January Homeschool Ideas and Fun Days

Looking for ways to add some fun to your homeschool?  Here are just a few of the holidays and fun days you can celebrate this month:

January 1st--New Year's Day

Help your kids set goals for the new year with any of these goal charts:

Setting several overall goals
Specific steps for reaching 3 big goals
Goal setting punch card
Self Evaluation and Goal Setting tracker

January 5th--National Bird Day

Learn more about the birds in your area and add some bird watching to your nature study.

Resources for a Bird Themed Unit Study
Homemade Bird Feeders
Bird Nest Cookies
US State Birds Art Pack

January 7th--Old Rock Day

Find a flat rock, paint it with some inspirational artwork, and hide it for someone to find.

January 15th--National Hat Day

Craft a Hat for Poetry Tea Time
Complete a Hat Words Word Search
Research hats in a given time period

January 20th--Penguin Awareness Day

Read Mr. Popper's Penguins.
Complete a Unit Study with the book.
Do a Penguin Craft.
Roll and Draw a Penguin.

January 21st--Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Help your children write down their dreams.
Read Who was Martin Luther King Jr.
Break open a white and brown egg to show they are the same on the inside.

January 23rd--National Handwriting Day

Brush up o your cursive.
Learn a new bullet journal font.
Practice some calligraphy.

January 31st--Inspire Your Heart with Art Day

Study an artist in a given time period.
Take a pastel chalk art lesson
Create fingerprint art.
Practice with Art for Kids Hub on Youtube.

How are you celebrating in January?

What We Read in December

 Sharing what I read this month...

This Open Collab is hosted by Ingrid @ Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles: http://bit.ly/2zpOZBU
and April @ The Simple Rugged Path: http://bit.ly/2zqFXo3

Playlist link:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLId_JNKYCQ7L8LxgAsLSa7BgKyWBUAZ6X&jct=G12Gej3SHZ6DWnSK7oSxdc6dD2R-qQ&fbclid=IwAR1KsJQUpJs65WjAcmvBHIMJiD2h2sEHRdvBV44kVH4SUldz6vz0I7JGnIQ&dsable_polymer=true

The War I Finally Won:
https://www.amazon.com/War-I-Finally-Won/dp/0147516811/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1545877391&sr=8-1

Homeschooling Middle School:
https://www.amazon.com/Homeschooling-Middle-School-Powerful-Purpose-ebook/dp/B013HJYR2M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1545877426&sr=8-2&keywords=Homeschooling+Middle+School

Firestorm:
https://www.amazon.com/Firestorm-Anna-Pigeon-Mysteries-Book-ebook/dp/B004IE9QY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545878503&sr=8-1&keywords=firestorm+by+nevada+barr\

Flora & Ulysses:
https://www.amazon.com/Flora-Ulysses-Illuminated-Kate-DiCamillo-ebook/dp/B00BUV9644/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545878868&sr=8-1&keywords=flora+and+ulysses

On Christmas Eve:
https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Eve-Apple-Signature-ebook/dp/B00CFT8EBQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1545878959&sr=8-4&keywords=On+Christmas+Eve

The Bird's Christmas Carol:
https://www.amazon.com/Birds-Christmas-Carol-Yesterdays-Classics-ebook/dp/B004EYUF1M/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1545879169&sr=8-4&keywords=A+Bird%27s+Christmas+Carol

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever:
https://www.amazon.com/Best-Christmas-Pageant-Ever-Herdmans-ebook/dp/B004CFA9EQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545879232&sr=8-1&keywords=the+best+christmas+pageant+ever+book

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧11 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

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Top Ten Posts of 2018

#10--Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing

#9--10 Favorite Children's Books About Adoption

#8--17 Frugal Outdoor Activities for Families

#7--Spectrum & Evan Moor Spelling Review

#6--Homeschooling Preschool Favorites

#5--What's In Our Kids' Easter Baskets ll 2018

#4--25 Things Every Person Should Do For Themselves At Least Once A Year

#3--Preschool In Our Home

#2--Homeschool Curriculum Review: Writing

#1--Our 2018 Summer Bucket List

And a few of my favorites that you may have missed:

How Do You Start Your Homeschool Morning Collab

Teaching Poetry Memorization to Children

Our Ten Family Read Alouds for the Homeschool Year ll Collab

The 30-Day Prayer Challenge for Women {Review}

Nicole O'Dell's 30-Day Prayer Challenge for Women takes its reader through 30 short, yet concise, selections aimed at the heart of women's daily struggles.  From gossip to a patience, each selection includes a Scripture reference, short devotional, questions for reflection, and three prayers to pray throughout the day: morning, afternoon, and evening.  O'Dell's writing is honest and relatable while still hitting at the heart of the issue.  I would recommend this book for any women looking for a beginning devotional or looking to re-establish a quiet time habit.  

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.   

Christmas Tree Ornament Swap

Yay for Christmas Swaps! This year I joined a lovely bunch of Youtube Mamas to participate in a Christmas Ornament Swap. We each swapped names and worked our magic with a $15 budget. I can't wait to open up mine! Click on the description box for links and more info. Host: April The Simple Rugged Path https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7HV... Bytes of Memory: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZYX... Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list... Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs. Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com C O N N E C T subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/ FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored. Music Attribution: Deck the Halls by Jingle Punks

10 Christmas Gift Ideas for the Busy Mom ll Collab

Do you have a busy mom on your wishlist?  Are you a busy mom and looking for something to add to your wishlist?  Check out this list of 10 Gifts for the Busy Mom.  Click on the description box for links and more info.

Travel Steamer:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GSRSTVK/?coliid=I2BO3SP1YMQZ0P&colid=1QA4XPK8SDPW4&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Hiking Boots:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006A1EWGQ/?coliid=I34VWU045YGV8H&colid=1QA4XPK8SDPW4&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Reusable Produce Bags:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012UBNQDE/?coliid=IRRW008CKMBTP&colid=1QA4XPK8SDPW4&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Mom on the Go Planner:
https://intheleafytreetops.com/mom-on-the-go-planner/

Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmcrZSa0FOG6FH5BUv8QNDg

Playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLId_JNKYCQ7Jh2bGef48uFlueTxHj8iWE&jct=b_qWVG3kHUrOs3aP_4qcBv2zaJd4Rw&fbclid=IwAR0Zc6N6RfuKMyftTHV1erpfxjMJZLOn82mXV8n-qdZ2tMVDNa-ZwR8ZTSo&disable_polymer=true

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

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Baby, It's Cold Outside! ll DITL Dec 1, 2018

Sharing one of my favorite days of the year... hands on projects, learning at our local state park, and watching our favorite lighted Christmas parade.  A great way to kick off the holiday season!

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

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Music Attribution:

Deck the Halls by Jingle Punks

100 Extraordinary Stories for Courageous Girls

This 100 story collection, written to girls ages 8 and up, covers some of the more unforgettable women of the faith.  Taken from the Bible and Christian history, these women will inspire girls with their tales of courage, action, and extraordinary faith.  Including such women as Lydia, Corrie Ten Boom, Bethany Hamilton, and Rahab, each story expands upon the idea of how a grain of faith moves mountains.  

Each section includes a picture, Scripture to go with the story, and biographical information.  I only read a sample of the book, but greatly enjoyed what I read.  The author is honest about the death of some of these women so be aware with a younger audience.  And for that reason, this would be a book that I would read WITH my daughter, not just pass off to her.  I also found it interesting that in the kindle version, there was picture portraying one of the African American women as white.  This just didn't sit well with me and I wonder how many other illustrations were inaccurate. I do, however, think this would be an interesting book to add to your homeschool or home as your study champions of the faith, and how little it takes so like to make a huge impact.

*Disclaimer: I received a sampling of this book for review.  All opinions are my own.

What We Read in November {2018}

Sharing what I read this month... This Open Collab is hosted by Ingrid @ Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles: http://bit.ly/2zpOZBU and April @ The Simple Rugged Path: http://bit.ly/2zqFXo3 Playlist link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list... Our Ten Family Read Alouds for the Homeschool Year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClFyg... The Christmas Remedy Review: http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/201... Minimalist Home Review: http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/201... Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs. Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com C O N N E C T subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/ FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

What's In Our Christmas Morning Basket? ll Collab

Sharing what's in our December morning basket with a special emphasis on Christmas. Boy Boss Mama: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvrQ... The Waldock Way: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqCX... Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list... St. Nicholas Day Printable: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/P... Christmas Around the World Brochure: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/P... Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑17yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs. Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com C O N N E C T subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/ FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

The Minimalist Home {Review}

The Minimalist Home by Joshua Becker addresses an issue that so many of us face in today's society: too much clutter.  Our homes are overflowing, our cupboards are full, and we are renting storage space just to contain it all.  And yet many of us feel at a lose of how to end the madness.  The Minimalist Home takes a systematic, step by step approach to decluttering with purpose.  He attempts to take an overwhelming issue and focus on logical steps, all while keeping our sanity intact.  But more importantly the author quickly zeroes in on our "why" for decluttering, and the main idea is "who is owning who."  Do we own our possessions or do they own us?

This thought became increasingly clear when I set out to put this concept into action.  Taking Becker's advice, and being armed with this book and a good dose of courage, I attempted to follow through with my own little decluttering experiment.  First, I worked in my bedroom, tossing out clothes that have long since seen better days or seemed to have shrunk a few sizes while resting in my dresser.  It felt good.  But then came the hard stuff: old journals filled with poetry and stories, cards from my Grandmother, momentos from oversea travel.  So I jumped to the kitchen, purging and sorting, and cleaning as I went.  Until it too became more difficult:gadgets, cakes pans, and vintage pieces.  I found that no matter what room I was in, I had to keep coming back to Becker's central question: Who is owning who?

That's what sets this book apart.  And ultimately it's what will dictate whether I'm successful or not.  Will I own my possessions or will I allow them to own me?  Truthfully the answer to this one may change from time to time, season to season.  However, I think this is a battle well worth fighting and I do believe that Becker's book is an excellent tool to use.  Logical, sincere, and insightful, Joshua Becker has laid out a thorough plan of attack.  And while I don't see myself minimizing as much as he has, his suggestions and checklists make this an easy to follow process.  

In the weeks that I've owned this book, I've found myself decluttering in starts and stops as the inspiration hits.  My journey is one of ups and downs, and certainly some detours.  However, The Minimalist Home keeps calling me back, and I know in time, I will find myself in a more peaceful, organized home thanks to this book.

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

Flashcards in Our Homeschool

Sharing our flashcard and manipulative book for our homeschool, as well as where to find some of the best deals on these items. Math Manipulatives Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3c-l0... Language Arts Manipulatives Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DL7B0... Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑17yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs. Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com C O N N E C T subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/ FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Dinosaur Devotions {Review}

This 75 devotional guide combines a love for dinosaurs with spiritual truths.  Each two-page spread includes dinosaur stats and name, a short devotional, questions for digging deeper, and even a journaling prompt.  Plus a scripture verse for the basis of the devotional and a fun trivia fact.  Some dinosaur species were repeated, but I actually liked that because it reinforced the factual information.  The devotionals are age applicable, thought provoking without being too deep, and of interest to ages 8-12.  This is a great devotional for transitioning from the younger years to the teens.  Geared at that middle age when dinosaurs and science are of high interest, Dinosaur Devotions is a fun way to engage your children in spiritual discussions and keep them growing.

*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.   

Fall Homeschool Favorites ll Collab

Sharing some of our favorites from the fall semester... games, books, and projects.

This collab is hosted by Jessica from The Waldock Way

https://youtube.com/c/thewaldockway

Playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYhcaPiSWZo_m-cgJJBoQzFME1UpTKOYQ&jct=B9EjBfIOj7WZ6WKF2FsWL4GtrnI7ZA

Our Ten Family Read Alouds for the School Year:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClFyg8rRfEA&t=283s

Products Mentioned:

Cardline: Animals

https://www.amazon.com/Asmodee-CARD01-Cardline-Animals/dp/B00C5714N8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1542685473&sr=8-1&keywords=Cardline+Animals

101 Animal Secrets:

https://www.amazon.com/101-Animal-Secrets-Melvin-Berger/dp/0545051223/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1542685507&sr=8-1&keywords=101+Animal+Secrets

This First Thanksgiving Day:

https://www.amazon.com/This-First-Thanksgiving-Day-Counting/dp/0060541849/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1542685547&sr=1-1&keywords=this+Thanksgiving+day

The Thanksgiving Door:

https://www.amazon.com/Thanksgiving-Door-Debby-Atwell-ebook/dp/B003T0GB1A/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1542685582&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Thanksgiving+Door

The Sign of the Beaver:

https://www.amazon.com/Sign-Beaver-Elizabeth-George-Speare-ebook/dp/B003JTHWNW/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1542685615&sr=1-1&keywords=the+sign+of+the+beaver

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T

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The Christmas Remedy {Review}

Holly Zook lives an unusual life... that is, if your Amish.  Holly is unmarried, pursuing higher education, and works at a locally owned pharmacy.  After her father died, Holly dedicated herself to helping the Plains community through health management and disease prevention.  Her greatest joy is teaching her people how to live healthy lives and avoid her father's fate.  

When pharmacist, Lyle Greene, suffers a stroke, his son Brandon returns home to help in the family business.  Studying to be a pharmacist himself, Brandon wants nothing to do with Green's Pharmacy. After watching his parents struggle and feeling displaced by his father's affections for Holly, Brandon is determined that his time at home will be brief.  Till one day a horrible accusation leaves Holly and Brandon fighting for the future of Green's Pharmacy.  What really happened the day of Lyle's stroke? And who is behind these painful accusations?

I've been a big fan of Cindy Woodsmall for a long time and this is the second book that I've read where she's teamed up with her daughter in law, Erin Woodsmall.  Both women have a way of story telling that really draws in the reader.  While I had my suspicions about who was behind all the pharmacies troubles, the resolution wasn't too obvious and in fact, left me guessing for quite awhile.  There were also two romantic storylines woven through out the book, but it might not be who you'd expect at first.  And although the book toggles between different viewpoints, the authors do a good job of developing each "voice" so as not to confuse the reader.

This was a sweet book to delight readers and fan during the holiday season.  Perfect for curling up with a hot cup of tea, and remembering the bond of family and the magic of Christmas.

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

Language Arts Manipulatives for Homeschool

Claire at Cookie Crumb Fun challenged us to share manipulative we use in teaching Language Arts.  From preschool through junior high, these are a few of the manipulative that we've used over the years.

Cookie Crumb Fun:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgSFK6Zi2JhFM7ONBhP_zA?fbclid=IwAR0GpfwfMF_0FYeh0GGhdYSULwEI3SDMRsMNn1q5FYcM5BVmPdNlckKOLso

Playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdYTFl4TsQEYBw7Eu6YvFMzb9wz2MbDyv&jct=n2bMIduyPepjA1PRhkbZrHT5DPlQfA&fbclid=IwAR36KNt45jA8fOgEXU_Sb_5NsIciovWGfAre4I1FWDt0-DPsbQOd5aHaH_Y

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
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Thanksgiving Morning Basket Ideas ll Collab

Sharing what's in our November morning basket with a special emphasis on Thanksgiving.  

Boy Boss Mama:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvrQy_Ml6tuc8Z4k83kmaXg?view_as=subscriber&fbclid=IwAR2FiQtZ4Qx_FlbPqrX-puBCZuyESD5XGGmd_ZBzYw-9h52KRLclsHqmq7c

The Waldock Way:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqCX1WaxK7QNR2dDdklS-VQ?fbclid=IwAR3OsG5YaUhHqlQ15jDqm0-sBdTU-2c6zAqeZ2CYSharWHEtwbG1qRUHd0Y

Playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzNNQK8zt5ZNvBubE4iJwGGAORrwis5QA&disable_polymer=true&fbclid=IwAR194Do__LQgXJoUaKX2Y3UV5s-pRO4aqwNJ1LnHKWyGf9sdHsSQjkLbFa4

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T

subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom

read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com

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What We Read in October (2018)

Sharing what I read this month...

This Open Collab is hosted by Ingrid @ Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles: http://bit.ly/2zpOZBU

and April @ The Simple Rugged Path: http://bit.ly/2zqFXo3

Playlist link:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLId_JNKYCQ7L8LxgAsLSa7BgKyWBUAZ6X&jct=G12Gej3SHZ6DWnSK7oSxdc6dD2R-qQ&fbclid=IwAR1KsJQUpJs65WjAcmvBHIMJiD2h2sEHRdvBV44kVH4SUldz6vz0I7JGnIQ&disable_polymer=true

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfxjEZd1dbg&t=3s

Across the Street and Around the World Review:

http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2018/10/across-street-and-around-world-review.html

Our Ten Family Read Alouds for the Homeschool Year:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClFyg8rRfEA&t=234s

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T

subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom

read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com

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Pumpkin Crescent Dessert Rolls ll Fall & Thanksgiving Recipe Collab

Today I'm going Ingrid at Mommy and Mia Homeschool Chronicle in sharing a recipe for your Thanksgiving Table.  Not only do these rolls make a great addition to your holiday meal, but they're also quick enjoy to be a fun seasonal treat any time.

Playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLId_JNKYCQ7IW-nbmRmlaprbpdOcXvdlT&jct=JFHMQ3ziPLc5hy8_pB93cO1j3BhlBQ&fbclid=IwAR0n18vDhK4OeixjqBLGUfbS9TnFAvpj432e0y-PWTGE2I7Bqzew-5Yddf0&disable_polymer=true

Ingrid of Mommy & Mia HSC: Butternut Squash Apple Soup https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmcrZSa0FOG6FH5BUv8QNDg
Julie M. of Julie Marie: Maple Bacon Roaster Butternut Squash side dish https://www.youtube.com/user/julmulli
Arika of Dorsett Doorstep: Apple Pie https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMYoPRkjpEpvxC_3c-KSTqQ
Robin (Lee)of Creative 2X Mom: something apple or pumpkin https://www.youtube.com/user/Creative2xmom
April of The Simple Rugged Path Banana Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread (Gluten Free) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7HVorQE8LgvYfw8_zPiDAQ
Amy Ciola Brisbois: Squash Casserole https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP-sBFkdkmo8yqBYq0-pdvw

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
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FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Music Attribution:

Birds in Flight by Dan Lebowitz

A few favorites:

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyPNMWsNZ04

Back to Homeschool Supply Haul 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3n8v5nCpLk

They Cancelled Our Flight to Hawaii:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_9TOtAy6c

Our First Day of School 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGErJBl4vnI

Our Eighth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRI2-eBOZA

Our Fifth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j2N-SaUIL0

Our Second Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtBuF09Bmbw

Our First Poetry Teatime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=To6OIs1zZo0

National Adoption Month--Foster Care/ Adoption Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW8yHx4CdyQ

Our Foster Care Journey: Adoption Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb_sy6kYDJ8

Across the Street and Around the World {Review}

Have you ever considered the Great Commission and what it means to your life?  Perhaps you've heard the words in a sermon or glossed over them in your Bible reading?  But have you ever really given them any thought?  What does it mean to "go into all the world and make disciples?"  Many of us hear those words and visions of unreached tribes enter our minds.  We shake our heads and say "Not me, Lord.  That commandment is for someone else."  Maybe we don't even bring it up in prayer, afraid of what that still quiet voice might actually say.  But how often have we paused to consider these words of Christ to "make disciples?"

If any of those thoughts have ever entered your mind, or more importantly if they haven't, then this book is for you.  In today's global society fulfilling the Great Commission is easier, and scarier, than ever.  Due to the refugee crisis around the world, the nations are coming right into our own neighborhoods.  Are we really prepared to reach them in an impactful way for Christ?

Filled with practical tips, spiritual insight, and questions for personal reflection, Across the Street and Around the World is an encouraging and convicting read.  Author Jeannie Marie talks about her own personal experiences in learning to reach the refugees in her community.  A daunting step at the time that ultimately led to overseas exploration.  Besides refugees, many of us repeated come into contact with the nations via international students or immigrants in our neighborhoods.  This book is wonderful for opening our eyes to the opportunities that abound in every day life.

The second half of the books deals more specifically with issues or difficulties in reaching Around the World.  Concerns such as personality types, short-term vs. long-term missions, and adjusting dreams & expectations are all addressed.  I very much appreciated that the author spent a lot of time discussing how overseas missionaries should evaluate their practical business in a foreign country before moving, cautioning that many time foreigners can cause more harm than good.

Ultimately, this is a book for anyone wanting to make a difference in the nations, whether at home or abroad.  And for any Christian, this shouldn't be a question.  Fulfilling the Great Commission can look a thousand different ways in individual lives, and this book does a great job explaining that.

*Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

Pros and Cons of Homeschooling

We love homeschooling.  Over the years, it's provided many wonderful benefits for our family.  But there have been a few drawbacks as well.  Join me as we discuss some of the Pros and Cons of Homeschooling!

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

A few favorites:

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyPNMWsNZ04

Back to Homeschool Supply Haul 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3n8v5nCpLk

They Cancelled Our Flight to Hawaii:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_9TOtAy6c

Our First Day of School 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGErJBl4vnI

Our Eighth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRI2-eBOZA

Our Fifth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j2N-SaUIL0

Our Second Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtBuF09Bmbw

Our First Poetry Teatime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=To6OIs1zZo0

National Adoption Month--Foster Care/ Adoption Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW8yHx4CdyQ

Our Foster Care Journey: Adoption Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb_sy6kYDJ8

Fall Bucket List Challenge

Are YOU ready for fall?  Join us in the #FallBucketListChallenge and see how many items you can check off your list.

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Boo Printable:
https://www.happinessishomemade.net/free-youve-been-booed-printables/

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Boo-ing Our Neighbors? ll Friendly Practical Joke

Have neighbors you love or loathe?  Now's the season to boo them!

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Boo Printable:
https://www.happinessishomemade.net/free-youve-been-booed-printables/

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Music Attribution:

Spooky Ride by Twin Musicom is licensed under a 

Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Source: http://www.twinmusicom.org/song/250/spooky-ride

Artist: http://www.twinmusicom.org

What's in Our October Morning Basket?

It's a new month and time to share what's in our morning basket.  From Medieval history to earth science, we hitting multiple subjects and mixing things up.

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

The Daily Question Review:
http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2018/09/the-daily-question-review.html

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Secret Channel Book Swap ll Fall 2018

Today I'm unboxing my package from the Secret Channel Book Swap!  I'm so excited to dig in and enjoy these treats from my partner.  Also stay tuned for October 31st, where I'll select one of these books to read and review.  Enjoy!

This un-boxing is part of secret channel book swap hosted by the Facebook group YouTube Collaborators and organized by Ingrid of Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmcrZSa0FOG6FH5BUv8QNDg

and

April of The Simple Rugged Path https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7HVorQE8LgvYfw8_zPiDAQ

Ashley/ 3 boys & 2 girls:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEK8c1MWDqL4ah52vzOJyng

Playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLId_JNKYCQ7KGDXleBQoykXS53a5DFzwd&disable_polymer=true

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

I Can Only Imagine for Little Ones {Review}

Written by Bart Millard and Laura Nuetzling, I Can Only Imagine follows a child's imaginings of what God must be like.  What types of games does Jesus like to play?  Does he like the same types of ice cream that I do?  Would he like to race with me?  The book goes through the fanciful questions that little children ask, addressing the everyday concerns and wonderings of a preschooler.

While I found the book to be sweet and light hearted, I struggled with how shallow it felt.  On the one hand, it's important to teach our children that they can enjoy their everyday day delights with God now.  That He's not a distant God, but one who is always with them.  On the other hand, a friendship with God is so much more than ice cream and wagon rides.  It's learning, growing worshipping.  Where are those ideas?    So while I thought this book was sweet, it was definitely lacking.  I would recommend searching for a book that is less self-focused and has more substance.   

*Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

How to Start Reading Aloud to Your Kids

What to start reading aloud to your kids, but you don't know how?  How will you pick books, how will keep the kids interested, where do you even start?  These are just a few of the tips and tricks I've learned along the way in our read aloud journey.

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

A few favorites:

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyPNMWsNZ04

Back to Homeschool Supply Haul 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3n8v5nCpLk

They Cancelled Our Flight to Hawaii:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_9TOtAy6c

Our First Day of School 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGErJBl4vnI

Our Eighth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRI2-eBOZA

Our Fifth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j2N-SaUIL0

Our Second Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtBuF09Bmbw

Our First Poetry Teatime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=To6OIs1zZo0

National Adoption Month--Foster Care/ Adoption Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW8yHx4CdyQ

Our Foster Care Journey: Adoption Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb_sy6kYDJ8

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins ll It's Fall Y'all Collab

This muffin recipe is a favorite in our house and we can't wait to bake more of them in the coming season!  Rich, warm, flavorful... perfect for all.  Which do you prefer in the fall, pumpkin or apple?

Playlist:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5GkvzudsTs4SsN2CQTrTAZFRiY96BQXW&disable_polymer=true

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Music Attribution:

Summer Smile by Silent Partner

A few favorites:

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyPNMWsNZ04

Back to Homeschool Supply Haul 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3n8v5nCpLk

They Cancelled Our Flight to Hawaii:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_9TOtAy6c

Our First Day of School 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGErJBl4vnI

Our Eighth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRI2-eBOZA

Our Fifth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j2N-SaUIL0

Our Second Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtBuF09Bmbw

Our First Poetry Teatime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=To6OIs1zZo0

National Adoption Month--Foster Care/ Adoption Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW8yHx4CdyQ

Our Foster Care Journey: Adoption Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb_sy6kYDJ8

Fall In Love With Book ll My To Read List for Fall

Sharing my current To Be Read List... a little bit of non-fiction and a stack of fiction to snuggle up with as we transition into fall.  I hope you'll stick around and read with us.

Books I read in August:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFAS36Z5tIg

Our Top Five Family Read Alouds:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDt-78hVPUQ&t=2s

April's Fall Reading List:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftQaL9z3g8M&t=705s

Playlist
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFdamhRE3YECzmCIyMmsZmTgGCYmo_qTQ&jct=iQECCNBz9mYQtH5tdhd0JL2j66xE1g&disable_polymer=true

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

A few favorites:

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyPNMWsNZ04

Back to Homeschool Supply Haul 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3n8v5nCpLk

They Cancelled Our Flight to Hawaii:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_9TOtAy6c

Our First Day of School 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGErJBl4vnI

Our Eighth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRI2-eBOZA

Our Fifth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j2N-SaUIL0

Our Second Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtBuF09Bmbw

Our First Poetry Teatime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=To6OIs1zZo0

National Adoption Month--Foster Care/ Adoption Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW8yHx4CdyQ

Our Foster Care Journey: Adoption Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb_sy6kYDJ8

Camp Board Game Review

This is one of our absolute favorite family board games.  Whether you're looking to enhance your nature studies or just stock up your game cupboard, this is one that's not to be overlooked.

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

A Plan in Place Planner Unboxing and First Impressions

Sharing my first impressions of my new homeschool planner from A Plan in Place.  This is the first time I've strayed away from my classic Lakeshore planner, but I'm excited to try something new.

My usual Lakeshore planner:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VML2UHUdmig

My favorite personal planner:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOLhvZPl0Vc&t=7s

A Plan in Place website:
https://www.aplaninplace.net

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

A few favorites:

Secret Channel Book Swap Unboxing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyPNMWsNZ04

Back to Homeschool Supply Haul 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3n8v5nCpLk

They Cancelled Our Flight to Hawaii:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi_9TOtAy6c

Our First Day of School 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGErJBl4vnI

Our Eighth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcRI2-eBOZA

Our Fifth Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j2N-SaUIL0

Our Second Grade Curriculum:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtBuF09Bmbw

Our First Poetry Teatime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=To6OIs1zZo0

National Adoption Month--Foster Care/ Adoption Q&A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW8yHx4CdyQ

Our Foster Care Journey: Adoption Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb_sy6kYDJ8

The Daily Question {Review}

Filled with 365 questions, this guided journal is a fun way to interact with your child or to find a few moments of quiet bonding time together.  Each page includes the date as well as space for adding three different responses making this a wonderful place to keep three years worth of memories.  Some questions are silly and some thought provoking.  Some spiritual and some just plain fun.  Once completed, this nicely bound book will provide an insightful look into your child's personality and serve as a keepsake over time.

We decided to adapt ours.  Since there are three children in our family, we've chosen to fill out our keepsake journal in one year, with each child answering the questions out each day.  It's fun to see their separate personalities shine as I take a few minutes with each of them to answer the prompt.  It's also opened up some interesting questions and conversations.  This journal would also serve as a good conversation starter for family dinners, reunions, and classrooms.  We're quite happy with it and look forward to filling it out over the year.

*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own.  @WaterbrookMultnomah #partner

Homeschool Goals 2018

Today I'm sharing some of our Homeschool Goals for 2018-2019.

Ingrid @ Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles: http://bit.ly/2zpOZBU

Playlist link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLId_JNKYCQ7LeQt7hAd9AIvWNtrizOfmx&disable_polymer=true

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/


FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Books of the Month Collab {Aug 2018}

Sharing what I read this month...

Ours for a Season Review:
http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2018/08/ours-for-season-review.html

This Open Collab is hosted by Ingrid @ Mommy & Mia Homeschool Chronicles: http://bit.ly/2zpOZBU
and April @ The Simple Rugged Path: http://bit.ly/2zqFXo3

Playlist link: http://bit.ly/2hXr8zl

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.

Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com

C O N N E C T
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/

FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.

Ours for a Season {Review}

Mennonite couple, Marty and Anthony, lead nearly solitary lives.  Devastated by news of their infertility, the couple has drifted apart and finds it hard to communicate with each other, much less reconnect.  While Anthony throws himself into his work, often traveling for weeks at a time, Marty locks herself away in their home, avoiding family and friends.  Until one day when Anthony receives a job offer from Brooke, Marty's long time friend and self-made business woman.  The job would pull them away from their home for a year and a half, but could it be exactly what's needed to bring Marty and Anthony back together?  And what about Brooke?  Could she possibly need Marty's help more than she's letting on?

Ours for a Season isn't your typical Amish fiction.  Interwoven in the story are issues of infertility, identity, foster care, and human trafficking, all relevant in today's society.  This book tackles some tough topics without being preachy or condescending, and the characters are real, vulnerable, and authentic.  Personally, I was drawn to the storyline involving foster care as this is a road that our family has traveled through the years.  I found that the characters felt and questioned in much of the same way that my husband and I did.  It's obvious that the author did some thorough research in preparing for this novel.

Though the book addresses some serious topics, it remains hopeful and faith-filled.  Without being pushy, the author leads us to some undeniable truths: that the world is bigger than our perspective, that the Lord always has a plan, that lives can be redeemed, and that family can be found in many places.  Just to name a few.  This book was an unexpected journey and I have yet to read anything like it in the Amish fiction genre.  I can't recommend this one highly enough.  Home run for Kim Vogel Sawyer.

*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions are my own. #PRHPartner