BlogchatterA2Z Theme Reveal - Beautiful Places to visit in USA

 Travel is a huge theme, so I'm going to take it easy with this BlogchatterA2Z Challenge.

Image by 🌸♡💙♡🌸 Julita 🌸♡💙♡🌸 from Pixabay

In April, I'm going to mention some of the beautiful places in the USA, starting with each letter of the alphabet.

So, more travel fun coming on my blog!

Image by PublicDomainImages from Pixabay

Watch out this space for daily travel blog posts, cheer me up if you can, and bookmark the posts for your family-friendly vacations!

See you all at the BlogchatterA2Z Challenge in April.

Image by katya899 from Pixabay

If you want to read my previous A2Z Challenge about beautiful places in Colorado, check here.

Until next time,

I'm participating in #BlogchatterA2Z

Why like Flies by Carol Haden - [Book review]

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Why Like Flies

Author: Carol Haden

Genre: Children's Picture Book, Children's Fiction

Publisher: Austin Macauley (July 19, 2024)

Print Length: 52 pages

Recommended Age: 5 to 7 yrs

Source: A copy from the author for review

Blurb:

Step into a world where the unappealing becomes fascinating and the misunderstood finds a voice. Join Flyboy on a transformative journey as he uncovers the hidden truths behind creatures often deemed unsightly or fearsome. 

Through his encounters with much-maligned allies, Flyboy challenges the notion that first impressions tell the whole story. 

As he delves into the lives of flies and other oft-maligned creatures, Flyboy discovers a wealth of positive attributes and captivating facts that challenge preconceived notions. 

This enlightening tale encourages readers to approach the unknown with an open mind, embracing curiosity and the potential for newfound appreciation.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

In this picture book, a fly called Flyboy is disappointed that no one respects him and tries to harm him, even though flies help pollinate flowers. His mom sends him to different insects, birds, and creatures to ask their advice. 

This is a good story for little kids to teach them about the different kinds of creatures on the Earth, how they each contribute to mother nature, and how removing any species is not good overall.  

The pictures are adorable, and the colors are so bright. Kids will love watching them. 

I love that they also talk about the balance of nature and how every creature helps with this. 

The last poem might be too hard for kids to understand, but overall, it's an interesting plot. 

The book cover is gorgeous, and the title is ok.

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Top 5 Places to visit in Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill country is the geographical region covering a few parts of South and Central Texas. We(Austinits :-), can we call that?) are fortunate to be nearer to the Texas Hill country. 

Some towns in Texas Hill Country are Bandera, Blanco, Burnet, Fredricksburg, Dripping Springs, Johnson City, Marble Falls, and Wimberley.

Texas Hill country is part of Edwards plateau. There are many natural springs, stony areas, small cliffs, steep canyons, and wineries in the hill country.

Pin it for later!

Here are a few places to visit in Texas Hill Country:

Beautiful towns

Fredricksburg: 

This town in Central Texas is known for its wineries and German heritage. While there are many wineries to visit, National museum of Pacific war is an interesting place to learn about WWII. Das Peach house is famous for it's Peaches, and homemade pies and jams. 

Kerrville:

The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden has beautiful sculptures and a large cross. A replica of Stonehenge can also be found near Kerville at Hill country Arts foundation.

Wimberley:

Wimberley is famous for the Blue Hole Regional park and Jacob's Well (Deep underground Natural spring). Jacob's well is unfortunately closed now due to drought conditions. Old Baldy Park is small but gives a fantastic 360-degree view of the surrounding hill country through a trail with 218 steps. 

State Parks and Natural Areas

Pedernales State Park:

This state park is along the Pedernales River in Jhonson city. Here, water cascades through the layers of limestone. This park has multiple hiking trails.

Inks Lake State park:

This state park is in Burnet, and it has many hiking trails. This is also a good location for camping and fishing.

Colorado Bend State Park:

This state park is a popular destination for hiking and biking. Gorman Falls is a 70-foot spring-fed waterfall. 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/jrandallc/4558695284

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area 

Enchanted Rock is a large granite dome, which is challenging to hike, but this hike gives beautiful 360-degree views of Texas hill country.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/brianmrussell/9566091370

Mckinney Falls State Park 

Mckinney Falls State Park, just outside of Austin offers mountain biking, hiking and fishing. Water might be barely flowing in Summer season, but the place is beautiful during fall. 

Caves

Cave without a name:

This is a limestone solutional cave 40 miles from San Antonio. Famous for the stalactites, Stalagmites and other beautiful formations.

Longhorn Cavern State Park:

This day use only park is in Burnet county near Inks Lake state park. This 135-foot deep cavern is well maintained, and it is very large.  

https://www.flickr.com/photos/digidragon/7193159840/

Natural Bridge Caverns:

Natural Bridge Caverns is a family-owned and operated cave. This is popular for its 60-foot natural limestone bridge. 

Caves of Sonora:

These caves, located 8 miles from Sonora, are internationally recognized as one of the beautiful show caves. These are popular for their calcite crystal formations. Since the area is remote, it won't attract many visitors. 

Inner Space Caverns:

This cave is estimated to be around 20 - 25 million years old, and it was formed by the water passing through Edward limestone.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/criminalintent/7854786332

Waterfalls and Natural Springs

Gorman Falls in Colorado Bend State Park:

A 2.8-mile moderate and rocky out-and-back trail takes you to a lookout point and then to the waterfalls. The best time to visit is March to May. At other times, water might be just trickling.

Pedernales Falls:

The water flow will change according to the seasons and rainfall. This is a good place to visit during spring/fall. The hike to the waterfalls is an easy 0.6 miles out and back.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pedernales_Falls_State_Park_Texas_DSC_0098_ed_ad.jpg

Mckinney Falls:

This is a very small waterfall, but it is good to visit during fall. It's an easy walk of 3 miles to the lower falls and back.

Krause Springs (Spicewood):

Krause Springs is a great camping and swimming site. There are 32 springs, and the property is family-owned. It is refreshing to swim in these waters on hot summer days.

Hamilton Pool reserve:

This is a natural preserve, a part of the Balcone Canyonlands preserve. The pool is surrounded by a collapsed grotto and canyon formed by erosion over many years. You need to reserve in advance to visit. The hike to the pool is a 0.4-mile, steep, rugged path. 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/matthigh/3366535903

Jacob's well, Wimberley : 

Currenty closed due to low water and drought conditions. It used to be the second longest submerged cave in Texas, pumping thousands of gallons of water per minute.

Scenic Drives

Legendary Devil’s Backbone:

Drive south on IH 35 to San Marcos and take RM 12 west. About 10 miles out of town, RM 12 leads to RM 32. In less than 5 miles, you begin to climb Devil’s Backbone.

Davis Mountains Scenic Drive:

This is a 74-mile loop through the Davis mountains. You can see a bit of wildlife, like Javalinas. It takes around 1 hr to do the loop. 

McDonald's observatory is a noteworthy place on the way with 3 of the largest telescopes. They also organize many events and educational programs to view stars in the night through those telescopes. 

Marfa is famous for strange lights that appear randomly in the night. They are also called ghost lights. There is a light viewing station.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/mybloodyself/18098651168/in/photostream/

Willow City Loops:

This 13-mile loop starts at Highway 16 and Ranch Road 1323 in Willow City. This is a popular drive during spring to watch the wildflowers like bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and Sunflowers. 

It also passes through rolling hills, creeks, and ranches. 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/davechud/467891375/

Twisted Sisters scenic drive:

This 45-mile drive near Madina is a biker's paradise and an adventurous drive. It passes through Lost Maples and Garner state parks as well. 

So, that's the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Are you ready to plan a road trip? 

How did you like these places? Please let me know in the comments if I missed any beautiful places in Texas Hill Country.

Until next time,

Stay adventurous and enjoy traveling!

This post is a part of Blogchatter Blog Hop and link it to www.theblogchatter.com

Would You Rather? Junior: Super Silly Edition! by Zeitgeist - [Book review]

 

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Would You Rather? Junior: Super Silly Edition!

Author: Zeitgeist 

Genre: Children's Activity Books, Question and Answer books

Publisher: Z Kids

Print Length: 128 pages

Recommended Age : 5 to 8 yrs

Source: A copy from the publisher for review

Blurb:

Laugh along with your child with over 200 silly “Would You Rather?” questions for ages 5–8!

Nothing’s better than laughing out loud with your child! And these silly “Would You Rather?” questions are designed to make you both giggle (and reveal how your child thinks!). Whether you’re choosing a taco filled with frog legs or lizard toes or wondering if sleeping in an amusement park or a toy store would be more fun, Would You Rather? Junior: Super Silly Edition! taps into the silliness that makes kids giggle.

• Kick around 200 entertaining “Would You Rather?” questions that will make your child laugh, think, and stay off screens.
• Engage your child’s imagination with funny, age-appropriate questions for the younger crowd.
• Help your child read with engaging questions in a large font designed for early readers.
• A great way to pass time at restaurants, on a car trip, or at a doctor’s office.
• Makes the perfect gift for birthdays and holidays for the children in your life.

This first book in our new Would You Rather? Junior series—like all the books in the popularWould You Rather? companion series for older kids—is creative, hilarious fun for the whole family!

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

I read a Kindle copy of the book. This book has 200 questions like Would you rather do this or that? We can ask these questions to elementary age kids; kids below 8 years might love these funny questions. A few questions are silly and fun, but a few are uncomfortable food combinations or similar things.

one example - Would you rather have broccoli growing out of your nose or flowers?

I love the questions that are conversation-starters like these -

Would you rather climb a tree in a snow suit or run a race without shoes?

Would you rather have lightning indoors or thunder?

I would have loved it if the book had more pictures to engage kids and help them imagine the situations. There are a few small drawings, though, which are cute.

This book is also good to carry while traveling long distances in the car with elementary-age kids. It is a good way to pass the time. 

Thanks, Zeitgeist (@zeitgeistpublishing), for the free review copy!

My Rating: 4/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Helping Emerson like the dark by Martin Chaney - [Book Review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Helping Emerson like the dark

Author: Martin Chaney

Genre: Children's Books, Anxiety and Phobias

Publisher: Independently published (Nov 2024)

Print Length: 85 pages

Recommended Age : 7 to 10 yrs

Source: A copy from the author for review

Blurb:

Book 1 in The Chaney Twins series is about overcoming fear of the dark.

Join Emerson as he learns to conquer his fear and discover the fun things that can be done in the dark. Set in the home of the Chaney twins, this heartwarming story follows Emerson’s struggle with his fear of the dark and the unexpected help he receives from his grandparents. Emerson’s fear is put to the test with a fun-filled day. From playing mini golf to stargazing during the day, Emerson’s grandparents show him that the dark can be exciting and full of surprises.

Why should you choose this book?Not only is it an entertaining read for kids ages 8 to 11, but it also provides a valuable lesson on coping with fears and stress.

Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, this book offers practical tools for children to overcome their fears and worries.
It's the perfect read-aloud story for parents to bond and open up a conversation about fears and anxieties with their child.


Add this book to your cart and let the Chaney Twins entertain your child.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is the first book released as part of the Chaney Twins series. This specific book talks about the twin brother Emerson and his fear of darkness. You have to read the book to know about Grandpa, Grandma, and Hudson's plan to make Emerson feel normal and comfortable even in the dark.

They introduce him to the beautiful things that can be enjoyed in the dark.  

What I love about this book:

It's not a simple Children's book with pictures. It is good for kids aged 7 to 10 years.

It is very common for kids to have a fear of darkness at this age. So, it comes in handy to the parents to make them gradually comfortable staying in the dark without fear. 

Grandma and Grandpa are very mature and loving characters. I love how they coordinate together for the activities they take the twins to. It gives off good family vibes.

The writing style is not preachy; it's easygoing. 

The book cover is great and apt. The title is exactly to the point. I will look forward to the next books in the series. 

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,

Careful What You Hear by Helen Dunlap Newton - [Book Review]

 Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Book Details:

Title: Careful What You Hear

Author: Helen Dunlap Newton

Genre: Action and Adventure / Sci Fi

Publisher: Yorkshire Publishing

Print Length: 214 pages

Source: A copy from the publisher for review

Blurb:

After a surgical mix-up gave 13-year-old Noah Baker mind reading powers, he became a spy tasked with stopping the bad guys.

Ever since he accidentally got an experimental cochlear implant, Noah and his secret agent partner, Lena, have been going on secret missions for the government. Now, they're in for a reward for all their hard work-Space Camp! But all is not as it seems. When Noah accidentally overhears thoughts that reveal a plot to steal top secret plans from nearby Redstone Arsenal, he must make a choice.

From award-winning author and educator, Helen Dunlap Newton, Careful What You Hear is an engaging middle-grade read.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Careful-What-You-Hear-Book-ebook/dp/B0DSJVYR9W/

https://www.amazon.com/Careful-What-You-Hear-Book-ebook/dp/B0DSJVYR9W/

My Review:

This middle-grade fiction is about 2 teenagers Lena and Noah who are helping in a government secret mission. This is part 2 of a sequel. 

There are connections to part 1 about an incident in New York on how they were kidnapped in a secret mission, but this book can be read independently.

Lena and Noah are sent to an interesting space camp with 2 secret agents protecting them. Lena is excited to learn about cyber programs while Noah wants to learn flight simulation. But, their space camp fun is disrupted by a dangerous plot. 

Noah and Lena are depicted as perfect teenagers struggling to learn details about secret missions and enjoying their lives in the middle of all the tension. The writing style is engaging and not wordy. The plot has its twists and I loved it. Kids will have fun reading it. It has some action as well. 

The book cover is great and well-designed, apt for the story. 

I would recommend this to young readers between the ages of 9 to 13 years. 

My Rating: 5/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

About the Author:

Award-winning author Helen Dunlap Newton is a veteran middle grade language arts teacher and a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Both her first novel, Night of the Amber Moon, and Do You Hear What I Hear? were finalists for the Oklahoma Book Award and earned her the Creative Women of Oklahoma Award. 

As an educator with over 30 years of experience, she understands the power of literature to help children understand themselves and the world around them. Now she inspires them to enter the world of books, not only through her writing but through her author visits to classrooms and libraries. In addition to writing, Newton enjoys reading, music, and helping her husband care for backyard chickens and an energetic Australian shepherd in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Social Media Links – @newtonhelendunlap (Insta) and Helen Dunlap Newton (FB)

Until next time,

Everything You need to know about getting ready for a Kuchipudi Performance

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Here is to the classical Dancers, students, and professionals -

It is not easy to prepare for a classical dance performance, right? 

Of course, practicing hard before performances and arranging music are the most important parts of the preparation process, but arranging costumes, makeup, jewelry,, and getting ready on time is still a bigger challenge. 

https://www.flickr.com/photos/kichus/33659381966

My students ask me about what essentials to buy, where to buy, what to wear etc., 

For every performance, I make checklists and share them with them. 

Even after doing so many performances myself, I always make checklists and get anxious before performances. 

So, writing this post for all such dancers about the essentials of a Kuchipudi classical dance performance.

We used to start with hair makeup, and face makeup, and proceed with costume, jewelry, snacking, and then alta. A few people prefer face and then hair, but it's really as per your convenience. 

Makeup Checklist:

The most important task is makeup. 

I recommend washing the face clean with face wash and applying the ice cubes on the face before applying makeup. You can do this at least 15 minutes before applying makeup to make the skin tight, and more absorbing.

If you are a beginner in makeup, please set 2 hrs aside. I suggest you spend more time on eye makeup than anything else. Choosing the right foundation is very important for the overall look.

https://flic.kr/p/5fzVoo

Initially, apply primer, moisturizer, and sunscreen in the same order before applying foundation. These are some items that I use, but please explore products that match your skin tone and suit your skin without any reaction. 

Primer 

Moisturizer 

sunscreen 

foundation

compact , smooth mousse foundation

blush

eyebrow pencil

eyeliner 

eyeshadow 

mascara 

Face sponge

lip balm

lipliner

lipstick

lip gloss 

bindi - Round, Cone shaped

Compact mirror

white paint to mark below bindi, color paints

Pin it for later!

Hair Accessories:

Spend at least 20 to 30 mins time to prepare hair. First we set hair bun. 

Here is the video on how to do that. This beautifully explains both face and hair makeup.

Put a lot of U pins and slide pins. Then, attach the fake braid. Arrange flowers - white first from the bun and then, orange. 

Hair bun set

Jada billa in the middle of the bun

Fake braid 

U pins,

rubber bands/ hair ties

Ribbon ties

Slide pins

Fake flowers - Orange

Fake flowers - White

Costume:

There are no Amazon links to buy Kuchipudi costume. Here are some websites to custom order it:

Classical dance jewelry

Shanthi tailors USA

Readymade Dance costumes

Practice saree

Sweat pads are very helpful. You can stick them to the blouse. 

Checklist:

Classical Kuchipudi costume

Safety pins set

sweat pads

Jewelry:

You can buy jewelry sets or even buy them separately online. Jewelry to be worn after hair, and face makeup.

Jewelry set

Head ornament or papidi bottu or 5 step chutti

Surya , Chandra

Ear rings 

Nose accessories

Bangles

Long chain 

Necklace

Waist belt / vaddanam

Black thread to tie jewelry

Others:

Wear alta at the end after you eat and get ready completely. Let it dry. 

It is always a good habit to carry makeup pouch for touchup and tie ghunghroo only a few minutes before performance. For adults with knee pains, don't forget to pack knee pads.

As ghunghroo is considered sacred for a classical dancer, you shouldn't wear sandals while wearing them. You should remove ghunghroo while going to the restroom or any such place. 

Alta / paint for hands and feet

Makeup pouch for touchup with eyeliner, compact, lipstick, blush, safety pins, slides, u pins

Knee pads for adults

Ghunghroo - 4 line leather, 3 row ankle bells for small kids

https://flic.kr/p/2hm292e

Ooff... that's a long list. Did I forget anything? Please do let me know in the comments. Will add it.

Overall Checklist:

Face Makeup:

• Primer
• Moisturizer
• sunscreen
• foundation
• compact, smooth mousse foundation
• blush
• eyebrow pencil
• eyeliner
• eyeshadow
• mascara
• Face sponge
• lip balm
• lipliner
• lipstick
• lip gloss
• bindi - Round, Cone shaped
• Compact mirror
• white paint to mark below bindi, color paints

Hair:

• Hair bun set
• Jada billa in the middle of the bun
• Fake braid
• U pins
• rubber bands/ hair ties
• Ribbon ties
• Slide pins
• Fake flowers - Orange
• Fake flowers - White

Costume:

• Classical Kuchipudi costume
• Safety pins set
• sweat pads

Jewelry:

• Jewelry set
• Head ornament or papidi bottu or 5 step chutti
• Surya, Chandra
• Ear rings 
• Nose accessories
• Bangles
• Long chain 
• Necklace
• Waist belt / vaddanam
• Black thread to tie jewelry

Others:

• Alta / paint for hands and feet
• Makeup pouch for touchup with eyeliner, compact, lipstick, blush, safety pins, slides, u pins
• Knee pads for adults
• Ghunghroo 

Until next time,