Fast Cut-out Cookies
1 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla
2 & 3/4 cups flower
Cream butter and sugar in mixer. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Add baking powder and flour (one cup at a time). Mix after every cup. Roll to ½ inch thick. Dip cutters in flour or powdered sugar and cut out shapes. Bake at 400 for 6-7 minutes.
To make chocolate add 3 oz. melted unsweetened chocolate.
Butter Cream Frosting
½ cup butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners' sugar
1 to 3 tbsp milk
Food coloring (optional)
In a large bowl, beat together butter, vanilla, and sugar. Add milk until smooth. If necessary add more milk or powdered sugar until frosting is spreading consistency. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring. Mix everything well.
Chocolate frosting- add ½ cup Hershey's cocoa
Santa's Spy
My friend Bradley told me about a tradition that her family does. She has a plush elf doll that she hides somewhere in the house. It watches over the kids being naughty and nice during the month of December. Every night the spy reports back to Santa and hides somewhere new. Every morning it is a race to find where Santa's spy has hidden that day. I think that sounds like great fun!
Family Fun Week (Valentine's Day)
A few years ago, the kids decided that they wanted to celebrate Valentine's Day as a family. They were tired of being left out of all the dating fun. We came up with the idea to have a week full of family dates. We have tired going to the movies, having a painting party, family game night, going bowling, making Valentine cards, decorating cut-out cookies, camp out in the family room, karaoke night, making chocolates, playing at the park, a family disco night, etc... The kids have loved spending the time as a family and coming up with new ideas for family dates. Now they don't complain when my husband and I go out without them. If you have any fun ideas to add to our Family Fun Week collection, please email them to us.
Groundhog's Day Fun
February 2nd is always Groundhog's day. A couple years ago the kids decided that we should add this day to our regular celebrations. We make a poster of every one's predictions, Shadow or No Shadow. (If the groundhog sees a shadow, he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his hole. If the day is cloudy and, hence, shadow-less, he takes it as a sign of spring and stays above ground.) The kids decorate cupcakes with chocolate frosting, crushed Oreo cookies, and little chocolate animals (check out the Valentine candy). We have "groundhog" meatloaf, mashed potato mounds, and carrots. We have also done "groundhog" burgers. My husband and I love to watch the movie Groundhog's Day. For more about Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania and the history of Groundhog's Day go to: http://www.groundhog.org/
The Green Rabbit
My dad's family use to have this tradition that revolved around a puke green UGLY rabbit cookie jar. I don't know how this got started or how it ended a couple of years ago, but it was part of our family for over 20 years. The green rabbit would suddenly appear at weddings, birthdays, front porches, family reunions, etc... There would always be a poem attached explaining where the rabbit had been and why he came for a visit. It was one of my favorite family jokes. For my family it was a great way to stay connected to our extended family who lived far away.
Secret Santa
My kids have been Secret Santa-ed every night for the past week. A small gift bag was left on our front door handle with a note and small gift for each child. My kids have absolutely loved this. The gifts have included things like: two Pokemon or Webkins cards, a hot chocolate packet, stickers, party favor games, play jewelry, etc... I am amazed by the thoughtfulness of whomever is doing this. While the gifts/notes may not have cost much in the way of time or money, they are priceless to my children. Just goes to show you that the love put into the present is the true gift.
Hint: If you are not going to identify who you are, you may want to stick to prepackaged treats instead of homemade. Sad but true that you have to be careful of things like that nowadays.
Hint: If you are not going to identify who you are, you may want to stick to prepackaged treats instead of homemade. Sad but true that you have to be careful of things like that nowadays.
Is your tooth fairy forgetful too?
My poor kids have the most forgetful tooth fairy. She will not come for multiple nights in a row. My kids have taken to making maps and signs to attract her attention. I do have to say in her defense that she leaves extra money for every night that she misses. Recently the kids noticed this trend are a very excited about every extra night's tip that they get.
Q-tip Skeleton
My 3rd grader made this at school last week. All you need is: 1 black piece of construction paper, Q-tips, bottle of any craft glue, scissors, and a small piece of white paper for the face.1. Make your face and glue it down to the black paper.
2. Cut your Q-tips to the right size for the various parts of the body.
3. Glue the Q-tips down to form the body of your skeleton.
4. Allow it all to dry for a couple of hours.
You can use this project to help learn the names of the bones.
Election Day Fun
My kids love the idea of having a voice in how our country is run, so we really celebrate election days. As parents we make sure to educate ourselves on the current issues and candidates so we can vote responsibly. Then we take the kids to the Kids Vote area, so they can vote too. The kids decorate the house with red, white, and blue (recycle your 4th of July ideas.) I print off some electoral college maps for the kids to color as the votes come in. We serve red, white, and blue food. Then we enjoy discussing kid-friendly politics and how cool it is to be able to vote. This is a great way for the kids to learn about how our government runs and learn to be patriotic. This is also a great way for your kids to memorize the presidents, states, and even the capitals of each state.
A friend told me recently that in Canada they call the opposing political party the "loyal opposition". I really like that term, because it shows that while you may not always agree, you can still be friends, family, good patriotic citizens etc. I think that is a great lesson to teach our children.
A friend told me recently that in Canada they call the opposing political party the "loyal opposition". I really like that term, because it shows that while you may not always agree, you can still be friends, family, good patriotic citizens etc. I think that is a great lesson to teach our children.
Fun Ideas for Family Separations
Family separations are hard, no matter if it is just a quick business trip or a military deployment. Here are some fun ideas to help kids cope with family separations. I use the same ideas in regards to extended family members that do not live close by.
Map out your trip to show where you are going or mark the map as the trip progresses. This is a great way for your kids to study geography.
Use time tools like paper chains, calendars, advent calendars, etc. to mark time during a separation. It helps kids cope with not fully being able to understand long time periods.
Treasure hunts can be very fun. Write letters or notes, possibly including a surprise with each, and hide them in your house. Each letter can have a clue on where to find the next day's letter, and state how many days are left till you return. This will give your child something fun to look forward to, and works great for a short absence where there won't be time for mail.
Love notes are always a good idea. One summer my kids and I were going to be out of town when my husband returned from an extended absence. We left messages on sticky notes all over the house for him to read when he came back. My kids love doing projects like this while their dad is gone. It makes separation lots more fun.
Bedtime is always the hardest time for my kids when one of us is away. Recording bedtime stories, loving messages, songs, etc. on a DVD, CD, or tape has really help. This is especially good for infants and toddlers who can easily develop attachment issues.
Have phone dates. Set-up frequent phone calls to be a regular part of each other’s lives. This allows children to get reassurance from the parent that is gone, that he/she will be coming back.
Keep a journal of your time apart. That way you don’t miss out on each other’s lives. Daily emails work too. I love looking back on these and laughing at the chaos.
Start a family blog. That way everyone in your family has access to all your news at the same time. Please remember to use a program that is password protected to ensure privacy for your children.
Have a family “scapegoat”. Pick an adult in your family with a good relationship to your children who is willing to support your style of parenting. That way when one of your kids gets upset and will not talk to you, they have someone to call. Your child can vent to the other adult and calm down. Then the family “scapegoat” will listen, provide reassurance, and reinforce the family rules and disciplines.
Create your own story book of favorite memories. Have your kids pick out their favorite pictures of the people that love them and write out fun memories about each one. You can buy an inexpensive photo album to store them in. These are some of my kids’ greatest treasures. They make great gifts for Grandma & Grandpa too.
My kids really love getting post cards from friends and family all over the world. My son collects them in a photo album.
Give your kids their own copies of family pictures. You can put them in an album or a picture wall in their room. This allows them to put names with faces of family members that do not live close by.
When you can finally be together again, have a family day. Do something fun as a family. Spend time together. Allow your kids to be as clingy as they need to be to feel secure. Let your kids tell you all about what happened to them while you were gone. Usually this helps the transition for everyone concerned.
Map out your trip to show where you are going or mark the map as the trip progresses. This is a great way for your kids to study geography.
Use time tools like paper chains, calendars, advent calendars, etc. to mark time during a separation. It helps kids cope with not fully being able to understand long time periods.
Treasure hunts can be very fun. Write letters or notes, possibly including a surprise with each, and hide them in your house. Each letter can have a clue on where to find the next day's letter, and state how many days are left till you return. This will give your child something fun to look forward to, and works great for a short absence where there won't be time for mail.
Love notes are always a good idea. One summer my kids and I were going to be out of town when my husband returned from an extended absence. We left messages on sticky notes all over the house for him to read when he came back. My kids love doing projects like this while their dad is gone. It makes separation lots more fun.
Bedtime is always the hardest time for my kids when one of us is away. Recording bedtime stories, loving messages, songs, etc. on a DVD, CD, or tape has really help. This is especially good for infants and toddlers who can easily develop attachment issues.
Have phone dates. Set-up frequent phone calls to be a regular part of each other’s lives. This allows children to get reassurance from the parent that is gone, that he/she will be coming back.
Keep a journal of your time apart. That way you don’t miss out on each other’s lives. Daily emails work too. I love looking back on these and laughing at the chaos.
Start a family blog. That way everyone in your family has access to all your news at the same time. Please remember to use a program that is password protected to ensure privacy for your children.
Have a family “scapegoat”. Pick an adult in your family with a good relationship to your children who is willing to support your style of parenting. That way when one of your kids gets upset and will not talk to you, they have someone to call. Your child can vent to the other adult and calm down. Then the family “scapegoat” will listen, provide reassurance, and reinforce the family rules and disciplines.
Create your own story book of favorite memories. Have your kids pick out their favorite pictures of the people that love them and write out fun memories about each one. You can buy an inexpensive photo album to store them in. These are some of my kids’ greatest treasures. They make great gifts for Grandma & Grandpa too.
My kids really love getting post cards from friends and family all over the world. My son collects them in a photo album.
Give your kids their own copies of family pictures. You can put them in an album or a picture wall in their room. This allows them to put names with faces of family members that do not live close by.
When you can finally be together again, have a family day. Do something fun as a family. Spend time together. Allow your kids to be as clingy as they need to be to feel secure. Let your kids tell you all about what happened to them while you were gone. Usually this helps the transition for everyone concerned.
Are You Prepared?
I always thought we were doing really well on preparedness until we met Hurricane Ike. Yes even in our secret underwater base somewhere in the good old U.S.A., we got caught in up the the hurricane's path. My family did beautifully living without power for a week. Fortunately our tap water was still on and clean. It really got me thinking about how to improve our preparedness to the next thing to come along. We had enough food for the week, but not enough batteries. I also had to run the store again for a clothes line half way through the week. My kids had a great time learning to wash clothes in the tub and dry them on the line. We were so blessed to be able to campout at home for a week. My prayers and thoughts go out to all the families who lost their homes and loved ones. May your lives be filled with peace and healing.
Personal Medical History
Keeping your own medical history will help you to remember important facts, save time when seeing new doctors, see patterns, avoid problems if your records are lost, and avoid some medical mistakes. Update your history after every major medical event or at least once a year. I also like to write a list of my concerns at the bottom, so I don’t forget to mention them to my doctor. Don’t forget to take your medical history with you when you travel. If you do not have any major medical conditions, you might be able to fit it all in a couple of pages. If you do have a more complex medical history, a three ringed binder works great to keep it all organized. You might want to include the following:
Personal information
Patient’s full name
Address
Phone numbers
Insurance company with id #
Birth date
For a child include the names of parents, birth place, birth weight, & birth height.
List of all current doctors with phone numbers
Blood type if known
Allergies: List all known allergies and sensitivities as well as your reactions to them.
Immunizations: Are they up-to-date? When do you need the next one?
Medical Conditions: List all know medical conditions and the date first diagnosed.
Current Medications: List all medication with dosages, refills, and prescription expiration dates. Don’t forget to include vitamins and supplements.
Brief Medical History:
List dates, places, doctor’s names, and descriptions of all major medical events such as ER visits, hospitalizations, and specialty doctor visits (cardiologist, oncologist, etc…) Also include any normal doctor’s visits in which prescriptions are given or changed. Be sure to list all major medical discoveries and abnormal test results. I also like to jot down the date of my last physical, so I can remember when to schedule another one.
Other considerations:
Keep copies of all hospitalization & ER visit discharge papers and test results records for your personal records. Most doctor’s offices and hospitals will not release your medical files to you. By law they have to provide you will copies of any/all medical records when asked. It might take up-to six weeks to make copies, so ask early.
Personal information
Patient’s full name
Address
Phone numbers
Insurance company with id #
Birth date
For a child include the names of parents, birth place, birth weight, & birth height.
List of all current doctors with phone numbers
Blood type if known
Allergies: List all known allergies and sensitivities as well as your reactions to them.
Immunizations: Are they up-to-date? When do you need the next one?
Medical Conditions: List all know medical conditions and the date first diagnosed.
Current Medications: List all medication with dosages, refills, and prescription expiration dates. Don’t forget to include vitamins and supplements.
Brief Medical History:
List dates, places, doctor’s names, and descriptions of all major medical events such as ER visits, hospitalizations, and specialty doctor visits (cardiologist, oncologist, etc…) Also include any normal doctor’s visits in which prescriptions are given or changed. Be sure to list all major medical discoveries and abnormal test results. I also like to jot down the date of my last physical, so I can remember when to schedule another one.
Other considerations:
Keep copies of all hospitalization & ER visit discharge papers and test results records for your personal records. Most doctor’s offices and hospitals will not release your medical files to you. By law they have to provide you will copies of any/all medical records when asked. It might take up-to six weeks to make copies, so ask early.
Emergency Car Supplies
Be prepared for most small emergencies by keeping a bag of supplies in your car. Don’t forget to check the expiration dates routinely and replace anything that you use. This bag has saved me many times whether it is an unexpected emergency room visit or child that has wet their pants. Things to include might be:
Change of clothes for everyone in the family including socks and underwear
Small personal hygiene kit – I like to include toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, hair clippy, comb, and pads/tampons
Emergency medications for chronic conditions such as asthmas or diabetes with instructions on use
Snacks – individually packaged items like granola bars and bottled water
Baby items (if applicable) – extra formula, pacifiers, diapers, wipes, sippy cups, etc…
Emergency contact list
Comfort items like a small blanket or toy
Money for emergencies ($20 - $200)
Simple first aid kit for cuts, scrapes, and other ouchies
A pair of walking shoes if you routinely wear dress shoes
A whistle to attract attention
An emergency blanket
An umbrella
A flashlight with extra batteries
A disposable camera
A map of your area – be sure to outline your evacuation routes
Jumper cables or an emergency car starter
Tire iron – make sure you know how to change a tire or have road side assistance
A copy of your family’s emergency plan
Change of clothes for everyone in the family including socks and underwear
Small personal hygiene kit – I like to include toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, hair clippy, comb, and pads/tampons
Emergency medications for chronic conditions such as asthmas or diabetes with instructions on use
Snacks – individually packaged items like granola bars and bottled water
Baby items (if applicable) – extra formula, pacifiers, diapers, wipes, sippy cups, etc…
Emergency contact list
Comfort items like a small blanket or toy
Money for emergencies ($20 - $200)
Simple first aid kit for cuts, scrapes, and other ouchies
A pair of walking shoes if you routinely wear dress shoes
A whistle to attract attention
An emergency blanket
An umbrella
A flashlight with extra batteries
A disposable camera
A map of your area – be sure to outline your evacuation routes
Jumper cables or an emergency car starter
Tire iron – make sure you know how to change a tire or have road side assistance
A copy of your family’s emergency plan
Two Weeks of Emergency Supplies
Every family should have at least two weeks of emergency supplies. These supplies will help you survive without water, power, or having to leave your home in case of a disaster. They can also help during those times of unexpected financial trouble. You should personalize your emergency supplies to fill the needs of your family. Don’t forget your pet’s needs too. Be careful to routinely check the expiration dates on your supplies. Try to keep your supplies in a central, easy to reach location within your home. Rotate your supplies periodically and replace what you use as soon as you can. Most of these items you will already have in your home.
Water – 1 gallon per person per day or 14 gallons for 2 weeks per person. You may want to store more than that to bath with, wash clothes, cook, etc…
Food – enough food for at least 2 weeks. Be sure that this food does not have to be refrigerated or cooked. If you want to include food that has to be cook, make to include a way to cook your food like a grill or camp stove. Don’t forget the snacks and little treats.
Medications and medical supplies – keep an extra two weeks’ worth or more on hand.
Money – if you can keep cash on hand ($50 - $200) in case of power outages or emergency trips. For example a lot of hospital cafeterias take cash only.
First Aid Kit – it is usually a good idea to include a basic first aid manual in your kit as a reminder.
Sanitation needs – how will you deal with a loss of water/sewer in a disaster? Don’t forget to keep 2 weeks extra personal hygiene supplies on hand at all times.
Entertainment – include games, coloring books & crayons, books, etc… to pass the time.
Tools – this is where most people have to spend a little money. It is very helpful to have on hand any or all of the following:
Flashlights or camp lanterns with extra batteries
Battery powered radio with extra batteries
Map of the area & your evacuation routes
Whistle to signal for help.
Fire extinguisher(s)
Shut-off wrench for your utilities
Crowbar – to move heavy objects or open stuck doors
Corded phone - the cordless ones don’t work without power
Non electric can opener
Dust masks
Tent(s)
Tarps
Duck tape
Rope
Chain saw (if you have large trees in your yard)
Water – 1 gallon per person per day or 14 gallons for 2 weeks per person. You may want to store more than that to bath with, wash clothes, cook, etc…
Food – enough food for at least 2 weeks. Be sure that this food does not have to be refrigerated or cooked. If you want to include food that has to be cook, make to include a way to cook your food like a grill or camp stove. Don’t forget the snacks and little treats.
Medications and medical supplies – keep an extra two weeks’ worth or more on hand.
Money – if you can keep cash on hand ($50 - $200) in case of power outages or emergency trips. For example a lot of hospital cafeterias take cash only.
First Aid Kit – it is usually a good idea to include a basic first aid manual in your kit as a reminder.
Sanitation needs – how will you deal with a loss of water/sewer in a disaster? Don’t forget to keep 2 weeks extra personal hygiene supplies on hand at all times.
Entertainment – include games, coloring books & crayons, books, etc… to pass the time.
Tools – this is where most people have to spend a little money. It is very helpful to have on hand any or all of the following:
Flashlights or camp lanterns with extra batteries
Battery powered radio with extra batteries
Map of the area & your evacuation routes
Whistle to signal for help.
Fire extinguisher(s)
Shut-off wrench for your utilities
Crowbar – to move heavy objects or open stuck doors
Corded phone - the cordless ones don’t work without power
Non electric can opener
Dust masks
Tent(s)
Tarps
Duck tape
Rope
Chain saw (if you have large trees in your yard)
Family Household Book (box, safe, etc…)
Keep all of your important documents together for easy access in case of an emergency. Store them in something you can take with you if you have to evacuate. This is also handy for moves, vacations, filling out legal paperwork, etc… Your important documents might include some of the following:
Contact Information
Emergency phone #s & addresses
Family phone #s & addresses
Friends phone #s & addresses
Business phone #s & addresses
Medical, School, Church, etc… phone #s & addresses
Financial Information
Family budget
List of all accounts and bills
Last paycheck statement or LES
Insurance Policies
Medical Information
List of all current medications with dosages and refill #s
Brief medical histories for all family members
Medical instructions for chronic conditions.
Shot records
Household Inventory
List of all household items valued over $200.
List of all appliances and electronics with serial #s
Titles to cars, boats, RVs, etc…
Legal Documents
Birth certificates
Social Security cards
Passports/Immigration papers
Marriage/Divorce papers
Custody agreements
Wills and Living wills
Deed to properties
Misc. Information
Family Emergency Plan
Family daily/weekly schedules
CD backups of important computer files
CD backups of family photos
List of favorite websites with use ids and passwords (hand-write all passwords)
Contact Information
Emergency phone #s & addresses
Family phone #s & addresses
Friends phone #s & addresses
Business phone #s & addresses
Medical, School, Church, etc… phone #s & addresses
Financial Information
Family budget
List of all accounts and bills
Last paycheck statement or LES
Insurance Policies
Medical Information
List of all current medications with dosages and refill #s
Brief medical histories for all family members
Medical instructions for chronic conditions.
Shot records
Household Inventory
List of all household items valued over $200.
List of all appliances and electronics with serial #s
Titles to cars, boats, RVs, etc…
Legal Documents
Birth certificates
Social Security cards
Passports/Immigration papers
Marriage/Divorce papers
Custody agreements
Wills and Living wills
Deed to properties
Misc. Information
Family Emergency Plan
Family daily/weekly schedules
CD backups of important computer files
CD backups of family photos
List of favorite websites with use ids and passwords (hand-write all passwords)
Family Emergency Plan
What will your family do in an emergency? As a family, come up with a plan of how to handle the common emergencies in your area. Make sure that everyone has a copy, and copies are easy to find in your home, work, and car. Don’t forget to include your pets in your family plan. Please personalize your family plan to fit your family’s needs and concerns. You might want to include some or all of the following suggestions:
Communication: How will your family stay in contact with everyone?
1. Have a list of all important and emergency phone numbers by every phone, in every car, and given to all responsible family members.
2. Choose an out-of-town contact that you will call or email in a disaster. This person will be able to let others know how and where you are. You might need one contact person for each side of the family.
3. Teach children how and when to call 911. Don’t forget to include learning how to use a cell phone if needed.
Shelter: Where will you go in an emergency?
1. Have a safe room (no window or outside walls if possible) in your home. It is best to store your 72 hour kids in this room as well so you can get to it when you need it.
2. Make a fire escape plan for each room in your home. Don’t forget to test your smoke alarms too.
3. Have a meeting place outside of your home in case your home is not safe.
4. Have a rendezvous point in town and out-of-town if you have to evacuate.
Emergency Aid: How will you get the help you need in an emergency?
1. Develop s support system that is at least 5 people deep. Who can help you in an emergency?
2. What emergency supplies do you need, where are they kept, and where can you get more if needed?
3. Discuss what to do in a fire, severe weather, flood, power outage, medical emergency, etc…
4. What will you do if you are out of work for a while?
Estate Planning: What will your family do if you are disabled or die?
1. Do you have the right amount of insurance (auto, property, life) and is it up-to-date?
2. Do you have a will? Who do you want to take care of your kids, pets, business, etc? Make sure to give a copy of your wishes in writing to all sides of your family, so there are no misunderstandings.
3. Do you have an advanced medical directive or living will expressing your wishes on medical treatments and who gets to decide for you if you can’t decide for yourself?
Away from Home: What if you are not at home when an emergency happens?
1. Who do you call for emergency information?
2. How do you reach your spouse at work or the kids at school/daycare in an emergency?
3. Do you know your work’s and/or school’s emergency plan?
4. Know how your health care works away from home and in an emergency.
Communication: How will your family stay in contact with everyone?
1. Have a list of all important and emergency phone numbers by every phone, in every car, and given to all responsible family members.
2. Choose an out-of-town contact that you will call or email in a disaster. This person will be able to let others know how and where you are. You might need one contact person for each side of the family.
3. Teach children how and when to call 911. Don’t forget to include learning how to use a cell phone if needed.
Shelter: Where will you go in an emergency?
1. Have a safe room (no window or outside walls if possible) in your home. It is best to store your 72 hour kids in this room as well so you can get to it when you need it.
2. Make a fire escape plan for each room in your home. Don’t forget to test your smoke alarms too.
3. Have a meeting place outside of your home in case your home is not safe.
4. Have a rendezvous point in town and out-of-town if you have to evacuate.
Emergency Aid: How will you get the help you need in an emergency?
1. Develop s support system that is at least 5 people deep. Who can help you in an emergency?
2. What emergency supplies do you need, where are they kept, and where can you get more if needed?
3. Discuss what to do in a fire, severe weather, flood, power outage, medical emergency, etc…
4. What will you do if you are out of work for a while?
Estate Planning: What will your family do if you are disabled or die?
1. Do you have the right amount of insurance (auto, property, life) and is it up-to-date?
2. Do you have a will? Who do you want to take care of your kids, pets, business, etc? Make sure to give a copy of your wishes in writing to all sides of your family, so there are no misunderstandings.
3. Do you have an advanced medical directive or living will expressing your wishes on medical treatments and who gets to decide for you if you can’t decide for yourself?
Away from Home: What if you are not at home when an emergency happens?
1. Who do you call for emergency information?
2. How do you reach your spouse at work or the kids at school/daycare in an emergency?
3. Do you know your work’s and/or school’s emergency plan?
4. Know how your health care works away from home and in an emergency.
Emergency Contact List
This is a detailed list of who to contact in case of an emergency. You can personalize your list to includes anything or anyone that is important to your family. Most of this information can be found in your local phone book or city’s website. It can be very helpful to keep a copy of this by every phone, in your cars, at work, and in your purse. I also like to leave a copy with the babysitter just in case.
The front page contains:
Full names of you and your spouse
Address with zip code
Phone numbers
Emergency 911
Police (non emergency # - in case of an emergency always call 911)
Fire Department (non emergency # - in case of an emergency always call 911)
Poison Control
Utilities
Electric (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Gas (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Phone (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Water (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Medical
Family Doctor(s)
Family Dentist(s)
All Specialty Doctors
Nearest Hospital/ER
Work – list all places of work for everyone in the family.
Family - be sure to include at least one contact from every side of the family.
Husband’s next of kin
Wife’s next of kin
Other ideas
Church
Neighbors
Babysitters
On the back, I like to list the addresses of businesses that are important to my family such as:
Places of work
Schools/Daycares
Church
Doctor’s offices
Urgent care center/ER
Closest Hospital
Insurance companies
Banks/Credit Unions
*Be careful not to list any account information or policy details on any thing that you share with others or save on your hard drive.
The front page contains:
Full names of you and your spouse
Address with zip code
Phone numbers
Emergency 911
Police (non emergency # - in case of an emergency always call 911)
Fire Department (non emergency # - in case of an emergency always call 911)
Poison Control
Utilities
Electric (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Gas (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Phone (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Water (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Medical
Family Doctor(s)
Family Dentist(s)
All Specialty Doctors
Nearest Hospital/ER
Work – list all places of work for everyone in the family.
Family - be sure to include at least one contact from every side of the family.
Husband’s next of kin
Wife’s next of kin
Other ideas
Church
Neighbors
Babysitters
On the back, I like to list the addresses of businesses that are important to my family such as:
Places of work
Schools/Daycares
Church
Doctor’s offices
Urgent care center/ER
Closest Hospital
Insurance companies
Banks/Credit Unions
*Be careful not to list any account information or policy details on any thing that you share with others or save on your hard drive.
The Drug Problem in America
The other day, someone at a store in our town read that a methamphetamine lab had been found in an old farmhouse in the adjoining county and he asked me a rhetorical question, ''Why didn't we have a drug problem when you and I were growing up?''
I replied: I had a drug problem when I was young:
I was drug to church on Sunday morning.
I was drug to church for weddings and funerals.
I was drug to family reunions and community socials no matter the weather.
I was drug by my ears when I was disrespectful to adults.
I was also drug to the woodshed when I disobeyed my parents, told a lie, brought home a bad report card, did not speak with respect, spoke ill of the teacher or the preacher, or if I didn't put forth my best effort in everything that was asked of me.
I was drug to the kitchen sink to have my mouth washed out with soap if I uttered a profane four-letter word.
I was drug out to pull weeds in mom's garden and flower beds and cockleburs out of dad's fields.
I was drug to the homes of family, friends, and neighbors to help out some poor soul who had no one to mow the yard, repair the clothesline, or chop some firewood;and, if my mother had ever known that I took a single dime as a tip for this kindness, she would have drug me back to the woodshed.
Those drugs are still in my veins; and they affect my behavior in everything I do, say, and think. They are stronger than cocaine, crack, or heroin; and, if today's children had this kind of drug problem, America would be a better place.
~author unknown~
“Our worst fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented,and fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God; your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some of us, it is in everyone. As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
by Marianne Williamson (A Return to Love)
by Marianne Williamson (A Return to Love)
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not shouting, "I've been saved!"
I'm whispering, "I get lost!
That's why I chose this way"
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't speak with human pride
I'm confessing that I stumble
Needing God to be my guide
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not trying to be strong
I'm professing that I'm weak
And pray for strength to carry on
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not bragging of success
I'm admitting that I've failed
And cannot ever pay the debt
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
Asking humbly to be taught
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible
But God believes I'm worth it
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache
Which is why I seek His name
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I'm loved
by Carol Wimmer (1988)
I'm not shouting, "I've been saved!"
I'm whispering, "I get lost!
That's why I chose this way"
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't speak with human pride
I'm confessing that I stumble
Needing God to be my guide
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not trying to be strong
I'm professing that I'm weak
And pray for strength to carry on
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not bragging of success
I'm admitting that I've failed
And cannot ever pay the debt
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I don't think I know it all
I submit to my confusion
Asking humbly to be taught
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I'm not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible
But God believes I'm worth it
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache
Which is why I seek His name
When I say, "I am a Christian,"
I do not wish to judge
I have no authority
I only know I'm loved
by Carol Wimmer (1988)
Summer Reading Program 2008
We love the local library's summer reading program. We particularly enjoyed the following books:
Popcorn by Frank Asch
But No Elephants by Jerry Smath
Henry's Awful Mistake by Robert M. Quackenbush
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Senda
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams
Olivia by Ian Falconer
The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister
Amelia Bedelia Series by Peggy Parish
What Is A Wookiee? by Laura Buller
Fancy Nancy Series by Jane O'Connor
Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne and Sal Murdocca
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry
Marvin K. Mooney Will You Please Go Now! by Dr. Seus
Adventures of the Bailey School Kids by Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones
Popcorn by Frank Asch
But No Elephants by Jerry Smath
Henry's Awful Mistake by Robert M. Quackenbush
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Senda
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White
The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams
Olivia by Ian Falconer
The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister
Amelia Bedelia Series by Peggy Parish
What Is A Wookiee? by Laura Buller
Fancy Nancy Series by Jane O'Connor
Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne and Sal Murdocca
Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry
Marvin K. Mooney Will You Please Go Now! by Dr. Seus
Adventures of the Bailey School Kids by Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones
If I had my child to raise all over again,
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd finger-paint more, and point the finger less.
I would do less correcting and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging and less tugging.
by Diane Loomans, from "If I Had My Child To Raise Over Again"
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I'd finger-paint more, and point the finger less.
I would do less correcting and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.
I'd do more hugging and less tugging.
by Diane Loomans, from "If I Had My Child To Raise Over Again"
Family Game Night
We often have family game night on Fridays as a reward for good behavior. After dinner the child that has worked the hardest that week gets to pick what game we will be playing. Our family's favorites are Uno, Monopoly, Clue JR, Yatzee, & Sequence for Kids. We are always looking for new games, if you have any suggestions.
Top 10 reasons I love being a mom:
10. You get to set your own schedule after they start sleeping through the night.
9. You are able to create your own working environment.
8. You are your own boss until your kids out smart you.
7. Watching animated movies is mandatory!
6. Playtime is the most important part of the day.
5. Your night life consists of peace and quite finally.
4. Making mistakes is normal, and the kids don't mind.
3. You can sing off key and no one cares.
2. Everyday can be a pajama day and that's ok!
1. You get hugs, kisses, and "I love you"s just for being you.
9. You are able to create your own working environment.
8. You are your own boss until your kids out smart you.
7. Watching animated movies is mandatory!
6. Playtime is the most important part of the day.
5. Your night life consists of peace and quite finally.
4. Making mistakes is normal, and the kids don't mind.
3. You can sing off key and no one cares.
2. Everyday can be a pajama day and that's ok!
1. You get hugs, kisses, and "I love you"s just for being you.
Firecracker Cupcakes
1-1/2 cups flaked coconut, divided
4 drops each: blue and red food colorings
24 yellow cupcakes
2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
24 red string licorice pieces (4 inch strips)
PLACE ½ cup of the coconut in each of two separate resealable plastic bags; set remaining 1/2 cup coconut aside. Add blue food coloring to coconut in one bag and red food coloring to coconut in second bag. Seal bags; shake until coconut is evenly tinted. If you don't like coconut, just use red & blue sugar sprinkles.
SPREAD tops of cupcakes with whipped topping (or frosting if you prefer). Sprinkle with red, white (uncolored) and blue coconut as desired; press coconut gently into whipped topping to secure.
INSERT licorice piece into top of each cupcake for the firecracker's fuse. Store in refrigerator. You could also use blueberries, raspberries, and/or strawberries as toppings.
1-1/2 cups flaked coconut, divided
4 drops each: blue and red food colorings
24 yellow cupcakes
2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
24 red string licorice pieces (4 inch strips)
PLACE ½ cup of the coconut in each of two separate resealable plastic bags; set remaining 1/2 cup coconut aside. Add blue food coloring to coconut in one bag and red food coloring to coconut in second bag. Seal bags; shake until coconut is evenly tinted. If you don't like coconut, just use red & blue sugar sprinkles.
SPREAD tops of cupcakes with whipped topping (or frosting if you prefer). Sprinkle with red, white (uncolored) and blue coconut as desired; press coconut gently into whipped topping to secure.
INSERT licorice piece into top of each cupcake for the firecracker's fuse. Store in refrigerator. You could also use blueberries, raspberries, and/or strawberries as toppings.
Hershey Kiss Cookies
3/4 c. peanut butter
1 can condensed milk
2 c. Bisquick
1 tsp. vanilla
1 pkg. Hershey Kisses
Mix together peanut butter and milk. Add Bisquick and vanilla. Mix all together well. Shape into small balls, and place them on a prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes at 375 degrees. Put a Hershey Kiss on top of each cookie as soon as you take the cookies out of the oven.
3/4 c. peanut butter
1 can condensed milk
2 c. Bisquick
1 tsp. vanilla
1 pkg. Hershey Kisses
Mix together peanut butter and milk. Add Bisquick and vanilla. Mix all together well. Shape into small balls, and place them on a prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes at 375 degrees. Put a Hershey Kiss on top of each cookie as soon as you take the cookies out of the oven.
Funfetti Cookies
1 pkg. Funfetti Cake Mix
1/3 cup oil
2 eggs
1/2 can Funfetti Frosting
Heat oven to 375̊F. In large bowl, combine cake mix, oil and eggs; stir with spoon until thoroughly moistened. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. With bottom of glass dipped in flour, flatten to 1/4-inch thickness. Bake at 375̊F. for 6 to 8 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets. Spread frosting over warm cookies. Immediately sprinkle each with candy bits from frosting. Let frosting set before storing. Store in tightly covered container. You should be able to use any flavor of cake mix you prefer.
1 pkg. Funfetti Cake Mix
1/3 cup oil
2 eggs
1/2 can Funfetti Frosting
Heat oven to 375̊F. In large bowl, combine cake mix, oil and eggs; stir with spoon until thoroughly moistened. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. With bottom of glass dipped in flour, flatten to 1/4-inch thickness. Bake at 375̊F. for 6 to 8 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets. Spread frosting over warm cookies. Immediately sprinkle each with candy bits from frosting. Let frosting set before storing. Store in tightly covered container. You should be able to use any flavor of cake mix you prefer.
Confetti Cake
1 cake mix (any kind)
1 1/3 cups water
1/3 cup vegetable oil or applesauce
3 eggs
½ cup of those round color sprinkle balls
Mix everything together until blended. Pour into a prepared cake pan. Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes until done. Top with icing if desired. Then you have an instant party cake.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cream Together:
1 lb. butter
2 cups brown sugar
4 eggs
1 ½ cups sugar
2 tbsp. vanilla
Add:
1 ½ tsp. baking soda
1 ½ tsp. salt
6 cups flour
1 cup oatmeal
2 cups nuts (optional)
4 cups chocolate chips
Place scoops on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for about 11 minutes. They usually look under cooked. This is a very large batch, so you may want to half the recipe if you are using a Kitchen Aid like mixer.
Cream Together:
1 lb. butter
2 cups brown sugar
4 eggs
1 ½ cups sugar
2 tbsp. vanilla
Add:
1 ½ tsp. baking soda
1 ½ tsp. salt
6 cups flour
1 cup oatmeal
2 cups nuts (optional)
4 cups chocolate chips
Place scoops on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for about 11 minutes. They usually look under cooked. This is a very large batch, so you may want to half the recipe if you are using a Kitchen Aid like mixer.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
2 ½ cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 pkg semisweet chocolate chips or chunks
½ cup walnuts or pecans (optional)
Preset the oven to 350 degrees, and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. Cream together the butter and sugar. Add the pumpkin, egg, and vanilla and beat just until blended. Mix in the dry ingredients. Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks and nuts, if using.
Drop the batter by heaping tablespoons 1 inch apart on the baking sheets. Bake the cookies for 13 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
2 ½ cups flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 pkg semisweet chocolate chips or chunks
½ cup walnuts or pecans (optional)
Preset the oven to 350 degrees, and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. Cream together the butter and sugar. Add the pumpkin, egg, and vanilla and beat just until blended. Mix in the dry ingredients. Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks and nuts, if using.
Drop the batter by heaping tablespoons 1 inch apart on the baking sheets. Bake the cookies for 13 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
The Lego Club
My sons started a Lego Club. Once a month they invited all their friends over to play for a couple of hours. My boys would plan the activities and snacks. They made up the rules. When it was all over they had to deal with the clean-up. I basically did the shopping and supervised. The only down side was that I had to limit the club to 20 kids.
The boys had so much fun that a couples of months later, my girls started the Princess Club. One afternoon a month, they and quite a few of their friends got together to dress up like princess. They served refreshments, played games, and watched princess movies.
I loved being the fun mom while only having to have friends over twice a month. It has worked wonders for my kids social skills.
The boys had so much fun that a couples of months later, my girls started the Princess Club. One afternoon a month, they and quite a few of their friends got together to dress up like princess. They served refreshments, played games, and watched princess movies.
I loved being the fun mom while only having to have friends over twice a month. It has worked wonders for my kids social skills.
Eero's Favorite Jokes
What illness did everyone on the Enterprise catch? Chicken Spocks!
If you meet a bear on a hike, don't run. Really? Why? Because bears like fast food
What goes around the world but stays in a corner? A postage stamp
What kind of room has no door or windows? A mushroom.
Why did Cinderella's soccer team always lose? Because her coach was a pumpkin!
What did the cherry tree say to the farmer? Quit picking on me!
What do pirates like to eat? BARRRRbecue!
What is a shark's favorite game? Swallow the leader.
How do witches keep their hair in place while flying? With scare spray...
What is a vampire's favorite mode of transportation? A blood vessel...
What is Dracula's favorite landmark? The Vampire Stake Building
What animal do you look like in the bath? A little bear
Why did the kid crawl into school five minutes after 9:00 AM? Because the teacher said not to walk in late!!!
What did Mars say to Saturn? Give me a ring sometime.
What kind of flower grows on your face? Tulips!
What clothing does a house wear? Address
Why are potatoes good detectives? Because they can keep their eyes peeled.
Student: H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O.
Teacher: That's not the formula I gave you.
Student: Yes it is. You said it was H to O.
Knock knock - Who's there? - You know. - You know who? - Exactly, Avada Kedavra!
Princess Party
Decorations: Create a tent out of streamer with a balloon chandelier.
Food: Sprite & sherbet punch and mini cakes that the girls decorate themselves.
Princess Bingo - kids color a page of princess picture squares, cut them out, and glue them onto a bingo card. Then play with M&Ms or Skittles.
Kiss the frog - the kids walk on pictures of various princesses and one frog while music plays. If you land on the frog when the music stops, you have to kiss the frog.
Food: Sprite & sherbet punch and mini cakes that the girls decorate themselves.
Games:
Parade of Princesses - everyone makes a crown and creates a royal name. Then they are presented to the court.
Princess Pinata - Make or buy a princess pinata. Then fill it with bracelets, rings,necklaces, & M&M packets, etc.
Princess Bingo - kids color a page of princess picture squares, cut them out, and glue them onto a bingo card. Then play with M&Ms or Skittles.
Kiss the frog - the kids walk on pictures of various princesses and one frog while music plays. If you land on the frog when the music stops, you have to kiss the frog.
Halloween Party Games
Trick or Treat Guessing Game – have to guess the candy by just looking at it without the wrapper.
Pumpkin Chow – see who is the first to eat a pumpkin sugar cookie or cupcake without using their hands.
The Great Pumpkin Hunt – hide 50 - 100 small pumpkins or pumpkin cutouts around a room. Whomever finds the most wins.
Pin the Nose on the Pumpkin – Make a large pumpkin without the nose. Have the kids try to stick the nose on with double stick tape.
Spider Toss – put a large web on the wall. Give each child a plastic spider with their initial or a sticker (to tell them apart) on it. The child that tosses their spider closest to the center of the web wins.
Witches Brew- Do you dare reach into the witch's cauldron to retrieve a prize? Fill a big pot with prizes wrapped in plastic and throw a bunch of gross stuff in such as rubber spiders and snakes, cobwebs, popcorn, cold spaghetti, Styrofoam to make it look like a big stew. Keep paper towels handy.
Haunted Balloon Tower - divide up into 3 groups. Give each group 50 balloons and 2 rolls of tape. Instruct the teams that they are to build the largest free-standing balloon tower possible in 5 minutes. Start the clock, and everyone begins building the towers. When time is called, look at the towers (measure if necessary) and declare whose tower is tallest.
Ghost Float - give each person a white balloon and a straw. You blow through the straw to keep "ghost" balloons afloat. Whomever can keep his/her ghost up the longest wins.Pass The Pumpkins: Have kids sit in a circle and pass small pumpkins or gourds when the music is playing. When the music stops the child without a pumpkin is out continue until there's a winner.
Mummy Wrap: Divide guests into pairs Give each pair a roll of toilet paper. One person wraps the other with the paper, first one to empty their roll wins. Older kids and adults get two rolls, once the first person is wrapped they wrap their partner. Prizes to the first team who empty both rolls.
Pumpkin Carving: what would Halloween be without some homemade jack-o-lanterns. Look online for free carving patterns.
Monster Mash: Play Halloween music and have the kids dance like monsters! When the music stops the kids freeze in their monster positions. The first kid to move is out. This is a good game for the end of the party since you can make it last as long you want.
Pirate Plundering Party
Decorations: Make treasure map invitations rolled up like scrolls. Decorate everything in black and yellow. Scatter gold coins along the table. Make your own pirate flags out of posters or pillowcases. Hang them around the room or sew them together to make the plundering table cloth.
Food: Have a plundering table full of finger foods: sandwiches, chips, fruits, vegetables, pizza, red punch, etc. Serve everything on golden (yellow) plates. In the middle of the table have a treasure chest of assorted cookies for dessert. You could have sushi for adults.
Games:
Make & decorate paper hats & cardboard swords.
Pick out pirate names/ titles and make name tags.
Have a treasure hunt.
Make a treasure chest pinata.
Dance like a pirate - singing pirate songs.
Pin the Eye Patch on the Pirate (or parrot on the pirate, or flag on the pirate ship, ect.)
Play Musical Islands ( Like musical chairs, only use a piece of paper in place of the chairs.)
Sleeping Pirate: All the children (except one - The Pirate) sit cross legged on the floor in a circle. The pirate sits blind-folded, cross-legged in the middle of the circle with a large bunch of keys (or gold coins) on the floor in front of him. A child is nominated to creep up and take the keys and then return to their place without the pirate hearing them. The Pirate has three goes to point to where he thinks the raider is. If he is successful, the raider becomes the Pirate and the game continues.
Food: Have a plundering table full of finger foods: sandwiches, chips, fruits, vegetables, pizza, red punch, etc. Serve everything on golden (yellow) plates. In the middle of the table have a treasure chest of assorted cookies for dessert. You could have sushi for adults.
Games:
Make & decorate paper hats & cardboard swords.
Pick out pirate names/ titles and make name tags.
Have a treasure hunt.
Make a treasure chest pinata.
Dance like a pirate - singing pirate songs.
Pin the Eye Patch on the Pirate (or parrot on the pirate, or flag on the pirate ship, ect.)
Play Musical Islands ( Like musical chairs, only use a piece of paper in place of the chairs.)
Sleeping Pirate: All the children (except one - The Pirate) sit cross legged on the floor in a circle. The pirate sits blind-folded, cross-legged in the middle of the circle with a large bunch of keys (or gold coins) on the floor in front of him. A child is nominated to creep up and take the keys and then return to their place without the pirate hearing them. The Pirate has three goes to point to where he thinks the raider is. If he is successful, the raider becomes the Pirate and the game continues.
Backyard Beach Party
Decorations: Cover the tables with brown butcher paper. Decorate with beach balls, sand pails, bubbles, plastic sun glasses, etc... You can use them as party favors when the party is over. Use brightly colored paper goods for eating and those fun drink umbrellas with straws.
Food: Assorted sandwiches, vegetable plate, fruit salad, & blue Jell-O bowl or blue frosted cup cakes decorated with gummy fish. Be sure to have plenty of cold water bottles & popsicles on hand. Everyone can picnic on towels or blankets.
Games: Slip-n-slides and wadding pools are always a hit. These are some of my favorites too.
Water relay race: You need 1 bucket of water, 1 dry bucket, & 1 large sponge per team. Split players into two or more teams. Set the buckets of water & sponges on one side. Then put the dry bucket 10 - 15 feet away. The first team to fill their dry bucket ½ way with water without moving the buckets wins.
Wipe out : All you need is some surfing music. Everyone pretends to surf while the music is playing in the background. Then yell "Wipe Out" and everyone dramatically falls to the floor. Get up and repeat.
Water balloon volley ball: You will need LOTS of water balloons, a bucket with water in it to hold the water balloons, a beach towel for each pair of children, and a volleyball net is optional. Divide up into two groups. Pair them off and give each pair a beach towel. One side begins by placing a water balloon in the center of their towel. The object is to toss the water balloon over the net with the opposing side catching the balloon in their towel. The volley continues until one side misses and the balloon breaks. Play until you run out of water balloons.
Beach combing box: Set up a sand box with buried treasures in it. You can use coins, wrapped candy, & small toys. Be sure to let the youngest kids go first.
Food: Assorted sandwiches, vegetable plate, fruit salad, & blue Jell-O bowl or blue frosted cup cakes decorated with gummy fish. Be sure to have plenty of cold water bottles & popsicles on hand. Everyone can picnic on towels or blankets.
Games: Slip-n-slides and wadding pools are always a hit. These are some of my favorites too.
Water relay race: You need 1 bucket of water, 1 dry bucket, & 1 large sponge per team. Split players into two or more teams. Set the buckets of water & sponges on one side. Then put the dry bucket 10 - 15 feet away. The first team to fill their dry bucket ½ way with water without moving the buckets wins.
Wipe out : All you need is some surfing music. Everyone pretends to surf while the music is playing in the background. Then yell "Wipe Out" and everyone dramatically falls to the floor. Get up and repeat.
Water balloon volley ball: You will need LOTS of water balloons, a bucket with water in it to hold the water balloons, a beach towel for each pair of children, and a volleyball net is optional. Divide up into two groups. Pair them off and give each pair a beach towel. One side begins by placing a water balloon in the center of their towel. The object is to toss the water balloon over the net with the opposing side catching the balloon in their towel. The volley continues until one side misses and the balloon breaks. Play until you run out of water balloons.
Beach combing box: Set up a sand box with buried treasures in it. You can use coins, wrapped candy, & small toys. Be sure to let the youngest kids go first.
24th of July - Pioneer Day
Decorations: Bonnets & aprons for the girls. Bandanas & Cowboy hats for boys.
Food: Beef Stew or Chicken Pot Pie, Biscuits, & Peach Cobbler served on pie tins.
Games: Make & decorate wagons out of boxes and have a relay race. Sing pioneer songs. Make up campfire stories. Play children's games such as hopscotch, jump rope, tag, marbles, etc..
Here is one game I found on the internet:
Drop the Handkerchief is similar to Duck-Duck-Goose. Form a circle of players facing each other. The person that is "it" will go around on the outside of the circle and drop a handkerchief behind one of the other players. Then he/she has to race around the circle in hopes they won't get caught by the person the handkerchief was dropped behind. The person where the handkerchief was dropped picks up the handkerchief and chases after the person. The first one to sit in the empty spot wins. The one who loses will be "it" next.
Food: Beef Stew or Chicken Pot Pie, Biscuits, & Peach Cobbler served on pie tins.
Games: Make & decorate wagons out of boxes and have a relay race. Sing pioneer songs. Make up campfire stories. Play children's games such as hopscotch, jump rope, tag, marbles, etc..
Here is one game I found on the internet:
Drop the Handkerchief is similar to Duck-Duck-Goose. Form a circle of players facing each other. The person that is "it" will go around on the outside of the circle and drop a handkerchief behind one of the other players. Then he/she has to race around the circle in hopes they won't get caught by the person the handkerchief was dropped behind. The person where the handkerchief was dropped picks up the handkerchief and chases after the person. The first one to sit in the empty spot wins. The one who loses will be "it" next.
4th of July Party
Decorations: Anything red, white, & blue. Be sure to include stars, flags, and fireworks.
Food: Hamburgers, hotdogs, watermelon, corn on the cob, & blue raspberry punch.
Games: Fireworks are always a great idea (especially the ones on TV)
Reach For The Stars - You'll need star shaped sugar cookies, string and blindfolds for this game. Hang the red, white, & blue decorated star cookies from a tree branch, clothes line or ceiling. Everyone stands in front of a cookie blindfolded. The first one to eat his/her cookie without using his/her hands wins.
Rocket Balloons - You will need red & blue balloons, streamer ribbons, & dried lentils. To make each rocket, use a kitchen funnel to pour 1/3 cup of dried lentils into a round balloon. Then blow up the balloon so it's about 16 inches around and knot it. For the finishing touch, tie several long ribbon streamers around the neck. Toss back and forth. See who's rocket can go the farthest.
Patriotic Parade - ask guests to bring wagons, bikes, scooters, drums and tambourines. If you don't have any of that decorate poster float. Use balloons, construction paper, streamers, small flags, etc. for decorating the parade floats. Parade around block or a park.
Wizarding Duel - use sparklers as magic wands to have a family wizarding duel. The wooden sparklers with the long handles are the safest. Give out awards for style, speed, sneakiness, etc...
Food: Hamburgers, hotdogs, watermelon, corn on the cob, & blue raspberry punch.
Games: Fireworks are always a great idea (especially the ones on TV)
Reach For The Stars - You'll need star shaped sugar cookies, string and blindfolds for this game. Hang the red, white, & blue decorated star cookies from a tree branch, clothes line or ceiling. Everyone stands in front of a cookie blindfolded. The first one to eat his/her cookie without using his/her hands wins.
Rocket Balloons - You will need red & blue balloons, streamer ribbons, & dried lentils. To make each rocket, use a kitchen funnel to pour 1/3 cup of dried lentils into a round balloon. Then blow up the balloon so it's about 16 inches around and knot it. For the finishing touch, tie several long ribbon streamers around the neck. Toss back and forth. See who's rocket can go the farthest.
Patriotic Parade - ask guests to bring wagons, bikes, scooters, drums and tambourines. If you don't have any of that decorate poster float. Use balloons, construction paper, streamers, small flags, etc. for decorating the parade floats. Parade around block or a park.
Wizarding Duel - use sparklers as magic wands to have a family wizarding duel. The wooden sparklers with the long handles are the safest. Give out awards for style, speed, sneakiness, etc...
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