Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Writing an Old Fashioned Letter


“Let us never underestimate the power of a well-written letter.” 
~ Jane Austen, Persuasion

With the ease and convenience of the internet, correspondence on paper is becoming extinct. But, the beauty and blessing of opening a letter, written in a pretty script, with lovely stationary, has not lost its appeal.  It is an ageless art that will be appreciated by those close to you and those sitting in empty rooms that need comfort.


Take some time to reflect on the people which God has put in your path that are in need, going through trials or are just plain lonely. Grandparents, the elderly or people living in far away lands would also be appreciative of such letters. Perhaps a special bookmark, a sprig of dried lavender, or a sachet could be enclosed for a sweet scent. You could also include current photos of the family. A Bible verse of encouragement can be added or an inspirational poem. What a lovely, little package it will be to open!



Who do you know that could use an old fashioned letter?


"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. See with what large letters I have written to you with my own hand!"
 ~ Galatians 6:9-11
All the fine print. This post may be shared with some or all of the following link-ups: The Art of Home-Making MondaysModest Mom Monday'sMonday's MusingsMake Your Home Sing MondayGood Morning Mondays,  The Scoop, Tuesdays with a TwistRaising HomemakersThe Homesteader HopWise Woman Link UpHomestead Blog Hop Wow Us Wednesdays,  Coffee and ConversationHomemaking ThursdaysHome Sweet HomeOur Simple HomesteadAwesome Life Friday Link UpFive Star Frou Frou Friday, and Shabbilicious Friday. Thank you lovely ladies for hosting these. This post may contain affiliate links (which are merchant links that help to support this site at no additional cost to you if you purchase an item through them).

Friday, August 26, 2011

Our Wholesome Video List


This is a follow up to the article, What to Read and What to Watch.

Below is a list of wholesome* media that our family has appreciated using the criteria above (with more to come). We have attempted to list the movies by age since we are all in different stages with our children (but every child is different so this is truly flexible). Most movies were introduced when we started homeschooling and have been valuable educational resources (teaching topics are shared next to the titles). Do you have any to add?

Ages 4 and up
Ages 6 and up
    Ages 8 and up
      Ages 10 and up

        Ages 12 and up

        Adults

        * Keep in mind that though these movies are considered wholesome, some content is more mature such as the World War II and missionary themed videos since the subject matter is based on historic events which can be harsh and intense. But what you won't find in this list are children in romantic relationships, nudity, profane language, magic and/or ungodly lifestyles being praised.

        What are your favorites that I didn't include? Please share! 

        Tuesday, August 23, 2011

        Raggedy Ann & Andy ~ Precious Playtime Activities


        What happened to the good old days when little children played with Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls instead of the menacing creatures they are selling in stores today? These classics are so sweet and simple.  I tried to encourage them in our home. There are so many fun and educational things you can do with your children in their younger years featuring these timeless characters...


        Read together with your children…




        Snuggling up on the couch and reading to them will nurture a future love of books that will continually educate and enrich your child. Language arts has never been so easy! Read good literature and their vocabulary will build.


        Have a tea party with your children...


        They can help you make one of these tasty treats. You would be sharing a wonderful memory together while teaching some basics in home economics and math.
        Color with your children…

        They love when mama participates. There is a whole page of free printables at this link. Have fun!


        Craft with your children…


        Print out the clip art images here and here. Cut out and paste onto brown paper bags as decoration and use for their lunches (or anything else of that nature). They will feel so artistic!



        You could print out our Raggedy Ann and Andy bookmarks and have fun embellishing with ribbons together. How about making some Raggedy Ann Room Spray (which also makes a nice gift)? Children love to create useful things!



        Play with your children...



        Cut out paper dolls to play with… Click here for Andy.  Click here for Ann (see samples above).



        Or, for black and white paper doll versions for your children to color and cut their own (above sample), click here.


        And finally, read poems to your children…

        They will have an early appreciation for the finer things in life if you start this quality time together now.


        My Raggedy Ann

        We played together, Raggedy Ann,
        as playmates often do.
        I always shared my dreams
        with nobody else but you.

        Each night my prayers were whispered
        with you snuggled by my side.
        On stormy nights the thunder
        made us cover up and hide.

        Now your eyes have both grown weary
        and your arm is slightly torn,
        Your cuddly body is tattered,
        and your nose is mashed and worn.


        We did so much together Raggedy Ann,
        the years, oh how they flew.
        And I cherish every memory
        of growing up with you.

        ~ Author Unknown




        Raggedy Ann is My Best Friend

        Raggedy Ann is my best friend
        She's just so relaxed
        Just watch her bend
        First from the waist
        Then from the knee
        Her arms are swinging
        Oh, so free
        Her head rolls around
        Like a rubber ball
        She hasn't any bones at all
        But Raggedy Ann
        Can stand up tall.

        ~ Author Unknown

        Enjoy your little ones… Unlike these sweet dolls, they grow so fast.