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Articles written by Sallie Schaaf Borrink

Sallie Schaaf Borrink, David Borrink

All 77 articles written by Sallie Schaaf Borrink



Fall Lesson Ideas for Apple Farmer Annie Book: Writing Prompts, Creative Projects for Kindergarten and First Grade

Category: Primary School (general)

The fall book Apple Farmer Annie is a fun starting point for KWL charts, creative writing, art projects and field trips for kindergarten and first grade students. more...

Grace Livingston Hill, Prolific Christian Author: Beloved Writer of Romance Books and Historical Novels

Category: Romance Fiction (general)

Grace Livingston Hill was a prolific author of books that ranged from romance novels to historical fiction. She used strong Christian themes and characters in each story. more...

Simple Comfort Food Recipes for Leftover Ham: Three Easy Recipes Using Ham, Cheese, Potatoes and Bowtie Pasta

Category: Recipes (general)

Leftover ham is one of the bonuses of preparing a ham whether for a holiday or everyday. Enjoy these easy comfort food recipes with ham, cheese, potatoes and pasta. more...

Reasons Women Fail to Receive a Sorority Bid: Sorority Recruitment Can End Without an Invitation to Join a Chapter

Category: Campus Activities

Women who go through sorority recruitment expect to get a bid and receive an invitation to join a chapter. But some women will not get a bid and want to know why. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 6 BBC Scottish Drama: The New Laird of Glenbogle Begins Leading the MacDonald Clan

Category: British TV

With the departure of Archie and Lexie MacDonald for New Zealand, Archie's half-brother, Paul Bowman, becomes the Laird of Glenbogle with all its ups and downs. more...

Avoid Big Mistakes During Sorority Recruitment: Have Success in Finding the Right Sorority House with these Secrets

Category: Campus Activities

Joining a sorority is a dream for many college women. But some potential new members ruin their chances of receiving a bid by making some common and avoidable mistakes. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 4 BBC Scottish Drama: New Friendships, Plans, Problems and Shocks for the MacDonald Clan

Category: British TV

Although Archie MacDonald has dealt with tragedy and loss, he continues with his plans to make Glenbogle a profitable Scottish estate in "Monarch of the Glen Series 4". more...

Free April and Spring Themed Lesson Plan Ideas: Fun, Easy, and Creative Holiday Writing Prompts and Ideas

Category: Primary School Curriculum

April is full of important spring events such as National Poetry Month, Arbor Day, and John James Audubon's birthday. Enjoy these creative writing prompts and ideas. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 1 BBC Scottish Drama: Well-loved Show Highlights Family, Love, Clan and the Highlands

Category: British TV

Monarch of the Glen is the tale of the MacDonald family of Glenbogle. Set in the Scottish Highlands, this BBC drama had a devoted following for seven series. more...

Winter Writing Project Ideas for Lesson Plans: Free and Simple Creative Writing Prompts and Activities for Children

Category: Primary School Curriculum

Celebrate January and motivate young writers with these writing lesson plan ideas related to winter, the presidential inauguration, winter sports, and Martin Luther King. more...

Meijer Gardens Family Christmas Activities: Holiday Decorations and Traditions from Around the World

Category: Michigan Travel

Enjoy a family-friendly event at the Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids, Michigan, that includes carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and hundreds of thousands of lights. more...

Tips for How to Avoid Holiday Stress and Burnout: Five Simple and Quick Steps to Organize and Enjoy the Season

Category: Self-Awareness

Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas bring a tremendous amount of joy. But all of the preparations and activities also have the potential to bring anxiety and tension. more...

Easy Christmas Bark Recipe with Saltine Crackers: Simple and Quick Chocolate Pecan Holiday Treat Makes Great Gift

Category: Winter Recipes

Toffee is a classic Christmas candy. But candy making takes time, something at a premium during the busy rush of December. There is something easier and just as good! more...

Kindergarten and First Grade Apple Unit Ideas: Simple Themed Activities for Reading, Art and Read Aloud Books

Category: Primary School Curriculum

Each fall many primary teachers teach about apples. These easy activities will work well for Johnny Appleseed Day on September 26 and National Apple Month in October. more...

An Honest Look at the Cons of Becoming a Teacher: Negative and Challenging Aspects of Teaching Not Often Considered

Category: New Teacher Support (general)

The field of education can be rewarding. But teaching is demanding, with downsides not always fully explored or understood by those considering it as a career. more...

Book Review: Busy Mom's Guide to Simple Living: Creative and Practical Ways to Simplify, Downshift and Live Frugally

Category: Personal Growth Books

Jackie Wellwood, a homeschooling mother of six, has written a informative gem of a book for those starting to think about simplifying and decluttering their lives. more...

Warm, Inspiring Books by Thomas Kinkade: Three Selections that Offer Hope, Joy, Simplicity and Peace

Category: Personal Growth Books

Although Thomas Kinkade is best known for his peaceful paintings, he is also a gifted writer, collaborating with his wife on topics such as marriage and parenting. more...

Cinnamon Pecan Shortbread, Pecan Pie Muffins: Easy, Quick Recipes With Pecans and Butter: Great with Coffee or Tea

Category: Baking & Desserts (general)

Cinnamon Pecan Shortbread, Pecan Pie Muffins and Pecan Tartlets are easy to prepare snacks for pecan lovers to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea or at the holidays. more...

Simple Activities for the First Day of School: Easy Ideas for a Positve Start in the First Week of New School Year

Category: Primary School (general)

The first few days of school set the tone for the year. Here are simple to prepare activities and easy ideas that work well on the first day or during the first week. more...

Back to School Writing Prompts for Lesson Plans: Fun and Free Activities, Ideas and Creative Projects for Children

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Summer is almost over. It's time for writing about August, back to school, setting goals, football, and Labor Day! Use these quick ideas for encouraging student writing. more...

Free Summer Holiday Lesson Plan Writing Prompts: Fun Activities, Ideas and Projects for June, July and August

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Celebrate June, July and August with free summer holiday writing prompts and fun ideas and projects about vacation, Father's Day, Fourth of July, and Independence Day. more...

Fun Children's Activities in Grand Rapids, MI: Kid Friendly Attractions in West Michigan Include Zoo and Gardens

Category: Michigan Travel

Grand Rapids, Michigan is home to several popular hands-on family attractions including John Ball Park Zoo, Frederik Meijer Gardens and Grand Rapids Children's Museum. more...

Tips for How to Help New Parents and Their Baby: Simple Ideas and Thoughtful Ways to Encourage People with a Newborn

Category: Postpartum Health

Most parents find a new baby at least a little overwhelming. Here are some easy tips and often inexpensive ways to assist mom and dad as they adjust to their new life. more...

How to Choose the Best Time to Have a Baby: Choosing the Ideal Month, Season to Welcome a Child into the Family

Category: Family Planning

Deciding to have a baby is a big step. Consider these five factors to determine the best time and month to conceive, enjoy pregnancy, and bring home a bundle of joy. more...

Kirtland's Warbler Bird Watching in Michigan: Endangered Bird Nests in Northern Michigan Forests Each Spring

Category: Michigan Travel

One of the world's most elusive birds nests in the jack pines of the Lower Peninsula. Take a guided birdwatching tour and visit the Kirtland's Warbler Festival in May. more...

What to Do When Visiting Shipshewana, Indiana: Shipshewana and Middlebury Offer Amish and Modern Attractions

Category: Indiana Travel

Shipshewana and Middlebury, Indiana, offer a great look at America's heartland. This picturesque area features the best of Amish and contemporary travel destinations. more...

U.S. President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site: Visit the Plymouth Notch, Vermont, Homestead of the 30th President

Category: Vermont Travel

The only American President from Vermont, Coolidge was a true Yankee - thrifty, principled and community-oriented. Explore the man and his family home in Plymouth Notch. more...

What to Do for Summer Fun in Petoskey, Michigan: Northern Resort Town is a World Class Destination on the Bay

Category: Michigan Travel

Petoskey, Michigan is the perfect summer vacation spot for families and couples with beautiful views, sparkling water, delicious food, charming lodging, and fun shopping. more...

Travel Tips in New England for Fall Foliage Tour: How to Plan an Autumn Vacation in the Northeast United States

Category: NE U.S. Travel (general)

Whether the destination is Vermont or Massachusetts, New Hampshire or Maine, Connecticut or Rhode Island, careful planning is key for enjoying the colors of the season. more...

Fun Spring Writing Project and Lesson Plan Ideas: Free and Simple Activities and Easy Creative Prompts for Children

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Celebrate the arrival of March and April and motivate elementary school aged writers with writing ideas related to St. Patrick's Day, Spring, Easter and Baseball! more...

What to Expect After Sorority Recruitment Ends: New Greek Members Experience Bid Day, Big Sisters and Initiation

Category: Campus Activities

After sorority recruitment ends, the fun really begins! From bid day to big sisters to initiation, here's what you can expect as a new member in your sisterhood! more...

Tips for Deciding to Join a College Sorority: Consider the Factors of Cost, Time, Academics, Housing and Issues

Category: Campus Activities

Joining a sorority in college can be a great experience. But when deciding there are factors to consider such as cost, time, academics, housing and personal issues. more...

Preparing for Sorority Membership Recruitment: Potential New Members Plan Ahead to Choose the Best Sisterhood

Category: Campus Activities

Finding the right sorority involves more than cute shoes! Sorority membership recruitment involves planning ahead and being informed about the entire rush process. more...

Sorority Membership Recruitment or Rush Process: How to Become a Sorority Sister and Join Greek Life at College

Category: Campus Activities

Each fall, thousands of college women eagerly anticipate joining a sorority and becoming a sister. Learn about the membership recruitment process formerly known as rush. more...

Easy Christmas Writing Prompts and Activities: Simple, Free Advent Fun, Holiday Projects and Tips for Children

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

These simple holiday projects and writing prompts for kids cover many aspects of the Christmas season and should only require items you already have around the house! more...

Tips to Simplify Christmas Gift Giving: Quick and Easy Christmas Present Ideas When Time is Short

Category: Family Finances (general)

Almost everyone finds themselves pressed for time during the holidays. Christmas gift giving can be simplified by following these easy solutions. more...

Thanksgiving Ideas and Projects: Fun, Free and Simple Activities and Writing Prompts for Children

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

These enjoyable Thanksgiving activities will promote learning and writing skills and rely on materials you probably already have around your home. more...

Children's Thanksgiving Activities: Free Projects to Do at Home with Supplies You Probably Already Have

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Holiday activities don't have to break the bank. Here are nine activities to help you celebrate with your child, using things you already have around the house! more...

Help Your Child's Teacher Succeed: Increase Your Student's Success in Classroom by Helping the Teacher

Category: Educational Issues (general)

One overlooked way of helping a child succeed in school is focusing on the needs of the teacher. Helping a teacher and offering encouragement will make a difference! more...

Lesson Ideas for Classic Book Miss Suzy: Writing Prompts, Creative Projects for Kindergarten and First Grade

Category: Primary School (general)

The classic story 'Miss Suzy' lends itself to creative writing and art projects. Kindergarten and first grade students will enjoy this book and these lesson ideas. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 7 BBC Scottish Drama: Paul Bowman MacDonald Fights to Save Glenbogle, Finds Love with Iona

Category: British TV

After seven series, 'Monarch of the Glen' comes to an end. Paul must find a way to save Glenbogle while dealing with Iona, the quiet but feisty local shepherdess. more...

Prepare College Student for Credit Card Offers: Complete Credit Card Application Together Before School Starts

Category: Kids & Money

Parents can prepare their college student for using a credit card by reviewing credit card offers and completing the credit card application together ahead of time. more...

What to Do if You Don't Receive a Sorority Bid: Options for Women Who Don't Get Selected in Sorority Recruitment

Category: Campus Activities

Most women start sorority recruitment fully expecting to receive a bid from the group of their dreams. The reality is that some women will not be successfully matched. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 5 BBC Scottish Drama: The MacDonald Clan of Glenbogle Experiences Significant Changes

Category: British TV

Archie has made the estate profitable and the future looks bright. But not everyone is happy at Glenbogle and the arrival of a few newcomers upsets everything. more...

What To Do When Visiting Cadillac, Michigan: Fun Events, Festivals, Shopping and Dining in Northern Michigan

Category: Michigan Travel

Cadillac, a popular northern Michigan destination, is known for year round outdoor sports, resorts, camping, events, festivals, downtown shopping and dining. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 3 BBC Scottish Drama: Highland Drama of Archie MacDonald's Plan to Save Glenbogle Estate

Category: British TV

At the end of Series 2, it appeared that the path to happiness was finally cleared for Archie and Katrina. But Series 3 brings more troubles to Glenbogle in Stella Moon. more...

Monarch of the Glen Series 2 BBC Scottish Drama: Continuing Story of the MacDonald Clan of Glenbogle, Scotland

Category: British TV

While saving a crumbling castle on a 40,000 acre estate in Scotland may not sound like the makings of a hit show, Monarch of the Glen immediately found a wide following. more...

Kindergarten and First Grade Snow Unit Ideas: Simple Themed Activities for Reading, Art and Read Aloud Books

Category: Primary School Curriculum

Each winter, many primary teachers teach about snow. These quick and easy lesson plan ideas will work well throughout December, January and February. more...

Kindergarten and First Grade Winter Unit Ideas: Simple Themed Activities for Reading, Art and Read-Aloud Books

Category: Primary School Curriculum

Each January and February, many primary teachers teach about winter. These quick and easy lesson plan ideas will also work well for the first day of winter in December. more...

Classic Thanksgiving Children's Picture Books: Cranberry Thanksgiving and The Pilgrims’ First Thanksgiving

Category: Primary School Curriculum

"Cranberry Thanksgiving" by Wende and Harry Devlin and "The Pilgrims' First Thanskgiving" by Ann McGovern are classic Thanksgiving read aloud books for children. more...

How to Write a Great Yearly Christmas Letter: Five Simple Tips for a Memorable and Entertaining Holiday Note

Category: Holiday Entertaining

Many people find reading Christmas letters one of the highlights of the season. Writing a creative, newsy letter isn't complicated if a few guidelines are remembered. more...

Book Review of Favorite Eloise Wilkin Stories: Little Golden Book Collection of Nine Beloved Classic Picture Books

Category: Picture Books

If asked to list five favorite Little Golden Books, most adults who grew up with them would be sure to pick at least one or two illustrated by Eloise Wilkin. more...

New Teacher Tips for First Day of School: Simple Steps to Prepare for Successful Start as a First Year Teacher

Category: New Teacher Support (general)

The first day of school brings a wide range of emotions for new teachers. These tips will help first year teachers be successful and prepared. more...

"Back to Basics" Teaches Old-Fashioned Skills: How to Guide and Tips for Traditional Skills and Homesteading

Category: Green/Simple Living (general)

Increase self-sufficiency and learn to buy land, select an energy type, raise food, enjoy the harvest, practice new hand skills, and enjoy homemade fun and recreation. more...

Frugal Living with The Complete Tightwad Gazette: Saving Money and Doing More with Less with Amy Dacyczyn's Book

Category: Personal Budgeting/Finance (general)

The Frugal Zealot, Amy Dacyczyn, shows how to get the most of every dollar in "The Complete Tightwad Gazette". Learn to save money and do more with less in this book. more...

Choosing a Christian Fellowship at College: Finding a Group of Believers on Campus with Whom to Worship

Category: Campus Activities

Selecting the right Christian organization to join can mean a better college experience and many opportunities for growing in the faith while enjoying social outlets. more...

Simple September and Fall Writing Activities: Fun and Free Activities, Ideas and Creative Projects for Children

Category: Primary School (general)

A new school year offers opportunities for easy and interesting writing projects. Students will enjoy writing about September, autumn, the new school year, and apples. more...

Sorority and Fraternity Ritual Secrets: Greeks Enjoy Initiation Ceremonies, Symbolism, Badges, and Meaning

Category: Campus Activities

Fraternity and sorority members participate in many secret rituals each year. During these ceremonies they enjoy, celebrate and affirm their brotherhood and sisterhood. more...

Tips for How to Choose Your Child's School: Important Criteria for Parents to Consider When Picking a School

Category: Parenting Resources (general)

Whether it is preschool, elementary school, middle school or high school, there are an almost overwhelming number of options available to parents making this decision. more...

What to Do When Visiting Traverse City, Michigan: Northern Michigan Resort Town Offers Wide Variety of Attractions

Category: Michigan Travel

Located on Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City offers Up North fun. This family-friendly town boasts great eating, attractions and plenty of water activities. more...

Scenic Great Lakes Circle Tour Vacations: Drive around Great Lakes and Enjoy Natural Attractions and History

Category: NE U.S. Travel (general)

Lakes Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior and surrounding areas offer national parks, lighthouses, fishing, boating, shipwrecks, museums, hiking and camping. more...

Mackinac Island Area Spring and Summer Events: Michigan’s Mackinaw Area Offers Festivals, Parades, and History

Category: Michigan Travel

Mackinaw City, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island offer a variety of festivals, parades and historical activities each May, June, July, August and September. more...

Fun Tips and Ways to Save Money While Traveling: How to Find Free Activities for Inexpensive Fun While on Vacation

Category: Budget Travel (general)

No matter where you go, there are ways to find low-cost and free activities. Here are eight ideas for saving money and having a good time without breaking the bank. more...

Find a Michigan Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast: Lodging in Lake Michigan, Huron and Superior Lighthouse Inns

Category: Michigan Travel

Spend a memorable visit in a Michigan lighthouse inn or bed and breakfast. Opportunities vary from romantic retreats to volunteer work for lodging, for one night or week. more...

How to Choose a New England Inn or B&B: Tips to Select the Perfect Lodging When Traveling in the Northeast

Category: NE U.S. Travel (general)

New England abounds with charming inns and B&Bs. Carefully selecting one for a getaway or vacation will enhance the entire experience. Consider these important factors. more...

What to Do for Summer Fun in Madison, Wisconsin: Enjoy A Variety Of Family Activities In The Dairy State's Capitol

Category: Wisconsin Travel

A beautiful state capitol building, exciting fireworks, a large farmer's market, shopping, restaurants, and a Big Ten University - Wisconsin's state capitol has it all! more...

Spring and Summer Writing Lesson Plan Ideas: Fun and Free Activities, Ideas and Creative Prompts for Children

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Celebrate May and June and motivate elementary writers with easy ideas for to May Day, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, End of the School Year, Friends, and Summer Vacation. more...

The Many Benefits of Sorority Membership: Five Important Reasons to Join a Greek Sisterhood in College

Category: Campus Activities

The motivations for joining a sorority vary. But lifelong friendships, community service, networking, leadership development and social activities are key advantages. more...

Meijer Gardens 2009 Tropical Butterfly Exhibit: Foremost's Butterflies are Blooming in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Category: Michigan Travel

The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park brings in butterflies from around the world each spring. Enjoy watching them and participate in fun family activities. more...

How to Choose the Best College Sorority: Important Factors to Consider When Selecting a Sisterhood to Join

Category: Campus Activities

Choosing the best sorority during membership recruitment can be difficult. By evaluating some important factors, you can successfully select a sisterhood for life! more...

Easy and Inexpensive Guest Room Hospitality Tips: Simple Steps to Ensure Your Visitors Have a Comfortable Stay

Category: Entertaining (general)

Creating a haven for guests in your home is not complicated. By following a few basic guidelines, you can prepare a lovely and gracious place for friends to rest. more...

Important Terms to Know for Sorority Rush: Words and Phrases to Learn Before Greek Membership Recruitment

Category: Campus Activities

You don't have to say "It's all Greek to me!" Learn the most important terms and words used by sorority sisters during membership recruitment or sorority rush. more...

Dealing with Unwanted Childlessness at Christmas: Ministering to and Caring for Infertile Couples During the Holidays

Category: Protestantism (general)

The celebration of Christ's birth can be a hard and lonely time for couples struggling with infertility. There are ways to bless and encourage them during Advent. more...

Creating Meaningful Family Christmas Traditions: Simple Activities and Tips to Celebrate the Holiday Season

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Christmas is the time for traditions. Whether it is an activity, food or way to give to others, if you are looking for a new tradition for your family this year, read on! more...

Keep Jesus the Focus of Christmas: Meaningful Ways to Celebrate the Birth of Christ during Advent

Category: Christian Parenting

Among the joy and busyness of the holiday season, here are some simple tips and thoughtful suggestions to remember the birth of the Savior each day of the holiday. more...

Family Thanksgiving Traditions: Special Ways to Celebrate the Holiday with Joy and Gratitude

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Thanksgiving traditions can bring your family together in new ways and also help you reach out to those in need during this special time. more...

Simple Holiday Meal Planning Tips and Ideas: Five Easy Steps for an Organized and Delightful Gathering

Category: Holiday Entertaining

Planning a meaningful and stress-free holiday gathering is easier than you might think! By implementing these five basic steps, you can savor the process and your guests. more...



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