The Book Nook

For some of us, books may be the last thing we want to talk about in June -- school is almost out for the summer!  That means its time to hit the beach, amusement parks, travel and hang out with friends all day long.  Soon enough, some of us will return to high school, start college, finish undergrad, or enter graduate school for a masters or doctorate.  But not matter which road you are on, or the season we are in, books will always a part of your life.

Last month, I started reading, "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World" by Joanna Weaver.  It's a Christian devotional that focuses on the many responsibilities that most women have (Martha), yet in all that, strive to make the time to maintain a relationship with God through Christ (Mary).  Fantastic life applications, and I highly recommend it.  If you own a Nook by Barnes & Noble, you can download a sample. 

What are you currently reading?  Let us know and we may feature your book next month. 

Coming Out
the Mold...

Fresh out the mold this week:

"Sea Whispers"

Natural Soap

5.5oz Bars

Father's Day Focus

"If the new American father feels bewildered and even defeated, let him take comfort from the fact that whatever he does in any fathering situation has a fifty percent chance of being right."

-- Bill Cosby

On Sunday, June 19 we will have the opportunity to nationally recognize, honor and celebrate the "Fathers" in our life.

The VERY first Father's Day for the United States was in 1908 in West Virginia, the birthplace of my own Father-in-Law.  Since that time, others have tried to continue to implement and recognize this special day, with little progress and success.  It wasn't until 1972 that President Nixon made it a national holiday to be celebrated on the third Sunday in June.

Father's Day is also celebrated in other countries of the world, falling on dates as early as February 23 and as late as December 26.  For many countries, this special day is celebrated with family dinners, gifts or special outings and ceremonies.  A few years ago, the kids and I treated dear old dad (aka, hubby) to a boating day on Lake Berryessa and jet skiing that afternoon.  Other celebrations have included joint celebrations with my father, special dinners out, or a big family BBQ in the backyard. 

Some of the special fathers in our life are no longer with us.  This could be your own biological father, a grandfather, a special uncle or even a  close family friend.  However, they are still remembered and cherished in our hearts.  A framed photo of a special moment shared together is a wonderful memento.

For those of you who live in the San Francisco Bay Area, following are a few activities happening over Father's Day weekend:

• Steam Train Rides on Niles Canyon Railway (Fremont)
  Note: all fathers who ride the train on Father's Day will be offered a complimentary beer or root beer
• Picasso Exhibit at the de Young Museum (SF)
• 7th Annual "Pinot Days" Grand Festival Tasting (SF, Ft. Mason, June 18)
• Jennifer Hudson (SF, Masonic Auditorium, June 18)
• And so much more! 

This Father's Day, Pour le Mieux is celebrating with our "Shea Shaving Bar" soap scented with Tea Tree and Lavender essential oils.  This bar is a big hit with the men in our family who shave.

If you'd like more information to make your Father's Day memorable and special, visit Father's Day or check your local newspaper.