tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88405874049873554902024-03-13T09:25:12.777-07:00Grandma's Little PearlsGrandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.comBlogger669125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-40025138422992811772013-11-30T11:10:00.000-07:002013-11-30T11:14:31.018-07:00Giving Thanks 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59qB0VWT_yU/UpjSjeQs-TI/AAAAAAAAE68/DMCBP1WbMI8/s1600/P1010093+-+Version+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59qB0VWT_yU/UpjSjeQs-TI/AAAAAAAAE68/DMCBP1WbMI8/s320/P1010093+-+Version+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today I am thankful for my family and for these six</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
healthy, happy, and active grandsons!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DG6iihqDoOY/UpjTGTyP6gI/AAAAAAAAE7M/jPg60uw2XNc/s1600/P1010077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DG6iihqDoOY/UpjTGTyP6gI/AAAAAAAAE7M/jPg60uw2XNc/s320/P1010077.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful that the boys were able to fill their tummies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
from our bountiful Thanksgiving buffet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Out of all of the selections the only thing that made it on every</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
child's plate was my homemade dinner rolls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One child feasted only on dinner rolls and plain jello. Another just turkey and a roll.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While others a big pile of mashed potatoes and gravy and rolls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0nG-aED4EE/UpjS3E0EE0I/AAAAAAAAE7E/LP0DV9hiGG8/s1600/P1010084.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0nG-aED4EE/UpjS3E0EE0I/AAAAAAAAE7E/LP0DV9hiGG8/s320/P1010084.jpg" width="245" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful for a son who can make the best buttery and creamy mashed potatoes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful for a husband who is the best helper in the kitchen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He baked the pumpkin pies this year, kept the pots and pans washed up, watched the rolls bake,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
helped set the tables, and countless other things both little and big where he </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
can see the need and always pitches in to get the job done.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b6RuzfgQ57w/UpjTQcqi_QI/AAAAAAAAE7U/wTnVmDBlXPo/s1600/P1010086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b6RuzfgQ57w/UpjTQcqi_QI/AAAAAAAAE7U/wTnVmDBlXPo/s320/P1010086.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful for a son in law who is able and very willing to follow</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
through on Thanksgiving assignments and in the care for his three boys while </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
my daughter spent her morning at urgent care and in </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
bed the rest of the day with strep throat.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kAIV2fHoRqY/UpjTb1RsnAI/AAAAAAAAE7c/1B1QSJ5Wbbc/s1600/P1010087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kAIV2fHoRqY/UpjTb1RsnAI/AAAAAAAAE7c/1B1QSJ5Wbbc/s320/P1010087.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful for my daughter who recently made us empty nesters </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>(except we're not really empty nesters since we share our home</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>with my mother in law who has Alzheimer's.)</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
who spent Thanksgiving in another state. She texted her dad and told </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
him that I needed to plan on her coming back home to help in </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
decking our halls for Christmas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IloPOnNoCUU/UpjTgNSK6VI/AAAAAAAAE7k/JI153SQ2A1w/s1600/P1010089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IloPOnNoCUU/UpjTgNSK6VI/AAAAAAAAE7k/JI153SQ2A1w/s320/P1010089.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful for a daughter in law who loves family gatherings,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
our family traditions, and who makes our family time a priority.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOl6NMqtlvA/UpjTuGs9ReI/AAAAAAAAE7w/FcF_Q6cytrA/s1600/P1010091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOl6NMqtlvA/UpjTuGs9ReI/AAAAAAAAE7w/FcF_Q6cytrA/s320/P1010091.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We made a plan on Thanksgiving to share in a leftovers feast on</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunday. Two of my daughters who missed our</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanksgiving feast are very happy about that and</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
will be here for our do-overs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So very thankful for that too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdeCEgRvptc/UpjTt3Z_C7I/AAAAAAAAE7s/035upnUmQrY/s1600/P1010096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdeCEgRvptc/UpjTt3Z_C7I/AAAAAAAAE7s/035upnUmQrY/s320/P1010096.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankful for Kabella, she was the only girl in the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
bunch that could wear the <a href="http://www.thedatingdivas.com/family-fun/free-thanksgiving-photo-booth-props/">Pilgrim Bonnet</a> in our photo shoot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So thankful for the fun and love that is shared in our family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I missed those who were not with us but I am so thankful for</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the gift of memories of the mind and heart.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Note to self: Must make fresh rolls for the do-over. You know why!</div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-81733430556669656952013-11-27T10:48:00.000-07:002013-11-27T10:52:23.189-07:00Benjamin Franklin Costume DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is an idea for a do-it-yourself Benjamin Franklin costume.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My grandson was preparing for a wax museum program at school.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He called upon me, his grandma, to be his stylist!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Such an honor.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCiFAY3uQXk/UpYeBuxIDtI/AAAAAAAAE6s/DrMwKOf7V6U/s1600/P1010071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCiFAY3uQXk/UpYeBuxIDtI/AAAAAAAAE6s/DrMwKOf7V6U/s640/P1010071.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
<br />
I made this costume for a total cost of $3.75 and the use of some supplies that I had on hand. Ben was able to supply the pants and shoes from his own clothing.<br />
<br />
1st stop.... a good look in your own closets (because re-purposing is the best) or nearby thrift stores for a jacket. I found this one in a thrift store (my first stop....grandma magic you know!) that happened to be having a 50% off all items that day. What a bargain at just $2.75. It is a ladies small, black velvet, with a white satin lapel. It had some beading on the front near the jacket closure that I removed. Papa was with me and questioned my selection but I could already vividly see where I was going with this little project. After our first fitting, I turned the front of the jacket inward, tacked it down with hot glue and needle and thread to make the chest opening smaller and to bring in the waist to fit. I then hand stitched about six inches of the front of the jacket together at the waist.<br />
<br />
I cut some length off of the sleeves and tacked them up with needle and thread for a custom fit! Not a hand sewer? Sure you could use hot glue.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAlESHTnvJU/UpYd3gknvDI/AAAAAAAAE6U/7Zl_ClxJb_w/s1600/P1010066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAlESHTnvJU/UpYd3gknvDI/AAAAAAAAE6U/7Zl_ClxJb_w/s320/P1010066.jpg" width="166" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For the chest "Dickie" I cut a piece of heavy white ribbon 1" wide to fit his neck and allowed an extra 5 inches for a 2 1/2 inch Velcro overlap in the back.<br />
<br />
I used a scrap of white fabric to cut a rectangle of fabric two and a half times the length of his neck measurement and twice the length that would fill the entire chest opening of the jacket plus another 12 inches. The extra 12 inches is going to allow for an ample tuck into the jacket. Fold the rectangle in half by matching up the two neck lengths. Stitch or hot glue closed to create a 1/4 inch seam with all cut edges hidden on the inside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZhJGR5qkMQ/UpYd3HF2GpI/AAAAAAAAE6Q/WNgl2bWa8GE/s1600/P1010065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZhJGR5qkMQ/UpYd3HF2GpI/AAAAAAAAE6Q/WNgl2bWa8GE/s320/P1010065.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Create two more white rectangles as above but cut at different lengths depending on the size of the costume. My Ben is about a size 12. I cut one at about 5 inches finished, and the next at 8 inches finished. (These are going to create more ruffle to the neckline.)<br />
<br />
Hot glue or stitch 2 1/2 inches of Velcro to each end of the neck ribbon. Make sure to put it on the right sides so that when brought around the neck it will over lap and stick!<br />
<br />
Stack all three finished rectangles. Longest on bottom, shortest on top. You can now add lengths of flat or gathered laces and trims if you choose by stitching or hot gluing into place. Once you have it how you want it run a gathering / long basting stitch to gather all three top edges together. Pull to gather so that it fits between the two pieces of Velcro.<br />
<br />
Stich or hot glue the gathered fabric into place matching top edges with ribbon. That's it you're all done with the "Dickie".<br />
<br />
(You could also add fabric and lace ruffles to a white crew neck t-shirt or purchase a thrift store ruffled shirt.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gUcaF-ThNk/UpYd9OlAM6I/AAAAAAAAE6g/qBasNCGLQ1A/s1600/P1010075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gUcaF-ThNk/UpYd9OlAM6I/AAAAAAAAE6g/qBasNCGLQ1A/s400/P1010075.jpg" width="332" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Powdered Wig:</b><br />
<br />
Purchase a painters hat from your local building supply store. $1 at Home Depot. Cut off the brim. I placed a couple of stapled pleats on each side of the back to get a custom fit to Ben's head.<br />
<br />
Now your are free to style your wig anyway you like. I used leftover quilt batting to first cover the entire hat. Nip, cut, trim, and hot glue as needed. Create curls and shape by rolling desired lengths of batting cut at approx. 1 1/2 inches wide and hot glue into place. I used a band made from the cut off velvet sleeve to hold his ponytail curls in the back. (Another student used cotton balls to create the curls. That worked well too!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wkA4UHQyZsM/UpYd_hKINgI/AAAAAAAAE6o/kyY6jpuYb4k/s1600/P1010070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wkA4UHQyZsM/UpYd_hKINgI/AAAAAAAAE6o/kyY6jpuYb4k/s320/P1010070.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Pants, Socks, and Glasses:</b><br />
<br />
Papa removed the lenses from a pair of his old glasses and donated them to Ben. His pants were a pair of sweats rolled up to length. White socks were added to cover his legs and pulled up under his pants.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKUQruMpxNE/UpYd4G_kJcI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/SEmy-xZli3k/s1600/P1010064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKUQruMpxNE/UpYd4G_kJcI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/SEmy-xZli3k/s320/P1010064.jpg" width="136" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Shoes and Buckles:</b><br />
<br />
I made buckles for his shoes from textured black card stock with gold glittered buckles also cut from card stock scraps. I hot glued one side of a large paper clip to the back of each buckle. Folded the paper clip back over so that the paper clip/buckles could be slid and held onto the tops of his black Sunday shoes.<br />
<br />
He looked great don't you think? Best of all he could sit perfectly still just like a wax statue and he when he came to life to perform he knew his stuff!<br />
<br />
We really enjoyed the wax museum presentation. Each student had a sticker on their hand. Once you pressed on the sticker the statues came to life and they each performed perfectly memorized speeches on the history of their amazing lives.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-22534258377326497432013-08-20T12:11:00.000-07:002013-08-28T08:08:52.965-07:00Adorable Three Book Give-a-way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Og5Klhjq4SI/UhO2PjH06cI/AAAAAAAAE5c/5cCCS9g-PXQ/s1600/vanfleetbooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Og5Klhjq4SI/UhO2PjH06cI/AAAAAAAAE5c/5cCCS9g-PXQ/s320/vanfleetbooks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This give-away has ended!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Congratulations to Stacey A.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She wins this great little prize package!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Enjoy.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtutpbPz1T0/UhO2UbiznLI/AAAAAAAAE5k/El96mzpKuQc/s1600/image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtutpbPz1T0/UhO2UbiznLI/AAAAAAAAE5k/El96mzpKuQc/s1600/image002.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I received a copy of Munch! for product review. As a grandma I have to tell you that the little ones in my life will love having this book at grandma's house. It is an interactive book filled with different textures and durable moving parts that are sure to keep little minds and little hands busy and engaged in it's pages. The artwork is colorful, expressive, and fun.<br />
<br />
I really like the size of the book. It could be tucked into a purse, a diaper bag, a child's tote, and even my grandma bag for visits to see the grands. The size is also perfect for little hands to manage and explore the extremely durable pages, tabs, and textures with ease.<br />
<br />
Munch! will teach children the names of animals, some of the favorite foods of different animals, and behaviors and expressions all associated with the mouth. The critters in Munch! shows toddlers that mouths can do far more than just eating.<br />
<br />
Munch! would make a great addition to your home library, as a gift, or of course for grandma's house!<br />
<br />
I am hosting a give away and I would love for you to leave a comment telling me what are some of your favorite things to MUNCH on as your entry for a chance to win. One lucky winner will win a very nice prize package that includes all three books in the series. The winner will be picked randomly. Make sure to leave a way to be contacted for winner notification and mailing address. The winner will be chosen and published on August 28, 2013. Good Luck!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtutpbPz1T0/UhO2UbiznLI/AAAAAAAAE5o/lOAZhJoz2Ro/s1600/image002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtutpbPz1T0/UhO2UbiznLI/AAAAAAAAE5o/lOAZhJoz2Ro/s200/image002.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QjkjwPFsR04/UhO2WhdtldI/AAAAAAAAE5s/YtF9j0S85mI/s1600/cvr9781442460508_9781442460508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QjkjwPFsR04/UhO2WhdtldI/AAAAAAAAE5s/YtF9j0S85mI/s200/cvr9781442460508_9781442460508.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CmhqQdR2dI8/UhO2Ybkrg6I/AAAAAAAAE50/gD3wc0cYjbA/s1600/cvr9781442460492_9781442460492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CmhqQdR2dI8/UhO2Ybkrg6I/AAAAAAAAE50/gD3wc0cYjbA/s200/cvr9781442460492_9781442460492.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-57715948069052615532013-06-06T20:27:00.003-07:002013-06-06T20:27:38.431-07:00You Gotta' Love It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVCiJupIqGg/UbFRpxbXpKI/AAAAAAAAE5M/-SrkmqaVFYU/s1600/P1000639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVCiJupIqGg/UbFRpxbXpKI/AAAAAAAAE5M/-SrkmqaVFYU/s400/P1000639.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
How cute is this?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our focus on a recent trip to our family cabin was property clean up to create defensible space around our structures in case of a forest fire. While Canon's older brother, mother, papa and I were trimming, chopping, sawing, hauling, and raking the property Canon's thoughts were on the fire fighters who work to protect the forest and the mountain homes that so many families enjoy!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-17165271116366300542013-05-14T11:27:00.000-07:002013-05-14T11:32:09.768-07:00Bird Nesting Craft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RwUZEcGz9Lo/UZJ0j5aZGiI/AAAAAAAAE4o/OThFkJOi6W0/s1600/P1000472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RwUZEcGz9Lo/UZJ0j5aZGiI/AAAAAAAAE4o/OThFkJOi6W0/s400/P1000472.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Last Spring we had a pair of birds that built their nest and raised their three youngsters in a floral arrangement that I had hanging on my front door. This year the floral arrangement isn't hanging on the door but what appears to be the same proud birdie parents have built their nest just outside our living room window (at perfect eye level) in a climbing rose vine.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is very kind of Mother Nature to share this amazing lesson of devoted parenting and the nature of bird families to my grandchildren and I again this year. Last time we kept a spy cam on the nest so that we could enjoy a live feed on my computer screen anytime the grands wanted to watch the parents feeding and caring for their young. It was also fun to watch how quickly the babies grow! We even caught a glimpse of the babies flying from the nest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This brings me to the Bird Nesting Craft that I created a few months ago. I now have proof that this bird nesting craft is appreciated and used by the birds! As I peeked into the nest above I saw multiple pieces of yarn, string, fabric strips, and shreds of batting tucked into the nesting materials. So where did those supplies come from you ask?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkX0NwwEpnA/UZJ0iP6h6VI/AAAAAAAAE4c/uGYO2Gpwnh4/s1600/DSCN0244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZkX0NwwEpnA/UZJ0iP6h6VI/AAAAAAAAE4c/uGYO2Gpwnh4/s320/DSCN0244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was me! I have watched the bird nesting supplies slowly disappear from this bird nesting craft so it was way fun to learn that they had actually gone to the birds! This would be a super fun and easy project to do with the kids. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To make your own Bird Nesting Craft you could use:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
String, yarn, twine, ribbon, thin strips of fabric, netting, and scraps of batting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7tgFqqCoRg/UZJ0TDaCFxI/AAAAAAAAE4M/ExWgtlUD5Pk/s1600/DSCN0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W7tgFqqCoRg/UZJ0TDaCFxI/AAAAAAAAE4M/ExWgtlUD5Pk/s320/DSCN0237.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cut the pieces into varied lengths and sizes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nI8Dfpk2kF0/UZJ0RokcvKI/AAAAAAAAE4A/BvxwShGx1Bw/s1600/DSCN0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nI8Dfpk2kF0/UZJ0RokcvKI/AAAAAAAAE4A/BvxwShGx1Bw/s320/DSCN0240.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used some old wire cooling racks for the frame.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used pipe cleaners to secure the racks together at the bottom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You could use whatever you have on hand that would offer an</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
open frame work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIiGUIpyKZI/UZJ0I9xv29I/AAAAAAAAE34/TsyOxn1P0Q8/s1600/DSCN0239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIiGUIpyKZI/UZJ0I9xv29I/AAAAAAAAE34/TsyOxn1P0Q8/s320/DSCN0239.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I loosely mixed up the variety of the scraps.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m4pJIoabVfY/UZJ0UlOrJpI/AAAAAAAAE4U/w78_reqFrcg/s1600/DSCN0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m4pJIoabVfY/UZJ0UlOrJpI/AAAAAAAAE4U/w78_reqFrcg/s320/DSCN0242.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then I loosely stuffed them into the frame. I used pipe cleaners</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to wire the tops of the frame together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hang the finished "gift to nature" in a tree using twine or wire.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Maybe one day you will get a chance to find a nest</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
where your supplies have been used too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If not, you can be sure that your contribution to nature has gone</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to two hard working parents and their hungry brood of babies!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-49052605007574768892012-12-24T22:24:00.000-07:002012-12-24T22:26:29.487-07:00Merry Christmas from my home to yours!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIjQO7lRwwA/UNk3XF2MolI/AAAAAAAAEzE/H7cNuEcDsQQ/s1600/DSCN1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIjQO7lRwwA/UNk3XF2MolI/AAAAAAAAEzE/H7cNuEcDsQQ/s320/DSCN1955.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Home, sweet holiday home.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ir4XW2j8Qvg/UNk3cdoABJI/AAAAAAAAEzM/IXh1b4iP9QI/s1600/DSCN1951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ir4XW2j8Qvg/UNk3cdoABJI/AAAAAAAAEzM/IXh1b4iP9QI/s320/DSCN1951.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-21CO2DhiCuA/UNk3fpEmNVI/AAAAAAAAEzU/rutV7Yng0VU/s1600/DSCN1869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-21CO2DhiCuA/UNk3fpEmNVI/AAAAAAAAEzU/rutV7Yng0VU/s320/DSCN1869.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grandkid's Christmas Camp 2012</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My 10 little campers!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N4zt8dejzMM/UNk3oXyhYAI/AAAAAAAAEzc/Eq3Lz3ERBcs/s1600/photo_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N4zt8dejzMM/UNk3oXyhYAI/AAAAAAAAEzc/Eq3Lz3ERBcs/s320/photo_2.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This future camper...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Number 11 </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
will be one week old on</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Christmas Day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Merry Christmas!</span></b></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-7357489659488178322012-12-20T18:08:00.002-07:002012-12-20T18:08:33.383-07:00Merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXGG6REfai4/UNO2VHLfZsI/AAAAAAAAEyY/Q5yu0__euyU/s1600/2181499789267728_36WRV46m_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mXGG6REfai4/UNO2VHLfZsI/AAAAAAAAEyY/Q5yu0__euyU/s400/2181499789267728_36WRV46m_b.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-40339021938464921392012-12-04T10:15:00.002-07:002012-12-10T20:32:53.169-07:002012 Hallmark Christmas Give-AwayHallmark didn't ask me personally about my family Christmas traditions but somehow they pegged exactly how I feel about the HO...HO...HO...lidays! For me Christmas is not just a one day celebration but an entire season of festivities, giving, traditions, bonding time, and family centered fun. Building bonds, memories, and anticipation with the children I love truly adds to the joy and sparkle of the season for me.<br />
<br />
Hallmark's 2012 Christmas line has been designed to better meet the holiday ideals of parents and grandparents. It is a fun way to help build Christmas anticipation for the kiddos you love. My father who is 93 in all of his hard earned wisdom has discovered over his many years that the biggest joys in life are the anticipation of things to come and the memories that we can relive forever. Hallmark has made the anticipation easy, super cute, and really fun this year. The 2012 interactive Christmas greetings are sure to create some special memories too.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This greeting would be a really fun one to give. It will be a very special keepsake to your all-grown-up grands one day. This interactive recordable greeting captures the child's wish list in their very own voice! It is then ready to mail off to the North Pole. As a grandma, I wouldn't mind getting one or ten of these in my mailbox too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DtghZXLah2o/ULkZbdZRx0I/AAAAAAAAEw0/ayh0S2cIEOA/s1600/Recordable-Wish-List-205x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DtghZXLah2o/ULkZbdZRx0I/AAAAAAAAEw0/ayh0S2cIEOA/s1600/Recordable-Wish-List-205x300.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anticipation.... How many more days?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yep, what kid doesn't like counting down the days until Christmas?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VW44lhcEdfA/ULkW_nfsjtI/AAAAAAAAEws/ywWRxMht_Uo/s1600/Christmas-Countdown-106x150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VW44lhcEdfA/ULkW_nfsjtI/AAAAAAAAEws/ywWRxMht_Uo/s200/Christmas-Countdown-106x150.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="141" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We all know how much kids love getting mail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Imagine the smiles upon opening this special little delivery!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7xaSSoCkmFg/ULkWnKuzNoI/AAAAAAAAEwk/6KtBMZpTnag/s1600/Mickey-Mouses-Christmas-Countdown-204x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7xaSSoCkmFg/ULkWnKuzNoI/AAAAAAAAEwk/6KtBMZpTnag/s1600/Mickey-Mouses-Christmas-Countdown-204x300.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These items are only available in the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.hallmark.com/stores/)">Hallmark Stores</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can check out these and other Hallmark greetings<a href="http://www.hallmark.com/cards/"> </a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><a href="http://www.hallmark.com/cards/">here</a>.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">I was lucky enough to receive a package of these products and a </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">collection of other holiday greetings for review in this post.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"> The Hallmark brand never disappoints!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Guess what?</b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>This give away is now closed.</b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>So sorry you missed it.</b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">You have a chance to win your very own package from Hallmark too!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">Your package will be very similar to mine including interactive holiday greetings for the kids and a collection of other Hallmark Holiday Greetings. It is a very nice prize package.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">All you have to do is leave a comment on this post sharing a Christmas tradition</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">that the children in your family anticipate each year or a favorite holiday memory.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">For me it would be my Grandkid's Christmas Daycamp.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">A full day of holiday fun for just the kids and Papa and I.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">The kids and I anticipate it every single year!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">And the memories created.... priceless.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">Make sure I have a way to contact you in case you are the lucky winner. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">You can email me your email address at</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"> grandmashelleyatgrandmaslittlepearlsdotcome.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">This giveaway will end on Sunday December 9th.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;">Good Luck and Merry Christmas!</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-17742786891117442192012-08-29T23:04:00.000-07:002012-08-29T23:37:08.110-07:00Disposable Window Shades for Crafting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I save all kinds of stuff that just might be a useful crafting</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
supply for me and my grands. I had several short ends that</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had cut from the lightweight disposable window shades that you</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
can purchase from the home improvement stores.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAzlwcHHo44/UD79mZojZII/AAAAAAAAEuA/oXydzPfdenk/s1600/DSCN0808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAzlwcHHo44/UD79mZojZII/AAAAAAAAEuA/oXydzPfdenk/s320/DSCN0808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I had my grandsons just before Father's Day and they</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
wanted to do a craft project I finally came up with a fun use</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for those shady pieces of scraps!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xFOTjj1zhZo/UD79flTzCjI/AAAAAAAAEt4/oO97RZky464/s1600/DSCN0807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xFOTjj1zhZo/UD79flTzCjI/AAAAAAAAEt4/oO97RZky464/s320/DSCN0807.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The boys each wrote long messages to their dads </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
by writing one letter per pleat with blanks between the words.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QIn3VjsBcb0/UD793jl_umI/AAAAAAAAEuc/MNWnJdqpoaU/s1600/DSCN0811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QIn3VjsBcb0/UD793jl_umI/AAAAAAAAEuc/MNWnJdqpoaU/s320/DSCN0811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once they were done we hot glued the two ends</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to some hand cut outs.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6jyS1BhFlXk/UD7-ij5h6lI/AAAAAAAAEvc/3cNWrJfqN_k/s1600/DSCN0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6jyS1BhFlXk/UD7-ij5h6lI/AAAAAAAAEvc/3cNWrJfqN_k/s320/DSCN0818.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We tied them up with a bow.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wkwRgW7rKEk/UD7-WqOaKUI/AAAAAAAAEvI/vij-z3ZR6Jc/s1600/DSCN0816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wkwRgW7rKEk/UD7-WqOaKUI/AAAAAAAAEvI/vij-z3ZR6Jc/s320/DSCN0816.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, their daddy was treated to three</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
very long and very loving handmade</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Father' Day messages!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The outside pieces could be any design for any occasion.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Watch yard sales and the thrift stores for</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
used disposable blinds. You can score a ton</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
of your own durable accordion crafting supplies for next to nothing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can cut them to the length and width of your choice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just think of the possibilities! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-44115990261998489012012-08-20T21:52:00.000-07:002012-08-21T07:41:40.206-07:00Cousin's Back to School Party 2012<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been celebrating back to school with my grandchildren for quite a few years now.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2011/08/grandkids-back-to-school-party-2011.html">Back to School Party 2011</a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2010/08/back-to-school-party-2010.html">Back to School Party 2010</a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2009/08/grandkid-back-to-school-party-2009.html">Back to School Party 2009</a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2008/09/only.html">Back to School Party 2008</a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My back-to-schoolers this year are in grades </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
7th, 6th, 4th, 4th, 4th, 3rd, 1st, kindergarten, and pre-school.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That is nine out of ten of my little pearls!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qql_kk-eqrA/UDLkAr_upVI/AAAAAAAAEqY/AsSVknWuoY0/s1600/DSCN1161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qql_kk-eqrA/UDLkAr_upVI/AAAAAAAAEqY/AsSVknWuoY0/s320/DSCN1161.JPG" width="254" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, what makes a back to school party with </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grandma, Papa and the cousins?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The party plans can be as simple or as extravagant as you like but</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
regardless of how much money or time I put into them </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
our time together and the lasting memories we share</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
are a priceless treasure to us all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is a tradition that my grands DO NOT allow</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
me to forget!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUsuTWPkRrM/UDLkPnhm3XI/AAAAAAAAEqg/oZ7QfWQ1uEU/s1600/DSCN1128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SUsuTWPkRrM/UDLkPnhm3XI/AAAAAAAAEqg/oZ7QfWQ1uEU/s320/DSCN1128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For me the party always begins with pre-arranging a date </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
that works with all of the parents.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Party invitations are hand delivered a few days ahead of time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year's theme was Party Bus!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The invites had a bus schedule on them for the time</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
of pick up and the afternoon drop off time for each child.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-guvSJX5iABc/UDLkk3xpfZI/AAAAAAAAEqo/XuzVDTldBTE/s1600/DSCN1133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-guvSJX5iABc/UDLkk3xpfZI/AAAAAAAAEqo/XuzVDTldBTE/s320/DSCN1133.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Papa and I decorated our "bus" to add to the fun.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(Special thanks to my daughter and son-in-law for loaning us their eight passenger car.)</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We decorated the windows and we tied long strands of brightly </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
colored curling ribbon to the side mirrors</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to add a festive touch as we whipped and fluttered through the streets.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once everyone was picked up and buckled up it was party time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The "bus" was filled with chatter between the very </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
excited back-to-school cousins.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uKgqX-27y8g/UDLkn2ectnI/AAAAAAAAEqw/Wj9_AvrLL6U/s1600/DSCN1134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uKgqX-27y8g/UDLkn2ectnI/AAAAAAAAEqw/Wj9_AvrLL6U/s320/DSCN1134.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First stop included personalized lunch orders</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and icy sweet Eegee's slushes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GuvyiRq5-eA/UDLkragLrJI/AAAAAAAAEq4/2MqMUpL7uv4/s1600/DSCN1135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GuvyiRq5-eA/UDLkragLrJI/AAAAAAAAEq4/2MqMUpL7uv4/s320/DSCN1135.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There was sampling bites shared, laughter, conversations,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and lots of attention from the other customers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One set of grandparents who's only grandchild</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
lives several hours away couldn't believe that this</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
party group of five only represented half of my grandchildren.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They also commented on how well behaved they were.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grandma was proud!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oVzjP40WK2A/UDLku4nxTPI/AAAAAAAAErA/095F0tymWHM/s1600/DSCN1136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oVzjP40WK2A/UDLku4nxTPI/AAAAAAAAErA/095F0tymWHM/s320/DSCN1136.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rRVSFmKVKQk/UDLk6ZVja0I/AAAAAAAAErc/clIV_2mw_bY/s1600/DSCN1139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rRVSFmKVKQk/UDLk6ZVja0I/AAAAAAAAErc/clIV_2mw_bY/s320/DSCN1139.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpGLKYABmRw/UDLk99O6GTI/AAAAAAAAErk/c0zivuyAuNo/s1600/DSCN1140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpGLKYABmRw/UDLk99O6GTI/AAAAAAAAErk/c0zivuyAuNo/s320/DSCN1140.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were all wearing matching name tags</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
around their necks with their new grade.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made the name tags</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to help create a little extra special cousin unity.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LvRpyu4uZoQ/UDLlAG4mz3I/AAAAAAAAErw/eWRQ-XWVPsQ/s1600/DSCN1142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LvRpyu4uZoQ/UDLlAG4mz3I/AAAAAAAAErw/eWRQ-XWVPsQ/s320/DSCN1142.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vd-iW9FTff4/UDLlD6aqceI/AAAAAAAAEr4/IXmx8dGavDY/s1600/DSCN1144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vd-iW9FTff4/UDLlD6aqceI/AAAAAAAAEr4/IXmx8dGavDY/s320/DSCN1144.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once everyone was done eating and washed up</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
it was time to load back into our party bus and head to our next stop.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Un-NOoLDIVU/UDLlG5XlGYI/AAAAAAAAEsA/PcyNwYKNCfI/s1600/DSCN1145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Un-NOoLDIVU/UDLlG5XlGYI/AAAAAAAAEsA/PcyNwYKNCfI/s320/DSCN1145.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWhlI74g-F4/UDLlKE4XhyI/AAAAAAAAEsI/74aa3mSpYpg/s1600/DSCN1146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWhlI74g-F4/UDLlKE4XhyI/AAAAAAAAEsI/74aa3mSpYpg/s320/DSCN1146.JPG" width="310" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Instead of putting together party gifts bags as usual</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
we treated the kids to a shopping spree at one of</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
their favorite stores!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They all LOVE going to Dollar Tree.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CprCH7B43Dk/UDLlO8aPXUI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/3EhNz0IrYCw/s1600/DSCN1147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CprCH7B43Dk/UDLlO8aPXUI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/3EhNz0IrYCw/s320/DSCN1147.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Every single row was checked out and a whole</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
lotta' very selective and time consuming decisions were made.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nh8TkeG-ykk/UDLlRzJj24I/AAAAAAAAEsc/bZh-Nqc_4yo/s1600/DSCN1149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nh8TkeG-ykk/UDLlRzJj24I/AAAAAAAAEsc/bZh-Nqc_4yo/s320/DSCN1149.JPG" width="197" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The rule for the kids was that we all had to stay together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They did a great job following the rule.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Papa and I had the rule to not rush their decisions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We succeeded too!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NhEe_6Py37U/UDLlVOdsUpI/AAAAAAAAEsk/iKkZMffpgeI/s1600/DSCN1152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NhEe_6Py37U/UDLlVOdsUpI/AAAAAAAAEsk/iKkZMffpgeI/s320/DSCN1152.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Na_OjDTLJMc/UDLlclOuIlI/AAAAAAAAEs0/D9aiYB2cbQA/s1600/DSCN1154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Na_OjDTLJMc/UDLlclOuIlI/AAAAAAAAEs0/D9aiYB2cbQA/s320/DSCN1154.JPG" width="226" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After over an hour of very active shopping it was time to check out.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eCU86Cj6Ug/UDLlglrYtxI/AAAAAAAAEtA/0blIsShjXoI/s1600/DSCN1156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eCU86Cj6Ug/UDLlglrYtxI/AAAAAAAAEtA/0blIsShjXoI/s320/DSCN1156.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Everyone was thrilled with their</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
gadgets, goodies, and toys.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our party bus then headed to Wendy's</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for a round of chocolate Frosty's and seven cups of water</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for the ride home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had a really cool bus driver!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Thanks Papa)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vb-LIooW6Dg/UDLlkCo62iI/AAAAAAAAEtI/6u49-BKt5DM/s1600/DSCN1158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vb-LIooW6Dg/UDLlkCo62iI/AAAAAAAAEtI/6u49-BKt5DM/s320/DSCN1158.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Without rushing any part of our time together</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
we were able to keep the party bus on schedule</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for our afternoon drop offs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I use the word lucky a lot about being a grandma</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
but the truth is that I am just </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
very blessed and very, very grateful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't wait until next time....</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-44543570695727528442012-08-17T19:08:00.002-07:002012-08-17T19:20:43.706-07:00Celebrating Red, White, and Blue <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lq35qMh699M/UC72D96QWcI/AAAAAAAAEpA/AwUGC_INa3Y/s1600/DSCN1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lq35qMh699M/UC72D96QWcI/AAAAAAAAEpA/AwUGC_INa3Y/s320/DSCN1017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4th of July <a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/07/4th-of-july-goodie-boxes.html">party favors </a>for the grands</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to snack on at the fireworks show.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-30IrsNUpuJ8/UC72WgmTtpI/AAAAAAAAEpQ/ow8B5jlBi-8/s1600/DSCN1023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-30IrsNUpuJ8/UC72WgmTtpI/AAAAAAAAEpQ/ow8B5jlBi-8/s320/DSCN1023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh say can you see....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the red, white, and blue table decor?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OqvfrMdqFxg/UC72aTzrWeI/AAAAAAAAEpc/o9b4yuaSEsg/s1600/DSCN1024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OqvfrMdqFxg/UC72aTzrWeI/AAAAAAAAEpc/o9b4yuaSEsg/s320/DSCN1024.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We celebrated with , ribs, BBQ chicken,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and all the fixins!</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g7iTtas1P7k/UC72gBzmsaI/AAAAAAAAEpk/XmMpOEjHGE8/s1600/DSCN1030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g7iTtas1P7k/UC72gBzmsaI/AAAAAAAAEpk/XmMpOEjHGE8/s320/DSCN1030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love pulling out my <a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2011/02/i-call-it-my-resources.html">"resources"</a> for all of the different</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
holidays and seasons.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nJnFzAktswo/UC72i5ZpTsI/AAAAAAAAEps/eeEEI_Y0Q64/s1600/DSCN1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nJnFzAktswo/UC72i5ZpTsI/AAAAAAAAEps/eeEEI_Y0Q64/s320/DSCN1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sweet buttery corn and sweet memories were made</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
over dinner, visiting, playing together, and a </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
spectacular small town fireworks show!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-11531376159588231312012-08-15T16:17:00.002-07:002012-08-15T16:22:23.699-07:00Back To School TraditionsMy daughter recently hosted a really fun Back-to-School dinner party for her three very lucky boys. Lucky for Papa and I, we were invited to attend at the boys request! The boys were super excited about the party and they had spent the afternoon decorating their entire front walk with "Welcome Grandma and Papa!" for our arrival. The boys met us at the front of the walk.<br />
<br />
Once inside we were all surprised to see the special touches their mom had made to turn an ordinary family dinner into a celebration of back-to-school learning!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DOoaWw5MCy0/UCwo89H9iVI/AAAAAAAAEnU/bXG2Ix0c38M/s1600/IMG_7600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DOoaWw5MCy0/UCwo89H9iVI/AAAAAAAAEnU/bXG2Ix0c38M/s320/IMG_7600.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So cute!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-drLPKgU3AfA/UCwpABBTORI/AAAAAAAAEnc/n2r9HouTNco/s1600/IMG_7602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-drLPKgU3AfA/UCwpABBTORI/AAAAAAAAEnc/n2r9HouTNco/s320/IMG_7602.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1st day of Kindergarten photos hung above the table.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The boys are now in 1st, 4th, and 6th grades.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mvkd-5hxX88/UCwpDxgmBOI/AAAAAAAAEnk/l2e_rMsxhYk/s1600/IMG_7609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mvkd-5hxX88/UCwpDxgmBOI/AAAAAAAAEnk/l2e_rMsxhYk/s320/IMG_7609.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There were personalized place settings for everyone.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ucCJsZI6XIs/UCwpHDYqrkI/AAAAAAAAEns/MFwAq6UdMeo/s1600/IMG_7610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ucCJsZI6XIs/UCwpHDYqrkI/AAAAAAAAEns/MFwAq6UdMeo/s320/IMG_7610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We all had a to do list. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mommy had the longest list by far. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The boys lists were all the things that help to make students successful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6WbTCJ8By7M/UCwpKewoPtI/AAAAAAAAEn0/0eWruxlU-Hk/s1600/IMG_7611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6WbTCJ8By7M/UCwpKewoPtI/AAAAAAAAEn0/0eWruxlU-Hk/s320/IMG_7611.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Papa and I are more than happy to do our lists!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Their bus stop is at the end of our front walk.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lucky again!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OzFnM9U8WbA/UCwpNxwIWTI/AAAAAAAAEoA/y_SOKXcaHkU/s1600/IMG_7612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OzFnM9U8WbA/UCwpNxwIWTI/AAAAAAAAEoA/y_SOKXcaHkU/s320/IMG_7612.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Scattered school supplies made a perfect centerpiece.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Notice the jar of unsharpened pencils)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tOhymQdkAWQ/UCwpRr6zBnI/AAAAAAAAEoI/ut1wHWr2HG0/s1600/IMG_7614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tOhymQdkAWQ/UCwpRr6zBnI/AAAAAAAAEoI/ut1wHWr2HG0/s320/IMG_7614.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The place settings were so cute!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The dinner was delicious. The boys had chosen made from</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
scratch spaghetti and meatballs, garlic bread, and salad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
YUM!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6iKRocueksM/UCwpV4AKKEI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/C5EvhdWCsUM/s1600/IMG_7619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6iKRocueksM/UCwpV4AKKEI/AAAAAAAAEoQ/C5EvhdWCsUM/s320/IMG_7619.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After dinner the boys were asked to think of one back to school goal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As they each shared their goal their mom treated them to a</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
back to school gift!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once they had all opened their gifts their mom pulled out one more surprise.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was another gift for the boys to share. The boys opened it together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was an electric pencil sharpener. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You had better believe that those unsharpened</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
pencils on the table were all super sharp in no time at all!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TsvbM1iZGLU/UCwpYCw9vDI/AAAAAAAAEoY/K1qnG3Hkuac/s1600/IMG_7621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="157" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TsvbM1iZGLU/UCwpYCw9vDI/AAAAAAAAEoY/K1qnG3Hkuac/s320/IMG_7621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got to bring the dessert.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chocolate Long Johns. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The boys favorite!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Seeing my adult children create</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
special traditions for their children</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
makes my heart feel really good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Photos courtesy of my daughter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can you believe I forgot to take my own camera???</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-46197224219315298282012-08-11T15:32:00.000-07:002012-08-11T15:52:42.977-07:00More Birthday Pouches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It has been DIY birthday pouches for all my grands birthdays in 2012</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXvdm2QT_YQ/UCbX4wTS8SI/AAAAAAAAEmA/Bwog2KSCy8A/s1600/DSCN1047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXvdm2QT_YQ/UCbX4wTS8SI/AAAAAAAAEmA/Bwog2KSCy8A/s320/DSCN1047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More pouch ideas here:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/04/mailable-pouches-for-any-occasion.html">http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/04/mailable-pouches-for-any-occasion.html</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/05/12-x-12-birthday-pouch-in-pink.html">http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/05/12-x-12-birthday-pouch-in-pink.html</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I first saw this idea they were made to be put in the mail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A great idea for long distance grandmas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I checked it out with the post office and yep they can be</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
mailed as is! No extra wrapping needed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What kid wouldn't like getting such a personalized</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
birthday pouch in their mailbox.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qcx4DWZ5BQ/UCbX8FrrzcI/AAAAAAAAEmI/NVfJkzkMDOk/s1600/DSCN1121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3qcx4DWZ5BQ/UCbX8FrrzcI/AAAAAAAAEmI/NVfJkzkMDOk/s320/DSCN1121.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I loved this idea but all of my grands live too close to use the mail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, they have each received a hand delivered birthday pouch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0CrFWbDqhU/UCbiJjSMDMI/AAAAAAAAEmw/5Hc9oa9MDBI/s1600/DSCN0784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y0CrFWbDqhU/UCbiJjSMDMI/AAAAAAAAEmw/5Hc9oa9MDBI/s320/DSCN0784.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All you need is a piece of card stock for your base.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Birthday scrapbook papers and stickers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fairly flat goodies to stitch up in the pouch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A jumbo freezer bag approx. 13 inch x 15 inch</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found them in the dollar store (box of 5 for a $1)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A DIY or store bought birthday card.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cash or gift card to insert in the card if desired.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Create the page like you would a scrapbook page.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Low tack tape helps to keep goodies in place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If mailing, address the greeting card.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once everything is in place slide the card stock</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
into the bag with the zipper at the top.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Use a sewing machine to stitch all edges and in between</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
each of the goodies.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Trim off the top of the bag so that it is flush with the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
card stock top edge. Trim other edges if needed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm getting quite a collection of leftover zipper bag tops.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm certain they will be turned into a fun craft one of these days!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wouldn't these pouches be cute for holidays or back to school?</div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-21944645958295911282012-07-25T20:40:00.001-07:002012-07-25T20:40:13.848-07:00Milestone: First Grand to Summer Camp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
How can it be?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of my grands is old enough for summer camp!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With at least ten summer campers to follow I know I had better think </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
about the traditions I begin..... BUT I just can't help myself!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had a secret messenger at camp deliver one</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
small gift each day at camp so that my very loved</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
camper knew that I was thinking about her!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7-bwDkxF3Ps/UBC20uS0CUI/AAAAAAAAElE/CtX20mgP7jw/s1600/DSCN0858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7-bwDkxF3Ps/UBC20uS0CUI/AAAAAAAAElE/CtX20mgP7jw/s320/DSCN0858.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Everything yellow bagged up with a </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You are My Sunshine tag.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A song that she still remembers me singing to her everyday as a toddler.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uP2e2oC9ATE/UBC27yXI_7I/AAAAAAAAElM/YrjawKORqxE/s1600/DSCN0859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uP2e2oC9ATE/UBC27yXI_7I/AAAAAAAAElM/YrjawKORqxE/s320/DSCN0859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A pack of gum and a reminder</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
of just how extra special she is!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0mrFFAYo5jI/UBC3CCjJFeI/AAAAAAAAElU/DhNLH7nkXNc/s1600/DSCN0863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0mrFFAYo5jI/UBC3CCjJFeI/AAAAAAAAElU/DhNLH7nkXNc/s320/DSCN0863.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A scrapbook paper I knew she would love</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
with a notepad and a pencil for</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
writing notes to her camp friends.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rJjCwI2pjUU/UBC3Gy-G5cI/AAAAAAAAElg/5qKMhKEHOAk/s1600/DSCN0866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rJjCwI2pjUU/UBC3Gy-G5cI/AAAAAAAAElg/5qKMhKEHOAk/s320/DSCN0866.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A braided headband with beads and feathers</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to wear at camp.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The camp theme was Warriors of Light.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also sent up the supplies with her camp leaders so that</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
all of the girls in her tribe could make matching headbands.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yea, camp unity!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was also lucky enough to be her secret sister.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More to come on that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-62590239942497721642012-07-07T18:38:00.002-07:002012-07-07T18:38:23.730-07:00Quality Time with Papa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RWjmU4_geaU/T_jhEGNXRxI/AAAAAAAAEjk/O2fT28TMmrE/s1600/DSCN0874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RWjmU4_geaU/T_jhEGNXRxI/AAAAAAAAEjk/O2fT28TMmrE/s320/DSCN0874.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Picnic lunch.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GyYp2fNMloc/T_jhZhBVzjI/AAAAAAAAEjs/Jlvlk73fH5Y/s1600/DSCN0932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GyYp2fNMloc/T_jhZhBVzjI/AAAAAAAAEjs/Jlvlk73fH5Y/s320/DSCN0932.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Donut and Milk breakfast picnic on the school playground.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SxuaDB4ngPw/T_jhqZmlgzI/AAAAAAAAEj4/Rvm-jilSjUI/s1600/DSCN0988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SxuaDB4ngPw/T_jhqZmlgzI/AAAAAAAAEj4/Rvm-jilSjUI/s320/DSCN0988.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Invention crafts.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6b6psGvHW30/T_jhxjDIO4I/AAAAAAAAEkA/PRkDnnT8Xmo/s1600/DSCN1001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6b6psGvHW30/T_jhxjDIO4I/AAAAAAAAEkA/PRkDnnT8Xmo/s320/DSCN1001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Holding on to Papa's every word.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Tjz-z_7_is/T_jh_8C0i6I/AAAAAAAAEkI/G5hPW06OKXQ/s1600/DSCN1010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Tjz-z_7_is/T_jh_8C0i6I/AAAAAAAAEkI/G5hPW06OKXQ/s320/DSCN1010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beating the heat!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtJ-sQsfR1Q/T_jiR_2joFI/AAAAAAAAEkU/c3jAAa4s4lg/s1600/DSCN0877_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtJ-sQsfR1Q/T_jiR_2joFI/AAAAAAAAEkU/c3jAAa4s4lg/s320/DSCN0877_2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Outing to the Prescott Courthouse</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for an evening concert.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wk2nig8e0ek/T_jit34mY5I/AAAAAAAAEkc/DfsxXy1bI_A/s1600/DSCN0946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wk2nig8e0ek/T_jit34mY5I/AAAAAAAAEkc/DfsxXy1bI_A/s320/DSCN0946.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Time spent with Papa hiking through</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the forest looking for the perfect sticks for</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
a bow and arrows.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lo71scQHpiI/T_jjz6UvdxI/AAAAAAAAEkk/WpmzLqAXb9A/s1600/DSCN0980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lo71scQHpiI/T_jjz6UvdxI/AAAAAAAAEkk/WpmzLqAXb9A/s320/DSCN0980.JPG" width="259" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Busy days makes for big appetites.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tA5ely01UiQ/T_jkAYzvmyI/AAAAAAAAEks/A4YCwvMa4Xw/s1600/DSCN0971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tA5ely01UiQ/T_jkAYzvmyI/AAAAAAAAEks/A4YCwvMa4Xw/s320/DSCN0971.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, worn out little boys</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
who adore their Papa!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-80714726576428038592012-07-04T09:54:00.001-07:002012-07-04T09:59:30.060-07:004th Of July Goodie Boxes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cho0A8jIlTo/T_RxQP7zO3I/AAAAAAAAEjM/0b-dMvGk5bM/s1600/DSCN1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cho0A8jIlTo/T_RxQP7zO3I/AAAAAAAAEjM/0b-dMvGk5bM/s320/DSCN1017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Make the little<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> firecrackers</span> you love these easy and festive one of a kind</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">4th</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">of</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">July</span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
holiday favors!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All you need is their favorite movie box of candy,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
papers in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">red</span> white and <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">blue</span>, scissors or a paper cutter,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and a glue stick. I added some fun holiday <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">POP </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
with an <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">explosion</span> of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">dazzling</span> curling ribbon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to finish them off!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Have a safe and happy 4th of July!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-85404777069010502642012-07-03T15:53:00.000-07:002012-07-03T15:58:21.341-07:00You Gotta Love It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My birthday fell on one of the days that my husband and I took three of </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
our grandsons to our mountain cabin for a week while their mom </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
was away as stake camp director for the week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wM3NquelXXc/T_Ny3AcjeGI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/y4rOzmWSFoE/s1600/DSCN0889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wM3NquelXXc/T_Ny3AcjeGI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/y4rOzmWSFoE/s320/DSCN0889.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On my birthday the boys woke very early, pulled secret stuff from</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
their belongings, and whispered quietly between themselves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They borrowed some yarn, tape, and scissors from my craft supplies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and they all worked together to create a special birthday surprise for me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Papa was instructed to keep me indoors.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qVj85CfDVE/T_Ny9Bo5ZII/AAAAAAAAEiY/sR_KWG8uYwg/s1600/DSCN0892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qVj85CfDVE/T_Ny9Bo5ZII/AAAAAAAAEiY/sR_KWG8uYwg/s320/DSCN0892.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once they were ready I was invited to go out</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to the deck. They were all very excited!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They had hung a birthday banner that they had made themselves,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
set out board games to play, and they had hung a sheet to create </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
more shade for the "birthday grandma" chair.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So thoughtful.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsfiAK1WS1s/T_NzAHOzvzI/AAAAAAAAEik/J2dOg15ZxEk/s1600/DSCN0897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsfiAK1WS1s/T_NzAHOzvzI/AAAAAAAAEik/J2dOg15ZxEk/s320/DSCN0897.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't be fooled. He is a very strategic checker player.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even if it was my birthday!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EZFOtNMzBsw/T_NzIbnIUYI/AAAAAAAAEis/Fa0mPaKKAsc/s1600/DSCN0898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EZFOtNMzBsw/T_NzIbnIUYI/AAAAAAAAEis/Fa0mPaKKAsc/s320/DSCN0898.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were as good as gold at our Red Robin birthday lunch.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lVjtRjQKTnM/T_NzNp3SARI/AAAAAAAAEi0/x_e77S_v2Mo/s1600/DSCN0912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lVjtRjQKTnM/T_NzNp3SARI/AAAAAAAAEi0/x_e77S_v2Mo/s320/DSCN0912.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I loved the handmade gift with the sliding lid.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He had told his mom that I would really </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
like his gift because it was useful. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He was right!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The youngest told me that he had forgotten my gift at home</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
but I was going to love it because I would be able to go</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to Dollar Tree with it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One of his favorite stores.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hmmmm....</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I wonder what it could be?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A99vAFeTOP8/T_NzTJRz3KI/AAAAAAAAEjA/mfG8IzEdVks/s1600/DSCN1012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A99vAFeTOP8/T_NzTJRz3KI/AAAAAAAAEjA/mfG8IzEdVks/s320/DSCN1012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once home, I was given the belated birthday gift.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a handmade card with a picture of the cabin drawn</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
on it with money from his own piggy bank</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
tucked inside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Being a grandma is the </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">BEST!!!</span></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-64330000919706399012012-07-02T17:28:00.000-07:002012-07-02T17:28:02.849-07:00Donut and Milk Picnic BreakfastWe recently took three of our grandsons on an eight day outing to our mountain cabin. I had activities scheduled for each day of our get-away. The boys knew the things I had planned and they looked forward to the special outing for the day. Some of the outings were in the middle of the day and others were in the evening. There was just one that was scheduled for an early morning departure. The early morning outing was especially looked forward to by the boys as it was on our schedule as a "Donut and Milk Picnic Breakfast"!<br />
<br />
The plan was to get up early and pack up our ice chest with ice cold milk and our picnic basket with napkins and cups before heading down the mountain to the bakery in town.<br />
<br />
Once at the bakery each boy carefully picked out two donuts. As soon as I saw the gummy worm topped donut I knew there would be no way that all three little boys could possibly pass on that sweet gem. Yep, it was the first choice in the donut box although his choices had been sternly pre-determined to be two chocolate long johns. The pile of gummy worms were just too tempting I guess.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JdL6_t2YuU/T_I15ghx4cI/AAAAAAAAEhs/3NueXPwxDlw/s1600/DSCN0915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JdL6_t2YuU/T_I15ghx4cI/AAAAAAAAEhs/3NueXPwxDlw/s320/DSCN0915.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once the donuts were purchased we had a short drive to a school playground that was open for summer play. We found a nice shady spot near the playground for our picnic.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vazAOtcS918/T_I22YUojZI/AAAAAAAAEh4/WTjbxpBCMd0/s1600/DSCN0941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vazAOtcS918/T_I22YUojZI/AAAAAAAAEh4/WTjbxpBCMd0/s320/DSCN0941.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The school had special meaning to the boys. Their great-grandpa worked on building the school some fifty plus years ago when I was just a young girl. As the boys played on some very old playground equipment (which they thought was very cool by the way) I noticed lots of horn honking at a nearby intersection and along the street we were on. I was very surprised with it being such a small town until I realized that just maybe that is how the locals say hello to one another. <a href="http://www.dmvcheatsheets.com/">practice driving test </a> I was feeling nostalgic hanging out at the old school and watching my grands play on the same kind of playground equipment that I did as a girl so my vision of small town honks of friendship just added to the beauty of the day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39exJQveBf8/T_I7J40HhOI/AAAAAAAAEiE/O1s0UiqjvPg/s1600/DSCN0933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-39exJQveBf8/T_I7J40HhOI/AAAAAAAAEiE/O1s0UiqjvPg/s320/DSCN0933.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a great little activity and a highlight of our week for the boys. The boys enjoyed unlimited play, the high sugar breakfast was quickly burned off with lots of running, jumping, and climbing and naughty grandma still had two more meals to square out their nutrition for the day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-90379978872090610022012-06-22T22:57:00.000-07:002012-06-22T22:59:03.992-07:00Poof The Magic Fort<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Three of my grandsons came over to stay with me for a couple of hours.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They came prepared with a well thought out plan.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Within a few short minutes they had pulled out all of the supplies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
that they had toted down to my house and my living room</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
was FILLED with their newest invention!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIrKANR4iSs/T-VVi90QrMI/AAAAAAAAEhQ/0e05muoxDh0/s1600/DSCN0797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIrKANR4iSs/T-VVi90QrMI/AAAAAAAAEhQ/0e05muoxDh0/s400/DSCN0797.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had seen an idea like this just the day before on a blog but</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the mom had created it out of a clear plastic drop cloths.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It looked fun but it wasn't for this safety minded grandma!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xleeKXq23zU/T-VVkwF826I/AAAAAAAAEhY/E7P-rNWr-jI/s1600/DSCN0798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xleeKXq23zU/T-VVkwF826I/AAAAAAAAEhY/E7P-rNWr-jI/s320/DSCN0798.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is his moms old king size duvet cover.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Snap it up on the one end leaving space for the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
fan. "POOF!" You have a huge breezy fort to play in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But that's not all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A twin size duvet cover was connected to the king duvet</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
at one corner. "POOF"! They had another connecting room</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
added to the fort. All with just one fan!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Yp9B12T26c/T-VVoROhsBI/AAAAAAAAEhg/n36E_p3m5Gs/s1600/DSCN0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Yp9B12T26c/T-VVoROhsBI/AAAAAAAAEhg/n36E_p3m5Gs/s200/DSCN0799.JPG" width="131" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One thing is for sure. The clean up was way easier</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
than the piles of sheets and quilts that have to be folded</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
after the other kind of indoor fort building.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I usually post on things that are grandma tested and kid approved.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This time it was kid tested and grandma approved.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Great summer time fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-66450637940332220812012-06-21T19:24:00.000-07:002012-06-21T19:32:06.033-07:00You Gotta' Love It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3hHmCm0RW14/T-PW9jo9YEI/AAAAAAAAEg8/IkgikrGHDUY/s1600/DSCN0666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3hHmCm0RW14/T-PW9jo9YEI/AAAAAAAAEg8/IkgikrGHDUY/s400/DSCN0666.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Grandma, these are called make a wish flowers!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_3el7lkdnI/T-PXx7NCcqI/AAAAAAAAEhE/s61ZX0k4Ii4/s1600/DSCN0667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_3el7lkdnI/T-PXx7NCcqI/AAAAAAAAEhE/s61ZX0k4Ii4/s320/DSCN0667.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can you guess what little brother calls them too?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy and dirty faced little boys on this day means</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
that we have had a full day of Grandma Camp fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-25513749798816440102012-06-14T13:28:00.000-07:002012-06-14T13:28:32.087-07:00Grandma Camp 2012 Craft Ideas.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grandma Camp 2012 Starts <a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/06/grandma-camp-2012.html">Here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xeU20cQFb8c/T9pBJfq0CPI/AAAAAAAAEfs/FKddsRKnpbM/s1600/DSCN0578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xeU20cQFb8c/T9pBJfq0CPI/AAAAAAAAEfs/FKddsRKnpbM/s320/DSCN0578.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After our gathering activities it was already snack time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The following activities have been kid tested and grandma approved!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up was a painting project to create a sack lunch</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for the picnic dinner at the park that I had planned.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mVs7Pehwh4k/T9pBdB1DBFI/AAAAAAAAEf0/tO0-F-4zTKY/s1600/DSCN0553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mVs7Pehwh4k/T9pBdB1DBFI/AAAAAAAAEf0/tO0-F-4zTKY/s320/DSCN0553.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We used bubble wrap as our "stamp" to decorate the bags.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I drew a big bubble letter (the first letter of their name.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
on the smooth side of the wrap with a Sharpie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Other supplies needed:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Paint</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cotton swabs</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i> (Mine had long handles with cotton on just one end.)</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lunch sacks or paper.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Next time I would use white paper sacks.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dab on the colors of paint of your choice to on the bubble</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
wrap bubbles filling in the border and the inside of your </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
letter or object as you choose.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WoVxPoNZo4A/T9pBlI_XF6I/AAAAAAAAEf8/qb0tJ2zgNqE/s1600/DSCN0560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WoVxPoNZo4A/T9pBlI_XF6I/AAAAAAAAEf8/qb0tJ2zgNqE/s320/DSCN0560.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once all of the paint is dabbed on (and before it dries)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
transfer the design to the paper sack by laying the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
bubble wrap paint side down on the sack.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gently press entire back side.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The campers really enjoyed this simple craft.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They seem to love anything with paint!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wGzt422m7js/T9pBtyiUx4I/AAAAAAAAEgI/wb4QSZEbsAU/s1600/DSCN0561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wGzt422m7js/T9pBtyiUx4I/AAAAAAAAEgI/wb4QSZEbsAU/s320/DSCN0561.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next we created cushions for Camp Stool Totes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I always have some kind of tote for the kids to gather their</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
camp projects in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year it was a 5 gallon bucket that we turned into</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
a personalized camp stool and camp souvenir. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q4JfcrONk2I/T9pB14m5eHI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/NZK0Z_XON6Q/s1600/DSCN0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q4JfcrONk2I/T9pB14m5eHI/AAAAAAAAEgQ/NZK0Z_XON6Q/s320/DSCN0452.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made the camp labels ahead of time and laminated them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our craft was to create the stools cushion.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was tracing and cutting the needed sizes of circles of:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cardboard, batting, and vinyl.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cut cardboard and batting to desired size of finished cushion.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cut the vinyl fabric (I just a vinyl tablecloth) 5" larger.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While Papa started the next project with the kids...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hot glued the cushions to cover the cardboard and</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
batting with the vinyl. It needs to be smooth and tight on the top but </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
it doesn't have to be beautiful on the bottom. Nobody will see it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hot glue the cushion (ugly side down) to the bucket lid.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't forget to write their names on the inside of the lids!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Heaven forbid, someone gets someone else's exact same lid!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hot glued the laminated pieces to the buckets.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The buckets clearly stated who's was who's!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B4gwk02HT4Y/T9pB9bGSWLI/AAAAAAAAEgY/qdkWCQHRQx0/s1600/DSCN0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B4gwk02HT4Y/T9pB9bGSWLI/AAAAAAAAEgY/qdkWCQHRQx0/s320/DSCN0591.JPG" width="219" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There it is our official</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2012</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grandkid's Campout Tote / Stool!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kids found many uses for them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVta1t6o2pM/T9pG21FqJ4I/AAAAAAAAEgo/Vgy4qQVSink/s1600/DSCN0741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVta1t6o2pM/T9pG21FqJ4I/AAAAAAAAEgo/Vgy4qQVSink/s320/DSCN0741.JPG" width="251" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Breakfast table stools.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J1bYMejtLv0/T9pHBMTfUVI/AAAAAAAAEgw/rT_5uZdtsuA/s1600/DSCN0752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J1bYMejtLv0/T9pHBMTfUVI/AAAAAAAAEgw/rT_5uZdtsuA/s320/DSCN0752.JPG" width="188" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And, step stools to get a better look</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
at the Javelina that came by for a visit!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That was a first for grandma camp!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More to come.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-2963196279706880392012-06-13T09:43:00.001-07:002012-06-14T13:31:16.170-07:00Grandma Camp 2012I proved to myself this year that you don't have to work on preparing Grandma Camp the entire year! It has been a year of big changes for me. My husband retired nine months ago as in he is home everyday! That is a big adjustment to a 30 plus year stay at home wife and mom. It has been one year since my mother-in-law was diagnosed with Alzheimer's and already seven months since she moved into our home full time. My youngest adult child moved back home a year ago too. So, my year of transition from being a stay at home wife and empty nester with a full time working husband has evolved into a full nest, added responsibilities in caring for my mother in law, little privacy, little alone time, thermostat challenges, TV remote sacrifices, and probably the hardest hit being far less time for my personal creativity time to bring me the joy that it once did.<br />
<br />
Needless to say Grandma Camp was pulled together very differently this year and I did not began my camp with the 100% over the top organization that I usually do. But, guess what? If needed you can pull Grandma Camp together in two days and it seems everyone still has just as much fun!<br />
<br />
Sadly, this year four of my grandchildren were unable to attend. Oh, how I missed them. So this year I had just six little campers and all boys! Another big change is that we moved the camp to the mountains this year! My adult children graciously HELPED me pull grandma camp off this time. We all (parents and kids) headed to our mountain cabin for the Memorial Day weekend. We extended our stay to include grandma camp. The kids were okay with mom and dad being there but they were very concerned about where they would be during grandma camp and where they were going to sleep to no intrude on our special time together. Traditionally, it is no parents allowed. Seems to be a tradition the kids really like!<br />
<br />
To kick off the camp we all (as in parents and grands) headed into town for a pizza lunch and arcade games.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F33bhbjP6BQ/T9i8W4C7INI/AAAAAAAAEd0/wKtEXr7npB4/s1600/DSCN0537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F33bhbjP6BQ/T9i8W4C7INI/AAAAAAAAEd0/wKtEXr7npB4/s320/DSCN0537.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Following lunch the moms and dads stayed in town for the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
day to play and Papa and I loaded up our campers and headed</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
back to the cabin for Grandma Camp!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XM-I1_vRFuM/T9i8tQXUQBI/AAAAAAAAEd8/1NLjyFv8TUI/s1600/DSCN0543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XM-I1_vRFuM/T9i8tQXUQBI/AAAAAAAAEd8/1NLjyFv8TUI/s320/DSCN0543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had six campers between the ages of 2-11.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once we arrived back to the cabin we all worked together</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to set up the tables and chairs we needed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our first activity was talking about keeping a journal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I then gave them each a camp journal to</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
record when and where our camp was, who was there, what we did,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
how they felt, and their favorite things about grandma camp.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Ix8OB7OYkY/T9i-ckjRDCI/AAAAAAAAEfE/iQbfJbFNmuU/s1600/DSCN0552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Ix8OB7OYkY/T9i-ckjRDCI/AAAAAAAAEfE/iQbfJbFNmuU/s320/DSCN0552.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were given time following each activity to</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
write or color in their camp journals.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8xiGVah5EXA/T9i-YtmHi0I/AAAAAAAAEe8/Pkpel0vh4SY/s1600/DSCN0551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8xiGVah5EXA/T9i-YtmHi0I/AAAAAAAAEe8/Pkpel0vh4SY/s320/DSCN0551.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up.... Since slacking grandma didn't get personalized</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
water bottle labels created before camp the kids made their own.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qPYPnMRCpNs/T9i-Mmg5y_I/AAAAAAAAEes/pv42bgv2pJk/s1600/DSCN0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qPYPnMRCpNs/T9i-Mmg5y_I/AAAAAAAAEes/pv42bgv2pJk/s320/DSCN0549.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Each child was given a strip of card stock that would</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
cover the store bought label with a 1/2" overlap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sY7j08WqU2Y/T9i-StYie5I/AAAAAAAAEe0/vBFBBQxApLI/s1600/DSCN0550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sY7j08WqU2Y/T9i-StYie5I/AAAAAAAAEe0/vBFBBQxApLI/s320/DSCN0550.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Each child decorated their labels using colored pencils</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and they wrote their names on them. Papa used clear packing</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
tape (with the kids help) to attach the labels and to waterproof them</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to their camp issued water bottles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Funny thing....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No one seemed to notice that Grandma Camp</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
had been pulled together in just two days!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.grandmaslittlepearls.com/2012/06/grandma-camp-2012-craft-ideas.html">What's next on the agenda?</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-11042559502480301342012-06-07T17:18:00.001-07:002012-06-08T08:17:44.607-07:00Travel Tour From HomeOne of my favorite memories as a grandma is the time I cared for my grandsons while their parents enjoyed an extended business/pleasure vacation to Australia and New Zealand. <a href="http://www.zicasso.com/luxury-tours/New-Zealand/vacation-package-travel-agency%20%20with%20the%20anchor%20text%20%E2%80%9CNew%20Zealand%20tours%E2%80%9D">New Zealand Tours</a>. Oh how I wished I had pictures to share of this special memory. I had done my homework ahead of time using mommy and daddy's travel itinerary to learn all I could about the places they would be visiting. I checked out kid friendly books from the library on the animals, foods, cultures, and the maps of the areas that they would be visiting to use as teaching and activity resources.<br />
<br />
I posted a world map on the front of the fridge door with my house drawn on the map as the starting and returning point. I had made small planes, trains, taxi's, and bus magnets. I also had pieces of yarn to mark their route. Each day mommy and daddy were gone we would find it on the map and learn about the place they were visiting that day. We read books, looked at pictures, made cultural crafts, and even tried out foods that were popular in the area.<br />
<br />
The boys really got into our travel tour from home. I did not know how much the little sponges had absorbed during our special daily activities until their mommy and daddy returned from their trip. When their parents shared the things they did the boys were able to participate in the conversation and they had a good understanding of what their parents were sharing with them.<br />
<br />
Who knows.... maybe one day my grandsons and I will visit those places together!<br />
<br />
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-58488660949274898082012-06-06T10:32:00.000-07:002012-06-12T14:54:07.012-07:00Quality and Mess Free CraftingThe folks over at The<a href="http://www.orbfactory.com/"> Orb Factory</a> recently sent me one of their craft products for review. They also offered to host a blog give away! Lucky you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OJ20MeE2Fw/T8-FGgWMnYI/AAAAAAAAEcY/xcqtQUOy8Ek/s1600/DSCN0759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OJ20MeE2Fw/T8-FGgWMnYI/AAAAAAAAEcY/xcqtQUOy8Ek/s200/DSCN0759.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I learned from visiting their <a href="http://www.orbfactory.com/About-Us">website</a> that this company has been around for a long time</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and that they have a long history of both young and old very satisfied customers.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6MykNb1Hw8/T8-FVKMIqGI/AAAAAAAAEcg/RDpFi5b5uSk/s1600/DSCN0753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6MykNb1Hw8/T8-FVKMIqGI/AAAAAAAAEcg/RDpFi5b5uSk/s320/DSCN0753.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Orb Factory prides themselves on producing toys that not only</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
stimulates a child's mind, but their creativity as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That is right up my creative grand-parenting alley!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V-P-dI6ih5Q/T8-Fy4AsFQI/AAAAAAAAEc0/1uRIKeM4UP0/s1600/DSCN0760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V-P-dI6ih5Q/T8-Fy4AsFQI/AAAAAAAAEc0/1uRIKeM4UP0/s320/DSCN0760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I requested a product for my review that would </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
be appropriate for both boys and girls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They sent me A Sticky Mosaics <a href="http://www.orbfactory.com/Products/Sticky-Mosaics-R-Original-Line/Wild-Horses/">Wild Horses</a> kit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was very impressed with the quality of the product. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The three horse templates that the kit included were very large </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and the quality of the materials were high.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The kit was large enough to be shared by three children. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OfmlQE5w6IU/T8-GAL9JezI/AAAAAAAAEc8/YRA3aiYSxWo/s1600/DSCN0764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OfmlQE5w6IU/T8-GAL9JezI/AAAAAAAAEc8/YRA3aiYSxWo/s320/DSCN0764.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The sticky mosaic pieces work just like a paint by number.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Except, there is no-mess, no smears, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and it is sure to get amazing results every time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The reference guide makes following the directions</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
super easy!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZzJc2cS8k0/T8-GTv5GBpI/AAAAAAAAEdE/m1SIl-gA_gk/s1600/DSCN0765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZzJc2cS8k0/T8-GTv5GBpI/AAAAAAAAEdE/m1SIl-gA_gk/s320/DSCN0765.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Think of the conversations you could share with the</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
little ones you love while your mosaic masterpiece</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
comes to life!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Check out their <a href="http://www.orbfactory.com/Products">products</a> today. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They have a huge selection of craft kits for both boys and girls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They also offer age appropriate and limited budget options.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They would make great thinking of you surprises</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
for your long distance grandchildren, nieces, and nephews</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
to receive in the mail,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They would also make great special occasion gifts to have</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
on hand or they could be shipped directly to the child.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">BLOG GIVE-AWAY</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">This give-away has ended.</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">Yellow Grandma Wins!</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a great craft project for summer break!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For a chance to win your very own Wild Horses Sticky Mosaics kit:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1. Leave a comment on this post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2. Shipment only available in the U.S. and Canada</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3. Make sure that I have a way to contact you in case you are the lucky winner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can e-mail me @ grandmashelley(at)grandmaslittlepearls(dot)com</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
4. Give-Away ends on Tuesday June 12th, 2012</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5. Good Luck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8840587404987355490.post-15774979652869715512012-06-04T23:46:00.003-07:002012-06-04T23:46:44.864-07:00I'm a Big FanI am a big fan of cool containers. I am an even bigger fan of a good value. I am a huge fan of crafting with my grandchildren. The cost of any crafting project I do with my ten grandchildren is multiplied by eleven. Ten of whatever it is for the kids and one for me to make up as a sample project. It can add up quickly.<br />
<br />
I love searching dollar stores for fun and unique crafting materials. I recently learned of a great site where you can purchase all kinds of <a href="http://www.sunburstbottle.com/">glass bottles</a> and a huge variety of other containers right from your home computer. When I checked out their website my creative juices couldn't help but to flow. Oh the things I could do! What was really cool about the site is that they have many items that you can purchase as little as one item and not an entire case of 2500. The prices seemed very fair too. I even noticed some clearance priced items. That ALWAYS gets my attention!<br />
<br />
They also have vials and droppers. These items would make great little gifts for my science lab minded grandson. I really like the perfume bottles too. Wouldn't it be fun to make your own little labels and perfumes for a little girls birthday party. I will be bookmarking this site for future inspiration and resources. Many of their items could be the base for some great crafting projects, personalized gifts, for organizing, and even party favors.Grandma Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00409943377698851040noreply@blogger.com0