Living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

What is it like living with the most painful pain condition on the planet? Well, this has been my reality for the past eight years. In March of 2018, I was recovering from viral pneumonia and so wasn’t feeling the best. I was walking down the sidewalk with my daughter and tripped over a lip on the sidewalk. When I fell, I landed on my right knee, right elbow, and then onto my shoulder. I was in excruciating pain. I made it back home as the fall occurred directly across the street from my house. The pain was awful, but I decided to wait it out. Five days later, I ended up going to see my Internist. My Internist ordered an x-ray of my knee and shoulder. The hospital radiologist said nothing was broken. My pain was a 10+ on the pain scale. I had a hard time sleeping at night. Functioning during the day was almost too much to bear. Just the simple act of breathing took all my energy. I have never in my life experienced pain like this. In April, I started seeing an Alternative Physiotherapist who used Electrophysiotherapy (Electro-Myopulse and Electro-Acuscope Machine) to help with the pain. I stopped in July due to getting no benefit. For the next two weeks, I merely survived. Walking was simply agonizing. After two weeks of unrelenting pain, I decided to get a copy of the x-ray's that had been performed at the hospital and go see my Orthopedic doctor. It was now the beginning of April. He took one look at the x-rays and said that my knee cap was broken. I had been walking on a broken knee cap for two full weeks. He also said that something was definitely very wrong with my shoulder due to my severe pain and my inability to move it. He ordered an MRI of my shoulder. He also ordered a full leg brace to be used for two months. Due to the pain, I was unable to use it for the most part. All I could do was cry because the pain was so intense. The pain was unbearable. The slightest touch sent me over the edge. The pain was so bad I could not imagine continuing to live each day in this pain. It was not humanly possible. Days later, I was back at my orthopedic doctor's office with my MRI results. The labrum in my shoulder was torn and there was a significant amount of inflammation. Two weeks later my orthopedic doctor ordered an MRI of my knee due to ongoing severe pain that was only getting worse by the day. I honestly did not know how my body was going to handle it! Most days, I laid in bed crying, gritting my teeth because the pain was so horrible that I truly just wanted to die. A couple of days later my orthopedic doctor ordered an MRI of my Cervical Spine due to uncontrollable migraines and worsening neck pain and stiffness. By the middle of May, now almost two months after my fall, I was back at my orthopedic doctor's office. My pain was only worsening instead of getting better. He was immediately concerned that I was developing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome as known as CRPS. My skin was freezing cold. I also had color changes to the affected limbs. He ordered a Three Phase Bone Scan the following week which revealed differences pre and post. This was not good news. By this time, I had also lost around eighteen pounds, and my body was struggling to survive the out-of-control pain. At the beginning of June, my orthopedic doctor, based on symptoms such as migrating pain, skin color changes, temperature changes to affected areas, severity of pain, and the kind of pain diagnosed me with CRPS. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is a chronic pain condition typically affecting one limb, usually after an injury. It's characterized by intense pain, swelling, and changes in the skin temperature and color of the affected area. The exact cause of CRPS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an abnormal response of the nervous system. Over the months, my orthopedic doctor tried me on multiple medications that did absolutely nothing to touch the pain. The only way to begin to describe the pain is when you have a cracked tooth and you have shooting nerve pain in that tooth that radiates. I had excruciating nerve pain in both my arm and leg 24/7. I would lay in bed and cry and beg God to please take it away because I could not take the pain any longer. The pain overtook my body to the point that I thought I would pass out from the pain. At this point, my orthopedist referred me to Pain Management. I saw two Pain Management doctors locally. One prescribed Lyrica and said that Lyrica was the only thing that she could do for me. There was nothing else that could be done. The second Pain Management doctor put me on Hydromorphone which did absolutely nothing. He then wanted to do multiple nerve blocks which I refused based on research that I had been doing on CRPS. All of the literature pointed to nerve blocks not being effective for the treatment of CRPS. Over the next weeks, I spent hours upon hours researching CRPS and effective treatments. I stumbled upon a doctor in Rhode Island that was the leading expert on CRPS in the nation. In desperation ,I called to try and make an appointment. I live in Texas. The wait would be almost six months. I knew that I could not wait six months. I researched this doctor's pain management protocol for CRPS and called his office back and left a message for the nurse. About a week later she called back. I explained my situation and that my pain was so bad that I truly just wanted to die. That is not an exaggeration. She could not give advice since I wasn’t a patient yet, but I could ask questions and she could answer yes or no to my many questions so that I could get the answers that I needed until my appointment. By this point in my journey, I was suicidal and had daily thought of ended it. I began researching everything I could about this expert in Rhode Island and how he treated CRPS. In his expert opinion, Ketamine infusions were the gold standard for dealing with this beast. Ketamine works as a pain reliever by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain, which play a role in pain transmission and perception. By inhibiting these receptors, ketamine can reduce the intensity of pain signals sent to the brain, providing relief for patients with CRPS. Additionally, ketamine has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and can help in modulating mood, which contributes to its efficacy in managing both physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain. In desperation, I took the information that I had collected and took it to my Neurologist. I asked my neurologist who was treating me for my migraines if he would be willing to help me manage my CRPS until my appointment with the specialist in November. I had been seeing my neurologist for about two years for my migraines. He spent time researching this specialist's protocols regarding Ketamine infusions. He was more than willing to help. My first admission for Ketamine was in July of 2018. It was a 24-hour admission to see if I would tolerate it. I had a history of not tolerating anesthetics. I got complete relief of my pain and it was WONDERFUL! My pain came back with a vengeance fairly quick. My next admission was in August. I was admitted from August 7th – 14th for 24/7 Ketamine via infusion. They had a hard time getting my pain under control as well as the severe migraines that I was having. They were able to get my pain down to about a three on the pain scale. I was admitted again the beginning of October for several days. I continued to be admitted for inpatient Ketamine every six to eight weeks. The inpatient Ketamine infusions took my pain from a 10+ to about a three or a four. In between admissions I used nasal Ketamine on a daily basis to control pain. My neurologist was truly my saving grace. I probably would not be here today without his compassionate care and help. As I stated earlier, in the many weeks leading up to my neurologist beginning treatment with Ketamine, my pain was so bad I was having daily thoughts of suicide. The pain was so bad I could not imagine continuing to live each day with this amount of pain. In my eyes it was not humanly possible. With this protocol my pain was managed as much as it possibly could. In November, I flew to Rhode Island with my husband for my eight hour long appointment with the specialist. He not only confirmed my diagnosis of CRPS but also diagnosed me with a multitude of other health conditions. I was provided a twenty-two page summary of his findings. Some of the conditions were already previously diagnosed and others were not. He reiterated that Ketamine was the golden standard for treating CRPS. He cautioned me against certain treatments that would do nothing to treat the CRPS and others that he would not recommend. Before developing CRPS, I was already dealing with a multitude of other health issues. My neurologist took on the arduous task of working through the findings and began addressing them one by one. At this point, I need to state that my neurologist is not your typical doctor. He is the kind of doctor that you stumble upon once in a lifetime. I truly do not know what I would do without such an amazing, compassionate doctor willing to work with me throughout the years without giving up. Over the years, I had developed medical PTSD due to chronic, life-threatening medical conditions that a couple of my children suffered from. Well, since developing CRPS, I now deal with severe medical related PTSD due to various doctor's discounting my pain, accusing me of drug seeking, and more. Needless to say, I keep my medical team at a bare minimum. After eighteen months of beginning inpatient Ketamine infusions my beloved neurologist relocated to another state. To say that I was devastated would be an understatement. I sunk into a very deep depression and dealt with suicidal ideation. This would mean that I would no longer be able to receive inpatient Ketamine infusions. No other doctor's would even consider it. I did not stop seeing my neurologist after he relocated. There was no way that my health or life would be sustained without his care. Since the middle of 2019, I have been seeing him as a patient via televisit's every four weeks. He continues to manage my CRPS, migraines, and many of my other health conditions. 

What impact has developing CRPS had on me personally? Well, my life has never be the same since that devastating day. I deal with moderate to severe pain on a daily basis. My CRPS has spread since my initial diagnosis. I now deal with full body CRPS pain. I have developed gastroparesis. I am extremely underweight. My body overall lacks strength. Emotionally, CRPS has taken a huge toll on me. I have been in therapy with a pain management therapist since 2019. I deal with depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Psychological support and counseling are important components of a comprehensive treatment plan, helping patients cope with the emotional toll of chronic pain. All of the things that I loved to do before developing CRPS are either no longer a part of my life or are very limited. Each day is a challenge as I never know how I will be feeling. Everyday activity and daily living exacerbates my pain. I am very sensitive to temperature change. Meteorological changes and seasons affect my CRPS. Stress affects my pain level. I am a shell of my former self. My diagnosis has greatly affected my family. My children lost their once outgoing, vibrant, on-the-go mother. The homemade meals and baking that they had learned to rely on became a thing of the past. Every task that I do, every errand that I run, every outing that I take is determined by my level of pain. Family time grew less. Time in my bed grew exponentially. I have missed precious opportunities to help my daughter after each of her births. I am stuck in a body that controls me day to day, month to month, and year to year. Living with CRPS is a very isolating and lonely life. Most people who pass me on a daily basis would never know the secrets my body holds. I have become really good at masking my pain and putting on a good front. This is definitely not the life that I ever imagined for myself. 

I should state that for me STRESS greatly affects me. 

Over the years, I have received so much unsolicited advice. I am sure that people are well meaning. They truly cannot fathom the extent of the pain that I live with and the very limited options available to those that suffer from CRPS . I have tried natural remedies. I have tried just about everything suggested by my pain management doctor. I am unable to take opioids due to severe reactions. I started seeing a chiropractor after two back-to-back rear end collisions within a span of nine months post CRPS diagnosis. Those car accidents only exacerbated my pain in unimaginable ways. They also added further injury to my already broken body. I currently see my chiropractor every other week. Despite the available treatments, managing CRPS can be challenging due to the variability in patient responses and the chronic nature of the condition.

Women are more likely to develop Complex Regional Pain Syndrome than men are. Statistics indicate that women are three times more likely to develop CRPS than men. The condition is most prevalent among individuals aged 40 to 60, though it can occur at any age. Children and teenagers can also be affected, particularly girls between the ages of 10 and 16. 

More research and money needs to be invested in researching CRPS. Insurance companies need to be more open to covering proven treatments for this horrible pain condition. Currently, Ketamine is not covered by insurance for the treatment of CRPS. It is truly a tragedy. Ketamine has shown promise in alleviating the severe pain associated with CRPS by acting on the central nervous system to reduce pain signals. It helps improve mobility and quality of life for patients who have not responded well to other treatments. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain, Ketamine offers hope to those suffering from this debilitating condition. Insurance companies hesitate to cover Ketamine due to its classification as an off-label use for CRPS, which lacks the extensive clinical trial data often required for coverage. On the other hand, they are more than willing to throw opioids at sufferers. Many studies have clinically shown that opioids do not work for CRPS. Insurers use the excuse that the high cost of Ketamine infusions without guaranteed long-term effectiveness contribute to their reluctance. From someone who lived with CRPS for eight years, Ketamine is the only treatment that has worked for me. To improve Ketamine accessibility for patients with CRPS, a collaborative effort between healthcare providers, researchers, and insurance companies is essential. By investing in large-scale clinical trials that demonstrate Ketamine's efficacy and safety for CRPS, insurers could be convinced to reconsider their coverage policies. Additionally, advocating for policy changes that recognize the unique needs of chronic pain sufferers could lead to more inclusive and compassionate insurance practices.

I am currently awaiting the delivery of a red light therapy mat, sleeping bag type, to see if I cant get any relief. My chiropractor uses red light therapy but on a much smaller scale. 

There is so much more that I could add to this post, but due to time and privacy, I have chosen to leave it at this. 

The cost of trying to treat my CRPS and other conditions have led to an exorbitant amount of money financially.  

Posting this is very hard for me as I personally have a hard time sharing my journey. The reason that I chose to share is that I know I am not alone and if I can help even one person, it is worth it. 

The following are some of the pictures that I have taken over the years showing how CRPS has affected my body starting with my initial injury. 

   

Jude and the Extraordinary, Spectacular, Miraculous Day ~ A Crossway Review

"Jude and the Extraordinary, Spectacular, Miraculous Day" is a creative retelling of the Feeding of the 5,000. The story begins when Jude wakes up for the day and has no idea that today will turn out to be an extraordinary, spectacular, miraculous day. Jude heads into the kitchen where his mother is making breakfast. Jude's father is a fisherman. Every morning Jude takes five small barley loaves and two salty fish to his father. As Jude reaches a hilltop he realizes something is different. A huge crowd has gathered by the sea. As he gets closer, he sees Jesus preaching to the crowd. Jesus knew the crowd was hungry as they had been gathered for awhile. Suddenly a voice called out, "Is anyone willing to share some food?" Jude lifted his small lunch into the air. Jesus took the food and blessed it. After praying a miracle occurred when the food multiplied and fed the whole crowd. The day ended up being a miraculous meal on an extraordinary day.

This hardcover book has the most beautiful pictures throughout. The illustrations bring the story to life with vibrant colors and detailed imagery that captivate young readers' imaginations. Each page is filled with expressive characters and dynamic scenes that enhance the storytelling experience, making the miraculous events feel even more tangible. The artwork beautifully complements the narrative, helping children visualize the historical setting and the wonder of the miracle. I highly recommend this book. The story presents themes of generosity and faith, illustrating how a simple act of sharing can lead to extraordinary outcomes. It also emphasizes the power of community and collective compassion, as everyone comes together to witness and participate in the miraculous event. Additionally, the narrative highlights the importance of belief and trust in something greater, showcasing how faith can lead to unexpected and wondrous experiences. Overall, "Jude and the Extraordinary, Spectacular, Miraculous Day" is a must-read for families looking to introduce their children to timeless biblical stories in an engaging and visually stunning way. The combination of a captivating narrative and exquisite illustrations makes it an ideal addition to any child's bookshelf. I wholeheartedly recommend it to parents, educators, and anyone seeking a meaningful book that inspires both young minds and hearts.

The Benefits of Homeschooling

Homeschooling has become an increasingly popular educational choice for families around the world. As someone who values personalized learning and strong family involvement, I believe homeschooling offers many advantages that traditional classroom settings may not always provide. It allows students to learn in a way that best suits their individual needs, interests, and abilities.

One of the greatest benefits of homeschooling is the flexibility it provides. Unlike traditional schools that follow a fixed schedule, homeschooling allows families to create a learning routine that works best for them. Students can spend more time on challenging subjects and move more quickly through topics they understand well. This flexibility helps reduce stress and promotes a more enjoyable learning experience.

Another important advantage is the ability to customize the curriculum. Parents can select educational materials and teaching methods that match their child's learning style. Whether a student learns best through hands-on activities, reading, technology, or creative projects, homeschooling makes it possible to tailor instruction to maximize understanding and engagement.

Homeschooling also encourages stronger family relationships. Because parents and children spend more time learning together, they often develop closer bonds and better communication skills. This daily interaction allows parents to play an active role in their children's education and personal development, creating a supportive learning environment.

In addition, homeschooling can provide a safer and more comfortable atmosphere for learning. Students may avoid many of the distractions, peer pressure, and bullying issues that can sometimes occur in traditional schools. As a result, they may feel more confident, focused, and motivated to succeed academically.

Another benefit is the opportunity for individualized attention. In a traditional classroom, teachers must divide their time among many students. In a homeschool setting, instruction can be adjusted immediately when a student struggles with a concept. This personalized support often helps students build a stronger understanding of the material and develop greater confidence in their abilities.

Homeschooling can also promote real-world learning experiences. Families often incorporate educational field trips, volunteer work, community activities, and practical life skills into the curriculum. These experiences help students connect academic concepts to everyday situations and develop valuable skills that will benefit them throughout life.

In conclusion, homeschooling offers numerous benefits, including flexibility, personalized instruction, stronger family connections, and opportunities for real-world learning. While it may not be the right choice for every family, it can provide an effective and rewarding educational experience for many students. For those seeking a customized approach to learning, homeschooling remains an attractive and valuable option.

The Past

My grandfather, Ervin Samuel Feistner, was born in 1914. He was one of twelve children born to William Feistner and Marie Krueger. He married my grandmother Dorothy Deloris Riedel in 1937. My grandfather was an extremely hardworking farmer. Over the years he lost several parts of his fingers to farming accidents. After my grandfather died in 1991, I discovered that he was a natural born artist. He obviously had talent. I always wonder what would have become of his art if he had been given the chance to study. He would paint on spare wood available on the farm. I am sure that it was rare that he would have the time to paint as he ran a farm and raised seven children with my grandmother. I always wonder where his talent could have taken him. I do know that if he had been given the opportunity, he would have been a physician. I am sure he would have made a great one. Here is one of his paintings. 

Higher education’s stagnation in decades past meant that entire generations of brilliant minds were never given the chance to rise, and that loss is impossible to fully measure. When access to universities was restricted by class, race, gender, or geography, countless potential innovators were pushed to the margins. The world remembers the few who managed to break through, but the far larger number of unheard voices—those who might have reshaped science, art, politics, or philosophy—were left without the tools or platforms they needed to flourish. That absence is one of history’s quietest but most profound tragedies.

The limitations of earlier educational systems meant that talent was often recognized only when it appeared in the “right” places. A brilliant farmhand, factory worker, or young woman in a segregated town might have possessed the same intellectual fire as a celebrated scholar, yet the structure of society ensured their gifts remained hidden. When we look back at eras dominated by narrow academic gatekeeping, we’re forced to confront how many potential great thinkers were never given the chance to learn, publish, or lead. The world didn’t just lose individuals—it lost entire fields of possibility.

The impact wasn’t only intellectual; it was cultural. Higher education shapes who gets to define the stories, values, and discoveries of an era. When only a small slice of society had access, the resulting knowledge reflected their worldview alone. Imagine the scientific breakthroughs that might have emerged from people who understood the natural world through different traditions, or the political theories that might have arisen from those who lived outside the dominant power structures. The absence of these perspectives narrowed humanity’s collective imagination.

Even more heartbreaking is the personal dimension. For every celebrated inventor or philosopher we study today, there were thousands of equally capable individuals who lived entire lives without ever discovering the full extent of their own abilities. Higher education isn’t just a path to achievement—it’s a path to self‑realization. When that path was blocked, people were denied the chance to understand what they could have become. The loss is both societal and deeply human.

Today, as access to education expands, we’re finally beginning to see what happens when more people are allowed to participate in shaping the world. But the shadow of the past lingers. Remembering the men and women we never got to meet—the thinkers who never had the chance to think—reminds us why expanding opportunity matters. It’s not just about fairness; it’s about unlocking the full spectrum of human potential so that future generations don’t look back and wonder who they lost.

Grizzly Gears

Grizzly Gears is a single‑player logic puzzle from Smart Games designed for ages 7 and up, but can be enjoyed by adults too. This game can be found in Timberdoodle's sixth-grade curriculum kit. There are 80 challenges with four levels of difficulty. The game has many educational benefits such as spatial reasoning, logic, problem solving, and thinking ahead. The contents of the game include one game board, nine rotating trees, six character pieces, and a solution book. 

This twist and turn puzzle game has the player rotating puzzle pieces and watching the puzzle board change. The player rotates the circular trees to guide the animals through the forest to their respected mothers. Each challenge has a solution to the easiest way to help animals get to their respected end position. Watch out for the mother bear! The player must never end up directly in front of the mother. Only the baby bear can come face to face with the mother bear. If this happens the puzzle pieces will be blocked and you will have to start over. And do not let the lumberjack get you. One issue I have had with the game is that the pieces don't move smoothly.

One issue I've had with the game is that the pieces don't move smoothly. Playability of Grizzly Gears is crucial, as it directly impacts the enjoyment and engagement of the player. When pieces don't move smoothly, it can disrupt the flow of the game and lead to frustration, detracting from the immersive experience. Ensuring that the components function seamlessly is essential for maintaining the player's focus on solving the puzzles rather than on mechanical difficulties. With that said, the game overall keeps players engaged by the amount of challenges and levels of difficulty. The product pieces are sturdy and well made which is ideal for overall use over the years. The variety of challenges in Grizzly Gears ensures that players of different skill levels remain engaged. From simpler puzzles that help beginners grasp the basic mechanics to more complex ones that require advanced strategic thinking, each level offers a unique test of skills. This progression not only keeps the game interesting but also encourages continuous improvement and mastery of the game's concepts. Replayability is a critical factor in puzzle games, as it keeps players coming back for more even after they've completed all the challenges. In Grizzly Gears, the diverse range of puzzles and difficulty levels ensures that players can revisit the game and find new ways to solve the problems, enhancing their skills over time. This repeated engagement not only promotes cognitive growth but also provides lasting entertainment value, making the game a worthwhile investment for educational and recreational purposes.

Strategic thinking is vital in gaming as it encourages players to plan ahead and consider multiple outcomes before making a move. In Grizzly Gears, players must assess the entire board, anticipate the consequences of their actions, and devise a plan to navigate obstacles like the lumberjack and the mother bear. This not only enhances problem-solving skills but also fosters critical thinking and decision-making, making the gaming experience both challenging and rewarding. The strategic thinking skills honed in games like Grizzly Gears can easily translate to real-life scenarios. Players learn to anticipate future challenges, weigh their options, and make informed decisions, which are valuable skills in both personal and professional settings. By practicing these skills in a gaming environment, individuals can improve their ability to tackle real-world problems with confidence and creativity.

Overall, playing Grizzly Gears offers a multitude of benefits, from enhancing cognitive abilities and strategic thinking to providing endless entertainment. The game's carefully designed challenges encourage skill development and problem-solving, making it not only a fun pastime but also a valuable tool for personal growth. Whether for educational purposes or leisure, Grizzly Gears stands out as a game that enriches both the mind and the spirit.

Hide and Goat Seek

Hide and Goat Seek is a preschool puzzle game found in Timberdoodle's Preschool Curriculum Kit. The game comes with a puzzle board, a wolf, seven sheep, four hiding pieces, a challenge book, and a wordless story book. The game is targeted at ages three to seven and intended for one player. With that said, the game would be entertaining for children over seven. The game is based on a Grimm's fairytale from the 1800's. Warning, the wordless book is somewhat dark and may scare young children. For each challenge, the child sets up the board according to the challenge chosen. There are four levels of challenge. There are forty eight challenges. Once your board is set up according to the challenge your child then has to use the hiding pieces to cover up the sheep so that the wolf cannot find them. The goats are shaped differently and not all hiding pieces will fit each goats shape. In the lower level challenges not all sheep or hiding pieces will be used. As the level of difficulty increases, more sheep and hiding pieces will be used. Only certain hiding pieces will fit atop the various sheep. There is only one solution for each challenge. This brain-boosting game helps develop spatial insight, concentration, language, problem solving, and logic.

I took the game along when visiting my grandchildren. My three-year-old grandson was excited to play. In the beginning I had to give him direction on how to play. After a few challenges he caught on and spent a long time playing through the various levels. He successfully completed the challenges at the highest level which is Master. He loved the wordless book and I read it to him about eight times. My two-year-old granddaughter had fun placing sheep and various hiding pieces on the board for fun. She also liked the book but certain pages scared her a bit.

Hide and Goat Seek is a fun puzzle game. I would definitely recommend it to parents and caregivers. While having fun children will sharpen their thinking skills without realizing they are doing so. 

 

The Bible ~ A Crossway Review

The Bible, a children's book, written by Devon Provencher is part of the Big Theology For Little Hearts series. In this book children will learn that the Bible is inspired. Every book is exactly how He wanted it to be. They will learn that the Bible is perfect without any mistakes. God is not a liar; therefore the entire Bible is true. His Word is sufficient for us all. The Bible is universal. It is meant for all people throughout time. The Word of God is enduring. Through the telling of real life events children learn that it is an important part of our history. The book explains how both the Old Testament as well as the New Testament tell one story. Children will learn that God is above all things. He has total authority. The purpose of the book is to teach children about the divine inspiration and truth of the Bible, emphasizing its timeless and universal relevance. It aims to instill an understanding of the Bible's role in history and its significance as God's authoritative Word. Introducing theology to children is important because it helps them develop a foundation for their beliefs and values. It encourages critical thinking and provides them with a framework for understanding the world around them. Additionally, it fosters a sense of community and belonging as they learn about shared beliefs and traditions. The illustrations in the book play a crucial role in capturing children's attention and making complex theological concepts more accessible. By using vibrant colors and engaging imagery, the illustrations help to bring the stories and messages of the Bible to life. This visual element not only enhances comprehension but also stimulates children's imagination, encouraging them to explore and connect with the teachings on a deeper level.

We Sing! ~ A Crossway Review

We Sing! by Kristyn Getty is an uplifting book about singing our praises to the Lord. In the book children will learn that God created us to sing. The book is written in upbeat rhyming verses. The author explains how singing is a gift and with this gift we can bring God praise and honor. Words of biblically based songs can help teach children about God's promises, His love, and His plan for the world. Teaching children biblical principles through music is important because it helps embed these values in their hearts and minds in an engaging and memorable way. Songs can simplify complex concepts, making them accessible and enjoyable for young learners. Additionally, music fosters a sense of community and shared belief, reinforcing the teachings and encouraging children to live out these principles in their daily lives. God not only wants His children to read His Word, pray His Word, but to sing His Word. The importance of singing can be found throughout Scripture. Ephesians 5:18 talks about being filled with the spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, and singing and making melody to the Lord with our heart. Music has a unique ability to touch the hearts of children, making spiritual truths more memorable and impactful. Through song, children can internalize the messages of God's love and promises in a way that is engaging and joyful. This musical engagement helps to foster a deeper connection with their faith, encouraging them to express their spirituality in a personal and meaningful way.

God Loves Me ~ A Crossway Review

"God Loves Me" by Kristen Wetherell explores the doctrine of the Trinity and how there are three distinct persons in one. Themes of divine love, faith, and personal spirituality weave through the pages. The book emphasizes the unwavering and unconditional nature of God's love for individuals. Taking events from Scripture, readers see the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit at work. For example, creation showcases the Trinity, with God the Father speaking from heaven, the Holy Spirit hovering over the earth, and Jesus making all that we see. This event vividly illustrates the unity and distinct roles of the three persons in One. For The Bible Tells Me So, a board book series by Kristen Wetherell is just right for children ages 0-4 years old. 

Grace Habib has produced incredible artwork that perfectly compliments Wetherell's books. Besides being colorful and engaging, her artwork is also age-appropriate. Upon reaching the final page, little ones will be delighted with what they discover. Rhyme and the rhythmic style of the text appeal to young children. Rhythmic patterns such as those found in this book can help young children learn to repeat and memorize what they hear. At the end of the book, there is a Note to Parents. God Loves Me discusses the doctrine of the Trinity. Her book is based on scripture. Kristen Wetherell based God Loves Me on the following scripture references: 2 Corinthians 13:14, Genesis 1, Luke 1:26-38, Matthew 3:13-17, Galatians 4:4-7, Titus 3:4-7, and John 17:20-26

These books will become part of my ever-growing collection of books as a mother of six children and grandmother of two. It is difficult to find children's books that are based on sound doctrines of Scripture. It's clear that the author hits the mark with the For The Bible Tells Me So series. Visit the Crossway website to view all books in the series. Check out all of Kristin Wetherell's books on Crossway's website. 

Floats McGoats

Floats McGoats is a strategy game for 2-4 players. One of the unique aspects of Floats McGoats is its whimsical theme featuring seafaring goats, which adds a fun and imaginative element to the game. To set the scene, help! A seafaring goat crew is navigating treacherous waters. Their boat capsized leaving wood floating all over. Mama and baby goats are holding on for dear life. It is up to you the players to build a raft out of floating wood to save the goats. Using the game board team players will add boards to the raft to secure their goats. Players will choose one of the four colors of goats to play with. Players take turns building a raft out of sticks and securing their goats in triangles. On your given turn you will either place a goat on any open spot on the raft or roll the dice and take the action as shown. Some of the choices on the dice are: add a stick, flip a stick, add or move a stick, move two sticks, goat love, shark attack, and goat fight. Play continues until one player gets five total points. Play continues until one player gets five total points. 

The combination of strategic gameplay with the physical aspect of building a raft creates a dynamic experience that keeps players engaged. Additionally, the variety of actions available on the dice, such as "goat love" and "shark attack," introduces unexpected twists, ensuring that no two games are ever the same.

One potential improvement could be clarifying the rules with more detailed examples and illustrations to help new players understand the mechanics more quickly. Additionally, incorporating optional advanced rules could provide a greater challenge for experienced players seeking a deeper strategic experience. Lastly, including a timer feature for each turn might enhance the pace of the game, keeping it engaging and exciting for all players.

Overall, I think Floats McGoats is an excellent game for families. It took me a bit of time to read and reread the instructions before I thoroughly understood the game in its entirety. 

While the game is fun to play it is also educational in that players have to think about their moves and strategize to keep their opponents from gaining points. The game can be played in around 15 minutes. As players get more experience game play may be longer.