tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87287018877518296002024-03-14T04:09:55.006-04:00What Happens at Grandma'sa resource for happy, creative grandmothers (and other fun people!)Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.comBlogger278125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-8669969090780399242022-08-10T11:33:00.000-04:002022-08-10T11:33:25.555-04:00Tic Tac Bug Attack!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaLN93smCKU8rDtzCdLKJJ2DHN_I9Ls2TkGvJIYJiI1XG6atQnNN2pRaedAksRlygVdpoXEvf_oWtiWi8XwDYN4aihiBL9ZDFl-VDIBEijdbQR0KIJ8Z4X6KNJVO3WpKjNvvPWYJd447C5O7k-HgfHJiur75rTjEDZ2TadrKSKT5LCtK0OD5qufnX6/s2441/A81ED1E1-A241-4337-9A53-4558EE5F9C70.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2441" data-original-width="1872" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaLN93smCKU8rDtzCdLKJJ2DHN_I9Ls2TkGvJIYJiI1XG6atQnNN2pRaedAksRlygVdpoXEvf_oWtiWi8XwDYN4aihiBL9ZDFl-VDIBEijdbQR0KIJ8Z4X6KNJVO3WpKjNvvPWYJd447C5O7k-HgfHJiur75rTjEDZ2TadrKSKT5LCtK0OD5qufnX6/w490-h640/A81ED1E1-A241-4337-9A53-4558EE5F9C70.jpeg" width="490" /></a></div><br /><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b><br /></b></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline;"><b>Red</b> <b>bugs,</b> <b>yellow</b> <b>bugs</b>, super duper busy <b>bugs</b>!</div></b></div></b><p></p><p>Five year old cousins and every day besties, Tyler and Channing, demanded their day at grandma camp this week. Sometimes it’s a scramble to think of effective ways to keep boys of this age engaged in sit-down-and-concentrate activities. This pair prefers to free lance instructions. Example: The red yarn I supplied for decorative use quickly morphed into a mission to trail a length of it around and about the house: upstairs, downstairs, inside and out. Curious cats, enticed from hiding, put an abrupt end to that quest, but I had to admire the creativity of cousin teamwork for as long as it lasted!</p><p><b>Now</b> <b>for</b> <b>the</b> <b>project!….</b></p><p>My artsy sense that every stray bottle cap, spool, and pill bottle has crafting potential yielded thrifty raw material for several satisfying summer successes. This one’s a tic tac toe game, super-starring bugs we carefully studied first, just to get a hang of how they “hang on” with six legs, not eight! We looked at wing sets, too, and the complexity of those big “buggy” eyes. And then we were ready to buzz on over to begin!….</p><p><b>Prep</b> <b>work</b> <b>first,</b> <b>though!</b></p><p>I don’t mind trusting a seven year old with a spray can, especially while I hover at his elbow as he works. But a five year old? With a mischievous sparkle in his eye? Nah! I sprayed bug tokens in advance, five each of red and yellow for each crafter - then hid the cans! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMPQy0GieoMbRJVFEDRinSeNA7UYUsLR5R8SZUkfFV0Vrz4tvIg3jR8czgCpqDv57Fli4Ge2-I23jEGyxW1jLhDznddNDhSF72u-YHcPvf-2qp0JKUV9_V1nbIdlx8PZcG_Tosr5kWcI-PlU1ZQCtDAWQ7YaTLo2oW8flGlbtTVqYvxl5-VW-1MTIS/s4032/B563E506-3338-42BB-B58D-FD1EAD7D0270.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMPQy0GieoMbRJVFEDRinSeNA7UYUsLR5R8SZUkfFV0Vrz4tvIg3jR8czgCpqDv57Fli4Ge2-I23jEGyxW1jLhDznddNDhSF72u-YHcPvf-2qp0JKUV9_V1nbIdlx8PZcG_Tosr5kWcI-PlU1ZQCtDAWQ7YaTLo2oW8flGlbtTVqYvxl5-VW-1MTIS/w400-h300/B563E506-3338-42BB-B58D-FD1EAD7D0270.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />After that, I sorted a color coded selection of feathers, pipe cleaners, wiggle eyes, paper scraps, pom poms, scissors, and glue….<p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>And</b> <b>then</b> <b>we</b> <b>got</b> <b>to</b> <b>work!….</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fBRUNsP_3pNmaxX3kqsTMyvTitVGRcn4MNKi-1JreY4D8Fo2om02jZKW-Wu1jRIld7rWbP_El8HGn1GadPVY4qV9z17gSoYL3DDKKwm7SVqiQG4pq1kwgAwOgeSY-M-6uVWp6G471JbqwLzHmi4-B6jYNrGJ5H9viF4rnTf4Fvd5o_XjNQAJ6rxa/s3178/33088611-CCF0-49B0-ADDF-B542C8E562D8.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3178" data-original-width="1823" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7fBRUNsP_3pNmaxX3kqsTMyvTitVGRcn4MNKi-1JreY4D8Fo2om02jZKW-Wu1jRIld7rWbP_El8HGn1GadPVY4qV9z17gSoYL3DDKKwm7SVqiQG4pq1kwgAwOgeSY-M-6uVWp6G471JbqwLzHmi4-B6jYNrGJ5H9viF4rnTf4Fvd5o_XjNQAJ6rxa/w368-h640/33088611-CCF0-49B0-ADDF-B542C8E562D8.jpeg" width="368" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p>Some feather fluff atop the head, foam sticker wings, and pipe cleaner appendages are Tyler’s wise choices.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ktpw4jl53lnp8_5bPo-5bAvIYVZsYBJHcSAwTXshCyNVXUkVmKKTEYLFlbCI3bwgY6UpfwcZf_VEe-MZNd_SuzQIIzzHMJvi--IJ-J_q5Sxr9GIngZFARhWmQFuOB3sxJ-zFGkraz0MlDBkCbfuE14vUS9ZyyGGejO2I56l7B4qUXTPl5z4eiKK4/s2712/AB2E1798-4F17-47B7-9955-9D3C1F1C9507.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2712" data-original-width="1535" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ktpw4jl53lnp8_5bPo-5bAvIYVZsYBJHcSAwTXshCyNVXUkVmKKTEYLFlbCI3bwgY6UpfwcZf_VEe-MZNd_SuzQIIzzHMJvi--IJ-J_q5Sxr9GIngZFARhWmQFuOB3sxJ-zFGkraz0MlDBkCbfuE14vUS9ZyyGGejO2I56l7B4qUXTPl5z4eiKK4/w362-h640/AB2E1798-4F17-47B7-9955-9D3C1F1C9507.jpeg" width="362" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Dripping with glue, these little guys acquire their means of vision thanks to Channing’s artsy diligence.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvc1r_NUWonGSmFvYv7amiOpRgs4BY4zEzn4R_cIA7J9M3mjXt8PVaNNpMpcx37ml3pb7caE_q2w-nKvYjpsWnXGnIkrYjfOLa9M9whs2-w8fDduDM1LxhLHnxSmJzh6yuwVwzCiFsDiNie-dv6ql6tVd0yFsQJZ4E1ZWdAphakSGfRVwJwiyZty1y/s3584/C1A078F9-4F82-4354-8ED8-452547B9BF15.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="3584" height="509" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvc1r_NUWonGSmFvYv7amiOpRgs4BY4zEzn4R_cIA7J9M3mjXt8PVaNNpMpcx37ml3pb7caE_q2w-nKvYjpsWnXGnIkrYjfOLa9M9whs2-w8fDduDM1LxhLHnxSmJzh6yuwVwzCiFsDiNie-dv6ql6tVd0yFsQJZ4E1ZWdAphakSGfRVwJwiyZty1y/w640-h509/C1A078F9-4F82-4354-8ED8-452547B9BF15.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Once the last pom pom was plopped atop, these brave little soldiers were ready for battle on a grandma-made playing board. The best fun didn’t occur here, though! Nope. Those moments arrived back home when both boys, puffing with pride, challenged mom, dad, and siblings to fiercely competitive games with red and yellow tokens that “may or may not” resemble bugs, but satisfied the souls of those who dug deeply into a box of throw away scrap and emerged winners! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxcMbHDNCKKvfRtt6dH_ixthg4lZUia8sJ5Ny8TJN8o_QfEOhaaokT2PFnMedLPVvhu66nrhTM6ZvfJSH8ptfpEDPKeDnXbL_z23rI_OndjQUF_pNjF96yOS_vfaMO85UQMjOTPSnP71-YJOBZYcj4wFYSMJmN7dyAXaQAiocl4zCjLmGVi_tAm9IR/s2111/9B747125-7711-4A40-B0D6-9DFA77D97255.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2111" data-original-width="1853" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxcMbHDNCKKvfRtt6dH_ixthg4lZUia8sJ5Ny8TJN8o_QfEOhaaokT2PFnMedLPVvhu66nrhTM6ZvfJSH8ptfpEDPKeDnXbL_z23rI_OndjQUF_pNjF96yOS_vfaMO85UQMjOTPSnP71-YJOBZYcj4wFYSMJmN7dyAXaQAiocl4zCjLmGVi_tAm9IR/w351-h400/9B747125-7711-4A40-B0D6-9DFA77D97255.jpeg" width="351" /></a></div><br />Intrigued by the thrifty fun you can enjoy with a pile of junk, a spray paint can, and a stream of glue that never quits? Here’s Austin, age seven, proudly displaying the nifty* robot he constructed from reclaimed goodies when it was his turn at Grandma Camp. <p></p><p>* “nifty” 🤣 a word that’s sooo “grandma vocab” it draws curious expressions around the table every time it’s heard! “Groovy,” too! Now there’s an even better one! </p><p><br /></p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-303304228984401632022-07-16T21:37:00.002-04:002022-07-16T21:49:01.857-04:00“A Lizard Walks Into Grandma Camp…….”<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1mCmLkocaqjpzpDgL-EoHCViseo-xSx0DYEUqwQqWUcS9v0j7ZxXwZbQ9CpuIol9zRCsey6S5veXiuKo2ZzteKFi-nyv0HdLEemnrtO7SDeFgzgw3Xu_ysu4q19XafgSaa0k-ALvO9Zrffj_wc8Ac0AGnosXI4B6jiFkTXU0hsIp6gbRk_XpGeUp/s4032/729B20A4-4D84-444D-B4B2-5FC3B508DDAD.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1mCmLkocaqjpzpDgL-EoHCViseo-xSx0DYEUqwQqWUcS9v0j7ZxXwZbQ9CpuIol9zRCsey6S5veXiuKo2ZzteKFi-nyv0HdLEemnrtO7SDeFgzgw3Xu_ysu4q19XafgSaa0k-ALvO9Zrffj_wc8Ac0AGnosXI4B6jiFkTXU0hsIp6gbRk_XpGeUp/w480-h640/729B20A4-4D84-444D-B4B2-5FC3B508DDAD.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>If you know us at all, you know we’re pet-crazy people. Cat-and-dog-rescuing, wildlife-feeding, unusual-critter-adopting <i>crazy </i>people!…..</p><p><b>Ergo, not a single one of us registered a bit of surprise when a <i>lizard</i> walked into Grandma Camp last</b> <b>week! </b></p><p>Meet Lizzy. She’s Channing’s pet shop purchased pint size leopard gecko. These little critters are friendly, curious, and love to explore. In addition, they enjoy posing for paintings and being studied for sketching. Experiment all you want with creative color combos and a palette of appealing patterns, they won’t mind one bit!….. </p><p><b>So that’s exactly what we did!</b></p><p>Lizzy is a living, breathing canvas of artistic principles and elements of design. I guided my four-kid-cousin-crew to observe a strong light-dark contrast in repetitive spots of varying size. Lizzy’s flexible, tapering body shape is linear; grippy little toes offer more variety in size. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2A0no8Ggnojab1edQENTV3s8MZiHsq-fueg8h14y0RGxc5os4PAaIlekooNQB6jNY5EOLKpmB217nPlDejDS5DE-vscgcu1iEjNuBmf511nLgbOk6oPwrow8BgxAADLGRWWfp3L2rx0UxCBaPGIOuLyQcH_vpNEiSEV6VbJnkLysYkhJkqyZ-m9X/s4032/E0BA7C97-FD89-417B-A40C-E4EFD9DB64D0.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2A0no8Ggnojab1edQENTV3s8MZiHsq-fueg8h14y0RGxc5os4PAaIlekooNQB6jNY5EOLKpmB217nPlDejDS5DE-vscgcu1iEjNuBmf511nLgbOk6oPwrow8BgxAADLGRWWfp3L2rx0UxCBaPGIOuLyQcH_vpNEiSEV6VbJnkLysYkhJkqyZ-m9X/s320/E0BA7C97-FD89-417B-A40C-E4EFD9DB64D0.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Armed with those observations, we established her position on paper with a penciled swirl. That curved line will serve as an axis for her symmetrical body. Viewing from above, it was quick work to sketch head shape and limbs, maintaining balance as we drew. <p></p><p><b>And now the fun part! </b></p><p>Lizzy may, indeed, be cute as a button, but a colorful specimen she’s not. (Her modus operandi, I understand, is to peek from beneath an equally drab pile of sand and rocks, smirking in observation of your frantic search for her little ole camouflaged self!). Our artsy instincts can fix that, though, at least on paper! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BeeXb7N-iqZvoCFPNo0EhtPhQu6gkLR3Vj-77q67AJWaWFKRCqMHvlYO_0cRy0btKxffrLr5SXbHxeO42I3z7UkofxFNdOLSkKNk5CsqS6FzA91_ESNIU7_rrbRNPXmT2D3xT3Ray7QOyp6WqIZ_Vu7F41IMtldbqCfV8M35unMm3nQXvX2d9bA6/s3461/87D790D6-F656-4B54-94DC-C0CEE8DC1E50.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3461" data-original-width="2730" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BeeXb7N-iqZvoCFPNo0EhtPhQu6gkLR3Vj-77q67AJWaWFKRCqMHvlYO_0cRy0btKxffrLr5SXbHxeO42I3z7UkofxFNdOLSkKNk5CsqS6FzA91_ESNIU7_rrbRNPXmT2D3xT3Ray7QOyp6WqIZ_Vu7F41IMtldbqCfV8M35unMm3nQXvX2d9bA6/s320/87D790D6-F656-4B54-94DC-C0CEE8DC1E50.jpeg" width="252" /></a></div><br />Lizzy says: “Here I am at home in my fancy aquarium. See me? Not even part of my pointy lil tail under that leaf? Ha! No ya don’t!”<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpfTn7aMksO0IrcXIxliGDryVc8jIf4345jt9rPFCy9hAobovWxRTwwTFMyR6E0ub-m_5NCFop0jQMQQf7LvWEzdhahdTxT66ddLkQnoTWAVAY0wma8TJ_9HC9Xc6UfVJIjWaQiQJnmx9UuqR2FkxdI31Oq_czqNTh_GsJIlXQdB5mUpsZrnilCB6/s2065/BCE09C5C-D679-40CD-A191-398B03FAAB59.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2055" data-original-width="2065" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpfTn7aMksO0IrcXIxliGDryVc8jIf4345jt9rPFCy9hAobovWxRTwwTFMyR6E0ub-m_5NCFop0jQMQQf7LvWEzdhahdTxT66ddLkQnoTWAVAY0wma8TJ_9HC9Xc6UfVJIjWaQiQJnmx9UuqR2FkxdI31Oq_czqNTh_GsJIlXQdB5mUpsZrnilCB6/s320/BCE09C5C-D679-40CD-A191-398B03FAAB59.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Sketched patterns feature repetitive shapes that vary in size, complementing the areas they decorate.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6imymdGKhcYTVfMMt8HZj9KGAxu1QqgNLCLUlyaltXGkSwawWSVyg7y6jQg01wyGOE0y4cyc-bH_nruYMvxsexvi0N08sMX8wiaK3OAKf0zZsgM4Inqx2MKWM_m2no0suxEGlw5iA2f3dAIyzTHYDRLbzFcBQZJB9rNfbsEaqwgXH5Lx2RTpwqAjV/s3081/7ACBC70A-5C51-4410-9E41-C49547A38D08.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3081" data-original-width="2945" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6imymdGKhcYTVfMMt8HZj9KGAxu1QqgNLCLUlyaltXGkSwawWSVyg7y6jQg01wyGOE0y4cyc-bH_nruYMvxsexvi0N08sMX8wiaK3OAKf0zZsgM4Inqx2MKWM_m2no0suxEGlw5iA2f3dAIyzTHYDRLbzFcBQZJB9rNfbsEaqwgXH5Lx2RTpwqAjV/s320/7ACBC70A-5C51-4410-9E41-C49547A38D08.jpeg" width="306" /></a></div><br />Strongest color schemes are limited to just a few choices, both light and dark, warm and cool. Mix colors for variety and add black or white to introduce tints, tones, and shades. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VNuAoNoSh42kZY3jCNMpwsREmCnRBVF6g-KSuJaACUasmYX4mtjH5WsifJ5Q-gRUEv7lTMrcO4mfebnVs1JVKP6nUAl1HmrZk4Cm1LTlhJuTELSVUNpqMVRAtixmFM4Pk59InsKm0y9mMLlJ-g9ZzBAcpZVJG9vlr4KajmC-LZaz-kSk0rFe7gk-/s3008/80DB1C19-B131-493C-B3D5-F21B0EAFBAC6.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="2511" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7VNuAoNoSh42kZY3jCNMpwsREmCnRBVF6g-KSuJaACUasmYX4mtjH5WsifJ5Q-gRUEv7lTMrcO4mfebnVs1JVKP6nUAl1HmrZk4Cm1LTlhJuTELSVUNpqMVRAtixmFM4Pk59InsKm0y9mMLlJ-g9ZzBAcpZVJG9vlr4KajmC-LZaz-kSk0rFe7gk-/w334-h400/80DB1C19-B131-493C-B3D5-F21B0EAFBAC6.jpeg" width="334" /></a></div><br />Completed work of this quality demands decorative framing! A busy lizard asks for a simple geometric pattern, the opposite for a more languid design. <p></p><p><b>So!….now you know what happens when “a lizard walks into Grandma Camp</b>!” </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Insider grandma tip: 😉 Don’t skimp on quality of materials for kids, especially paint brushes. They will influence outcomes. Nobody’s inspired by a trail of shed hairs in every colorful stroke, or a blob of a brush when fine tuned detailing is desired. Teach your protégées to wash brushes carefully in <b>cold</b> water! Hot water softens glue and releases hair from the ferrule of even the most expensive brush.</p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-49100169696187820732022-06-07T15:00:00.005-04:002022-08-11T17:07:48.885-04:00Grandma’s Summer Culture Club<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jhh4BYCCNH41PcVXVCw6PNjLi2B18NTScVXv8BSqHEySn8X89FsAmlJUauCcEhaID2ukjejX1M1p5qdtqH7Orhrxl9a2trTWSEHjfEULpL27HhkIPzk_eSyfo35zBFk_euooqkLdJ2tfRmpu3PrOVOOmq3V6gwSYcQB5YdY-eFGZzdbKeD2mnloO/s1588/0D5DAB35-9F45-485C-A9B2-3375EDF3DF59.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="1588" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jhh4BYCCNH41PcVXVCw6PNjLi2B18NTScVXv8BSqHEySn8X89FsAmlJUauCcEhaID2ukjejX1M1p5qdtqH7Orhrxl9a2trTWSEHjfEULpL27HhkIPzk_eSyfo35zBFk_euooqkLdJ2tfRmpu3PrOVOOmq3V6gwSYcQB5YdY-eFGZzdbKeD2mnloO/w400-h400/0D5DAB35-9F45-485C-A9B2-3375EDF3DF59.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i><br /></i></p><p><i>One</i> <i>Love</i> is the original art work of Edie Pijpers. Used with permission. Prints available at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/709246399/one-love-art-print-diversity-art-peace">https://www.etsy.com/listing/709246399/one-love-art-print-diversity-art-peace</a></p><p><b>Put</b> <b>on</b> <b>your</b> <b>summer</b> <b>thinking</b> <b>caps</b>, <b>grandkiddoes</b>! </p><p>The arrival of summer break produces an initial burst of exuberant joy and relief. A week or so later, boredom’s creepy little head pokes itself into the crevices of carefree lives. Understandable. School kids are creatures of structure, tuned to the intake of new and exciting facts, ideas, and experiences. Clearly, there’s a mid-June, grandma-with-a-computer gap to be filled here!….</p><p><b>And I’ve got the solution!….</b></p><p>Grandma’s Summer Culture Club is my invention. Its goal is to supply enrichment in language, fine art, and classical music in a relaxed, noncompetitive, inclusive way. Invitations extended to ten grandchildren were enthusiastically accepted. Six of them live within a few miles of me, four are states away. Ages range from nearly five to thirteen. Usually it’s a challenging task to keep such a diverse crew engaged, but I’ve enjoyed full participation with them all. </p><p><b>Here’s</b> <b>how</b> <b>it</b> <b>works:</b></p><p>Every Monday, I group message two “vocabulary words of the week” with definitions. Included are sentences I wrote using those words. (Grandkids and pets are often the topics, heavy on inside jokes!). Club members discuss the words with mom and submit their own sentences for others to read. A cumulative spelling test is an added option. </p><p>Up next are pictures of two well known works of art, paintings or sculpture. It’s nice to recognize art when it appears in popular culture, so kids are encouraged to research the pieces and learn more about them. They might also decide to make their own copies of a painting. </p><p>Finally, I supply the title of a classical musical work by a significant composer with instructions to “ask Alexa to play it.” That one, I’m sure, is greeted with pre-teen eye rolls and groans, but this grandma marches onward, knowing that the future holds rewards when a familiar glimpse, note, or word pops up and a smug little smile of recognition crosses the face of a Grandma’s Summer Culture Club member! </p><p><b>Getting</b> <b>started….</b></p><p>Here’s a few vocabulary words I suggest: mandatory, superfluous, threshold, rudimentary, sedentary, legible, heritage, impetus, velocity, verbatim, truculent, innocuous, lament, gullible, quench, proposition, prominent, perpetual, patriot, optimistic, obsolete, nebulous, mollify, restitution, reprimand, quest, legible, threshold, sumptuous, stamina, zenith, vindicate, verbatim, vacillate, unilateral, prudent, augment, feasible, pretentious fiasco, malign, nemesis, obsolete, opaque, accumulate</p><p>Art work: The Scream, American Gothic, Nike of Samothrace, Starry Night, Girl with a Pearl Earring, The Persistence of Memory, Dancers in Blue, Nighthawks, The Thinker, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, Soup Cans, La Grande Vitesse, The Last Supper, Self Portrait - daVinci</p><p>Music: Fifth Symphony - Beethoven, Second Waltz - Shostakovich, Daphnis and Chloe Suite no. 2 - Ravel, Morning - Grieg, Water Music - Handel, Hall of the Mountain King - Grieg, Canon in D - Pachelbel, William Tell Overture - Rossini</p><p>First day results brought me a sentence from soon-to-be five year old Tyler: “When you drive, it is <b>mandatory</b> to keep the doors closed.” I foresee a lucrative career for this little genius as a writer of consumer caution labels. The infamous “Do not drive with windshield screen in place” comes to mind! </p><p><br /></p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-33708029997876217002021-11-29T15:39:00.003-05:002021-11-29T16:04:19.478-05:00Love Notes To Grandma!<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2yAyVXxXgC0/YaU1FB-0mQI/AAAAAAAAIFo/8Wd8I0gkB8gsQ7aIxR66E2Fi6OSaQaFCACLcBGAsYHQ/s461/8D8E7679-5047-4C88-BC05-DE19BB4F0F88.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="396" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2yAyVXxXgC0/YaU1FB-0mQI/AAAAAAAAIFo/8Wd8I0gkB8gsQ7aIxR66E2Fi6OSaQaFCACLcBGAsYHQ/w550-h640/8D8E7679-5047-4C88-BC05-DE19BB4F0F88.jpeg" width="550" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Here we go again!</b> Time for the annual pickle over "what do we get grandma for Christmas?" I've wrestled with that one through three generations, my own included. <span _msthash="20488" _mstmutation="1" _msttexthash="98735">Usually,</span> it's evident. We've cupboards crammed with cutesy kitchen towels, stinky hand lotion, funny-saying coffee mugs, and tchotchkes, tchotchkes, tchotchkes! What else is there to say but, "No, no, no, honey! Save your money! Grandma has everything she needs!" (grrrrr!) So, here we go again!.......</div><p></p><p><b>"What do we get grandma for Christmas?"</b></p><p>I've found my own little treasure, and my hope is that you might choose to make it yours, too! </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eUKWyQRVr1w/YaUyk7--DFI/AAAAAAAAIFU/yy7O_hM2_7ASmu8m5Z_Rsc-AVxSZ-4AQgCPcBGAYYCw/s2660/DSC_3165.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="2660" height="178" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eUKWyQRVr1w/YaUyk7--DFI/AAAAAAAAIFU/yy7O_hM2_7ASmu8m5Z_Rsc-AVxSZ-4AQgCPcBGAYYCw/w400-h178/DSC_3165.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><b><p><b><br /></b></p>Let me explain!</b><p></p><p>My fellow Grandma-blogger-friend, Lisa Carpenter, has penned a gem of a thoughtful gift giving solution. And no, it's not the usual "shelf-sitter" that's perused once and carted off to the garage sale bin after a dusty year or two in apathetic residence. The pages of <i>One Hundred Things I Love About Grandma </i>assemble a living, breathing collection of love notes co-authored by the crown jewels of her heart: grandchildren! </p><p><b>Here's how it works!</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ig9gy_43xnE/YaU2AljMrpI/AAAAAAAAIFw/-av920nJuj0TJo2lt9jea0G4kUPHNbsqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_3147.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1560" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ig9gy_43xnE/YaU2AljMrpI/AAAAAAAAIFw/-av920nJuj0TJo2lt9jea0G4kUPHNbsqwCLcBGAsYHQ/w306-h400/DSC_3147.JPG" width="306" /></a>Grab a pen!<i> Everybody</i> grab a pen! See those questions on every page? Now open your memory to the enrichment your relationship with grandma has brought to your life. Recall the fun times, the tender moments, the goofy antics, the simple solitude of just being together. Follow the prompts and write the answers down here. Grandma wants to see them. She wants to remember them. She wants to pick up this book over and over and over again, to refill her heart with the unique joy that only YOU bring to her life. </div><p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>There! Now what do you think?</b> </p><p>another set of plastic spoons? or.......</p><p>this endearing expression of heartfelt affection and gratitude to the lady who took newborn you into her arms, declared you "the cutest, best, and brightest baby she's ever seen!" and welcomed you to join her on the most gratifying "grandma and me" adventure you could ever imagine!?</p><p><b>Anything else?</b></p><p>Well, of course! You need to know where to find your own copy(ies) of <i>One Hundred Things I Love</i> <i>About Grandma.</i> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Love-Journal-Things-about-Grandma/dp/1638073430/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=100+things+I+love+about+grandma&qid=1638212314&s=books&sr=1-3&asin=1638073430&revisionId=&format=4&depth=1" target="_blank">Amazon has them.</a> Feast your eyes there on the generous "Look Inside!" feature. Thriftily priced at $12.99. On pre-order status today, shipping soon on December 7, 2021. Plenty of time to fill and wrap. Does Grandma have her own stocking? Pop it in! - it's cutely sized at 6.5" square. </p><p>Oh, and Lisa's no "bumbling along, hoping for the best" first time author, either! While you're there, check out her <a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Time-Grandmothers-Journal-Experience-Grandchild/dp/1647398851/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=the+first+time+grandmothers+journal&qid=1638213172&s=books&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&asin=1647398851&revisionId=&format=4&depth=1" target="_blank">First Time Grandmother's Journal</a> - the place for <i>Grandma's </i>own perspectives and love notes written just for <i>you!</i> </p><p>Visit Lisa's blog, <i>Grandma's Briefs</i>, <a href="http://www.grandmasbriefs.com" target="_blank">here</a> to enjoy a heartwarming fellowship of grand motherhood! </p><p><b>What's that?</b> </p><p>You've already bought Grandma a crocheted potholder rack? </p><p>Well, hey, that's okay! We all make mistakes! What about Valentine's Day? Mother's Day? Her birthday? There's a chance you'll need more time to do this one up right. Share with your siblings. Let them initial their own contribution. Grandma wants to hear those love notes from <b><i>everybody!</i></b></p><p><b>I received early release copies of this book in exchange for my honest Amazon review. I wrote this post additionally to share my enthusiasm for a product that I believe will bring joy to the lives of my readers.</b></p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-2817871298539503102021-03-06T11:44:00.000-05:002021-03-06T11:44:02.592-05:00Spider Inspectors!<p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_eQRFFyZuq8/YEJcVaQ09WI/AAAAAAAAH_0/2wDuSK_fQwIq8va6i5xdThG1f1cqMqF2wCPcBGAYYCw/s4568/DSC_2729%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4568" data-original-width="3079" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_eQRFFyZuq8/YEJcVaQ09WI/AAAAAAAAH_0/2wDuSK_fQwIq8va6i5xdThG1f1cqMqF2wCPcBGAYYCw/w432-h640/DSC_2729%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="432" /></a></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We've actually been <b>Spider Inspectors</b> since Halloween. That topic, along with banter about bats and the mystique of mummies particularly piques the interest of little boys during trick-or-treat season. But "pie-ders" are everywhere - never really out of sight or mind, so they're a popular year round repeat request, dutifully acknowledged by grandma with frequent crafty-learnin' visits! <p></p><p>We start with a snuggle-up-and-read session to learn a science-y thing or two. We need to know what to look for<i> just in case</i> a bit of "grandma magic" incites the sudden skittering of a menacing <i>Folkmanis</i> tarantula puppet across the page we're viewing!<b> </b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHju1m3WY6c/YCVsnpznuyI/AAAAAAAAH9k/iRJBOWGEcMcO9FYSq0sT0w7JYbfRs-6UwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2841.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1421" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHju1m3WY6c/YCVsnpznuyI/AAAAAAAAH9k/iRJBOWGEcMcO9FYSq0sT0w7JYbfRs-6UwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2841.JPG" /></a></b></div><b><br />Eeek! There he is! - startling and delighting his young audience!</b> <p></p><p>Here's the age appropriate book we learned from, too. Beautiful clear photos that give just enough of an idea of what these curious critters are like! </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EoP4nRVWZW4/YCVs6PMBtlI/AAAAAAAAH9w/4XpR4l-41bwxOaxccJ2JPUCf36yrVjNTACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2812%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1250" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EoP4nRVWZW4/YCVs6PMBtlI/AAAAAAAAH9w/4XpR4l-41bwxOaxccJ2JPUCf36yrVjNTACLcBGAsYHQ/w244-h400/DSC_2812%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="244" /></a></div><b>Next, a little bit of review......<br /></b><div><br /></div><div>We locate the <i>cephalothorax,</i> the front part of the body housing legs and a multitude of eyeballs! (eight of each to be exact!) Then, there's the <i>abdomen.</i> Spinnerets are stored here; those spin silk for the webs that snatch up lunch. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>And then it's crafty time!.....</b></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zbgom7pstd0/YChYqyiJGiI/AAAAAAAAH98/WQp4fDiWq50fK0qgbo5AGVo07LWInowfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2814.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1383" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zbgom7pstd0/YChYqyiJGiI/AAAAAAAAH98/WQp4fDiWq50fK0qgbo5AGVo07LWInowfQCLcBGAsYHQ/w270-h400/DSC_2814.JPG" width="270" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Here's a popular Pinterest paper plate web activity that suited us just fine. Cut plate centers out, leaving rims only. Spray paint, then punch holes around the edge, about 1"- 2" apart. Offer a choice of yarn color, making sure the weight is suitable - thin enough to thread easily, thick enough for little fingers to firmly grasp. (Wrap a piece of tape to secure yarn end so it doesn't ravel.) </div><div><br /></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wBbyGHThbDo/YChbGEMC7sI/AAAAAAAAH-I/HnUw9DNoQcMBLj4KI5lIjeayqsSOWbydACLcBGAsYHQ/s3760/DSC_2710%2B%25284%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3760" data-original-width="2515" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wBbyGHThbDo/YChbGEMC7sI/AAAAAAAAH-I/HnUw9DNoQcMBLj4KI5lIjeayqsSOWbydACLcBGAsYHQ/w268-h400/DSC_2710%2B%25284%2529.JPG" width="268" /></a></div><br />We're weaving away!</b></div><div><br /></div>Enough eye-hand coordination and concentration exercise experience to send any pre-K teacher into ecstasy! <br /><div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6unFE5lOXg/YEJOmZfLkMI/AAAAAAAAH_A/cxu_njIeB703l_2c2z28Ek7VOT8JGBBIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2822.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1605" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6unFE5lOXg/YEJOmZfLkMI/AAAAAAAAH_A/cxu_njIeB703l_2c2z28Ek7VOT8JGBBIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2822.JPG" /></a></div><br />Okay! We've got the web......<p></p><p><b>But who's gonna live here?</b></p><p>Show your little crafter how to wrap yarn around four side-by-side fingers of your hand - the perfect portable loom. When suitably plump, slide the bundle carefully off and tie tightly at center. Cut loops open to make a fluffy spider body. </p><p>From here on, a pair of big buggy wiggle eyes, eight pipe cleaner legs, and a bottle of glue are all that stand between you and your.......</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YvUcyqliBhY/YEJcEXVRc7I/AAAAAAAAH_s/mQqcJBaScA48a8JgisdAPHYZc18VKurOgCPcBGAYYCw/s3592/DSC_2828%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3592" data-original-width="3128" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YvUcyqliBhY/YEJcEXVRc7I/AAAAAAAAH_s/mQqcJBaScA48a8JgisdAPHYZc18VKurOgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSC_2828%2B%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br />voracious web dweller awaiting further scientific inspection!</b><p></p><p>I envisioned a return to more pages of snuggle-up arachnid themed book learning for that purpose, but it was not to be! Grandsons usually have surprises for grandma, and I was not denied that day either!.......</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-urQq7EduCv4/YEJRI9PVyCI/AAAAAAAAH_Q/5xGRAk-fPp0622OAZqTZH5n1TbW2gUVeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2819.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1789" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-urQq7EduCv4/YEJRI9PVyCI/AAAAAAAAH_Q/5xGRAk-fPp0622OAZqTZH5n1TbW2gUVeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2819.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b>See this yarn?</b><p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RcSmZD5RJyk/YEJSPRBIDHI/AAAAAAAAH_Y/jUDaCGfxic4sRYtVaVbfSC_eKL1Pl0f4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2827.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RcSmZD5RJyk/YEJSPRBIDHI/AAAAAAAAH_Y/jUDaCGfxic4sRYtVaVbfSC_eKL1Pl0f4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2827.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b>There's a use for it!</b><p></p><p>Complete fascination with slicing teeny-weeny-tiny little pieces with a concentrated seriousness not often seen in crafty-spider-land! </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfFIAOR_x2g/YEJSzjH5egI/AAAAAAAAH_g/gBaw33uHek4Gq0N4z0rQnZUls2hMGJSEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2418/DSC_2678%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2418" data-original-width="1900" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfFIAOR_x2g/YEJSzjH5egI/AAAAAAAAH_g/gBaw33uHek4Gq0N4z0rQnZUls2hMGJSEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2678%2B%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></b></div><b><br />Meanwhile, back at cousin's house.....</b><p></p><p>I found no further interest in arachnid based academics here either! </p><p>(Don't you just love little boys?)</p><p><b>I DO!</b></p><p>(They crawl right into your heart, string themselves a little nest, and just hang there, making you as happy as a sassy spinning spider enjoying a bit of scrumptious snacking!)</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>This is not a sponsored post. My purchase </b><b>and recommendation </b><b>of the puppet and book were independently made without compensation. </b></p></div></div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-24744934892898020172021-02-20T11:29:00.004-05:002021-02-22T10:10:21.417-05:00Book Review: The First - Time Grandmother's Journal<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYCkixpLGx0/YDE3AZbSO2I/AAAAAAAAH-g/JmGvyhFJLksaZAXyu7W6UFYAkxilJUVgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2851.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1593" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYCkixpLGx0/YDE3AZbSO2I/AAAAAAAAH-g/JmGvyhFJLksaZAXyu7W6UFYAkxilJUVgQCLcBGAsYHQ/w498-h640/DSC_2851.JPG" width="498" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Considering the title: <i>The First - Time Grandmother's Journal</i> - you'd think a seasoned grandma of ten (me!) might not relate to this newly published volume. Nope! Not true! - despite being <i>sooo</i> into the business of grandma-hood that common well meaning advice to "be present" finds me rolling my eyes and exclaiming, "DUH!" In fact, I'm <i>sooo</i> into "the business" that the question of whether or not to spoil has me shaking my head, wondering if any such non-participant has a right to exist! </p><p><b>"Okay," you ask, "If you're such a smartie-pants-know-it-all, why even tout this book as if it's the best thing you've picked up since that pair of twin boys who made you a grandma some 12 years ago?" Great question!......</b></p><p><b>And here's my answer!</b></p><p>There are things I vividly recall about those earliest days, and some I do not. Most of them, the in -betweeners, coupled with their special sounds, sights, and feelings resurfaced as I paged this book. So did the urgent desire to record them, not only for myself, but for sharing at some later date. But how many of us panic and freeze when handed a pen and told to "Describe what it was like. How were you given the news? How did you react? Do you give advice? How is it welcomed? Do you enjoy 'just-grandma-and-me' bonding moments? Are you able to contribute anything unique? Where do you go from here? Any goals for the future?" </p><p><b>Well, not to worry!</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6fRZcbQ7pVo/YDE3eQNc1dI/AAAAAAAAH-o/Euq5QdP_OGMVLStfDChjEll8sHiOcpSJQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2855.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1487" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6fRZcbQ7pVo/YDE3eQNc1dI/AAAAAAAAH-o/Euq5QdP_OGMVLStfDChjEll8sHiOcpSJQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2855.JPG" /></a></div><br />Author Lisa Carpenter takes you gently by the hand in her 144 page volume, guiding you through the initial stages of grandma-hood to the dreams you hold for days ahead. Her thought-provoking prompts make it easy to answer all the questions listed above, as well as dozens more, defining your role as a significant and valued person in the lives of your grandchildren. Here is where you'll build a road through your personal journey, savoring plentiful tips and meaningful quotes along the way. And when your effort is complete? Lisa does advise, "This is <i>your</i> record for <i>your</i> eyes only," as a way to dismiss grammatical anxiety and resistance to vulnerability. But you may feel differently. Like me. Because......<p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>I'm going to share!</b></p><p>When the time is right, I'll gather my little cherubs to let them see for themselves the excitement and love with which they were anticipated, welcomed, and cherished. They've made the years I've known them the best ones of my life, and they deserve to know that! <i>Thank you, Lisa, for making my path to</i> <i>that goal a smooth, happy, memorable one! </i></p><p><b>Highly recommended!</b></p><p>Wow! Look at those <a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Time-Grandmothers-Journal-Experience-Grandchild/dp/1647398851" target="_blank">Amazon reviews</a> for <i>The First-Time Grandmother's Journal!</i> Fellow grandmothers heartily applaud this beautifully illustrated memory keeper - a worthy gift for yourself. Think, too, of what a thoughtful baby shower favor for new grandmothers this book would make. Hmm, think you might need several copies? <a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Time-Grandmothers-Journal-Experience-Grandchild/dp/1647398851" target="_blank">Here is where</a> you'll place your order!</p><p><b>About the Author</b></p><p>Grandma blogging has yielded unexpected perks for me. Among them are coast-to-coast friendships with other sharers of the grandparent experience. My first post published here in 2011. By then, I'd been an avid reader of Lisa Carpenter at her own <a href="https://www.grandmasbriefs.com/" target="_blank">Grandma's Briefs</a> blog for several years. I was attracted by her gentle, doting style - the way her devotion sweeps aside all of the world's craziness, leaving but one fact standing: no matter what, her grandsons will always have <i>her. </i>Her attention, her support, her praise, her admiration. My blogging goal has been to imitate those same warming vibes. Lisa's long distance friendship and engaging writing style have nurtured and encouraged me and I am very proud to offer this review of her first published effort - one that showcases and shares the loving vibrancy of her personal grandmother-hood!</p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-18062547189044582762020-11-17T18:45:00.000-05:002020-11-17T18:45:53.030-05:00Fall-ing All Over The Place!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3_OGokkA300/X7RecP7ZkTI/AAAAAAAAH8c/OvrtLejhj-4m74_TnVy6Dpem5mJKIqo6gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1640" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3_OGokkA300/X7RecP7ZkTI/AAAAAAAAH8c/OvrtLejhj-4m74_TnVy6Dpem5mJKIqo6gCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h640/DSC_2746.JPG" width="512" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Tribute to the bounty of falling leaves offers a nice break after the saturation of Halloween! I like these crafts because they are usually preceded by a leisurely neighborhood stroll to collect what we need, exclaiming over contrasts in beauty, size, shape, texture, and color of our specimens. It's an art and nature learning experience all in one!</p><p>Night falls early now, and the ethereal glow of a flickering tea light within the confines of a leaf strewn lantern is a comforting delight - especially when you're three years young and have built it yourself! </p><p>This technique is ages old. I've also seen balloon-based lanterns constructed with orange tissue paper, jack-o-lantern faces painted on, shining soft and light. Those, next year, for sure! </p><p><b>Here's how you'll make this pretty lantern alongside your little crafty person!</b></p><p><b>1. </b>Blow up a 9" balloon and tape it into a small bowl. If bowl is lightweight, put something heavy inside first, to stabilize it. Rocks, for example.</p><p><b>2.</b> Recruit your cutest artsy munchkin to turn over his/her recently gathered leaf collection. (Pressed inside a heavy book overnight before if possible.) Sort for size.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJZVsd1VpK0/X6BgST2nLyI/AAAAAAAAH70/cjFaHLJMgs4V-z0n_CGnsjsJfZ6Sz8-LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s3566/DSC_2659%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2756" data-original-width="3566" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJZVsd1VpK0/X6BgST2nLyI/AAAAAAAAH70/cjFaHLJMgs4V-z0n_CGnsjsJfZ6Sz8-LgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2659%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><b>3.</b> Cut 3" squares of white (or ivory) tissue paper.</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F5MQSz4P53s/X6BgtRw7ynI/AAAAAAAAH78/4fGwBuULuNcSAvjMzHoKdTEHnxrJVigMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s4800/DSC_2663.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4800" data-original-width="3200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F5MQSz4P53s/X6BgtRw7ynI/AAAAAAAAH78/4fGwBuULuNcSAvjMzHoKdTEHnxrJVigMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2663.JPG" /></a></b></div><b><br />4.</b> Dip first layer of squares in water and cover balloon with them.<p></p><p><b>5.</b> Add craft glue (Elmer's, for example) to 1/4 cup of water, about 50% ratio.</p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5WoJoLBoQI/X5DTI18NfxI/AAAAAAAAH7o/pxsUsxD70zIFkPCPSgiTc1lSGW4KefENwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2641.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1823" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O5WoJoLBoQI/X5DTI18NfxI/AAAAAAAAH7o/pxsUsxD70zIFkPCPSgiTc1lSGW4KefENwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2641.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br />6.</b> Lay leaves, face up, on balloon surface as you work, and cover all over with tissue paper squares dipped in water-glue solution. <p></p><p><b>7.</b> Cover with third layer of tissue dipped in glue solution.</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Now! for the THE HARD PART</b>! (<i>ohhhh nooooo! </i>you <i>told</i> us to only do <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2020/10/i-have-new-job-and-i-love-it-for-next.html" target="_blank">projects that offer</a> <i>immediate</i> <i>satisfaction</i> for little kids!) <span style="font-size: x-large;">😞</span></p><p><b>Well, yes, I did say that! but this one's an exception!</b> </p><p>(kinda like how bedtime sloooooowly creeps forward when grandma's babysitting and kids are having waaaay too much fun and thank goodness they're too young to tell time and besides who would tattle on good ol' grandma anyway?!)<span style="font-size: xx-large;">😉 </span></p><p><b>8.</b> Allow lantern to dry for several days in a cool, dry place. Then.......</p><p><b>9.</b><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><b>FUN TIMES ARE BACK!</b><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Separate balloon from bowl and supervise a needle pop to break it. Carefully extract balloon, then place tea light inside with your choice of opening up or down.</span></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UgEmbGNORwk/XZX5nq63h2I/AAAAAAAAH0I/wEwHo_GGxhIPO3vNXjOnLELe0cVvV2vKACPcBGAYYCw/s2048/DSC_1498.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1422" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UgEmbGNORwk/XZX5nq63h2I/AAAAAAAAH0I/wEwHo_GGxhIPO3vNXjOnLELe0cVvV2vKACPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSC_1498.JPG" /></a></b></div><b><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;">😒</span></b><b>"Thank you, grandma, but really can't wait for all this "several days to dry" nonsense! </b><div><br /></div><div>Well okay then! <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2019/10/leafy-lanterns.html" target="_blank">Go here, try this!</a> It's a different, easier, one-day version that will work for you, too! <div><p></p><p>There! That's better! Happy now? </p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">😊</span></p><p><b>GREAT! </b></p></div></div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-70913626459172827352020-10-20T15:09:00.001-04:002020-10-20T15:11:41.275-04:00Tissue Paper Pumpkin-ing! <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9DlgkefESHc/X4NjbvuMdwI/AAAAAAAAH68/iuXBqqkTh3UYGHHRT-7crlmiXo7yKvq4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2273.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1512" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9DlgkefESHc/X4NjbvuMdwI/AAAAAAAAH68/iuXBqqkTh3UYGHHRT-7crlmiXo7yKvq4gCLcBGAsYHQ/w472-h640/DSC_2273.JPG" width="472" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>I've no doubt it's genetic. We're <i>big</i> on Halloween here! Most others contract the fever 'round the first of October, but for us, early <i>September</i> prompts initial symptoms. Older grandkids place costume orders with anxious-to-beat-the-crowd grandma (the only one also known to spring for <i>second</i> change-of-mind choices as needed!). The littles plop eagerly into my lap toting "spooky story" books for sharing. And all of them demand crafts that address this beloved season-to-be-scary......</p><p><b>And so I comply!</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L2KdDyKu9Ew/X4NkKZ18fnI/AAAAAAAAH7E/x8XIoHjXMK0C8auexP7N_ygquuqHI5PiACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2240.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1639" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L2KdDyKu9Ew/X4NkKZ18fnI/AAAAAAAAH7E/x8XIoHjXMK0C8auexP7N_ygquuqHI5PiACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2240.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />This version of a vibrant suncatcher is much less involved than the usual ones requiring clear sticky-surface paper or a pre-cut frame, making it suitable for a very young child. Pictured here is all you'll need for an activity that satisfies in terms of "do-it-myself!" simplicity. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7YTAIDXrolo/X4NoSpyugnI/AAAAAAAAH7Q/i56fegwCo_AZxCCSOjDtA8B0M7bswZ95ACLcBGAsYHQ/s4800/DSC_2265.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4800" data-original-width="3200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7YTAIDXrolo/X4NoSpyugnI/AAAAAAAAH7Q/i56fegwCo_AZxCCSOjDtA8B0M7bswZ95ACLcBGAsYHQ/w266-h400/DSC_2265.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />Prepare two 12" x 15" wax paper sheets, a strip of green paper, and jack-o-lantern features cut from black paper. Glue stem and features to one wax sheet as shown. Your little artist will apply glue to the surface around them, cut squares from orange tissue, and adhere them directly. When complete, you'll match and iron the second wax sheet on top, then cut the pumpkin out.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fvaYyJLORU/X4NpPiQN2QI/AAAAAAAAH7Y/WZtrZASxCTwSeb8x8p73K402XWOcUisHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2272.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1562" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fvaYyJLORU/X4NpPiQN2QI/AAAAAAAAH7Y/WZtrZASxCTwSeb8x8p73K402XWOcUisHQCLcBGAsYHQ/w305-h400/DSC_2272.JPG" width="305" /></a></div><br />And the best part? Why, hanging it yourself! - at age-three level! - and summoning the family to show off how well you went Tissue Paper Pumpkin-ing with grandma! <p></p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-23100095062638972062020-10-10T12:34:00.003-04:002020-10-10T20:14:34.493-04:00<p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5CpN2lN_0dY/X3ueg-sT6GI/AAAAAAAAH6E/6GiErEFWDtEj48HiMXq3jDOApGYcFKWDACLcBGAsYHQ/s4377/DSC_2513.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4377" data-original-width="3162" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5CpN2lN_0dY/X3ueg-sT6GI/AAAAAAAAH6E/6GiErEFWDtEj48HiMXq3jDOApGYcFKWDACLcBGAsYHQ/w462-h640/DSC_2513.JPG" width="462" /></a></b></div><b><br /><br /></b><p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>I have a new job! And I love it! </b></p><p>For the next few weeks at least, all of my school age grandchildren are at home, learning virtually. That process involves classmate Zoom meetings, something they've adjusted to well after a bit of initial glitching. In our two local families, however, two testy little "bugs" remain in the system. Checking in at about three feet tall, self-liberated from nap-taking, the pair is alert and impish, equipped with acute sensing that detects mommy's Zoom time busyness. And then....</p><p><i><b>Let the shenanigans begin!......</b></i></p><p><b>Or so they thought! </b></p><p>Because that's when GRANDMA reports to work! Yep, that's my new job! I've taken on those two little just-three year olds with the task of keepin' 'em occupied so older siblings can Zoom in peace while mommy supervises<i> them</i> and not the little tornados who previously found high hilarity in antics like video-bombing family cats!<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (Now, just between us, do I secretly find that adorably cute? Oh heck YEAH! Shhhh!)</span></p><p>From previous experience, (since these little tykes are #9 and #10 in my batch of ten) I know that this age can be a challenging one to keep fruitfully occupied. Working on my side, though, is their motivation to be included - to be one of "the big kids" - and to "do it by myself!" They also enjoy the direct one-on-one attention from a devoted adult. I've concluded that successful experiences result when a few points are kept in mind:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>projects are age appropriate and safe </b></li><li><b>more than enough planned for anticipated time together</b></li><li><b>prep work in place, complete ingredients at hand</b></li><li><b>immediate, satisfying results</b></li><li><b>respect for the process</b></li></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mtLJdP0E5gw/X4CshtSyXaI/AAAAAAAAH6Q/yNqnALbS6-k3KxtZSberKki5adHUXMoDgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2508.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1610" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mtLJdP0E5gw/X4CshtSyXaI/AAAAAAAAH6Q/yNqnALbS6-k3KxtZSberKki5adHUXMoDgCLcBGAsYHQ/w252-h320/DSC_2508.JPG" width="252" /></a></div><br />Pretty much anything that involves a puddle of paint is a winner. Brushes optional, since the multi-eyed monster shown above required only a blob of green, a straw for blowing it around, glue stick, paper scraps, and a crayon for adding menacing, spidery arms and legs!<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9W3WCTZWCc/X4CuC3_p0HI/AAAAAAAAH6c/S_czc365iJY66dWzndBr65BdsDT62o9PwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2613.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1324" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9W3WCTZWCc/X4CuC3_p0HI/AAAAAAAAH6c/S_czc365iJY66dWzndBr65BdsDT62o9PwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2613.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />A splash of orange and half a small potato transforms a paper sheet into an endearing patch of pumpkins. This activity is great for practicing patterning and scissors skill. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--lueraE5gzI/X4CuZS7jO0I/AAAAAAAAH6k/elNdUurrr2we4SlVu9JF0ta8EdVR9S6hgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2485.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1740" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--lueraE5gzI/X4CuZS7jO0I/AAAAAAAAH6k/elNdUurrr2we4SlVu9JF0ta8EdVR9S6hgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2485.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Healthy snacks - like veggie pizza - allow pint sized bakers to deliver treats with genuine "I made it myself" swagger. Cut veggies and make cream cheese topping at home so assembling is all that remains to be done once cooled crust is out of the oven. (Kitty in background agrees with me that our interpretation of "spread carrots out evenly" differs from that of a three year old!) <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-01aSnxvaO-g/X4CvSp76RQI/AAAAAAAAH6w/IV4utierMnoaDF3bkhJ_WaAvLIzdFin7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2471.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1453" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-01aSnxvaO-g/X4CvSp76RQI/AAAAAAAAH6w/IV4utierMnoaDF3bkhJ_WaAvLIzdFin7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2471.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Sneak in some learning fun wherever you can. An Amazon shopping spree supplied each of my little guys their own counting scale. I call out a digit to place on one plate; an equivalent amount of froggies must be carefully added to the other side to achieve a successful balance. Lots of laughs, especially when a stray Lego guy shows up to throw things off when grandma isn't looking! (froggin' around again!)<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>And, of course, we supplement the artsy-craftsy stuff with floor puzzles, book reading, and board game playing. Those standard grandma fallbacks fill inevitable attention span gaps that lead to <i>"What'll we do now?!!" </i>panic. Kids are full of surprises. A finger painting session you thought might last an hour (HA!) might keep 'em busy for a fourth of that time. Then, you'll discover that leaf printing captivates enough fascination to go on and on, covering sheet after sheet of the pristine pack of paper you've carefully piled inside your bulging grandma bag! Let's steal from the Boy Scouts here....<b>"Always be prepared!" </b></p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-45692808464161936942020-09-24T15:01:00.005-04:002020-09-26T11:17:28.140-04:00Diggin' Dinosaurs!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5ZrVQtizPY/X2ojs1PfYYI/AAAAAAAAH5Q/q2UC0y3FE1E4RXODpLOyt5eUoLzd3UrbwCLcBGAsYHQ/w426-h640/DSC_2384.JPG" width="426" /></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>We've all entertained the perspective of those who believe toys and interests should be "gender-nonconforming" - i.e. traditional role reversal that introduces little ladies to the mechanics of fire trucks, their brothers to doll house keeping. Nope. I've tried. Doesn't work for me here. When offered a choice, grandsons grab for snakes and granddaughters glom onto butterflies - 100% of the time! And since social-psychological analysis is well above my grandma pay grade, that's all okay with me! <p></p><p>I'm not surprised, then, when eyes that ignite like fireworks belong to the<i> boys</i> when dinosaur activities tumble from the mysterious confines of my grandma bag. Sisters enjoy the artsy aspects of each project, but brothers are the ones who linger for follow up research in picture books and ask the most questions. They're the ones who can identify an Apatosaurus. They're the ones <b>diggin' dinosaurs! </b></p><p><b>We tested our skill and explored the species on recent drop in visits!...</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kCc5PGSK1V4/X2oZ6SxXqOI/AAAAAAAAH5I/cOM88APDSakm7GfEkuXi5MPJe0Y-XDTDQCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/DSC_2343.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1668" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kCc5PGSK1V4/X2oZ6SxXqOI/AAAAAAAAH5I/cOM88APDSakm7GfEkuXi5MPJe0Y-XDTDQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSC_2343.JPG" /></a></div><br />A stack of appealing books whets the appetite for what's ahead. Pop-ups are always a favorite, especially when fun facts accompany each reptile. This is where we discuss herbivores and carnivores, noting size, speed, habitat, and defense capability. It's where we choose the beast we'll learn to draw and paint!<p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p><p>The giant Brachiosaurus was our unanimous choice to immortalize in tempera and collage. We sketched in basic shape building technique: large horizontal body oval first, smaller vertical leg ovals next, etc. I used an out of print <i>Usborne</i> title as a guide, but <a href="https://artprojectsforkids.org/how-to-draw-a-diplodocus/" target="_blank">Art Projects for Kids</a> is an excellent resource for teaching kids this method. Use that blog link to see a curvy Diplodocus come alive before your very eyes, and then let art teacher/author Kathy Barbro lead you to other prehistoric era friends, plus many, many more subjects to successfully draw and paint! You'll <i>love</i> this site!</p><p><b>Now back to the studio!....</b></p><p><span style="text-align: left;">Completed critters needed spotted texture and a careful cutting out. At age just-three, little guys need grandma's aid for the latter. That skill is developmental, so we're working on the proper way to manipulate scissors. It helps when I hold paper in place while he chomps away until two-handed competence is achieved. </span></p><p><span style="text-align: left;">Deep blue background paper was selected with a purpose in mind. Why not let our family of Brachios dwell in the swirling, twirling world of Van Gogh's <i>Starry Night? </i>Why not let the kids begin a learning journey into art history as well, combining that adventure with science facts and crafting skill? </span></p><p><span style="text-align: left;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYeKkXeAM4I/X2tmhWpyYaI/AAAAAAAAH5k/RZUW4PPCrl8AOT0wrvUn3Q2urlAgnXsLgCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/DSC_2223.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vYeKkXeAM4I/X2tmhWpyYaI/AAAAAAAAH5k/RZUW4PPCrl8AOT0wrvUn3Q2urlAgnXsLgCPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSC_2223.JPG" /></a></div><br />For that purpose, I employ a nice deck of<i> Usborne</i> cards, available at Amazon. The sturdy set of 30 depicts a significant number of fun-to-know famous paintings. We talk about this artist and the way his technique brings the canvas alive. Then, we reach for construction paper in yellow and orange, tearing orbs that mimic his turbulent night scene......<p></p><p><span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oBemPUyReI/X2tmrK8zukI/AAAAAAAAH5k/ZPvIpXg8KNsau2mUL3kgrPxUI-NHHKEwQCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/DSC_2281.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1818" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oBemPUyReI/X2tmrK8zukI/AAAAAAAAH5k/ZPvIpXg8KNsau2mUL3kgrPxUI-NHHKEwQCPcBGAYYCw/s320/DSC_2281.JPG" /></a></div><p><b>SUCCESS!</b></p><p>Doesn't this finished work just dance with the same energy as the original starlit sky? </p><p>I like the tearing technique. Kids know results aren't supposed to be perfect, thus eliminating the anxiety of precise cutting on the lines. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>One more thing!</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VMHN76nFoe4/X2vvMoY6NRI/AAAAAAAAH54/Gjluv2PcAo0z1sbzvvQOCnhKrWIo5jY1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2367.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VMHN76nFoe4/X2vvMoY6NRI/AAAAAAAAH54/Gjluv2PcAo0z1sbzvvQOCnhKrWIo5jY1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2367.JPG" /></a></div><br />Can't get enough of being busy on Planet Dinosaur? Here's an easy way to keep a three year old anchored to a chair, enjoying an activity that's 100% done by him/herself. Offer a bright background sheet, scraps of contrasting paper for tearing, a glue stick, and a sheet of dino stickers. <p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xMdn09CToqE/X2vr5VA-JpI/AAAAAAAAH5s/PDefh7fNvfEqapq0_tV4quhD8rL69zHfACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2385.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1798" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xMdn09CToqE/X2vr5VA-JpI/AAAAAAAAH5s/PDefh7fNvfEqapq0_tV4quhD8rL69zHfACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2385.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b>What a world of possibility lies within this deck of fine art!</b> <div><br /></div><div>Munch's <i>The Scream</i> is <i>dying</i> to inspire a vivid Halloween painting! I see a little study in perspective there, too!</div><div><br /></div><div>We might have to go wild outside with brushes and buckets of paint to capture the feel of Pollack's <i>Number 6, </i>(although I never could figure out the accolades afforded that guy and his mess of gloomy drippings!) </div><div><br /></div><div>When it's time to draw portraits <i>the right way,</i> (no eyeballs in the middle of the forehead!) we'll take a look at Picasso and da Vinci for comparing and contrasting. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We'll employ soft pastels in study of Degas ethereal ballerinas, and "paint with scissors" the way Matisse described his work in collage......</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lots of learning fun ahead!</b> Promise you'll come join us?<br /><p></p><div><b>Notes: </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>If you seek "go big or go home!" dinosaur activities, you might enjoy past posts of mine. <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2013/07/hunters-and-gatherers.html">"Hunters and Gatherers"</a> details the dino egg hunting experience I hosted for my two oldest grandsons when they were four years old. Star of that show was a 9' home made paper mache T-Rex! <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2016/07/dino-egg-diggers.html" target="_blank">This one</a> brings us back to a more recent time when eight hunters stormed the woods, following clues to giant personalized eggs crammed with goodies! </div></div><div><br /></div><div>The pop-up book I've pictured above is the <i>Dinosaurs</i> title from a series of <i>Sounds of the Wild</i> volumes by Maurice Pledger. It is out of print, but <i>National Geographic</i> sells one I'm tempted to buy. <i>The Dinosaur Museum</i> features a huge T-Rex face that bursts out at book center! Great reviews, too! </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>This is not a sponsored post.</b> I share my purchases with readers only because I've been personally pleased with them. </div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-51423517130238297172020-09-11T14:55:00.001-04:002020-09-11T15:07:51.217-04:00Fly Eyes, "Candy Grab!" and More Crazy Fun!<p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3ytnUpyjXo/X0FQrvFlCHI/AAAAAAAAH4A/z6mI6-lg4yovogbVytohAsle9I3neifbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3354.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3ytnUpyjXo/X0FQrvFlCHI/AAAAAAAAH4A/z6mI6-lg4yovogbVytohAsle9I3neifbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3354.jpeg" /></a></b></div><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b><br /></b></b></p><p><b><b>Crazy times, crazy stuff!</b></b></p><p></p><p>It's been hard on everybody. In all my grandmotherly years I've never known disruption of this magnitude. But making the best of things is a talent that lies within each one of us, particularly those who answer to the name of "Grandma!" </p><p>After several long months of pandemic distancing on all branches of our family tree, it was decided that limited in-person contact would be acceptable. What a joy to pack my big bulging "grandma bag" and head on over for quality time with two families of locals - six kids total - to tackle my version of the ABCs - academics, baking, cooking, and crafting! </p><p><b>Important:</b> I relied heavily on Amazon purchases to create the experiences we enjoyed, but this is not a sponsored post. I earn no commission from products you might choose to buy at my suggestion. I do, however, have a favor to ask of you that's related to Amazon, and I've outlined it at the end of this post. Hint: <span style="font-size: large;">😺😺😺!</span></p><p><b>Now, let's get on with the fun!</b></p><p>Sessions with grandma begin with heartwarming, robust doorway greetings. Accompanying me are all the ingredients needed for what's ahead. That's important. Mommy deserves a break from her daily grind of playing fetch! If I need something too awkward or impractical to bring over - like a large mixing bowl - I ask her to have it out in advance. That's appreciated!</p><p><b>We begin in the kitchen....</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFdvdDVc8U4/X1uApGAUPDI/AAAAAAAAH4M/flYfbdvf428lzaVjCXnt1m0J92eMRhe0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2218.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1491" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFdvdDVc8U4/X1uApGAUPDI/AAAAAAAAH4M/flYfbdvf428lzaVjCXnt1m0J92eMRhe0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2218.JPG" /></a></div><br />Eager little bakers gather around, awaiting their turn to measure, pour, or mix. They carefully crack eggs and accurately use a measuring cup. The items we make are either for immediate consumption - such as English muffin pizzas or deviled eggs (bring them pre-boiled and peeled!) - or for later on - such as banana bread, ice cream (electric appliance), or slow cooker mac and cheese. <p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>We retire to the dining room next, the place of my biggest challenge. The oldest of three sibs in each family is a girl. At ages seven and ten, they're independent and academically focused. Younger brothers are eager new learners at five, and a final pair of squirmy little delights checks in at three. Interests, abilities, attention spans, academic levels - they're all over the map! What's a grandma to do? </p><p><b>Well that's easy!</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5N6SUQ5nKU/X1uRuHO_yQI/AAAAAAAAH4Y/7a8ZYayvpnoBHlOa-ui3hWduN7RLPpfIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2195.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1544" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5N6SUQ5nKU/X1uRuHO_yQI/AAAAAAAAH4Y/7a8ZYayvpnoBHlOa-ui3hWduN7RLPpfIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2195.JPG" /></a></div><br />I sit the kiddies down for some academic pencil work on math facts and phonics from colorful, appealing <i>Usborne</i> workbooks. (See a favorite pictured below.) Dollar Tree offers a selection of early elementary topics that serve well, too. Kids get right down to business because they know that in "Grandma World" there's always a reward for diligence!.....<p></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">CANDY GRAB!!!</span></b></p><p>Don't ask me how I came up with this one, but it's an oft mentioned hit! At table center, I sprinkle a dozen wrapped chocolate mini-size goodies. Here's the rules: We go 'round the table, luxuriating in the fact that it's our choice alone when to break suspense with a lusty yell of "CANDY GRAB!" With squeals of joy, we reach for a piece, evenly divided so no one ever comes up short. Silent busyness is a requirement for participation, and the loot must be saved for post-quiet time enjoyment at mommy's discretion once grandma has departed. A welcomed side bonus has been the new absence of "tomfoolery"* during that daily respite! </p><p>* "tomfoolery!" SUCH a grandma-era word! 😂 </p><p><b>Now back to the books......</b></p><p>So, what's the buzz about those sporty "fly eyes" modeled above? Well, just a bit of hands-on fun for that little guy and his pizza-making cousin. Those two require one-on-one attention while older sibs complete workbook pages. This week, it's a session on bugs! Who they are, what they do, and how they see the world! It's all there in this little gem of a very attractively priced book** showing page after page of "normal" bugs (caterpillars, fireflies, grasshoppers, dragon flies) your kiddoes mostly already know and love. Full page color pictures draw us in, and the boys and I enjoy fun facts on each page about those critters. When we emerge, we know that spiders are not "insects"...they're eight-legged <i>arachnids! </i>We know that those "roly poly" bugs under backyard rocks are <i>crustaceans! </i>And finally, we see for ourselves why flies are so quick on their feet and hard to swat because the multi-lenses in their eyes watch us coming from every angle!*** </p><p>**<i>The Backyard Bug Book for Kids</i> by Lauren Davidson ***<i>Fly Eyes</i> by Play Visions </p><p><b>But WAIT! There's MORE!</b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rnqx_ChBaC4/X1u8Iy1q_RI/AAAAAAAAH4s/LlCfG4mvBD8w13EfjeexRjzZHa9B9X34gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2231.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1597" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rnqx_ChBaC4/X1u8Iy1q_RI/AAAAAAAAH4s/LlCfG4mvBD8w13EfjeexRjzZHa9B9X34gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2231.JPG" /></a></div><br />Beyond the bug info in Davidson's book, a handful of related activity pages allow a three year old to feel part of the schooling gang. Matching, counting, tracing....a spider web maze....we complete a few each time we meet. My little entomologists don't know it yet, but there's a fun reward waiting for them when they graduate this book!...<p></p><p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GMg0k8iyXUI/X1u7htRL2hI/AAAAAAAAH4k/iJeCYCSnQJMv7yoOAh7rCN91MtL23kKIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_2237.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1597" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GMg0k8iyXUI/X1u7htRL2hI/AAAAAAAAH4k/iJeCYCSnQJMv7yoOAh7rCN91MtL23kKIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_2237.JPG" /></a></i></div><i><br />Folkmanis</i> is a treasured name in puppetry. And it doesn't disappoint when it comes to being "cute as a bug!" Each firefly finger puppet is approximately 5" long. With slight pressure, tails light up in a comforting greenish glow. Perfect little companions to take to bed and communicate with while easing into slumber, dreamily recalling the day's fun with grandma! (Oh, had to have that roly poly, too! Just couldn't resist!) <p></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Winding up.....</b></p><p>Crafting and art projects are looked forward to the most at each visit, so we save the best for last. This time, we tear strips of green construction paper and glue a grassy habitat for the ladybugs we paint in bright tempera red. Black spots are the product of finger tip printing, and six legs (only <i>six</i>!) are carefully drawn in marker. Mixed media ventures employing multiple skills are my favorites, and the kids enjoy them, too.</p><p>Next time, we'll learn step-by-step dinosaur drawing, paint them in texture, then cut and glue them into a habitat that recalls Van Gogh's<i> Starry Night</i> masterpiece. Art history, too, is on the agenda! Please come join us! </p><p><b>And finally....a favor!</b></p><p>If you're an Amazon customer without an "Amazon Smile" account, I'd like to invite you to create one to benefit a very worthy cat rescue, <b>Crash's Landing and Big Sid's Sanctuary.</b> This free roaming shelter and adoption center cares for cats plucked from the streets in all states of trauma, abuse, and neglect. An all-volunteer staff, including the beloved founder, a veterinarian, responds to each need with medical care and lifelong security. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/crashslanding.bigsids" target="_blank">Here they are on Facebook!</a> </p><p>Signing on for "Amazon Smile" is a simple procedure from your account page. It costs you nothing but does so much! A 0.5% credit will benefit this charity every time you make a purchase. </p><p><b>THANK YOU! 😺😺😺!</b></p>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-52609791547712488622020-03-04T09:21:00.000-05:002020-03-05T08:23:02.545-05:00Book Review: Grandparenting: Renew, Relive, Rejoice<div class="yiv7687419883MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mindfulness.</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Now there's a word I'd have brushed aside in irritable haste during the frenzied years three very active daughters lived at home. Even</span><i style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> defining</i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> "mindfulness" would have been a head scratching puzzle amidst deep dives into self-set goals and challenges: birthday parties, science fairs, sports practices and games, homework help, prom dates, friend sleepovers, family vacations......Did I beat the deadlines? Hang those decorations? Take the pictures? Earn the accolades? Yes. Yes. Yes. And yes. But how many of those hours were dedicated to </span><i style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">mindful </i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">fulfillment (i.e. deliberate, kind awareness) of my parental duties?</span></div>
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<b>Ummm......not so many......</b><span style="font-size: large;">😞</span><br />
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<b>Grandparenthood,</b> they say, is a second chance. This stage of life, with significant lessening of caregiving responsibility, is an opportunity to get it right; it's a slowing down period of adjusting values and reworking what went wrong in the past. We can now be a<i> mindful</i> presence in the lives of a new, wide-eyed generation eager to hear what we have to say, anxious to imitate what we do. This, I tell myself, is not a time to goof things up again!<br />
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<b>But how is this done? Where are the guidelines? The ideas? The real-life exercises? Where do we go for a step-by-step map of mindful living that will enrich relationships between grandparents and children? </b><br />
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Well, HELLO! Right here!.....<br />
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Pam Siegel and Leslie Zinberg have collaborated to share a path to deeper communication with our grandchildren, no matter their ages. <i><b>Grandparenting - Renew, Relive, Rejoice</b></i> is a 127 page volume offering <i><b>52 Ways to Mindfully Connect and Grow with Your Grandkids.</b></i> Within the pages of this book, you'll find mindfulness defined and developed for your personal imitation. Significantly, the authors don't just toss a breezy "talk to those kids!" your way (like many self-help books do). These ladies tell you <i>what</i> to say, <i>where </i>to go, and <i>how</i> to act once you get there! I like recognizing myself in some of the suggestions and sidebar quips from other grandparents. We've taken leisurely strolls, paper sacks in hand, gathering stuff of nature to take home to talk about, comparing textures and colors. But page 61 has additional ideas for me - activities that enhance "the journey (more) than the destination," and they are ones I'm going to put to immediate use!<br />
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<b>We find a pointed absence of purchased fun in the mindful approach. Here is a place where our "presence," not "presents" are valued. Spontaneous, cost-free bonding experiences are true lasting gifts of love, not a shameful warehouse of redundant toys.....</b><br />
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Right under my nose (sorry! <span style="font-size: large;">😉</span>) is a fun game of "scent awareness" (page 69) that older kids will enjoy right along with younger sibs and cousins. They'll remember it for years, especially when a familiar smell (grandma's kitchen?) evokes peace and comfort. You'll find reasons and rules for modeling "do as I do" compassion for people and respect for our planet on page 55. And, I like the "glass-half-full" solution on page 47 because it's taken me decades to just stop and <i>breeeeathe </i>when things go wrong. I want to spare my grandkids the same needless anxiety. There's more in the <i>Meditations</i> chapter near the end of the book on tips and tools for calming oneself through the inevitable storms of life.<br />
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I thoroughly enjoyed this book, learned much from it, and highly recommend it. It has firmly nudged me to practice a mindful lifestyle with my grandchildren - one that I expect will strengthen our relationships and shape all of us into deliberate, kind, and aware human beings.<br />
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Read the easy going style of <b><i>Grandparenting - Renew, Relive, Rejoice</i></b> once. Then keep it at hand to savor week after week, point by point, for an entire year. That's what I'm in the process of doing!<br />
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Purchase the book <a href="http://bit.ly/grandparenting-renew" target="_blank">here - at Amazon</a>.<br />
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<b style="color: #3e3e3e; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;">This is a sponsored post for which I have been compensated with a free product sample </b></div>
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Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-11545412063170123002019-12-14T10:27:00.000-05:002019-12-14T10:27:28.956-05:00Prancing and Pawing!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zwHkurZar38/XfT7UOfKWcI/AAAAAAAAH10/Zk9_RXflrKc9AksDTsANffxwgIAWkVV9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC_1816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1231" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zwHkurZar38/XfT7UOfKWcI/AAAAAAAAH10/Zk9_RXflrKc9AksDTsANffxwgIAWkVV9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC_1816.JPG" width="492" /></a></div>
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<b>Tuesdays with a two year old - what a joy!</b><br />
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Channing and I spend the better part of that day together each week, getting <i>lots</i> done! Baking, for one thing; so proud to take home a loaf of banana bread, a pumpkin pie, or snack size bags of cookies to share post-dinner with family. And, grandma's kitchen is also where he's mastered the delicate art of egg cracking - a favorite task accomplished with <i>gusto! </i><br />
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We read books, too, of course, and it's heartwarming to learn that he's gone home to recite <i>"Chicka Chicka Boom Boom"</i> to mom, dad, and the siblings.<br />
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<b>The influence of a grandparent must never be undermined; I've read that, and now I live it every day!</b><br />
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We do arts and crafts together, too, swinging paint brushes with vigor, splashing colors clear and bright on acreages of paper stacked up and waiting patiently in pristine rolls.<br />
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<b>Seasonally, we shine. Potato print pumpkins, leafy lanterns, ornaments for the tree....just love that mischievous little smirk anticipating gifting of decorative contributions underway! </b><br />
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It was in that spirit we printed a feisty little reindeer from hands (two of them!) that fortunately still fit inside a standard size of paper stock. Keep this in mind, grandma, while struggling to hold your little wiggle worm in place! It may be a three-person job today, but next year may be too late!<br />
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Fortunately for me, Channing is an "old hand" <span style="font-size: large;">😉</span>at the craft; he paints and plants with authority, leaving me with a nicely printed specimen to complete with glued on paper scraps. I'm no math genius, though. <span style="font-size: large;">😕</span>My excitement over festive candy-striped matting left me with an oddball finished size that fit no standard frame. I glued the piece instead to a lightweight cardboard backing and threaded a hanging ribbon instead. Easy solution, allowing Santa's wild-eyed transportation manager to go prancing and pawing home in the nick of time!Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-87303757571295452582019-11-25T13:54:00.001-05:002019-11-26T09:13:35.391-05:00Pre-Party Puzzle Pieces!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rGM7KLNw00/Xdwf230OU6I/AAAAAAAAH1g/hZYBKEYU-EcPC3_6xlAshIZqYrMLSUkqACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC_1801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rGM7KLNw00/Xdwf230OU6I/AAAAAAAAH1g/hZYBKEYU-EcPC3_6xlAshIZqYrMLSUkqACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC_1801.JPG" width="500" /></a></div>
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<b>Welcome Thanksgiving guests! </b><br />
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Back in antiquated days, when politeness personality, "Miss Manners," prominently tutored the ignominy of uncouth behavior, this game would have fallen solidly under the category of "ice breakers." Those desperately-reached-for gimmicks offered a loosen-up cure for guests who awkwardly assemble to hold up the walls while Madam Hostess frets the unsavory social spectacle of an evening spent in sullen silence.<br />
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At our house, the ring of the doorbell on Thanksgiving Day initiates a cacophony of barking dogs, stampeding grandkids, blaring football, scattering cats, beeping oven timers, clinking wine flutes, disappearing appetizer platters and.....<b>grandma</b> - smiling on the outside, but stressing on the inside because turkey's yet un-carved, soup's on and rapidly cooling, veggies <i>still</i> need roasting, and.....<i>what if everything just doesn't come together on time?</i><br />
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<b>What's a grandma to do?</b><br />
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That's an easy one! Hand out <b>Pre-Party Puzzle Pieces</b> and let dinner guests (18 total in our case!) get busy finding the two other guests who complete their personal unit while you put finishing touches on the feast that follows. You'll find both kids and adults engaged in the fun, racing to be the first trio that presents itself to you - for a prize, or for the privilege of passing out prizes - in our case, foil covered chocolate turkeys <b><i>for everyone.</i></b> (Grandma doesn't tolerate "losers" when she's solidly in charge of things!)<br />
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So, I know what you're thinking now: "Where was she a week ago when I still had time to divide my guest list by three and make enough puzzles for everyone?" Fair enough. But you can also take a grandchild's line drawing and run it through your printer for a simpler version. That'll work. Not everyone loves to putzy with paper the way I do!<br />
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My puzzles are about 6" round. Each is cut into 3 free-hand pieces, <i>make sure they are all different! </i>Mix up the pile before passing them out.<br />
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Another variation of this game is to hide all the pieces for kids to find and then mix and match on their own. And, of course, the fun is adaptable for any holiday or event. We used it as part of an <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2015/04/egg-citement.html" target="_blank">Easter relay competition</a> a few years ago, and now I'm wondering if upcoming classroom Valentine parties wouldn't launch with a lively start while 25+ kids scramble to find their mates.....allowing teacher and room-moms a moment to settle back and enjoy the happy chaos!<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Happy Thanksgiving, dear readers and friends! </span>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-37624237679759891102019-11-11T09:54:00.000-05:002019-11-11T09:54:11.863-05:00Veterans Day: "I know what it feels like to be hunted."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWcHZsO3i34/XbMjeRu3cgI/AAAAAAAAH1M/rURmAciWmvILdRp7VEYVznxqf87c9lsFgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC_1745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1111" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWcHZsO3i34/XbMjeRu3cgI/AAAAAAAAH1M/rURmAciWmvILdRp7VEYVznxqf87c9lsFgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC_1745.JPG" width="444" /></a></div>
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<b>This one is for me. And my family. And for those of you who were born of a veteran, or loved one, served as one, or simply appreciate what they have done for us.</b><br />
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My father, Frank, was an army veteran of World War II. I have his draft notice to prove it. And his Purple Heart, his Honorable Discharge certificate, and the black rosary mother prayed daily for his safe return. Beyond those mementos there's not much more I can tell you. Dad never, ever spoke of his experiences, and I never asked him about them. What little I do know was relayed to me in bits and pieces by mother:<br />
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My father was a tank commander, bonded to four younger charges who affectionately called him "dad." ("Dad" was 26 years old at the time.) When that tank was hit by enemy fire in Germany, everyone but he - mercifully blown from the vehicle - perished. I'm not sure if it was that incident or another of two "wounded in action" citations listed on his Record and Report of Separation that merited him his Purple Heart award.<br />
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<b>Dad and his fellow soldiers knew "something big" was coming when those with fathers who were "somebody" were abruptly culled from infantry. Dad wasn't one of them. He was deployed to Normandy Beach the day after D-Day. What he witnessed there was never shared, guarded fiercely for his lifetime, even from mother.</b><br />
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Dad was part of a convoy that rumbled through European death camps after they were liberated. He humbly absorbed the adulation bestowed upon that population's heroic savior: the American soldier. I wonder if that's when dad picked up the German medal now also in my possession. The one I stiffen and recoil from at the sight of the ugly symbol it bears, the one suggestive of the very worst of four letter words ever uttered: <i>Nazi.</i> At one time I researched this medal. If it had value, I'd seek to sell it to get it out of my sight. But it is a common one: a German Mother's Cross. The word "mother" in its title softens me, so I force myself to make allowances for it. This token was once borne, perhaps unwittingly, by someone who contributed an acceptable number of "genetically superior" children to her country. One who secretly may not have embraced the nasty ideology of its regime. Possibly one with a son conscripted to serve, not because he wanted to, but because he <i>had</i> to - like my father....<br />
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<b>.....who gratefully returned home at war's end to put down his weapon and never again take up another. Not even for sport. "Because," he explained to mother, <i>"I know what it feels like to be hunted."</i></b><br />
<i><br /></i>Mom and dad were married and had their firstborn child (me). My father's reaction to the birth of his daughter? "Good. <i>She will never have to go to war like I did."</i><br />
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He was right, of course. The flailing tentacles of Vietnam snatched friends from me named Jerry, Don, and Dan. And it was the faces of my<i> male</i> classmates that I dared not seek out on the night we gathered at the campus radio station to hear the birth date roll that would draft more of them from my midst. Those years, a tumultuous time of anxiety, anger, activism, and rebellion set the stage for reemergence of this salient question: <i>"What if they gave a war and nobody came?"</i> Let that settle for a moment. Do you ever wish that, from now on, it was our reality?<br />
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<b>I do.</b>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-65043259586834911982019-10-05T14:17:00.000-04:002019-10-06T09:07:09.063-04:00Leafy Lanterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UgEmbGNORwk/XZX5nq63h2I/AAAAAAAAH0E/bGcbFB72XwcTZJw6Mfj8zSynSsNZ-h13ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1111" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UgEmbGNORwk/XZX5nq63h2I/AAAAAAAAH0E/bGcbFB72XwcTZJw6Mfj8zSynSsNZ-h13ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC_1498.JPG" width="444" /></a></div>
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<b>Isn't this pretty? </b><br />
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For me, it captures nostalgia: fistfuls of autumn brightness, collected and brought home to mother for pressing between sheets of waxed paper. I studied those carefully then, sometimes taping them to the window of my room so the back lighting of sunshine could enhance their collective beauty. But how much nicer to capture that translucency in a lantern! - a portable showcase of the season's finest - free to those who need only to stoop to pick them up.<br />
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<b>Pinterest is awash with variations of this gentle craft.</b> But few give exact measurements or simplify the cumbersome attachment of paper wall to base. <i>And, to my knowledge, no one else involves assistance from a two year old grandson in the collecting and arranging process! </i>But here it is! Teacher-ly bossiness at its best! I've outlined everything for you here, step-by-stepping your way to a successful seasonal project, utilizing items you probably have at hand - although the pint sized side kick is a strictly optional ingredient!<br />
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<b>Here's what you'll need to make a 6" x 6" lantern <i>exclusive of handle:</i></b><br />
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1. Assortment of leaves 3" - 4" preferably a colorful variety - 10 fit nicely here - best results if pressed between paper towels in a heavy book overnight<br />
2. Wax paper - 16" length from a 12" wide roll<br />
3. Thin flexible cardboard - 4.75" diameter circle and 3 strips 3/4" x 16.5"<br />
4. Narrow ribbon 18" (optional)<br />
5. Tea light<br />
6. Iron, glue, scissors, transparent tape<br />
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<b>And here's what you'll do:</b><br />
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1. Fold wax paper in half horizontally to 6" x 16". Open. Arrange leaves on bottom half, fold top down and press quickly with hot iron to seal.<br />
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2. Cut and attach 2" strips of tape (sticky side <i>up!</i>) all around cardboard circle as shown at left. This will serve as lantern base.<br />
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3. Carefully attach bottom edge of wax paper to base by folding tape up as you go around. This part is clumsy, but doable! See photo at left.<br />
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4. Overlap vertical ends and run tape from top to bottom along seam to close.<br />
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5. Run glue along bottom edge of wax paper. Wrap one 16.5" strip around lantern bottom, overlapping ends. Glue ends together so strip fits snugly against wax paper.<br />
6. Repeat for top edge.<br />
7. Glue handle ends to inside top edge of lantern. Adjust size as desired.<br />
8. Tie ribbon into bow on one side at base of handle as shown in top photo.<br />
9. Insert tea light.<br />
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<b>And here's what will happen if this project includes a two year grandson!:</b><br />
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1. You certainly will get your leaves! But prepare to sort them! Wrinkled, torn, bug holes, mold....scooped right up like a manic vacuum cleaner!<br />
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2. "Pie-ders," not leaves, will take hunting priority. Those may not be evident, but a cute little tree frog might make an appearance!<br />
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3. Your little nature hunter will want to catch and hold it gently before you insist it be set free to go home to mom and dad!<br />
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4. Back inside, he'll carefully position his leaves, but won't be interested in a lecture on "dicot vs. monocot!" Just trust me on that one!<br />
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5. While you complete the lantern, he'll happily park himself, snack in hand, in front of <i>Paw Patrol</i>.<br />
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6. When mommy picks him up, he'll gleefully hand her the lantern and exclaim, "Look what I made for you!"- because, of course <i>he did! </i><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">😉</span>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-10701524458648461282019-10-01T09:17:00.003-04:002019-10-01T09:17:58.603-04:00Sewing For Kids: Pudgy Pumpkin Potholders!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-76g3c25Vg2s/XYvhjTqdxbI/AAAAAAAAHzk/nsT9LW22rkMW8fSFKSQ49GZCibu6Yq6qACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/DSC_1448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1412" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-76g3c25Vg2s/XYvhjTqdxbI/AAAAAAAAHzk/nsT9LW22rkMW8fSFKSQ49GZCibu6Yq6qACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/DSC_1448.JPG" width="564" /></a></div>
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Pudgy potholder pairs - plump pumpkins and sneaky spiders - serve several purposes. They're a kids' learn-to-sew adventure introducing basic running stitching coupled with hand quilting basics. And, results make charming decorative gifts for mommy - so much fun to have on hand while easing mummy meringues out of a hot oven during this giddy season of anything-goes craziness!<br />
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I've just begun to sew with grandkids; six and nine year old girls are anxious to learn. But there's a surprise in the crowd, too! Four year old Austin doesn't mind one bit being the only dude to hone the trade. He's working on a small stuffed cat now, sandwich-stitch-inching his way around the perimeter of a simple felt shape. For that, he's earned his own post. And it's coming soon! (I'll direct it at his future mom-in-law saying, "You're very welcome!" in advance!) But for now, little ladies are sole producers of Halloween potholders - with some (okay - <i>a lot!</i>) finishing touch contribution from good "old-ish" grandma!<br />
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<b>Here's how we made them, starting with a few tips to make intro sewing a fun first experience:</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sL6zswb_As/XWqbFXwAzDI/AAAAAAAAHyU/bchX_gRMdC4yLdLEmBjUK_s-VH5pUwq5wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_1163%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1087" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4sL6zswb_As/XWqbFXwAzDI/AAAAAAAAHyU/bchX_gRMdC4yLdLEmBjUK_s-VH5pUwq5wCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_1163%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="270" /></a>1. Keep projects small and appealing. Kids like to see results quickly, and the repetitiveness of sewing triggers boredom.<br />
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2. If possible, show a completed sample so kids see a goal worth poking along for!<br />
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3. Expect thread to tangle and pull off the needle. Have threaded extras ready to go.<br />
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4. Kaylee, (at left) handles holding and sewing quite well, but if needed, hold the fabric for your child while he/she moves the needle.<br />
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5. Avoid jumping in to fix every wayward stitch! (This is hard - sometimes I wait til they're not looking! 😏)<br />
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6. Don't worry about whisking the project off for finishing touches. Good results mean next time they'll want to do more for themselves.<br />
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I build my originally designed potholders over Dollar Tree purchases for reasons of economy and less work. The 2-in-a-pack ready-made purchase means there's no need to assemble an insulating layer. I found some (pictured below) with solid black backs, also eliminating a complimenting seasonal print back cover (more "less work!"). <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2012/11/turkey-sandwich-hand-print-potholder.html" target="_blank">Here's the link</a> to step by step instructions from a past post featuring turkey handprints on potholders gifted to mommy seven years ago! <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2012/11/turkey-sandwich-hand-print-potholder.html" target="_blank">That's where you'll go</a> to complete this project once you've assembled the hand pieced tops shown above:<br />
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1. Begin each potholder with a 6" square - orange or black. Cut 4 squares, 2.5" each, from contrasting color and position in all corners (one shown). Draw a diagonal sewing line on each one.<br />
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2. Sew each small square along traced line in a running stitch.<br />
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3. Clip corners and press open. This 6" square is now spider or pumpkin shaped and ready to decorate.<br />
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4. <b>For spider:</b><br />
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a. Cut 8 ribbon lengths, about 5" each, and knot close to ends for legs. Pin them to sides of body, laying inward. Cut 2 lengths of contrasting fabric, each 2.5" x 6" and sew them to sides (right sides together) with a running stitch, enclosing ribbon legs. Press open. Cut a long narrow strip of ribbon about 12" long for web line (used for potholder hanger) and pin to center top, folded downward. Cut 2 more strips, each 2.5" x 8" and sew them to top, enclosing ribbon hanger, and bottom. Press open.<br />
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b. Make a sandwich of thin cotton batting between assembled square and an 8" square of scrap fabric. Use quilting thread to hand stitch, outlining triangles and body shape.<br />
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c. Iron fusible web to scrap of white fabric and cut 2 circles, approximately 1.5" each. Apply them to body for eyes. Sew black 1/2" buttons on top.<br />
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d. Finish potholder following assembly directions found <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2012/11/turkey-sandwich-hand-print-potholder.html" target="_blank">here.</a> Stitch a 5/8" ribbon bow to center top of completed potholder.<br />
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5. <b>For pumpkin:</b><br />
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a. Cut 2 contrasting fabric strips 2.5" x 6" and 2 more 2.5" x 8". Sew 6" strips to sides with running stitch. Press open. Fold a 6" green ribbon scrap (5/8") in half for stem, and pin to top center, folded downward. Sew 8" strips to top, enclosing ribbon, and bottom. Press open.<br />
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b. Sew black buttons to face. Iron fusible web to scrap of black print or solid fabric and cut and apply triangle nose.<br />
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c. See step "b" above for spider to hand quilt the square, then sew a smile in running stitch through all 3 layers.<br />
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d. See step "d" above for spider to complete pumpkin potholder.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #3e3e3e; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><b>This original design, like all blog content, is intended for personal use only. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Thank you!</b></span>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-32491802252500676422019-09-07T13:39:00.000-04:002019-09-07T18:38:05.337-04:00Treasure Trays For Tots!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have to admit, keeping a two year old fruitfully occupied is a challenge. Collectively, they're famous for a few things: wriggling, whining, and wailing. When you're not looking they'll pop anything smaller than a basketball into their mouths, swallow it, and run. Oh sure, they're cute as a bug and cuddly as a kitten, but that's not to say that babysitting stints don't push every high alert button on each of grandma's five aging senses!<br />
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I was given a bit of short notice this week for hosting two year old Channing (top photo - isn't he just presh?) and his older sibs for the good part of a day. While four year old brother and I usually pass the time with vigorous board game rounds, and newly-nine sissy learns to sew or sculpt, this little guy needs all eyes and ears on deck for the duration!<br />
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<b>What's a grandma to do?</b><br />
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Pinterest parents tout "sensory bins" as lifesaving devices, and I've observed my own daughters' success with them. Pounds of colorful pasta and rice fill tubs to the brim. Sandbox shovels are offered to temperamental toddlers who dig in with delight. Those burial grounds for plastic treats and goodies keep them safe and happy. Mommies are free for an hour or two to sip from a coffee cup (or wine glass, perhaps, depending on how the day is going!).<br />
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My "Treasure Tray" version for Channing began with a trip to Dollar Tree. Mostly in the floral department. My goal was to create an enticing play yard of movable parts (beans, gravel, stones, sticks) for manipulating into a dino habitat. For less than $12 I snatched up ingredients enough to entertain not only that little guy, but his siblings as well - with plenty of stuff left over for next time!<br />
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<b>Work trays (12" square), bowl set (4), gravel - white (large chunks) and lime green (small) - pinto beans, smooth black "river rocks," sparkly green "glass gems".....just part of my very economical order shown above.</b><br />
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To complete our stations, I snapped off a handful of backyard sticks, supplied a pair of plastic spoons, and made a recipe of play dough to divide. Lizards and dinos were characters we already had "in stock," but Dollar Tree has similar creatures looking for a friendly home if you're in need of them!<br />
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<b>Photo documented:</b> expressions of intensity as critter parks spring alive with trees and bridges and ponds that glimmer. Paths of stone, barriers of brick. Islands controlled in random chaos. Oddball extras with purposes known only to their youthful creators!<br />
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<b>Final verdict, cautions to heed, and further inspiration: </b><br />
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I hand this one to the Mommy World. <b>It works!</b> Busy little boys dove right in for nearly an hour, delighted with free range play, sorting exercise, and sensory satisfaction. I thought sissy might turn up her nose, but I was wrong! She dug in, too, constructing a sophisticated oasis to populate with a handful of small plastic reptiles.<br />
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<b>But be cautious, grandma! Nearly 100% of ingredients for this activity pose a swallowing hazard! </b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5dphPbNUzKI/XXPLgfO6B6I/AAAAAAAAHzY/LUjSHrsJjjoK9TyGi1ApA2XIxHLqJ2w0wCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSC_1229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1482" data-original-width="1600" height="370" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5dphPbNUzKI/XXPLgfO6B6I/AAAAAAAAHzY/LUjSHrsJjjoK9TyGi1ApA2XIxHLqJ2w0wCEwYBhgL/s400/DSC_1229.JPG" width="400" /></a>In fact, at drop-off, daddy advised me that he'd dealt with a "play dough up-the-nose" incident <i>that very morning!</i> Yikes. It makes sense: sit next to your little designer and watch every move made. It's also your chance to supervise practice on "what goes in," and "what stays <i>out</i>" of the mouth! - and ears, and nose, too, I guess!<br />
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<b>And, of course, the activity makes a mess! </b>Especially when you incorporate play dough into the mix. I thought it was worth it - the additional tactile experience - to vacuum (and vacuum, and vacuum, and vacuum....!) globs of it from the rug. But that's up to you. Had it not rained, we'd have been out on the deck, enjoying a sweep-away experience. I'd have also offered bags of colored sand, way too messy for indoor play. Next time, a plastic Dollar Tree tablecloth will cover our space and I'll just swoop everything up to toss when we're done.<br />
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<b>Other themes, too!</b> As she worked, older sissy, Brielle, and I brainstormed more fun. We have zoo animals here, fairies, and insects. They wouldn't mind their own kid-built habitats, too. I mentioned that my shopping spree also netted a bag of black beans, and how I admired small sparkly spiders on the rack. "HALLOWEEN!" we shouted together. And that, I believe, is what we'll be busy with next!<br />
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Five years ago, I scored another big project hit at Dollar Tree with the <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2015/01/pennywise-play-school-set.html" target="_blank">Pennywise Play School Set</a> I made for Brielle. Many of the items I used (or ones very similar) are still on the shelves, making that store a "must-stop-by" for any grandma looking for unique, economical babysitting fun!Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-7873580084865860162019-08-17T10:26:00.001-04:002019-08-17T10:52:45.554-04:00 The Middle Kid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've no idea what it's like to be "the middle kid." I'm the oldest of three sisters. The queen. The leader. The instigator. Status as the smartest one (no), the boldest (yes), or the most creative (maybe) played no part in my role. My only qualifier? I was there first. I gathered 'em in, told 'em what to do, then watched 'em obey me (wearing stuff I outgrew!). What a life!<br />
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I paid no attention to the significance of birth order until parenting advice in the 80s alerted me to its perils and privileges. I could clearly see myself in my own oldest daughter. She took that power ball and ran it with gusto. (Just ask her two younger sisters for confirmation of that little tidbit!)<br />
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It's easier to observe birth order behavior from the sidelines when you've reached the state of grandma-hood. No soccer practice pick up problems or bulging baskets of undone laundry to cloud your vision. Grandmas sit back and watch the show. And they make astute observations. About their own behavior. And that of others.<br />
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I admit to catching myself swept up in meaningful conversation with the oldest child - the one who's in school and has lots and lots and <i>lots</i> to say! Then there's that adorbs little toddler. OMG. What's he doing today that's soooo cute 'n funny? Here he comes now, struggling into my lap, gurgling away, picture book in hand. Awwww! <i>He wants me to read to him! </i><br />
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But, wait! <i>There's one more! </i><br />
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<b>"The Middle Kid."</b><br />
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With us, only a pair of four year old boys qualify as "middle kids." The third family has no "middle child." Huh? How is that riddle even possible? Well, try not one, but <i>two</i> sets of twins! In that fam, there's privilege at <i>both</i> top and bottom: "Oh my! What those handsome young men have accomplished today!" <i>and</i> "Oh dear! How pretty and talented can those little ladies be?" <i>Nobody's </i>complainin' in that family! (Especially mommy, the aforementioned firmly-in-command "oldest child," now smugly enjoying the middle-kid-dilemma-dodge!)<br />
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I am out of suggestions here. I make no presumption to hand out advice or solace. I don't often see exhibited distress from our middle kids. For the most part, they both enjoy duel roles as best buds to older sissies, as well as "boss man" to little brothers. But I am prone to magnify things and rush in to fix stuff that might not even need fixin' (just ask grandpa! he'll fill ya in!), so I make special provisions for my own middle kids. They're invited to special "Drop-In-Days" at grandma's where it's all about them. <i>Just</i> them. Lunch and a craft. Play time, too. No older sibs to show-and-tell 'em how things are done around here. No giggling littles to snatch a paintbrush and run.<br />
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They seem to enjoy it, demanding a return really, really, <i>really</i> soon for another round of being "the oldest," "the youngest," and "the middle kid," all in one happy package of smiles and fun!<br />
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I've pictured Austin (top) at last week's event. He joined cousin Ryan (above) for a Kiwi Crate assembling session. We made cool lanterns followed by lunch and a squirt gun fest. I captured the moment middle kid Austin applied a sticker sheet remnant to his face and asked, "Do you think this is funny, grandma?" Well, of course I do, sweetie! I think <i>everything</i> about you (<i>both</i> of you!) is funny and cute and heartwarming and creative and just the most special thing I've ever, ever seen <i>anywhere! </i>And I am very happy and privileged to be right <i>in the middle</i> of it!Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-66627350572086432242019-08-09T10:49:00.001-04:002021-03-06T14:26:30.883-05:00Bugs! They're Everywhere!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Bugs! It's summer! They're everywhere! Enjoy 'em!</b><br />
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Grandma Campers indulged themselves in the world of bugs this year, welcoming them by the swarm. Those curious and often creepy critters offer a world of intrigue for study in several categories of interest: biology, engineering, and art.....<br />
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<b style="text-align: center;">Let's put a magnifying glass on the activities we explored!</b><br />
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<b>Library learnin'</b> is the basis for all successful endeavor. We took a studied look at a fascinating inventory of bugs - large, small, fierce, and friendly. Book based bug chatter focused on a few basic facts: insects (the<i> correct</i> term for "bugs!") have six legs, three main body parts, and most adults have wings. Spiders are not insects; they are arachnids, creatures with eight legs, only two body sections, and no wings. We'll save those guys for Halloween!<br />
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We determined our favorites: butterflies, ladybugs, and honey bees. Non-faves are mosquitoes, flies, and hornets. We were ambivalent about grasshoppers, moths, and black ants (even though they are "cute and busy" - <i>like we are!</i>). I'll bet you might agree with us on those choices!<br />
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Armed with new awareness, we dipped courageously into bags and boxes of wood scraps, small plastic bottles, and caps of various sizes and shapes - all squirreled away by grandma months in advance for this purpose.<br />
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<b>We are going to engineer our own bugs!.....</b><br />
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Toothpaste tube cap eyes bulge like the real ones do, and that odd little topper with the pointer makes an excellent proboscis. We needed six long, skinny little legs apiece - making grandma, for the first time ever, grateful for the number of times markers were left uncapped to dry out! (Also appreciative for the amount of cute little round "caterpillar body" pill bottles at our disposal due to the grandfolks dependence on BP meds!)<br />
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I found it best to man the hot glue gun at the disposal of my little engineers. They told me where to adhere their choices. In the process, we added an interesting word or two to our vocab: <b>symmetry,</b> for one (try to find a bug that's not a mirror image of itself from side-to-side!), and <b>monochromatic</b> (what grandma's sample bug would have been, save for the blue sparkly wings!).<br />
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<b>Snack Break and Bug Census</b><br />
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We took a bug break next, nibbling on an array of veggie sculpted ants and dragonflies perched on cracker rounds. (See <a href="https://www.naturespath.com/en-us/recipes/fruit-vegetable-bug-snacks/?fbclid=IwAR3zOBH8-vA2Z_T7g3B-ng03DkQEmN59zwziE8MU9M0kr551rVqV-4gmyQE" target="_blank">Nature's Path</a> for the cutest collection ever!) And then into the woods we marched, paper sacks and magnifying glasses in hand. The latter helped us find 'em - often in their hiding places beneath leaves and under sticks. The former served our census inventory - every time we spotted a bug we popped a small stone into them. It was fun to sort and count back home on the deck, chattering away about our finds!<br />
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<b>Fingerprint Art</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w1HN7BnLykg/XTdNKmv1RMI/AAAAAAAAHw8/JPgp0hQMzt8yYzS1b3PwPT5PdjlmzOcKQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0877.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1271" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w1HN7BnLykg/XTdNKmv1RMI/AAAAAAAAHw8/JPgp0hQMzt8yYzS1b3PwPT5PdjlmzOcKQCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0877.JPG" width="317" /></a>My fun find at <a href="http://www.raysofbliss.com/bugs-fingerprint-art-free-printable/" target="_blank">Rays of Bliss blog</a> served us well as a guide sheet for the Bug Books we created next. Each little lady received six sheets of white paper and two light cardboard covers, all 6" square. Choosing from this delightful chart, each page featured a colorful winged friend. We tied our books together with a slip of ribbon through holes punched in left top corner and carried home a sweet memory of "Bug Day" at Grandma Camp!<br />
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Ava completes a pretty blue butterfly on one page of her book.<br />
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<b>Moth Sheet</b><br />
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Grandma Camp late evenings find us still up, even at 10 P.M. It's a privilege we enjoy in anticipation of traditional "Night Hikes." Venturing out after dark as a brave flashlight-toting team offers thrills and chills and opportunities to observe things that aren't visible in the glare of summer's vibrant daylight. Weird bugs, for instance. Like the plethora of moths we attracted on the white sheet we draped over a fence, spotlit by a flashlight. Boy, did those critters show up in droves! And while we avoided reaching in to "pet them," it was fun to observe different sizes, shapes, and colors!Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-15987208655555271732019-08-04T19:26:00.000-04:002019-08-17T08:29:14.344-04:00Canvas Factory Review - WIN something wonderful!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #3e3e3e; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;">This is a sponsored post for which I have been compensated with a free product sample </b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #3e3e3e; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: center;"> and a giveaway prize for my readers.</b><br />
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I am grateful for a second opportunity to offer you a chance to win a beautiful memory-capturing canvas print that will well satisfy your expectations. In this world of hit-or-miss customer service, <a href="https://www.canvasfactory.com/" target="_blank">Canvas Factory</a> rates as one of the very best with me.<br />
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<b>The product, most importantly, is top quality. Along with that, communication and ordering ease make doing business with Canvas Factory a breeze! </b><br />
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Follow <a href="https://www.canvasfactory.com/" target="_blank">this link to the Canvas Factory site</a> once you've decided on an image. I chose a 16" x 20" family portrait of my youngest daughter on the occasion of her son's second birthday - the Fourth of July! The photo I took celebrates an eye-popping festival of red, white, and blue in the blistering squinty-eyed heat of mid summer! My finished canvas blazes with the same bright clarity and crisp image. I love it!<br />
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On the <a href="https://www.canvasfactory.com/" target="_blank">Canvas Factory site</a>, you'll be greeted with an invitation to initiate your order by choosing <b>size</b> <b>and orientation.</b> If your image isn't suitable for the process (my alternate choice, lifted from Face Book, was not!) you'll be advised of that. Complete satisfaction is the goal here, with "live chat" availability just a click away in case you need it.<br />
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You'll move on to <b>wrap style</b> next. I opted for "gallery" after considering both "mirror image" and a palette of solid colors for outside edges. Take your time trying everything on. It's fun!<br />
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Choosing an <b>effect</b> allows you to play with a variety of options such as "sepia" or "gray" etc. I wasn't about to dim the lights on my patriotic party, but one of these specials might be just what you are looking for!<br />
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Almost time to wrap things up with <b>adding text.</b> I considered a few colors and fonts for my portrait but decided that my image was vibrant enough - lots going on in that space! - but you'll enjoy playing with multiple options (font, color, text background, etc.) to see if one of them is right for you!<br />
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Once you <b>click to order,</b> rest assured you'll remain a priority. Status emails follow, and you'll receive a tracking number once your order is shipped. (Allow about three days lead working time.) My very well packaged parcel arrived via UPS less than a week later. I was delighted with the perfect craftsmanship (no slap-happy corners!) and ready-to-hang convenience!<br />
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Okay! Enough about me! Let's talk about <i>your </i>chance to win a canvas in your choice of size: 16" x 20" (retail value $45.15) or 18" x 12" ($34.30) from the wonderful folks at <a href="https://www.canvasfactory.com/" target="_blank">Canvas Factory!</a> To enter, leave a comment on this blog post <i><b>if you are a resident of the U.S. or Canada only. </b></i>Tell me something interesting about your history of hanging portraits in your home. Any favorites? Kids? Grandkids? Pets? Weddings? Graduations? Vacations? You know you've got a real treasure hiding away somewhere that would look dazzling on your wall in a <a href="https://www.canvasfactory.com/" target="_blank">Canvas Factory</a> print! I'd love to hear about it!<br />
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<b>Please enter by Saturday, August 17, 2019. That's when I'll choose a winner in a random drawing and announce the name right here, on this post! Good luck!</b><br />
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<b>Congratulations, mary! You are the winner. </b></div>
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<b>I do not have a contact email for you, so please forward it to me by end of day on 08-19-19.</b></div>
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<b>Thank you to everyone who entered my giveaway! </b></div>
Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-13865093475188220682019-07-27T09:35:00.000-04:002019-07-27T09:35:30.921-04:00Pretty Hats, Pretty Purses, Pretty Ladies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Oh, the fun that lurks inside a paper pack of plates! </b><br />
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Like most little ladies rockin' the age of six, my trio of Grandma Campers loves crafting and performing. Just moments before their arrival, I quickly added a back-up, time-filler project - one heeding my own advice to "over-plan" the hours ahead. Did I expect it to be the hit it became?<br />
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Absolutely not!<br />
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<b>Dig out your paper plates and bowls, grandma, I think you're going to enjoy this one, too!</b><br />
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10" plates and 6" (10 oz.) bowls make fine hats and purses to match. Little ladies relish decorating them, and the entire family will pack the stadium to applaud the fashion event you narrate to show them off!<br />
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Place a bowl face down on the back surface of a plate, centered. Trace with pencil. Cut center of plate out on a line about 3/4"<i> inside</i> that one. Run a line of craft glue all along cut edge and put bowl in place to dry. Spray paint the hat.<br />
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Fold a 10" plate in half, bottom surface out, and staple both sides about 3" up from folded edge. Spray paint the purse.<br />
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My campers made their color choices, opting to "match" rather than "mix" purse and hat colors. And then we gathered at the outdoor crafting table, greeting a smorgasbord of decorating choices.....<br />
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<b><i>There were stickers and feathers and yarn skeins galore, </i></b><br />
<b><i>Crepe paper streamers, buttons and beads, and lots and lots more!</i></b><br />
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I tutored a quick tissue paper flower making session first - a skill that all little ladies need to own! The results were duly plopped atop, but deemed too time consuming to repeat. The immediate allure of the aforementioned goodies was just too irresistible!<br />
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With my occasional assist to staple purse handle choices, cousins chattered away, exchanging ideas, making each hat and purse a couture creation of personal originality.<br />
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What surprised me most was the enthusiasm with which the girls anticipated the upcoming fashion show. Our tradition concludes each Grandma Camp week with a showcase of talent.....magic shows, puppet shows, bake sales, art exhibits.....all before an appreciative audience of parents, siblings, and aunties and uncles.<br />
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The girls embraced dress rehearsal, insisting I take group shots: models with hats alone, then purses alone, then finally with <i>both</i> hats and purses! (whew!) They giggled uncontrollably when it was decided in unison to end the show with a bang up surprise - a final group deep bow to send all hats flying!<br />
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<b>Pretty hats, pretty purses, pretty ladies....I think they did a pretty good job being pretty amazing!</b><br />
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Models wait in the wings to strut the fashion show stage!<br />
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And yes! - that final bow most certainly <i>did have </i>the impact we expected!<br />
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<br />Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-13446260854483223902019-07-19T09:28:00.000-04:002019-07-27T09:20:33.235-04:00KA-BOOM! Situation Averted!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My grandkids are seasoned problem solvers. Since they could toddle, they've nosed out secret stashes of birthday gifts and flushed worried cats from under-the-couch security. Hide something <i>waaaay</i> up high on a shelf, and you'd find them perched on the edge of a chair, pointing upward, asking, "What is that, grandma? Are you hiding stuff from us again?"<br />
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It was time to send them on a deliberate adventure - one where inquisitive eyes and noses-for-the-news could be put to the test. It was time to enlist "the big kid trio" at Grandma Camp as secret crime solving agents so I could sit back and <i>encourage</i> a delve into the mysterious nooks and crannies of my house! I'd give them an ultimatum, too. If they were unsuccessful in their mission, they were likely to be blown sky high right along with a candy-thieving perp's home made bomb!<br />
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<b>Secret Agent adventures are a popular party topic, and Pinterest boards bulge with ideas. It seems that moms and grandmas share freely with one another, tweaking for the best personal experience. That's what I did, finding sources that I deemed "good" and "better," but settling for only "the best!" I recommend two of the latter. And here they are!....</b><br />
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<a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank"><b>One Creative Mommy blog</b></a> - This resource is a treasure trove of detailed ideas - the one I relied on almost exclusively to produce a problem-free experience. Heidi (an elementary teacher and mom of two) owns the organizational skills you'd expect from an educator. She's generous, too. Her printables are top quality and she offers them free of charge. This site is a "must-visit" for <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/printable-spy-party-invitations/" target="_blank">invitations,</a> <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">badges, code names,</a> <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/spy-birthday-party-spy-training/" target="_blank">spy agent training,</a> a very clever <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/spy-birthday-party-time-bomb-pinata/" target="_blank">bomb pinata,</a> and exciting <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">clues</a> galore. I'll reference this source frequently in my post.<br />
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<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2011/04/top-secret-business.html" target="_blank"><b>Grandma's Little Pearls blog</b></a> - On this page you'll find Grandma Shelley's list of links to every feature of her Spy Agent Grandma Camp experience. Learn along with her youthful gang to make a spy gear box, security scan, edible bomb snacks, secret messages, and themed crafts!<br />
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<b>Shhh! Do you hear the sinister tick-tick-ticking of a time bomb? I do! </b><br />
<b>Let's go see what's up!</b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RL29xB72ILM/XSoHo2aCUmI/AAAAAAAAHt4/3J4JpKoZ4po0Bjm3ydbMN-39IdMEyXX7QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1300" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RL29xB72ILM/XSoHo2aCUmI/AAAAAAAAHt4/3J4JpKoZ4po0Bjm3ydbMN-39IdMEyXX7QCLcBGAs/s400/DSC_0267.JPG" width="325" /></a>Ten year old twin brothers joined eight year old cousin, Brielle, for a high voltage spy mission described in an eagerly read intro message.<br />
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Here it is! Ooooo sounds <i>dangerous!</i><br />
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<i><br /></i>I found the <a href="https://pixy.org/802924/" target="_blank">free "top secret" clip art</a> online and used OCR extended font on Word for "government generated" official looking print!<br />
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Accompanying that letter was Heidi's <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">"stretched word" clue.</a> I appreciated the "print-and-go" convenience of this one. It was quickly deciphered to read <b>"fridge"</b> - something everybody's got at hand!<br />
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Inside the fridge, the kids snatched up a <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">"Mirror Clue."</a> I printed Heidi's directive to "reflect on this message" along with my own advisory:<br />
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<b>When the doorbell rings,</b><br />
<b>and the dog starts to bark,</b><br />
<b>you reach for the handle</b><br />
<b>and open -- --</b><br />
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<i>the door!</i><br />
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Taped to the front porch was a <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">"Mason Clue."</a> I found this one fascinating! Never heard of it before! The kids dove right in to solving it, taking turns at being lead investigator.<br />
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And what did it say? <b>"Look behind the garage!"</b> With a mighty <b><i>whoosh!</i></b> and a race to the door, the trio was GONE! - headed out to collect clue number four!<br />
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This was also grandpa's signal to set up the next event! He dutifully dumped inflated, clue-filled black balloons (bombs!) on the family room floor.<br />
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But meanwhile, back behind the garage......<br />
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Junior agents puzzled over a "Scytale Clue." Yes, I know. That one was new to me, too! Let Heidi guide you through it <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">right here.</a><br />
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<b>"Family Room!"</b> After a few moments of team work, Scytale letters spelled out that simple prompt. Once again, with a vigorous shout of enthusiasm, campers scattered in a flash, breaking for back inside the house, triggering a heart-bursting moment of joy for grandma. Campers were really, really, REALLY enjoying themselves, and I was so proud of myself for putting it all together for them.<br />
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I hurried along behind to deliver instructions for what was ahead. Junior agents were to break the bombs by any means possible, watching for individual parts of a clue to pop out of select ones. All needed to be broken - and this time grandma sighed in gratitude for the $1.59 Hobby Lobby 24 pack of black 12 inchers!<br />
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<b>KA-BOOM!</b><br />
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Excitement spiked when words on paper strips appeared. Bent studiously over the collection, agents shuffled them a bit, consulted in brief, and sprang for the stairs when <b>"Where are the tents?" </b>emerged. That targeted campers' sleeping area, and moved detectives out of the way so the stage could be set for the final confrontation with our bomb-bearing candy thief!<br />
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Upstairs, our spy trio clustered about a <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">"Substitution Code Clue."</a> Expert de-coders by now, it didn't take long to decipher <b>"Find Grandpa!"</b> on the grid.<br />
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Kids raced back down. <i>"Where is he? What does he have for us?"</i> How could this benevolent soul figure into the mystery we've been charged with solving?<br />
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<b>Whoa!</b> What's this? On the floor? A trail of......no way!.....not <b><i>CANDY WRAPPERS???</i></b> Leading straight to someone familiar perched on the couch holding - <b>WHAT?</b> - a bomb in his lap???<br />
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<i><b>Noooooooooo!!!!!!!</b></i> <b>NOT GRANDPA????!!!!!!</b><br />
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But there he was - with a mouth full of rotten teeth that removed all doubt over his criminal identity!<br />
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(If you think the kids look a bit apprehensive over his appearance, you'd be correct! The grandpa they're used to is one who brushes his teeth and doesn't wear a goofy fake set just for fun!)<br />
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Here he is on an ordinary day - at the pensive moment he's just learned he'll be the star player in our rotten-toothed candy thief escapade! (He sighs, knowing very well no argument will get him out of this gig!)<br />
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So, our junior FBI agents recovered quickly from their initial shock and tore the bomb to pieces just in time. They devoured the "fuses" (Twizzlers) and divided the "sticks of dynamite" (cardboard tubes) stuffed with candy. The cats carted off attached "detonation wires" (sparkly pipe cleaners), and grandpa promised he'd ditch the crazy teeth and revert to his law abiding ways, requiring me to resume shoo-ing the ladies away from handsome-him at the grocery store!<br />
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And grandma? Well, she's just content to have this long-wished-for adventure checked off her "to-do-with-grandkids" list - and heartily grateful to Heidi and Grandma Shelley for their creativity, inspiration, and generosity!<br />
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Pictured at right are goofy fake teeth, and clues and codes available at <a href="https://onecreativemommy.com/secret-service-activity-days/" target="_blank">One Creative Mommy.</a>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-68608325989105653912019-07-09T09:09:00.000-04:002019-08-30T20:52:15.295-04:00Unicorn Romp!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Visions staged on fairy tale fields in the long ago past recall maidens a-glide on steeds of bright white. A twirl of horn accents each noble head, as a cascade of mane shivers and shakes, rustles and quakes, through hoof-beaten travel on forested paths that hide treasure galore.....<br />
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Lovers of unicorns they are.....my six year old trio of little lady cousins! What other invitation need present itself to challenge pursuit of the magical majesty of a Unicorn Romp at Grandma Camp this year?<br />
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<i>But allow me to lift my head from a fluff of glittered clouds for one moment. Angeline </i>(at right)<i> cautions me that "unicorns are not real." She is not, to be clear, disqualifying herself from a mounted trounce through grandma's backyard woods to snatch treasure from a hidden trove, but merely stating a fact.....</i><i>This is a family of solid truth tellers, I might add. Two years ago, twin sissy, Ava </i>(at left)<i> pointed out that <a href="https://www.whathappensatgrandmas.com/2017/07/where-fairies-flutter.html" target="_blank">the "fairies" we sought among the same foliage</a> were also "not real," instead, ones handcrafted by.....well, I think you know by whom! :) Kaylee keeps peace in the middle, probably admonishing her cousins to just let grandma have her fun - "If she wants to believe her woods are enchanted with fairies and unicorns and gnomes and flying squirrels and talking butterflies, well let's just make her happy and play along for today!" </i><br />
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<b>Thank you, ladies, for indulging me!....</b><br />
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Sensing imminent arrival, a stable of free spirits snorts and paws the ground in excitement!<br />
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<i>Hark! Princesses are near! </i><br />
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Each fair maiden is delighted with her steed, names her quickly, then mounts, awaiting the signal to embark.....<br />
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Meet "Flower" at left, "Diamond" at center, and "Star" at right.<br />
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Grandma hands out gift bags, pretty and pastel. Little ladies trust their mounts to guide them through their mission: draw a path through dappled woods, gathering treasure wrapped <i>only</i> in the designated color of your own!<br />
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<b>Away we go!</b><br />
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Ava finds hers first - one of six for each - necklaces, bracelets, and rings, a card game, sticker book, candy, and one or two other wonderful things!<br />
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Sissy is close behind. Her bag fills up, too......<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="background-color: white;">Kaylee announces: </span><span style="background-color: white;">"Mission accomplished! We're headed back to the ranch!"</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">But Angeline arrives first! She finds a picnic spread, box lunches, and a cool spot for both "man and beast" to rest and recover in the shade! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Fair maidens gather at mission's end to open treasures, munch on lunch, and chatter away in the language of little lady cousins. And while there might be acknowledgement that unicorns are not "really real," a romp through the woods in the companion of a "grandma made" one is considered a very fine adventure indeed!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eDE_djzafEk/XSOrjiaKUpI/AAAAAAAAHtY/cBRuAzvfWYgcKHWA0DHDerCrHIl-KxBrwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC_0447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eDE_djzafEk/XSOrjiaKUpI/AAAAAAAAHtY/cBRuAzvfWYgcKHWA0DHDerCrHIl-KxBrwCLcBGAs/s640/DSC_0447.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Yes, I did make three unicorns in my own original design! Pinterest has lots of inspiration because animal "costumes" built from cardboard boxes are nothing new. Here's general instructions for making one like mine:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Begin with a box that's suitable in size for your child. Mine are about 18" x 22" and 14" tall. Cut bottom off. Cut a rectangular opening into top, about 6" back from side where head will be attached. </span><span style="background-color: white;">(A serrated kitchen knife works well.) </span><span style="background-color: white;">Sketch a horse head and neck profile on a large sheet of paper (piece together if needed). Mine is 24" at its highest point, and 18" at its widest. Trace profile on cardboard and cut two. See photos for the way to cut into profile necks so they will nestle, centered, into front of box. Situate them 4" apart and tape firmly. Cut a few 4" strips of flexible cardboard in long lengths, at least 24" each to start. Beginning at bottom back, tape this "gusset" to each side of the profile, closing the 4" gap between them. Continue around to front of head, cutting additional gussets as needed until entire head is closed. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Cut tissue paper into 4" squares. (Dollar Tree has large packs of good quality paper.) Cover an area on unicorn body with craft glue (like Elmer's) and bunch up tissue squares to attach to surface until entire box is covered. Use colorful craft paper for strips of mane, bridle, ears, eyes, and tail. Use tissue paper to make flowers for head, and shiny card stock for horn. Horn is 11" right triangle cut and wrapped around a pencil for a few hours. (Secure with rubber band while waiting.) Shoulder straps are wide ribbon threaded through slits at front and back edges of box top and knotted inside to hold. I threaded 18" thin wooden dowels through each head so girls could hang on and pull head up as they travel. </span>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8728701887751829600.post-39563914522706371462019-07-01T13:09:00.000-04:002019-07-03T10:14:45.884-04:00"Mummy? Is That You?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh, the vibrant beauty and rich mystique of ancient Egyptian culture! Here, solemn ritual meets engineering wonder with enough of a dose of creepiness to satisfy a pair of 10 year old boys at Grandma Camp! Their 8 year old cousin doesn't mind either. She's a team player all the way, part of one trio of campers I entertained last week, striving for a satisfying combination of historical learning, crafting, and deliciously gory fun!<br />
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Kids of that age still look forward to their turn with grandma, but they're ready for intrigue and challenge. Fuzzy puppets don't cut it anymore, but "mummy making" checks off every box...(oops! I mean <i>sarcophagus!</i>).<br />
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The best intro to this topic arrives via generously illustrated books. I use them to briefly describe the attention given passage to the afterlife by upper class people of this culture: upon arrival, the person would "need things" - a remarkable stash of supplies dutifully buried with the body of the deceased. The centerpiece of all this finery is the burial capsule - a <i>sarcophagus </i>- the first word on a list of terms we're now as comfortable with as a seasoned Egyptologist!<br />
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Kids page the books, intrigued by what they see. Nick's been a fan of mummies for a half dozen Halloween seasons, but even he had only vague ideas about what lies beneath layers of linen wrappings! He joins his brother and cousin, completely absorbed, marveling over fascinating discoveries.<br />
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I'm surprised and impressed at how this trio immerses themselves in the material. For 20 minutes or so, only the sound of silence accompanies awakening understanding of the mummy-making process!<br />
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Supplies for assembling - and filling! - our own sarcophagus chambers appear, and we're on our way! Grandma's research has unearthed an authentically well designed paper replica. Presented as a pencil case, <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/kids/lp-kids-activity-egyptian-mummy-pencil-case/" target="_blank">this free printout at Lonely Planet Kids</a> is a worthy learning tool, employing math and crafting skills in the process of construction.<br />
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A two page pattern, printed on brown card stock, goes to each junior archaeologist. Kids choose paints or markers for color, consulting books for authenticity. Tiny stick-on "jewels" accent their work. (Find these at major craft stores in the sticker aisle.)<br />
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Each of the children carefully chooses colors and paints with pride. I am pleased, attributing our success partially to my purchase of quality materials. Sable size 2 rounds make a fine point, and the young artists comment on how easy it is to stay within the lines as they apply craft acrylic paint.<br />
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Once complete, tops and bottoms are carefully cut, dashed lines scored and folded, corners glued, and <i>coffins are ready for occupancy!</i><br />
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<b>But who's going to dream away inside each eternal dwelling? Well, grandma's got that covered, too! In fact, we have a choice! </b><br />
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The easiest way to wrap and roll is with a simple home made stitched body, sized to fit the 6" coffin interior. I pass them out (eyes inked in for added spooky fun!) with 1/2" strips of muslin.<br />
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As we wrap, we secure additional "jewels" (amulets) within our folds because that's the way things were done in the <i>waaaay</i> long ago past! Some 4,600 years ago, to be precise!<br />
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A bit more involved is a body (6" height limit!) of collected twigs, glued together and topped with a salt dough head. This one sports tiny rice teeth for a nice authentic touch!<br />
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With dinner time approaching, we settle for "wrapping things up" 😉 with soft bodies, but as we "close the lid" on this project, our plans include returning soon to make<i> life size</i> stick mummies for Halloween use!<br />
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Hope you enjoyed our trip way back in time! Grandma's tired now. Going to lay down inside my sarcophagus. Wake me up in 4,600 years, please!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Resources: </span></b><br />
<b>This is not a sponsored post.</b><br />
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<b><i>Wonderful books on this topic abound.</i></b> Choose one(s) illustrated with the process of mummification and views both out and inside the coffin. We enjoyed these volumes:<br />
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<i>The Egyptology Handbook: A course in the Wonders of Egypt</i> - The Templar Company Plc. 2005<br />
an illustrated fictitious diary of "Miss Emily Stone's" ill-fated expedition to find the tomb of Osiris<br />
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<i>Mummies</i> - National Geographic Kids - Elizabeth Carney 2009<br />
32 pages of graphically photographed mummies representing several cultures and preservation methods<br />
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<i>Pyramids and Mummies</i> - Simon and Schuster - Anne Bolton 2007<br />
large, triangular shaped, and informative - features fold outs and pockets of extra goodies (our favorite of the batch!)<br />
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<i>Kids Discover</i> Magazines - Mark Levine, publisher<br />
<i>Pyramids</i>, <i>Ancient Egypt</i>, and <i>Mummies </i>titles - lots of info in a very appealing format for children<br />
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<b>Fictional fun reading: </b><br />
<i>Goosebumps</i> books by R.L. Stine - Scholastic, Inc. - (grade 3-5 reading level):<br />
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<i>The Curse of the Mummy's Tomb</i> - 1993<br />
<i>The Return of the Mummy</i> - 1994<br />
<i>The Mummy Walks</i> - 1999<br />
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<b><i>Suggested list of terms to learn:</i></b> Egyptology, sarcophagus, canopic jar, pyramid, Book of the Dead, pharaoh, mummification, linen, amulet<br />
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<b><i>Lonely Planet Kids (AU)</i></b> is a terrific source for educational inspiration and project ideas. Look <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/kids/blog/" target="_blank">here (on the blog)</a> for excellent free printables on a variety of topics in science, nature, and history.<br />
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<i><b>Salt dough recipe for mummy head:</b></i> Mix and knead 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup salt, 1/2 cup water - air dry, bake at 300F for one hour, or microwave in 10 second bursts before painting - for amount needed for 2 or 3 mummy heads only, mix 1/4 cup flour, 1/8 cup salt, and 1/8 cup waterJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07359404486512786477noreply@blogger.com2