10 Christmas Break Tasks for the Homeschool Mom

Christmas Break starts for us tomorrow and I'm ready!  I MIGHT be more ready than the kids.  😀 The past week has found us starting school in our jammies (a big No-No since we started this journey 12+ years ago) and Mom just barely squeaking by.

It's definitely time!

However, I know that taking some time over the next couple of weeks to work through my prep list is going to carry us a long way into the spring semester.  Finding ways to balance relaxation and preparation will ensure that our 2024 starts off strong!

Finish Grading

    I have a tendancy to think that I can just put the last few items aside and I'll remember to get to them later.  Don't do it!  Take a hour or two to get them done right away and really wrap up the first semester.  While your're at it, update any transcripts or course descriptions that you're tracking for your high schoolers.   This will get everything tidied up so you're not trying to remember the details in the rush of second semester.

Clear out first semester items

    Did your student complete any one semester subjects?  Are you transitioning into the second textbook of the course?  Clear off those homeschool shelves of items you won't need in January.  File away any paper or books that you need to hold onto and get ready to sell the items that will be leaving your home.

Inventory supplies

    Take note of any supplies you're running low on.  I tended to never have enough graph paper, fat erasers, or fun writing utensils.  Think about any projects you have coming up early in the second semester.  Look over Jan/February's lesson plans and see if you need any odd items like clay or mini brads.  Make a list while you have a few minutes.

Order Needed Items

    Order those items so that they come over break and can easily be organized and put away.  It may be tempting to think that you have plenty of time.  You don't!  Order them now so that those last minute projects don't get pushed to the side.  Also order any supplemental material you'll need for your coursework... textbooks, chapter books, extra support items.

Order Library Books

    I like to order as many of our school books from the library as I possibly can.  This helps keep our cost down while still exposing my kids to the world around them.  In order to do this, I typically request our books 3-4 weeks ahead of our curriculum.  The second week of break, I'll start to order books we need in the coming month so they're ready for pick up a week or two early.  

Tentatively Plan Field Trips

    Our field trip options have been sparse in the last couple of years so I'm trying to fill in more during 2023-24.  So I'm spending part of my Christmas break surveying other homeschool moms, researching options, checking costs, and penciling field trips into my calendar.  All this will make booking easier come January.  And then if I need to change my dates I can, but I'll have all the details in my planner.

Deep Clean ONE Room

    Balancing homeschooling and housework is quite a challenge.  So I'm choosing ONE room to deep clean while I have a free schedule.  The kitchen can certainly use it after the holidays, but maybe the bathrooms would be better.  Either way, I'm pushing for a DEEP clean that will carry us into the spring semester.

Fill In Calendar Items

    Is your homeschool calendar changing in the new year?  Are your kids taking any new classes?  Have any of their activities changed?  Double check your calendar and make any new changes while you're not being rushed.  

Plan a Date Night

    This is also a great time to reconnect with your spouse.  Plan some time together basking in the season and reflecting on the past year.  Reconnect and share goals for the upcoming year.  Whether a full on date night, or a quick lunch, plan to spend some time together.

Choose ONE Creative Project

    It can be tempting to work, work, work for the full two weeks and not take a minute to relax and recharge.  With that in mind, be sure to build in some creative time over the next few weeks to refill your cup so you don't walk into the new year burned out.  Grab a light book to read or spend some time working on an enjoyable hobby.  You'll be surprised how much progress you make and how good you feel going into 2024.

Most important of all, remember to rest, relax, and reconnect.  Play a board game, bake some cookies, and play in the snow.  Laugh with your kids, remind them how much you love them, and take time to hear their hearts.  Enjoy each other!

What Homeschool Tasks are on YOUR To-Do List?

Christmas and Advent Traditions

*This post was originally published on 12/15/17.  Enjoy!

Today I'm sharing some of our favorite Christmas traditions... both the ones that glue us together as a family, and those that point us back to the reason for the season!

A Catholic Mom's Life:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBPwe61hWru6AN8ZzyY-KwA

Our Top 5 Christian Christmas Books:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozCVubgKY9Y

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧9 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.

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Music Attribution:

We Wish You A Merry Christmas by E's Jammy Jams

Recipe Road Trip {Review}

Did Baked Alaska really come from Alaska?  Where did the twinkie originate?  What do Lobster Rolls really taste like?

Do you have a child that asks these kinds of questions? Or maybe a child who loves to be in the kitchen?   Recipe Road Trip combines kid-friendly recipes with regional trivia to get your kids excited about cooking and learning in the kitchen.  This amazing cookbook is broken up into regions, including two to three recipes for each state within that region.  Surprisingly, Recipe Road Trip also includes recipes from U.S. Commonwealths and Territories.  All recipes are leveled from 1-3 to indicate it's difficulty and are written in an easily understandable manner.  The illustrations are fun without being too cartoony and the geographic trivia is great to learn as well.  One of my favorite additions was the sample menus in the back of the book that allows kids to create a regional meal.  As a homeschool mom, I'd love to have this one on the shelf for studying geography.  The best age for Recipe Road Trip would be upper elementary to young teen.  While the items are kid-friendly, they do include many main dishes that would appeal to an older child.  And as with any cookbook, I would avoid the kindle version and prefer a physical copy.

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

7 Winter Nature Study Ideas

*This post was originally published on 1/8/19.  Enjoy!

Winter can be a challenging to time for studying nature.  The wet and cold drive us indoors, and nature study takes a back seat.  It seems as the earth is resting and we can easily overlook all that is still happening around us.  But even in this dreary time of year, there's still so much to be studied and learned.  With a little curiosity and insight, you too can find ways to discover the life all around us, even in the winter!

Track the Weather
There is plenty of weather to be observed from the comfort of your own home.  Record the weather vs. the weather predictions, how much snow falls in a given time period, the times of sunrises and sunsets.  Other great details to observe include moon phases as well as keeping an eye out for the first new shoots of grass or green leaves on trees.

Monitor a Rain Gauge
Monitoring the amount of rain (or snow) this time of year is great for talking about weather, renewing the earth, and the water cycle.  It can also serve as a great starting point for water conservation.  A great way to incorporate weather study with measurements, observation, and prediction.

Go Snowshoeing
Many national parks offer snowshoeing trail hikes in the winter.  Take the time to learn from your knowledgeable park rangers as they point out the life that we might otherwise miss.  And keep your ears open for animals foraging on your winter hike.

Create a Wreath
Wreaths don't just have to be for Christmas.  Gather any natural material you can find: sticks, berries, holly, pinecones, sprigs, etc.  Purchase a wreath form from the Dollar Tree or create your own with wire or a wire hanger.  Look for special details to add: ribbon, bells, or burlap to name a few.  Or if you're looking for something temporary, create an ice wreath with all your natural treasures frozen in an ice form.  Hang outside and observe how long it takes to melt.

Feed the Birds
While most birds will fly south for the winter, some prefer to stay behind.  Study up on the birds in your area, identify their species and diet, and then create a place were they can regularly come for food.  Break out your sketch books to include your new friends and label their unique features that allow them to winter in your area.

Read Some Poetry
There's something about curling up with a good book in the winter months.  So take advantage of that cozy feeling and introduce some nature poetry to your children.  These are just a few that we have enjoyed:

It's Snowing, It's Snowing: Winter Poems by Jack Prelutsky
National Geographic Book of Nature Poetry
Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems by Judy Sierra
A Chill in the Air: Nature Poems for Fall and Winter by John Frank
Poetry for Young People by Robert Frost
Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak

Star Gaze
There are such a variety of stars and constellations to notice as the seasons change.  It's fun to note what new things you might see in the night sky at winter.  And you don't have to stay up very late to do it.  With the earlier dark nights, head outside after dinner with some hot chocolate or settle in near the fire pit for some star gazing.  Or take an evening walk and admire the stars.

How do you incorporate nature study in the winter? 

Little People, Big Dreams: Sally Ride {Review}

 

From the bestselling biography series for kids comes an inspiring read about Sally Ride, the first America woman in space.  Growing up in California, Sally discovers she has a passion for science and goes on to study physics.  When NASA opens up their program to women, she eagerly applies and in 1983, Sally becomes the first American woman to fly in space.

These  Little People, Big Dreams board books have become some of my favorites.  The illustrations are amazing, and the writing gives just enough information without being overwhelming.  It's a hard balance to strike between too little and too much, and this series does a good job. The book also includes a timeline of Sally's life and a little more in-depth information at the end.  It's a great introduction for K-2 readers, and just enough of a teaser for older students.  

I really do love these books for introducing heroes from history.  They are a great way to get your students thinking and gauge their interest for deeper studies.  This is a book I would read WITH my students are there are a few tough topics elluded to, including the media's treatment of Sally.  That and other topics would make a great starting point for conversations between teacher and student, parent and child.  All in all, a good introduction to an American icon.

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

Making the Most of Christmas Day

 *Post originally published on 12/8/09... Enjoy!

I recently heard a blogger comment that each Christmas seems the same. Overeating, filling, opening gifts, and rushing on with life. Each year, year after year, the same people and no closer than they were the year before.

With all the preparation that so many of us put into this day, it's sad to think that we've already got it all figured out before it even starts. We walk into this day with so many hopes for deepening relationships and yet, we have no plan to get there. We have plans for completing our shopping, completing our baking, completing our decorations. And no plan for how to make the most of Christmas Day with our family.

I confess I'm as guilty as anyone. After our marriage we decided to split the holidays between our two families, each living in opposite directions of our home. So although I see my mom often, it's a rarity to spend time with aunts, uncles, and cousins. In fact, due to Baby Girl's Dec 21st birthday, this will be the first time in four years that I'll be home for Christmas.

In an effort to plan, here are some ideas for mixing up the family and getting everyone talking:
*Board Games--I remember as a young teen getting these out with my cousins and there are so many to please a variety of ages. Shoots and Ladders, Candyland, Monopoly, Life, Sequence.
*Card Games--There's often a game of Rummy going on at my house on any given holiday. Again so many to choose from and card decks are easy to come by. Make it more interesting and play for M&M's, or leftover desert.
*Pirate Tree or White Elephant Gift Exchanges--There are so many variations of this game. Everyone knows the White Elephant, but have you ever been a Pirate? Look here for further directions. I've heard of further variations where the gifts had to be homemade or usable by the day's end (in the case of a game, Polaroid camera, or yummy goodies).
*Sledding--Come on! You know you want to get out there with the kids. And think of all the calories you'll be burning. Enough for an extra piece of pie! Then take a step back and grab the video camera while your uncle hits the slope.
*Target shooting--We are an outdoor family and there have been many a Christmas mornings where we've packed up Hot Chocolate and appetizers to target shoot while waiting for the turkey.
*Organize a musical competition or talent show--just hurry before the turkey kicks in. No drozy performers. No one in your family has any musical talent? Break out the Karaoke. Can you picture Grandma singing "I saw Mama kissin' Santa Clause?
*Offer to help with clean up--You wouldn't believe the bonding you can do with your sister in law while you're at a sink doing dishes.

Whatever you decide to do on Christmas day, remember to make it memorable. Go beyond the ordinary questions. Laugh, giggle with your children, and build memories. Mark this Christmas as different than the last.

For more Works for Me ideas, check out We Are THAT Family.

Weekend Links ll December 1, 2023

 

U.S. Elections Unit Study

14 Fresh Homemade Soap Recipes

Gingerbread Home Decor

7 Benefits of Launching a Kid's Book Club

5 Unique Christmas Unit Studies

This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:

The weather certainly turned this week.  My heater's been kicking on more and we've been snuggling up with blankets.  So with that in mind, I added Black Bean Skillet to our menu.  It's sort of like the Hamburger Helper that we all grew up on, but so much better.  We all love it so much that I might have to double it next time.

What I'm Reading:

My reading has switched over into leisurely reading for the holidays.  I picked up a short story collection that all focused on Amish love stories at Christmastime.  Typically I'm not into short stories, but this time of year, it's nice to find quick little stories that I can track during the business of Christmas.  So it's been the perfect read for snuggling on the couch in the evenings.

What I'm Doing:

This week has been catching up little things here and there before Nutcracker craziness hits.  I finished up the kid's ornaments for this year.  We also finished Josiah's ornaments for his teachers.  That's always a fun project.  Plus trying to get a little shopping done before Christmas.  Surprises, Surprises!

What I'm Enjoying:

Hot Apple Cider...

Seasonal reads...

Christmas Book Advent...

Teaching Josiah to bake...

Christmas lights...

What are you up to?

What is Gameschooling?

If you've been in the homeschooling world for any amount of time, you've probably heard the term gameschooling.  But what is gameschooling?  Is it a new tech program?  A new virtual online school?  What exactly is the hype all about? Well, that's what we're going to be talking about today.  What is Gameschooling?  And how can I incorporate it into my own homeschool?

Gameschooling is all about using games for teaching concepts.  Everything from Math to Language Arts, History to Science... even Art History and Music.  Combining academic subjects with hands on fun to bring learning to life... and throwing in a few laughs as well.  And gameschooling incorporates some of those social skills that are so necessary as well: taking turns, strategy, working with a partner, being a gracious loser, problem solving, and more!

Gameschooling can be used as a primary source of teaching information (such as nature topics) or as a supplement to what you're learning in your book work.  And playing games is highly disarming.  When I find that we're running into a mental roadblock, I'll often look for a game that will address the same concept to help my children learn it in a fun way.  Playing a game puts my children at ease and allows them to better grasp the concepts that I'm trying to teach.

Gameschooling is also a wonderful way to bring the family together.  While some subject areas are better taught at grade level (math in particular), others can be taught or reviewed in a group.  Gameschooling is a great way of leveling the playing field and having everyone learn together.  It's also a wonderful way of inviting other family members into your homeschool.  Grandma doesn't have to feel comfortable with Algebra, but may be more than happy to play a math game with the kids.

Furthermore, you can find a game on nearly any subject.  Logic, geography, history, and language arts just to name a few.  Over the years, we've used both traditional games and some of the more "educational" games to incorporate gameschooling into our home.  Additionally, Teachers Pay Teachers is a wonderful site for finding grade level printables and holiday specific learning challenges such as mad libs, crosswords, word searches, escape rooms, and more.

Gameschooling has become an intregal part of our homeschool over the years, allowing us to learn new ideas from a comfortable, fun angle without feeling the pressure of checking off all the boxes.  It's a wondeful way to create memories in your family while addressing academics and embracing your family culture.

Have you tried gameschooling?

What are some of your favorites?

Balto and Togo: Hero Dogs of Alaska {Review}

 

This middle school historical fiction takes readers back to the diphtheria outbreak of 1924.  The town of Nome is facing a deadly disease attacking it's citizens.  But getting one million units of antitoxin to Alaska in the middle of the winter is no easy task.  Nome's only hope lies in the hands of Alaska's mushers and sled dogs.  Are these dogs up for the task?  Or will Alska find itself in the midst of a full-blown epidemic?

Balto and Togo: Hero Dogs of Alaska tells this true story from the perspective of townspeople, mushers, and sled dogs.  While the townsfolk understand what's happening, the dogs sense the urgency of the situation and rise to the challenge.  The dog chapters not only focus on Balto and Togo, but the many dog teams that banded together to make the Serum Run a success.  The author does a beautiful job of weaving fact and fiction together, keeping me on the edge of my seat for the entire book.  I also asked my 12 year old son what he thought.  He really enjoyed this book as he said he knew a little about the Serum Run, but Balto and Togo made the background information so much clearer.  He really came away from this book with a better understanding of the events.

All in all, I would whole heartedly recommend this one.  It would make a great read aloud as well as an independent read for any middle schooler.  Cannot recommend this title highly enough.

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

15 Important Manners for Children (Really, for all of us)

 *This post was originally published on 6/9/15.  Enjoy!

1. Say hello when someone greets you--This is a tough one sometimes if you have a shy child.  But it's important to acknowledge others when they say hello.  We're also working on making eye contact.  Baby steps.  :-)

2. Politely answer questions clearly-- We live in a fast paced world where our answers can be mumbled, rushed, or sound irritated.  So we're working on POLITELY answering questions.

3. Say please, thank you and you're welcome--This one's easy.  It just takes time, but hearing "Please and Thank You" going a long way in valuing other people.

4. Learn to loose gracefully--It's hard to loose, especially when you have a competitive personality.  So loosing gracefully is a real skill.  Our goal is to not just loose without tears, but to loose still being able to offer a heartfelt congratulations.

5. Keep unfavorable comments to yourself--Remember Grandma's saying, "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all?"  That's a great life lesson to benefit all of us not only in relationships, but in the work place as well.

6. Avoid gossip--Is it true?  Is it helpful?  Is someone in danger?  Do you have this person's permission to share their business?  If the answer is no, please consider it to be gossip and keep it to yourself.

7. Look at the person talking to you--This one goes back to #1.  Acknowledging others shows that you value them and value what they have to say.  Making eye contact goes a long way in building relationships.

8. Say good-bye to guests/ Say thank you to hosts--This one is especially important when they are invited into someone's home.  Making sure to say "Thank you" shows appreciation for someone else's time and preparation.

9. Wait for others to be seated before eating--It's so hard to wait for dinner, but being patient, again, shows appreciation for someone else's preparation and enjoying a meal together.

10. Use utensils appropriately--Learning to use utensils properly, especially a knife, can be a skill that  takes time and practice.  So we practice with lots of patience.  But we do practice so that our kids have appropriate dinner table manners.

11. Ask to be excused from the table--Asking to be excused gives parents a chance to acknowledge that the child has eaten well and cleaned his spot appropriately.

12. Ladies first--This is an easy manner to practice and typically one of the first that my children master.

13. Pick up after yourself--Being able to pick up and take care of one's belongings shows appreciation and can lead to healthy self-care.  It's also shows appreciation and care for common areas of the home.

14. Be appreciative--If I haven't said it enough time already, APPRECIATION, APPRECIATION, APPRECIATION!  Teach it, Practice it, Live it!

15. Apologize--Learning to look others in the eye, feel empathy, and take responsibility for one's actions is based a lot on maturity.  But if we wait for maturity, we've missed the opportunity to teach empathy.  Start teaching now for the pay-off later.

These are just 15 Important Manners we are teaching our kids every day.  

What other manners would you add to the list?

Incorporating A Cranberry Thanksgiving Into Your Homeschool

A few years ago, we can across the classic picture book, A Cranberry Thanksgiving by Wende and Harry Devlin.  This charming story introduces us to Maggie and her grandmother preparing for Thanksgiving.  While Maggie and Mr. Whiskers gather firewood, Grandmother creates her famous Cranberry bread... a recipe so famous that she hides it to keep it a secret.  As part of their tradition, Maggie and Grandmother each invite a guest to share their Thanksgiving dinner... Mr. Whiskers and Mr. Horace.  The story is fun, unexpected, and holds an important message: "Don't judge a book by its cover."  Paired with the themes of friendship and hospitality, A Cranberry Thanksgiving has become a family favorite.    

Reading A Cranberry Thanksgiving is a great starting place for even more cranberry unit study activities.  Included in the back of the book is Grandmother's super secret Cranberry Bead recipe.  Apparently it's not a secret any more.  And while pumpkin typically dominates in fall flavors, this cranberry recipe is really quite tasty.  We typically make muffins for Friday morning breakfast, so we've adapted the bread recipe and bake them together after reading the book.  They definitely satisfy the "comfort food" craving.

Baking offers a multitude of learning activities.  Reading a recipe involves  reading comprehension, attention to detail, and sequential thinking.  Math concepts abound with meansuremnets, franctions and even multiplication and division.  Science is part of the process as well making it a full activity.  

While the mufins are baking, it's a great time to talk about plot, setting, and themes.  The book does a great job of contrasting all four major characters and their motivation in the story.  And this simple picture book follows a classic story arc, making it a great example to study.  

Chalk Pastels also offers a lesson on creating Mr. Whiskers from the book.  The lines are simple, and basic for beginners, but the end result is very satisfying.  It really does look like him!  There's also a silhouette lesson for artists who want to take it a step further.

If you have older students and want to take it a step further, here are several other resources we've found:

*Ocean Spray's Cranberries in the Classroom website

*Make a cranberry bog in a cup

*Use cranberries to determine acids and bases

*Create a Cranberry Thanksgiving lap book

*Build a cranberry raft

*and so much more!

What fun activities would you include?

Weekend Links ll November 17, 2023

St. Nicholas Unit Study

Apple Crisp Without Oats

Thanksgiving Would You Rather

Brussel Sprouts Arugula Salad

I Spy Thanksgiving Printables

This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:

Over the past couple of years, we sit down to read Cranberry Thanksgiving the last week of school before break.  The story is simple and cute and has a great moral.  Along with that, we use the cranberry loaf recipe in the back to make cranberry muffins for the Friday morning before Thanksgiving.  It's a fun way to incorporate the season and kick off our break.  Even though the kids are in 10th and 7th grade, it's one of those traditions that's hung on.  And when they move out, I'll probably still be baking this recipe.

What I'm Reading:

I'm still reading Age of Opportunity and loving the way the author flips the script to make the teen years a beautiful season of life and parenting.  It's really reminding me what a honor and a privilege it is to raise teens and how best to utilize that time.  I borrowed a copy from the library, but am thinking I'd like to own this one.  It's really that good.

What I'm Doing:

I'm in full crafting mode around here... trying to finish up Christmas ornaments so we can hang them when we get our tree... working on dance recital projects... and little touches for the house.  Lydia and I went to two Christmas craft fairs last weekend and had a wonderful time shopping around and seeing all the creativity in our community.  And doing lots of Christmas planning.

What I'm Enjoying:

Throw blankets...

Fuzzy socks...

Cranberry muffins...

Crockpot meals...

Reading The Hobbit for 7th grade...

What are you up to?

Until the Streetlights Come On {Review}

 

Written by the 1000 Hours Outside author Ginny Yurich, Until the Streetlights Come On continues to inspire parents in their quest for getting kids outdoors.  This title is filled with practical tips as well as some of Ginny's own personal stories about getting outside.  Yurich shares not only the how, but also the why's of this movement, pointing how important nature therapy is for all of us.  So many take-aways built into this book, including a reminder that being outdoors builds leadership, cooperation, resilience, and so much more.  I came away from this title refreshed and reinspired to not only get my kids outdoors, but to join them as well.  This book would be a great read for new parents, old parents, homeschool parents, public school parents... really anyone wanting to preserve childhood and create margin in their family life.

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

Fall Homeschool Favorites ll Collab

 *This post was originally published on 11/19/18.  Enjoy!

(Click on post for video)

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

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Weekend Links ll November 10, 2023

Cook Your Way Through Little House in the Big Woods

Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers

Thanksgiving Fresh Flower Pumpkin Centerpiece

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Unit Study

Don't Forget the Mom Who's Graduated Her Homeschoolers!

This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:

The weather turned COLD this week!  I was shocked to hear the heater kick on a few nights ago.  So there's been several soups on our menu this week, including a favorite: Crockpot Lasagna Soup.  I love how simple it is to throw together in the crockpot and I just need to cook some pasta at the last minute.  Plus when all three kids love it??? BONUS!

What I'm Reading:

This week I picked up Age of Opportunity by Paul David Tripp.  I've heard several bloggers review this and parenting teens is no joke.  So when I discovered my library has a copy, I had to pick it up.  I'm only a few days in, but so far, so good.

What I'm Doing:

Fall always feels like nesting season for me... at least until the holidays REALLY kick in.  This is the time of year that I like to can the fall fruits, bake bread, complete home projects, etc.  So in the last couple of weeks, I've been pulling the blackberries out of the freezer and making jam... lots of jam. :-)

What I'm Enjoying:

Slipper socks...

Baking homemade bread...

Trying to figure out sourdough...

Instrumental praise music...

Evening board games...

What are you up to?

What We're Reading and Our Homeschool Read Alouds ll Oct 2023

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 Sharing our reads from October including some faith reads, parenting, and more!

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑22yrs led to 👱18 yrs, 👧15 yrs, and 👱 12 yrs. Well Said Review: http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/10/well-said-review.html Alice Atherton's Grand Tour Review: http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/10/alice-athertons-grand-tour-review.html What We Read in November 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vXr54Fr_oc&t=6s Fall Reading List: http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/09/fall-reading-list-ll-2023.html My Mom Notebooks ll Homeschool Tools for Mom: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJJXr... Five Books that Shaped Me as a Parent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P59Ud... 2021-22 Homeschool Read Alouds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5AXS... 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/ https://www.goodreads.com/review/list... Music Attribution: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod FTC Disclosure: This video is not sponsored. *This video is not intended for audiences under 13 years

November Holidays and Homeschool Ideas

*This post was originally published on 10/30/17.  Enjoy! 

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

November 1st--Dia De Los Muertos
     *Read what Dia De Los Muetros really is
     *And here!
     *Bake Pan De Muerto
     *Create Sugar Scull inspired Rock Art

November 5th--Donut Day
     *Bake some Apple Cider Donut Holes
     *Sew some Felt Food Donuts
     *Do something unexpected

November 13th--World Kindness Day
     *Help an elderly neighbor with a household chore... just because!
     *Hold open a door
     *Call your grandparents
     *Visit a nursing home
     *Smile more!  At people... everywhere... just smile at others all day long!

November 17th--Homemade Bread Day
     *Start with Basic Homemade Bread
     *Move on to some Savory Monkey Bread
     *Finish it off with some Cinnamon Swirl Donut Bread

November 18th--Mickey Mouse Day
     *Read Who Was Walt Disney
     *Learn to draw Mickey
     *Create a Mickey and Minnie Wreath

November 18th--National Adoption Day
     (This might be my personal favorite)
     *Learn about our journey here!
     *And here!
     *And here!

November 23rd--Thanksgiving Day
     *Play this Roll a Turkey Game
     *Make a Thankful Journal for the family to write in throughout the month
     *Make this Turkey and Narrative Thanksgiving Craftivity

What days are you celebrating this month?

Grieving During the Holidays

*This post was originally published on 12/14/12... Enjoy!

 *Let me just start out by saying this isn't a post I ever wanted to write.  But after several conversations I've had recently, I realized it was a topic that affects so many of us.  And one that has laid heavy on my heart. 

This may be the first Christmas you spend without a loved one.  Or it may be the fifteenth.  It might be someone far away.  Or a loved one as close as next door.  Whatever the case may be, it was be different.  Your heart may be heavy, ... broken, ... calloused.  Or perhaps it's resting in a more peaceful place than it was last year.  No matter the case, it will be holiday season that's changed through your grief, past or present.

Last August, my husband and I were away for the weekend.  A rare treat with little ones.  My mom was watching the kids for the weekend and we were celebrating 10 years of marriage.  It was a refreshing weekend to get away, but on our last morning, we received a phone call that my cousin had passed away.  Young, carefree, and troubled,... and in a moment he was gone.

We all began dealing with the grief in our own way.  Some more troubled than others.  But less than two months later, we received a second phone call.  My uncle, and closest neighbor growing up, was in the hospital after having a stroke.  His situation was pretty sensitive as he was also a lifelong diabetic.  They airlifted him to the hospital in our town, three hours from home, and my husband and I were some of the first ones to see him.  For a month, we had family living with us while we made our daily trips to the hospital.  Unfortunately, he passed away in early November 2011.  And the year wore on.

Weeks before Christmas, my husband and I had just returned from a memorial service for my uncle when we received yet another phone call.  His grandfather had just received the news that he only had months to live.  We sat down and reworked our plans that afternoon to spend New Years with his family.  Within 24 hours, his grandfather passed and again, we grieved.  And found ourselves at the second funeral/memorial in two weeks.

Our holidays certainly felt empty.

I say this not for your sympathy, but for those of you walking through it.  To say, I've been there.  It hurts.  No amount of memories can replace the feeling of your loved one's embrace.  I'm not writing this as one looking in.  But as one in the midst of swirling emotions, still fresh after a year.  And as we continue to grieve (and perhaps may never stop), I want to offer a small amount of encouragement that you can keep putting one foot in front of the other.  You can make it through today... and tomorrow... and even Christmas.

-Say a prayer- There were days last holiday season that I couldn't get out of bed without first praying.  Things as simple as fixing breakfast for my kids felt absolutely meaningless in the midst of my grief.  Each day I had to acknowledge my pain and ask the Lord to lift me up through the day.  Without that prayer, I would have wasted into nothing.

-Don't be afraid to mention their name-  Sometimes we don't want to say their name out loud on the chance of upsetting someone.  This was particularly the case with my Grandma.  And we all have to know when to be sensitive to that.  But so often I would find myself wanting to remember my cousins' laughter.  Or my uncles' own brand of teasing.  Or falling asleep while watching the Walton's Christmas special.  Those are memories that my family shared as well.  And just saying them, although mixed with tears, brought us all some relief.  As though it were ok to remember the good times and still miss them.

-Create a physical reminder of them- For some it may an ornament.  For others it may be a special angel for the mantel.  Still others may which to create a collage for the hall.  Whatever it is, don't be afraid to remember. 

-Do something they would have loved- The years we spend Thanksgiving with my mom, we go out the day after and cut down Christmas trees.  That always reminds me of my uncle.  He loved it, even getting trees for family who couldn't join us that day.  Is there a favorite tradition that you enjoyed together?  Or a dish you always baked for your loved one?  Embrace it and try to remember how much they embraced it as well.

-Create a new memory- Likewise, don't be afraid to veer from tradition simply because your loved one isn't there to enjoy it.  Sometimes creating new traditions can remind us that we're still here.  We still have new things to experience and enjoy.  And that's ok too.

-Visit the grave site- In my every day life, I love flowers, but feel they're so frivolous.  But when visiting a loved one's grave site, I love to take flowers.  It's just a small token of love.  Take some flowers, a poinsetta, or a wreath.  And give yourself time to grieve, talk, pray, or sing.

-Give yourself permission to grieve- Sometimes, this is the hardest one of all.  Society tells us to cry, wipe the tears, and move on.  But grief has a funny way of sneaking up on you if you don't give yourself time to deal with it in your own way and on your own timeline.  This can be especially hard on us moms and dads with children at home.  I know I felt the pressure last year to carry on with Christmas as usual "for the sake of my kids."  But it's important for us to grieve.  And to be ok with our grief.  As hard as that may sound, it's also important for our children to see us process through grief as they learn from our example.

If you're grieving this holiday season, please know that you're not alone.  You have my deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers.  I would love to pray for you.  Feel free to leave me a comment sharing how I can pray for you.  Or if you're not comfortable with a public forum, you can reach me through the contact info on the top of the page.

May the Lord grant you peace beyond your own understanding as He comforts and guides you through this season!

Pros and Cons of Homeschooling

* This post was originally published on 10/23/18.  Enjoy!

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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

 

Weekend Links ll October 27, 2023

Creamy Mushroom Wild Rice Soup

 

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

DIY Moss Wall Art

Butternut Squash, Sausage, and Tortellini Soup

Bat Anatomy Worksheets

This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:

My favorite meal this week was a crockpot full of Stuffed Pepper Soup.  This one has been a mainstay in our diet for many years.  It's filling and warm for a week when the weather is certianly changing.  I love making this one in the crockpot 'cause I can throw it together while homeschooling in the mornings and it's ready for dinner after all our afternoon activities.

What I'm Reading:

This week I picked up Five Children and It by E. Nesbit.  I've heard many people rave about this one, but so far, I don't understand the hype.  I'm only a few chapters in so I'm hoping it picks up.  But it just hasn't been very engaging so far.

What I'm Doing:

I'm working on hopefully finishing Josiah's Christmas ornament this week.  I started it a few weeks ago, but just haven't quite had enough time to finish it up.  I'm trying to finish up a couple of ornaments in the next few weeks so I can move on to the next holiday task, and stay ahead of the insanity.

What I'm Enjoying:

Flannel pajama pants...

Homemade Applesauce made on the stovetop...

the changing leaves...

learning sourdough...

fall festivals...

What are you up to?

10th Grade Curriculum ll 2023-24

 (Click on Post for Video)

Today I'm sharing our curriculum picks for tenth grade.. Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑22yrs led to 👱18 yrs, 👧15 yrs, and 👱 12 yrs. Analogies Flip Through: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84PS8QaQDIc&t=1s Best of the Homeschool Year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VoTH3hjZYQ&t=1s Fourth Grade Homeschool Curriculum Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhhBtibAvNo&t=2s Homeschool Haul ll Rainbow Resource, Christianbook, and more! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHPcEDTnp68 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/ https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/52903?ref=nav_mybooks Music Attribution: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod FTC Disclosure: This video is not sponsored. *This video is not intended for audiences under 13 years.

Setting Your Holiday Calendar ll Homeschooling Through the Holidays

*This post was originally published on 10/15/19.  Enjoy!

(Click on Post for Video)

Today we're tackling the first step in Homeschooling Through the Holidays: Setting Your Holiday Calendar.  We'll talk about some of the non-negotiables, the importance of writing it down, and the necessity of finding margin.

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑18yrs led to 👱14 yrs, 👧11 yrs, and 👱 8 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:
Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod

 

10 Goals This Week

 Wow!  How is it the second half of October?  I'm in utter shock.  We were planning out Halloween costumes this past weekend and I suddenly realized... there's only a few months left in 2023!!!  And the busiest months at that.  I'm having a hard time keeping up.  So I'm starting off this week with a few goals that some how seem to keep getting pushed to the wayside.  Some of these just need a start... a few others have to get taken care of this week.  Wish me luck and let me know what you're goal setting this week.

Parenting/ Homeschooling: 

*Start sign ups for Nutcracker field trip

*Organize clothes for photos

*Get out to the pumpkin patch

*Prep Rainbow Resource order

Homemaking:

*Make soap

*Shred zucchinis

*Upload Jan-March photos

*Order photos

Personal:

*Finish one Christmas ornament

*Work on sourdough

What goals are you setting this week?

Weekend Links ll October 20, 2023

 

WWII Booklist for Middle School and High School

What if My Teen Doesn't Know What He Wants to Be When He Grows Up?

Lighted Halloween Pumpkin Cauldron

Healthy Lunch Box Ideas for Adults

DIY Book Page Ornament

This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:

We are finishing up a three week family fast.  For the past three weeks, we focused on fasting from meat and sugar as we prayed for our church family.  It's been interesting, but I must say the kids have been troopers and we discovered, we actually have a few meals that were ok or even better meatless.

The easiest meal for me to adapt this week was chili in the crockpot.  This one wasn't too foreign for me as I grew up eating a pot of beans on occasion and I actually like it.  The weather is turning so it was the perfect time to add it to the rotation.

What I'm Reading:

Right now, I'm on the book launch team for Until the Streetlights Come On by Ginny Yurich.  I love her 1000 Hours Outside podcast and it's really inspired us to up our time outdoors.  So I'm excited to read this title and see what she has to say.  I'll have a full review next month.

What I'm Doing:

I'm trying to get a jumpstart on some of the end of the year activities: crafting, planning field trips, and trying to make sure we don't loose our minds in the hustle and bustle.  I'll have a goals post going up on Monday with some times that I'm hoping to accomplish and not keep procrastinating.

What I'm Enjoying:

Road to Avonlea episodes with my daughter...

Chocolate Shakeology to curb the cravings...

Cooler weather and open windows...

Morning rain showers...

Reading the Little House series...

What are you up to?

The Little Books of the Little Brontes {Review}

 

This sweet picture book follows the lives of the four Bronte siblings as they imagine and create books together.  Although they've had their share of sadness after loosing their mother and two sisters, the children live in a wide world of stores and poetry, novels and ponderings.  And when Branwell is gifted a box of toy soldiers, the children embark on a writing adventure that will last them all a lifetime.

The illustrations in this books are beautiful and add to the overall mood of the story.  There's additional information in the back including a time line and a paper craft for creating your own book.  The story is sweet and shows the resilience of the siblings.  But other than that, it doesn't contain a lot of depth.  This is a very brief introduction to the Bronte family and may not mean much to a younger audience. 

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

How I Zone Clean with Kids

 *This post was originally published on 6/12/20. Enjoy!

(Click on post for video)

7th Grade Curriculum ll 2023-24

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Today I'm sharing our curriculum picks for seventh grade..

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑22yrs led to 👱18 yrs, 👧15 yrs, and 👱 12 yrs. Analogies Flip Through: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84PS8QaQDIc&t=1s Best of the Homeschool Year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VoTH3hjZYQ&t=1s Fourth Grade Homeschool Curriculum Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhhBtibAvNo&t=2s Homeschool Haul ll Rainbow Resource, Christianbook, and more! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHPcEDTnp68 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/ https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/52903?ref=nav_mybooks Music Attribution: Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeod FTC Disclosure: This video is not sponsored. *This video is not intended for audiences under 13 years.