When I tell people I did 5-15 minutes of “real” schoolwork a day growing up — people tend to cringe. I am convinced people have a natural desire to learn, explore, figure things out (it’s a matter of whether the spark has been tempered or not). Looking back at the learning environment my mother created, I hope to use some of my freed minutes to encourage Sweetpea’s curiosity, independence and confidence.

In preparation for this snow day, I purchased some supplies:

As I began painting, I started thinking of a DIY chalkboard paint cheese plate article George had shared with me (http://witandwhistle.com/2011/12/21/diy-chalkboard-serving-platter). What a great Valentine’s Day surprise! Cheese, wine — awesome idea!! As my excitement mounted, so did the lumps and stray paint marks. My short lived elation and perfectionism sort of collided with reality and patience: no cheese plate here. The end product in actual Pinterest execution is lumpy, not neat and DEFINITELY for child’s play. (Sigh) So I grabbed a tablespoon or two of steel cut oats and Sweetpea went to town.

I had ordered non-toxic chalk…must not have selected 2 day delivery.