F is for Full, Half Full…(Part 2 of 2)

 

A Writer’s Playground–a place to find wordplay, writing prompts, reasons to celebrate, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart  “F is for Full, Half Full…(Part 2 of 2)” by Linda Martin Andersen

This month I’m sharing photos and blog posts from A-Z.  I’m excited about trying something new.  I hope you’ll stop by often throughout the month.

Check out the participants for the April (2016) Challenge.  There are plenty to choose from http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Close up of gas gauge. Copyright 2016. Linda Martin Andersen

F is for Full, Half Full…(Part 2 of 2)

We all know the expression “Is the glass half full or half empty?”  Today, I’d like you to focus on “F–F is for Full, Half Full.”

What does full look like in your life? Half full?

How do you celebrate the full moments?  Do you give thanks?  What about the half full ones? And now for an even bigger challenge:  can you celebrate or give thanks even on half empty or empty days?

Is it possible to move from full to empty in the same day?  Likewise, is it possible to move from empty to full in the same day?

Do you know the expression “rock bottom” or  “hit bottom?”  http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/hit+bottom

Here’s a motivational video about hitting rock bottom:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yBU1ELFXfk

If an experiment proved… that half full and half empty are equal measures, which description would best describe how you approach life? What is your perspective?  Do you lean toward the negative or the positive?  If you tend to lean toward the negative, would you want to change that?  How could you?

In yesterday’s blog post, I stated that “Some people’s circumstances appear to be half empty at best and yet they seem happy or are doing their best to get on with their life.  What’s their secret?” https://lindamartinandersen.wordpress.com/2016/04/06/e-is-for-empty-half-empty-part-1-of-2/

I hope this two-day series has you looking at Empty/half empty and Full/half full in a different light.  I’d love to hear your comments.

What “F” words come to mind for you? I hope you’ll share why they’re special to you.

Thank you for visiting “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend. Please leave a comment.  Remember that children 13 and under need an adult to comment for them.  For more fun, sign up to follow my blog.  Thank you!

E is for Empty, Half Empty…(Part 1 of 2)

 

A Writer’s Playground–a place to find wordplay, writing prompts, reasons to celebrate, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart  “E is for Empty, Half Empty…(Part 1 of 2)” by Linda Martin Andersen

This month I’m sharing photos and blog posts from A-Z.  I’m excited about trying something new.  I hope you’ll stop by often throughout the month.

Check out the participants for the April (2016) Challenge.  There are plenty to choose from http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Gas Gauge–full view. Copyright 2016. Linda Martin Andersen

We all know the expression “Is the glass half full or half empty?”  Today, I’d like you to focus on “E–E is for Empty, Half Empty.”

What does empty look like in your life?  Half empty?

What helps you move beyond this point?

Some people’s circumstances appear to be half empty at best and yet they seem happy or are doing their best to get on with their life.  What’s their secret?

Yesterday, I observed someone at the gym who was blind being led about by someone else.  This young gentleman didn’t leave the impression that he’d been blind all his life.  He kept his hands on a young lady’s shoulders as she directed him to the next piece of exercise equipment.  She set the time and other settings on the machine for him.  I wondered, was he blinded in military combat?  He was young and of strong build.  He could be military; after all, I do live near an Army base.  No matter what led him to this place and stage of his life, I could not think on him as Empty or even Half Empty.  His circumstances, yes; but him, no.  This image will remain strong in my mind.  My hope is to take lessons learned and apply them to my life as well.

E is for Effort

The young man and woman mentioned above definitely deserve an “E” for effort.

Tell me of a time you or someone you know has shown “E” for effort, even though circumstances appeared to be empty or half empty.

What “E” words come to mind for you? I hope you’ll share why they’re special to you.

Thank you for visiting “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend. Please leave a comment.  Remember that children 13 and under need an adult to comment for them.  For more fun, sign up to follow my blog.  Thank you!

It’s Not Fair

“It’s Not Fair” by Linda Martin Andersen

 

Welcome to “A Writer’s Playground”–A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.

When I was an elementary School Counselor in Cumberland County, NC, students studied character traits each month. Through blog posts at “A Writer’s Playground,” I continue to spread the word about good character. 

This month, like the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC, I present the character trait of FAIRNESS, defined as “playing by the rules, taking turns, sharing and listening.”  To promote this trait, I selected a delightful picture book written by Darcy Pattison and illustrated by Steven Salerno.  It’s entitled 19 Girls and Me.

http://www.amazon.com/19-Girls-Me-Darcy-Pattison/dp/B0043RTBPG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1362799861&sr=8-1&keywords=19+Girls+and+Me

When you think of fairness, a nagging saying probably echoes in your mind:  “It’s not fair.”  Children say it.  Adults probably think it, but most won’t admit they do.  Here are some children’s books titles that include this expression:  It’s Not Fair by Charlotte Zolotow, It’s Not Fair!  by Anita Harper and It’s Not Fair! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal & Tom Lichtenheld.  Check these books out for more on this saying.

This month I chose to spotlight a book about fairness that does not include the words “it’s not fair.”  In 19 Girls and Me, Darcy’s Pattison’s main character, John Hercules Po, is assigned to a kindergarten classroom full of girls.   John Hercules Po’s older brother tells him that the girls will turn him into a sissy, but John has a different plan.

19 Girls and Me is delightful.  It isn’t predictable.  The children’s imaginations are at play.  The end result is a win, win, situation.

Adults, the next time you hear someone say, “That’s not fair,” I hope you’ll remember to pull a copy of this book from a shelf and read how John Hercules Po and the 19 girls in his classroom chose to  handle their “unfair” situation in a positive way.   19 Girls and Me becomes an interactive reading by encouraging listeners to act out the scenes as they are read.  The audience can also call “Lunch” when it’s time.

Ask students to identify their favorite day of the week from the story.  Ask what happened that day on the playground?  Name something that surprised you in the story.  How did you expect the story to end?  How did John describe his classmates at the end of the book?  How do you feel about that?

Girls, have you ever been called a tomboy?  Boys, have you ever been called a sissy?  What do those words mean?  I’ve heard these called “fighting words.”  What do you think that means?  

If you’re a children’s author, I recommend checking out Darcy Pattison’s blog and upcoming novel revision retreats.  http://www.darcypattison.com/

March 24-30 is Tsunami Awareness Week–

and in observance of this, I’d like to suggest checking out another title by Darcy Pattison: Wisdom, the Midway Albatross, the oldest known bird in the world and one that has survived tsunamis and other natural disasters. 

http://www.darcypattison.com/dpbooks/wisdom-the-midway-albatross/

Check for other books by Darcy Pattison at her website.

Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend.

Copyright © 2013 Linda Martin Andersen

What Does an Old Cricket Have to Do With Trustworthiness?

“What Does an Old Cricket Have to Do With Trustworthiness?” by Linda Martin Andersen

 

Welcome to “A Writer’s Playground”–A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.

Think of February and Washington’s birthday and you may recall the story of a cherry tree, an axe, and George’s honesty.  Hopefully, after reading this post, when you think of February, you’ll also think of Old Cricket, Lisa Wheeler, and trustworthiness.

When I was an elementary School Counselor in Cumberland County, NC, students studied character traits each month. Through blog posts at “A Writer’s Playground,” I continue to spread the word about good character. 

This month, like the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC, I present the character trait of TRUSTWORTHINESS, which is defined as “telling the truth and keeping promises.”  To promote this trait, I selected one of my favorite read-aloud picture books by Lisa Wheeler.  

Adults, you’ll enjoy reading this as much as readers love hearing it.  Whether reading for one or a whole classroom, encourage interactive participation.  Point out body parts and repeat the sound effects made by Old Cricket’s physical ailments. 

Before reading, predict what Old Cricket says or does that gets him in trouble.  Remember, one of the book’s themes is trustworthiness.  Does Old Cricket tell a lie?  Does he break a promise?  What do you think he might have promised or said that was a lie?  Read the book to see if you’re correct.

Look closely at the book jacket.  Is Old Cricket putting on his hat?  Is this a scene from the book?  I’d like to send a response to Old Cricket and to Lisa Wheeler:  I’m tipping my hat to both of you. Readers, do you know what that means?  Why would I make this gesture?  After reading the book, see if you agree with my actions.  Why or why not?

Learn about Old Cricket and many other picture book titles by Lisa Wheeler here:

http://www.lisawheelerbooks.com/LW/cricket.html

                                                                    

For activities created for Old Cricket by two different guide authors, please check the links below:

http://www.lisawheelerbooks.com/LW/activities_files/old_cricket_activities_2.pdf

http://www.lisawheelerbooks.com/LW/activities_files/OldCricket.pdf

If you’re a children’s author, I recommend checking out Lisa Wheeler’s upcoming boot camps.

http://www.lisawheelerbooks.com/LW/boot_camp.html

I’d love to hear about a time you told the truth or kept a promise.  Or perhaps you’d like to tell about a time when you didn’t tell the truth or you didn’t keep a promise.  What happened?  Did anyone discover what you’d done?  Did you admit you had done wrong?  Did you apologize? Please leave a comment below.

Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend.

Copyright © 2013 Linda Martin Andersen

C-A-R-I-N-G–Character Trait of December

“C-A-R-I-N-G–Character Trait of December” by Linda Martin Andersen

 

 “A Writer’s Playground”

A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.

December–a month that encourages giving and caring.

When I was an elementary School Counselor in Cumberland County, NC, students studied character traits each month. Now, I have found another way to spread the word about good character.  I volunteer once a month for Story Time at a home school bookstore in my area. Check it out at www.thepilgrimsjourney.com.  

This month, like the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC, I planned to present the character trait of CARING which is defined as “being kind, helpful, and generous to everyone.”

At Story Time, I was scheduled to read The Jester Has Lost His Jingle, written and illustrated by David Saltzman.  I had to cancel Story Time due to my husband being hospitalized.  I hope you’ll locate a copy of this book and share it with a special child in your life.  The author wrote this book while being treated for Hodgkins Lymphoma.  Unfortunately, he did not survive.  The Jester & Pharley Phund was established to continue to spread the message of caring. “While we wait for tomorrow’s cures, The Jester & Pharley Phund gives children hope and laughter as they battle cancer and other serious illnesses today.”   http://www.thejester.org/

Another example of caring  is a tribute to a good friend’s twin sister who died of cancer.  Even during her illness, she continued to reach out to others and show her care for them.  Caroline Harsant Whitley, nicknamed Care, is honored by her family and friends in a program called Care’s Coasters.  See more here.  www.carescoasters.com.

I’d love to hear ways you show caring.  Please leave a comment below.  Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend.

Copyright © 2012 Linda Martin Andersen

I-N-T-E-G-R-I-T-Y–Character Trait of November

“I-N-T-E-G-R-I-T-Y–Character Trait of November” by Linda Martin Andersen

 

 “A Writer’s Playground”

A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.

November–a month for more than talk about turkeys…

When I was an elementary School Counselor in Cumberland County, NC, students studied character traits each month. Now, I have found another way to spread the word about good character.  I volunteer once a month for story time at a home school bookstore in my area. Check it out at www.thepilgrimsjourney.com.  

This month, like the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC, I presented the character trait of INTEGRITY.   It’s defined as “Doing the right thing even when no one is watching. 

At Story Time, I read The Empty Pot by Demi.  A discussion of honesty and integrity followed, along with an optional art activity.    I hope you’ll locate a copy of this book and share it with a special child in your life.  Consider planting a seed in a pot after the reading.  It will lead to  future discussions about Ping’s actions and personal examples of  integrity.

 

If you are interested in learning about other book titles by this author, visit this site:  http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Demi/707558/books

I’d love to hear ways you show integrity.  Please leave a comment below.  Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend.

Coming soon:  Two guests bloggers: One is a storyteller and author.  The other is a pilot and author. I hope you’ll meet them.

Copyright © 2012 Linda Martin Andersen

Red Ribbon Week Celebrated. R-E-S-P-O-N-S-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y Character Trait of October

“Red Ribbon Week Celebrated.  R-E-S-P-O-N-S-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y Character Trait of October” by Linda Martin Andersen                       

“A Writer’s Playground”

A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly   calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.

Currently, I volunteer once a month for Story Time at Pilgrim’s Journey Home School Bookstore.  Check it out at www.thepilgrimsjourney.com.  My goal is to share stories that promote character traits following the same sequence as the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC. 

This month, Story Time at Pilgrim’s Journey Home School Bookstore celebrated Red Ribbon Week and honored drug-free families and communities.  I chose to read The Red Ribbon—A Story of Hope by John Lasne and Brains on Fire.  Years ago, I obtained permission from the author to create an interactive book-based activity.  It is one of my favorite readings because the kids have so much fun moving about. You may purchase copies of the book at http://tinyurl.com/8t424rb (Barnes and Noble) and also at Amazon. 

October’s character trait is “Responsibility.”  According to the definition used by the Cumberland County Schools of NC, responsibility means “to be dependable and accountable for one’s actions.”  I’d love to hear actions you take that show you are dependable and accountable for your actions.  For example:  I clean my room every Saturday.  Please leave a comment below.  Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend.

Coming in November:  Activities for Kids, visiting storytellers, authors, and a pilot.  Story Time will feature the character trait, Integrity.  Hope to see you then.

During November, I’ll be participating in Picture Book Idea Month.  (PiBoIdMo)

To learn more about this writing challenge, visit www.taralazar.com.

Copyright © 2012 Linda Martin Andersen

R-E-S-P-E-C-T–Character Trait of September

“R-E-S-P-E-C-T–Character Trait of September” by Linda Martin Andersen

 “A Writer’s Playground”

A place to find wordplay, writing, and monthly   calendar activities for kids and those young at heart.

When I was an elementary School Counselor in Cumberland County, NC, students studied character traits each month. Presently, I am a part-time tutor.  I am also a writer who loves picture books.  Mix it all together, and you’ll understand why I introduced classroom rules and procedures to tutoring groups by reading a picture book about “respect.” 

Now, I have found another way to spread the word about good character.  I volunteer once a month for story time at a home school bookstore in my area. Check it out at www.thepilgrimsjourney.com.  I plan to present character traits in the same sequence as the Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC.  See below:

 Character Traits–

September—Respect    

October—Responsibility

November—Integrity

December—Caring

January—Self-Discipline

February—Trustworthiness

March—Fairness

April—Citizenship

May—Celebrate (successes)

Pilgrim’s Journey Home School Bookstore graciously welcomed me as a volunteer story time presenter. Look for a home school bookstore in your area. Attend programs or buy good books.  Home school bookstores are great additions to the neighborhood.

September’s character trait is “Respect.”  This month, I read Do Unto Otters–A Book About Manners by Laurie Keller.  She is the author and illustrator.  If you’d like to know more about Laurie, please check out her publisher’s site at http://us.macmillan.com/dountootters/LaurieKeller and look for a link to Laurie’s website.  It offers other books, games and DVDs.  There are printable activities too such as coloring pages, word searches, and comprehension questions.  Check here: http://www.lauriekeller.com/schoolstuff_otters.html. 

I hope you’ll locate a copy of Do Unto Otters and read it .  Ask your parents if you may write Laurie Keller an email on her site and let her know your favorite part of the book.  Authors love to hear from their readers.  Maybe you’ll find other book titles listed that interest you. 

Enjoy the rest of the month and show respect to persons, places and things.   Yes, that’s the definition of a noun.  Brainstorm persons you respect, places you respect, and things you respect.  What ways to do show respect?  Looks like we’ve been combining more than counseling, teaching, and writing.  We even got in a little grammar.  Isn’t learning great?

I’d love to hear ways you show respect.  Please leave a comment below.  Thank you for joining us at “A Writer’s Playground.”  Come again soon and bring a friend.

Coming in October:  Activities for Kids, two guests, a signed book giveaway, and story time about Red Ribbon Week and Responsibility.  Hope to see you then.

Copyright © 2012 Linda Martin Andersen