Book review

My Mother in law gave the kids some books dealing with American History written by Lynne Cheney. I thought I would look over them this morning just to get an idea of the content. I was pleasantly surprised that the books were very easy to read and very well illustrated. The first one is called "We the People the story of our Constitution"
I have never been very strong in remembering my American History. I was telling my mother in law last night it was not something I was overly interested in... until recently. With the Presidential election looming just over a month away, and all that is happening in our great US of A it has come to my attention that this is certainly the not first time our great country has been in peril.
As I was reading this book I got to thinking about all that went into the writing of the constitution. The time and energy of the great minds; Washington, Madison, Franklin and others who wrote the document that has shaped our nation for over 200 years. The part that stood out to me in the book was when Cheney wrote about Benjamin Franklin, and how after much time and quarreling he wanted to send for a Chaplin to lead them in prayer. "How has it happened... that we have not hitherto once thought of humbly applying the Father of lights to illuminate our understandings?"
Wow. What an amazing statement... I would love to see our current government take such a stand.
I would highly recommend this book for all who want to teach their younger children about the American Constitution. It really made me think about how our country was formed by this particular document.
The other book I read this morning was also by Cheney called "When Washington crossed the Delaware" Now I am familiar enough with the story to know the basics. This book however, really made me think about all that Washington and his men went through to make that historical journey. The book is just detailed enough to show their hardships but is still appropriate for younger readers.
This was another book that got me thinking about the situation today. Our country has been through, and is going though so much, and yet we are still here. Mostly due in part to these great men who fought for the rights we take for granted today.
I learned much from this simple child's book. I learned about the strength of the early American people, and how that compares to our Military today. I learned that determination and grit, can see our country though hard times. We may have to sacrifice, but America will continue to stand strong, even in light of our current political situation. I was also reminded that sometimes we need to go back and look at our history to see our future.
There are several books by Cheney on Amazon.com, and I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting to teach their children about American history. I am looking forward to reading "A time for freedom" which goes into much detail about our history.
Anyway I just thought all this seemed relevant to some of the events that were happening today, and thought I would post my thoughts.
Hats of to my mother in law for finding these books... I know she and these books will be treasured in our house for a long time.

Making History

I usually don't post my political views here... but I am making an exception today!
I am so excited about the upcoming political election... especially with the addition of Sarah Palin to the GOP ticket. I first heard of her on one of the mommy blogs I frequent, and I was enthralled by her staunch pro-life stance and her committed work ethic. (She was back at work in the Alaska Governor's office just 3 days after having a baby... one with Down's Syndrome no less!) She is truly an amazing woman.
I have looked at the work she has done for the state of Alaska, and am impressed. She has stood up against some powerful people. I feel she is a great addition to the Vice Presidency. I think we will be hearing a lot from her in the up coming election, as well as for many years to come! Congratulations to our Presidential nominee John McCain for making a very smart choice for a running mate!
Also making history this week for the Democrats was the nomination of the the first African American man as the Democratic Presidential nominee. I may not agree with all of Senator Obama's views, but that is still a HUGE deal. Not to mention Hillary Clinton breaking the glass ceiling for women all over the world. I think Palin's appointment to vice president just put a few more cracks there as well. I am so excited to be a part of this wonderful time in American history... this election will prove to be a truly historical moment... and I am proud to be a part of it!