I told my daughters the other day that I grew up before there was the Internet or cell phones. I wish I had taken a picture of the blank expressions on their faces. I completely stumped them. They couldn't even imagine what that must of been like. I swore to them that I had fun as a child, but had been forced to use actual books at the library when I needed information.
And given the vast and varied information about science, nature, literature, and the world literally a few keystrokes away on the Internet, we took advantage of this amazing technology last night by watching an old episode of Superfriends on YouTube. (And, yes, Ben loved it.)
Initially, Scott and I were having some trouble finding an episode on YouTube (horrors, right?). We kept finding the parodies of Superfriends that were on Saturday Night Live a few years ago. While we were trying different keyword searches, 5-year old Caroline finally blurted out, "Why don't you just try Superheroes.com?"
So, after she went to bed I checked it out. It's the homepage for DC comics. All the superheroes you could ever want. Good one Caroline! But, how did she know??
Monday, September 27, 2010
Camporee (and Catch-up)
On Saturday, my co-leader Elaine and I took our Brownie troop to Camporee at Camp Tweedale near Oxford, PA. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect from the event since it was our first Camporee; this year was themed The Amazing Race. We left at 8:30 am and didn't return until 9:30pm -- so it was a lot of Camporee. But, wow, the organizers did an AMAZING planning job, and not one but two of the girls have since told their moms it was the "Best Day of Their Life." High praise! Abby was literally weeping yesterday when she realized that our next Brownie meeting is 2 full weeks away. "Mom, can't you just plan an extra meeting???"
I cannot take any credit whatsoever for most of the activities that were planned. Since this is the 100th anniversary for worldwide girl scouting, the Amazing Race team had the girls 'visit' the four world centers of girl scouting: Our Chalet in Switzerland, Our Cabana in Mexico, Sangam in India, and PAX Lodge in England. We also 'traveled' to Africa and Australia. We went around the world by hiking to various stations within the campgrounds. Each of the stations featured games and crafts from the country, and those activities were run by an older girl scout troop, who our little girls looked at with starry-eyed reverence. It was a neat interaction to watch. Some of the girls running the stations were only in 6th grade, and Abby later told me that she can't wait to be able to lead a station when she's bigger.
After the stations, we had a few hours in the afternoon to entertain ourselves at the campground before dinner. Our girls were ready for some unstructured time, so Elaine and I put out a parachute, an inflatable beach ball, coloring things, and beading things, and then watched the chaos that ensued. One amusing moment came when a girl was trying to make a beaded bracelet with alphabet letters, but ran out of space. Her finished bracelet reads, "I LOVE GIRLS."
For dinner, we hiked up to one of the campsites and joined two troops of older girls. We split up into little families comprised of a few of our girls and a few of their girls, and prepared and ate a grilled dinner together (pita pizzas and baked potatoes). Our girls were in heaven with all the attention from the older girl scouts. I just got an email this morning from the older girls' leader and was happy to learn that her troop ranked the dinner as their #1 favorite part of the trip. It was really, really special. We had practiced some campfire songs at our recent brownie meeting, so I had our girls sing to the big girls as a thank you. They LOVED it. An exciting part of the evening came when a mommy mouse ran out of the chimney with three of her babies still attached after the fire was started. The mom and babies were rescued and put into a bowl until they could be returned to her nest. You're probably thinking, ew. Mice. The baby mice were so cute I now understand how people could have them as pets. The babies were only as big as a quarter and had not yet opened their eyes. (And, no, we did not allow the girls to pet the mice, much to their very great dismay.)
Abby in a Sari in India
After the stations, we had a few hours in the afternoon to entertain ourselves at the campground before dinner. Our girls were ready for some unstructured time, so Elaine and I put out a parachute, an inflatable beach ball, coloring things, and beading things, and then watched the chaos that ensued. One amusing moment came when a girl was trying to make a beaded bracelet with alphabet letters, but ran out of space. Her finished bracelet reads, "I LOVE GIRLS."
For dinner, we hiked up to one of the campsites and joined two troops of older girls. We split up into little families comprised of a few of our girls and a few of their girls, and prepared and ate a grilled dinner together (pita pizzas and baked potatoes). Our girls were in heaven with all the attention from the older girl scouts. I just got an email this morning from the older girls' leader and was happy to learn that her troop ranked the dinner as their #1 favorite part of the trip. It was really, really special. We had practiced some campfire songs at our recent brownie meeting, so I had our girls sing to the big girls as a thank you. They LOVED it. An exciting part of the evening came when a mommy mouse ran out of the chimney with three of her babies still attached after the fire was started. The mom and babies were rescued and put into a bowl until they could be returned to her nest. You're probably thinking, ew. Mice. The baby mice were so cute I now understand how people could have them as pets. The babies were only as big as a quarter and had not yet opened their eyes. (And, no, we did not allow the girls to pet the mice, much to their very great dismay.)
Although we didn't plan Camporee, I still found myself so busy with Camporee preparations (packing lists, sit-upons, transportation planning, SWAPS, etc., etc.) and regular weekday activities last week that I didn't get a chance to blog. What did you miss??
Something Slimy
Ben: "Dad, my nose is full of boogies. Will you get them out?"
Ben then grabbed Scott's finger and shoved it up his nose.
Dad looked surprised.
Something Silly
Mom: "Ben, pull up your pants higher."
Ben: "You mean like Grandma does?" (we don't know which grandma he means, by the way)
Something Summery
Enjoying one last hot summer day
Ben: "Mom, I'm fast now."
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Feeding Time at the Zoo
My mother-in-law's favorite description of eating with children is "Feeding Time at the Zoo." I really can't think of a more accurate phrase than that.
On Monday, we were down to two children since Abby was at ballet. Even though we only had 2 children to eat with instead of 3, typical mealtime chaos ensued. For a completely random example...
Minute 0 - I put hot food on the table. I tried a new recipe of sausage mushroom bolognese over creamy polenta (from latest Cooking Light magazine -- delicious -- listed as "mushroom bolognese" in recipes).
Minute 1 - Ben decided it is time to go to the bathroom after we have all sat down to eat. So, a few bites into the meal, there was wiping, flushing, and handwashing for Ben and me. (Very appetizing.)
Minute 4 - I rushed back to the table to eat it while it was still hot-ish. I told Ben to pull up his pants.
Minute 5 - Meanwhile, Caroline is serenading us with the "Heigh Ho the Librar-i-o" song she learned at the library at school. This is a clever song (verses: the author writes the words....the illustrator draws....the publisher binds the books) which Scott and I were enjoying, but it was a tad loud as Caroline's songs often are.
Minute 6 - While Caroline was singing at the top of her lungs, I realized that Ben has been squatting on the ground playing with the doorstop for several minutes-- still naked. Boing...Boing...Boing.
Minute 7 - Ben started joined in the singing the new song (still naked).
Minute 10 - After several minutes of prancing, we finally wrestled Ben into his pants. Caroline stopped singing but got up from the table for more of something (milk? foraging? who knows?).
Minute 10+ - We got Ben back to the table. Then, Ben and Caroline alternated singing and getting up again (and again) with Scott and me taking turns with the "Sit Down, ____." "Use your indoor voice, ____" Such fun! Actually, I wish I could shut my eyes and ears for a few minutes to just eat. It seemed like it was a nice dinner.
Now, I understand why my mom just sometimes ate dinner standing at the sink when my dad was out of town. Sometimes I like to do that at lunch. Then, I can look out the window instead of the food in my children's mouths.
Oh, and I just looked over to see what Ben was doing while I was typing this. Ben's naked again. Good gracious. And, now Caroline is screaming at me. I sure do love parenting.
On Monday, we were down to two children since Abby was at ballet. Even though we only had 2 children to eat with instead of 3, typical mealtime chaos ensued. For a completely random example...
Minute 0 - I put hot food on the table. I tried a new recipe of sausage mushroom bolognese over creamy polenta (from latest Cooking Light magazine -- delicious -- listed as "mushroom bolognese" in recipes).
Minute 1 - Ben decided it is time to go to the bathroom after we have all sat down to eat. So, a few bites into the meal, there was wiping, flushing, and handwashing for Ben and me. (Very appetizing.)
Minute 4 - I rushed back to the table to eat it while it was still hot-ish. I told Ben to pull up his pants.
Minute 5 - Meanwhile, Caroline is serenading us with the "Heigh Ho the Librar-i-o" song she learned at the library at school. This is a clever song (verses: the author writes the words....the illustrator draws....the publisher binds the books) which Scott and I were enjoying, but it was a tad loud as Caroline's songs often are.
Minute 6 - While Caroline was singing at the top of her lungs, I realized that Ben has been squatting on the ground playing with the doorstop for several minutes-- still naked. Boing...Boing...Boing.
Minute 7 - Ben started joined in the singing the new song (still naked).
Minute 10 - After several minutes of prancing, we finally wrestled Ben into his pants. Caroline stopped singing but got up from the table for more of something (milk? foraging? who knows?).
Minute 10+ - We got Ben back to the table. Then, Ben and Caroline alternated singing and getting up again (and again) with Scott and me taking turns with the "Sit Down, ____." "Use your indoor voice, ____" Such fun! Actually, I wish I could shut my eyes and ears for a few minutes to just eat. It seemed like it was a nice dinner.
Now, I understand why my mom just sometimes ate dinner standing at the sink when my dad was out of town. Sometimes I like to do that at lunch. Then, I can look out the window instead of the food in my children's mouths.
Oh, and I just looked over to see what Ben was doing while I was typing this. Ben's naked again. Good gracious. And, now Caroline is screaming at me. I sure do love parenting.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Early Fall Fun
Because I absolutely couldn't even think about another afternoon of yard work AND because it was 78 degrees and perfect out AND because last year we didn't get a chance to pick pumpkins due to the move, I decided to take the family to Hurricane Hill Farm for some old-fashioned fall farm fun. I met with some resistance when I announced the day's plan, but since "Mom always knows best" (and that is absolutely true, by the way) I persevered and we all had a great time.
Hurricane Hill Farm is a Pennsylvania Century Farm located in Coatesville, PA. (A Century Farm is a farm that meets several specific criteria, including that it has been farmed by the same family for 100 years.) In order to make a little extra revenue in the fall, it hosts an enormous 5-acre corn maze, a corn slide, a corn cannon, pedal tractors, a cow train, a hayride, and the most sincere pumpkin patch you could ever find. It has it all -- so for one low admission price we corned it up all afternoon. The corn maze, in particular, is awesome. Their website has an aereal view of the design, and it really makes me wonder how they create it. And, to entice even more to enter the maze, the maze has a series of plaques and rubbings to read/do along the way, all following this year's Space theme. Very cool! It is so massive we didn't even try to find all the rubbings in the maze.
Since we were so early in the this season (ok, technically it is still summer), none of the activities had lines, AND we even scored a private family hayride to the pumpkin patch!
Ben: "Hey, Mom, there's corn in here."
Mom: "Yes, it really is a corn maze."
Hurricane Hill Farm is a Pennsylvania Century Farm located in Coatesville, PA. (A Century Farm is a farm that meets several specific criteria, including that it has been farmed by the same family for 100 years.) In order to make a little extra revenue in the fall, it hosts an enormous 5-acre corn maze, a corn slide, a corn cannon, pedal tractors, a cow train, a hayride, and the most sincere pumpkin patch you could ever find. It has it all -- so for one low admission price we corned it up all afternoon. The corn maze, in particular, is awesome. Their website has an aereal view of the design, and it really makes me wonder how they create it. And, to entice even more to enter the maze, the maze has a series of plaques and rubbings to read/do along the way, all following this year's Space theme. Very cool! It is so massive we didn't even try to find all the rubbings in the maze.
Since we were so early in the this season (ok, technically it is still summer), none of the activities had lines, AND we even scored a private family hayride to the pumpkin patch!
Ben: "Hey, Mom, there's corn in here."
Mom: "Yes, it really is a corn maze."
The Corn Cannon
Deep in the Corn Maze
Friday, September 17, 2010
First Day of Preschool
Today was Ben's very first day of preschool! He wore his superhero T-shirt for extra power.
And, here's his superhero backpack. Note the unrequested superhero pose. I asked Ben if he planned to be good at school today. He answered with a smirk and said, "Maybe." At least he was honest.
To celebrate my very first child-free morning since 2005 (except two or three overnight visits to grandmas), Scott and I went out to breakfast. Nothing says celebrate better than BACON. Thick slabs of delicious bacon. This is Classic Diner bacon, and it's artery-clogging perfection on a plate.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Umbrella Forts
Yesterday afternoon and evening, all three kids spent hours playing with all the neighbors' kids in a fort they created with 5 umbrellas, 3 blankets, and a dash of imagination. I really should have taken a picture, but I was afraid to break the spell. I am not exactly sure of what compelling game was going on inside the fort. All I know is that it included a really detailed plot and a dancing competition. It was one of those magical childhood moments when the kids were having so much fun, they absolutely didn't want to come in for dinner, they wolfed down their food, rushed back outside to keep playing the game, and then the magic of whatever they were doing was so strong, they were able to resume the adventure after dinner until it was almost dark.
I have been wondering lately whether or not any of these moments will be fixed into their minds as "special childhood memories," or if yesterday's fort with the frilly pink parasol and spiderman blanket will just drift away into the past and forgotten. What about the spontaneous s'more party with their buddies last week? Or the little nature school they built in the backyard with logs? Will they remember any of this, or maybe all these individual events will just be included in the general category of "childhood impressions." (Thinking about my own childhood, I have do have one really detailed memories about a basement fort created with 2 green army blankets, a green hassock, and a white zodiac hassock, two chairs, and a side table. But, not so many detailed memories about what specific games I played outside.)
I have also been wondering if their "overall childhood impressions" are good so far. I asked Abby one time over the summer if she was enjoying her childhood, and she looked at me like I had three heads. But, I really do wonder. Are they having a good childhood?? And, what will they remember? I hope they remember their fort. And, I hope I am doing a good job. (I should note that Ben is starting preschool tomorrow, so I am feeling extra nostalgic and a little wistful at the moment...)
I have been wondering lately whether or not any of these moments will be fixed into their minds as "special childhood memories," or if yesterday's fort with the frilly pink parasol and spiderman blanket will just drift away into the past and forgotten. What about the spontaneous s'more party with their buddies last week? Or the little nature school they built in the backyard with logs? Will they remember any of this, or maybe all these individual events will just be included in the general category of "childhood impressions." (Thinking about my own childhood, I have do have one really detailed memories about a basement fort created with 2 green army blankets, a green hassock, and a white zodiac hassock, two chairs, and a side table. But, not so many detailed memories about what specific games I played outside.)
I have also been wondering if their "overall childhood impressions" are good so far. I asked Abby one time over the summer if she was enjoying her childhood, and she looked at me like I had three heads. But, I really do wonder. Are they having a good childhood?? And, what will they remember? I hope they remember their fort. And, I hope I am doing a good job. (I should note that Ben is starting preschool tomorrow, so I am feeling extra nostalgic and a little wistful at the moment...)
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
...and now the activities have started
After feeling kind of crabby and a little "off" for a few days, a realization finally hit me. You know who I think is having the most trouble adjusting to the new back-to-school schedule? Me. You know who picks up on all the negative energy and acts up? The kids. Then, who gets even crazier? Me. In biology, this system is called a positive feedback cycle. At home it is just called "not good."
During those long summer days, I had mercifully forgotten just how much driving and errands are required on a weekly basis during the school year. And, I had also apparently blocked out just how many extra errands are needed at the beginning of the school year to pick up all the school supplies, activity supplies, school shoes, school clothes, and whatever other miscellaneous stuff just happens to come up within the first three weeks of school. For example, Abby tried on her fleece from last year and it was 2-inches too short in the arm. Better add fall jackets to the list! Worst of all, all the back-to-school errands are usually run with the back-to-school kids, who would just rather be playing.
Even after most of the back-to-school provisions have been procured, I am still getting used to having to be somewhere at very specific time. 8:13am bus stop. check. 11:45am kindergarten pick-up line. check. 3:52 afternoon bus stop, ballet 4 pm check. I don't think I would mind so much if it were just me, but Ben is definitely not enjoying all the schlepping. He's putting up some impressive resistance and is once again channelling Jack Bauer. "NOOOOOOOO!"
So, the realization that I was having a hard time with the new schedule hit me today about 45 minutes into a 75-minute yoga class. We were working on balancing postures, which I'm usually ok doing, but I could not balance to save my life. It was almost comical until I realized that I couldn't balance because my mind was still spinning with things to do. I really just needed to quiet my mind. Let myself get off the mental treadmill, and focus on the present for a few minutes and take a few deep breaths.
I really do love yoga. I never really thought about the mind-body connection until I started taking it. I probably sound like a new-age weirdo or something, but I don't care. The rest of the class was much better. Balancing half moon? Success! So, for at least this afternoon, I have quieted my mind. And, guess who picked up on mom's inner calmness? The kids. So, guess who was completely pleasant after school? Caroline and Ben!
Ugh. I wish I could remember this more often. Maybe I should start taking yoga 2x per week. Or create some kind of refrigerator magnet.
During those long summer days, I had mercifully forgotten just how much driving and errands are required on a weekly basis during the school year. And, I had also apparently blocked out just how many extra errands are needed at the beginning of the school year to pick up all the school supplies, activity supplies, school shoes, school clothes, and whatever other miscellaneous stuff just happens to come up within the first three weeks of school. For example, Abby tried on her fleece from last year and it was 2-inches too short in the arm. Better add fall jackets to the list! Worst of all, all the back-to-school errands are usually run with the back-to-school kids, who would just rather be playing.
Even after most of the back-to-school provisions have been procured, I am still getting used to having to be somewhere at very specific time. 8:13am bus stop. check. 11:45am kindergarten pick-up line. check. 3:52 afternoon bus stop, ballet 4 pm check. I don't think I would mind so much if it were just me, but Ben is definitely not enjoying all the schlepping. He's putting up some impressive resistance and is once again channelling Jack Bauer. "NOOOOOOOO!"
So, the realization that I was having a hard time with the new schedule hit me today about 45 minutes into a 75-minute yoga class. We were working on balancing postures, which I'm usually ok doing, but I could not balance to save my life. It was almost comical until I realized that I couldn't balance because my mind was still spinning with things to do. I really just needed to quiet my mind. Let myself get off the mental treadmill, and focus on the present for a few minutes and take a few deep breaths.
I really do love yoga. I never really thought about the mind-body connection until I started taking it. I probably sound like a new-age weirdo or something, but I don't care. The rest of the class was much better. Balancing half moon? Success! So, for at least this afternoon, I have quieted my mind. And, guess who picked up on mom's inner calmness? The kids. So, guess who was completely pleasant after school? Caroline and Ben!
Ugh. I wish I could remember this more often. Maybe I should start taking yoga 2x per week. Or create some kind of refrigerator magnet.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Evening Conversation
This evening I was getting cleaned up after doing a little more yard work. Naturally since I was in the shower, it was an excellent time for the children come visit me, have a detailed conversation, and ask for some food.
Here's an excerpt of my conversation with Caroline:
Caroline: "Mom, when I grow up, am I going to grow a big butt like you?"
Mom: "Uh.....(long pause).....Do you think I have a big butt?"
Caroline: "Oh yes! And I like it so much! I want to have one just like it."
I can't decide whether to be offended or flattered. Either way, I've made plans to go running tomorrow morning.
Here's an excerpt of my conversation with Caroline:
Caroline: "Mom, when I grow up, am I going to grow a big butt like you?"
Mom: "Uh.....(long pause).....Do you think I have a big butt?"
Caroline: "Oh yes! And I like it so much! I want to have one just like it."
I can't decide whether to be offended or flattered. Either way, I've made plans to go running tomorrow morning.
Oompa Loompas
You know what part of parenting is especially fun? Watching my kids discover things that I loved as a child.
This week Grandma Y brought up a copy of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (the movie with Gene Wilder version from 1971, not the 2005 Johnny Depp version). My kids were completely riveted. After a Saturday on the go, they are watching an encore showing.
This week Grandma Y brought up a copy of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (the movie with Gene Wilder version from 1971, not the 2005 Johnny Depp version). My kids were completely riveted. After a Saturday on the go, they are watching an encore showing.
I'm only slightly embarrassed to admit that I can probably recite the entire movie and sing all the songs since my brother and I used to watch our copy on Beta video over and over and over again. Of all the songs that are in the movie, guess what song Ben's been singing? "Cheer Up Charlie!" HA! My brother and I used to bellow that one all the time around the house, much to the chagrin of my parents.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Brownie Training....Send Coffee
I can't remember whether or not I've mentioned on this blog before that I am a Brownie leader. Well, actually I was a Daisy leader for the past two years, and last spring my troop of girls bridged up to Brownies. We are very lucky to have a great group of girls, and it has been fun to watch them grow up over the past two years. I love getting to get to spend some special, sibling-free time with Abby and her friends (and I've heard from other leaders that this is the case until about 6th grade -- and then the hormones hit).
This year, unlike the past two years, our troop will begin doing some outdoorsy things, which are the things I really love to do best. I was so excited to take everyone camping and hiking, and then I found out all the scads of paperwork and training I need to complete in order to make this happen. Of course, I understand from a safety and liability perspective that all this is necessary. And, if I were brand new to outdoorsy things, it is pretty neat that Girl Scouts of America has all this training available for people who need it.
However, these realizations aren't making all this paperwork any more fun. I don't have any more interesting blogging stories because I'm currently reading through a detailed 100+ pages of training material and taking my home tests so that my troop can make s'mores using a charcoal grill. I wish I was exaggerating. I had to fill out two very detailed applications regarding my camping and cooking experience just to qualify for the home study courses, otherwise I would have been in all weekend training. Maybe the weekend training would have been quicker?
As a general rule, I really try not to complain about any type of volunteering since it's completely my choice to do this. I'm breaking my rule. I'm frustrated. I'm an experienced backpacker -- so I'm 100% confident we can handle the s'mores without endangering anyone or any personal property. Sigh. I will stop griping now and go read my packets...with a second cup of coffee.
This year, unlike the past two years, our troop will begin doing some outdoorsy things, which are the things I really love to do best. I was so excited to take everyone camping and hiking, and then I found out all the scads of paperwork and training I need to complete in order to make this happen. Of course, I understand from a safety and liability perspective that all this is necessary. And, if I were brand new to outdoorsy things, it is pretty neat that Girl Scouts of America has all this training available for people who need it.
However, these realizations aren't making all this paperwork any more fun. I don't have any more interesting blogging stories because I'm currently reading through a detailed 100+ pages of training material and taking my home tests so that my troop can make s'mores using a charcoal grill. I wish I was exaggerating. I had to fill out two very detailed applications regarding my camping and cooking experience just to qualify for the home study courses, otherwise I would have been in all weekend training. Maybe the weekend training would have been quicker?
As a general rule, I really try not to complain about any type of volunteering since it's completely my choice to do this. I'm breaking my rule. I'm frustrated. I'm an experienced backpacker -- so I'm 100% confident we can handle the s'mores without endangering anyone or any personal property. Sigh. I will stop griping now and go read my packets...with a second cup of coffee.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Official Declaration
I, CC, hereby decree the end of daytime diapers. Officially finished. Kaput. The End. Good Riddance.
For good measure, I am now also officially shouting from the rooftops (electronically) that Ben is potty trained.
POTTY TRAINED.
YES!!!
2,800 days of diapering (12/25/2002 to 8/25/2010). Over. Finite.
It was quite a long streak. In fact, it's even longer than Cal Ripken's streak of 2,632 consecutive games for all you Orioles fans out there. I now have a much better appreciation for that record, particularly since changing diapers is significantly less taxing than playing Major League Baseball. (Less taxing, but more yucky)
Ben has been wearing underwear (which he calls PANTIES -- another hazard of two older sisters) for about two weeks. Scott has been working with Ben on the correct way to execute "Man Style". (I have been repeatedly washing the walls and floor in the bathroom.)
Have you seen that movie Office Space? You know that part where they take the printer outside and smash it to pieces? Guess what the fate is for the Diaper Genie? Oh yes. I just need to find the right song.
For good measure, I am now also officially shouting from the rooftops (electronically) that Ben is potty trained.
POTTY TRAINED.
YES!!!
2,800 days of diapering (12/25/2002 to 8/25/2010). Over. Finite.
It was quite a long streak. In fact, it's even longer than Cal Ripken's streak of 2,632 consecutive games for all you Orioles fans out there. I now have a much better appreciation for that record, particularly since changing diapers is significantly less taxing than playing Major League Baseball. (Less taxing, but more yucky)
Ben has been wearing underwear (which he calls PANTIES -- another hazard of two older sisters) for about two weeks. Scott has been working with Ben on the correct way to execute "Man Style". (I have been repeatedly washing the walls and floor in the bathroom.)
Have you seen that movie Office Space? You know that part where they take the printer outside and smash it to pieces? Guess what the fate is for the Diaper Genie? Oh yes. I just need to find the right song.
Say Goodbye.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
First Week of School Wrap-Up
We survived the first week of school. "Survived" is overly dramatic. Abby and Caroline both love their teachers, and I haven't met any resistance whatsoever getting ready for school or going to the bus stop. Caroline has been waking up at 6am and wants to leave for the bus on or before 7am. Abby isn't getting up quite as early, but is also anxious to leave for school, and she isn't even protesting her pre-school sunscreen application (which is really saying something).
Aside from the difficulty keeping of Ben entertained and out of trouble (my early alert system, a.k.a. Caroline, is gone), my only complaint is that the deluge of papers has begun. I am resolved this year to promptly process all the paper that comes through the bookbags. But, since our school is going green, a lot of correspondence is coming electronically too. So, now there are two separate "piles" to manage x 2 kids. Plus, another bookbag's worth starts in 2 weeks. It really is a lot of stuff -- some of which requires response or decisions or putting things on the calendar. Other things need to be saved somewhere. Already the piles are growing and I worked so hard to whittle them down over the summer. I'm certainly not at the "overwhelmed" level yet since school has just started and the activities have not but I can see where we're headed.
Believe it or not, Abby has a project to do this weekend! Homework on a holiday weekend?! Ew. She will be preparing a writing idea packet, which is a large envelope that is supposed to be covered with and contain momentos and photos. Each of the included items will be used to jog her memory at school for ideas of fun things in her life (moments, memories, people, etc., to write about). Unfortunately, since all the pictures I've taken since Ben was born are trapped on various camera cards or in the computer (sorry about not making you a baby book Ben), I also have some homework to do this weekend -- get some pictures printed! While I know this idea envelope will be an important writing tool this year, I must admit that I don't feel like doing homework on a holiday weekend with absolutely perfect weather. How old do I sound right now?? Like I'm back in grade school pouting about homework! (I am outwardly pretending to be enthusiastic about this assignment to Abby so as not to corrupt her attitude towards school. But, she doesn't feel like doing homework yet either....she wanted to play outside.)
So we all procrastinated today. The kids had adventures outside all day with the neighbors while Scott and I tackled yet another overgrown area of the yard. I keep thinking that surely we've found all the caches of invasive vines and volunteer saplings, but no, there are plenty left in the back. On the productive side, we finally created a compost pile and started a wood pile. I dug out still more bittersweet vines. I will definitely sleep well tonight.
And, tomorrow, I promise to get started on the homework.
Aside from the difficulty keeping of Ben entertained and out of trouble (my early alert system, a.k.a. Caroline, is gone), my only complaint is that the deluge of papers has begun. I am resolved this year to promptly process all the paper that comes through the bookbags. But, since our school is going green, a lot of correspondence is coming electronically too. So, now there are two separate "piles" to manage x 2 kids. Plus, another bookbag's worth starts in 2 weeks. It really is a lot of stuff -- some of which requires response or decisions or putting things on the calendar. Other things need to be saved somewhere. Already the piles are growing and I worked so hard to whittle them down over the summer. I'm certainly not at the "overwhelmed" level yet since school has just started and the activities have not but I can see where we're headed.
Believe it or not, Abby has a project to do this weekend! Homework on a holiday weekend?! Ew. She will be preparing a writing idea packet, which is a large envelope that is supposed to be covered with and contain momentos and photos. Each of the included items will be used to jog her memory at school for ideas of fun things in her life (moments, memories, people, etc., to write about). Unfortunately, since all the pictures I've taken since Ben was born are trapped on various camera cards or in the computer (sorry about not making you a baby book Ben), I also have some homework to do this weekend -- get some pictures printed! While I know this idea envelope will be an important writing tool this year, I must admit that I don't feel like doing homework on a holiday weekend with absolutely perfect weather. How old do I sound right now?? Like I'm back in grade school pouting about homework! (I am outwardly pretending to be enthusiastic about this assignment to Abby so as not to corrupt her attitude towards school. But, she doesn't feel like doing homework yet either....she wanted to play outside.)
So we all procrastinated today. The kids had adventures outside all day with the neighbors while Scott and I tackled yet another overgrown area of the yard. I keep thinking that surely we've found all the caches of invasive vines and volunteer saplings, but no, there are plenty left in the back. On the productive side, we finally created a compost pile and started a wood pile. I dug out still more bittersweet vines. I will definitely sleep well tonight.
And, tomorrow, I promise to get started on the homework.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Product Review: Rock N Learn Phonics
I've been working with Caroline this summer on learning to read. She has most of her letter sounds down, and definitely can identify all uppercase letters, but she still sometimes has some trouble distinguishing among lowercase and b and p and g and d. Although, if I cue her with a "that's a B" she can sound out short vowel sound words. We've been using the Kindergarten Level 1 Hooked on Phonics program. It's been going slow. Slow and steady. I'm happy with her progress, but sometimes it is tough to get her to sit down and work through a whole page of words.
I thought it would be nice to try out some new learning to read materials, just to see if there was a system better suited to Caroline. Caroline is quite the singer and dancer, so Rock n Learn Phonics on DVD seemed right up her alley.
The Rock N Learn Volume 1 DVD features 28 lessons, starting with short vowel sounds and beginning consonants with vowels. It progresses through blending consonants (e.g, sh), three letter blends, word families, silent e, consonant digraphs, read along sentences, and read along stories. Volume 2 DVD continues with long vowels, vowel combinations, syllables, ending sounds, silent consonants, rule breakers, and more read-along sentences and read-along stories. This program covers a huge amount of phonetic material.
So far we've watched the first 10 tracks several times. The animation, music and characters are really catchy, and I've caught Caroline singing the short vowel song a few times. A-E-I-O-U! Each individual lesson covers quite a bit of material, so it will be a while before we're ready for the later lessons on this DVD. Abby, who is an established reader, would still benefit from the later lessons on Volume 2.
Scattered among the songs on both DVDs are interactive portions to allow the kids to practice their skills. For example, a word will appear on the screen, and there is a pause for the young person watching to try to read it. Then the answer is provided. Unfortunately, the pause isn't long enough for Caroline. Even though she's been sounding out words all summer, she not fast enough for this DVD. Even though she's happy to watch the songs, she isn't participating as fully as the intended by this program.
With that said, the age range for this program is listed as Age 6 and up, and Caroline is only 5 1/2. I bet in 6 months this program will be exactly the right level of difficulty for her. In the meantime, she can watch the catchy vowel song and some of the other early tracks and reinforce all those consonant sounds.
One other thing I really love about this DVD is that they have close-ups of someone's mouth when sounding things out. As a veteran of speech therapy, I know that kids in Kindergarten are still developing portions of their speech (like r's and f's and l's). So, watching the mouth reinforces correct tongue placement and sound pronounciation and they don't even realize it!
Summary: We will continue with the Hooked on Phonics for reading instruction and practice because it is better paced for Caroline, but we are definitely going to supplement her reading with this set of DVDs because this program is catchy and fun. This program is simultaneously entertaining and educational.
Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy of Volumes 1 and 2 of this Rock n Learn Phonics in order to write a review on my blog. All opinions are my own.
Final Note: Abby has thoroughly, and I do mean thoroughly, reviewed the list of other Rock N Learn products and is literally begging me to buy the Solar System DVD.
I thought it would be nice to try out some new learning to read materials, just to see if there was a system better suited to Caroline. Caroline is quite the singer and dancer, so Rock n Learn Phonics on DVD seemed right up her alley.
So far we've watched the first 10 tracks several times. The animation, music and characters are really catchy, and I've caught Caroline singing the short vowel song a few times. A-E-I-O-U! Each individual lesson covers quite a bit of material, so it will be a while before we're ready for the later lessons on this DVD. Abby, who is an established reader, would still benefit from the later lessons on Volume 2.
Scattered among the songs on both DVDs are interactive portions to allow the kids to practice their skills. For example, a word will appear on the screen, and there is a pause for the young person watching to try to read it. Then the answer is provided. Unfortunately, the pause isn't long enough for Caroline. Even though she's been sounding out words all summer, she not fast enough for this DVD. Even though she's happy to watch the songs, she isn't participating as fully as the intended by this program.
With that said, the age range for this program is listed as Age 6 and up, and Caroline is only 5 1/2. I bet in 6 months this program will be exactly the right level of difficulty for her. In the meantime, she can watch the catchy vowel song and some of the other early tracks and reinforce all those consonant sounds.
One other thing I really love about this DVD is that they have close-ups of someone's mouth when sounding things out. As a veteran of speech therapy, I know that kids in Kindergarten are still developing portions of their speech (like r's and f's and l's). So, watching the mouth reinforces correct tongue placement and sound pronounciation and they don't even realize it!
Summary: We will continue with the Hooked on Phonics for reading instruction and practice because it is better paced for Caroline, but we are definitely going to supplement her reading with this set of DVDs because this program is catchy and fun. This program is simultaneously entertaining and educational.
Disclaimer: I was provided a free copy of Volumes 1 and 2 of this Rock n Learn Phonics in order to write a review on my blog. All opinions are my own.
Final Note: Abby has thoroughly, and I do mean thoroughly, reviewed the list of other Rock N Learn products and is literally begging me to buy the Solar System DVD.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Conversational Whiplash
Now that my girls are back at school, I think Ben is a little lonely. Fortunately, he has me for constant companionship, and he is taking this opportunity to discuss all thoughts that pop into his mind, unfiltered.
Here is a one-minute excerpt of our conversation in the car this morning on our wild goose chase for reasonably priced polyester cording:
Ben: "Mom, who is Grandad's baby?"
Me: "Daddy is Grandma and Grandad's baby. So are Uncle Andy and Uncle Tim."
Ben: "What about Cortney?"
Me: "Cortney has different parents who live in South Carolina."
Ben: "Does Cortney's dad have pointy hair?"
Me: "No, I don't think Cortney's dad has much hair at all."
Ben: "What noise do fish make?"
Me: "No noise, fish are quiet in the water. Except for dolphins and whales, but they aren't really fish."
Ben: "Mom, can you make a fish face?"
Me: "Not while I'm driving."
Ben: "When are you going to take me to South Carolina?"
Me: "Not anytime soon -- it's a long drive."
Ben (after short screaming burst about not going to South Carolina): "Mom, do you think that Aquaman and Superman are friends?"
Mom: "How about we listen to the radio?"
Ben: "No, let's talk more about Superheroes."
Mom: Sigh.
On Day 4 of these whirlwind conversations, I'm already starting to have trouble focusing on a topic for more than two sentences. So, if you plan to call, don't mind me if I can't seem to finish my...
what was I saying?
....oh right....thoughts.
Here is a one-minute excerpt of our conversation in the car this morning on our wild goose chase for reasonably priced polyester cording:
Ben: "Mom, who is Grandad's baby?"
Me: "Daddy is Grandma and Grandad's baby. So are Uncle Andy and Uncle Tim."
Ben: "What about Cortney?"
Me: "Cortney has different parents who live in South Carolina."
Ben: "Does Cortney's dad have pointy hair?"
Me: "No, I don't think Cortney's dad has much hair at all."
Ben: "What noise do fish make?"
Me: "No noise, fish are quiet in the water. Except for dolphins and whales, but they aren't really fish."
Ben: "Mom, can you make a fish face?"
Me: "Not while I'm driving."
Ben: "When are you going to take me to South Carolina?"
Me: "Not anytime soon -- it's a long drive."
Ben (after short screaming burst about not going to South Carolina): "Mom, do you think that Aquaman and Superman are friends?"
Mom: "How about we listen to the radio?"
Ben: "No, let's talk more about Superheroes."
Mom: Sigh.
On Day 4 of these whirlwind conversations, I'm already starting to have trouble focusing on a topic for more than two sentences. So, if you plan to call, don't mind me if I can't seem to finish my...
what was I saying?
....oh right....thoughts.
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