Today, we are surrounded by so much noise, so many opinions, and so many people telling us things for money. Are they true? Who knows? Between AI and paid ads, I don’t know what to believe anymore. But, I do know that reviews of daily items we think we cannot live without get tons of reviews, so I want to start this blog with a few reviews, non-sponsored, of course:
In case you need packing help…
I love my new Keens! They are a fantastic shoe. I just got back from the mother/teen Switzerland trip and I brought along my new Keens, fresh out of the box, like a 6-year-old wearing them out of the store for the first time. I have never owned Keens before and bringing a new pair of any kind of shoe on an adventure trip that would cover more than 50 miles of cobblestone, Alpine trails, marbled floors, and cross-tie steps is typically a rookie mistake. Well, the Keens did not disappoint and I am happy to report that they were comfortable and they had the traction of a mountain goat.
I also brought along my new Apple MacBook Neo. It was a champ! It is as light as a computer can be and I did not have to charge the battery once. Simply great review.
Primally Pure Cleansing Balm made with Emu oil and beef tallow, I love it. It clarifies and moisturizes like no other and it comes in an easy to pack, carry-on friendly, non-breakable container. One step for a backpacking adventure.
A silicone body scrubber is a must if you are traveling to Europe, where they rarely provide washcloths. Clean Towels brand reusable face towels are also a great travel essential.
The book Theo of Golden is a must-read! One of my friends, Kanakuk alumni, and Family Kamp mom gave it to me this summer and I am so glad I took it to Switzerland with me! I laughed, I cried (more than once), I reflected, and I finished the book eager to be a better person because of the characters I met along the way. I don’t want to spoil a page of it for you, but work through the first pages as you adjust to artful imagery and thoughtful wording that we aren’t accustomed to in most of our books these days, and you will find yourself lost (and found) in this book!
There you go, my non-sponsored reviews.
But what about non-sponsored reviews of people in our lives? Why are we watching and reading so many things about THINGS and not talking about the people around us every day?
I could go on and on and on and on about the people I get to work with. I am so blessed. But I want to shout out my boss, Jeff. He is the best boss I have ever had! He is a wise and tireless man of integrity who is quick to listen, precise with his words, a team motivator, a leader by example, and a beautiful picture of Christ’s humility.
I want to talk about the moms on this trip I just took; what an eclectic group of women who are raising exceptional teens! Pam, whose parents are patient seekers of understanding, is one I am in awe of. I wish I had known her when I was a young mother, when I could have been a better seeker of understanding with my kids. Christina is quietly joyful and selflessly devoted to her kids and helping them grow into the best versions of themselves. I loved watching her with her child, whom she brought on this trip (the middle of six); she is a gentle but bold encourager, and I am honored to have gotten to know her during our travels. Courtney is a strong and funny mom whose facial expressions do not have an “inside voice” and who is fierce in her love for her children. She met her husband while they were on staff at K-Seven, and together, they are raising boys who know the value of hard work and loving people well.
And what about shout-outs in the moment, non-sponsored reviews? If you think something nice about someone, say it, tell them! It may feel awkward at first, but how nice it is to hear a compliment from strangers and those we love alike. Tell the grocery bagger she has a great smile. Compliment the waitress on her memory. A remark on the patience of your child’s teacher. Thank the pilot for the nice landing. We all love to hear something great about ourselves; we love a great review!
And a review isn’t a review if people aren’t talking about it. Right? So why not brag on people behind their backs (especially if you’ve already done it to their faces or in a note)? Wouldn’t you like to be known as the person who always has something good to say about someone else, always bragging on another? Let’s become the best non-sponsored reviewers of people (and a good book or shoe) out there!
John 13:34-35 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (The Passion Translation says, “true followers” in the place of disciples and that just breaks it down so simply.)
Jamie Jo Johnson
Alumni Engagement Director
