Sunday, March 2, 2014

Grocery Store Entertainment

Just got home from the grocery store with the kidlets and this is how I feel.....



Don't get me wrong, It's not like I don't try to make it as seamless as possible.   I do all the tips and tricks that I've heard and read about such as:

  • Eat right before you go
  • Go first thing in the morning
  • Write your list in the order that the store is organized

But honestly there are times, even those things don't suffice.

So, as I was shopping, and keeping the kids distracted from all the yummy goodness the grocery stores are filled with, I noticed that my 9 year old got really into the trip.  (much more than usual)  She started playing a 'game' with where to find the things on our list.  It took a little longer to get through the store because she wanted to do it on her own, but what a fabulous learning tool!  It was totally worth it.

(My son on the other hand was busy eating the grapes... So much so that when we tried to pay for them he screamed so loud the manager let us have them for free.  Bonus!)

But anyway, this got me thinking what a great way to keep the older sibling entertained, engaged, and learning during our trip.  I decided to put together a little grocery store clue scavenger hunt so next time we go, she can be working on her 'list' while I am collecting our necessities.

Find the activity here:  Grocery Store Clues

Now remember this list is for older siblings, but you could easily modify it for a younger age by putting pictures of items they have to circle or the item itself and a checkbox when you pass it in the store.  My daughter loves mysteries and the clues help add a little adventure to her grocery trip.

Once the list is printed out give him/her a clipboard and a fun color pen and let them get busy.

And, if all else fails try to get dad to watch them and make a quick trip on your own!  :)

Have something that makes your trips easier?  Please let me know!

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Saturday, March 1, 2014

Top Reads

I live with a family of bookworms (myself included).  This is awesome, aside from the fact we no longer have space on our bookshelves for all of our books.  Due to space limitations we have all gone electronic and are now collecting our libraries on our devices.  In some ways I love this (because I HATE clutter) but on the other hand there is just some nice about reading an actual book.  What is your preference?

To create a balance we do still take trips to the local library plus, this helps with the money side of it too... Reading as a hobby can get expensive!

Anyway long story short, a friend inspired me and last August I started a book club.  It has been such an awesome experience because I have read several things I would never have picked on my own, but have enjoyed them thoroughly.  This got me thinking... What are my personal favorites?

SO....., I decided to put together a list of some of my own personal favorite books to read.  This list of books is a combo of ones that truly make you think about life, are pure brain candy, and one or two suspense.

My Movers and Shakers
(in no particular order)

Redeeming Love


Life Expectancy



The Total Money Makeover



The Proverbs 31 project




Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back




The Husbands Secret



Battle Hymn of a Tiger Mom




A Stolen Life



Me Before You




The Girl with the Pearl Earring




Honestly there are about a million more I could add but these were the few that popped into my head immediately.

As I mentioned earlier my whole family loves to read.


Here is my daughter's current reads (4th grade)

  • The Fablehaven Series
  • The Aragon Series
  • The Percy Jackson Series
  • The Hunger Games
  • The Beautiful Creatures Series

(Can you tell she gets sucked into series?)

Here is my son's current favorite bedtime reads (22 months)

  • Sung as a Bug
  • Farm Animals
  • The very hungry Caterpillar
  • The Kissing Hand
  • Where's Spot
  • Big Green Monster

(He LOVES animals!)


Have a personal favorite that has really touched you?... Please share!  My list of TO READ is ongoing and I love hearing a new perspective.  Also I'm always looking for good books to share and read with my kids.  That's the daytime teacher side of me.  :)

Happy Reading and Remember:




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