COME INTO DELIGHT

PIN UP GIRLS

2011-12-29T15:29:00.000-06:00

This is a delightful time of year, I think. The quiet at the library, before the holidays, is a nice time to dream and plan. Programs will be starting up again in January, and I have some new puppet pals, new stories and songs to share, and summer reading programming to plan.

Really looking forward to our system wide SLP Workshop, starring the one and only Marge Loch-Wouters from LaCrosse Public Library, and her blog, http://tinytipsforlibraryfun.blogspot.com/.

Cynthia and I will be doing a little "bit" at the workshop,too. We plan on sporting our, not to be missed, SLP presentation costumes!

Much of my creative inspiration has been coming from my Pinterest obsession. Such a terrific way for me (being the visual person I am) to save all these wonderful sites, ideas, how-tos, etc., that I find while surfing the web. I can also enjoy other pinners finds! There will be a Webinar on January 11th to learn about Pinterest and how librarians are using it.

Follow me on Pinterest.

Program To The MAX

2011-11-23T15:35:00.002-06:00

That lovable Rosemary Wells character, Max, stopped by the library for a program last week. Our library does not have a Program Room or a Community Room, so we are relegated to the library proper. It can pose a problem with crowds. There have been times when I feared for my life in a parental crowd push to get to Curious George, or just plain old hot chocolate and cookies!

Our "staging area" (formerly the Storytime Room) was the Bunnycakes Cafe'.

There was Bunnycakes Bowling,

and a table for puppet making,too.

Children looked for Bunny Money and turned it in for a prize (leftover from SLP). Big hit-------nothing like something you can buy with pretend money! I am taking some along when I go shopping since Nordstroms is very customer friendly : -)

Sooooooooooooo.......we now advertise to register ahead of time and pick up a very special ticket for the event. It is a public library and we are doing the program right in the middle of the Children's Room, so we are not turning anyone away from participating, but it has cut down on overcrowding.
It makes the program seem special and families feel more of a commitment.

I am positive the Fire Marshall would be pleased.

Library Wishes

2011-10-11T15:28:00.001-05:00

A few months ago I saw this great idea on the Storytiming blog as a quick and easy way to comfort kids when they are having a difficult time leaving when their parent says it's time to go. These lovely origami stars were made by my assistant Cynthia who is a remarkable artist, creator, and crafter.

Read the original entry on http://storytiming.wordpress.com/ that includes a link to a video tutorial for making the stars.

Finally It's Fall!

2011-09-30T15:03:00.000-05:00

After the big summer reading extravaganza, the other surgery, and two kids moving home and out once again, I am FINALLY back to work at the library! It is great to be back to books and kids!

Fall programs have begun and the babies, toddlers, and school kids are swarming the library. The Middle School has moved out of walking distance, so after school is much different in the teen area.

In an effort to record and share our programs Cynthia and I created two new blogs. The first is "Storytime Plans: The Good, The Bad, And What Doesn't Work At All". The second is "Library CPR for Teens"
Creative Programming Recollected.

We attended the Northwoods Children's Book Conference last week and enjoyed the CCBC presentation, as well as David LaRochelle and Joyce Sidman. Did you know that David LaRochelle is a
Master Pumpkin Carver,too?

Looking forward to new books, new ideas, and a fresh new colorful season!

Tasting India with Teens

2011-06-23T10:27:00.001-05:00

This summer we decorated the teen area to represent Bollywood. The colors are wonderful and they love the gold fringed chandelier. This week we had a Taste of India event and it was a blast!

Cynthia and I took a road trip to the World Market in Minneapolis for inspiration and unusual purchases. I found rice flour at and colored with vibrant food coloring in the hope that we could do a Rangoli painting outside. It was just too windy the day of the program, so we used paper with the design outline and tissue paper. Cynthia is a fan of plastic tablecloths for crafting and decorating. The colors do not fade and they can be used over and over. She taught everyone how to make pom pom flowers using bright colored.....plastic tablecloths!

Since decorating is so much fun, we turned the story time room into a restaurant.

We have some small tables that are easy to set up and don't take up much space (always an issue for us). Cynthia has several of the battery lit candles that were added to tables for atmosphere. The food was Indian food from Trader Joe's that only required a couple of minutes in the microwave. Each dish was served individually,the name and history of the food was read, then tasted. Everyone actually tried each dish offered and found favorites they never imagined they would like.

The party ended outdoors with a water balloon toss. Partners tried to keep the balloons from breaking as long as possible and counted the number of times they threw it back and forth.

They all enjoyed the party and asked to do it again with other countries. It really makes my heart skip a beat to see teens so happy and having fun at the library. We are in desperate need of a new library that has more teen friendly space, so we try to do all we can to make things special for them.

Feels good when we get it right.

No More Teachers, No More Books???

2011-06-17T08:52:00.000-05:00

Last summer, one of the libraries in our system was moving to a new building. It created a real problem for trying to hold their usual summer programs. The teachers in their community decided to take turns doing a weekly storytime for all ages at the library. Children enjoyed seeing their teachers and meeting those who would be their teacher for the upcoming school year. The teachers had a great time talking books with the kids and browsing the collection with them. What a terrific idea!

I shared this idea with one of the teachers in my community and he jumped right on the bandwagon. He organized teachers to come every Thursday all summer. He even publicized the event! Yesterday was the first storytime and it was well attended and lots of fun.

What a wonderful partnership for schools and libraries!

LOVIN' SUMMER READING PROGRAMS

2011-06-13T15:38:00.000-05:00

Okay, I admit there often SEEMS to be much ado about the summer reading programs at our libraries. Workshops, catalogs, prizes, and buzz. Themes, illustrations, PSA spots, etc., seem to overwhelm us. It is important to summon enthusiasm for promoting our libraries and the treasures they house. All year. Summer just happens to SEEM like an exception because it has different hoopla involved.

Most libraries have programs running all year, that include storytimes, after school events, book groups, dogs to read to, and humans dressed up like book characters, to name a few. It just so happens that summer has a different feel and a theme all it's own. I love workshops and crave them all year, like many/most of you. I am always hungry for the fresh ideas, enthusiasm, motivation, and information from peers. I am not sure that summer reading overshadows the rest of the year for me though.......it's just different and it is a welcome change of routine. While the teachers take some much needed time off from kids, librarians ramp up for the kid onslaught.

The prize trinkets never seem all that important to the kids I work with, and I bet you might find the same at your library. Sure they can be fun. I like a squirty camera as much as the next kid! But the opportunity to interact with children during the SRP is different than during the school year. They are relaxed and do not have any AR points pressuring them, or book reports due the next day. No homework or teachers to keep them tethered to home and school. Extra budget money is spent wisely during SRP because more children can attend the events. They actually have some free time.

I believe our mission can be marketing the wonderful products we have to eager kids. So what if it holds the added incentive of a camera that squirts? The toy will be lost or thrown away by the end of summer, but the words that were read will last a lifetime.

Noo-Nie,Noonie,New Knee!

2011-06-07T12:40:00.001-05:00

Hello Again!
It has been a while since I have posted. Seems my knee was just too worn out and needed to be replaced. My new knee and I are back at work and back in the blogosphere.

I came back just in time to visit some schools with Cynthia and be at the library when the Kindergartners came for their annual visits. This years theme, "One World,Many Stories", was the perfect opportunity for Cynthia to use her storytelling skills to entertain children of all ages with a tale from Africa.

The BIG DECORATING effort will take place this weekend. We will transform the Children's Room into a visual trip around the world. Stay tuned!

Jun 7, 2011

2011-06-07T12:40:00.000-05:00

Series On A Stick

2010-12-29T14:33:00.000-06:00

Do you have plenty of space to shelve the books in your library? If you do, consider yourself VERRRRRY lucky...............if you don't, I may have an idea for freeing up some extra space.

We shelve our picture book "series" books at the beginning of our picture book collection. Having books about the same character shelved together helps children and their parents locate the books easily. We were using some outdated plastic dividers that took up 2-3 books worth of shelf space that we really need soooooooooo.......we discovered a nifty solution.

Plastic shelf marker paddles from Highsmith are now being used to divide the character books in our picture book collection. We printed pictures of the characters and used Modge Podge to adhere them to the paddles.Then, we attached the paddles to books ends with book tape.

Our character series collection looks tidy and pre-readers are able to see clearly where their favorite books are located.

This idea is working so nicely that today my assistant and I are making paddle dividers for the Juvenile Series books to replace the plastic dividers that take up too much space . We printed out the name of the series for each paddle in the Juvenile Series section.

Ahhhhhhhhhhh......shelf space...........sweeter words were never spoken!

Check Out Humans as Well as Books

2010-12-15T15:17:00.000-06:00

Always innovative Toronto Public Library lets us check out humans as well as books

LITERACY LINE UP

2010-12-08T10:10:00.000-06:00

Last night Santa and his reindeer flew into the library for their yearly visit. He brought Mrs. Claus and a few elves,too. The reindeer stayed outdoors, since I do not enjoy cleaning up after them and they like the cold better, anyway. This is Santa's seventh yearly visit to our library.

We have an outdated library with a very long hallway leading to the Children's Room. Every year the long line to talk to Santa extends down the hallway. There is not enough room in the hallway and here is nothing to do while you wait.

Simple Solution: We created a literacy lineup throughout the Children's Room! Mother Goose rhyme posters, fun facts, riddles, and an I Spy With My Little Eye game made waiting a lot more fun for everyone.

The line moved smoothly and children enjoyed books and puzzles along the way,too.

It took me seven years to think of this?????????????????????

Thank You For....Candy Sushi

2010-11-24T12:01:00.000-06:00

Oh so sushi. We just loved our candy sushi event last year and decided we better have a replay. Such a simple idea. Inexpensive. Imaginative. Creative. Yummy. Colorful. Anyone can dream up and produce a lovely, edible creation. We attempted to talk about going to a sushi resturant and what real sushi chefs actually use for ingredients. No one seemed too interested because ------they were HAVING SO MUCH FUN!

Recreate this wonderful tween/teen event with any cakes (Twinkies, Snowballs, Little Debbies, Pound Cake Snacks,etc.), gummy octopus (ocotopi?), gummy worms, Swedish Fish, Fruit Roll Ups, Fruit By the Foot, marshmallows, sprinkles.....the sky's the limit.We used mini donuts this time for "pillows" but Rice Krispy treats are another idea and can be cut into rectangles or round shapes or even made into large rolls.

Give thanks for candy sushi.
Give thanks for amazingly creative and fun tweens/teens.
Give thanks for libraries.
Give thanks for books, computers, Kindles, and iPads.
Give thanks for all of the wonderful people who devote themselves to making the library a lovely, fun,exciting place to spend time.
Give thanks for blogs where we can share ideas, photographs, and chuckles.

Happy, Happy Thanksgiving!

Twas' The Night of The Scarecrows

2010-10-22T11:20:00.002-05:00

Last week we had a scarecrow making event for families at 6:30 on Thursday evening. At 6:29 Cynthia and I were looking at each other with puzzled expressions on our faces------------no one had shown up for the event!??? We prepared the pages to ready themselves for massive walking taco consumption. They seemed up for the task.

Then, much to our wondering eyes did appear, 36 people toting scarecrow making gear! Their eyes, how they twinkled, their stomachs were growling, all of the children and adults seemed to be howling, "More scarecrow heads, more tacos, more markers, more stuffing, more cider, more clothes, and more sunshine for lighting."

We heard them exclaim, as they drove out of sight, "This was so much fun!!!! Let's do it again tomorrow night!"

Grand Bedroom Makeover

2010-08-28T11:47:00.003-05:00

We had two Grand Prizes for our Tween/Teen Summer Reading Program this year. One was an iPod and the other, a Bedroom Makeover. Last Thursday, the design team gathered (Elaine, Cynthia, Sandy, and moi), filled our vehicles with paint, supplies, and all of the lovely purchases that we had amassed for the project. It was mind-blowing to see what four enthusiastic and creative women could do in a day!

The photos do not show the colors accurately. Sandy donated the gorgeous bedding and valance that became the palette for the room. The walls are a soft lavender, accents are lime green,pink, and a sherbet orange.

Cynthia is a design whiz and planned the shelves, desk, and room layout. She also made the super cute daisy pillows.Elaine knew just how to put up shelves, solve the mechanical issues, and was an extraordinarily good at cut-in paint application.I am now experienced at putting together Ikea products and painting. Contact me through this blog.

Huge thanks and appreciation to all of the design team for the fun and creative energy as well as some very good gingerbread..

Hope I can hire them to come to my house : )

Our winner was really excited and fell tummy down on her bed, grabbing fist fulls of pillows. Her toes were curled and she actually squealed with delight.

Before

After

Fairy Lights and Yoga Mat

Bathed in Creativity

2010-08-16T15:11:00.000-05:00

Rules of Birdbath Creativity

1.Painting always goes more smoothly if you stick your tongue out while you paint.
2. If you use lollipop wrappers to paper your birdbath someone HAS to eat the lollipops, right?
3. Gathering natural materials, such as acorns, is appropriate and encouraged.
4.Sometimes boys are not inhibited about enjoying the color pink and sparkly things,too, and we like that.
5. Work together to create something unique with a shared vision.
6. Try hard not to step on the paint plates or glue plates.
7. Try hard not to poke your eye while trying to thread your beads, it hurts.

Today we had our last summer program. Each summer we partner with Messes and Masterpieces ( a local arts center for children) to do a cooperative project. Today we made birdbaths that each had a theme. Nature, princess, candy wrapper mosaic, and painted birdbaths were created by a fun team of children along with some adult supervision. It was interesting to see the girls go right for the painting and a young man take on the princess theme with abandon. Everyone appreciated the cooler weather, sunshine, and an afternoon just to be creative.

We used some plastic birdbaths that were purchased and had tubs of materials for each project. Glue guns were available with adults to help.

The creative works will be displayed at our annual "Corn on the Corner" event that takes place every August. Free corn on the cob, root beer, and some AMAZING birdbaths to view while you eat.

Kinda makes you want to be a bird, doesn't it?

INSPIRATION

2010-08-06T13:34:00.002-05:00

Some days the light just shines through in the form of inspiration. The marvelous ideas seem to flow like a river of creativity. Beautiful, funny, imaginative displays, crafts, and programs bubble up from the brook. Other days, not so much.

Where do you go to prime the pump?

One of my inspirations and wonderful motivators has come in the visage of one Marge Loch-Wouters. She first appeared to me at WLA many years ago as a humorous, talented, and interesting speaker/storyteller. She always has wonderful ideas and shares them generously. She always blogs about informational and timely library topics in a clever way.She always makes me smile. She is fun to laugh with and terrific to talk to.....always. She is willing to share her experience and expertise. She has lots of fun and interesting stories to tell. She is always interested in what you have to say.

She has also been named Wisconsin Library Association Librarian of the Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So lift your puppets high in honor of Marge...she is a delightful inspiration!

And how about you? Where do you go for inspiration? Blogs, magazines, books, people?

I really am interested.

WIPE OUT

2010-07-29T09:11:00.001-05:00

Well, our summer reading program is over. Cynthia took this photo yesterday and it illustrates exactly how we felt when the carnival was over yesterday.So much work goes into that eight weeks every summer and it could not happen without the help of volunteers and staff.

Everyone rallies for the carnival---

teen volunteers

staff, maintenance staff, and even some of the Friends of the Library helped out.

It is satisfying to know that so many children had fun, experienced some wonderful entertainers, discovered how much fun the library is, and what a welcoming place is waiting for them every day. There have been thousands of books checked out this summer and I am confident it will continue.

August will provide some time to refuel and gear up for fall storytimes, book clubs, school visits, and early out programs, as well as Teen Advisory Board. Today I will sit back and smell the roses with the knowledge that months of planning, weeks of effort, and a LOT of energy has been enjoyed and appreciated by so many families in our community.

And now....................................let the refueling begin!!!!!!!!!!!

SU-PRIZE!!!!!

2010-07-21T15:45:00.002-05:00

This summer we loaded up Cynthia's car with bags of prizes we gleaned from our prize closet. Marge Loch-Wouters at http://tinytipsforlibraryfun.blogspot.com/ gave us this idea a few years ago at a workshop. When kids sign up for the summer reading program we gave then a poster to hang in their window (what if you can't see my window from the street?Hang it on your mailbox in a ziplock bag. What if I live waaaaaaaaay out in the country? We just might be taking a drive and see your house.) Then we mapped out the city (and surrounding areas) and set out to look for posters in windows. When we spotted a poster Cynthia would hop out of the car, run up to the door with a prize bag she would hang on the doorknob, then she would ring the doorbell (what if I don't HAVE a doorbell---then we knock), and then runs back to the car (er...Su-Prize mobile), and we make a speedy getaway. SU-PRIZE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I felt like a bit of a creeper lurking around neighborhoods, driving slowly, looking at kids and waving, so we rigged up some posters on the car. It feels less creepy that way and provides some SLP publicity,too.

Imagine A Castle/S'More Free Teen Programming

2010-07-20T11:33:00.002-05:00

I have been waiting for this day since I planned the program. So many happy hours were spent playing in the sand when I was growing up and I suspect that is true of many kids. It is a delight to watch teens have creative freedom and some time to just relax and have fun. Teens, sand, sun , s'mores, 3D chalk, on a sunny summer afternoon, was the order of the day.

Cynthia and I used the remainder of the glue in the small bottles from last years programs to create everlasting sand castle mixture. Yes, we actually got paid for watching glue drip out of bottles into a big container....ahhh life in the Children's Room. We used the cups leftover from the Iron Chef program and filled them with sand and glue. The teens added some water and stirred with craft sticks, then placed the sand mixture on paper plates (also left over from Iron Chef program), and proceeded to model a castle. We were fortunate enough to have a beautiful day and it was delightful to watch the teens create some sand castles.

After working up an appetite making castles in the sand, everyone tried out the 3D chalk, and then munched some s'mores that were made from...........that's right...........leftovers from the Iron Chef program!

Chocolate, chalk, sand, sunshine, and a summer afternoon. Life just doesn't get much better.

EXPLOSIVE PROGRAMS--Teen Iron Chef and Big Machines

2010-07-12T12:06:00.002-05:00

This summer has been an explosion of activity at our library. Lots of children, day cares, reconfiguring the Children's Room, new comfy chair for adults and children to snuggle in, and our new self-check unit (yes ,we are way behind, I know).

We revisited the Teen Iron Chef program as Iron Chef Goes to the Beach. What kinds of things would you like to serve at the beach? Fresh foods, things they may not have tried before, new flavors to add, and some good old standbys. The teens were creative , as usual, adding their own touches and wonderful imaginations to create tasty and interesting new combinations. Beach Boys music set the scene.

Teens just love this program and it is a perfect storm of program elements. Inexpensive, creative, interactive,cooperative,and they can eat!

I try to spend under $70 for this program. Tables covered with white paper allows the teams to spend time brainstorming a name for the team and doodling on the paper. Each team chooses one person from the team to go to the food table to get the things they need to create an appetizer, entree, and dessert. We allow 20 minutes to create the dishes, name them, and then we bring in the judges.The teams are judged on presentation, creativity, and taste. Then we feast.

Clean up is easy with the paper table covers.

BIG MACHINES

I love the big machine or big truck programs. The people who drive and operate the machines have a great time interacting with the public and seem to enjoy the kids enthusiasm. What a wonderful free program that has all the right stuff!

Bring on the trucks and boats,

add some bubbles,

some chalk on the sidewalk,

books of course,

a bit of sunshine, and you have a perfect program!

Teens Are Walking On Water or Jimmy Choo's Got Nothin' On You

2010-06-24T14:20:00.004-05:00

The tremendous amount of plastic water bottles that are put in the garbage is a disturbing reality.When we hold teen programs we have a glass dispenser that can be filled with water and then we add fruit or cucumbers for flavor. The kids have glass mugs that can easily be washed. No plastic bottles. When planning summer events, we thought it might be a good idea to call attention to the water bottle problem and offer some inventive solutions. How about shoes made from water bottles?

Duct tape, some pictures of designer sandals as a jumping off point, and loads of imagination, produced some incredible results! I bet there will be a lot of grateful parents when it is time for back to school footwear.

I Am Pertinent To Someone!

2010-06-23T00:35:00.001-05:00

Big thanks to Marge at Tiny Tips for Library Fun for a Pertinent Post award! It is always nice to be recognized and appreciated, and I say,"Right back atcha', Marge!" I always get great tips from her Tiny Tips blog.

Marge already named some of my faves in her post, but I can add these:

Happy Stuff  the blog that got me started (and hooked) on blogs and blogging
My Porch  well written reviews that also entertain
Color Me Katie when I need to smile
Library Goddesses  program ideas

I benefit from the connection blogs provide. They are chock full of ideas, inspiration, insights, and ramblings. How marvelous to peek into another persons world and see things from another perspective.

Just One More Sticky Situation

2010-06-17T00:45:00.003-05:00

Just when my head was spinning with the onset of the summer splash I found out my fall/early winter program schedule is due. Things are really full speed at our library right now. I have had all I can do to keep up with the day care groups, families, and misc. kids at our library, not to mention extra desk time because other staff are on vacation (isn't taking a summer vacation if you work in a library against the law or something?). So, in the midst of all of the summer hubbub, I am wracking my brain to reinvent the wheel yet again........one or two Babygarten times---early,mid morning,what is best? Toddler Time for sure, but should we do a 4&5 story time or all ages---morning, afternoon,both? How many programs are maybe just too much for me to take on, spreading myself too thin, and not presenting a quality program because I am too wiped out? What can I come up with that is cutting edge, amazingly inventive, something totally new? Adult,teen,family, character parties, book release parties, lock ins,storytimes,early out programs.................yowsa!

It occurred to me that the teens had an absolutely wonderful time at the duct tape program we held on Tuesday. Now, all of you who work with teens know this is not an original idea---been there, done that, made the wallet. The fact is, they still love to have the freedom ( and the wide variety of free duct tape) to create, explore, and experiment. They were happy and laughing, playing, working side by side.

I have to remind myself, on a fairly regular basis, that I need to allow myself that same kind of creative freedom. No pressure, just a chance to create,experiment, and explore. Every program I plan does not have to be original, it does not have to be cutting edge, it does not have to wear me to a frazzle, and it can certainly be something I have done before. Kids just want to have fun in a relaxed atmosphere where the librarian who planned the program, is happy and laughing, playing, and working side by side with them.

I think Red Green would agree.

You Otter Make a Splash

2010-06-10T11:36:00.001-05:00

Today was our summer kickoff program and it was a zoo out there---literally and figuratively! Fantasy Corral came with 20 different, and amazing, animals including...wait for it....an otter! Her name is Blossom and she really does make a splash in her pool swimming clockwise around and around. The red object is her firefighters helmet.

Squeaky Shoes came with her mother and sister. She is doing well and just adored the animals. Her mother even purchased a bunny to take home.Her sister aptly named it "Hope", right there on the spot. Four year olds can be remarkably introspective.

It was so much fun to reunite with all of the families after a storytime hiatus. It is very sweet when the school children come up and ask if I remember them from my school visit. I always give them an emphatic, " YES,of course I do, and I am SO glad you came!"

Summer is off to a splashing start and I am looking forward to all of the summer reading fun. Check back in a few weeks to see if I still feel that way!

Words To Live By for Summer

2010-05-28T10:33:00.001-05:00

We have had a whole month of exciting, kid-filled summer reading promotion. My TMJ is aching from all the talking and singing! These past few days brought hundreds of kindergarten and preschool children to our library for tours and summer reading motivation. It was so great to have Cynthia there to add to the excitement and do the whole dog and pony show----or should I say shark and squid show, along with me. We made a shadow puppet show of the Kevin Sherry book "I'm the Biggest Thing in the Ocean". Then we sang the baby shark song and ended it by squirting the kids with our squirty sharks. That certainly brought down the house! By the end of the day yesterday, I was so sleep deprived and punchy the puppet show took some unexpected twists......but it was hilarious fun.

Cynthia is a force of nature. She is astoundingly and remarkably creative. She has boundless energy. She is so much fun. She makes me laugh.....alot. She can sing really well,too. She is so tiny she can almost fit in my pocket, which is especially handy for school visits. She can leap tall buildings in a bound...really.
Sometimes she just seems to pop up out of nowhere. She can make amazing creations out of cardboard. She always wears really fun clothes and jewelry. I am so glad we can finally work together.

I am taking a vacation in a beautiful part of the country where the sun shines most days. When I get back from my vacation it will be the first day of our summer reading program. It is almost time to unleash that flood of summer fun and pandemonium, to register readers, to keep displays full, to keep the prizes ready, to watch months of planning and preparation come to fruition.

Words to live by this summer..............keep your squirty sharks loaded : )

Everybody's Gone Surfin'

2010-05-14T11:16:00.001-05:00

Great idea! Melissa at The Imaginary Librarian blog, created a surf shop for her Teen area, in honor of the summer reading program. I appreciate the creativity and thought, not to mention the time and effort, that goes into all of the environments librarians create for kids and teens.

Thank all of you bloggers for sharing great ideas, trials and tribulations, and the pictures to prove it. Visit The Imaginary Librarian: Hang 10 Surf Shop.

Move Over Fellini

2010-05-06T11:47:00.000-05:00

In an effort to save voices and energy, Cynthia and I made a video to use for summer reading program promotion.

We created a set, made a shark choir (we wanted their mouths to be able to move...oh well...where is that animator nephew of mine when I need him? Does he REALLY have to work at Disney when the SRP is at stake?) and then wrote the script. I should probably add that we had a very small budget (nothing) and very few actors to choose from (puppets and staff...or ARE the puppets actually the staff?). We had lots of fun making a short film to show at the schools as part of our presentation. It will hopefully help to save our voices and the waning energy factor that comes from repeating the same thing 25 times in a day.

Turns out movie making is not as easy as it looks, but we sure had a lot of laughs!

Next week Cynthia and I will don our shark hats and head over to the first school of our promo tour. If I can't get the Baby Shark song out of my head right now, I shudder to think what it will be like after all the school visits!
doot ....doot.... doot....Make a Splash at Friday Library doot.....

Pause For Squeaky Shoes

2010-05-03T22:24:00.000-05:00

Last September I posted an entry about a new walker who came into the children's room wearing some shoes that squeaked when she took a step. That little girl, her big sister, and their mother, are bright lights in my days at the library.I have never seen them without a smile----never. I have watched those babies grow inside their mother, held them as newborns, and heard some of their first words, cheered them on as they took first steps. I have enjoyed the delight on their faces when we sang and read fun stories. I have witnessed them making friends at story time, friendships that have blossomed and grown.

What a privilege it is to be a part of so many children's lives! Not only do I have the opportunity to share books with them, but actually become part of an extended family of sorts. Plotting and planning what to do for programs and purchasing, I take my responsibility seriously-----what can I give them? Without even trying, they give me the world.

Yesterday, I received an email telling me Little Miss Squeaky Shoes has an inoperable brain tumor. It does not look good. Please pause a moment and offer some positive energy to she and her family.They will need all the prayers and wishes our world can offer, during these coming weeks.

That's Disgusting!

2010-04-30T09:47:00.000-05:00

Are these really good---and exactly where did they come from??????

Several years ago, I had an after school program called That's Disgusting! We had a huge turnout and it was fun to plan,too. Why haven't I ever repeated this? Boogers on a stick are yummy and fun to make. Kitty Litter cake is wonderful and looks so awful. Squashed bug on a fly swatter is a really fun craft to make.Well, in honor of Kathleen Baxter and her inspiring booktalks, I am going to have a disgusting revival, since all things gross are so appealing to school age kids.

Books to try for my new "Really Gross Book Club" will include:

Lauber, Patricia,What You Never Knew About Tubs, Toilets, and Showers (Around the House History)S&S,2001
Harper, Charise Mericle, Flush: The Scoop on Poop Throughout the Ages. Little Brown,2007.
Prishmann, Deidre A. Poop-Eaters:Dung Beetles in the Food Chain. Capstone Press,2008.
Neuman, Pearl. Bloodsucking Leeches. Bearport Publishing,2008.
Thomas, Lyn. 100% Pure Fake. Kids Can Press,2009.
Bredeson,Carmen. Hair Shooting Tarantulas and Other Weird Spiders, Enslow elementary,2009

Now get out there and drink some Bathwater Punch!

Just Keeping It Real

2010-04-29T13:41:00.002-05:00

Snot Bubble
Originally uploaded by Michael.M

Who knew non-fiction could be so hilarious! Kathleen Baxter presented 145 non-fiction books at a workshop I attended yesterday. I laughed so hard my stomach hurt. That woman could convert even the most reluctant reader with her passion, joy, and downright hilariousness. I was ready to booktalk non-fiction to anyone who walked through the library doors this morning and had to be restrained from loading my car trunk with books and heading for the elementary schools.

I am absolutely going to start a Gross and Disgusting Book Club in the fall featuring all of those books that delight elementary school kids and probably some middle school kids,too!

Celebrate the Earth!

2010-04-22T13:16:00.001-05:00

Spring is my favorite season and a perfect time to celebrate Earth Day, in my opinion. Everything is fresh and new, so let's take a look......

plum trees,

the first sprays of new green leaves,

beautiful,brave volunteers,

and tiny greens peeking out from mysterious places.

Happy Earth Day!

Is This REALLY in My Job Description?

2010-04-21T16:00:00.003-05:00

Today was just like any other day at the library working in the Children's Department. The day began with baby storytime, lovely babies, cute mom's and dad's, giggles and songs.

Then it was on to the store to purchase what we need for tomorrow nights event. We are hosting a Poetry Cafe and want to create a cafe ambiance. We decided to purchase small tables to cover with checked tablecloths and thought we could purchase the tables at store number one...nooooooooo.We thought we could purchase the tables at store number two....nuh uh. Store number three,four, five...no luck. Okay, we can drive to Stillwater while checking iPhone apps and calling stores to see who might carry said tables. Bingo! We found a store, asked them to hold all the small tables, (they had 5) and told them we would be right there. Cynthia, my assistant, pulls her truck up to the store. I leap out of the car, which was still running btw, dive and roll into the store, purchase tables, and we are back on the road to New Richmond, just in time for.......

THE REPTILE PROGRAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HMMMMMMMMMMmmmmmmmmmmmmm...is this REALLY in my job description?

Ta Da!

Now..........................................we have to get the tables out of the boxes, set them up (do we have a screwdriver?), and carry them over to the room we are using for the cafe.

Add some pretend candles, that Cynthia (famous for her spectacular parties) brought, and voila----cafe.

Back across the street to the library in time to pay the reptile guy, pause for a picture of a flowering crab on the way,put the tables and chairs back in the Children's Room, write an article, edit the SLP brochure, and there you have it-----------just another day.Whew! After reading this, I think I really am tired. I'm going home now, so I can rest up for whatever tomorrow brings........never a dull moment.

Jellyfish Dreams

2010-04-16T11:31:00.001-05:00

Last night, when I could not sleep, I decided to make some jellyfish. Is it just me, or do they actually seem to be floating through the water? Maybe I am just dreaming.

Jellyfish

2010-04-16T11:29:00.000-05:00

Politely Stepping Back

2010-04-15T09:33:00.004-05:00

In this world of iPads, iPods, cell phones, and Wii, Kindles and Playaways, schnitzel and noodles, brown paper packages tied up with string.....well...it was fascinating to simplify things for an hour.

We held an American Girl party to celebrate Addy, who was depicted as living during the Civil War era.

The children who attended were absolutely amazed by shadow puppetry.

Lemonade came with some effort put forth squeezing real lemons, using some juicers that were not powered by electricity.

The concept of cloth napkins was introduced, and we talked about why they are necessary now, for different reasons, than in Addy's time.

Games as simple as keeping a feather afloat were as exciting as Mario Cart.

What a delight it was to turn back time...............just for an hour.

Now, please excuse me,I have to Tweet.

That'll Be One SLP to Go

2010-03-24T23:08:00.005-05:00

Suitcase
Originally uploaded by Lasse C

A few days ago I saw a young father, looking very dejected and confused, wandering in the juvenile fiction section of our library. I asked if he needed help and he explained he wanted an AR book for his son. The young father had no idea about AR books, what they are, or how to find them. Yes, the teacher had given him a paper about AR books at some point, no, he had no idea where the paper was, and he could not remember anything about the testing or how to choose books.

Turns out the young father was divorced and was sharing custody with another parent. He seemed sincerely interested in learning how to help his son with reading but had no idea where to begin. He looked much more confident and relaxed after we searched the AR site our area schools use and perused our collection for the books his son might enjoy.

Before he left, the young father expressed his concern over the loss of reading skills over the summer months. I was excited to step up to the opportunity to let him in on the A-M-A-Z-I-N-G summer library program to support that very concern! Alas, the son was going to be with his mother over the summer. Dad did not seem to think there was a chance in you-know-where that the boy's mother would be taking him to any libraries over the summer.

This May I am going to put together some SLP's to go. My hope is that this humble offering will allow a young father the chance to offer his son the gift of books and the incentive to enjoy learning to read them, even in his absence.

Three Ring Circus

2010-03-10T11:02:00.003-06:00

We take the circus seriously in New Richmond.

The police escorted the ringmaster and balloons into the Library..............just to be safe.

Enter the Big Top through stripey curtains into the Children's Room

Let the circus begin!

Walk the tightrope, use an umbrella or a balloon flower to help balance.

Eat a refreshing sno cone,

guess how many,

try your hand at THE CLAW machine,

or make a clown hat with a T.A.B. teen.

Get your face painted,

and then try on your very own red rubber clown nose and have your picture taken!

The most wonderful, the most amazing,the most unbelievable, and the most incredible

entertainment, was Ozseeker the clown!

She makes things out of balloons that are not to be believed.

who knew about balloon motorcycles?

balloon mermaids......

hats made of balloons that are games....

and lovely flower balloon hats.Ahhhhhhhhh

My T.A.B. kids were such a help

After everyone enjoyed all of the activities it was time to close the circus. It was another wonderful day at the Library.

Did I mention I have the BEST JOB EVER?

Setting Up a Circus in the Library Part One

2010-03-05T08:48:00.001-06:00

One might think it is not such a big thing to prepare for a circus in the library. Not so! Erecting a tent without the help of elephants and with children underfoot can really be challanging. We had a little circus pop up tent..........seemed easy enough. We popped it open and proceeded to put the rods through the ........wait.........where EXACTLY DO the rods go? Okay. Now I get it. Georgia holds top of tent. Cynthia crawls in the tent. Georgia feeds the rods in to Cynthia. all seems to be going well when what to our wondering ears should appear but........................loud and very fast footsteps approaching and .............whoa..............................wait...............................oh no!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Three little boys in snowsuits with snowboots lunge into the tent with Cynthia, who, by the way, managed the situation very calmly, unlike me, who above the tent was kinda freaking out!

The idea was to put the tent on top of the bookshelf. Too big. Or on top of a table. Too small. ORRRRRRRRRRRRRR maybe suspend it over my desk.Just right. Now....exactly how do we do this?

Let's try fishing line woven in a web.

Oh no We can't go over, we can't go under it...........oh no.......we'll have to go.....

wrong story. ...............what I meant was, when we got the tent on the fishing line web it was crooked and you could not see the whole tent.

Plan B...call in Elaine, our trusty maintainence lady, creator of many wonderful display items, bouquets, and master of solving all "technical" issues.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, that's better.

It's Been a Circus Around Here!

2010-03-04T15:29:00.003-06:00

Circus Time Illustrated by one of my faves, Tibor Gergely, was (and still is) one of my favorite books. I have vivid memories from childhood of the circus coming to town every summer. They arrived by train and paraded through town, right past my house, and then to the edge of town, where they set up the tents. One morning, at dawn, my mother came into my bedroom and told me to follow her. She helped me peek out the window and to my amazement, there was a parade of elephants, giraffes, camels, and circus people. I will never forget that magical memory.

I have always loved any illustration by Tibor Gergley. I keep my copy of the book in my nightstand drawer and look at it often. Inspirations struck and I decided we could recreate a circus at our library to cheer up the families suffering from cabin fever.So..................................
we had a Big Top Breakfast this morning with cereal

and juice

then we made clown shoes and blew bubbles and did clown dances

then we bouced some balls on a parachute!

Next week---------------
a Lion tamer Luncheon,
and a Three Ring Circus in the evening complete with snow cones and a clown.

Wish Tibor Gergely could have been here to enjoy it with me.

Summer Ice Idea

2010-02-16T09:16:00.000-06:00

Last summer we did a program with a local business called Messes and Masterpieces. We collected plastic bottle caps for most of the summer and then had a wonderful afternoon in August making some beautiful mosaics.

This summer I might try ice sculpture. I used to make these with my children and it was so much fun. It would really be a fun way to cool off this summer.

Super Simple Sweet Teen Program

2010-02-15T08:35:00.001-06:00

Holding an Un-Valentines Day Party has become an annual event for my T.A.B. group. This year we decided on candy sushi and it was a blast! So simple. Just researched the "recipes", purchased the goods, and when the day came, just laid the table and they went at it.

The perfect recipe for food, fun, creativity, something with sugar, and an opportunity to just let the program unfold. We will certainly do this again, as attendance was much larger than usual for a teen program. Sadly, there were no Twinkies left over for me (which was probably a blessing in disguise).

How Many Librarians Does It Take To Make A Splash ?

2010-02-11T10:14:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was our systemwide Summer Library Program Workshop. One of the fun and interesting activities was to make a wave and a splash with a trifle bowl full of water. Wet your fingers, and then press on the rim of the bowl as you circle around the rim until you see vibrations, and then---SPLASH!

We also made waterpark "machines" using people. One person chose a movement and did it continuously, and then one by one others "hooked on" with their own movement idea.

There was an activity that incorporated creative dramatics, symbolism, painting, and drawing. Some of the results were beautiful.

Now it's time to start planning for summer in earnest. I have an amazingly creative and energetic new assistant named Cynthia. I just can't wait to brainstorm and create some wonderful new ways to make our library a welcoming and exciting place.

P.S. Isn't this umbrella jellyfish just the coolest thing ever?

Magic Sand Castles

2010-02-09T14:10:00.001-06:00

Magic Sand Castles
Originally uploaded by anotherfaceinthecrowd

I thought it might be fun to make sand castles this summer for our water theme. You can make sand castles that will last forever if you use my recipe!

Forever Sand Castle Sand

2 cups of sand from the beach or garden center
1 cup of water
1 cup cornstarch
Pans
Spoons
Stove

Mix the ingredients over low heat until it thickens. When the mixture cools it can be molded into shapes---think monsters, sea creatures, just imagine. Allow your creations to dry and voila...........forever and ever sand scupture.

Now......if I could just be on a beach in a place with sunshine...........ahhhhhh.

All Kinds of Princess

2010-01-29T13:28:00.001-06:00

A princess comes in many different shapes, sizes, and colors.

Some wheel in automatically on their throne,

some are full of jumping beans,

                                                                     others are quiet.

          We had a variety of princesses at the T.A.B. sponsored Disney Princess Party last night.

They arrived in time to enjoy being bejewleld by the T.A.B. girls. Everyone was then treated to a class in princess etiquette and enjoyed playing a game with Cinderella's slipper.

Refreshements fit for royalty were served.

Apple slices, sparkly magic wands made out of pretzels,

and mice made of cheese with tails of chive.

Everyone danced until the clock struck eight and all the tired royalty went home to bed, with dreams of a fairy tale fun evening, shared with friends.

My Beautiful Kazoo

2010-01-20T15:24:00.004-06:00

As a child I spent many, many, maybe too many, hours humming with a comb covered with wax paper. My early musical education came from three important influences. First: I was an enthusiastic student of Miss Frances Ding Dong School (yes---that was really the name) and she taught me to hum. Second: My father was a talented musician and played in a drum and bugle corp for the first six years of my life. I acted as both roadie AND groupie. Third: Our local high school band practiced marching and playing in the field behind our house which I found quite inspirational.The band director, Mr. Sabaka, was amazed that I was able to learn the entire Rock Around the Clock field routine before I entered school. I marched along side the band until I was old enough for kindergarten and was forced to give up both the comb and my field side band rehersals.

Today we celebrated National Kazoo Day for our Early Out Program at the library.The high school band director and a few of his students taught the audience of elementary school students, along with some parents and siblings, how to kazoo. It was loud, noisy, giggley, and tons of fun. I suspect there will be lots of humming in homes around town tonight.

As for me, I plan on perfecting Flight of the Bumblebee and Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. I will be available for weddings, funerals, receptions, or events of any kind.

Ready? Hummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

* when I was able to join the high school band in an official capacity, Mr. Sabaka was still the band director and we still did the Rock Around the Clock routine which ( of course) I already knew, after logging all those preschool hours.

Snow Business on Monday

2010-01-11T12:00:00.001-06:00

Monday is usually a rough day for me...........you know.........the much anticipated weekend is over too quickly, it is frigid winter weather, and now it is M-O-N-D-A-Y. I used to be a Monday grouch.....think Garfield. I changed my Monday grouch to a wonderful start to the week by scheduling my Baby Walker Storytime on Monday's at 10:00. Having happy babies and their grateful parents makes Monday morning better.

Today I set up play stations with snow ( it looked rather odd to see me with a shovel scooping up snow to bring INdoors, but he staff is used to seeing me do unusal things), rice with sand toys, Duplos, an igloo, shaving cream to fingerpaint, flannelboard,and toys that promote skills.

We enjoyed refreshments in a little cafe' I set up in the storytime room. Yummers!

I loved the idea of these tortilla snowflakes! Just warm the tortilla to make it pliable, then fold like you would if you were making a paper snowflake. Cut out a design and then crisp it on a griddle and sprinkle powdered sugar or cinnamon and sugar on the tortilla.

Today was a very good Monday.

Fresh Start

2009-12-29T11:04:00.001-06:00

Look up! There is a brand new year coming toward you and it is full of light. A whole year of blank calendar pages (well, almost---I do have my programs scheduled until May) full of possibilites.The beginning of a new year is always exciting for me because I have a fresh start. There have been times when I played the "would of/should of/could of " game to no avail. What is in the past is part of me, there is no need to re-live anything or regret what might have been, I am here because all of those things did happen. I am happy,blessed, and have what I think is the best job in the world. Bringing together children and books could not be any more fufilling. There is immediate gratification and genuine gratitude from library patrons every day. I have the opportunity to watch my library families grow and actually be a part of that family in my small way. Creating memorable experiences in the library is something I dream about every night and work hard at every day.

May this year bring everyone only good things.

I'm a Believer

2009-12-22T15:07:00.000-06:00

Almost time to share the bounty that is Christmas. Cookies, presents, wrapping, decorations,music,candles, and midnight Mass. I have so many memories of Christmas and I am pretty sure I can tell you something about each and every one. I am a believer. Always have been and probably always will be, thanks to some very convincing parents and a bit of serendipity.

Every year on Christmas Eve, we took the trip to Grandma's house and did, in fact, go over the river and through the woods. Since I was the first grandchild and had an uncle and had four aunts, it was especially exciting for all of them to have a child in the house for Christmas once again.

It seemed to take such an awfully long time to drive to Grandma's, but my dad made it exciting by helping me spot Rudolph at houses along the way. Sure hoped we could beat him, but the car seemed so slow. When we arrived at the farm, my aunt Peggy took me to the barn to hear the animals talk, and all the way to the barn told me how this miracle happens. I could hardly believe my ears when I heard what they had to say!

When we arrived back at the house my grandfather poured the adults his homemade elderberry wine. I would have to wait many years to try that wine, but it was so warm and cozy in the kitchen with all of the adults gathered around. All of a sudden we heard hoofbeats on the roof! Then we heard sleigh bells jingling and ho, ho, ho's booming in the night! My heart was pounding and I am sure my eyes were as big as saucers when I heard feet stomping in Grandma's living room. We heard a loud,"Merrrrry Christmas... ho ho ho!", and then .......it was quiet. The adults led me into the living room where the tree was lit with hundreds of colored lights and beautifully wrapped presents nearly filled the room.

That year my aunt Bonita gave me my first pair of figure skates and a Cinderella watch with a blue strap that came in a glass slipper. I felt so happy,so safe, and surrounded by love.Everyone ate cookies, laughed, talked, and played games until it was time to pack up the car and head home in the freezing white night. As we pulled into town there was not even one car parked on Main Street...............but we did see a bearded man in a red suit walking down the street.

May you experience the miracles of the everyday as well as the extraordinary. Merry Christmas!

M4 A Room With a View

2009-12-17T17:15:00.000-06:00

CB I Hate Perfume M4 A Room With a View
I just read a post by Cup of Jo about this Room with a View inspired perfume!

Visions of Gingerbread

2009-12-15T19:53:00.000-06:00

I remember looking forward to making cookies with my children every year at Christmas time. It was a huge mess but lots of fun. I thought maybe parents would appreciate making a mess at the library instead of at home.

In years past, at the library, I would have a gingerbread house program for families. This year, we made gingerbread people instead. I read some stories and then everyone made outlines of their children on brown wrapping paper. The children and parents decorated their ginger kids and then we decorated cookies for everyone to take home.

Through the Looking Glass

2009-12-10T11:08:00.001-06:00

Sub zero temps allowed Jack Frost to create some beautiful artwork on my window. He is an amazingly inspired artist. Doesn't it look like it could be an underwater scene?

Do Reindeer Really Know How To Fly?

2009-12-09T12:28:00.000-06:00

Last night was our annual visit from Santa and his reindeer. The snowy evening added to the festive feeling and provided a good landing for the reindeer. If memory serves me, he brought Dasher and Dancer last night. I had my "fix" of rosey cheeked babies, sweet pudgy smiles, and excited youngsters. Santa and Mrs. Claus were lovely guests, who kindly posed for lots of pictures with families, even though this is their busiest time of year.

I Wish You Peace

2009-12-04T12:18:00.004-06:00

May all of the days of this holiday season be beautiful, bright, warm, and filled with peace.

Ho Ho Holidays

2009-12-04T12:16:00.002-06:00

Today is the day of the annual holiday decorating blitz. We have a maintainence lady who is a holiday maniac. We have decorations that range from vintage to ....................... ugly, but she has a definate flair for the kitsch. I scaled WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY back at my own home. Just a Charlie Brown tree and some twinkle lights in garland on the armoire. But the library, we'll just let the pictures speak for themselves. Needless to say, the kids think it is wonderful!

Storytime Breaks

2009-12-01T11:19:00.000-06:00

I am on a much needed, and well deserved, break from storytime. We have shared many wonderful weeks since September and I am TIRED. The families are great, performing is fun, but I AM TIRED. We all need a rest between sessions to relax, refresh, and recharge. In the past, I never adhered to that snippet of wisdom passed down to me from much wiser librarians. Breaks help us provide fresh storytimes that bring joy to everyone, including our storytime selves. It also gives one the opportunity to catch up on all the other things (all the "stuff" that was SUPPOSED to be put away but never actually WAS put away), preparing props, stories, and crafts for next session, and finishing my year end projects.

This is also a time for me to create some new props.Kim Faurot taught me about props, their use, making lasting things that can be used over and over, and the general care and feeding of quality props for storytime. Her wisdom and skill is much appreciated. She made me a Pumpkin Mouse House that I will share with you today. The children love it! The original Mouse House and poem are in Kim's book "Books in Bloom".

Do I actually think I can accomplish all this in a month? Yipes!

New Moon Rising

2009-11-16T11:20:00.000-06:00

Friday the 13th was the evening of our party to celebrate the upcoming movie "New Moon" based on the Stephenie Meyer book by the same title. Since it was all girls in attendance, we decorated for Bella's 18th birthday party just like Alice, using all pink. We played a fun version of trivia using teams and chairs(if you are interested in the how-to just email me) that was a hit.They really know their Twilight Trivia.

Trains, Planes, Automobiles, and Heavy Equipment

2009-11-11T13:33:00.000-06:00

We had so much fun with a toddler storytime full of things that go! The toddlers were thrilled to see giant trucks pop out of a book I read. They loved pretending to be an airplane flying high and singing our airplane song. The MOST fun was the craft------------using paint and little cars and trucks to make tracks all over giant sheets of white paper! Zooooooooooooooooom!

Say Cheese!

2009-11-03T15:02:00.000-06:00

Wisconsin libraries were supposed to take photos yesterday and post them on Flickr. It will be fun to see lots of different libraries on that particular Monday. We had some happy customers, lovely staff, cute kids, and precious books, that appeared in my photos.

What's Going on Outside the Library

2009-10-29T15:26:00.000-05:00

Today is a very drippy day, but the leaves make a pretty carpet on our lawn. The flu has taken over the town and everything seems quiet (except for sneezing, coughing, and nose blowing). We had Halloween storytimes this week and tommorrow is trick or treating at the downtown business's. Hopefully everyone will be ready to don their costumes and enjoy the day.

Room With a View

2009-10-26T12:44:00.001-05:00

I attended the Wisconsin Library Association Conference in Appleton last week. There are so many inspiring and creative librarians out there! Norma and I had a room with a lovely view, even though the weather was drippy and gray.

2009-10-12T08:54:00.000-05:00

You may not have experienced the unpredictable weather in the Midwest................well, here it is! October 12th in Wisconsin....hmmmmm, aren't there supposed to be colorful leaves?

What Happens at the Library During the Night.....?

2009-10-09T15:36:00.001-05:00

Stuffed Animal Sleepover

The sleepover guests were put to bed by their owners and we sang them a lullaby and kissed them goodnight.

Everything was peaceful…………..until……………………the five little monkeys started jumping on the bed!

You all know what happens when five little monkeys jump on the bed-----that’s right! Someone fell off and bumped their head.

Georgia took care of the bump on the head with a bandage and a lollipop.

The fun continued, the animals settled down, and a few started playing games, including a serious game of chess.

Others did puzzles,looked at DVD's, and then we played with toys and climbed the bridge.

Everyone wanted to surf the internet.

We decided to read a couple of bedtime stories and then Rosetta wanted to draw a picture for everyone.

It was time to settle down before bed, so Georgia suggested roasting some marshmallows and singing some campfire songs.

Then Georgia tucked everyone in (even the monkeys were tired!) and we all said goodnight.

Thank you for a fun evening : )

Check out more pictures on the Friday Memorial Library Facebook page.

Flower, vegetable, or mineral?

2009-10-07T11:46:00.000-05:00

My friend gave me some beautiful vegetables from her garden this fall. Peppers are some of my faves, especially the red ones! This one just looks like a jewel. I ate it fresh but love roasted vegs,too.

If the Shoe Fits.......

2009-09-30T14:28:00.000-05:00

As I sat at my desk this morning I heard an odd squeaking sound....nnnnnnnnnip.......nippp...nnnnippp....what could it be? There it goes again! Then I saw the smiling face of a brand new "walker" in pink shoes. Her mother was trying to encourage walking by using some new shoes that make a squeaking sound when you walk! How cute is that? I want me some squeaky shoes, in pink, please.

Really Cool Chicks

2009-09-29T12:17:00.004-05:00

These really cool chicks followed me home from my trip to Bayfield.The bright colors and funny little faces just make me smile every time I look at them.

Today's Miracle

2009-09-28T10:44:00.004-05:00

I did a bug and butterfly storytime a couple of weeks ago and my friend brought two monarch caterpillars for us to watch. We have all been watching and waiting and today while I was taking a picture.....................voila! Right before my eyes! The children will be very excited for our butterfly release.

Falling for Fall

2009-09-27T14:57:00.003-05:00

The colors today were other worldly! This is a beautiful time of year in Wisconsin and the light is extraordinary. Different parts of the country (and world) seem to have light that varies from rosy to gray to golden (our light) to luminous.

Cupcake Beauties

2009-09-25T12:12:00.000-05:00

Last night we held an American Girl Party at our library. It was a colonial theme and the refreshments looked so pretty.......especially THE CUPCAKES! What is it about cupcakes? They always look so cute and friendly.