I love link lists. There’s nothing better than word of mouth, so when a blogger
recommends a recipe, a new shop or a great read, I am all about it! Here are a
few things I’ve come across this week…

1. We’ve finished PreK, but the boys still ask to “do school” on nearly a daily basis.  I’m thinking of incorporating a special craft time 2-3x a week to hold them over until the fall.  This activity using Harry the Dirty Dog looks really fun.  Playing in dirt and then eating bone-shaped cookies?  They’d be all about that!    

2. After a very thorough cleaning out of my closet, I realized I am in dire need of new sandals.  I like these, but my cheapo self cringes at the price. 

3. I am still plugging away in my current book, but am already looking to my next choice.  Right now it’s between Ellis Island: A Novel and Angel Sister.  Have you read either one?

4. I’m always looking for creative gifts for kids.  This DIY Detective Kit would definitely be a hit with the boys in this house!  I like that the kit could totally work for girls too, though.  Did you ever read Cam Jansen growing up?

5. Oh, if only I had the time to do this beautiful embroidery!  If you’ve read this blog for even a short amount of time, you know how much I admire Mother Teresa.  Maybe I’ll get the itch to start it this summer.

6. New recipes on my to-try list: Cheddar Baked Chicken and Mexican Chicken Soup.

7. It was providence that I was watching this video on Young House Love’s blog last night.  Mark has been complaining about needing a haircut for a week now, but hates shelling out the money.  When he turned to me and said, “Hey! You should try to cut mine!”, I was skeptical (read: terrified I was going to really mess up).  But I followed the directions and verdict: he loves it!   

8. Quote of the week: “To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not rich; to listen to stars and birds, babes and sages, with open heart; to study hard; to think quietly, act frankly, talk gently, await occasions, hurry never; in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common – this is my symphony.” -William Henry Channing

I love link lists.  There’s nothing better than word of mouth, so when a blogger recommends a recipe, a new shop or a great read, I am all about it!  Here are a few things I’ve come across this week…

1. Inspired by Laura and her amazingly faithful weekly menus, I joined the party and have been making my own again!  Biggest hit last week was Melt in your Mouth Chicken and Cheesy Baked Zucchini “Chips”…so good, my husband requested it again!

2. I got goosebumps and tears in my eyes when I watched this amazing video on Kristen’s blog.  The Mercy House is such an amazing organization.  Be sure to check out their shop…I have my eye on this necklace.  

3. How awesome is this idea?  I love that she used instagram photos, but I think the concept could work in a number of ways.  I’m envisioning either cutting regular 4×6″ photos into squares or even a collage of the boys’ artwork. 

4. This skirt is so cute and the price is right.  I’m wondering how long I’d be able to squeeze my almost-20-weeks-pregnant body in it before I start to look ridiculous.

5. Quote of the week (found on Sarah’s blog): “It is very important that children learn from their fathers and mothers how to love one another-not in school, not from the teacher, but from you.  It is very important that you share with your children the joy of that smile.  There will be misunderstandings; every family has its cross, its suffering.  Always be the first to forgive with a smile.  Be cheerful, be happy.” – Mother Teresa 

6. My boys are fascinated by birds…well, scratch that…we all are fascinated!  I love the idea of a designated basket near our feeder filled with guide books and binoculars.  A great way for all of us to learn! 

7. Do you read The Nester?  She is in Tanzania right now for Compassion International and this post stopped me in my tracks.  Too often I only invite people in my home after a litany of apologies and excuses for its imperfections.  What a humbling reminder…so much to learn from the poorest of the poor.

8. On a recent browse through etsy, I found a new shop: Karol’s Handmade Soap.  With scents like Pearberry, Lavender Oatmeal, and Blackberry Clove, I’m hoping to order soon!  Be sure to check out her solid Lotion Bar in Pink Sugar too!

If you make a link list of your own, please share in the comments so we can check it out!