Danielle’s Picks: 5 Things I Tried and Loved in February 2023

tried-and-loved-february-2023

February has been quite a busy month here at the farmhouse. Not only did we return to our weekly homeschool co-op, we added in ballet classes for Sadie and horseback riding lessons for Nora. Let’s not forget the demo that we’ve been taking on here at home too, you can join in on that adventure over on our YouTube Channel, Spotted Rooster Farm.

Last month I mentioned the launch of my very first Etsy shop, I AM Printables Co. And, to be honest…I haven’t made a single sale yet! Blushes with embarrassment. 

Yup, I have some work to do, over there when it comes to promoting my shop. It’s something I am working on. But, I need to do some research to figure out the proper way to go about it. In the meantime, creating new digital art prints will be on hold. 

I would be grateful if you took a peek at my shop, and let me know your thoughts! If there is a custom design you would like me to create for you please feel free to reach out over on Etsy, and be sure to let me know how you found me for a special discount code. 

One thing you should know about me is that I have a nasty habit of biting off more than I can chew. Even though it’s something I am fully aware of, I can’t seem to stop myself. So, for now I am taking a step back.

Now, let’s get on to the five things that I tried and loved in February…

Imbibe

wiseacre-february-2023

Wiseacre is one of my favorite breweries here in Tennessee. To be honest, I wish there were more craft beer distributors close by so I could try out more of what the craft brewers of Tennessee have to offer. Right now, I’m just picking up my favorite double ipa when I do my weekly food shopping trip. And, this hazy dipa hits the spot! Especially after a long day at the homeschool co-op. 

 

Read + Write

Nora is learning all about adjectives, adverbs, verbs, and nouns in English right now. And, MadLib Juniors makes it a fun learning experience for us all. Nora loved this so much that we powered through her first book in one weekend. I highly suggest it for your kiddos too!

Download

Image by Julia Volk

In our homeschool, we combine two learning styles – Waldorf and Charlotte Mason. In case you are unfamiliar, picture study is one of the subjects included in the Charlotte Mason curriculum. So, I began adding it into our schedule last year. I began by finding fun pictures online, and printing them out to discuss with the girls. But, this year I wanted to step it up a bit, and that’s when I came across the Picture Study Portfolios from Simply Charlotte Mason. We chose to start with Michaelangelo. 

Play

We were first introduced to this game by my niece and nephew a couple of years ago. At the time, the girls were not ready for it, and Sadie still isn’t ready for it. Don’t get me wrong, she understands the concept but not the competition. Regardless, she still has fun being included when we play. It’s been a great addition to our family game nights.  

Create

One night at the end of February Justin excitedly returned home from work with the news that a co-worker was getting rid of a brand new, in box Cricut Explore Air 2 for a steep discount. This machine was used only a handful of times. And, when he asked if I wanted it, I jumped at the chance. So far, I’ve made monograms for the girls’ water bottles as a test run. But, I cannot wait to have a designated spot for this craft printer and really get to creating! If you have a cricut, let me know some of your favorite projects in the comments!

Editor’s note: This article contains affiliate links. This blog uses affiliate links as a source of revenue to fund operations of the business and to be less dependent on branded content. Danielle stands behind all product recommendations. Still have questions? Contact Danielle right here.