Random

* Found via the lovely Joy Madison:

* The Staycation

Experts say it's not uncommon for overscheduled families to choose a "staycation," a term whose origin is often attributed to a popular Canadian television series. In 2006, a New York magazine further promoted the "staycation," encouraging people to spend their vacation exploring what the city has to offer instead of leaving town.

Ummm...as a child growing up in a lower middle class/upper lower class family we always had staycations! Nothing new there. We were doing it 30 years ago. Our staycations involved visits to places like Crystal Cave, Roadside America, and Knoebel's. These are places I have now taken my own children because as hub and I are both teachers we have the time but not the cash for larger vacations. I have fond memories of getting in the lime-green metallic station wagon we owned and driving a bit to see these interesting sites. My sister and I would read books (and probably argue though I don't remember that!) on the short drives to these local gems. We didn't go on a "real" vacation to the Jersey shore until I was in seventh grade. But I never felt like we were missing out. My parents did a great job of making us feel rich even though we weren't. I know that now as I look back on my childhood. It was good. Really good. And I want the same memories for my own children. I hope they appreciate whatever vacations we can give them...even if it's just a "staycation". 

* Breaking Dawn

I finished a few days ago. I really liked it. I liked it as much as the first in the series. She is a fine storyteller even if the editing could be a bit better. How does a bestseller like that get printed with missed or doubled words??? Here's a fun photocollage I found on a friend's MySpace. I don't know where it came from but I like how it included pictures from the new movie-- which BTW is coming out earlier than originally planned! I will definitely be there at the midnight showing with my Lydia and her friends. I admit it... I'm a Twilight Mom!

Twilight

Well...today is my first inservice of the school year and so my extended staycation is over. Wish me luck for a good school year and enjoy your end of summer.