Candle at Bedtime

It's Simply Magical to us, the glow of the candle burning. Really there is nothing more peaceful and calming then when we say our nighttime blessing and light our candle. The warm glow that brightens the room and the wonderful smell of the beeswax burning. The kids love this time of day. I think we all cherish it. So calm and loving.

Our Night time blessing:

A star for you to wish on,
 A sun so warm and bright, 
 A moon for you to sleep on, 
 Happy dreams, 
 A kiss goodnight.

Do you have a night time blessing or prayer you say each night? 

Candlemas Day February 2nd

Candlemas Day
February 2nd  is Candlemas Day.  This ancient festival marks the midpoint of winter, halfway between the shortest day and the spring equinox. In pre-Christian times, this day was known as the 'Feast of Lights' and celebrated the increase strength of the life-giving sun as winter gave way to spring. How did the 2nd February come to be called Candlemas? It was the day of the year when all the candles, that were used in the church during the coming year, were brought into church and a blessing was said over them - so it was the Festival Day (or 'mass') of the Candles. Candles were important in those days not only because there was no electric lights. Some people thought they gave protection against plague and illness and famine. Candlemas Day Weather-lore, beliefs and sayings People believe that Candlemas Day predicted the weather for the rest of the winter. The weather proverbs express the idea that a fine bright sunny Candlemas day means that there is more winter to come, whereas a cloudy wet stormy Candlemas day means that the worst of winter is over. Weather Proverbs If Candlemas Day be fair and bright Winter will have another fight. If Candlemas Day brings cloud and rain, Winter won't come again. If Candlemas Day be dry and fair, The half o the winter's to come and mair; If Candlemas Day be wet and foul, The half o the winter's gane at Yule. Farmer's Proverbs 'A farmer should, on Candlemas Day, Have half his corn and half his hay.' 'On Candlemas Day if the thorns hang adrop, You can be sure of a good pea crop.' German Proverb. " The badger peeps out of his hole on Candlemas Day, and, if he finds snow, walks abroad; but if he sees the sun shining he draws back into his hole." In America the same story is told about the groundhog or woodchuck.   Candlemas Superstitions A candle which drips on one side when carried in church on Candlemas, denotes a death during the year of someone dear. Snowdrops are considered to be unlucky if brought into the house before Candlemas Day, representing a parting or death. Any Christmas decorations not taken down by Twelfth Night (January 5th) should be left up until Candlemas Day and then taken down.

Summer Verses and Circle

Full early in the morning
Awakes the summer sun
The month of June arriving
The cold and night are done
The cuckoo's a fine bird
She whistles as she flies
And as she whistles "cuckoo"
The bluer grow the skies

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Come out, come out this sunny day
The fields are sweet with new mown hay
The birds are singing loud and clear
For summer time once more is here
So bring your rakes and come and play
And toss and tumble in the hay
The sweet wild roses softly blow
All pink and white the roses grow
The nodding daisies in the grass
Lift up their heads to hear you pass
Upon this happy, sunny day
When you come out to make the hay.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The summer's warm showers are falling like mist
My face and my hair by their soft touch are kissed
The dry thirsty ground becomes fragrant and cool
On every green leaf lies a small shining pool
Earth blossoms again
I do love the rain.




~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Come bright butterfly, close to me
Your beautiful wings I should like to see
You fly like a bird, you sip like a bee
But you're really a flower the wind set free
 


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

When woods awake and trees are green
And leaves are large and long
'Tis merry to walk in the forest fair
And hear the small birds' song


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Sunshine Fairies Circle Dance

We are the sunshine fairies
And with our sparks of light
We shimmer and glimmer in the air
Hugging flowers with colors so bright

(Begin standing in a circle, children hold out their arms at their sides and turn in place clockwise as fairies. Stop and flick fingers as sparks. Hold out arms at sides, flutter fingers, then turn in place counterclockwise; hug self and rub hands up and down over folded arms.)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Butterfly Game

Dancing among the flowers with dainty painted wings
Flits the golden butterfly, joy to my heart she brings
Stopping only for a rest to sip the morning dew
Then flits and flutters off again
Butterfly, I can't catch you!

(Children sit in a circle with hands held up and cupped on top of head acting as flowers. Butterfly dances inside the circle, flitting in and out of the space between seated children. Butterfly stops behind one child in circle for a rest, bends, and sips dew by tickling a flower in the child's palms. Flower child jumps up and chases butterfly back to his place, then becomes the next butterfly. Repeat game with new butterfly.)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Happy Summer! 

 

 


 

Expression, painting and Spiritual development

One must surround their children with beauty. Watercolors naturally create very beautiful works without technical talent. Watercolor paints remind me of the silk scarves that parents are encouraged to use as drapes over their babies’ cradles. When children are small, their perception of the physical world is still veiled. Most young children are not able to perceive strict realism. They are still emerging from their spiritual womb. This emergence will continue until the child is well into adulthood. As a matter of fact, Waldorf philosophy is quite emphatic that to push a child into realism (through premature reading or denial of fantasy play) can cripple their spiritual development.

I thought I would share with you our watercolor paintings from today and some fun painting verses as well.

"There's a bridge of wondrous light
Filled with colors shining bright
Red and orange, yellow, green,
The fairest colors ever seen,
Blue and violet, magic rose;
Down from heaven to earth it goes"


Here we go, to and fro,
over the rainbow bridge we go.
Treading softly, treading slow,
over the rainbow bridge we go.
Gathering light from sun and star,
gathering light from heaven afar,
Down to earth all things to greet,
sharing the light with all we meet.
Here we go, to and fro,
over the rainbow bridge we go.
Treading softly, treading slow,
over the rainbow bridge we go.

Expression, painting and Spiritual development

One must surround their children with beauty. Watercolors naturally create very beautiful works without technical talent. Watercolor paints remind me of the silk scarves that parents are encouraged to use as drapes over their babies’ cradles. When children are small, their perception of the physical world is still veiled. Most young children are not able to perceive strict realism. They are still emerging from their spiritual womb. This emergence will continue until the child is well into adulthood. As a matter of fact, Waldorf philosophy is quite emphatic that to push a child into realism (through premature reading or denial of fantasy play) can cripple their spiritual development.

I thought I would share with you our watercolor paintings from today and some fun painting verses as well.

"There's a bridge of wondrous light
Filled with colors shining bright
Red and orange, yellow, green,
The fairest colors ever seen,
Blue and violet, magic rose;
Down from heaven to earth it goes"




Here we go, to and fro,
over the rainbow bridge we go.
Treading softly, treading slow,
over the rainbow bridge we go.
Gathering light from sun and star,
gathering light from heaven afar,
Down to earth all things to greet,
sharing the light with all we meet.
Here we go, to and fro,
over the rainbow bridge we go.
Treading softly, treading slow,
over the rainbow bridge we go.

Winter Verses and Circle time!

Look Out! Look Out!
Jack Frost is about!
He's after our fingers and toes;
And, all through the night,
The gay little sprite
Is working where nobody knows.

He'll climb a tree,
So nimble is he,
His silvery powder he'll shake;
To windows he'll creep,
And while we're asleep,
Such wonderful pictures he'll make.

Across the grass,
He'll merrily pass,
And change all its greenness to white;
Then home he will go,
And laugh, "Ho, Ho, Ho!
What fun I have had in the night!"

* * * * * * * *

Come in the garden
And play in the snow,
A snowman we'll make,
See how quickly he'll grow!
Give him a hat, stick and pipe,
And make him look gay.
Such a fine game
For a cold winter day!

* * * * * * * *

Snowflakes falling soft and light,
Snowflakes falling in the night,
Soft and Light, pure and white.
When the sun shines out so bright,
All the earth is dressed in white.

* * * * * * * *

When the North Wind whistles and blows,
Cherry red is brother's nose,
Very cold are sister's toes,
When the North Wind's blowing,
When the North Wind's blowing.

Logs upon the fire we'll throw,
For, as everybody must know,
We will have a fall of snow,
When the North Wind's blowing,
When the North Wind's blowing.
(Written By: Alfred S. Gatty)

**********************

Furry bear
If I were a bear,
And a big bear too,
I shouldn't much care
If it froze or snew:
I shouldn't much mind
If it snowed or friz-
I'd be all fur-lined
With a coat like his!
A.A. Milne

**********************

See the little snowflakes
Falling from the sky,
On the hills and housetops,
Soft and thick they lie.
On the window ledges,
On the branches bare;
See how fast they gather,
Filling all the air!

Look into the garden
Where the grass was green,
Covered by the snowflakes,
Not a blade is seen.
Look outside the window,
All looks still and white;
Under snowy blankets,
What a pretty sight!
(J.D. Macey)

* * * * * * * *

Finger Plays

A chubby little snowman had a carrot nose.
(show long nose with a closed fist like a trumpet in front of face)
Along a came a bunny, and what do you suppose?
(Hands show the bunny hopping)
That hungry little bunny, looking for his lunch,
(wiggle nose like a bunny)
Ate the snowman's carrot nose,
Nibble, nibble, crunch
(pretend to eat the carrot)
(Oak meadow fingerplays)

* * * * * * * *

Five little eskimos by the igloo door
one went out to feed the dogs, then there were four.
Four little eskimos rowing out to sea,
one jumped on an iceberg, then there were three.
Three little eskimos making fish stew,
one burned his finger, then there were two.
Two little eskimos hunting just for fun,
one chased a baby seal, then there was one.
One little eskimo all his work was done,
went home to supper, then there were none.
(Winter, p.51)

* * * * * * * *

Chickadee, chickadee,
Flitting through the holly tree-
With your cap and scarf of black,
Sweater gray upon your back
You're warm and happy in the snow
And when I hear you call,
I know My little friend has come to say
That wintertime's just fine for play.
(From Ladybug magazine)

* * * * * * * *

Verse for Lighting the Advent Wreath

The first light of Advent is the light of stones.
Stones that live in crystals, seashells, and bones.

The second light of Advent is the light of plants.
Roots, stem, leaf, flower and fruit by whom we live and grow.

The third light of Advent is the light of beasts.
Animals of farm, field, forest, air and sea.
All await the birth in greatest and in least.

The fourth light of Advent is the light of humankind.
The light of love, the light of thought, to give and to understand.
(Rudolf Steiner)

* * * * * * * *

We light one candle shining bright
Upon this Holy Advent night
Fill Our Hearts with loving might
Lead us to Christmas Day's brilliant light!

Second Week: We light two candles...

Third Week: We light three candles...

Fourth Week: We light four candles...

M.T. Shunemann, from The Christmas Star (available below)

* * * * * * * *

A candle's but a simple thing,
it starts with just a bit of string,
But dipped or rolled with patient hand,
it gathers wax upon the strand.
Until complete and snowy white,
it gives at last a lovely light.
Life seems so like that bit of string,
each deed we do a simple thing.
Yet day by day on life's strand,
we work with patient heart and hand.
It gathers joy, makes dark days bright,
and gives at last a lovely light.

* * * * * * * *

Riddle

I begin tall and thin, I end in a muddle, sad in a puddle (candle)

* * * * * * * *

Christmas Verses

Softly, softly, through the darkness
Snow is falling.

Meekly, meekly in the meadows
Lambs are calling.

Coldly, coldly all around me
Winds are blowing.

Brightly, brightly up above me
Stars are glowing.

* * * * * * * *

Christmas Wish

To every hearth a little fire,
To every board a little feast,
To every heart a joy,
To every child a toy,
Shelter for bird and beast.

* * * * * * * *

Mary rocks her baby,
Joseph holds a light,
Ox and ass are standing
In the stable bright.

Shepherds in the doorway
Come to greet the child,
Now they kneel before Him
And his mother mild.

One holds out a lambskin
Soft and white as snow,
All shall give their presents
Ere they homeward go.

* * * * * * * *

Story & Activity

There was a giant big and bold
Whose feet were getting very cold.
He came along to our town
And walked the stairs all up and down
Calling "Is no one hearing me?
My toes are freezing bitterly!
No single shop that I could tell
Has stocking giant-size to sell."

A little gnome both old and wise.
He gave him very good advice.
He brought two pretty bits of stuff.
The giant thought them good enough.
He wrapped his feet, his pain was eased.
And home he walked content and pleased.

Materials: Knotted cloth dolls [this could be a play silk or gauze square the you knot to show head and other body parts] with 2 extra pieces of fabric to wrap the giant's feet. Children can watch you knotting the characters.

VERSE: King Winter now is in the land,
he reigns with cold and freezing hand.
He makes Jack Frost touch nose and toes,
and gives our cheeks a shining glow.

FINGER PLAY: A chubby little snowman had a carrot nose.
(show long nose with a closed fist like a trumpet in front of face)
Along a came a bunny, and what do you suppose?
(Hands show the bunny hopping)
That hungry little bunny, looking for his lunch,
(wiggle nose like a bunny)
Ate the snowman's carrot nose,
Nibble, nibble, crunch
(pretend to eat the carrot)

The Snow

This is the way the snow comes down,
Upon a winter day,
But soon the golden sun comes out,
And melts it all away.
Lines 1 & 2: flutter fingers down from arms raised position until arms are lowered.
Lines 3 & 4: make large circle with fingers for sun.
— Author Unknown




Making a Snowman
Roll a snowball round and round,
Round and round upon the ground.
Make one, make two, here's what you do,
You can build a snowman too.
As the sun shines down some day,
Poor snowman, he will melt away.
Lines 1 & 2: roll hands around each other.
Line 3: make two fists, then put one on top of the other.
Lines 4 & 5: hold fists in snowman position.
Line 6: open hands flat out on top of each other.
— Gloria T. Delamar, Author

Clap for Santa Claus
O, clap, clap the hands,
And sing with glee!
For Christmas is coming
And merry are we.
How swift o'er the snow
The tiny reindeer
Are trotting and bringing
Good Santa Claus near.
Our Stockings we'll hang,
And while we're asleep,
Then down through the chimney
Will Santa Claus creep.
He'll empty his pack,
Then up he will come
And calling his reindeer,
Will haste away home.
Then clap, clap the hands!
And sing out with glee,
For Christmas is coming
And merry are we!
Verse 1 - All lines: clap hands.


Verse 2 - All lines: lock thumbs together and make walking motions with other fingers to indicate reindeer and sleigh.


Verse 3 - Lines 1 & 2: point down with four fingers of one hand.
Lines 3 & 4: put one fist on top of the other to represent chimney andd put upper thumb inside of upper fist to represent Santa Claus going down chimney.
Verse 4 - Lines 1 & 2: raise thumb from upper fist as Santa Claus comes up chimney.
Lines 3 & 4: lock thumbs and walk with fingers.

Verse 5 - All lines: clap hands.— Emilie Poulsson, Author, 1893

A reminder of what life is all about

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all thru the abode
Only one creature was stirring, & she was cleaning the commode.
The children were finally sleeping, all snug in their beds,
while visions of Nintendo 64 & Barbie flipped through their heads.

The dad was snoring in front of the TV, with a
half-constructed bicycle propped on his knee.
So only the mom heard the reindeer hooves clatter,
which made her sigh, "Now what is the matter?"

With toilet bowl brush still clutched in her hand,
She descended the stairs & saw the old man.
He was covered with ashes & soot, which fell with a shrug,
"Oh great," muttered the mom, "Now I have to clean the rug."

"Ho Ho Ho!" cried Santa, "I'm glad you're awake,
for your gift was especially difficult to make."
"Thanks, Santa, but all I want is time alone."
"Exactly!" he chuckled, "So, I've made you a clone."

"A clone?" she muttered, "What good is that?"
"Run along, Santa, I've no time for chit chat."
Then out walked the clone - The mother's twin,
Same hair, same eyes, same double chin.

"She'll cook, she'll dust, she'll mop every mess.
You'll relax, take it easy, watch The Young & Restless."
"Fantastic!" the mom cheered. "My dream has come true!"
"I'll shop, I'll read, I'll sleep a night through!"

"From the room above, the youngest did fret.
"Mommy?! Come quickly, I'm scared & I'm wet."
The clone replied, "I'm coming, sweetheart."
"Hey," the mom smiled, "She sure knows her part."

The clone changed the small one & hummed her a tune,
as she bundled the child in a blanket cocoon.
"You're the best mommy ever. I really love you."
The clone smiled & sighed, "And I love you, too."

The mom frowned & said, "Sorry, Santa, no deal."
That's my child's LOVE she is trying to steal."
Smiling wisely Santa said, "To me it is clear,
Only one loving mother is needed here."

The mom kissed her child & tucked her in bed.
"Thank You, Santa, for clearing my head.
I sometimes forget, it won't be very long,
when they'll be too old for my cradle & song."

The clock on the mantle began to chime.
Santa whispered to the clone, "It works every time."
With the clone by his side Santa said "Goodnight.
Merry Christmas, dear Mom, you will be all right."

**Sometimes we need reminding of what life is all about. Especially at times during the Holiday season, when all we seem to do is clean and bake and shop and and and and....

You get the picture, I'm sure. So stop for a moment and hug that little one so special, whether he/she is 2 or 22, or even older than that. For they are the Gift that God gave us in life...and what a gift to be treasured, far above any other!

Christmas Verses

Softly, softly, through the darkness
Snow is falling.

Meekly, meekly in the meadows
Lambs are calling.

Coldly, coldly all around me
Winds are blowing.

Brightly, brightly up above me
Stars are glowing.

* * * * * * * *

Christmas Wish

To every hearth a little fire,
To every board a little feast,
To every heart a joy,
To every child a toy,
Shelter for bird and beast.

* * * * * * * *

Mary rocks her baby,
Joseph holds a light,
Ox and ass are standing
In the stable bright.

Shepherds in the doorway
Come to greet the child,
Now they kneel before Him
And his mother mild.

One holds out a lambskin
Soft and white as snow,
All shall give their presents
Ere they homeward go.

* * * * * * * *

A Native American unit

For the month of November we are doing a Native American unit study. We have been learning about the Samoset tribe, Tisquantum (Squanto) and we will be learning this song as part of our music class. The kids are loving it and we have listened to it all morning!!!




For the younger children we are doing these cute songs:


Thanksgiving
The year has turned its circle,
The seasons come and go.
The harvest is all gathered in
And chilly north winds blow.

Orchards have shared their treasures,
The fields, their yellow grain.
So open wide the doorway-
Thanksgiving comes again!



****************************


Over the river and through the wood
To GrandMother's house we go.
The horse knows the way
To carry the sleigh
Through white and drifted snow.

Over the river and through the wood --
Oh, how the wind does blow!
It stings the toes
And bites the nose,
As over the ground we go.

Over the river and through the wood
To have a first-rate play.
Hear the bells ring,
Ting-a-ling-ling!
Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day!

Over the river and through the wood,
Trot fast, my dapple gray!
Spring over the ground
Like a hunting hound,
For this is Thanksgiving Day.

Over the river and through the wood,
And straight through the barnyard gate.
We seem to go
Extremely slow --
It is so hard to wait!

Over the river and through the wood --
Now Grandmother's cap I spy!
Hurrah for fun!
Is the pudding done?
Hurray for the pumpkin pie!



*******************************



Five Little Turkeys


Five little turkeys standing at the door,
One waddled off, and then there were four.

Four little turkeys sitting near a tree,
One waddled off , and then there were three.

Three little turkeys with nothing to do,
One waddled off, and then there were two.

Two little turkeys in the morning sun,
One waddled off, and then there was one.

One little turkey better run away,
For soon it will be Thanksgiving Day.



*********************************


Funny Turkey


The turkey is a funny bird
Its head goes bobble-bobble;

And all he knows is just one word...
And that is GOBBLE-GOBBLE!



*****************************

Mr. Turkey
To the tune of "Frere Jacque"

Mr. Turkey, Mr. Turkey
Run away, Run away
If you don't be careful
You will be a mouthful
Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving Day


***************************


Nice little song for Thanksgiving, teaches history of the holiday. Find a comfortable tune! ...Melody"

Upon the Mayflower pilgrims sailed
Until America's Plymouth was hailed.

They anchored there in 1620
Food nearly gone, and hardships aplenty.

Indians shared their seeds, meat, and corn
That’s how the First Thanksgiving was born!!

Blessings & Gratitude

Cultivate Mindfulness.
See gratitude as a daily practice.
In pictures, words and songs,
let children express a grateful heart.

Gratitude & Reverence

Rudolf Steiner stated "If he sees that everyone who stands in some kind of relationship to him in the outer world shows gratitude for what he receives from this world; if, in confronting the outer world and wanting to imitate it, the child sees the kind of gestures that express gratitude, then a great deal is done towards establishing in him the right moral human attitude. Gratitude is what belongs to the first seven years of life."

Steiner also wrote "If one observes children, who by a right upbringing, have developed a natural reverence for the grownups and their surroundings, and if one follows them through their various stages of life, one can discover that their feelings of reverence and devotion in childhood are gradually being transformed during the years leading to old age. A adults such persons may have a healing effect upon their fellow man so that by their mere presence, or through the tone of their voice, or perhaps by a single glance they can spread inner peace to others. Their presence can be a blessing because as children they have learned to venerate and to pray the right way. No hands can bless in old age, unless in childhood they have been folded in prayer."

Of course, these qualities cannot be taught. They must be modeled by the adult and imitated by the young child. They must "live" within the parents.

(source: Steiner Human Values & Education and The Renewal of Education)

Waldorf Teachers consider the Moral education of children to be one of their primary tasks. Gratitude, Love and Duty: Steiner asks that we sow the seeds and cultivate these three fundamental human virtues.

Children should say grace before each meal to express their reverence for the earth and her gifts.... Gratitude is the basis for love. When children deepen their appreciation for the natural world, they deepen their love for all of creation.

A Child's Book of Blessings

With blessings for everyday events from dawn until dusk, for special activities, and for specific times of the year, this exquisite collection offers children and their parents a simple and practical way of bringing a sense of the sacred into their lives. Olwyn Whelan's beautiful and intricate illustrations enrich Sabrina Dearborn's thoughtful and touching selection, making this a book that will become a keepsake for generations.

Blessings & Prayers

The earth is firm beneath my feet,
The sun shines bright above,
And here I stand - so straight and strong,
All things to know and love.

Two eyes to see with,
Two ears to hear with,
A mouth to speak with,
A mouth to eat with,
Two hands to work with,
Two hands to pray with.

**************************** 

Earth we thank you for this food,
For rest and home and all things good,
For wind and rain and sun above,
But most of all for those we love.

*****************************

Thank you for the world so sweet,
Thank you for the food we eat;
Thank you for the birds that sing,
Thank you God for everything.

******************************

The sun in in my heart,
He warms me with his power,
And wakens life and love,
In bird and beast and flower.

Oh golden sun so great and bright,
Warms the world with all its might.
It makes the dark earth green and fair,
Attends each thing with ceaseless care.
It shines on blossom, stone and tree,
On bird and beast, on you and me.
Oh, may each deed throughout the day,
May everything we do and say,
Be bright and strong and true,
Oh, golden sun, like you!

*************************

Blessings on the blossom,
Blessings on the root,
Blessings on the leaf and stem,
Blessings on the fruit.

Blessing on this room of ours,
Blessing on the garden flowers,
Blessing on the birds and trees,
On the butterflies and bees.
Blessing on the dolls and toys,
On our quietness and noise.
Blessing on the children dear,
On the grown ups who come here.
Blessing on our work and play,
God be with us all each day. 

*********************************

 

I thank the earth beneath me
For there I stand and walk.
I thank the air around me
Which helps me breathe and talk.
I thank the sun so warm and bright
So far away in Heavens height
To keep me safe 'til morning light.

**************************************

For the golden corn and the apples on the trees,
For the butter and the honey for our tea,
For fruits and nuts and berries that grow beside the way,
For birds and bees and flowers, we give our thanks today.

Blessings on our meal and our family.

**********************

Dear God, we thank you for the night,
And for the pleasant morning light,
For rest and food and loving care,
And all that makes the world so fair.
Help us to do the things we should,
To be kind to others and to be good
In all we do and in all we say
To grow more loving every day.

My deeds I will do
With my feet on the ground,
My head will direct them
That they may be sound.

Father sky who gives us light
And embraces all in sight
Mother earth who makes a home
For all who grow and roam
We thank you for your kindly gifts
The food, the air, the stone that sits,
Fires which warm our hearts each day,
And the rain in which we run and play.

*******************************
Blessings! Blessings!
To all we love,
And blessings on our meal.

The eagle gives thanks for the mountains,
The fish gives thanks for the sea
We give our blessings for the food
We are about to receive.

After reading a wonderful newsletter from A little Acorn learning

They had made a beautiful Tree of Thanks Today with my kids I am going to do the same

and will post pictures of our own Tree.

Simple Waldorf Style party!

In years past we have done many wonderful Birthday parties! Ranging from way to many people, tearing through presents and tons of chaos!!! It wasn't until a friend of mine shard how they do there birthday parties that things changed from chaos to quiet. I will share with you my sons seventh birthday and following a good rule, we allowed only one child per year of age, so it was a small and intimate affair....

I didn't purchase any "party favors" but instead we chose to make our own with Gabrial's help. We sought out polished stones, shells and healthy naturally sweet treats (carob raisins , nuts and granola bars from the local health food store).

We sewed beanbags with ribbon streamers coming off one end. We carefully wrapped the polished stones along with some glass pebbles in colorful tissue and ribbons.

Instead of store bought goodie bags we handmade our own bags out of fabric pieces we had leftover from various sewing projects! We also tried to remember how we "do" goodie bags at our home... well, Gabrial remembered that we don’t give them to each child as they come in, instead we wait until the very end. This is so that the children have something to take home and keep, and they are not consuming too much sugary sweets in such a short time! 

Guests arrived at in the afternoon. We had several games for the children planned: First we started out with a simple circle song. The children played several circle and movement games which kept them very active and moving for about 30 minutes. Afterward the kids gathered around for a special birthday story !

Meanwhile, I set up the cake, candles, and matches on a small table.

I passed out small cupcakes each with a small beeswax candle in it to all of the children. I explained to all of the children that the way we do birthdays is that we each get to have the candle on our cupcakes lit and we each get to make a wish for Gabrial, so my husband walked from child to child, lighting the candle and asking each child what they wished for Gabrial. "I wish you to get lots of presents", "I wish for you to play with me everyday", "I wish for you to be happy" were some of the wishes. Each child delighted in that they had the opportunity to blow out a candle and make a wish (and an important lesson is that they made the wish for someone other than themselves!) 

After that, We told the wonderful story of Gabrial's Rainbow Bridge As we told the story, all of the children (and parents) were in awe of Gabe. He sat tall and proud, after all, this is a celebration of the day of his birth! As we spoke of him coming over the rainbow bridge, he stood up, walked proudly to us and then sat with us. He was so pleased, he was squeezing my hand very hard because it had such a "ceremonial" feel to it. We then went on with the story and for each year of Gabrial’s life with us, and lit candles. When all of the candles were lit, we carried the cake to Gabe who made a wish and blew out the candles. We all sang "Happy Birthday to You" and the every one went off to eat cake, cupcakes, and play. 

The Children then had some free play time.

While, I did a quick clean up and set out a place for the opening of gifts. (Now maybe I just have a personal peeve here, but I have noticed that at each and every party we have ever been to, the gifts get piled high, the cards and tags fall off, and the child rips through from one gift to the next. I have always tried to teach that a person puts much time, care and love into choosing a gift, and that needs to be acknowledged) 

So, for that reason, at our house, the gift giving is done a bit differently... Each child (and parent) holds onto their gift. When it is nearing the end of the party, we sit in a huge circle and I ask that everyone please be patient as Gabrial opens the gifts. Now this may sound kind of tedious for many, but the actual experience is a great "lesson" for all of us home and unschoolers. Also, as each child carries and presents his gift, Gabe gives them the goodie bag. It’s nice because each child gets to open a gift, plus they don’t lose it during the 2 hours of the party... it goes home intact! I’ve taught Gabe to thank each person by looking into their eye and either offering them a hug or a hand shake and I truly believe that giving and receiving go completely hand in hand and lend themselves to the "breathing in-breathing out" rhythm. I am pleased to say that it went very well. 

Of course, we will now spend the next few days preparing lovely Thank you notes, and at our house... doing that is almost as much fun!

“A healthy social life is found only, when in the mirror of each soul the whole community finds its reflection, and when in the whole community the virtue of each one is living” Rudolf Steiner

Count Down to a Birthday!

I have been busy, busy planning our own little one's Birthday and here are some verses which I have found. I hope you enjoy them!

When I have said my evening prayer,
And my clothes are folded in the chair,
And Mother switches off the light,
I'll still be four years old tonight.

But, from the very break of day,
Before the children rise and play,
Before the greenness turns to gold,
Tomorrow, I'll be Five years old.

Five kisses when I wake.
Five candles on my cake!

* * * * * * * * * *

In heaven shines a golden star,
An angel led me from afar,
From Heaven high under to earth,
and brought me to my house of birth.

Welcome, welcome lovely day
With flowers bright and sunshine gay,
With painted birds that sing their song
And make me kind and good and strong.

* * * * * * * * * *

Someone's birthday is coming soon,
Someone who is in this room,
Our (Brooklyn) will be (Five) years old,
Shining with (her) heart of gold.

* * * * * * * * * *

The stars are watching for her birth,
A little child comes down to earth;
Angels do help her both day and night,
To fill her heart with love and light;
(Five) burning candles we did prepare,
To shine upon your birthday fair.

* * * * * * * * * *

Happy birthday dear (Brooklyn),
We sing now to you.
Happy birthday dear (Brooklyn),
May your wishes come true.

* * * * * * * * * *

We wish you a happy birthday
A joyful and celebrated birthday
To our friend _________
May she have a long, long life!

* * * * * * * * * *

Our Rainbow Bridge Story

There are as many versions of this classic Waldorf Birthday story as there are Waldorf teachers and children. This version of the classic story we wrote for our children. This one is about our daughter Brooklyn. Please be sure to change the story to better describe your child and history!

Long ago a little fairy flew from star to star gathering light and music, which came from all around her. At each star she met beautiful Fairies who showed her the way. One day one of the fairies said, "It is time to go to the Sun." Little fairy followed to a place of warmth shining like gold. There bees and butterflies sang to her of love. The fairy lead her to the moon, clean and crisp like new snow. From the moon she saw the most beautiful sight- a place of flowers, trees, rolling oceans, and two special souls who seemed to be smiling up at her. "May I go there?" little fairy asked the Beautiful Fairy "It is time," the Fairy said. "You may use the gifts of light and music you have gathered to carry you over the rainbow bridge. There a mother and a father have been waiting for you." Little Fairy carried her gifts over the rainbow bridge to her new home on the Earth.

(At this time Brooklyn walks over the rainbow silk to come sit with us)

From the very first moment her parents saw her they loved her and they called her Brooklyn Grayce. When she was born it was a crisp Autumn evening and a million stars were smiling down on her from the sky. She was absolutely beautiful chubby and round. She nursed and nursed and fell right asleep in her mommy's arms.

(light the first candle)

And then Brooklyn was one year old she loved playing with her older brother. Peek-a-boo was one of her favorite games to play. Her hair was a beautiful goldenrod color with curls.

(light the second candle)

When she was two years old she loved to help in the kitchen, kneading bread and making her own creations. She loved pockets and pouches and filled them with the many treasures which she found.One night she stood up on the living room table and did a dance with her hand out singing the most creative of lyrics "Awtch Awtch Awtch Awtch" then she jumped onto to the couch with a gleam in her eye!

(light the third candle)

When she was three years old she loved to play outside in the leaves and build forts with her brother out back in the trees. Swinging on the Willow tree vines was her favorite thing to do. Her brother showed her how to hold on tight. Brooklyn was very excited to find out she was going to be a big sister!

(light the fourth candle)

When she was four years old she moved to a new house, where she had her own room ! Her and mama spent much time fingerknitting and making crafts. She loved going to the beach, swimming and playing in the sand. She became a wonderful artist and began to draw pictures of all of the adventures she had and like magic, in ONE day she learned to ride her bike!

(light the fifth candle)

And now Brooklyn is Five years old. She has grown strong and is very smart and helpful, and a very good friend. We are happy to know Brooklyn and to be a part of her fifth birthday.

(make a wish, blow out the candles and sing Happy Birthday)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EVERYONE!

Lammas: Celebration of the First Harvest

Traditionally, Lammas marked the closing of one growing season and the safeguarding of another through the winter. Lammas is recognized as a Christian holy day, and is celebrated by the Church on the 1st of August. The celebrations often took place the last day of July or the first day of August, with the harvesting of grain. The sacredness of grain has been noted as far back as humanity itself. It is also a cross-quarter day, one of the four High Holidays or Greater Sabbats of Paganism. 'Lammas' was the medieval Christian name for the holiday and it means 'loaf-mass', for this was the day on which loaves of bread were baked from the first grain harvest and laid on the church altars as offerings. Strong associations of grains to the Gods or Goddesses of death and resurrection were also present.

Grains make up the main sacred meal in many different cultures. For example, the barley meal, called Tsampa, is part of the Tibetan daily diet. In North America, the corn meal staple, eaten daily by Native Americans of the Northeast is called Samp. It has been discovered that in many of the homes of Eastern European countries, such as the Czech Republic, the Ukraine, Hungary and Yugoslavia, there are small clay temple models which date back to the Neolithic period (6000-5000 BC). Many of these have human figures shaping and baking the loaves in bread ovens. In these countries, the Goddess of Life, Siva or Ziva, is shown holding a sheath of wheat.

Lammas has to do with consecrating the first loaf of bread made from the first harvest of that year. In the same spirit, corn dollies are made from the straw of the first harvest at this time as well. "Corn" in British means "grain" in American. Most of the famous "corn circles" that have occurred in Southern England in the last decade occurred in wheat fields, though other crops are involved as well. Modern corn dollies are many times made of wheat. In the case of the Iron Age Celts, their corn dollies were probably made from made from two early grains called emmer or spelt. Once again, in Celtic climes, this first harvest of the corn/grain crops occurs around the beginning of August.

Lammastide was also the traditional time of year for craft festivals. The medieval guilds would create elaborate displays of their wares, decorating their shops and themselves in bright colors and ribbons, marching in parades, and performing strange, ceremonial plays and dances for the entranced onlookers. The atmosphere must have been quite similar to our modern-day Renaissance Festivals.

A ceremonial highlight of such festivals was the 'Catherine wheel'. Although the Roman Church moved St. Catherine's feast day all around the calendar with bewildering frequency, it's most popular date was Lammas. A large wagon wheel was taken to the top of a near-by hill, covered with tar, set aflame, and ceremoniously rolled down the hill. Some mythologists see in this ritual the remnants of a Pagan rite symbolizing the end of summer, the flaming disk representing the sun-god in his decline. Just as the sun king has now reached the autumn of his years, his rival or dark self has just reached puberty. Traditional Gardnerian and Alexandrian Books of Shadows say very little about the holiday of Lammas, stating only that poles should be ridden and a circle dance performed. This seems strange, for Lammas is a holiday of rich mythic and cultural associations, providing endless resources for liturgical celebration.

The most popular of all stories of this time is that of the Celtic God Lugh, the Solar God of the Celts. Lughnasad marks that moment at the beginning of August just before the harvest of the seed that had been planted in Samhain (sow-an) in early November, first moved on its own at Imbolc in early February, and had sprouted and was growing at Beltane in early May. The Celtic harvest season began when the first crops were gathered at Lughnasad and lasted until the last sheep and cattle were brought down from the highland pastures in time for Samhain around the first of November.

Some myths say that Bel (of Beltane fame) was his father. Others say that both London (Lugh-dunum - Lugh's town) and Lyons in France were named after him (though the linguistic link is not particularly clear in either case). In any event, this Solar deity was honored throughout the Celtic world from Ireland to southern France. The Sun is critical to a successful harvest. Just as Lugh Long Arm offered himself to the Tuatha De Danann, the crops offer themselves to us at the peak of their power and ripeness. It's no wonder that Celts offer the first of their harvest to him.

In most cultures there is a story of the grain god and his dying and resurrection. The oldest possibility is the story of Tammuz, the Sumerian God, beloved of Ishtar. In Greece the grain God was a female, Demeter. In Rome, the Goddess was Ceres, from whose name the word "cereal" is derived. The Babylonians, Assyrians and Phoenicians called their grain God Adonis. To the Anglo-Saxons and Norse people, the Goddess Freja is, among other things, a grain Goddess. Her name means The Lady, Giver of the Loaf.

In Christian mythology, there was a grove of trees sacred to Tammuz (the Sumerian grain God) in Bethlehem, where Jesus was born. (Bethlehem, by the way, means "house of bread".) Many cultures look at the harvesting, winnowing and grinding of the grain as the death of God, and then the sprouting of grain as his resurrection. Churches to this day look at the bread as the body of the dying God, and often loaves are baked in the human form. Eating this bread is the partaking of eating the flesh of the God.

This Sabbat/festival is also known as the "Celebration of Bread". As bread was one of the main staples of our ancestors, the ripening of the grain was the cause for great celebration. The reaping, threshing and preparation of these breads spawned great ritual, feasting and ceremony to ensure a healthy bounty for the following year.

Lammas is a time of robust health and erotic energy. Ancient tribes met during this time of the year to gather news, to settle any disputed arguments, arrange marriages, and show off strength and skill. As might be expected, celebrations were held outside, under the bright blue sky. In addition to sporting events and traditional horse races, there was mighty feasting by the people. The celebration and honoring of these themes was fundamental to the fabric of our ancestors' lives and we should celebrate this festival with the same inspiration and energy. Whether your ceremony is the harvest of a vegetable garden, baking bread, or taking this time to make changes to your nature table, Lammas and Autumn have arrived and another season has turned.

Early people cut down the wheat with scythes and tied them into bundles. Then using flails, they pounded their grain to separate the kernels from the plants. By pounding, the husks were also loosened so they would come easily away from the grain. Beating the wheat was referred to as threshing. The kernels were then thrown high up into the air. The wind would catch the husks and carry them away, leaving only the grain behind. This was called winnowing.

They performed grinding of the grain by pounding two stones together. Native people used a mortar and pestle. Many times the pestle was carved from a piece of hardwood. It was used to literally pound the grain into flour. The quern was then developed, which was a hand-operated pair of grind stones. It was made of two round and flat stones placed on top of one another. The lower one did not move. The grain was then poured into a hole in the center of the top stone. As the top stone turned, the grain was crushed and the flour pushed out the sides. The quern sat on a barrel and the flour would spill over the edges and into the barrel. This led almost directly to the gristmills, which were so apparent near villages and town throughout the world.

Then, the baking of the bread began. The process was originally a four-step process. Grinding the grain, which was accomplished with the pounding between two stones. Followed by moistening it with water. Then shaping it into a loaf, usually a circular or round loaf. Finally baking the loaf. The first breads ever recorded were made by the Essene people. Essene bread was most likely baked on hot rocks under scorching sun light as they had no ovens.

The use of yeast came later, most likely in Egypt, where they used it for brewing beer and wine. Bread baking should be a sacred ritual. At Lammas, it is suggested that sprouted wheat be added to the loaf to express the idea of the dying and then resurrecting of the God of the Grain. (If you plan to do this, sprout the wheat a few days before baking. Directions for sprouting wheat are included in the Essene Bread recipe). Harvest & Essene bread (recipes follow) should be baked in rounds and torn apart, and eaten with the hands.

Some more ideas for celebration include the following: If you have a spring or well in your area, bless it and decorate it with flowers or float flowers at a local creek or pond. Take unwanted things (such as bad habits) from your life by throwing symbols of them into a fire. Bake a loaf of bread in the shape of a man and make him a part of your feast. Actually harvest the fruits from your garden with your family. If you don't have a garden, visit one of the pick-your-own farms in your area or support your local farmers market, and thank the farmers who have brought you these wonderful fruits and vegetables. Share your harvest with others who are less fortunate or cannot make the bread themselves. Finally, at the nature table: take a walk and collect goodies from the outside. Decorate with sickles, fresh vegetables & fruits, grains, berries, corn dollies, bread. The traditional Lammas colors are orange, gold, yellow, red and bronze.

REFERENCES:
Hope, Murry. 1987. Practical Celtic Magic. Thorsons Publishing Group, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, England: Aquarian Press.
Ross, Anne, Dr. 1986. Druids,Gods & Heroes from Celtic Mythology Peter Lowe Publishers.

Celtic Warrior by Theodor de Bry, 1590. It was just before that mighty confrontation, known as the Second Battle of Moytura, where the Tuatha De Danann met the Fomorians face to face that Lugh, the deity after whom Lughnasad is named, first comes to Irish Celtic consciousness. He showed up at the walls of Tara during the celebration of King Nuada's reinstatement. "Who are you and what is your purpose?" was the challenge from the doorkeeper. "Tell King Nuada that Lugh Long Arm is here. Take me to the King for I can help him." "And what skill do you have, for no one enters Tara without qualifications," replied the man at the gate. "Question me doorkeeper, I am a carpenter." "We have one already." "Question me, I am a smith." "Sorry, we have one of them as well. "I am a champion warrior." "We've got our own." At this point, it appeared that anything that Lugh might offer, the gateman would reject, but Lugh persisted with a list of his qualifications - harpist, poet, sorcerer, one skilled in the strategies and tactics of war, cupbearer, metalworker and physician. In each case, the gateman replied that they already had one. Finally Lugh said, "Then ask the good King if he has anyone who has all of these skills. If he does, I will not enter Tara." When King Nuada heard these words, he sent his best chess player to the main gate of Tara to challenge Lugh to a game of chess. Lugh firmly trounced him. At this, Lugh was finally welcomed to Tara, and went on to lead the warriors as Battle Chief of the Tuatha De Danann to victory over Eochaid and the Fomorians.

First Harvest Bread
You can use Vegan versions if you wish !

2 cups milk (slightly warmed)
2 packages dry baking yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup honey
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
Mix these ingredients together and then cover the bowl and set in a warm place until mixture has doubled in size (approx. 45 minutes). Then add to this mixture the following:

3 Tablespoons softened butter
2 cups unbleached white flour

Stir until bubbly. Now comes our favorite part: adding the sprouted wheat:

1 cup sprouted wheat
1 cup rye flour
2 cups stone ground whole wheat flour

With flour on the board and your hands, turn out the dough. Gradually begin to knead the dough, adding more unbleached white flour until the dough becomes elastic and smooth and no longer sticks to your fingers. Place into a lightly greased bowl, turning once to cover all of the dough, and cover with a cloth. Keep it in a warm place until it has doubled in size (this time about one hour). Punch dough down and separate into two loaves or slightly flattened rounds. Place on greased cookie sheet and cover again with cloth. Let dough double in size once again (another hour). Beat a whole egg and a Tablespoon of water together and brush over both loaves. Bake in a 300 degree oven for approx. 1 hour or until they sound hollow when they are tapped.

We serve ours with Earth Balance butter sweetened with honey, or spiced up with some garlic or parsley.

Blessings on your harvest bread!

Verses for the Miller

The Miller

The windmill stands out
On top of the hill,
And when the wind blows
The great sails never stand still.
We'll go up and talk
To the miller so gay,
And then to grind corn
He will show us the way.
chorus:
The long arms go round,
The wheels go click-clack,
The white flour slips down
And is caught in a sack.
The miller's man carries it
Off to make bread,
For little boys, little girls,
All must be fed.

The miller is dusty,
His clothes are all white,
He's working amongst flour
From morning till night.
The sacks are so heavy,
They make him quite hot,
But he laughs at hard work
And he cares not a jot.
chorus
The long arms go round...

Blow, Wind, Blow

Go, mill, go!
That the miller may grind his corn,
That the baker may take it
And into rolls bake it,
And bring us some hot in the morn.

Winding and Grinding
Round goes the mill,
Winding and grinding,
Can never stand still.

Ask not your neighbor
Grinds great or small,
Spare not your labor,
Grind the wheat all.

Winding and grinding,
Round goes the mill,
Winding and grinding,
Can never stand still.

The Mill Wheel

Round, round it goes! As fast as the water flows
The dripping, dropping, rolling wheel
That turns the noisy, dusty mill;
Round, round it goes! As fast as the water flows.

Turning all the day, it never stops to play;
The dripping, dropping, rolling wheel,
But keeps on grinding golden meal.
Turning all the day, it never stops to play.

Sparkling in the sun, the merry waters run.
Upon the foaming, flashing wheel
That laughs aloud, but worketh still,
Sparkling in the sun, the merry waters run.

The Miller

When a mill went up, many people moved to the region to be able to get flour for their bread. A good miller was very important in these communities. A good miller needed to know how to operate and maintain the gristmill. He needed to know about the different grains, and grinding them without spoiling the flour. He needed to be strong, to carry bags of grain and flour back and forth from the mill. He worked very hard, because everyone needed their grains ground into flour for their bread. The miller was most likely paid in flour. he would then trade his flour for the items he needed. Often times these included food, goods, services and land. The miller quickly became one of the richest men in the community. For many Waldorf teachers, the miller symbolizes the activity of how to work the fruits of the earth, and the joy, which comes from that experience. He strongly symbolizes spirit cognition.