As Christmas approaches, we make it a priority to talk to our children (and students) about the importance of giving. On the flip side, here is an interesting thought about receiving: “Receiving is often harder than giving. Giving is very important: giving insight, giving hope, giving courage, giving advice, giving support, giving money, and most […] Read more…
One of My All-Time Favourite Books: “Before I Go To Sleep” by S.J. Watson
The jacket sums it up better than I could: “Christine wakes up every morning in an unfamiliar bed with an unfamiliar man. She looks in the mirror and sees an unfamiliar, middle-aged face. And every morning, the man she has woken up with must explain that he is Ben, he is her husband, she is […] Read more…
Natalie MacMaster: The Momterview
Here’s how Natalie MacMaster’s website bio introduces her: *** “Meet Natalie MacMaster: wife, mother of four and virtuoso Cape Breton fiddler. You know her more as the latter than the former; an electrifying performer whose passionate proficiency on the beloved four-string amplifies the traditional East Coast sound for contemporary times. It’s a signature sound that […] Read more…
More Great Books For Kids (For Home and School)
The Flying Canoe by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Daniel San Souci and Justin San Souci A French Canadian legend, “The Flying Canoe” tells the story of a group of lonely fur traders on Christmas Eve, far away from their families at home in Montreal. A stranger appears and claims he can get them […] Read more…
Winners…Many Winners!
Congratulations to the following winners of the Christmas Extravaganza: Secret Gift Basket: Jessica of Burlington, ON Moonjar Moneybox: Bev of Winnipeg, MB Rubbermaid Set: Valerie of Minto, NB Rubik’s Race Game: Lisa of Vineland Station, ON My Friendship Bracelet Maker: Jonathan of Edmonton, AB My Ribbon Barrette Maker: Lorie of Foxboro, ON $50 Posterjack Voucher: […] Read more…
Christmas “Treats” From Hallmark
These treats may not be edible, but they’re a sure-fire bet to spark that festive feeling! A couple of weeks ago, I received my latest Hallmark goody box, thanks to my role on their Press Pause Panel. My two favourite items, for home and classroom use: Merry-Okee Micro Karaoke (Christmas Karaoke Microphone) $19.95 This battery-powered […] Read more…
Frannie’s Spy Club: The Official Rules
The following are the rules for my five year old daughter’s “Spy Club”. The members of the club fluctuate frequently, depending how they treat Frannie on any given day (there is an ever-changing list on her door where she crosses out and adds names accordingly) and I don’t believe they actually hold meetings or do […] Read more…
Companies That Give Back: Crorey Creations, the Choose Friendship Company
Earlier this fall I put out a call to companies, offering to post about any products donated to my school’s annual Christmas Toy Drive. The first takers: Crorey Creations, makers of My Friendship Bracelet Maker and My Friendship Bracelet Maker. (Two of each of these products have already been deposited in the Toy Drive Donation Bin.) […] Read more…
Wednesday Words on Miracles
“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” Albert Einstein Read more…
Hot New Gift Idea: Teacup Piggies and Piglets
This Christmas morning, my girls will both be finding a Teacup Piglet (retailing for approximately $10) under the tree. These little baby pigs (toy, of course: no mess, no smell,) come with names, birth certificates and accessories, and speak (25 responses, available in English or French) when their noses are pressed. If it says it’s tired, […] Read more…