tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-341930742024-02-18T18:39:33.986-08:00Eric Thies and his brother NoahThe adventures of Eric and his brother Noah.
Also featuring plenty of Momma's commentary. and sometimes DadAaronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05245165831590670657noreply@blogger.comBlogger372125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-15470041662337111042017-02-28T13:10:00.003-08:002017-02-28T13:10:30.255-08:00Thanks for the birthday wishes<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Thanks for all Noah's birthday wishes! He enjoyed them all.</span><br />
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Here are some pics from his celebrations which started Friday night at Oakland Museum with dancing, pizza, peace rock painting, black panthers dance performance, and koi fish watching with his buddy Colt.</div>
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Then off to the mountains for skiing with Mama, his first full-size candy bar, and his first cross-country ski expedition - his choice for how to spend the day! That's my boy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-19250248427999553212017-02-27T09:51:00.000-08:002017-02-27T09:51:20.328-08:00Happy Seventh Birthday Noah!Today is Noah's birthday and we are together RELAXING. We are in the mountains doing the things that feel good like sleeping in, watching our favorite shows, and gearing up for some quality time in the snow. Noah thrives outside with space to explore on his on terms. Today, he wants to try to cross-country skiing. It could be an epic disaster but, the outcome is less important than the experience and I can't wait to try this with him. My gift to him this beautiful day is to provide him with opportunity. That is my gift to him everyday. I gave brought him into this world to experience it and that is what every day is about. It isn't about pretending every minute is wonderful. That is not real. What is real is sharing in the good, the bad, the ugly, the beautiful. It is about growing through struggles together, and coming out of it better people. Noah challenges me in ways I didn't know were possible. He makes me and his father face our on demons and baggage. Noah is a knowing person, sophisticated in so many ways but, he is also a child which is important to remember. His feelings and emotions are so big. They are bigger than any seven year old I have ever seen. He thoughtful nature sees the truth in what is happening. There is no pulling the wool over his eyes. There is no sheltering him until he is older. His sense of inquiry and curiosity for people and their feelings is enormous. It can be a lot of a little boy to hold. I am doing me best to help him grow into his on curiosity. He is less about toys and more about activity. He always has been. As I baby he wasn't the least bit interested in having toys hanging from his stroller. He wanted to see your face not a toy. He wanted to observe people and expressions and the movement around him. He is much the same today. Always observing, taking it and making meaning of it. Today my baby who can into this world with so much anticipation and love is seven. His feelings are as big as his eyes and his smile and I love him so, so , so much.<br />
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-2252912473129408182017-02-04T08:33:00.001-08:002017-02-04T08:33:49.567-08:00What Fear Has Been Holding Me BackFor a very long time I thought I was a confident person. I wore my independence as a righteous badge of honor. I hid my insecurities and fear of really connecting with people behind this wall of poor self-confidence and the thought that I didn't care what people thought.<br />
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This, in fact, was not true. I did care what people thought and I was insecure and it kept me from connecting with people on an intimate level and a very basic level. On the very basic level it kept from doing my job. It kept me from following up on things, making phone calls, starting conversation, moving things forward. I had big ideas dashed by the inner filling that I wasn't enough and "people" didn't think what I was doing was a good idea. I did care what people thought. And, I was they would see through me and know it and think I was a fraud.<br />
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It also kept me from connecting on this most intimate level. The wall of insecurity stood strong in my inability to make the first move, say that thing that was on my mind, or say that thing that would make someone angry at me or love me even more.<br />
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Today, the insecurities are falling away. They had to for me to be the parent I want to be. You can't be an insecure parent or you won't be able to give your kids boundaries or expand those boundaries and let go of the ones you need to so they can grow. It is tough. You have to face your on deficiencies to show up. And that is what I want most, to show up fully as my self, not as someone who is afraid to make someone angry, hurt someones feelings, or get something wrong. When you show up those things will happen but, that have to or you want be able to be the person you and everyone else is waiting for. You. You who can also love deeply, explore, learn, and make so many people smile too.Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-31025143693113447852016-04-05T07:48:00.003-07:002016-04-05T07:48:52.828-07:00Momma! Resident Finder!<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Most often spoken phrases to me in our house "Momma where is...? Tara, have you seen.....?" My most useful skill seems to be finding other peoples things which explains why I never know where my keys, phone or coffee cup is.</span>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-56926510850854763522016-04-04T15:38:00.000-07:002016-04-04T15:38:12.966-07:00My Son's Take on Donald TrumpDonald Trump doesn't know anything about America. He is just a silly man who tell jokes on TV.Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-30700754252644521862015-09-20T10:19:00.002-07:002015-09-20T10:19:55.313-07:00First day of Kindergarten and Third GradeEric is more than ready to show Noah the ins and outs, while watching out for his little brother as he enters the same school as him. It is the sweetest thing. Noah is more than ready to learn. Momma and Dadda are ready for their two boys to be at one school :)<br />
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<br />Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-4969802230430229092015-09-07T12:25:00.002-07:002015-09-07T12:38:35.254-07:00Happy Ninth Birthday Eric<div style="padding: 5px; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddUlYMMXBQqQdrvIhhyphenhyphen0Uif5uKsRd8M84_jnh6AosL1LaZrtbWUxSQrGzOiq08aUpFKXd5gbjkDJE1fpw-k5F1T0deqTEQGvzqoSRe_5vRhNDATAZMUEGYlOc002RU4vtA3_kiQ/s1600/IMG_4780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddUlYMMXBQqQdrvIhhyphenhyphen0Uif5uKsRd8M84_jnh6AosL1LaZrtbWUxSQrGzOiq08aUpFKXd5gbjkDJE1fpw-k5F1T0deqTEQGvzqoSRe_5vRhNDATAZMUEGYlOc002RU4vtA3_kiQ/s320/IMG_4780.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Happy birthday to my sweet, careful, confident boy. You light up my life with your energy, enthusiasm, and smile. You rise with the sun smiling, laughing, and talking about everything. You love sports of any kind and it is so perfect that we will run the Raiders 5k at your request for your first 5k. Math, carrying out instructions, and following (and making) rules are your strong points. You love with a big heart and give the biggest, best hugs. You now read to me and share your thoughts. You recognize emotion in others, and you thrive on reassurance that your effort in all things is accomplishing the goal. We love you. I love you and am grateful that I was chosen to be your Mom. You have brought more love, challenge, joy, and learning into my life and I will love continuing to watch you share this with the world...along with that beautiful and contagious smile. Happy ninth birthday. </div>
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-72785896029860702782015-08-17T12:44:00.000-07:002015-08-17T15:02:07.299-07:00Noah's Fifth Birthday Party & Pre-K GraduationMy sweet and expressive baby boy turned fiver years old this year and graduated from CLIF BASECAMP. After five years and one of two boys to go through the entire CLIF BAR BaseCamp child care program, he is going to kindergarten. I have some mixed emotions but we are all developmental ready for this next phase. Noah can feel it and expresses he desire to learn more and more. I am ready to have what kindergarten and Eric and Noah being at the same school will offer. It is funny to me that I am not more sad to walk out the Basecamp doors. I am definitely nostalgic for time gone by, but my readiness to have more time with my family in new ways and more independence for all far overshadows sadness. Developmental readiness is not just important for kids but, also us parents who never stop developing in our constantly adjusting roles as parents.<br />
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Congrats Noah on turning and summiting all the major peaks:<br />
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Mt Hood - infant room<br />
Mt Shasta - toddler room<br />
Mt Rainer - junior pre-k<br />
Mt Whitney - pre-school<br />
Mt Denali - pre-k<br />
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<span style="color: #1f497d; text-align: start;">Noah’s last day as a pre-ker will be August 14<sup>th</sup>. Of course we will be dropping in plenty </span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Wingdings; text-align: start;">J</span><span style="color: #1f497d; text-align: start;"> Noah and Eric are pretty excited to be in the same place again. Eric likes to keep track of his bro and Noah likes doing what his bro is doing! And we like having one drop off and one school to keep track of. Our time at base camp has been extremely special and we are so grateful for all the love and attention our children have received, right next door.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taavi has been Noah's best friend since Mt Hood - like brothers</td></tr>
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-82606493999513033842015-06-18T09:07:00.000-07:002015-08-20T09:08:00.562-07:00June CLIF BAR BaseCamp Newsletter<h2 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #74c044; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.835em; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">
Mt. Denali-Graduation Day is Here!</h2>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01888.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>June was full of hellos, goodbyes, and celebration as we welcomed a new, yet familiar face, into the classroom, Abhaya Keatts! Abhaya's spunky, fun personality is a great addition to the classroom and if you haven't done so already, please don't hesitate to welcome Charles, Kate, and Abhaya into the Mt. Denali family!</div>
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Excited for new friends entering the classroom, we also had to say goodbye to a very special teacher, Ms. Keri, as she prepares for the arrival of her baby boy in July. Although we were sad to see her leave, we made sure to send her off with big hugs, warm wishes, and a list of potential baby names. Ms. Keri has been such an amazing teacher and support system throughout the year, we have no doubt she will make an amazing mother as well. We wish her the best of luck and anticipate her return in the Fall.</div>
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While Ms. Keri is out on maternity leave, we welcomed Ms. Jeanie into the classroom and couldn't be more excited! Already familiar with the children and the routine, Ms. Jeanie has jumped right in and made this transition a smooth one. We are confident that she will be a great addition to the classroom and make an amazing teacher. Welcome Ms. Jeanie!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="image image-img_assist_custom-416x312 " height="312" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01854_0.img_assist_custom-416x312.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="416" /></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-img_assist_custom-227x303 " height="303" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01843.img_assist_custom-227x303.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="227" /></span>With a month filled with hellos and goodbyes, it was time for celebration! Starting the month off with only three days until graduation, the children wasted no time getting ready for the big day, which meant practicing songs, going over dress rehearsals, and thinking about our aspirations for the future. The children sang three songs for moms and dads including the infamous "I Know my ABC's!" and two Mt. Denali originals called "Graduation Day is Here," and "I'm a Graduate!" Prior to graduation, each child was asked what they are excited about the most to learn in Kindergarten and what they will miss about Base Camp. Each response was then read as they received their diploma. Graduation was concluded with a slideshow of the graduates' journey throughout each class starting from their first day at Base Camp. Fortunately for us, this was a very special group of graduates, having transitioned all the way from Mt. Hood! Thank you to all those who came and joined us on our big day, we could not have done it without the loving support of all our families. Below, are Mt. Denali's Class of 2014 graduates along with a quote of what they are excited to learn about in Kindergarten and what they will miss about Base Camp.</div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I am excited to play outside in a new place!" "I will miss playing outside at Base Camp." -Colt Hitchock" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01844_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I am excited to play outside in a new place!" "I will miss playing outside at Base Camp." -Colt Hitchock" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I am excited to play outside in a new place!" "I will miss playing outside at Base Camp." -Colt Hitchock</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I want to do math!" "I will miss Ms. Lisa and Ms. Keri." -Eli Dao Hoang" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01849.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I want to do math!" "I will miss Ms. Lisa and Ms. Keri." -Eli Dao Hoang" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I want to do math!" "I will miss Ms. Lisa and Ms. Keri." -Eli Dao Hoang</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I am excited to play with legos and make robots!" "I will miss Share Day." -Reza Huemmer" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01847.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I am excited to play with legos and make robots!" "I will miss Share Day." -Reza Huemmer" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I am excited to play with legos and make robots!" "I will miss Share Day." -Reza Huemmer</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I am excited to play outside in a new place!" "I will miss seeing Colt." -Lilian Briones" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01848.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I am excited to play outside in a new place!" "I will miss seeing Colt." -Lilian Briones" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I am excited to play outside in a new place!" "I will miss seeing Colt." -Lilian Briones</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I am excited to learn about science!" "I will miss the toys at school." -Noah Thies" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01846.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I am excited to learn about science!" "I will miss the toys at school." -Noah Thies" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I am excited to learn about science!" "I will miss the toys at school." -Noah Thies</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I want to read more books!" "I will miss Lincoln Logs." -Taavi Walle" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01845.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I want to read more books!" "I will miss Lincoln Logs." -Taavi Walle" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I want to read more books!" "I will miss Lincoln Logs." -Taavi Walle</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-center" style="display: block; text-align: center;"><img alt=""I want to learn more about letters!" "I will miss playing with my friends at school." -Cruz Hurston" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01852.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title=""I want to learn more about letters!" "I will miss playing with my friends at school." -Cruz Hurston" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block;">"I want to learn more about letters!" "I will miss playing with my friends at school." -Cruz Hurston</span></span></div>
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Congratulations Class of 2015! We wish you all the best in Kindergarten and may all your dreams come true!</div>
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With Love,</div>
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Ms. Lisa, Ms. Keri, and Ms. Jeanie</div>
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-58830998373453779342015-06-17T09:34:00.001-07:002015-06-17T09:34:34.990-07:00May 2015 » Mt. Denali: "May" the Force Be With You<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1em; padding: 0px;">
Happy Mother’s Day!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01642.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>What better way to start off the month of May than by celebrating mothers! Working hard to keep our Mother’s Day surprise TOP SECRET, the children showed off their writing skills by practicing letter recognition through making heart tags with the words “Love (and their name.) To make the task easier, we used shrink paper that allowed for the children to write in normal size while challenging their fine-motor skills to stay<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01643_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span><br />within the lines of the heart. Once decorated, we heated the oven to 350 degrees, slid our heart tags inside, and watched as the paper shrunk within minutes. Wanting to create something for our moms that would give them some much needed R&R, the children rolled up their sleeves and went to work making a lavender sugar scrub. To do so, the children labeled and measured three key ingredients: sugar, olive oil, and lavender essential oil. Developing basic math skills through number recognition, each child carefully measured <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01647.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>every ingredient by identifying the numbers on the recipe and the measuring utensil. Using gross-motor skills to stir the mixture, we had to keep reminding ourselves that we weren’t going to be able to eat the scrub. Once our scrub was no longer liquid, we scooped it into individual mason jars to package up for our moms. Then, quizzing ourselves on how well we know our moms, the children answered a questionnaire that required them to think cognitively and recall previous information. We hope you all enjoyed your special gift and shared a few laughs as you read through our “All About Mom” fill in the blank sheet. Happy Mother’s Day!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01669.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>With our alphabet-inspired curriculum all wrapped up, we noticed that the children had taken a great interest in robots and decided to explore the topic further by integrating math, science, and art through a variety of hands-on activities.<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01679.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span><br />Collecting recycling materials from home and school, and reading a class favorite “Randy Riley’s Really Big Hit,” by Chris Van Dusen, the children were inspired to build their own giant robot using three large cardboard boxes as our base and body. Determining how wide and tall to stack our boxes, we wanted to make our robot as realistic as possible and measured ourselves<br />against it to make sure it was <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01683_2.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>life-size. Then, using glue and tin foil, the class broke up into three groups and glued foil over every exposed area of the box so that our robot was “covered in metal.” Once our robot skin was ready, we rummaged through the recycling material we collected and used our inmagination to bring our robot to life. Adding pie tins for ears, bottle caps for eyes and buttons, and plastic tubing for arms, we had our very own robot!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01691.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Wanting to reintroduce our manipulative area and give the children the opportunity to create robots through the use of multiple manipulative materials, the class was given free reign and one-step instructions to create a robot using<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01689_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> however many legos, conncecting cubes, and zoobs they needed. In doing so, the children were able to explore different textures, manipulate different shapes, and develop fine-motor skills. Along with 3D representations, the class also worked cognitively to create 2D robots identifying shapes and constructing their own <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01733_1.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>robot from shapes cut out before them. In doing so, the children used these pictures as a platform for narration and created stories for their robots, narrating where they came from, what their job was, and what emotions they were feeling. Who knew robots had feelings too! And better yet, who knew they could taste so good! As a special project to stimulate creativity using<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01720.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>different mediums, we made robots using large marshmallows, pretzel sticks, raisins, cheerios, graham crackers, and white frosting as our “glue.” Challenging ourselves to piece together a robot using all edible materials, the children went above and beyond as they created their robots with ease and overcame the challenge of making their robot stand without falling. Some robots lost their arms and buttons along the way and suspicion has it that they may have ended up in a few friend’s stomachs. Hopefully some of these robots made it home in one piece!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01742_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Practicing basic math and cognitive skills, the children were quick learners when it came to playing a game of dominoes where instead of matching numbers, we matched robots. Laying all our dominoes out on the table, the children took turns adding to our<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01745.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> domino line, understanding we could only match one domino at a time. When a turn came around when we did not have any to match, we practiced good sportsmanship passing up our turn and cheering on friends who had matching robots. After awhile of teacher-guided facilitation, the children were able to facilitate the game on their own, following rules and instructions along with teaching the game concept with new friends joining the game. Way to go guys!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01750_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Star Wars has made a comeback and is all our friends have been able to talk about! Overhearing conversations about Yoda, R2D2, and Darth Vadar along with multiple Share Day items revolving around Star Wars, we decided to explore the topic further, with the exclusion of weapons of course. Curious about starships and<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01757_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> what they look like, we recalled on previous information from Star Wars books and used our imagination to create our own 2D representations of a starship on paper. Once all the arms, legs, controls, and traps were added to our starship design, we used our handy thumbs-up technique to cut out our starships and glue them onto black paper to represent “space.” Posted up inside the classroom, the children were able to use these 2D pictures as a <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01769.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>blueprint for the construction of 3D starships out of legos for “Racing for Freedom” race. In this race, the children tested out two locations, inside and outside the classroom and quickly discovered inside the classroom was not big enough. Practicing balance and control, each friend was able to participate in “Racing for Freedom” outside in the big yard running laps individually and with partners. But what is a starship without a<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01787_1.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> pilot! R2D2 to the rescue! Using fine-motor skills and following 3-step instructions to create our own R2D2 puppet, the class had to first identify shapes and sort which shapes they needed to complete all of R2D2’s body parts and controls. Once sorted, the children worked in pairs to glue and piece together their puppet, coming up with different functions for every “button” on R2D2’s body. Noticing our puppet was too large for our starships, we constructed our own star station out of wooden blocks and created our own Star Wars scene for friends to act out and narrate. May the force be with you!</div>
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Happy May!</div>
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With Love,</div>
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Ms. Lisa and Ms. Keri</div>
Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-72776785009178560832015-06-13T21:50:00.002-07:002015-06-13T21:50:38.621-07:00Camping attempt<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.3199996948242px;">Friday-night post-work camping trip in Tennessee Valley is apparently wildly ambitious. Not until pulling into the parking lot at 9:30pm did we realize the full extent of the feat before us. A half mile hike to our campsite, too much stuff to carry or roll in bike trailer , one child sound asleep and the other telling us his legs were too tired after just getting out of the car. We are now driving back home. I am laughing at our attempt and wondering what about this idea sounded good enough to us that we set out in the first place. Chalking it up as good learning for our second attempt. I know! It was waking up in the outdoors. Now to pitch the tent in the backyard!</span>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-43980409111653017572015-06-06T16:49:00.001-07:002015-06-08T22:30:36.415-07:00Noah's White Board InspirationWhen your son visits your office and entertains himself while you try to finish up "just one more thing that will be done in a minute" It would be wise to make sure that the permanent markers are not within a four-foot radius of your white board.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfrzrytVCdGc2V0rL2fOOQUpn0U5WnIkmedjazO_KsI5gDF3KGDFj1CrHkbwTipEOEUTxFT-KOMj8OD2Nd4BmFvjwDjEmSjpUKewzj1onsQYda2NYytCADC1XwGbxgqYVgdwK-A/s1600/20150604_093056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfrzrytVCdGc2V0rL2fOOQUpn0U5WnIkmedjazO_KsI5gDF3KGDFj1CrHkbwTipEOEUTxFT-KOMj8OD2Nd4BmFvjwDjEmSjpUKewzj1onsQYda2NYytCADC1XwGbxgqYVgdwK-A/s320/20150604_093056.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
This white board has been stationed near my desk for months. We had high hopes for this board's ability to hold inspiration and help us track on things that might otherwise be forgotten. Alas, most of the time it exists only to isolate us in our open and "collaborative" (never distracting...oh no) work space. So when Noah drew his beautiful design on the board my first reaction was "oh shit, where did you find a permanent marker?" The real question needing to be asked was how would I not suspect he would find a permanent marker.<br />
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So in a world wear nothing is permanent I have decided to be thankful for Noah's creativity. It is the most creative and inspiring this silly white board has ever been.<br />
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<br />Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-65427124592605139712015-04-15T12:57:00.002-07:002015-04-15T12:57:49.703-07:00Live from BostonNoah and I are on our first trip of just the two of us. So far his living the dream on the plan. No brother to compete with. Non-stop six hours of cartoon network and Momma handing him food to sustain him. He has hardly said a peep. So different from Eric who asks questions about everything going on and how much longer.<br />
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Noah became a big kid on his birthday. He turned five. When Eric was fiver years he got to go on a work trip with Momma too, also around the time of the Boston marathon.<br />
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This will be a brand new experience for Noah. He will have undivided attention of both me and Grandma, not to mention Nana and Auntie Janice who he last visited at nine months old. Younger siblings don't really even know that undivided attention exists.<br />
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I am heading to work at the Boston Marathon. Grandma is meeting to hang with Noah while I work. It is going to an adventure for all of us. Clif Bar is the official organic sports nutrition food of the Boston marathon for the first time ever and it is a huge activation.<br />
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Noah is really ready for something new other than pre-school. His frustration with learning and trying to do things like write letters, numbers, and read without yet having been taught is just like when he was learning to articulate with words he didn't yet have to express what he wanted to say.<br />
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I know he senses the transition to kindergarten is near and he has no hesitation but it probably not soon enough.<br />
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Soooo good time for his first big kid work trip with Mom! It will be interesting because Eric is such a good big brother, Always watching out for Noah and giving him direction and answering for him before he gets a chance to speak. Sometimes I think this makes Noah a little less outgoing because brother is always there to lead the way.<br />
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Let's not forgot to mention that "Mom-of-the-Year" is sitting two rows behind us on the plan with two little boys who we have not heard a peep out of the entire flight. I just keep hearing her bitch, swear, scold, put down, and ridicule these poor little boys who are doing nothing than being 2 and maybe 4 year olds on the plan. Very well behaved. The ask her lots of questions and have a lot of needs and I get that she has been traveling with them on vacation for a week and is desperate for a break but that doesn't make up for the fact that she puts them down. Listening to her reminds me that even on my worst day I am never that bad and that my worst days will now have me thinking back to how hurtful her parenting was to her children and how I don't even want to come close to that!<br />
<br />Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-43522746685057892632015-03-31T22:27:00.000-07:002015-06-08T22:27:40.821-07:00Marching through Mt Denali<div id="center-banner" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 15px; padding: 0px;">
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March 2015 » Oh, the Places We Went in March!</h2>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00873.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>This month, we got to celebrate an honorary friend's birthday, Dr. Suess! Very familiar with his work, the children were excited to explore and celebrate literacy by reading a few classics and adding a few new stories to our collection. Among one of our<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00872.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> favorites was “Ten Apples On Top” where the children were given the opportunity to integrate both literacy and math into an art and gross-motor activity. Warming up our fingers and working on fine-motor skills, the children practiced signing numbers 1-10 in ASL. Curious how someone could possibly balance ten apples on top of their heads, we decided to test out the theory and see how many different types of objects we could balance on our heads. Using various books from our library, each friend took turns making <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00881.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span>predictions and estimating how far they could walk before the book fell off their heads. Realizing we needed to come up with a strategy, it didn’t take long to discover that the slower we walked, the farther we got before the book fell. This challenge was harder than we thought! Afterwards, we decided to<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00883.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span> step into the illustrator’s shoes and create our own representation of the story. Using imagination and creativity, each friend drew their own Dr. Seuss character and using one-to-one correspondence, we counted and numbered 10 apples. Then using basic math skills, we practiced numbered sequencing and glued 10 apples on top!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00899.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Of course, we couldn’t celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday without dressing for the occasion! After reading “Fox in Socks” and noticing all the crazy clothing and antics the characters were up to in the book, we decided to experiment with mixing colors and dye socks! Using a homemade recipe, teachers mixed together three colored packets of koolaid with vinegar to create three bowls of red, purple, and yellow dye. Once the koolaid packets had dissolved, the children practiced using fine motor skills by pinching droppers into the dye and releasing drops onto their<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00908_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>socks. Curious how well this homemade recipe would work, the children were excited to see what colors the dye made once they mixed together. Then we bagged up our socks, laid them to dry in the sun and washed them to see if the dye would stick. Sadly, once all the pairs of socks were bundled and mixed in water, the red dye dominated the mixture and turned all our socks a pinkish red. Here, the children were able to make predictions about cause and effect observing what would happen once we dyed and washed our socks. On the bright side, the koolaid made our socks smell great!</div>
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As we move closer to the end of the year and taking that next step into Kindergarten, Dr. Suess provided us with some helpful advice for the future in "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" Here's a look at where to find us in the distant future as each child was asked what they want to be when they grow up:</div>
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<strong>Colt</strong>: "I want to be a garbage man!"</div>
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<strong>Noah</strong>: "I want to be a football coach."</div>
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<strong>Owen</strong>: "I want to be a veterinarian."</div>
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<strong>Eli</strong>: "I want to be a garbage man too!"</div>
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<strong>Reza</strong>: "I want to be Lightning Man!"</div>
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<strong>Silas</strong>: I want to be a dump truck driver!"</div>
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<strong>Lilian</strong>: "I want to be a mom."</div>
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<strong>Taavi</strong>: "I want to be a football coach too!"</div>
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<strong>Cruz</strong>: "I want to be a motorcycle race driver."</div>
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<strong>Jackson</strong>: "I want to be a garbage truck driver."</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00988_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span>A little bummed that St. Patrick's Day was on a Tuesday, we decided to go ahead and get into the holiday spirit by exploring leprechauns, shamrocks, gold, and Irish culture. Discovering mysterious footprints all over our classroom, Denali detectives<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00992_1.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>jumped right on the case and grabbed their magnifying glasses to search for clues in the classroom and figure out who could’ve left them. Noticing clover-like footprints, we realized it could only be one thing, a leprechaun! Not only did the leprechaun leave behind footprints, but he also left behind some gold coins <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00999.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span>on his way out of Base Camp. Decorating pots of gold to use on our hunt, each friend took turns hunting for treasure outside on the yard. Once there were no more traces of gold, we counted how many gold coins we found using one-to-one correspondence and discovered the leprocaun left behind 50 pieces! Good thing we were there to clean up after him!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00972.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span>Among some of our favorite green day activities was exploring shamrocks through the use of beads and green bell peppers. Practicing fine-motor skills and basic math skills to create patterns, the children prepared themselves for the “tickles” coming their way<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00987.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> in case they forgot to wear green on the big day. While creating patterns, we noticed that even though all the beads were in the shape of a shamrock, they were also all different colors and sizes. So, to help classify the beads, each friend worked in pairs to sort by color and size using our sorting trays. <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01025.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span>Afterwards, we made a surprising discovery when we noticed that slicing a green bell pepper in half created a shamrock shape, and were even more surprised when we realized that we could use a bell pepper for a new art medium! Dipping each half in green paint, the children made shamrock prints and added a stem by finger painting with one finger.</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC01008_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Curious to learn more about Irish culture and food common to the region, we decided to make our own Irish Soda Bread to share with families for Family Picnic. Working together as a team, the class helped one another label and list ingredients, identify measurements, and mix together all the dry ingredients to make the bread. Developing both fine and gross motor skills, the biggest challenge was being able to knead the bread and shape it into a loaf. But, three loaves later we had our very own Irish Soda Bread! We hope you all enjoyed it as well!</div>
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Happy March!</div>
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With Love,</div>
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Ms. Lisa and Ms. Keri</div>
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-89108814366629967652015-03-03T08:48:00.000-08:002015-03-03T08:48:14.734-08:00February 2015 » Love in Mt. Denali<h2 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #74c044; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1.835em; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">
February 2015 » Love in Mt. Denali</h2>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00680_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Boy, could we feel the love in the air this February! Ready for some Valentine’s Day fun, the children wasted no time getting their hands dirty in art projects, planning secret surprise gifts for<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00681_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> moms and dads, baking yummy treats, and of course, tracking down those mysterious footprints all over our classroom! Love wasn’t all we brought to the classroom, a mysterious “love bug” seemed to be playing in our classroom, leaving red heart footprints all over our tables, floors, and furniture! We never were able to catch the love bug in action, but it sure prompted questions regarding its identity. While we tried to unravel the mystery, we got to work<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00684.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>spreading our own love by creating “long-distance hugs” to share with friends and family. With moms and dads often leaving on work trips or heading to the office for the day, we realized they must miss us like crazy. To help fill their bucket, we painted our hands and made two red handprints on white paper. Once the paint dried, teachers helped cut them out and use our fine motor skills to tie strings between each hand. Suddenly, hugs were being given out left and right! We hope you all got one of your own!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00687.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>Afterwards, we began working on our TOP SECRET surprise gifts for moms and dads. Wanting to show them just how much we love them, what better way than to give them our hearts! Figuratively, we mean. Decorating heart shaped keepsake boxes with heart foam stickers and<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00685.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>sequins, we decided a long distance hug just wasn’t enough, we wanted to make something our moms and dads could take with them everywhere, our hearts on a keychain! Using special shrink film, each friend traced a heart shaped stencil and decorated it with sharpie markers. Once their <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00688.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>drawings were complete, we took each heart and baked it in the oven for approximately two minutes on 350 degrees. To our surprise, the shrink film shrunk to more than half its original size and now our hearts were the size of the palms of our hands! Attached onto keychain rings, we were able to decorate two hearts, one for mom and dad, and place them inside our heart keepsake box as a special surprise. We hope you loved them!</div>
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Of course, we couldn’t end the week without baking some<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00754.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span>yummy treats and passing out our valentines! Working on recognizing ingredients and identifying measurements, each friend was responsible for one ingredient. Using basic math skills and fine motor skills to handle measuring cups and spoons, we used a basic recipe to make delicious Valentine’s Day sugar cookies. Visualizing cause and effect as <span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00747.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="200" /></span>certain ingredients were added to our mixture, we tested the dough periodically to see if it was ready to be molded. Once “doughy” enough, we took turns rolling the dough into balls and flattening it to be able to use our heart shaped cookie cutter. Once placed onto the<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00760.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="" width="150" /></span> cookie tray and baked, we made our own frosting from scratch and added pink food coloring to turn it pink. With frosting ready to go, we began decorating our cookies, adding sprinkles to add to our sea of frosting, occasionally having to lick the frosting that kept getting on our fingers. Looking too good to pass up, we decided to dive in and “test” our cookies. Just to make sure they were safe. Hopefully you all got to “test” them too! And if you didn’t get to hear all about our Valentine’s Day at school, here are a few pictures to get you caught up!</div>
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<span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="For you, Noah!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00706_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="For you, Noah!" width="200" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 198px;">For you, Noah!</span></span><span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="Who's ready to pass out valentines? Me!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00710.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="Who's ready to pass out valentines? Me!" width="200" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 198px;">Who's ready to pass out valentines? Me!</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="A valentine for you!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00716.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="A valentine for you!" width="200" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 198px;">A valentine for you!</span></span><span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="And you, too!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="150" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00729.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="And you, too!" width="200" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 198px;">And you, too!</span></span></div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="Check out this cool valentine!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00740.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="Check out this cool valentine!" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 148px;">Check out this cool valentine!</span></span><span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="Look, I made something for you!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00730.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="Look, I made something for you!" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 148px;">Look, I made something for you!</span></span> </div>
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<span class="inline inline-left" style="display: block; float: left; margin: 5px 15px 5px 0px;"><img alt="Thank you Taavi!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00713_0.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="Thank you Taavi!" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 148px;">Thank you Taavi!</span></span><span class="inline inline-right" style="display: block; float: right; margin: 5px 0px 5px 15px;"><img alt="Whoa, how awesome!" class="image image-thumbnail " height="200" src="http://newsletter.cclc.com/sites/default/files/images/DSC00718.thumbnail.JPG" style="border: 0px;" title="Whoa, how awesome!" width="150" /><span class="caption" style="display: block; width: 148px;">Whoa, how awesome!</span></span></div>
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Along with all the love going on in Mt. Denali, we decided to integrate kindness into our curriculum and revamp our kindness heart concept. Creating new kindness heart buckets to resemble heart pouches, we reintroduced kindness hearts and ways we can earn them. Hanging them up in our circle area, we will take a moment each day during morning circle to highlight kind acts our friend have earned, hoping to encourage more kind acts to follow. At the end of each week, our friend will be able to check their buckets and take home all the hearts they earned that week to show moms and dads. For each kindness heart earned, Ms. Keri and I will write what kind act that friend initiated or was a part of. Our goal is to build positivity both inside and outside the classroom and encourage kindness in any way we can. From the simplest acts such as grabbing a pencil for a friend to helping a friend in need. Let the kindness begin!</div>
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Happy February!</div>
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With Love,</div>
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Ms. Lisa and Ms. Keri</div>
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Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-18813627888160569432015-02-27T10:26:00.004-08:002015-02-28T10:09:54.724-08:00Happy Birthday to Our NoahToday Noah is five years old. Yesterday we discovered his two lower, front teeth are loose. He was so surprised. It is a true stepping stone of growing up. He has watched his older brother loose teeth all the time with extreme curiosity. Now it is his turn and he is fascinated. He reminds of when he started walking the day before his first birthday. He took this first two or three steps and had the same big eyes and surprised look as he does now looking at himself in the mirror making many various "Noah Expressions" while wiggling the teeth. The tooth fairy will be coming and this time for Noah's teeth because he is now five.<br />
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Thinking about writing this post I thought it would start by saying "oh, I can't believe he his five <i>already</i>", but the truth is I do believe it. My baby is five. Don't tell him I called him a baby. He hates that but of course our children are always our babies in our hearts.<br />
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For some crazy reason, I have been awaking every morning at 5am for the last month. My guess is that my need to write is waking me up. This morning I woke up and my first thought was today Noah wakes up and is five years old and he is going to be so excited.<br />
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Now Noah is five. He has a tender heart and a mind of his own. He is stern and direct with his feelings and willing to speak the unspoken feelings for the whole house. He loves to be held close and snuggle up. Even fifty-pounds heavy, Noah prefers to be carried, but understands when he can't be. He trusts his brother to teach him well, but doesn't let him rule his world. His best friend since they were five months old is Taavi , whose parents are wonderful and now also friends.<br />
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Noah is a child that has forced me to face many fears in order to better parent. This has helped me grow as a person. He challenges me in ways only Noah can, and while this does wear me down, each time I learn from it. He has opened my eyes to a tenderness that I believe all grown men have, some just have no idea how to express it because they didn't have the confidence or were never shown how. Noah you are a sweet, strong, and beautifully blonde boy. I love you and promise to always give you hundreds of big, wet, and sloppy kisses and some good back scratches.Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-84667440180001478072014-12-29T09:13:00.001-08:002014-12-29T09:13:18.598-08:00Five cousins skiing<p dir="ltr">Stayed tuned.....five kids, two days, four adults one day, Aaron and I solo the next. May the force be with us.</p>
<br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Truckee, United States39.3212368 -120.1927418tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-67813759322431729292014-12-09T11:25:00.003-08:002014-12-27T12:48:49.905-08:00EricsToday is my Grandpa Eric's birthday, Eric's namesake. He would have been 100 years old today. As far as I can tell there is no one sweeter or more content with his life than he was. He will always be a very special human who had more love and silliness to give than he seemed to realize.<br />
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December 10th will also always be 98 days after my labor day. Yet this day will never pass by without specially noting it as Eric's second birthday. No, not second as in two years old, but rather the day we came home from the hospital and walked through our front door together as a new family.<br />
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Eric, you embody the kind and happy nature of your great grandpa. Your smile, your bright eyes, your deep-belly chuckle bring daily joy into this world. You, my baby, have grown so much in eight years and the person you are becoming has me in awe every day. You are growing into a bold, confident, determined, and exceptionally enthusiastic young man. You wake up with sun wearing a huge smile on your face and strong bouncy steps underfoot. Although I struggle to wipe the sleep out of my eyes and say "good morning sunshine", I love your eagerness to start the day! Mostly though, I love you and as the trauma of our early days getting to know each other fades further behind us, I will remain forever grateful.Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-33546689857773477562014-11-15T16:59:00.001-08:002014-11-15T16:59:34.575-08:00Eric soccer<p dir="ltr">Eric's soccer coach said he was the player with the best sportsmanship and biggest smile all the time. His smile glows and lights up. His highlight move was passing and assistang in the goal which is what they c were working von all season as a team!</p>
<br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Alameda, United States37.7657365 -122.2412802tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-85723182502060899592014-10-10T11:25:00.002-07:002014-10-10T11:25:10.483-07:00Three buddies<br />
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These 24, 26, 25 weeker NICU grads celebrating together their 8th birthdays. #sweetestboysever</div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-40207745750339604032014-08-02T22:08:00.001-07:002014-08-02T22:08:06.845-07:00Fave travel companions<div style="text-align: center; padding: 5px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXovgR3n6LHEA6DK65UfIuoue0H6tuzYqympHFSBOd07iHb1nu71OtcBmp251v-_LYQiqqFIIdhTM8uhowkr6G1LRrFADPufoLQouqfDyItre6vozI5bYyIxemLN2QD61I8Bj6w/"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXovgR3n6LHEA6DK65UfIuoue0H6tuzYqympHFSBOd07iHb1nu71OtcBmp251v-_LYQiqqFIIdhTM8uhowkr6G1LRrFADPufoLQouqfDyItre6vozI5bYyIxemLN2QD61I8Bj6w/ cursor: pointer;" width="320px" style="border: 1px solid; border-radius: 2px;padding: 5px; max-width: 320px " /></a></div><p dir="ltr">Montana summer here we come. </p>
<br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Great Falls, United States47.4778652 -111.3412421tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-66776780791942123982014-07-18T21:45:00.001-07:002014-07-18T21:45:42.281-07:00Noah completed his summit of Mt. Whitney<div style="text-align: center; padding: 5px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Yri0oV9gq4rc5neI3AuYOm4OGBRDmZaL68RSA6iMtYZAMJf7d3CfkYqkYay8bhDm-vuzoRKhg52Pof6IbX5OUTe5_u3mGujoPlIAaVYeEEGwzRLvkQ5DtyUjKCYCFfwuafi-Yg/"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Yri0oV9gq4rc5neI3AuYOm4OGBRDmZaL68RSA6iMtYZAMJf7d3CfkYqkYay8bhDm-vuzoRKhg52Pof6IbX5OUTe5_u3mGujoPlIAaVYeEEGwzRLvkQ5DtyUjKCYCFfwuafi-Yg/ cursor: pointer;" width="320px" style="border: 1px solid; border-radius: 2px;padding: 5px; max-width: 320px " /></a></div><br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Alameda, United States37.7695329 -122.2701401tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-13836185422784571572014-06-15T16:01:00.001-07:002014-06-23T21:52:15.951-07:00Best quotes from Father's day camping at Cisco Grove<div style="padding: 5px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqGI0GlTbRHejWt9MdeqxbQWpUzJzIb0W7cY6IV_RhtOPATiAwYsdcv-L3r7HiCETZCQL79dOkr3HKmo6Fo-8nySGZ57RiM6Wve-Vyu5hZHWlDls9lhfSh-cQuc9-CZkrUC_5ZQ/"><img height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqGI0GlTbRHejWt9MdeqxbQWpUzJzIb0W7cY6IV_RhtOPATiAwYsdcv-L3r7HiCETZCQL79dOkr3HKmo6Fo-8nySGZ57RiM6Wve-Vyu5hZHWlDls9lhfSh-cQuc9-CZkrUC_5ZQ/ cursor: pointer;" style="border-radius: 2px; border: 1px solid; padding: 5px;" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJfXkFVvLqynyPx3oVbqcEX8pNZstyuVuIygpH9C3bdinVVu9AEW0Igtr5iZmf8HSpI3HkmfolhUcItN6c39vJS-hLPGCxoqDwdFwqU63isKNZ67fbvjB-2YK94DAc8bSkt8Qog/"><img height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJfXkFVvLqynyPx3oVbqcEX8pNZstyuVuIygpH9C3bdinVVu9AEW0Igtr5iZmf8HSpI3HkmfolhUcItN6c39vJS-hLPGCxoqDwdFwqU63isKNZ67fbvjB-2YK94DAc8bSkt8Qog/ cursor: pointer;" style="border-radius: 2px; border: 1px solid; padding: 5px;" width="320" /></a></div>
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"Noah do you have to go potty?" "No, I am just holding it for fun."</div>
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Eric after slipping into the creek crossing with one foot and sobbing, "Now my shoe will be wet for one hour"! Man, was he mad. </div>
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<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Posted via Blogaway</span></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Auburn, United States38.9325154 -121.0561355tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-39179734449203294092014-05-25T23:38:00.001-07:002014-05-25T23:38:49.209-07:00Biscuits, breakfast, boys<div style="text-align: center; padding: 5px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPunVKKr1r1Ac0zUkzH4Grh_37kQV-O1JON5Hj_NVgRhKI7AKSrCgMVA-Cfkdxh40wh6CC37E04mcQCo-HXPHh8B1ahF5nL6FYI_eOIokjq26xNci94dQq3Havg3bNDkJ9h03IA/"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUPunVKKr1r1Ac0zUkzH4Grh_37kQV-O1JON5Hj_NVgRhKI7AKSrCgMVA-Cfkdxh40wh6CC37E04mcQCo-HXPHh8B1ahF5nL6FYI_eOIokjq26xNci94dQq3Havg3bNDkJ9h03IA/ cursor: pointer;" height="240" width="320" style="border: 1px solid; border-radius: 2px;padding: 5px;" /></a></div><p dir="ltr">Breakfast at Kali's with my boys. Love Fridays! </p>
<br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Penn Valley, United States39.2386831 -121.1995907tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34193074.post-84160246523330751562014-05-25T23:09:00.001-07:002014-05-25T23:09:51.332-07:00New room<div style="text-align: center; padding: 5px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9kyHoLrRpxVrUnIEgIYFgpInoC3vbEokMDTJw4TQkeSOc1onNC2W5xy-vGAFwz1NFkqjFFue0MpSlcsmyVpYqwII8lZ8y78cyDzQMPKZYsMsd-reXZixNddClVOczX8clH0mog/"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim9kyHoLrRpxVrUnIEgIYFgpInoC3vbEokMDTJw4TQkeSOc1onNC2W5xy-vGAFwz1NFkqjFFue0MpSlcsmyVpYqwII8lZ8y78cyDzQMPKZYsMsd-reXZixNddClVOczX8clH0mog/ cursor: pointer;" height="426" width="320" style="border: 1px solid; border-radius: 2px;padding: 5px;" /></a></div><p dir="ltr">For the last 2 months we have been remodeling Eric and Noah's room. They have been sleeping on mattresses on the floor in the living room with toys and clothes lining the walls. Noah never actually realized that he has been sleeping in a toddler bed. Today we welcomed the final touch and moving back into their new room. Here you see their new bunk beds. Each of them now has there on private place. Eric even posted a sign. It reads "Privacy please. Please go away". Older siblings have to spell things out for their younger ones. At least he said please. </p>
<br/><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.beanie.blog"><font size="2">Posted via Blogaway</font></a>Tarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10779562314972773682noreply@blogger.com0Penn Valley, United States39.2221774 -121.2017319