tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57194084466132584702024-03-18T15:56:18.599-07:00Creative 2x MomLeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.comBlogger3501125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-46855952524815938732024-03-14T08:00:00.000-07:002024-03-14T20:39:32.193-07:00Ocean Anatomy Activity Book {Review}<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover298593-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="319" data-original-width="255" height="319" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover298593-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Written as a companion to Julia Rothman's popular Anatomy series, this Ocean Anatomy Activity Book includes:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>shell observation sheets</li><li>"how to draw" pages for sealife</li><li>word searches</li><li>poetry templates</li><li>crossword puzzles </li><li>and more!</li></ul><div>There is such a variety of activities in this book, it would be hard to list them all!</div><div><br /></div><div>This activity book is illustrated in the same style as the original Ocean Anatomy book and would make a great educational addition to any home. It would be a wonderful companion to any homeschool nature study or as part of an ocean unit study. It would appeal to those upper elementary or middle school years, and would be a great item for any child wanting to learn more about ocean life. We loved it and can't wait to use more of the book. </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I recieved a free e-copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span></div></div><br /> <p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-32994414902959473542024-03-11T08:00:00.000-07:002024-03-11T08:00:00.138-07:0010 Non-Candy Items to Fill Your Easter Eggs<p><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post was originally published on 4/7/14. Enjoy!</span></p><p> Easter's coming up quick, quick, quick. Here I am thinking it's great that Easter is so late this year, giving me extra time to think and plan. But wait! It's now the second week of April and Easter's almost here. So if you're looking for an alternative to the standard candy filled egg hunt, here are some ideas to help get you started:</p><br />Money--This one's my favorite. A few rolls of quarters, dimes, and nickels and the kids will love hunting for some change. <br /><br />Trail Mix--You can pick up some ready made mix or make your own. I love making a mix of cranberries, white chocolate, and pumpkin seeds.<br /><br />Stickers--The Dollar Tree carries a huge variety of stickers from seasonal to character. And they make a great filler for Easter eggs.<br /><br />Cheddar Bunnies--My little ones love goldfish and cheddar bunnies are a fun seasonal treat. Plus they're not loaded with sugar.<br /><br />Legos--My eight year old is obsessed with Legos and they make a great addition to an egg hunt.<br /><br />Balloons-- Punch balloons, water balloons, party balloons... they're all great ideas for filling Easter eggs.<br /><br />Bracelets--My daughter loves getting little bracelets, rings and jewels so they make a fun addition to Easter egg hunting.<br /><br />Playdoh--Homemade playdoh or small containers... what a fun idea!<br /><br />Bubbles--Dollar Tree carries small containers of wedding bubbles that fill perfectly in an Easter egg.<br /><br />Cars--Again, dollar store has a great selection for little boys. <br /><br />Really I'm probably going to pick up a variety of all of these for Easter this year. We have a variety of ages and genders and it should be fun to see the surprised looks on their faces.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">What are your favorite Non-Candy Items for Filling Easter Eggs?</div>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-65104889851254307112024-03-08T08:00:00.000-08:002024-03-08T08:00:00.129-08:00Weekend Links ll March 8, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="500" height="800" src="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/image.png" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.livinglifeandlearning.com/hibernation-worksheets.html">Free Printable Hibernation Worksheets</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Chocolate-Lava-Cake-I-Heart-Naptime-10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="571" height="699" src="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Chocolate-Lava-Cake-I-Heart-Naptime-10.jpg" width="499" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/chocolate-lava-cake/">Chocolate Lava Cake</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Benefits-of-Play-for-Teens-F.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="800" height="246" src="https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Benefits-of-Play-for-Teens-F.jpeg" width="491" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://raisinglifelonglearners.com/benefits-of-keeping-it-playful-with-teens/">Benefits of Keeping it Playful with Teens</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Age-Appropriate-Chores.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="576" height="618" src="https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Age-Appropriate-Chores.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/life-skills-vs-parentification/"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/life-skills-vs-parentification/">Valuable Life Skills vs Suffocating Responsibility:</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://yourlargefamilyhomeschool.com/life-skills-vs-parentification/">How to Tell the Difference</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://littlehousebigalaska.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Spinach-Artichoke-Chicken-Casserole-11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="758" src="https://littlehousebigalaska.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Spinach-Artichoke-Chicken-Casserole-11.jpg" width="505" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://littlehousebigalaska.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Spinach-Artichoke-Chicken-Casserole-11.jpg">Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My favorite meal this week was our lettuce wraps. Oh, this is a "stuff yourself silly" recipe that pleases even our pickiest eater. Since lettuce wraps can be so messy, we've actually turned this dinner into more of a salad or bowl just be layering the ingredients. That way no one gets too frustrated to enjoy dinner. But the sauce is so yummy with just the right balance of sweet and salty. And it's light and fresh for a refreshing meal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I just finished The Hiding Place on Monday. I knew the story of Corrie ten Boom and in fact, read the YWAM Christian Heroes: Then and Now biography with my 7th grader this past fall. It's hard to be in Christian circles and not know something about the Ten Booms. However, this was the first time I've ever read The Hiding Place and it was so powerful. It's amazing to hear all that this family went through and accomplished during the Nazi occupation in Holland. I can't wait to share this one with my 10th grader.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This week was a bit of a breather for us. We didn't have much on the calendar other than school and that was a good things since the rest of the month is going to be busy. We did, however, have roofers at our house at the end of the week. It will be nice to have that taken care of for insurance purposes, but it did make for an interesting schooling situation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A break in the rainy weather...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Homemade lettuce wraps...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Field Trip planning...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Women's Bible Study...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sunflower seedlings...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div></div> <p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-75633669845749807392024-02-28T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-28T10:48:45.880-08:00The Quest for the Guardians: The Dreamkeeper Saga #4 {Review}<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover319412-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="255" height="394" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover319412-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Back from the Somnium Realm, Lily is reunited with her family. However, their moment of peace is brief as shrouds begin invading the waking world. Confused as to how they've come to be here, Lily and her family go in search of the Guardians to help them defeat the shrouds and restore order. They travel the world in search of answers, along with Sprock how is battling his own inner guilt. Will the shrouds prove too much for them to conquer? Will Sprock ever find the peace he's looking for? And will Pax break through the barrier to help them?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Faith, purpose, forgiveness, mercy... all these themes run throughout the Dreamkeeper Saga. And Quest for the Guardians is no exception. I love that these books are highly engaging for a variety of ages. From parents all the way down to elementary. Butler writes her books in such a way that they challenge the reader to think deeper about theological issues, while still keeping the action going. As we go deeper into this series, the author continues to being the salvation story to life. If your family is a fan of C.S. Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia, you will LOVE this series. It has all the elements you could ever want... a battle between good and evil, cheering on the underdog, superhuman feats as characters rise to the challenge, and magical realms waiting to be discovered. We cannot recommend this one highly enough.</div><br /> <span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-86880511549390820112024-02-26T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-26T08:00:00.137-08:00Hi-Ho Cherry-O for Preschoolers<p> <span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: this post was originally published on 11/18/08. Enjoy!</span></p><p><br /></p><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61NovOrmOPL._SL500_AA280_.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61NovOrmOPL._SL500_AA280_.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 280px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 280px;" /></a><br /><br />Big Boy turned 3 years old in October and he's growing and learning so quickly. I've been able to come up with some great ideas for helping him learn his letters and some practical skills like cutting and tracing. But math has always been hard for me. And since I'm intimidated by it, I don't have a lot of practical ideas for helping him learn it, even at this age. But I think we've found a solution... at least for now.<br /><br />I picked up this game on clearance at Christmas last year and was just hanging on to it. A couple of nights ago, my husband dug it out of the closet and we played it with Big Boy. He loved it and caught on so quickly. Now we play every day, several times a day. He's quickly started to count objects in his head, count the fruit on the trees, I see glimmers of maybe some basic subtraction, and he's quickly learning to take turns. All from a $3 board game. <br /><br />That Works for Me!<br /><br />See what works for others on <a href="http://rocksinmydryer.typepad.com/shannon/2008/11/works-for-me-en.html">Works for Me Wednesday</a> hosted by <a href="http://rocksinmydryer.typepad.com/">Rocks in My Dryer</a>.Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-16802866007309425242024-02-23T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-23T09:42:25.656-08:00Weekend Links ll February 23, 2024<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22zKk4DHbYE/XVHPw0bCpsI/AAAAAAAAbqk/_vfcPOFL6zw6UA_hlFDBVSjtg1DPEhsigCLcBGAs/s1102/Fresh%2BAqua%2BSummit%2B%25285%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="519" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22zKk4DHbYE/XVHPw0bCpsI/AAAAAAAAbqk/_vfcPOFL6zw6UA_hlFDBVSjtg1DPEhsigCLcBGAs/w345-h519/Fresh%2BAqua%2BSummit%2B%25285%2529.jpg" width="345" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-22zKk4DHbYE/XVHPw0bCpsI/AAAAAAAAbqk/_vfcPOFL6zw6UA_hlFDBVSjtg1DPEhsigCLcBGAs/s1600/Fresh%2BAqua%2BSummit%2B%25285%2529.jpg">Resources for Celebrating Pi Day</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.thepathway2success.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Slide2.png?resize=1498%2C787&ssl=1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="800" height="190" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.thepathway2success.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Slide2.png?resize=1498%2C787&ssl=1" width="363" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thepathway2success.com/strategies-for-oppositional-kids/">Strategies for Kids with Oppositional Behaviors</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://homeschoolgiveaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Shel-Silverstein-Poetry-Study-and-Free-Printables-short.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="573" src="https://homeschoolgiveaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Shel-Silverstein-Poetry-Study-and-Free-Printables-short.jpg" width="382" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://homeschoolgiveaways.com/shel-silverstein-poetry-study-and-free-printables/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=It+s+Random+Acts+of+Kindness+Week&utm_campaign=eblast+1-17-2024">Shel Silverstein Poetry Resources</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once a month my youngest son has dinner with his youth group so this week I got smart and planned his least favorite meal on that night: Fajita Salad. It's one that the rest of us love and he absolutely hates. But this way, we all got what we wanted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Fajita Salad is super simple. We marinate and grill up some chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and serve over lettuce with a lime dressing and avocadoes. Fresh, light, and full of flavor...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This week, I started a book called Character is Destiny. I'd never heard of this one before, but came across it somewhere on a CM reading list. I had previously started another book that I thought of passing off to my teenagers and I was highly disappointed. So I was refreshingly surprised when I opened this one to see how life applicable it really was. I'm finding myself challenged by it as well. Although I'm only a few chapters in, I'm really considering adding it to my teenager's reading list. If you or your teens have read it, leave me a comment, letting me know your thoughts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We started working on fair projects this week. Teaching my 7th grader to cook and bake has been both a delight and a challenge. He's a crack up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Relationships between my kids...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Flannel sheets...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sunshine through glass doors...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Frozen berries...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Morning walks...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div></div></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-36755600044239633462024-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-21T08:00:00.134-08:00Uprising {Review}<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover301463-medium.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="255" height="387" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover301463-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Twelve year old Lidia longs the play the piano, longs to see her father, and longs to live in a world at peace. But living in 1940's Warsaw, she's faced with the reality of war and lack. One day she realizes the horrors of the Jewish ghetto and determines to do something about it. But what can she do? Lidia and her friend begin sneaking in food, trying to help those that are starving. Still she wonders if there isn't more. Until one day, she finds a way to join the resistance. And her whole world changes. Based on the real life experiences of Polish teen, Lidia Zakrzewski, Uprising reveals the story of determined Polish nationalists who resist the Nazis and fight to reclaim their nation's freedom. It takes a closer look at the friendships they develop, the ways they must survive, and their hope for a better future.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We love Jennifer Nielsen books in this house. From my 12 year old to my 16 year old to myself, we devour her work. Nielsen has an amazing ability to draw readers into specific events in history and make the whole scene come to life. Uprising is no exception. Lidia is a complex character, filled with both inspiration and flaws. She's determined, stubborn, raw, and wounded: a relatable individual to be sure. The setting and the people really bring this period of history to life, and the themes of hope, fighting for what's right, and the resilience of the human spirit are an absolute inspiration. My only word of caution is that there are a few tense, descriptive points in the book that may be too much for middle grade readers. Uprising does not shy away from some of the rougher parts of war. I found myself internally cringing at some of Nielsen's descriptions and would rate this book more for ages 11-15. But overall, the author really did a great job of tackling a difficult part of history and drawing out the enduring optimism of real life heroes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I recieved a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-53949110891436922682024-02-19T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-19T08:00:00.162-08:00What's in Our March Morning Basket<div><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post was originally published on 3/4/19. Enjoy!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tywulm70R0A" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
(Click Post for Video)<br />
<br />
For our fairy tale theme, we are exploring some of the classics as well as reading a few remixes. The following is a list of stories that I am trying to include:<br />
<br />
The Little Red Hen<br />
Three Little Pigs<br />
Three Little Pugs<br />
Three Little Gators<br />
Three Snow Bears<br />
Jack and the Beanstalk<br />
Gingerbread Man<br />
Three Billy Goats Gruff<br />
Hansel and Gretel<br />
Little Red Riding Hood<br />
The Pig Who Went Home on Sunday<br />
<br />
Printables:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fairy-Tale-Choice-Board-1650430">Fairy Tale Choice Board</a><br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Language-Arts-Reading-and-Writing-Fairy-Tale-Unit-Hansel-and-Gretel-106946">Hansel and Gretel: Reading and Writing Unit</a><br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Folktale-Genres-Poster-Set-FREEBIE-Fairy-Tale-Tall-Tale-Fable-Myth-Legend-720130">Myths, Legends, and Fable: Definition Signs</a><br />
<br />
For language, vocabulary and story telling, we are including:<br />
<br />
Rory's Story Cubes<br />
Happily Ever After Mad Libs<br />
<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Roll-A-Story-Writing-Activity-3083217">Roll a Story Writing Activity</a><br />
<br />
I'm also putting together a Fairy Tales Playlist on Youtube. In this case, we can switch back and forth from reading to viewing fairy tales as we need to break things up. Family Movie Night this month is going to be fun as well with options like Cinderella, Snow White, Beauty and the Beast, Pinocchio, Peter Pan, and The Little Mermaid.<br />
<br />
For art, we are including lots of art lessons from Chalk Pastel and Arts Hub for Kids. We try to do an art lesson once a week, learning new techniques and art forms.<br />
<br />
In history, we are nearing the end of Story of the World Vol 2 (Medieval History). This month, we are reading excerpts from Why Do Castles Have Moats?, as well as various other story books. We'll also be including A Lion to Guard Us as a short read aloud.<br />
<br />
For science, we are including a variety of picture books including The Man Who Named the Clouds and Magic Schoolbus Inside a Hurricane. We'll also be playing with these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Weather-and-Climate-Flash-Cards-1051220">Weather and Climate Flashcards</a> as well as Professor Noggin's Earth Science cards.<br />
<br />
For Bible, we are working our way through The Ology. Some of the topics are well known to our kids while others are new concepts. So it's a nice mix of new and old.<br />
<br />
Our family read aloud for the month is Mary Poppins. We're excited to read a classic as we wait for Marry Poppins Returns to hit the dollar theater.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
What are your favorite resources for studying fairy tales?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And what are you including in your March Morning Basket?</div>
Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-67010836195157982752024-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-16T08:00:00.144-08:00Weekend Links ll February 16, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/8-Outstanding-Poetry-Activities-For-High-School-homeschool.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="632" src="https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/8-Outstanding-Poetry-Activities-For-High-School-homeschool.jpg" width="421" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.humilityanddoxology.com/poetry-activities-for-high-school/">8 Outstanding Poetry Activities for High School</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7712fb_78fcc026394a416db9b37dba875809b1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_1480,h_1974,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/7712fb_78fcc026394a416db9b37dba875809b1~mv2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="606" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7712fb_78fcc026394a416db9b37dba875809b1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_1480,h_1974,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/7712fb_78fcc026394a416db9b37dba875809b1~mv2.jpg" width="455" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.thathomeschoollife.com.au/post/character-development">Character Development in Our Homeschool</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Strawberry-Poke-Cake-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="305" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Strawberry-Poke-Cake-11.jpg" width="458" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.skiptomylou.org/strawberry-poke-cake/">Strawberry Poke Cake</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7712fb_b032c1d917a14da590a54d88d7f9597a~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_700,h_934,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/7712fb_b032c1d917a14da590a54d88d7f9597a~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7712fb_b032c1d917a14da590a54d88d7f9597a~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_700,h_934,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/7712fb_b032c1d917a14da590a54d88d7f9597a~mv2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thathomeschoollife.com.au/post/the-big-picture">The Big Picture in your Homeschool</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://reluctantentertainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Cookie-Butter-Brownie-swirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="729" src="https://reluctantentertainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Cookie-Butter-Brownie-swirl.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://reluctantentertainer.com/cookie-butter-brownies/">Cookie Butter Brownies</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We had lasagna soup last night. Thursdays tend to be busier nights for us with two kids in sports, one working, hubby working out, and the boys trying to get out the door for Bible study. For that reason, Thursday dinners have started coming in the form of crockpot meals. This lasagna soup ready is one of my favorites... beefy, tomatoey, and bulked up with shell pasta. And it holds nicely in the crockpot so even if some of us are eating at 5:30pm, it still tastes good for the rest of the family at 8pm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Kathryn Butler's new Dreamkeeper Saga book is out for review and I'm ecstatic. This series is amazing! I just started it a few days ago, but the magic seems to still be going strong with book #4. Excited to share my full review with you soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Life in the new house is slowly settling into a new rhythm. This past week and a half has been hectic. Hubby was gone on a work trip. As soon as he got back, we left town for my father-in-law's memorial service. So on top of moving, we've also been trying to check in with the kids and see how they're dealing with things as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lasagna soup...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Reading...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At home workouts in a crazy season...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div></div></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-11578068643871303832024-02-13T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-13T22:03:35.945-08:00One of a Kind {Review}<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover318135-medium.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="255" height="324" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover318135-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We just finished reading All of a Kind Family in our homeschool last month, so when I saw a biography of the author, I knew I had to read it. Written in a picture book format, this story of Sydney Taylor explores her life and inspiration for her work. From growing up in a poor Jewish family on the Lower East Side, to her marriage and motherhood, to her activist background, Taylor knew she was destined to make a difference in the world. And her own unique perspective clearly shines through the legacy she left behind.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This biography was a bit choppy for me. The story tended to skip around a little; it almost felt frantic. And it was dry. Topics were touched upon without a whole lot of feeling. While the book briefly mentions Taylor's writing, that's what drew me to know more about her work. And it seemed to have only a short, quick mention. Although it's a picture book, I just felt it would have been written with more enthusiasm. Really, this is one that just left me feeling like it was lacking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span></div> <p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-61725936617074406792024-02-05T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-05T08:00:00.178-08:00February Homeschool Favorites<div><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post was originally published on 2/20/18. Enjoy!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LXJ8g9l0OCg" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />(Click on post for video)<div><br /><div>
February brought a lot of fun homeschool favorites... from learning about astronomy to marine animals, and lots of critical thinking... our homeschool favorites were just as much about fun and games as much as learning. <br />
<br />
Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧10 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.<br />
<br />
Collab w/ FullTimeWifeLife: https://www.youtube.com/user/FullTimeWifeLife<br />
<br />
Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com<br />
<br />
C O N N E C T<br />
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom<br />
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com<br />
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom<br />
follow me on http://twitter.com/creative2xmom<br />
<br />
FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.<p> </p></div></div>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-23031022631851832222024-02-02T08:00:00.000-08:002024-02-06T12:34:30.249-08:00Weekend Links ll February 2, 2024<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://reluctantentertainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/leftover-pasta-1365x2048.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="800" src="https://reluctantentertainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/leftover-pasta-1365x2048.jpg" width="533" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://reluctantentertainer.com/pot-roast-pasta/">Pot Roast Pasta</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i1.wp.com/www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Rainbow-charcuterie-board-ideas-thesoutherlymagnolia-Rainbow-Fruit-Charcuterie-Board.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="800" height="274" src="https://i1.wp.com/www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Rainbow-charcuterie-board-ideas-thesoutherlymagnolia-Rainbow-Fruit-Charcuterie-Board.jpg" width="527" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.skiptomylou.org/rainbow-charcuterie-board-ideas/">Rainbow Charcuterie Board Ideas</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-7.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="500" height="830" src="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-7.png" width="519" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.livinglifeandlearning.com/winter-animal-printables.html">Free Winter Animal Printables</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We moved to a new house this week so meals have been all over the place. It's been a week of tying to valance health and extreme convenience. But then again, that's every night when you have kids and are trying to balance life. :-) The best thing we ate this week was the homemade zucchini muffins my daughter made. They are my grandma's recipe and they are AMAZING!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We finished the Little House series this week. Kind of sad. We started back in June and have worked our way through all nine books. Taking a break here and there for other historical read alouds, it's been our constant over the last eight months.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Like I said, we moved into a new house this week so my life is boxes, boxes, boxes. In between times, it's homeschool, and dance lessons, and field trip planning. Trying to make sure everyone's adjusting and getting what they need. Going on a new adventure in a new house and trying to figure out where in the world I put the measuring cups. :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Double Rainbows...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Missionary biographies...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-70773372164512651342024-01-30T10:04:00.000-08:002024-01-30T10:04:20.654-08:00The Deconstruction of Christianity {Review}<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover294423-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="383" data-original-width="255" height="383" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover294423-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In The Deconstruction of Christianity, authors Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett take a critical look at the phenomenon of deconstruction and how it affects one's faith. What is deconstruction? Who does it appeal to? How does it affect or disrupt the lives of those who walk through it? And how can we help our loved ones who are challenged by this dismantling of the Christian faith?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Childer and Barnett systematically walk the reader through the worldview behind deconstruction, giving it both historical and biblical context, as well as arguing its logical fallacies. Deconstruction ultimately argues for individuals to come to their own truth. The Deconstruction of Christianity shows how this is both contradictory and harmful both to those in and out of the church.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really appreciated how these authors gracious laid out a logical examination of the issue. This book is clearly written from a heart longing to guide and love a lost generation, rather than condemn those who are searching. The Deconstruction of Christianity has not only helped me understand people better, but it's also helped me feel confident that I can discuss deconstruction in a loving and objective manner. This book is best read by those who's loved ones are going through deconstruction or wanting to better understand the issue, not necessarily those currently deconstructing. And it's a slow deep read. I read this one twice before reviewing it as the issues are deep and complex. My copy is full of highlights and notes. This is a resource that I can see myself returning to again and again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this title from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span></div><br /><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-16040518802423317392024-01-16T08:00:00.000-08:002024-01-16T08:00:00.162-08:00Winter Homeschool Favorites<div><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post was originally published on 3/13/19. Enjoy!</span></div><div><br /></div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hd1QlXQJ_sY" width="420"></iframe><br />
(Click on Post for Video)<br />
<br />
Sharing some of our homeschool favorites that have gotten us through this long, wet winter.<br />
(Click for more)<br />
<br />
January Homeschool Favorites:<br />
http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2019/01/january-homeschool-favorites.html<br />
<br />
March Morning Basket:<br />
http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2019/03/whats-in-our-march-morning-basket_4.html<br />
<br />
Scripture Writing Plan:<br />
https://thecharactercorner.com/product/love-free-30-day-scripture-writing-plan/<br />
<br />
The Waldock Way:<br />
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqCX1WaxK7QNR2dDdklS-VQ?fbclid=IwAR1PcS8CY_l6one6PrPI2HHSh7f6Ye_BJLjCeU7Ck_LIOm7vRuMLvmNxbfE<br />
<br />
Playlist:<br />
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYhcaPiSWZo-6DJndDMOBgwburcDI8020&jct=OkensKgIAB_6xS6_fJ7MTiahnLhpSg&disable_polymer=1&fbclid=IwAR0MHG9W-tg0XFQWPnBSW21bZRKsQkSkX2Xvs6xQxm5BNlcImkSGT2cHRa0<br />
<br />
Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱13 yrs, 👧11 yrs, and 👱 7 yrs.<br />
<br />
Contact us for business inquiries, reviews and collaborations: BethAnn_97@hotmail.com<br />
<br />
C O N N E C T<br />
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom<br />
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com<br />
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom<br />
follow me on https://www.instagram.com/creative2xmom/<br />
<br />
FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-46566783731005365532024-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:002024-01-12T21:58:23.438-08:00Weekend Links ll January 12, 2024<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blog.allaboutlearningpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Cover-Tiles-Snowman-Snowmans-Story-170x170.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="170" data-original-width="170" height="300" src="https://blog.allaboutlearningpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Cover-Tiles-Snowman-Snowmans-Story-170x170.png" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blog.allaboutlearningpress.com/snowman-picture-books/">Snowman Picture Books (w/ Library List)</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.thewaldockway.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/January-Homeschool-Printables-That-Are-Absolutely-Free.png?w=700&ssl=1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="534" height="757" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.thewaldockway.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/January-Homeschool-Printables-That-Are-Absolutely-Free.png?w=700&ssl=1" width="505" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thewaldockway.com/january-homeschool-printables-that-are-absolutely-free/">January Homeschool Printables</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://i0.wp.com/www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Crochet-Heart-Coffee-Cozy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="500" height="626" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Crochet-Heart-Coffee-Cozy.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.skiptomylou.org/crochet-heart-coffee-sleeve/">Crocheted Heart Coffee Cup Sleeve</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Thai-Chicken-Lettuce-Wraps-I-Heart-Naptime.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="571" height="690" src="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Thai-Chicken-Lettuce-Wraps-I-Heart-Naptime.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/thai-chicken-lettuce-wraps/">Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="467" height="824" src="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-15.png" width="481" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3boysandadog.com/2024-chinese-new-year-set/">Free Chinese New Year Printables</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My favorite dish this week was Pasta E Fagoili in the crockpot. A couple of nights a week my husband and I have been out of the house with various Bible studies so the crockpot has saved us. And Pasta E Fagoili is a family favorite. Luckily I planned it on a night that my son brought home a friend so it easily spread for extra guests. Win-Win!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Like I said last week, I'm reading A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickins with my 10th grader. Wow! It is keeping me on my toes. This one is definitely challenging. I'm typically a quick reader, but I really have to take it slow with this one. It's complicated, interesting, and making me feel like a student all over again.Has anyone else read this one in adulthood?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This week we worked on getting back into the homeschool routine. I'm glad I prepped a few things over the break so I wasn't surprised by upcoming tests and worksheets. It was so nice; I'm going to have to keep on top of it this semester. At least until February! :-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Last Man Standing reruns...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Fun field trips...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Classic books...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">World Watch News...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Soups in the crockpot!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-53634490017100164532024-01-06T08:13:00.000-08:002024-01-06T08:13:23.244-08:00Weekend Links ll January 5, 2024<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/LetsStudyFamousFolksPinterestPin10801920px.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="735" src="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/LetsStudyFamousFolksPinterestPin10801920px.png" width="490" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/mlk-facts-for-kids-free-mini-lesson/">Free MLK Mini-Lesson</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Kimchi-Beef-Stew-7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="734" src="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Kimchi-Beef-Stew-7.jpg" width="489" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/kimchi-beef-noodle-soup/">Kimchi Beef Noodle Soup</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/owl-investigation-bundle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="764" src="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/owl-investigation-bundle.jpg" width="509" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.organizedhomeschooler.com/educational-owl-activities/">Owl Investigation Bundle</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/oatmeal-breakfast-bars.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="800" height="361" src="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/oatmeal-breakfast-bars.jpg" width="506" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iheartnaptime.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/oatmeal-breakfast-bars.jpg">Oatmeal Breakfast Bars</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="500" height="800" src="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-14.png" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.livinglifeandlearning.com/new-year-word-search-printable.html">New Year Word Search</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We had lots of soup on our menu again this week. My favorite was chicken noodle. This one is easy to throw in the crockpot in the morning and just let it cook all day. Or if I don't have a lot of time, I make sure the chicken and broth go in early, and then I prep veggies and throw in throughout the day. My favorite addition has been chopped bok choy. It allows us to get some greens that we don't normally incorporate and it add just a slight hint of flavor that's really tasty. Just make sure to get that one in before noon so it had lots of time to cook down and mellow out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After leisure reading, I'm back to the challenging stuff in January. My fiction read this month is A Tale of Two Cities and it's a doozy. My 10th grader is reading it for LA and History so I thought I'd read along. It's definitely challenigng me and has sent me on a hunt for additional resources.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have been lazy and yet now as we've trucked through this Christmas break (We don't go back to school till the 8th). One thing I have been working on is organizing field trips for our local homeschool group. Field trips have been a challenge since 2020 and I finally decided I'm just going to get my act together and start searching out opportunities. So over the break, I've been doing some research and getting things into place for the spring.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quiet mornings of break...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Christmas tree lights...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Healthier meals...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Flannel sheets...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Listening to the rain...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-54511530673246501452024-01-03T08:30:00.000-08:002024-01-03T08:30:00.277-08:002024 Read Aloud List<div style="text-align: center;">Every year I like to start off with a rough plan of the books we'll read during our read aloud time. This list can change depending on our mood and the order is definitely not set in stone. But it gives us a place to start. We've been reading through the Little House series again so I've included the last two for us to finish. You'll also notice that there's a lot of historical fiction and that's because I base a lot of our reading around our history curriculm. We'll be finished Story of the World vol 3 in May of 2023, and starting volume 4 in August. A few of these are re-reads for us as this is our second time through SOTW and I have some favorites in this time period. If we get there and the kids want to swap out books that they remember, we'll do that. But as of now, this is what we have planned for the next 12 months.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/91tdUJ1mB-L._SY522_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="351" height="522" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/91tdUJ1mB-L._SY522_.jpg" width="351" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These Happy Golden Years</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/61fOv4qo0kL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="369" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/61fOv4qo0kL.jpg" width="369" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The First Four Years</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51d3fG5cPzL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="303" height="445" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51d3fG5cPzL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">All of a Kind Family</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51JN1FCT1PL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="300" height="445" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51JN1FCT1PL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Streams to the River, River to the Sea</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51gToCQOFmL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="296" height="445" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51gToCQOFmL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Around the World in 80 Days</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/81wONTjZqjL._SY522_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="336" height="522" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/81wONTjZqjL._SY522_.jpg" width="336" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E Frankweiler</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51HpdghwfGL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="344" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51HpdghwfGL.jpg" width="344" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nory Ryan's Song</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/91P9zP8MAuL._SY522_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="341" height="522" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/91P9zP8MAuL._SY522_.jpg" width="341" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Journey to the River Sea</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/61VLt6d9K-L._SY522_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="337" height="522" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/61VLt6d9K-L._SY522_.jpg" width="337" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Snow Treasure</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/81gAivNaG6L._SY522_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="338" height="522" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/81gAivNaG6L._SY522_.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Escape to Liechtenstein</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/81m26Wp7cCL._SY522_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="346" height="522" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/81m26Wp7cCL._SY522_.jpg" width="346" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Bea and the New Deal Horse</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51TOAB6NQVL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="296" height="538" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/51TOAB6NQVL._SY445_SX342_.jpg" width="358" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A Place to Hang the Moon</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What are YOU adding to your read aloud list this year?</div>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-71045377308092232492024-01-02T08:00:00.000-08:002024-01-02T08:00:00.154-08:00Top Ten Posts of 2023<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BTSfOu4x8Q4" title="YouTube video player" width="420"></iframe></div><p style="text-align: center;">(Click on post for video)</p><span face="Roboto, Noto, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/01/top-fifteen-reads-from-2022.html">Top Fifteen Reads from 2022</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/512O-iYJirL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="357" src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/W/MEDIAX_792452-T1/images/I/512O-iYJirL.jpg" width="357" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/01/our-2023-read-aloud-list.html">Our 2023 Read Aloud List</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/01/our-homeschool-resolutions-for-2023.html">Our Homeschool Resolutions for 2023</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/04/what-is-1000-hours-outside-ll-how-do-we.html">1000 Hrs Outside</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/05/36-things-that-you-can-do-in-15-minutes.html">36 Things That You Can Do in 15 Minutes or Less</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/03/christ-centered-easter-books.html">Christ Centered Easter Books</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2022/04/five-non-negotiables-for-busy.html">Five Non-Negotiables for Busy Homeschool Days</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2020/03/50-titles-for-family-movie-night.html">50+ Titles for Family Movie Night</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/02/whats-in-our-morning-basket-ll-middle.html">What's In Our Morning Basket ll Middle School and High School</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2023/03/ten-tips-for-making-writing-fun-in-your.html">Five Tips for Saving Money on Next Year's Curriculum</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">What would you add to the list?</p></span>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-71939846890357643742023-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:002023-12-21T12:53:48.268-08:0010 Christmas Break Tasks for the Homeschool Mom<p>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.</p><p>It's definitely time!</p><p>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!</p><p><b>Finish Grading</b></p><p><span> 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.</span><br /></p><p><b>Clear out first semester items</b></p><p><b> </b>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.<br /></p><p><b>Inventory supplies</b></p><p><b> </b>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.<br /></p><p><b>Order Needed Items</b></p><p><b> </b>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.<br /></p><p><b>Order Library Books</b></p><p><b> </b>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. <br /></p><p><b>Tentatively Plan Field Trips</b></p><p><span> 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.</span><br /></p><p><b>Deep Clean ONE Room</b></p><p><b> </b>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.<br /></p><p><b>Fill In Calendar Items</b></p><p><b> </b>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. <br /></p><p><b>Plan a Date Night</b></p><p><b> </b>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.</p><p><b>Choose ONE Creative Project</b></p><p><span> 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.</span><br /></p><p><b>Most important of all, </b>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!</p><p style="text-align: center;">What Homeschool Tasks are on YOUR To-Do List?</p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-19433296496396775922023-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:002023-12-18T08:00:00.138-08:00Christmas and Advent Traditions<p><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post was originally published on 12/15/17. Enjoy!</span></p><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" gesture="media" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4x8GKiUTADw" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
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!<br />
<br />
A Catholic Mom's Life:<br />
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBPwe61hWru6AN8ZzyY-KwA<br />
<br />
Our Top 5 Christian Christmas Books:<br />
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozCVubgKY9Y<br />
<br />
Join The Creative2xmom Family on their journey of being a family of 5! 💑16yrs led to 👱12 yrs, 👧9 yrs, and 👱 6 yrs.<br />
<br />
C O N N E C T<br />
subscribe at http://www.youtube.com/creative2xmom<br />
read at http://www.creative2xmom.blogspot.com<br />
like me on http://www.facebook.com/creative2xmom<br />
follow me on http://twitter.com/creative2xmom<br />
<br />
FTC DISCLOSURE: This video is not sponsored.<br />
<br />
Music Attribution:<br />
<br />
We Wish You A Merry Christmas by E's Jammy JamsLeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-50136480786455452632023-12-14T08:00:00.000-08:002023-12-14T13:15:12.469-08:00Recipe Road Trip {Review}<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover292914-medium.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="255" height="300" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover292914-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Did Baked Alaska really come from Alaska? Where did the twinkie originate? What do Lobster Rolls really taste like?</div><div><br /></div><div>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.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I recieved a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span></div>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-43080514301230836162023-12-11T09:26:00.000-08:002023-12-11T09:26:57.910-08:007 Winter Nature Study Ideas<p><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post was originally published on 1/8/19. Enjoy!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qQz7JrwPH6Y/XCHMmuuUkQI/AAAAAAAAD7o/uJCseHHnsicZ6leaqBxJeyDJhuwoauHvQCLcBGAs/s1600/7%2BWinter%2BNature%2BStudy%2BIdeas.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qQz7JrwPH6Y/XCHMmuuUkQI/AAAAAAAAD7o/uJCseHHnsicZ6leaqBxJeyDJhuwoauHvQCLcBGAs/s320/7%2BWinter%2BNature%2BStudy%2BIdeas.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />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!<br /><br /><b>Track the Weather</b><br />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.<br /><br /><b>Monitor a Rain Gauge</b><br />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.<br /><br /><b>Go Snowshoeing</b><br />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.<br /><br /><b>Create a Wreath</b><br />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.<br /><br /><b>Feed the Birds</b><br />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.<br /><b><br /></b><b>Read Some Poetry</b><br />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:<br /><br />It's Snowing, It's Snowing: Winter Poems by Jack Prelutsky<br />National Geographic Book of Nature Poetry<br />Antarctic Antics: A Book of Penguin Poems by Judy Sierra<br />A Chill in the Air: Nature Poems for Fall and Winter by John Frank<br />Poetry for Young People by Robert Frost<br />Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak<br /><b><br /></b><b>Star Gaze</b><br />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.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">How do you incorporate nature study in the winter?<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-67010967453631212042023-12-05T08:00:00.000-08:002023-12-05T12:02:25.380-08:00Little People, Big Dreams: Sally Ride {Review}<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover306157-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="255" height="312" src="https://netgalley-covers.s3.amazonaws.com/cover306157-medium.png" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">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.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">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. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">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.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Disclaimer: I recieved a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.</span></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-19128607913359187202023-12-04T22:15:00.004-08:002023-12-04T22:15:00.141-08:00Making the Most of Christmas Day<p> <span style="font-size: small;">*Post originally published on 12/8/09... Enjoy!</span></p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />In an effort to plan, here are some ideas for mixing up the family and getting everyone talking:<br />*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.<br />*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.<br />*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 <a href="http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20081216103558AAgIAd6">here</a> 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).<br />*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.<br />*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.<br />*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?<br />*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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />For more <a href="http://www.wearethatfamily.com/2009/12/wfmw-get-better-sleep.html">Works for Me</a> ideas, check out <a href="http://www.wearethatfamily.com/">We Are THAT Family</a>.Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5719408446613258470.post-51266197754901452822023-12-01T08:00:00.000-08:002023-12-01T10:53:25.846-08:00Weekend Links ll December 1, 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.sonlight.com/media/wysiwyg/sonlight_ebook_header/ebook-elections.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="450" height="450" src="https://www.sonlight.com/media/wysiwyg/sonlight_ebook_header/ebook-elections.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.sonlight.com/homeschool/homeschool-101/sonlight-media/ebooks/elections-unit-study">U.S. Elections Unit Study</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://img.tipjunkie.com/spai/w_1100+q_lossy+ret_img+to_webp/tipjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-2151.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="550" height="352" src="https://img.tipjunkie.com/spai/w_1100+q_lossy+ret_img+to_webp/tipjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/photo-2151.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://tipjunkie.com/homemade-soap/">14 Fresh Homemade Soap Recipes</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/holiday-gifts-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="640" height="604" src="https://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/holiday-gifts-1.jpg" width="483" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://tatertotsandjello.com/sweeten-your-holidays-a-gingerbread-wonderland-in-home-decor/">Gingerbread Home Decor</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://heritagemom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/7-benefits-of-book-club-1024x536.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="419" data-original-width="800" height="247" src="https://heritagemom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/7-benefits-of-book-club-1024x536.png" width="471" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://heritagemom.com/2023/07/30/7-benefits-of-launching-a-kids-book-club/">7 Benefits of Launching a Kid's Book Club</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://diyhomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/jttw-lg-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="308" src="https://diyhomeschooler.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/jttw-lg-1.jpg" width="463" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cheaofca.org/2023/11/27/5-unique-christmas-unit-study-ideas-for-your-homeschool/?fbclid=IwAR0PSTuCLbxWmLUzOH_u5fyJKZ4tptx8_YY4Nuzut9jl9i_RE2ErzdgrBMI">5 Unique Christmas Unit Studies</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>This Week: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Cooking:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">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.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Reading:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">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.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Doing:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">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!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What I'm Enjoying:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hot Apple Cider...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Seasonal reads...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="http://creative2xmom.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-days-of-books-wrapped-christmas-book.html">Christmas Book Advent...</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Teaching Josiah to bake...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Christmas lights...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>What are you up to?</b></div></div></div><p></p>Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10090023753987932602noreply@blogger.com0