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Schools in my area start next week. Families are purchasing clothes, shoes, and backpacks in preparation.

The church I attend fills backpacks for our students.

I have friends who fill backpacks and deliver to their schools. They come in handy for new students, families who have lost homes to fire, and other unforeseen circumstances.

For those who are struggling with the “empty nest syndrome” and would like to bless a child, this is a great idea. Even a new pair of shoes is welcomed!

I’ve purchased school supplies when they go on sale or are in the clearance aisle. Once I was able to acquire backpacks for a youth class. Other years, I’ve filled a table with needed items.

                  

If you’re wondering what you can do to help, this is a terrific idea!

May every child have a memorable school year and stay safe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another few weeks and summer will come to an end. Why not enjoy some beach ball fun with the kids? They’re not just for the beach.

I purchase beach balls from the Dollar Tree and use a Sharpie to write names, design a smiley face, add a scripture, or happy saying.

Instead of treat bags to pass out at birthday parties, beach balls make great gifts. They can be purchased for $1 and provide exercise and fun. The birthday party host can even write “Thank you for coming to my party” with their own signature. Beach balls also make wonderful craft projects. Children will love creating their own designs and games.

I once added a scripture on beach balls for a youth class. The kids loved them. I did the same for my neighbor children, and with my best volleyball serve, tossed them over the fence.

If your children are getting antsy, pick up some beach balls and markers, turn on the sprinkler system, or give them a water hose, and watch their afternoon fly by.

 

 

For years, I have gone to the same hairdresser. Ann’s shop is only a few miles away–friendly, cozy, and inviting.

  

Set in a country atmosphere with gardens, bird feeders, and vintage pieces, it’s a nature lover’s destination.

She gave me permission to share pictures of her outdoor haven. Enjoy!

When Ann displays her OPEN sign, customers step into a world of beauty and friendliness. Bird feeders, perennials, and garden art are stationed near the window for viewing.

I’ve often told her the shop reminds me of the one in the late eighties movie hit Steel Magnolias. A place where friendships matter and burdens are shared.

On many occasions, Ann has helped elderly neighbors, raked someone’s yard, and gone into homes for quick-clip cuts. This is just the tip of the iceberg. After a major snowstorm, she and her husband showed up in my driveway dressed in snowsuits to help shovel. I had it already cleared, so they scratched me off the list and departed for another destination.

                

                    Spring pictures

                        

Thank you, Ann, for friendship, sharing, and one of the most memorable places to visit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is the season for children to attend a summer camp. Whether it’s a day, church, or adventure camp, they’ll have the time of their lives. Check your local paper or church bulletin for dates and times.

Most camps are stationed in wooded areas with fishing, swimming, tug-of-war, crafts, and outdoor games. Don’t forget about the sing-a-longs, grilled hot dogs, snacks, and S’mores to gobble by the campfire. Yum!

It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to stretch their legs, exercise, and enjoy the fellowship of other children in an informal setting.

I recently helped with Day Safari Camp, a yearly event sponsored by my church. It’s an entire day of events which include tractor-trailer rides on baled straw to and from each activity. Children enjoyed fishing, indoor crafts, farm animals, Science Alive, and much more. A real blessing for the children and volunteers.

Plan a summer camp for your children and watch their faces light up with smiles. They will cherish these memories for years to come.

Kumbaya