Washington

Miriam came home from school the week of President's day with the old George Washington/cherry tree story. We all know that's false, right? Out of all the stories that could have been shared, and I'm pretty sure ol' George had an interesting life, her teacher chose to share a myth. They missed school for this holiday, so we have there attention. Couldn't we tell a true story about the man? Maybe she could have mentioned something about the Revolutionary War or the constitution. She could have even told of his greatness in refusing the office of President for a third term, showing that he believed in a country that didn't give too much power to only one man. If those stories seem too boring to captivate first greaders, I'm sure the woman could have found something else.

I can't decide if her teacher meant to tell this story. Maybe she explained that the story is told to show the honesty and integrity of our first president. Is it possible that this strong image of honesty will help Miriam as she learns more about him in the future? She will believe all his other great deads because she knows that he is honest. Or, will she ignore history in the future because some of her first lessons included myths taught as truth. She may think, "What can I believe, you make up stories." Which is more important, stuffy old facts or lovely myths? We revere Washington, so why not make him into some kind of legend? I'm thinking that Washington doesn't need made up stories to show his greatness. He did some pretty amazing things. Can we please teach our children about his real accomplishments.

Red Velvet Valentine

~success~

Lucky You

{Lucky you!The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you.

This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!

2- What I create will be just for you.

3- It'll be done this year.

4- You have no clue what it's going to be. It may be a story. It may be poetry or an article on properly cleaning your face before a masque. I may draw or paint something. I may bake you something and mail it to you. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!

5- I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me! Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it!}

How Do I Love Thee...

happy valentine's day.

Sam and I decided to make some valentines on this snowy day. We also made them on Monday and I'm sure that Miriam will want to have a go when she sees glitter all over the kitchen table. It was fun to take a minute to make something for my children and husband and to write a little love note.

And tomorrow, red velvet cupcakes. Mmmmm, any dessert with the word velvet in it is all right by me. It's a good thing there are holidays to finish out the winter.