Before Summer Begins - Thank Your Child's Teacher

When I was student teaching, I still remember a Mary Kay Satin Hands Spa set that a parent gave me.  Teacher appreciation week felt like Christmas.  That week at school, the PTO handed out little treats to the teachers each day.  The teachers were happy and cheery.  Parent volunteer visited cl…

Entertaining Kids on the Way to the Campground

Growing up, I traveled out west with my family on trips every summer.  Riding in the back of our powder blue Pontiac, my sister and I played the car tag game and entertained ourselves for only so far before we were tattling about who was touching who.  There was a lot of "are we there yet?&…

Maple Cinnamon Granola with Smoked Sea Salt

I have been on a quest for the perfect granola. My criteria for the granola of my dreams was simple, healthy, crunchy and lots of flavor. This can be a tall order, but it can be done. Granola is comprised of a few key ingredients. Oatmeal, nuts, sweetener, fat, and spice are the basics. I have p…

Portable Camping and Hiking Snacks

Traditional camping foods tend to be chips and sandwiches or burgers.  I see photographs of campers that swear by fluffer nutter sandwiches as a campsite staple.  I'm not chastising any of these habits or traditions.  I won't lie.  I love a s'more.  (Insert me saying "sa-more he…