Literary characters trump video game heroes

Imagine my delight when my eight year old son, who was playing a Star Wars game on Wii, blasting and lasering and dodging and exploding, paused his game, looked back at me and quoted a silly three-liner from a Judy Blume book. Hooray. Books still play a role in his imagination, even among battles with ships bursting into flames.

I'll credit that incident to the moderation we have placed, as parents, on his gaming activities, and the roots of reading we placed on our kids, incessantly, in their very young years. I am not a hater of video gaming. I do not believe they will be at fault for the downturn of future minds or upswing in children obesity numbers. As the Palo Alto Medical Foundation reports on their website, just like anything else, video games are okay in moderation as long as they are the right games, for the right amount of time.

Parents are advised to pay attention to the ratings. Our kids didn't start playing video games until they were at least six years old, after throngs of books had been read to them over and over again since before they were even born. For them, almost anything rated E for Everyone was okay. Even Star Wars was okay for us, as it was the LEGO version, and nothing more than they would have seen in the original movie.

Also, it is important to limit the time kids play, to make sure other activities take priority, or to even use gaming as a treat or reward. Monitor games, don't put them in the kids' bedrooms and talk about the games with your kids to find out what it is they like about them. Then, share your findings with other parents to keep everyone current on the video market.

According to PAMF, too much game time with violent video games can lead to more aggressive behavior. This is due to the repetition of the violence and a desire for kids to want to role play their gaming heroes. Again, a huge incentive for time limits.

I for one, am thrilled my son gets as much fun out of his literary characters, as he does his gaming ones. His room may be full of Darth Vader and R2D2, with light sabers and laser blasters, but at bedtime or on "library day", his heroes are still Fudge, Geronimo Stilton, Cam Janson and the barnyard animals of Holly Webb books...with a little bit of

10 yr. old runner inspires other girls, our daughters

Photo by Julie Charney

Sometimes it takes awhile for our kids to find their niche, the one or two interests that will fuel them through childhood and adolescence. For Lauren Charney, a 10 year old fourth- grader from Saline, it wasn't until third grade that she truly found her passion. Running.

Not only has the sport inspired Lauren, but it has given her the platform to inspire other girls to run too. A national platform.

Although Lauren participates in other sports, it is running that "makes me feel like I can do anything." When I asked Lauren what advice she would give other girls who might be a little shy about putting their first step forward, she didn't hesitate in giving credit to Girls On the Run. Girls On the Run has given Lauren a vehicle to great achievement and put her in a place to inspire all of us.Girls On the Run is a non-profit, non-competitive organization. According to their website,


"Girls on the Run® is a life-changing, experiential learning programs for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The programs combine training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goals of the programs are to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development."
 
Lauren Charney has taken her running a step further. Turns out her love of the sport and inspirational attitude has launched her to a place where she is one of six national finalists in the Kelloggs 2010 Junior Achievement Awards. She has already been flown to Chicago for a photo/video shoot, and is now being featured on the Kelloggs webisite competing for the 2010 ESPY award. She will fly to Los Angeles later this summer to attend the ESPY breakfast, where the winner will be announced. The winner will then attend the ESPY Award Ceremony that evening. To learn more about Lauren and vote her to to the top, go to www.frostedflakes.com.

Lauren has learned more than how to prepare for a race (like loading up on healthy peanut butter waffles and warming up her muscles with jumping jacks). She has learned what it is like to be supported by a community, to have self-esteem, to feel empowered to do anything.

Sometimes it takes a little time for our kids to really find what it is they are looking for. When they do, it is important for us as parents to support them, find outlets for them to go after what they dream of that gives them a sense of purpose and accomplishment. We all could learn a lot from girls like Lauren. It is never too late to take the first step.

Saline District Library cool for teens this summer

Photo by Vance Shutes--Real Estate One

I don't know about you, but when I was a teenager (ahem...back in the day), the only thing
we went to the library for was to study and do homework with friends. We had to whisper every bit of the time we were there, and we were afraid to get up and wander around looking for books in fear of being reprimanded.

Now I live in Saline with my family. Compared to the library of my youth, the Saline District Library is a rock star. Not only do teens have their own space there, complete with internet access, music and teen books galore, but the programs being offered to teens this summer are second to none.

We all know that most really good movies start out as even better books. The SDL has teen movie days showing rated PG-13 films from terrific books. This Friday kicks things off with 17 again, then later this summer the fun and suspenseful Jaws, and the breathtaking cinematography and drama of Titanic. It wouldn't be a true movie experience without popcorn, so the library is providing that too!

Any parent who has a teenager is well aware of the Twilight, New Moon and upcoming Eclipse frenzy. If your kids aren't into Edward, Jacob and Bella, there is a good chance you are! Eclipse comes out in theatres June 30, so it makes perfect sense to attend the Eclipse Pre-release Teen Party on June 29th. Teens get to test their Twilight knowledge with games, make some cool gothic stuff and graze cuisine of all things vampire. How cool is that?

Another of my favorite programs for teens this summer is later on August 12th. For all

the budding clothing designers out there it is the Project Runway: Back To School Edition where teens will Up-cycle a fabulous new creation for their fall wardrobe. Plus, they’ll discuss the fashion industry and careers for young designers and check out what’s hot for back to school.

There are a ton of other programs for teens and all ages this summer at the Saline District Library, a lot of which do require reading! As a matter of fact, the teen summer reading program is giving prizes away for the first, sixth and twelfth books read. Some programs do require registration, so be sure and check the website.

I for one, need no flashing lights, sparkly baubles or trends du jour to get me into the library. I love the smell of the books, the hushed sounds of patrons walking among the shelves, the giggles of delight from a puppet show in the children's section. If, however, you are looking for a way to get your teenager in the library doors more often, be sure and let them know about all the "cool" things happening at their neighborhood library this summer

House supports Byrnes anti-bully law, Saline acts too

Thank goodness and thank you state Representative Pam Byrnes (D- Lyndon Twp.) for introducing and obtaining support for "Matt's Safe School Law", passed in the Michigan House of Representatives last Thursday. The law is based on a student in East Lansing who committed suicide after being "hazed" or "bullied".

This legislation can't come soon enough. We have heard a lot of incidents concerning bullying lately, from cyber bullying to abuses on the playground with students as young as age 11. It is about time bullying moves into the legislative arena.

Along with the new law, I am impressed with what I am seeing in my kid's school system. In Saline this year, despite an incident at Heritage School recently, younger children at Pleasant Ridge Elementary participated in a "Bucket Filler" program, based on the idea that it is not nice to "take out" of someone's bucket by making them feel bad, but to "fill buckets" to make others feel good. The program is based around the book "Have You Filled a Bucket Today?" and hopefully will help prevent incidents like the one at Heritage from occurring in the first place. The district also held a community forum on safety, to invite parent involvement and reassure us student safety is top priority.

For older students and adults, ages 16 and up, there is a program called safeTALK, through Saline Community Education, and it is designed to teach people to be depression aware and suicide alert, as well as providing resources for those who need help.

Bullying is serious business. It is not swirlies and stolen lunch money like when I was a kid. I appreciate any effort, by any organization State or otherwise, that is willing to insist on action to stop bullies in their tracks, and prevent bullying behavior for the future.

Garage Sale Season is upon us, fun for families

I am a self-professed, hard-core garage-saler. I love them. When Spring rolls around my eyes are peeled for orange and black signs as I drive my neighborhood and I don't stop looking until after Labor Day. Going garage or yard sale shopping is the perfect Saturday activity if you don't have anything else to do. For some, it is the only thing to do!

I've rubbed off on my sons too. They have keen garage sale sign radar and help me navigate my way looking for addresses and scouting good deals. This upcoming weekend is sure not to disappoint.

The biggest scores come from subdivision, multi-family, business and church garage sales. This Saturday, I've found one that is a little bit of both. The Children's Creative Learning Center (voted Ann Arbor's favorite center/preschool by Ann Arbor Family Magazine) is having a huge, combined yard sale with over 20 families setting up their wares for your browsing pleasure. If you have toddlers, then day care centers and preschools are terrific places to find toys and educational items for your kids at TERRIFIC prices.


Here are the details:

Saturday, May 22
9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
5939 Saline-Ann Arbor Rd.
Saline, MI

Here are some shopping tips for the all day garage/yard sale shopper, thanks to The Yardsale Queen:

1. Make sure you have sun hat, sunglasses (to prevent glare when trying to read signs) and sun block if the weather is sunny.
2. Keep a small cooler in your car with cold water and beverages
3. Wear comfy shoes, and avoid sandals unless you like wet feet from dewy grass and sprinklers.
4. Carry plenty of change and small bills, don't be afraid to negotiate price!
5. Bring rope and an all purpose tool in case you need to tie something to the top of your car or tie your trunk closed.
6. Carry a local map or mapquests along with classified/garage sale ads
7. Bring a variety of batteries if you want to test battery operated items to make sure they work
Garage sales are also great places for kids to get more for their money (piggy bank change can go a long way) and practice their math and change-making skills. It's never too early to teach them to be smart consumers.

So load up your dollar bills and tote bags, bottles of water and sneakers and be sure to navigate the classifieds of Annarbor.com. Go forth this weekend ready to shop and may the deals be with you!

Moms backed by proof that we can "make it all better"

A recent study done by the Proceedings of the Royal Society B-Biological Sciences proved a child's stress is greatly reduced by the reassurance of their mother's voice, as well as their physical touch or embrace.

We knew that didn't we? The study was conducted on mothers and daughters ( I have sons, but I'm going to go with it anyway!).  Girls between the ages of 7 and 12 were separated into three groups and put in stressful situations like speaking in public or doing math tests in front of an audience.  Before the event, one group had contact with their mothers to recieve vocal and physical reassurance. The second group spoke to their mothers by telephone.  The third group had no contact with their mothers at all, and were given a film to watch.

The study showed an increase in the hormone oxytocin, shown to reduce stress hormones and produce feelings of well being, in both groups of girls who had maternal contact, as opposed to higher stress hormone levels in girls without.

I appreciate the study, but it only proves what I and other mother's already know, because we see it in our kids' faces when the tears or pouts stop, and the smiles start. 

Appreciation for Foundation for Saline Area Schools

As a parent with two kids in the Saline Area School District, I am so appreciative of the work that is done by the Foundation for Saline Area Schools. Their sole purpose is to find ways to raise funds specifically designed to benefit my children, their peers and their educators. As summed up on their website, the Mission of the FSAS is:

"to generate, for distribution, financial and other resources to the schools for enrichment programs and other projects aimed at enhancing the quality of education and educational opportunities."

This Thursday, the FSAS will hold a fundraiser and recognition reception that is open to the community and an opportunity for people to see what great things are happening for their kids because of the FSAS.

The reception is Thursday, May 13 from 5-8 PM and will take place at the Stonebridge Golf Club (see map here).

Contributors and sponsors of the event are considered "Friends of the Foundation for Saline Area Schools" and will insure future support for grants and other initiatives within the district.


The FSAS is a non-profit, volunteer organization that is completely separate from the school board. Students in Saline have been benefiting from its efforts since 1987, when it was founded by Community member and parent Bruce Paxton. His son, Reid Paxton serves on the board.

Thursday night's reception is open to community members. For more information, please call FSAS President Cheryl Hoeft at 734-429-5922.

Eagle-cam for early birders

Photo by Mark Scarlett, Nature Photographer

Photo by Mark Scarlett, Nature Photographer

Photo by Mark Scarlett, Nature Photographer

On my way home from dropping the kids off at school last week, I saw an American Bald
Eagle perched at the very top of one of the trees along my road. Living on a dirt road, in the woods and surrounded by farm fields, wildlife is around us everyday. This is the first time, however, in the eleven years of living in this area that I have seen a Bald eagle. I stopped my car and rolled down the window for a better look, was quick to call my husband at work, as he is a real bird enthusiast. He answered to an excited "Guess what?" and urged me to catch a photo, though I only had the camera on my cell phone. It worked in a pinch, though hardly did it justice without a zoom lens.
Bald Eagles are majestic creatures. Children learn about them early in school, right along with the American flag and the Pledge of Allegiance. They are not a common site, and that is what makes it so special to witness them up close and in real time.
Coincidentally, the day I saw the eagle on my road, I received an email from my son's second grade teacher with a link to an Eagle-cam they were watching in school.
The Eagles of Hornby Island is a website with a webcam right at the edge of the eagles' nest. One of two eggs in the nest have recently been hatched, and there is quite a bit of activity to be seen as the first eaglet is cared for by its parents, and the anticipation of the second is building.
Make sure your volume is up (or not), as tiny, fuzzy-feathered birds make a lot of noise. Also, be sure to click on the "Play" arrow to pick up the action in real time. The website is by Doug Carrick and boasts a chat room for bird enthusiasts to participate in friendly discussion. Click here to see the Hornby Island eagles.
You'll notice also, the incredible photographs presented in this blog. They are not of
the eagle on my road, but of others caught on film by Nature Photographer Mark Scarlett, during his many treks to catch wildlife within their own habitat. For more information on Mark's photos, please contact me at ajscarlett@comcast.net.

How much politics should we teach our kids?

President Barack Obama's visit to Ann Arbor last  weekend was very exciting for a lot of people living in the surrounding areas.  Lines for tickets to the event to hear him speak stayed steady for three days.  For our family, we certainly would have attended, however, the U of M Commencements at which the President would be speaking, happened to fall on the same day and time as my youngest son's First Holy Communion.

"Let's invite President Obama to my Communion," my young son said.  I looked at my husband, he nodded in agreement, "Well, we could."  And so we did.  When it was time to send out invitations, one of them was addressed to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. complete with a picture Sam had drawn of President Obama during "free draw" in art class.  (He presented me with the picture two days before the election in November 2008 and it now hangs in our living room).  "You never know what is on his agenda, and we're only about 8 miles away from Michigan stadium" I added.

I wanted my son to know that his President is accessible.  True, he probably won't make his Communion celebration, but he should feel free to write to the President any time, for just about any reason.  This helps drive home the idea that government and politics are very much a part of each of our lives.

Studies show the significant influence we as parents have on our children's political views.  I remember on my first day of Government class at WCC, my professor pointed out the overwhelming evidence that most people are products of their parent's political viewpoint.  It is true, some may rebuke those ideals during adolescents, but mostly revert back to the liberal, moderate or conservative viewpoints of thier parents as they reach adulthood. 

My husband and I have always tried to teach our kids the importance of politics to their daily lives.  We take them to the voting booth EVERY TIME.  They know the issues, we tell them why we vote the way we do, but how everyone has the right to vote anyway they choose.  They hear our discussions, ask questions.

My oldest son (a freshman in high school) has been exposed to both sides of the aisle, from myself and my husband (his step-father), as well as from his dad.  This has been really great for him, as he hears two different perspectives and then gets to make up his own mind.  I love it when I pick him up from school and he says "I argued some really good points in History today, but I can't believe there are so many kids that don't pay attention to what is going on in the world."  I am thrilled he feels confident enough to assert his own views, and sees the importance of current events.

The next question is whether or not kids are exposed to too much information.  For example, my seven year old comes purposefully walking into the kitchen, "Mom, I know who the next victim of Walmart is going to be...it is MacDonalds!"  He had seen a Walmart commercial selling the same toys offered in Happy Meals.  From the conversations my husband and I have had about our belief that Walmart stores are unhealthy for small town "mom and pops" shops and small business owners, he drew the conclusion that MacDonalds was next to go out of business!

I've told this story to others and have drawn some critics who state an eight year old has no business worrying about things like small businesses and the economic climate. We, however, see this as a grand teaching moment.  I get to make it clear what our views are, however teach him that it is important to respect other people's choice to shop at Walmart or anywhere else for that matter, without judgement.

Politics and current events are full of teaching moments, and can be a wonderful asset to our children's academic toolchest as long as information is provided respectfully. We are our kids' first teachers. We read to them to help improve their reading/language arts skills, we run flashcards to help them with their subtraction, we even quiz them for their spelling tests.  Why not add some civics and current events to the mix?  As far as I'm concerned, it is never to early to start lessons of fairness, social justice, and the benefits of living within a democracy.

Saline Family Chiropractic sets the bar for food donation

Dr. Paquin, his staff and all of his Saline Family Chiropractic clients have set out to make a real difference for area families.  If you follow my blogs at all, you know that about every month or so I write something about the importance of food donation for families in need.  I remind you that food pantries aren't only for the poor and homeless, and that your very own next door neighbor could be utilizing a food bank and you wouldn't even know it.  I also remind you that donating food is a great way to plant the seed of volunteerism in kids, and to teach them the benefits of helping others with a topic they can relate to, like Cheerios and grilled cheese sandwiches, and what it would be like to not have them.

Over one million people in Michigan alone visit food banks annually.  According to the Food Gatherers website in Ann Arbor, a land mark study, Hunger in America 2010, released in February, reports that more than 43,900 people--including more thatn 14,000 children and 6,500 seniors--receive emergency food each year through Food Gatherers' network of emergency food pantries and meal sites.  The findings represent a 138 percent increase since 2006.

This is where Dr. P. comes in.  Right now he and his staff are collecting good food for Food Gatherers and United Way right in his office waiting area.  They've got eight giant barrels filled and want to overflow those before the food drive ends in another week or so.  To add a little incentive to get donations sooner than later, he's having a drawing.  One bag of groceries gets you an entry to win a gigantic, flat screen TV.   It's a beauty!  I've seen it myself during our regular visits for adjustments and my ticket is in that bowl!  The more bags of groceries, the more entries.

If you'd like to donate, the time is now.  Food banks are in short supply, especially over the summer when kids are home from school and unable to benefit from school lunches.

Dr. Paquin and his staff are happy to take your donation in their office located at 144 S. Industrial Drive in Saline, across the street from Country Market.  They are closed from 1pm-3pm for lunch daily, and are closed Tuesday mornings and all day Thursday.  Check out their Facebook page for more details.

Pennies For Peace at Pleasant Ridge

Students at Saline's Pleasant Ridge Elementary school are participating in a global initiative to help build schools and educate children in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The Pennies For Peace Program is a global campaign of the Central Asia Institute (CAI) that teaches students about their capacities as philanthropists, a few cents at a time.
The campaign began in 1994 when author and program founder Greg Mortenson took his story, "Three Cups of Tea" (#1 New York Times best seller), to the students of Westside Elementary School in River Fall, Wis. where his mother was principal.

The CAI Foundation began shortly afterward in 1996 and, to date, has built nearly 100 schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan, serving more than 28,000 students, over half of which are girls. One penny goes a long way toward eduction in these regions. It buys one pencil and the beginning of an education. When children in these countries learn to read, write and learn, they are less likely to be recruited by terrorist organizations.


Visit the Pennies For Peace Web site for information about the program and how your school can participate.

April Scarlett is a freelance writer. Find her work at www.fromherdesk.com, www.successfulwomenweekly.com, www.aprilscarlettwrites.blogspot.com, www.aprilscarlettmotherboard.blogspot.com, on Facebook search ASW-April scarlett Writes and on Twitter @ajscarlett.

Hubble turns 20, kids can be a part of history!

Young Sam in front of one of the Hubble photos at the exhibit last summer.

Happy twentieth birthday to the Hubble Telescope. Our family had the pleasure of seeing
the Hubble exhibit at the Exhibit Museum of Natural History in Ann Arbor last summer. Since then, we have all continued to be fascinated by Hubble, the mirror repair, its gorgeous pictures, the fact that it is been around for twenty years, and that it is expected to keep snapping photographs for at least another five. What was really exciting though, was when we found out what the Hubble people are doing in honor of their twentieth year. Your kids can actually record their thoughts and feelings about Hubble, and have it recorded in the archives, right alongside the full collection of the telescope's scientific data.
You can check out all things Hubble at its very own website, www.hubblesite.org. This is where you can record your thoughts about the telescope for all to know for the rest of history.
The Hubblesite also has a step by step process for kids to build their very own hand-held replica of Hubble using everyday items found at your local hardware store. There are three different versions depending on the age or skill level of your child from average to very difficult.
For parents and teachers there is an educator's section, a full gallery of gorgeous photographs taken by Hubble and all of the latest news and updates on its progress.
If you'd like to hear a terrific discussion about Hubble, its history and facts and tidbits, go to NPR's Science Friday's website to listen to an audio file of yesterday's show. They explain so many interesting things, including the colors in the photos, whether they are real colors or filtered.
If you or your child is at all fascinated by space or astronomy, I highly recommend taking some "Hubble time" this weekend. Have fun!

Earth Day Party

Photo Credit| Courtesy Graphic

Earth Day turns forty today. A perfect excuse for you and your kids to
throw Mother Earth a party. Whether you plan it for this weekend, or throw a surprise after-school bash, here are some ideas to make your theme greener. Invitations: Cut up a paper grocery bag and let your kids go to town decorating. One paper bag is enough for your entire guest list!
Cake: Organic, of course. There are a ton of recipes on the web for all-natural and organic goodies. Even better, try some "no-bake" brownies and save energy too! Or have your crowd decorate round sugar cookies with blue and green frosting to make little "earths" to pack in their lunches. A tasty reminder to take care of our planet!
Activities: There are a million! Make bird feeders out of recycled milk containers, plant an herb garden in egg cartons, or how about a field trip to the Scrap Box, or other location where you can get your hands on some un-used goodies to create whatever the imagination can come up with. Want something not so cliche? Check out the web for a ton of green action items.
Music: Love this list of Eco-ABC's...have the kids learn it karaoke style.
Party favors: Send everyone home with a seedling to plant a tree or a treat in a reusable container like a shovel and spade.
Thank you cards: Have the kids paint an Earth Day mural as one of their activities. After the party, cut out pieces of it to make unique cards with a modern-art feel. Send your guests a piece of the masterpiece they created at the party...another reminder of why they were celebrating in the first place.

Edgar Allan Poe's first detective anniversary, mystery picks for kids

Posted: Apr 19, 2010 at 9:47 AM [Today]

Edgar Allan Poe

Public Archives

April 19, 1841, the first fictional detective ever, Auguste C. Dupin, came to life in "The Murder in the Rue Morgue" by Edgar Allan Poe. Poe became famous for his poem "The Raven", but became known for his mysteries.

Today's anniversary of the first great detective story had me thinking about what my kids read. I for one, was never a huge fan of mysteries, but my husband and both my son's really enjoy them. I found some good websites for kids to read short story mysteries, and thought I might list for you some great mystery books and series for kids.

For good reads and lists of more good reads, visit www.kidsmysterynet.com and www.kidsreads.com/series.

Here are some others I highly recommend, or have had recommended for my kids:

A to Z Mysteries by Ron Roy--Age 9-12
Amelia Bedelia Series by Peggy and Herman Parish--Age 4-8
The Boxcar Mysteries by Gertrude Chandler Warner--Ages 7-12
Cam Janson Series by David A. Adler--Ages 6-9
Encyclopedia Brown by Donald J. Sobel--Ages 9-12
Nate The Great Series by Marjorie Sharmat--Ages 6-9
Nancy Drew Mysteries by Carolyn Keene--Ages 4-8, 9-12
Red Rock Mysteries by Jerry B. Jenkins and Chris Fabry

ASPCA anniversary has me thinking locally...

Posted: Apr 9, 2010 at 4:19 PM [Yesterday]

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) was founded 144 years this week, in 1866. I had no idea they've been
around so long! In honor of this monumental achievement, I wanted to let families know what they can do on a local level, and what to expect when adopting a pet from Ann Arbor's own Humane Society of Huron Valley (www.hshv.org).

I hear many families considering adopting pets before summer, in hopes that their children will have the entire summer vacation to acquaint themselves and/or train their new pets. After checking out the Humane Society of Huron Valley's website, I learned there is a lot more to adopting a pet than one would think.
We've all seen the movies where a young girl or boy peruses countless cages of wagging tales and sad eyes, only to end up saying "I want that one!" and off they go into a furry and forevermore sunset.

Not so fast. These are some things the Humane Society wants you to know before your visit:

1. You must be 21 years of age.
2. If you currently have a dog and are looking for another, a "dog-to-dog interaction" is required for approval.
3. You must fill out an adoption survey before you visit with the animals. They are available at the desk or you can download them online.
4. There is an entire list of documentation you need to bring, everything from vet records to apartment leases proving pets are allowed.
5. Expect to pay $25 to $100 for cats, and $100 to $250 for dogs.

In my opinion, the fee is truly worth it when you see all of the veterinary services that are included, and the humane society is a non-profit, so they have to stay afloat somehow.

One thing I learned that I thought was terrific, is sometimes there will be two dogs listed as "Perfect Pairs", which means they will only be adopted-out together. This could be at the request of the previous owner who was unable to keep them, or just that they've never been apart so it would be too upsetting to them to be separated.

There may be a lot to go through when adopting a pet. The good news is you know exactly what your are getting, and the organization knows exactly what the animal is getting too. They are in the business of finding the perfect family-animal match so you end up adopting a very healthy, happy, tail-wagging or purring addition to your family.

Rainy Day Activities for Kids

"It's raining, it's pouring, your kids think life is boring..."

Photo by Weiling

Just because it is raining outside, doesn't mean the fun needs to take a break like the sun has for the day. On a quest to keep my youngest busy on a drippy day during Spring Break, I went looking on the internet for ideas. I found some really great websites with neat activities to keep kids creative, and maybe give them a break from the tv and video game remotes...
If you worry about your kids not getting enough exercise when the weather isn't perfect, then www.familyfitness.com is for you. It lists a boatload of busy activities to keep kids having fun while moving and grooving.
If you are looking for a way to keep things green, www.dnr.wi.gov is a website full of environmentally friendly activities, both using recycled materials you have hanging around your house, or creating items to help the environment outside your house. One thing I loved about this site is it has an art gallery where kids can submit their nature-based art for display on the site. It is a very cool place for a budding artist to see their work on an official website.
Finally, if you just want some new game ideas, puzzles and activities that boost brain power, head to www.familyeducation.com. Here you'll find a plethora of science projects, writing games and brain teasers.
Rainy days can also be a great excuse to get friends together and have a party. Any theme will work, have a bug party and go worm hunting, or invite guests to come dressed as their favorite super-hero and save the day with a mystery for them to solve. Have a cookie baking party with plenty of frosting and sprinkles to decorate.
If the weather is less then cooperative for outdoor play, make the day an opportunity to be creative and enjoy something different inside. Before you know it, your kids may actually look forward to those rain-cloudy days, and that is what I call a silver lining.

Hans Christian Anderson stories public domain

If you've happened by the Google homepage today you have undoubtedly seen the beautiful illustration banners depicting the stories of Hans Christian Anderson. What a great way to recognize the 205th birthday of one of history's greatest storytellers. More importantly, that banner inspired me to look up some of my favorite childhood Anderson stories, and I found a treasure trove in the public domain, that I can now share with my kids. My very first encounter with one of Anderson's stories was when I was five years old. I was given a "recorded book" of The Ugly Duckling. A recorded story book was a paper back picture book with a sleeve in the back. Inside the sleeve was a 45 record with the story on it. I would play stories like this on my little kid turntable (in a case!) over and over again while I followed along with the pictures. A chime would ring when it was time to turn the page.

As a parent, to my delight, I have found a website listing all of Anderson's stories. It provides the text with the original illustrations by Vilhelm Pedersen and Lorenz Frolich. I found myself deluging into a plethora of fairytale and folklore goodness with The Ugly Duckling, The Princess and the Pea, Thumbelina and countless others I had never heard of. Did you know The Little Mermaid is one of Hans Christian Anderson's most popular? I found myself surprised, and a little embarrassed that I thought this was a Disney creation! ( Yikes! And I'm supposed to be a little bit more up on children's literature!)

Now i want to learn a bit more about Mr. Anderson. What kind of person was he? Did he have children of his own to whom he read his stories? Perhaps they were his inspiration to write them? The truth is, I know nothing about this great literary artist of our past, but now I am anxious to learn more. Let the research begin. In the meantime, I will take great joy in meeting all of the unknown characters dancing among Anderson's literary index and sharing them with my kids.

Eiffel Tower Turns 111, a good family vacation spot?

A couple of years ago, my brother visited Paris, France. As soon as I found out he was going there, I asked if he would bring me back a miniature Eiffel Tower. I didn't care what it was made of or how big it was, I just wanted it to come from a real Eiffel Tower vendor. Somehow, a piece that had actually set beneath the real deal authenticated itself before reaching my shelf far far away.

Wednesday, actually, is the Eiffel Tower's "birthday".  Final construction was completed March 31, 1889. Although I have had three years of French instruction, and can read it un peu (a little), I've never traveled to France. I do plan to someday, ideally with my family. That got me to thinking. We hear of Paris as the "City of Lights", the destination of young lovers and pinnacle of fashion. Is Paris really a destination for family vacation? You bet it is!

I started checking around the internet and found there have been a lot of families from all over the world who have made Paris their family destination. There are a ton of sights to see, street festivals, even the Plage de Paris, or Paris Beach. It is a man made beach set right up on the Seine River, complete with sand castles and beach balls.

The Eiffel Tower itself is somewhat whimsical. As you rise to the observation deck, there are "dummy" construction workers set up like they are working and fun facts about the tower's history posted along the way. Check out this article for tips on how to make the Eiffel Tower tour an optimal experience.

There are definite travel dates for Paris. Each month is ideal for travel for different reasons, with the exception of August. Most residents in Paris vacation in August, so you may find more than a few shops and businesses closed for the month. If you like to ski, February is peak. May brings warmer temperatures and fewer crowds, as the tourists haven't invaded yet. September is still warm and comfortable, but with less traffic. And Christmas in Paris promises absolute delight on many levels, with shopping, street festivities, magical decorations and ice skating.


The Eiffel Tower turns 111 today. I'm thinking I just might set a goal to have our family there to celebrate its 115th!   Et vous?

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March Is Reading Month: My Picks

March is Reading Month.  I'm not sure how it was designated as reading month but think it must most certainly have to do with Dr. Seuss's Birthday falling on March 2nd. 

If you have young kids in school, then you already know March is reading month because your calendar just got a lot more packed with school activites and events.  I know mine did.  One thing I absolutely love about elementary schools is their ability to still foster major enthusiasm for reading books.  K-4th graders still love books as gifts, can't wait to settle into a story.  Unfortunately for some kids, the passionate flame for reading starts to dim as they get older (that's a whole other blog!).

Anyway,  I wanted to throw out some of my favorite titles for the younger set, both picture books and early reader chapter books.

Kiss Goodnight Sam by Amy Hest
Such a sweet and snuggly, yet brief story that was a favorite bedtime story in my house for years.  It's warm and glowy, about a bear cub who develops a cough on a soon to be snowy night, and how motherbear cares for him until morning...of course the cub feels much better in the morning...just in time to play in the snow. 

Knuffle Bunny and Knuffle Bunny Too by Mo Willems
Can't say enough about these two.  Parents will definitely relate as well when Trixie becomes separated from her beloved stuffed bunny.  Touching and suspenseful for the very young and hilarious for parents.

Lost in the Storm series by Holly Webb
These are adorable chapter books for early readers about cute and cuddly kittens and puppies who end up in all kinds of suspenseful adventures including snowstorms and getting lost on the farm.  Very sweet, not frightening.

Bad Kitty Gets a Bath by Nick Bruel
This book is just ridiculously accurate and hilarious.  It reads more like a manual then a story, but kids stick with it from beginning to end.  Lots of wacky facts and fun.

Enjoy your March is Reading Month! 

Vancouver Olympics a family event

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thomashawk/ / CC BY-NC 2.0

I don't know about you, but there aren't too many things that will hold the interest of everyone in our family, for a prolonged period of time, so that we can actually spend more of our free time together than not.

I'm talking about the Vancouver Winter Olympics televised nightly for a total of two weeks.  From the Opening Ceremony last Friday night (my teenager stayed in!) to the nightly coverage of all things snowy and sporty, my family is hangin' together.

It's not that we don't like spending time together as a family, but for all age levels and our different interests, its not often we will spend night after night in one room.  Its been so great!  Wednesday night's women's downhill ski race was as action packed, drama filled and as heartwarming as any one of our favorite movies.

Action:  The track was so rock hard, fast and bumpy, three skiiers crashed before hitting the finish line!

Drama:  U.S. skiier Lindsey Vonn has been suffering a let injury for days and wasn't even sure if she could compete.   Lindsey waited at the top, focused and ready, but still hearing of crash after crash before her.  A couple of the women appeared so apprehensive it was as if they traded in their chance for a medal just to get down the mountain (1.8 miles) in one piece. 

Heartwarming conclusion:  Vonn did win Gold, could barely compose herself through a TV interview, ran to her husband, collapsed into his arms and sobbed for a full minute!

There really has been something for everyone.  My teenager likes the snowboarding and short track, my seven year old likes moguls, luge, and can't wait for bobsled, my hubby digs hockey and downhill, and I love it all!  Let me not forget to mention, this televised event is completely family friendly entertainment.  We haven't even seen the nightly inappropriate commercials peddling cures for ailments we'd rather not talk about in front of our kids.

We are watching together, cheering together, learning about different sports, and being inspired to learn new ones. There are even lessons of geography, as we interpret the flags of other teams. I have always enjoyed watching the Olympics. This year, I especially appreciate how such an event is just cool enough for my teen, and fun enough for my youngest, to hang out with mom and dad, even on a Friday night.