The Big White Farmhouse

This week was rough.  One sick kid after another and I think I’m next.  Needless to say, the productivity in our family was pretty slim.  We spent a lot of time watching “educational” shows on Netflix and hanging out on the couch.  Every so often, they’d get a burst of energy and play something, only to come back to the couch and ask for a movie.  It breaks my heart when they don’t feel well.  I’m praying everyone starts feeling better this weekend.  


I did manage to finally put up Sophie’s curtains in her room…just in time to totally change her room around.  I’ve been coming up with plans to switch rooms around to make our home work better for us in the new year.  But more on that in January.

“Mamma, you are awesome.  Our whole family is awesome.  And..and…so is the whole universe!” -J, newly four

I’ve been thinking a lot about this post and have been inspired to put a few of Nell’s tips to action.  On Monday, I made a checklist (comment on 5 blogs, enter a giveaway, share a post on social media, etc.) and I’ve been working on it a bit everyday.  It actually brings focus to my blog reading.

One more thing to note: This week, I expanded my internet horizons a little and joined Twitter.  I have no idea what I’m doing!  I’ve also been on Google+ a bit, but I’m not sure what to do there either.  Are you on either?  Give me tips!


Have a wonderful (and healthy!) weekend, friends.

Gosh, I’m loving December so far.  For the first time in months, our schedule is wide open.  I’ve slowed down a bit, paused my to-do lists and just enjoyed my kids.  It was a good week.

I let the kids take charge and they decorated the tree with the most colorful ornaments.  Their boring mother would have chosen something simpler, but they are so proud of that darn tree, I can’t help but love it too. Even if the majority of the ornaments are on the bottom half of the tree. 

Favorite homeschooling activities:

• We started a new unit in science about the human body and we are all so excited!  We made a life-size tracing of M’s body and will be adding body parts and bones as we go.  This week, we started off with the brain and eyes.    
• A new favorite activity for spelling words: hangman.  M can’t get enough!
• We are also including the daily activities from Advent Adventures.  The kids love the videos.

TJ has been a bit clingy this week, so I have yet to dive into a new book.  Thank goodness for podcasts!  I have been addicted to Serial and have listened to all 10 episodes in just a few days.  If you’re into detective novels, Serial would be right up your alley.  I also got a chance to listen to the new Fountains of Carrots podcast, which is so good too!  I especially loved episode two with Jenny. 

On the Blog:

• A Literary Advent Calendar: how we’re counting down the days until Christmas this year
• December’s Goals: finishing up the year by slowing down

I’ve been busy packaging orders for Big White Farmhouse, my favorite part!  For the month of December, I’m adding a little doily (I think it sort-of looks like a snowflake), a mini Christmas-related flash card (from this shop) and a mini candy cane with every order.  I think it’s festive, while also being cost-effective.  Also!  If you haven’t heard, Big White Farmhouse has been included in Call Her Happy’s Shopping Guide and Giveaway.  We are giving away one of our pewter ornaments!  The giveaway ends Monday, so be sure to enter soon!