Awana is finished for the year. The children have had so much fun this year and all memorized many Bible verses. If you are looking for something to do with children for a party activity, the last night for doing memory verses was Cocoon Night. I was a little apprehensive when I sent a note to the main leaders asking what to expect. The children are wrapping their leaders in toilet paper. That sounded a little scary.
We had so much fun. It's one of those nights when your mouth hurts you are spending so much time with a huge smile and laughing. The best part wasn't my laughter though. It was listening to the children. They couldn't stop laughing as they ran around and around us trying to keep their toilet paper from ripping. The tallest children had the most fun trying to wrap our heads.
Looking from leader to leader, then child to child, there wasn't one person in the room without a smile. OK, one. She didn't have any toilet paper left. I borrowed a roll from someone, unwrapped her a huge streamer and she began running around me, with her smile back. We figured out if I held out two fingers and they stuck the beginning of their streamer in between my fingers, the wrapping would hold. All the children were willing to share and the activity didn't take too long.
When it was over the leader asked everyone to pick the toilet paper off the floor and when I left the room there wasn't even a crumb left. I believe the children had almost as much fun throwing it away as they did in the wrapping. They didn't have to be asked twice to pick up. That's about 60 children.
Awana will be back next fall. Check your local church, they should know where the closest meetings are, if your church does not have their own Awana activity.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
What Shall We Do Today?
As I have been reading through writing sites over the last month, I found a common theme; lists of ways to find the time to actually write.
I thought about summer fast approaching and all the things I wanted to do with my grandchildren. I am more blessed than many grandparents, I am able to provide daycare for my grandchildren. I will be spending the summer with from one to five grandchildren on any given day. With the fun comes the responsibility. It's important to me that my grandchildren have time to play, time to explore their world, and time to learn new things. Success will be shown in several ways. When they are too old for daycare, they will remember the fun time they had with their grandma growing up. I don't expect them to remember each day we spent together (although we have hundreds of pictures to help), I just want them to remember this time together with a good feeling and a smile. I want them to know they are important enough to be a priority in my life and I want them to feel loved. They know they are a priority and are loved by their parents already, but a little extra from me can't hurt. I want them to have time to do just what they want to do and learn and explore through their own world, without all the ideas of what to do and play being orchestrated by me. I want them to try and taste all that Iowa has to offer. This may be the summer they find that one thing that is exciting enough to them that they spend the rest of their life learning about and doing. And if not, that's all right. They have many years ahead to find what they like most to do. I also want them to have the resources and quality childcare they would get through any professional childcare facility.
How does that lead back to my original statement. How do I organize my summer to have the time to give my grandchildren everything I want for them over the summer? How do I find that time? My solution is to start now by taking the time to plan what we are going to do for the summer. I'm making the list of the favorite places from last summer, the places we learned about but ran out of time to visit, and the places I've learned about over the winter. Lots of swimming is on top of the list, so we begin there.
What do you like to do over the summer that you look forward to? Any ideas that you have for making that time to do everything you want to do? Check back often as we begin the processing of planning to travel with Grandma Mitch.
I thought about summer fast approaching and all the things I wanted to do with my grandchildren. I am more blessed than many grandparents, I am able to provide daycare for my grandchildren. I will be spending the summer with from one to five grandchildren on any given day. With the fun comes the responsibility. It's important to me that my grandchildren have time to play, time to explore their world, and time to learn new things. Success will be shown in several ways. When they are too old for daycare, they will remember the fun time they had with their grandma growing up. I don't expect them to remember each day we spent together (although we have hundreds of pictures to help), I just want them to remember this time together with a good feeling and a smile. I want them to know they are important enough to be a priority in my life and I want them to feel loved. They know they are a priority and are loved by their parents already, but a little extra from me can't hurt. I want them to have time to do just what they want to do and learn and explore through their own world, without all the ideas of what to do and play being orchestrated by me. I want them to try and taste all that Iowa has to offer. This may be the summer they find that one thing that is exciting enough to them that they spend the rest of their life learning about and doing. And if not, that's all right. They have many years ahead to find what they like most to do. I also want them to have the resources and quality childcare they would get through any professional childcare facility.
How does that lead back to my original statement. How do I organize my summer to have the time to give my grandchildren everything I want for them over the summer? How do I find that time? My solution is to start now by taking the time to plan what we are going to do for the summer. I'm making the list of the favorite places from last summer, the places we learned about but ran out of time to visit, and the places I've learned about over the winter. Lots of swimming is on top of the list, so we begin there.
What do you like to do over the summer that you look forward to? Any ideas that you have for making that time to do everything you want to do? Check back often as we begin the processing of planning to travel with Grandma Mitch.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Spring Fever
Has spring fever hit you yet? It's hit our home with a vengence. We've had some beautiful weather. The kids have worn their shorts, my seven-year-old granddaughter has been able to spend a few days in her flip flops (her foot gear of choice all year if she didn't have to worry about her toes freezing) and now we are expecting snow in parts of Iowa. No matter how many years I've seen the weather get warm and then cold again, I still hope those first few warm days are the first signs of summer. OK, that is too much to expect from March.
I'd love to be able to say we've spent these last couple of weekends traveling to new places. I can't. As excited as we are for summer to start, these last couple of cool days has given us time to sit back and relax. School is winding down, it's only about a month for two grandchildren and about five weeks for the other three. Awana is ending for three in two more weeks and two in three more weeks. There is the rush to get memory verses completed to try to finish the book by the end of the year. Dance classes are busy getting ready for spring show. Softball and baseball has begun.
This is the perfect time of year to pause, regroup, rejuvenate, and get that second wind. So when there is an early out from school, that unexpected couple of hours, we find a good movie, grab our knitting, sit back and just relax. Well, my grandson doesn't grab knitting, he doesn't need to keep his hands busy when he veges like the rest of us. Homework gets done. Bible verses are memorized. Summer will come eventually. In the meantime, enjoy a few relaxing days before the fun and adventure of summer begins.
What do you do to regroup to get ready for summer?
I'd love to be able to say we've spent these last couple of weekends traveling to new places. I can't. As excited as we are for summer to start, these last couple of cool days has given us time to sit back and relax. School is winding down, it's only about a month for two grandchildren and about five weeks for the other three. Awana is ending for three in two more weeks and two in three more weeks. There is the rush to get memory verses completed to try to finish the book by the end of the year. Dance classes are busy getting ready for spring show. Softball and baseball has begun.
This is the perfect time of year to pause, regroup, rejuvenate, and get that second wind. So when there is an early out from school, that unexpected couple of hours, we find a good movie, grab our knitting, sit back and just relax. Well, my grandson doesn't grab knitting, he doesn't need to keep his hands busy when he veges like the rest of us. Homework gets done. Bible verses are memorized. Summer will come eventually. In the meantime, enjoy a few relaxing days before the fun and adventure of summer begins.
What do you do to regroup to get ready for summer?
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
The Iowa State Capitol
The girls and I visited the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines. The Legislature was in session, and while we waited for the House to begin, I was able to explain a little bit about government, bills, and voting. Rather than take the guided tour, we took the self-guided tour. The girls took their cameras and took many pictures of the statutes, art work and beautiful staircases.
There was a display of dolls dressed in the formals worn by the First Ladies and a flag that was actually flown during the civil war. We didn't get to see everything because we had only allowed three hours for our visit. After we finished touring the inside we looked at some of the artwork outside the capitol building.
There is a gift shop, but you don't necessarily need to get a souvenir. I did get each of us a book for a cost of $1.00 describing the features inside the capitol and another one for $1.00 describing the artwork on the outside of the building.
We will be able to bring our books each time we visit until we have had a chance to learn as much as we can about the capitol. I've added the capitol to our list of things to do this summer. The girls decided on the way home that they had a fun day.
If you live close enough to your state capital to visit, please share with us what you enjoyed the most out of your visit.
There was a display of dolls dressed in the formals worn by the First Ladies and a flag that was actually flown during the civil war. We didn't get to see everything because we had only allowed three hours for our visit. After we finished touring the inside we looked at some of the artwork outside the capitol building.
There is a gift shop, but you don't necessarily need to get a souvenir. I did get each of us a book for a cost of $1.00 describing the features inside the capitol and another one for $1.00 describing the artwork on the outside of the building.
We will be able to bring our books each time we visit until we have had a chance to learn as much as we can about the capitol. I've added the capitol to our list of things to do this summer. The girls decided on the way home that they had a fun day.
If you live close enough to your state capital to visit, please share with us what you enjoyed the most out of your visit.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Share Your Grandchildren
This week was spring break. My 7-year-old granddaughter and 10-year-old granddaughter spent the week with me during the day. We were excited because the weather last week had been beautiful and we felt like summer was already here. This week the rain came. We weren't upset knowing that Iowa needs the rain, we've had such a mild winter. We planned indoor activities.
Always busy looking for ways to entertain my grandchildren, I had never thought of sharing them with my friends until this week. One afternoon a friend invited them to her house to make cards with her scrap-booking supplies. What a surprise we had. She had made a special snack, put together a little early Easter basket, and had picked out just the right supplies to make a card with cupcakes (a hint of our special snack) and an Easter card.
She had spent the morning putting together the supplies and the girls were able to pick the paper, stamps, ink, stickers, embellishments (the most beautiful little cloth butterflies), and punches (for just the right holes or designs). I spent the time looking through all of the cards my friend had created while the girls were free to make their own designs. Their hands were full with treats and cards when they left. They had a wonderful time and everyone is looking forward to making this a regular activity when summer finally arrives.
A second afternoon we took yarn and knitting needles and headed for a local senior center to learn how to knit with another friend. I know how to knit, but can't seem to get the process down to teach my 10-year-old granddaughter who is left-handed. My friend, a very skillful knitter can teach either right or left handed. She had provided some wood needles which she thought would work perfect for smaller hands. They spent a pleasant hour working together while I watched and helped my 7-year-old granddaughter with her knitting (she is right-handed). After the hour, the girls played while my friend taught me how to knit left-handed so hopefully I can help my granddaughter when she gets stuck. We all had fun and look forward to getting together again when summer finally arrives.
One of my greatest joys is spending time with my grandchildren. They are mine and I love them. I never thought they could also bring joy to others who aren't related to them and who aren't blessed with getting to spend as much time with their grandchildren as I am. Granted, not everyone enjoys spending time with someone else's children, but for those who do, why not think about sharing your grandchildren with them. We all were blessed by the experience. My grandchildren had a wonderful time getting spoiled by other adults and learning skills that their parents and I couldn't teach them. My friends got the joy of sharing their skills with another generation and watching the joy on my granddaughter's faces. I got to enjoy watching my grandchildren have fun doing something I couldn't share with them without my friends. Plus I got to enjoy visiting with my friends at the same time.
Check out the activities of the local senior center and see if they will allow you to bring your children or grandchildren to learn new skills. Not every activity is open to children and we are careful not to intrude on a senior fellowship planned activity. Who knows, you might make a new friend in the process. What friends do you have that you could share your children or grandchildren with?
Always busy looking for ways to entertain my grandchildren, I had never thought of sharing them with my friends until this week. One afternoon a friend invited them to her house to make cards with her scrap-booking supplies. What a surprise we had. She had made a special snack, put together a little early Easter basket, and had picked out just the right supplies to make a card with cupcakes (a hint of our special snack) and an Easter card.
She had spent the morning putting together the supplies and the girls were able to pick the paper, stamps, ink, stickers, embellishments (the most beautiful little cloth butterflies), and punches (for just the right holes or designs). I spent the time looking through all of the cards my friend had created while the girls were free to make their own designs. Their hands were full with treats and cards when they left. They had a wonderful time and everyone is looking forward to making this a regular activity when summer finally arrives.
A second afternoon we took yarn and knitting needles and headed for a local senior center to learn how to knit with another friend. I know how to knit, but can't seem to get the process down to teach my 10-year-old granddaughter who is left-handed. My friend, a very skillful knitter can teach either right or left handed. She had provided some wood needles which she thought would work perfect for smaller hands. They spent a pleasant hour working together while I watched and helped my 7-year-old granddaughter with her knitting (she is right-handed). After the hour, the girls played while my friend taught me how to knit left-handed so hopefully I can help my granddaughter when she gets stuck. We all had fun and look forward to getting together again when summer finally arrives.
One of my greatest joys is spending time with my grandchildren. They are mine and I love them. I never thought they could also bring joy to others who aren't related to them and who aren't blessed with getting to spend as much time with their grandchildren as I am. Granted, not everyone enjoys spending time with someone else's children, but for those who do, why not think about sharing your grandchildren with them. We all were blessed by the experience. My grandchildren had a wonderful time getting spoiled by other adults and learning skills that their parents and I couldn't teach them. My friends got the joy of sharing their skills with another generation and watching the joy on my granddaughter's faces. I got to enjoy watching my grandchildren have fun doing something I couldn't share with them without my friends. Plus I got to enjoy visiting with my friends at the same time.
Check out the activities of the local senior center and see if they will allow you to bring your children or grandchildren to learn new skills. Not every activity is open to children and we are careful not to intrude on a senior fellowship planned activity. Who knows, you might make a new friend in the process. What friends do you have that you could share your children or grandchildren with?
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Birthday Fun
Got into my blog today and learned something interesting. I'm not perfect. Of course, I've known that for some time, but proved it today by my one line post. I think I was attempting to start a post and somehow published it. Did it raise more questions than answers?
Anyway, yes, my 9-year-old granddaughter is now 10. You have probably also experienced how much more difficult it is shopping for grandchildren than it was shopping for that child that you have raised and lived with. When I lived in Colorado, I'd ask a close friend who had children my grandchildren's age and she would help me to get some good ideas. Now that I live close, I should know what they want, but it's still hard to find that perfect gift. I asked my son and he shared with me that his daughter was getting an IPod Touch and a case would be nice. So I headed for Best Buy looking for just the right case. I knew her favorite color was gold and thought that would be an easy selection. I picked up three different choices, putting each one down for something better. They didn't have a gold one. Finally, I just gave up. Because I wanted it to be perfect, I decided to do something different and let her pick her own.
When I picked her up from school, I told her that we had to take a quick shopping trip. Knowing that she doesn't like to run errands and it was after all her birthday, I told her where we were going. I didn't expect the excitement she enjoyed picking out her own case. A couple of times she whispered from the back seat. "I can't believe I have an IPod Touch" and then "I can't believe I get to pick out my own case." I felt a little guilty over not giving her a gift to unwrap, but she couldn't have been happier. She had almost as much difficulty as I did with all the choices. She chose the one I would have picked out for myself. That was fun for me to see how alike our tastes are.
We left the store with her purchase. Instead of going to my home which we usually do after school, we went straight to her house so she could put her case on her IPod. She was pretty excited to show her parents when they got home from work.
Her little sister was almost as excited as she was. My 7-year-old granddaughter turns 8 next month. She told me that she knew the secret of what her sister was getting for her birthday and was told that if she kept the secret she might get one for her birthday. She was pretty excited that she was able to keep the secret. "It was pretty easy, Grandma, I only had to keep the secret for a day. Now, since I kept the secret I might get an IPod Touch, and if I do, I might be able to shop for a cover too."
I just checked the calendar and her birthday is on a school day as well. Guess I know where we'll be going after school. Although I'd better check with my son for sure.
What was your favorite birthday gift as a child?
Anyway, yes, my 9-year-old granddaughter is now 10. You have probably also experienced how much more difficult it is shopping for grandchildren than it was shopping for that child that you have raised and lived with. When I lived in Colorado, I'd ask a close friend who had children my grandchildren's age and she would help me to get some good ideas. Now that I live close, I should know what they want, but it's still hard to find that perfect gift. I asked my son and he shared with me that his daughter was getting an IPod Touch and a case would be nice. So I headed for Best Buy looking for just the right case. I knew her favorite color was gold and thought that would be an easy selection. I picked up three different choices, putting each one down for something better. They didn't have a gold one. Finally, I just gave up. Because I wanted it to be perfect, I decided to do something different and let her pick her own.
When I picked her up from school, I told her that we had to take a quick shopping trip. Knowing that she doesn't like to run errands and it was after all her birthday, I told her where we were going. I didn't expect the excitement she enjoyed picking out her own case. A couple of times she whispered from the back seat. "I can't believe I have an IPod Touch" and then "I can't believe I get to pick out my own case." I felt a little guilty over not giving her a gift to unwrap, but she couldn't have been happier. She had almost as much difficulty as I did with all the choices. She chose the one I would have picked out for myself. That was fun for me to see how alike our tastes are.
We left the store with her purchase. Instead of going to my home which we usually do after school, we went straight to her house so she could put her case on her IPod. She was pretty excited to show her parents when they got home from work.
Her little sister was almost as excited as she was. My 7-year-old granddaughter turns 8 next month. She told me that she knew the secret of what her sister was getting for her birthday and was told that if she kept the secret she might get one for her birthday. She was pretty excited that she was able to keep the secret. "It was pretty easy, Grandma, I only had to keep the secret for a day. Now, since I kept the secret I might get an IPod Touch, and if I do, I might be able to shop for a cover too."
I just checked the calendar and her birthday is on a school day as well. Guess I know where we'll be going after school. Although I'd better check with my son for sure.
What was your favorite birthday gift as a child?
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Spring Concerts, Graduations, and Picture Books
The other day I saw two robins looking for worms in my front lawn. Spring is coming!
Before I get ahead of myself and start thinking about all the fun travel with my grandchildren, I had better come back to earth and remember school is not over yet. This time of year brings the spring school concerts and graduations. I had both this last week and almost didn't make them. I had not planned ahead for the concert for my 3rd grade granddaughter and grandson. I was exhausted and did not look forward to driving home after the concerts since it was out of town. "I'm sorry," I shared. " I will not be able to attend." My granddaughter had her aunt, uncle, grandmother and great-grandmother, her mom and my son coming so knew she wouldn't miss me. My grandson, new to her family, would enjoy them staying for his concert as well. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that thinking was pretty flawed. I called up my son and told him to save me a spot. I would probably not make it for my granddaughter due to commitments I could not break at home. I would get there just as soon as I could. I walked in the door and my grandson, already on stage, spotted me the moment I walked in. Usually not one for showing emotions, he got the biggest smile on his face as he looked right at me. I waved, he waved quickly too and I knew I would never miss another concert if at all possible. My granddaughter looked at me and said, "You missed my concert!" I apologized several times and realized you can never have too many quests at your concert when you are in the third grade (or ever)!
Graduation. I wasn't sure we would make it for my granddaughter's graduation. We were expecting a pretty bad spring storm and with my son's broken ankle, we did not want to risk driving for several hours in bad weather. We both watched the weather carefully and he let his daughter know we would try if we could. She understood and said it didn't matter to her. It was not going to be anything special. Our prayers were answered and the storm moved to bypass us and it looked like our road would be clear up and back. We headed out. My son called his daughter when we got to town so she would know we were on our way. There were nine in her Esthetics's class and her graduation was very special. There were sixteen graduating all together and I'm so happy I was able to attend. We were so proud of her and her hard work and told her many times that night. Her smile lit up the entire room and she and her friends congratulated each other, cheering as each teacher was introduced and each graduate went up on stage. We got to meet her best friend at school and I took lots of pictures. She's working now, getting a job before graduation. The only downside, my youngest son and family couldn't attend due to his in-laws coming to town for a long awaited visit, all ten of them, which couldn't be changed after the school changed the graduation date. He was as disappointed as we were although they had a wonderful time with my daughter-in-law's family.
All of us like to be recognized for our hard work no matter if we are 8 or 20 or over 60; don't miss those concerts and graduations. Those good memories will last a lifetime for the performer and the audience.
Found a new website today: Margo Dill's Read These Books and Use Them! I had never thought of using a picture book with no words to help children express themselves with words. The book she chose to review, Octopus Soup by Mercer Mayer, looks perfect for both of my third graders, as well as my second grader. Since I'm at the home of my third graders, a trip to the library seems in order. Not only will they be able to enjoy the book, they are able to make their own choice as to which page they want to write about, and can do their homework independently. "Now what should I write, grandma? I can't think of anything." Those statements are frustrating for me and for them, this will make that process easier.
Do you have a favorite picture book without words that we should try? Be sure to check out Margo's blog. I'm going back later to review some books for my older girls.
Before I get ahead of myself and start thinking about all the fun travel with my grandchildren, I had better come back to earth and remember school is not over yet. This time of year brings the spring school concerts and graduations. I had both this last week and almost didn't make them. I had not planned ahead for the concert for my 3rd grade granddaughter and grandson. I was exhausted and did not look forward to driving home after the concerts since it was out of town. "I'm sorry," I shared. " I will not be able to attend." My granddaughter had her aunt, uncle, grandmother and great-grandmother, her mom and my son coming so knew she wouldn't miss me. My grandson, new to her family, would enjoy them staying for his concert as well. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that thinking was pretty flawed. I called up my son and told him to save me a spot. I would probably not make it for my granddaughter due to commitments I could not break at home. I would get there just as soon as I could. I walked in the door and my grandson, already on stage, spotted me the moment I walked in. Usually not one for showing emotions, he got the biggest smile on his face as he looked right at me. I waved, he waved quickly too and I knew I would never miss another concert if at all possible. My granddaughter looked at me and said, "You missed my concert!" I apologized several times and realized you can never have too many quests at your concert when you are in the third grade (or ever)!
Graduation. I wasn't sure we would make it for my granddaughter's graduation. We were expecting a pretty bad spring storm and with my son's broken ankle, we did not want to risk driving for several hours in bad weather. We both watched the weather carefully and he let his daughter know we would try if we could. She understood and said it didn't matter to her. It was not going to be anything special. Our prayers were answered and the storm moved to bypass us and it looked like our road would be clear up and back. We headed out. My son called his daughter when we got to town so she would know we were on our way. There were nine in her Esthetics's class and her graduation was very special. There were sixteen graduating all together and I'm so happy I was able to attend. We were so proud of her and her hard work and told her many times that night. Her smile lit up the entire room and she and her friends congratulated each other, cheering as each teacher was introduced and each graduate went up on stage. We got to meet her best friend at school and I took lots of pictures. She's working now, getting a job before graduation. The only downside, my youngest son and family couldn't attend due to his in-laws coming to town for a long awaited visit, all ten of them, which couldn't be changed after the school changed the graduation date. He was as disappointed as we were although they had a wonderful time with my daughter-in-law's family.
All of us like to be recognized for our hard work no matter if we are 8 or 20 or over 60; don't miss those concerts and graduations. Those good memories will last a lifetime for the performer and the audience.
Found a new website today: Margo Dill's Read These Books and Use Them! I had never thought of using a picture book with no words to help children express themselves with words. The book she chose to review, Octopus Soup by Mercer Mayer, looks perfect for both of my third graders, as well as my second grader. Since I'm at the home of my third graders, a trip to the library seems in order. Not only will they be able to enjoy the book, they are able to make their own choice as to which page they want to write about, and can do their homework independently. "Now what should I write, grandma? I can't think of anything." Those statements are frustrating for me and for them, this will make that process easier.
Do you have a favorite picture book without words that we should try? Be sure to check out Margo's blog. I'm going back later to review some books for my older girls.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Talking With Your Children
The other day my granddaughter and I had the opportunity to sit down and have a nice long conversation. She was recuperating and her mom and dad were off at her sister's concert. Many of us would probably say, "Of course I talk with my children." After reading Stephanie's blog at Stephanie's Corner, dated February 15th, I decided to be a little more intentional about my conversations with my grandchildren. I ask my grandchildren about school on the drive home, or when they walk in the door. They are usually in a hurry to begin homework, play, or relax and watch TV so the conversation isn't as meaningful as it could be. Or I'll will ask about something that they've done, what they did over the weekend, or lessons they've taken. This time, I took Stephanie's advise and decided to be more intentional. I asked her what she wanted to do, since she was stuck in bed and I was on a couch nearby. "What can I do?" she asked. "Anything you want that will keep you resting here in the bedroom," I answered. "You can read, you can watch a movie, we can play a game. What would you like to do? " "Let's play Barbie beauty shop," she said. That hadn't even crossed my radar. Even though I played Barbie as a child, I really do not enjoy "playing Barbie" with the girls. I just don't think I'm creative enough, although I've attempted a few times and they've enjoyed it.
We had the best time! She brought in two Barbies with long hair and got all of the hair things that "were small enough for a Barbie," she explained, and we started brushing Barbie's hair. She made several crazy pony tails sticking out all over her head. I tried a french braid. It was pretty crooked but she kept saying over and over again how much she loved the braid and what a good job I did. I complimented her as well and we sat on the couch together talking about many different things that I would not share here. I was really disappointed when I heard her parents come home. We were together on the couch, the TV was off, it was just the two of us and the cell phone was far enough away that I couldn't even glance at it when it pinged that I had a message. The minute she heard the garage door open she was off the couch to make pancakes with her mom and didn't give the Barbies or me a second thought. That is how it should be, but I don't want to make that the last night we have to talk. She has not mentioned our conversation since, but I know that she felt very special and so did I.
With my sons it was always the trip to the store. I always wanted to take just one boy so we could talk when they were growing up. With my oldest granddaughters it was going to a movie without her sister. Now with my younger grandchildren it's playing a WII game or video game with just one, or spending time in the kitchen making something special for mom or dad. With my newest granddaughter, we played a board game that didn't take much thought and allowed us to talk. WII and video games are fun, but I need to make sure I have that intentional talk time while they are eager to share their lives. What are you doing to take aside your child to make them feel like they are special, while actually listening to what they have to say?
We haven't done much traveling lately, with school during the week and Mom and Dad fun on the weekends. I'm going to keep my posts to every Wednesday for a while, until we are able to do more traveling. Join me every Wednesday for activities, new websites to review, or books to share with your grandchildren and children.
We had the best time! She brought in two Barbies with long hair and got all of the hair things that "were small enough for a Barbie," she explained, and we started brushing Barbie's hair. She made several crazy pony tails sticking out all over her head. I tried a french braid. It was pretty crooked but she kept saying over and over again how much she loved the braid and what a good job I did. I complimented her as well and we sat on the couch together talking about many different things that I would not share here. I was really disappointed when I heard her parents come home. We were together on the couch, the TV was off, it was just the two of us and the cell phone was far enough away that I couldn't even glance at it when it pinged that I had a message. The minute she heard the garage door open she was off the couch to make pancakes with her mom and didn't give the Barbies or me a second thought. That is how it should be, but I don't want to make that the last night we have to talk. She has not mentioned our conversation since, but I know that she felt very special and so did I.
With my sons it was always the trip to the store. I always wanted to take just one boy so we could talk when they were growing up. With my oldest granddaughters it was going to a movie without her sister. Now with my younger grandchildren it's playing a WII game or video game with just one, or spending time in the kitchen making something special for mom or dad. With my newest granddaughter, we played a board game that didn't take much thought and allowed us to talk. WII and video games are fun, but I need to make sure I have that intentional talk time while they are eager to share their lives. What are you doing to take aside your child to make them feel like they are special, while actually listening to what they have to say?
We haven't done much traveling lately, with school during the week and Mom and Dad fun on the weekends. I'm going to keep my posts to every Wednesday for a while, until we are able to do more traveling. Join me every Wednesday for activities, new websites to review, or books to share with your grandchildren and children.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Another Special Friday Night
Another special Friday night at my house and this time it was Ritz cracker pizzas. For those of you who aren't familiar with the Ritz Cracker pizza, it's pretty simple. Put 1/2 a teaspoon pizza sauce on top of a Ritz Cracker and then put whatever topping you want. We chose a simple cheese and pepperoni. To make it easier for me to keep track, each child had his or her own pie tin to put their individual pizzas on. One chose just to add cheese; another cheese then pepperoni, then cheese; one chose to cover half of the crackers with cheese, the other half with pepperoni; one chose cheese and then pepperoni; and the last one chose pepperoni and then cheese. The ideas were as varied as the children. The most important part was that it was of their own making. The only rule was to try not to get too much of the cheese on the bare pan since it just ended up burning before the cheese on the crackers was melted. I just put them in the oven at 325degrees for 10 minutes and checked them from there until the cheese was melted. You can melt the cheese in the microwave too. I chose the oven because a couple of the tins were metal.
The other fun part of making your own pizza was putting on the pepperoni, which is very precise as follows: Put one piece on cracker, put one piece in your mouth, put one piece on cracker, put one piece in your mouth. If you follow these directions, you won't need to use as many crackers. We ended up using all the crackers because I was eating as many Ritz crackers as I was making pizzas. Fortunately, we had enough pepperoni and crackers that everyone was able to get their fill.
One hour later, popcorn! Since it was movie night there had to be popcorn. Surprisingly, they each ate a good portion popcorn, too. Do you ever put M&Ms on your popcorn? My daughter-in-law taught me that trick when I moved to Iowa. Best added while the popcorn is warm. Cookies finished off the night.
We've tried French bread pizza, English muffin pizza, and the ever popular Ritz Cracker pizza when the boys were growing up. Shrimp is another delicious topping. I think I'm ready to make another pizza.
While I was looking through the Kids National Geographic for some games, I found a snow leopard jigsaw puzzle. You can create your puzzle in 12 pieces or choose a higher number. I ended up choosing 78. I like jigsaw puzzles and had fun seeing how quickly I could complete the puzzle. Took me 24 minutes 32 seconds. So you might think, "That is 25 minutes she will never get back." That's true, but sometimes we need to waste a few minutes and relax. I could try it again with another puzzle to see if I can beat my time, but I don't think it is about the time. It was watching the puzzle come together and the satisfaction of hearing the click each time a piece fit. As soon as you grab a piece, it orientates so you know the direction it goes in. That makes it easier then a paper puzzle you do on a table. Next time the grandchildren come over, I'll introduce them to this site. Looks like that will be tomorrow since there is no school.
I'm making the list for tomorrow. I asked the girls what they would like to do. I have two tomorrow. My 9-year-old granddaughter said, "I just have to ask the question, grandma. Is rock climbing out of the question?" "Yes, rock climbing is out of the question." She's been missing visits to Colorado now that I have moved to Iowa. With a rainy day expected, we will have plenty to do without rock climbing.
Any other ideas for individual pizza?
The other fun part of making your own pizza was putting on the pepperoni, which is very precise as follows: Put one piece on cracker, put one piece in your mouth, put one piece on cracker, put one piece in your mouth. If you follow these directions, you won't need to use as many crackers. We ended up using all the crackers because I was eating as many Ritz crackers as I was making pizzas. Fortunately, we had enough pepperoni and crackers that everyone was able to get their fill.
One hour later, popcorn! Since it was movie night there had to be popcorn. Surprisingly, they each ate a good portion popcorn, too. Do you ever put M&Ms on your popcorn? My daughter-in-law taught me that trick when I moved to Iowa. Best added while the popcorn is warm. Cookies finished off the night.
We've tried French bread pizza, English muffin pizza, and the ever popular Ritz Cracker pizza when the boys were growing up. Shrimp is another delicious topping. I think I'm ready to make another pizza.
While I was looking through the Kids National Geographic for some games, I found a snow leopard jigsaw puzzle. You can create your puzzle in 12 pieces or choose a higher number. I ended up choosing 78. I like jigsaw puzzles and had fun seeing how quickly I could complete the puzzle. Took me 24 minutes 32 seconds. So you might think, "That is 25 minutes she will never get back." That's true, but sometimes we need to waste a few minutes and relax. I could try it again with another puzzle to see if I can beat my time, but I don't think it is about the time. It was watching the puzzle come together and the satisfaction of hearing the click each time a piece fit. As soon as you grab a piece, it orientates so you know the direction it goes in. That makes it easier then a paper puzzle you do on a table. Next time the grandchildren come over, I'll introduce them to this site. Looks like that will be tomorrow since there is no school.
I'm making the list for tomorrow. I asked the girls what they would like to do. I have two tomorrow. My 9-year-old granddaughter said, "I just have to ask the question, grandma. Is rock climbing out of the question?" "Yes, rock climbing is out of the question." She's been missing visits to Colorado now that I have moved to Iowa. With a rainy day expected, we will have plenty to do without rock climbing.
Any other ideas for individual pizza?
Monday, December 26, 2011
Christmas 2011
Christmas is over for this year. While many parents return to work, more and more parents are making arrangements to stay home for an extra day or two. My grandchildren were fortunate enough to have a wonderful Christmas and they are with their parents today. With my oldest son working on Christmas morning, his children went to him and after opening gifts spent several hours swimming at the hotel pool. Not a typical Christmas, although they will remember this as one of the best ever! The toys my grandchildren enjoyed the most, were the ones which included a parent.....a race track that needed to be set up, dolls to make, books that could be purchased with a parent's help and then read right away...baking, finger knitting, and the ever popular Lego's. I was given the gift of another granddaughter this year, ready-made at age 8. My grandson would have preferred a brother, but since he is the same age as his new sister, they still can play together sometimes.
I just sat at my youngest son's home watching, smiling, and taking pictures for two days. The whole family were together Christmas eve and that memory is my favorite Christmas gift. Growing up my parents always gave my sister and I at least one gift we could use or play with. Don and I did the same with our sons and grandchildren. All my grandchildren (with the exception of my 8-year-old granddaughter who already owned one) were given cameras. My 11-year-old granddaughter was busy taking pictures and my 8-year-old grandson was taking movies while the rest of the presents were opened. They will have hours of fun and I'm hoping this is the start of a new hobby for all of them. More of their photography fun to follow.
I received two gifts to play with, a sewing kit and a mixer with baking pans and oodles of cookie cutters for every holiday. I was pretty excited about both, so spent the rest of the time looking through my daughter-in-law's cookbooks, now that I have a mixer that works. I will finally get that mending done I've been trying to complete for months. I received other gifts that were just as wonderful and I loved each and every gift.
Have you been thinking about your New Years Resolutions? I don't wait for January 1, I begin on December 26. So far, at least for one day I've been right on track. Enjoy the rest of 2011. 2012 is just around the corner and I expect it will be a year filled with many of God's blessings for each one of you.
I just sat at my youngest son's home watching, smiling, and taking pictures for two days. The whole family were together Christmas eve and that memory is my favorite Christmas gift. Growing up my parents always gave my sister and I at least one gift we could use or play with. Don and I did the same with our sons and grandchildren. All my grandchildren (with the exception of my 8-year-old granddaughter who already owned one) were given cameras. My 11-year-old granddaughter was busy taking pictures and my 8-year-old grandson was taking movies while the rest of the presents were opened. They will have hours of fun and I'm hoping this is the start of a new hobby for all of them. More of their photography fun to follow.
I received two gifts to play with, a sewing kit and a mixer with baking pans and oodles of cookie cutters for every holiday. I was pretty excited about both, so spent the rest of the time looking through my daughter-in-law's cookbooks, now that I have a mixer that works. I will finally get that mending done I've been trying to complete for months. I received other gifts that were just as wonderful and I loved each and every gift.
Have you been thinking about your New Years Resolutions? I don't wait for January 1, I begin on December 26. So far, at least for one day I've been right on track. Enjoy the rest of 2011. 2012 is just around the corner and I expect it will be a year filled with many of God's blessings for each one of you.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Awana
Last night was the opening night for Awana. Awana stands for Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed from the Bible verse: "Study to show yourself Approved unto God, Workmen, who Are Not Ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15. Children learn to understand God's word and memorize Bible verses. They play games and earn awards with a group of their peers. Awana meetings are held at churches all over the world.
All of my four youngest grandchildren are joining Awana this year and I'm volunteering alternate nights at each church. Last night I worked with a small group of first, second, and third graders. As my grandchildren are growing up (two already living in a different state) I'm really going to miss "Grandma, can you help me?" Many of you are going through the same emotions and some of you are waiting to hear those words from great grandchildren. The reason I'm bringing this up, is the fun you have have enjoyed with children in your own family can continue by volunteering to work with children outside your family.
There are so many places that need your help. The first that come to mind are those I've volunteered for in the past: Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the schools. Most don't take much preparation time and the benefits for you and the children you help can be countless. I'm sure you can find areas that you've seen with your children that can use your help.
Last night my grandson, age 8, and granddaughter, age 11, went to his and her class and I went looking for my volunteer spot. That first night is such fun and filled with the electricity of smiling children as they walk hand in hand with their parents to their new classes or stop to hug a leader they had last year. It's just like the wall to wall children you get to experience when you visit schools. Since my grandson is now in 3rd grade and turned eight on Sunday, he has graduated from Sparks to T&T (Truth and Training).
I haven't taken my training yet, so am a helper and not a leader with my own group. The group I'm helping with consists of seven children eager and ready for the fun and learning ahead. While the leader was working with a couple of children on their first Bible verse, I checked on a couple of girls, one working on a zig saw puzzle and the other a word hunt while waiting for their turn.
I lost count of the number of times I heard, "Can you help me?" Kindergarten, first, and second graders seem to enjoy whatever project they are involved in. I'm not involved in the games this year, so was with the group getting the classes sorted out while the children played their games. After study time we went in for singing and story time. I'd forgotten how much fun the songs with hand and body movements are for the children and the adults around them. We were all laughing pretty hard at the end. Story time included questions about the Bible such as how many books in the Bible, how many in the New Testament and how many in the Old Testament. I must admit I didn't know the answer, but I do now. My knowledge was put to shame by the second grader who raised her hand and proudly said, "27" when asked how many books are in the New Testament.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the little ones and look forward to meeting my new group next week at my second church home with granddaughters age 9 and 7. What are your ideas for volunteering to help children in your community?
All of my four youngest grandchildren are joining Awana this year and I'm volunteering alternate nights at each church. Last night I worked with a small group of first, second, and third graders. As my grandchildren are growing up (two already living in a different state) I'm really going to miss "Grandma, can you help me?" Many of you are going through the same emotions and some of you are waiting to hear those words from great grandchildren. The reason I'm bringing this up, is the fun you have have enjoyed with children in your own family can continue by volunteering to work with children outside your family.
There are so many places that need your help. The first that come to mind are those I've volunteered for in the past: Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the schools. Most don't take much preparation time and the benefits for you and the children you help can be countless. I'm sure you can find areas that you've seen with your children that can use your help.
Last night my grandson, age 8, and granddaughter, age 11, went to his and her class and I went looking for my volunteer spot. That first night is such fun and filled with the electricity of smiling children as they walk hand in hand with their parents to their new classes or stop to hug a leader they had last year. It's just like the wall to wall children you get to experience when you visit schools. Since my grandson is now in 3rd grade and turned eight on Sunday, he has graduated from Sparks to T&T (Truth and Training).
I haven't taken my training yet, so am a helper and not a leader with my own group. The group I'm helping with consists of seven children eager and ready for the fun and learning ahead. While the leader was working with a couple of children on their first Bible verse, I checked on a couple of girls, one working on a zig saw puzzle and the other a word hunt while waiting for their turn.
I lost count of the number of times I heard, "Can you help me?" Kindergarten, first, and second graders seem to enjoy whatever project they are involved in. I'm not involved in the games this year, so was with the group getting the classes sorted out while the children played their games. After study time we went in for singing and story time. I'd forgotten how much fun the songs with hand and body movements are for the children and the adults around them. We were all laughing pretty hard at the end. Story time included questions about the Bible such as how many books in the Bible, how many in the New Testament and how many in the Old Testament. I must admit I didn't know the answer, but I do now. My knowledge was put to shame by the second grader who raised her hand and proudly said, "27" when asked how many books are in the New Testament.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the little ones and look forward to meeting my new group next week at my second church home with granddaughters age 9 and 7. What are your ideas for volunteering to help children in your community?
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
RAGBRAI
Summer means RAGBRAI for many Iowa bicyclists. My oldest son has talked about riding in it before, but it wasn't until I moved here that I really saw the impact of thousands of bicyclists riding for the sheer enjoyment. My youngest son decided to join in for the first time this year and the minute it ended they began preparing for next year. They rode for one day this year, 56.1 miles on the day they chose. They aren't the only ones getting ready for next year. Check out the website for RAGBRAI and you can find the countdown until next year's ride broken down to the second.
My daughter-in-law and I each took a car to pick up one of my son's and his bicycle. The kids all rode with her until we got to the guys and we left with one parent and his two children. Riding through a group of bicycles always makes me nervous because I have found they don't always watch the cars, but I wasn't near as nervous riding through the group of RAGBRAI riders. Even though they were in huge groups and took over the roads, they still paid attention to what was going on around them. The intersections were a little tough to maneuver because there were so many of them and they kept coming and coming and coming, but we made it in and out of town without a hitch. When I saw Michele Bachmann's's bus drive past, I felt pretty lucky to be driving only my little Toyota Sienna.
My sons enjoyed meeting the people as much as they enjoyed the ride. One son invited a busload of folks to park at his house and use his shower and air conditioning. Both commented what great house guests they were, even with wall to wall people sleeping on the floor in the air conditioning. Both boys had stories of how nice the groups of people they met were. They also commented on the fact that the entire day, they could count on one hand the number of discarded water bottles they saw laying alongside the road. This is definitely one event that they are proud to have participated in.
What struck me most about the day, as a proud mother, was my son's conversation with his children on the way home. The only thing he talked about for most of the ride is how he is going to help his children prepare for a part of next year's ride. They joined in the fun and are looking forward to the ride as well. They both got new bicycles a few weeks before and were already building up their distance taking rides with their dad. My two other granddaughters had not learned how to ride their bikes at the time of RAGBRAI and have since not only learned to ride, but are taking long bike rides with the entire family. It has definitely been a bike riding summer. By next spring I'll have sold my snowmobile and trailer and replaced them with a trailer for my recumbent bike and I'm on my way to join in the fun.
Have you taken any long distance bicycle rides? What is your favorite route? Think about joining us next year at .RAGBRAI.
My daughter-in-law and I each took a car to pick up one of my son's and his bicycle. The kids all rode with her until we got to the guys and we left with one parent and his two children. Riding through a group of bicycles always makes me nervous because I have found they don't always watch the cars, but I wasn't near as nervous riding through the group of RAGBRAI riders. Even though they were in huge groups and took over the roads, they still paid attention to what was going on around them. The intersections were a little tough to maneuver because there were so many of them and they kept coming and coming and coming, but we made it in and out of town without a hitch. When I saw Michele Bachmann's's bus drive past, I felt pretty lucky to be driving only my little Toyota Sienna.
My sons enjoyed meeting the people as much as they enjoyed the ride. One son invited a busload of folks to park at his house and use his shower and air conditioning. Both commented what great house guests they were, even with wall to wall people sleeping on the floor in the air conditioning. Both boys had stories of how nice the groups of people they met were. They also commented on the fact that the entire day, they could count on one hand the number of discarded water bottles they saw laying alongside the road. This is definitely one event that they are proud to have participated in.
What struck me most about the day, as a proud mother, was my son's conversation with his children on the way home. The only thing he talked about for most of the ride is how he is going to help his children prepare for a part of next year's ride. They joined in the fun and are looking forward to the ride as well. They both got new bicycles a few weeks before and were already building up their distance taking rides with their dad. My two other granddaughters had not learned how to ride their bikes at the time of RAGBRAI and have since not only learned to ride, but are taking long bike rides with the entire family. It has definitely been a bike riding summer. By next spring I'll have sold my snowmobile and trailer and replaced them with a trailer for my recumbent bike and I'm on my way to join in the fun.
Have you taken any long distance bicycle rides? What is your favorite route? Think about joining us next year at .RAGBRAI.
Friday, July 22, 2011
It's Too Hot to Play Outside
With several days of dangerous heat levels, it's been too hot to participate in our usual summer activities. Now what do we do?
For granddaughters age 7 and 9, there have been plenty of things to do. When you run out of the typical activities that usually keep kids busy, TV (not the best for an all day activity), Barbies (it's fun but for only so long)....look at those skills you can hand down to them.
I found a package of cookie dough in the cupboard. They were really excited to bake cookies. So they added water, an egg and took turns stirring the peanut butter cookie dough. Something went wrong (clearly not my skill level) and the burnt cookies were not everyone's favorite. Unfortunately, I like burnt cookies and I'm almost finished with them.
Knitting doesn't sound like a summer sport, but with air conditioning, granddaughter age 7 and I are busy making a blanket for Laura (her pioneer doll from Living History Farms).
Photographer for the day is still a favorite and a short walk to a wildflower field near their home gave us many subjects. We not only found flowers, but bugs, homes with beautiful statues, doors with fun wall hangings, and the perfect color for their uncle to paint his new home. Granddaughter age 7 is learning composition, how to set the focus on the camera, and how far she needs to stand back to get the best picture.
They are finishing up their velvet pictures from last year. They had been packed away for so long, it was a brand new exciting activity they had forgotten about.
Writing books is another fun activity and one that hopefully will entertain them for many years to come. The books are homemade and the stories as well. They are eager to share as each page progresses.
Don't forget board games. They never tire of UNO. We found an old PacMan board game with marbles that they have so much fun with. Too much to do, too little time.
What skills do you have that you can share with your children or grandchildren?
For granddaughters age 7 and 9, there have been plenty of things to do. When you run out of the typical activities that usually keep kids busy, TV (not the best for an all day activity), Barbies (it's fun but for only so long)....look at those skills you can hand down to them.
I found a package of cookie dough in the cupboard. They were really excited to bake cookies. So they added water, an egg and took turns stirring the peanut butter cookie dough. Something went wrong (clearly not my skill level) and the burnt cookies were not everyone's favorite. Unfortunately, I like burnt cookies and I'm almost finished with them.
Knitting doesn't sound like a summer sport, but with air conditioning, granddaughter age 7 and I are busy making a blanket for Laura (her pioneer doll from Living History Farms).
Photographer for the day is still a favorite and a short walk to a wildflower field near their home gave us many subjects. We not only found flowers, but bugs, homes with beautiful statues, doors with fun wall hangings, and the perfect color for their uncle to paint his new home. Granddaughter age 7 is learning composition, how to set the focus on the camera, and how far she needs to stand back to get the best picture.
They are finishing up their velvet pictures from last year. They had been packed away for so long, it was a brand new exciting activity they had forgotten about.
Writing books is another fun activity and one that hopefully will entertain them for many years to come. The books are homemade and the stories as well. They are eager to share as each page progresses.
Don't forget board games. They never tire of UNO. We found an old PacMan board game with marbles that they have so much fun with. Too much to do, too little time.
What skills do you have that you can share with your children or grandchildren?
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Garage Sale
Whew, we've finished our three-family three-day garage sale. Success! We have things left, although we probably sold half of most items. Each one of us was able to sell something big we wanted to get rid of and several people got really good deals. I was busy for all three days with three or four cars showing up at a time. My son, daughter-in-law, and I all kept busy on Saturday. I don't normally shop garage sales, although I realize that isn't really smart when I'm trying to live simply and recycle. My new goal is not to buy new things until I'm rid of the old things. I'm jealous of those who looked like they knew what they were doing and left happily with their purchases. Maybe next summer......
My favorite sale was the woman who walked up to me and asked if I had any children's life jackets. I handed her one for a little boy. She said, "That's great, this will fit my son. Do you have any for a girl?" I reached over and handed her one for a little girl. She looked at me in amazement. She said, "I just left work, we are going to the lake tonight, and I thought I'd stop by on my way home just in case." We both laughed and each of us was extremely happy with the sale.
My son told me it looked like I really enjoyed all three days helping them with the sale. I realized I did for several reasons. I was able to help my sons with something they weren't able to do (the first night was their volleyball night and with my daughter-in-law the team captain, she and my son had to be there and my other son was working). Friday was a work day for all. It was fun to see many of their things go to others who would be able to enjoy them a little longer. I knew my family would appreciate those items not taking up room in their homes (I even got rid of a few things). They made much more money than they had the year before. Last but not least, I hoped I was losing weight using the old sweat it off method (whew it's hot and humid in Iowa in June!) or by not having time to eat.
So what does that have to do with grandchildren? My two granddaughters age 7 and 9 were great while I was occupied with customers. They started the first day by putting their artistic talent and chalk to welcoming customers to a "fun" garage sale across the driveway and sidewalk. They were always eager to watch over the garage sale when I had to run in the house for a minute (or to fix meals and snacks). A couple of times they would see toys missing a piece and they would run into their rooms to find it and put it out in the garage sale. Sometimes they would come out just for a hug and kiss and once I had a lovely dressed up sophisticated lady who sat with me to discuss how the sale was going. When she found out the neighbor girl was selling lemonade, she once again became a 9-year-old with only the wig and dress left in the chair to remind me of our lovely conversation.
Kids are resilient. Even though I would like to have every day a "fun day", that can't always be the case. I explained to the children what our garage sale plans were and that we wouldn't be able to do anything fun other than the garage sale for the next three days. Their response, "That's OK, Grandma."
Being grandma is wonderful! What have you been up to lately with your children and grandchildren?
My favorite sale was the woman who walked up to me and asked if I had any children's life jackets. I handed her one for a little boy. She said, "That's great, this will fit my son. Do you have any for a girl?" I reached over and handed her one for a little girl. She looked at me in amazement. She said, "I just left work, we are going to the lake tonight, and I thought I'd stop by on my way home just in case." We both laughed and each of us was extremely happy with the sale.
My son told me it looked like I really enjoyed all three days helping them with the sale. I realized I did for several reasons. I was able to help my sons with something they weren't able to do (the first night was their volleyball night and with my daughter-in-law the team captain, she and my son had to be there and my other son was working). Friday was a work day for all. It was fun to see many of their things go to others who would be able to enjoy them a little longer. I knew my family would appreciate those items not taking up room in their homes (I even got rid of a few things). They made much more money than they had the year before. Last but not least, I hoped I was losing weight using the old sweat it off method (whew it's hot and humid in Iowa in June!) or by not having time to eat.
So what does that have to do with grandchildren? My two granddaughters age 7 and 9 were great while I was occupied with customers. They started the first day by putting their artistic talent and chalk to welcoming customers to a "fun" garage sale across the driveway and sidewalk. They were always eager to watch over the garage sale when I had to run in the house for a minute (or to fix meals and snacks). A couple of times they would see toys missing a piece and they would run into their rooms to find it and put it out in the garage sale. Sometimes they would come out just for a hug and kiss and once I had a lovely dressed up sophisticated lady who sat with me to discuss how the sale was going. When she found out the neighbor girl was selling lemonade, she once again became a 9-year-old with only the wig and dress left in the chair to remind me of our lovely conversation.
Kids are resilient. Even though I would like to have every day a "fun day", that can't always be the case. I explained to the children what our garage sale plans were and that we wouldn't be able to do anything fun other than the garage sale for the next three days. Their response, "That's OK, Grandma."
Being grandma is wonderful! What have you been up to lately with your children and grandchildren?
Monday, July 4, 2011
Happy 4th of July!
Happy 4th of July everyone! I enjoy watching the parade every year now that I am in Iowa. We missed that when we lived in Colorado. As we celebrate our nation's independence I am once again thrilled to see our military honored for their service. As I watched the jets fly over, I enjoyed the reaction of the crowd as much as the thrill of seeing and hearing the jets.
That is the start of the parade, so we anxiously awaited with excitement. The parade started with a military band playing. The crowd stood up as the flags came by and the clapping continued when the crowd saw the band was a military band. We clapped and clapped and clapped.
Pretty soon, though, I was the only one clapping. Not too long after the band went by the crowd sat back down and watched the cars go by representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the other military service organizations. A few of the older veterans were in wagon pulled by a car or tractor. About half the crowd clapped when the World War II veterans passed by, then the crowd quieted again. I was the only one who continued clapping until the last veteran was out of sight.
Whether the veterans are World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm or those who fought in a war that is still going on, they all deserve our respect and appreciation. A good lesson that we must teach our children, just because the veteran is old, sometimes wearing only a hat with a branch of service on it, they deserve our respect and appreciation for the service they gave and the life they lived to maintain our safety in the United States of America. If you haven't been to the parade yet, or today's parade is just a memory, please join me at the next parade in clapping for the veterans whether young or old.
I don't tire of thanking men and women for their service when I see them in stores or on the street. My grandchildren always ask me why, as I patiently explain how much I appreciate what they have to do to keep all of us safe. I remind them that their grandpa never passed by a veteran without walking over to shake his or her hand and thanking them for their service.
Now go out and enjoy those fireworks! Don't forget to grab the sparklers to entertain the children waiting for the show to begin. And don't forget to thank our service men and women and veterans.
How did you celebrate this 4th of July and what are your thoughts regarding appreciation for our veterans?
That is the start of the parade, so we anxiously awaited with excitement. The parade started with a military band playing. The crowd stood up as the flags came by and the clapping continued when the crowd saw the band was a military band. We clapped and clapped and clapped.
Pretty soon, though, I was the only one clapping. Not too long after the band went by the crowd sat back down and watched the cars go by representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the other military service organizations. A few of the older veterans were in wagon pulled by a car or tractor. About half the crowd clapped when the World War II veterans passed by, then the crowd quieted again. I was the only one who continued clapping until the last veteran was out of sight.
Whether the veterans are World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm or those who fought in a war that is still going on, they all deserve our respect and appreciation. A good lesson that we must teach our children, just because the veteran is old, sometimes wearing only a hat with a branch of service on it, they deserve our respect and appreciation for the service they gave and the life they lived to maintain our safety in the United States of America. If you haven't been to the parade yet, or today's parade is just a memory, please join me at the next parade in clapping for the veterans whether young or old.
I don't tire of thanking men and women for their service when I see them in stores or on the street. My grandchildren always ask me why, as I patiently explain how much I appreciate what they have to do to keep all of us safe. I remind them that their grandpa never passed by a veteran without walking over to shake his or her hand and thanking them for their service.
Now go out and enjoy those fireworks! Don't forget to grab the sparklers to entertain the children waiting for the show to begin. And don't forget to thank our service men and women and veterans.
How did you celebrate this 4th of July and what are your thoughts regarding appreciation for our veterans?
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Spring
Part of the fun of living in the Midwest is dealing with the spring snow. Just when you begin to enjoy the warmer weather, the snow starts. I've been in some pretty big snow storms in South Dakota and Colorado, so I won't be surprised to see another. A few days ago after a warm weekend, I woke up to snow. It didn't last long and since I spent most of the day on the road, was able to see the snow turn to rain, and the roads go from slushy to wet to dry. Watching my 11-year-old granddaughter's softball practice with a winter coat on this evening is just another part of spring. I heard someone in the store today say that the weather won't turn warm until the robin feels snow three times on it's back.
Grandparents.com gives us 30 Fresh Ideas for Spring Fun. I'm looking forward to walking the neighborhood with my grandchildren once the flower gardens begin to show their beauty. We can start out to see how many different colors we can find. We'll bring some cameras do they can take photos of their favorites.
I think I'll skip the camping in the backyard. I remember the last time I set up a tent by myself. I was at Boy Scout Leaders Training Campout in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Don was the Scoutmaster, so stayed in another area of the camp and the boys were with the other scouts in still another area. I was pretty proud at the time of setting up my tent alone, although any good scout could have done it much faster. I woke up that morning to the tent covered with snow. I peaked out of my tent and there was Don walking by. I didn't feel so much alone then. It was fun, but now I think camping out in the house is more my style.
Planting a garden will be fun. I'll probably plant them at the boys' homes, I just need to ask them how much space I'll have to have. I can then take the children on a shopping trip. Granddaughter age 8 is growing a cabbage that she got at school. I'm excited to see how it's grown.
What are your ideas for a spring activity with children and grandchildren?
Grandparents.com gives us 30 Fresh Ideas for Spring Fun. I'm looking forward to walking the neighborhood with my grandchildren once the flower gardens begin to show their beauty. We can start out to see how many different colors we can find. We'll bring some cameras do they can take photos of their favorites.
I think I'll skip the camping in the backyard. I remember the last time I set up a tent by myself. I was at Boy Scout Leaders Training Campout in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Don was the Scoutmaster, so stayed in another area of the camp and the boys were with the other scouts in still another area. I was pretty proud at the time of setting up my tent alone, although any good scout could have done it much faster. I woke up that morning to the tent covered with snow. I peaked out of my tent and there was Don walking by. I didn't feel so much alone then. It was fun, but now I think camping out in the house is more my style.
Planting a garden will be fun. I'll probably plant them at the boys' homes, I just need to ask them how much space I'll have to have. I can then take the children on a shopping trip. Granddaughter age 8 is growing a cabbage that she got at school. I'm excited to see how it's grown.
What are your ideas for a spring activity with children and grandchildren?
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
100 Free Things To Do With Your Grandkids
One of my favorite websites to review is Grandparents.com . Last weekend I found 100 Free Things To Do With Your Grandkids . Granddaughter age 11, looking over my shoulder, said "I forgot all about hangman." That was my charge, let's play hangman! I quickly chose the word(s) "Summer Fun" and decided to play while they completed their weekend chores.
My charge to make today fun was solved. They enjoyed the game and a winner emerged. We continued to play as the day went on. We played three times while they completed their chores for the day. The competition was fun and I didn't have to remind them to complete their chores. 100 Free Things To Do With Your Grandkids was added to my favorites.
I hope you enjoy this site. Do you have a favorite site to share with us?
My charge to make today fun was solved. They enjoyed the game and a winner emerged. We continued to play as the day went on. We played three times while they completed their chores for the day. The competition was fun and I didn't have to remind them to complete their chores. 100 Free Things To Do With Your Grandkids was added to my favorites.
I hope you enjoy this site. Do you have a favorite site to share with us?
Monday, April 18, 2011
Summer is Coming
Summer is coming and who is more excited, my grandchildren or me? It's probably me since they look at me strangely whenever I say "Summer's coming!" and with the next breath "Get your warm coats on, we have to get to school." It's hard for me to contain my excitement.
We've had one birthday since my last post and today we have another birthday. So far this year we have granddaughter age 10 now 11, granddaughter age 8 now 9, and granddaughter age 6 turning 7 today. Grandson age 7 is still 7, looking forward to age 8 in a few months.
Granddaughter age 9 has made up a summer fun list for me, one side for indoors and one side for outdoors. Last weekend the weather was exceptionally warm, so we went to their favorite park for a hike. Parks were on her outdoor list. Throwing rocks into the river, watching sticks float down the river, and climbing trees added to the enjoyment of the hike. I got some much needed exercise, also. The weather has turned cold again. We don't mind. There are still velvet pictures to color, plastic canvas Easter bunnies to complete, movies from the library to watch, and lists to make for fun days this summer.
What are your plans for the summer?
We've had one birthday since my last post and today we have another birthday. So far this year we have granddaughter age 10 now 11, granddaughter age 8 now 9, and granddaughter age 6 turning 7 today. Grandson age 7 is still 7, looking forward to age 8 in a few months.
Granddaughter age 9 has made up a summer fun list for me, one side for indoors and one side for outdoors. Last weekend the weather was exceptionally warm, so we went to their favorite park for a hike. Parks were on her outdoor list. Throwing rocks into the river, watching sticks float down the river, and climbing trees added to the enjoyment of the hike. I got some much needed exercise, also. The weather has turned cold again. We don't mind. There are still velvet pictures to color, plastic canvas Easter bunnies to complete, movies from the library to watch, and lists to make for fun days this summer.
What are your plans for the summer?
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
A Different Type of Travel
It's good to be back and traveling with my grandchildren. Those of you who have known me for the past couple of years know that the last 4 weeks have been difficult and writing not on the top spot of my list where it should be. Thanks for your patience and for coming back, now that I am back to my old self.
As we all prepare for the New Year, everyone writes about New Year's Resolutions. How are yours coming? I have a few of my own. I'm taking them slow this year. I'd rather make them a habit then just part of a list. Several of mine include my grandchildren, of course. I won't put you to sleep with mine this year. As 2011 draws to a close, hopefully I will be able to share the success stories with you.
My past posts were all about the places we visited and things we did around central Iowa. That was great for you that live here in Iowa. Now that I am living in Iowa, traveling in the winter is not my favorite sport, especially with grandchildren in tow. I understand we could get 12 to 14 inches of snow within the next 24 hours. Hmmmm. So for those of you outside of Iowa and those who enjoy winter driving as much as I do, I'm going to spend some time traveling on the Internet.
Do you have a favorite Internet site that you like to travel to? While we are sitting watching the beautiful snowfall or whatever the view out your window, join me as we travel through the Internet in the next few months until summer releases us outside again.
As we all prepare for the New Year, everyone writes about New Year's Resolutions. How are yours coming? I have a few of my own. I'm taking them slow this year. I'd rather make them a habit then just part of a list. Several of mine include my grandchildren, of course. I won't put you to sleep with mine this year. As 2011 draws to a close, hopefully I will be able to share the success stories with you.
My past posts were all about the places we visited and things we did around central Iowa. That was great for you that live here in Iowa. Now that I am living in Iowa, traveling in the winter is not my favorite sport, especially with grandchildren in tow. I understand we could get 12 to 14 inches of snow within the next 24 hours. Hmmmm. So for those of you outside of Iowa and those who enjoy winter driving as much as I do, I'm going to spend some time traveling on the Internet.
Do you have a favorite Internet site that you like to travel to? While we are sitting watching the beautiful snowfall or whatever the view out your window, join me as we travel through the Internet in the next few months until summer releases us outside again.
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