tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1781829326839106602024-02-07T02:16:52.189-08:00Tales from a MotherAmanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.comBlogger929125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-83633081211309491342019-08-28T20:27:00.000-07:002019-08-28T20:27:34.864-07:00Groovy Lab in a Box {Shake It Up} - Part 1: It's Not My Fault!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our first science unit this semester is geology. We begin by learning about earthquakes with the help of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Groovy-Lab-in-a-Box/dp/B07FSYKGSH/ref=sr_1_2?crid=57ROV2GEP14Q&keywords=groovy+lab+in+a+box&qid=1567006233&s=gateway&sprefix=Groovy+lab%2Caps%2C201&sr=8-2" target="_blank">Groovy Lab in a Box</a>, a subscription based STEM project kit. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This Groovy Lab in a Box is called <i>Shake It Up.</i> The ultimate challenge in this box is to design and build a skyscraper that can withstand and earthquake.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zoey is concerned about how earthquakes affect a city, so this experiment is perfect because the goal is to learn how engineers build structures to withstand the movement an earthquake causes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But let's not get ahead of ourselves...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First, we learned what an earthquake is:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihuXrVSkqnFUxi3RQg6YvWTYC7FWPCCuQlZkmXvbuNVjpOQ6hvqbu4ev5F8TVj8F6D_7Age4MvYGYYCqOhxQMm5SBgDp6Yznbbgq4S2BUXGqeaAv8IR0Fs2wERZjm-mxyvJVqfDc18Hfc/s1600/earthquake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="219" data-original-width="480" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihuXrVSkqnFUxi3RQg6YvWTYC7FWPCCuQlZkmXvbuNVjpOQ6hvqbu4ev5F8TVj8F6D_7Age4MvYGYYCqOhxQMm5SBgDp6Yznbbgq4S2BUXGqeaAv8IR0Fs2wERZjm-mxyvJVqfDc18Hfc/s400/earthquake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next question is why earthquakes happen. To answer that we had to talk about tectonic plates and fault lines. Japan is the intersections of four separate tectonic plates (this was very exciting to learn since one of our next units is all about Japan). If an earthquake happens on the west coast of Japan, Tokyo could feel it 160 miles away! That's a long way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is time to bring that closer to home. The western coast of the United States follows the edge of a tectonic plate. [<a href="http://discovermagazine.com/2019/july/ewk-plate-tectonics" target="_blank">Check out this tectonic plate map</a>]. We determined this was why Washington gets so many earthquakes. Though ours are small in comparison to many. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We learned California has a fault line going straight through the state called the <a href="https://geology.com/articles/san-andreas-fault.shtml" target="_blank">San Andreas Fault</a>. That explains why California has has earthquakes out of the continuous United States. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zoey kept asking questions and we kept finding answers...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But then how do we measure how big an earthquake is? The waves of energy are called seismic waves and calculated by the Richter Scale. We broke each of these parts down and learned more, including that Charles Richter, an American sismologist and physicist, created the Richter magnitude scale. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once we had an idea of what an earthquake is, why it happens and how we measure it, the experiment could begin!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our first investigation was called "It's Not My Fault!" and showed how movement within the earth effects the surface and the buildings on the earth's crust. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fww8-2Q_tYbexBC-eqT4CxaGczfAqiiZqL5MBg0ptwCuiOZIIiiMmqkJfZxEmXbUkgbJTdX2tMh2Oo0gP82qF-GuZierbkiTTJwV6GmcDRp_Jcw8tvlFRaH8Eusxh9aPr629jGDGrCk/s1600/IMG_20190827_104031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fww8-2Q_tYbexBC-eqT4CxaGczfAqiiZqL5MBg0ptwCuiOZIIiiMmqkJfZxEmXbUkgbJTdX2tMh2Oo0gP82qF-GuZierbkiTTJwV6GmcDRp_Jcw8tvlFRaH8Eusxh9aPr629jGDGrCk/s640/IMG_20190827_104031.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting materials together </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Zoey loved coloring rice, which we eventually layered in a cup to show the layers of the earth. She also loved the creative task of creating a house our of model clay. Anything that is artistic and building is fun in Zoey's book!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Ebu2SwJ9of4pArBNsMPZhyF3v8OWm5IogJ9kAFt1vUixlxgnwxDZouJ6lD90IPy6dJeXMwtqkUTYf5t1RhdIOU_iP7Y2H6LTeDURcAy1BHSFxwvTCkXNfAV9gfjXSbxZi3cm1MXvw4E/s640/IMG_20190827_104057.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making some colored rice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Ebu2SwJ9of4pArBNsMPZhyF3v8OWm5IogJ9kAFt1vUixlxgnwxDZouJ6lD90IPy6dJeXMwtqkUTYf5t1RhdIOU_iP7Y2H6LTeDURcAy1BHSFxwvTCkXNfAV9gfjXSbxZi3cm1MXvw4E/s1600/IMG_20190827_104057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Ebu2SwJ9of4pArBNsMPZhyF3v8OWm5IogJ9kAFt1vUixlxgnwxDZouJ6lD90IPy6dJeXMwtqkUTYf5t1RhdIOU_iP7Y2H6LTeDURcAy1BHSFxwvTCkXNfAV9gfjXSbxZi3cm1MXvw4E/s1600/IMG_20190827_104057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClHWkCOONmsHjaMMmVLcbrEzEyqImSH6EyT4sKZqAdL9ch4YYlNJfNAo4Fy-jEgovzJiMCkdtEZN2eE73zNtxfgzYkZRU4O78ZpSQwCTlHCaQ0dcTZKHqlmvPjmkQNZDot3mYh8blR0s/s1600/IMG_20190827_104826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClHWkCOONmsHjaMMmVLcbrEzEyqImSH6EyT4sKZqAdL9ch4YYlNJfNAo4Fy-jEgovzJiMCkdtEZN2eE73zNtxfgzYkZRU4O78ZpSQwCTlHCaQ0dcTZKHqlmvPjmkQNZDot3mYh8blR0s/s640/IMG_20190827_104826.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixing it up...*shake shake*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4b_H_-5warbwCMbMDWIND22OdyrR0pcyFbSuPp-csJg5HQn18sX0blfDKDUsIkBtxM6nqW4ARyfrBMi_HMv8t60oA7E2TV4oHcBjJL79XZ4M4IvZABqNc6ggkEHYl2mqtVVDf47Z_Us/s1600/IMG_20190827_111404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4b_H_-5warbwCMbMDWIND22OdyrR0pcyFbSuPp-csJg5HQn18sX0blfDKDUsIkBtxM6nqW4ARyfrBMi_HMv8t60oA7E2TV4oHcBjJL79XZ4M4IvZABqNc6ggkEHYl2mqtVVDf47Z_Us/s640/IMG_20190827_111404.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laying the colored rice out to dry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Zoey moved a card that rested on the bottom of the cup to show how movement, even far down the earth's crust would shift anything on the surface. Zoey wrote down her observations that the little house fell over and the represented earth layers also shifted.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukeNrNukj7mK7l_03r8fimlQ0UP_LvbNuHfY6gm5MYSmL1kQ3V1FFC0Ou6TytdhkDJm4GrA_Rztq9UaIP9iynh_SSChWYcvbO1eYK24p1GDOqkPQQiUJVZbjtCmtMaaZAmm2Iq4bi7iQ/s1600/IMG_20190827_111907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukeNrNukj7mK7l_03r8fimlQ0UP_LvbNuHfY6gm5MYSmL1kQ3V1FFC0Ou6TytdhkDJm4GrA_Rztq9UaIP9iynh_SSChWYcvbO1eYK24p1GDOqkPQQiUJVZbjtCmtMaaZAmm2Iq4bi7iQ/s640/IMG_20190827_111907.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time to experiment :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
As we went through the scientific method with this experiment, we also had a few things that didn't go to plan. One thing was we forgot to put the card all the way down in the cup, so it didn't work at first. We poured the rice out to try again, but then the layers got all mixed up, so it was harder to see the shifts in the "earth" as the movement occurred.<br />
<br />
Still, we understand what the lesson is trying to show and learned a lot more about earthquakes in general. It was a fun lesson and a productive experiment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFLEu_69hyphenhyphenbWk_MxbIbG9C0qD4q08VvOd-wjndAiPuD6DCtQZrA2627TWLT00rS94Vu7w0VWaSOz5_HsK_CfROTUOhfwcmjzczO7sd_jhldrZWz3YDuM2JRgcvuQipjq4TFqqpKC6cWo/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="500" height="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyFLEu_69hyphenhyphenbWk_MxbIbG9C0qD4q08VvOd-wjndAiPuD6DCtQZrA2627TWLT00rS94Vu7w0VWaSOz5_HsK_CfROTUOhfwcmjzczO7sd_jhldrZWz3YDuM2JRgcvuQipjq4TFqqpKC6cWo/s320/signature.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-43815101941002616062019-01-07T23:30:00.000-08:002019-01-07T23:30:11.278-08:00Back to School, Back to SwimToday was the first day back to school from winter break. Though reluctant to get back into a schedule, we had a great day.<br />
<br />
We worked on math and science today. It took us a little bit to get going, but once we did all was well. It is amazing how quick you can get rusty on multiplication tables. We got through them, but not as fast as we once could. I even had to look up a few products.<br />
<br />
We are learning about aquaponics in our science unit. This is largely brought on by our family Christmas present - an aquarium and aquaponics grow bed. We got the system all set up and are working on the balances and learning about the system.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvFcMpWJz0zH5OQw_a4oM3cmIQycf5W3JGTsut0zg4jqJpkioLBmaSA0xUQyc5I-Xweb74acOWC1hGrWsa6KWJ00eFa2ESC0eX8hlSwGqV27C5qh8hIOurucx4iGluyI_xLu1qGekOQY/s1600/IMG_20181225_170246.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvFcMpWJz0zH5OQw_a4oM3cmIQycf5W3JGTsut0zg4jqJpkioLBmaSA0xUQyc5I-Xweb74acOWC1hGrWsa6KWJ00eFa2ESC0eX8hlSwGqV27C5qh8hIOurucx4iGluyI_xLu1qGekOQY/s640/IMG_20181225_170246.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
Today was also the first day for swim lessons. She was a little frustrated that they are repeating a lot of the things she already knew, but she still enjoyed being in the water. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6r6RTlZw7RX_sX4PPMRlCkhnJf8vyKhEZ-UCTKTNw9pCAjL3_MaTT2hHgbFEdRRSeUMhFIhye0ocG7i49ssqsb5T-j0y1sbDTUkXt6sRzlm81PogCLi5tzxq-hPXbALMXZJ5nPZPc8Q/s1600/IMG_20190107_151919.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6r6RTlZw7RX_sX4PPMRlCkhnJf8vyKhEZ-UCTKTNw9pCAjL3_MaTT2hHgbFEdRRSeUMhFIhye0ocG7i49ssqsb5T-j0y1sbDTUkXt6sRzlm81PogCLi5tzxq-hPXbALMXZJ5nPZPc8Q/s640/IMG_20190107_151919.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a great first day back. I am thankful for the amazing opportunity to homeschool and for these wonderful experiences we have together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64q17isKwjLQxau0b8K6ecuFbXmcL4NTAWrUvb9LvtLpAxDj-NuxOJmFyZeUfFffWXMaE8sBwphQltrLradEAXu0grJTe8hGKNt3e-1NxmLeK5QVqCBXDkWNwtTwNJT_9JKsrq4C5t_k/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64q17isKwjLQxau0b8K6ecuFbXmcL4NTAWrUvb9LvtLpAxDj-NuxOJmFyZeUfFffWXMaE8sBwphQltrLradEAXu0grJTe8hGKNt3e-1NxmLeK5QVqCBXDkWNwtTwNJT_9JKsrq4C5t_k/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
<br />Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-79774360834182005582018-11-09T17:00:00.000-08:002018-11-09T17:07:13.555-08:00McCusker Homeschooling Journal - Nov 2018 - Week 1<h2>
Math</h2>
<br />
Our focus for this week is multiplication. We began the week working with a review of what we have learned so far, which covers our 1-6 multiplication tables.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2oLlPhRlNvshCIZQDHFSttxZERL5lHLTR6te6xDeBqBeIfsYcvTisM9gC5viRxdP4Kq1zjg5r-dsSXk7Le-HQwyQXr33fu9U-hDQe0xbndiJ6r7jDhS_5h0QTLULkB8WQx_KwWrCGp9M/s1600/IMG_20181105_133859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2oLlPhRlNvshCIZQDHFSttxZERL5lHLTR6te6xDeBqBeIfsYcvTisM9gC5viRxdP4Kq1zjg5r-dsSXk7Le-HQwyQXr33fu9U-hDQe0xbndiJ6r7jDhS_5h0QTLULkB8WQx_KwWrCGp9M/s640/IMG_20181105_133859.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We practiced in a fun way using a game that is similar to Sequence. We rolled two 6-sided dice and multiplied the two numbers together. We found the product on the board and marked it off. The first person who got four in a row won (there were several copies of each number to choose where on the board to mark.) I won this round, but only barely. This was a great way make practice fun.<br />
<br />
Zoey also covered her seven and eight times tables this week. We did some practice with these as well with fun math games.<br />
<br />
We also practiced coordinate by playing a pirate Battleship style game. I won, but only by a couple turns, Zoey had my ship in her sights and I wasn't lasting long!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLLkX69Q_LDLUa8x5xDmVAe49mgcFnCYNd9ncrx_pv4LGXo3pJXxZQ8TK-aaeoCIhhGZWtgjyVLDL7C-dpF77KyGG8WhFUv0xuGq-i7ml8YTabhunpokSt5sLB7PYy62yhyFN7vnENwQ/s1600/img212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="1600" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLLkX69Q_LDLUa8x5xDmVAe49mgcFnCYNd9ncrx_pv4LGXo3pJXxZQ8TK-aaeoCIhhGZWtgjyVLDL7C-dpF77KyGG8WhFUv0xuGq-i7ml8YTabhunpokSt5sLB7PYy62yhyFN7vnENwQ/s400/img212.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sSPKr3Y3U_XJOqL-gaGMvsF9hUy3Z7qIOfSGp9Vmvx-KWUEOi-AR5V9DRlIPA_7MdG-lETFKvk8gpM9s7LEp1-yTNxCpadFzGmD0UvUGYn91v2iK3SwnPPbPxugpslUW2yWRfY5MQO8/s1600/img213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1113" data-original-width="1600" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sSPKr3Y3U_XJOqL-gaGMvsF9hUy3Z7qIOfSGp9Vmvx-KWUEOi-AR5V9DRlIPA_7MdG-lETFKvk8gpM9s7LEp1-yTNxCpadFzGmD0UvUGYn91v2iK3SwnPPbPxugpslUW2yWRfY5MQO8/s400/img213.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<h2>
Science</h2>
<br />
We learned about the scientific method in preparation for more science projects. We also read about several sea creatures, which we will expand on soon.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Reading</h2>
<div>
We read several books this week, mostly having to do with the midterm elections and what it means to vote, pirates and sea animals.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<ol>
<li>The Pirate Meets the Queen by Matt Faulkner </li>
<li>The Pirate Queen by Barbara Sjoholm </li>
<li>When you grow up to vote by Eleanor Roosevelt </li>
<li>Elizabeth Leads the Way by Tanya Lee Stone </li>
<li>The Magnificent Book of Ocean Creatures by Tom Jackson</li>
</ol>
<h2>
Writing</h2>
Writing thank you notes is a good habit, to acknowledge the generosity of others. Zoey wrote in response to holiday cards and to supporters of her <a href="http://www.talesfromamother.com/2018/11/extra-life-gaming-to-support-musc.html" target="_blank">Extra Life Game-a-thon</a>, which benefited the children at MUSC.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Spelling/Language Arts</h2>
Spelling and Language Arts went hand in hand this week. We covered our Spectrum Spelling Lesson 9, which included words where you have to drop the "e" and at -ed or -ing. As she studied this skill, she also practiced her spelling words. We also discussed Alliteration and how it can be used as a writing technique.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifT8ZFN_9RThirS0Hj3IYI7qp3Bv8k2ZQQYrzbcEEOt2DghNdzqbwhdz4YCaYOfTNrSxVOIfD7Yecnlpa-l3xlcIipKPz_XfkuDBTDePvrKKvR4G4z4GIshkjn3D_xnF1EpQBrecCnCP0/s1600/img202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1207" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifT8ZFN_9RThirS0Hj3IYI7qp3Bv8k2ZQQYrzbcEEOt2DghNdzqbwhdz4YCaYOfTNrSxVOIfD7Yecnlpa-l3xlcIipKPz_XfkuDBTDePvrKKvR4G4z4GIshkjn3D_xnF1EpQBrecCnCP0/s400/img202.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lpjua-vZa6FqzpwCMVST8j-4hb1vZQtJwSodaToPixZKcv8VGNAkSatEYSGgC3flEmCohkRjHz1dqsSVHUiP5tcOSVdkvcUqaFeQw7Zr5Pj0TEOQPjX-lqMLPCYCKq2Kqet3EaK8J7E/s1600/img204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1032" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lpjua-vZa6FqzpwCMVST8j-4hb1vZQtJwSodaToPixZKcv8VGNAkSatEYSGgC3flEmCohkRjHz1dqsSVHUiP5tcOSVdkvcUqaFeQw7Zr5Pj0TEOQPjX-lqMLPCYCKq2Kqet3EaK8J7E/s400/img204.jpg" width="257" /></a><br />
<br />
She improved greatly throughout this week in spelling, her practice really paid off.<br />
<br />
<h2>
History</h2>
History and reading combine in our study of Grace O'Malley, an Irish Pirate Queen. There is a lot of lore surrounding this strong female leader during the 16th century. We first heard of O'Malley while reading <span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Lives of the Pirates</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> by Kathleen Krull and Kathryn Hewitt. We continued our study by reading</span><br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-e20bd743-7fff-22b3-f1dc-7289d11c7585"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Pirate Meets the Queen </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">by Matt Faulkner and </span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Pirate Queen </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">by Barbara Sjoholm. These offered great information about how Grace met Queen Elizabeth I and successfully got her son released from prison. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nHh5U8kE6CNKgnyz1wiOwgtKcf7wznL6shMwXUiQsjj4SrHuIQDvFwoXKcAfzS4snzHcwAbaTP5f2h8mB6Sm5js2akl5WOC7ii0TB0_RbP51374TuQhEtSZa96XE68vPWyiovLIOLFc/s1600/img201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1330" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nHh5U8kE6CNKgnyz1wiOwgtKcf7wznL6shMwXUiQsjj4SrHuIQDvFwoXKcAfzS4snzHcwAbaTP5f2h8mB6Sm5js2akl5WOC7ii0TB0_RbP51374TuQhEtSZa96XE68vPWyiovLIOLFc/s640/img201.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We also finished up our pirates unit this week (at least officially, though Zoey is still interested in the subject). Zoey created a large booklet for Blackbeard with a dynamic picture she picked out because it showed why "everyone feared him." She did great gathering her notes and creating a final project. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvlm7kjuPL8PlUvLyFkWoZ1wlkdmSQuoOvC6QaBvvSIO2RubHqsLVquwBd5zwmp4JHEJhNb5CkoQXZhIJ2mmj4cXxuMmZds1zAfRx9owsIZC7avCUV0EPUh2eXiYHGLIJUJUYQoQeCVE/s1600/IMG_20181108_145409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjvlm7kjuPL8PlUvLyFkWoZ1wlkdmSQuoOvC6QaBvvSIO2RubHqsLVquwBd5zwmp4JHEJhNb5CkoQXZhIJ2mmj4cXxuMmZds1zAfRx9owsIZC7avCUV0EPUh2eXiYHGLIJUJUYQoQeCVE/s640/IMG_20181108_145409.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipPFlscp-EbR8bqdeBYJKlsO6UTWIHhrOEWGsBPaYNRTnhe_EmcvheHUP3XPFhJEg3WojolGVd02xCMO8daoyaRAlG-LJ576Vrc4IWbQa-NBz_-Iq2yn0NRtJ_XrDuQcM_XEsW25CrLdY/s1600/img208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1112" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipPFlscp-EbR8bqdeBYJKlsO6UTWIHhrOEWGsBPaYNRTnhe_EmcvheHUP3XPFhJEg3WojolGVd02xCMO8daoyaRAlG-LJ576Vrc4IWbQa-NBz_-Iq2yn0NRtJ_XrDuQcM_XEsW25CrLdY/s400/img208.jpg" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gathering Information</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTyBGBOoJu430Au6WANDrtuy6Qt1wx2rLEXCDAzp2Rey8LXCMr5s1yNCPSx7JHH52yHFXM4ASQLDZuZZh4tbfzAJTfjylEmVzYnivtq2tX3XliBcTYPnEUbMQG0l2JRqQL9p1QNsznwE/s1600/IMG_20181109_113531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTyBGBOoJu430Au6WANDrtuy6Qt1wx2rLEXCDAzp2Rey8LXCMr5s1yNCPSx7JHH52yHFXM4ASQLDZuZZh4tbfzAJTfjylEmVzYnivtq2tX3XliBcTYPnEUbMQG0l2JRqQL9p1QNsznwE/s400/IMG_20181109_113531.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blackbeard Booklet Cover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyt7XZXZtvNoI4P-PvSNPab2OWul_Ts5fl_0UeU6W-_9nDDiCooTV6pMIzWjXtxAw_bpXINCbBcGY6zCpcRX7Cdc7y_5WMUiV72nfJuYJZiL3NjRlhxO80tcw4xjmsblBcjs-VQem0VE/s1600/IMG_20181109_113543.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyt7XZXZtvNoI4P-PvSNPab2OWul_Ts5fl_0UeU6W-_9nDDiCooTV6pMIzWjXtxAw_bpXINCbBcGY6zCpcRX7Cdc7y_5WMUiV72nfJuYJZiL3NjRlhxO80tcw4xjmsblBcjs-VQem0VE/s640/IMG_20181109_113543.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<h2>
Social Studies</h2>
We studied how the government works so Zoey could understand what a midterm election is and why it is so important to vote.<br />
<br />
<h2>
PE</h2>
Swim is a wonderful way to spend our P.E. time. Zoey has swimming lessons on Monday afternoons and we went another day this week to practice the skills she is learning in her lessons and to have fun and play in the water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcglAtU98prjLdXmYaylqqSB6fnAr2dN1i61I7QuEi4T25ALqo5LGSd4XM3SKB0duXCt8fQbkZnlzjse9yT0WwxBLaIFtgcUwu0COEferwYlDDaNsgIQwLvvqN_NfuRIOM-x1iy4A8dk/s1600/IMG_20181105_152331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcglAtU98prjLdXmYaylqqSB6fnAr2dN1i61I7QuEi4T25ALqo5LGSd4XM3SKB0duXCt8fQbkZnlzjse9yT0WwxBLaIFtgcUwu0COEferwYlDDaNsgIQwLvvqN_NfuRIOM-x1iy4A8dk/s640/IMG_20181105_152331.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzHJdZNNhfjKAtUmPOQHf8L9rbv14cvoWmKDE_BBS9ccgcbpz6WHexLbLE-7nDjhK-sc7A2BmKdtjXm1KJF3w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<h2>
Art/Music</h2>
Zoey spent some time drawing a character this week. Meet Lazzari...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y2SsMQujIp4uOkRTzw4Axhyphenhyphen8wXI79x2uFiFSZolX6KztPisp-lEdmOY56J-LJFvLkZa1d846opDQ34XSdkHweNMU3BwM51G2EswbLwDLuwsEmjLzsIWcGzqE2A9WCiIWimMF1a-m2oU/s1600/IMG_20181106_114118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y2SsMQujIp4uOkRTzw4Axhyphenhyphen8wXI79x2uFiFSZolX6KztPisp-lEdmOY56J-LJFvLkZa1d846opDQ34XSdkHweNMU3BwM51G2EswbLwDLuwsEmjLzsIWcGzqE2A9WCiIWimMF1a-m2oU/s640/IMG_20181106_114118.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
She was also really interested in learning a couple different contemporary songs, so she made herself a stage to practice and perform. She also spent some time with her musical instruments (guitar, ukulele and recorder) following along with the songs she learned.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY0mBJZOPlfJiFt_-nGYfN3HRiNOFZK_AIhbKQDy8SwYtUSv73I5N2idSKaZ9MjwpPuXybnP8t7fH3yv2dUdgVyx6tElQuEi2nskQSGwJ4MgHJ01AKwVA7OO6EYkYTZB-qXFEkuLKyXM/s1600/IMG_20181107_131526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY0mBJZOPlfJiFt_-nGYfN3HRiNOFZK_AIhbKQDy8SwYtUSv73I5N2idSKaZ9MjwpPuXybnP8t7fH3yv2dUdgVyx6tElQuEi2nskQSGwJ4MgHJ01AKwVA7OO6EYkYTZB-qXFEkuLKyXM/s640/IMG_20181107_131526.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h2>
Extras</h2>
<br />
In Girl Scouts this week, Zoey created a McCusker Family Crest as they are working on their Family History badge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLG3HVnBu5NH6jv3Ks45AXO3SZN6Jxx5cqaCIcNkyR8bZ-mTVip36aZRUimEk77awe0zqotAkfG8eUI2o1RUWr-4B3IztPXhqR0UzeXHPcieYjT_DRuZfUSjnz9V2vDjbo1mAN-EiTJQ/s1600/img211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1236" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTLG3HVnBu5NH6jv3Ks45AXO3SZN6Jxx5cqaCIcNkyR8bZ-mTVip36aZRUimEk77awe0zqotAkfG8eUI2o1RUWr-4B3IztPXhqR0UzeXHPcieYjT_DRuZfUSjnz9V2vDjbo1mAN-EiTJQ/s640/img211.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a busy week, with lots of outings, but we got through our work and had fun too.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Homeschooling!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-78615789610964136802018-11-04T09:15:00.000-08:002018-11-05T08:17:13.079-08:00Extra Life - Gaming to Support MUSC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig492n1N_hrCxFt503zuLS_2f_1pOQA74E9_ZVTzL6WAXtRmiVXcGWvpUec2dsz1dh2g6RDzeDH63ASOjU67S5LaKyTIIadmDOvjhcO4oBQhDRqHrkVS8yqS4-XInQY5WJu3npE8ZXPrE/s1600/umGDhpfw.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1200" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig492n1N_hrCxFt503zuLS_2f_1pOQA74E9_ZVTzL6WAXtRmiVXcGWvpUec2dsz1dh2g6RDzeDH63ASOjU67S5LaKyTIIadmDOvjhcO4oBQhDRqHrkVS8yqS4-XInQY5WJu3npE8ZXPrE/s640/umGDhpfw.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Gamers will play all different types of games for 24 hours straight to support Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Extra Life is a fundraiser, which began ten years ago to play games and heal kids. Since it's foundation in 2008, Extra Life has raised more than $40 million for sick and injured kids.<br />
<br />
The fundraising stays local to support any Children's Hospital you choose to help fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and charitable child care. Each gamer can pick between over 170 hospitals throughout U.S. and Canada.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Xg_9BxhO3hq1WmlQUzLZ77JRWUB5YcfN-qaSI4nV60tXrX19wn0CnZ28Pc5mCnG4paXUWycgw5Gu6dLPRPSHnMC4sUWNdIgoYBYhVZwqlTnpZiQ3GjfkE59Z10ke1nLI5scUzEt__EU/s1600/1541262511752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 50%;">
</a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4bnL-NzzUdz6zb6olGD1IclbLSvw8Z7O9D2hrIlHfYMiQxQOYGT_mnf56Oyxi_iMrCw6XF7_HS0jvwnQVDRPVj1cc4CVZ6x_GqfJjRJ1VBz1CoYPNd3MbnTtLVj3YQg9h1809K27AWY/s1600/Untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 50%;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="132" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4bnL-NzzUdz6zb6olGD1IclbLSvw8Z7O9D2hrIlHfYMiQxQOYGT_mnf56Oyxi_iMrCw6XF7_HS0jvwnQVDRPVj1cc4CVZ6x_GqfJjRJ1VBz1CoYPNd3MbnTtLVj3YQg9h1809K27AWY/s1600/Untitled.png" />
</a>
<img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Xg_9BxhO3hq1WmlQUzLZ77JRWUB5YcfN-qaSI4nV60tXrX19wn0CnZ28Pc5mCnG4paXUWycgw5Gu6dLPRPSHnMC4sUWNdIgoYBYhVZwqlTnpZiQ3GjfkE59Z10ke1nLI5scUzEt__EU/s200/1541262511752.jpg" width="200" />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stephen and Zoey chose to support <a href="https://www.musckids.org/" target="_blank">MUSC Children's Hospital</a> in Charleston, SC. Stephen volunteered at this hospital for quite a while back when we lived in South Carolina. He would wake up every Sunday morning and go play video games with the kids stuck in hospital rooms. It seems fitting that he plays games now to help them as well. </div>
<br />
When Stephen asked Zoey about doing this game-a-thon challenge, she was fascinated. She got to stay up all night and play videos for an entire day straight!?! She was definitely in. She even spent the week leading up to it prepping, in her mind at least, by thinking of the games she would play and how she would stay up all night.<br />
<br />
Though only nine, Zoey is a night owl. She naturally would rather stay up later and then start her day later. Stephen and I are both the same way, so it works out well for us. Especially when it means staying up to play video games for charity.<br />
<br />
In preparation, we got lots of snacks and some Coke to keep them going. I made muffins for breakfast and then a huge Nachos spread for lunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhq0AOJH8qyGrTMhA02tzf9HTyj035LCqDQgj56yiol9Xm5_GVt6mAaw5rhHJvnyJtdUGO04UDIjlMkMvB2jDeFMG60YL9lY3S_XG8ERllL5cQPV0l8Bhqewm-9xOcqWcpmLFOPLBjaZQ/s1600/IMG_20181103_114457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhq0AOJH8qyGrTMhA02tzf9HTyj035LCqDQgj56yiol9Xm5_GVt6mAaw5rhHJvnyJtdUGO04UDIjlMkMvB2jDeFMG60YL9lY3S_XG8ERllL5cQPV0l8Bhqewm-9xOcqWcpmLFOPLBjaZQ/s640/IMG_20181103_114457.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The day started strong. Stephen and Zoey were both in their happy place. They played Stardew Valley for almost five hours. At this point, it was just another Saturday morning. We are gamers, so this sight is not a rare one for a lazy Saturday afternoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jaFxDSwwkL2eu8LWctMuaYQDxKvu3RybuwmTJ_y210Ph5NXwadvs19FholTe_FsW-oE6VPTDLMVz8KJ0YA7QyEsnxmT65v0UJzfkzfdXTbgorjXE13smUN-jzUFBISjeOJ9kf2HOKLk/s1600/IMG_20181103_102759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jaFxDSwwkL2eu8LWctMuaYQDxKvu3RybuwmTJ_y210Ph5NXwadvs19FholTe_FsW-oE6VPTDLMVz8KJ0YA7QyEsnxmT65v0UJzfkzfdXTbgorjXE13smUN-jzUFBISjeOJ9kf2HOKLk/s640/IMG_20181103_102759.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I supported them along the way with Solitare, Ticket to Ride and Mini Metro. Mostly I cooked food and wrote. I'm working on <a href="https://nanowrimo.org/" target="_blank">Nanowrimo </a>(a 50k word writing challenge during the month of November), so I spent a good bit of the day working on that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RVIDU5TXsFhLB4fxFMggtAP4jltka5aDbYVfWylFuoBaRl-SiNnsOF9zm_iajX4KBkwpCdq1HVPGgJEiysmdrk2lEnfcxqhoNuBtdG-ACszAZ7KsNy0l2qrSiMdzefmh09JErgonYk8/s1600/IMG_20181103_135930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4RVIDU5TXsFhLB4fxFMggtAP4jltka5aDbYVfWylFuoBaRl-SiNnsOF9zm_iajX4KBkwpCdq1HVPGgJEiysmdrk2lEnfcxqhoNuBtdG-ACszAZ7KsNy0l2qrSiMdzefmh09JErgonYk8/s640/IMG_20181103_135930.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
See here's my contribution, lol.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhftS23R0IBzamLMfWgQt-X-0hr04zuU_XoOUx3-MH36ni7uoZvWYKRMkdPNcXxz5AhA_uopFlR3USkVnHnvXYwT5zkiUT6a-HM8Wsq38mHAooqRDujJsF7ZZHKO_QGBfY4-CW9eBJPCv0/s1600/IMG_20181103_140129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhftS23R0IBzamLMfWgQt-X-0hr04zuU_XoOUx3-MH36ni7uoZvWYKRMkdPNcXxz5AhA_uopFlR3USkVnHnvXYwT5zkiUT6a-HM8Wsq38mHAooqRDujJsF7ZZHKO_QGBfY4-CW9eBJPCv0/s640/IMG_20181103_140129.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I took several pictures through out the day, but most of them look the same. Here they are still playing Stardew Valley while eating lunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhey8VHXkMNNlsyNVNbqk84ndRZIXclhueE1XdRLhdVU1acpw1vCCdD8rRwsejNrWwOOuRNFDmmiTheuC8_1goksjP0pTRxcNiji1Bs_5HWCWTHpf5QcQKcwHryo4zoR94xKCmAsIppwYg/s1600/IMG_20181103_141208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhey8VHXkMNNlsyNVNbqk84ndRZIXclhueE1XdRLhdVU1acpw1vCCdD8rRwsejNrWwOOuRNFDmmiTheuC8_1goksjP0pTRxcNiji1Bs_5HWCWTHpf5QcQKcwHryo4zoR94xKCmAsIppwYg/s320/IMG_20181103_141208.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxN50u-OPFlccEP4NbmxJ-NNml7kN1ZJuOOPsrpTwUnqdZOh_lucVWkuVklr4mjawM2Fg5m4H-Cxbm0CdWibQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
It was a perfect day outside for a game-a-thon. The cool, blustery day made me very glad we were cozy and warm inside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUV_PL-fRF_HrhBMSB5irAbOncUd4rw1kVRk-asVai2vW0aNOHFUZGRnBrRe0TIGLNciQBzAkU2YAt5SUZ1tnwF66IL84bZdT4EfrUUpRtxuk40dWUcYpSdbc34k1h-785_76rpBFFSX0/s1600/IMG_20181103_202602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUV_PL-fRF_HrhBMSB5irAbOncUd4rw1kVRk-asVai2vW0aNOHFUZGRnBrRe0TIGLNciQBzAkU2YAt5SUZ1tnwF66IL84bZdT4EfrUUpRtxuk40dWUcYpSdbc34k1h-785_76rpBFFSX0/s640/IMG_20181103_202602.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We did come together for a round of Super Mario Party on the Switch. Here Zoey is showing us the secrets of the map since we had never played it before, but she had.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLixOk-6pOSItr8HggZKRKl7MGqqHGxMhnzBu3zItcd-QBbKMiX7sKVASKA7OiMeACEELoBEME9XbMQznR0hiXxzgpn62-SWAHL9xPdph9Rsr3DxDlxrOE2FSvK2Et5t4b2grhimkzh0I/s1600/IMG_20181103_213152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLixOk-6pOSItr8HggZKRKl7MGqqHGxMhnzBu3zItcd-QBbKMiX7sKVASKA7OiMeACEELoBEME9XbMQznR0hiXxzgpn62-SWAHL9xPdph9Rsr3DxDlxrOE2FSvK2Et5t4b2grhimkzh0I/s640/IMG_20181103_213152.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Seeing these two do what they love and have it help out others was really exciting. They had so much fun playing all kinds of games on their own and together. It will be a well remembered experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxEzeFhuD9EB0CRQPs235HM7sTO1VAC9jzFk3mtFoE3dswll_M6KPFg13CUQXkj9GS05kvwybi2SJAunUjf7c_FrqV0-oruefynLsWEChAiUQINkisfgYcg_3dd_P2rbfYr75EL8EkdY/s1600/IMG_20181104_001320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxEzeFhuD9EB0CRQPs235HM7sTO1VAC9jzFk3mtFoE3dswll_M6KPFg13CUQXkj9GS05kvwybi2SJAunUjf7c_FrqV0-oruefynLsWEChAiUQINkisfgYcg_3dd_P2rbfYr75EL8EkdY/s640/IMG_20181104_001320.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I went to bed about 2 am and they were still up, each playing their own game. Zoey said she wasn't even feeling tired yet, so she was still going strong. She's a night owl anyway, so this kind of challenge is right up her alley.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1QTtnNZ98hc3VodyXSihIMSaybf5g2v0tlqmr61gnCTJE9MrXcc8E-qfl2_4L6MvfWHetiCY4rV6arlryDxxZrIiqEt-nRKaVYUOGQqVbB-aBgHVcgH1AblOzUgB5x0FVWMilILQikbs/s1600/IMG_20181104_075832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1QTtnNZ98hc3VodyXSihIMSaybf5g2v0tlqmr61gnCTJE9MrXcc8E-qfl2_4L6MvfWHetiCY4rV6arlryDxxZrIiqEt-nRKaVYUOGQqVbB-aBgHVcgH1AblOzUgB5x0FVWMilILQikbs/s640/IMG_20181104_075832.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The next morning I woke up about 8 am, an hour left in their challenge. It wasn't until then that I realized it had been Daylight Savings through the night, so that last hour came from the time change. Stephen was still going, playing one last round of Dead Cells. He even defeated the final boss for the first time on his last play through of the entire game-a-thon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSnfdI0cBV1D2yQ_gsfaI6_LiavzrWYe-1C4DQVXTJo0EVZEMs4e6ICvicoskxbgtfccrhh9ni555jK_oP62wf3qv6AzdjimoB0rqDvSUmq-Ri-uqyv9YeNO4Ek3COZRh5FhGFgGm4s8w/s1600/IMG_20181104_084403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSnfdI0cBV1D2yQ_gsfaI6_LiavzrWYe-1C4DQVXTJo0EVZEMs4e6ICvicoskxbgtfccrhh9ni555jK_oP62wf3qv6AzdjimoB0rqDvSUmq-Ri-uqyv9YeNO4Ek3COZRh5FhGFgGm4s8w/s640/IMG_20181104_084403.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey, however, was passed out on the couch. Stephen said she made it until a little after 5 am. I thought that was fantastic. She did a great job and really understood how this was raising money for charity and could help kids her own age.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStehiLmSAw3xRiB_CoEpqpb-F7alrTBzgwrCAx9fABjJuL8Dm2GlpaHvhQYcryukEaxqseABdVyCeP4gcv6HnBYLIV6T4lFw05tE-Z8818CFDmhJJTkjdA8XmH7F5ghaBWjLKmo8XEAg/s1600/Downloads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStehiLmSAw3xRiB_CoEpqpb-F7alrTBzgwrCAx9fABjJuL8Dm2GlpaHvhQYcryukEaxqseABdVyCeP4gcv6HnBYLIV6T4lFw05tE-Z8818CFDmhJJTkjdA8XmH7F5ghaBWjLKmo8XEAg/s640/Downloads.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At some point in the evening, they also built legos.<br />Late night Lego builds...It might just catch on :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Together, Stephen and Zoey raised $100 dollars to support <a href="https://www.musckids.org/" target="_blank">MUSC</a>. Extra Life raised $8.8 million #forthekids in just the first night of their game-a-thon. The fundraiser is open until December 31.<br />
<br />
You can read more about their adventures by visiting their fundraising page <i><a href="https://www.extra-life.org/team/43555" target="_blank">Temmie Making a Ruckus</a> </i>where Stephen updated their progress and the games they played throughout the night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiKfGEGxmuAiO3rzTcTLuaSO0DvsgAMIKgzi-fjDaJgL5nuwYJ9CidMiXc6crMDtsG_OJac4gmskjlNxGHB1-vc-sn27rTh6smCCfvaww7aMFRj18pbzwryCEPcW4LJF9AAR1_PudNMs/s1600/name-graphics-amanda-335232.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="325" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiKfGEGxmuAiO3rzTcTLuaSO0DvsgAMIKgzi-fjDaJgL5nuwYJ9CidMiXc6crMDtsG_OJac4gmskjlNxGHB1-vc-sn27rTh6smCCfvaww7aMFRj18pbzwryCEPcW4LJF9AAR1_PudNMs/s200/name-graphics-amanda-335232.png" width="200" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-55037437656901072462018-11-01T20:53:00.000-07:002018-11-05T08:56:09.045-08:00Celebrating the Day of the Dead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveYuJ98RPvrc-TUbCKCvKXVuPFvKQwu48Kl9HcOzdZ_NRLyZigPdzQHGiGaFxDA5UBgF6iSP6aRy9gS8-PCjtFXHJoak7DN9nfh5_LxV_N-wNVu70yzCZEwEyYqhKhBvwHNg_G09kcSc/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="1000" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiveYuJ98RPvrc-TUbCKCvKXVuPFvKQwu48Kl9HcOzdZ_NRLyZigPdzQHGiGaFxDA5UBgF6iSP6aRy9gS8-PCjtFXHJoak7DN9nfh5_LxV_N-wNVu70yzCZEwEyYqhKhBvwHNg_G09kcSc/s640/download.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
As part of our social studies unit this week, we learned about El Dio de los Muerto, the Day of the Dead. At first, it was just about learning what the day is all about, since many cultures and families celebrate it at this time of year. It ended up being a fascinating unit.<br />
<br />
First we read about the Day of the Dead through a <a href="https://www.twinkl.com/resource/us-t3-e-314-day-of-the-dead-differentiated-reading-comprehension-activity" target="_blank">reading comprehension essay</a> to get an overview. Then we read <i>“Halloween and Day of the Dead Traditions around the World” </i>by Joan Axelrod-Contrada. This gave us a great overview of how these autumn celebrations are observed throughout the world with some similar themes, but unique traditions.<br />
<br />
Zoey's was really interested in Bolivia's tradition of keeping real skulls preserved and setting them in their own box to dress them up like their deceased ancestors and give offerings of things they liked on the Day of the Dead.<br />
<br />
The unit also gave us an impromptu geography lesson as well looked up where all of these countries were. Most of the countries that commemorate El Dio de los Muerto reside in Central and South America. We looked up where Mexico, Bolivia, Guatemala, and Haiti were on a map. We also listened to some traditional Spanish music and colored skulls to understand these countries traditions a little better.<br />
<br />
Once we got to this point, Zoey was ready to make her own Day of the Dead altar to remember the deceased and celebrate their life. We are very fortunate that Zoey has not lost anyone close to her, so she focused on creating a memorial for the two cats we had when she was little that passed away.<br />
<br />
While she worked on this project, we reinforced our knowledge of The Day of the Dead with some YouTube videos:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVltJThmgRQ">What is El Dio De Los Muerto</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FXYeSlu9QQ">Top 5 Day of the Dead Facts</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzaZidVrebA">Dio de los Muerto: A brief overview</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
They offered some great facts and footage from various El Dio de los Muerto festivals around the world. These were a great edition to our study.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Zoey's cat memorial came out really well, she put a lot of thought and effort into her design and construction made out of boxes. While she worked she talked about the Day of the Dead traditions and what the day meant to her. She liked the idea of celebrating the life of the dead instead of staying sad. I hope she can keep that in her heart as she goes through life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuvufh4JkmIVToO3GaxFPVOCEfShP9jtz4Q8UEZqrAoBGKyFZn_6oNPUIEeDCYLbFHrcaDkzw8fzNM3Sgx0XEu5cFwWNHGVxFtOdAtPmLSsVOpScd0s3Oe2pSUgLoeChXrnJ9H_KEbf8/s1600/IMG_20181101_123156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuvufh4JkmIVToO3GaxFPVOCEfShP9jtz4Q8UEZqrAoBGKyFZn_6oNPUIEeDCYLbFHrcaDkzw8fzNM3Sgx0XEu5cFwWNHGVxFtOdAtPmLSsVOpScd0s3Oe2pSUgLoeChXrnJ9H_KEbf8/s640/IMG_20181101_123156.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey constructing her Day of the Dead Cat Memorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MUDEyaRl_nBvq1p8ra143DWAkfK-X_ftrnpO8juStTL1ggNcQrnwEk3VTC5P0s6LsM_Bz7RyGWcJAlRNx_IH3dEcb2CQxln30VIZ_sW04xrD5B3NKUmDy1Dp1s7pGcLo7AVF4oVKLTs/s1600/IMG_20181101_123204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5MUDEyaRl_nBvq1p8ra143DWAkfK-X_ftrnpO8juStTL1ggNcQrnwEk3VTC5P0s6LsM_Bz7RyGWcJAlRNx_IH3dEcb2CQxln30VIZ_sW04xrD5B3NKUmDy1Dp1s7pGcLo7AVF4oVKLTs/s400/IMG_20181101_123204.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3B6z5E-pn7Cv_nKYwhYgRj95kpJsFxphiFeaiWgomx-ykAOuykbWdRqSAFfQsbubqvLTvg2gArRxBgu7OleB186wrguNhduOP_f2tUEAdGyNhG4rnrvAIiKzyL7hyphenhyphenB22ZufKVoQ6uAg0/s1600/IMG_20181101_145854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3B6z5E-pn7Cv_nKYwhYgRj95kpJsFxphiFeaiWgomx-ykAOuykbWdRqSAFfQsbubqvLTvg2gArRxBgu7OleB186wrguNhduOP_f2tUEAdGyNhG4rnrvAIiKzyL7hyphenhyphenB22ZufKVoQ6uAg0/s400/IMG_20181101_145854.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Front and side views of Zoey's cat memorial. She has pictures of her deceased cats Lazarus and Creampuff all over it. She also has leaves for Creampuff to remember the adventures they used to go on outside and balls of paper because that is what Lazarus like to play with around the house. She added her stuffed kitties to keep Creampuff and Lazarus company when they came to play. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8NYAIMGjKmlQHVPdDKbvZJxQg82Tj_vRpJCSHZzsaDqVfj5HjsegPU_bfui2mFyqIeMRww5znegddU_rqYAr3_pNCm2jvfk5lKvyyH12TLCdNSHRGUgMX8VoGR3T6iyfLI5erh4etzA/s1600/IMG_20181103_123411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8NYAIMGjKmlQHVPdDKbvZJxQg82Tj_vRpJCSHZzsaDqVfj5HjsegPU_bfui2mFyqIeMRww5znegddU_rqYAr3_pNCm2jvfk5lKvyyH12TLCdNSHRGUgMX8VoGR3T6iyfLI5erh4etzA/s640/IMG_20181103_123411.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Do go with Zoey's cat creative memorial, we also printed out pictures of our deceased ancestors. On my side we honored my grandfather, who we called Papa and my grandmother, Nanaw. On Stephen's side we celebrated his grandmother, Nana. We lit a candle for each one of them and we told Zoey stories about their life and how much they meant to us since she didn't know either great-grandparents in my family and only knew Stephen's Nana when she was very young.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNHf-G2wlPs-xg7suYieJNJS4EPXd5v8KamEt0OmXuy1_Y3BORSXO85G0KFLb4UNqaSzr3saWhZrrHykx0p4pyhWC3zXsoTVP7ipHDv0u54esGeam0u4Zjh9JEjIAdF54rCqgsayO2SI/s1600/IMG_20181101_180443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNHf-G2wlPs-xg7suYieJNJS4EPXd5v8KamEt0OmXuy1_Y3BORSXO85G0KFLb4UNqaSzr3saWhZrrHykx0p4pyhWC3zXsoTVP7ipHDv0u54esGeam0u4Zjh9JEjIAdF54rCqgsayO2SI/s640/IMG_20181101_180443.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Zoey went to Girl Scouts in the evening and they studied the Day of the Dead too. She is really enjoying her Girl Scout troop this year. It's very cool to see her standing around chatting with her friends after the meeting ended, she's growing up so fast - a true celebration of life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Day of the Dead!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-86709565633409962032018-10-31T21:33:00.000-07:002018-11-03T16:59:06.655-07:00Happy Homeschooling Halloween 2018!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had a lot of fun with Halloween in homeschool this year. We spent the last week working on review using Halloween themed exercises. We covered parts of speech in language arts; multiplication, time, place value, comparing numbers, rounding and graphing in math; shape poetry and creative writing in writing; catapult construction and physics as well as a vampire bat study in science; Halloween history and traditions in history and social studies; and we read <i>The Haunted Library: A Ghost in the Attic</i> by Dori Hillstad Butler, <i>Frankenstein by </i>Ludworst Bemonster and <i>Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich</i> by Adam Rex for reading.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowLScw4VTIJtsv4HLx1zuOyAjTmnjD2AxT_oViskUYXZZYk1GzV6TNuKAbmIc0YIlCAClu1_TjR4rBcbFTyCdyJkCvjiyFtBa_Zdkz5a4LMtmhcB1hcIAZ_mmbaF_8GXhUJOQWAJhYDE/s1600/IMG_20181025_114739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowLScw4VTIJtsv4HLx1zuOyAjTmnjD2AxT_oViskUYXZZYk1GzV6TNuKAbmIc0YIlCAClu1_TjR4rBcbFTyCdyJkCvjiyFtBa_Zdkz5a4LMtmhcB1hcIAZ_mmbaF_8GXhUJOQWAJhYDE/s640/IMG_20181025_114739.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey using candy corns to represent the greater than/less than signs while comparing numbers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeufAvzRlTeauZQGF8ULAXygDf1B2zMcSLo8tnYoTWanEPHo9TdGtivfbWjzlN7JimiSD6md5bjcRYuirCZp5vbAQocOHlmGrDpKoSTpk-y5a-XiGtyFcl_oDtVHETSm8Tce9ij3mdBj0/s1600/img189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1154" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeufAvzRlTeauZQGF8ULAXygDf1B2zMcSLo8tnYoTWanEPHo9TdGtivfbWjzlN7JimiSD6md5bjcRYuirCZp5vbAQocOHlmGrDpKoSTpk-y5a-XiGtyFcl_oDtVHETSm8Tce9ij3mdBj0/s640/img189.jpg" width="460" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey's Shape Poem<br />We even saw a black cat while we were out Trick-or-Treating.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For Halloween night, we decided to go Trick-or-Treating in our neighborhood. It was a great adventure. Zoey dressed up as a Pink Princess. She did her make up and everything. We went down a stretch that didn't have as many kids on it. Most of the people we visited were glad to have some one stop by. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiH570dn1XgzMAmwOKaeBs61WStM5zaaSaHibSr24TJML31K2wi0lzOh1hxDUkVh2xPcCsnshefIJWcOHqKtoceh6NbD3A7mPPy4Tm_uXlYEc4ZQy52wwqCDQpLfWWoa37Q7mqxGJc-HE/s1600/IMG_20181031_175345_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiH570dn1XgzMAmwOKaeBs61WStM5zaaSaHibSr24TJML31K2wi0lzOh1hxDUkVh2xPcCsnshefIJWcOHqKtoceh6NbD3A7mPPy4Tm_uXlYEc4ZQy52wwqCDQpLfWWoa37Q7mqxGJc-HE/s640/IMG_20181031_175345_1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty Princess Zoey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I really enjoyed our walk through the neighborhood. Everyone was really nice too. We got to check out all of the awesome decorations. One house had a fog machine that flooded out onto the street making it even more spooky that the natural clouds were already doing. We even got invited in for a beer at one point. It was great to see everyone out and making local connections to celebrate the occasion.<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxBofKtblAalCCISpQ_Pfb9mE1P7ANNt7IEF7lEva9O0JdIfAwqY5BiADE7Gta5gEes8YXC-aup284emLIAyHmGucuRxveEWWo9IaNQ9sQDlryZEICNXjmw9ItF68nyYaD2MY9OKPv_3U/s1600/IMG_20181031_184039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxBofKtblAalCCISpQ_Pfb9mE1P7ANNt7IEF7lEva9O0JdIfAwqY5BiADE7Gta5gEes8YXC-aup284emLIAyHmGucuRxveEWWo9IaNQ9sQDlryZEICNXjmw9ItF68nyYaD2MY9OKPv_3U/s640/IMG_20181031_184039.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fog machine rolling out onto the street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5TyqESoDh1bhkq9CZtjXO80LzupEf8CJZOqRdJqJdcnQVheofAP2xEgv4fu7QmN2Pw0TX2kqgsYiiVEl3GkkGQ9_KcCBk7pW41XC-fZdFhdw2YIv7OcSsCQ-VcQ511s416hdZlnzR_M/s640/IMG_20181031_183246.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There were some great decorations while we were out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5TyqESoDh1bhkq9CZtjXO80LzupEf8CJZOqRdJqJdcnQVheofAP2xEgv4fu7QmN2Pw0TX2kqgsYiiVEl3GkkGQ9_KcCBk7pW41XC-fZdFhdw2YIv7OcSsCQ-VcQ511s416hdZlnzR_M/s1600/IMG_20181031_183246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5TyqESoDh1bhkq9CZtjXO80LzupEf8CJZOqRdJqJdcnQVheofAP2xEgv4fu7QmN2Pw0TX2kqgsYiiVEl3GkkGQ9_KcCBk7pW41XC-fZdFhdw2YIv7OcSsCQ-VcQ511s416hdZlnzR_M/s1600/IMG_20181031_183246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDF4w7G2msyJanjS9pHYMCryk55_0GLP7vAcMGMU0U-ysqYEUfWOfKdxnIJKbE5Yt34sucMjwAIfaIYw8Qo9E-b7u9Zygf_EJ0AOvlQHxTZHU0zJGJB00HTaC5PVO5XfhJk3RE51e_YA/s1600/IMG_20181031_182740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsDF4w7G2msyJanjS9pHYMCryk55_0GLP7vAcMGMU0U-ysqYEUfWOfKdxnIJKbE5Yt34sucMjwAIfaIYw8Qo9E-b7u9Zygf_EJ0AOvlQHxTZHU0zJGJB00HTaC5PVO5XfhJk3RE51e_YA/s640/IMG_20181031_182740.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A black cat crossed our path.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next day, we collected data from our Halloween candy run. It was great to turn such a fun event into a learning opportunity. Especially when we got to taste test all the candy for science!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsI3-bFKCWtH92uSufbBxaIOCOIOvQT5ricvT0Us2Qg26fFrqcgGKuAR62mdMevqFGwv2kAleu5iREbQ00BeHcSR-6ctW0Ly-LYJjB430Org6l-Lz-L1KI7qZLOXgZEfNV-Aenm0x5ts/s1600/img196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1353" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsI3-bFKCWtH92uSufbBxaIOCOIOvQT5ricvT0Us2Qg26fFrqcgGKuAR62mdMevqFGwv2kAleu5iREbQ00BeHcSR-6ctW0Ly-LYJjB430Org6l-Lz-L1KI7qZLOXgZEfNV-Aenm0x5ts/s640/img196.jpg" width="540" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Halloween candy data collection</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0yDNnDKH-IeWDOepVswywJSYf4Zf-4hUWGzaMTTpC9dzd5n2V_yh56Y_WVAkk7t6k7pCWUI1Lms5HSkddZ8OjrEuUlNHveAFSqpI1PSrgmj7c4AavHOWuFXW0I8c_-5M3bPQVgU-BC8/s1600/img198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1274" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0yDNnDKH-IeWDOepVswywJSYf4Zf-4hUWGzaMTTpC9dzd5n2V_yh56Y_WVAkk7t6k7pCWUI1Lms5HSkddZ8OjrEuUlNHveAFSqpI1PSrgmj7c4AavHOWuFXW0I8c_-5M3bPQVgU-BC8/s640/img198.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey graphed the results for a visual representation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieVnbpah_JtrHleDSmrteEmHylC1YEsY-att1fvVE3YQTotXxL9DhqOeCCjth60NmT1a-zdoyWg_xTIFriHhw0Fsdf0NdJDOROHAfgYByR5bkOz3AE4eaaoEzXKD4Eec3gkNRuMM37udI/s1600/img199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1171" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieVnbpah_JtrHleDSmrteEmHylC1YEsY-att1fvVE3YQTotXxL9DhqOeCCjth60NmT1a-zdoyWg_xTIFriHhw0Fsdf0NdJDOROHAfgYByR5bkOz3AE4eaaoEzXKD4Eec3gkNRuMM37udI/s640/img199.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then we got to test each candy and decide our favorites</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was a great Halloween and we covered a lot in our homeschooling lessons in the process. I hope you also had a great celebration!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
</div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-50867081335296566312018-10-30T16:27:00.000-07:002019-10-10T10:55:28.037-07:00McCusker Homeschooling Journal - October 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22SUhj9yMNIFDa9Vw_jl_U1vYyZhBPhxwCJmGt1TWBYQF0oZLAN-sRlpGmk19qo7iPxiWwsMIQbnG3xD_kqyx1f1ee7lxqui-IlAWmjzlM1RaWlKgSYLcm6B2-vnp40234DfBfNiHI24/s1600/IMG_20181023_161223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="726" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22SUhj9yMNIFDa9Vw_jl_U1vYyZhBPhxwCJmGt1TWBYQF0oZLAN-sRlpGmk19qo7iPxiWwsMIQbnG3xD_kqyx1f1ee7lxqui-IlAWmjzlM1RaWlKgSYLcm6B2-vnp40234DfBfNiHI24/s640/IMG_20181023_161223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
October has been a beautiful month with lots of activities and learning. The weather has greatly cooled off this month and we are enjoying the beauty of the leaves changing colors this fall. Halloween has also been a predominant part of our month as we've connected many of our homeschool activities and lessons with the Halloween theme. We also had my friend from South Carolina come to visit us for a week that gave us opportunities for even more exploration of our amazing city. We even took a trip to Canada! It's been a busy, but fun month. Happy Halloween!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdu0FaDcBIhE4_t5Xc2-h84mUeIJIlUpafH4c6jxcm3MfCUNIBghNy4nlthfDhGvyYyihiUXMFH9jl9oGq04exEqaBYyG2IBUDLIaFUvE6mSwLZ9IsRrM7zj7rHjMqR9tCC4bLEEA6JKc/s1600/daniel-cheung-129841-unsplash+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="940" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdu0FaDcBIhE4_t5Xc2-h84mUeIJIlUpafH4c6jxcm3MfCUNIBghNy4nlthfDhGvyYyihiUXMFH9jl9oGq04exEqaBYyG2IBUDLIaFUvE6mSwLZ9IsRrM7zj7rHjMqR9tCC4bLEEA6JKc/s640/daniel-cheung-129841-unsplash+-+Copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Math</span></b></div>
<br />
Our mathematics study for this month has been a lot of practicing times multiplication tables. Zoey is up to the six times tables now and we are practicing through word problems, practice sheets and our most effect way - math games, including multiplication war. We are focusing on these basic concepts to make sure she has them down before moving on to the more complex problems.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHyEgr043_CzACdVPv-Ke8LK-ybiWjdDJtkl0zbQfzhJ9dCyqZ2Kfmy5Kujlgubm2eofIoDIKDUIXAUFm_T1UqmFdsaxqlF6eMF_6zlcJVSx8lczP9-exyQm3IVdMOGtD7PcGywtcDjM/s1600/img180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1215" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvHyEgr043_CzACdVPv-Ke8LK-ybiWjdDJtkl0zbQfzhJ9dCyqZ2Kfmy5Kujlgubm2eofIoDIKDUIXAUFm_T1UqmFdsaxqlF6eMF_6zlcJVSx8lczP9-exyQm3IVdMOGtD7PcGywtcDjM/s640/img180.jpg" width="483" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multiplication Mosaics are a fun way to practice times tables</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We also covered place value, comparing numbers (i.e. greater than, less than and equal too), and rounding. Zoey was spot on with place value and comparing, but we need a little more time to focus on rounding. We did several exercise and she has improved greatly, but we will continue to practice.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKDpmFKieBWh2Eg_ZkWC4BdopTN35_xt-_NqWsd3D0ckL45KB8bnlUcNSSq2Cgfr7D1rYoZKbdAJsTXGYQojxSGCliVQR8sUwdAMhoxen0DyxZQcdmqJChDPscuZcnU2IfV_EVDGVszM/s1600/img181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1536" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKDpmFKieBWh2Eg_ZkWC4BdopTN35_xt-_NqWsd3D0ckL45KB8bnlUcNSSq2Cgfr7D1rYoZKbdAJsTXGYQojxSGCliVQR8sUwdAMhoxen0DyxZQcdmqJChDPscuZcnU2IfV_EVDGVszM/s640/img181.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halloween themed time practice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We began to cover time as well this month, focusing on the phrases "quarter til" and "quarter after." Telling time is not the problem, but these are well used descriptions of time that we are practicing so she can understand them more easily. We've used fun practice sheets like this as well as games of bingo and matching.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBmMAouwgyo3sAZHFIf2WUi-Z0FVYRatDtOi-aMiWY11RdNqbek8dVfxw2t2CqW1Ovajuz-V-UJpgPcJXRsD47vtbwl3R8XvSDt4kXWFXVYBWZxCEGDo6pQpIjyqxey3W3W20EaBQlaM/s1600/IMG_20181029_124135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMBmMAouwgyo3sAZHFIf2WUi-Z0FVYRatDtOi-aMiWY11RdNqbek8dVfxw2t2CqW1Ovajuz-V-UJpgPcJXRsD47vtbwl3R8XvSDt4kXWFXVYBWZxCEGDo6pQpIjyqxey3W3W20EaBQlaM/s640/IMG_20181029_124135.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey original word problem</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Reading</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This month our reading focus was "Matilda." We finished the book pretty quickly. Zoey really enjoyed it. It's one of my favorites. We also watched the movie and did a compare and contrast of the two. Zoey has really good reading comprehension and will offer details of the story I don't even remember. We had a lot of fun with this story.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lxy1ZDTswVeIbVq0WhQoEL3une0iW_EreUFw4V27DQqXlq6-Quadeo_odEPth2Ho6szfUmy8mwRpLctFk_dGvut4TgvoO1ULovG-ypnaW6iuBTQZLzICO4JSAilhpkR9eHm5dQ2g_KI/s1600/IMG_20181002_150831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lxy1ZDTswVeIbVq0WhQoEL3une0iW_EreUFw4V27DQqXlq6-Quadeo_odEPth2Ho6szfUmy8mwRpLctFk_dGvut4TgvoO1ULovG-ypnaW6iuBTQZLzICO4JSAilhpkR9eHm5dQ2g_KI/s640/IMG_20181002_150831.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Reading "Matilda" at the coffee shop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Riy8k1M39RY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Riy8k1M39RY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Zoey does a great job talking about the book and how it compares and contrasts to the movie. It was a heart breaker because she did a video earlier with over six minutes of detailed explanation and the video messed up and didn't save. She is a little less enthusiastic in this redo video, but I still wanted to share it because you can see (even in a frustrated state) how much she understands about what she is reading. Though, she will tell you she'd rather watch the movie.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Spelling</span></b></div>
<div>
<br />
We have found a good rhythm for our spelling unit. We are using a Spectrum Spelling workbook to find words. Every other week we go through one or two Spectrum lists to find words where Zoey needs extra practice. Once we have a list of ten, she practices the words in different ways. She has a Graffiti wall that she writes them all in unique lettering. Then she has a spelling menu that offers many different way to practice the words. Some examples include writing them in alphabetical order, writing them with the vowels in different colors, looking up the definition to each word, creating a crossword puzzle, and many more. She picks a couple of these to practice, then we have a spelling test where I call out the words to her. If she still has trouble with it, we save it for another week. So far, this has been working out really great.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNresqDuxH4YKvD3JXytFIFZJhtEB58Mi-uOqSO9e7GxDNNfHAp0BjpiFWVlVoxQNKw8y1OsKtZPfOEzUqGq6VmPgq9goJWoC3nRF8m-eAXC3UEln5wBgqltyINrn8e6WebeIAc2GWjU/s1600/img178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1415" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLNresqDuxH4YKvD3JXytFIFZJhtEB58Mi-uOqSO9e7GxDNNfHAp0BjpiFWVlVoxQNKw8y1OsKtZPfOEzUqGq6VmPgq9goJWoC3nRF8m-eAXC3UEln5wBgqltyINrn8e6WebeIAc2GWjU/s400/img178.jpg" width="353" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spectrum Spelling, Lesson 8</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Language Arts</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This is an interesting subject because it goes hand in hand with several of the other English subjects. When we go through the Spectrum Spelling workbook, there are all kinds of different mini Language arts lessons. This month we've learned about how to add "-er" and "-est" to the end of words, including the special rules of doubling the constant after most short vowel, one subject words (i.e. "wet" becomes "wetter" and "hot" becomes "hottest"). We also learned how to turn nouns into adjectives by adding a "y" (i.e. "cloud" turns into "cloudy" or "rain" into "rainy").<br />
<br />
We are also learning different dictionary skills including how to see what part of speech a word can but used as and how that can change the definition slightly. Zoey is also doing very well with syllables of words, she can identify how many a word has and where the emphasis is on the word.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03ufiNuP9pXOOK6ve2GrknljFIbOgWkvxniP-HYfg2ivWZwJ_Rt-ESdly1_NbitieDPSGbZEw_1yv5J-HrCx1Z6-CTikd0QO3h7PLLAd9FmJYcwr0s-MSuut-u_qewNaMzqx0Ww29Cww/s1600/img179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1117" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03ufiNuP9pXOOK6ve2GrknljFIbOgWkvxniP-HYfg2ivWZwJ_Rt-ESdly1_NbitieDPSGbZEw_1yv5J-HrCx1Z6-CTikd0QO3h7PLLAd9FmJYcwr0s-MSuut-u_qewNaMzqx0Ww29Cww/s640/img179.jpg" width="444" /></a></div>
<br />
We are working on Parts of Speech. This is one subject that we integrate a little bit into all kinds of activities surrounding reading and writing. By understanding the parts of speech, Zoey is able to make sentences easier and add more details in her writing. These are small steps, but they add up quickly as we begin to learn more vocabulary.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-size: xx-large;">Writing</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In "Matilda," Ms. Honey talks about limericks and then Matilda creates one on the spot. We read several limericks and then tried to write one ourselves. It is a complicated poems style because there are several rules to follow. We did out best, though they ended up being really funny as we tried make different words rhyme.<br />
<br />
After reading a short story called, "The Bubbling Cauldron" about a magic potion going hilariously wrong, Zoey created her own magic potion and wrote about it. Her potion was a more efficient way to test your DNA.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnSemKt9szAwXiNr_e6A5DuX_8gM6WEbSCaKjRZ4TFTJ8m_4es8v69GkePgGGlzBThVYCDhfvFtY_SJdhRxzIrB1xsFbhpxlQQjZzspAYHgSfy_lm67Rz_RpRUXUMfq9NLAbBR3mUxmg/s1600/img177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnSemKt9szAwXiNr_e6A5DuX_8gM6WEbSCaKjRZ4TFTJ8m_4es8v69GkePgGGlzBThVYCDhfvFtY_SJdhRxzIrB1xsFbhpxlQQjZzspAYHgSfy_lm67Rz_RpRUXUMfq9NLAbBR3mUxmg/s640/img177.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
We also learned about Shape poetry. Zoey wrote this awesome poem about a Halloween cat. We even saw a black cat while we were out Trick-or-Treating!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWxO1btVz-VecPl6cTGt1i1t8DSBDLnoQxkBgkE1ZnPkElCHDmbn0XFdjHblJDyNQuDmJXGYjomGjbl3hPjna6c3KFFApZPYTNdM4Zywk4Sg9W0_rqA480jk2m1A4PZRIiDuSNavN9zI/s1600/img189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1154" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWxO1btVz-VecPl6cTGt1i1t8DSBDLnoQxkBgkE1ZnPkElCHDmbn0XFdjHblJDyNQuDmJXGYjomGjbl3hPjna6c3KFFApZPYTNdM4Zywk4Sg9W0_rqA480jk2m1A4PZRIiDuSNavN9zI/s640/img189.jpg" width="460" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Science</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Science is one of Zoey's favorite subjects, so we've done several large and small projects over the course of this month.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Fruity Ice Slush Experiment</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkFiLOvO9CejPlMVyQyzL4YoAZPdG6cftr-N8y12xGlGcRbz1llL3wln8NiJLDsznoRuEhHqeYoT9t0_7PpjONRtx9pXWezsSXbxOLTcMQDimJ-hBW2SnDW4UGEZu0QSgwLa1_znmyd_4/s1600/IMG_20181005_103450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkFiLOvO9CejPlMVyQyzL4YoAZPdG6cftr-N8y12xGlGcRbz1llL3wln8NiJLDsznoRuEhHqeYoT9t0_7PpjONRtx9pXWezsSXbxOLTcMQDimJ-hBW2SnDW4UGEZu0QSgwLa1_znmyd_4/s640/IMG_20181005_103450.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This science experiment came from our Usborne "50 Science things to make and do" book. We learned how salt lowers the freezing temperature to make a liquid turn into a slush without direct contact to the ice. It was a fun experiment, but we used V8 instead of fruit juice, which caused us to have a faulty outcome. You can read more about this experiment <a href="http://www.talesfromamother.com/2018/10/fruity-ice-slush-experiment.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Human Body</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIxArw6FcNrg2_nc46VUpa7mR10UuRdU15uLdoxdr2p8s3B-mSU41B-NGXiDVRRQPMoUJfHlOC2xaoAPFOThp-R83W6z8WulufBEt_84yOeryZD6j6qR3E7imH4Z995qPc8A_Nst6uf3o/s1600/IMG_20181005_114901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIxArw6FcNrg2_nc46VUpa7mR10UuRdU15uLdoxdr2p8s3B-mSU41B-NGXiDVRRQPMoUJfHlOC2xaoAPFOThp-R83W6z8WulufBEt_84yOeryZD6j6qR3E7imH4Z995qPc8A_Nst6uf3o/s640/IMG_20181005_114901.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We studied the Human Body in depth last month, but Zoey got some new information from watching some of her YouTube videos and wanted to share with me what she learned. She explained how the stomach holds our food and then how our liver and kidneys work together the digest, absorb and process our food before it goes to the bladder or intestines. Since we focused on the circulatory system last month, I was impressed with how she wanted to take it a step further and found out more. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Tinker Tank Construction at the Science Center</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCB_3alCSTIfLf9wBeTnB_ofoJ_J1e5C-wwogOCAdReThucPIJsuUU5q3l1ljTsAHe1q4guBflXMYcdCpFHOmNhpptQ6fAbxOQBqQGyKKjGfi7E3TvWpvcLFs7F0wqH76s10PGntiIz_U/s1600/IMG_20181015_152431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCB_3alCSTIfLf9wBeTnB_ofoJ_J1e5C-wwogOCAdReThucPIJsuUU5q3l1ljTsAHe1q4guBflXMYcdCpFHOmNhpptQ6fAbxOQBqQGyKKjGfi7E3TvWpvcLFs7F0wqH76s10PGntiIz_U/s640/IMG_20181015_152431.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The Pacific Science Center is one of our favorite places to go, explore and learn. We can spend hours at the Tinker Tank where they have all kinds of supplies to use to make anything your mind can imagine. On this day, Zoey made a complex arena for her friends to battle, full of arrows and hideaways.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Animal Habitats and Ocean Diorama</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This section on Animal Habitats paired well with the Girl Scout badge her troop worked on this month. We learned about the different classifications of animals (i.e. mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians and mini beasts) and the various parts of the world they live in. Zoey chose to focus on the ocean first (which worked out perfectly with our field trip to the <a href="http://www.talesfromamother.com/2018/10/field-trip-vancouver-aquarium.html" target="_blank">Vancouver Aquarium</a>).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKeTPdY8DxKM-S_TMyo8BkyeTT4YIsuOSDJiMsiFwFqzze9jxGTjIRwENSQOkJWnppLrnXONquyesDXQHWAjMK4YKacwFsHtm1Sn-xTGiR6NCTat6zgSZlBLoBrmDDes93WL_w6geFtEM/s1600/IMG_20181016_101156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKeTPdY8DxKM-S_TMyo8BkyeTT4YIsuOSDJiMsiFwFqzze9jxGTjIRwENSQOkJWnppLrnXONquyesDXQHWAjMK4YKacwFsHtm1Sn-xTGiR6NCTat6zgSZlBLoBrmDDes93WL_w6geFtEM/s640/IMG_20181016_101156.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Zoey did such a great job on her Ocean Diorama. She spent some time painting it and choosing which animals to represent. She even got out her Skylander's ship to place in the ocean because the the coral would have a place to attach to and more animals could live around it.<br />
<br />
She also looked up some animal facts about a seahorse, which is displayed in her ocean habitat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMVnZaVjFqf7VKs4jsh-9vaLHr2MDqQMUaFibrsoxpJlJepilNGnQM_z9KIL3Av3HPl3AnJ35hDWvilypAVAZ14uHLTYFtj5Jy1zQ3edjKg-6LglSqXqaO5XncvkHhFqhenIH5-gUIJg/s1600/img175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMVnZaVjFqf7VKs4jsh-9vaLHr2MDqQMUaFibrsoxpJlJepilNGnQM_z9KIL3Av3HPl3AnJ35hDWvilypAVAZ14uHLTYFtj5Jy1zQ3edjKg-6LglSqXqaO5XncvkHhFqhenIH5-gUIJg/s640/img175.jpg" width="522" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Vampire Bats</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In honor of Halloween, we did an animal study on Vampire Bats. This was a fascinating topic for both of us to learn about. We watched several good YouTube videos and read through lots of material to learn more. Zoey completed an animal fact sheet about Vampire Bats. Learn more about our study of Vampire Bats and the sources we used <a href="http://www.talesfromamother.com/2018/10/vampire-bats-study.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudRvqr2rWR78_Leg0INa0woyhmqBICHgr0BCHEaWCYSyHdxllBY3bMzTiOVqBjduaNIuZMSu61KueUUGZCq0kcOc_3-hEPEyBj7paP7Qqqrf7weeX8n3LbX3wdgLVkOTlSDB-_zjjA-c/s1600/img185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1285" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudRvqr2rWR78_Leg0INa0woyhmqBICHgr0BCHEaWCYSyHdxllBY3bMzTiOVqBjduaNIuZMSu61KueUUGZCq0kcOc_3-hEPEyBj7paP7Qqqrf7weeX8n3LbX3wdgLVkOTlSDB-_zjjA-c/s640/img185.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Candy Catapults</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We were really excited to build catapults and launch Halloween candy to begin our unit on data collection and graphing. This was a great STEM activity to design and engineer a construction and then see how it worked. We then launched candies to see how far they went and how accurate the three different catapult sizes were. We drew some great conclusions like the smallest catapult didn't launch very far, but it was the most accurate. Whereas, the largest catapult launched the furthest, but was also unpredictable in it's aim. You can read more detail about this experiment, how we made the catapults and our conclusions <a href="http://www.talesfromamother.com/2018/10/candy-catapults.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGIh6uONlhjBX5TWW_Ue2rFLjpEKFNfpv1sKZLhYMdZVCNZLf639IQpwK9TQARS2v2riHFV16aVjUM3ECl0jsPDIhb8AzCtVq1eb501mH6Rx6eMQKqhKvpHQE1lsW8hPafyJpXZfcVXfk/s1600/IMG_20181025_131140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGIh6uONlhjBX5TWW_Ue2rFLjpEKFNfpv1sKZLhYMdZVCNZLf639IQpwK9TQARS2v2riHFV16aVjUM3ECl0jsPDIhb8AzCtVq1eb501mH6Rx6eMQKqhKvpHQE1lsW8hPafyJpXZfcVXfk/s640/IMG_20181025_131140.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For some live action, check out our<a href="https://youtu.be/3E2uabUukaM" target="_blank"> Candy Catapult YouTube video</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">History</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This month was full of interesting things to learn about history. We had Columbus Day and Halloween to learn about. It is a lot of fun to learn with the seasons.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Columbus Day</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Study of Christopher Columbus</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Columbus Day fell on Monday, October 8, this year. We learned about who Christopher Columbus was and what he is known for. Zoey was really interested in this study, so we spent a good bit of that day on it. I thought it was really fascinating how controversial this holiday is. Columbus wasn't really considered a very good guy and a lot of people think he shouldn't have a holiday in his honor. Zoey seemed most intrigued by the fact that he never realized he discovered a new world, he died thinking he had made it to the West Indies. That is how we got the term "Indians" for the Native Americans. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq8bC-JgpIVvnoTW7n0969aDC7cvj7dRLKtSoOmXezefPDmHHO_xPMkodCfrq9zp6Mjl5AfhUjEH32KNsZuMSuR02iAX65wxnmeWLz5nRzsuxROziXmJLcCY_Fp6IFnvjzk8ZtKqJhiLM/s1600/img174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1273" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq8bC-JgpIVvnoTW7n0969aDC7cvj7dRLKtSoOmXezefPDmHHO_xPMkodCfrq9zp6Mjl5AfhUjEH32KNsZuMSuR02iAX65wxnmeWLz5nRzsuxROziXmJLcCY_Fp6IFnvjzk8ZtKqJhiLM/s640/img174.jpg" width="508" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Halloween History and Traditions Around the World<br />
<br />
We spent almost two weeks covering Halloween history and traditions. It was a lot of fun to apply the theme as an overall review for what we've learned in these past couple of months.<br />
<br />
Social Studies<br />
<br />
Canada<br />
<br />
P.E.<br />
<br />
Art and Music<br />
<br />
Occupational Education<br />
<br />
Extras<br />
<br />
We do a lot in a month. Some of it is exciting and some of it is practice to learn more and master basic skills. Zoey loves being able to learn about things that are interesting to her, which helps us learn more than we thought we would about many subjects. Zoey loves to listen to music and do hands on activities during our school hours. We do lots of activities in and out of the house, sometimes on our own and sometimes with friends. We are both making new friends as we meet more people who also homeschool and try out new activities. I am very thankful that we have the opportunity to homeschool. I can see Zoey benefiting from this method of learning and I am so glad to have a curious, creative kid who is really appreciating studying new things.Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-33866833504893580782018-10-29T14:54:00.000-07:002018-11-02T10:11:11.561-07:00Vampire Bats StudyIn honor of Halloween, we've decided to study the dreaded Vampire Bats. One of the things we learned is that there is actually not much to worry about because Vampire Bats do not feed off of humans.<br />
<br />
Zoey filled out this Animal Fact sheet as we learned more and more about this intriguing animals.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnz0BJkfqSK2-dIcgeQ9jALcNKpPT1CUjo8WUIjbMEn6X8B9V89BM4ouuRpqQ89FtH1iV4upHiekXzZCuLL2PqCo6pnDZQD4f7yAj_KorHRMN8S6Iu_R5cZ0DMNmM-ShBorszrhZ6H1Y/s1600/img185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1285" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnz0BJkfqSK2-dIcgeQ9jALcNKpPT1CUjo8WUIjbMEn6X8B9V89BM4ouuRpqQ89FtH1iV4upHiekXzZCuLL2PqCo6pnDZQD4f7yAj_KorHRMN8S6Iu_R5cZ0DMNmM-ShBorszrhZ6H1Y/s640/img185.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey was surprised to learn that bats are mammals. Each mother has one pup a year who is dependent on her for two to three months. Turns out, bats are pretty dedicated mothers. To learn more about the life cycle of a bat we did this cut and paste activity thanks to <a href="https://www.twinkl.com/" target="_blank">Twink!</a>...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1b5K1pgCI9XCHoBbgGnuqCoCn7RM_ia4GQYdbdKG61eLarXbxpWwRCgyXVN6HeMQ_GQYJjsT1fpV2kZBkKxMz5QMJycfID6z8jiLKg4CEhj9dIgfaGWKdAngfj4TmwXb-1LheyZWny4/s1600/img186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1026" data-original-width="1512" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1b5K1pgCI9XCHoBbgGnuqCoCn7RM_ia4GQYdbdKG61eLarXbxpWwRCgyXVN6HeMQ_GQYJjsT1fpV2kZBkKxMz5QMJycfID6z8jiLKg4CEhj9dIgfaGWKdAngfj4TmwXb-1LheyZWny4/s640/img186.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We used another Twink! resource for a reading comprehension activity and to learn even more about Vampire Bats. [<a href="https://www.twinkl.com/resource/us2-e-65-vampire-bat-reading-activity" target="_blank">Fourth Grade Vampire Bats Reading Comprehension Activity</a>]<br />
<br />
Some of our best resources about Vampire Bats came from YouTube. We watched three very informative and interesting videos regarding Vampire Bats:<br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-d2576c26-7fff-570e-a437-c53e70640331"></span><br />
<ul style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><ol>
<li><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FVoTMOorXA" style="font-size: 11pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;">All About Bats</a> -</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Free School</span></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Mii45v85YY" style="font-size: 11pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">3 Fun Facts about Bats!</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> - SciShow</span></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0YB6_7Kync" style="font-size: 11pt; text-decoration-line: none; white-space: pre;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Case for Vampire Bats</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> - Skunk Bear</span></li>
</ol>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We looked up several definitions including <i>nocturnal, echolocation, microbat, megabat and insectivore.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">We also used an article in <a href="https://scholasticnews.scholastic.com/" target="_blank">Scholastic News</a> to learn about the Tolga Bat Hospital in Australia that takes care of Fruit Bats and rehabilitates them when they are injured or lose their mother's care too young. This was a great addition to learn how helpful bats are to the environment by eating insects (microbats) or help pollinating plants as they eat fruit (megabats).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUws6dF04x6kVHCC1yP1otFJeWSxXLjlGGz6rF-RWchV05KMXcxxR1wkpYxrVNnXHZ6hPFId4WTUY5P3nJL3OVw4pg22AW73psd5mmlUVoE_PhN_m5Gkbmdrc4twpxa5I2-2FrWO36NTg/s1600/img187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1195" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUws6dF04x6kVHCC1yP1otFJeWSxXLjlGGz6rF-RWchV05KMXcxxR1wkpYxrVNnXHZ6hPFId4WTUY5P3nJL3OVw4pg22AW73psd5mmlUVoE_PhN_m5Gkbmdrc4twpxa5I2-2FrWO36NTg/s400/img187.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbmq4yRkH-LA8VqMkU7gfcd7Gt7iRkO9B2wFL8Z5MEWsEqopurkTCGnIzIFeFraTS_k3Qumg5MIyz_jMat4U4kHwrOqhnozPyu8UvSC4v1khkLrS3aCUgAsAS7TgnmZ-L_G89mz7Rg10/s1600/img188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1190" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbmq4yRkH-LA8VqMkU7gfcd7Gt7iRkO9B2wFL8Z5MEWsEqopurkTCGnIzIFeFraTS_k3Qumg5MIyz_jMat4U4kHwrOqhnozPyu8UvSC4v1khkLrS3aCUgAsAS7TgnmZ-L_G89mz7Rg10/s400/img188.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
We learned a lot of interesting facts about Vampire bats and Bats in general. Bats are fascinating creatures and I am glad we took the time to learn more about them. If you have more resources, I'd love if you would share in the comments so we can learn even more.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Happy Homeschooling!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqHWUX0pWg1AW4yirGb5KKqsr4NKkPn5r9uOsZXFcdi8XM4rFhbAktBhvoMR2F8cjnFa_pgmc8r0t-RAtQqFNILPk9JTG0aix_mcmidUHLSbgwj6zfyrT0Po3h-w5ZIhLJFwHPiKg9vs/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWqHWUX0pWg1AW4yirGb5KKqsr4NKkPn5r9uOsZXFcdi8XM4rFhbAktBhvoMR2F8cjnFa_pgmc8r0t-RAtQqFNILPk9JTG0aix_mcmidUHLSbgwj6zfyrT0Po3h-w5ZIhLJFwHPiKg9vs/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-65830612648165954082018-10-26T19:23:00.000-07:002018-11-02T11:17:43.147-07:00Candy Catapults<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the spirit of Halloween, we created Candy Catapults to launch candy corn, candy pumpkins and other various candies.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our first step was to build the catapults. We chose a simple design and followed the directions on this YouTube video thanks to <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XchdUB-ZnKc" target="_blank">Specific Love Creations</a>:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XchdUB-ZnKc/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XchdUB-ZnKc?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The build went well. We used large Popsicle sticks, rubber bands and <i>Menchie's</i> Spoons (thanks to our favorite frozen yogurt franchise).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCotgU9LW_5PDwUkKK9t5JXL330O_MR6EC7SAmqzg1_7xj3GGXtyegv8KwcFMsw_VDJf6IWE-AvtaEhqfaooZewTD0SVwNUbxWBA9yjbHPTBMO763zzy-mFN0bss74Y0WNRNZg7ad1ME0/s1600/IMG_20181025_125047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCotgU9LW_5PDwUkKK9t5JXL330O_MR6EC7SAmqzg1_7xj3GGXtyegv8KwcFMsw_VDJf6IWE-AvtaEhqfaooZewTD0SVwNUbxWBA9yjbHPTBMO763zzy-mFN0bss74Y0WNRNZg7ad1ME0/s640/IMG_20181025_125047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We made three different launchers, each of different heights for the base. The first one had 8 sticks, the second had 12 sticks and the third one had 16 sticks. Our goal was to compare and contrast how the height changed the launch data.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now it was time to try them out...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3E2uabUukaM/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3E2uabUukaM?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It took a little bit of practice and adjusting, but then she figured out how it worked.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
At this point, we should have made a hypothesis and planned out better what kind of data we were trying to collect. Honestly, we got so excited about the project that we just started chunking pumpkins (candy that is). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We lined up a tape measure along the edge of our table and let the candy fly. We kept track of how far each type of candy went from each of the three sizes of catapults. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsHC22GdMjAf2gIVyI6qrFi70gEhd_W9cX4WKvuBn-al-Qm8-l-pSFICNRcdFMJiX0VJXF_XEzbCg_Y0fYz-d6ySkVVPUHtHC3uWCuzsef7m0QGWS5Gb1ExymC_t19zQJd5Z6SXlvL54/s1600/IMG_20181025_131450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsHC22GdMjAf2gIVyI6qrFi70gEhd_W9cX4WKvuBn-al-Qm8-l-pSFICNRcdFMJiX0VJXF_XEzbCg_Y0fYz-d6ySkVVPUHtHC3uWCuzsef7m0QGWS5Gb1ExymC_t19zQJd5Z6SXlvL54/s640/IMG_20181025_131450.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpg8X9ZlWAGI1wMsHgGEVV_jxagXnKlGqR-PQS2FppvAk2YKZt7avRkyuWgnBj6EpA4wICx_TqRCoTy0Rzzc3Tl19WgSfRvTUAybPFsBtQYTylkkwFKwkQQW_zFOaLX4sklnWvjISuus/s1600/img184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1165" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpg8X9ZlWAGI1wMsHgGEVV_jxagXnKlGqR-PQS2FppvAk2YKZt7avRkyuWgnBj6EpA4wICx_TqRCoTy0Rzzc3Tl19WgSfRvTUAybPFsBtQYTylkkwFKwkQQW_zFOaLX4sklnWvjISuus/s640/img184.jpg" width="466" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then it was time to start graphing! We quickly realized that we needed more data. Unfortunately, we had already put everything up for the time being, so we just worked with what we had. In future experiments, we will be a little more prepared.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmn1hVH6EZ-viUNd_DQ3d6Ikg0sEOT2U4FvH4Mj2k8vAeghzSQVeZTwdIBRmhcxuSmHE8sXb2p2vcAp8tBQcIblegyjLxdfd1_Xr1Db4X0Br3bVBZWtWTpFcvMpUNtrq-p9p7JZuOJN4/s1600/img182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1233" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUmn1hVH6EZ-viUNd_DQ3d6Ikg0sEOT2U4FvH4Mj2k8vAeghzSQVeZTwdIBRmhcxuSmHE8sXb2p2vcAp8tBQcIblegyjLxdfd1_Xr1Db4X0Br3bVBZWtWTpFcvMpUNtrq-p9p7JZuOJN4/s640/img182.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We were lucky because on the day we completed the graph, Stephen was working from home and offered a few more statistics to track. He suggested we also find the range of the catapults to determine their accuracy. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqktU3TLgtmgGciGwSVHf6wV2ePTLUgzhs0oYHjvnx5qexBgTMRajEgkauE3-4cYOKLwLGbquNJ02fAqVPu5wjz9tqwS8G5XTt7pAkD1_SUJdL-wZXaEylHalrI0UakWBPlxC8144dR2k/s1600/IMG_20181026_105549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqktU3TLgtmgGciGwSVHf6wV2ePTLUgzhs0oYHjvnx5qexBgTMRajEgkauE3-4cYOKLwLGbquNJ02fAqVPu5wjz9tqwS8G5XTt7pAkD1_SUJdL-wZXaEylHalrI0UakWBPlxC8144dR2k/s640/IMG_20181026_105549.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The project was a lot of fun and Zoey learned lots about how graphs work and ways to better make visual representations of data. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRnRJyXk1AfQAx_1xtpD2ek6HJizfK-2vJrd_s8VRUQIveAWEBO5KYQbDIRMCPL4pvbTS57Qhf7jxK1PH7OTZlwAnJBSfGtjFazHJmSW5gUM3eS2Xo9yULU3tRJkq-kWPeqyfGpxGHQA/s1600/img183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRnRJyXk1AfQAx_1xtpD2ek6HJizfK-2vJrd_s8VRUQIveAWEBO5KYQbDIRMCPL4pvbTS57Qhf7jxK1PH7OTZlwAnJBSfGtjFazHJmSW5gUM3eS2Xo9yULU3tRJkq-kWPeqyfGpxGHQA/s640/img183.jpg" width="498" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We drew several conclusions from this experiment. The 8 stick catapult launched the least distance, but had the most accuracy. The 16 stick catapult launched the furthest, but it was also unpredictable in distance or direction. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We also came up with several things we could do differently next time. For example, collect more data points, alter the catapult design including changing the fulcrum point during launch. We also thought to try different types of candies or ammo. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJQRkQ8eSnV-ELTgzi-mqWQwSw5FQJ4tvswDmbVoyJm9-RZaXx1SOZu6nYfPGE-oCPhTJ23sYHLItOnTNuNxM8AzL1kPGfd16RYtpV8ay2GJ2yuHYEq8t9seqyf7PgMJQbbtHeSYqH7lM/s1600/IMG_20181025_145409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJQRkQ8eSnV-ELTgzi-mqWQwSw5FQJ4tvswDmbVoyJm9-RZaXx1SOZu6nYfPGE-oCPhTJ23sYHLItOnTNuNxM8AzL1kPGfd16RYtpV8ay2GJ2yuHYEq8t9seqyf7PgMJQbbtHeSYqH7lM/s640/IMG_20181025_145409.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We are interested in doing this experiment again, maybe around Christmas time so we can enjoy some of those candies too!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Homeschooling!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s200/signature.png" width="200" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-89973246872594661012018-10-24T14:00:00.000-07:002018-11-03T15:00:42.712-07:00New Clay Creations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zoey is really enjoying this homeschool clay class with Ms. Francis. This week her focus was on a Woodland habitat. She created this piece with a campfire, tree with an axe leaning against it and a pile of logs. It turned out great. Ms. Francis even said she used Zoey's creation to explain how to fasten each piece together, since Zoey did so well with that part of this one. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyY-i9sah2cQuDCBUEyoXNfdZ4tvNGq8UcQEzJWiGCCBCvB1Ilri2ZfN4-hItqupj5gajV1ABR6r8gPRHzRKdVRG4IzODm7AwvtkYfoz3hRLb587OO39UIecevTSVkPOzjRTE-eeXkt9s/s1600/IMG_20181024_172317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyY-i9sah2cQuDCBUEyoXNfdZ4tvNGq8UcQEzJWiGCCBCvB1Ilri2ZfN4-hItqupj5gajV1ABR6r8gPRHzRKdVRG4IzODm7AwvtkYfoz3hRLb587OO39UIecevTSVkPOzjRTE-eeXkt9s/s640/IMG_20181024_172317.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJy0CA-Ht4HSa0PNcauCxG1ez2aYKQ9gXK7iOieI98ZoALZQnU_acn9DLU8JL-Hi1m7xtX7KJ4LgKjKe3VpW1u0ltIqhrJ2uIXg4N9gvFg0VDS_QyPopIZPDF83ahA6o_otKDxMdfV08/s1600/Downloads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1024" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJy0CA-Ht4HSa0PNcauCxG1ez2aYKQ9gXK7iOieI98ZoALZQnU_acn9DLU8JL-Hi1m7xtX7KJ4LgKjKe3VpW1u0ltIqhrJ2uIXg4N9gvFg0VDS_QyPopIZPDF83ahA6o_otKDxMdfV08/s640/Downloads.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zoey really likes this character, "Sun" that she created, so she drew her on this shard.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjio9jnPqMTCR6hXEUYs3MJi7AC4xSWrSUKLsxkjrPnH77XQcqkMhyphenhyphenItcD-5qKRwTzH3TphXq8EKVdBLyq3EiXsCcpT-bf1qcmgKWZNbj6LGxLjJT2vcDf86zTzuFK3PudvhBtgNz4c45E/s1600/IMG_20181024_172404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjio9jnPqMTCR6hXEUYs3MJi7AC4xSWrSUKLsxkjrPnH77XQcqkMhyphenhyphenItcD-5qKRwTzH3TphXq8EKVdBLyq3EiXsCcpT-bf1qcmgKWZNbj6LGxLjJT2vcDf86zTzuFK3PudvhBtgNz4c45E/s640/IMG_20181024_172404.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey also made this black puppy dog. She emphasised his tongue sticking out, which I thought was great.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJB6Su6ddei7yIXAo2HF1ZU3tAeL1w8S5AYxKBDprepr2LX5Xq7STFT59zkFM_T7lhU2fzwPxZ3bBwnuGVAaxudZSsbFRPDhlKBZ8XtcQnCFtUpVuvzPfQrUWc7VuEd4U8ULcehQIXtQ/s1600/IMG_20181024_172428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJB6Su6ddei7yIXAo2HF1ZU3tAeL1w8S5AYxKBDprepr2LX5Xq7STFT59zkFM_T7lhU2fzwPxZ3bBwnuGVAaxudZSsbFRPDhlKBZ8XtcQnCFtUpVuvzPfQrUWc7VuEd4U8ULcehQIXtQ/s640/IMG_20181024_172428.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Since it was just before Halloween, Zoey created this pumpkin dish with a face.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRSg2xA1KNa_roA3UOf5lM8X8NgpDCzf3phpf0e2-RN9pFSZKtXRZCz8VKAI77ud8FphYpiY4iv_FNrNjFsTj7_WEvhDuVsoS43_PS_ZK6O0IrkX5zr3Dth7FT5KZmQC83VSTY_fzYvrY/s1600/IMG_20181024_172438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRSg2xA1KNa_roA3UOf5lM8X8NgpDCzf3phpf0e2-RN9pFSZKtXRZCz8VKAI77ud8FphYpiY4iv_FNrNjFsTj7_WEvhDuVsoS43_PS_ZK6O0IrkX5zr3Dth7FT5KZmQC83VSTY_fzYvrY/s640/IMG_20181024_172438.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey is really enjoying her time in the studio working with clay. I love her imagination. She really takes her time and pays attention to detail. I'm so glad we found Ms. Francis and this homeschool class so that Zoey can explore this style of art.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Homeschooling!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63_VEZSi8BUcYFBsSxIcwIGZEgmjs8TScysqfFlZ2CswcO-ZS4TVf3d-ztXFJc54m6D865xfvCQGKIwdUMi-IGsPEHa67Ns92dsjixiVNbogjJeIi50rZZvZnzsacz9F0gnq403Ps0ec/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-82194120861253879232018-10-18T17:34:00.000-07:002018-10-25T17:35:21.173-07:00"Glitter and Gore" Stage Makeup Class at MoPop Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had a unique opportunity to participate in a Halloween inspired workshop at the MoPop Museum called "Glitter and Gore," which was all about stage makeup and costuming. The class was fantastic, we learned several tricks of the trade about how to create depth and texture to make a character really stand out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbV0V0dRosPJIr_-zWjuhg7Ns27P-Xtt78Q2QK3PmVOYJiJnfSB-dlOx__IfgW9fgohkcV60nUt8y5pOmTCqtthB34Dbtj6GLivFEMpvvGma6u1hU1YE_82PgfPwJRyTy6UnsUg37qTgQ/s1600/IMG_20181018_133245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbV0V0dRosPJIr_-zWjuhg7Ns27P-Xtt78Q2QK3PmVOYJiJnfSB-dlOx__IfgW9fgohkcV60nUt8y5pOmTCqtthB34Dbtj6GLivFEMpvvGma6u1hU1YE_82PgfPwJRyTy6UnsUg37qTgQ/s640/IMG_20181018_133245.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here we are, a clean slate, ready to go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Two ladies, Kim and Amber, who specialize in makeup and special effects taught us as much as they could in the time provided. We learned about the contours of the face, how to shade color to accentuate different features and how to layer on colors to add depth. It was a great lesson, and then the fun part started as we got to experiment.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_1kX1v1mBPLnGysPmFjoYvsyK1dV2xbQdrQ7T9IhyphenhyphenpN9JPk0GLD0WwWiWE7gSdJopLRmd9Q6ThS2Ikd1E6GnqhSQs6s7QGK7-nOjcwr_BzvVOx9i-Fu143OrZuUreChy0L2RxfjIQkc/s1600/IMG_20181018_135320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_1kX1v1mBPLnGysPmFjoYvsyK1dV2xbQdrQ7T9IhyphenhyphenpN9JPk0GLD0WwWiWE7gSdJopLRmd9Q6ThS2Ikd1E6GnqhSQs6s7QGK7-nOjcwr_BzvVOx9i-Fu143OrZuUreChy0L2RxfjIQkc/s640/IMG_20181018_135320.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixing up gelatin to create a wound.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOt8WzjxKINIbC_UYNRkhfraHDAx22lviSO9L2XrydM1feJsE3Sde0e_kqrry2qHc0wR4Aw6aYfcnw2pBCXBUK4sHGYqoBUlyHLUTu3R9I5WW7RJ86RVcyuO7q0MMABDJQpnwt-FivQ4/s1600/IMG_20181018_140452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOt8WzjxKINIbC_UYNRkhfraHDAx22lviSO9L2XrydM1feJsE3Sde0e_kqrry2qHc0wR4Aw6aYfcnw2pBCXBUK4sHGYqoBUlyHLUTu3R9I5WW7RJ86RVcyuO7q0MMABDJQpnwt-FivQ4/s640/IMG_20181018_140452.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Application - the fun starts...but plug your nose, it smells bad until it dries.<br /> (Kim suggested adding essential oils to mask the smell.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKM16VpTOkpAZL91WPVqHo8DovT2LNlL6kBatnV7400hOfe46kjfYSBwggi0fq1zUv8_vL-V7xBsG6owBVgQZdZwP04LwEoshHjQYRDmJ53MOGFsVIukITHWIR6i9vrz41UuFpVzxlIf4/s1600/IMG_20181018_140509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKM16VpTOkpAZL91WPVqHo8DovT2LNlL6kBatnV7400hOfe46kjfYSBwggi0fq1zUv8_vL-V7xBsG6owBVgQZdZwP04LwEoshHjQYRDmJ53MOGFsVIukITHWIR6i9vrz41UuFpVzxlIf4/s640/IMG_20181018_140509.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking good, now all we're missing is the blood.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Since this was a Halloween themed workshop, much of the instruction was about how to add makeup and accents to enhance a costume. Kim specialized in the gore side of the theme. She had great techniques to share using gelatin as an additive for wounds, scars and burns. It was a lot of fun to play with, especially as we began to add the makeup to look like bruises and scar tissue. Zoey was especially excited when Kim brought out her own bottle of homemade blood.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPI9dCg6Ac5473Z7HkfPCmI-2sObBWLClKJaVGUm3lQTP-r_mwt8ird-yFqWXLNOX3QJ6vS_l4KgD2mpTgHb5HeIznM3jcXWv6Jm_X7sPMqja8TtW03loZQx_UVsP5ZTMEYiVVUk6OPbg/s1600/IMG_20181018_141547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPI9dCg6Ac5473Z7HkfPCmI-2sObBWLClKJaVGUm3lQTP-r_mwt8ird-yFqWXLNOX3QJ6vS_l4KgD2mpTgHb5HeIznM3jcXWv6Jm_X7sPMqja8TtW03loZQx_UVsP5ZTMEYiVVUk6OPbg/s640/IMG_20181018_141547.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kim was a great personality to meet, you can tell she loves what she does.<br />Here Kim is helping Zoey add blood to her arm wound.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Though this was based on theater productions, Kim also shared other ways she uses her talents. She recently helped the fire department with a training exercise. She fixed wounds and burns on victims to be in the training to simulate real life trauma. She even explained how she made glass looking shards out of crystallized sugar to simulate glass being stuck in a wound. I was fascinated by this and really enjoyed the creative use of makeup.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJXcg5Ha996jBxoRRTGm8xt2iFHW1P13pEZqVgyfiT9WbAqqwC5E-LDKc7MQNCrwBvql5We55MFEssK15RmJzmB6nTIcVpvs2ZrtYyMz8Ote8RvXpc1SWaigmAG5R1NdcbBi_dxuOYgM/s1600/IMG_20181018_141622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJXcg5Ha996jBxoRRTGm8xt2iFHW1P13pEZqVgyfiT9WbAqqwC5E-LDKc7MQNCrwBvql5We55MFEssK15RmJzmB6nTIcVpvs2ZrtYyMz8Ote8RvXpc1SWaigmAG5R1NdcbBi_dxuOYgM/s640/IMG_20181018_141622.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey's final product. I love it! It looks like she's being stuffed!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZmBKwJX99cqZcNoUfTKGX8XD-7aGxAOZXB8uoyw5R7HExcotpJNzBeqi8bsdI3B9dH0yuTYk5QjU9q0jVFZS6mgNrlIwzLA2rHg4wtgE5Vd8ronBAMzYWwz3F1D4qDwHCGZrpztKWiWM/s1600/IMG_20181018_141625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZmBKwJX99cqZcNoUfTKGX8XD-7aGxAOZXB8uoyw5R7HExcotpJNzBeqi8bsdI3B9dH0yuTYk5QjU9q0jVFZS6mgNrlIwzLA2rHg4wtgE5Vd8ronBAMzYWwz3F1D4qDwHCGZrpztKWiWM/s640/IMG_20181018_141625.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She had so much fun. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTvbzNlbVrgJK1H4o30uYZufYbleQjSjNa97Ki_g8NLY_Jk209-RCh1wVHRktHRhtORUdRfuvvEDQTVXIeb_xDcLexKrAxnto1J39guj2KmorCo5sBJkXEjClKQUFr6eHEVeRuetnHmM/s1600/IMG_20181018_142124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTvbzNlbVrgJK1H4o30uYZufYbleQjSjNa97Ki_g8NLY_Jk209-RCh1wVHRktHRhtORUdRfuvvEDQTVXIeb_xDcLexKrAxnto1J39guj2KmorCo5sBJkXEjClKQUFr6eHEVeRuetnHmM/s640/IMG_20181018_142124.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So did I! It started with a small wound, but somehow it kept getting bigger<br />until it covered up my entire arm. It came out better than I thought it would.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YpkaUyRwknlg6A_BIODDl8drq-1ePIqDw9qW93pIO9k_RbE5rATrMm_tUo709Go-RKueIsLGkd05cKbuh9COsLMn5tTRpME4HKDdIoRks3cRHNbXzd1Xf9nmgtSXRuY8scxr8UPmHAg/s640/IMG_20181018_142138.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think it came out well. Zoey did the bruise on my face, she picked up on the skills very quickly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7YpkaUyRwknlg6A_BIODDl8drq-1ePIqDw9qW93pIO9k_RbE5rATrMm_tUo709Go-RKueIsLGkd05cKbuh9COsLMn5tTRpME4HKDdIoRks3cRHNbXzd1Xf9nmgtSXRuY8scxr8UPmHAg/s1600/IMG_20181018_142138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
As I shared these pictures on social media, I was very careful to put *Fake - stage makeup* in the title. The fact that a couple people still felt shocked at the gore made me feel really good because that means I learned something along the way. It was so much fun, and there's really a lot of give with the techniques, which is good for beginners like us. They gave us good tools, creative instruction, and lots of time to experiment. It was a great experience for both of us.<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcyJrdK-Vibp_9uwoCd_0Fx8YfcP5vNC_aCqX7Lkmb2Uy8prRAD975-ly0iLI3P6xRd0I-7DFKTtVJyBnxRYApo5J9_U78AaNWX89SqtUAARFG9MyT2SvGb0xbj6g27-KceBgfBKRGgw/s1600/IMG_20181018_142146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcyJrdK-Vibp_9uwoCd_0Fx8YfcP5vNC_aCqX7Lkmb2Uy8prRAD975-ly0iLI3P6xRd0I-7DFKTtVJyBnxRYApo5J9_U78AaNWX89SqtUAARFG9MyT2SvGb0xbj6g27-KceBgfBKRGgw/s640/IMG_20181018_142146.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJixeE0qS8IETGP9STh1rb4K7ncA5ql-bpizB6fGnO3_nro99YV__zoC5TkmM0z4xdv1nlp9U1-YM6iYIjbHHol7sGeN6QONMC-navlD__2b5zdfVGqAMPMvejoKKFoaRW6qDG5K8Q_s/s1600/IMG_20181018_152903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJixeE0qS8IETGP9STh1rb4K7ncA5ql-bpizB6fGnO3_nro99YV__zoC5TkmM0z4xdv1nlp9U1-YM6iYIjbHHol7sGeN6QONMC-navlD__2b5zdfVGqAMPMvejoKKFoaRW6qDG5K8Q_s/s640/IMG_20181018_152903.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding a few last details.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A huge benefit to taking the Homeschooling class is a day pass to the MoPop museum exhibits. Zoey loves the Sound Lab and the Indie Game rooms. They also encouraged us to investigate the Horror exhibit for inspiration for our costumes and makeup for Halloween.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWh6_WFqG0MgGFvor7wFR7RcgLO8zvzgNjsVdZCAfgUKM17SB01m57Ie3OItEoRsOwjTzsd88PU8Tzm_9N5Vunib3OPi4k8ML1lS44etCkauTeDq3pPzZPfXEdBwrFCv0wMVxE2JyBZw/s1600/IMG_20181018_144321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWh6_WFqG0MgGFvor7wFR7RcgLO8zvzgNjsVdZCAfgUKM17SB01m57Ie3OItEoRsOwjTzsd88PU8Tzm_9N5Vunib3OPi4k8ML1lS44etCkauTeDq3pPzZPfXEdBwrFCv0wMVxE2JyBZw/s640/IMG_20181018_144321.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey in the vocals sound booth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjbRiO8jgwlAWc6BxsN-bG0EJ6cXudFTciIsVVzP909ldhePXwF26jtmWOvXnXS-VFqlGvPcUfIYl1Q3J31AkXeu50nYUdK3nx39mqbvlfV6dGk4mLol5WdznF2V_qCl-02ITX5cLW40/s1600/IMG_20181018_155830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQjbRiO8jgwlAWc6BxsN-bG0EJ6cXudFTciIsVVzP909ldhePXwF26jtmWOvXnXS-VFqlGvPcUfIYl1Q3J31AkXeu50nYUdK3nx39mqbvlfV6dGk4mLol5WdznF2V_qCl-02ITX5cLW40/s640/IMG_20181018_155830.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey playing "Little Nightmare" in the Indie Game room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Zoey also had one of her homeschool friends in the class with her. The girls had a great time hanging out while getting inspiration in the Horror exhibit. I thought it was creepy and Zoey thinks it's cool.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYW-RbUXwr6S2D-Tc0gOA5mmgyUfXSzI10w8dOEOoApLhfXo_cI1vgUE0u7uwTx-DGBJymjKT_f1cvFvCNAtxxqXLtdPsZj1gIXUv2t2q4CXYxXAfP3ZKOu3K1X8kD5yI5DpazREqH8E/s1600/IMG_20181018_150726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzYW-RbUXwr6S2D-Tc0gOA5mmgyUfXSzI10w8dOEOoApLhfXo_cI1vgUE0u7uwTx-DGBJymjKT_f1cvFvCNAtxxqXLtdPsZj1gIXUv2t2q4CXYxXAfP3ZKOu3K1X8kD5yI5DpazREqH8E/s640/IMG_20181018_150726.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey and her friend Kate checking out the coffin in the Horror section.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was such a great afternoon. Days like this make me really glad that we homeschool. There is an entire community surrounding homeschooling and we are just getting our feet wet. We experienced so many great things, not only about makeup and costuming, but also about the body and way to use your knowledge in ways you wouldn't expect. Plus, it's fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64q17isKwjLQxau0b8K6ecuFbXmcL4NTAWrUvb9LvtLpAxDj-NuxOJmFyZeUfFffWXMaE8sBwphQltrLradEAXu0grJTe8hGKNt3e-1NxmLeK5QVqCBXDkWNwtTwNJT_9JKsrq4C5t_k/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64q17isKwjLQxau0b8K6ecuFbXmcL4NTAWrUvb9LvtLpAxDj-NuxOJmFyZeUfFffWXMaE8sBwphQltrLradEAXu0grJTe8hGKNt3e-1NxmLeK5QVqCBXDkWNwtTwNJT_9JKsrq4C5t_k/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-41806152026569887602018-10-13T14:07:00.000-07:002018-11-02T09:51:37.526-07:00Field Trip: Vancouver Aquarium<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
While my friend Dana was visiting us from South Carolina, we decided to go to Canada. It's only about 150 miles from Seattle to Vancouver, but we had yet to go in the four years we've been in Seattle. I, for one, was very glad to remedy this. The entire trip was amazing, but a highlight for Zoey and I was the Vancouver Aquarium. We made this into a homeschool field trip and we learned so much on our adventures. (Dana and Stephen decided to go to a suspension bridge park instead, since Zoey and I are both afraid of heights, we greatly enjoyed our time at the aquarium instead.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, I will share our Aquarium Adventure though pictures. (Warning: there are many).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddVrcXyxi3NESKGfXxqossjtIREAvw1uM9Ek_yT5nHXY2f6kiL82ABE8yvrlK4lntBsYFUzmU5lj4hOFCpEIJAhjWUYk9INX8tbJ3FgYNA03S4i14RHn6zCzTvXfF9VkIUr_uPoZeeoQ/s1600/IMG_20181013_112736.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddVrcXyxi3NESKGfXxqossjtIREAvw1uM9Ek_yT5nHXY2f6kiL82ABE8yvrlK4lntBsYFUzmU5lj4hOFCpEIJAhjWUYk9INX8tbJ3FgYNA03S4i14RHn6zCzTvXfF9VkIUr_uPoZeeoQ/s640/IMG_20181013_112736.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
The aquarium is located in the beautiful Stanley Park, a huge green space in Vancouver.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3uEzrt78FAUMgPJrKdMdsAS6QUi4c25iwQyuE4C-dXP69hmUOUSaa3dVXQBEM-v8NQSUYW-yGvXCdZagqfb_BrMuFcObDzqpVouUGfwX-WlOQSWi2cPZL_FkwZsWO8iY5E0JHpd8Xqs/s1600/IMG_20181013_113354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3uEzrt78FAUMgPJrKdMdsAS6QUi4c25iwQyuE4C-dXP69hmUOUSaa3dVXQBEM-v8NQSUYW-yGvXCdZagqfb_BrMuFcObDzqpVouUGfwX-WlOQSWi2cPZL_FkwZsWO8iY5E0JHpd8Xqs/s640/IMG_20181013_113354.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
At the front of the aquarium was a festival celebrating conservation and environmental consciousness. They talked about how the ecosystems are constructed and how they can be greatly effected by pollution, especially in the waters.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MiMEu-LnAH5SeLvsZPRrJG3-pgc6wjFRkcyyPioA7wyeXaHtz2uvOlL-VMTrvEy9tiphr529DhynG9eXz5bBVpCCpsJR6eHkaeZSwujYZOLN3NVW1opYMgN1oY5jbXTTe0yTz0Og1Rw/s1600/IMG_20181013_113505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MiMEu-LnAH5SeLvsZPRrJG3-pgc6wjFRkcyyPioA7wyeXaHtz2uvOlL-VMTrvEy9tiphr529DhynG9eXz5bBVpCCpsJR6eHkaeZSwujYZOLN3NVW1opYMgN1oY5jbXTTe0yTz0Og1Rw/s640/IMG_20181013_113505.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Before we even entered the park, Zoey was already learning about how a turtle can mistake a plastic bag for a jellyfish and other ways our waste cause problems for marine mammals.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yx0RzOZHCAZkbcoIkSJqS_dLyYEVXfdGkUzn_gk8bUdNlMhNyn8UnMKvcfUavWgk-ASssetcn7D5VI86r9afULV-GkeMHhxpCGrQn0qeKK7TJ9ju6Kis_v0DMM1HVmJF6w_ZDb2uDRc/s1600/IMG_20181013_113517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_yx0RzOZHCAZkbcoIkSJqS_dLyYEVXfdGkUzn_gk8bUdNlMhNyn8UnMKvcfUavWgk-ASssetcn7D5VI86r9afULV-GkeMHhxpCGrQn0qeKK7TJ9ju6Kis_v0DMM1HVmJF6w_ZDb2uDRc/s640/IMG_20181013_113517.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A nice man helped Zoey out with this fun game at the entrance. We also learned more about how hard people worked to clean the shoreline and how we can better recycle our waste.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigB2WUKStyop_3YSmEEK9NmRkcPX79HQg2UWw0hg6P-xHFWUPAYQTAF8r3us_QfsNj-W2z3YVOM5zqbc-FeooHuVdsuIf2LeTZQS-PShxjPRkrhwvX9Ki9XdiyrQxoGVg4FSBhl9tw6t0/s1600/IMG_20181013_114308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigB2WUKStyop_3YSmEEK9NmRkcPX79HQg2UWw0hg6P-xHFWUPAYQTAF8r3us_QfsNj-W2z3YVOM5zqbc-FeooHuVdsuIf2LeTZQS-PShxjPRkrhwvX9Ki9XdiyrQxoGVg4FSBhl9tw6t0/s640/IMG_20181013_114308.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
When we entered, we were greeted by salmon! These are very popular in Washington too since we are all part of the same salmon runs every year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChsyhacvwHDEdsl7TzVKl_D9uZhYFQAroprOmLHKe37dXSjl5JerFl6aaGyPOImcvw2lOwlPYS8U0Lh1rDBSezhrh785hODKaqboeeii5AArZPqa1KM4r6A2VK1iwyOPV6YJWkRIGfMg/s1600/IMG_20181013_114634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjChsyhacvwHDEdsl7TzVKl_D9uZhYFQAroprOmLHKe37dXSjl5JerFl6aaGyPOImcvw2lOwlPYS8U0Lh1rDBSezhrh785hODKaqboeeii5AArZPqa1KM4r6A2VK1iwyOPV6YJWkRIGfMg/s640/IMG_20181013_114634.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey was really excited when one of the first things was to get her face painted, and there wasn't even a line!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWic09efoGs8RZpxrSZXETZg-Wp2TV1U0BExbzfkGb2gPhEpwp9rBDeJzYB5g81AOx3cABJRHwVV856vVzRnPc6W5lCAnLQIyfPq08uhUdCzPkZ86wuAsoqS36_OVwrBMuFUDzj7jh6ow/s1600/IMG_20181013_114719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWic09efoGs8RZpxrSZXETZg-Wp2TV1U0BExbzfkGb2gPhEpwp9rBDeJzYB5g81AOx3cABJRHwVV856vVzRnPc6W5lCAnLQIyfPq08uhUdCzPkZ86wuAsoqS36_OVwrBMuFUDzj7jh6ow/s640/IMG_20181013_114719.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
She picked a penguin...too cute!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko8VrbnFUB7Y6jdVmoFwe0GeC1h9-jSSnvVkWaAuwaAXsCN5JABd-S1n1v7o-kC6n5rY-dqEZl_F_hU15IUuH1sk5GGJRJ8QzFHn0Dq9zOvKRpbW3DtgeHGApEblkVN6EeSEXHJx0Ebo/s1600/IMG_20181013_114919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko8VrbnFUB7Y6jdVmoFwe0GeC1h9-jSSnvVkWaAuwaAXsCN5JABd-S1n1v7o-kC6n5rY-dqEZl_F_hU15IUuH1sk5GGJRJ8QzFHn0Dq9zOvKRpbW3DtgeHGApEblkVN6EeSEXHJx0Ebo/s640/IMG_20181013_114919.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These jellyfish were bright and engaging to look at. We had barely made it through the door and we were already experiencing so much!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iVRKdwDSTbfUSMTG0tjB5Rawy_GfU0Xrc4Kef7n1cLtRC0bt6wUi9V2TCGlTLv9TyBqKO9gSXfcv8kwi2yHnggqB2sRP_WVUOx1KrDfa73Cn75mh5IacACbly2o1gNTMw4yirvjk7jk/s1600/IMG_20181013_115134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iVRKdwDSTbfUSMTG0tjB5Rawy_GfU0Xrc4Kef7n1cLtRC0bt6wUi9V2TCGlTLv9TyBqKO9gSXfcv8kwi2yHnggqB2sRP_WVUOx1KrDfa73Cn75mh5IacACbly2o1gNTMw4yirvjk7jk/s640/IMG_20181013_115134.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I loved this exhibit...it was bright and green fluorescent.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBfh4pj_IlOoMqZqSYJtB-IyrxqYwXkF3kAdwAhOdu4NCzhqw0PTrp6Y8-iTd5ncrQw5GPUdf7dlr6OuTpNGXzk77IHo538be92wxTrWB0o73hIwVhhnmbv6mn9ky-MD7F5aQD6yJec0/s1600/IMG_20181013_115153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdBfh4pj_IlOoMqZqSYJtB-IyrxqYwXkF3kAdwAhOdu4NCzhqw0PTrp6Y8-iTd5ncrQw5GPUdf7dlr6OuTpNGXzk77IHo538be92wxTrWB0o73hIwVhhnmbv6mn9ky-MD7F5aQD6yJec0/s640/IMG_20181013_115153.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This guy was so much fun to watch. He looks like a grouch, but I bet he is a really nice fish living on the bottom of the sea.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ86SKND1atEVuWJRg98ocpCBwbCxdh6o0P5Kv_wH2ZERKyB_YwjQRh14JC4Mphmj8aZILoGUzmEChnAPHiNFS5optdZOQH2BYqh8QmgwhP5dhDLkNd9ILmaNCWa6Naqb9tLv3yEijnlo/s1600/IMG_20181013_115334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ86SKND1atEVuWJRg98ocpCBwbCxdh6o0P5Kv_wH2ZERKyB_YwjQRh14JC4Mphmj8aZILoGUzmEChnAPHiNFS5optdZOQH2BYqh8QmgwhP5dhDLkNd9ILmaNCWa6Naqb9tLv3yEijnlo/s640/IMG_20181013_115334.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There were so many different kinds of starfish. This one was cool because you could see the little suctions underneath it. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOBKoh9_c8Ycss3FzJDqMTxBJQ7E52mv9NswO5fYKuyPZ4nMH4nmKYISwX1md50G7khmRk_vrtXQaGVq7hjHB7CT_B6CS3CCT7aTl-zV60wArZiNCDGOKHevD1NfUrxq0ua119F9ciEyQ/s1600/IMG_20181013_115336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOBKoh9_c8Ycss3FzJDqMTxBJQ7E52mv9NswO5fYKuyPZ4nMH4nmKYISwX1md50G7khmRk_vrtXQaGVq7hjHB7CT_B6CS3CCT7aTl-zV60wArZiNCDGOKHevD1NfUrxq0ua119F9ciEyQ/s640/IMG_20181013_115336.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey really enjoyed all of the exhibits. She really looked into them and studied them. We talked about how they lived and how they were the same and difference compared to Washington and also back east in the Carolinas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTPPje7kDBeeqxzL2j0xyahddxXthD35c_kJXBNoTJYfOQ2o0zETAJhgdROulZdP06TjaDuKL7JrrfEzC-t1x9qlO8Ns0UvRwfXTYRc5bh7TxnUUKHWD_FjxptcgvXrXVMr_PAjW4Eqs/s1600/IMG_20181013_115444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTPPje7kDBeeqxzL2j0xyahddxXthD35c_kJXBNoTJYfOQ2o0zETAJhgdROulZdP06TjaDuKL7JrrfEzC-t1x9qlO8Ns0UvRwfXTYRc5bh7TxnUUKHWD_FjxptcgvXrXVMr_PAjW4Eqs/s640/IMG_20181013_115444.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I sometimes wonder what the fish think about being stared at all day...this one looked like he was staring back.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GWVQSwQi3es5Lomwd0ZAvOcDggVzDVUKTsp345n-E8h5C7WSyovdAHV9zkc630QUZU7HjTqtsFuqWaZ4PCZ-ww_K9GlstRwNV8F5Z4eici1YDnTYIwe_w-ASgMlsl8x6Y0ykH_mhncM/s1600/IMG_20181013_115522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GWVQSwQi3es5Lomwd0ZAvOcDggVzDVUKTsp345n-E8h5C7WSyovdAHV9zkc630QUZU7HjTqtsFuqWaZ4PCZ-ww_K9GlstRwNV8F5Z4eici1YDnTYIwe_w-ASgMlsl8x6Y0ykH_mhncM/s640/IMG_20181013_115522.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey was excited to learn that not all starfish have five arms, some have more. She also learned that they could lose an arm and grow a new one, it was great to see her eyes light up with new information.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLFFLKcLkixuDXZRmRGDxpNh0LxFO_wWffFlhnTLRbvm2J6bLGPPtYgdhtbE0wy7babE44IR-e03bXscJrnPnm1VSVQyHQ-lXRnnf5lU6cLEf6GudjgfRBrwW2g_jI8dVfDr1aYKrE4k/s1600/IMG_20181013_120047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLFFLKcLkixuDXZRmRGDxpNh0LxFO_wWffFlhnTLRbvm2J6bLGPPtYgdhtbE0wy7babE44IR-e03bXscJrnPnm1VSVQyHQ-lXRnnf5lU6cLEf6GudjgfRBrwW2g_jI8dVfDr1aYKrE4k/s640/IMG_20181013_120047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This crab was great at camaflouge. He's pretty easy to see in the picture, but in the whole tank, he blended right in with the kelp.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Cv2oxiCcASzb9UNeVa9umC259dODrI5N9hWt9_HiapvS997cHbWNaxhhYNnNDPdaIImpTNZi4GH8fzTQV_uRkVs-9jgHeKSWazN78TCjFp1E7zoSeBN0SuhkZe0FeKrka6KJlkkJvbs/s1600/IMG_20181013_120133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Cv2oxiCcASzb9UNeVa9umC259dODrI5N9hWt9_HiapvS997cHbWNaxhhYNnNDPdaIImpTNZi4GH8fzTQV_uRkVs-9jgHeKSWazN78TCjFp1E7zoSeBN0SuhkZe0FeKrka6KJlkkJvbs/s640/IMG_20181013_120133.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This guy was huge! Over half of him was hidden in the kelp and stones.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJJud-Sx3ZJp5WIrOxnJOG0HGG9Pc1i3Ot2_8NMBKFvUovh-Qr25AzClyRihMoTJ0k_mKNmG9ZbArQwRQErkn2HepYjNBIonO8D8CWLdGzt_aV8-Py5Y4ZeqmrJgJqp89o3Tp3Qe79UY/s1600/IMG_20181013_120442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJJud-Sx3ZJp5WIrOxnJOG0HGG9Pc1i3Ot2_8NMBKFvUovh-Qr25AzClyRihMoTJ0k_mKNmG9ZbArQwRQErkn2HepYjNBIonO8D8CWLdGzt_aV8-Py5Y4ZeqmrJgJqp89o3Tp3Qe79UY/s640/IMG_20181013_120442.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Another starfish to enjoy looking at all the details. It was so cool to see Zoey look through all of these creatures. Then again, I was enjoying myself just as much as she, I'm fascinated by all of this!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPxWxTVK6-3NXqR5BprsocbxGVibgTnfd2WdtNk9BV587cUNPDzDLROFs1Gs36g_H_WybJSEnMP-WmPHG68HUqYgZlXYM3zNxop-L2VuxKU5Lqs-4iT2DJNLn-4pz1_4FR4lJLjwZPGk/s1600/IMG_20181013_120521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPxWxTVK6-3NXqR5BprsocbxGVibgTnfd2WdtNk9BV587cUNPDzDLROFs1Gs36g_H_WybJSEnMP-WmPHG68HUqYgZlXYM3zNxop-L2VuxKU5Lqs-4iT2DJNLn-4pz1_4FR4lJLjwZPGk/s640/IMG_20181013_120521.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These were Zoey's favorite jelly fish. They are called Moon Jellyfish. They are in a cylinder in the middle of the room that you can walk completely around. It was really cool to watch her study them. I enjoyed it myself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nzVntlTl4_h_7q43y8wk5tRI8YhMeW8QqS6uGPUlMHPtdxlYgmLynyeZzMfE0_mPhqKN8lEawb-ldjOhqKgShW8_dI3xx-ASe_je1yVY32eAP8-RR8qE0rCHho_Cf8K0gvbuKrbQNTI/s1600/IMG_20181013_120549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nzVntlTl4_h_7q43y8wk5tRI8YhMeW8QqS6uGPUlMHPtdxlYgmLynyeZzMfE0_mPhqKN8lEawb-ldjOhqKgShW8_dI3xx-ASe_je1yVY32eAP8-RR8qE0rCHho_Cf8K0gvbuKrbQNTI/s640/IMG_20181013_120549.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
There were a lot of different jelly fish in this aquarium. Each one seemed to have it's own glow. I would not want to be anywhere near one, but they are beautiful to watch, one of nature's masterpieces.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXq4uy_lmG_5iuydeRTFgVXVOkuJbssIxlIeADLc9SBgCJH72jyTDR1XLL_ehAR_stOO0ulrn5STzgwRy_TFb8RrCSAGpb06pSISETAEAwUAS8FeoXcGadw9AlI4ek0YUBVdPCv_2G3c/s1600/IMG_20181013_121152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXq4uy_lmG_5iuydeRTFgVXVOkuJbssIxlIeADLc9SBgCJH72jyTDR1XLL_ehAR_stOO0ulrn5STzgwRy_TFb8RrCSAGpb06pSISETAEAwUAS8FeoXcGadw9AlI4ek0YUBVdPCv_2G3c/s640/IMG_20181013_121152.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The octopus was a real life hide and seek puzzle. The tank does not seem that big, but it took a long time to spot the tentacle slowly waving from behind a rock in the back corner. Then Zoey could not get enough of watching it move from it's comfortable cubby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qHuyLVDZKcAtGJXkWbMxs4Muililf8hCgdTgbLtCwXevesANSVaDi6EN0_kub7PML6fxvsi4tTB8m_rqCwRmA7uhae6QrkUQT6SHUi0ix_S97VCVL_Ki61WP2bhsWjWPDyacD6NKyME/s1600/IMG_20181013_121354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qHuyLVDZKcAtGJXkWbMxs4Muililf8hCgdTgbLtCwXevesANSVaDi6EN0_kub7PML6fxvsi4tTB8m_rqCwRmA7uhae6QrkUQT6SHUi0ix_S97VCVL_Ki61WP2bhsWjWPDyacD6NKyME/s640/IMG_20181013_121354.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey wanted to do the jelly fish craft they had set up. It was cute, you color a semi-circle of paper and then punch holes along the bottom to thread string through.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-_T3gW4dsA5OgcYNifqy-usdWti88Fx16CCWeF7WAreW6Nqtu0g0t0CJyarBhviuhQfEc2FzXtXW6l9q_S-ADLYaW3E29p49z05MdQsfdTaV08fu9daJvaWpPwfB3VvBtnuO-8wqeUo/s1600/IMG_20181013_121430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-_T3gW4dsA5OgcYNifqy-usdWti88Fx16CCWeF7WAreW6Nqtu0g0t0CJyarBhviuhQfEc2FzXtXW6l9q_S-ADLYaW3E29p49z05MdQsfdTaV08fu9daJvaWpPwfB3VvBtnuO-8wqeUo/s640/IMG_20181013_121430.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
While Zoey did her craft, I explored the antechamber the table was set up in. I found it really stimulating to learn about a different region. In a lot of ways, it is similar to Seattle, but I feel like I'm still learning about this area too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdYpUIZntXmQ0v-I-2wipZJsRANd8hOzzCoU4LhQcDb7wsiL7KbuhWJg00_PxYgH0082z3DwyWQEHh0TzxFZxkSdtdbVWMUcHG0AOeqleq3AE2JNBNhUzxad_0mnHDWBLBJviaU-hcGA/s1600/IMG_20181013_121437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdYpUIZntXmQ0v-I-2wipZJsRANd8hOzzCoU4LhQcDb7wsiL7KbuhWJg00_PxYgH0082z3DwyWQEHh0TzxFZxkSdtdbVWMUcHG0AOeqleq3AE2JNBNhUzxad_0mnHDWBLBJviaU-hcGA/s640/IMG_20181013_121437.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I adored how this aquarium was laid out. There were lots of places to get lost in and interact with while watching marine animals enjoy their habitats.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4ZFXXjGfaXBAte3cA-OXZ0ZDlUk4z27gHDxyfrsFWsWAtCQOEoW4UXrKdMcZk7Dfbn_FmgoM2v02rivypp49ywyvTmM1nz19ZlWkJAkJPWXL5WPf3DCeDthfUU5XVI8u7sGp5Jh0AAo/s1600/IMG_20181013_121633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4ZFXXjGfaXBAte3cA-OXZ0ZDlUk4z27gHDxyfrsFWsWAtCQOEoW4UXrKdMcZk7Dfbn_FmgoM2v02rivypp49ywyvTmM1nz19ZlWkJAkJPWXL5WPf3DCeDthfUU5XVI8u7sGp5Jh0AAo/s640/IMG_20181013_121633.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I watched this tank for a while. There was this one fish that would come along and flip it's head up out of the water like it needed the air. I didn't find out what that fish was called, but it was fascinating to watch. The above picture is a sting ray. I watched it float along just under the surface of the water for several minutes too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLRqwVvELwxeBxwONaPiRr-Y8cODXEARJy_o_fEEpxAeH9JQ0K7aLuF9PqWX9T_ZTM4168qF7rkZ1UfJmb0QDhIphPczxnqQDnBaOmHa0AEXT5dzUi_q4tJkC4IVqZRoih7Td_gGJn_pU/s1600/IMG_20181013_122527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLRqwVvELwxeBxwONaPiRr-Y8cODXEARJy_o_fEEpxAeH9JQ0K7aLuF9PqWX9T_ZTM4168qF7rkZ1UfJmb0QDhIphPczxnqQDnBaOmHa0AEXT5dzUi_q4tJkC4IVqZRoih7Td_gGJn_pU/s640/IMG_20181013_122527.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then Zoey was done with her craft and wanted to show it off. She did that by introducing her creation to the other jelly fish. Jelly fish, meet Jam, she's trying to be just like you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SBIWUYMscOkXgH4zAEXiMyJvO-Ro0QiCQPlCEY2-Z_9OLw-0gd91LHmn5E7EWvbbMiXkfHgPyeIZDYITtBVMjwEPcQYd5LdG93PHJNrVAP3vlovbBEXqO1fENfqm67GUXwnCgRjTm9c/s1600/IMG_20181013_122629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SBIWUYMscOkXgH4zAEXiMyJvO-Ro0QiCQPlCEY2-Z_9OLw-0gd91LHmn5E7EWvbbMiXkfHgPyeIZDYITtBVMjwEPcQYd5LdG93PHJNrVAP3vlovbBEXqO1fENfqm67GUXwnCgRjTm9c/s640/IMG_20181013_122629.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, we went down the stairs to see the rest of the tank I had been watching from the top. The sting ray gave me a perfect view of his underbelly. It looks like he has feet and a tail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_b6mhrdyl3yXUMMi1vU28cTTqv-H-KlrNkzhwfTRsviZjReJWwO8moVYHfC0JK6xdlhe5TuRVR9BDAWKWSyfMdxUJ53Z2_j01bSigfSmKYePFfw8fqQqv1iNzsvNgLpSoJKDm1hORVcI/s1600/IMG_20181013_122636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_b6mhrdyl3yXUMMi1vU28cTTqv-H-KlrNkzhwfTRsviZjReJWwO8moVYHfC0JK6xdlhe5TuRVR9BDAWKWSyfMdxUJ53Z2_j01bSigfSmKYePFfw8fqQqv1iNzsvNgLpSoJKDm1hORVcI/s640/IMG_20181013_122636.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
He wasn't done saying hi though, he came by again and grinned at me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHicafdwns4WXezswUgMb31oESYIJUqvJOEOHFHA914fDPwxBsRslFCSLIcwSpEVVbZbQsuPgzE1kol8zq6bdJ_uIrahWjKiuzAxy3zmqxv96wNlVmxj1YWo6YXsk3hzrYQhOGCUMhxA/s1600/IMG_20181013_122725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHicafdwns4WXezswUgMb31oESYIJUqvJOEOHFHA914fDPwxBsRslFCSLIcwSpEVVbZbQsuPgzE1kol8zq6bdJ_uIrahWjKiuzAxy3zmqxv96wNlVmxj1YWo6YXsk3hzrYQhOGCUMhxA/s640/IMG_20181013_122725.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This big guy also came by in that tank. He reminds me of something evil lurking in a Disney princess movie.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJnvaB0CvrG8HCsPbdyfeSTP1V8SlL_nkAQgajiLddpXAiYNl8dx-O-wAfWo9m8653hltzk-bgBGlZ1jaY-DHUcL8ikrY6vAzCvfbPCyAUHPrlIAKZMVFFhq2NndDyp2pJbks14WKrKyA/s1600/IMG_20181013_123407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJnvaB0CvrG8HCsPbdyfeSTP1V8SlL_nkAQgajiLddpXAiYNl8dx-O-wAfWo9m8653hltzk-bgBGlZ1jaY-DHUcL8ikrY6vAzCvfbPCyAUHPrlIAKZMVFFhq2NndDyp2pJbks14WKrKyA/s640/IMG_20181013_123407.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The amphibian exhibit was incredible. There was this frog habitat what you could stick you head in and see 360 degrees of frogs swimming, hopping and sunbathing. You can see only a polar bear peeking out because Zoey said she was afraid to come all the way up. There is a good two feet in depth including the water for the frogs to roam.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8BYoQid_2ZCx6_YhIO0QOAXInFhbtn5W3L9l9p9Q3ifJRnwWbE0w6lJJ5O13Ay9aXEedtAnt8tDCrDMBwnH2CBlGnFY3SvsFyd1k-tLaO3LHJ0E-n5S_iNP9C6exK-jYXGcjmqX1e_c/s1600/IMG_20181013_123459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr8BYoQid_2ZCx6_YhIO0QOAXInFhbtn5W3L9l9p9Q3ifJRnwWbE0w6lJJ5O13Ay9aXEedtAnt8tDCrDMBwnH2CBlGnFY3SvsFyd1k-tLaO3LHJ0E-n5S_iNP9C6exK-jYXGcjmqX1e_c/s640/IMG_20181013_123459.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
They were cool to watch though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaTseIHRdap_TDzl7qp2GLQEaBHrACiB75GXtzCavrfQZPi3LWCbjiUr1bgPaoJFHPG6ISrsrTufBB-XktoydNxDVKKTiQXMqgmkE13qZvuRvGuHkbxGNo60U26gk94MOHcTECkYzqSI/s1600/IMG_20181013_123701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWaTseIHRdap_TDzl7qp2GLQEaBHrACiB75GXtzCavrfQZPi3LWCbjiUr1bgPaoJFHPG6ISrsrTufBB-XktoydNxDVKKTiQXMqgmkE13qZvuRvGuHkbxGNo60U26gk94MOHcTECkYzqSI/s640/IMG_20181013_123701.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I loved that you could see every stage of the frog's transformation from tadpole to mature frog. Above you can just see the tiny legs beginning to protrude from this tadpole's body. And to the right you can see a younger tadpole just developing eyes. If you looked closely you could even see the baby ones just beginning to swim.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W30xsjIsB9MFeTw7HfYZimL0nvjz0Ly3Ogn3fmz1KQSOke1tPbZJg9u2JsaPdz3tBBzvbb0dwmxS5ZwUVHqsEZ2aXMC3HHcNLvbjqWqjEmiNf-rbm2JLx3ZEA_dM_7uoDblDkv3bBoE/s1600/IMG_20181013_123600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W30xsjIsB9MFeTw7HfYZimL0nvjz0Ly3Ogn3fmz1KQSOke1tPbZJg9u2JsaPdz3tBBzvbb0dwmxS5ZwUVHqsEZ2aXMC3HHcNLvbjqWqjEmiNf-rbm2JLx3ZEA_dM_7uoDblDkv3bBoE/s640/IMG_20181013_123600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course some of them looked like they wanted to escape.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7knlIJMV6JLMSzc0wkxoSJf3JDZiW0IDYTrJmon044ehQZFe9KL3ih3CrKG5USufKaKMcPgqfjUF6c2Bv4wayvEyqCMBNh7oWwro831_JV15XP0wHsdL0ehIOUwAiAWMNLkV7kKszqs/s1600/IMG_20181013_123849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7knlIJMV6JLMSzc0wkxoSJf3JDZiW0IDYTrJmon044ehQZFe9KL3ih3CrKG5USufKaKMcPgqfjUF6c2Bv4wayvEyqCMBNh7oWwro831_JV15XP0wHsdL0ehIOUwAiAWMNLkV7kKszqs/s640/IMG_20181013_123849.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey was fascinated by this mini documentary about how frog catch their prey. She particularly liked the one that burrowed in and waited for a grasshopper to come by and snatch it up before the grasshopper even knew it was in danger.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqGy2IbkPNtfsVz-kxSJHat3e9xrc7MXBwm_y1l9Iwg-Of8B3osrZZ6THtC18PNhhuzVGfZ4j8EZBQuaEaejzG1n_j1bYpWOSzpuhroOm12c8lCUtFgV-3YXQrDKzx2MIo3fhhG_lvw8/s1600/IMG_20181013_124239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqGy2IbkPNtfsVz-kxSJHat3e9xrc7MXBwm_y1l9Iwg-Of8B3osrZZ6THtC18PNhhuzVGfZ4j8EZBQuaEaejzG1n_j1bYpWOSzpuhroOm12c8lCUtFgV-3YXQrDKzx2MIo3fhhG_lvw8/s640/IMG_20181013_124239.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we found the mammals. First up was the dolphin. We saw the underwater tank first. He is a beautiful sight, especially with the sun shinning through the water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIa4d288rw7DvL-A_LW_3Pstp4nmbEE8eULrvqJPfqH9_O8XcXxNyzUayLgPCM4cRTkNiSeX5fyJWLo79pgE6Btj6GaRkQwCDBi3hv80jhFtyNW8oqL32nHU_57e0oGo6gvNBtVjAsKdE/s1600/IMG_20181013_124706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIa4d288rw7DvL-A_LW_3Pstp4nmbEE8eULrvqJPfqH9_O8XcXxNyzUayLgPCM4cRTkNiSeX5fyJWLo79pgE6Btj6GaRkQwCDBi3hv80jhFtyNW8oqL32nHU_57e0oGo6gvNBtVjAsKdE/s640/IMG_20181013_124706.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we saw him outside.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs7-o9VriGKC_wex59H_2rDYU06GA9HEuCs43tKyrXcOh1AK4dH3iu73yOpIs0v2RYysGWvK8EbSkm13q_DiNGZPCjJHbF6tlPs9FcfNAT_tOPIeEDD7K9bTa_dIwr0vR8So-DLtqZdc/s1600/IMG_20181013_124721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLs7-o9VriGKC_wex59H_2rDYU06GA9HEuCs43tKyrXcOh1AK4dH3iu73yOpIs0v2RYysGWvK8EbSkm13q_DiNGZPCjJHbF6tlPs9FcfNAT_tOPIeEDD7K9bTa_dIwr0vR8So-DLtqZdc/s640/IMG_20181013_124721.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey watched him for a while. He did little circles swimming in and out of the water.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lahhPc9GWO_FbQj6gXRiFvEM-y5LYnLNVvUHp8hRDGkV-U7ZCZLGO8OvjNyVUljn5iH9dhUGJsSRq6nw14nz0yW7I8x9NAYKjUFcRSudROngNHBwsQDK5k7jiSFNE0JCTmXoplrIDLI/s1600/IMG_20181013_124923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lahhPc9GWO_FbQj6gXRiFvEM-y5LYnLNVvUHp8hRDGkV-U7ZCZLGO8OvjNyVUljn5iH9dhUGJsSRq6nw14nz0yW7I8x9NAYKjUFcRSudROngNHBwsQDK5k7jiSFNE0JCTmXoplrIDLI/s640/IMG_20181013_124923.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I think this is a sea lion, if I remember correctly she is the female. She was in a separate place from the other ones and she kept trying to eat at the grate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkcTVJe5eDtoU8NlbqM4jsPO36AaVKgy9lm1AG2xUT6czBv-_a54Tm-6eVy1t1HUCOUIIz0TpS-oRHd8SNGayCZhDfvXiuZ6PIQrCwStpbKtUdLaSZMAiWbFlFk6XQC6VfIG-4tKBqyQ/s1600/IMG_20181013_125053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkcTVJe5eDtoU8NlbqM4jsPO36AaVKgy9lm1AG2xUT6czBv-_a54Tm-6eVy1t1HUCOUIIz0TpS-oRHd8SNGayCZhDfvXiuZ6PIQrCwStpbKtUdLaSZMAiWbFlFk6XQC6VfIG-4tKBqyQ/s640/IMG_20181013_125053.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I loved the penguin exhibit. It wasn't really very big and it didn't have very many penguins, but I like them anyway. This is the one area where I think the penguin exhibit in the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle has got them beat. Then again, the Zoo doesn't have a sea lion show, so I'm not too worried about it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuAbnT5INieBKtOO4x6ukinEgx4HOkN8bSja5pRhFtFGWocEqQc3RwIfNKIujxyNAl_p1wbUxgJoMxkXdQWe9sboGBNVnyHYSabipV7khFywyS8qlUGso4vLtAUQyhVbnCbT1M42jWAM/s1600/IMG_20181013_125119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuAbnT5INieBKtOO4x6ukinEgx4HOkN8bSja5pRhFtFGWocEqQc3RwIfNKIujxyNAl_p1wbUxgJoMxkXdQWe9sboGBNVnyHYSabipV7khFywyS8qlUGso4vLtAUQyhVbnCbT1M42jWAM/s640/IMG_20181013_125119.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSXExMxPzMeqJCFIBxoY9ennj-5BC_ApMeDd5ILgSKUgVx54ieAv7-kHHP1ulMhLM4eD-NQXCoYzLN-LLXiGh_-6V-zNTCSXn3ETfacgQYy2d5iMtG3ALOk56VcluoZsp-eS1i-J0qfM/s1600/IMG_20181013_125201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSXExMxPzMeqJCFIBxoY9ennj-5BC_ApMeDd5ILgSKUgVx54ieAv7-kHHP1ulMhLM4eD-NQXCoYzLN-LLXiGh_-6V-zNTCSXn3ETfacgQYy2d5iMtG3ALOk56VcluoZsp-eS1i-J0qfM/s640/IMG_20181013_125201.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This is me cheesing. I was enjoying my moment, I've always loved penguins. Zoey humors me, but actually she likes penguins too. You can tell by the penguin she had painted on her cheek earlier in the day. Ultimately, I don't think was very impressed with the exhibit and was ready for a snack, she had spotted the small stand just on the other side of these penguins.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRwnxt40nvlzLrCB8VqcaaRqYhdNVQ06zNz8lDuhFKewZesLehbjEYZmXeCjyOdlDBb-2xT0gUn9HQgh5eTPKI6zRVWptS5TsXy-xP1sfvxz92cih-KtLYe9TtNZ0yFHxTjwLWXzMv7k/s1600/IMG_20181013_125225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRwnxt40nvlzLrCB8VqcaaRqYhdNVQ06zNz8lDuhFKewZesLehbjEYZmXeCjyOdlDBb-2xT0gUn9HQgh5eTPKI6zRVWptS5TsXy-xP1sfvxz92cih-KtLYe9TtNZ0yFHxTjwLWXzMv7k/s640/IMG_20181013_125225.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But look! Penguins! These are African penguins from Cape Town.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaR95zzbIP7l7O4rfQ-4fiCNV9igr-hfkryCA1_rLsmnaI_u9qfWezmBp9Om8YDy2OgHTdwUdqPFdo7hm7LYyJ_JvI9gY2w5IExtqfwV3YCIqe-Vag8vVG-BBW1YTWl40WzVUo5UKhQkY/s1600/IMG_20181013_131002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaR95zzbIP7l7O4rfQ-4fiCNV9igr-hfkryCA1_rLsmnaI_u9qfWezmBp9Om8YDy2OgHTdwUdqPFdo7hm7LYyJ_JvI9gY2w5IExtqfwV3YCIqe-Vag8vVG-BBW1YTWl40WzVUo5UKhQkY/s640/IMG_20181013_131002.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
So we got a snack. Zoey got some chicken tenders and I tried Poutine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8jLjoIthIcWQ4vG4uwFx6TlTnYUsdDGiTs7nBq_315b8twVVq4ZPVaHIFGExbbu-oV2rwi9o2m-4ICSXVd2rFMq8_A1Vphsj0KJNunEtn4tnQvNTI0VdFo2XSK4welyaKxa7jhqJQtM/s1600/IMG_20181013_131026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8jLjoIthIcWQ4vG4uwFx6TlTnYUsdDGiTs7nBq_315b8twVVq4ZPVaHIFGExbbu-oV2rwi9o2m-4ICSXVd2rFMq8_A1Vphsj0KJNunEtn4tnQvNTI0VdFo2XSK4welyaKxa7jhqJQtM/s640/IMG_20181013_131026.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Poutine, a Canadian cuisine that consists of french fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy. You know what? It was delicious.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtszt16JGmEXtorjU2ZL12KndspnBKaXq4tt9eiDp5xaASPpSrHwMIKwNkd9cPwkV90ijFR1iVr1sPHWRbhyU5Mg6ABVfzlCVJ2laaLC35bqIX4eU_lGnWl625aV0EO-O2fj7FWqVo4A/s1600/IMG_20181013_132450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbtszt16JGmEXtorjU2ZL12KndspnBKaXq4tt9eiDp5xaASPpSrHwMIKwNkd9cPwkV90ijFR1iVr1sPHWRbhyU5Mg6ABVfzlCVJ2laaLC35bqIX4eU_lGnWl625aV0EO-O2fj7FWqVo4A/s640/IMG_20181013_132450.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Not a bad view for our feast. The sea lion show was in thirty minutes. We decided to take our time eating and stay and watch - we had really good seats for it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWj2qyS1shkBxS2YaUX8G_M0yGNLKRUQ2M7HPBWvVPVhNHfj2ifc3bcIWdwsgflSzVImMgxZvj2h1KxCr8Sc-fAHmkgwZHsVe_ju3tJguV_7dKNsOlnKBUMGMUrDoCvRRisYigJCgnZU/s1600/IMG_20181013_133600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWj2qyS1shkBxS2YaUX8G_M0yGNLKRUQ2M7HPBWvVPVhNHfj2ifc3bcIWdwsgflSzVImMgxZvj2h1KxCr8Sc-fAHmkgwZHsVe_ju3tJguV_7dKNsOlnKBUMGMUrDoCvRRisYigJCgnZU/s640/IMG_20181013_133600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I got a bunch of pictures of the sea lions while we were waiting for the show to start. They did laps in this pool. It looked like they were playing a game. They were really entertaining and one even spit at me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCMA2A2V5jzoW99SdDch58Ehpo8AN1DqNWAjinc2ZxIEvHp9xvy97UoULYno72Zmc8YTzWZIdmWNNCNCtg3Dwp-P-Xf-bNtoAsj4mtaIbdM8xStzi9vx9S5me6vz7yqilnChV-BeVofY/s1600/IMG_20181013_133640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCMA2A2V5jzoW99SdDch58Ehpo8AN1DqNWAjinc2ZxIEvHp9xvy97UoULYno72Zmc8YTzWZIdmWNNCNCtg3Dwp-P-Xf-bNtoAsj4mtaIbdM8xStzi9vx9S5me6vz7yqilnChV-BeVofY/s640/IMG_20181013_133640.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjVr8MLapcJ-HoE9ZrABKl22MLCxpdzaMPr54xZ22Eqfbea2sjfTdZElHj5ST8hIPxXYjvs-rDz67kRq6asjQ20MQYt-xt4ze2VrqdAVGDXaKdlQcPF98qaLx9FRaAryrmOos7ukyWw4/s1600/IMG_20181013_133707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjVr8MLapcJ-HoE9ZrABKl22MLCxpdzaMPr54xZ22Eqfbea2sjfTdZElHj5ST8hIPxXYjvs-rDz67kRq6asjQ20MQYt-xt4ze2VrqdAVGDXaKdlQcPF98qaLx9FRaAryrmOos7ukyWw4/s640/IMG_20181013_133707.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9vOxY0ATqAj2LYg-LhQGhaot9uAtF_a5GVI__Unh0wGr5rXjOD8Nh1q2fE407i0dgguuNcCEDwLczO-pjhrh8E-29bxvX1amHL4mDxPYVtEsaBlyMmAuWyox2CvttSrg_Qj5TAOqY4Q/s1600/IMG_20181013_133805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9vOxY0ATqAj2LYg-LhQGhaot9uAtF_a5GVI__Unh0wGr5rXjOD8Nh1q2fE407i0dgguuNcCEDwLczO-pjhrh8E-29bxvX1amHL4mDxPYVtEsaBlyMmAuWyox2CvttSrg_Qj5TAOqY4Q/s640/IMG_20181013_133805.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This one was the one who spit at me, lol.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBlD5Y3obFv8hgtLB3OaJRsp2eU20yA7dSM8HKITyfM9P3CGIENxebn8V3xaf1ylByNu4Brh4SxU3n0Rdoi4bCMa7T86LZXMDSM6jBUehyphenhyphendLV3DGH3jVgD4teptJC3XXSDvZvsyDZ-tM/s1600/IMG_20181013_134741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBlD5Y3obFv8hgtLB3OaJRsp2eU20yA7dSM8HKITyfM9P3CGIENxebn8V3xaf1ylByNu4Brh4SxU3n0Rdoi4bCMa7T86LZXMDSM6jBUehyphenhyphendLV3DGH3jVgD4teptJC3XXSDvZvsyDZ-tM/s640/IMG_20181013_134741.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Then the show was delightful. There were two male sea lions that the trainers where working with. They had several different platforms to stand on and would dance around or wave a flipper. The would swim and splash around as the trainers went through an entire bucket of fish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmC9d4qJ9BgMo7dChMCmQS1KZ_SLq-gDWGXjaf1ukTvjc_B1dGXGHhtI17HDuMr3IXHBWQZ8e3irLS6LOiSYqrId2u7jXMRKU_T3OUvEEG5xrMdviSa6dJJAGkOpajsA9fKn0CQy1pQ8/s1600/IMG_20181013_135508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcmC9d4qJ9BgMo7dChMCmQS1KZ_SLq-gDWGXjaf1ukTvjc_B1dGXGHhtI17HDuMr3IXHBWQZ8e3irLS6LOiSYqrId2u7jXMRKU_T3OUvEEG5xrMdviSa6dJJAGkOpajsA9fKn0CQy1pQ8/s640/IMG_20181013_135508.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7n4Xmgma3-VbZAlKMKwuWGzSH77YcsXFp7bTF7nEAZJLMR9gDw7f5nvukdSbI4ipHhFm3HG9VC8KoFuu5Lbh1Jjwo_iGzRSbJtMV_S8DNRw742ts1PTNUcDbOUqdbmRBFvm3NfE_1Ao/s1600/IMG_20181013_135527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7n4Xmgma3-VbZAlKMKwuWGzSH77YcsXFp7bTF7nEAZJLMR9gDw7f5nvukdSbI4ipHhFm3HG9VC8KoFuu5Lbh1Jjwo_iGzRSbJtMV_S8DNRw742ts1PTNUcDbOUqdbmRBFvm3NfE_1Ao/s640/IMG_20181013_135527.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The show was fantastic. There was a narrator for the show who talked about conservation and the importance of keeping the animals and the waters safe and clean. She even gave out a number to call in case you ever spot a marine mammal in distress. It was a really well done show that shared a lot of great information and humor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoD2OCtBW_dDydF8_p_ay7QCYjZBLgDYALKBdnKSKnaIuuykIpizO5BKnNJKeOd95rPe-NG3V0qhRX6WwXRkNMSGLQ25W5z5qE2VLhb71b66Fb-wYxTJB4JzJdqGcXVuCcMja4I2lIUY/s1600/IMG_20181013_135905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoD2OCtBW_dDydF8_p_ay7QCYjZBLgDYALKBdnKSKnaIuuykIpizO5BKnNJKeOd95rPe-NG3V0qhRX6WwXRkNMSGLQ25W5z5qE2VLhb71b66Fb-wYxTJB4JzJdqGcXVuCcMja4I2lIUY/s640/IMG_20181013_135905.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After the show we watched the otters play. They were huge sea otters too. Two of them were rolling around like two brothers fighting on the living room floor. All my pictures of them together turned out blurry because they were moving so fast. I did manage to get an almost decent picture of this one saying hi as he swam by.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY_gX4J0iNpuEuZtFAu_YPL8KN-_tPmSHQw1IkMzF7CCrUhwqM7-R_QthZaa7zFSAELhGRKVNr-PiGojzeJLAtFHEiNUT8wYMqFm7qYNT8TWzV4WgETrY4E8Lrdte0d-et4Zt9v15x4c/s1600/IMG_20181013_140112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY_gX4J0iNpuEuZtFAu_YPL8KN-_tPmSHQw1IkMzF7CCrUhwqM7-R_QthZaa7zFSAELhGRKVNr-PiGojzeJLAtFHEiNUT8wYMqFm7qYNT8TWzV4WgETrY4E8Lrdte0d-et4Zt9v15x4c/s640/IMG_20181013_140112.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqWSALkRL58macrb0lwJhZWpR7kcwANenAToLgyxO7V2PhWAcyaQdQlPlpWcSWMUXjiNG_xFP_drNBCt-QP-_v2TJJaAtLPmneuINKEDIxBaVris-_8v2Dj7X6FP0BBZ3zKZjtrbZnHI/s1600/IMG_20181013_140112_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVqWSALkRL58macrb0lwJhZWpR7kcwANenAToLgyxO7V2PhWAcyaQdQlPlpWcSWMUXjiNG_xFP_drNBCt-QP-_v2TJJaAtLPmneuINKEDIxBaVris-_8v2Dj7X6FP0BBZ3zKZjtrbZnHI/s640/IMG_20181013_140112_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj97m08AbgvxDMKdHHSGIjA_A49Wf4ZchnER3Flpc9UGzvLxgRRrDJy2Ppbesia_QoiCYy4eNDoJzbDnEO4f2zy9_jWci2CKbNP0gMnHf213xMUageARE6Waf2nsK4dY6gLBuSDewaSk60/s1600/IMG_20181013_140114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj97m08AbgvxDMKdHHSGIjA_A49Wf4ZchnER3Flpc9UGzvLxgRRrDJy2Ppbesia_QoiCYy4eNDoJzbDnEO4f2zy9_jWci2CKbNP0gMnHf213xMUageARE6Waf2nsK4dY6gLBuSDewaSk60/s640/IMG_20181013_140114.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdij4ggzafzfSpkgEPROQLj4QGxlnCPdYWbiX6tgwuxTFf18tb3SxccSHZDfgaa2UTpDFiFLSeg2teDqoHin7ZB9V75sZtZbWICP1j3zf454OeCsrZvSnR0pb4GKV_OA2QCU8GWufD2g4/s1600/IMG_20181013_140146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdij4ggzafzfSpkgEPROQLj4QGxlnCPdYWbiX6tgwuxTFf18tb3SxccSHZDfgaa2UTpDFiFLSeg2teDqoHin7ZB9V75sZtZbWICP1j3zf454OeCsrZvSnR0pb4GKV_OA2QCU8GWufD2g4/s640/IMG_20181013_140146.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This room was amazing. You could see the sea lions doing their laps and playing their game from under the water. They even had a monitor to let you see what was happening up on the surface when they came up for air. I thought it was really interesting that they swam underwater on their backs. Zoey was memorized. We watched them for a while, I love how she is drawn to their cadence.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3etQRXSLXhxV9YxaQ56lHhPBc_DmQx37DNtndTPiwZTYN0ZMfu5aVddtx_AsGHB4GL5HjQ7f5-Mqvm52ArGQnEdZGjrzW6AS90p0nODWNvAZVfqzEtGfimeDaP1mxR1_BvmWHQz2h4Fc/s1600/IMG_20181013_141102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3etQRXSLXhxV9YxaQ56lHhPBc_DmQx37DNtndTPiwZTYN0ZMfu5aVddtx_AsGHB4GL5HjQ7f5-Mqvm52ArGQnEdZGjrzW6AS90p0nODWNvAZVfqzEtGfimeDaP1mxR1_BvmWHQz2h4Fc/s640/IMG_20181013_141102.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The next area had a lot about the research they do to help protect and care for the animals and waters. You could even glimpse into their research lab or holding tanks one through a fish tank between the walls. Zoey enjoyed using the microscope to see how clothing fabrics could look like food to a fish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6saHff0Bh-c9ORku_HuwzlwxsIttBB0RMMg1y6QFc4OezFNSWPnhh3PcOy285vq3PZciDJUBaXQlLx9HaQWX2VIN0DXpaWDs-Ki2gV-ERi-Gmg9gLj_vt6FUnbIHQbeOkG7lDVyZ6dmk/s1600/IMG_20181013_142206_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6saHff0Bh-c9ORku_HuwzlwxsIttBB0RMMg1y6QFc4OezFNSWPnhh3PcOy285vq3PZciDJUBaXQlLx9HaQWX2VIN0DXpaWDs-Ki2gV-ERi-Gmg9gLj_vt6FUnbIHQbeOkG7lDVyZ6dmk/s640/IMG_20181013_142206_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Though she was a little old for the play area, she really enjoyed the Animal Rescue Center. She went through an entire check up with this sea lion to heal it's broken flipper. We decided we wanted to try to make an animal care center at home so she could take care of her stuffed pets.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkDvCHhry03xaP7S4g0RAEwcJ5PZZB6AJ6wXzx3mC6SNpTWE8cfI8TnuGld3EKHPY-7egJBL17CI9bnixZYeb50psFLK4_xO3011epNrU6EdRSoFTCJ7L-IV1uoVVuE7jRK1StoM4cWs/s1600/IMG_20181013_142927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkDvCHhry03xaP7S4g0RAEwcJ5PZZB6AJ6wXzx3mC6SNpTWE8cfI8TnuGld3EKHPY-7egJBL17CI9bnixZYeb50psFLK4_xO3011epNrU6EdRSoFTCJ7L-IV1uoVVuE7jRK1StoM4cWs/s640/IMG_20181013_142927.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Next we came to a tropical oasis. There was a lush, humid room full of brilliant colors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7F-ar3kD3qGwhtGLU9HG55HP8BYKAc2fEWP1C1GNno9_qEFyprlWOJkAFzHYt5bjrYPno9Y269cmVeQ8yLcPKmTcqgXZPeML6aPlq8t5Pqe4uDBhxZXiJ_5yHHAU5Oy1WnNWi5QAArlY/s1600/IMG_20181013_143015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7F-ar3kD3qGwhtGLU9HG55HP8BYKAc2fEWP1C1GNno9_qEFyprlWOJkAFzHYt5bjrYPno9Y269cmVeQ8yLcPKmTcqgXZPeML6aPlq8t5Pqe4uDBhxZXiJ_5yHHAU5Oy1WnNWi5QAArlY/s640/IMG_20181013_143015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMt-UUQ9YYk7keuKDsHCUwhyK1yHeOl-rbkAkgtDo7nCuQoB8zo6IU5SK29OUGi-4aNndc94W4RS4XQ19np12e5xfB_3N4cTBLMHxq-uEkzfWWQKyVKqkGImC9ir82eOZ4ELhEapB6BOY/s1600/IMG_20181013_143034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMt-UUQ9YYk7keuKDsHCUwhyK1yHeOl-rbkAkgtDo7nCuQoB8zo6IU5SK29OUGi-4aNndc94W4RS4XQ19np12e5xfB_3N4cTBLMHxq-uEkzfWWQKyVKqkGImC9ir82eOZ4ELhEapB6BOY/s640/IMG_20181013_143034.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr-1qjOQmBlTLPRFXmTUT6yljQK1M_1e3_cjyJTjIX7-n8af8JHUasxNUecTf0ka242gaOrdtvg8hiFeyzPLIQhnebbY2PwHDwM3BMrNS4GdomUsoEP_jv-Dfka7IFIergzKy3ktTKbY/s1600/IMG_20181013_143649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr-1qjOQmBlTLPRFXmTUT6yljQK1M_1e3_cjyJTjIX7-n8af8JHUasxNUecTf0ka242gaOrdtvg8hiFeyzPLIQhnebbY2PwHDwM3BMrNS4GdomUsoEP_jv-Dfka7IFIergzKy3ktTKbY/s640/IMG_20181013_143649.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRWcCTnw6FtuoDS9LJphFDN1E8b13GjwlDqVNCvMV8UR4RnZ88ctUjX-MkKOnxvTbnKfuWusEZaLEXdnu7d07pEzDktKFfKY2UWZ0PFYtDGKaSULbVf0Bp-zyKoumdmysJrIHEvpK16w/s1600/IMG_20181013_143702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRWcCTnw6FtuoDS9LJphFDN1E8b13GjwlDqVNCvMV8UR4RnZ88ctUjX-MkKOnxvTbnKfuWusEZaLEXdnu7d07pEzDktKFfKY2UWZ0PFYtDGKaSULbVf0Bp-zyKoumdmysJrIHEvpK16w/s640/IMG_20181013_143702.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The big alligator was pretty cool to see. It must have been sun bathing. It looked like he was enjoying it from the way his mouth was resting open.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UwNldwFAlxmy00lx4h0tDxnHIibzUK9kJDXBkGumAgk77VsH5Xj-_cJQ8NH-v8nlOfIX5Z-pe4oQDqIsq4sMGjR-8V3XrlXxAOJbX2t2EDcYk7TjNaIkrOhJdOhCTAwQg0rxI9Ld0nY/s1600/IMG_20181013_143820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UwNldwFAlxmy00lx4h0tDxnHIibzUK9kJDXBkGumAgk77VsH5Xj-_cJQ8NH-v8nlOfIX5Z-pe4oQDqIsq4sMGjR-8V3XrlXxAOJbX2t2EDcYk7TjNaIkrOhJdOhCTAwQg0rxI9Ld0nY/s640/IMG_20181013_143820.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey was fascinated by these fruit bats. It was exciting to see them awake and flying around. Usually bats at the zoo are sleeping during the day. These were busy eating on the several fruit ropes hanging from the ceiling of this darkened corner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFevvZZSGg3098IyXIXpApEAGqSALPLmSVYotlZ36OqWRzGUI0rezGrcPi6FEs_W4Ol7XaTL-KikktF183EQuQY-TWSd2P0r9kI85lWcyDqTNfKye_57BVQyqH1Cx4KaPxrRwRQsQ8Yk/s1600/IMG_20181013_144146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFevvZZSGg3098IyXIXpApEAGqSALPLmSVYotlZ36OqWRzGUI0rezGrcPi6FEs_W4Ol7XaTL-KikktF183EQuQY-TWSd2P0r9kI85lWcyDqTNfKye_57BVQyqH1Cx4KaPxrRwRQsQ8Yk/s640/IMG_20181013_144146.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We were getting pretty done by this point, but I had to get one shot of the big sea turtle. There is a shark in the tank too, you can just see it behind the people's heads. It happened to be the same time a lady was presenting about the tank. We listened for a minute, but quickly moved on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1l6-nDSgeuOX5SxWBAbu0idh9teNhj79P_zpADJwYOEl7wXFTappXgJZ52INKrOd5WIrUenet4-t_l6aAhdHZSJa2spTTxlpA52B0zRUYZrzcdBKTTNYnPWEMs4YmhJKIBOwaKNoxgXw/s1600/IMG_20181013_144833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1l6-nDSgeuOX5SxWBAbu0idh9teNhj79P_zpADJwYOEl7wXFTappXgJZ52INKrOd5WIrUenet4-t_l6aAhdHZSJa2spTTxlpA52B0zRUYZrzcdBKTTNYnPWEMs4YmhJKIBOwaKNoxgXw/s640/IMG_20181013_144833.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
It was about time to leave so we could meet Stephen and Dana in time to catch our train back to Seattle. Before we left, we visited the gift shop. Zoey got me with her newly discovered octopus fingers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQj6NUueSY-sk9lpHs0fYEo5hiX5AkOQUF22sg9sl7Ph3sthluA4AOE4Lvc9tvmegbIdyawTkacV70tdC76u6rRdrX254kIlMOnmvgoUbUPSIljlrZ50X0AXM_2JCH5cq9TSJcooqZxs/s1600/IMG_20181013_151121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQj6NUueSY-sk9lpHs0fYEo5hiX5AkOQUF22sg9sl7Ph3sthluA4AOE4Lvc9tvmegbIdyawTkacV70tdC76u6rRdrX254kIlMOnmvgoUbUPSIljlrZ50X0AXM_2JCH5cq9TSJcooqZxs/s640/IMG_20181013_151121.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrjjb3I6GsGizvSzfbqEHvYdsHqPtHj_VTBTk9mwPWVdDMoFiN-m3RLOodZlq-ez-Ss2qPNI3sjtsshZrNDPifkyvu88bTRt6XppPjFp6FYQtlaA5a4EFk1hAt9MT2udtovFcjgqKmnU/s1600/IMG_20181013_151139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrjjb3I6GsGizvSzfbqEHvYdsHqPtHj_VTBTk9mwPWVdDMoFiN-m3RLOodZlq-ez-Ss2qPNI3sjtsshZrNDPifkyvu88bTRt6XppPjFp6FYQtlaA5a4EFk1hAt9MT2udtovFcjgqKmnU/s640/IMG_20181013_151139.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7UM27tjKXVD-GI12SHg8QIXqKsZzZUfBQjplaoRXmUJ-RHhv9Qv85BNvE3aN6QNVJJc_XiW-Y2rwzgMaQ0G9u9ZFJB7oToOxwiTCfBtXB2UGLSeRCEvvzzalJqKXYbKFu9tQ0Kk1BW4/s1600/IMG_20181013_151145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7UM27tjKXVD-GI12SHg8QIXqKsZzZUfBQjplaoRXmUJ-RHhv9Qv85BNvE3aN6QNVJJc_XiW-Y2rwzgMaQ0G9u9ZFJB7oToOxwiTCfBtXB2UGLSeRCEvvzzalJqKXYbKFu9tQ0Kk1BW4/s640/IMG_20181013_151145.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Zoey and I had such an amazing adventure visiting the Vancouver Aquarium. I highly recommend it, just as it was recommended to me, if you ever happen to be in the area, it is well laid out and has lots of fun, interactive exhibits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu79rYzeq-tlebjS4aMGjgALVS6yfkmd9X7C-fks1rEz4qJsnj0vwwGWKxNCUPMmbbO9nLKdAn8gs5AzMWPNcUUVVwqBfRlAzoiO_sJg7gnFPNk7ZAAPyCewLc9StIW8wvCF7Z2_iiquo/s1600/IMG_20181013_151701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu79rYzeq-tlebjS4aMGjgALVS6yfkmd9X7C-fks1rEz4qJsnj0vwwGWKxNCUPMmbbO9nLKdAn8gs5AzMWPNcUUVVwqBfRlAzoiO_sJg7gnFPNk7ZAAPyCewLc9StIW8wvCF7Z2_iiquo/s640/IMG_20181013_151701.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
We rode a taxi back into downtown. Though we have ridden in ones before, this was the first time I'd ever had to hail a taxi, it was kind of cool. On our way back, Zoey enjoyed seeing the world through her new adventure souvenir, which has binoculars, a compass and a couple more doodads on it, perfect for any expedition.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-L38rAKXwlR_6u0FVgwM9bFMNtkc8M_DuIKUrjWrPUPbhfaZPtSziY3gPRpFoS4p43m6ZvkASXSJOd-Yca9o9T49zjPon1INh2RlhVCsycgTpaBr1CmPHHozTs768ly85N11m0bSe6c/s1600/IMG_20181013_151834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_-L38rAKXwlR_6u0FVgwM9bFMNtkc8M_DuIKUrjWrPUPbhfaZPtSziY3gPRpFoS4p43m6ZvkASXSJOd-Yca9o9T49zjPon1INh2RlhVCsycgTpaBr1CmPHHozTs768ly85N11m0bSe6c/s640/IMG_20181013_151834.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The view out of the park was breathtaking as well.<br />
<br />
Here is a video compilation of our adventures...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/74qQh5_GVV8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/74qQh5_GVV8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
This was a fantastic field trip. We also got lots of ideas to make habitats and learn about different animals that we can take back to enhance our homeschooling lessons. We learned a lot and had fun too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64q17isKwjLQxau0b8K6ecuFbXmcL4NTAWrUvb9LvtLpAxDj-NuxOJmFyZeUfFffWXMaE8sBwphQltrLradEAXu0grJTe8hGKNt3e-1NxmLeK5QVqCBXDkWNwtTwNJT_9JKsrq4C5t_k/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64q17isKwjLQxau0b8K6ecuFbXmcL4NTAWrUvb9LvtLpAxDj-NuxOJmFyZeUfFffWXMaE8sBwphQltrLradEAXu0grJTe8hGKNt3e-1NxmLeK5QVqCBXDkWNwtTwNJT_9JKsrq4C5t_k/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-20539579495479767072018-10-05T13:30:00.000-07:002018-10-30T14:04:03.058-07:00Fruity Ice Slush Experiment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Zoey chose the "Fruity Ice Slush" Experiment from her Usborne "50 Science things to make and do" book. She was really excited to see how she could make slush simply from using ice surrounding her juice. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First, we collected our materials. We needed: a large bowl, lots of ice, salt, a glass container and fruit juice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then we made a prediction. Zoey hypothesized that it would make a little bit of slush, but not the entire glass full.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now it was time to get to work...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ht68SIamWwspydvuG74NQDfg-URpZo9kLwqhPlbBGsAXGE0esaUL0a3x7GkC9M6ojbM2gEFVJD-lkxdJ7jbRTysywJz1hUk2KhqFFjSLICxrS8cZ-9Ofo1552FXi0rFZC1VxSYpsqr0/s1600/IMG_20181005_103209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ht68SIamWwspydvuG74NQDfg-URpZo9kLwqhPlbBGsAXGE0esaUL0a3x7GkC9M6ojbM2gEFVJD-lkxdJ7jbRTysywJz1hUk2KhqFFjSLICxrS8cZ-9Ofo1552FXi0rFZC1VxSYpsqr0/s640/IMG_20181005_103209.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
First, Zoey filled the large bowl with ice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7anvFBLC2DPE2UTbxGvH1OS3ot1Bc-T8P2ibyEIu0dSsOa54YuWtGv37qolm3VWT6HmzhXqiHOiSXcLz_H0_s5DoXoFGjpyHddXJa8K1ax_2k4rP_QfMiJsrPNeG0V4WeRb8RxZkWDo/s1600/IMG_20181005_103446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7anvFBLC2DPE2UTbxGvH1OS3ot1Bc-T8P2ibyEIu0dSsOa54YuWtGv37qolm3VWT6HmzhXqiHOiSXcLz_H0_s5DoXoFGjpyHddXJa8K1ax_2k4rP_QfMiJsrPNeG0V4WeRb8RxZkWDo/s640/IMG_20181005_103446.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, she sprinkled salt on top of the ice cubes and stirred it in. (The directions suggest three tablespoons of salt.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrpWLGhAo-4cx1Awqoxs9QFBdFFvDCJ1cC8HcKrppnVoLqtv3GGZG9lnFVN4Bb_fKqF7RQ5wO42LyzBpHqihQdtbOIbnXzXPpIABgsWc3P38xnJ_AWpL5TN1sYo_t5xZVLUohiHNbkag/s1600/IMG_20181005_103742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrpWLGhAo-4cx1Awqoxs9QFBdFFvDCJ1cC8HcKrppnVoLqtv3GGZG9lnFVN4Bb_fKqF7RQ5wO42LyzBpHqihQdtbOIbnXzXPpIABgsWc3P38xnJ_AWpL5TN1sYo_t5xZVLUohiHNbkag/s640/IMG_20181005_103742.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, Zoey put the glass jar in the middle of the ice, making sure non of the salt got into the jar.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_veiJ3JFvuxov_HentcR7uOdlj3v3loc2BoRcLyX9BPG4AVvII6GVMJZXMUpZ-qmnCaLHDgovE-ZMFMHkWRKZqJKSktJiKKNGMm-nz9mnWhpu6Cm2JRe2-39OuGjz0ijHxI-lbOJUr_o/s1600/IMG_20181005_103828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_veiJ3JFvuxov_HentcR7uOdlj3v3loc2BoRcLyX9BPG4AVvII6GVMJZXMUpZ-qmnCaLHDgovE-ZMFMHkWRKZqJKSktJiKKNGMm-nz9mnWhpu6Cm2JRe2-39OuGjz0ijHxI-lbOJUr_o/s640/IMG_20181005_103828.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Then, she added her fruit juice. (We didn't have any fruit juice in the house, so we tried it with V8 instead. In hindsight, we decided we would try Kool-aid next time.)<br />
<br />
Now it was time to wait. Every 10 minutes, Zoey stirred the juice with a spoon. After about an hour and a half, we began to look for the slush to form.<br />
<br />
We realized here, that it wasn't really working at all. There wasn't even a little bit of slush in the jar. We continued to stir it every five minutes for another half an hour.<br />
<br />
Even after the extra time, we realized this experiment didn't work.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1dA7aXEAyqksN5GK3sh2pYDJhOMZytZp6s3GJ5KzMSNBqcmkCyMgHjoq8oMS_DzWRUy2KIJlDwhxZn7-PPFXVB0FQfxQGuMMga-V4Pi3Vbb7yF6zwkaEjjuPB11UMRI9qNSPEiSJI2Q/s1600/img173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1223" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1dA7aXEAyqksN5GK3sh2pYDJhOMZytZp6s3GJ5KzMSNBqcmkCyMgHjoq8oMS_DzWRUy2KIJlDwhxZn7-PPFXVB0FQfxQGuMMga-V4Pi3Vbb7yF6zwkaEjjuPB11UMRI9qNSPEiSJI2Q/s640/img173.jpg" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey's Experiment Notes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The result: The V8 was cold, but there was no slush. We concluded that we may have a different result using Kool-aid or proper fruit juice instead of V8. Zoey declared the V8 was too thick and didn't contain enough water in the liquid for it to form slush. She also observed that there is a lot of salt in V8 that could have changed the result since it had a lower freezing temperature, just like the salt she put on the ice.<br />
<br />
We learned about the science behind this experiment too. Adding salt makes the ice melt at a lower temperature, which absorbs heat from the fruit juice eventually making it so cold it will turn to ice. Stirring the liquid helps the cold liquid stay a slush instead of turning to ice.<br />
<br />
It was a fun experiment, but we will have to try it again to see if it works better with a different liquid.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJ3nC-QRVDfiMk2K-M4EhY0O7ke-_DaZ_fTbzpVOQg2UhIkfWQ2eMdRyN_lmf9vXj8UtOyxIPKxygi71AT7JpZHT4gFktGRnuWXhHcmSbkxAqpMNuYtBI3VwU-p1Zdwe259cWbiteuro/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" height="83" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJ3nC-QRVDfiMk2K-M4EhY0O7ke-_DaZ_fTbzpVOQg2UhIkfWQ2eMdRyN_lmf9vXj8UtOyxIPKxygi71AT7JpZHT4gFktGRnuWXhHcmSbkxAqpMNuYtBI3VwU-p1Zdwe259cWbiteuro/s200/signature.png" width="200" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-80227012701095147112018-10-03T12:16:00.000-07:002018-10-03T12:23:26.392-07:00Clay Class CreationsZoey began taking this clay class a few weeks ago. She has been interested in clay for a while, but it is a form I know very little about. We were fortunate when a fellow homeschooling mom shared the contact for an experienced sculptor who taught clay classes for kids.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tQKx3LZqZ4-2Qok1RZ1uQyD-xgXKwuRMg3lXgOIig9w6X_X-BFx6SPah2QkbgULxqdi6AZEETvlCbbzqVHEFrpz0g3zccqlfN8JLiQA2KC9Um6y7qbO575gwniwX4269WNEKmH-sXcQ/s1600/IMG_20180927_151607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9tQKx3LZqZ4-2Qok1RZ1uQyD-xgXKwuRMg3lXgOIig9w6X_X-BFx6SPah2QkbgULxqdi6AZEETvlCbbzqVHEFrpz0g3zccqlfN8JLiQA2KC9Um6y7qbO575gwniwX4269WNEKmH-sXcQ/s640/IMG_20180927_151607.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her first project to get used to the clay was to make a dish. It came out very well. Blue is her favorite color right now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Zoey was so excited to go on her first day to learn all she could. I think she was surprised by how much she already knew, either by watching YouTube or trial and error on her own.<br />
<br />
The class seemed to go really well. When I picked her up, she had several pieces ready to be fired in the kiln. Her teacher truly appreciated her love for clay and her imagination to create. They seemed to get along very nicely.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLO7Z22t-bCCz0LDYtvgz3YDgH6ESbOX7sO8HScYvImO0rE1w_XFlMunOQiEGGweyOn6XhQkhXbx16IOyKi1Ff2xQFMH2IbD3i2C74oM31IQjWlPzjsWViOgi2keWqzx-S6VpLH_t_IU/s1600/IMG_20180927_151826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLO7Z22t-bCCz0LDYtvgz3YDgH6ESbOX7sO8HScYvImO0rE1w_XFlMunOQiEGGweyOn6XhQkhXbx16IOyKi1Ff2xQFMH2IbD3i2C74oM31IQjWlPzjsWViOgi2keWqzx-S6VpLH_t_IU/s640/IMG_20180927_151826.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There was a bell theme for this class. This is Zoey's Liberty Bell. <br />
She even explained the history of the Liberty Bell and vaguely remembers seeing it in Philadelphia a couple years ago.<br />
If you look closely, you can even see the crack she put in it for authenticity.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It took an entire week for those first pieces to come out of the kiln and be able to really see how they came out. I think all her pieces came out brilliantly. She was pleased too, especially with her lady bell.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHA7rYMC7xR7w-McecEAmxRnR6QlUAvoUCE2lvzVBYF4jTWi-2SCIZBACJGcv6ouYzQAdSqoP4AgOSlCm7ZJoh1pyuyfKpNfxfyE6hoL_kteiVn22f1qnqRkPvOrHBOyeREWNosewupI/s1600/IMG_20180927_151732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkHA7rYMC7xR7w-McecEAmxRnR6QlUAvoUCE2lvzVBYF4jTWi-2SCIZBACJGcv6ouYzQAdSqoP4AgOSlCm7ZJoh1pyuyfKpNfxfyE6hoL_kteiVn22f1qnqRkPvOrHBOyeREWNosewupI/s640/IMG_20180927_151732.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoey's proudest creation of the day..."Bell Beauty"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4JxX56buwARVzTbpvMtKlb4oJOHR0mnHV1k6P2dvZRO2bQtKlWoXB3aAiNmUQzmMr8jOAQ6m-QKmyO0XkQvueAQwkU06MuFuTXmy6UB1TiOu6-DE8xe0F9LIHJJR4gKtRdBSnIQnF3HA/s1600/IMG_20180927_151739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4JxX56buwARVzTbpvMtKlb4oJOHR0mnHV1k6P2dvZRO2bQtKlWoXB3aAiNmUQzmMr8jOAQ6m-QKmyO0XkQvueAQwkU06MuFuTXmy6UB1TiOu6-DE8xe0F9LIHJJR4gKtRdBSnIQnF3HA/s400/IMG_20180927_151739.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxEtB-yHXZwSB7hKz45VD0vdPHSutCPh5GnnhJ0brLPtD4CTOCKBk4UEhj5po3QpmAGYgAEU11pJ4uHeReMUTLpAbSykbK759JlBAFwaXnbLrQ7tlGZZDrYxRQgbVxZDerqUSyFsowgQ/s1600/IMG_20180927_151749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxEtB-yHXZwSB7hKz45VD0vdPHSutCPh5GnnhJ0brLPtD4CTOCKBk4UEhj5po3QpmAGYgAEU11pJ4uHeReMUTLpAbSykbK759JlBAFwaXnbLrQ7tlGZZDrYxRQgbVxZDerqUSyFsowgQ/s400/IMG_20180927_151749.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
Zoey has this "Bell Beauty" at her desk now and every once in a while she will pick it up and ring it getting this bright smile on her face. That is a beautiful sight to see.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy9ASrr5MoEfem6ohyumzlP5QRNCXMizg5Y-6I_yrN_mpdXNvAlb18b-gFUfNlIuKT2qBW9JWnS_wQNdrGFtQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Zoey has an inspiring abandon about being able to create freely with no expectation or judgment on herself. I would like to have more of that in my own life. It is one of many ways that she inspires me.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lVM_fOxotX_g-Ym-QIDnhSDSy6ibrlHjmSN-5G9eo7beEtl9XJ1GfF5XgM3wp8m5YvS3naSHjruRreKwnMSMdTO7aJzYaU3DyW6ZpUY-XmKedGOFkjMMw0kHMLI-W9cy5CIKXW6Dd00/s1600/IMG_20180927_152148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-lVM_fOxotX_g-Ym-QIDnhSDSy6ibrlHjmSN-5G9eo7beEtl9XJ1GfF5XgM3wp8m5YvS3naSHjruRreKwnMSMdTO7aJzYaU3DyW6ZpUY-XmKedGOFkjMMw0kHMLI-W9cy5CIKXW6Dd00/s640/IMG_20180927_152148.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And because she had some extra time before class ended, she made a snake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am so very glad that we could find a class that supported her interests. I imagine clay with be a lifelong hobby for her. I hope she finds lots of joy in clay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmelGnDkNtxpXo6KEcxwldpXRqMGy2DrTlvR9wWDmVx-djwlYs3lCQs7xsDDzGAuR0qsHXo7RZ4foI_2jMjxHsXvmxmowl18vYMypACCzUp_z8VAyaBFWFXrM7ybkJDWQSpKHhZqqzHv4/s1600/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="79" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmelGnDkNtxpXo6KEcxwldpXRqMGy2DrTlvR9wWDmVx-djwlYs3lCQs7xsDDzGAuR0qsHXo7RZ4foI_2jMjxHsXvmxmowl18vYMypACCzUp_z8VAyaBFWFXrM7ybkJDWQSpKHhZqqzHv4/s1600/signature.png" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-64059819219465123752018-09-27T06:00:00.000-07:002018-09-27T13:09:39.124-07:00"Smallfoot" Movie Review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht7pNF-0TqfGLUGktDXn6sOI_wAppUqgrVR80iHihz2WXgH33Z2KrNBXlxLNlNkz2oLgWP4SD_9RIQlJivC6W3cCuttaU6wYKdhWdDVKhEDXbdPhZWkKhvDqdakTZTDpno2Ilqmp3Y35Q/s1600/smallfoot-village.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="790" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht7pNF-0TqfGLUGktDXn6sOI_wAppUqgrVR80iHihz2WXgH33Z2KrNBXlxLNlNkz2oLgWP4SD_9RIQlJivC6W3cCuttaU6wYKdhWdDVKhEDXbdPhZWkKhvDqdakTZTDpno2Ilqmp3Y35Q/s640/smallfoot-village.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://otakukart.com/movies/smallfoot-release-date-cast-plot/">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our legends of Bigfoot are numerous, but there is not evidence they exist as a species. But suppose they do exist. Have you ever thought what a Yeti thinks about humans?<br />
<br />
They do exist!?!<br />
<br />
Friendly Yeti Migo, voiced by Channing Tatum, accidentally finds a human and excitedly tells his entire village of his discovery. However, this results in fear since this species, the dreaded "smallfoot," is not supposed to exist and leads to Migo's banishment. Now Migo sets off on an epic adventure with some unlikely allies to prove his tale.<br />
<br />
"Smallfoot" sends a very pointed message about questioning the source of your beliefs. Between the ongoing slapstick humor, viewers are asked to consider is there such a thing as a good lie. What if it protects your very way of life?<br />
<br />
Knowledge is power, but once you know, what do you do with it?<br />
<br />
Migo has to ask himself these questions as he realizes the "monster" is often a matter of perspective. Education can overcome fear and offer a form of communication. My favorite quote from the movie, "The only thing stronger than fear is curiosity."<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNB1p-0egKpRm1QjWLiG8no5KuUsi4vTBsrg2jnkDYTLR1I1ool63eHhFpLsYqFFBVt1AzJi1lZ9HJqDDUc-uCYJUe23s2NKse1-L7JXf3Bu9lEYhEayzzNyhdaXLH9OYlcI35w_Y74A/s1600/Smallfoot_%2528film%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="220" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNB1p-0egKpRm1QjWLiG8no5KuUsi4vTBsrg2jnkDYTLR1I1ool63eHhFpLsYqFFBVt1AzJi1lZ9HJqDDUc-uCYJUe23s2NKse1-L7JXf3Bu9lEYhEayzzNyhdaXLH9OYlcI35w_Y74A/s320/Smallfoot_%2528film%2529.png" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smallfoot_(film)">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I really enjoyed this film, though simple, it leaves you with a lot to think about. The color palette of the film follows the tone in a graceful way that keeps you in the mood of the story. The contemporary style of the movie offers great messages about integrity and how to manage the pressures of social media. There were a lot of things that went really right in this film.<br />
<br />
Tatum is joined by other voice talents such as James Corden, Danny DeVito, Zendaya, Lebron James and Common to round this journey with a well known and very talented cast. Award Winning Director Karey Kirkpatrick adds great vision to the animated adventure based on the book Yeti Tracks by Sergio Pablos.<br />
<br />
Zendaya sings the feature song for the film, "Wonderful Life," which covers the main theme beautifully:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ow9_519_xVQ/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ow9_519_xVQ?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
This Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Animation Group movie is fun for all ages and offers humorous encouragement to understand the source of your beliefs and not be afraid to trade what you've been taught for what is true.<br />
<br />
"Smallfoot" opens in theaters everywhere on September 28, 2018.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMqrZ21iaurO7JQbrgtjM52l2vPVIIHhvST8vjLEwG2tbMHlq5GrtIy5nEsMyHkRFsDHZ3HAwCd3w33bGmLDI4Bp9HrEZa0mizi2bF_IV_-Bn1YEOmyH6fkM1BclFilMpAqROeNSfYwM/s1600/name-graphics-amanda-335232.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="175" data-original-width="325" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMqrZ21iaurO7JQbrgtjM52l2vPVIIHhvST8vjLEwG2tbMHlq5GrtIy5nEsMyHkRFsDHZ3HAwCd3w33bGmLDI4Bp9HrEZa0mizi2bF_IV_-Bn1YEOmyH6fkM1BclFilMpAqROeNSfYwM/s200/name-graphics-amanda-335232.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Also published on "Positive Practice Living."</span>Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-87468082447756149002018-09-26T06:00:00.000-07:002018-09-26T06:00:06.822-07:00{Wordless-ish Wednesday} First Day of School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSdsT5YQOh5O_KGCtCvu0du8hhf4p5LEkGbpy4p4YXim3bOs6T0ODJw-4qUVJTTc3oWcafVSijlv39Spwl9V95ZXg_wKskVEMmRvzHAWt2L85LNrbBMYSyPwHagBfK0kPqYuGAei393g/s1600/IMG_20180904_100631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="810" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSdsT5YQOh5O_KGCtCvu0du8hhf4p5LEkGbpy4p4YXim3bOs6T0ODJw-4qUVJTTc3oWcafVSijlv39Spwl9V95ZXg_wKskVEMmRvzHAWt2L85LNrbBMYSyPwHagBfK0kPqYuGAei393g/s640/IMG_20180904_100631.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Okay, so technically, we started school three weeks ago. I'm just now getting around to posting this. This year we are homeschooling for the very first time. We want to share that journey and the resources we find with others, so we are launching our new Homeschool Blog: Tales from a Homeschooling Mother. I've been writing on this blog off and on for about 10 years now. I began it when Zoey was born and now she is nine...where does the time go? "Tales from a Mother" has a whole new purpose, to record our homeschooling journey. Zoey is in the 4th grade and excited about school starting for the first time in several years. We are grateful to be able to homeschool and want to share the experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Now it's time for some Wordless-ish Wednesday Fun!</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 14px;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Link up with the direct link to your post(s) containing photos, crafts and adventures. I love to read through and be inspired by all of the fantastic happenings of the week. Be sure to visit other's posts and share some comment love! Happy Wednesday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!-- start InLinkz script --></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<div class="InLinkzContainer" id="799105">
</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=799105" nbsp="" rel="nofollow" title="click to view in an external page.">An InLinkz Link-up</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<script src="https://static.inlinkz.com/cs2.js" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!-- end InLinkz script --></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgDq5LDwVV3OR3fdHYYctaBPqeY65PGbkUpMJxdP9SVuuKRfD2wgZsonfbIkiKRtOJP_ce6THKweMSml5Lndg0MXxPe3kkfl5zUeUdjbcr6e2cxJ-wq9MiJ5Jyq6Xqr0X_AgAxVI_O9X8/s1600/rainbow-grunge-wood-sunburst_G1A3wkYd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgDq5LDwVV3OR3fdHYYctaBPqeY65PGbkUpMJxdP9SVuuKRfD2wgZsonfbIkiKRtOJP_ce6THKweMSml5Lndg0MXxPe3kkfl5zUeUdjbcr6e2cxJ-wq9MiJ5Jyq6Xqr0X_AgAxVI_O9X8/s1600/rainbow-grunge-wood-sunburst_G1A3wkYd.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-88328534386796468572018-09-24T06:00:00.000-07:002018-09-24T06:00:01.727-07:00Tales from a Homeschooling Mother<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibD-0qMhIAiMKmLaaTfEM5vQlkQ42k28D0PtJWTEaCopDs0OZcn2kbPO6lD-9TezSkdFmcLSvBSbkrGnnso6rI2OM-VAELTrG5rkmWvPCXCE6TKZ0dt3VEfV66_AxD9s1cD4j2_3lDH8k/s1600/TFAHM+opt+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="960" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibD-0qMhIAiMKmLaaTfEM5vQlkQ42k28D0PtJWTEaCopDs0OZcn2kbPO6lD-9TezSkdFmcLSvBSbkrGnnso6rI2OM-VAELTrG5rkmWvPCXCE6TKZ0dt3VEfV66_AxD9s1cD4j2_3lDH8k/s640/TFAHM+opt+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Hi friends!<br />
<br />
Long time, no posting. That's my fault. You see, I started a new blog - Positive Practice Living. I needed a whole new identity to move forward in my own journey of self discovery.<br />
<br />
However, Tales from a Mother is still sitting here, awaiting a new purpose. It has gone through several changes over the ten years I've been hosting on it, and it is time for another. I'm excited to share it with you.<br />
<br />
This year we have decided to start homeschooling. It is a huge transition for our family, but one we are really enjoying. We are already reaping the benefits of this decision and we're only a couple weeks into the school year.<br />
<br />
I want to share this journey with others. Several friends and family are curious how our days look as homeschoolers. As I researched homeschooling as an option, I also enjoyed reading about other family's jouney in homeschooling. There is a surplus of resources and ideas out there and it is nice to be able to see what others are using and for what purpose.<br />
<br />
Thus, I've decided to try and record our journey as a homeschooling family. I'll share stories, resources and inspiration as it comes. This is all new for us, but we are learning as we go.<br />
<br />
Welcome to The McCusker School, home of the Rainbow Dolphins!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZten6drB8crBx2-ZgF5vOfyzBsXTFWJ-RIjPKRHa5_54lXECQT1xyg6SR95N7p0peJ1jhfzqXvg-oTK9uVoIQRoH43SXZjyPwBs8KyZ39VJ_NYnc8UTXdxRkeeIfAL0r2mALFdk9a91M/s1600/TFAHM+button+150px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZten6drB8crBx2-ZgF5vOfyzBsXTFWJ-RIjPKRHa5_54lXECQT1xyg6SR95N7p0peJ1jhfzqXvg-oTK9uVoIQRoH43SXZjyPwBs8KyZ39VJ_NYnc8UTXdxRkeeIfAL0r2mALFdk9a91M/s1600/TFAHM+button+150px.jpg" /></a></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-21038516416220858922017-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:002017-11-16T07:00:25.427-08:00Pancreatic Cancer World Awareness Day - November 16<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today, November 16, I stand with hundreds of thousands of others to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer and to demand better for patients and survival!</span></span></div>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-03e09af6-c1f8-6d6a-863e-86d67ce95e8e"><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFZgXF2zMPU_crgX7q2sbxcheoa0fOGluqgpu2XmJLvZ8BJPaiyJE9khZhth20F-RL5Fz_oxqcghPx9yiHfZW45ZHGqQmoTlWXT1_0oQjDpmhrUwwvrVmZuGmLga4eMsKeMbIzoSECxE/s1600/IMG_20171029_103620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdFZgXF2zMPU_crgX7q2sbxcheoa0fOGluqgpu2XmJLvZ8BJPaiyJE9khZhth20F-RL5Fz_oxqcghPx9yiHfZW45ZHGqQmoTlWXT1_0oQjDpmhrUwwvrVmZuGmLga4eMsKeMbIzoSECxE/s400/IMG_20171029_103620.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Race Day at PurpleStride Puget Sound<br />#Wage Hope #PANCaware</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The pancreas is a gland in the abdomen that lies behind the stomach and in front of the spine. Its two main functions are digestion and blood sugar regulation. Pancreatic cancer begins when abnormal cells within the pancreas grow out of control and form a tumor.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The signs for this deadly disease begin with only vague symptoms, including abdominal or mid-back pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, weight loss, nausea, low mood or depression, pain in eating, change in stool and/or a recent onset of diabetes. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, especially without explanation, the </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.pancan.org/" target="_blank">Pancreatic Cancer Action Network</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> urges you to see your doctor.</span></div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2BtpSMbxDcuxtHbePn2ttxnzCslFkG4IhUFBs49sEAVwB6ojrecYMIrzGsTLkWP1LLlp_3mv-eJBg6NILfsDyYQswVwBik8j2v68Idyu2_dz3jmBBW7VWfKaQuzDwbIpXtGrkafVxjI/s1600/PCA-Symptoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="788" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2BtpSMbxDcuxtHbePn2ttxnzCslFkG4IhUFBs49sEAVwB6ojrecYMIrzGsTLkWP1LLlp_3mv-eJBg6NILfsDyYQswVwBik8j2v68Idyu2_dz3jmBBW7VWfKaQuzDwbIpXtGrkafVxjI/s640/PCA-Symptoms.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pancreatic-cancer.purzuit.com/" target="_blank">Pancreatic Cancer Action</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The exact causes of pancreatic cancer are not yet well understood. Research studies have identified risk factors that may increase the likelihood that an individual will develop pancreatic cancer:</span></div>
<ul style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Family history has a large determining factor. Like many other forms of cancer, pancreatic cancer is genetic. Thus, the risk increases if multiple first-degree relatives had the disease, or any were diagnosed under age 50. </span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Diet also plays a big part. A diet high in red and processed meats may increase risk. On the other hand, a diet high in fruits and vegetable may decrease risk. </span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Weight also plays a role. Obese individuals have a 20% increased risk of developing the disease compared to a person of a normal weight. </span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In addition, a long standing diagnoses of diabetes, defined as over five years, could increase the risk. </span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Smoking also increases the chances, including second hand smoke.</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Also, those who suffer from intense or reoccuring pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, are at increased risk. </span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Studies conclude there are slightly more men diagnosed with pancreatic cancer than women and the chances of developing it increase with age. </span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The American Cancer Society states that pancreatic cancer currently has only a 9% five year survival rate. That is the lowest percentage of any major cancer. Pancreatic cancer killed more patients than breast cancer during 2016. The third leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States is pancreatic cancer. It is anticipated to become the second around 2020. </span></div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOpdHDDL2HpnmF8VXOtDXsME7TQhgCI2wp53cZ8YknkD0SWqdHsmjHlytL6G8bHwiZqstwNcT9HHMwTp3QeVom8lWwpGnWHE_DguAQZBAGOrz1FIO43aNmEw1Y273c6kPQkRSUKqBDHM/s1600/DemandBetter-Logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="204" data-original-width="648" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOpdHDDL2HpnmF8VXOtDXsME7TQhgCI2wp53cZ8YknkD0SWqdHsmjHlytL6G8bHwiZqstwNcT9HHMwTp3QeVom8lWwpGnWHE_DguAQZBAGOrz1FIO43aNmEw1Y273c6kPQkRSUKqBDHM/s640/DemandBetter-Logo.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many have stepped forward to say that these statistics are unacceptable. More than 53,000 Americans will be diagnosed this year. They deserve better than being told to go home and get their affairs in order. They are not statistics - they are our mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, colleagues and friends. Raise awareness for pancreatic cancer by sharing the risk factors and symptoms, which leads to early detection. It could mean saving the life of someone you love.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCan) is doing just that, raising awareness. They are also one of the largest sources of funding to provide advanced research opportunities. They push research forward through their nationally acclaimed grants program and clinical initiatives. Their goal is to double the survival rate by 2020. Their </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.pancan.org/about-us/vision-of-progress/" target="_blank">Vision of Progress</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> is to rewrite the future of pancreatic cancer.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">PANCan does so much more than just raise money for research funds. They also help patients and families by connecting them with the latest treatment options and by providing in-depth disease information. </span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Furthermore, they are in the community, leading and activating communities across the globe for the cause. They are also advocates for legislative support from Congress to increase federal research funding. PANCan is paving the way in its dedication to fighting the world’s toughest cancer. It is their urgent mission to save lives by attacking pancreatic cancer on all fronts. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkbtACwBjge2p8CGA86LlBoQhLkCXKYUY43d666uPRdIBdLGgsLAJ2m8rJdsvEJwmXwvGfi7qLVQoMhAyiWwJqSiji9GIq7eaOOY6r1AkHC6-IVQ6X6p19pK3dHeS5JYmut2Py9zaUnQ/s1600/pfap-header-supporters.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="133" data-original-width="620" height="136" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkbtACwBjge2p8CGA86LlBoQhLkCXKYUY43d666uPRdIBdLGgsLAJ2m8rJdsvEJwmXwvGfi7qLVQoMhAyiWwJqSiji9GIq7eaOOY6r1AkHC6-IVQ6X6p19pK3dHeS5JYmut2Py9zaUnQ/s640/pfap-header-supporters.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. This year, PANCan encourages us to join them to Demand Better. For Patients. For Survival. You can </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.pancan.org/get-involved/pancreatic-cancer-awareness/" target="_blank">Sign the Pledge</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and learn more about how to be #PANCaware.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matt Wilson, a pancreatic cancer survivor from Portland, OR, says, “Reality set in at my nephew’s first birthday party. We had cake, friends over, and a firetruck. I thought, “This could be my last birthday with him.” Six years later, there’s no sign of disease. I want stories like mine to be the common ones, not the uncommon ones.”</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can read more </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://secure.pancan.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=purplestride_puget_sound_strider_stories&fr_id=1260" target="_blank">Survivor Stories</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and the lives of those this deadly disease has affected. It is a huge step in understanding why so many people have taken action and made the commitment to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrat4Suap_mUAuJ6BDIFAKis3omO4-EEXIV4tqYgKpnuPy6nxHPxi4rODWBUMpvAbkl1zKwhFssIaLUywvxQPh3QNjosHN7hnv8MIbH38PN-XLpz2uXvW8auLfQY-dxcw6PYMYwx7boE0/s1600/PS_Logo_RGB.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="122" data-original-width="335" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrat4Suap_mUAuJ6BDIFAKis3omO4-EEXIV4tqYgKpnuPy6nxHPxi4rODWBUMpvAbkl1zKwhFssIaLUywvxQPh3QNjosHN7hnv8MIbH38PN-XLpz2uXvW8auLfQY-dxcw6PYMYwx7boE0/s400/PS_Logo_RGB.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">This time last year, I knew nothing about pancreatic cancer, or the devastating affect the disease can have on those it touches. My education began when a friend simply asked if I would like to participate in a 5k called PurpleStide with her family. Since I’ve been trying to be more active, I readily accepted thinking about the act of running much more than the cause. </span></div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLHfV2x7EJ8KBKftgenJ52RVxsoERYNxPWYL3pR1gQE6R8bxu3hJqbMfPoBn0DV0kN-ibXAS1Ah_-98LJABqUA-Tn1esGxZ0PCLtQGsQOZL_l8-7ogHoU-aYaNHn4OOaqS1xS5Ui6CV9g/s1600/Face+Painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1204" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLHfV2x7EJ8KBKftgenJ52RVxsoERYNxPWYL3pR1gQE6R8bxu3hJqbMfPoBn0DV0kN-ibXAS1Ah_-98LJABqUA-Tn1esGxZ0PCLtQGsQOZL_l8-7ogHoU-aYaNHn4OOaqS1xS5Ui6CV9g/s640/Face+Painting.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting my face painted before the big race.<br />#PurpleStridePugetSound #WageHope</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">However, as I began to understand what this event was really about, I became mesmerized by the encouragement and support of everyone involved. I was honored to run with the</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://support.pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride/PurpleStride?team_id=8991&pg=team&fr_id=1260" target="_blank"> Love 4 Linda</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> team and Wage Hope at PurpleStride, the walk to end pancreatic cancer. </span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My friend lost her aunt to pancreatic cancer in 2012. After her passing, her entire family began participating in PurpleStride. They Waged Hope this year as they have for the past four years, and will continue to do until there is a cure. Brenda Wendt, Love 4 Linda Team Captain, said, “This deadly disease has stolen our best and our brightest, but it can’t take away our determination.” </span></div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92hIelC-T5BqufojXCmacyylUhv0Y-gG6vfjIAPJoaJDXvDro5mYvoWoBq6GUPK7G0S75-i_yrfNTNsoFoZdPnAPUnYnwmP999RBhc80oEyUIVJOW_vRTprJT2u9HFTZxrjZeEeVzKJg/s1600/Love+4+Linda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="427" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92hIelC-T5BqufojXCmacyylUhv0Y-gG6vfjIAPJoaJDXvDro5mYvoWoBq6GUPK7G0S75-i_yrfNTNsoFoZdPnAPUnYnwmP999RBhc80oEyUIVJOW_vRTprJT2u9HFTZxrjZeEeVzKJg/s640/Love+4+Linda.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love 4 Linda Team<br />#wagehope #bettertogether</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="http://support.pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride/PurpleStride?fr_id=1260&pg=entry" target="_blank">PurpleStride Puget Sound</a>, held on October 29, 2017, was a powerful and inspiring day. Thanks to the amazing participants and teams, they met and surpassed their fundraising goal of $325,000 to raise over $413,000. It is a beautiful show of support to give patients a better tomorrow and increase funding for more research, which paves the way for better, life-changing treatments.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since PurpleStride was founded eight years ago, $87 million dollars has been raised for pancreatic cancer research and patient services. However, the true impact is not the dollar amount, but the progress to finding solutions. The once 6% rate has increased by 3% and is now solidly at 9%.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A 3% increase in the survival rate doesn’t seem like much, but it can make the difference when someone you love is in that small percentage. Moreso, the movement has come to enfold greater than one million people across the country to take action in the fight against pancreatic cancer. PurpleStride reminds us, “Purple ribbons don’t rewrite the future of pancreatic cancer. You do.”</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXxAwJn_Rg-FZ6E-WNzRdZINge3LChY6B188I_VOc11DNZn7yuEHp6lOF6SXjA1dfvQLru73rBIPBT-OJvUBE7lCSx_FJ2U3TFtX2yM3WTF6A703qF3PV8BnWEp7_wmWfMGQfpxjk4oY/s1600/rivera1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUXxAwJn_Rg-FZ6E-WNzRdZINge3LChY6B188I_VOc11DNZn7yuEHp6lOF6SXjA1dfvQLru73rBIPBT-OJvUBE7lCSx_FJ2U3TFtX2yM3WTF6A703qF3PV8BnWEp7_wmWfMGQfpxjk4oY/s640/rivera1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ron Rivera, Carolina Panthers Head Coach, Wages Hope at PurpleStride Charlotte.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.pancan.org/supporters/ron-rivera/" target="_blank">Ron Rivera</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, Carolina Panthers Head Coach, Wages Hope with PurpleStride in honor of his brother, Mickey, who passed away in 2015 after just two years battling the disease. “Partnering with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network allows me to not only honor my brother, but to take action against this deadly disease,” Coach Rivera said. “Too many people have lost loved ones to pancreatic cancer and without increased awareness and more people taking action, we cannot take down the disease.” Coach Rivera encourages everyone to take part in their local PurpleStride event, as he rallies in the streets of Charlotte, NC.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fighting cancer is not only a struggle for the patients, but also for the doctors and researchers trying to find a cure. Funding is a large part of the ability to apply time and resources towards treatment and a cure. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.pancan.org/news/it-starts-with-someone-channing-der-and-marisa-jung/" target="_blank">Channing Der, PhD</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, is a pancreatic cancer researcher at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research is focused on finding therapies to “correct” the mutations in the KRAS gene, and is pleased that some of these strategies are now being evaluated in pancreatic cancer clinical trials. </span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Channing Der, PhD, </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">discusses tough questions</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> concerning pancreatic cancer:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/S-AqilU-T64/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S-AqilU-T64?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Not only does Dr. Der work behind the scenes as a grant researcher, he is also a member of the Scientific and Medical Advisory Board for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. He devotes much of this life to improve the lives of those living with the disease, which includes participating in PurpleStride. </span></div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMkImLJ_kTMR7RO0qtHzUYKCGZIlvcJcncluYoMGyIX1Mb641SYpUMXgYawMq6-UIpeRNJqLVH_YazAUghuWvK_MxabgOwYPFahZwQ6PIo6Criy04ENsA1sv7ikXpR-qytjejYjrPq4k/s1600/take-action-top-wpcd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="548" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMkImLJ_kTMR7RO0qtHzUYKCGZIlvcJcncluYoMGyIX1Mb641SYpUMXgYawMq6-UIpeRNJqLVH_YazAUghuWvK_MxabgOwYPFahZwQ6PIo6Criy04ENsA1sv7ikXpR-qytjejYjrPq4k/s640/take-action-top-wpcd.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">November 16 </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.worldpancreaticcancerday.org/" target="_blank">World Pancreatic Cancer Day</a></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: large;">#WPCD</span></span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the day set aside each year to come together to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer. People from around the world will unite to Demand Better in the fight against the world’s toughest cancer. Through this combined effort, we are bringing greater attention to pancreatic cancer and better outcomes to patients. On this special day, we can make a world of difference.</span></div>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Today you can </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a href="https://www.pancan.org/get-involved/pancreatic-cancer-awareness/take-action/#wpcd" target="_blank">Take Action</a></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> against pancreatic cancer:</span></div>
<ul style="margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spread the word on social media</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tell your elected officials</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Know your pancreas</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Register for PurpleStride</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-size: 11pt; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fund the fight</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br /><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Today I wear purple to share what I have learned about pancreatic cancer and to support the people whose lives are impacted by this deadly disease. #WageHope #PANCaware </span></div>
</span>Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-17450821913451191952017-11-15T07:30:00.000-08:002017-11-15T07:31:02.246-08:00Nanowrimo 2017 - Halfway There!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha09mmwT9_spX_QjWbDR4yn_o09hBJgx2RYKGUTrT9Gs8cpcgQdHPuP9PHrfXtTiL9Kq3GpdBbAlclMtsojVhLmWUquxBA2PP1jgDfl2sUVsLUTcnZNTvodbEzT2K9BQzOOC8Lv63hi2U/s1600/green-chameleon-21532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1037" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha09mmwT9_spX_QjWbDR4yn_o09hBJgx2RYKGUTrT9Gs8cpcgQdHPuP9PHrfXtTiL9Kq3GpdBbAlclMtsojVhLmWUquxBA2PP1jgDfl2sUVsLUTcnZNTvodbEzT2K9BQzOOC8Lv63hi2U/s640/green-chameleon-21532.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/s9CC2SKySJM?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip: ink; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Green Chameleon</a><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip: ink; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This year me and Nanowrimo have been getting along just fine.<br />
<br />
I participate in this writing challenge along with hundreds of thousands of others every year. Our collective goal is to write 50,000 words in 30 days. Yes, it seems crazy to some, but to me it is just pure fun.<br />
<br />
So far, I only have a one in four completion rate, but that is all going to change this year. Today marks the halfway point on day, but I am well over half way on my word count. I have already exceeded 30,000 words and I'm still writing over two thousand a day (well, on average at least).<br />
<br />
However, with the holidays just around the corner, I have to keep my foot on the petal and keep my momentum going. I am very excited to see some friends and family to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, but it always poses a challenge for completing this project. Thankfully, I have some awesome family that understands my life as a writer and hopefully won't mind much when I slip away for an hour or so and enter in my word count.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8CJrxRYNUBWrL-LsLbbN_CvEpJ-ctMER0eWQb_zii8jgNVe47c4AQp5sgiBtxbBVGyqBJQrIPB4MmWVjDyRCTPxFXuNJbAIPecTSGmNVL1B-MP_6kMSk9WnE2aF_5hKpxUvjm2tk3fhk/s1600/IMG_20171109_185808_457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8CJrxRYNUBWrL-LsLbbN_CvEpJ-ctMER0eWQb_zii8jgNVe47c4AQp5sgiBtxbBVGyqBJQrIPB4MmWVjDyRCTPxFXuNJbAIPecTSGmNVL1B-MP_6kMSk9WnE2aF_5hKpxUvjm2tk3fhk/s320/IMG_20171109_185808_457.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying my local coffee shop to add to my word count!<br />#Nanowrimo #theworldneedsyournovel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I really do love this project and find a joy in creating new content. Especially when I write this intensely for this long, the characters seem to come alive and build a story all of their own. It is one of the most interesting things about writing fiction. I enjoy just stepping back to let the story unfold.<br />
<br />
This magic of writing has incited me my entire life. I am never as happy as when I can sit down and just let my thoughts flow onto a page. Some words are for others to read and some are simply for myself.<br />
<br />
There is this quote by Angela Carter: "Reading a book is like re-writing it for yourself. you bring to a novel, anything you read, all your experience of the world. You bring your history and you read it in your own terms."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
To me, writing is kind of like that too, especially when I can get "in the zone" of a new project. The characters just flow onto the page without me ever really having a clear understanding of how they get there. I bring the parts of myself and mix them with this magical property that we humans use to create. Somewhere along the way a novel is born.<br />
<br />
Now I just have to figure out how to edit a document with a length greater than a blog post so others can actually read these creations that has made their way from my head to the page. That is the next step.<br />
<br />
Right now, I am focused on Nanowrimo and my goal of 50,000 words before December 1st. I can do it, I know I can.<br />
<br />
If you are participating in Nanowrimo as well, then you can do it too! I believe in you, now comes the hard part...believe in yourself.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Happy Writing!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9K8bGMHa8cEzrq6sTxYOvTjPgufnb3TFY2R1UvRjOnChJ9-eFR3WoVd9ccrXk7is4YXWuNAf6PN7zUmFR32jqtB6LgusGufNIwu4ZJGzYv9NsfEP4oK_Z4j5E0td7laHa0mVYy-2KLE/s1600/NaNo-2017-Participant-Badge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="555" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9K8bGMHa8cEzrq6sTxYOvTjPgufnb3TFY2R1UvRjOnChJ9-eFR3WoVd9ccrXk7is4YXWuNAf6PN7zUmFR32jqtB6LgusGufNIwu4ZJGzYv9NsfEP4oK_Z4j5E0td7laHa0mVYy-2KLE/s320/NaNo-2017-Participant-Badge.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-66065375226345802052017-11-14T08:00:00.000-08:002017-11-14T20:08:52.721-08:00{WW 11/15/17 Linky} Fall is in the Air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VGcAkTJH54jIDeEll3bp6XHlpHRFJr5cnjBS3EGmzqJalT_TNkvKriNilZpSQ3N_LB_iHQdVEpa21lp_PXbF_pzE3nj5TO8LMlXvjZZ1lAtLb3Jz2lwY03sFNFB8ZNkEiP1sxCIurhk/s1600/IMG_20171110_230406_711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VGcAkTJH54jIDeEll3bp6XHlpHRFJr5cnjBS3EGmzqJalT_TNkvKriNilZpSQ3N_LB_iHQdVEpa21lp_PXbF_pzE3nj5TO8LMlXvjZZ1lAtLb3Jz2lwY03sFNFB8ZNkEiP1sxCIurhk/s400/IMG_20171110_230406_711.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Though it is starting to feel more and more like winter, we are still in the middle of autumn and it is beautiful. I love watching the trees change color and enjoying the cool days. Happy Fall!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Join in the Wordless Wednesday Fun and Link Up!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<link href="//www.blenza.com/linkies/styles/default.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"></link><script src="//www.blenza.com/linkies/loc_en.js"></script><script src="//www.blenza.com/linkies/opt_defaults.js"></script><script src="//www.blenza.com/linkies/misterlinky.js"></script><script src="//www.blenza.com/linkies/autolink.php?mode=standard&owner=talesfromamother&postid=15Nov2017&meme=ww" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-8696128266521200562017-11-01T15:52:00.001-07:002017-11-01T15:52:06.558-07:00Today's the Day - Nanowrimo 2017 Begins!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKsXSSdlNiRKLShhGxmXpmHVKRXkps2mu9SNVwCPdszF8m0xhzmyx-coTnYNK0O6_K6Ul6nr-5bm74Hk_4MW0napauxiAo45g3lMWFgjfuQD-PtvnGi8FiQZBq-kDzijkDb0oKxZxzZ4/s1600/NaNo-2017-Participant-Facebook-Cover.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="851" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKsXSSdlNiRKLShhGxmXpmHVKRXkps2mu9SNVwCPdszF8m0xhzmyx-coTnYNK0O6_K6Ul6nr-5bm74Hk_4MW0napauxiAo45g3lMWFgjfuQD-PtvnGi8FiQZBq-kDzijkDb0oKxZxzZ4/s640/NaNo-2017-Participant-Facebook-Cover.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I am so excited to begin <a href="https://nanowrimo.org/" target="_blank">National November Writing Month</a> (Nanowrimo) today. I've had my novel ideas circulating in my head for weeks now, and it is finally time to start putting pen to paper - or fingers to keyboard as the case may be.<br />
<br />
This will be my fifth consecutive year participating in Nanowrimo. I won it once, two years ago. There are all of these tips and tricks out there to help you complete the seemingly overwhelming 50,000 words. But honestly, it all comes down to one question. Do you want it?<br />
<br />
I'm serious. Of all the years I have done Nanowrimo, the only year I won was the year I really wanted it. The first year, I had no idea what I was doing, so I didn't really write much. The second and fourth year, I was distracted by activities and social commitments. The third year, the year I won, I really wanted it and wrote constantly, making my writing a priority, until I made it to the end.<br />
<br />
From my experience, if you want it, you will do it.<br />
<br />
And that's it. Just do it. Write everyday. Write as often as you can. Write as much as you can.<br />
<br />
When you hit writer's block, keep writing. Write the descriptions of your characters. Write descriptions of the setting. Write about why you can't figure out what happens next.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBvnR_dLgQCAt5PIKfBewFcXb_etQbJRYUyeeoYBAX_OhQbsDjo9bMifN5WgxSYPZ76nQ0VMligTOzroG7OngCuxEer48WUBIQtaJZg8AZ6T-3a0AhBXIzjXenHnklXcl54qArth9Tp0/s1600/IMG_20171101_140704_901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBvnR_dLgQCAt5PIKfBewFcXb_etQbJRYUyeeoYBAX_OhQbsDjo9bMifN5WgxSYPZ76nQ0VMligTOzroG7OngCuxEer48WUBIQtaJZg8AZ6T-3a0AhBXIzjXenHnklXcl54qArth9Tp0/s400/IMG_20171101_140704_901.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I entered in my first Nanowrimo update today. I'm so excited to begin.<br />Cheers to all who are participating with me! #Nanowrimo2017</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
One reason I love Nanowrimo is because it creates habit. The trick with writing, as well as other creative aspiration, is the more you do it, the easier it is to keep up the momentum. When life gets in the way, like during summer for example, it takes me a while to get started again. Nanowrimo is a jump start for me to get into the writing mode just in time for those cold winter months. I always want to hibernate during this time of year, so it works out well to be able to spend more time writing and editing my work.<br />
<br />
Developing new ideas for novels is one of the easiest and hardest things for me. Usually, a small idea comes from something I read or experience. Then I build on it, continuously adding more details as I go.<br />
<br />
I really like creating new content, but tend to have a really hard time editing. Thus, Nanowrimo is one of my favorite times a year.<br />
<br />
This year, a series of events led up to my novel's subject matter. I recently helped a friend's grandmother write down her life's story to pass down to future generations. Her family was very comfortable in the outdoors and spent lots of time in the mountains hunting and fishing. In addition, I participated in a benefit run with another friend for pancreatic cancer awareness. These two influences blended together in my mind to come up with my Nanowrimo project.<br />
<br />
I wanted to do a story beginning at the trail head of a backpacking journey. I decided to make the protagonist a female because that perspective is what I know. Write what you know, right? I tried to figure out why she would be going on this journey and decided it would be to overcome a loss. I wanted to use the stages of grief and the healing power of nature to lead her into self-discovery. Due to my recent interaction with pancreatic cancer awareness, I decided the trigger would be her mother dying of this deadly disease. It sort of all builds from there. Who she is, where her relationship stands with her family and so on and so forth.<br />
<br />
The beauty is that a lot of the little decisions come out during the writing process. As I have discovered when writing previous novel ventures, the characters have a story of their own and they will let you know as you go if you just keep writing.<br />
<br />
Today is only the beginning and I'm excited for this year's adventure. This year I really want it again, so I think I will win. I know I will win.<br />
<br />
I'd love to hear from other who are participating in Nanowrimo this year! See you in the winner's circle!Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-5640858604758624772017-10-31T07:01:00.000-07:002017-10-31T07:01:14.260-07:00{WW:11/1/17} PurpleStride Puget Sound 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUK90LcrLpzZSlsu6UHSMdAEq9uIwYVLN-nwB_sZGICbRrpYai8xLJaV8pb8M0bgWmupRUk8YdO0pySqO0t_D7F6LTkH7SYvNvBWe955p8-HTRXGIHdUnzBu3C9YyCX1ImRLtfrqKo_vo/s1600/IMG_20171029_092257_459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUK90LcrLpzZSlsu6UHSMdAEq9uIwYVLN-nwB_sZGICbRrpYai8xLJaV8pb8M0bgWmupRUk8YdO0pySqO0t_D7F6LTkH7SYvNvBWe955p8-HTRXGIHdUnzBu3C9YyCX1ImRLtfrqKo_vo/s400/IMG_20171029_092257_459.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This past Sunday I ran the <a href="http://support.pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride/PurpleStride?fr_id=1260&pg=entry" target="_blank">PurpleStride Puget Sound</a> 5k. This is me at the pre-race rally. My friend asked me to attend the event in honor of her aunt who died from pancreatic cancer in 2015. I was inspired and amazed by the amount of support and love passed around during this event. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Wages Hope with this walk to end pancreatic cancer. <a href="http://talesfromamother.blogspot.com/2017/10/purplestride-puget-sound-2017.html" target="_blank">Read More</a> about my experiences at PurpleStride. #PANCawareAmanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-45263933071382821252017-10-30T18:18:00.001-07:002017-10-30T18:18:29.914-07:00PurpleStride Puget Sound 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DPqwsLNc0groeggcyRbAKOAgXo9iXpBIQ2V8ffZZ9Jc8oLlOctXLJ_UIcjyOYOR-ZsNm_2stCur0ov9hethizxUsL89QB-YLpiPtlZBdOYfeSF97ZpT_RtwhhpG-qF4Rx1r1rALlQXA/s1600/ps17_pugetsound_logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="118" data-original-width="295" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2DPqwsLNc0groeggcyRbAKOAgXo9iXpBIQ2V8ffZZ9Jc8oLlOctXLJ_UIcjyOYOR-ZsNm_2stCur0ov9hethizxUsL89QB-YLpiPtlZBdOYfeSF97ZpT_RtwhhpG-qF4Rx1r1rALlQXA/s400/ps17_pugetsound_logo.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This last Sunday, I was honored to participate in <a href="http://support.pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride/PurpleStride?fr_id=1260&pg=entry" target="_blank">PurpleStride Puget Sound 2017</a>. It is a 5k run and walk to raise support and awareness for pancreatic cancer. It was an event held in the beautiful Magnuson Park and presented by Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.<br />
<br />
My friend, Brenda, asked me to take part in the event in memory of her Aunt Linda, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2015. I was thinking it was about time to run a 5k again, so I readily accepted. I registered for the run with the <a href="http://support.pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride/PurpleStride?team_id=8991&pg=team&fr_id=1260" target="_blank">Love for Linda</a> team and anticipated race day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEadyFhsci2Cn-yx8stsT2TluIRUyKu_laspHognK8aMQFq2Kyk1bBONsjDmfGRkM6EZA-QsO2MX_mRlHtPB3JYsDEeiCQYvoHBV1Kq8fPF2Bywson43Jv-glSC_zOdUI1vYvYR0BSQw/s1600/IMG_20171029_103620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEadyFhsci2Cn-yx8stsT2TluIRUyKu_laspHognK8aMQFq2Kyk1bBONsjDmfGRkM6EZA-QsO2MX_mRlHtPB3JYsDEeiCQYvoHBV1Kq8fPF2Bywson43Jv-glSC_zOdUI1vYvYR0BSQw/s320/IMG_20171029_103620.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished the race! <br />Wage Hope against Pancreatic Cancer!<br />#PANCaware</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It wasn't until I got to the event and began to listen to the message presented, that I became aware of the affects of this deadly disease. Pancreatic Cancer has the lowest survival rate of all major cancers at just 9%. That number has increased by 3% since PurpleStride was founded in 2008, still it is unacceptably small to those affected by the disease.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, funding for pancreatic cancer is limited and likely to decrease if the Senate-approved National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passes. The provisions of this Act would weaken the ability for the Department of Defense to allocate high-risk, high-reward research grants through the Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program. The purpose of this program is to advance treatment options and improve the lives of patients, very important and much needed objective.<br />
<br />
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network has a goal to double the pancreatic cancer survival rate by 2020. Help them do that by taking action on this piece of legislation. S<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">end a letter to your congress representative to prioritize lifesaving cancer research by using <a href="https://secure.pancan.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=249" target="_blank">this template</a>, </span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">sponsored by Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Congress acts when they know people like us care.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-cc1eb6a8-6fee-2f0f-c0ad-e781e3a94981"><span style="font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">PurpleStride Puget Sound 2017 was a powerful and inspiring day. </span></span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">I was moved by the life and the love that surrounded me. I was motivated by survivor's stories, and the dedication of the family and friends who showed encouragement for the ones affected by this disease. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Thanks to the amazing participants and teams, the </span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Pancreatic Cancer Action Network </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">met and surpassed their fundraising goal of $325,000 to raise $369,000. It is a beautiful show of support that will give patients a better tomorrow and increase funding for more research, which paves the way for better, life-changing treatments.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">November is <a href="https://www.pancan.org/get-involved/pancreatic-cancer-awareness/?s_src=november+awareness+2017_reminder_email+1+v3&s_subsrc=november+awareness+2017_reminder_email+1+v3_email_partial+constituents&utm_source=reminder&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=november+awareness+2017&utm_term=partial+constituents&utm_content=email+1+v3" target="_blank">Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month</a>. This year the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's focus is - Demand Better. For Patients. For Survival. I am thankful I accepted the invitation to experience the determination and support to Wage Hope to end pancreatic cancer. I intend to do some more research and continue to raise awareness for this deadly disease. </span></div>
<br />
Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-60985209588716334102017-10-22T11:03:00.002-07:002017-10-22T11:03:58.124-07:00Time for Reform<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9ywvgYJGL91dICnfG-rLaZ7tJypLaC3lU6ly7tXFEk2Rtcl2hk9g-LIYaQaI5Ei85U_ddqeFBRGFeg4328ZNnMoSD-_XkSjtOnC06PhWxMxxiEmsCRaY7yiQSvct_lL5VevqOYA7ZmM/s1600/nine-kopfer-295988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="647" data-original-width="971" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9ywvgYJGL91dICnfG-rLaZ7tJypLaC3lU6ly7tXFEk2Rtcl2hk9g-LIYaQaI5Ei85U_ddqeFBRGFeg4328ZNnMoSD-_XkSjtOnC06PhWxMxxiEmsCRaY7yiQSvct_lL5VevqOYA7ZmM/s640/nine-kopfer-295988.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/zosE9lAYQlo?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip: ink; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Nine Köpfer</a><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip: ink; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It is interesting how life changes so slowly that sometimes you can hardly see the difference. This happens with good habits, also with bad. After a wake up call that involved me getting really sick for a few days, I finally woke up, realizing it is time to reform.<br />
<br />
Last weekend I went out with some friends and had a great time. But I drank a little too much wine, and ate something that didn't agree with me and ended up sick for just over three days. It was a very unpleasant experience, but it also set off an alarm that alerted me of some bad habits I'd been very slowly gaining. This particular bad habit was using alcohol as a crutch to get through the good, the bad, and the mundane.<br />
<br />
I've never really been addicted to anything, nor do I believe I was really addicted to alcohol, but now I understand how the dependence happens. It materializes slowly, without you ever really realizing it is a problem.<br />
<br />
I do really like wine, beer and spirits. I would drink with my friends and often times with meals as well, just because I could. I slowly began to drink more often and faster, which meant I would have two glasses in the time I once would have one. Then I would not pay attention to my body and have another.<br />
<br />
In the moment, it felt good and freeing. I did't really get bad hangovers either, so I didn't even realize anything was wrong. Except, that I started feeling really fatigued and unmotivated. I thought I was just because I was busy. Or that I was having a hard time kick starting myself after the carefree summer months to being being productive again. I'm sure those things contributed to it, but now I realize my habits did not help me either.<br />
<br />
It wasn't until I got sick to the point that even the thought of alcohol repelled me that I realized exactly how much I came to covet the substance. Again, I don't believe I was addicted because I could give it up. However, I had to change and I did.<br />
<br />
Once I became able to think and function again, I made a pact with myself to stop using alcohol as a crutch. I want to be able to experience life, the good and the bad.<br />
<br />
I am thankful that I do not have to quit drinking completely, but I did for a week to let myself recover. Now I can simply moderate my consumption. Having a drink during social situation or while watching a football game is a pleasure. I need to keep it that way, an enjoyable activity, not an everyday indulgence.<br />
<br />
This was not a severe case, thankfully it didn't get that far. But this is a serious subject. Simply becoming aware of my situation was enough for me to turn my habit around. I have an accountability partner and write consistently in a journal to help me catch the pattern if it does ever become an issue again.<br />
<br />
It was also during this week that I recommitted myself to my writing. I've been writing, but it has been floundering and inconsistent. It was while I felt sick that I started asking myself what I want in life. I want to be a published writer. I want to be able to write with a clear mind. I want to finish these projects I'm working on and then start more. Writing is what I love and who I am. I want to be the best version of myself.<br />
<br />
This week, once I could function again, I wrote everyday and made significant progress on one of my projects and created a good foundation for a second. All in only four days. I forgot how much writing means to me, when I find myself in the grind and when I float along feeling inspired. I'm thankful to find that elated feeling once again, one that was muted before.<br />
<br />
By confessing this here, I share something very personal to me. However, it is a very significant occurrence for me and I feel a freedom in my heart to be able to write more openly. I'm still embarrassed and frustrated about getting so sick, but I am thankful for the wake up call to turn myself around and choose a new direction.<br />
<br />
I want to be healthy, happy and free, just as I want those things for you. I am not proud of my previous actions, but I am pleased to turn it around before I became completely self-destructive. If you or someone you know has trouble letting go of bad habits and need help turning away from them, get it, you and your loved ones with thank you. It is worth the struggle to be free.<br />
<br />
Last weekend, I felt confined to the choices I was making, not realizing how they were negatively affecting me. This weekend, I feel free and able to start fresh and see my world in a new light. Finding the good in the bad, I am thankful to be able to turn myself around and begin anew. That has already happened in my heart and now I declared publicly. Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-178182932683910660.post-2649765869071060852017-10-06T10:16:00.002-07:002017-10-06T10:16:47.124-07:0030-Day Meditation Challenge<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2nH3sVYnnVsctky5Zr9g86WYKkLxWbL2d5ReJweFvkQiRe-P1sULDnRX5jLVnD_4g7Kr6Kc2Ku1t_bB-W83NgY9lYmPUXbO3LouPSD0mWUxXyFvinWeP3LbZmMBEw1JvTPYkhlTsxWE/s1600/kalen-emsley-94317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="1029" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2nH3sVYnnVsctky5Zr9g86WYKkLxWbL2d5ReJweFvkQiRe-P1sULDnRX5jLVnD_4g7Kr6Kc2Ku1t_bB-W83NgY9lYmPUXbO3LouPSD0mWUxXyFvinWeP3LbZmMBEw1JvTPYkhlTsxWE/s640/kalen-emsley-94317.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/uQ6ocPD59nU?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip: ink; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Kalen Emsley</a><span style="background-color: #f2f2f2; color: #111111; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; white-space: nowrap;"> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText" style="background-color: #f2f2f2; box-sizing: border-box; color: #999999; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "San Francisco", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Ubuntu, Roboto, Noto, "Segoe UI", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: start; text-decoration-skip: ink; transition: color 0.2s ease-in-out, opacity 0.2s ease-in-out; white-space: nowrap;">Unsplash</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Meditation is the action or practice of meditating.</b></span><br />
<br />
Thank you Merium-Webster for that clarification. There is something about meditation that seems really vague and difficult to grasp. We are always looking for that zen moment where everything is right in the world. I don't know about you, but that just doesn't happen all the time. When we do not receive that moment of clarity while meditating, we assume we are doing something wrong.<br />
<br />
We are not.<br />
<br />
Meditation is simply a moment of contemplation. It gives you a chance to stop and think about your day and what you are hoping to receive from it. This creates a perfect opportunity to set an intention and deliberate on what to do next to fulfill that purpose. It is a time for reflection and musing and there is no wrong way to meditate.<br />
<br />
For me, meditation isn't sitting and visualizing myself as a tree or the ocean. And please don't tell me to completely clear my mind of all thoughts, that is impossible. Focusing on breath does work for me, but partly because I perpetually forget to breathe all the time.<br />
<br />
The act of meditating is a chance for me to have a little talk with myself without any judgement. It is when I check in and decide if what I'm doing is really what I want to be doing in this moment and in life. When something is bothering me, meditating helps me block out the distractions to determine what the source is so I can actually do something decisive about it.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Challenge</b></span><br />
<br />
I am beginning a self-established 30-day mediation challenge on Instagram. I choose that platform because it would make me determine my words and thoughts carefully since there isn't room for extended commentary for me to ramble on, like I am now. Also, I wanted to add a visual component to the project.<br />
<br />
Meditation is a very personal thing. Even when sitting with others, the journey is within you. I want to be able to share some visual stimulation with my thoughts. Some of it is going to get creative because I'm still not even entirely sure what it will become by the end. That's also the fun of it; I enjoy the expedition of creative practices.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD950lpUBl1y8VG3vf9fDc1YYTSv2ae9e_ILzi7SSr5gnf0bVFzbAIOm0-sY_5n1O5pbHhF3DbN4ZPvmWh2cemlEOtteIiodvZPVSw3j3KI9AWllBpczM1LdjUQuqxTjCsekOi9-hmXj0/s1600/meditation+challenge+Wanderlust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="1600" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD950lpUBl1y8VG3vf9fDc1YYTSv2ae9e_ILzi7SSr5gnf0bVFzbAIOm0-sY_5n1O5pbHhF3DbN4ZPvmWh2cemlEOtteIiodvZPVSw3j3KI9AWllBpczM1LdjUQuqxTjCsekOi9-hmXj0/s640/meditation+challenge+Wanderlust.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://tv.wanderlust.com/catalog/21-day-meditation-challenge" target="_blank">21-Day Meditation challenge with Light Watkins, hosted by Wanderlust TV</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />In the middle of my 30 days of meditation, I am going to join Light Watkins with Wanderlust TV for a <a href="https://tv.wanderlust.com/programs/intro-to-the-21-day-meditation-challenge" target="_blank">21-day meditation challenge</a>. I am excited to see what these guided meditations will add to my own practice. In the meantime, I want to get started exploring what mediation means to me.<br />
<br />
I am really excited about this challenge. It began yesterday on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ladyanda827/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> account @ladyanda827. I look forward to my commitment for a daily meditation practice and the accountability to follow through on it.<br />
<br />
If you find satisfaction in meditation, or would like to, I'd love to hear your thoughts, questions and ideas!Amanda McCuskerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04471043512212324879noreply@blogger.com0