Sunday, September 12th, 2010 is Grandparent’s Day.  It’s a time to celebrate family and honor those grandparents who play such an important role in our children’s lives.

In 1970, Grandparent’s Day was founded by Marian McQuade who thought of the idea as not only a way to honor grandparents but to also bring attention to the needs of those living in nursing homes.  After much lobbying, Grandparent’s Day was officially proclaimed by President Carter in 1979.

McQuade was honored for her efforts in 1989 by the United States Postal Service with a commemorative envelope.  Last year, at the age of 91, McQuade passed away.  She, herself, was the grandmother of 58!

On this 31st anniversary of Grandparent’s Day, there are an estimated 70 million grandparents in the United States!  For millions of kids, grandparents create special bonds and cherished memories, and provide valuable lessons.  Perhaps President Carter said it best…”  Grandparents are our continuing tie to the near-past, to the events and beliefs and experiences that so strongly affect our lives and the world around us.”

Happy Grandparent’s Day!

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1 English muffin, toasted

2 tablespoons of peanut butter

2 tablespoons of jelly

1 banana, sliced

Sweetened flaked coconut

Chocolate syrup

Spread peanut butter on the English muffin.  Spread jelly on the peanut butter.  Top with bananas.  Sprinkle with cocount.  Drizzle with chocolate syrup.  Enjoy!

At this time of year in Santa Claus, Indiana, we are all about football!  While cheering on the Indianapolis Colts, we are also rooting for our local favorite, the Heritage Hills Patriots!  Patriot football is a serious business and the coaches begin grooming future Patriots starting in the 5th grade.  Now that I have a son old enough to play tackle football, I am greatly concerned about his safety on the field.  However, I have learned that football can be a safe sport as long as proper precautions are followed…

Equipment…Children should be equipped with the proper equipment to ensure safety.  Gear should fit securely and should include a helmet, pads, mouth guard, and cleats.

Warm-Up…Children should perform warm-up exercises such as running and stretching prior to playing football in order to prevent muscle injuries.

Rules & Conduct…Children should be aware of the rules before playing football.  Teaching your child good sportsmanship and the importance of a good attitude will also keep the game safe and fun.

Hydration…Temperatures can be a concern this time of year, especially with the added gear.  Be sure that your child stays well hydrated.

Summer vacation is coming to a close and now it’s time for the kids to go back to school.  Getting back into the swing of things can be somewhat difficult especially after a few months of sleeping in, late nights, and goofing around.  With the first day of school looming, children may often begin to express fears or anxiety related to entering a new classroom with a new teacher and/or making new friends.  With a little bit of guidance, your children can make going back to school an easy transition.  Follow these great suggestions…

Set Routines…In order to make back to school days easier, a few weeks prior, start enforcing earlier bedtimes and wake times. 

Go Shopping…I have found with my own children that they are never really excited about going back to school until they go shopping for their school supplies.  There is something about fresh and new supplies that gets their excitement built up for school to start.

Meet the Teacher…Generally, school offices are open up to two weeks prior to school in order to prepare for the coming school year.  Set aside a time to take your child to school so that they may familiarize themselves with their new classroom and meet their new teacher.

CREEK FRIES

11 sm. potatoes, unpeeled
2 med. onions, sliced
9 slices bacon

In a 9 x 13 inch pan, layer 3 slices of bacon on bottom. Thinly slice unpeeled potatoes and lay over bacon. Lay sliced onions on potatoes. Salt and pepper as desired. Repeat layers 2 more times. Cover with foil. Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees.

Serves 6 to 8 people.