100 Books to Read in Kindergarten from Woodbridge Public Library – It might actually only be something like 80 or 90 books for a homeschooled kindergartener to read since some of them are about going to kindergarten in a brick-and-mortar school, but some of my favorite, don’t-miss books are on this list. Check it out to find some new favorites for you and your child to enjoy together.

This Is What Hope Looks Like from We Are THAT Family – I’ve followed Kristin’s blog (We Are THAT Family) since the pre-Mercy House days. It’s been such a blessing to me to watch Mercy House develop and to see how it’s changing lives. This post about hope brings into sharp clarity the beautiful changes that can take place when we follow God’s leading.

Memoirs of a Bullied Kid from Single Dad Laughing – I was blown away by this powerful post from the perspective of a kid (now an adult) who was tormented by bullies from the time he was in 5th grade. Every parent, every person who works with kids, and every kid who’s ever bullied, been bullied, or witnessed bullying needs to read this post. It has the power to change lives.

The Half-Way Point: Evaluating Our Progress from Simple Homeschool – With many of us at, near, or maybe only slightly past the half-way point in our school year, this post comes at a great time for us to evaluate where we are in our home schools and to gauge if we’re on track for where we want to be at the end of the year or if it’s time to make some adjustments.

The Word of the Year from Best Body Fitness – Did you make any New Year’s resolutions? Have you broken them all yet? I love Tina’s idea for focusing on a theme for each year…and I love her theme for 2012. It’s not too late to develop your own theme for the upcoming year.

The Hidden Dangers of the Myth of Perfection from The Homeschool Classroom – Buying into the myth of perfection can be dangerous – for our homes, our marriages, our families, and our homeschools. Samantha outlines some of the dangers this myth can present to your homeschool.

Learning Life Skills in a Safe Environment – Have a Family Talent Show! About One – Dana, from A Slob Comes Clean (http://www.aslobcomesclean.com/about-me/), shares some of the benefits of hosting a family talent show and gives some examples of talents her family members have performed. What a great idea for a cold winter night or a family get together!

Measurement Conversion Chart from Infarrantly Creative – What a fun, creative, space-saving idea for storing measuring cups and spoons! Adding the easily-accessible, hard-to-lose conversion chart is brilliant.

How to Remove a Hard Drive from About One – In the age of rampant identity theft, knowing how to protect your information when it’s time to recycle an old computer is a must. This easy-to-understand article provides information that would allow even a non-techy person to successfully remove an old computer hard drive.

Amazingly Simple {Homemade} Salsa from Organizing Homelife – I love me some good, fresh salsa. This simple, mostly homemade, recipe is on my can’t-wait-to-try list (minus the yucky cilantro!).

Kris Bales has been married to her incredible husband for 20 years. Together, they’re raising their three Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers, who range in age from 10 to 16. Kris is Christian, Southern, and sweet-tea-addicted. She enjoys reading, writing and photography. In addition to blogging about life as a homeschool mom, you can find her at Eclipsed where she chronicles her transformation from a morbidly obese couch potato to a runner in training for her first half-marathon.

Domino Christmas Ornaments – The Homeschool Classroom – If you’re looking for fun, simple Christmas projects for your kids, this post from The Homeschool Classroom, part of a series of posts, will get you started. These ornaments are so cute and will make the perfect addition to your tree or a simple homemade gift project for the kids to give to their grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

In Praise of Free Play – Blogging ‘Bout Boys – In a day and age where the expectation is that kids will be involved in organized, structured activities nearly every minute of every day, this post on Blogging ‘Bout Boys points out the benefits of unstructured free time.

Powerful Words – Raising Homemakers – This post by Jamie (See Jamie Blog) brought tears to my eyes. It’s an intensely powerful reminder of the weight of our words – whether positive or negative. Perhaps more often than we realize, those around us need to hear how much they mean to us.

Toni’s Biggest Homeschooling Mistake: Doubt – Simple Homeschool. It’s an ugly word that clouds every homeschooling parents’ thoughts from time to time. In this encouraging post, Toni cautions us not to doubt our abilities without first making an attempt at those things that strike fear in our hearts.

What Kneeling on a Department Store Floor Taught Me about Gratitude – Conversion Diary – I really appreciated this insightful (and, as usual, amusing) post that points out that gratitude isn’t exactly what we often assume it is.

Training Children to Overlook an Offense – The Better Mom – I only wish I’d read this article a few years ago. One of the scripture references (Proverbs 12:6) has already made its way into our scripture box for memorization.

Five Everyday Items for Toddler Learning – In a Nutshell – With supply costs ranging from free to really cheap, you’ll love these simple, but engaging activity ideas that will keep your toddlers productively occupied while you school your older children – or join your little one for some fun one-on-one time.

10 Days of Language Arts – Jimmie’s Collage – In case you missed it, Jimmie offered ten incredible language arts posts in the recent “10 Days” series. She has provided enough information to effectively design your own personalized language arts curriculum. Don’t miss this series!

50 Rules for Dads of Daughters – From Dates to Diapers – A must-read for dads of daughters.

30 Truths about Homeschooling – The Homeschool Classroom – This post, by yours truly, shares several truths that I’ve learned during my nine years of homeschooling. I hope you’ll be encouraged.

Kris Bales has been married to her incredible husband for 20 years. Together, they’re raising their three Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers, who range in age from 10 to 16. Kris is Christian, Southern, and sweet-tea-addicted. She enjoys reading, writing and photography. In addition to blogging about life as a homeschool mom, you can find her at Eclipsed where she chronicles her transformation from a morbidly obese couch potato to a runner in training for her first half-marathon.

via www.jimmiescollage.com

Thirteen Ways to Reuse a Page A Day Art Calendar by Jimmie’s Collage – I keep intending to order one of those Metropolitan page-a-day art calendars that Jimmie has recommended so highly. Now, I have 13 more reasons to quite procrastinating.

Cinnamon Roll Bread by Money Saving Mom – I have a friend who makes the most incredible cinnamon rolls. I’ve tried her recipe and mine never turn out as good as hers, plus, they’re a lot of trouble. I’m thinking I might be able to handle this cinnamon roll bread, though. I bet I’ve got some willing taste-testers.

12 Ways of Christmas: Greeting Cards! by See Jamie Blog – Need some ideas for unique Christmas cards to send out this year? Jamie’s got ‘em! From fun, simple cards the whole family can help with to elegant cards that will bring out the artist in you, these greeting card ideas will get your creative juices flowing.

Get Ready! What “What to Expect” Doesn’t Tell You about Preparing for Birth by The Mommy Memos – I wish I’d read these 7 practical tips before my three births. Numbers 2 and 5 would top my list these days.

Making Books in Your Homeschool by The Homeschool Classroom – Simple tips for five different types of books you and your kids can enjoy making together.

Life’s Not Fair by Blogging ‘Bout Boys – A mom’s reflection on her role in helping her boys navigate a world that isn’t always perfectly proportioned slices of pie for everyone.

Raising Strong Kids by We Are That Family – Reading this touching account of Kristen’s son grappling with his “weirdness”, I couldn’t help but think of Isaiah 11:6, “…and a little child will lead them.”

5 Things Homeschooling Has Taught Me by The Homeschool Classroom – Homeschooling is about more than academics and oftentimes it’s Mom who learns as much as the kids.

Do This Today and Change Everything by Steady Mom – Do you have problems with peace in your home or is it just me? Jamie shares a simple, but profound truth about peace vs. productivity.

Strawberry Baked Oatmeal by Smockity Frocks – We love baked oatmeal! I don’t make it very often anymore since it’s not the most calorie-friendly breakfast choice and my kids don’t like it when I mess with the basic recipe, but I’m going to have to make this strawberry version soon. Yum!

Kris Bales has been married to her incredible husband for 20 years. Together, they’re raising their three Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers, who range in age from 10 to 16. Kris is Christian, Southern, and sweet-tea-addicted. She enjoys reading, writing and photography. In addition to blogging about life as a homeschool mom, you can find her at Eclipsed where she chronicles her transformation from a morbidly obese couch potato to a runner in training for her first half-marathon.

Homeschool Blind Spots  Josh Harris –  Ready for a little introspection? This challenging article will force you to look at some areas in your homeschool that you may need to take to God. It can be easy to fall into any one of these nine traps of vanity or self-centeredness if we don’t guard against them.

DIY: Wood Chalkboard Clips Happy Clippings – I love these little chalkboard clips! You’re sure to find lots of creative uses for this adorable little do-it-yourself project that is simple enough for even the craft-challenged – like me!

5 Things My Kids Are Required to Know about Car Maintenance The Homeschool Classroom – I’ll be honest, I don’t know how to perform these five simple car maintenance tasks. That means there’s probably some “learning together” time in our future because anyone who drives a car needs to know these car care basics.

25 Prayers for My Husband  See Jamie Blog – I recently updated my “mom binder.” The overhaul included the addition of a prayer journal with sections for my husband, kids, and others. As soon as I saw this list of Scripture-based prayers for Jamie’s husband, I printed it off to add to my binder.

Creating Emergencies Bags for Your Children  Life as Mom – I’m not sure if I’ll ever be this organized, but after the tornadoes that swept through our area this past spring, I can definitely see the value in these grab-and-go emergency bags filled with a few days of necessities for your family.

The Most Important Thing You’ll Ever Do for the Success of Your Homeschool Simple Homeschool – Sometimes we get so caught up in the stress and busyness of the homeschooling day-to-day that we can lose focus of what’s truly important – nurturing relationships with our children.

4 Tips for Having a Minimalist Wardrobe  Money Saving Mom – Whether you’re interested in a minimalist workout to save time, money, or space, these four tips will help you figure out how to do so with style and versatility. Even if your “school uniform” is jeans and a t-shirt, it’s nice to have options for dressing it up.

Homeschool Question of the Week: Can We Answer in a Way That… Hip Homeschool Moms – It’s happened to all of us – running into that relative or the random stranger who wants to engage us in a debate over our decision to homeschool. After awhile, we can become defensive. Is it possible, though, that we’ve become so jaded and quick to toss out a snappy comeback that we’re turning off those who are genuinely curious?

Help! I’m Homeschooling My High Schooler…and I’m Freaking Out! The Homeschool Classroom – If you’re considering or are currently homeschooling high school and you need some encouragement, this is it. This great list of tips for keeping your worries at bay and to help you breathe easier.

Thumbprint Writing See Jamie Blog – Use your own thumbprint to design a unique, artistic-looking writing template that has the potential to coax even a reluctant writer to create.

Kris Bales has been married to her incredible husband for 20 years. Together, they’re raising their three Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers, who range in age from 10 to 16. Kris isChristian, Southern, and sweet-tea-addicted. She enjoys reading, writing and photography. In addition to blogging about life as a homeschool mom, you can find her at Eclipsed where she chronicles her transformation from a morbidly obese couch potato to a runner in training for her first half-marathon.

• If you are starting out the year with a pre-k kiddo, you’ll really enjoy the ideas and tips that Jessica from Life as Mom has to share! Don’t miss this great post about a Preschool Education at Home.

• Looking for a really fun way to start the new year out with a bang? How about a fun, easy craft that kids of all ages will enjoy? Christie from Childhood 101 has a great idea for decorating your schoolroom walls.

• Wondering how in the world you are going to get it all done this year? Here’s one blogger’s take on implementing a chore system for her family. Don’t miss Jolanthe’s post, complete with free printables to use!

• Before any new homeschooling year starts, there is usually a planning period for mom. Mama Jenn has generously shared some great planning forms and shares how she uses them to streamline her planning.

• You don’t want to miss these great tips for Decluttering Your Home from Lindsay from Passionate
Homemaking. What better way to start the year off right than by having a clean, clutter free home?

Regardless of when or how you start your year, these links are sure to give you some inspiration and motivation. I hope they serve you well!
Here’s to a great year of Happy Homeschooling!
Cassie Simpson is a homeschooling wife and mother of four children, ages 1, 8, 9, and 12. She is starting her 6th year of home educating in Indiana and uses a “Classically Eclectic” teaching approach. Cassandra is the Assistant Lead Moderator for HOTM’s forum and loves talking homeschool with anyone who will listen! Her hobbies are reading, blogging, sewing, and cooking. You can check out her family’s blog at In His Image.

Photo Credit: Alana Clark

Hello dear friends! My, it has been a while since we chatted, I hope you are having an awesome summer. My summer has been full of surprises and changes around every turn! And the blogosphere has been jam packed with great posts that I want to share with you!

• I just had to laugh out loud when I read this post about the Madness of Raising Boys from Gayle @ The Westie Crew.
• Read along as Briana from I Can’t Decide shares some of the problems that she has noticed in her homeschool. She even came up with some really great ways to solve those problems!
• How can you teach your child to learn? Amber from A Classic Housewife in a Modern World shares her thoughts…
• Do you have a little that refuses to get his hands messy fingerpainting? Check out this fun alternative from Amy @ Just a Moment in Time.
• Learn how guided reading can really help your early reader take off. thanks to Carisa @ 1+1+1=1.

If you are curious at all to learn what major changes I and my family have been going through, you can find out here on my blog. I can’t wait to share some linky love with you again in two weeks, but until then, enjoy some fun in the sun!
Blessings!

Cassie Simpson is a homeschooling wife and mother of four children, ages 1, 8, 9, and 12. She is starting her 6th year of home educating in Indiana and uses a “Classically Eclectic” teaching approach. Cassandra is the Assistant Lead Moderator for HOTM’s forum and loves talking homeschool with anyone who will listen! Her hobbies are reading, blogging, sewing, and cooking. You can check out her family’s blog at In His Image.

• Thinking about incorporating unit studies into your homeschool days? Lots of perspective in this article: Unit Studies – Time or Money?

• Here are some great ideas for making reading fun for little ones you don’t want to miss!

• Here’s another great homeschool link: How to Be a Radical Home Educator

• We can’t let this week go by without a great arts and crafts link! Check out this really neat Eraser Dot Painting idea for a fun twist on painting.

• And while you’re in the crafting mood, you may want to try making this Pirate Hat. It’s too cute and looks super simple!

I hope the rest of your week is full of love, laughter and blessings! See you next week

Cassandra Simpson is a homeschooling wife and mother of four children, ages 1, 8, 9, and 12. She is starting her 6th year of home educating in Indiana and uses a “Classically Eclectic” teaching approach. Cassandra is the Assistant Lead Moderator for HOTM’s forum and loves talking homeschool with anyone who will listen! Her hobbies are reading, blogging, sewing, and cooking. You can check out her family’s blog at In His Image.

• Should homeschoolers have Teacher in-service days? Snow days? Click here to hear one mom’s point of view.

• Read this awesome account of one blogger’s story: What Homeschooling Has Taught Me.

• I am totally lovin’ this mom’s Homemade Preschool Board! What a fun way to learn the basics!

• Don’t miss this hilarious post: The Doodle, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.

• Here’s another great read from Lee the Homescholar about Choosing Your Homeschool Direction. She is plum full of great advice!

Hoping you aren’t suffering from the winter blues or cabin fever! See you next week.

Cassandra Simpson is a homeschooling wife and mother of four children, ages 1, 8, 9, and 12. She is starting her 6th year of home educating in Indiana and uses a “Classically Eclectic” teaching approach. Cassandra is the Assistant Lead Moderator for HOTM’s forum and loves talking homeschool with anyone who will listen! Her hobbies are reading, blogging, sewing, and cooking. You can check out her family’s blog at In His Image.

• Got a toddler (or two or three)? Read this great post about Feeding Toddlers.

• Check out these 3 Fun Geography Links to use in your homeschool studies.

• How much does socialization factor into your homeschool decisions? It All Depends on What You Value.

• Feeling crafty? Check out this idea for Salt Painting!

• For more great reads check out this list of 100 Inspirational Reads for Homeschoolers.

These should keep you pretty busy reading til next week, see you then! Have a blessed week!

Cassandra Simpson is a homeschooling wife and mother of four children, ages 1, 8, 9, and 12. She is starting her 6th year of home educating in Indiana and uses a “Classically Eclectic” teaching approach. Cassandra is the Assistant Lead Moderator for HOTM’s forum and loves talking homeschool with anyone who will listen! Her hobbies are reading, blogging, sewing, and cooking. You can check out her family’s blog at In His Image.

• For those if us NOT starting a new diet this year, check out this fabulous recipe for a cookie version of a Reese’s Peanut Butter cup. I can’t wait to try this one out in my kitchen!

• Take a look at this blogger’s ideas for a student control journal to help your kiddos get organized in twenty-ten.

• If you are rethinking discipline in your home and need some ides, check out this post about utilizing an If-Then chart.

• Are all those homeschool supplies taking over your home? I am loving this creative, inexpensive idea for organizing art supplies.

• We can’t forget about resolutions and goals for the new year. Take a look at this link-up post from the Happy Housewife about 2010 goals.

I wish you all the best of luck fulfilling those new year’s resolutions! I am looking forward to making 2010 even better than 2009. See you next week!

Cassandra Simpson is a homeschooling wife and mother of four children, ages 1, 8, 9, and 12. She is starting her 6th year of home educating in Indiana and uses a “Classically Eclectic” teaching approach. Cassandra is the Assistant Lead Moderator for HOTM’s forum and loves talking homeschool with anyone who will listen! Her hobbies are reading, blogging, sewing, and cooking. You can check out her family’s blog at In His Image.