What are the upcoming events at Stanley Park in Westfield, Massachusetts. How can visitors enjoy nature and educational programs at the park. When is the annual fundraiser “Twilight in the Park” taking place. Where can families find children’s activities and entertainment at Stanley Park.
Discover the Charm of Stanley Park in Westfield, Massachusetts
Stanley Park, nestled in the heart of Westfield, Massachusetts, is a private non-profit organization that offers a diverse array of educational, sporting, and entertainment venues to the public, all free of charge. This vibrant community hub hosts numerous events throughout the year, catering to visitors of all ages and interests.
Upcoming Events: A Calendar Full of Excitement
Stanley Park boasts a packed calendar of events that promise fun and engagement for everyone. Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming up:
- July 25, 2023: Event at Beveridge Pavilion
- July 27, 2023: Activity on Acre Lawn, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm
- July 28, 2023: Event at Pavilion Annex, 10:00 am
- July 30, 2023: Gathering at Beveridge Pavilion, 6:00 pm
- August 1, 2023: Event at Beveridge Pavilion
- August 3, 2023: Activity on Acre Lawn, 6:00 pm–7:00 pm
- August 4, 2023: Event at Pavilion Annex, 10:00 am
- August 5, 2023: Nature event at Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary, 8:00 am–10:00 am
- August 6, 2023: Gathering at Beveridge Pavilion, 6:00 pm
For those planning ahead, mark your calendars for September 16, 2023, when Stanley Park will host its annual fundraiser, “Twilight in the Park,” at 5:00 pm in the Beveridge Pavilion. This elegant event features a lovely reception and hybrid auction, with proceeds going towards the preservation of Stanley Park.
Embracing Nature: Educational Workshops and Wildlife Encounters
Stanley Park is committed to fostering a deep connection between visitors and the natural world. The park offers a variety of nature-focused workshops and programs throughout the year. These educational experiences cover a wide range of topics, from local wildlife to botanical wonders.
Recent Nature Workshops
- “Enjoy the Birds of Spring” with Steve Sved
- “Finding Birds in the Woods” with Kathy Conway
- “Spring Wildflowers” with Dave Lovejoy
- “Nesting Birds and Tropical Migrants” with Janice Zepko
- “The Mysterious World of Fungi” with Mike Ostrowski, Pioneer Valley Mycological Society
These workshops provide invaluable opportunities for nature enthusiasts to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the local ecosystem. Visitors can expect hands-on learning experiences and expert guidance from passionate naturalists.
Family-Friendly Fun: Children’s Programs and Entertainment
Stanley Park is a haven for families, offering a multitude of programs designed specifically for children. These events combine education with entertainment, ensuring that young visitors have a blast while learning about nature, art, and more.
Popular Children’s Programs
- “Rock Painting” – A creative art activity for kids
- “Wildlife On Wheels” – An interactive animal encounter experience
- “Let’s Get Together with Terry A La Berry and Friends” – A musical adventure for children
- Ed Popielarczyk’s “Comedy Magic Show” – A delightful blend of humor and illusion
- “Leave No Trace” presented by the Appalachian Mountain Club – Teaching children about environmental stewardship
- “T-Bone’s Camp Muckalucka” with Tom Stankus – A fun-filled camp-themed performance
These programs not only entertain but also instill valuable lessons about creativity, nature, and community in young minds.
Melodious Evenings: The Sunday Night Concert Series
Music lovers rejoice! Stanley Park’s Sunday Night Concert Series is a summer tradition that brings the community together through the universal language of music. These open-air concerts feature a diverse lineup of talented performers, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste.
Recent and Upcoming Performances
- Good Acoustics
- The Skid Marks
- The Eddie Forman Orchestra
- King Kountry
- Eight to the Bar
- Gunsmoke
- Sweet Hitch Hiker
- Studio Two
These concerts provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening in the park, allowing visitors to unwind and enjoy high-quality live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Preserving Natural Beauty: The Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary
At the heart of Stanley Park lies the Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for local flora and fauna. This protected area plays a crucial role in the park’s mission to preserve and showcase the natural beauty of Westfield.
Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy guided nature walks, bird-watching excursions, and educational programs that highlight the importance of conservation. The sanctuary serves as a living classroom, offering visitors of all ages the chance to observe and learn about native species in their natural habitat.
Community Engagement: Volunteer Opportunities and Support
Stanley Park thrives on community support and offers various ways for locals and visitors alike to get involved. Whether through volunteering at events, participating in conservation efforts, or supporting the park’s fundraising initiatives, there are numerous opportunities to contribute to this beloved community asset.
Ways to Support Stanley Park
- Attend the annual “Twilight in the Park” fundraiser
- Join the park’s mailing list to stay informed about volunteer opportunities
- Participate in nature workshops and educational programs
- Spread the word about park events and initiatives
- Consider making a donation to support the park’s mission
By engaging with Stanley Park, community members play a vital role in ensuring that this treasured space continues to thrive for generations to come.
Planning Your Visit: Making the Most of Stanley Park
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Westfield, Stanley Park offers something for everyone. Here are some tips to help you plan your visit:
- Check the park’s event calendar regularly for upcoming activities
- Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the park’s trails and gardens
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the park’s designated areas
- Bring binoculars for bird-watching in the wildlife sanctuary
- Consider bringing a blanket or lawn chairs for outdoor concerts
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the park’s natural beauty
Remember, Stanley Park is a non-profit organization that relies on community support. Consider making a donation or volunteering to help maintain this valuable resource.
The Legacy of Stanley Park: A Community Treasure
Stanley Park stands as a testament to the power of community vision and dedication. Since its establishment, the park has evolved into a multifaceted destination that serves as a cultural center, nature preserve, and recreational haven for Westfield and the surrounding areas.
The park’s commitment to providing free access to its many offerings reflects a deep-rooted belief in the importance of public spaces that foster learning, creativity, and connection with nature. As Stanley Park continues to grow and adapt, it remains true to its core mission of enriching the community through diverse programming and the preservation of natural beauty.
The Impact of Stanley Park
- Provides a space for community gathering and cultural events
- Offers educational opportunities for all ages
- Preserves local ecosystems and wildlife habitats
- Promotes environmental stewardship and conservation
- Enhances the quality of life for Westfield residents and visitors
Through its varied offerings and unwavering commitment to the community, Stanley Park has become an integral part of Westfield’s identity, beloved by residents and admired by visitors from near and far.
Seasonal Highlights: Experiencing Stanley Park Throughout the Year
Each season brings its own unique charm to Stanley Park, offering visitors ever-changing landscapes and activities to enjoy. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect throughout the year:
Spring
As nature awakens from its winter slumber, Stanley Park bursts into life with vibrant colors and renewed energy. Spring highlights include:
- Blooming gardens and wildflower displays
- Bird-watching opportunities as migratory species return
- Nature workshops focusing on spring flora and fauna
- Easter-themed events for families
Summer
Summer is peak season at Stanley Park, with a full calendar of events and perfect weather for outdoor activities. Summer attractions include:
- The popular Sunday Night Concert Series
- Children’s programs and workshops
- Guided nature walks in the wildlife sanctuary
- Picnicking in the park’s scenic spots
Fall
As the leaves change color, Stanley Park transforms into a breathtaking autumn wonderland. Fall features include:
- Foliage viewing along park trails
- Harvest-themed events and workshops
- Bird-watching as species prepare for migration
- The annual “Twilight in the Park” fundraiser
Winter
While some park activities may slow down during the colder months, winter brings its own unique beauty and opportunities to Stanley Park:
- Snow-covered landscapes perfect for photography
- Winter bird-watching experiences
- Indoor workshops and educational programs
- Holiday-themed events and decorations
No matter the season, Stanley Park offers visitors a chance to connect with nature, engage with the community, and create lasting memories.
Beyond Recreation: Stanley Park’s Role in Education and Research
While Stanley Park is widely known for its recreational offerings, it also plays a significant role in education and scientific research. The park’s diverse ecosystems and well-preserved natural areas provide valuable opportunities for study and learning.
Educational Partnerships
Stanley Park collaborates with local schools, universities, and environmental organizations to offer:
- Field trips for students of all ages
- Internship opportunities for college students
- Teacher training workshops on environmental education
- Citizen science projects engaging the community in data collection
Research Initiatives
The park’s natural areas serve as living laboratories for various research projects:
- Long-term studies on local plant and animal populations
- Climate change impact assessments on native species
- Water quality monitoring in park waterways
- Invasive species management research
Through these educational and research initiatives, Stanley Park contributes to scientific knowledge while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world among visitors of all ages.
Planning Special Events: Stanley Park as Your Venue
Beyond its role as a public park, Stanley Park offers unique venues for special events, making it an ideal location for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate meeting, or private party, the park provides a picturesque backdrop and versatile spaces to suit your needs.
Event Spaces at Stanley Park
- Beveridge Pavilion: A charming indoor venue perfect for receptions and meetings
- Acre Lawn: A spacious outdoor area ideal for large gatherings and ceremonies
- Pavilion Annex: A smaller space suitable for intimate events or breakout sessions
- Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary: A unique natural setting for nature-themed events
The park’s event planning team can assist with logistics, ensuring that your special day runs smoothly amidst the beauty of Stanley Park.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: Stanley Park for All
Stanley Park is committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy its offerings, regardless of physical abilities. The park has implemented various measures to enhance accessibility:
- Wheelchair-accessible paths throughout main areas of the park
- Handicap parking spaces near key attractions
- Assistive listening devices available for concerts and events
- Braille signage in select areas
- Sensory-friendly areas for visitors with sensory sensitivities
The park continues to work on improving accessibility, striving to create an inclusive environment where everyone can experience the beauty and benefits of nature.
Supporting Stanley Park: Ensuring a Bright Future
As a non-profit organization, Stanley Park relies on the generosity of the community to continue its mission. There are many ways to support the park and help ensure its preservation for future generations:
Ways to Contribute
- Become a member of the Friends of Stanley Park
- Make a one-time or recurring donation
- Participate in fundraising events like “Twilight in the Park”
- Volunteer your time and skills
- Sponsor a bench, tree, or garden area
- Include Stanley Park in your estate planning
Every contribution, no matter how small, helps Stanley Park continue to provide free access to nature, education, and recreation for the entire community.
As we look to the future, Stanley Park remains committed to its founding principles of conservation, education, and community engagement. With ongoing support and dedication, this beloved Westfield landmark will continue to thrive, offering a sanctuary of nature and culture for generations to come.
Events – Stanley Park Westfield MA
We host a number of great events at Stanley Park and would love for you to join us.
Stanley Park and our Annual Fundraiser Committee invite you to our annual fundraiser, “Twilight in the Park” on September 16, 2023 at 5:00 pm in the Beveridge Pavilion. Enjoy a lovely reception and hybrid auction while raising funds for the Preservation of Stanley Park.
Learn More
Jul
25
2023
Location: Beveridge Pavilion
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Jul
27
2023
Location: Acre Lawn
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Jul
28
2023
Location: Pavilion Annex
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Jul
30
2023
Location: Beveridge Pavilion
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Aug
01
2023
Location: Beveridge Pavilion
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Aug
03
2023
Location: Acre Lawn
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Aug
04
2023
Location: Pavilion Annex
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Aug
05
2023
Location: Frank Stanley Beveridge Wildlife Sanctuary
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Aug
06
2023
Location: Beveridge Pavilion
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Aug
08
2023
Location: Beveridge Pavilion
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Aug
10
2023
Location: Acre Lawn
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Aug
11
2023
Location: Pavilion Annex
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About
Stanley Park of Westfield, Massachusetts is a private-non-profit organization and is pleased to offer, free to the public, numerous educational, sport and entertainment venues.
News
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STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS GOOD ACOUSTICS ON JUNE 18TH -
Nature Workshop at Stanley Park -
WESTFIELD BANK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES AT STANLEY PARK PRESENTS “THE SKID MARKS” ON JULY 31ST -
Children’s Program at Stanley Park “ROCK PAINTING” July 20th 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “THE EDDIE FORMAN ORCHESTRA” ON AUGUST 7TH -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN PRESENTS “Wildlife On Wheels” AUGUST 5TH -
STANLEY PARK’S GARDEN WORKSHOP June 13th, 10A.
M. TO 11A.M.
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STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “King Kountry” ON JUNE 11TH -
Nature Workshop at Stanley Park “Enjoy the Birds of Spring” with Steve Sved -
Nature Workshop at Stanley Park “Finding Birds in the Woods” with Kathy Conway -
Nature Workshop at Stanley Park “Spring Wildflowers” with Dave Lovejoy -
STANLEY PARK’S GARDEN WORKSHOP May 16th, 10A.M. TO 11A.M. -
Nature Workshop at Stanley Park “Nesting Birds and Tropical Migrants” with Janice Zepko May 22, 2022, 7:30AM – 9:30AM -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “Eight to the Bar” ON JUNE 5TH -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS GOOD ACOUSTICS ON JUNE 19TH -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS GOOD ACOUSTICS ON JUNE 19TH -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “Gunsmoke” ON JULY 17TH -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN PRESENTS “LET’S GET TOGETHER WITH TERRY A LA BERRY AND FRIENDS” ON JULY 22ND -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “SWEET HITCH HIKER” ON JULY 24TH -
Children’s Program at Stanley Park “Leave No Trace” presented by the Appalachian Mountain Club July 27th, 10:00 am to 11:00 am -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN PRESENTS ED POPIELARCZYK’S “COMEDY MAGIC SHOW” ON JULY 29TH -
“The Mysterious World of Fungi” with Mike Ostrowski, Pioneer Valley Mycological Society -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS STUDIO TWO ON JUNE 25, 2023 -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN “TOM STANKUS as T-BONE PRESENTS: T-BONE’S CAMP MUCKALUCKA” ON JULY 7TH -
Nature Workshop at Stanley Park “Wooded Wetlands” with Dave Lovejoy July 9, 2023, 1 p. m. – 3 p.m.
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STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “THE EAGLES EXPERIENCE” ON JULY 9TH -
SAVE THE DATE Stanley Park presents Carillon Concerts throughout the Summer Season -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS JESSE LIAM BAND ON JULY 16, 2023 -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN PRESENTS ED POPIELARCZYK’S “COMEDY MAGIC SHOW” ON JULY 14TH -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS “THE EDDIE FORMAN ORCHESTRA” ON JULY 23RD -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN PRESENTS GREATER SPRINGFIELD MUSIC TOGETHER ON JULY 21ST **RESERVATION REQUIRED** -
STANLEY PARK’S FRIDAY MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN PRESENTS “Whales and Tales” with Annie & the Natural Wonderband JULY 28TH -
STANLEY PARK SUNDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES PRESENTS VALLEY KATS ON JULY 30TH -
“Stanley Park Trees” with Dave Lovejoy September 18th, 1:00PM – 3:00PM -
STANLEY PARK’S GARDEN WORKSHOP -
Enjoy the Birds of Spring” with Steve Svec Saturday, May 6, 2023, 8:00 a. m. – 10:00 a.m.
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“Finding Birds in the Woods” with Joanne Fortin Sunday, May 14, 2023, 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. -
Walk Around the Park -
SOUND BATH MEDITATION AT STANLEY PARK -
Homeward Vets Donation Drive -
SAVE THE DATE: Stanley Park presents Carillon Concerts throughout the Summer Season -
Stanley Park presents Mother’s Day Carillon Concert
M. TO 11A.M.
m. – 3 p.m.
m. – 10:00 a.m.
Contacts
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Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a 1,001-acre public space located adjacent to downtown Vancouver. The space between the park and the urban areas belongs to Vancouver Bay and English Bay.
The park has a rich history, this place was one of the first in the city, which was once visited by researchers. Initially, here, even before colonization by the British, for thousands of years, indigenous peoples lived.
For many years after the start of colonization, the future park, teeming with resources, served as a home for visiting settlers. The name was not chosen by chance. The park is named after Lord Stanley, a British politician who, shortly before the opening of the park, was appointed Governor General.
Unlike other large urban parks, this one is not the result of the work of a landscape designer, but rather the evolution of forest and urban space over many years. Many of the man-made structures were built between 1911 and 1937. Attractions such as a polar bear habitat, an aquarium, and a miniature railroad were added in the post-war period.
Photo by Christopher Martin // chrismartinphotography.wordpress.com
Much of the park remains densely forested, as it was 200 years ago. The number of trees is about half a million, the height of some reaches 76 meters, and the age can be calculated in tens of years. Thousands of trees have been destroyed by powerful storms that have occurred over the past 100 years (the last was in 2006).
A huge amount of effort has been put into the construction of the century-old embankment, which attracts thousands of residents and tourists every day. Walking paths and trails are also laid in the park, the total length of which is 250 km. There are also beaches, lakes, playgrounds, as well as the Vancouver Aquarium.
Stretched across a vast course of nearly 1,000 acres of land, Stanley Park is a true urban sanctuary offering visitors many ways to spend their time.
1. Ride along the promenade
Photo jaybanks.ca
Rent a bike (or even a tandem) or roller skates and ride along the 9-kilometer path that circles the park.
2. Go to the Children’s Farmyard
Visit goats, ponies and even llamas at the local farm.
3. Play Golf
Photo vancouver.ca
Enjoy a round of golf on the 18-hole course.
4. Eat
Kill a worm at one of the local restaurants Fish House, Sequoia Grill or Prospect Point Café.
5. Visit the aquarium
The aquarium in Stanley Park is, after all, the largest in Canada. More than 70,000 species of marine animals live here. The money that you give for visiting will go to the implementation of the mission of this place – the preservation of marine species. There is free parking nearby. Read more about the aquarium at the link – “The Vancouver Aquarium”
6. Ride in a horse-drawn carriage
Photo vancouverattractions.com
Enjoy the sights and sounds of Stanley Park from a horse-drawn carriage mi.
7. Go hiking
Head into the wilds of the park and follow the trails that will take you to the most beautiful places teeming with local flora and fauna
8. Take a train ride
Photo vancouver.ca
Take a 15-minute drive through a forest full of cedars and Douglas hemlocks in a miniature replica of an old locomotive.
9. Teach your kids to drive
Take your kids to driving lessons at a school located in the park. In July and August, children aged 5 to 8 learn the basics of driving in a special area, which is supervised by the Vancouver police.
10. Swim
Photo morehawes.co.uk
Cool off at the local water park or heated pool at Second Beach or Third Beach.
Source: Wikipedia, About Travel
Uncategorized – Page 56
I put Lizka to sleep for an afternoon nap in a Vancouver hotel and lie in the dark thinking about life. Here comes Oleg, who went for a bike ride. He runs up to me with huge eyes and in a loud whisper says: “You won’t believe this happened to me just now !! Get up, I’ll tell you!” I immediately jump up, and in my head I thought: “I had a fight with robbers”, “I met some celebrity”, “had sex with a stranger”, “I got into an accident” … and Oleg begins to excitedly tell me how we don’t know Vancouver at all, and that we walked in the wrong places, and how he rode a bicycle through a beautiful park, and how he overtook professional cyclists on his small bike with a motor, and that we need to wake up Lizka right now and go to this park! Well, we didn’t wake up Lizka, we waited for her to wake up, and then we went to this park, Stanley Park…
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Posted on by albitiousTagged vancouver.
4 Comments
“Does she speak two languages?! Doesn’t she lag behind other children? Probably, she started speaking late. Two languages - it’s so difficult! And how did you manage to do that?” … Questions, exclamations, bewilderment, admiration, advice – what we have not heard in these four years. Usually, it seems to people that Oleg and I are doing some kind of heroism. I’ll post my thoughts on the matter here.
Motherhood taught me not to adhere to principles and forget about stereotypes, everyone brings up their child as they want, and it’s great when no one imposes anything on anyone. But I have one fundamental opinion: if there is an opportunity to raise a child with 2+ languages, it must be used.
my propaganda
Posted on by albitiousTagged parenting. 28 Comments
Posted on by albitiousTagged trend.
9 Comments
We agreed with Oleg that we will have dinner at home, and then we will all go to watch a children’s film together at the cinema. But then in the kindergarten, a friend asked me if we were going to the Jazams Summer Block Party. I didn’t know about it, but I immediately wanted to go, because we love the Jazams. That’s the name of our local toy store. And it’s just a completely magical store, for both children and adults. So cozy and homely that you can just play there for hours with your child, and no one will look askance at you. Well, they have such an assortment that now we buy gifts for all children, including Lizka, only there. They recently launched a website (http://www.jazams.com), but to plunge into this magical world, of course, you need to get into the store itself (so come visit!), we even missed it very much in Chicago. Well, this store, or rather its owners, arrange such a party for children once a year for the whole of Princeton. And so today we went there at seven o’clock, and came home only at eleven.
I really regretted that I didn’t take a camera, so all the photos are iPhone ones.
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Posted on by albitiousTagged princeton. 5 Comments
I promised to write about books a long time ago. Now I read voraciously almost every day, just like in my teenage years. I read all these books in English, but I am sure that they have long been translated into Russian.
- Middlesex (by Jeffrey Eugenides) – A very interesting book about the adaptation of Greek immigrants in America, growing up and everyday life of teenagers, and of course, about gender identity and the life of hermaphrodites. A beautifully written book with a great story that leaves a very pleasant impression/aftertaste. The book won the Pulitzer Prize in 2002. Its author, by the way, now teaches at Princeton (maybe I’ll go to his lectures).
- The Ground Beneath Her Feet (by Salman Rushdie) – I have long wanted to read something by Salman Rushdie, but I didn’t want to start with the huge and complex book Midnight Children (his masterpiece, which won the Booker Booker Award; Oleg believes that this is one of the best books, he recently read it), but I had to. Because I really didn’t like this book. There is almost no plot, a lot of some kind of veiled thoughts. But my character did not allow me to put the book aside in the middle, so I nevertheless finished reading it and now I will not soon be going to read his other books.
- Selected Stories (by Alice Munro) – A book of short stories by a Canadian writer who won a Nobel in 2013 for her short stories. The stories are all very short, literally 10 pages, but you read and immediately understand why Canadians call her “our Chekhov”. Highly recommend, especially if you don’t have time for long novels.
- The Metamorphosis (by Franz Kafka) – I have just now read this Kafka masterpiece from 1915, to my shame. How simple, but how ingenious. Exactly, if you haven’t read it, read it – a very short story.
- The Goldfinch (by Donna Tartt) – I finished reading this book the other day and I’m really worried that it has already ended. I lived in this book! The book won the Pulitzer Prize in 2013 and took 11 years for Donna Tartt to write. The book is very long, but extremely interesting. What a plot! I really want to tell you directly, but you better read it yourself. And here I can’t wait to go to the museum and look at this picture with my own eyes (when you read the book, you will understand me).
- The Dinner (by Hermann Koch) – A book by a Dutch author about two couples having dinner in a restaurant in Amsterdam. The whole book is only about this dinner, but it is very interesting to read. The ending is kind of painfully simple, but still a good book, short and easy to read, although the plot is not at all easy.
Because I really didn’t like this book. There is almost no plot, a lot of some kind of veiled thoughts. But my character did not allow me to put the book aside in the middle, so I nevertheless finished reading it and now I will not soon be going to read his other books.
The book is very long, but extremely interesting. What a plot! I really want to tell you directly, but you better read it yourself. And here I can’t wait to go to the museum and look at this picture with my own eyes (when you read the book, you will understand me).Posted on by albitiousTagged books. 28 Comments
Like Lizkin’s first birthday, we spent that day in New York. The weather was wonderful, the mood too, especially for the birthday boy.
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Posted on by albitiousTagged birthday, liza, nyc.
9 Comments
Our baby is already four years old! A few weeks ago I asked Lizka what kind of party she wants. The child thought for a moment and said: “I want all the guests to come (I was already sure she would say ‘in princess dresses’) in white or black. Because I’m having a panda party and I’m going to have a chocolate cake inside and a white one on top, and it’ll have a panda on it!” I thought I had a genius child and we invited guests to our panda party on the Sunday before Lizka’s birthday on the Monday. Here you can see our last year’s parties: first , second , third .
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Posted on by albitiousTagged birthday, liza. 18 Comments
This post will be about the city, streets, buildings, museums. We had very little time there, but we still walked most of the city. I will write about parks separately, in the last post.
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Posted on by albitiousTagged vancouver. 6 Comments
I will not talk about studies on the importance of talking to a child and how much the vocabulary of two-three-year-old children from different families differs and how this affects the future development of the child. In general, I don’t think much about development, I just like to talk with my child and tell her about the world. Here I will tell you how we communicate with Lisa. About bilingualism and the maintenance of the Russian language, I will write separately, if interested.
- Since the birth of Lizka, Oleg and I have been talking to her. We don’t whistle, we don’t whistle, we don’t sing – we just talk. Not because we have to, but because we want to. I remember how I took her in my arms when she was monthly, went up to the tree and talked about how the tree grows, how ants run along its bark, how in a few years she will climb this tree, how we will plant our tree when she grows up.
- Almost always, when we need to say something important to Lisa, we squat down to her or take her in our arms, as a result, our faces are on the same level and you can look into her eyes when you speak.
- If Lisa is next to us, she is always involved in the conversation, no matter who we are talking to (if she wants to, of course). I have never once told Liza to be quiet, because the adults are talking. Just imagine yourself in a stroller, and next to you are your parents with their friends and vigorously discussing something, will you have fun? Therefore, we always discuss everything together with her, or make frequent stops in the conversation in order to show Lisa something, to tell.
- I always try to describe everything in detail. For example, instead of: “Oh, Lisa, look at this flower!” I say: “Oh, look what a dandelion / rose / peony / chamomile.” If Lisa does not know a new word, then I immediately hear her drawling: “Whatoooo? Whatoooo, mom?” – and then by trial and error we find a word that she did not understand, and explain. Recently I read a book to her and said: “And this is a bird!” I immediately heard: “No, mom, this is not a bird. This is a bullfinch, you see how pink it is.”
- When Liza watches cartoons, I try to sit next to her and discuss everything with her. The same for dinner. I promise myself that I will not turn into a family where everyone sits in a restaurant and absolutely silently eats something.
- At least once a day I sit on the sofa, put Lizka on my knees facing me and say: “Well, let’s talk!” No toys, books or cartoons, just her and me. And we talk about everything in the world. And most of the time she says, I just ask questions, comment and laugh at her jokes. These conversations always cheer us both up.
- My child is all about me: hates to sleep and loves to talk before bed. Lisa is the sweetest before bed because she tries to push her bedtime as far as she can. Well, this is the perfect time to talk.
Recently I read a book to her and said: “And this is a bird!” I immediately heard: “No, mom, this is not a bird. This is a bullfinch, you see how pink it is.” There is nothing complicated about all this.
