Favorite #17: Outdoor Play

Posted on November 12, 2012 by Dicy McCullough

 

A sister and brother having fun playing outdoors.

A sister and brother having fun playing outdoors.

The National Wildlife Federation: Committed to Inspiring Children to Play Outdoors

            Checking my email this week, I noticed on the Yahoo homepage a link to an interesting website. The link was to the National Wildlife Federation. What caught my eye was the title, “Letting Children Go Wild.” Being a teacher for over thirty years, I took a second look and suppose that was the intent all along.

            I was pleasantly surprised to see the article was affirming the need for children to play outdoors more. Having seen firsthand from years of teaching how much happier and healthier children are when given time outdoors, I hold to that belief as well. 

           It’s great to see organizations, such as the National Wildlife Federation, partnering with universities and local museums to spread the message. A good example of that is the Charlotte Nature Museum, which has a nature area designed specifically to encourage outdoor play through activities, such as digging in a garden and climbing on logs and stones. NC State University professor, Robin Moore, was the design consultant for that play area and hopes the project will inspire parents to set aside an area in their backyards for children and active play.

            The National Wildlife Federation’s goal is to inspire 10 million children in the next three years to play outdoors. They say the health and happiness of our children are at risk. “Years ago children played outside for hours. Now it’s minutes.”

            Let’s help the National Wildlife Federation reach their goal by spreading the word.  To learn more about their project and what you can do, check out their website at the following link:

            http://www.nwf.org/Get-Outside/What-We-Do.aspx

           I’m sure the Charlotte Nature Museum would appreciate a visit from you, too.

           http://www.charlottenaturemuseum.org/

            By the way, the children in the photo are the son and daughter of a teacher friend of mine.  Climbing trees is just one of the activities they love to do while outdoors. Playing in the dirt is another.

            If you know of other projects inspiring children to play outside, or if you have a funny story about your child playing outdoors, I’d like to hear from you. Leave a comment on my blog, message me on Facebook, or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com.

 

            Thanks,

            Dicy

           http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

 

 

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Favorite #16: Photographer

Posted on November 5, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Photo taken by Ed Pilegard in Badin, NC

Photo taken by Ed Pilegard in Badin, NC

Ed Pilegard: Discovering Beauty through the Lens of a Camera

            Everyone has a different talent and that’s a good thing. If we all had the same talent, this would be a boring world for sure. I especially appreciate those who have an eye for photography. It’s as if they see things the rest of us don’t see. Then again, maybe it’s not they see things the rest of us don’t see, maybe the real secret is in the detail.

             Ed Pilegard is one of those talented people with a camera, writing on the Carolina Artists’ website that he was given a Pentax 35mm camera in 1977. He also said, “That was the beginning of my artistic journey.” Ed especially enjoys taking photos of “vintage items and rural subjects,” as can be seen in this photograph of fall leaves.

            He gave me permission to post it, saying the photograph was taken in the fall of 2011 on a “game trail” in Badin, NC. Ed explained that a “game trail” is where animals make a path through the woods. This photo clearly captures the essence of fall with crisp colors of red, orange and yellow, highlighted by the sun peeking through the trees.

            Seeing beauty not only through the lens of a camera, but as an EC teacher at Cleveland Elementary School, Ed helps children find their hidden beauty and talents every day.

             Congratulations, Ed Pilegard. You’re my choice for favorite person of the week.

             One more thing, thanks Ed for reminding me what a beautiful place Badin can be in the fall, surrounded not only by the glorious backdrop of Morrow Mountain, but Badin Lake as well. I can’t wait to take a trip there soon.

            Do you have a favorite photograph or know a great photographer? If so, I’d like to hear from you.

            Leave a comment on my blog or message on Facebook. You can also send an email to  dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

            If you get a chance, check out Lydia Richmond’s blog. You might be surprised at what you find.

            http://www.clutteredgenius.com/2012/11/03tired-of-my-bath-review-giveaway/

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Favorite #15: Band Director

Posted on October 28, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Tremayne enjoying a moment with the Rocky Mount High School Band

Tremayne enjoying a moment with the Rocky Mount High School Band

Tremayne Smith: Rocky Mount High School Band Director

            As a music teacher, I’ve had students over the years that I won’t ever forget. One of those is Tremayne Smith. A well-mannered, outgoing student, for whatever reason, Tremayne  developed a love of music in elementary school. Even in those early years, he dreamed of one day being a band director in high school. Well, that one day has come because Tremayne is now the band director for Rocky Mount High School in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. It’s obvious from his Facebook postings, he’s in heaven.

            I talked with Tremayne the week before school started. It was obvious he was excited because he couldn’t stop smiling. You can see in the photo that he’s still smiling.

            We all know being a band director can be stressful because of the long hours teaching, preparing lessons and getting students ready to perform. In addition to an already heavy load, band directors often attend competitions that are usually held on weekends. Tremayne, if anyone can handle it, you can.  

            Way to go Rocky Mount High School for choosing Tremayne Smith as your band director. You are one lucky school. Congratulations, Tremayne for achieving your dream. You are my pick for favorite person of the week.

            Do you have a favorite memory of playing in the band or a favorite memory of your band director?

            I’d like to hear from you so leave a comment on my blog, message me on Facebook or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

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Favorite #14: Sasha Shops Salisbury

Posted on October 22, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Sasha Kitty and her book, "Sasha Shops Salisbury"

Sasha Kitty and her book, “Sasha Shops Salisbury”

Sasha Kitty and Her Book

            Sasha Kitty Coffield is one lucky kitty. Not only does she have a nice home and many friends who love her, but she also has her very own book, Sasha Shops Salisbury.  Sasha is the pet of Pam Hylton Coffield, owner of the Stitchin’ Post, a gift and ladies’ accessory shop in downtown historic Salisbury, NC.  Customers return to the Stitchin’ Post not only to browse and shop, but also to visit Sasha.

            Pam and friend, Julie Apone, owner of a quaint novelty shop just outside of Salisbury, the Carolina Lily, had the wonderful idea to write a book, in Sasha’s words, of course, about the different animals who reside in downtown Salisbury. In the story, Sasha Kitty visits each of her friends, traveling from shop to shop.

            Sasha’s book is special for many reasons, but for me one of those is because Jean Barlow, the illustrator, also illustrated my third book, Tired of Being Different. When Julie and Pam saw the illustrations in my book, they knew Jean would be a perfect fit for Sasha’s book. The story, as well as the illustrations, work together capturing the essence of a southern historic town.

            After expenses, money from the sale of Sasha’s book is being donated to the Rowan County Humane Society as well as Faithful Friends, a local no kill-dog rescue.

          Check out the following link for more info about Sasha or her book:

          http://www.spgifts.com/about.htm

 

I’d like to hear from you so leave a comment on my blog or a message on facebook.

You can also send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com

http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

Thanks,

Dicy

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Favorite #13: Friends

Posted on October 16, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Blackjack and Blue

Blackjack and Blue

Hanging Out Together

            As you look at the photo, you may think it’s a picture of a horse and a donkey and you would be right. Yet, there’s so much more to the story.

            The name of the horse is Blue (he has one blue eye) and the name of the donkey is Blackjack. These two have been together for about five years and have become buddies or in human terms, friends. They enjoy each other’s company and pretty much where one goes the other follows. If you happen to ride by the pasture on any given day, you’d see them standing side by side nibbling grass. When called, they even come to the fence together.

            Wouldn’t it be great if we all had a friend like Blackjack or Blue to hang out with through the good times and bad? Someone, who no matter what, is always there when you need them. The bottom line is, in order to have a friend, you must be a friend.

            What qualities do you think a friend should have and what kind of friend are you?

            Leave a comment, message on Facebook, or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

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Favorite#12: Volunteers

Posted on October 8, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Wally the Dog on the Porch

Wally, the Dog, on the Porch

Slow Down and Volunteer           

    Wouldn’t it be great if we all could slow down like Wally, the dog? We hurry about trying to meet some deadline or get to an appointed place on time, then what?  Most have responsibilities at home and work, so it’s easy to understand why one might not have time for anything else.

                        Not long ago, I discovered a group of men who have slowed down long enough to volunteer their time once a month to sing for residents at an assisted living center. They enjoy not only singing, but also have come to enjoy the many friendships they’ve made over the past eight years.

            The executive director of the center said,  “The men’s group gives the residents so much more than music. The singing and fellowship feed their spirits, connecting them to the outside world. Time spent with the residents is always appreciated.”

            Perhaps you may feel you don’t have any extra time because of your responsibilities or schedule, but as the men’s singing group, 3rd Verse came to realize, it only takes an hour a month to make a difference in someone’s life.  By the way, the name of the group is 3rd Verse because their philosophy is if they don’t know a song by the third verse they stop singing. As you can see, they include the number three in their name.

            What are some ways you have found to volunteer in your community? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment or message on Facebook or send me an email at dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

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Favorite #11: Bazaars and Craft Fairs

Posted on September 30, 2012 by Dicy McCullough

Having fun at Carolina Lily

Bazaars and Craft Fairs                    

          During this time of year our thoughts often turn to football games, a trip to the mountains, a visit to a pumpkin patch or perhaps shopping at a local craft show or bazaar.

            A couple of weeks ago a local novelty shop, The Carolina Lily, in Salisbury, NC held their annual Summer Antique Craft Fair. Carolina Lily sits in a beautiful country setting, conducive to shopping and enjoying a lovely meal outside. Not only did I get a chance to display my children’s rhyming books at the craft fair, but I also enjoyed shopping. The day was made even more special because of the warm, sunny weather.  A slight breeze rustling through the trees from time to time felt especially sweet against the warmth of the first day of fall.

            All kinds of crafts were on sale at the fair including aprons made by Neta Monroe, owner of Re-cycled for Re-purpose. Neta takes an item that might be thrown away and makes something new. For example, her aprons are made from old clothes. The photo of Neta showing her aprons to customer and fellow crafter, Jean Barlow, captures the spirit of the day.

             Jean, also a crafter, paints on glass anything her customer wants, including birds, sunflowers or beach scenes . The name of her business is Painted Glass Design. Jean, in addition to being a crafter, is a wonderful artist and the illustrator of my third book, Tired of Being Different, available on Amazon.com as well as my website, www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            If you don’t have any special plans this fall, check your newspaper for local bazaars and craft fairs. Vendors will appreciate the support, and who knows, you might make a few new friends.

            What’s the best bazaar or craft fair you’ve been to and what’s the most unusual item you’ve ever brought home from one?

            Leave a comment, Facebook message or email at dicysm@yahoo.com

            Can’t wait to hear from you.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

 

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Favorite #10: Local PTA

Posted on September 23, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Fun on the Playground: Photo submitted by Ed Pilegard

Fun on the Playground: Photo submitted by Ed Pilegard

Playground Equipment Project

            Have you ever thought about all the things a PTA does for a school? Most people aren’t aware of the special activities they sponsor or items they purchase through fundraisers. Each year PTAs across the country meet  to discuss projects for the coming school year.  What’s really neat is many of these projects will be enjoyed by students for years to come.

            Last year, an elementary school PTA in my neighborhood made the decision to buy playground equipment. Researching to find the equipment that would best fit their school’s needs, they discovered in the process that lack of exercise contributes to obesity and diabetes in children. This knowledge inspired the PTA to purchase equipment that would motivate as well as excite children to exercise, thus building healthy habits for the rest of their lives.       

            You might think buying playground equipment is not a big deal, but for a small school it is. Schools having small enrollments don’t get the funding larger schools do to purchase big ticket items. Funds are based on the number of students, so a smaller school gets less money and has to look for other ways to purchase items. 

            Teachers, parents, staff and students at the school willingly supported activities and events to raise the $10,000 necessary for a matching funds grant. Some of the events and activities held were face painting, movie night, fall festival and a much anticipated fun night. One of the activities on fun night was throwing wet sponges at teachers. None of the teachers seemed to mind because it was for a good cause.

            Kindergarten through fifth grade students have been playing, climbing, swinging and having a grand time on the new playground equipment. Here are some of their comments:

Miranda: “We finally have a big slide to go down. Can we have one on the other playground, too?”

Justin: “It’s the coolest thing out here.”

Ben: “My favorite part is the rock climbing steps.”

Hunter: “I like the tunnel the best.”

Mason: “I like the whole thing.”

Noah: “I want to play on it every day.”

Katelyn: “It’s so much fun! Can we come back and play after school?”

            The next time your local PTA asks for a donation of time or money, step up and give generously.  The benefits will be enjoyed for years to come.

            If you know of a PTA in your neighborhood that went above and beyond, I’d like to hear from you.

            If you can’t leave a comment, send me an email at dicysm@yahoo.com or message on Facebook.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

 

 

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Favorite #9: Joy and Happiness

Posted on September 17, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Extra help playing the piano on Sunday morning

Extra help playing the piano on Sunday morning

What Brings you Joy and Happiness?

            Most people have some kind of activity that brings enjoyment and possibly helps them to forget their cares, if only for a little while. For me, it’s playing the piano for church. I started taking lessons when I was seven and began playing for church at twelve.

            My dad had this dream I would play because his mother played. When he was born, my grandmother had been hoping for a daughter to teach, but instead she got my dad. He didn’t want anything to do with the piano, so by giving me lessons, he hoped someday her dream would come true through me.

            I’ve played piano and organ for various churches over the years and now play for a church that enjoys singing the old hymns of my childhood, what I call southern gospel.

            No matter the cares or worries I have on my mind, as soon as I sit down to play that first hymn, all is forgotten. It’s as if I’m in a different place and time.

            Do you have a special activity that brings you joy and happiness? Leave a comment, a message on Facebook, or email me at dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

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Toes in the Sand: Favorite #8

Posted on September 9, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Foot in the Sand
Foot in the Sand

Simple Things in Life

            There are many things in life that are simple, cost no money, and yet can bring tremendous joy. Last week I wrote a blog about one of my favorite things to do, which is feeding the birds. I asked readers to respond and tell a favorite thing they enjoy. Getting varied responses, I thought it would be cool to share some of those on my blog this week. Which of the following do you enjoy and why?

Jane: Watching snow fall…

Michelle: Simply hanging out with my dogs.

Sue: Friends. They make life enjoyable and rich.

Robert: Spending time with my wife, going places and hanging out.

Sucely: My guitar…

Bevin: Sitting on my front porch, watching the sunrise.

            After finding a picture of my grandson with his toes in the sand, I knew I should add one more favorite to the list. Like my grandson, I, too, love putting my toes in the sand and hope next year we can do it together. My favorite beach is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. What’s yours?

            Leave a message or email me at dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

            http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog

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