Tag Archives: Tanya H. Franklin

Art of Brick: Building a Foundation of Fun!

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My daughter and I love going to the Franklin Institute, not just because our last name is the same, but we love their special exhibits. Today was the beginning of the Art of Brick with fabulous and intricate displays made of legos. I was in awe. Quinn and her bestie loved the Lego portraits, and I couldn’t get enough of the three dimensional displays.

It brought back childhood memories for me as I spelled my name and made a creation in the building section. Also, seeing Quinn and her best friend built a tower made me think about the foundation of our relationship. I’m grateful for outings that are not only fun but meaningful while giving us both lasting memories.

All the best,

Tanya

Cue the Violins: My Daughter’s Passion is Music to My Ears

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Usually I like to relax and have a low key evening the night before the first day of teaching a new semester, but my daughter’s spring concert started at 7pm with a 6:15pm call time, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

Can Can Performance

Quinn, along with several fifth and sixth graders came ready to play some memorable music on their violins, violas and cellos. Though they’re all at different phases in the learning process, the audience cheered for them all. I, of course, cheered proudly as Quinn sat at first chair in her section playing Can-Can, Funny Fiddlin’ and a few other songs.

Next up is her band concert next week, and I can’t wait!

All the best,

Tanya

On the Actual Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to Me…Nostalgia and Happiness

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On the Actual Day of Christmas, My Daughter Gave to Me…Nostalgia and Happiness

A Christmas gift I look forward each and every year is seeing my daughter’s smile, hearing her along with oohs and aahs and feeling her appreciation as she opens her Christmas gifts.

But something that made this year different was that she used her hard earned money to get me a thoughtful and heartfelt gift: a sterling silver mom necklace that projects, “I love you” in 100 languages. It came in a lovely box with little roses and a teddy bear that lights up. Though I encouraged her to hold onto her money, it makes me feel so good that was willing to spend her entire savings on me.

Another bonus was that many of the gifts she wanted this year were quite nostalgic as they brought back wonderful memories of my childhood playing games, doing crafts and making treats.

All the best,

Tanya

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas 2023: The Magic of Twinning

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Both my daughter and I love surprises. I was pleasantly surprised that she agreed to “twin” today in our Charlie Brown Christmas sweatshirts. While she was surprised to an evening of magic and illusions with Christmas twists, lights and music.

I’m so grateful for family time and outings, especially around this time of year. I can’t help but smile while in the festive environment, with delectable treats and extra time together.

All the best,

Tanya

On the Tenth Day of Christmas 2023: The Perfect Balance of Nice & Naughty

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Though my ten year old is technically the only child, it’s so nice knowing that she and her “little brother” our toy poodle have each other, especially around this time of the year.

Just like “human” siblings, they’re sometimes naughty together, getting into mischief or even fussing with each other about who gets to sit next to me on the sofa. But more times than not, they’re so sweet and have a nice time enjoying each other’s company.

I’m so grateful for them both as their presence alone are both special gifts in my life.

All the best,

Tanya

On the Ninth Day of Christmas 2023: No Sleeping on Pajama Day at School

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This week, leading up to winter break, my fifth grader has had the opportunity to wear something festive or fun for school.

Unfortunately, this is the age and grade where some kids get clowned for participating, so while Quinn was initially excited for this week, she opted not to participate in crazy hair day or ugly sweater day to avoid being teased and taunted. Though I encouraged her to do her own thing, I didn’t push the issue because I recall all too well how it feels to be taunted by classmates.

But with just two days left, she was eager to wear her festive, plaid pajamas for pajama day knowing that this is the one most kids will be excited to do. Here’s to hoping she was in good company today with her classmates and friends.

All the best,

Tanya

On the Eighth Day of Christmas 2023 Still Checking in with the North Pole

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The Eighth Day of Christmas:

Eight years ago I posted about my fascination with Santa Claus and the North Pole and how my then two and a half was still learning about Christmas, Santa, where he lives and how he knows if she’s been naughty or nice.


Even though Quinn’s now ten, I’m so happy that she still looks forward to listening to Clementine, one of the head elves, Mrs. Claus, a few other characters and even Santa himself sharing little facts about what goes on in the North Pole from December 1st through December 25th.

A message from Clementine at the Northpole

All the best,

Tanya