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2016: Top 10 Posts

January 2, 2017 by Susan 20 Comments

So here we are, all having to get used to writing 2017. How’re you doing so far? Me? It’s usually at least March before I don’t have to think about it. But I’m the girl who forgets how old I am. (I know what year I was born, and have to calculate it every time I’m asked.) Anyone else?

As I was compiling this list of your favorite posts of 2016, based on the number of visits to each post, I was pleased to see a variety of topics represented. That’s what The Sparrow’s Home is all about, after all. Our homes are made up of many different spheres.

So here they are…the Top 10 Posts of 2016

Christmas Cookies: Host a Cookie Baking Day

December 7, 2016 by Susan 10 Comments

Tips, tricks, ideas and recipes to help you host a Christmas cookie party this holiday season!

Everyone has their family favorites when it comes to Christmas cookies. I am an avid baker, but even I get overwhelmed at the idea of making all the varieties of cookies that my family has come to expect at Christmas. And that’s not even mentioning the things that I make for gifts!

Years ago, when we moved back to Minnesota, I was blessed to be invited to join a group of ladies for a day of cookie baking. Everyone brought ingredients to make one or two kinds. We made them all together, then we divided them up. So we each went home with a huge variety. Genius!

Over the years, the group of ladies has changed somewhat, as has the location. I’m the current host (you must know how much I love hosting gatherings).

Harry Potter Party & A Recipe for Butterbeer

October 31, 2016 by Susan 14 Comments

We enjoy Harry Potter. A lot.

The boys have a friend who just finished the book series for the first time and hadn’t seen any of the films. Loving a themed party as we do, of course we made it into a full fledged 2-day movie marathon. All the kids in Minnesota have a couple of days off of school in October, so our date was set.

I did a lot of searching online, and found some pretty incredible parties. Ones where you actually felt you were in Hogwarts.

Our Harry Potter party was nothing like them.

I wish.

But with work, school, and college visits, we shot for a much more do-able party. Authentic, no. Loads of fun, and something anyone can do…you bet!

Yucky Delicious Pizza Intestines

October 26, 2016 by Susan 4 Comments

I know I told you this recipe was coming yesterday…so sorry! Let me tell you, I’m exhausted! My eldest has been making some changes to his plans for next year (he graduates this spring), so I’ve been in full time academic advisor/homeschool mom mode. We’ve also been making some college visits, and doing loads of research to get to a decision. None yet!

So with no further ado…I give you…pizza intestines!

This is so icky. And so easy. And tasty, too!

Whether you’ve got zombies on the TV, are studying the human body, or just want an ooky snack (if you’ve got boys, you get this possibility) – intestines pizza may be for you!

I made this as an appetizer, but it could be a main dish or a side just as easily.

Kids Farm Party

September 28, 2016 by Susan Leave a Comment

I told you a few weeks ago I’d be sharing some of the themed kids parties we did for our boys over the years. We started with a Pirate themed party and next I’d like to give you some ideas if you’re planning a Farm Party.

Let me remind you, and ask for your grace, regarding the quality of the pictures. My kids are in 10th and 12th grades right now. These pictures were taken many years ago, and scanned from scrapbooks. Funny thing…when I look at my teenagers today, I still see the little boys in these pictures. (Pause for sentimental mom moment)

Kids Pirate Party

September 12, 2016 by Susan Leave a Comment

I have learned about myself that I need a creative outlet in my life. When I was teaching 2nd grade, I had lots of opportunities to be creative, now one thing I do is host regular, themed, girls movie nights. In between those times, a large part of my creative outlet was my kids’ birthday parties.

I’d like to share a few of them with you, in no particular order, starting with a Pirate Themed Party we had for my eldest when he turned 6. (Six! Excuse me while I have a short mom reflection…my little pirate is now 17.)

Because the party was so long ago, the pictures weren’t digital, so there wasn’t a lot of touching up I could do. And, did I mention that another creative outlet I had was scrapbooking? These pics were glued in scrapbooks, so you’ll notice my attempt at clever editing, I’m sure. Regardless, I hope you get some ideas for your next Pirate Soiree.