Bosch Universal Plus Mixer
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A dream came true when I purchased my Bosch Mixer.
Read More7 Books for the WWII History Lover
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Do you have a teen who is captivated by the WWII era? If so, you’ll want to check out these 7 books for the WWII history lover.
Read MoreChoosing a Creative Writing Curriculum
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When you have a reluctant writer, it’s hard to find encouragement and material to help them. Over the years, I’ve spent money on books that seemed to only cause more problems for my writer. I’ve even searched the internet for free story starters and watched videos of creative writing teachers hoping to bring about more confidence in my son. Nothing has worked for us until now; Creative Writing That Puts You In Their Sandals.
Several years ago, I encouraged my son to write a Bible story we had finished studying. It was good, but it was like pulling teeth to get him to write it. After remembering what a fellow teacher (high school English) told me about writing, I backed off from being persuasive. Her advice was simple – Stop forcing him and focus on the grammar part of writing. You can’t have good results if the young person does not have a good grasp on the grammar side of things. Once they have the grammar down, helping them get their thoughts on paper is easy to teach. This is just what I did. I used several methods of teaching grammar so things would not be like beating a dead horse, getting old, and going nowhere.
For some, my writer would be behind in writing. But I disagree. While he might struggle with getting his thoughts on paper, when he does, his grammar is superb. While I would love for him to write and write, and write, he is not going to be that kind of writer. He is like me – don’t beat around the bush, say what I want and be done with it.
When I ordered the book Creative Writing That Puts You In Their Sandals, I was a little skeptical because of past failures. But once I read through the lessons, I knew this was a book for us. Writing fictional stories based on stories found in the Bible was a wonderful idea. There is no teaching of rewriting the stories to take away the importance of each one. But to write and expand on what the Bible already shares adding nothing weird to the lesson of the story.
While there are only eight lessons in the book with either a one week per lesson or two weeks per lesson, we lengthened the time in working on a lesson. We’ve done this so we can do a thorough research on the different Bible verse portions with different versions so we can see a comparison.
Each lesson contains these parts:
Another thing I love are the questions asked in each section. What, Who, Where, When, How, Why during the researching part of the story. Each question asked causes the writer to think a little more deeply about what is going on.
In the Rough section, you’ll find the Outline section with conflict, exposition, incitation, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution and denouement. The descriptions of setting, characters, events and thoughts and reactions.
There are seven stories assigned and the last one is the writer’s choice:
Jesus casts the demons into the pigs, The Passover at the Temple, The Birth of Jesus, Noah, Joseph, The Feeding of the 5,000, and Jonah.
The guidance from Rand Hummel in In Their Sandals is just like the guidance he gives to young people every day. He truly has a heart to reach young people for the Lord and this book is evident of his love for them.
I love the help and encouragement my son has received from this book. The methods taught will definitely be used in our final year of our home education journey.
Positive Action for Christ even offers a free downloadable Teacher's Resource for Creative Writing That Puts You In Their Sandals so you can get an idea of what is being taught in the book if you're a little skeptical like I was in the beginning.
In Their Sandals Student Manual
By Positive Action for Christ
How can studying the Bible help students to become better writers?
God's a master storyteller, and the Bible is the best story of all. This study challenges to students to dig into the Bible, read it, meditate on it, and experience it as if you were a character. Students will tackle creative writing exercises that help them learn to communicate clearly and concisely as they learn about how God has chosen to reveal Himself.
Students will:
120 pages, softcover.
Non-reproducible; consumable workbook.
Middle school and High School / Grades 6-12.
This post contains affiliate links.
Creative Writing That Puts You In Their Sandals
Several years ago, I encouraged my son to write a Bible story we had finished studying. It was good, but it was like pulling teeth to get him to write it. After remembering what a fellow teacher (high school English) told me about writing, I backed off from being persuasive. Her advice was simple – Stop forcing him and focus on the grammar part of writing. You can’t have good results if the young person does not have a good grasp on the grammar side of things. Once they have the grammar down, helping them get their thoughts on paper is easy to teach. This is just what I did. I used several methods of teaching grammar so things would not be like beating a dead horse, getting old, and going nowhere.
For some, my writer would be behind in writing. But I disagree. While he might struggle with getting his thoughts on paper, when he does, his grammar is superb. While I would love for him to write and write, and write, he is not going to be that kind of writer. He is like me – don’t beat around the bush, say what I want and be done with it.
When I ordered the book Creative Writing That Puts You In Their Sandals, I was a little skeptical because of past failures. But once I read through the lessons, I knew this was a book for us. Writing fictional stories based on stories found in the Bible was a wonderful idea. There is no teaching of rewriting the stories to take away the importance of each one. But to write and expand on what the Bible already shares adding nothing weird to the lesson of the story.
While there are only eight lessons in the book with either a one week per lesson or two weeks per lesson, we lengthened the time in working on a lesson. We’ve done this so we can do a thorough research on the different Bible verse portions with different versions so we can see a comparison.
Each lesson contains these parts:
- Research - read and research the story in the Bible
- Rough – roughing out the structure of the story
- Write – the first rough draft
- Apply – a short Bible study to help the writer to open their heart to the Bible
- Revise – the second and/or final draft of the story
- Tools of Grammar – little grammar reminders
Another thing I love are the questions asked in each section. What, Who, Where, When, How, Why during the researching part of the story. Each question asked causes the writer to think a little more deeply about what is going on.
In the Rough section, you’ll find the Outline section with conflict, exposition, incitation, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution and denouement. The descriptions of setting, characters, events and thoughts and reactions.
During the write section, there is a reminder, to pray and ask the Lord to help the writer while writing. As I mentioned the Apply section being a Bible study; I love this. What better way to learn what God has to say about a story the writer is already researching to write about.
There are seven stories assigned and the last one is the writer’s choice:
Jesus casts the demons into the pigs, The Passover at the Temple, The Birth of Jesus, Noah, Joseph, The Feeding of the 5,000, and Jonah.
The guidance from Rand Hummel in In Their Sandals is just like the guidance he gives to young people every day. He truly has a heart to reach young people for the Lord and this book is evident of his love for them.
I love the help and encouragement my son has received from this book. The methods taught will definitely be used in our final year of our home education journey.
Positive Action for Christ even offers a free downloadable Teacher's Resource for Creative Writing That Puts You In Their Sandals so you can get an idea of what is being taught in the book if you're a little skeptical like I was in the beginning.
In Their Sandals Student Manual
By Positive Action for Christ
How can studying the Bible help students to become better writers?
God's a master storyteller, and the Bible is the best story of all. This study challenges to students to dig into the Bible, read it, meditate on it, and experience it as if you were a character. Students will tackle creative writing exercises that help them learn to communicate clearly and concisely as they learn about how God has chosen to reveal Himself.
Students will:
- Write eight stories based on events and characters from Scripture
- Read Scripture meditatively, with a mind to seek God's majesty in His Word, then share Him with others
- Research the historical and cultural context behind well-known Bible stories
- Approach writing systematically, with appropriate research, preparation, drafting, and revision
- Practice the disciplines of a good writer
- Build a basic literary vocabulary
- Understand the importance and use of certain grammar structures
120 pages, softcover.
Non-reproducible; consumable workbook.
Middle school and High School / Grades 6-12.
The Beginner's Bible Timeless Children's Stories
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If you are considering a children’s Bible to begin little readers with, The Beginner’s Bible is an excellent option to consider.
Zondervan first published this book in 1989 and it has sold over 25 million copies over the years. They have recently revised the book and images to have a fresh new look. New vibrant three-dimensional art, brings these stories to life to a new generation of children. With easy-to-read text and bright, full-color illustrations on every page make it a perfect way to introduce young children to the stories and characters of the Bible.
One thing I truly loved about this little Bible book, is it has a dictionary section in the back. I love this! The top of the page says, “Some of the words in this book may be new to you. Throughout the stories, you will see these words in italics. You can find out what they mean by using this dictionary". These are just a few words and their definitions: Anoint - (1. To pour olive oil on people or things. This sets them apart for God. 2. To pour oil on people as part of praying for their healing. 3. A sign of God’s blessing or favor. ) Disciple -(A person who follows a teacher. This person does what their teacher says to do.) and Proverbs -(1. A wise sayings. 2 A book of the Bible that contains many wise sayings.).
The Beginner’s Bible doesn’t give every detail on the stories. If your child comprehends a more in depth story, they may notice the missing details and ask questions. From what I’ve read, the details do not take away from the story. The age range is from 4-8 years of age, but depending on your child it could range from 2-6 years of age.
The Beginner's Bible was named the 2006 Retailers Choice Award winner in Children's Nonfiction.
The Beginner’s Bible has its very own website. You’ll find games, coloring sheets, and several videos.
Age Range: 4 - 8 years
Series: The Beginner's Bible
Hardcover: 512 pages
Product Dimensions: 6.5 x 1.3 x 7.8 inches
You can purchase your own copy of The Beginner’s Bible.
Zondervan first published this book in 1989 and it has sold over 25 million copies over the years. They have recently revised the book and images to have a fresh new look. New vibrant three-dimensional art, brings these stories to life to a new generation of children. With easy-to-read text and bright, full-color illustrations on every page make it a perfect way to introduce young children to the stories and characters of the Bible.
The Beginner's Bible a Review
There are 94 stories found in The Beginner's Bible. Many favorites from both the Old and New Testaments. The story of creation, Joseph, Daniel in the lion’s den, Jesus’ birth, The Good Samaritan, The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, Paul on the road to Damascus, and the Second Coming are just a few of the stories.
Each story is between 4-8 pages long. With a picture on each page, there are 1-8 lines, perfect for beginner readers. The images are designed specifically to appeal to children. If you’re like me then they might not appeal to you as an adult either, but I’m not a kid, and I would never let my appeal keep me from sharing this book with any child.
The Beginner’s Bible doesn’t give every detail on the stories. If your child comprehends a more in depth story, they may notice the missing details and ask questions. From what I’ve read, the details do not take away from the story. The age range is from 4-8 years of age, but depending on your child it could range from 2-6 years of age.
The Beginner's Bible was named the 2006 Retailers Choice Award winner in Children's Nonfiction.
The Beginner’s Bible has its very own website. You’ll find games, coloring sheets, and several videos.
Age Range: 4 - 8 years
Series: The Beginner's Bible
Hardcover: 512 pages
Product Dimensions: 6.5 x 1.3 x 7.8 inches
You can purchase your own copy of The Beginner’s Bible.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in return for my opinion. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Charlie the Tramp by Russell Hoban Book Review
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After 50 years, the children’s book Charlie the Tramp is being introduced to a new generation. I remember this precious little book being on the book table in my kindergarten class. It was my favorite and I enjoyed learning to read to Charlie the Tramp. I was able to pass my love for Charlie on to my son when he was little. As parents, we do all we can to teach our children to be productive adults. Sometimes, we have to allow our children to pursue their dreams so they will show just how responsible they can be, just like with Charlie.
If you are one who believes in being politically correct, this book is not for you. But, if you still believe in the way things "used to be" in the home and haven't read this book, you need to. Sharing our past (and present for many) with our future generations is a must. The cute story about Charlie is a great reminder of how things used to be.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Charlie the Beaver wants to be a tramp when he grows up. “Tramps don’t have to learn how to chop down trees and how to roll logs and how to build dams. Tramps just tramp around and have a good time. Tramps carry sticks with little bundles tied to them. They sleep in a field when the weather is nice, and when it rains they sleep in a barn.” Charlie sets off with his bundle. But when he hears water trickling, he can’t get to sleep. Will he be able to resist the urge to make it stop? As Grandfather Beaver says, “You never know when a tramp will turn out to be a beaver.”
“An especially memorable character study of a runaway beaver...unique, humorous, precise of speech...How touching the moment when Charlie’s father looks at his truant one’s first serious nighttime labor and says, ‘Any tramp that can make a pond like that is going to be some beaver one of these days.’” – The Atlantic Monthly, August 1976
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Russell Hoban (1925-2011) first became famous for his children’s picture books about a badger named Frances and other animal characters that have a lot in common with children we know – Bedtime for Frances, A Baby Sister for Frances, Bread and Jam for Frances, and Emmit Otter’s Jug-band Christmas.
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Lillian Hoban (1925-1998), one of America’s favorite children’s book illustrators, is best known for a young chimpanzee named Arthur and his little sister, Violet. She also illustrated six of Russell Hoban’s books about Frances the badger, which have taken their place among the great classics of children’s literature. Lillian Hoban was born in Philadelphia and attended the Philadelphia Museum School of Art. She studied dance for ten years and became a professional dancer. She began to write and illustrate her own stories only after having children, basing her tales on their experiences.
Hardcover
Pages: 48
Book Size: 7 x 8.75
Age: 3-8 years
You can purchase your own copy from Christian Book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in return for my honest opinion. I was not required to give a good review.
this post contains affiliate links
Charlie the Tramp Book Review
The new updated cover while a little different from the original paperback cover I read as a little girl gives a look of simplicity from my childhood. When I first sat down with the book, I couldn't help but feel like a little girl again seeing the images Lillian Hoban had lovingly created for this book. As I read the words I was taken back to my childhood in my kindergarten class learning to read the sweet story about Charlie wanting to grow up and be a tramp.If you are one who believes in being politically correct, this book is not for you. But, if you still believe in the way things "used to be" in the home and haven't read this book, you need to. Sharing our past (and present for many) with our future generations is a must. The cute story about Charlie is a great reminder of how things used to be.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Charlie the Beaver wants to be a tramp when he grows up. “Tramps don’t have to learn how to chop down trees and how to roll logs and how to build dams. Tramps just tramp around and have a good time. Tramps carry sticks with little bundles tied to them. They sleep in a field when the weather is nice, and when it rains they sleep in a barn.” Charlie sets off with his bundle. But when he hears water trickling, he can’t get to sleep. Will he be able to resist the urge to make it stop? As Grandfather Beaver says, “You never know when a tramp will turn out to be a beaver.”
“An especially memorable character study of a runaway beaver...unique, humorous, precise of speech...How touching the moment when Charlie’s father looks at his truant one’s first serious nighttime labor and says, ‘Any tramp that can make a pond like that is going to be some beaver one of these days.’” – The Atlantic Monthly, August 1976
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Russell Hoban (1925-2011) first became famous for his children’s picture books about a badger named Frances and other animal characters that have a lot in common with children we know – Bedtime for Frances, A Baby Sister for Frances, Bread and Jam for Frances, and Emmit Otter’s Jug-band Christmas.
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Lillian Hoban (1925-1998), one of America’s favorite children’s book illustrators, is best known for a young chimpanzee named Arthur and his little sister, Violet. She also illustrated six of Russell Hoban’s books about Frances the badger, which have taken their place among the great classics of children’s literature. Lillian Hoban was born in Philadelphia and attended the Philadelphia Museum School of Art. She studied dance for ten years and became a professional dancer. She began to write and illustrate her own stories only after having children, basing her tales on their experiences.
Hardcover
Pages: 48
Book Size: 7 x 8.75
Age: 3-8 years
You can purchase your own copy from Christian Book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in return for my honest opinion. I was not required to give a good review.
 | Charlie the Tramp By Russell Hoban / Plough Publishing House |
Christmas Love Letters from God Bible Stories
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An adorable Christmas book you'll want to add to your library.
I am so excited to share this book review today. It’s another Christmas book, another book to add to your library. The first thing that drew me to this book was the illustrations; they have a vintage children’s book feel and I love that. They remind me of books I read while growing up that are now considered vintage. But I’m not vintage if you’re wondering.
Christmas Love Letters from God Bible Stories
Christmas Love Letters from God Bible Stories has seven stories all related to the birth of Jesus. Each Bible story is written in a way for children to understand and relate to and the best thing included is a Your Love Letter from God note card attached to the page.
These little notes of love are written as if God had written them to your child or grandchild. Little notes of encouragement, love and hope. They offer the opportunity to teach your child what the Bible says about each little letter.
Along with each story is a Bible verse {God’s Perfect Promise} that goes along with it. Jeremiah 33:3, Luke 2:11, and Isaiah 45:2 are just a few of the verses. At the end of the book, you will find a note card labeled My Gift to Jesus, this card is where your child can write a letter to Jesus. It’s never too early to teach our children to talk with the One who will always listen to them.
About the Author
Glenys Nellist was born and raised in a little village in northern England. Her stories and poems have been published in children’s magazines where her writing reflects a deep passion for bringing the Bible to life for young children. Glenys lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with her husband, David.
About the Illustrator
Rachel Clowes grew up in South London and studied illustration at Cambridge School of Art. She began her career in children’s magazines and has been illustrating ever since. Rachel lives in Yorkshire, England with her husband, also an illustrator, her three sons and two cats.
Hardcover
Pages: 32
Ages: 4-8
Book size: 11x9
You can purchase your own copy here.
I was given a copy of the book from the publisher in return for my honest opinion. – You won’t be disappointed!
this post contains affiliate links
I am so excited to share this book review today. It’s another Christmas book, another book to add to your library. The first thing that drew me to this book was the illustrations; they have a vintage children’s book feel and I love that. They remind me of books I read while growing up that are now considered vintage. But I’m not vintage if you’re wondering.
Christmas Love Letters from God Bible Stories
Book Review
Christmas Love Letters from God Bible Stories has seven stories all related to the birth of Jesus. Each Bible story is written in a way for children to understand and relate to and the best thing included is a Your Love Letter from God note card attached to the page.
These little notes of love are written as if God had written them to your child or grandchild. Little notes of encouragement, love and hope. They offer the opportunity to teach your child what the Bible says about each little letter.
Along with each story is a Bible verse {God’s Perfect Promise} that goes along with it. Jeremiah 33:3, Luke 2:11, and Isaiah 45:2 are just a few of the verses. At the end of the book, you will find a note card labeled My Gift to Jesus, this card is where your child can write a letter to Jesus. It’s never too early to teach our children to talk with the One who will always listen to them.
About the Author
Glenys Nellist was born and raised in a little village in northern England. Her stories and poems have been published in children’s magazines where her writing reflects a deep passion for bringing the Bible to life for young children. Glenys lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with her husband, David.
About the Illustrator
Rachel Clowes grew up in South London and studied illustration at Cambridge School of Art. She began her career in children’s magazines and has been illustrating ever since. Rachel lives in Yorkshire, England with her husband, also an illustrator, her three sons and two cats.
Hardcover
Pages: 32
Ages: 4-8
Book size: 11x9
You can purchase your own copy here.
I was given a copy of the book from the publisher in return for my honest opinion. – You won’t be disappointed!
Where Jesus Slept by Norma Lewis - Book Review
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I love Christmas books written for children. Where Jesus Slept is one of the cutest Christmas books I’ve seen in a long time. Its repetition of the rhyme (similar to This Is the House That Jack Built) is a fun way to help children remember the beginning of the story; such an important story in history.
This is the bed where Jesus slept.
This is the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept.
This is the cow that shared the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept.
The book begins with the birth of Jesus and how He slept on a straw lined bed. As the story moves along, it builds on the biblical account, ending with the wise men bringing gifts to the new born King.
The key words are all in capital letters, perfect for pointing out importance and for beginning readers. The illustrations are beautifully created without being too overwhelming for little ones.
Where Jesus Slept is a perfect book to start a Christmas tradition with or to add to an already tradition.
About the Author
Norma Lewis is the author of ten books, including Connecting the Coasts: The Race to Build the Transcontinental Railroad and Kasey's River Song. She lives in Grand Haven, Michigan, with a marmalade cat named Scalawag. They both love spending time with her six grandchildren, ranging in age from three to twenty.
About the Illustrator
Katy Hudson was raised in Middlesbrough, United Kingdom, and started her career as a small child drawing on freshly painted walls! Her parents quickly encouraged drawing with pencil and paper instead. The idea stuck, and after earning a degree in illustration, Katy embarked on a career illustrating books, including All Things Bright and Beautiful for WorthyKids/Ideals and Bear and Duck. Katy works at a desk in a studio in an old library and likes to tap dance in her spare time.
Hardcover
Pages: 32
Ages:3-6
Book Size: 10x10
You can purchase your own copy here.
I received a free copy of the book from the publisher in return for my honest opinion.
Where Jesus Slept
{affiliate link included}
This is the bed where Jesus slept.
This is the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept.
This is the cow that shared the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept.
The book begins with the birth of Jesus and how He slept on a straw lined bed. As the story moves along, it builds on the biblical account, ending with the wise men bringing gifts to the new born King.
The key words are all in capital letters, perfect for pointing out importance and for beginning readers. The illustrations are beautifully created without being too overwhelming for little ones.
Where Jesus Slept is a perfect book to start a Christmas tradition with or to add to an already tradition.
About the Author
Norma Lewis is the author of ten books, including Connecting the Coasts: The Race to Build the Transcontinental Railroad and Kasey's River Song. She lives in Grand Haven, Michigan, with a marmalade cat named Scalawag. They both love spending time with her six grandchildren, ranging in age from three to twenty.
About the Illustrator
Katy Hudson was raised in Middlesbrough, United Kingdom, and started her career as a small child drawing on freshly painted walls! Her parents quickly encouraged drawing with pencil and paper instead. The idea stuck, and after earning a degree in illustration, Katy embarked on a career illustrating books, including All Things Bright and Beautiful for WorthyKids/Ideals and Bear and Duck. Katy works at a desk in a studio in an old library and likes to tap dance in her spare time.
Hardcover
Pages: 32
Ages:3-6
Book Size: 10x10
You can purchase your own copy here.
I received a free copy of the book from the publisher in return for my honest opinion.
Favorite School Supply - PENS
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Yesterday we started our 4th week of school. How can that be already? Before you know it, it will be Christmas break and I’m not even ready to think about that. In honor of our 4th week of school, I wanted to share with you, my MOST favorite school supply ever!
School shopping for us is not like many other families. In fact, I don’t buy anything unless it is something I know we have to have, like spiral notebooks, pens, pencils, paper clips, and posted notes. There are some years, I don't buy anything.
Years ago, I stopped buying wooden pencils and moved on to the mechanical pencils. Even when Jamie was still in lower elementary grades, he learned (quickly) how to use those wonderful non-sharpening pencils.
I can’t help but feel pity for those classroom teachers who are faced with a bazillion wooden pencils on the first day of school. Half of those pencils are not a good quality and end up becoming breakfast, lunch and supper for a pencil sharpener all in one day. ** Parents, please for the sake of your child’s teacher, if you want them to like you, DO NOT send dollar store pencils or those that have a cute papery printed image on them. A good quality wooden pencil like the ones from Dixon Ticonderoga, they last longer than a day or two - trust me, I know because I experienced the dreaded chewing up of cheap pencils for 12 years.
While I love writing with a pencil, pencils are not my favorite school supply to buy. Pens are, and not just any pen, but the Paper Mate Ink Joy pens. The first time I wrote with one was at the lawyer’s office when we rented our house and then again when we closed on it. I almost kept the lawyer’s pen because I loved it so much. What a keen eye our lawyer had, because she wrote down the type of pen it was, so I could get my own. She liked her pen!
Last year, I bought clickable pens. I like retractable pens, but I don’t like to find a pen that has been left open in the pen holder to collect bits of dust. Yeah, that just ruins my doodling artwork. These pens have been known to find themselves anywhere throughout our house and several are in my purse.
This year, I didn’t see the clickable pens, but I did find the pens with caps. I think I like these a lot better. With these, I won’t be finding the rubber grip removed and folded inside out and put back on the pen like I did with the retractable pens. I have no clue who would do such a thing! Who am I kidding, I do. :)
Whichever pen I use, I find it writes beautifully every time even on the first writing or doodling project. The ink is pretty cool, after year, all the pens that can be found are still writing beautifully and the ink is still a nice “ball point pen” ink - no chunky junk.
Do you have favorite school supply to buy?
{Post contains affiliate links}
School shopping for us is not like many other families. In fact, I don’t buy anything unless it is something I know we have to have, like spiral notebooks, pens, pencils, paper clips, and posted notes. There are some years, I don't buy anything.
Years ago, I stopped buying wooden pencils and moved on to the mechanical pencils. Even when Jamie was still in lower elementary grades, he learned (quickly) how to use those wonderful non-sharpening pencils.
I can’t help but feel pity for those classroom teachers who are faced with a bazillion wooden pencils on the first day of school. Half of those pencils are not a good quality and end up becoming breakfast, lunch and supper for a pencil sharpener all in one day. ** Parents, please for the sake of your child’s teacher, if you want them to like you, DO NOT send dollar store pencils or those that have a cute papery printed image on them. A good quality wooden pencil like the ones from Dixon Ticonderoga, they last longer than a day or two - trust me, I know because I experienced the dreaded chewing up of cheap pencils for 12 years.
While I love writing with a pencil, pencils are not my favorite school supply to buy. Pens are, and not just any pen, but the Paper Mate Ink Joy pens. The first time I wrote with one was at the lawyer’s office when we rented our house and then again when we closed on it. I almost kept the lawyer’s pen because I loved it so much. What a keen eye our lawyer had, because she wrote down the type of pen it was, so I could get my own. She liked her pen!
Last year, I bought clickable pens. I like retractable pens, but I don’t like to find a pen that has been left open in the pen holder to collect bits of dust. Yeah, that just ruins my doodling artwork. These pens have been known to find themselves anywhere throughout our house and several are in my purse.
This year, I didn’t see the clickable pens, but I did find the pens with caps. I think I like these a lot better. With these, I won’t be finding the rubber grip removed and folded inside out and put back on the pen like I did with the retractable pens. I have no clue who would do such a thing! Who am I kidding, I do. :)
Whichever pen I use, I find it writes beautifully every time even on the first writing or doodling project. The ink is pretty cool, after year, all the pens that can be found are still writing beautifully and the ink is still a nice “ball point pen” ink - no chunky junk.
Do you have favorite school supply to buy?
