My boys are huge fans of tree climbing, and I am a big proponent of letting them climb. Over the years they both grown in their proficiency and daring as climbers. While I often find need to remind myself not to let my own worries – unless there’s a genuine safety issue, of course – get in the way of their learning, I remain a big advocate of letting them climb.… Continue reading
A Book Talk by David Wiesner
I love books. And I love attending book talks by authors I enjoy reading. Before my boys were born, I dragged my husband and other friends to join me at a wide array of book talks, and often I attended them by myself. I enjoy hearing about authors’ writing processes and where they draw their inspiration. I enjoy hearing them talk about stories that I’ve enjoyed reading, and what they’re working on next. … Continue reading
Thought for the Day: Miller
“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself.” –Henry Miller
As we were walking down the street, my 4-year-old suddenly stopped. “Look, Mama!” he exclaimed, “The flowers are so beautiful. They fill up my eyes with beauty.” So we stopped, and looked, and soaked in their loveliness.… Continue reading
When a Fox Comes to Visit
Last week I was writing an appointment in my calendar (yes, I still keep a paper calendar; you can read about it HERE) when I saw something move on our deck out of the corner of my eye. I turned to look and saw this fox. He was sitting there watching me. And he watched long enough that I was able to observe him a bit, then decide to set down my calendar, retrieve my phone, and take a picture. … Continue reading
Homemade, Healthier “Almond Joy” Bars
The other week, my favorite chef – who also happens to be one of my dearest friends, had a discussion with my boys regarding their favorite treats. When he mentioned that his one of his favorites were Almond Joy bars, my boys stared at him blankly. They had no idea what he was talking about. Because of their food allergies, they have never tasted an Almond Joy bar.… Continue reading
Need a Way to Entertain a 4-year-old? Try Puzzles
Last week my 4-year-old discovered he could put together puzzles. Not the wooden puzzles we had around while he was a toddler, but more complex puzzles aimed at older kids.
His growth and development have made many big leaps recently, but this is one that he’s latched onto himself as being proud of. (His better sleeping skills are the one my sweetie and I are most delighted with.) … Continue reading
Thought for the Day: George Carlin
At a time when lies and propaganda are paraded about as truth, and when documentable facts are derided as “fake news,” I see this advice as more important than ever.
Not only is this critical advice to me as a homeschooling parent, but it’s imperative for all of us as we guide our children in their learning and growth. … Continue reading
Thought for the Day: Aesop
The other day, my boys and I were reading our favorite version of The Lion and the Mouse. It’s a wordless, illustrated version put together by Jerry Pinkney. My boys love the fact that a small mouse can help to save the life of a mighty lion. In it, they see the power that lies in every small creature.… Continue reading
Improve Indoor Air Quality by Using Natural Household and Beauty Products
A new study finds that household products, such as perfumes, cleaners, paints, and so on, now rival auto emissions as the primary source of urban air pollution. This is a big deal. It means that the products that we are using in our houses – those products we utilize to clean, decorate, and maintain our homes as well as those we use directly on our bodies – are poisoning the air we breathe. … Continue reading
Homemade Healing Skin Salve
In the wintertime, when I’m washing my hands every-other-minute in order to avoid the nasty flu that seems to be hitting everyone we know, my hands can get dry. Even my boys, with their gorgeous young skin, can get rough, itchy patches. These months of cold dry air, forced air heating, and lots of washing are tough on our body’s largest organ. … Continue reading