We recently had the opportunity to cruise up the Hudson River with the iconic Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. The weather wasn’t quite playing friendly—the original weekend we planned to take the Bear Mountain Cruise was postponed due to a nasty Nor’easter! By the next weekend, we were rebooked to sail with our family. Although it wasn’t the Bear Mountain Cruise where you get off and explore, we were on the Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise—a scenic four-hour ride up the Hudson River and back down to Pier 83 in Manhattan.

We absolutely love the staff at Circle Line! They are so accommodating and always try their best to make it a fun experience. The weather on Sunday was overcast, which dampened our hair a bit, but certainly not our spirits! We arrived early and started boarding around 9:00 AM. We secured a spot inside with large windows perfect for taking in the views of the NYC skyline. As we sailed, we passed the Little Red Lighthouse right under the George Washington Bridge, then cruised past The Cloisters and Fort Tryon Park. At Spuyten Duyvil, right before the Palisades, there was a big “C” for Columbia painted on the rocks—though I personally like to pretend they painted it just for me, Carolyn! While the overcast sky slightly muted the foliage along the Palisades, the view was still beautiful.

Throughout the cruise, we chatted, laughed, and took a few trips to the upper deck to experience the open air and the sights and sounds of the day. The upper deck bar was serving up snacks and beer on tap for Oktoberfest, complete with a live band to set the festive fall mood. Downstairs, when they unveiled the authentic German food, it was a feast for both the eyes and the stomach!

I loved the Pork Schnitzel with all the traditional sides. My husband was in the mood for a Bacon, Egg, and Cheese, while my daughter, son, and future daughter-in-law all delighted in the German feast. We also enjoyed fruit cups, scrumptious donuts, candy, and other goodies, with coffee, hot cider, and beverages flowing freely all day.

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises are such a wonderful way to see New York. Sharing the experience with family and friends makes for a fantastic time—even if it rains! Have you ever taken a Fall Foliage Cruise? Let me know what you think in the comments.

Disclosure: We were provided with tickets but all my views and opinions are 100% my own.

Do you feel that you are constantly playing digtal whack-a-mole as a parent? If you do, I am sure you are not alone. As parents we try to set boundaries, but let’s be honest—traditional parental control apps are exhausting. They drain phone batteries, slow everything down, and if your young child is even slightly tech-savvy, those filters can be tapped away or deleted in five seconds flat.

I don’t think technology is the enemy, but I do believe that parents should have control over what their young children see online. Almost every parent I know has a horror story of their precious child finding very disturbing content while either searching for something or just watching their favorite videos. The settings on many platforms to protect our kids in most cases was not sufficient.

That’s why I am so excited to introduce you to Radiant Mobile, America’s first Christian wireless carrier. They are doing something completely different: they are putting the tools back where they belong—in the home, with the parent.

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What Makes it Different? (Clue: It’s Not Another App)

Radiant Mobile offers the same nationwide 5G coverage, unlimited talk, text, and data you expect, but with a massive upgrade for families. Instead of forcing you to download an app that your child can easily bypass, Radiant builds protection directly into the carrier network itself. They call it Radiant Shield. Because the filtering happens upstream at the network level, a child can’t delete it.

Here are the four specific tools they give you to customize your family’s digital experience:

• Network-Level Filtering: Real-time protection that stays on the network, not on a device app.
• Age-Based Profiles: Because a 7-year-old’s phone shouldn’t have the same access as a 16-year-old’s phone. You set the bar for each age.
• Quiet Time: You can schedule recurring pauses for the windows that matter most—like bedtime, homework hours, or family dinner. The network honors them automatically.
• Blocked Time: An on-demand digital off-switch for direct intervention when you just need everyone to look up and connect.

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Tools, Not Verdicts

What I appreciate most about Radiant’s philosophy is that they aren’t trying to police anyone’s family or hand down moral verdicts. They don’t pretend to know our kids better than we do. They offer support, not surveillance. They simply build the levers, hand the controls over to us, and step back.

It’s about a simple conviction: the decision belongs in the home, not in a server room or on a platform’s content council.

If you are ready to stop managing a dozen glitchy apps and start taking back the internet for your household, one phone at a time. What are you waiting for? Check out how you can Join Radiant Mobile now! Enter promo Code at checkout: firstmonthfree

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🎉 Enter to Win a $10 Amazon Gift Card!

To celebrate taking back our peace of mind as parents, I’m giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card to one lucky reader! Whether you use it for a new book, a treat for yourself, or something for the kids, it’s my little way of saying thank you for being a part of this community.

HURRY Giveaway closes on July 24, 2026. The winner will be chosen at random and notified via email. Good luck!This is limited to US winners only.Winner will be disqualified if they have won on another Radiant Mobile Blog Post Giveaway.

Many thanks to Radiant Mobile for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.#RadiantMobileMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Every morning my day starts with The Lord’s Prayer or The Our Father as some know it better. The Lord’s Prayer is one of the most powerful prayers and when I was invited to preview a screening of The Sacred Thread on Angel, I was excited to watch. There are multiple episodes in this inspiring and amazing series. The first episode (Our Father), is all about understanding The Lord’s Prayer and the meaning behind the words.

More than just a standard Bible study, The Sacred Thread is a breathtaking cinematic journey that breathes fresh life into Scripture, making it feel deeply personal and profoundly relevant for modern audiences. By diving into the rich historical and cultural context of the Holy Land, the series peels back the layers of time, language, and tradition to reveal the deeper meaning behind one of the most important prayers ever spoken.

This series allows viewers to truly experience The Lord’s Prayer through the ears of Jesus’ original audience. Once again, Angel Studios delivers a thoughtful, high-quality production that doesn’t just teach the Word—it makes it come alive.

Angel Studios is doing something few other platforms are doing right now: they are making Scripture feel vibrant, alive, and tangibly real. Their latest docuseries, The Sacred Thread, takes audiences on a cinematic exploration of the historical and cultural context surrounding The Lord’s Prayer.

By blending gorgeous cinematography with profound spiritual insight, the series unpacks the language and history behind the prayer in a way that makes well-known verses feel entirely fresh. It’s a calm, beautiful, and deeply moving experience that bridges the ancient world with modern faith—proving once again that high-quality, purpose-driven media can completely change how we engage with God’s Word.

Don’t wait, stream The Sacred Thread now on Angel. You can join the Angel Guild and support stories that bring meaning, hope, and purpose back to entertainment.

Giveaway For a $10 Amazon Gift Card

Enter Below to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card. Giveaway is open to US residents only. You will be contacted by email if you are the winner. Please note you will be disqualified if you have already won on another blogger’s giveaway for this campaign.

$10 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Many thanks to Angel for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% those of Mommy Ramblings LLC.

#TheSacredThreadMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Summer is a time to slow down and savor every moment with your family and friends. Kids being off from school gives us parents the opportunity to make great memories and share special times with them. Our spirituality and faith are something we should always be sharing with our children, and one way we can do that this summer is with The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids.

Looking for a way to make Bible study click for your kids? The Explorer Bible Dictionary for Kids is the perfect companion to the award-winning CSB Explorer Bible for Kids.

This full-color hardcover reference guide makes learning biblical history fun and accessible. It packs in over 750 easy-to-understand definitions of key people, places, and concepts, all brought to life with incredible maps, illustrations, and photos. It’s an ideal resource for family devotions, homeschool rooms, or church libraries, built to grow right along with your kids as they deepen their faith! Splash into Scripture this summer! Dive into God’s Word & soak up truth with these Bible resources for curious & creative kids that you can find by clicking HERE!

Giveaway: 1 GRAND PRIZE of the Explorer Bible for Kids + Toddler Theology Series Bundle (retail value of approx. $149.99)

Giveaway winners must be a US resident. To enter: Entrants must fill out THIS FORM (there’s no other way to enter)by 6/11)

Grand Prize Bundle (149.99 Value) Includes :

• 2 copies of the Explorer Bible for Kids
• 2 Explorer Bible for Kids Dictionaries
• Explorer Bible Stickers and T-shirt
• The Toddler Theology Series Set (6 books)

Disclosure:Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. #christianstandardbible #EBFK #learningathome #homegrownkids #splashintoscripture #scriptureforsummer

There are places in this world that do more than just offer a vacation; they offer a sanctuary. For me, that place is Edisto Beach in South Carolina. Edisto Beach is a quiet stretch of the Carolina shore where the world seems to forget the rush—no towering neon lights, just tide, wind, and hush.”

I first came to these shores feeling broken and lost, carrying an ocean full of tears. But something in the whispering tide spoke to me and said, “Child, bring your heart here.” I wanted to share something deeply personal with you all today: a song I wrote titled “It Is To Edisto That I Must Go.” Watch the Music Video Here

This song is about the healing power of that sacred sand and healing water. Whether it’s walking from dawn until dark, collecting shells and feathers, or seeing the “sacred faces” in the oyster shells, Edisto has a way of holding you and your grief when it feels too heavy to carry alone.

Every morning when the sun appears, I walk the shoreline. With careful hands, I write my son’s name in the sand and draw a heart around it, right where the heaven stands. And when the rising tide rolls in and erases those lines, I don’t feel like it’s gone—I feel like he’s written back to me.

In the Carolina breeze, I can feel Ray’s hand in mine again. From sunrise gold to evening glow, the waves kept whispering what I know…It is to Edisto I must go.

I hope this song brings a little bit of peace to anyone else who is navigating a “hard and cold” world. Edisto reminds me that even when we feel alone, the healing waters keep flowing, and grace is always holding our hand.

If you have a place that helps you heal, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

They often say I’m strong. They say I’m coping well. The reality of my grief is something I don’t show to many. I carry that grief quiet most of the time.

Losing a child is entering a club that no one ever wants to join. One day he was here—my person, my best friend, the one who knew me flaws and all—and the next, my world stopped on a song while the rest of the world just kept spinning.

I wrote “The Quiet I Carry” because there is a specific kind of silence that comes with this type of grief. It’s the silence of a house that should be louder, the silence of people who are afraid to say his name as if it were a disease, and the silence I keep inside so I don’t bring others down.

Listen to “The Quiet I Carry – Your Light Shines Bright, Ray”

This song is my way of making sure the world never forgets him. It’s about living half in faith and half in pretend, while always looking for those little signs he sends—a song at the perfect time or a memory that catches me off guard.

To my other children who still need my light: I rise each day and I choose to fight for you. But to my son: everything good I do is still for you. Whether I’m on the lake where your line was once cast or just standing between the water and the blue, I feel you there.

This is for every parent carrying a “sacred scar.” Our love doesn’t die; it just turns bold. This song also hints at something that is in its earliest stages that I hope to bring to reality in my son’s name to help grieving families.

#IllustratorsNotetakingMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

I am a very creative person. I love painting, drawing, doodling, journaling and learning new crafts. I have a craft room that is exploding at the seams because I am always adding things for upcoming projects. When I was approached with reviewing the Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible, I did not hesitate to sign up.

The Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible is made with the creative person in mind. The wide journaling margins and line-art illustrations on every page inspire me to engage with God’s Word in a new way. This Bible celebrates my creativity, which truly is a gift from God.

With inspiration to create on every page of this Bible, it becomes a real keepsake to be handed down. The easy-to-read 9.5-point type in a single column is a bonus. The Bible is beautiful and includes over 600 Inspirational line-art illustrations, filigree designs, Scripture quotes, and other unique Scripture art. With all that, there is still space for my personal creativity and journaling.

With Graduations coming up, this Bible makes a great Gift for any graduate. Order your copy of the CSB Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible, Large Print Edition today! Learn more HERE

We are super excited to be hosting a giveaway for 1 Copy of the CSB Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible, Large Print Edition for US residents. Enter below for your chance to win. The winner must submit their shipping information on 4/22/25 or we will have to draw another winner.

Giveaway

Enter below for your chance to win your own copy of the CSB Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible, Large Print Edition. The giveaway is open to US residents only. Winner must respond and submit their shipping address by 4/22 or another winner will be drawn. Thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for sponsoring this Giveaway and Good Luck!!!

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As a busy mom, I love home décor projects that are easy, affordable, and mess-free, so I was so excited to try peel and stick wallpaper! Whether you are looking to give a room a new look, come up with an accent wall or add some character to the space, peel and stick wallpaper is a great product. In this review, I will tell you about my experience using it, the pros and cons of peel and stick wallpaper and the best tips for successful applications. .

Why Peel and Stick Wallpaper?

If you have ever hated the idea of traditional wallpaper–the endless rolls, the messy paste, and the time-consuming removal–then peel and stick wallpaper is the ideal substitute. It enables you to put wallpaper on a wall quickly and easily and change the look of a room without the permanence or the difficulty of traditional wallpaper. I used peel and stick wallpaper to change the look of my living room, and my child’s bedroom, and I was very impressed with how easy it was. Here’s what I liked about it:

Advantages of Peel and Stick Wallpaper

• Super Easy Application – No glue or water needed! It comes with a backing that you simply peel off and then adhere to the wall. Even with kids running around, it was easy for me to apply it.
• Renter-Friendly & Removable – Ideal for renters or anyone who likes to change up their decor often. It comes off cleanly without damaging the walls.
• A Wide Range of Designs Available – From florals to geometrics, modern to rustic patterns, or even flamingo wallpapers there is a peel and stick wallpaper for every style.
• An Affordable Home Makeover –  It is cheaper than paint or traditional wallpaper and a great way to give a room a new look.
• Great for DIY Projects – In addition to using it on walls, you can use it on furniture, stair risers, bookshelves, and even backsplashes.

Some disadvantages of Peel  and Stick Wallpaper

• Not Suitable for Textured Walls – If your walls have bumps or are otherwise too textured, the wallpaper may not adhere well.
• It Needs Some Preparation – Since it’s repositionable, you can fix mistakes, but if you are working with a large section, it is advisable to have a second pair of hands.
• Can Be Expensive for Large Areas  – Although it is cost-effective for small jobs, painting an entire room can be quite expensive depending on the brand and design of the product.

How to Apply Peel and Stick Wallpaper Like a Pro

If you are new to peel and stick wallpaper, here are some tips that will help you do it without a hassle.

1. Get Your Walls Ready – Wipe the area and make sure that it is completely dry. Dirt and oil can prevent adhesion.
2. It is always better to begin from the top – This is because if the first panel is placed wrong, the remaining will also be wrong in some way!
3. Use a squeegee or credit card – This removes any air bubbles and gives it a finished look.
4. Cut the panels slightly longer – This is done to ensure that when trimming the top to fit flush with the wall, there is no obvious gap.
5. Keep Scraps for Other Small DIYs – The leftover wallpaper can be used to decorate drawers, bookshelves, or for other craft projects.

The Final Word: Is Peel and Stick Wallpaper Worth It?

Yes!  Peel and stick wallpaper is an easy, stylish, and fun way to change the look of your home without having to commit to the look for the long haul. Whether you are a busy mom in search of a quick way to change the decor of your home or a renter who wants to add your own touch to the space, it is a great option.

Would I use it again? Yes!  I’m already planning my next project – I’m thinking a bold floral wallpaper for my home office or a subtle geometric print for my hallway. There is so much that can be done!

This is a sponsored guest post. The ideas expressed do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.

Graduation is a significant event in a child’s life. Whether preschool, kindergarten, high school or college, it is the end of one level and the beginning of another. Along with the excitement of celebrations, gifts and well wishes from family and friends, one important tradition should not be forgotten: sending thank you cards. As much as we have embraced digital communication, every child should learn to appreciate and respect the importance of writing and sending thank you cards after a graduation ceremony and celebration.

7 Reasons Why You Need to Teach Your Kids to Send Thank You Notes

It Teaches Gratitude and Appreciation
Because children are often selfish, they must be made to
understand the value of appreciation. Writing thank you cards gives children the chance to stop and think about showing their gratitude for the kind gestures of other people. Whether they
have been given a gift, money or even words of encouragement, learning to thank people is a
lesson that will serve them well throughout their lives.

It Encourages Good Manners and Etiquette
A handwritten thank you card is one of the greatest ways to instill respect and good
manners. Helping children learn to properly thank people for the gifts they received will help to stress the importance of showing gratitude in all their relationships.

It Helps to Maintain and Develop Relations with Family and Friends.
Having children send thank you cards is a great way to help them stay in touch with their
family and friends who have taken the time to celebrate their achievements. It is a feel-
good factor for the recipients to receive such cards and is likely to
strengthen their relationship.

It Assist Kids on Their Writing Skills
In a society where texting and emojis are used frequently, writing thank you cards gives
kids a chance to improve on their penmanship, sentence structure and communication.
It enhances their writing skills as they learn how to compose their message effectively
and in a coherent manner.

It helps Kids to Understand the Concept of Showing Gratitude
When children take the time to appreciate the kind gestures of other people, they will
start to learn the importance of showing gratitude. Recognizing others for their thoughtfulness and generosity may even help kids to understand the importance of reciprocating that for others.

It’s a Kind Gestured Which Will Be Remembered In The Future

Handwritten thank you cards are more special in a world where text messages are easily sent through digital media. When kids send a personal note, it may be something the recipient would never forget. Their grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers, family and friends will definitely appreciate the effort and thought put into writing the thank you card.

It Teaches Responsibility

Writing and sending thank you cards is an effective way to instill the importance of showing gratitude to those who have blessed them with their generosity. If done consistently, your child will carry that practice throughout their life.

How to Make Writing Thank You Cards Fun and Meaningful
If your child is reluctant to sit down and write, here are some creative ways to make the process
enjoyable:

• Let them choose fun stationery – Buying thank you cards or even personalizing them
  with stickers makes writing more fun.
• Encourage drawings for younger kids – Your child may not be ready to write full
  sentences, so they can draw a small picture and write ‘Thank You!’ instead.
• Make it a family activity – Schedule a thank you card writing session with snacks and
  music so it will not seem like a chore but more like a fun activity to do.
• Assist them to make each note special – Rather than just generic phrases, assist kids
  to write the name of the gift or the kind gesture they are appreciating the other
  person for.

This is a sponsored guest post, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Mommy Ramblings.

Get ready for high-flying fun as the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters make their victorious return with their 2025 World Tour! This is your chance to witness the world record-breaking, trick-shot stars of basketball LIVE as they bring their signature SPINS, DUNKS, and SLAMS to the court, taking on their determined rivals, the Washington Generals.

This year we\’re bringing FUN and innovative CHALLENGES to showcase our superstars\’ impressive skills and seemingly impossible feats of athleticism. Watch in awe as players go head-to-head in an exhilarating battle of skills featuring epic dunks, jaw-dropping four-point shots, and more – it’s friendly competition at its most exciting!

Unrivaled fan engagement continues with pre-game offerings like our Magic Pass, unforgettable post-game access, and more in-game fan interactions than ever before. Shop from our merchandise collection to take a piece of the magic home online or in-store on game day.

USFamilyGuide Readers Receive 20% Off Tickets with Promo Code: USFAM on tickets purchased prior to one week before game day. Score the best seats now at https://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/world-tour/schedule/