Friday, April 28, 2023

Weekend Links ll April 28, 2023

 














This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:
We are trying to squeeze in all our favorite crockpot soups this week since the weather will be changing soon.  So my favorite soup this week was Pasta E Fagoili.  My 11 year old even loves this one.  To make it even easier, I chop all my veggies, brown the burger, and sautee the vegetables the night before.  That makes dumping everything in the crockpot even easier in the morning.  Plus my teenage son has been learning to make homemade rolls so we put our favorite together and came up with a pretty good dinner.

What I'm Reading:
My current non-fiction book is The Hope We Hold by Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo.  This one has been out for awhile, but I just didn't have the time to pick it up.  I'm just starting this one today so we'll see if it's any good.

What I'm Doing:
This week flew by.  I had jury duty for several days which was definitely a difficult balancing act with kids, a car in the shop, and homeschool.  Both the teenagers also came down with a nasty cold and as sweet as they have been, it's still been tugging at my heart strings to see them sick.  So I've been doing as much as I can to help them feel better.

What I'm Enjoying:
Ceiling fans...
21 Day Fix Extreme...
Summer dresses...

What are you up to?

Thursday, April 27, 2023

The Dreamkeeper Saga: Lost in the Caverns {Review}


In this third book of the Dreamkeeper Saga, twelve year old Lily must protect Prince Rowan from wicked king Magnus and restore the kingdom of the Mist Elves.  As an artisan, Lily is used to imagining and creating.  Instead, this time, Prince Pax tells her to share his story with everyone she meets.  Still the pull to create creeps into Lily's heart and she struggles to follow Pax's request.  Along their journey, Lily and Rowan encounter a host villains as they work to rescue forgotten dreams, prisoners, and a mysterious creator.  Will Lily be able to stay true to her word and share Pax's story in the face of her own fears and insecurities?

 This is the third book that I've read from author Kathryn Butler.  My 11 year old son and I were introduced to this series last April when the first book was published and we've been big fans ever since.  The storylines just keep getting better and better.  I love how the author has been able to continue some characters from book to book and still keep introducing new realms and adventures.  These books are very similiar in fashion to the works of C.S. Lewis as well as The Green Ember series.  There are lots of Christian themes including the fight of good vs. evil and the redemption story.  There are definitely some dark villains that play on Lily's weaknesses, but even then, we're see the lessons of facing our fears and staying focused on what is true.  We love this series and highly recommend it to readers of all ages.

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

Tuesday, April 25, 2023

The Weaving of Life {Review}

 


The first in a new series, The Weaving of Life introduces readers to Susan Lapp, an independent young Amish woman determined not to marry and settle down.  Jadded by watching her sisters' spoiled marriages, Susan commits herself to the single life.  But when her brother's co-worker comes into her life, Susan begins to experience new and confusing feelings.  Fleeing these feelings, she takes a teaching job as part of a new Amish settlement in the west.  However, even here, life is far from perfect.  Susan's new life is rocked with homesickness, teaching challenges, and new relationships.  Will Susan ever find God's will through life's ups and downs?

This is only the second book I've read by author Linda Byler and it was much more interesting than the first. The character of Susan Lapp is complex and interesting.  At the beginning of the book, she is so frustrating.  There is so much about her character that is dislikable.  But as the book progresses, we get to see different sides of her.  Her complexity becomes more obvious and she's much more relatable.  The book took several twists and turns, leading to multiple settings and introducing a host of characters.  All the personalities displayed and the cliffhanger at the end were really what made The Weaving of Life interesting.  I'm anxious to see how some of these loose ends get resolved in book two.

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

Friday, April 21, 2023

Weekend Links ll April 21, 2023













This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:
We have been loving playing with fish tacos lately... finding a good fish, making a great homemade salsa, and recruiting my daughter to make homemade tortillas.  It all comes together beautifully.

Other than that, dinners this week were pretty simple.  We're turning the corner into a true spring so it's been less crockpot soups and many more nutritious salads and quick sandwiches.

What I'm Reading:
This week I finally picked up Mark Twain's A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.  I first heard about this week while taking a literature course through Hillsdale College and added it to my reading list.  So far, I don't really know what to think of it.  I'm trying to wrap my mind around if it's just humorous, is it satire... what was Twain trying to say here.  I'm still just a few pages in so I'm not sure if I'll stick with it or not, but at least giving it a try.

What I'm Doing:
Working in the backyard... doing lots of parenting work... trying to wrap my mind around having a homeschool graduate in 6 short weeks...

What I'm Enjoying:
Evening walks with this mild weather...
Baking with the kids...
Stretching out of my comfort zone...

What are you up to?

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

Teatime Discipleship {Review}

 


In Teatime Discipleship, author Sally Clarkson shares from the Scriptures, quotes, life stories and more that have shaped her unique philosophy of discipleship.  Centered around the theme of teatime, Clarkson speaks of opening her home and her heart in order to cultivate deep relationships and ultimately share the hope of the gospel.  She encourages readers that each discipleship relationship will be special based on their own story of God in their lives, and that He is willing and waiting to use them in the world.  Filled with encouragement, teatime ideas, and recipes, Teatime Discipleship draws the reader to sit at the feet of Jesus and share his message with others.

Clarkson does a wonderful job of reminding all of us to slow down and invest in those around us.  She shares how her own journey required her to reach out to others often, a reality that is especially prevalent in today's lonely world.  Still she found encouragement from Jesus and reaped the benefits of a life spent giving of herself.  In a time where we all desire to make an impact, such a simple act of sharing tea can often be overlooked.  But it's this simple act that opens a multitude of hearts.  I loved listening to the author narrate this audiobook version.  She's speaks with such love and gentleness.  A physical copy of this book would make a wonderful gift and would be an encouragment for years to come.

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

Monday, April 17, 2023

25 Things To Teach My Sons Before They're 25

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

 photo IMG_7236_zpsryl11iyc.jpg 


1. Car maintenance-- This is the priciest investment that you're making and I want to make sure you know how to maintain it.  Even older cars can run for a long time with the proper care.

2. Opening the car door for a lady-- Yes, I know it's old fashioned, but it's a great sign of respect and one that values others.

3. Clean up your messes-- Picking up one activity before starting another, cleaning the kitchen, or cleaning the bathroom are all important if you're going to survive life, or even college for that matter.

4. Accept a compliment-- When someone tells you "job well done", accept the compliment gracefully. Nod your head and say "Thank you."  You don't have to boast, but acknowledge their compliment with dignity.

5. Be a good loser-- Life doesn't always go your way.  Sometimes you win, sometimes you loose.  They need to know how to lose well and congratulate their opponent.

6. Properly greet someone-- It's all about respect.  Shake someone's hand, make eye contact, and acknowledge them as a human being.

7.  Try your hardest-- Do your best work.  Try your hardest.  Know that nothing comes easily and you never know if you can do it until you try.

8.  Don't let anyone shame about where you come from-- Your family and your home are where you came from.  Take all those lessons you've learned there and allow them to form you into the best possible version you can be.  And if anyone wants to say something about your past, send them to me.

9. Respect your elders-- The elders in your life have many lessons to teach you.  They've lived through situations and in times that we can only imagine.  And they love you beyond all reason.

10. Make friends with your in-laws-- Some day you'll meet a girl that you love... and then you'll meet her family.  And yes, they are a part of the deal.  Get comfortable, respect their opinion, and know they're going through a transition too.

11. Don't chase girls-- Before you meet THAT girl, there will be others.  Don't chase them.  Get to know them.  Make lots of friends and keep an open mind.  If she's the one, she's not going anywhere. Take your time.

12. But DO take initiative-- If you meet someone you want to get to know, let her know.  Don't play games.

13. Value others-- Find value in others for WHO they are, not what they DO.  Know that people are created in God's image.  And that alone gives them value.  Respect!

14.  Roll with the punches-- Life isn't going to always be fun.  In fact, it's going to be down right vicious at times.  But don't let it knock you down.  Get back on your feet and keep going.  Life closes a door?  Crawl through a window.

15. Laugh at life-- And while you're crawling through that window, have a good laugh. 

16. Walk with integrity-- Let your yes be yes and your no be no.  Stand by your word and your principles.  Pick and choose your battles, but when you pick one, stand firm.

17. Take charge of your health-- You've been given a gift of life.  Value it.  Don't play with your health by abusing drugs or alcohol.  Fuel your body with good food, get enough rest, and exercise. 

18. Value your body-- That goes for sex too.  Abstinence isn't an easy road.  In fact, it's d*mn hard.  But your body is yours.  Value it.  Be careful who you share it with.  Make sure who you end up sharing it with is worthy of it.

19.  Share your feelings-- Don't be afraid to share how you're feeling with others.  They can't understand how you're feeling and what you're thinking if you don't tell them.  Learn to communicate effectively and with grace.

20.  Building deep relationships-- Deep relationships and friendships are what will see you through your darkest times.  Put effort into them.  Let others know they're valued and be loyal to those around you.  You're never regret building deep relationships.

21.  Don't be afraid to admit when you're wrong-- We're all wrong from time to time.  None of us are perfect.  Others will respect you more if you're willing to admit when you're wrong.  And don't do it grudgingly.  Apologize with humility.

22.  Be on time-- Being on time shows others that you respect their time as well.  Make the effort to arrive a few minutes early and you'll go a long way in showing yourself to be dependable.

23.  Find something you love doing, then learn how to make a living doing that-- This one's tricky.  Sometimes the thing we love aren't the obvious choice for a career.  Use your creativity to find new ways to make a living.

24. Tell the truth--It's not always easy.  Sometimes it gets you into trouble.  Sometimes it can be taken he wrong way.  But speaking the truth in love is always the best choice and will save you from a world of heartache.

25.  Mom and Dad are always on your side-- We are ALWAYS on your side.  Let me say that again... ALWAYS.  From the time you were conceived, we've prayed for you, loved you, and dedicated ourselves to being the best parents for YOU.  There's nothing that you can do to surprise us or make us stop loving YOU.  Somethings may hurt, sometimes we may have to confront you with the truth, but we are ALWAYS, ALWAYS on your side.

Friday, April 14, 2023

Weekend Links ll April 14, 2023















This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:
I've had the kids in the kitchen with me again this week so we've been going over lots of simple meals.  My sons helped with pizza and potato soup, while my daughter helped with fish tacos.  It's been fun to see what they enjoy learning and want to grow in, while also seeing their confidence grow in their sills.

What I'm Reading:
I'm still reading Lost in the Caverns.  I'll save my full review for later, but as we thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, you probably already have a pretty good idea of what I'm going to say. :-)

What I'm Doing:
We're off school this week so I'm basically reading, catching up on life, and supervising piano practice.  We have made a few side trips and spent last weekend enjoying some time at Grandma's house.

What I'm Enjoying:
Evening dates with my daughter...
Cool spring days...
Kids in the kitchen...

What are you up to?

Wednesday, April 12, 2023

All of Creation {Review}


Part science text, part devotional, All of Creation introduces young readers to such concepts as conservation and sustainable living in an accessible format.  Based on the concept that Christians have been tasked to be stewards of the earth, this book not only introduces tough issues, but attempts to show what the Bible says about them, and how we should react based on our Christian beliefs.  Each chapter includes a section highlighting actionable steps that readers can take. Scientific facts are paired with beautiful illustrations creating a nice finished product.

I went into this book expecting it to be similiar to Louie Giglio's Indescribable.  Unfortunately, I was disappointed.  On the plus side, this book does go further into the science behind what's happening on our planet.  However, the "Biblical principles" are loosely connected and questionable at times.  I found the overall tone of the first couple of chapters to be condescending. Some of the calls to action felt emotionally manipulative and were frankly off-putting.  As the book continued, things became slightly better, but were still off.  So it's with mixed emotions that I find myself cautioning parents.  This is definitely not a book to blindly hand off to your children.  Rather read it with them.  Or perhaps even better, don't read it at all.

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

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

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

(Click on post for video)

Sharing what I read this month... lots of fiction including a classic read that I've read over and over again :-) ... some non-fiction, and TWO family read alouds.

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑21yrs led to 👱17 yrs, 👧15 yrs, and 👱 11 yrs. 1000 Hours Outside ll How Do We Do It? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RfFoQtF0w8I Ten Tips for Making Writing Fun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BP7Bl-OEIWs What We Read in February: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1sGoh1yeuI What's In Our Morning Basket ll Middle and High School: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSl_DnZtyg&t=1s Our Homeschool Read Aloud List ll 2022-23: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0bBWBJNXyk&t=657s Winter Reading List ll 2023: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-UZaL838gg Three Free or Inexpensive Art Resources for Homeschool: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNgmMQEj4pM 1000 Hours Outside in 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gat0hSyCBLc 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.

Monday, April 10, 2023

17 Frugal Outdoor Activities for Families

    *This post was originally published on 4/14/18.  Enjoy!                                 

                                                


Spring is here and with that warmer temperatures are right around the corner.  While you're planning out the next couple of months, here are some frugal outdoor activities to enjoy as a family.


Build a fort or teepee

Painting cardboard boxes

Painting wooden craft projects

Jump in a pile of leaves

Put on a bike parade

Start a worm farm

Study the layers of soil

Paint with colored water

Spray paint a picture

Organize a talent show

Have a brown bag scavenger hunt

Put on a car wash

Paint rocks

Have a picnic

Create bird feeders

Start a rock collection

Start a garden

How are you celebrating the return of spring?

Friday, April 7, 2023

Weekend Links ll April 7, 2023

 















This Week: 

What I'm Cooking:
This week I recruited all the kids to help me out with meal planning and executing dinners.  With two kids in high school, budgetting, nutrition, and cooking are all skills that they need.  So each kiddo planned a meal and helped cook one night this week.  Some meals were simpler than others, but everyone helped with a smile and all seemed pretty proud of themselves.

What I'm Reading:
Yay!  I was just approved to review the new Kathryn Butler book that is #3 in the Dreamkeeper Saga.  We loved the first two books and have been waiting to hear if we'd be approved for this one.  I'm so excited!!!

What I'm Doing:
We're celebrating Easter with family this weekend. Even though my kids are older, we still love carrying on some of our favorite Easter traditions, including dying Easter eggs and hunting eggs on Easter morning.  Cherishing these days as the kids are reaching the later teen years.

What I'm Enjoying:
Sound of rain on the roof..
Having the kids help with dinner...
Finishing up 9 Week Control Freak...
Gardening...
Reviewing good middle grade reads...

What are you up to?

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

What is 1000 Hours Outside? ll How Do We Do It?

 (Click on post for video)

What is the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge? Why is it important and how do we make it work for our family?

Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑21yrs led to 👱17 yrs, 👧15 yrs, and 👱 11 yrs. Ten Tips for Making Writing Fun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BP7Bl-OEIWs What We Read in February: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1sGoh1yeuI What's In Our Morning Basket ll Middle and High School: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKSl_DnZtyg&t=1s Our Homeschool Read Aloud List ll 2022-23: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0bBWBJNXyk&t=657s Winter Reading List ll 2023: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-UZaL838gg Three Free or Inexpensive Art Resources for Homeschool: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNgmMQEj4pM 1000 Hours Outside in 2022: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gat0hSyCBLc 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.
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