which has everything included in the description below. You can also see the link where to find this awesome slime kit.

The first thing my daughter pulled out was the clear crystal slime and the fruit pieces to make this awesome slime which she called the fruit bowl. 

Later she also mixed some crystal slime with the foam beads that are included to make what she calls the fun-fetti slime. I can't wait to see all of the slime creations she is able to make. I love that the crystal slimes are already made and ready for mix ins.  

This is the galaxy egg that was included with our kit. At first we thought the egg was colored, but once opened the egg was clear and this was the color of the slime. I love how interesting it is when light hits it in different places. 

This is the slime my daughter made with the crystal grey slime and a little of  each of the three colors of the glitter she choose. So beautiful. We love how easy it is to incorporate add ins. Some slimes will not pick up glitter or foam balls well but this slim makes combining items easy so kids can enjoy their masterpieces.

There are so many options. Just pick a slime add in glitter, foam beads, and or fruit pieces for your own slimy fun. Great for parties, classrooms, playgroup, camp, home. Sure to make a some kids giggle with excitement when they get their hands on the hours of fun this box holds. 

INCLUDED:
- 24 color Crystal Slime (2.65 pounds)
- 1 pcs Galaxy Egg Slime (.13 pounds); An Explorers Choice Exclusive
- 6 Vials Glitter
- 6 Bags Foam Beads
- 1 Bag Fruit Slice
- 3 pcs Straws
- 3 pcs Slime Tools
- 1 Fruit Slime Mold (random)
- 6 Animal Molds (random)











- Letter from Explorers
NOTE:
To keep slime moist always keep in a tightly-sealed container after use.

WARNING:
- Always wash hands after use.
- Not suitable for children under 6 years old. Presence of small parts. Choking hazard.
- Slime may stick to a stain carpet, wood or other surfaces.






Explorer's Choice Slime Kit can be found at the link below.

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Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Package From Santa

I get excited every year for the Santa letters either hand-made or sent for like these from Package From Santa. There are three different price points so you choose which you like best.

I can attest that your child will be overjoyed with the excitement of reading a letter from Santa while you notice the twinkle in their eyes and smiles on their faces.

Getting a child excited about Santa is easy, but sometimes us adults need to see the excitement of our children to get us in the spirit and this will do that for most people.


This uniquely personalized gift experience creates Christmas wonder and excitement that your child will never forget! Have your camera ready to video every step of this special Santa experience! It all starts at the mail box when the Package From Santa arrives from the North Pole! Delight in the process of making Christmas magic come alive in a very personal way for your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, or any little one you know! 

This esteem-building personalized gift is an amazing experience of joy, memories, wonder and happiness! 

PackageFromSanta.com has options for EVERY BUDGET starting at $14.95 with an array of add-on goodies to choose from. Create a custom package for each child!

EVERY package comes with:
-Personalized Letter from Santa
-Santa's Special North Pole Return Address Label
-Genuine North Pole Stamp
- 90-day money-back guarantee
-FREE Personalized VIDEO
- FREE Personalized PHONE CALL from Santa
- FREE Personalized printable NICE LIST GUIDE

Take a look at the video below for a peak at what you can order.

My readers can get 25% off with 

Code FAM2060 at 

Package From Santa.

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Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Getting Ready for Christmas

Some of my readers may remember that almost 6 years ago my husband fell at work, causing him to be disabled. After workman's comp ran out our funds we had saved went quicker then his disability starting up and we ended up homeless. It was not what we had ever imagined happening. Our family made it through by faith alone. There just is no other way to explain getting through about a year and half of being homeless and then a few months in an apartment from hell to being homeless for a little over a month again before getting the apartment we have now. 

During that time few people would help and those that did I had no way of thanking except to say thank you over and over again. It was a hard time. Several people helped out with gifts, sent cards, reached out on Facebook, and even took the time to come and visit. So this Christmas after two very rough years we are sitting down and have money enough to send out Cards to those who took the time to help a family in need. 

These Woodland Animal Blank Christmas Cards are just what we needed to be able to write personal messages to those who took the time to care for a family who was going through a rough and unexpected time. I hope that these cards show the gratitude we have in the blessings these people gave to us, not knowing how truly they touched our lives.

This set of Woodland Animal Christmas Cards comes with 36 blank cards in 6 different designs, envelopes, and stickers for closing the envelopes. They can be found at the link below. 

Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Terry Treetop and the Christmas Star

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here. 

MarksvilleandMe

reviews

Terry Treetop and the Christmas Star

written by 

Tali Carmi

Recently I was able to read another installment in the Terry Treetop series called Terry Treetop and the Christmas Star written by Tali Carmi. Our family has been reading books from Tali Carmi for the last few years and we are always excited to see what her characters will be up to next. 

In Terry Treetop and the Christmas Star we learn more about Terry Treetops family. They are getting ready for Christmas and find that their tree still needs to be decorated but are having a hard time getting the star where it belongs. Next comes the adventure which you can read all about in the story.

You can find Terry Treetop and the Christmas Star on Amazon below.

About the Author Tali Carmi

Tali Carmi spent her childhood in the dessert, she memorized many of the books her parents read to her. She played with words and rhymes, writing her first book of songs at the age of 10.

As she grew she turned to other hobbies and a successful career.

Now she is back writing stories for young children.

You can find out more about the Author Tali Carmi at:

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Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Binval Photo Clip String Lights

So excited to hang these up. For the Holiday we will hang our cards on them, then after the holidays we will use them for pictures, art work, etc. These remind me of one of my favorite shows where they use something like this to communicate with each other.

Easy to use just add 3 AA batteries per set this one comes with two sets with 15 clips on each string. It has a timer and several modes. I like the combination the best for the Holidays. Now to get some nails so we can hang these right. We have just moved in so not everything is here nor will it fit but I have certainly not seen any of my husbands tools so will have to pick up some small nails as tacks will not go into our walls without hammering them in. 

The Binval Photo Clips String lights can be found at my affiliate link below.

Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion with Tomoson and Binval. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review or promote a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com.

Great Gift Ideas

 I have a great deal if you are looking for gifts for Easter, Birthdays, Christmas, etc. You can find the deal below but first let me tell you a little about some of the products available.

Quality, affordable gifts for girls ages 2 to 12. SmitCo LLC has several different diaries with lock and keys and diary sets for girls in Emoji and Diva themes, as well as several different nail art sets to provide hours of fun.

A huge hit is the brand new Mermaid themed scrapbook kit as well as 3 unique princess dress up sets. 

SmitCo products also include rose gold, gold or rhodium plated jewelry and sets, as well as very popular stretch sets for little girls - all packed in cute gift boxes. 


You can find their products here.
http://amzn.to/2a3d3v8

But WAIT! 

My readers get to save!

Get 20% Off Entire Cart Of Gifts! Go to: http://amzn.to/2a3d3v8 and use coupon code N3CQD6AE on checkout





Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion with USFamily Guide and SmitCo LLC. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com. 

All Things Christmas and More

What I love about the Holiday is finding new stores and in this case new online stores to order from. I want to give gifts that are different from the norm, something that screams out the receiver's name when I see it. This is one of those sites and better yet they accept many forms of payment including paypal. They had me at paypal to be honest.

Check in the coming weeks for a review from MarksvilleandMe on our order from them.





All Things Christmas And More is a family business for over 5 years now. We pride ourselves on offering the best Christmas products around at an affordable price. We stock over 2,500 items year round and expand our catalog every year. This year new Was Halloween next year we are looking to expand and a carry a Spring and Summer Catalog.

This Nativity is something I have been wanting for a long time brings back so many Christmas Memories.

MarksvilleandMe readers can get Free Shipping on all orders placed November 1st thru December 11th. at http://www.allthingschristmasandmore.com Use code UFG:http://usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=75&bid=11835&dealid=1796 .@usfg

You can find out more about All Things Christmas and More on:

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Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion with All Things Christmas and More and US Family Guide. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com. 

Santa brings cheer to the bathroom

OK I usually do not go all out and decorate for the Holidays but this is so cute I just have to. This 4 pc set is just so cute. I think I am going to use this in our downstairs bathroom this year so when guests use our bathroom they can have a little Christmas Cheer while using the facilities.

Easy to put on to the toilet, easy to wash. I wash ours in cold and hang to dry. Great way to decorate in your bathroom for the Holiday season.

You can find this 4 pc bathroom set on Amazon.


*Great decoration in your toilet
*Perfect for creating a festival atmosphere
*4 pcs in toilet, rug, seat cover, water tank cover and toilet paper box cover
*Nice coated, flexible material fits for most toilet seats
*Easy to set up

Still wondering how to decorate your bathroom for the approching Christmas day? Look at this nice Ohuhu Christmas Santa Toilet Cover Set, it is perfect for bringing a festive feel of Christmas in your bathroom. Dress everything up, and let's enjoy Christmas Day all together!

Specification:
-Toilet Seat Size: 14" x  15"
-Water Tank Size: 10-1/2" x 20"
-Rug Size: 22" x 23"
-Paper Box Cover Size: 5" x 5" x 5"

Package Includes:
-1 x Rug Mat
-1 x Toilet Seat Cover
-1 x Toilet Water Tank Cover
-1 x Paper Box Cover

#christmas

Disclosure:  MarksvilleandMe received one or more of the products mentioned above as part of a promotion with Tomoson and Sunsella. Regardless, MarksvilleandMe only recommends products or services we use personally and believe will be good for our readers. Some of the links in the article may be “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive compensation.  If you would like MarksvilleandMe to review a product or service please contact us at marksvilleandme@gmail.com. 

Spirit of Christmas Toy Giveaway

Stickman Stew and the Gold Heart Crew

This isn't my normal kind of giveaway post. This post helps out others in need this Christmas season. For every Stickman Stew and the Gold Heart Crew character that is ordered another will be given to a child in need. Want a great present that gives back this season look no further. Stickman Stew and the Gold Heart Crew are here to make that happen. Want to help? Buy One Give One Here. Still thinking? They are each under $10.00 you just can't beat that.

The Stickman Stew and Gold Heart Crew consist of Stickman Stew, Stickgal Sal, StickKid Sid, and Stickgirl Shirl get one or get them all. They are shaped like caveman drawings from 20,000 years ago as well as looking like the stick figures that children still draw today. They are soft, stuffed poseable figures a lot like Gumby. Sure to be a delight to children everywhere.

My 3 year old grand daughter says she wants a set as well as my daughters who are 6 and 11, so you know if my girls would like them then kids all over America are going to love them too.

You may be asking what does MarksvilleandMe get out of this, well I was one of 20 bloggers picked to chose a non profit organization to receive donations of Stickman Stew and the Gold Heart Crew, I chose the Edith Casey Stocking Fund which has been around since 1920 which serves children and families near my home. I have myself  had to use them in the past to get gifts for my children for Christmas Morning. To be chosen to do this with only 20 bloggers being picked is amazing. My heart overflows with cheer and my eyes are filled with tears.

Finally I can give back to one of the Community Organizations that continues to give back to those in need year after year. Without the dedication of the Edith Casey Stocking Fund many children would go without Christmas Morning. I am happy to be able to give back even in this small way to a community that cares about others.

 Merry Christmas from MarksvilleandMe to all of my readers. May this Christmas Season be Happier for everyone.

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You can read more about the Edith Casey Stocking Fund here.

Disclosure: MarksvilleandMe will receive one set of Stickman Stew and the Gold Heart Crew but no other payment was received.