Blog Everyone is entitled to My opinion! (And yes, I am just kidding!)] But I definitely want to hear what YOU have to say! We can talk about kids' books, education, history, current events, travel, parenthood and grandparenthood! Or chocolate! Who doesn't love chocolate? Subscribe to From My Corner Windows--the view changes constantly! Enter your email here Subscribe Free! Thanks for subscribing! Welcome to My Blog! It's about children and families and the books they read. It's about loving your kids and grandkids through reading, travel, humor and everyday joy. It's about making a difference in the life of a child. Reely? Check out the action! Ozzy Ox appeals to kids as young as this 15-month-old! Hey, what's the recent view from The Corner Windows? Check our past blog posts! Gone to the dark side (and the turkey tastes the same!) Many Halloween costumes of the past wouldn't cut it today One in four teachers plan to do this within the next year Don't you just HATE data centers? On Orange Shirt Day: Learn the truth Shocked to my socks! All Blog Posts Here Gone to the dark side (and the turkey tastes the same!) The turkey was carved, pumpkin pies devoured, and I could see our Thanksgiving guests would soon be homeward bound. Good-bye Pilgrims, hello Santa. Everyone knew that the minute Thanksgiving wrapped up, we’d move into Christmas. So there I was, ready to deck the halls. But this year, it was complicated. My Dear Hubby fiddled with his wrist wrap, which was still healing from recent surgery. With him out of commission, how was I going to drag those 27 tubs of precious Christmas decor from the garden shed through the waist-high snowbanks that had piled up in our snow-trapping backyard? And yes, I mean TWENTY-SEVEN of those big, 44-gallon round Rubbermaid tubs typically used for garbage receptacles. Desperate, I stopped our two grown sons before they escaped out the front door. Of course, I didn’t tell them what was waiting for them—at least, not until after they shoveled their way to the shed and dug the snow away from its door! I knew exactly what their first question would be after dragging the first four tubs through the back door: “How do we know which tubs you want in here?” They should have known. They grew up with my obsession. “All of them.” I whispered, my jaws clenched as my face turned as red as Rudolph's nose. I’ll never forget what my father, who watched those tubs pile up in the sunroom, said to me. “What’s wrong with you? You have enough stuff here to decorate the Civic Center!” Dad, I finally know what’s wrong with me.. I should have started Christmas decorating LONG before Thanksgiving! Think about it: there are only about 30 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Some years, as few as 27 days! Putting up 27 tubs of Christmas decor for as few as 27 days—what WAS I thinking? Some of us take a while to catch on. But after refraining from pre-Thanksgiving decorating for most of my long life, I have found the Thanksgiving turkey tastes the same--even in a room void of autumn decor! So, yes, I have gone to the dark side. And honestly? It’s not my fault. Mariah Carey gave me permission when she began officially kicking off the Christmas season each year on November 1st with a rendition of her famous track, “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” I'm pretty sure DH isn’t a fan. All he wants for Christmas is no decor. “When we were growing up, my mother put up one red candle every year,” he’d mutter as he toted in tub after tub year after year. Now, he’s added to the grumble: “And never once did she put it out before Thanksgiving." When do YOU decorate for Christmas? Yes, Santa is a little out of place here, but the turkey tastes the same regardless of the clashing Christmas decor!

Author Callen Kropp presents children's picture books that tickle the funny bone with zany rhyme and vibrant illustrations, teaching values that help children make good choices.
And "From My Corner Windows," a blog about celebrating LIFE. About families and kids and parents and grandparents doing life! Welcome to the Land of Oxen! Callen Kropp and Emily Hagen present a series of kids' story books that tickle the funny bone with zany rhyme and vibrant illustrations teaching values that help children make good choices. Find them on Amazon , and IngramSpark and other bookstores, both online and brick & mortar. Looking for picture books that start discussions that help children's hurdle life's lessons? For laugh-out-loud books in which your children will be so entertained that they won't realize they are learning? Meet Ozzy—the world's most stubborn little ox—and his incredibly patient mother, MomOx. Written entirely in bouncy rhyme and paired with breathtakingly vibrant illustrations, this 4-book series turns everyday power struggles into pure comedic chaos. Instead of lecturing, these books use slapstick consequences to teach children why listening to Mom and Dad is actually a pretty good idea. Perfect for Reading Aloud! The flawless, rhythmic cadence makes it an absolute joy for parents, grandparents, and teachers to read out loud without getting bored. Kids naturally root for the sensible choice when they see Ozzy’s over-the-top, hilarious disasters unfold. Find Ozzy Ox books here. Ozzy Ox Stands Against Socks Wins a Purple Dragonfly Award! A worldwide award based on content, originality, overall readability, design and illustration, judged by industry experts --including CHILDREN! Check out our blog "From My Corner Windows" Meet Ozzy and his MomOx in this quick clip! Volume up! "...a charming and insightful literary gem that stands out for its vibrant storytelling, endearing characters, and invaluable life lessons." "....Kropp's storytelling prowess shines as the narrative unfolds with rhythmic rhymes and an engaging plot." "...a heartwarming and insightful tale that beautifully explores the themes of responsibility, compassion, and the healing power of humor." "Ox Stands Against Socks is a cute and entertaining story that teaches children to listen to other people's opinions. " Yay! Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash-- has received great reviews ! Heralded as "a literary gem," and a "lyrical treasure," Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash has been received by hundreds of families with great enthusiasm, too! Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash 5-Star Reader's Favorite! Read Candy Stash Reviews here Check out this 1-minute of fun--a g limpse of Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash! Ozzy Ox Candy Stash Trailer by Isaac Play Video The Ozzy Ox Channel Watch Now Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Share Channel Info Close Ozzy Ox Stands Against Socks “Let’s hold your thought, give it a rest, We'll go outside today and test!" Said Ozzy, running down the hall. He came right back and stood up tall.
 With thick, bright socks on all four feet. Out through the door, they met the street. 
But when he felt the brutal cold, Did Ozzy believe what he’d been told? Five-Star Reader's Favorite and winner of the Purple Dragonfly Award "Ozzy is an adorable, stubborn calf that many kids will relate to. His personality was evident in his body language and expressions, which can be seen in the colorful and eye-catching illustrations." Read Stands Against Socks Reviews here Ozzy Ox Moody Morning "Oh, Ozzy Ox, you began this day In a most sniveling, quibbling way. You waved your hooves so angrily, And scared the screech right out of me." "As Ozzy Ox watches the morning unfold, he realizes how devastating a simple tantrum can be and he’s full of remorse. However, his animal friends rallied together and their collaborative efforts put everything right again. Ozzy Ox learns an important lesson about friendship, kindness, and caring for others." --Review by Emily-Jane Hills Orford Read Moody Morning reviews here 5-Star Reader's Favorite! Ozzy Ox: Toy Trauma "Ozzy Ox: Toy Trauma" is not just a story; it's a vehicle for teaching children about understanding, compassion, and the importance of taking responsibility for their actions. The vibrant and endearing illustrations complement the narrative beautifully, making it an engaging and visually appealing reading experience." An ER isn’t where you’d expect a lad to show concern for others. But Ozzy Ox Toy Trauma d elivers a tender moment of compassion when you least expect it. 5-Star Reader's Favorite! Read Toy Trauma Reviews here READ THEM RHYMING PICTURE BOOKS! BY DOING SO, YOUR CHILD WILL : Learn about words and language formation Notice individual sounds (example: the common ending “-ig” in wig, pig, jig) Spark their own imagination and poetry-writing skills (a lifelong skill) Appreciate the artistry and impact words make, especially in creating emotion Enjoy a fun, engaging, and memorable reading experience---our Ozzy Ox series WILL deliver!

Rascally Ozzy Ox learns life lessons the hard way in this 4-book series of picture books for kids 2-8. Zany rhymes deliver humor and life lessons that help children learn as they grow. The Full Story About This is your About Page. It's a great opportunity to give a full background on who you are, what you do and what your website has to offer. Double click on the text box to start editing your content and make sure to add all the relevant details you want to share with site visitors. Mission This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors. Vision This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.

Reviews 
"Laugh out loud read that teaches valuable lessons “The drama-filled day is no fun for the animals, but kids will laugh loudly at the crazy scenes. Three cheers to the storyline (writer: Callen Kropp) and artwork (artist: Emily Hagen)" --- Kam Brook, Reedsy Reviewer “This book is a testament to the power of storytelling in imparting essential life lessons to young readers, and it is sure to become a treasured addition to any child's library." --A Look Inside Blog & Podcast What happens when a child listens to an Ozzy Ox book? We'd like to say "MAGIC! PURE MAGIC! But it's best to hear what families think of Ozzy.... so here are some reviews, straight from our readers! 
"Laugh out loud read that teaches valuable lessons “The drama-filled day is no fun for the animals, but kids will laugh loudly at the crazy scenes. Three cheers to the storyline (writer: Callen Kropp) and artwork (artist: Emily Hagen)" --- Kam Brook, Reedsy Reviewer More Moody Morning reviews here More Moody Morning reviews here “This book is a testament to the power of storytelling in imparting essential life lessons to young readers, and it is sure to become a treasured addition to any child's library." --A Look Inside Blog & Podcast "I love it! Teaching children to tell the truth, oh and we all make mistakes and our Mom’s still love us! Anxious to read and purchase the next in the series!" ---Cindy Flugrath, Amazon Review "Fun
! Ozzy Ox Stands Against Socks was such a fun read with my son. It was a familiar theme to the constant back and forth we have in real life about dressing warm in the winter. It has a great message to teach about listening to others opinions and learning they might be right, or just know more. We have read the book already several times and continues to be a request from my son. --- M Michaels, Amazon Review
 More Toy Trauma reviews here More Candy Stash reviews here More Stands For Socks reviews here

The Ozzy Ox series of rhyming children's picture books debuts in 2023. Author Callen Kropp and Illustrator Emily Hagen created the series, which features rascally Ozzy Ox and his inexhaustible MomOx. Children will learn through Ozzy's example how to navigate through life and make good choices. Picking up their toys, following rules about eating sweets, behaving responsibly toward others — all children, especially Ozzy Ox, sometimes find themselves in a pickle when facing everyday perplexities. Through this lovable young ox, children learn to --Make good choices. --Admit mistakes when they make them. --Learn that life's everyday difficulties can best be overcome by honesty, acceptance and forgiveness. Going back to the basics—the Ozzy Ox series is sure to be a valuable resource for all parents, grandparents and educators striving to model good values and accountability through entertaining story-telling.

Fun With Toy Trauma Fun With Ozzy Ox Toy Trauma Need help solving these fun puzzles? Click here for the keys to Toy Trauma activities! Click any activity or coloring page to download and print. Enjoy! Ozzy Ox Toy Trauma Coloring Pages All activity and color pages print full size on standard 8.5 x 11" paper

Find Ozzy Books Where Ya Going, Ozzy Ox? Find Ozzy at all vendor shows attended by Moorhead Friends Writing Group--and all bookstores where MFWG titles are commissioned! F Plain to Pages Bookstore 1726 S. Washington St., Unit 33, Grand Forks, ND Silver Dawn Books 2600 Demers Ave Suite 101, Grand Forks, ND 58201 Words to Live By Bookstore 819 Center Ave, Moorhead, MN Librarians and Bookstores: Ozzy Ox books are available through IngramSpark! Amazon Barnes and Noble Online Books-A-Million Online Bookstore Thriftbooks Walmart Online Find Ozzy Online: Story Nook, Jamestown, N 109 First Street West, Jamestown, ND 58401 Melting Crayon, Jamestown, ND 219 First Avenue S, Jamestown, ND 58401 Barnes and Noble, Bismarck, ND 862 Kirkwood Mall, Bismarck, ND 58504 The Novel Exchange 218 North 4th St., Bismarck, ND You can find Ozzy at these bookstores! And, Ozzy, Where Have You Been? Summer Reading Kickoff This Miss ND Prairie Rose Rodeo Queen comes from a long line of rodeo queens - her aunt is the reining ND Rodeo Queen, who wrote a book and was one of the attending authors! I was one of the North Dakota authors chosen to participate in the ND Department of Public Instruction's Summer Reading Kickoff at the Capitol Lawn. I found it so rewarding to hear the children reacting to Ozzy and telling me about their best reads. AND - it was great to meet the other authors participating! Thank you ND DPI This little girl showed me how she channels Ozzy Ox's morning attitude in Ozzy Ox Moody Morning! Emily Steele, owner of The Story Nook, Jamestown, ND, hosted our very first Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash Book Signing and Reading. Illustrator Emily Hagen was there to show every one of the 22 illustrations in the book. Such a memorable time for us! Thank you!

Candy Stash Review "T old in rhyming verse, this lyrical treasu re will inspire young readers to follow Ozzy Ox’s example and admit to their errors. The language is simple, so young readers can easily follow along. The bright, bold, and colorful illu strations help move the story along. " -Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers’ Favorite " Ozz y Ox: Can dy Stash, is a great way to teach young read ers about responsibility, making good choices, and owni ng up to mistakes made. " "Love rhyming books and this one has a great lesson for children to always tell the truth! The illustrations are fun, vivid and colorful! Excited to see more from this author!" --Bill Ritter, Amazon Review "FANTASTIC READ! This book is a rhyming treasure for kids and adults alike! What a wonderful way to learn/teach a lesson about honesty through Ozzy’s story!! My kids loved it and can’t wait to read more about Ozzy Ox! Great content and beautiful imagery too." --Caitlin Striefel, Amazon Review "Written in a fun rhyming style, Ozzy Oz: Candy Stash is about about a young ox that finds and secretly eats some candy that was destined for his fathers birthday cake the next day. Once he finds out what his mom was planning to do with it, he feels sick, from his choice and from the enormous amount of candy in his stomach. He tries to go to bed but makes a good choice and tells his mom what he’s done. And here is where the lesson comes in for parents. His mom thanks him for telling her and decides that the sore stomach from eating all the candy is enough punishment. Sometimes natural consequences are enough! She goes on loving Ozzy and all is well at the end of the book." Great read, beautiful artwork and a great lesson for kids and parents!! --Middleclassmama, Amazon Review More From Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite: In Callen Kropp’s book, Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash , Ozzy Ox is helping Mom Ox put the groceries away. He discovers a bag of candy he didn’t know they’d bought at the store. Thinking he’s found a real treasure, he sneaks it up to his room, tells Mom Ox he’s going to bed early, and devours the contents of the candy stash. Once finished, his room’s a mess of candy wrappers. He cleans it up and finishes his bedtime chores. Mom Ox comes in to say goodnight and mentions the candy bag was meant to make his father’s special cake. Now, Ozzy Ox is feeling really bad. Not only is he sick from eating too much candy, but he’s also sick about spoiling the special surprise Mom Ox had planned. Should he confess to his error? Callen Kropp’s picture book story, Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash , is a great way to teach young readers about responsibility, making good choices, and owning up to mistakes made. Told in rhyming verse, this lyrical treasure will inspire young readers to follow Ozzy Ox’s example and admit to their errors. The language is simple, so young readers can easily follow along. The bright, bold, and colorful illustrations help move the story along. The end of the book has some interesting facts about oxen, so young readers can also learn simple tidbits about oxen such as that they’re part of the bovine (cattle) family. Young readers will enjoy the story as much as the lessons learned. "Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash" is a charming and insightful literary gem that stands out for its vibrant storytelling, endearing characters, and invaluable life lessons. "Callen Kropp has created a narrative that not only entertains but also educates, making it a must-read for young readers and their families. As Ozzy embarks on his candy-filled adventure, readers are reminded of the power of honesty, the strength of familial bonds, and the importance of doing what's right ..." - Dietra Head, "A Look Inside Blog" More From Dietra Head, “A Loo k Insi de Blog ” "Ozzy Ox: Cand y Stash" by Callen Kropp is a delightful and heartwarming tale that captivates readers from the very first page. With vivi d imagery a nd a charming narrative, the story transports us into the world of Ozzy Ox and his sweet escapades. From the outset, the author masterfully paints a vivid scene of Ozzy and his mother returning from the store, setting the stage for the adventure that follows. The attention to detail in describing their interactions and the atmosphere is commendable, immersing the reader in the world of Ozzy Ox. The central plotline, involving Ozzy's discovery of a hidden bag of candy and his subsequent mischievous intent, unfolds with a perfect blend of humor and relatability. The anticipation and excitement that Ozzy experiences as he waits to enjoy the candy under the veil of night are palpable, drawing readers into his innocent thrill. One of the standout strengths of the narrative lies in its ability to seamlessly weave in valuable life lessons. As the story progresses, readers are skillfully guided through Ozzy's journey of self-discovery, learning about the consequences of his actions and the importance of rectifying mistakes. The author adeptly imparts a vital message about honesty and responsibility, making this book not only an engaging read but also a meaningful one. The character development of Ozzy is a true highlight of the story. As he navigates the humorous and often tumultuous consequences of his candy escapades, readers witness his growth an d transformation. This evolution serves as a relatable and inspiring model for young readers, showing them the significance of making amends and always striving to make ethical choices. The underlying theme of fam ilial love and togetherness further enriches the narrative, with Ozzy's interactions with his mother and the impending candy cake adventure adding depth and warmth to the storyline. These moments of connection underscore the importance of family bonds and shared experiences, reinforcing the emotional resonance of the tale. Callen Kropp's writing style is engaging, accessible, a nd perfectly tailored for its target audience. The pacing of the story keeps readers engaged, effortlessly transitioning between moments of levity and introspection. The dialogues are authentic and enhance character dynamics, contributing to the overall authenticity of the narrative. In conclusion, "Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash" is a charming and insightful literary gem that stands out for its vibrant storytelling, endearing characters, and invaluable life lessons. Callen Kropp has created a narrative that not only entertains but also educates, making it a must-read for you ng readers an d their families. As Ozzy embarks on his candy-filled adventure, readers are reminded of the power of honesty, the strength of familial b onds, and the importance of doing what's right – even when faced with tempting treats." Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers’ Favorite "In Callen Kropp’s book, Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash, Ozzy Ox is helping Mom Ox put the groceries away. He discovers a bag of candy he didn’t know they’d bought at the store. Thinking he’s found a real treasure, he sneaks it up to his room, tells Mom Ox he’s going to bed early, and devours the contents of the candy stash. Once finished, his room’s a mess of candy wrappers. He cleans it up and finishes his bedtime chores. Mom Ox comes in to say goodnight and mentions the candy bag was meant to make his father’s special cake. Now, Ozzy Ox is feeling really bad. Not only is he sick from eating too much candy, but he’s also sick about spoiling the special surprise Mom Ox had planned. Should he confess to his error?
 
 Callen Kropp’s picture book story, Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash, is a great way to teach young readers about responsibility, making good choices, and owning up to mistakes made. Told in rhyming verse, this lyrical treasure will inspire young readers to follow Ozzy Ox’s example and admit to their errors. The language is simple, so young readers can easily follow along. The bright, bold, and colorful illustrations help move the story along. The end of the book has some interesting facts about oxen, so young readers can also learn simple tidbits about oxen such as that they’re part of the bovine (cattle) family. Young readers will enjoy the story as much as the lessons learned." D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review: "Parents and adults who look for vibrant picture books that pair a realistic situation with a problem-solving dilemma will find Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash a welcome point of discussion for all kinds of topics revolving around making better choices and acknowledging their impact." "Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash is a lively rhyming picture book that follows MomOx and Ozzy as they go out for ice cream and groceries. When they return, Ozzy finds a mysterious bag of candy on the car seat and can't resist snatching it up and hiding it for secret binging later. Mom Ox views him as her "pride and joy," but she doesn't know of his transgression. When Ozzy discovers what the bag of candy was really intended for, he faces a dilemma. Ozzy feels his tummy turn, both at the revelation and from all the candy he's eaten. How can he make things right? Callen Kropp creates a whimsical, fun story about a son who breaks the rules and then faces the consequences. Mom and son come to life in a fun interaction that swirls around a special celebration and right and wrong decisions made by Ozzy which are questioned by his wise mom. The lesson about owning one's mistakes and doing right from them will not be lost on young minds by adults who choose Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash as a read-aloud. Parents and adults who look for vibrant picture books that pair a realistic situation with a problem-solving dilemma will find Ozzy Ox: Candy Stash a welcome point of discussion for all kinds of topics revolving around making better choices and acknowledging their impact."

MM Answer Key Ozzy Ox Moody Morning Answer Key

Author Callen Kropp and Illustrator Emily Erickson Hagen teamed up to create the Ozzy Ox rhyming children's picture book series. Through rascally Ozzy Ox, children learn to navigate everyday life and learn to make good choices. Hello from Author & Illustrator Member of Moorhead Friends Writing Group! Thank you for visiting! I SO appreciate your interest in my Ozzy Ox series of children’s rhyming picture books. I have to say I am delighted to hear from parents and teachers who tell me the impact Ozzy has on their children. “There is no greater reward than to make a difference in the life of a child.” That is an adage that you’ve heard before, but it expresses succinctly my North Star. When I began this journey, I channeled the Berenstain Bears books. I think I read every single edition of those colorful stories to my three children as they grew up, and I always appreciated the life lessons—the basic character education—delivered in each. There are many children’s books online and in bookstores that go far beyond the foundational approach that I have taken with Ozzy Ox. Picking up his toys, managing his sweet tooth, waking up on the wrong side of the bed or refusing to wear clothes appropriate for the weather: we have all coped with our kids' everyday challenges at one time or another. Admitting mistakes when they make them, learning that life’s difficulties can best be overcome by honesty, and acceptance-—these are key takeaways that are the foundation of the Ozzy Ox series. It is my hope that the series will be a “go to” for families and teachers who strive to give their children moral grounding with bouncy rhymes and vivid imagery. Before Ozzy, I graduated college with a degree in organizational leadership, with a minor in journalism. I spent a career in the energy industry. My role as a communicator and marketer gave me over two decades of writing almost every kind of article, publication or story. That background made me a solid writer and helped me to understand the art of graphic illustration. But it is Ozzy’s illustrator, Emily Erickson Hagen, whose work has brought color and expression to enliven Ozzy Ox. She has enlivened Ozzy and brought out his true colors; I appreciate in particular the emotion she painted into every scene. Beyond writing, I spent years on a John Deere tractor on our farm and ranch. Our son and his family have taken The Bison Ranch over and we delight in watching another generation grow up and revere the virgin prairie that have given our bison a natural setting where they thrive. I am not sure why I decided that my main character would be an ox and not a bison--but I have learned that bison and oxen are actually first cousins! The young Ozzy Ox is definitely a rascal—but so many have come to love him, MomOx and all they encounter in the Land of Oxen. I am so glad you could join us. Please reach out any time; we’d love to hear from you! Born in Medelia, Minn., Emily Erickson Hagen grew up in Fargo, N. Dak., where she began paintin g as a teen. She paints on a variety of surfaces using a wide array of mediums, but especially enjoys illustrating children’s books. As a busy wife, mother and grandmother, Emily knows the joy that picture books bring to children. A passionate lake lover, Emily enjoys time with family and friends at their Minnesota summer cabin. Her West Fargo home is a testament to her passion for painting and art; she has also adorned her backyard chicken coop with vibrant designs for the flock of chickens she fondly calls “her girls.”

Fun With Moody Morning Fun With Ozzy Ox Moody Morning Click any activity or coloring page to download and print. Enjoy! All pages are formatted to fit full size on 8.5" x 11" standard paper Need help solving these fun puzzles? Click here for the keys to Moody Morning activities! Ozzy Ox Moody Morning Coloring Pages Just click any image to print!

Fun With Candy Stash Fun With Ozzy Ox Candy Stash Click any activity or coloring page to download and print. Enjoy! All pages are formatted to fit full size on 8.5" x 11" standard paper. Need help solving these fun puzzles? Click here for the keys to Candy Stash activities! Ozzy Ox Candy Stash Coloring Pages