Dad and the boys went on some thrilling adventures while I was out a couple of weeks ago.
 
I like books.  I like to read.  If you know me this comes as no surprise to you.  If you don't believe it, ask my mom.  I think reading is probably about 99% of what I ever got in trouble for as a kid (because I wasn't doing what I was supposed to be doing).  

But that being said our book and media budget hardly exists.  Most of our books coming from 1)the library 2)gifts or sometimes 3)thrift shops.  If we are going to spend our money on media, it should be ones that will be read or used (and not to balance a table) again and again and that we can't get from the library.  I use my swagbucks to buy amazon giftcards. That is great, but it takes me quite a while to earn enough for my free shipping purchase.  BUT I've found another online book store where I am really liking to do "window shopping."  Vision Forum is a great place for Christian books!  We especially like it for the history materials!

I readily admit social studies was never my favorite, but in the last couple years I've really enjoy actually learning history.  A large reason for this is I've finally begun to learn it in the context of what God is doing and how it has actually effected lives and is more than just dates and locations.  Again, Vision Forum seems to be a great place for History materials from the Christian perspective.  And they have some great sales throughout the year (like back to school time, thanksgiving time, and even now to kick off December.)  And not only do they have books and media, but also lots of toys!  Like this remote-controlled gyroscope helicopter (we have lots of fun with ours), pop guns, or even dress-up clothes.  

Vision Forum is hosting a contest to give away some big value gift cards/