Lora Langston's Blog, page 52
October 24, 2013
Homeschool Country Study Fun Lesson on Afghanistan
Homeschool Country Study Lesson on Afghanistan
Today, Alaina from, thecooksnextdoor.com, is guest posting. Homeschooled herself, she now homeschools her own children. Alaina is living proof homeschooling works! She is a Dental Hygienist by trade, and her brother is studying Architecture.
Afghanistan Homeschool Craft Time
One of our
favorite homeschool activities is to study different countries and cultures! I
like that it develops an interest in the world, gives an appreciation of other
cultures, and includes many subjects.
We studied the country of Afghanistan and
made flags out of construction paper (you can find images of
the flag online), listened to music (youtube), identified and
colored Afghanistan on maps,
made a traditional dish (see below), read books (check your library) and wrote the capital and country.
There
are many free activities and coloring pages
available online that make preparing for nearly any country study easy! I found
several free geography printables here.
We spent time talking about the political and religious climate of the
country as well as the culture and traditions.
Afghanistan Flag Making
I like
that these homeschool activities include art, home economics, music, writing, cultural
studies, and geography. We will often assemble a simple book with
pictures, copy work, flag and anything related to the country we are studying –
it’s nothing fancy but it helps the kids remember our work and they are so proud of it! Country
studies are definitely a highlight for us!
Here is the
delicious recipe we made. The kids were able to help with supervision, and I
find that it makes them so much more inclined to try new things. We loved it on naan or pita bread - kind
of like a pizza! It made the perfect lunch and ending to our country
study.
Afghanistan Dish - Sabse Borani
Sabse Borani Recipe
(The Cooks Next Door)
4 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 cup lightly drained plain yogurt (drain about 1 hr – easiest method is to
place the yogurt in a coffee filter and let stand)
Place damp spinach in a skillet and cook until wilted (can
cover). Drain and squeeze to remove excess water. Heat oil in a large skillet,
sauté onion at low heat until golden, add garlic and sauté briefly, then add
spinach, and cook for a minute or two more. Let cool. In a bowl, smooth yogurt
and add spinach mixture. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Today, Alaina from, thecooksnextdoor.com, is guest posting. Homeschooled herself, she now homeschools her own children. Alaina is living proof homeschooling works! She is a Dental Hygienist by trade, and her brother is studying Architecture.
Afghanistan Homeschool Craft Time
One of our
favorite homeschool activities is to study different countries and cultures! I
like that it develops an interest in the world, gives an appreciation of other
cultures, and includes many subjects.
We studied the country of Afghanistan and
made flags out of construction paper (you can find images of
the flag online), listened to music (youtube), identified and
colored Afghanistan on maps,
made a traditional dish (see below), read books (check your library) and wrote the capital and country.
There
are many free activities and coloring pages
available online that make preparing for nearly any country study easy! I found
several free geography printables here.
We spent time talking about the political and religious climate of the
country as well as the culture and traditions.
Afghanistan Flag Making
I like
that these homeschool activities include art, home economics, music, writing, cultural
studies, and geography. We will often assemble a simple book with
pictures, copy work, flag and anything related to the country we are studying –
it’s nothing fancy but it helps the kids remember our work and they are so proud of it! Country
studies are definitely a highlight for us!
Here is the
delicious recipe we made. The kids were able to help with supervision, and I
find that it makes them so much more inclined to try new things. We loved it on naan or pita bread - kind
of like a pizza! It made the perfect lunch and ending to our country
study.
Afghanistan Dish - Sabse Borani
Sabse Borani Recipe
(The Cooks Next Door)
4 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 cup lightly drained plain yogurt (drain about 1 hr – easiest method is to
place the yogurt in a coffee filter and let stand)
Place damp spinach in a skillet and cook until wilted (can
cover). Drain and squeeze to remove excess water. Heat oil in a large skillet,
sauté onion at low heat until golden, add garlic and sauté briefly, then add
spinach, and cook for a minute or two more. Let cool. In a bowl, smooth yogurt
and add spinach mixture. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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October 16, 2013
Birthday Party Ideas and Activities for Teen Girls
It's time for your teenage girl's birthday party, and you need ideas.
A typical teen girl will change her mind several times when planning her birthday party theme. Why not avoid the stress and surprise her with a cool, hip idea. Here are a few fun ideas for teen girl's birthday parties.
Give your daughter the best Birthday Party ever with these games and themes for girls.
Party like a Rock Star! Choose her favorite pop star (or yours- what girl doesn't love some Adam Levine?) Choose colors from her favorite album and decorate the house like a concert hall. Print out images of concert tickets and make party invitations. List the party date and her name on the tickets! How cute is that? For a party activity for teen girls, make mock press passes look like the real thing with an inexpensive laminator.
Plan a rock star birthday party for teens.
Travel themes - For a Paris theme, give each guest her own art easel and beret
. Bollywood makes a fun travel theme too. For a teen party activity get Henna Tattoos,
and let the girl's tattoo each other. Giant, colorful pillows and silky scarves set the mood.
Parisian Themed Birthday Party - set the mood with homemade invitations.
Art Easel as Favors for Paris Birthday Party.
Willy Wonka Birthday Party theme for Kids. Have a movie marathon with the original Gene Wilder movie and the Johnny Depp version, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Choose your teen's favorite type of candy to decorate. No matter the age, girls like to get crafty, so gather lots of different candies, kite string, and icing. The girls can design their own candy jewellery. The icing makes edible glue or use this gingerbread paste recipe. Check out this decorating idea from Little Altars blog, and let your imagination run wild!
Candy factory decorations like this birthday party idea from Little Altars will win over a crowd of kids.
Check out our Teen Page for more ideas and advice for teens.
Sign up for our free monthly newsletter!
Sign up for our free newsletter!
A typical teen girl will change her mind several times when planning her birthday party theme. Why not avoid the stress and surprise her with a cool, hip idea. Here are a few fun ideas for teen girl's birthday parties.
Give your daughter the best Birthday Party ever with these games and themes for girls.
Party like a Rock Star! Choose her favorite pop star (or yours- what girl doesn't love some Adam Levine?) Choose colors from her favorite album and decorate the house like a concert hall. Print out images of concert tickets and make party invitations. List the party date and her name on the tickets! How cute is that? For a party activity for teen girls, make mock press passes look like the real thing with an inexpensive laminator.
Plan a rock star birthday party for teens.
Travel themes - For a Paris theme, give each guest her own art easel and beret
. Bollywood makes a fun travel theme too. For a teen party activity get Henna Tattoos, and let the girl's tattoo each other. Giant, colorful pillows and silky scarves set the mood. Parisian Themed Birthday Party - set the mood with homemade invitations.
Art Easel as Favors for Paris Birthday Party.
Willy Wonka Birthday Party theme for Kids. Have a movie marathon with the original Gene Wilder movie and the Johnny Depp version, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". Choose your teen's favorite type of candy to decorate. No matter the age, girls like to get crafty, so gather lots of different candies, kite string, and icing. The girls can design their own candy jewellery. The icing makes edible glue or use this gingerbread paste recipe. Check out this decorating idea from Little Altars blog, and let your imagination run wild!
Candy factory decorations like this birthday party idea from Little Altars will win over a crowd of kids.
Check out our Teen Page for more ideas and advice for teens.
Sign up for our free monthly newsletter!
Sign up for our free newsletter!
September 27, 2013
Why it is Important to have your Child Fingerprinted
Rachel Donaldson, is a Forensic Scientist, Certified Latent Print Examiner. In other words, she is a real life CSI. Aware of the dangers facing missing children, she urges you to have your child fingerprinted.
Having a set of fingerprints at home can save your child's life.
Picture this: you are in a shopping mall/ grocery store with your young child. You are distracted trying to find your size in the cutest top you've ever laid eyes on or you're trying to figure out if you have a coupon for the latest craze in health bars. You realize a couple minutes have passed and there have been no pulls on your shirttail or no sounds of "Mommy! Mommy! Come look!!" You look around in your general vicinity and your child is NOT THERE.
Forensic scientist agree, fingerprinting your child can save their life.
He/she then pops out of the nearest clothing rack or comes back around from the cereal aisle. UGH. The whole scenario is enough to make your heart stop for a second or two. But, imagine your child wasn't playing around and had actually disappeared into thin air? I know, believe me, it's not something you even want to try to wrap your brain around, but we live in a crazy world and unfortunately it does happen. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, hundreds of thousands of children are reported missing every year, however a fraction of them are actually abducted by a "stranger".
Because sometimes the macabre can occur, speaking as a fingerprint examiner for my city's local crime lab, I cannot stress enough the importance of having your child(ren)'s fingerprints (and DNA) at home. Fingerprints are unique to an individual and are permanent. Fingerprints are formed in 9-11 weeks gestation and do not change (except for growth) until decomposition. No two people have the same fingerprint--not even identical twins.
Having a set of fingerprints at home could save your child's life. They could put a detective on the right track of a child abductor. Take for example a child is held hostage, disguised, and sent to school under a different name. If there was any suspicion, the child's prints could be acquired, compared, and hopefully identified to the "missing" child's fingerprints, IF and only IF there is a standard set available, or if your child's prints were found in a person's home/car where they were never supposed to have been.
It could be a huge lead in getting your child home safely to you.
CSI Fingerprinting Kit for Kids
In 2002, Danielle Van Dam, 7, was snatched from her own bedroom, while her parents slept. A suspected neighbor, David Westerfield, was later convicted of her murder after Danielle's fingerprint was identified to a print found by his bed. Tragically, in the Danielle Van Dam case, it was too late to bring her home. However, Danielle's fingerprints were found in her neighbor's RV. Her parents had no set of prints on her, but her mummified body had to be fingerprinted to allow for a comparison. It would have been much easier to have been able to have compared them to the standards at home.
I urge you to contact your local police department, crime lab, etc to find information on where to get a fingerprint/DNA kit. Some police departments have Community Days where they will fingerprint/ swab your children. It could save a child's life--maybe YOUR child's life. You can also purchase Roll Fingerprint Inkless Starter Kit
.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
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Having a set of fingerprints at home can save your child's life.
Picture this: you are in a shopping mall/ grocery store with your young child. You are distracted trying to find your size in the cutest top you've ever laid eyes on or you're trying to figure out if you have a coupon for the latest craze in health bars. You realize a couple minutes have passed and there have been no pulls on your shirttail or no sounds of "Mommy! Mommy! Come look!!" You look around in your general vicinity and your child is NOT THERE.
Forensic scientist agree, fingerprinting your child can save their life.
He/she then pops out of the nearest clothing rack or comes back around from the cereal aisle. UGH. The whole scenario is enough to make your heart stop for a second or two. But, imagine your child wasn't playing around and had actually disappeared into thin air? I know, believe me, it's not something you even want to try to wrap your brain around, but we live in a crazy world and unfortunately it does happen. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, hundreds of thousands of children are reported missing every year, however a fraction of them are actually abducted by a "stranger".
Because sometimes the macabre can occur, speaking as a fingerprint examiner for my city's local crime lab, I cannot stress enough the importance of having your child(ren)'s fingerprints (and DNA) at home. Fingerprints are unique to an individual and are permanent. Fingerprints are formed in 9-11 weeks gestation and do not change (except for growth) until decomposition. No two people have the same fingerprint--not even identical twins.
Having a set of fingerprints at home could save your child's life. They could put a detective on the right track of a child abductor. Take for example a child is held hostage, disguised, and sent to school under a different name. If there was any suspicion, the child's prints could be acquired, compared, and hopefully identified to the "missing" child's fingerprints, IF and only IF there is a standard set available, or if your child's prints were found in a person's home/car where they were never supposed to have been.
It could be a huge lead in getting your child home safely to you.
CSI Fingerprinting Kit for Kids
In 2002, Danielle Van Dam, 7, was snatched from her own bedroom, while her parents slept. A suspected neighbor, David Westerfield, was later convicted of her murder after Danielle's fingerprint was identified to a print found by his bed. Tragically, in the Danielle Van Dam case, it was too late to bring her home. However, Danielle's fingerprints were found in her neighbor's RV. Her parents had no set of prints on her, but her mummified body had to be fingerprinted to allow for a comparison. It would have been much easier to have been able to have compared them to the standards at home.
I urge you to contact your local police department, crime lab, etc to find information on where to get a fingerprint/DNA kit. Some police departments have Community Days where they will fingerprint/ swab your children. It could save a child's life--maybe YOUR child's life. You can also purchase Roll Fingerprint Inkless Starter Kit
.Sign up for our free newsletter!
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September 18, 2013
Community Service Projects Change the World One Person at a Time: Santa's Elves of Indy teaches kids to give back.
Have you figured out how to change the world yet?
Not so very long ago, a man, a sleigh, and some special gifts started a revolution.
It isn't as hard as you may think. You know the story, Santa Claus, Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Pere Noel- no matter what names you use for Santa Claus, you'll uncover an original story based on a local humanitarian. You might say, Santa started a revolution! You can start one too. You can start at home with your own kids. Teaching kids to help others in need is a lifelong skill with extraordinary benefits. The first step requires you to get involved in a community service project. Share your talents within a group or organization in your neighborhood.
But I don't have the time
But I don't know of any organizations
I'm shy
I just don't know where to begin
Our kid Volunteer elves.
Me neither! Do a search for local organizations or service projects for kids in your town. I wanted to help save the world. I didn't have much luck. So, one day, I decided to start teaching kids to change the world. Working with kids to build their self-esteem is rewarding. So many kids and adults think they have no gifts or talents to share, but they do- they just haven't discovered them yet. Teach your kids to give back early to help them understand everything they have to offer.
Mayhem with her Rudolph nose. Come get your face painted!
Santa's Elves of Indy- Choose us as your next service project for kids.
One day, a young woman had an idea. She decided to teach her kids to give back at Christmas. She asked for their input on ideas for things they could do. They wanted to help as many kids as possible. This idea gave birth to Santa's Elves of Indy. Tracey Thomas is the chief Elf. I help her out with creative fundraising and special events. My kids are very involved. Mayhem is constantly coming up with things to sell, so she can donate money to Santa's Elves. Her latest idea is to draw caricatures of the guests at our FREE COMMUNITY EVENT, Saturday, Sept. 28 in Indianapolis (Okay, near Indy in Camby, Indiana at Central Park in Heartland Crossing). She wants to draw each person as an elf. Chief Elf, Tracey, would describe this as "getting your elf-on".
Oriental Trading donated many fun items for our event.
We couldn't do it without the help of our partners. Oriental Trading has graciously donated many fun items for use at our event. What is there to do? Come join the fun at Santa's Family Reunion and Elf Picnic. Play a game of soccer with the Elves, enter a corn hole tournament with the Santas, go elf bowling, join Santa's family to make a toy or craft, experience vendors of all types, and enjoy entertainment throughout the event. There's even a jail and bail to help raise money for gifts. The elves provide more than just toys. We work to raise money for clothing and food as well. Our goal is to help families in a temporary bind to give them a little pick me up and a pat on the back to let them know they can do it! But, we can't do it without you. We need your donations of toys, clothing, and cash so we can continue to help families at times when they needed it most- not just at Christmas.
Central Park in Heartland Crossing, Camby, Indiana.
That's a strike in Elf Bowling!
We're having so much fun playing with the elves!
Thanks Oriental Trading for the letters to Santa and fun stickers!
Dear Santa Claus, thanks for all the great things you do!
We'll have a real face painter on Saturday, Sept. 28.
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September 11, 2013
6 Edible Apple Crafts for Kids
Here are 6 fun, easy things to do with apples!
Apples, Apples, Apples! It's September and the best apples are ripening on the trees. Around here, the apples and pears are falling off attracting wasps and bees. I need to collect these gifts from nature and do a creative craft for kids like this first fun apple idea from It's Gravy Baby.
[image error]
Monster apples and pears from It's Gravy Baby blog.
What could be better than than scent of fresh apple pie? Why not try to add some sensory play to your play dough? It's Gravy Baby also offers up this apple pie scented play dough. She must have a lot of apples too!
Apple Scented Play dough.... can you smell it?
How about this wormy apple craft from Babble.com? Worms are squishy, ooey-gooey, fun. This edible apple snack is perfect for Kid's Birthday Party Treat, a Halloween Edible Apple Craft, or an April Fool's day surprise.
Apple Worm Craft for Kids from Babble.com
I'm not really a Star Wars fan, but lots of people think I am. You want to know why? I'm a Sesame Street fan. I LOVE me some Sesame Street. My favorite character is Super Grover. This translates to a special appreciation for Yoda from Star Wars. I even named my favorite pet bunny after him. So, when I saw this green apple craft for kids depicting Yoda I was all, I've got to try that one. Wait, no, I mean, I have to DO that one! Check it our for yourself at Bit Rebels.
Edible Star Wars Craft for kids from Kitchen Fun with my 3 Sons.
Why is it watermelons make the cutest crafts for kids or baby shower edible art? I just love these mock watermelon slices made from green apples and jello. Find out how to make them at Chocolate on my Cranium blog.
Mock watermelon slices apple craft for kids snack.
And finally, you've probably seen better versions out there in the blogosphere, but this was one of our first craft idea posts for our summer camp. Turkey Edible Apple Crafts for Kids with Dollar Store candy. Since then, I try to make healthy edible art and crafts for kids!
Turkey Edible Apple Snack Treat for Kids.
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Apples, Apples, Apples! It's September and the best apples are ripening on the trees. Around here, the apples and pears are falling off attracting wasps and bees. I need to collect these gifts from nature and do a creative craft for kids like this first fun apple idea from It's Gravy Baby.
[image error]
Monster apples and pears from It's Gravy Baby blog.
What could be better than than scent of fresh apple pie? Why not try to add some sensory play to your play dough? It's Gravy Baby also offers up this apple pie scented play dough. She must have a lot of apples too!
Apple Scented Play dough.... can you smell it?
How about this wormy apple craft from Babble.com? Worms are squishy, ooey-gooey, fun. This edible apple snack is perfect for Kid's Birthday Party Treat, a Halloween Edible Apple Craft, or an April Fool's day surprise.
Apple Worm Craft for Kids from Babble.com
I'm not really a Star Wars fan, but lots of people think I am. You want to know why? I'm a Sesame Street fan. I LOVE me some Sesame Street. My favorite character is Super Grover. This translates to a special appreciation for Yoda from Star Wars. I even named my favorite pet bunny after him. So, when I saw this green apple craft for kids depicting Yoda I was all, I've got to try that one. Wait, no, I mean, I have to DO that one! Check it our for yourself at Bit Rebels.
Edible Star Wars Craft for kids from Kitchen Fun with my 3 Sons.
Why is it watermelons make the cutest crafts for kids or baby shower edible art? I just love these mock watermelon slices made from green apples and jello. Find out how to make them at Chocolate on my Cranium blog.
Mock watermelon slices apple craft for kids snack.
And finally, you've probably seen better versions out there in the blogosphere, but this was one of our first craft idea posts for our summer camp. Turkey Edible Apple Crafts for Kids with Dollar Store candy. Since then, I try to make healthy edible art and crafts for kids!
Turkey Edible Apple Snack Treat for Kids.
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September 5, 2013
Build Self-esteem with Fashion Freedom
Fashion Freedom can help build self-esteem in Kids.
Girls (and boys) need to feel like they can do things on their own. They have little control over their own life. As parents, we can help build their independence and self-esteem by letting them choose their own clothing each day. The smile on their little faces shows a sense of pride when someone compliments or notices their outfit. I know it is difficult for some parents to let go, but as long as the clothes are clean, I say give your kids fashion freedom.
I'd like to introduce my friend Rachael to the world of blogging. This is her very first post...ever. I'm happy to have the debut of a future blogging diva. In the coming weeks, look for her own blog on fun fashion for girls and their mommas too!
Lainie, my daughter is only 8, but you can't tell her that when it comes to her fashion sense! Gone are the days of mommy picking out her everyday required collared shirt and pant for school. Oh no, she's not having that, but at least she is subtle about it.
[image error]
Showing her style.
She has taken to bargaining with me. "Weelll... Mommy, I could wear that shirt, but what if I wore it under this dress?" Who am I to say no to my little mini-me when all she is trying to do is imitate her mother?? Now that the chunky statement necklaces are such an "in" thing for "grown-ups", Lainie has to pick out a necklace of her own everyday. With the accessories comes the occasional sneaking of the lipgloss, eyeshadow, and blush.
Oh boy... I think I've created a diva-nista!!
For a casual day of fun.
On a positive note, on the weekends, I no longer have to drop what I am doing to pick out clothes for her now that she is so into matching outfits herself. Surprisingly enough, she does a fantastic job for her age! She has an uncanny ability to pick out clothes for me too! On a recent shopping trip, she was colorblocking and pointing out necklaces to wear with the outfits.
Impressive, I tell ya!
[image error]
Probably, her proudest moment in fashion was when she "designed" her own shirt online. She had a smile from ear to ear and a twinkle in her eyes when it arrived. I have high hopes she will continue to have a unique style she can call her very own.
You might also like our What She's Wearing Wednesday Series.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
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Girls (and boys) need to feel like they can do things on their own. They have little control over their own life. As parents, we can help build their independence and self-esteem by letting them choose their own clothing each day. The smile on their little faces shows a sense of pride when someone compliments or notices their outfit. I know it is difficult for some parents to let go, but as long as the clothes are clean, I say give your kids fashion freedom.
I'd like to introduce my friend Rachael to the world of blogging. This is her very first post...ever. I'm happy to have the debut of a future blogging diva. In the coming weeks, look for her own blog on fun fashion for girls and their mommas too!
Lainie, my daughter is only 8, but you can't tell her that when it comes to her fashion sense! Gone are the days of mommy picking out her everyday required collared shirt and pant for school. Oh no, she's not having that, but at least she is subtle about it.
[image error]
Showing her style.
She has taken to bargaining with me. "Weelll... Mommy, I could wear that shirt, but what if I wore it under this dress?" Who am I to say no to my little mini-me when all she is trying to do is imitate her mother?? Now that the chunky statement necklaces are such an "in" thing for "grown-ups", Lainie has to pick out a necklace of her own everyday. With the accessories comes the occasional sneaking of the lipgloss, eyeshadow, and blush.
Oh boy... I think I've created a diva-nista!!
For a casual day of fun.
On a positive note, on the weekends, I no longer have to drop what I am doing to pick out clothes for her now that she is so into matching outfits herself. Surprisingly enough, she does a fantastic job for her age! She has an uncanny ability to pick out clothes for me too! On a recent shopping trip, she was colorblocking and pointing out necklaces to wear with the outfits.
Impressive, I tell ya!
[image error]
Probably, her proudest moment in fashion was when she "designed" her own shirt online. She had a smile from ear to ear and a twinkle in her eyes when it arrived. I have high hopes she will continue to have a unique style she can call her very own.
You might also like our What She's Wearing Wednesday Series.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
Sign up for our free newsletter!
September 3, 2013
3 of my Favorite Pinterest Fall Craft Activities
Here are 3 of my all-time fav Pinterest Fall Craft Activities
Sniff sniff. Can you smell it? Fall is almost here! We love a little Fall fun. When I saw these 3 fall activities on Pinterest, I just knew they'd be perfect for preschoolers. So, gather up some supplies and sit down with the littles and make some memories while you craft up your favorite fall preschool activity. Click the links for details on how to make the owl wreath, paperbag scarecrow, and easy Lite Brite pumpkin.
Who's There Owl Wreath by Sherri at About Family Craft
Click the image to visit Sherri's post for more information.
2. Paperbag Scarecrow from Easy Child Crafts
Paperbag Scarecrow is adorable and an easy craft for preschoolers.
3. Lite Brite Pumpkin from Giver's Log.
Light up your pumpkin with Lite Brite pegs like this one from Giver's Log blog.
FALL WREATH THINGS to do with PUMPKINS
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Sniff sniff. Can you smell it? Fall is almost here! We love a little Fall fun. When I saw these 3 fall activities on Pinterest, I just knew they'd be perfect for preschoolers. So, gather up some supplies and sit down with the littles and make some memories while you craft up your favorite fall preschool activity. Click the links for details on how to make the owl wreath, paperbag scarecrow, and easy Lite Brite pumpkin.
Who's There Owl Wreath by Sherri at About Family Craft
Click the image to visit Sherri's post for more information.
2. Paperbag Scarecrow from Easy Child Crafts
Paperbag Scarecrow is adorable and an easy craft for preschoolers.
3. Lite Brite Pumpkin from Giver's Log.
Light up your pumpkin with Lite Brite pegs like this one from Giver's Log blog.
FALL WREATH THINGS to do with PUMPKINS
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September 2, 2013
Most Likely to Become a Racecar Driver
Most Likely to Become
a Racecar Driver
Tracey is guest posting today for Meijer's most likely to... you still have time to enter the contest ends Sept. 8. 2013.
We
all have big dreams for our children. We imagine them growing up to be actors
and musicians and, if we are lucky, taking care of Mom and Dad after they
become rich and famous! I try not to disillusion myself with these types of
thoughts, but lately I’ve started to entertain the idea that maybe, just maybe,
I have a future racecar driver on my hands.
Garrett
has always loved sports! When he was just a year old, he would play, for easily
an hour at a time, just shooting basket after basket after basket into his mini
basketball goal in the kitchen. When he was 4, he started t-ball. He is now 12
and has played in Little League every season since then (even 2 seasons one
year!). When he was 5 he played his first year of Flag Football and over the
course of about 5 years, Garrett was able to put a few seasons of basketball under
his belt, as well. In the winter, he plans to play again and is also
considering his first season of Track & Field. But even with his wide array
of sports interests, there is one sport that stands above the rest. It’s more
than just a sport, it is a passion and it is his life. And that is racing.
Garrett’s
obsession with racing began at an early age. At just 2 years old, he could
easily identify and name many well known Nascar drivers, their numbers, and
their sponsors. Of course, over time, his knowledge of drivers grew, as did his
drive to become one of them. At 6 years old, it was evident that, if he were to
realistically pursue this consuming desire to speed around turns at an alarming
rate, and maneuver through tight packs of cars and thrill-seeking drivers at
speeds nearing 200mph, that he would have to begin perfecting his craft at a
young age (what were we thinking!??).
It
just so happened that his father and I both had ties to a local race track that
starts children (as young as 7 years old) as drivers of Junior Faskarts, an
entry level racecar designed to allow beginning drivers an opportunity to gain
racing experience at a young age. And so began his journey into racing, with a
real car, real gear, and real sponsors.
It
isn’t the cheapest endeavor, and at this level of racing no prize money is awarded,
so he hasn’t been able to race in every season. But he definitely seems to have
a natural ability behind the wheel and has placed well in the heats and
features that he has participated in. Some even ended with the honor of driving
the track with the coveted checkered flag in his proud, determined hand.
Garrett
doesn’t just work hard on the track. He also works hard in the garage, helping
his dad tweak and repair his car between races. And most importantly, he works
hard in school. In order to race, he has to keep his grades up and do well in
class, which he has done an excellent job at maintaining. Meijer has also been
there to help us in keeping him successful in school. We always know that we
will be able to find the supplies he needs for the coming school year, his
after school sports, and even those Nascar shirts he loves!
As
Garrett climbs the ladder of racing divisions, he will gain knowledge and
experience that will help him succeed on the track. He has even begun dreams of
going to college to learn the science behind the sport and we will have Meijer
beside us every step of the way to help with whatever he needs to become
successful on his journey.
Do
you have a child that is “Most Likely to…..”? Then enter them in Meijer’s “Most
Likely To” Photo Sweepstakes for your chance to win 1 of 25 $100 Meijer Gift
Cards! Simply visit http://bit.ly/MeijerMostLikelyTo and submit a photo
showing what your child is most likely to be when he/she grows up.
Meijer most likely to photo sweepstakes.
This
is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
a Racecar Driver
Tracey is guest posting today for Meijer's most likely to... you still have time to enter the contest ends Sept. 8. 2013.
We
all have big dreams for our children. We imagine them growing up to be actors
and musicians and, if we are lucky, taking care of Mom and Dad after they
become rich and famous! I try not to disillusion myself with these types of
thoughts, but lately I’ve started to entertain the idea that maybe, just maybe,
I have a future racecar driver on my hands.
Garrett
has always loved sports! When he was just a year old, he would play, for easily
an hour at a time, just shooting basket after basket after basket into his mini
basketball goal in the kitchen. When he was 4, he started t-ball. He is now 12
and has played in Little League every season since then (even 2 seasons one
year!). When he was 5 he played his first year of Flag Football and over the
course of about 5 years, Garrett was able to put a few seasons of basketball under
his belt, as well. In the winter, he plans to play again and is also
considering his first season of Track & Field. But even with his wide array
of sports interests, there is one sport that stands above the rest. It’s more
than just a sport, it is a passion and it is his life. And that is racing.
Garrett’s
obsession with racing began at an early age. At just 2 years old, he could
easily identify and name many well known Nascar drivers, their numbers, and
their sponsors. Of course, over time, his knowledge of drivers grew, as did his
drive to become one of them. At 6 years old, it was evident that, if he were to
realistically pursue this consuming desire to speed around turns at an alarming
rate, and maneuver through tight packs of cars and thrill-seeking drivers at
speeds nearing 200mph, that he would have to begin perfecting his craft at a
young age (what were we thinking!??).
It
just so happened that his father and I both had ties to a local race track that
starts children (as young as 7 years old) as drivers of Junior Faskarts, an
entry level racecar designed to allow beginning drivers an opportunity to gain
racing experience at a young age. And so began his journey into racing, with a
real car, real gear, and real sponsors.
It
isn’t the cheapest endeavor, and at this level of racing no prize money is awarded,
so he hasn’t been able to race in every season. But he definitely seems to have
a natural ability behind the wheel and has placed well in the heats and
features that he has participated in. Some even ended with the honor of driving
the track with the coveted checkered flag in his proud, determined hand.
Garrett
doesn’t just work hard on the track. He also works hard in the garage, helping
his dad tweak and repair his car between races. And most importantly, he works
hard in school. In order to race, he has to keep his grades up and do well in
class, which he has done an excellent job at maintaining. Meijer has also been
there to help us in keeping him successful in school. We always know that we
will be able to find the supplies he needs for the coming school year, his
after school sports, and even those Nascar shirts he loves!
As
Garrett climbs the ladder of racing divisions, he will gain knowledge and
experience that will help him succeed on the track. He has even begun dreams of
going to college to learn the science behind the sport and we will have Meijer
beside us every step of the way to help with whatever he needs to become
successful on his journey.
Do
you have a child that is “Most Likely to…..”? Then enter them in Meijer’s “Most
Likely To” Photo Sweepstakes for your chance to win 1 of 25 $100 Meijer Gift
Cards! Simply visit http://bit.ly/MeijerMostLikelyTo and submit a photo
showing what your child is most likely to be when he/she grows up.
Meijer most likely to photo sweepstakes.
This
is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
Sign up for our free newsletter
Most Likely to Become
...
Sign up for our free newsletter
Most Likely to Become
a Racecar Driver
Tracey is guest posting today for Meijer's most likely to... you still have time to enter the contest ends Sept. 8. 2013.
We
all have big dreams for our children. We imagine them growing up to be actors
and musicians and, if we are lucky, taking care of Mom and Dad after they
become rich and famous! I try not to disillusion myself with these types of
thoughts, but lately I’ve started to entertain the idea that maybe, just maybe,
I have a future racecar driver on my hands.
Garrett
has always loved sports! When he was just a year old, he would play, for easily
an hour at a time, just shooting basket after basket after basket into his mini
basketball goal in the kitchen. When he was 4, he started t-ball. He is now 12
and has played in Little League every season since then (even 2 seasons one
year!). When he was 5 he played his first year of Flag Football and over the
course of about 5 years, Garrett was able to put a few seasons of basketball under
his belt, as well. In the winter, he plans to play again and is also
considering his first season of Track & Field. But even with his wide array
of sports interests, there is one sport that stands above the rest. It’s more
than just a sport, it is a passion and it is his life. And that is racing.
Garrett’s
obsession with racing began at an early age. At just 2 years old, he could
easily identify and name many well known Nascar drivers, their numbers, and
their sponsors. Of course, over time, his knowledge of drivers grew, as did his
drive to become one of them. At 6 years old, it was evident that, if he were to
realistically pursue this consuming desire to speed around turns at an alarming
rate, and maneuver through tight packs of cars and thrill-seeking drivers at
speeds nearing 200mph, that he would have to begin perfecting his craft at a
young age (what were we thinking!??).
It
just so happened that his father and I both had ties to a local race track that
starts children (as young as 7 years old) as drivers of Junior Faskarts, an
entry level racecar designed to allow beginning drivers an opportunity to gain
racing experience at a young age. And so began his journey into racing, with a
real car, real gear, and real sponsors.
It
isn’t the cheapest endeavor, and at this level of racing no prize money is awarded,
so he hasn’t been able to race in every season. But he definitely seems to have
a natural ability behind the wheel and has placed well in the heats and
features that he has participated in. Some even ended with the honor of driving
the track with the coveted checkered flag in his proud, determined hand.
Garrett
doesn’t just work hard on the track. He also works hard in the garage, helping
his dad tweak and repair his car between races. And most importantly, he works
hard in school. In order to race, he has to keep his grades up and do well in
class, which he has done an excellent job at maintaining. Meijer has also been
there to help us in keeping him successful in school. We always know that we
will be able to find the supplies he needs for the coming school year, his
after school sports, and even those Nascar shirts he loves!
As
Garrett climbs the ladder of racing divisions, he will gain knowledge and
experience that will help him succeed on the track. He has even begun dreams of
going to college to learn the science behind the sport and we will have Meijer
beside us every step of the way to help with whatever he needs to become
successful on his journey.
Do
you have a child that is “Most Likely to…..”? Then enter them in Meijer’s “Most
Likely To” Photo Sweepstakes for your chance to win 1 of 25 $100 Meijer Gift
Cards! Simply visit http://bit.ly/MeijerMostLikelyTo and submit a photo
showing what your child is most likely to be when he/she grows up.
Meijer most likely to photo sweepstakes.
This
is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
Most Likely to Become
a Racecar Driver
Tracey is guest posting today for Meijer's most likely to... you still have time to enter the contest ends Sept. 8. 2013.
We
all have big dreams for our children. We imagine them growing up to be actors
and musicians and, if we are lucky, taking care of Mom and Dad after they
become rich and famous! I try not to disillusion myself with these types of
thoughts, but lately I’ve started to entertain the idea that maybe, just maybe,
I have a future racecar driver on my hands.
Garrett
has always loved sports! When he was just a year old, he would play, for easily
an hour at a time, just shooting basket after basket after basket into his mini
basketball goal in the kitchen. When he was 4, he started t-ball. He is now 12
and has played in Little League every season since then (even 2 seasons one
year!). When he was 5 he played his first year of Flag Football and over the
course of about 5 years, Garrett was able to put a few seasons of basketball under
his belt, as well. In the winter, he plans to play again and is also
considering his first season of Track & Field. But even with his wide array
of sports interests, there is one sport that stands above the rest. It’s more
than just a sport, it is a passion and it is his life. And that is racing.
Garrett’s
obsession with racing began at an early age. At just 2 years old, he could
easily identify and name many well known Nascar drivers, their numbers, and
their sponsors. Of course, over time, his knowledge of drivers grew, as did his
drive to become one of them. At 6 years old, it was evident that, if he were to
realistically pursue this consuming desire to speed around turns at an alarming
rate, and maneuver through tight packs of cars and thrill-seeking drivers at
speeds nearing 200mph, that he would have to begin perfecting his craft at a
young age (what were we thinking!??).
It
just so happened that his father and I both had ties to a local race track that
starts children (as young as 7 years old) as drivers of Junior Faskarts, an
entry level racecar designed to allow beginning drivers an opportunity to gain
racing experience at a young age. And so began his journey into racing, with a
real car, real gear, and real sponsors.
It
isn’t the cheapest endeavor, and at this level of racing no prize money is awarded,
so he hasn’t been able to race in every season. But he definitely seems to have
a natural ability behind the wheel and has placed well in the heats and
features that he has participated in. Some even ended with the honor of driving
the track with the coveted checkered flag in his proud, determined hand.
Garrett
doesn’t just work hard on the track. He also works hard in the garage, helping
his dad tweak and repair his car between races. And most importantly, he works
hard in school. In order to race, he has to keep his grades up and do well in
class, which he has done an excellent job at maintaining. Meijer has also been
there to help us in keeping him successful in school. We always know that we
will be able to find the supplies he needs for the coming school year, his
after school sports, and even those Nascar shirts he loves!
As
Garrett climbs the ladder of racing divisions, he will gain knowledge and
experience that will help him succeed on the track. He has even begun dreams of
going to college to learn the science behind the sport and we will have Meijer
beside us every step of the way to help with whatever he needs to become
successful on his journey.
Do
you have a child that is “Most Likely to…..”? Then enter them in Meijer’s “Most
Likely To” Photo Sweepstakes for your chance to win 1 of 25 $100 Meijer Gift
Cards! Simply visit http://bit.ly/MeijerMostLikelyTo and submit a photo
showing what your child is most likely to be when he/she grows up.
Meijer most likely to photo sweepstakes.
This
is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Sign up for our free newsletter!
August 30, 2013
Teaching Kids to Deal with Stress can be as Easy as Coloring
Michelle from lifeismylemonade.blogspot.com is guest posting again today. The stress of school and work is getting to me! This is only our second year of homeschooling a gifted fourth grader and a dyslexic, hyper, frustrated second grader. (I resemble all of those remarks) I just started a new online venture. So, it makes me laugh when Michelle asks,
Are you overworked and stressed out?
That's a big fat Y-E-S! Thankfully she has some reminders for me about how truly simple it can be to chill out. Unless you are like Jake...
Since school has started, all we seem to do now is run, but it only takes a few
minutes to treat yourself to a stress break. When my daughter needs a stress reliever, I often suggest drawing as a way for her to relieve her tension. How simple is that? The eco-friendly, Green Rainbow Revolution has
several great products to help you along the path of de-stressing. Surf
through the eco-friendly items and treat yourself to a much deserved break. My favorite-hmm that’s hard to decide between
the colored pencils and the pastels.
What
is your favorite medium?
This is one of the happier chores we have to squeeze into our busy schedule
My daughter
and her friends choose colored pencils as their medium of choice. It’s a great way for them to relax from the
drama of school and be creative. If you sit down to color with your younger kids they are more likely to share things about their day. Ask them to draw a picture of their favorite and least favorite parts of the day. When you join in the fun with them it is a great way to open the lines of communication and bond over a good creative session.
Let your inner child loose. There's nothing more important than play.
How about a pink flamingo pencil drawing like this one from Lexi Murphy.
Have fun chatting with your children while you draw, color, and let the conversation flow. You
never know what you might find out while creating your works of art. During one of the creativity gatherings the girls opened up, and I found out about their
favorite teachers and least favorite. I also found out that they like to create characters. So, no matter what age you are, art supplies will come in handy on a stressful day.
No kids-not a problem! Host an arty party for your friends. Even if you have a moment where the creativity is not flowing; there are fun kits to help you de-stress. You can play art class instead of painting nails or selling catalog products! Bring some whimsy back into your life and laugh, just like you did when you were a kid. Anyway, I’m off to see what doodles the girls created today. Will it be a caricature of the crush of the week
doodled on their school sketchbook? Or maybe it will be their latest fashion designs done with those pastels to create the correct shading. And, who doesn't have fun getting messy while blending? Okay, well, maybe not everyone, but this girl
at heart loves to get messy while doing a little pastel blending.
Happy Creating and De-stressing!
Sign up for our free newsletter!
-->
Sign up for our free newsletter!
Are you overworked and stressed out?
That's a big fat Y-E-S! Thankfully she has some reminders for me about how truly simple it can be to chill out. Unless you are like Jake...
Since school has started, all we seem to do now is run, but it only takes a few
minutes to treat yourself to a stress break. When my daughter needs a stress reliever, I often suggest drawing as a way for her to relieve her tension. How simple is that? The eco-friendly, Green Rainbow Revolution has
several great products to help you along the path of de-stressing. Surf
through the eco-friendly items and treat yourself to a much deserved break. My favorite-hmm that’s hard to decide between
the colored pencils and the pastels.
What
is your favorite medium?
This is one of the happier chores we have to squeeze into our busy schedule
My daughter
and her friends choose colored pencils as their medium of choice. It’s a great way for them to relax from the
drama of school and be creative. If you sit down to color with your younger kids they are more likely to share things about their day. Ask them to draw a picture of their favorite and least favorite parts of the day. When you join in the fun with them it is a great way to open the lines of communication and bond over a good creative session.
Let your inner child loose. There's nothing more important than play.
How about a pink flamingo pencil drawing like this one from Lexi Murphy.
Have fun chatting with your children while you draw, color, and let the conversation flow. You
never know what you might find out while creating your works of art. During one of the creativity gatherings the girls opened up, and I found out about their
favorite teachers and least favorite. I also found out that they like to create characters. So, no matter what age you are, art supplies will come in handy on a stressful day.
No kids-not a problem! Host an arty party for your friends. Even if you have a moment where the creativity is not flowing; there are fun kits to help you de-stress. You can play art class instead of painting nails or selling catalog products! Bring some whimsy back into your life and laugh, just like you did when you were a kid. Anyway, I’m off to see what doodles the girls created today. Will it be a caricature of the crush of the week
doodled on their school sketchbook? Or maybe it will be their latest fashion designs done with those pastels to create the correct shading. And, who doesn't have fun getting messy while blending? Okay, well, maybe not everyone, but this girl
at heart loves to get messy while doing a little pastel blending.
Happy Creating and De-stressing!
Sign up for our free newsletter!
-->
Sign up for our free newsletter!
![[image error]](http://littlepieceofpie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/IMG_5756.jpg){kind=link}
![[image error]](https://sphotos-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/v/967362_10152189856604992_1937798895_n.jpg?oh=2a0cb23eac8adef9b3338e33dc464503&oe=522BA7F8){kind=link}
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