Some recipes are more than recipes, they’re memories simmering on the stove.
This year, I’m sharing Deb’s (my wonderful step-mom!) original write-up of the recipe, in her words, because no one explains it with more heart or personality.
From Deb:
“This soup is one of my kids’ all-time favorites, and every year the smell of it bubbling away brings me right back to when they were toddlers. Growing up, Grandma Gloria Stoffel made this after holiday meals, and everyone loved it. I still remember bowls of this soup warming us from the inside out.”
Spicy Turkey Noodle Soup (Deb’s Version!)
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This goes together so quick and easy… you can decorate the tree while it simmers!!
If you’re looking for a meaningful, screen-free Christmas gift this year, I’ve got something extra special to share! As a mom of four boys and a children’s book author, I’m always hunting for gifts that spark creativity, imagination, and joy. That’s why I put together a brand-new holiday bundle that kids (and parents!) are already loving.
Introducing the Turtle Trouble Christmas Gift Pack!
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🐢 What’s Inside the Gift Pack?
Each bundle includes four great items:
1. Autographed Copy of Turtle Trouble
This story is based on a real-life “What’s in the Box?” challenge gone hilariously wrong… and the messy adventure that followed. Kids love the humor, the mystery, and the message of teamwork. Each book comes personally signed.
2. Mini Plush Turtle
A soft, snuggly turtle that will love to be held and listen to you and your child read!
3. Turtle Trouble Coloring Sheet
Custom made for this book. Great for winter days at home or after-school downtime.
4. Sticker
Kids can decorate water bottles, notebooks, or their craft bins. (Because every kid loves stickers!)
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Why This Makes the Perfect Christmas Gift
As parents, we’re all looking for gifts that are meaningful, not just more clutter. This holiday bundle:
Encourages reading
Sparks imagination
Includes hands-on fun
Makes kids feel seen and special with a signed book
Fits perfectly in a stocking
Supports a mom and Minnesota author
It’s a wholesome, charming gift that brings smiles.
I put together a limited number of these holiday gift sets – when they’re gone, they’re gone! If you want one for your child or to give as a gift, now is the perfect time to grab it.
As a mom who loves reading, I’ve always enjoyed comparing books and their movie adaptations. There’s something fun about reading a book, imagining the characters and settings, and then watching how Hollywood brings it to life – sometimes it’s fantastic, and sometimes it falls short. Over the years, I’ve noticed there are some stories where the book is unforgettable, some where the movie steals the show, and a few rare ones where both are equally wonderful. Here are a few of my favorites lately:
I love, LOVE this book. It’s one of my all-time favorites! It’s beautifully written, full of grit, teamwork, and history. The movie was good, but lacked the depth, detail, and emotion that made the book so powerful. Perhaps I would have liked it better if I hadn’t just finished the book.
Verdict:The book is a MUST READ. The movie would be a good family night options (for kids ages 10 and up), but the book is SO MUCH BETTER.
. The book, written by Francine Rivers, goes deep into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and unconditional love. The movie does a good job staying true to the story, but like most adaptations, it misses some of the emotional layers and character development that make the book unforgettable.
Verdict:Read or listen to the book first, but both the book and movie are powerful, emotional and well done.
Both are beautifully done, and the story itself is a little sad, but rich and hopeful. I watched the Netflix series first, so the book didn’t hold the same suspense for me.
Verdict: If you’re short on time, the series is lovely. If you want rich, poetic writing, go for the book. Click here for the audiobook.
. Both versions are wonderful! The book by Kate DiCamillo is charming, heartfelt, and timeless. The movie captures that same sweetness perfectly. This is a rare case where both are wonderful.
Verdict: You can’t go wrong either way. Read it with your kids, then make popcorn and watch the movie together.
. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is one of the best children’s books ever written.. It’s full of wonder, imagination, and deep meaning. When I finished reading this book with my two youngest sons, they said, “Can you find another book JUST like this.” That’s a hard task because this book is one-of-a-kind. The movie is a great family film that brings Narnia to life beautifully, but it can’t quite match the depth of the book.
Verdict: Read the book first. The movie is a wonderful follow-up.
Books and movies each have their place, sometimes one outshines the other, and sometimes they work hand in hand. But if I had to choose, I almost always recommend starting with the book. There’s just something special about imagining the story for yourself before seeing it unfold on screen.
Personal Note: I just finished a fascinating biography about Eric Liddell and can’t wait to finally watch Chariots of Fire. Some stories are worth enjoying in both formats!
Recently, I set a goal to visit every Carnegie Library in the state of Minnesota. With my love for books, history, and travel – visiting Minnesota’s Carnegie libraries felt like a meaningful way to connect with my new home state. So far, I’ve been to six, and each one has a charm and story all its own.
Before I share more about my journey, I wanted to take a closer look at the man behind these libraries: Andrew Carnegie, whose generosity helped shape the public library system we know today.
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Who Was Andrew Carnegie?
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Andrew Carnegie was born in Scotland, in 1835, to a poor weaver’s family. When he was 13, his family immigrated to Pennsylvania. Young Andrew began working in a cotton factory to help support his family, earning just $1.20 a week.
Despite limited formal education, Carnegie had an intense desire to learn. A local man named Colonel James Anderson opened his personal library to boys on Saturday afternoons. This generosity had a big impact on Carnegie and sparked his lifelong belief that access to books could transform lives.
Carnegie went on to become one of the wealthiest men in the world through his steel empire, the Carnegie Steel Company, which he later sold to J.P. Morgan for $480 million in 1901. But what makes Carnegie truly remarkable is what he chose to do with his fortune…
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Carnegie’s Library Legacy
Andrew Carnegie believed in what he called the “Gospel of Wealth” — the idea that the rich have a moral duty to use their wealth to benefit society. His biggest cause became building public libraries around the world.
Between 1883 and 1929, Carnegie funded the construction of 2,509 libraries around the world, including 1,689 in the United States. His goal was to give communities the tools for self-improvement through free access to knowledge.
In Minnesota, 66 Carnegie libraries were built between 1899 and 1918. Forty eight of these buildings still stand today, over 100 years later! Some still serve as public libraries, while others have been transformed into museums, community centers, or city halls.
Each one carries a piece of history: a reminder of a time when books were precious, education was a privilege, and a Scottish immigrant’s generosity opened doors for millions.
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My Minnesota Carnegie Library Journey
So far, I’ve visited six Carnegie libraries in Minnesota. From small-town gems to city landmarks, every stop has made me appreciate this “quest” even more.
(Click here for the list I’ve been using to check off “Library Bucket list”)
Here’s a peek into the libraries I’ve visited:
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1. Stillwater Public Library
The beautiful entranceThe view from the back patio!The children’s play area
My journey began at the Stillwater Library. It was so stunning that I left thinking, I need to see them all!
In 1901, Andrew Carnegie agreed to give $25,000 for a library building on condition that the city provide the land and commit to annual operating funds. Eventually, Carnegie’s total contribution reached $27,500 for the construction
Still used as a library.
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2. Northfield Public Library
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This library was built with a $10,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie and opened to the public in 1910.
Though it started small, Northfield more than doubled the square footage of their library in 1985 and it’s now 15,000 square feet.
Originally, the city solicited funding in 1899, and Carnegie pledged $50,000 for the library. Later the city requested additional funds, and Carnegie provided a total of $75,000.
Construction began in 1901; the cornerstone was laid on July 4, 1901 as part of Independence Day celebrations. The library officially opened on 1902.
Now used for office space.
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4. Zumbrota Carnegie Library
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The details!
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The smallest Carnegie library in Minnesota.
In 1906, local library trustees applied to Carnegie. Local lore says their first request got no reply, so they resubmitted it along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
The Carnegie grant awarded was $6,500, and the building opened in 1908.
The building served as the public library for 87 years, but is now a gift shop and community center.
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5. Riverview Branch Library (Saint Paul)
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One of three Carnegie libraries built in Saint Paul, and it serves the West Side.
It was built in 1916, designed by architect Charles A. Hausler (Saint Paul’s city architect).
It was one of the last Carnegie-funded libraries built in the U.S.
The library was nominated to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 for its local importance in architecture and education.
The branch continues to function within the Saint Paul Public Library system.
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6. Hosmer Library (Minneapolis)
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Carnegie donated $125,000 to Minneapolis Public Library to build four branch libraries. Hosmer was the last of the four libraries built in Minneapolis, costing $27,700.
It opened in 1916.
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What’s next?
I’ve only just begun this literary road trip, and I can’t wait to continue exploring Minnesota’s Carnegie libraries. Each one contains its own charm and story to tell. Is there a Carnegie library in your town? Send me a picture or an invite—I’d love to add it to my list!
Want to read more about Minnesota’s Carnegie libraries? Click here!
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If you’re looking for a getaway filled with adventure, gorgeous views, and plenty of small-town charm, Minnesota’s North Shore is the perfect spot. Our family spent a few days exploring from just south of Duluth up to Grand Marais, and here are some highlights and recommendations from our trip.
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First Stop: Jay Cooke State Park
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Before even reaching the North Shore, make time for Jay Cooke State Park, just south of Duluth. The swinging suspension bridge over the St. Louis River is an adventure in itself, and the trails through the woods give you a taste of rugged Minnesota beauty right away. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and kick off the trip. There’s a parking lot and a welcome center with bathrooms, picnic tables, and a small museum (free!). Just steps outside the welcome center you will find the bridge, with hikes of varying levels across the bridge.
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Duluth: Gateway to the North Shore
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Once in Duluth, grab some lunch and take your food down by the Aerial Lift Bridge to watch ships move through the canal. If you have extra time, stop at the Lake Superior Maritime Museum for kid-friendly exhibits about shipping and the Great Lakes. (It’s free!)
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Hiking & Exploring Along the Shore
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Highway 61 is full of can’t-miss spots. A few of our top recommendations:
Tettegouche State Park – Towering cliffs and gorgeous lake views.
Superior Hiking Trail – Stretch your legs on one of the many short sections for unbeatable overlooks.
Bring water shoes! The rocks are sharp on bare feet.
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Grand Marais: Small Town Charm
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Free Lighthouse museumFinding trails in the woods is like a treasure hunt
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In Grand Marais: wander around town, walk to the lighthouse and through the forested peninsula. It’s the perfect little town to slow down, shop, and enjoy the lakeside scenery.
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Lutsen: Adventure in the Hills
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Ted and his dadNightly s’mores! YUM!The boys could skip rocks for hours
We love visiting in every season. In winter, we rent a cozy ski-in/ski-out cabin tucked in the woods. For our first summer getaway, we loved our stay at Bluefin Bay, right on the edge of Lake Superior. Waking up to breathtaking sunrises and ending the day with s’mores by the fire was unforgettable.
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Split Rock State Park: A Grand Finale
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On our way home, we wrapped things up at Split Rock State Park. We skipped endless rocks along the beach, tossed a football around (even roping in a few passersby), and waded through the icy Lake Superior water to a small island just offshore. Slippery, cold, and a little daring – but completely unforgettable. We watched a deer make this trek last winter:
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And of course, don’t miss the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse. Built after a massive 1905 storm sank nearly 30 ships, the lighthouse was retired in 1969 but still open for tours, and even lights up once a year in memory of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
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Why We Love the North Shore
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From the swinging bridge at Jay Cooke, to the Superior Trail in Grand Marais, to skipping rocks at Split Rock, the North Shore is packed with family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re into history, hiking, or just soaking in lake views, it’s the kind of trip that keeps you coming back again and again.
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Fun Fact:
Fun fact: Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, over 31,000 square miles (about the size of South Carolina).
Soon after moving to Minnesota, I learned that the State Fair is a “MUST DO!” Minnesotans are crazy about their fair and look forward to it all year. They call it the “The Great Minnesota Get-Together.” If you’re bringing kids along, a little planning can help you enjoy the fair. Here are TEN kid-friendly highlights and tips to make it a great day at the fair.
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Ten Things to Do with Kids
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1. Eco Experience The Eco Experience is great for curious kids who need a break from rides and crowds. Lots of hands-on exhibits. There’s a free outdoor nature play space with water feature, sand, hammocks, fort building, and native plants. It’s right next to Salem Lutheran dining hall.
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2. Visit the Animals Head to the barns for cows, sheep, pigs, goats, and horses. Many kids love watching the baby animals at the Miracle of Birth Center, where you might catch a live birth or see newborn calves, goats, sheep, and piglets.
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3. Little Farm Hands This hands-on exhibit is always a hit with younger kids. They can plant pretend crops, feed animals, and “sell” their goods at the market.
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4. Ride the Rides The Kidway has smaller rides. The Midway has roller coasters and games. The Giant Slide is a classic and my favorite ‘ride.’
Giant SlideReady for the Roller Coaster
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5. Parades & Entertainment Catch the daily parade (2 p.m.) filled with marching bands, floats, and fun characters. Also check out the free stages scattered around the fairgrounds for music and kid-friendly shows.
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We watched a parade and fun street performer!
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5. Try the Food (Pronto Pups!) Of course, you’ll want to sample some food-on-a-stick, but there are plenty of kid favorites like cheese curds, mini donuts, and ice cream at the dairy building. Tip: Share portions so you can try more without overstuffing.
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ice cream from the dairy barnOur first Pronto Pup
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7. DNR Building and Park A mini nature center right in the fair, perfect for fish lovers.
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8. Sports Fans? Visit FAN Central or Misc. Sports Tents We stopped by the Twins tent and Luke had a blast hitting baseballs (FREE!)! A fun way to burn some energy, practice their swings, and feel like they’re in the big leagues. If you are looking for Twins merch, I found a rack of $5 Twins t-shirts inside the tent!
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9. Learn how to operate heavy equipment Luke absolutely loved getting hands-on experience with three different tractors/excavaotors. You’ll find this exhibit just outside the 4H building and it’s FREE!
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10. Butterly Exhibit We loved the Butterfly exhibit – what a unique experience and reasonable price – $4 each.
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Additional Tips:
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WATER – Bring a reusable water bottle – there are filling stations around the fair.
SNACKS – I pack some meat sticks, granola bars, and fruit for my kids so they never get hangry. I give them a little ‘backpack’ or drawstring sack to wear for their snacks and water and miscellaneous things they want or win.
TENNIS SHOES – The ground is dirty (think animal droppings) and with all the walking you will thank me later.
BLUE RIBBON BOOK – Includes coupon and discounts you can use throughout the fair.
GRAND STAND – Go inside to explore lots of shops. I recommend Martin’s Wholesale Store on the Top Level, East side. This stand has a bunch of clearance items like hoodies, backpacks, and coats for a STEAL!
MAP – Grab a map first thing and plan out your route. The fair is the perfect opportunity for your kids to learn “map-reading” skills. Let them navigate how to find your next stop.
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Those are my tips and tricks – what about you? What family-friendly recommendations do you have? Leave a comment by clicking on the little box by the Title of this post!
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As a mom of four active boys, life is full — of sports gear, busy mornings, and sore muscles! Over the years, I’ve found a handful of everyday items that make life a little easier, smoother, and more comfortable. Whether it’s taming bedhead before school, easing post-game aches, or getting out the door wrinkle-free, these simple tools are total game-changers in our house. I thought I’d share a few of my absolute favorite things — the unsung heroes that get used all the time.
I now own two of these — and honestly, I’m tempted to get a third. In a household full of athletes, sore muscles are a given, and this heating pad gets used almost daily. It heats up quickly, stays warm, and is big enough to cover backs, shoulders, or stomachs when someone’s feeling under the weather. Whether it’s for post-practice recovery, growing pains, or a cozy comfort on sick days, it’s become a go-to essential in our home.
When we’re not reaching for the heating pad, this gel ice wrap is the next best thing — especially for sports injuries and sore joints. We keep it in the freezer at all times — because with four boys in sports, it’s not a matter of if someone needs it, but when.
This spray bottle is awesome — perfect for taming bedhead (especially on boys who pretend they don’t need to brush their hair), or giving wrinkled clothes a quick refresh without dragging out the iron.
Another favorite in our house: Uno Flip! I can’t say enough about the blessing of getting your kids — no matter their age — around the table for a game. You laugh, you learn, you connect (and maybe get a little competitive!). This summer, my in-laws introduced us to this fun twist on the classic Uno game – the “flip” adds just enough chaos and surprise to keep everyone on their toes. It’s simple, fast-paced, and such an easy way to make memories together.
I love a hot cup of coffee in the morning, but when the afternoon hits and I’m on the go, Spark is my favorite afternoon pick-me-up. It gives me the energy boost I need and it’s packed with vitamins to help me stay sharp and focused. Whether I’m writing blog posts, shuttling kids to practice, or trying to stay awake for late night pick ups, Spark helps me keep up with the boy-mom pace of life.
This is definitely a splurge item, but I absolutely love mine. It dries hair crazy fast — which is essential when you’re trying to look halfway human while keeping up with four boys and their non-stop sports schedules. With the right attachment, it curls or straightens like a dream. After all the heating pads, ice packs, and water bottles I use for my boys, this one’s just for me. Consider it my small act of self-care in a house full of sports gear and sweaty socks. Salon results at home, no appointment (or babysitter) required!
Whether you’re a fellow sports mom, always on the go, or just someone who appreciates a good product, I hope you found something new to try. If you’ve got a favorite everyday essential, I’d love to hear about it!
If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly outing, I highly recommend a stop in Shipshewana, Indiana! It’s a one-of-a-kind town. In all my travels, I haven’t found a place quite like it:
Horse-drawn buggies.
Amish-owned shops, featuring handmade furniture, quilts, baked goods, and crafts.
Traditional Amish meals at several family-style restaurants.
Unique hand-crafted furniture and architecture.
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Thanks to my mom, an annual trip to Shipshewana has become a tradition — here’s what it looks like:
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Rise N’ Roll
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Our first stop is always Rise’n Roll Bakery. If you’ve never had their famous cinnamon caramel donut, you’re missing out. It’s pure delight. Bonus: they offer free coffee and delicious samples throughout their store!
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Caramel Cinnamon donut
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Next, we stop at E&S Sales, a local grocery store full of hidden treasures. Think bulk snacks, bargain deals, and an epic clearance aisle. Outside, we enjoy the outdoor swings, playsets and cabins.
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From there, we headed to the heart of town with a visit to Davis Mercantile. We tap out tunes on the musical instruments at Davis Music Store, twirl around on the 120-year-old carousel, and share homemade soft pretzels from JoJo’s.
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We love a good tradition, and this little Shipshewana day trip has become one of our favorites. Every year, we grab a family photo and leave with full hearts (and full bellies).
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Capturing our tradition, one photo at a time:
Shipshewana 2023
Shipshewana 2024
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Shipshewana 2025
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Whether you’re local or just passing through, add Shipshewana to your must-see bucket list.
Kids don’t actually need screens to have fun (shocker!). They need space to explore, create, and connect. Whether you’re looking to cut back on screen time or just add more balance to your family’s routine, here are screen-free activities that inspire joy, movement, and imagination.
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1. Have a “What’s in the Box” Challenge
George and Clark: What’s in the Box Challenge
Cut holes a in box
Choose an item to put inside
Allow someone to reach their hand inside the box and “guess” what it is.
Take turns finding items to hide, then guessing “What’s in the Box?”
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Want to read about the Egly boys “What’s in the Box” challenge that takes an unexpected turn? Get a copy of Turtle Trouble on Amazon by clicking here. This playful tale celebrates sibling teamwork, imagination, and adventure—perfect for young readers and their families to enjoy together!
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2. Build something
Home Depot
The Home Depot and Lowe’s offer free monthly workshops for kids called Kids Workshops and DIY-U Kids Workshops. These workshops are designed to teach children ages 5-12 about building, crafting, and using tools, fostering creativity and practical skills. The workshops are held on the first Saturday of each month at participating stores, with The Home Depot’s workshops generally running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Can’t join on Saturday? Home Depot has created take home kits for kids – Go to customer service to ask for one for each of your kids. My 11 year old was able to follow the simple instructions and build a battleship on his own.
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3. Play a Game or Complete a Puzzle
The kids played lots of games George is 12 but still likes to playCousins playing games
Set out Pencils, markers or crayons and blank paper – Set the timer for 15 minutes and encourage everyone to sit and draw. I’m amazed at some of the things they will come up with. If they don’t know what to draw, set a stuffed animal on the table or pull out a favorite book and ask their favorite page!
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5. Make playdoh
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Click here for a recipe. We like to make a batch and then I give my boys ideas things to make: a snake, a snowman, a fidget spinner!
One of the best screen free activities for kids is, of course, reading – or writing!
Find a book you and your children can enjoy together this summer. My recommendation? The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. My kids were excited to listen to a new chapter each day. When we finished, Luke said, “Can we find another book just like that one?”
Buy blank books and allow kids to write their own stories or journal about their summer!
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18. Sidewalk Chalk Art
George’s artworkClark’s artwork
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Turn your driveway into an art gallery, obstacle course, or hopscotch.
Use items you have at home whether it’s face masks, cucumber slices, or nail polish. This is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening around the house.
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20. Let them be bored
Call it “NO Tech Day” and let them figure out what to do without electronics. Their creativity will spike when they are forced to figure it out on their own. Plan for unplanned time for your kids and see what they come up with.
Spring has been full in every sense of the word—full of travel, sports, special moments with family, and glimpses of God’s goodness in the everyday. From college visits and basketball tournaments to sweet time with my sister and a meaningful Mother’s Day, these past few weeks have reminded me how precious it is to slow down and savor the people and moments that matter most.
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Home Sweet Oklahoma
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A tiny fish that Paul caughtA giant Frog Paul caughtHiking with my little sistersLifelong friendsTime with my Great Uncle
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Dinner with friends
Over Spring Break, we spent a long weekend in Oklahoma and packed it full of goodness. It’s never enough time with family, and saying goodbye is always the hardest part. We soaked up every minute with Nana and Papa, my sisters, stepmom, and a few lifelong friends—time that truly fills the soul. There were so many laughs and memories made.
The boys loved all the classic “boy stuff”—backyard football, fishing, and a stock car race with Papa. One of the highlights was getting to see Nana’s brother, who captivated us with stories of his childhood on St. Thomas Island with Shirley. Tales of swimming with sharks and fishing adventures brought family history to life in the best way.
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Spring Sport in Full Swing
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Clark is playing AAU basketball with a fantastic group of boys, Paul is back on the soccer field, and Luke is back on the diamond for another season of baseball.
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Basketball, Buzzer-Beaters, and Big Wins
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A visit from friendsPaul came to cheer on Clark’s team
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Ted took Clark to Iowa for an out-of-town tournament, and they came home as champions! One highlight was having friends who live in Iowa come out to cheer Clark on. Another unforgettable moment was the most exciting game of the weekend: the boys were down by three, and in the final second, Clark’s teammate made a three-point shot to send the game into overtime. With the clock winding down in OT and the score tied again, the team pulled off a Hail Mary—heaving the ball across the court to Clark’s teammate, who caught it between two defenders and nailed the game-winning layup. It was such a fun, high-energy game and a memory they won’t forget!
Watch it here:
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My First Twins Game
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Luke’s school reserved a section of seats for all students, so he took me to my very first Twins game. One of the highlights was getting to meet the team’s organist, who’s been playing at every game since 1999! We had a blast cheering on the team—and even better, the Twins beat the Angels!
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Sisters, Sweet Tea, and Speaking at Summit
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My sister and brother-in-law
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I was so honored to be the guest speaker at a ladies’ event at Summit Church in Acworth, GA. My brother-in-law is the pastor there, which makes my sister the pastor’s wife. The event was beautifully done, and the time I spent with my sister made it even more special. We shared delicious meals, sipped sweet tea, watched chick flicks, went to church together on Sunday, and explored the charming town of Woodstock. It was a weekend full of meaning, connection, and joy.
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Exploring NDSU with George
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Architecture Building
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I took George on his first out-of-state college visit to North Dakota State University, about 3.5 hours northwest of us. The campus was beautiful, and the staff gave an outstanding tour. We explored the impressive architecture building and the College of Business, both of which left a good impression. George was happy to learn that the meal plan includes unlimited visits to the dining hall (TBH, I was excited about this as well). He’s also pumped about the chance to attend sports games at this D1 school. NDSU is high on the list of future contenders!
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A VIP Soccer Experience
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Paul, Luke, and Messi!
Ted won four tickets through work to the Minnesota United vs. Miami soccer game. As part of the special event, Paul and Luke had the incredible opportunity to step onto the field for the National Anthem, standing in front of Lionel Messi, one of the greatest soccer players of all time. The excitement didn’t stop there—Paul was thrilled to see Justin Jefferson at the game, the Vikings wide receiver. According to Paul, Jefferson even “dabbed him up.”
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God’s Good Gifts on Mother’s Day
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On Mother’s Day, Clark had two basketball games (I’d love to have a word with whoever made that schedule), so Ted took him to those. But before they left, Ted woke up extra early to go pick up Starbucks coffee and a breakfast sandwich. He even set the dining table out on our back deck so I could relax with my book, coffee in hand, surrounded by morning sunshine. He also bought me beautiful flowers and had the boys write me handwritten cards—the very best kind.
While Clark was at his games, the other three boys and I went to church, then enjoyed a picnic lunch on Lake Minnetonka. We strolled around Wayzata and stopped by the old Railroad Depot, now a charming little museum. That evening, Ted picked up Mexican food (my favorite!), and we ended the day with a family dinner on the deck.
It was a truly wonderful day, and I’m so grateful—for the boys God has blessed me with, and for a husband who went out of his way to make it all so special.
This spring has reminded us of the importance of family, fun, and embracing every moment. We can’t wait to see what summer has in store!
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