We have the most amazing oak tree in our back yard. (Seriously, it is amazing!) It is the "central meeting point" for the kids in our neighborhood (well OK, if I am being honest the kids only love the tree because we have a mean tree swing hanging from it). Anyway, the other evening my oldest son and I were sitting on the hill under our tree and we started talking about fun things I did as a kid. I began to tell him the story of how my grandma and I used to go for walks in the neighborhood and collect bags and bags and bags of acorns. So I grabbed my sons hand and said "Hey! Let's do it too!" So off we went collecting acorns (ones with the top, ones without, ones half chewed by the squirrel, etc) and we had quite the fun conversation along the way as well. After about a half a bag full he stopped and looked at me and said "what do we do now mama?" I thought "oh yay! I get to teach him how to have acorn races just like my grandma and I did!" Here's what you will need: a little free … [Read more...]
Pine Cone Bird Treat Fun
Are you ready to get messy and have fun all at the same time? This is the perfect craft for you and your kids then! Fall is here and the birds are on the hunt for a tasty treat of their own. Here is what you need: string, yarn, dental floss, or ribbon pine cone(s) lard or crisco birdseed butter knife After making this with my kids I will make one suggestion....you will want to do this outside OR you will want to be prepared for a bit of a mess. Simply tie your string or other around the pine cone (and while you are at it make it a fun adventure finding pine cones). Have your kiddo spread the lard or crisco all over the pine cone. (A note-peanut butter can also be used but I found that the lard sticks better and doesn't melt as easily). Once your pine cone is covered have your child roll it in the birdseed. Make sure you get it fully covered, those birds are hungry. Hang it in the tree closest to you and sit back and watch the birds. … [Read more...]
Back to School and Bus Stop Safety
It's back to school time around here, and we assume in your neck of the woods too. We thought that we'd include an expert interview on safety for this time of year. Our local police chief was so kind as to compile some helpful information and useful tips to help you and your children stay safe at the bus stop this year. Thanks to Cory our Chief of Police for helping us with this important project! Motorists: A child’s life could be saved by you! Every year, children across the United States lose their lives in the process of riding buses. 72% of these fatalities take place outside the school bus. These tragedies can be avoided with caution and common sense. The most important thing you can do to help is to be aware: drive with care, and obey the laws that apply to school bus safety. Red Lights and Stop Arm: Motorists MUST stop for a school bus when the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended; this means children are getting on or off the bus. Stop at least 20 feet … [Read more...]
Squirrel Mix
It’s fall, the second best season in my opinion (next to summer) and there are some fun ways to get your kids in the spirit and hopefully out of the “missing my popsicle and freeze pop blues.” Why not take a little time out to create some fun and Squirrel Mix with the kids? When you’re done, take your Squirrel Mix bags on a walk in the woods, to a park or just sit on the back step. Here’s what you need: Adorable kids (well, any kid will do) Some plastic bags (notice we’re not mentioning a brand?) An assortment of treats (healthy and tasty too!) For our Squirrel Mix I like to include treats I know the kids love (and then of course I sneak in some healthy options too). We’ve included: cheese crackers, chocolate covered candies, granola, hazel nuts, toasted O’s cereal, yogurt covered raisins, and dried cranberries. Just for added fun place each item in their own bowls and let the kids … [Read more...]
Top 10 funny things said by mom
When you become a parent you don't realize the odd things that might come out of your mouth. Here's the top 10 funniest things we've said to our kids: 1. If you could stop putting your toys in the dryer that would be great! 2. Stop being so cute, I don't like it. 3. Let’s talk about our pee pee’s later, deal? 4. You can have more Lima beans as soon as you finish your Mac and Cheese. 5. Food goes in our mouth, not in our ears. 6. It's better to spit than to swallow (said in reference to brushing teeth--we're not that dirty minded around here!) 7. That finger belongs to her! You may use your own finger. 8. OK, who would like to go potty? 9. Let’s all go into mommy’s room and watch the ceiling fan for a little bit. 10. Please don’t make me use my angry mommy voice. What funny things have you said to your kids? … [Read more...]
