Please join us for a fun night of fashion and food benefiting Susanna Wesley School, Shelton CT.

RSVP by November 30 to Roberta at 203-925-1076
Tickets must be purchased in advance. No tickets will be sold at the door!

Summer in Full Swing

It's a little over the middle of July and I feel like I've loaded all our activities this month and going into August, too. Before I know it, school will be back in session early September! Where has the summer gone?

Our family took a great trip with friends to Hilton Head Island, SC a couple weeks ago and had beautiful beach days, kayaked and even went on a shrimping boat. In addition, we took a day trip to Savannah, GA. Our girls (ages 6-11), visited the Juliette Gordon Low birthplace, which is a museum with many treasures of the great founder of Girl Scouts of America. It was the highlight of our visit!

Back in CT, my son and daughter have been scout camp and have enjoyed several activities throughout the day, including swimming, archery, nature, scout skills, and more. The counselors and staff are wonderful with the kids and I know they are in good hands. They are already talking about next year and doing overnight camp!

Aside from camps, there are just other things you can do with your family in and around the area. I found a post from a mom on Facebook (thank you Agnes) who put a list together of various things to do that are affordable. Some include visiting local state parks and beaches. Some, I mentioned in my previous post, which includes visiting your local library. Many offer free passes to museums, the zoo or other outings. Check out the list and see if there is anything you may find interesting and fun for your family:

Free or discounted recreation passes 

Each library has different passes. Check their website for a complete list and details. Some require you to be a resident or a $10 deposit. Most common ones are Beardsley Zoo, Discovery Museum, Peabody Museum, state parks, Mystic Aquarium and many more.

Libraries

Summer Reading programs are underway, but many also have other children’s programs and a nice play area. Check their websites for schedules.

Derby Neck Library
Derby Public Library

Edith Wheeler Memorial Library in Monroe
Woodbridge Town Library
Oxford Town Library

Plumb Memorial Library in Shelton

Beaches 

If you go on the CT gov website, you can find many state park/beaches available. In addition, you can download a GPS app that helps you explore the various parks in CT. http://www.pocketranger.com/apps/connecticut

Hammonasset Beach State Park - Madison. Great beach, a nature center with children's programs as well as campground. Go for the day or spend a weekend. 

Short Beach – 1 Dorne Dr Stratford - $20 per day parking fee

Walnut Beach- Milford - you can park on the street and not pay a fee, or for a small amount, park in the parking lot. There is a boardwalk that goes to Silver Sands. It's a nice walk and if you do it round trip, I believe you walk about 2-3 miles. http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?A=2716&Q=325262

West Haven Beach – 6 Rock St – parking meters (West Haven has the boardwalk, playground, piers and just lots of action for the kids to watch)

Lighthouse Point Park – 2 Lighthouse Rd New Haven - $20 per day parking fee and small fee for the carousel that runs only on Sat & Sunday. (There’s the lighthouse, playground, beach and carousel).

Farms

Some of these have animals, some have activities and some are just pick your own fruit.

Benedicts’s – 480 Purdy Hill Rd, Monroe – they have animals in the back that the kids can check out and pet and in the fall they have a hay tower kids can climb and a corn pit. (that may be in the fall...not sure about the summer)

High Wire Deer & Animal Farm – 66 Park Rd, Woodbury – they have all kids of unusual animals like zebras and kangaroos. There’s a picnic area for lunch and the fee is $6 per person and kids under 2 are free. Check heir website because they’re not open everyday.

Silverman’s Farm – 451 Sport Hill Rd Easton – pet and feed the animals. $5 per person plus quarters for the food for the animals.

Well’s Hallow Farm – 656 Bridgeport Ave, Shelton – plants, animals and ice cream. Not sure of pricing but places like this are usually cash only.

Jones Family Farms – 606 Walnut Tree Hill Rd Shelton – pick your own strawberries and blueberries. Check their website for what is in season for harvest.

Lyman’s Orchard – 32 Reeds Gap Rd, Middlefield – pick your own strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, pears and apples. Check website for what’s in season.

March Farms – 160 Munger Lane, Bethlehem. Pick your own strawberries, blueberries, peaches and apples. Plus they have goats, a huge play area for the little kids and a maze.

Local Playgrounds & Parks
Gary Park – Gary Rd, Seymour – playground and fields

Bodie’s Place at Eisenhower Park – 780 North St, Milford. Awesome playground with sandbox and separate areas for older kids.

Ansonia Nature Center – 10 Deerfield Rd, Ansonia. Wooden playground, pond, walking trails and small animal/reptile exhibits inside with a bathroom.

Pease Place – 160 Pease Rd, Woodbridge. Boundless playground like Bodie’s Place

Boothe Memorial Park – 5800 Main St, Stratford. Playground, train museum free but only open Saturdays from 1-4) , beautiful buildings and there used to be some animals in the back. There’s also a smaller playground down the hill from where the old tolls are that’s perfect for little kids who are still scared of the big one.

Longbrook Park – 24 Hurd Ave, Stratfrod. Playground, fields and a splash pad. Not sure if this is residents only

.
Matthies Park – 215 Pines Bridge Rd, Beacon Falls. Playground, pond and walking trails.

Dickinson Park – 50 Elm Dr, Newtown. Playground, fields, skate park and walking trails.

Osbourndale Park – 555 Roosevelt Dr, Derby. Feed the ducks, pick some flowers in the fields, have a picnic or go on a hike.

Racebrook Tract – 905 Racebrook Rd, Orange. Walking trails and educational nature trail.

Shelton Trails – Constitution Blvd past the Intermediate. Trail goes down by the High school, across Meadow St and over a bridge. Beautiful views and nice nature walk.

Sleeping Giant – 200 Mt Carmel Ave, Hamden. Hiking trails and a nice easy tower trail that leads to a castle on the top of the mountain that’s stroller accessible.

Movies/Misc/Other

Bowtie Cinemas has free movies. Bowtiecinemas.com look under Summer Kids Series
Free movies on the Riverwalk in Shelton – start July 18th. Find the schedule on Valley Independent Sentinel online.

Southington Drive In Theater – 935 Meriden Waterbury Tpke, Plantsville. $15 per car. Check out their 2015 schedule online.

Free bowling. Check out Kidsbowlfree.com for details.

Free concerts – each town usually has a free concert either on Friday or Saturday nights. Check your towns website for info.

Pez Factory – 35 Prindle Hill Rd, Orange. Tours are $5 or less depending on age.

Stew Leonard’s - 100 Westport Ave, Norwalk. Shopping for mom and an experience for the kids, Plus ice cream.

Bronx Zoo – free on Wednesdays (they ask for a donation).

Also check out the Aquarian Water Company website. They offer a lot of B1G1 deals for admission tickets to a few good places like the Zoo and Mystic.

So many Camps, so little time.

It's that time a year again when many families are planning summer activities, including vacations, camps and day trips. I, for one, have already filled my summer calendar for the most part and can't believe how little time we have to enjoy a long, leisurely summer. But, if you are like me, I also want to provide my children with great experiences.

When I first started the planning, I knew I was only going to put my children in one camp and the rest of the summer would be "free." I soon came to realize that even though I only signed up my kids for one camp each, the rest of the summer is filled with traveling to other places, including our annual vacation with friends and a 2-week trip to visit my father in Florida. Don't get me wrong. I love we are doing these things, but I just wish the summer was longer.

It's hard to not get sucked into the desire to fill every waking moment with some sort of activity or outing. It keeps you organized. It makes you feel you are in control and know what to expect. Your kids also know what to expect and won't keep asking you, "what are we doing today?", or that they will sit in front of the t.v. or their iPad as long as you allow.

On the other hand, this planning puts a damper on the spontaneity that is supposed to be part of the fun of summer. It's sort of a conundrum. Do I plan a fun-filled summer or do I just play it by ear and see where the day takes us??

Although I do not have a need to sign my kids up for a bunch of camps this year, I can certainly recommend some that my kids have attended in the past or others I have found interesting. There are many new businesses that have come along in the last few years and you are certain to find something for everyone.  I hope you check out these local places for some fun experiences for your child(ren). Maybe you aren't as insane as I am and you have a free calendar!

Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport, CT
Boys and Girls Club, Ansonia, Seymour and Shelton, CT
Camp Invention, various locations, including Shelton, CT
Girl Scouts of CT, various locations, including Milford and Oxford, CT
Grandma Josie's, Monroe, CT
Housatonic BSA (cub scouts and boy scouts), Orange and Goshen, CT
Lego Camp with Play-Well TEKnologies, various locations, including Shelton, CT
The Giggling Pig, Shelton, CT
Pinwheel Studios, Shelton, CT
Skyhawks Sports, various locations, including Shelton and Monroe, CT
Susanna Wesley School, Shelton, CT 

Connecticut Parent has a listing of several camps around CT. 

Also, don't forget to check out your local churches for their VBS programs. Not only are they close, but inexpensive, too!! 

Your Park and Rec department is a great resource as well.

If I find other camps, I will update my list. If you have other suggestions, please feel free to comment. 

Fun, Food and Fashion!

Looking for a fun way to enjoy an afternoon of tea and fashion with friends? Check out the Purplicious Fashion Show, hosted by Susanna Wesley School in Shelton, May 30th 12-3pm. 

In cabaret style, bring your lunch or snacks, and the school will provide the beverages and dessert, while enjoying a fun fashion show, courtesy of Dress Barn.


Tickets are only $10. Contact Roberta Cenci at 203-925-1076. 

Seats are limited!!!

Proceeds from the event benefit the Margaret Rose Memorial Fund to benefit Susanna Wesley School.

Summer Camps Abound!

If you are like me, you have already planned your summer with activities to fill your children's day. School will be over before we know it and you might feel a bit of panic as you realize your children will be home EVERY day for a little over 2 months!

Take a breath and relax. I've found some great opportunities for families to enjoy the benefits of camp without necessarily breaking the bank. Here are a few places I'd encourage you to check out:

Susanna Wesley School of Shelton is hosting week-long camps for your pre-schooler starting in June and through July. Contact the school at 203-925-1076 for more information.

CT Fitness Pros in Shelton will have kids' camp for three 1-week sessions in the summer: July 11-15, July 25-29, and August 8-12. Open for children ages 4-10. Contact Liza Bailey at info@ctfitnesspros.com or 203-331-6396

Skyhawks offers sports related camps in the Shelton and Monroe areas. Children as young as 3 can join in on the fun. Visit http://www.skyhawks.com/ for more information or visit your local community center.

Valley Karate of Shelton is holding two camp sessions in July and August. It is open to ages 5-14 and will be held from 8:30-12:00. Contact Sarah Bergers at 203-924-CHOP.

Youth Elite Soccer will have a soccer camp for children in Shelton mid-August for children from 4 up to 14 years of age. For more information, call 203-455-6910 or visit http://www.sysonet.org/

Not Here, But Near:

Fun Factor in Middlebury 203-528-0118. http://www.funfactorusa.com/. An indoor inflatable facility.
The Little Gym of Orange (203) 298-4131. www.thelittlegym.com/OrangeCT. Flexible camp schedule.
Tumble Jungle in Newtown 203-426-1300. http://www.tumblejungle.net/. Perfect for pre-schoolers!

Other Camp Options:

Your local library has several activities for your children throughout the summer filled with fun and reading all wrapped into one! Kids can sign up for the summer reading program and earn prizes, while enjoying great books. In Shelton, we have two wonderful libraries, Plumb Memorial Library and Huntington Branch Library. Visit http://sheltonlibrarysystem.org/ to learn more about their summer programs.

Vacation Bible School offers an enriching experience for your children, not to mention a cost effective option for many families. Check your local churches for more information.

Barefoot Books Tour

Barefoot Books Tour

If you are in the Boston area, make sure to visit the Barefoot Books store in Concord MA. There's something for everyone! Their new pottery studio looks great, too!

Time to Reflect and Slow Down

This has to be one of my most favorite times of the year. I love that Easter happens in the Spring, which of course, means renewal and rebirth. What a perfect way to celebrate this joyous holiday! The birds have come back from their winter break and the bulbs are sprouting from the ground. This scene is a sight for sore eyes here in the Northeast, given our crazy winter this past year.

I love Easter also because I tend to do more for my Christian soul than I do any other time of year, even Christmas. I try not to get so caught up in all the marketing hoopla and focus on the importance of what this holiday really means to me.

Over the years, I've gained so much more knowledge on what it is to be a Christian. I've actually opened up the bible and and read through the historical accounts that many of us only learn from the movies or t.v. And in the last year, I've learned even more and have actually felt that holy spirit work its wonders. Amazing!

In our society of busy, busy and more busy, I've taken the opportunity this season to take the time to stop, reflect and SLOW DOWN. You can ask anyone I know...I am always on the go, doing something with my kids or participating in some sort of event. I tell myself that I thrive on being busy. But, that busyness does take a toll on you, not only of the body, but of the soul.

So, I decided this lenten season to cut back on my computer time significantly and not go on it past 10 pm. It's been hard at times, and I haven't been perfect with keeping my promise, but I will say I've gained a much better sense of peace. Plus, I found more time to read and do other things I would normally have not done. It's been a wonderful experience. I am even considering keeping this up past lent and make it a continual practice.

So, as the season of lent is ending and Easter is beginning, I hope you see there is more to being busy. It's ok to say no to that birthday party or activity your kid is dying to try. It isn't necessary to fill the calendar to the brim and it's ok to leave some space for other opportunities. Bring back some old fashioned things, like Family Game Night (preferably without technology), and take time for yourself, your family, your mind and your soul.

You'll be pleasantly surprised what you gain from slowing down.

A Big Night Out!!!!

I will be participating in the Trumbull Early Childhood Education Center's PTO fundraising event this Friday, March 25 from 6-10pm.

It's their BIG NIGHT OUT, with catered food, a silent auction, boutique style shopping, etc.

I'll be showcasing my Tastefully Simple products. If you come and stop by my table, you will be entered into a drawing to receive a FREE party on me!

So, if you're looking for something fun to do with your girlfriends, a night out with your spouse or special someone in your life, or just want to join in the fun, this is something you certainly don't want to miss!!!!

I'd love to see some familiar faces. Hope you can make it.

Spring is in the Air, indeed!

What a glorious day it was on the first day of March. Not only did the sun shine all day, but the fact I didn't have to wear a coat here in CT was a blessing in itself. This past winter has been pretty difficult and almost unbearable at times, even for the most seasoned North Easterner. It definitely came in like a lion, if not a whole pack of them!

I love Spring. Not only because I'm a Spring baby, but it's a chance for renewal in so many ways. It allows us to start over and fresh. Spring has a certain smell to it, too. The melting snow gives way to the asphalt that has been buried for many months by ice and snow. The air has a crispness that warms your nostrils when you breathe it in.

I loved today. And it wasn't just the weather. I hosted a playdate with my six-year old son and his two best buddies. They were beyond thrilled. These 3 boys have known each other basically since birth and any chance they get, they want to get together and play. It's not enough they ride the same bus each morning and afternoon together and one of them is in the same class, too. These boys just want to keep the party going, and, heck, if I were them, I would, too! Life is good when you are six!!!

Since the weather was especially nice, it was perfect that I didn't have to keep these kids couped up in the house. They played outside in the driveway, playing with the new radio control cars my son received from Santa this past Christmas. I found some scrap plywood and set up a make-shift ramp...boy, that was the icing on the cake for them. It kicked up their playing level from an 8 to a 10 right away! It was so fun to watch these boys go at it and smash their trucks into each other while attempting the biggest feat in all Tonka Truck history according to them.

In between playing with the cars and trucks, they also shot some hoops with our full-sized basketball net. I even got in on the game with them and they outnumbered me, 3 to 1. It was glorious! I even introduced a new game to them that I played as a child...HORSE. Apparently there are several versions of this game; we played where we marked the court with the letters HORSE around the net and each boy had to make a shot before moving to the next letter. Though they didn't complete the game, most likely due to the fact they are six-year old boys who can't keep still for more than 5 seconds and stay at task, it was a fun time, regardless.

So, even though today was focused on hosting three boys at my house, (by the way, you may wonder where my daughter was...she was at a friend's house for a playdate), it was also a day for me to enjoy some time with my son and his friends. I gave them some guidance, left them alone, then came back to make sure they didn't blow up anything (trust me...I'm sure someday that may happen). I got to see a different side to playing with boys. I'm usually so focused on sticking to rules, keeping safe, being respectful, not fighting with each other, etc., that I miss the opportunities to see how fun and silly boys are at this age! They were burping, crashing trucks, being loud, jumping, and having the time of their life. And I loved every minute of it! I can go as far as saying I felt revived!

Spring is coming, I know I feel it. The weather is changing. It's getting warmer and the sun is shining longer. Spring is a renewal. It's a chance to start fresh and live life for the better. I was renewed a little today with the time I spent with my son and his friends. I was given a chance to be silly and not have a care in the world, even if it was only for 2 hours. I laughed, smiled, and shared.

I was given the best gift of all, and that is the opportunity to enjoy God's gift of today.

Happy Groundhog Day!

It's official! Punxsatawney Phil did NOT see his shadow this morning! Therefore, all of us in New England, and anyone experiencing this unusual snowy weather is thrilled! Of course, by the calendar, Spring is always around the corner at this time...only six weeks until it's officially Spring. Puuleezzze! That's not happening here in CT! We typically don't see the robins bobbing around or bulbs busting out the ground until April.

So, what the question arises, what to do over the next couple months with more than 9 snowdays from school the kids have had in one month? Well, for one, try not to go batty!!!! It's hard, sure, when you have a five and six year old running around, making noise all day long when all you want to do is sit quietly with a cuppa coffee and watch GMA on t.v. But, heck, it's the life here in CT. So, we have to roll with the punches and just accept that staying inside during inclement weather is not such a bad thing...really.

Here are the steps of coping with the winter blues that I've summed up for myself:

1. Embrace this winter weather. It ain't going anywhere, so don't even wish it away. Go outside and make a snowman, build a fort or make a tunnel. You'd be surprised how much fun you'll end up having if you just get out there and be like a kid. You'll exert energy, which of course translates to releasing endorphins...that we know are the good things that make us feel happy!

2. Enjoy your time with the kids. Don't look at it as being stuck with them another day. Take on the perspective that maybe a higher force is saying it's about time you take the time to be with your children and enjoy them. Someday, they will leave your nest and you'll be wishing they never left.

3. Get creative! Being a mom of young children, I've done my share of crafts and games which might qualify me as a professional. Heck, we are! Doing this day after day could get a little monotonous. So, switch it up and get creative! Today, I had the kids make a pet shop in the living room. They set up all their stuffed animals, priced everything, made stations to wash and dry, dress and even vet pet care for those animals that needed to be "healed and mended". It just took a little creativity and the kids then went with it and added their own ideas. Kept them occupied and they learned about cooperation, money, reading/spelling and how things flow.

4. Carve out time for yourself, even when the kids are home. Moms and Dads need their "time out", too. Pop in that video, tell the kids you're going to take some "me time" and go in another room to read that book you've been meaning to finish, or if you're crafty, start sewing, crocheting, scrapbooking. Even if you only take 1/2 hour, you'll be happy you did it, and so will your kids!

5. Catch up with loved ones. We always say, I'll call them when I get home or when I have more time. Yet, that time seems to never happen and we end up procrastinating what we wanted to do. Stop and listen to yourself. If you think of calling that special person, do it NOW! Or at least send that email or better yet, an e-card, to let them know you're thinking about them.

This past month has been a doozy on all of us and I'm sure has gotten many in
a funk they can't seem to escape. I've tried my hardest to not give in to the depressing thoughts of winter and enjoy the aspects that make it so beautiful and special. It's helped me get through a rough month and brought a bit of peace of mind, too.

So, next time you are snow-bound, stuck in a rut, can't get motivated or just frustrated that you can't keep your kids occupied, try and remember that each day is a blessing and to take advantage of your situation, however mundane or restricted it may be. You will be surprised how happy you might feel afterwards.

Peace.

Beating Adultitis and having fun this winter

A free picture slideshow by Smilebox

Big Snow Jan 2011!!!

Our biggest snowfall thus far in 2011 was today. Our town received over almost 2 feet of snow. the snow drifts exceed that. It's beautiful, especially being untouched by snow plows! Luckily, I don't have cabin fever, though being snowbound without a good vehicle to get me out. That's ok...the kids and I are enjoying our leisurely day.

Winter Birthday Fun

If you are like most moms, you want the best for your child and try hard to plan the perfect birthday party...especially when your little one turns the pivotal age of FIVE!

My daughter is a winter baby, born in early January. So, when it comes to having a birthday party in the home, your choices become somewhat limited...not to mention the thought of having to clean and organize the house for all the guests!

God bless those folks out there who started providing birthday parties OUTSIDE the home, offering a stress-free environment for the parents and a fun-filled time for the kids! I think McDonald's might have been one of the first ones to offer such a venue.

Now, we're in the 2000's and there are birthday party places popping all over the place. And with good reason: time and convenience. Parents nowadays are always pressed for time and are looking for convenient ways to get all that needs to get done in the 48 hours of the weekend. Enter the Ultimate Birthday Experience with XXX (enter name here.

I must admit that I was one of those people who didn't think it was necessary to have a birthday party at one of those places. I thought it was over the top and a bit pretentious. That was of course, BEFORE I became a mother of 2 young children under the age of 6, with one being a winter baby and the other a late fall! I always imagined my children's birthday parties to be at home, just like it was for me, with a few friends and some good ol' birthday cake.

Life takes you on a spin sometimes and until you lived the journey, you never really know what to expect! So, when I found myself stressed and anxious planning my kid's parties and wishing I didn't have it at my house, I explored outside venues. I figured, why not? Everybody I know has done it and they are fun and seem reasonable.

The first party we did like this was for my daughter's 3rd birthday. We held it at The Little Gym in Orange. She had been taking their gymnastics and dance program already and I know she loved it there, so we went for it and hosted her party there. It was teriffic! Kids got all their energies out playing on the equipment and being entertained, while parents were able to watch and enjoy. I didn't have to worry about setting up or cleaning up after...I could actually enjoy the party and socialize with my guests. That's something I find I can't do as well when I've had parties at home.

The second party we had outside the house was at The Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport for my son when he turned 4. It was great and a fun time for everyone. They loved riding the carousel the best. We added to our package and included an "animal encounter", which was informative and neat for the kids. They got to see and touch small animals, like a turtle, and learn a little, too. Everyone had the opportunity after the party to walk around the zoo. Unfortunately, it rained that day, so we were stuck inside the carousel building. but that didn't matter. Kids had fun and parents were pleased.

By far, my most favorite place to have hosted an outside party is at the Devon Duckpin Bowling Alley in Milford. From the beginning, I was welcomed graciously by the owners. The moment we arrived through the front doors, the owner made us feel completely welcome and "at home". He took care of all the details and kept the flow of the party going without me having to be concerned. It shows he cares about his business and ensures that the families are 100% satisfied. One last point...the price is reasonable and you have the luxury of a private party.

I highly recommmend any three of these places to host an "outside your home" party. Each has their own unique offerings and service. The zoo may be the least likely to go to during winter months, but keep in mind they are open all year long. The Little Gym of Orange is great for kids who are ready to burn their pent up energy. Devon Duckpin Bowling is fun for everyone.

http://www.insiderpages.com/b/3712099909/devon-duckpin-lanes-milford

So, maybe my dreams of home parties have diminished, I still feel like home at any of these places. I look forward to future parties now and spend my time a little less stressed.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!!

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Huntington United Methodist Church » Blog Archive » House Tour

Huntington United Methodist Church » Blog Archive » House Tour

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Don't miss out on this annual event that is sure to get you into the holiday spirit!

It's November and I'm not ready for snow!

October was certainly a fun filled month. Fall craft fairs, my son's birthday party and of course, Halloween festivities. I was happy when it was all happening, but glad when it finally came to an end. I had a non-stop week up through Halloween night, so when November 1st hit, I gave a huge sigh of relief.

November seems to be the "in-between" month, where there isn't as much activity for our family and we just get ready for Thanksgiving. It's a time for us to slow down a bit before the madness of December celebrations begin. It's a time for me to reflect on life a bit, give thanks and appreciate my blessings.

Living in New England is wonderful. We get to experience seasonal changes and relish in old traditions. However, no matter how much I look forward to this time of year, I do NOT look forward to the New England weather!!!! Though my children came screaming and jumping for joy this morning for the little snow we had on the ground this morning, I can say my heart fell and first thing I did was see if the kids had school! To my dismay, they do. *SIGH*

So, as I begin my Monday morning dragging the kids out in this cold, wet, slippery weather, I will remind myself that I have a roof over my head, heat in my house and that this is all part of living in CT. Who knows, tomorrow could be sunny and warm! Someone once told me years ago that if you don't like what you see outside today, wait, it will change tomorrow. That's something I can look forward to, at least!

Childhood Literacy Development – Early Childhood Literacy - Parenting.com

Childhood Literacy Development – Early Childhood Literacy - Parenting.com

An interesting article about how crucial it is to read and talk with your child early on in life. Yes, children learn quite a bit from school, but it truly starts at home. Parents are the first teachers. Take time to read to your child EVERY DAY! Have conversations with them and get them to talk as much about their day. These are all important things we can easily do to ensure our children have a good foundation as they enter their school career.

Storytime at Sassafras - for those who love children's books, this is for you.

I'm very excited about my first-ever Storytime hour at Sassafras Restaurant next month, October 17th at 4pm.

I will read from the Barefoot Books collection, two of which are Driving My Tractor and The Beeman. Barefoot Books books are fun, colorful and interactive. I'll have puppets along with me and children will have a chance to do a craft as well. I am happy to have this opportunity to share these beautiful books to the community.

Sassafras will have their delicious ice cream to serve as a treat afterwards. For $2.49, kids will be able to make their own Mr. Sassafras (an ice cream clown). There is no charge for the storytime or craft. A nominal donation is suggested, but not required.

I will have many of the Barefoot Books on display for parents to view and purchase. The holidays are coming and now is the time to stock up on some of those gifts. Grandparents are especially interested because books are the gift that keeps on giving time and again.

Jones Farm News | CT Best Preview Weekend Sept 25 & 26 | Jones Family Farms | Shelton, CT

Jones Farm News CT Best Preview Weekend Sept 25 & 26 Jones Family Farms Shelton, CT

If you didn't make it to strawberry or blueberry picking, the farmer's market or any Harvest Kitchen classes this past summer, you MUST stop by Jones' Family Farm during the fall season! Though the leaves on the trees might not be quite as colorful as they were last year, it's still a beautiful time of year to visit the farm and Pumpkinseed Hill. Kids will love picking their own pumpkins and visiting the new resident piggies!

This weekend, they will be hosting a special preview with demonstrations and local merchants available to sell their products. Bring your family and friends for a day that is sure to be great fun for all!