Jennifer Lambert

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50 Frugal Summer Outdoor Activities

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July 9, 2019 By Jennifer Lambert Leave a Comment

Sometimes, we do need a list to keep from getting bored during the lazy hazy days of summer.

We typically throw the schedule out the window a few weeks every summer. We stay up late, sleep in late, eat whenever.

We don’t like to blow a lot of money on ephemeral experiences or stuff to stave off the summer sadness.

The kids often ask for chores or ideas to make some money.

Messy activities are best outside and summer is the perfect time for those!

I’m not counting down “the summers I have left” with my kids.

I don’t need more guilt.

I look back on the pictures and memories and I think I’ve done a pretty damn good job giving my kids balance, fun, joy, experiences.

We’ve traveled lots of places, gone camping, fished, painted, created, hiked.

I love spending time with my children and telling them stories about my childhood and recreating some of those experiences – like catching crawdads and fireflies, exploring the woods, creek, pond, and birdwatching.

We don’t have a pool, but their friend down the street does!

They feel too old for splash pads and never really enjoyed them.

I think the best summer activities are frugal and close to home. We make memories together and enjoy each other.

finger painting outside
ice painting is cool fun!
tie dye is family fun
water guns and sprinklers are still a hit with big kids!

50 Frugal Summer Outdoor Activities

  1. Lemonade stand. We did this when we moved in and met our neighbors!
  2. Bird watching.
  3. Bug collecting.
  4. Gardening.
  5. Leaf or flower pressing.
  6. Cutting the grass. lawn mower. scissors. whatever.
  7. Look for tadpoles and frogs in the pond.
  8. Seek crawdads in the creek.
  9. Water balloons. Make sure to clean them up!
  10. Play in the sprinklers.
  11. Car wash.
  12. Bike or scooter wash.
  13. Ice painting. or finger painting.
  14. Tie dye party.
  15. Mud pies.
  16. Nature music. Find stumps, sticks, dandelion whistles.
  17. Lawn games. We love cornhole and horseshoes.
  18. Fairy house.
  19. Play in the rain. (as long as there’s no thunder or lightning!)
  20. Concerts in the park.
  21. Bike ride. or scooters. or roller blades.
  22. Hiking.
  23. Clean up a public outdoor area.
  24. Jump rope contest.
  25. Hula hoop contest.
  26. Watch the sky. sunrise. clouds. sunset.
  27. Kites.
  28. Watch or catch fireflies. Make sure to let them go soon!
  29. Photo scavenger hunt.
  30. Sun prints.
  31. Rainbow walk. Collect nature items the color of the rainbow!
  32. Play sand.
  33. Climb a tree.
  34. Yard sale.
  35. Picnic.
  36. Visit all the farmer’s markets in your area!
  37. Make a mosaic or stepping stone.
  38. Field day.
  39. Stargazing.
  40. Search for a four-leaf clover.
  41. Chalk art.
  42. Watch butterflies.
  43. Movie night at the park or drive-in.
  44. Skipping stones.
  45. Bubbles!
  46. Fishing.
  47. Geocaching.
  48. Sparklers and/or PopIts.
  49. Bonfire and roast.
  50. Race boats or cars.
hiking and playing in waterfalls is a favorite.
fishing is always a hit

What’s your favorite summer outdoor activity?

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5 Summer Health Risks

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August 20, 2018 By Jennifer Lambert Leave a Comment

Protect Your Family from these 5 Summer Health Risks

Summertime brings warmer weather and longer days, as well as some seasonal health risks. Before your kids run out to play, make sure you’re doing everything possible to protect them from the sun, bugs, allergic reactions, and other summer threats.

Skin-Damaging Sunburn

Too much sun during childhood does more than cause painful sunburns; overexposure increases the risk of skin cancer later in life. Protect your little ones now and in the future with a healthy sun strategy.

The sun’s rays are strongest during the midday hours, so limit outings between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside; reapply every two hours and after sweating or swimming. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends SPF 15 or higher.

Biting Bugs

Blood-sucking pests carry serious diseases and cause allergic reactions in some children. Mosquitoes are worse at dusk, and ticks thrive in warm, woody areas. Dress children in light colors and long pants and sleeves, and remove standing water, which mosquitoes use for breeding.

Apply DEET bug repellent to skin (perhaps on kids older than 6) and clothing when insects are a threat. Sprays containing 30 percent DEET protect for up to five hours. Products with oil of lemon, eucalyptus, or picaridin are also effective, and some people have luck with clip-on repellent pads. 

Annoying Allergies

Summer is the season for allergies, but not all threats come from outside. Dusty or outdated HVAC systems can wreak havoc on asthma and allergies. When you can’t escape the pollen, dander, and dust by coming indoors, what do you do?

Start by vacuuming daily, lowering your indoor humidity, changing your air filter, and washing bedding and rugs. If that’s not enough, have your HVAC inspected and cleaned by a professional. It’s surprising how much pollen, dust, and other allergens build up in your HVAC system over time. A professional can keep your system clean and running efficiently throughout peak allergy season and all year long.

Heat Hazards

Too much fun in the sun can be dangerous, and the risk of heat-related illness is greatest during summer when high humidity impairs the body’s natural cooling process. Children may not complain of thirst until they’re on the brink of dehydration, so offer water every 30 minutes during play. 

Dry or sticky mouth, muscle cramping, headache, fatigue, dizziness, irritability, and confusion may indicate dehydration or heat stroke. Watch out for hot swings, slides, and metal car seat buckles that can burn your child’s skin. And never leave a child alone in a car. 

Drowning Disasters

Swimming is one of the greatest joys of summer, but it’s also one of the biggest dangers. It takes only two inches of water and a couple of minutes for a child to drown. Keeping children safe around water requires constant supervision and the right information.

Contrary to what most believe, drowning is quick and quiet. Children rarely splash or cry out for help. If you’re on your cell phone or reading a book, you may not even know a child is struggling. Don’t get distracted, teach your children to avoid water unless with an adult, and refresh your CPR certification annually.

There’s certainly no shortage of things to worry about during summer, but a little thought and preparation can mean a happy — and safe — season for everyone.

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Our Favorite Salads

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August 20, 2018 By Jennifer Lambert 19 Comments

We love salads and have one at dinner almost every night.

I grew up with plain ole iceberg and carrots, but was delighted to discover so many healthier and tasty options as I grew up and ate at friends’ houses or traveled.

Salads are great during hot summer months when the veggies are in season, fresh from the garden.

Some of our favorite salads:

Greek:

Kalamata olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and sometimes red onion and bell pepper…with or without lettuce. With oregano and olive oil and red wine vinegar.

Italian:

We fell in love with Italian salads during our travels. There are regional delicacies and we love em all.

Florence had fennel, carrots, and grapes or raisins with Romaine and a simple olive oil dressing. So sweet and crunchy!

Venice had olives, oranges, and arugula. It was unique.

Rome had peppers, olives, onions, tomatoes, and Romaine. Yes, kinda like Olive Garden {gasp!} but it was all so fresh and lovely.

German:

Many German salads have lots of pickled veggies, sweet corn, and yogurt dressing or Thousand Island.

Grilled:

The texture and flavor of grilled lettuce is unique and amazing.

Don’t cut all the way through. Drizzle with oil and get a little char on a gas or charcoal grill. Add cheese, bacon, and tomatoes. Easy!

Fruity Nutty

I love berries and walnuts with spinach.

Also, I love pomegranate, apples or pears, almonds or walnuts over romaine.

These make great meal salads – with or without some chicken.

Wedge:

These seem so fancy in restaurants.

Bleu cheese, bacon, and tomatoes on iceberg slices are just so pretty.

I like to make it even more special by adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and grilling the tomatoes.

Salads can be so versatile. They can be an appetizer, side dish, or a full meal – with or without added proteins. We have fun playing with colors and textures.

What’s your favorite salad?

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Favorite Summer Books

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July 2, 2018 By Jennifer Lambert 13 Comments

Summer is a great time for reading. There are usually lots of free reading programs with fun prizes.

While some of us can’t make it to a beach vacation, we can read about adventures!

These fun summer reads are all about beaches, pools, camping, adventures. There’s something for everyone and all ages.

Our Favorite Summer Books:

This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki

Every summer, Rose goes with her mom and dad to a lake house in Awago Beach. It’s their getaway, their refuge. Rosie’s friend Windy is always there, too, like the little sister she never had. But this summer is different. Rose’s mom and dad won’t stop fighting, and when Rose and Windy seek a distraction from the drama, they find themselves with a whole new set of problems. One of the local teens – just a couple of years older than Rose and Windy – is caught up in something bad… Something life threatening.

It’s a summer of secrets, and sorrow, and growing up, and it’s a good thing Rose and Windy have each other.

The Bear’s Sea Escape by Benjamin Chaud

When the bears seek warmth from their chilly perch atop the Paris Opera House, Little Bear is mistaken for a toy bear and whisked away . . . to a tropical island! Papa Bear sets out on a frenzied journey to find Little Bear, traveling to a bustling wharf, beneath a sea brimming with coral and mermaids, onto a busy beach, and all the way to a sun-drenched island. As in The Bear’s Song, Little Bear is featured in every spread. Will Papa Bear—and the reader—find him?

Garmann’s Summer by Stian Hole

As the summer ends, six-year-old Garmann’s three ancient aunts visit and they all talk about the things that scare them, in an award-winning story that ponders fear and courage, life and death, beginnings and endings.

Weslandia by Paul Fleischman

School is over and Wesley needs a summer project. Having learned that every civilization has a staple food crop, he decides to plant a garden and start his own—civilization, that is. He turns over a plot of earth in his yard, and plants begin to grow. Soon they tower above him and bear a curious-looking fruit. As Wesley experiments, he discovers that the plant will provide food, clothing, shelter, and even recreation. It isn’t long before neighbors and classmates have developed more than an idle curiosity about Wesley and exactly how he is spending his summer vacation.

The Summer Visitors by Karel Hayes

This follow-up to the successful The Winter Visitors, traces the interactions between a family of bears and a human family during their summer stay at a lake cottage. Told primarily through illustration, with only a few dozen words in the book, children and parents (and grandparents) alike will delight in following the antics of the bumbling bears as they enjoy the comforts of cottage life, but also try to avoid detection by their human hosts.

The Toy Boat by Randall de Sève

A little boy has a toy boat. He made it out of a can, a cork, a yellow pencil, and some white cloth. The boy and his boat are inseparable, until one day when the wind pushes the toy boat out into the wide lake. Alone now, the little boat must face fierce waves, a grumpy ferry, a sassy schooner, and a growling speed boat. How the little boat misses the boy! But if he is going to survive, he must figure a way to do it on his own.

The Lost Lake by Allen Say

Luke and his father, who is disgusted by the tourists surrounding the once secluded lake of his childhood, hike deeper into the wilderness to find a “lost lake” of their own.

Time of Wonder by Robert McCloskey

The spell of rain, gulls, a foggy morning, the excitement of sailing, the quiet of the night, the sudden terror of a hurricane, and the peace of a Maine island as a family packs up to leave are shown in poetic language and vibrant, evocative pictures.

Swimmy by Leo Lionni

Deep in the sea lives a happy school of fish. Their watery world is full of wonders, but there is also danger, and the little fish are afraid to come out of hiding . . . until Swimmy comes along. Swimmy shows his friends how—with ingenuity and team work—they can overcome any danger.

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Working up the courage to take a big, important leap is hard, but Jabari is almost absolutely ready to make a giant splash.

Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he’s a great jumper, so he’s not scared at all. “Looks easy,” says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board. In a sweetly appealing tale of overcoming your fears, newcomer Gaia Cornwall captures a moment between a patient and encouraging father and a determined little boy you can’t help but root for.

Mama, Is It Summer Yet? by Nikki McClure

One little boy can’t wait for summer to arrive. He keeps asking, “Mama, is it summer yet?” Mama responds saying, ”Not yet,” but there are plenty of signs that indicate spring is changing into summer: The earth is soft and there are seeds to plant, birds singing, ducklings in the pond, and pink blossoms blooming. The young boy even wears his bathing suit and carries a beach pail in preparation, but will it ever be summer?

Ice Cream Summer by Peter Sis

Dear Grandpa,
Summer is going well. I am very busy. But don’t worry, I am not forgetting about school! I read every day. I practice my math facts. And I am even studying world history!

The Truth About My Unbelievable Summer by Davide Cali

What really happened over the summer break? A curious teacher wants to know. The epic explanation? What started out as a day at the beach turned into a globe-spanning treasure hunt with high-flying hijinks, exotic detours, an outrageous cast of characters, and one very mischievous bird! Is this yet another tall tale, or is the truth just waiting to be revealed? From the team behind I Didn’t Do My Homework Because . . . and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to School . . . comes a fantastical fast-paced, detail-rich illustrated summer adventure that’s so unbelievable, it just might be true!

How I Spent My Summer Vacation by Mark Teague

Some kids spend their summer vacation at camp. Some kids spend it at Grandma’s house. Wallace Bleff spent his out west…on a ride, a rope, and a roundup he’ll never forget.

Come On, Rain! by Karen Hesse

“Come on, rain!” Tess pleads to the sky as listless vines and parched plants droop in the endless heat. Up and down the block, cats pant while heat wavers off tar patches in the broiling alleyway. More than anything, Tess hopes for rain. And when it comes, she and her friends are ready for a surprising joyous celebration…

My Awesome Summer by P. Mantis by Paul Meisel

The hilarious–and scientifically accurate–tale of a praying mantis’s eventful summer

“May 17: I was born today! It’s a beautiful, sunny spring day!” This is the diary of P. Mantis, one of 150 praying mantis brothers and sisters born on a garden bush. P. Mantis is an amazing bug: she can make herself look like a stick to hide from predators, she can swivel her head all the way around, and when she’s grown up she’ll even be able to fly! Told in dated entries, P. Mantis describes the entirety of her life, sharing the fun and beauty of her world as well its little ups and downs (“I ate one of my brothers. Okay, maybe two”).

Summer Days and Nights by Wong Herbert Yee

On a hot summer day, a little girl finds ways to entertain herself and stay cool. She catches a butterfly, sips lemonade, jumps in a pool, and goes on a picnic. At night, she sees an owl in a tree and a frog in a pond, and hears leaves rustling. Before long, she’s fast asleep, dreaming about more summer days and summer nights.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

Eleven-year-old Delphine is like a mother to her two younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern. She’s had to be, ever since their mother, Cecile, left them seven years ago for a radical new life in California. But when the sisters arrive from Brooklyn to spend the summer with their mother, Cecile is nothing like they imagined.

While the girls hope to go to Disneyland and meet Tinker Bell, their mother sends them to a day camp run by the Black Panthers. Unexpectedly, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern learn much about their family, their country, and themselves during one truly crazy summer.

Freedom Summer by Deborah Wiles

John Henry swims better than anyone I know.
He crawls like a catfish,
blows bubbles like a swamp monster,
but he doesn’t swim in the town pool with me.
He’s not allowed.
Joe and John Henry are a lot alike. They both like shooting marbles, they both want to be firemen, and they both love to swim. But there’s one important way they’re different: Joe is white and John Henry is black, and in the South in 1964, that means John Henry isn’t allowed to do everything his best friend is. Then a law is passed that forbids segregation and opens the town pool to everyone. Joe and John Henry are so excited they race each other there…only to discover that it takes more than a new law to change people’s hearts.

The Seashore Book by Charlotte Zolotow

A young boy, who has never seen the sea, asks his mother to describe it.

Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach by James Dean

Pete the Cat is one groovy cat at finding shells and building sand castles at the beach. But when it gets too hot, there’s only one way to cool off—jump into the ocean! Except Pete might be a scaredy-cat when it comes to the water.

Beach by Elisha Cooper

“Away to the beach! Away to sand and salt water, to rolling dunes and pounding waves.”

A day at the beach supplies any child with a lifetime of memories. In this new picture book by award-winning author Elisha Cooper, the simple magic of building sand castles, collecting seashells, and running from the waves is brought to life through poetic text and lively illustrations.

Good Night Beach by Adam Gamble

Good Night Beach features building sand castles by the ocean, boating, swimming, exploring the seashore, waves, tidal pools, surfing, fishing, snorkeling, crabs, seagulls, picnics, campfires, sunsets, and more. Grab your beach ball and towel, it’s that time of year again! This charming book guides little ones in discovering all the wonderful things the seashore has to offer.

Beach Bugs: A Sunny Pop-up Book by David A. Carter

From picnic bugs and fireflies to rollercoaster bugs on a warm summer night, this next installment of the wildly popular Bugs series captures what everyone loves about summer!

Mouse’s First Summer by Lauren Thompson

Mouse and Minka invite you to celebrate summer with a picnic in the park. Roll down the hill on tickly green grass. Fly fluttery kites high in the sky. Enjoy some juicy watermelon! And before it’s time to go home, a summer surprise sparkles in the sky.

I See Summer by Charles Ghigna

From lemonade in the shade to picnics in the park, feel the summer season all around us.

Fireflies by Julie Brinckloe

A young boy is proud of having caught a jar full of fireflies, which seems to him like owning a piece of moonlight, but as the light begins to dim he realizes he must set the insects free or they will die.

S Is for S’mores: A Camping Alphabet by Helen Foster James

Next to baseball and fireworks on the Fourth of July, nothing else seems as American as the family camping trip. From what to pack, where to go, and what to do when you get there, S is for S’mores: A Camping Alphabet takes readers on an A-Z trail exploring this outdoor pastime. Veteran camper Helen Foster James tackles topics such as unique camping environments, equipment necessities, famous conservationists, and national parks and other attractions. Whether your idea of “roughing it” is a blanket in your own backyard or the subarctic ecosystem of Alaska’s Denali National Park, S is for S’mores is a fun and informative guide that is sure to help campers of all ages make the most of their wilderness adventures.

A Camping Spree With Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen

Mr. Magee and his trusty dog, Dee, are enjoying a peaceful camping trip when all of a sudden they find themselves plunging down a mountain and teetering on the edge of a huge waterfall! How will they find their way out of this slippery situation? Chris Van Dusen, the creator of Down to the Sea with Mr. Magee, has filled this new adventure with charming illustrations and a playful, rhyming text.

Letters from Camp by Kate Klise

Mom and Dad,
You’ve got to get us out of here! When you get this letter, COME IMMEDIATELY!
— Charlie

The brother-sister pairs who arrive for the summer at Camp Happy Harmony are almost too busy fighting with each other to notice how strange the camp really is. Not only are the campers forced to wear bizarre uniforms, eat gross food, and do chores all day, but the members of the family that runs the camp fight constantly–with each other. Are the campers in danger? Or–in spite of sibling wars–do they need to stick together to solve the mystery humming under the surface of Camp Happy Harmony?

Pictures from Our Vacation by Lynne Rae Perkins

Snap!

With their new cameras

Snap!

a brother and sister

Snap!

take pictures of their vacation.

But when they look at their photographs they see:

1. The back of Dad’s head
2. Feet
3. A container of noodles
That’s it?

Does 1 + 2 + 3 = summer vacation?

What about how it felt to swim in the lake? What about the stories their cousins told and the taste of a just-invented strawberry and whipped cream dessert?

For those memories—the memories of summer and the memories of family that mean the most—they need to look someplace else. Someplace deep inside. Someplace permanent.

The Raft by Jim LaMarche

Nicky is convinced that his summer with his grandmother in the Wisconsin woods is going to be the worst summer ever. She cooks food that he doesn’t like, there’s an art studio where her living room should be, and he’s expected to do chores—including fishing, the most boring chore ever.

But one afternoon, while Nicky is trying to catch their dinner, a raft drifts down the river towards him. The raft has a calming magic about it, affecting both Nicky and the wildlife of the river and woods. Through the raft and the adventures it brings him on, Nicky finds new common ground with his grandmother, a fellow river rat, who encourages him to explore his newfound talent for art.

Froggy Learns to Swim by Jonathan London

Zzzziiiinnngggg splash!
Everyone’s favorite frog learns to swim!

Frogs are supposed to be great swimmers. “Not me!” says Froggy, who’s afraid of the water. But with a little encouragement, some practice, and the help of a silly song or two, Froggy becomes an expert frog-kicker!

What Lives In A Shell? by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld

What makes a shell like a house?

A house is a home for you, a nest is a home for a bird, and a cave is a home for a bear. But for some animals a shell is a home. Snails and turtles and crabs and clams all have shells that act as their homes and protect them from harm. In this book you’ll learn all about these and other crustaceous creatures, for whom a shell is just the right sort of home.

The Moon Jumpers by Janice May Udry (Author), Maurice Sendak (Illustrator)

A lyrical story of night-time, in which four small children and a black cat find themselves enchanted with the loveliness of the hot summer night and the magic of the moon.

Hello Ocean by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Dive into this playful poem about the draw of the shore and the effect the ocean has on all five senses.

Relive a day at the beach with this lovely book of memories. You can almost feel the salt spray on your face and smell the musky scent of ocean in the cool morning air. Remember how the sand squishes between your toes as the tide rushes to shore and taste the tang of the ocean on your lips. Spirited language evokes a sense of closeness and nostalgia for an old friend. The inspiration of the ocean will make learning the five senses as easy as a day at the beach.

Beach Day by Karen Roosa

A cheerful family tumbles out of the car and onto the beach, ready for a perfect day. Buoyant verse just right for reading aloud and bright, playful illustrations capture the singular feeling of a hazy, lazy day by the ocean, complete with a ball game with new friends, water-skiers and sailboats, and a picnic lunch of fried chicken and deviled eggs.

Sea, Sand, Me! by Patricia Hubbell

Uncovering seashells…
jumping in the waves…
It’s a perfect beach day!
And what better way to spend it
than with a new beach friend?

Patricia Hubbell’s light verse skips merrily along, while Lisa Campbell Ernst’s playful scenes picture a sea that is just waiting to be splashed in!

Way Down Deep in the Deep Blue Sea by Jan Peck

Way down deep
in the deep blue sea,
there’s a lot to find.
I guarantee!
Come on! Be brave!
Just follow me!
And let’s explore
the deep blue sea!

A Day at the Seashore by Kathryn Jackson

Nancy and Timmy hop out of their beds one summer morning and help pack their swimsuits and lunch. And then it’s off to the seashore! In a charming rhyme, this Little Golden Book from 1951 (then titled A Day at the Beach) describes what preschoolers will find there: “You can catch little crabs—if you’re quick! You can draw great big pictures right on the beach with a piece of a shell or a stick.” Oh, what fun!

Indi Surfs by Chris Gorman

From surfer dad and photographer Chris Gorman comes Indi Surfs, the story of a little girl who braves the ocean to find the perfect wave. Gorman’s evocative images and text capture the essence of beach culture and the surfer’s journey in the story of a young girl who takes to the waves. Challenged by the ever-changing ocean, Indi shows how patience and persistence pay off in pursuit of the ultimate surfing goal.

Wave by Suzy Lee

In this evocative wordless book, internationally acclaimed artist Suzy Lee tells the story of a little girl’s day at the beach. Stunning in their simplicity, Lee’s illustrations, in just two shades of watercolor, create a vibrant story full of joy and laughter.

One Hot Summer Day by Nina Crews

An effervescent city child dances through a hot summer day until a thunderstorm brings welcome relief.

Pool by Jihyeon Lee

What happens when two shy children meet at a very crowded pool? Dive in to find out! Deceptively simple, this masterful book tells a story of quiet moments and surprising encounters, and reminds us that friendship and imagination have no bounds.

The Uncorker of Ocean Bottles by Michelle Cuevas

The Uncorker of Ocean Bottles, who lives alone atop a hill, has a job of the utmost importance. It is his task to open any bottles found at sea and make sure that the messages are delivered. He loves his job, though he has always wished that, someday, one of the letters would be addressed to him. One day he opens a party invitation—but there’s no name attached. As he devotes himself to the mystery of the intended recipient, he ends up finding something even more special: the possibility of new friends.

A Drive in the Country by Michael J. Rosen

The car has been stocked with drinks and snacks, maps and joke books, treats for horses and ducks — and now it’s time for three kids, two parents, and one excited dog to set off on that most favorite day trip, a drive in the country. The destination? Oh, here, there, and home again, with a fresh appreciation of family togetherness.

There Might Be Lobsters by Carolyn Crimi

Come on, Sukie, you can do it! A little dog’s paralyzing anxiety gives way to bravery when someone smaller is in need in this humorous, tenderly sympathetic story.

Lots of things at the beach scare Sukie. Lots. Because she is just a small dog, and the stairs are big and sandy, and the waves are big and whooshy, and the balls are big and beachy. And besides, there might be lobsters. With endearing illustrations and a perfectly paced text that captures a timid pup’s looping thoughts, here is a funny and honest read-aloud about how overwhelming the world can be when you’re worried — and how empowering it is to overcome your fears when it matters the most.

Night of the Moonjellies by Mark Shasha

Young Mark spends a busy, noisy day helping out at Gram’s seaside hot dog stand. After the last customer is served and the grill is scrubbed to a silvery shine, Mark sails off with Gram for a promised surprise, and finds a nighttime sea full of shimmering moonjellies.

The scientific name for the creatures in this story is Ctenophore, they are also called comb jellies or sea gooseberries. In New England they are most plentiful in the late summer. They are not true jellyfish because they don’t have stinging cells or tentacles. Moonjellies are harmless.

Away by Emil Sher

Love shines through in the sticky notes shared between a mother and daughter in this picture book about making time for family in the midst of our busy lives.

Between work and school, homework and housework, a mother and daughter don’t always get to spend as much time together as they’d like. Add to that a little girl’s fears about leaving home for the first time, and the need to stay close through handwritten notes becomes even more important. As the camp departure date gets closer, Mom does her best to soothe her daughter’s nerves. A visit from her grandmother helps to calm her fears and convince her that she’ll have a good time, even away from her mother and beloved cat. Camp ends up being a wonderful adventure – but nothing is sweeter than a back-at-home reunion.

Secret Sisters of the Salty Sea by Lynne Rae Perkins

Alix and her sister, Jools, have never seen the ocean. When their parents pack them up for a week at the shore, Alix is nervous about leaving home, but excited, too. At the beach, the girls make friends, go exploring, and have adventures both big and small. They pick periwinkles, spot crabs, and discover that the beach is full of endless possibilities. As the week comes to an end, Alix is surprised to find she doesn’t want to leave!

Rules of Summer by Shaun Tan

Never be late for a parade.
Never forget the password.
Never ruin a perfect plan.

It’s all about the rules. But what if the rules feel completely arbitrary? What if your older brother is the only one who gets to make them up all summer long? And what if he’s the only one who can save you when the darkness of winter comes rushing in?

Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome

The first title in Arthur Ransome’s classic series, originally published in 1930: for children, for grownups, for anyone captivated by the world of adventure and imagination. Swallows and Amazons introduces the lovable Walker family, the camp on Wild Cat island, the able-bodied catboat Swallow, and the two intrepid Amazons, Nancy and Peggy Blackett.

Thimble Summer by Elizabeth Enright

A few hours after nine-year-old Garnet Linden finds a silver thimble in the dried-up riverbed, the rains come and end the long drought on the farm. The rains bring safety for the crops and the livestock, and money for Garnet’s father. Garnet can’t help feeling that the thimble is a magic talisman, for the summer proves to be interesting and exciting in so many different ways.
There is the arrival of Eric, an orphan who becomes a member of the Linden family; the building of a new barn; and the county fair at which Garnet’s carefully tended pig, Timmy, wins a blue ribbon. Every day brings adventure of some kind to Garnet and her best friend, Citronella. As far as Garnet is concerned, the thimble is responsible for each good thing that happens during this magic summer―her thimble summer.

All Summer Long by Hope Larson

Thirteen-year-old Bina has a long summer ahead of her. She and her best friend, Austin, usually do everything together, but he’s off to soccer camp for a month, and he’s been acting kind of weird lately anyway. So it’s up to Bina to see how much fun she can have on her own. At first it’s a lot of guitar playing, boredom, and bad TV, but things look up when she finds an unlikely companion in Austin’s older sister, who enjoys music just as much as Bina. But then Austin comes home from camp, and he’s acting even weirder than when he left. How Bina and Austin rise above their growing pains and reestablish their friendship and respect for their differences makes for a touching and funny coming-of-age story.

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall

This summer the Penderwick sisters have a wonderful surprise: a holiday on the grounds of a beautiful estate called Arundel. Soon they are busy discovering the summertime magic of Arundel’s sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts. But the best discovery of all is Jeffrey Tifton, son of Arundel’s owner, who quickly proves to be the perfect companion for their adventures.

The icy-hearted Mrs. Tifton is not as pleased with the Penderwicks as Jeffrey is, though, and warns the new friends to stay out of trouble. Which, of course, they will—won’t they? One thing’s for sure: it will be a summer the Penderwicks will never forget.

Boy’s Life by Robert McCammon

Zephyr, Alabama, is an idyllic hometown for eleven-year-old Cory Mackenson—a place where monsters swim the river deep and friends are forever. Then, one cold spring morning, Cory and his father witness a car plunge into a lake—and a desperate rescue attempt brings his father face-to-face with a terrible vision of death that will haunt him forever.

As Cory struggles to understand his father’s pain, his eyes are slowly opened to the forces of good and evil that are manifested in Zephyr. From an ancient, mystical woman who can hear the dead and bewitch the living, to a violent clan of moonshiners, Cory must confront the secrets that hide in the shadows of his hometown—for his father’s sanity and his own life hang in the balance.

The Body by Stephen King

Author Stephen King’s timeless novella “The Body”—originally published in his 1982 short story collection Different Seasons, and adapted into the 1986 film classic Stand by Me—now available for the first time as a stand-alone publication.

It’s 1960 in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine. Ray Brower, a boy from a nearby town, has disappeared, and twelve-year-old Gordie Lachance and his three friends set out on a quest to find his body along the railroad tracks. During the course of their journey, Gordie, Chris Chambers, Teddy Duchamp, and Vern Tessio come to terms with death and the harsh truths of growing up in a small factory town that doesn’t offer much in the way of a future.

A timeless exploration of the loneliness and isolation of young adulthood, Stephen King’s The Body is an iconic, unforgettable, coming-of-age story.

What’s your favorite summer read?

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How Teens Can Spend Summer

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June 25, 2018 By Jennifer Lambert Leave a Comment

School’s out and summer’s here.

Most teens are in limbo between childhood and adulthood…they might want to just hole up in their rooms and spend all their time on social media.

There are plenty of opportunities for teens to continue learning, get job training, and have fun during summer.

Here’s a list of the top ten ways that teens can spend time this summer:

Explore the Great Outdoors

With flourishing trees and fully blossomed flowers, it’s arguable that nature reaches its peak in the summer.  Getting outside and exploring its beauty is best done by taking the time to walk through and embrace it. You can even make a multi-day adventure out of hiking by pitching a tent with a few friends or family. Camping is an excellent way to take advantage of the cool summer nights and maximize your time enjoying the country’s wildlife. From dazzling beaches to soaring mountains, dense forests to vast plains, the U.S. is full of beauty calling for you to explore. The National Park Service has some handy resources for locating parks and trails near you.

Escape the Heat and Take a Dip

In most areas of the country, the weather is only suitable for swimming for a short period of time. Take advantage of the warmth and sunshine by going for a dip in the oceans, rivers, lakes, swimming pools, water parks or whatever you have access to in your area. There is nothing more refreshing than wading in the water on a hot summer day. With so many public access points at most bodies of water, there is no reason not to visit the thousands of water-spots in the country.

Become an Expert on History and Culture

Museums act as a window into places separated by time and location. They provide the tools to educate people on the history of our predecessors and the world’s intercultural development through the ages. From instructive science exhibits to experiential art displays, museums have a lot to offer for those with an open mind and a will to learn. Make a day trip to a local museum or plan a vacation around seeing multiple exhibits across the country. If you’re on a tight budget, do not fret. There are loads of free museums just a google search away. Check out National Geographic’s list of 20 free U.S. museums that are worth checking out.

Witness the World’s Wildlife

America is home to some of the best zoos and aquariums in the world. When looking into visiting a zoo or aquarium, you must consider the quality of the establishment. It is no secret that sometimes these institutions do not uphold the best treatment for animals. Despite the negligent ones, there are several zoos that do a great job caring for their animals. Read more about how to identify a good zoo.

Once you weed out the bad zoos and aquariums in your own research, there is an immense amount that society can take away from the high quality ones. They help conserve the extensive list of species at risk of becoming extinct, provide an outlet for scientists and animal-life experts to conduct research, and educate the public about our planet’s wildlife. Something to note is that if you research different zoos and aquariums in advance, you will most likely find some limited edition exhibits that pique your interest, so start planning today.

Earn Some Cash and Build Your Resume

With all of the spare time in the summer, getting a part-time job can never hurt. Whether you are saving up for college or earning some money to help fund your summer excursions, it is no doubt that the three-month break from school is a wonderful opportunity to earn some extra cash.  Aside from the financial aspect of getting a job, it is never too early to start gaining work experience. There is something to learn from any job you have, no matter how simple it may seem. Some examples of part-time jobs good for high school students include lifeguarding, working as a cashier, host/hostessing at a restaurant, or being a camp counselor.

If you already have a pretty firm grasp on what you want to study in your post-secondary studies, the summer is perfect for seeking opportunities such as internships or specialty camps that provide insight into your desired field of study. When looking for a job later down the line, it may be beneficial to prove to the potential employer that you had an early interest in the field and have several years of experience. Even if you are unsure of your interest, these programs can give you an idea of whether or not it is a profession that you would like to further consider.

Declutter and Dispose with a Garage Sale

Summer break is a time for not only cleansing your mind but for purging unused or unwanted possessions. Whether you’re going off to college in the fall or simply need a fresh start, garage and yard sales are a great way for you to declutter your living space and get rid of those belongings that you haven’t touched in years.

If you’re having trouble getting this project rolling, let the thought of earning a few extra dollars motivate you. All you have to do to start is throw open your attic door, have two boxes labeled “Keep” and “Sell,” and get to sorting. Pick a day that works for you and list your yard sale in the appropriate classified sections of both Craigslist and your local newspaper. People won’t know you’re selling all this great stuff if you don’t advertise the event. Whatever you don’t sell, you can donate to local charities or even friends and family.

Explore Yourself through Self Expression

Ever have a hairstyle or cool outfit you wanted to sport? With three months away from your peers and teachers, it’s your time to explore yourself without fear of judgement. Summer is the perfect opportunity for you to test out new ways of expressing yourself and find out just what it is you have to offer the world. This doesn’t stop at your appearance. With your spare time, you can sign up for a dance class, learn an instrument, stylize your room, join a sports team and so much more. Live your best life this summer and have fun finding yourself.

Visit Places Only Your Imagination Can Take You

During the year, it can be difficult to read for leisure when you’re constantly bombarded with reading assignments at school. This summer, take the time to read something for yourself without any deadlines or papers in the mix. You might be surprised where your imagination takes you and what you can learn from a good book. If you don’t know how to find the right book for you, join a local reading club or check TIME’s list of 100 best books for young adults.

Have Fun on the Fairgrounds

Carnival rides and fair food are the pinnacle of American culture. Each summer, people travel from surrounding towns to go to the nearest fairgrounds and come together for a celebration of life. If you’re on social media, you most likely have seen ferris wheels and funnel cake flood your Instagram feed when the season rolls around. The truth is, it’s usually as fun as the pictures suggest. Many of these fairs offer petting zoos, games, rides and other festivities perfect for a day of fun with your family, friends, or romantic interest. Look up county and state fairs that are happening near you and start planning your visit today.

Put Others Before Yourself

Don’t feel bad if you’re spending your summer focusing on yourself, but if you have the time, you can do some work for others. Completing community service leaves you with a feeling of fulfillment and a sense of achievement. You can always log your hours and add the experience to your resume. If you’re a college-bound teen, volunteering your time is a great way to stand out to college admissions counselors and show them your quality of character. Read more about why volunteering is a key component in the college admissions process.

The opportunities are endless when it comes to deciding how to spend your summer. No matter how you choose to spend it, the important part is that you have fun and stay safe. Be proactive and make the most of your time this summer.

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How to Have a Legendary Summer

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May 15, 2018 By Jennifer Lambert Leave a Comment

We’ve lived the last three years in Europe and exploring all the history and culture was so fun and exciting.

Since we’ve moved back to the States, we’ve been exploring our local offerings in Ohio and the surrounding areas. We’re loving the warmer weather. And being able to speak to anybody easily in English. While we miss Europe, we try to make the most of wherever we are.

The American expectation of summer vacation is a bit much for us. We don’t have the desire or budget to do an all-out huge beach trip. We don’t live near a good beach. My eldest has a part time job and my husband works full time. As homeschoolers, we still do school work during summers so we don’t ever feel rushed by a schedule. And the neurotic cat gets sick any time we leave for more than a day.

We’re staying close to home this summer.

The kids are fine with roller blading before breakfast and playing in the sprinkler or riding bikes in the afternoons.

We do FREE bowling several times a week.

We live on a small street and the kids have a few friends who often play together. I like being the mom who knows where everyone is, providing lemonade and popsicles or cookies.

I miss the summers when I was young and everyone was out all day long except for meals. It seems so many kids are overscheduled with classes, camps, sports, activities. We like peace and leisure.

We stay up late and sleep a little later and eat when we’re hungry. We like to eat outside on the deck since it’s so shady or have a picnic at a park. We often have bonfires with smores in the backyard firepit.

We eat lots of ice cream.

We play in the woods behind the house and catch frogs and crawdads in the creek and pond and play on the little wooden bridge and under the big trees. We watch the butterflies in the meadow and search for deer tracks in the mud.

We create, draw, sing, dance, dream, watch clouds.

We pretend.

I feel it’s very important that children have lots of free time to play so they have a pretty unstructured existence until they’re teens. The kids still contribute and do chores and help and learn how to run a household, but it’s all necessary teamwork for smooth living.

Childhood should be about playtime.

How to have a legendary summer:

You don’t have to drive 12 hours to the beach or spend a lot of money to have a legendary summer.

Explore the town or nearest city. There are lots of fun, frugal, and free activities right in our own area.

There are plenty of fun free outdoor activities to do near our house – splash pads, local parks, nature trails, bike paths, and more.

Sometimes, indoor playgrounds are just the thing – roller skating, jumping places, arcades, bowling.

Occasionally movies.

We go to the library often.

The girls volunteer at VBS.

Museum memberships often pay for themselves after a couple visits and we love museums when the weather is too uncomfortable to be outdoors for long.

I have a lineup of fun handcrafts the kids can do on their own or with a little supervision. Tie dye, beadwork, clay and paint projects, sewing, cooking.

Dad deploys this fall, so we’re taking a little camping trip at a nearby lake before he leaves. We love fishing and camping and hiking.

Summer is a lazy easy time to get dirty in the garden, play at the park, watch hummingbirds at the backyard feeder.

Don’t stress over summer. Have fun and make memories.

I love the fun matching cool summer looks from Gymboree that are perfect for all our summer adventures and photo opps for our military family.

I miss when my kids were little and I got all the matching looks for picture day:

I don’t worry about dirt, mud, or grass stains.

And kids are supposed to get messy and dirty! That means they’re having fun and making memories!

How will you have a legendary summer?

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How To Have an Easy Summer

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May 29, 2017 By Jennifer Lambert 29 Comments

Summer is here and I’m not ready.

I don’t have any Summer Bridge workbooks, pool noodles, or a horde of empty plastic containers for crafts.

We homeschool year-round, but we take lots of breaks to take advantage of weather, travel opps…really, just whenever we feel like it.

Since when did summer become this huge reality TV-worthy contest of who has the coolest crafts, funnest activities, most experiences?

I know Pinterest and other social media just feed that beast.

I’m tired of feeling like I have to spend tons of time and money to make my kids happy because the world tells me I should.

I vow to have an easier summer.

You won’t see me competing this year to win the mom of the season (not that I’ve ever entered into the craftalympics, ever).

I guess I grew up in a different time when summer wasn’t about cramming for the next school year. My mom didn’t do a craft fair with the entire neighborhood. No one organized block parties to do themed summer day camps. I never even attended VBS.

I survived summers on cherry Popsicles, fishing for crawdads in the {forbidden} creek, riding my banana-seat cruiser bike all over town, dancing in muddy gutters when it rained, and mooching bologna and cheese white-bread sandwiches (with yellow mustard) off my friends’ moms at lunchtime.

My mom didn’t know where I was most days. I pushed the limits and escaped into trees, the winding creek beds of the Flint River, the dirt bike lot. The boundaries were only the busy Lake Harbin and Lanier Roads. I didn’t have chores or an allowance. I didn’t have a job until I was 16. Summers were about freedom.

I was free range, baby.

Kids these days are being stifled with overplanning and busyness.

How We Will Have an Easy Summer

We will read books we like.

I don’t plan to quiz my children on math facts or Latin rules. I don’t want to plan a homeschool theme for next year. I don’t want to create another planner I shall never, ever use. We will still take trips to the library. We will stock up our Kindle app. We will read for fun.

I will to take my kids to the pool.

No, not that expensive water park with the rainforest theme and $15 non-food nachos at the concession. Just a neighborhood pool. We have several options to choose from in our city. And there are creeks and lakes to explore. Or we will buy a cheap plastic one and splash in the back yard. Water play is a summer must-do!

We will bake and create together.

I actually like spending time with my kids. When our school year reaches that transition point, we celebrate with cookies and paint! Art too often gets pushed aside for math and reading and history. We love to try and create new recipes together. We have no excuses to play and make messes!

Riding bikes is still fun.

I want my kids to know the freedom of riding bikes (or roller blading or scootering) around the neighborhood, playing outside, and not coming home until the streetlights come on. And they can do that in our town!

Exploring nature is learning.

We have great hiking trails and woods and a creek right in our backyard. My kids aren’t as fearless as I was to go out on their own, so I will take them exploring often this summer until they feel more comfortable on their own. We love the creek that runs through our village!

Bored? It’s ok to be bored.

No incriminating boredom jar with chores or planned activities. No threats or punishments for using a “bad” word. We don’t use rewards or punishments in our home. I refuse to be my kids’ activity director. They can use their imaginations, toys, arts and crafts supplies, the great outdoors, and play. Just like I did when I was young. Boredom is the great motivator.

No Guilt

If the kids are on their iPads a lot…listening to Spotify, or playing apps and computer games for hours, it’s ok. If they want to spend hours on Netflix, it’s ok. If my teen wants to chat online for ages with acquaintances all over the world, it’s ok.

If I sometimes do it, why can’t kids?

I refuse to have a checklist of items my kids must do in order to earn screentime.

Summer is about down time. Summer is doing whatever you want.

I have great summer memories and they don’t involve money or making gigantic larger-than-life dice or humongous Scrabble patio games.

My memories are mostly simple ones, like catching fireflies in a jar, camping in the backyard, playing in the sprinkler, watching clouds and birds, riding my bike everywhere. Also, binge watching B movies on Channel 17, AMC, Turner Classics. And MTV, when it actually played music videos.

I want my kids to appreciate the simple.

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Summer Bible Studies

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July 26, 2016 By Jennifer Lambert 6 Comments

I always get super excited for Lent and Advent because it’s SO EASY to study the Bible with a plethora of choices during those times of the year.

It’s often difficult to find good Bible studies during the summer months when schedules so often go out the window.

The kids took a break from their Bible workbooks for the summer.

Summer is for slowing down and enjoying the outdoors, re-evaluating our homeschool and family priorities, having lazy late suppers and staying up late with the sunshine.

Churches often put Sunday school on hold since so many people are traveling and attendance is down and it saves on costs of materials.

But that doesn’t mean we don’t read or study any Bible at all.

Summer Bible Studies

Our summer Bible studies:

Each morning, the younger three kids read a chapter or section in Sword Fighting, What the Bible is All About, and Window on the World. These are their choices.

My middle girls are continuing with the History Lives series, reading Courage and Conviction.

I’ve been writing through scripture with FREE monthly plans from Sweet Blessings.

My teen and I just finished I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist and now we read a section of Manual of Christian Doctrine each day.

Every evening, we use the Pray Now app and read scripture, writings of church fathers, and a section from The Book of Concord. I like the format. My grandmother was Lutheran, but we don’t really adhere to a denomination.

We also have a morning basket with lots of resources on missionaries, martyrs, prayer, memorization, and different Bibles. We utilize these most mornings.

Other fun Bible studies we’ve done in our homeschool:

  • Grapevine Bible Studies
  • Apologia What We Believe series

We’re not into Bible journaling or Bible coloring books. I feel that these activities take away from reading, studying, and learning scripture.

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Forest Berries

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July 21, 2016 By Jennifer Lambert 18 Comments

We went foraging in our forest for wild berries.

Forest Berries and Foraging

The girls have been interested in wildflowers for a while, so we acquired some guidebooks to go exploring and identifying plants.

Forest Berries Wildflower Book

We have lots of trails in the woods near our house, meandering all through the Pfalzwald. We love the easy walks to look at the flowers and listen to the birds. There’s even a creek that runs through for us to play in and look for newts.

The blackberries are just now flowering and we haven’t seen any blueberries or raspberries.

The wild strawberries or forest berries (Waldbeeren in German!) are just now ripening along the trails.

First Forest Strawberry

We got quite a bit of ripe forest berries on our hike!

Forest Berries
We brought our harvest back and added sour cherries to our kombucha and snacked on the wild strawberries.

The wild strawberries are super sweet and the kids prefer them to store-bought strawberries because the seeds aren’t so big and they’re so cute and tiny.

We also went on another walk later in the week and harvested sweet cherries to make into sauce.

Safety first! When foraging, you have to be 150% sure of correct identification. Books aren’t the most reliable ways to go foraging. It’s better to have an educated local guide to help differentiate between similar plants. We saw a plant that looked like a bilberry, but I was too nervous to try!

We made Blueberry Buckle for breakfast one morning, but with storebought berries.

Blueberry Buckle Kids in the Kitchen

Katie loves baking and is quite adept at breakfast cakes!

Kids in the Kitchen Blueberry Buckle

I really love the little pop of ginger in this blueberry buckle. It freshens the taste of the cake and berries.

Blueberry Buckle
Print

Blueberry Buckle

Course Breakfast
Cuisine cake
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 8 slices

Ingredients

Cake

  • 2 cups flour AP works fine, but we like cake or pastry flour
  • 1 t baking powder
  • 1/2 t salt
  • 1/2 t ginger ground is fine, but fresh grated adds kick!
  • 2 T butter
  • 3/4 c sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 c milk
  • 1 small package blueberries fresh or frozen (about 1.5 cups)

Topping

  • 1/2 c sugar we used brown sugar for more depth
  • 1/3 c flour
  • 1/2 t nutmeg
  • 2 T butter chilled works better
More recipes:Strawberry Pretzel Salad/Dessert | The Gifted GabberHealthy Frozen Raspberry and Yogurt Dessert {Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free} | Living Montessori NowLinking up: Crafty Moms Share, Ask Latisha, The Crazy Organized Blog, Oh My Heartsie Girl, Denise Designed, Saving 4 Six, Bloghetti, Life of Faith, Books and Giggles, What Joy is Mine, Marilyns Treats, Modest Mom, A Fresh Start on a Budget, Inspiration for Moms, Written Reality, Strangers and Pilgrims on Earth, Smart Moms Smart Ideas, Darling Downs Diaries, MaryAndering Creatively, Practical Mom, Curly Craft Mom, Holly Barrett, Cornerstone Confessions, VMG206,  Sarah Celebrates, RCH Reviews, Simple Life of a Fire Wife, Sherry Wilson, ABC Creative Learning,  Raising Homemakers, Jamiffer, Penny’s Passion, Adventures of Mel, Lamberts Lately,  I Choose Joy, Frog’s Lilypad, Pat and Candy, Bloom Designs, Pocketful of Posies, A Little R&R, Live Laugh Rowe, Katherine’s Corner, The Natural Homeschool, Crystal and Comp, A Bountiful Love,  A Bowl Full of Lemons, Feeding Big, Christian Montessori Network, Design Dining and Diapers, Sincerely Paula, OMHG,  Create with Joy, The Diary of a Real Housewife, Life with Lorelai, Cooking on a Budget, Happy and Blessed Home, Sugar Spice and Family Life, Our Daily Craft, Being a Wordsmith,
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Cool Fruit Ices

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June 28, 2016 By Jennifer Lambert Leave a Comment

Our summers are short here in Germany.

It’s often rainy and cloudy and temperatures can drop suddenly. Our plans have to remain flexible.

When the sun shines and it’s warm, we rush to the pools, barefoot parks, and make fun, cool treats to enjoy!

My girls love simple fruit ices that combine real fruit into a delicious cool treat to beat the heat.

We don’t have air conditioner, so staying cool in summer can be a challenge.

This week, we combined fresh watermelon, lime juice, honey, and ice in the blender to cool off.

I sliced and chopped the juicey watermelon and added it to the blender.

Katie added ice and honey and lime juice.

Making Ices

She likes to push the “on” button.

Blending Ices

These ices are super simple and not too sweet.

Pretty Straw in Watermelon Ice

We also love making ices with berries. These are also fun to freeze in silicone tubes!

Easy Watermelon Ices

Cool real fruit treats are healthy in the summertime or anytime. Also great with additions of strawberries, pineapple, or mint!

Print

Fruit Ices

Cuisine Beverage
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 cups

Ingredients

  • 1/2 small watermelon seedless (If you can’t get seedless, you might need to blend and strain the watermelon first.)
  • 1-2 T honey or agave
  • 1-2 T lime or lemon juice
  • 1 cup ice

Instructions

  1. Cut the watermelon flesh from the rind. Cube the watermelon and add to the blender.
  2. Add sweetener, juice, and ice to blender and blend until smooth and frothy.
  3. Pour into pretty cups or jars with fun straws and ENJOY!


Check out the other cool treats!

Strawberry-Peach Ice Cream Float | The Gifted Gabber

Kids’ Kitchen: Berry Yummy and Healthy Protein-Rich Popsicles | Living Montessori Now

Strawberry Creamsicles | Kitchen Counter Chronicles

Simple Watermelon Popsicles  |  Royal Baloo

Homemade Ice Cream in a Bag | Mess for Less

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