The April Outlook
April 2025: Books, Travel, Homeschool & so much more inside THIS month's newsletter!
“Rainy Day Walk” watercolor painting by Brooke Zoller
What I’ve Been Pondering Lately…
First of all, WELCOME to SO MANY new subscribers, I’m absolutely delighted YOU are here!
Now, let’s all settle in, grab a favorite beverage and enjoy this month’s newsletter. I’ve had a blast putting it together for you.
The Path
A country pathway beckons to be walked down. You know the type, gravel road, worn path, secret way. The anticipation of not knowing what’s around the corner, the bend, or that clump of trees up ahead is exhilarating! And, as you continue to walk down the path, the path slowly begins to reveal itself. Maybe the revelation is a meadow, maybe it’s only a dead end or maybe it’s the most beautiful view you’ve ever seen!
The point is, no matter the path, keep going, because there is so much more that is to be seen and lived!
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I was inspired to write the following poem one morning while watching my grandchildren play outside, I hope you enjoy it.
Where Did Childhood Go?
Where did childhood go?
On bright morning walk,
Smelling new spring flower.
Where did childhood go?
Reading and singing with Mimi,
Camping and fishing with Pa.
Where did childhood go?
Sweet dream cozy napping,
Train, car, doll, game playing.
Where did childhood go?
Mommy and Daddy, family time,
Trusting prayers, and sleepy moon.
That’s where childhood goes.
~Brooke Zoller, Spring 2025
Brooke’s Book Nook:
“We read not to escape life but to learn how to live it more deeply and richly, to experience the world through the eyes of the other.” ~Barbara Davis
Where’s my bookmark? In two books right now. Do you read more than one book at a time? I’m currently reading the eloquently written “Peace Like a River” by Leif Enger and “The Covenant of Water” by Abraham Verghese. These were both on my TBR list so I’m hoping they are worth the hype! Have you read them? So far, they are so good!
BONUS: I’m listening to “Jane Eyre” on this delightful podcast called, “Storytime for Grownups” with Faith Moore. Think of it as your audio book, Cliff Notes and Book Club all in one!
To Be Read (TBR): there is a never-ending list of books I want to read like Dane Ortlund’s “Deeper” and “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara to name a couple. I hear both of them are the “stay with you” kind of books!
Children’s Book Feature: E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web” and “The Trumpet of the Swan” Animals are synonymous with the arrival of spring and if you can find these titles on audiobook, read by the author, it is the best spring treat for the whole family!
The Pondering Playlist:
Steph Macleod’s “Gold” Album is special! There is a song on this album for everyone, no matter your music genre preference! Worshipful and convicting, lively or fun, Steph is a talented singer and musician. I pray that you will sense God’s presence in this album. Give it a sample listen here by clicking on his name below:
Scottie Travels:
Need a fun spring getaway without the crowds?
Try Memphis, Tennessee! Memphis offers fun accommodations at the Peabody Hotel, fun excursions to Elvis’ Graceland, jazzy restaurants on Beale Street, and many different museums to choose from! Your family might enjoy the Children’s Museum of Memphis, a Memphis City Tour, the Memphis Zoo (one of my all-time favorites!) and the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. Memphis has something for all ages!
As we wrap up this month…
Ponder this: Homeschool Tip of the Month
As the school year comes to an end, consider looking back over the year and making a list of the things you enjoyed doing with your children as well as what your children enjoyed doing with you. Incorporate these findings into next year’s plans! Change what didn’t work and try something new next year if need be. YOU have the freedom and flexibility to tailor your homeschool just the way you like it!
**If this tip of the month is a regular newsletter feature you want to see going forward, please let me know here:
From the Heart:
This verse has meant so much lately in my prayer life that I had to share:
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
Immeasurably more! Let that sink in what God can do and be encouraged in your prayers as well!
Oh my goodness, Brooke, that painting has captured my heart!!!!!! I could sit and look at it all day. Wow.