✨ Why Your Passion Matters More Than Your Curriculum

I've been thinking a lot lately about what makes certain lessons stick with our children while others seem to slide right off. Why do some subjects come alive in our homeschool while others feel like we're just trudging through?

The answer, I've realized after a decade of homeschooling, isn't always about the curriculum we choose or even the child's natural interests…

Often, it comes down to something much simpler: our own passion and investment in what we're teaching.

Now, before you feel the pressure to be enthusiastic about every single subject (because let's be real, not all of us wake up excited about teaching long division), hear me out.

Not everything you teach needs to be your personal passion. 

But how much you're invested and interested in each lesson really does matter to you and your child for several important reasons…

 
 

The Ripple Effect of Your Enthusiasm:

The more passionate and invested you are, the more they will be too.

This first point came to me as I taught in our homeschool community in Idaho. I’d have 20+ children in the room (or outside) while we nature journaled or learned about wilderness survival skills, logic and even geography.

When I lit up about a topic, my students leaned in too.

Our children have incredible discernment. They can tell when you're going through the motions versus when you genuinely care about what you're teaching. Your excitement becomes their excitement. When you’re passionately talking about the artists you're studying or get animated discussing different times in history and how they connect to their story today, they notice.

You're more likely to stay accountable

Let's be honest: when the week gets busy, it's the subjects we care least about that get pushed aside. For us, that’s Latin (or any foreign language for that matter), and music.

But when you're invested in what you're teaching (whatever subject area that might be), you protect that time and make it a priority. You don't let it slide when things get hectic because you actually want to teach it. That accountability to ourselves translates into consistency for our children.

More opportunity to dive deeper

When you're passionate about a subject, you naturally invest more time in preparation. You find the best living books, the most engaging activities, and you're more likely to notice connections to other subjects or current events. You don't just teach the lesson, you enrich it, expand it, and make it come alive.

Even if you’re the only one getting super excited, I promise, down the road, your children will remember bits and pieces of YOUR excitement in teaching certain lessons. In fact, my kids still tell me how excited I was going through American history and our Burgess Birds guides… 

You model lifelong learning

When your children see you passionate about learning alongside them, you're demonstrating that education doesn't end (ever)! You're showing them what it looks like to remain curious and engaged throughout life. In my opinion, this might be one of the most valuable lessons we’ll ever teach them.

Your passion translates to better retention

Students remember lessons taught with enthusiasm far more than those delivered with indifference. 

The emotional connection you bring creates stronger memory anchors for your children. Years from now, they'll remember not just the facts but the feeling of learning them with you.

Remember that saying? "People will forget what you said, but they'll never forget how you made them feel."

You're less likely to skip or rush through lessons

We've all been there. Friday afternoon, the week has been long, and we're tempted to just mark something off the list without really doing it justice. 

But when you're invested in what you're teaching, you don't want to rush through it. You want to savor it, discuss it, and make sure your children really experience it.

A Matter of Calling and Conviction

Here's what I think is at the heart of it all: 

You're fulfilling your calling through your identity in Christ with integrity.

Charlotte Mason laid out a rich feast for our children, and teaching with passion is how we honor that vision. It's not just about checking boxes; it's about genuinely believing these subjects matter and are worthy of our time and attention. When we homeschool out of calling and conviction—and we do, don't we?—we owe it to our children to follow through with the tools God gives us.

We’re not perfect homeschool. We never claim to be. But we definitely can pass on some passionate, exciting ideas onto our children.

This is a form of active obedience on our part as we take homeschooling our children seriously. 

We're not just educating young minds; we're feeding souls for eternity. 

We're stewarding the precious gift of time with our children and the privilege of shaping their worldview.

This is exactly why I created Simple Studies back in 2019.

I kept seeing these beautiful, rich subjects like nature study, geography, picture study, composer study, poetry, hymn study, folk songs, and fairy tales, get pushed aside when life got busy. 

These weren't "extra" subjects to me. They were ESSENTIAL parts of the feast Charlotte Mason described, the very things that make education come alive and nourish the soul and help form our children’s character for LIFE.

But I also understood why they are sometimes left behind. Time is precious (and short). Planning can feel overwhelming (like we’re not living up to the plans we lay out before us). It often easier to focus on math and reading and let everything else slide.

I created Simple Studies because I am passionate about teaching these topics that often get left behind but should be the crux of our homeschool and can often help invest in our children to be set apart in the world.

These subjects aren't optional luxuries. They're vital parts of a complete education that feeds the whole person.

When we teach through passion, we're saying to our children: 

This matters. 

You matter. 

This education we're giving you is a gift worth giving with our whole hearts.

And that, dear mama, makes all the difference.


Ready to bring more passion into your homeschool with subjects that truly matter? Check out Simple Studies and discover how easy it can be to include things like nature study, history, geography, fairy tales and more—even in your busiest seasons. Because these subjects deserve more than our leftovers; they deserve our passion and our children deserve more than just math and reading lessons.

💛 Homeschool monotony? Here's what NOT to do (do this instead)

Here's what no one mentions when they talk about homeschooling:

Most days aren't Instagram-worthy. There are no standing ovations for opening the same math book for the 47th time this year.

We show up.

We read the next chapter.

We work through the lesson. Again.

While everyone else seems to be out there changing the world with their big ideas and bold moves, we're just... here quietly doing the work.

But here's the thing…

This steady, unglamorous, faithful work is changing everything. In you and in them.

 
 

I've learned this the hard way with my own kids. One of mine completely unravels when I switch things up. Consistency is his oxygen.

My other one? Give her the same math program for six weeks straight and she's climbing the walls.

So I had to find a middle ground.

Instead of constantly overhauling our entire approach (exhausting for everyone), I started building in pause days—moments where we don't abandon our plans, but we do set them aside for 24 hours to explore something completely different. Something fascinating. Something they'd never encounter in their regular rotation.

These aren't "throw everything out and start over" days.

They're strategic breaths of fresh air.

Because I've noticed something as my kids get older: when we bail on something halfway through too many times, they stop trusting the process. They start wondering if anything is worth finishing. And that's a pattern I don't want to build.

Of course, we still drop things that truly aren't working.

But if thousands of families have walked a curriculum to the end and found it worthwhile? We push through the middle-muddle.

So if you're feeling the mid-fall monotonous slump right now...

If you're wondering whether you should scrap your plans and start fresh...

DON’T.

Just pause. Inject one day of wonder. Then pick back up where you left off.

Grab your free October guide here* and give yourself (and your kids) that little jump of joy. Hundreds of homeschool families are already using it this month.

You don't need to burn it all down.

You just need a spark.

Let us help you find it. 💛

 
 

My daughter and I recently started volunteering at a local cage-free, no-kill dog shelter. She's obsessed with dogs, and this is exactly why we homeschool—so our kids can chase their passions now, not someday when they're "done" with school.

These volunteer mornings? They're our pause days in action. The kind of learning that doesn't fit in a textbook but changes everything.

Want more ideas like this delivered monthly? New members get their first month FREE. You'll get 3 ready-to-go deep-dive topics that help you create these moments without the overwhelm. Start your free month here.

Thank you for being here!

*(Your free month begins atomically at checkout).

10 Homeschool Game-Changers 💛

I've been reflecting on what has truly made the difference after over a decade of homeschooling, between surviving and thriving in this beautiful, challenging calling.

Through the preschool years with books and random art supplies strewn across the room, the elementary years of finding our rhythm and going on spontaneous outdoor adventures, to the middle school and high school years of questioning everything and digging deep, there are some key things that have sustained us through every season.

I thought I'd share them with you in hopes that maybe one (or ten!) might encourage you in your own homeschool adventure.

1) The Lord

We begin each day with Jesus, and this might seem obvious, but it's worth stating first because it's foundational to everything else. When curriculum fails, when I'm having a rough day, when the kids are resistant, when I'm questioning our decision… The Lord is our anchor. Prayer, His Word, and remembering that He called us to this lifestyle have sustained us through every season.

2) Living Books and Guides That Follow Living Books

We find beautiful, timeless literature feeds, educates and sustains the soul over dry textbooks that drain it. Living books have brought life, wisdom and wonder into our learning, and guides that complement them (rather than replace them) have been game-changers for keeping things simple yet rich, like our Simple Studies!

3) Reliable, economical equipment

This Epson printer has saved us countless times from expensive trips to Office Depot or FedEx. Having a reliable printer at home means we can print worksheets, guides, and resources as needed without the stress and cost of constant print shop runs. (And if you don't have a home printer, I highly recommend Humble Heart Press - they often offer great deals, including when printing Simple Studies guides!)

4) Saying NO (EVEN IF WE Could technically SAY YES)

So many people think that because we homeschool, we have all the flexibility in the world and can change our plans on a whim's notice. While homeschooling certainly helps us stay flexible and visit places like the library or museums sans huge crowds, it does NOT mean we drop everything and throw our peace, calm, and daily morning lessons out the window. We intentionally pray on ways to protect our peace because before we know it, the crazy creeps in and we’re all off running in different directions each day. We DO say yes when it aligns with our larger family vision and mission.

5) Simplicity Over Consumption

We've never used a "dedicated" homeschool room and instead, always sat at the kitchen table for our lessons. We don't have posters on our walls, huge maps, or chalkboard displays. We stick to paper and pencils. This has proven over and over to work well for us. Our son still tells the story of a personal finance class he took where all his peers took out their calculators and he used pencil and paper. He was the only student in class who answered all the questions correctly, before time was up. I share this because the world pushes tech at an early age, but I've stuck to my "old ways" of paper and pencil for as long as possible… and it truly pays off in unexpected and marvelous ways.

6) a Simple Planner

The homeschool "planner" market is not only saturated but overwhelming! While I've really enjoyed using customized and teacher planners, I always come back to my simple planners like this blank, dotted one to plan our days, this weekly planner to write short daily notes about what happened each day, and this 365 one to write down my hourly plans. Sometimes the simplest tools are the most sustainable.

7) Charcuterie Board Meals

When you're tired of planning multiple daily meals for hungry family members, these are a lifesaver! Check out books like this one I keep on hand. They make lunches and snack time fun and exciting, and even your children can get involved and help create these beautiful, nutritious boards.

8) Christian/Worldview Curriculum

I can't tell you how many times I've tried (and failed) to loop in highly renowned, award-winning secular homeschool curriculum options when I wanted to change things up. However, since we truly believe all knowledge and wisdom ultimately comes from God, none of these extra options ever last long in our homeschool. In the end, we always come back to things like my Monthly Simple + Fresh guides, current events like WORLDWatch (Use this link to get 30 Days FREE), or good, old-fashioned curriculum that stands the test of time. (Check out my Top 5 Favorite Curriculum Picks of All Time video!)

9) Doing What's Right for Our Family over our to-do list

We modify curriculum when necessary. We don't mold our children to fit the curriculum. When one of our children becomes deeply passionate about something, we embrace that enthusiasm and weave it into our lessons. This doesn't mean we abandon our plans entirely, but rather we get creative with our approach. Instead of forcing a rigid structure that doesn't fit, we adapt and find natural connections. Taking regular breaks and honoring seasonal rhythms has also been crucial. Whether it's taking a week off when everyone's feeling burned out, doing lighter lessons during busy family seasons, or taking advantage of beautiful weather for outdoor learning, these intentional pauses have prevented homeschool burnout and kept our love for learning alive. Remember: You're not a public school and don't need to follow their rigid calendar or curriculum that doesn’t work best for your child!

10) A Strong Homeschool Community or Co-op

While homeschooling can feel isolating at times, connecting with other homeschool families has been invaluable. Whether it's through a local co-op, park meetups, field trip groups, or even online communities, having other parents who understand the unique joys and challenges of homeschooling provides encouragement, practical advice, and accountability. Plus, our children benefit from friendships with other kids who share similar values and educational experiences. Don't try to do this journey completely alone. Find your people!

BONUS: Read Aloud, narrate + Notebook When All Else Fails

When lessons aren't clicking, curriculum feels overwhelming, or we just need to get back to basics, we return to the simplest, most effective (and FREE!) approach: read aloud, narrate and notebook. We've used these blank notebooks for years (if those are sold out, as they often are, these ones will work great too), and our children STILL have their geography, science, and history lessons from a few years ago in the same notebooks they're continuing to fill. There are enough pages to keep going for years, and it's beautiful watching them flip back through their work, reviewing and feeling nostalgia for lessons learned long ago. Sometimes the most powerful education happens with just a good book and a blank page.

I hope this list encourages you in your own homeschool journey. Remember, what works for our family might look different in yours, but maybe there's something here that resonates with your heart and your season.

You're doing a beautiful work, mama. Keep going!

What would you add to this list? I'd love to hear what has helped sustain your homeschool!

Reading Roundup 📘 [Personal + Homeschool Books]

Hey fellow book-loving friends!

I know, I know. This post is embarrassingly overdue. Between moving across the state of Florida and our epic trips back up to the Pacific Northwest (including spending ample time with my sister and 1-year-old niece while my husband and son went fishing in Alaska!), and spending time in Georgia, summer flew by in a blur of boxes, cross-country trips, and absolutely zero routine.

But now that we're finally settling into those cozy autumn rhythms that make our hearts happy (even if the Florida weather hasn't gotten the memo about "fall" yet!), I'm feeling that familiar pull to reconnect over books.

You know how it is, I only post these when inspiration strikes rather than forcing it, because honestly, homeschooling (and parenting in general) and Simple Studies keeps me busy enough without adding pressure to my reading life.

But there's something about this time of year that makes me want to curl up with a good book and share what I've been reading with people who actually get excited about book recommendations.

So here's what's been filling my reading time:

books I read over the summer:

The Messy Lives of Book People ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Pearl by John Steinbeck ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Midnight Bookshop (Read for free on Kindle Unlimited) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Dance of Lies (Pleased to find out this Illumicrate featured book’s author is Christian) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Broken Country (Listened to the Audible version) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires (content warnings) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession and Shipwreck ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Convenience Store Woman ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Breath of a Dragon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Unwind (YA sci-fi) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Violent Bear It Away (Recommended by The Literary Life Podcast) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Ice Queen ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Blues in Stereo: The Early Works of Langston Hughes ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Anne of Green Gables ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Lantern of Lost Memories ⭐️⭐️⭐️

And just for fun, I’ve been enjoying Carnivore in the Kitchen and The New Essentials Cookbook.

books I'm reading right now:

📙 The Iliad (with my daughter)

📙 The Hobbit (Our current morning circle read aloud) 

📙 The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength and Confidence Through Humility

📙 Lady Tan’s Circle of Women (I’m attending my first local, in-person book club this weekend as we read this book and can’t wait to discuss this historical fiction book. It’s SO good!)

📙 The Scarlet Letter

📙 Robert Frost: Selected Poems

📙 Strong: Devotions to Live a Powerful and Passionate Life 

📙 The Inheritance Games (YA read that’s sat on my TBR for years)

📙 When We Were Animals (Coming of age story - content warnings)

📙 The Raven Scholar (Chunky book I received as a gift and so really enjoying it!)

📙 Story of the Romans (Ancient history pre-read for my daughter)

📙 The Story of the Thirteen Colonies by H.A. Guerber (American history with my daughter)

📙 Our Island Story (Our European/world history spine this term)

📙 Grimms Fairy Tales (sporadic read-alouds when we have some down time)

📙 Marvels of the Occident (Second-time read this time with our youngest)

📙 Marie Curie and the Discovery of Radium (science biography with daughter)

I’d also like to thank Julie Rothman for sending us her brand new Insect Anatomy book and Nature Anatomy Posters (which you can pre-order today)! We LOVE LOVE LOVE her Nature Anatomy series and our daughter loves to keep them all handy for her nature journaling expeditions.

What Will We Read Next?

I'm very much a mood reader, so who knows what I'll pick up next. That's half the fun, right? But I’ll be sure to update you later this fall.

Regarding our homeschool reads, we’re only halfway through Term 1 so I’ll be planning Term 2 books soon and hopefully sharing that with you as well.

I hope you're all finding your groove with the new school year and carving out some time for the books that are calling to you!

You can still grab my FREE 2025 Reading Challenge here!

For the Days You Feel Invisible + Homeschool Doubt Creeps In 🩷

Thank you for being such a vital part of this community. If you're like me, the doubts about continuing to homeschool creep in regularly. (I believe in honest conversations here). The questioning looks when strangers find out you homeschool. The awkward moments when your child doesn't mix in with neighbors or sports teams because they don't attend the local school. The well-meaning family members who wonder aloud if you're doing the right thing.

In many quiet moments after these encounters, I find myself wondering:

Am I really doing the right thing for my children?

For me? For the world?

Maybe you can relate to that question. Especially after last week. And after over 11 years of homeschooling, I'm still learning alongside you in the trenches with two children going completely different directions.

While our teen son needs a full-time chef, chauffeur, and counselor for those deep late-night conversations, our daughter is enjoying making new friends in our new homeschool community, nature journaling, crafting and reading books like The Hobbit, Marvels of the Occident, the Narnia series and many others for the first time this year.

None of this could be considered “easy.”
It’s a consistent, daily, intentional CHOICE.

In the midst of our days, we might also think things like:

"I wish I could have more of an impact on the world."
"What's my legacy look like if I'm at home all day with my kids?"
"Shouldn't I be doing something more... significant?"

These thoughts whisper lies that what we're doing isn't enough and that real impact happens somewhere else, with someone else. As I sit and read aloud day after day, those same thoughts creep into my mind too.

But can I please encourage you... you're not "just" a homeschool parent.

You're influencing generations upon generations.

As Mother Teresa once said: "If you want to change the world, go home and love your family."

We don't know how many days we'll be on this earth, but God does. He sees the eternal value in what you're choosing to do right now.

You're laying down your ego for the greatest cause of humanity.

Your children.

God may not be calling you to step OUT in faith, but to step INTO your faith at home. This might look like:

  • Changing diapers & washing dishes

  • Reading aloud (again and again)

  • Morning devotions & prayers

  • Deep discussions over homemade dinners

  • Daily habit & character development

The world doesn't necessarily need another celebrity or politician.

The world needs faithful mothers and fathers who are willing to pour into the hearts and minds of their children day after day, year after year.

Think about it! You are shaping the leaders, innovators, servants, and world-changers of tomorrow right there at your kitchen table. The child you're teaching fractions to today might grow up to be the missionary who changes a nation. The daughter you're reading The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to might become the mother who raises the next generation of humble yet righteous sons and daughters.

Your impact isn't measured in social media followers or public recognition.

It's measured in character formed, truth planted, and love demonstrated in countless small moments that add up to a lifetime of influence – influence that will ripple through generations you'll never even meet.

So on those days when you feel invisible (hugs!) or wonder if any of this matters, remember: you are changing the world.

One child, one lesson, one moment of love at a time.

✍🏻 5 Ways I Keep Our Homeschool Planning Simple Each Year

1. Pray. Pray. Pray (and then Pray some more)

What does the Lord want our homeschool to look like this coming year? What are HIS plans, not ours? Sometimes, if I sit and wait on Him, He provides direction better than I ever could have found myself. It's when I try to rush planning that I often overspend on curriculum or a class we don't end up using, or join a community or extracurricular group that doesn't end up being the best fit for our values.

2. Choose our baseline curriculum guide.

When the kids were little, I used a specific simple Charlotte Mason guide, and for two years we were in a Classical Conversations community. When I created Simple Studies, I started using my own guides. And around ages 8+, I've used a combination of Ambleside Online (our choice again this year), The CMEC, and The Alveary. We are Charlotte Mason homeschoolers through and through, and we've seen the fruit of leaning on this main method in our homeschool.

3. Plan out each subject and which books we'll be reading together.

After 11+ years of homeschooling, I've realized how God created each subject to overlap with all the others. Therefore, I don't pile on as many reading plans and lessons as I used to, trusting the Holy Spirit will guide us as we navigate each term together. This specifically relates to what we're covering for our "riches" in our Morning Circle together. Bible, reading, writing, math, science, history, and foreign languages tend to stay steady. But for our Morning Circle, one term we'll focus on poetry or Shakespeare. Another we'll do composer studies and Plutarch. Another we might find a fun topic to explore together. Regardless, it's fluid and I'm very flexible depending on where our family and each individual is mentally in those terms. The goal has always been to choose things that work well for two children who are four years apart.

4. Gather the BOOKS!

I love purchasing used books from places like AbeBooks or Thriftbooks or my local used bookstores. Sometimes I splurge on special editions or antique books, but for the most part, we rely on used books. When using my Simple Studies guides, we love NewWestPress but also rely heavily on Living Book Press and Yesterdays Classics. There are many more independently published options today than there were when we first started homeschooling!

5. Choose our community and activities.

Depending on what each child needs in each season, this could range from sports to music to local homeschool gatherings, tutors, and classes. I do my best to find low-cost options but have found many of our favorite classes have higher rates because we believe in the person/company offering those classes. We also offer Simple Studies LIVE classes each semester for children grades 2-6. For me, I'd rather my child be inspired than come away with knowledge they didn't enjoy pursuing. If they want to attend community/class/said sport, then we're doing something right with that extra expense and time invested.

Bonus Tip: Include them in the planning!

As the kids get older, I love getting their input. By their teen years, they're piecing together their own curriculum and class plans. Having that buy-in really changes their attitude—knowledge isn't happening to them, they're in charge of their own learning journey. This ownership transforms everything.

And really quick, speaking of planning, for the past few years, we’ve always included WORLDWatch in our daily routine. Right now, they’re offering a whopping 4 MONTHS FREE (which is insane because that’s the most they’ve ever offered).

And this month only, I'm offering my complete Simple Studies collection at 30% off. It's my way of helping you start the year with less stress and more joy in your homeschool.

You can grab the collection here.

I hope this has been helpful!

📚 Books that Live in my Head Rent Free [Parenting, Education + Life]

Hello fellow book lovers! You know those books that just stick? The ones that pop into your thoughts while you're folding laundry, driving your kids to all their activities or that you find yourself recommending to everyone who'll listen?

Yeah, those books…

Today I'm sharing a few titles that have claimed permanent residence in my brain. We have a few brand-new discoveries plus several favorites you can find in addition to 100+ books you might also enjoy in my Summer Reading Guide for the Homeschool Parent.

I've been thinking about why certain books claim this staying power, especially for us homeschool parents who juggle our own reading with guiding our kids' literary journeys.

These aren't just books I enjoyed; they're the ones that shifted how I think about education, parenting, or life in general.

New books living rent free this year:

The Sword of Kaigen hits deep as it explores motherhood through the lens of raising a courageous, selfless son while desperately trying to protect your entire family. All the feels.

Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream arrived at the perfect moment. It's easy to get complacent in our busy homeschool lives and forget how to live a life that’s radically in love with, and obedient to, Christ in ways that are often contrary to simply going to church and raising our children to love the Lord. This book helped deliver a wakeup call I desperately needed.

The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman. I’m always drawn to Hoffman’s writing. It’s so magical always transports me to another time and place. I chose to write a few of the lines from this book into my Commonplace notebook, a notebook generally reserved for non-fiction quotes.

The Courage to be Disliked sat on my wishlist forever because, honestly, the title felt off-putting. But when it went on sale, I finally read the synopsis—and wow. I devoured this book in a flash, highlighting and annotating probably half of it. While it's not written from a Christian worldview, I've always found value in Eastern psychological perspectives (hello, The Art of War). These books often teach us how to better guard our hearts and minds as we live countercultural lives.

A few of the 100+ books in my Summer Reading Guide for the Homeschool Parent:

The Complete Grimms’ Fairy Tales: I'm on a kick this year to read even more fairy tales to my children despite them growing into their teens, and I'm so grateful we started with unabridged versions when they were young. These stories feel more critical now than when they were first written. Children grow up way too fast these days, and fairy tales offer our kids the chance to wrestle with real-world, complex issues in a creative yet safe environment. Originally created to show the grace and safety offered by our Savior, they remain one of the most powerful tools for nurturing both imagination and wisdom.

A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket keeps drifting back into my thoughts from when I read it aloud to my kids at ages 8 and 4. Those were some of my favorite years—watching them play together as sweet, innocent little ones. But beyond the nostalgia, something profound in these books helped us all grasp that no matter our circumstances, people everywhere face real suffering and hardship. It taught us to hold gratitude close for our health and family, especially on the ordinary days when we might otherwise take them for granted.

Hero Education speaks directly to where I am as our oldest pursues his educational and athletic dreams at his private school. While I still homeschool his little sister, I've transitioned into his cheerleader, chef, chauffeur, guide, prayer warrior, and everything else a mother does who loves her son. But thanks to this book (and many other great ones in my Summer Reading Guide), I've learned to keep reading thought-provoking, timeless books alongside him no matter how old he gets and to connect him with other educated minds for weekly book discussions.

Present Over Perfect. I think about this book often, especially as a parent who’s constantly questioning herself and if she’s parenting well, or well enough.

At Home in the World reminds me that our current season of moving multiple times in one year doesn't uproot our children, it actually draws us closer through the strength of our family bonds. Home isn't a place; it's the relationships we nurture, no matter which house we're living in.

DOWNLOAD THE SUMMER BOOK GUIDE

With over 100 titles, this guide is tailored for your homeschool journey, spiritual life and your whole family. You’ll explore realms of adventure, beloved classics, family stories and motivational tales that promise to enrich your summer days and spark imagination in every reader.

☀️ Summer Reading Challenge, Book Ratings + US Travels

Our summer travels have officially begun! We visited Universal Studies Florida and the new Epic Universe last week and as I type this, I'm sitting north of Atlanta, Georgia, watching our daughter kayak the Chattahoochee River. 🚣🏼‍♀️ She's having the time of her life out there, and honestly? I'm a little jealous! Though I can't complain because I managed to sneak in a gorgeous hike earlier today.

I attended Mississippi State University and have traveled plenty throughout the South over the years, but somehow I'd forgotten just how much Georgia reminds me of Oregon. The rolling hills and the lush foliage. It's striking how similar they feel despite being thousands of miles apart. (However, it’s definitely warmer and muggier here!) 😅

But you’re not here to talk travels. You’re here for the BOOKS!

Here are the books I've been reading lately, plus some new finds from visiting local bookshops around Atlanta.

 
 

Over the past couple of months, I've been devouring books at a pace that even surprises me.

There's something about summer that makes me want to read everything I can get my hands on. But I’ve also noticed that I tend to jump into a lot of YA reads I can devour within a sitting or two.

Today I'm excited to share (in no particular order & with ratings when applicable):

The Eye of the World ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Violent Bear It Away (Catching up on my classics!) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Out of the Silent Planet (CS Lewis space trilogy pre-read for our son’s summer scholé class) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Screwtape Letters (another read with my son for summer studies) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sunrise on the Reaping (Flew through this and am now excited to read the entire series!) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Next Breath (biography of the month) 

Hillbilly Elegy (last month’s biography) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Wind in the Willows (finished this RA with my daughter last week) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Uwind and Dry (YA Reads since I enjoyed Scythe) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Faith That Sticks: 5 Real-Life Ways to Disciple Your Preteen

Breath of a Dragon (Bruce Lee’s daughter writes epic MMA fight scenes - yes THAT Bruce Lee!) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Night Circus (Audiobook narrated by Jim Dale! For those of you who’ve listened to Harry Potter with your kids… IYKYK) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Heartwood (Audiobook) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Apartment Women & Convenience Store Woman (I’m a sucker for short translations!) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Radical: Taking Back your Faith from the American Dream ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Invisible Hour ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Gifted School ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Sirens ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Flirting with Disaster: True Travel Tales of Fear, Failure, and Faith ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Metal Slinger ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Belladonna ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Bear ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beartown 

The Georgia Aquarium was INCREDIBLE! Thanks to those of you who recommended we visit!

 

We spent four days at Epic Universe, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure… my head is still spinning from all the rides! (The Harry Potter worlds were my favorite parts!)

 
 

Thank you for journeying through books and the US with us… it’s a pleasure not only to read alongside many of you but to also hear what YOU’RE loving too!

🌱 2025/26 Homeschool Books & Curriculum Choices 📖

These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

What a whirlwind as we settle into Florida life—and yes, we're moving again, this time from the Gulf Coast to the East Coast! With travel plans filling most of our summer, I'm squeezing in time to share our homeschool direction for the coming year.

Our high schooler will continue at his sports academy while adding several "Scholé" classes alongside trusted tutors, including a year-long journey through C.S. Lewis and Tolkien. For our Year 5/6 daughter, however, we're making some exciting changes.

Over our 11-year homeschool journey, we've been blessed by incredible communities like CMEC, The Alveary, and Ambleside Online, along with resources from Logos Press, Memoria Press, The Scholé Academy, and House of Humane Letters. These have all shaped our path beautifully.

But this coming year, I’m continuing my focus on timeless literature with trusted sources. Thanks to mentors and trusted voices I’ve leaned on for years, I'm increasingly convinced that we needn't dissect literature to death. We simply need to enjoy, narrate, and discuss good books. This is how we learn to tell our own stories and communicate with uniqueness and grace.

I'm thrilled to share that we're returning to the Ambleside Online community next year. We've witnessed the beautiful fruit that a Charlotte Mason education has borne in our older child, and we want nothing less for our daughter.

While we've always emphasized outdoor time and habit formation in the early years, I know that as children enter their middle school years (Years 6-8), especially our girls, they need something more: a strong foundation in what it means to be moral, kind, virtuous, empathetic, curious, and formidable characters in today's world.

In addition, I feel our daughter needs to be able to rely on her mother daily to learn what it looks like to be a humble housewife, homemaker and invest and maximize our family’s finances in order to bless others.

The stories we choose to fill their minds with and the lives with live alongside our children during these formative years, with the Holy Spirit’s assistance, will help shape who they become. I can't think of a better gift to give our children than the very best literature and life at home and in our community we can offer.

Feel free to watch my video update for an in-depth look below.

Or you can simply CLICK HERE to see my Amazon list of books we’ve chosen – keeping in mind we are leaning on AO for their recommended “riches” this year including music, handcrafts, picture/composer studies and Plutarch. We joined a little AO Shakespeare discussion group and she will be involved in a 4-H club as well.

I hope this is helpful to those of you looking for encouragement as a Charlotte Mason / Classical / Eclectic homeschooler!

🫣 I Was Wrong, Term 3 Reads, Teaching kids about $$ [Big Bookish Update]

"A room without books is like a body without a soul." — Cicero

I'm a minimalist at heart (except when it comes to books—a weakness I'm sure many of you understand all too well!). 🥰

When we moved to Florida, I made what seemed like a practical decision: packing away mountains of beloved homeschool books our oldest had already completed.

Since our youngest learns so differently than our younger child, I convinced myself those carefully chosen treasures wouldn't be needed in our new chapter.

But I was wrong…

 
 

As I sit here planning our 2025/26 homeschool year, (which I can’t wait to share more about soon), I find I am repurchasing many of the same titles I left behind in storage.

Those living books are timeless titles that launched our son to become an honors student at his current academy—they're irreplaceable parts of our homeschool journey that I now realize transcend different learning styles.

(And yes, buying them again is still less costly than flying back to sift through dozens of book boxes in storage, but oh, the irony isn't lost on me!) 🤦🏼‍♀️

I did think to bring books like our Narnia series and biographies from New West Press, Living Book Press and Yesterdays Classics… but my online used book cart is still SO heavy!

I share this as both confession and caution to any fellow homeschoolers facing moves or storage decisions: when in doubt about a book's future value, perhaps keep it within reach. Our carefully curated collections have a way of finding purpose again, sometimes in ways we never anticipated.

I’m excited to share what our book and curriculum choices are for fall soon!

Until then, I’m sharing what my daughter and I are reading RIGHT NOW…

*I never ask for narrations from our lit reads - only our history/science/biography…etc. reads.

She and I started a little local tween book club so she quickly read through a few early chapter books like Dolphin Treasure and Manatee Rescue simply to have more titles to recommend to her friends when we gather.

Our 10yo current historical biography: The Story of David Livingstone. Her older brother enjoyed this book, Sir Walter Raleigh and Napoleon.

Diving into our morning read alouds: Anne of Green Gables. Song for a Whale - (we finished The Dreamkeeper Saga and decided not to read the second book in the series).

Although I had reservations about two of the books in her stack, especially Wings of Fire with its problematic later volumes (she'll stop before reaching those)—I'm taking a different approach than I did with our oldest and The Hunger Games. Rather than enforcing an age restriction, I'm allowing her to read what her friends recommend, but we'll pause for thoughtful discussions throughout to process challenging content together.

And we’re listening The Green Ember on audio in the car together.

And we’re plugging our way through Robin Hood on audio in the afternoons (I read it to her brother when she was a baby)!

Whew! I’m so glad she loves reading and listening to great stories as much as I do!

The Story of Mankind is one of the many purchases I made for fall - there’s nothing more satisfying than purchasing vintage books!

 
 

Now, for adult reading, my April Book Challenge is “Bloom.”

 
 

I read 14 books in March - many of them were amazing, several of them were duds, but I decided to include a little book stack image since that’s much prettier and fun than not including one. (See below).

Some books in my stack are completed, some are still in the works, and many aren’t included because they’re either on my Kindle or I returned them to my library.

Norms and Nobility is something I’m chewing on slowly, while listening to a podcast that discusses each chapter.

We are teaching our kids financial responsibility and wealth management, subjects completely skipped over in most schools. So I’ve been diving deep into “building wealth” books so I can turn around and help our kids learn how to build generational wealth as well.

So books like Rich Dad, Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!, Simple Money, Rich Life (a Christian read), and Invest Like a Girl, are some books I’ve been diving into this spring.

I received an arc of What’s a Christian Anyway? on NetGalley and can confidently say this was a wonderful Kindle read, with multiple highlights!

I always listen to audiobooks at night and The Quiet Librarian was spellbinding. It tells the story of a teenage soldier-turned-legendary assassin during the Bosnian War.

And I ran to the Goodwill Bookstore for a few quick reads this coming month: Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream, Better Decisions, Fewer Regrets, The Old Man and the Sea, Investing for Retirement, and more…)

And my non-fiction historical exploration read heading into April is Realm of Ice and Sky.

Finally, I'd like to address summer homeschool conferences and the subtle pressure many of us feel to attend these large events.

While I've attended numerous conferences over the years (primarily when I was finding my footing in homeschooling) - from Charlotte Mason gatherings across the country to Classical instructor training in Moscow, Idaho, and Wild + Free conferences in Portland and Texas - they're wonderful opportunities to connect with fellow homeschoolers. However, I firmly believe no homeschool parent should feel obligated to attend one every summer. Many conferences involve significant costs, travel, and time away from family. Sometimes that break is exactly what we need - a chance to think clearly or enjoy a cup of coffee while it's still warm!

For 2025/26, I feel confident and settled in my Charlotte Mason approach jumping into our 11th year of homeschooling, so I don’t plan to attend or speak at any conferences.

And though I'm always honored to be invited as a speaker, I recognize that in certain seasons of life (like my current one), my primary calling is to be present with my children - homeschooling, , homemaking and parenting well. Perhaps someday I'll return to the podium to inspire fellow homeschoolers, but this isn't that season.

If you're unable to attend a conference this year - whether due to your location, financial constraints, or family circumstances - please don't worry! Today's technology offers abundant opportunities to learn from experienced homeschoolers worldwide. I encourage you to embrace a season of rest, whatever form that takes for you.

This perspective might also explain why I'm less active on social media and why my emails have become less frequent as my children grow. Our family life in Florida is increasingly filled with the true, good, and beautiful things that demand our presence and attention!

 
 

Has anyone else experienced the "great book purge regret"? Or am I the only one who's learned this lesson the hard way?

🦅 Journey to Joy: What Memories Are You Forging Together?

Is homeschooling just another big task in life’s journey, or a profound calling?

If it’s a profound calling and conviction, for most of us, then we feel the weight of that decision daily.

Since our move to Florida and enrolling our son in a private academy to pursue his passions, we've navigated a new landscape in homeschooling our daughter solo.

This shift means creating fresh routines and seeking a community that resonates with our values—a place where our daughter can thrive and make new friends.

Yet, the transition has been anything but simple.

Despite Florida's allure with its sun-drenched beaches and lifestyle freedoms, finding a community of homeschoolers hasn't been straightforward.

Our experiences in Oregon, Idaho, and now Florida reveal a consistent truth: it requires persistent, dedicated parents to find—or create—their tribe.

But I'm not in a hurry.

I'm savoring every precious moment with my daughter, knowing these mother-daughter days are fleeting. Before long, she'll be absorbed in new friendships, and these quiet moments together will become memories.

In fact, we moved to the same state as several wonderful friends! However, we didn't anticipate the long drives and the challenge of synchronizing our schedules to meet up regularly!

Regardless, today was a testament to the joy of our journey.

We hiked over five miles through a STUNNING nature preserve, just the two of us after some new friends canceled last minute. It was a day filled with laughter, bird songs, and the endless sky above. All timely gifts from God. 🦅

 
 

Homeschooling is my responsibility, and I don't take it lightly.

Yet, the pressure to pick the perfect curriculum or the right social group sometimes clouds the simple, profound joy of just being PRESENT with my children.

I am committed to doing homeschooling justice—it serves a crucial role in our lives and the lives of our children.

However, truly excelling at homeschooling means also excelling at LIVING.

Adapting to a new area is challenging, but I envision a future rich with friends and activities.

One day, I'll reflect on these current days, just as I now fondly recall hiking weekly with both my children through Oregon's misty, evergreen forests.

So, if you find yourself burdened by the weight of homeschooling responsibilities, and are starting to focus on your intentions for next year, I encourage you to pause and ponder:

What memories do you want to forge over the next 5, 10, or 15 years?

I have a hunch it’s not simply sitting at a table doing math lessons each day or driving to and from a million homeschool activities… but spending INTENTIONAL time together.

How do you want to remember living and loving with your children?

Embrace that vision – because I’ve found, it’s a conviction worth embracing. 🦅

I hope this was helpful! Want to read more on this topic? Check out Setting Peaceful Priorities Post Here.

Term 3 Homeschool Books & Curriculum Updates: Grade 5

Hello friends!

I plan to make a video on what we’re using for our Form 3/2A (Grade 5) daughter this term but I often wait until we’ve been successfully using our new books and curriculum for a few weeks. So thanks for bearing with me…

*Our oldest child, turning 15 soon, is currently enjoying a local sports school academy but we may eventually bring him back into the homeschooling fold in his upper high school years… we’ll see what God has planned!

While moving to Florida has opened us up to many new incredible outdoor opportunities, and we’re enjoying most of what we’re diving into this last term of the year, not everything is as peachy as it looks. Math continues to be a struggle, so we switched things up (see below) and we employ a sweet lady tutor from Grade Potential who comes once/week to help so my daughter and I can enjoy our relationship more in the areas I’m more comfortable teaching (reading, writing, science — basically anything BUT math).

Our daughter is also attending multiple, in-person marine biology & micro-science lab classes in our local area that appeals to her interests around science and animals, including special homeschool gatherings at our local aquariums and nature preserves.

Finally, she is enjoying a little homeschool community here where she’s learning Italian and life skills. (Hence the Italian copywork book we decided to get last-minute which she adores using)!

Here’s our weekly loop subjects and books:

We’re reading through a simple and sweet girls devotional each week.
Our daily read-aloud is The Dragon and the Stone in The Dreamkeepers Saga - not sure what we’ll choose next!
Artist study: Homer by Simply Charlotte Mason - this is our second time studying this artist who spent time in our area and has several paintings in Florida we can see in person.
Folk Songs: Ambleside Online YouTube Folk Song lists
Poetry: The Book of Animal Poetry and The Earth Under Sky Bear’s Feet
Geography: Simple map drills using blank maps
Math: We paused Saxon - it was a lot of daily strife for us both so we’re praying about our other options. A tutor comes to our home 1x/week. Business Math by SCM - this is one thing we’ve changed up this month. A friend of hers is also completing this guide so they get to discuss it in person, which we used for our oldest as well.
History:
America: Continuing reading through America: Our Stories
Ancient: The Story of Civilization, D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths - a few gods each week
World: The Age of Chivalry (audio version), King Arthur and His Knights (can be listened to in a day - read by Jim Weiss)
Handwriting/Copywork/Narration:
Narration after each read aloud - draw a picture and write a few sentences (or tell back orally)
Italian Handwriting (because she’s passionate about it!)
Writing and Rhetoric Book 3 (and looping in Easy Grammar)
Keyboarding daily - we no longer use lessons but she types frequently and we work on hand placement and posture, along with increasing type speed.
Citizenship:
Plutarch: We put this aside for spring and will pick it back up in fall.
Current Events: WORLDWatch (use code CRYSTAL3 to get your first 3 months free).
Shakespeare: Archangel Audiobooks
Handcrafts: Life skills in person at co-op
Foreign Language: Italian in-person immersion classes at co-op
Science: We put down the science books for Term 3 after finishing Beetle Busters lessons from Alveary in lieu of her attending in-person marine biology/oceanography and nature preserve gatherings.
Literature: Independent reading and audiobooks. She enjoyed A Wolf Called Wander so she’s now onto A Wolf Called Fire, along with several other independent chapter books of her choosing from the book store.
Audiobooks: Recently: The Giver, The Mysterious Benedicts Society Book 4, A House with a Clock in its Walls, The Chocolate Touch, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them… and more depending on what she’s currently interested in.

I hope this is helpful for those of you with students her age. Let me know if you have any questions!

💌 February Book Picks + Fresh February Members Guide

Hello friends – I have a few exciting things lined up for you in February!

First, our new February Membership Simple + Fresh Guide will be available and ready to download Feb 1. We’re exploring the History of Chocolate, Quilting Stories and the Science of Shadows.

Don’t forget to download January too!

This month’s “Word of the Month” Book Challenge is “SHADOW.” (I listed books I’m reading and read in January below).

 

What I read in January:

A Beautiful Ugly ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jaws: The Story of a Hidden Epidemic (HIGHLY RECOMMEND!) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Connie: A Memoir ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What You Are Looking for Is In the Library ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Melania ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Clean ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Close Your Eyes ⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Deadly Game (A book that won a ton of awards by a local Floridian author) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

 
 

February Books:

 
 

So far, The Sword of Kaigen is proving to be a favorite 2025 book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

And you can NEVER go wrong reading Norms & Nobility: A Treatise on Education.

I’d love to hear what YOU’RE reading in February!

🌴📚Mid-Year Curriculum + Life Updates 🌴

Hello homeschool friends! Sharing some HUGE Life updates and what we’re doing in our homeschool this winter. 📚 Please remember, these resources fit our children best as we are a Charlotte Mason / Passion & Interest-Led Homeschoolers (with some Classical mixed in).  Thank you for watching and I hope this helps inspire you in your homeschool journey! 👏🏻💕

Read More

2025: Setting Peaceful Priorities

As a homeschool parent for over 10 years, I’ve seen the New Year’s resolution hype play out year after year. Big promises, sweeping changes, and ambitious goals that often fizzle out by February.

This year, I’m choosing something different: Peaceful Priorities.

What are Peaceful Priorities?

They’re the opposite of resolutions that demand “more” and “faster.” Instead, they focus on finding peace, leaning into where we thrive, and simplifying our days. For us, this means trusting God and embracing what truly works for our unique family dynamic.

Keep scrolling to see how that looks IRL for us as we settle into our new life in Florida:

 
 

For Our Son

Our son’s passion for baseball has shaped a big part of our decisions this year.

He’s now attending a sports academy near our new home, which combines his love for baseball with academic classes.

He trains each morning, bikes home for lunch, and then heads back to campus for his afternoon classes.

The best part? We’ve reclaimed our evenings. 👏🏻 Back in Idaho, we were constantly shuttling him to evening practices which made it difficult to sit down to dinner each night as a family.

Now, evenings are family time again. This shift is a gift—less hustle, more heart.

 
 

For Our Daughter

For our daughter, Peaceful Priorities mean stepping away from activities I think she should be doing and leaning more into opportunities that align with her natural gifts and goals.

Here are some of her new ventures:

  • Entrepreneurial Community: Hands-on learning in activities such as auto mechanics, holistic gardening, carpentry, crafting and more.

  • Animal Care: Monthly in-person opportunities to explore her love for animals here at the local marina.

  • Exploring Together: Visiting local gardens, nature preserves, and animal sanctuaries for enrichment and connection. We buy yearly passes so we can visit anytime.

  • Back to the Basics: Learning how to make homemade meals, doing household chores together and the art of homemaking.

Instead of overwhelming her schedule, we’re focusing on experiences that inspire her creativity and growth from a young girl into a young lady.

 
 

For Me

Peaceful Priorities extend to my personal life, too. Here’s what I’m focusing on this year:

  • Non-Numerical Book Challenges: No pressure to hit a number—just reading for pleasure and growth. This includes exploring more Greek classics and memoirs: After loving Meditations, The Wide Wide Sea and The Art of Living last year, I’m diving deeper.

  • Creativity & Rest: Prioritizing nourishment for body and soul. Not feeling guilty when I work on new projects because it is part of who I am and what brings me joy as an entrepreneur!

  • Not Complaining: A tough but transformative challenge, especially after a cross-country move.

  • Daily Planning: Writing my hourly schedule the night before to combat decision fatigue each and stay on track.

These small, intentional choices are helping me find peace.

A Little Extra Help

One of the most freeing decisions I made for this upcoming year is hiring a math tutor for our daughter.

Through Grade Potential, we are paired with someone who truly enjoys the subject, with the goal of helping bring joy back to this subject for our daughter.

We still use Saxon Math because I believe it’s a fantastic option especially for those older grades, but having a tutor to guide her once a week will help alleviate any strain in our relationship.

Speaking over the phone with Grade Potential was seamless, (they are super kind!!) and their flexibility allows us to meet at home, the library, or even a coffee shop.

Sometimes, letting go of doing it ALL ourselves is the best choice we can make for ourselves and our relationships.

 
Get 50% off your first hour

Our family always takes life one season at a time.

Homeschooling, home life, and personal goals all ebb and flow, and we’re learning to adapt as needed.

Instead of chasing what society tells us we need to do, we’re focusing on what brings peace, joy, and growth to our family.

As we step into this new year, I’m reminded again that thriving isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most.

 
 

How are you approaching the new year?

Are you setting traditional resolutions or leaning into your own version of Peaceful Priorities?

I’d love to hear from you!

🎉 My Favorite Books of 2024 (More than I thought!)

This year, my reading journey has been a little unconventional. As I write this, I’ve read well over 120 books in 2024 and I enjoyed 50+ of my reads. WOW! (I’m considering doing a non-numerical reading challenge next year —stay tuned!)

 
 

If you just want my TOP 10 books (what I would consider 6 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ in a list - keep scrolling!

Looking back, I can now see amid our family’s nation-wide move, some of my book choices turned into much-needed escapes from the chaos of such a big transition. I also jumped headfirst into the Romantasy genre. 🤭

Quick disclaimer: Some books on my list include open-door scenes or explicit content that doesn’t fully align with my personal values –– in many cases, I find myself skimming pages as I keep my eyes on the main plot. So many fantastic and fun books could do without so much spicy content!

(Also, why does my automated “curated” recap below not include non-fiction titles!?!")

 
 

That said, I still read some classics and educational books but otherwise, I intentionally stepped outside my comfort zone to explore perspectives and stories beyond my own echo chamber—it keeps my reading life varied, vibrant and thought-provoking.

And naturally, several books on my list are family-friendly read-alouds I enjoyed with my kids (ages 14 & 10).

It’s a bit of a paradox: some of my favorite books this year stood out for their literary merit, even if they didn’t completely align with my values. What can I say? I embrace the complexity!

In the end - I really enjoyed many of my book choices this year. YAY!

Click here for the entire list. ♥️

view all my favorite 2024 books here.

Interested in learning more about YOUR reading style so you can zero in on more books you know you’ll enjoy? Check out my Find Your Reading Style Pack so you can stop wasting money and time on books that aren’t right for you and stack your bookshelves with more books you LOVE! 👏🏻💖

Now for my ABSOLUTELY TOP 10 FAVORITE 6-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reads:

The Art of Living
Welcome to the Hyunum-Dong Bookshop
Spark of the Everflame
The Lion Women of Tehran
The God of the Woods
The Wide Wide Sea
Heartless Hunter
Weyward
Enders Game (and Scythe but I’m doing my best to cap this at 10!)
The Most

Man that was TOUGH. I keep looking through my list and have to say, so many could have been swapped out onto this list because most of my non-fiction reads tend to be 5-star reads.

ANYHOO…

Thank you for being here and Happy Reading!

🎁 Simple + Screen-Free Advent and Gift Ideas

As our family embarks on an exciting new chapter (I can’t wait to share more soon!), I wanted to share some of our favorite Advent and Christmas gift ideas.

We love creating a simple, screen-free holiday atmosphere (with the exception of classic movies like Christmas Vacation and Home Alone), so you won’t find tech gadgets or gizmos on this list. 

Advent Ideas for your homeschool:

Hallelujah: Cultivating Advent Traditions with Handel's Messiah by Cindy Rollins - One of my all-time favorite guides.

All Creation Waits by Gayle Boss - We did this one when the kids were younger and it’s one of the sweetest books. We enjoyed Jennifer Pepito’s printable guide for this book.

My personal adult Advent daily reading I enjoy the most each year - super simple daily bits to read and reflect on: Joy to the World: Daily Readings for Advent by Charles H. Spurgeon

We plan to use Let Heaven and Nature Sing: Advent Art and Poetry Lesson Plans for All Ages from the Circe Institute this year with the family if we can get to it.

And just for fun because our family loves Escape rooms, puzzles and solving riddles together: EXIT: Advent Calendar - The Hunt for The Golden Book

Crack the crate

Crack the Crate - Both my kids (14 & 10) worked together to crack this case - and it’s really well done. Digging dragon eggs and solving crypto clues and it was the perfect difficulty level - not to difficult and not to easy! 

Screen-Free Gift Ideas:

Fahlo - Our kids LOVE animals, so we track about 10 animals with these unique bracelets that to help saving endangered species around the globe! Get 20% OFF Using code SIMPLE20 

Little Christmas Carol - If you enjoyed Little Pilgrim’s Progress, you might love this book too!

Book Lovers Gift Set (Okay, this one might be more for me!) haha

The Harry Potter Mystery Box – If your kids love receiving mail or subscription boxes, this would be the perfect gift that keeps on giving! Each box is filled with exclusive items from the Potterverse including memorabilia, artwork, accessories and more… cancel anytime!

More than a Puzzle! Our family adores putting these puzzles together and then taking it a step further and solving the clues to find the answer to each mystery! Some do say 14+ but our 10yo helped us solve multiple clues! Here are our favorites so far:

Jungle Escape Puzzle
The Art Studio Escape Puzzle
Midnight Garden Escape Puzzle

Zero Waste Gifts by Me Mother Earth – for the eco-conscious friends and family in your life

The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien (A Graphic Novel) - I’m snagging this for both kids!

Coffee Produced in Bird-Friendly Habitats (Another gift I’m asking for!)

FREEBIE!

Before you go, don’t forget to download my FREE 5-Day Gratitude Journal for you and your family! way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

As we prepare for the holiday season, I hope these Advent and Christmas gift ideas inspire you to create meaningful, tech-free traditions with your loved ones. Whether you're savoring quiet moments, enjoying classic holiday films, or diving into festive activities, may this season be filled with joy, connection, and cherished memories. 

☕️ Skill-Based Learning, Book-ish Updates, Fall Lessons and More…

Despite our family going through some major shifts, I still read as regularly as possible. In fact, reading helps me self-regulate! (You too?)

First, I’m sharing some books I’ve read (or am reading) this fall below, and I started a couple new book journals I’m excited to share more about in a later update.

Secondly, our Winter LIVE Classes are now enrolling. They’re about 1/3 full so while there’s still room if you’ve been on the fence, I wouldn’t wait too long!

Thirdly, I just completed another NEW, FANTASTIC Simple Studies Character Guide (woo hoo!) It releases November 12 - so be sure to check your email that day!

Love books? Me too! So glad you’re here!

Skill-Based Learning:

If you’re feeling tired and unmotivated – just know you’re not alone.

We ALL hit these slumps!

Sometimes lessons aren’t as fun as we think it’s going to be. I think that’s the case for so many of us who maybe enjoy our read alouds and then get everything in order, sit down and open up our daily lessons with our kids.

Just this week, our daughter was in tears (again) over math. I’m not doing anything crazy – in fact, we go slowly through each lesson and I’m privy to her individual needs – however, math just ain’t her thing (nor is it mine, no matter how “Charlotte Mason-ish” or “Montessori-ish” or hands-on I try to be).

I’m not ashamed to share this because I KNOW I’m not alone.

So instead of trying to crush math lessons every day, we take it a little bit at a time and instead, allow her to spend more time focusing on what she loves.

We don’t skip math but I can at least give her plenty of free time to explore the topics and activities she does enjoy to help set her up in life to use skills she’s naturally gifted with.

Encourage your kids to spend 80% of their time nurturing their natural strengths and passions. Dedicate the remaining 20% to building foundational skills in essential subjects—those areas that may not come as naturally but are valuable for life.

And when in doubt – read aloud! (Check out our favorite read aloud guides from past autumn months):

Let’s dive into the books!

Here’s a list of all the books I’ve been reading lately (they are not all clean - so please advise –it wouldn’t be fall without a bit of spooky mysteries and vampires!)

The Art of Living: The Classical Mannual on Virtue, Happiness, and Effectiveness (I’m taking diligent notes as I slowly chew on this book)

Odd and the Frost Giants (audiobook with the kids by one of my all-time favorite authors)

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (Read aloud with my teen)

River Sing Me Home

The Serpent and the Wings of the Night (Duology, caution advised)

Meditations

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Audiobook with the kids – we have like 15 hours remaining and waiting for a roadtrip to knock it out!)

Our Narrow Hiding Places: A Novel (Audiobook)

The Secret History (Just starting this one - it begs to be read during the autumn season and comes highly recommended)


Just finished:

Woman in the Polar Night (One of my favorite books of the year. Talk about resilience! Last year I read Letters of a Woman Homesteader – I just love this non-fiction genre)

Weyward (They had me at the cover)

Blackbeard Audiobook (Short story based on a true story from 1920s - production was wonderful!)

Gray After Dark (based on a true story here in Idaho)

Into the Drowning Deep (Loved the creepy, marine biology/scientific approach to mermaid murder mysteries! Major caution advised with this one and I skip the parts that).

Annihilation: A Novel (My husband reminded me I’ve apparently seen this movie before but I can’t for the life of me remember how it was - he tells me it wasn’t that great).

Madwoman (a BOTM Club pick: Motherhood-focused mystery/fiction/thriller - kind of dark at times)

God of the Woods (Not bad! Not the best 500pg book out there but I love me some wilderness mysteries!)

Heartless Hunter (First in the Crimson Moth series - Better than I thought it would be but contains witchy stuff if you’re not comfortable with this)

More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop (2nd book in the series)

Burn (I love Peter Heller books since they’re super outdoorsy (too much unnecessary cursing IMO) but this one was a disappointment IMO)

On my TBR before Fall ends
(I can’t honestly recommend any of these yet so please advise!):

Why Literature Still Matters by Jason Baxter (available Dec. 1)
The Will of The Many (Over 4.5 stars on Goodreads I simply need to stop procrastinating and dive in! I see this being recommended everywhere!)
The Wild Huntress (a BOTM Club pick)
Here One Moment (a BOTM Club pick)
HEIR (Spontaneous impulse purchase)
A House with Good Bones (I’ve enjoyed T. Kingfisher short novels when it’s dark outside)
What you are Looking for is in the Library (Because I love books about books and libraries)
The Story Collector, The Ten Thousand Doors of January, Man’s Search for Meaning, Red Rising (All have been sitting on my shelf while I continue to collect and read other books).

I hope you enjoyed this week’s update! I’m not super consistent when things are busy for us but I’m so glad you’re here 🥰

Autumn Book Lineup, Geocaching Fun, Fall FREEBIE + More!

We’ve just kicked off Term 2 (Term 1 flew by!), and today I’m excited to share our new fall read-alouds, literature picks, biographies, our new Fall Tree Freebie some Geocaching fun and more!

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