Travel n' Stuff 4 Kids

Halloween Traditions Around the World

2011-10-26T13:33:00.085-10:00

Halloween festival in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Photo by Brian Morrison/Tourism Ireland

Ireland

On Halloween night in medieval Ireland and Britain the poor went door to door requesting food in return for prayers for the dead. This gave rise to "guising," a tradition in which Scottish and Irish children disguised themselves in costumes as they canvassed the neighborhood for food and coins.

At the center of Irish Halloween customs is Báirín Breac (barmbrack), a yeasted bread baked with sultanas and raisins:

Barmbrack, a Halloween tradition

The Halloween Brack traditionally contained various objects baked into the bread and was used as a sort of fortune-telling game. In the barmbrack were: a pea, a stick, a piece of cloth, a small coin (originally a silver sixpence) and a ring. Each item, when received in the slice, was supposed to carry a meaning to the person concerned: the pea, the person would not marry that year; the stick, "to beat one's wife with", would have an unhappy marriage or continually be in disputes; the cloth or rag, would have bad luck or be poor; the coin, would enjoy good fortune or be rich; and the ring, would be wed within the year. ¹

Other Irish Halloween traditions include na h-úlla ag bogadhál ar bharr an uisce (bobbing for apples) and Snap Apples, a game in which participants bite at apples dangling from strings while their hands are tied behind their backs. The first person to bite into a coin hidden inside the apple wins. It is even more challenging when a lit candle is tied to the hanging stick.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong. Photo by Dorothy Tang,
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_pictures/6096146.stm

In Hong Kong, with its long history of Western influence, you're sure to find westernized Halloween-themed costume parties and celebrations. But contrary to what you may have read on the internet, Halloween is not observed in mainland China.

Teng Chieh, The Lantern Festival (also Yuán Xiāo Jié 元宵), is the holiday most often mistakenly identified as the Chinese Halloween.

Held on the 15th day of the Lunar New year to mark the first full moon and the lengthening of days, Teng Chieh is observed near the end of February. Lanterns of many shapes and sizes are paraded through the streets and kerosene-fueled hot-air lanterns are released into the sky to "convey messages to the gods to bestow luck on the people below." In her superb article on the Lantern Festival, Qui Gui Su describes the festival's origin nearly 2,000 years ago during the Han dynasty (206 BCE—221 CE):

"Yuan Xiao (a maiden in the emperor's palace) had a luxurious life, but she missed her family and wanted to see them during the New Year celebrations. This was not allowed.

So Yuan Xiao devised a clever plan to sneak out of the palace. She told the emperor that the God of Fire had visited her and told her of his plans to burn down the entire city. She offered this advice to the emperor – 'Make the city look like it is already on fire, then the God of Fire will go away.'

So the emperor ordered lanterns to be lit throughout the city and firecrackers to be set off. During the confusion, Yuan Xiao was able to get away unnoticed and had a joyous reunion with her family."

As can be seen, the Lantern Festival has nothing to do with Halloween.

More likely candidates for a Chinese-style Halloween are Qīng Míng Jié 清明節 (Clear and Bright Festival or more commonly, Tomb-Sweeping Day) and Zhōng Yuán Jié 中元節 / 中元节 (Hungry Ghost Festival).

Qīng Míng (Tomb-sweeping Day)
Qīng Míng, held in April, is when families honor deceased kin by visiting and tending to ancestral graves. I remember Qīng Míng as a time when relatives gathered at the cemetery to pull weeds, trim shrubs and sweep my grandparent's grave. Once the tomb was cleaned a feast of rice, roast pork, chicken, eggs, tea and whiskey was laid before the headstone. "Bai san," Mom would say, prompting my brothers and me to take turns greeting Grandmother and Grandfather, offer food, and bow three times. Paper spirit money, houses and clothes were burned to insure their comfort in the next world, and fireworks were lit to scare off lingering evil spirits. Later, the entire extended family would gather for a feast of remembrance.

Zhōng Yuán Jié (Hungry Ghost Festival)
Zhōng Yuán Jié, observed in August, is when the gates of heaven and hell swing open, allowing the dead to pass into this world and walk among us. Disgruntled souls of those who died of unnatural causes or who were not properly buried hunger to unleash their acrimony on the living. According to Qiu Gui Su,

"This makes ghost month a bad time to do activities such as evening strolls, traveling, moving house, or starting a new business. Many people avoid swimming during ghost month, since there are many spirits in the water which can try to drown you."

Sumptuous feasts and elaborate spirit items are offered at shrines and altars to placate the hungry ghosts, and paper boats and lanterns are released on water to guide them home.

Mexico

Day of the Dead observance.

Although Halloween is celebrated on October 31st much as it is here in the States, with costumes and parties among friends and family, the holiday holds a much more serious tradition as a time when the souls of the deceased return to earth to be among family and friends.

November 1st is Dia de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels), dedicated to the remembrance of infants and children who have died, and November 2nd is Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), when friends and family honor adults they have lost.

Catrina figure

Sugar skulls

Dia de los Muertos observances vary from region to region. Oftentimes elaborate shrines are built, and families visit graves and altars to share remembrances and favorite foods and beverages with the deceased. Two areas best known for their Day of the Dead celebrations are Oaxaca and Michoacan. You're sure to see plenty of calaveras de azúcar (sugar skulls) and Catrina figures!

©2011 Tammy Yee

Travel Tips: Good Table Manners Makes for Enjoyable Family Meals Out

2011-10-20T07:51:00.000-10:00

Submitted by Sarah Morris on behalf of Primrose Schools- preschools emphasizing a balanced curriculum.

Image: federico stevanin
FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Well-mannered children make travel- and especially meals out a restaurants- much more possible and enjoyable. Teaching about table manners from a young age is important in allowing you to dine out as a family without disrupting other adult diners around you.

An ideal time to begin teaching manners is at the dinner table, when the whole family sits down to a meal. Consider the tips below when helping your children with their mealtime etiquette:

1. It is never too early to begin teaching manners. In fact, it is often better to start as early as possible instead of asking a school age child to learn numerous "rules" all at once. Manners should be taught slowly and in stages, so that they become second nature to the child. Very young children and even infants take their biggest cues for behavior from their parents, so a show of good manners will teach them how to act. Toddlers can be taught to say "please" and "thank you," and that they should sit still in their seat at mealtimes. Children of that age are also discovering new things every day, and love performing new activities and learning new skills. Take advantage of this to teach them how to correctly use utensils and set the table. You may even teach them the basics of cutting, using plastic knives and foods that are easy to cut.

2. Let your children know how they are doing, and be specific. Rewarding good behavior with praise will reinforce that behavior, but specific feedback, such as, "Thank you for setting the table. Now everyone has a place to sit," will go a lot further toward teaching your children than just general praise.

3. Always keep conversation at the table polite, and encourage your children to do the same. Even toddlers can learn polite conversation and how to wait their turn to talk, if their parents are there to guide them in the right direction. If everyone in the family engages in polite conversation, it will have the added benefit of increasing the bond among family members, as everyone takes the time to really listen and learn about what is going on in each other's lives.

4. Practice what you preach. Children will imitate their parents, so it is not enough to just teach them manners if you are not engaging in that same behavior yourself. Everything from polite conversation to the proper use of utensils to healthy eating habits can be learned by children watching their parents.

5. Children learn better in an orderly and consistent environment, so set up a routine for dinner every night. Remind your children out loud of polite behaviors, such as waiting until everyone is served before eating. Repetition will make it easier for your children to remember their manners. Be patient, as children may often need reminders and prompting, but a slow and steady commitment to teaching manners will help them the remainder of their lives.

Buon Giorno Rome, Italy!

2010-07-07T10:12:00.005-10:00

Arch of Constantine and the Roman Colosseum. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Where We Stayed in Rome

Hotel Teatro Di Pompeo

Largo del Pallaro, 8

00186 Rome, Italy

Tel: 06 6830 170

Cost: 160 € peak season, 140 € off season

The rooms here are small and very basic, yet comfortable, and since we spent most of the day exploring the city, they were more than adequate. Jumpstart your day at the free breakfast buffet with a cappuccino and an assortment of cold cuts, cheeses, cereals, yogurt, breads and pastries.

Advantages:
Central location in walking distance to Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Colosseum and more; great price; breakfast buffet so you don't have to think in the morning; air conditioning; VERY helpful staff who gave us wonderful suggestions and advice.

Disadvantages:
If you want something fancy, the spare rooms may not be what you were looking for. However, we also stayed at the ostentatious Rome Cavalieri (read below), and I enjoyed the Teatro di Pompeo so much more because of its convenience and simplicity. Also, the structure next door was being renovated, so it was a little noisy (not the fault of the hotel, of course).

Rome Cavalieri
Via Alberto Cadlolo 101
00136 Rome, Italy
Tel: 39 06 3509 1

Cost: $400 (average)

One word describes the Cavalieri: decadent. The hotel is what you would expect from a luxury Waldolf Astoria, whether it be in Rome or on Maui. The staff and services are great, the rooms are comfortable and spacious with views overlooking the city. The only reason we stayed here was because we had two free nights through our Hilton Honors Points program.

Advantages:
It's a Waldorf Astoria. It was free (for us).

Disadvantages:
When room service for a hamburger is $28, that's gotta be some hamburger (no, I didn't order, just looked). Inconvenient location. With all that luxury, it feels removed and sterile, like you're not really experiencing Rome.

When my husband first told me that we were going to Italy, I asked him to download an Italian-English translation application for his iPhone–not because of a secret desire to perpetuate stereotypes of obnoxious Americans mangling Italian, but because we were making our own travel arrangements which involved side trips into Florence and Cinque Terre, and I thought a little Italian would be handy.

So did he download the app? Of course not. After twenty-one years of marital bliss, I could hardly expect him to turn a new leaf and start asking directions. And in another language, to boot.

As it turned out, barring some minor mishaps, trying to get around without understanding a lick of Italian proved to be one of the many charms of our trip.

By the end of our stay I had come to love private moments stolen in crowded cafes infused with the expressive musicality of the language. The Americans seated at the next table became an intrusion, with their American coffee and pizza, abrasive requests for others to put out their cigarettes, and constant complaining. I didn't fly 8,000 miles from Honolulu to Rome (a 24-hour trip) to listen to a guy moaning about his girlfriend. For all I know, the Italians may have been having the same conversations, but in Italian it sounds so much nicer. Romantic, even.

Getting Around
Every taxi driver in Rome is Mario Andretti, racing on roads with no lines and few rules. Get used to it. I read a lot about taxi drivers supposedly ripping off tourists...however, I didn't get that perception. Maybe I was simply happy to arrive at my destination alive, without having flattened any motorcyclists or pedestrians along the way.

As for trains, here's where a little Italian and a lot common sense would have prevailed.

Our foray into Florence and Cinque Terre was a last minute decision, so we hadn't the time to make sense of the train schedules and to purchase our tickets online–we barely had time to juggle our hotel reservations.

When the Hotel Teatro di Pompeo concierge learned we had a tight schedule and no train tickets, she referred us to an English-speaking travel agent near the Area Sacra Argentina, Jazz Viaggi (Via del Sudario, 24 - 00186 - ROMA), where Marie made our train reservations.

At Roma Termini, a flustered family from Miami were just as lost as we were. However, by our first trip we were able to navigate our way and make changes to our tickets ourselves, despite the language barrier.

Lesson 1: Names and Destinations. You won't find Florence at the train station–Florence is called Firenze. Furthermore, trains are listed by final destination, so our train to Firenze was unlisted because it was really the train to Milan.

Lesson 2: Train Number. Because of Lesson 1, find your train by its number (Doh!). I know that sounds obvious, but hey, even the Miami sophisticates were clueless.

Lesson 3: Platform? Finding your train track at smaller stations that don't have departure information can be a pain. Just remember a few words: binario (platform), biglietto (ticket), treno (train), partenze (departures) and arrivi (arrivals).

Helpful Links:
Italiarail.com
Italyheaven.co.uk

Rome

The attractions in Rome speak for themselves. Everywhere you turn, you are humbled by the grandeur of ancient monuments. The city has done well in preserving their archaeological treasures–walls thousands of years old jut from the facades of more contemporary structures.

What makes the city even more inviting is its walkability—the heart of ancient Rome covered a compact 16 square miles, protected by 11 miles of walls. Small drinking fountains sprout from the sidewalk, and passersby refill plastic bottles or cool off in water that still flows from some of the ancient aqueducts.

Piazza Navona. Photo by Tammy Yee

Avoiding Lines at the Colosseum
The line at the Colosseum was atrocious. People were telling tourists they could avoid lines by joining the guided tours. After standing in the wrong line, we left at 2 pm, discouraged, and had a leisurely lunch just around the block at the Royal Art Cafe Restaurant, with panoramic views of the Colosseum. The pasta with tuna and eggplant was fantastic, and the food and wine refreshed me enough to sketch the Colosseum before once again tackling the queue.

View from the Royal Art Cafe Restaurant across from the Colosseum.

By 4 pm, the line had emptied considerably. We were glad we waited; those who took the guided tours looked rushed, whereas we had time to wander and photograph at our own pace. HOWEVER, after our Colosseum visit, we learned that we could have avoided the lines altogether by purchasing our tickets at the entrance to Palatine Hill, 200 meters away. Virtualtourist.com provides some useful information about purchasing tickets to the Colosseum, and making reservations online.

Vatican City

Here's another lesson in avoiding lines. Make your reservations online, as we did. It doesn't matter how early you arrive or on what day–the line into the Vatican Museum for those without reservations begins to the left of the entrance and winds around the block, and you can expect to wait at least an hour to get in.

The line to the right, however, moves quickly and is for tour groups and those with reservations. However, I did see (and read as well) that individuals with reservations simply walked right up between the two lines, hailed the attention of the security guards, and slipped right in between tour groups.

As you wander through this vast and spectacular complex, culminate your visit by working your way through the Rafael Rooms and on to the Sistine Chapel. After the Sistine, make your way to the exit on the right side–this will take you out near St. Peter's Basilica. We got disoriented in the Sistine and made the mistake of exiting on the left...this took us through long halls of what looked like endless lockers, and out the front entrance, farther from the Basilica than we intended.

St. Peter's Basilica. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Fun For Kids:

Print and Color the Flag of Italy:

Print and Color Constantine's Arch and the Colosseum:

Print and Build Constantine's Arch and the Colosseum:

Rome, Italy: Build Constantine's Arch and the Colosseum

2010-07-06T20:11:00.001-10:00

Print these paper models of Constantine's Arch and the Roman Colosseum. Cut out along outer solid line, then use tape or glue on tabs to assemble models. Who said Rome wasn't built in a day?

Colosseum. Photo by Tammy Yee.

The Colosseum
The Roman Colosseum, or Flavian's Amphitheatre, reflects the genius and grandeur of ancient Roman architecture and remains one of Rome's major attractions.

Construction on the Colosseum began almost 2,000 years ago during the reign of the Emperor Vespasian in 70 AD. Vespasian never saw the completion of his arena--at the time of his death in 79 AD, construction had reached the third level.

The top level was finally finished and inaugurated by Vespasian's son, Titus, in 80 AD. The inaugural games were a spectacle. 9,000 wild animals were slaughtered to the roar of spectators, and the arena was flooded with water to stage mock sea battles.

Colosseum. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Years later, Vespasian's younger son, the Emperor Domitian remodeled the Colosseum, creating a maze of underground tunnels and cages for gladiators, slaves and animals, and increasing its seating capacity by adding an upper gallery.

In its heyday the Colosseum sat 50,000 people who gathered to watch gladiatorial games, battle re-enactments, executions and staged animal hunts. Rhinos, hippos, elephants, lions and tigers were brought from across the known world for entertainment.

The Arch of Constantine. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Constantine's Arch
Beside the Roman Colosseum is a stately arch, 70 feet tall and 84 feet wide. Erected in 315 AD, the arch commemorates Constantine I's victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge. Inscriptions on both sides of the arch hail Constantine's military prowess and righteousness:

IMPERATORI CAESARI FLAVIO CONSTANTINO MAXIMO
PIO FELICI AVGVSTO SENATVS POPVLVSQVE ROMANVS
QVOD INSTINCTV DIVINITATIS MENTIS
MAGNITVDINE CVM EXERCITV SVO
TAM DE TYRANNO QVAM DE OMNI EIVS
FACTIONE VNO TEMPORE IVSTIS
REMPVBLICAM VLTVS EST ARMIS
ARCVM TRIVMPHIS INSIGNEM DICAVIT

To the Emperor Caesar Flavius Constantinus, the Greatest,
pious, fortunate, the Senate and people of Rome,
by inspiration of divinity and his own great mind
with his righteous arms
on both the tyrant and his faction
in one instant in rightful
battle he avenged the republic,
dedicated this arch as a memorial to his military victory.

Rome, Italy: Color Constantine's Arch and the Colosseum

2010-07-06T19:24:00.001-10:00

The Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Print and color:

United States Emblems: American Bald Eagle Origami

2010-07-03T08:48:00.001-10:00

Found throughout the continent from Alaska and Canada and south to Mexico, the bald eagle is the only eagle found only in North America. Once endangered, the American bald eagle is still protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act which makes it illegal to import or export eagles and eagle parts, nests or eggs without a permit.

Revered by Native Americans, this majestic bird with its distinctive white head was adopted as the National Emblem of the United States of America on July 20, 1872. Eagles soaring high above the battlefields during the Revolutionary war were said by patriots to be "shrieking for freedom." Since then, the eagle has come to symbolize freedom.

Directions:

1a. Print your eagle origami:

1b. To fold your eagle origami, follow the same directions as the owl origami: Cut out image along outer solid lines.

2a. Fold in half along diagonal line. Unfold.
2b. Repeat the diagonal fold on other side. Unfold.
2c. Fold down along horizontal line. Unfold.

2d. Your origami should be creased as shown.

3. Carefully fold along creases, forming a "tent" as illustrated.

4a. Turn origami over.
4b. & c. Fold diagonally on both sides, as illustrated.

5a. & b. Form tail by folding diagonally on both sides, as illustrated.

Turn over. You can leave your eagle's wings open or you may fold the wings forward.Your origami eagle is ready to fly!

Ladybug Origami: State Insect of Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio and Tennessee

2010-06-08T22:51:00.000-10:00

Ladybug feeding on aphids. Photo by Greyson Orlando

The ladybug is the state insect of Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio and Tennessee. In Massachusetts, it was a group of second graders from Kennedy School in Franklin who petitioned to make the ladybug their state's official insect.

Why ladybugs so popular?

Farmers and gardeners know how aphids, mites and scales can damage plants by sucking the sap from them. Ladybugs are beneficial because both adults and larvae prey on these pests.

The most common species is the convergent ladybug, which can be recognized by the 13 spots on its red to orange wings. Convergent ladybug larva eat their weight in aphids every day, and adults eat up to 50 aphids a day. Its larger European cousin, the seven-spot ladybug, has an even bigger appetite, devouring up to 300 aphids every day.

Bug or Beetle?

[Photo: Pudding4brains - Public Domain]

Ladybugs, or ladybirds, are not bugs at all. They are actually beetles.

Bugs have needle-like mouths that they use like straws to puncture their food so they can suck out nectar, sap or animal fluids. Bugs may or may not have wings. If they do, their wings are thin, like membranes. Baby bugs look like mini adult bugs...without the wings.

Beetles have chewing mouth parts, and feed on a wide range of plants and animals. Adult bugs have hard forewings that cover and protect the thin, membranous hindwings. And beetles, unlike bugs, undergo a complete metamorphosis. Beetle larvae, which look very different from adults, must enter a pupal stage before it transforms itself into an adult with hard outer wings.

Ladybugs gather in Mill Valley, California.

Photo by Kristopher Anderson.

Fun Facts:

There are over 450 species of ladybugs in North America alone. Of these, two, the Mexican bean beetle and the squash beetle, feed on plants and are considered pests.

Ladybugs spend the winter gathering in large groups beneath rocks, in leafy litter, or in hollowed trunks. In the spring they emerge to feed and find a place to lay their eggs.

Print and fold an Origami Ladybug:

Difficulty: Easy

Directions:

1. Print and cut out Ladybug Origami along outer solid line.

2. With printed side facing down, fold in half diagonally as shown.

3a. Turn origami over.
3b. Fold wing down, as shown.
3c. Repeat on other side.

4. Turn origami over. Fold ladybug's head forward, as shown, then up, as shown.

5. Turn origami over. Fold corner of wing back, as shown.

6. Repeat on other side, folding corner of wing back. Finally, fold corner of abdomen back as shown.

Wild Turkey Origami: State Game Bird of Alabama and Massachusetts

2010-06-08T10:21:00.005-10:00

Eastern wild turkey. Photo by Dimus.

The wild turkey, the largest and heaviest of all gamefowls, is native to North America and is the official state bird of Massachusetts.

The Eastern wild turkey is found in woodlands and savannas throughout the eastern U.S. and up into Canada, where they scrounge on forest floors and through grasslands for nuts, seeds, fruits, insects and salamanders. They were a favored food of Native Americans, and the first turkey encountered by the Puritans.

Turkeys, with their distinctive red wattles (males only), fanned tails and gobbling, have become so much a part of our national heritage and our traditional celebrations that's it hard to imagine an America without them. Yet, by the early part of the 20th century, hunting and the loss of woodland forests threatened to wipe them out. Fortunately, with intensive wild turkey reintroduction programs to relocate the birds to their native habitats, wild turkeys are here to stay.

Fun Fact:
Benjamin Franklin preferred the wild turkey as the national bird:

"For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral character. He does not get his Living honestly. You may have seen him perched on some dead Tree near the River, where, too lazy to fish for himself, he watches the Labour of the Fishing Hawk; and when that diligent Bird has at length taken a Fish, and is bearing it to his Nest for the Support of his Mate and young Ones, the Bald Eagle pursues him and takes it from him...

With all this Injustice, he is never in good Case but like those among Men who live by Sharping & Robbing he is generally poor and often very lousy. Besides he is a rank Coward...

I am on this account not displeased that the Figure is not known as a Bald Eagle, but looks more like a Turkey. For the Truth the Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America... He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a Bird of Courage, and would not hesitate to attack a Grenadier of the British Guards who should presume to invade his Farm Yard with a red Coat on."

1. Print Wild Turkey Origami.

2a. Cut out Turkey Origami.
2b. Cut along bold red lines, as shown by red arrows.
2c. Fold turkey tail feather back, as shown by blue arrow.

3. Accordion fold tail feathers, back and forth, as shown.

4. Repeat accordion folds on other side.

5. Fold body up as shown.

6a. Fold turkey body forward to center, as shown.

6b. Repeat on other side.

7. Fold turkey's head down, as shown.

8a. Fold corners of turkey body back, as shown.
8b. Fold top of tail back, as shown.

9a. Grasping tip of tail, pull down to open accordion pleats, as shown.
9b. Repeat on other side.

10. Fold bottom of body back, as shown.

Diana Fritillary Butterfly Origami, Arkansas State Butterfly

2010-06-06T11:15:00.002-10:00

The Diana fritillary butterfly is the official state butterfly of Arkansas. Found in wooded areas along southern and eastern North America, in the Arkansas River Valley and along the Appalachian mountains, this beautiful butterfly is noted for the dramatic differences between males and females. Males appear brown with bright orange markings, while females are dark blue with bright blue markings.

Diana fritillary caterpillars feed on violet leaves. As adults, they feed on flower nectar and dung.

Print and fold an origami Diana Fritillary Butterfly. For folding instructions, follow the same directions as the Two-tailed Swallowtail Butterfly Origami.

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

2010-05-23T09:40:00.003-10:00

USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

"The USS Arizona is the final resting place for many of the ship's 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives on December 7, 1941. The 184-foot-long Memorial structure spanning the mid-portion of the sunken battleship consists of three main sections: the entry and assembly rooms; a central area designed for ceremonies and general observation; and the shrine room, where the names of those killed on the Arizona are engraved on the marble wall."

~National Park Service

"Upon this sacred spot, we honor the specific heroes who surrendered their lives ... While they were in full bloom, so that we could have our full share of tomorrows."

~Olin F. Teague, Chairman, Veterans Affairs Committee
Dedication Ceremony May 30, 1962

Draft 1, page 1 of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Address to Congress of December 8, 1941 ("Day of Infamy speech"). Within an hour of the speech, Congress passed a formal declaration of war against Japan, bringing the United States into World War II.

A gleaming white monument stands sentinel in the still waters of Pearl Harbor, marking the final resting place of the USS Arizona. At 8:10 a.m. on December 7, 1941, a 1,760 pound Japanese bomb punched through her deck, igniting her forward ammunition magazine. Engulfed in a horrific fireball, the mighty battleship sank in nine minutes, trapping most of her crew aboard.

1,177 men remain entombed here. Accounting for almost half of the casualties suffered in the attack on Pearl Harbor, their sacrifice is forever memorialized on the shrine room's marble walls.

Today, a dark sheen escapes shadowy hull. Called "Black Tears," this steady leak of oil continues to rise to the surface, a reminder of that fateful day.

Planning your visit

Statistics: 4,500 visitors per day, 1.5 million visitors annually.
Open daily 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving, Christmas day and New Years Day. Tours to the memorial begin every 15 minutes. Admission free, no reservations accepted. Last tour begins at 3 p.m.
Children can download a Junior Ranger Activity Book.
To access park information, call (808) 422-3300.
Website: www.nps.gov/valr
While visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, you may purchase tickets to the nearby USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park and the USS Missouri on Ford Island.

An Iowa-class battleship, the USS Missouri ("Mighty Mo") was designed for speed and firepower and served as the site of Japan's unconditional surrender to the Allied Forces on September 2, 1945.

Visitor Information for the USS Missouri:

Open daily, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. except Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Years Day. Ticket window closes at 4 p.m.
Mighty Mo Pass (Admission): $20 adult, $10 child (ages 4-12)
Battle Stations Tour (Includes Mighty Mo Pass): $45 adult, $22 child

Security: What You Should Know

Due to increased security levels as dictated by the United States Navy, the following heightened security measures are currently in place at all Pearl Harbor attractions. Visitors are not allowed to bring bags of any size to the Battleship Missouri Memorial or other Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. This includes backpacks, diaper bags, fanny packs, camera bags, purses, luggage, shopping bags, large cameras or other items that offer concealment; also pockets and compartments that conceal are also not allowed. This restriction is subject to change without notice.

Color the Arizona Memorial:

Yosemite National Park, California

2010-05-14T00:33:00.009-10:00

El Capitan, Half Dome and Brideveil Fall. Photos by Tammy Yee.

Yosemite National Park ranks in my books as one of the ultimate family destinations. Ample restroom and dining facilities, an excellent bus system, and a multitude of activities sure to satisfy all levels of hikers, photographers and nature lovers alike, from the novice to the expert--all in a compact geographical area that features some of the most dramatic and beloved vistas in North America.

When we first planned our vacation in March of 2009, we were resigned to take a detour to the Wawona Entrance because of wintry road conditions. Fortunately, the National Park Service posts up-to-date information on road closures in Yosemite, and we learned that just days before our trip, Highway 140 through Mariposa County was re-opened, allowing us to enter through the iconic Arch Rock Entrance (left).

It's advisable that you always check travel conditions in and out of the park, either through their Road Status hotline (209/372-0200--press 1 then 1) or by tuning in to the National Park Service radio station, posted on multiple signs along the route.

A little story about spring road conditions. We learned beforehand that we needed tire chains to enter the park, so we bought a set at the Pep Boys in Merced. The nice folks at Pep Boys patiently educated our clueless Hawaiian travel party, and were even nice enough to give us a full refund when we returned the chains, unopened and unused, at the end of our vacation.

A snowy Brideveil Fall greeted us upon our entrance into Yosemite National Park.

Three days later the snow had melted, and Brideveil Fall was shrouded in mist and rainbows.

However, Yosemite in the spring is well worth that minor inconvenience. We had three days of snow, followed by thawing that allowed us to view the park in both winter and spring conditions. AND, Badger Pass, the oldest downhill skiing area in California, was open for skiing and snowboarding! That was an unexpected treat. Though from the perspective of the ski lift operator who had to (groan) stop the lift twice for the dumb Hawaiian who couldn't dismount (me), perhaps it wasn't so much of a treat.

Mirror Lake is a great hike for young families. The first section of the hike is paved, and ends with bathroom facilities and a small, shallow pond where both kids and parents can take a break. Further in you'll find the reflective lake.

Reservations inside the park are available 366 days in advance and are strongly recommended, especially for the busy summer months.

We stayed in the Yosemite Lodge at the Falls (right), which was not only conveniently located, but offered a spectacular view of Yosemite Falls as well as dining, internet access, gift shops, evening lectures and bus service throughout the park and up to Badger Pass...everything we needed to keep two 14-year-old boys occupied.


Yosemite Falls: the Upper, Middle and Lower Falls, before and after the thaw.

Aside from hiking, exploring and snowboarding, the park has several galleries and museums. The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center's exhibit hall features a free 23 minute film that documents the park's formation as well as an interactive display. Nearby is the Yosemite Museum, featuring the park's cultural history, with demonstrations of basket-weaving, beadwork and traditional games. And parents will enjoy the Ansel Adams Gallery.

Half Dome, from Sentinel Bridge.

One of our favorite family activities while visiting any national park is to collect photos of whatever wildlife we see--birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians an even insects--then to identify and compile a list which my boys can later compare to park guides. At Yosemite, there's no shortage of animals.

Stellar's Jay.

Of course, in any encounter, children should be taught to not approach or feed the wildlife. The park offers information about what to do if you encounter a bear, and there are strict rules about food left in cars...a challenge with children, even without the bear factor. Food, and any item associated with food handling (used containers, food wrappers, utensils, cups, crumbs, used napkins), or with aromas that may be mistaken for food (soaps, cosmetics), may only be kept in cars during the day if they are stored out of sight, with the windows completely closed. After dark, food may not be kept in your car, and should be stored in a food locker, available at the Curry Village parking lot or at many of the trailhead parking areas.

Be sure to visit the Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service) web site before planning your family vacation. There you'll find important safety tips and weather updates, as well as animal species lists and information about many of the park's attractions and programs.

Entrance Fees:
$20 per private car or $10 per person arriving on foot, horseback, bicycle, motorcycle, or on a non-commercial bus or passenger van (free for those 15 years old and younger).

Hours of Operation:
Open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, however the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station operates only during daylight hours, and some roads may be closed due to snow from November to May. Check road conditions before visiting in the winter. No reservations are needed if you are visiting; however, reservations are essential if you are lodging or camping overnight.

El Capitan, breathtaking in the early morning light. Photos by Tammy Yee.

Fun Facts:

Wildlife

There are more than 400 animal species in Yosemite! This includes vertebrates (animals with backbones) such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, as well as invertebrates (animals without backbones) such as insects, worms and snails. We carry an inexpensive pocket guide when visiting national parks. The plastic identification cards are compact and sturdy, great for younger children; while the pocketbook guides are great for older children.

Remember that however cute and cuddly they may appear, the animals are wild and should not be approached, harassed or fed.

90 mammal species reside in the park, including 14 which are endangered or threatened. Find a list of Yosemite's mammal species here.
Print your own Yosemite Bird Species Checklist.
Help park rangers by reporting animal sightings with a Wildlife Observation Card.
Join the Junior Park Ranger Program and learn more about your national parks.

Victoria, British Columbia

2010-04-13T16:22:00.006-10:00

A harbor seal scrutinizes a trio of harlequin ducks

In my opinion, Victoria, British Columbia ranks as one of the most scenic, family-friendly destinations. You'll find more than enough to do--museums, gardens and zoos for children, and world class restaurants and shopping for adults--all amidst the splendor of the rugged Pacific Coast.

The full moon rising over the Parliament Building

Fairmont Empress Hotel.

Our three days in this historic city after our Olympic National Park tour was too short. We skipped the "world renowned" tea service at the castle-like Fairmont Empress Hotel . My boys were more interested in spending countless hours on the shore, looking for river otters, sea otters and eagles--though I'm sure tea is a must-do if you're traveling with girls.

Royal British Museum in Victoria, BC.

Instead we explored the Royal British Columbia Museum. We were fortunate enough to visit while the exhibit, "Treasures: The World's Cultures of the British Museum" was on loan from the UK. Greek helmets, Egyptian papyrus, a mummy, gold Colombian masks, the Rosetta Stone and ancient artifacts spanning 1.5 million years of human history, from around the world--we couldn't have asked for more. Check the museum site for current exhibitions.

The Victoria Bug Zoo in downtown Victoria is literally, a hands-on adventure. This modest "hole-in-the-wall" houses an impressive collection of live crawling, flying, digging and jumping insects and spiders, big and small. If holding a tarantula, walking stick or millipede isn't your cup of tea, sit back and let your kid hold it, with the help of experienced "bug guides." The boys loved it. And yes, I held a red-kneed tarantula, but skipped the Madagascar hissing roach. Can't get enough of bugs? In the gift shop you'll find souvenir shirts and, for the brave, candies and lollipops with real bugs encased in them.

One of the highlights children will enjoy is the Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site. On the way, be sure to stop by the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Housed in a 12,000 square foot greenhouse, the garden explodes with exotic colors and scents as 3000 butterflies flit through the trees. Get up close and personal with the resident tropical birds, ducks and flamingos that frequent the indoor pond. My sons enjoyed the Butterfly Gardens more than the Butchart Gardens. Admission rates here.

Butchart Gardens is 55 acres of exploration a mere 40 minutes outside of Victoria. Descending into the lush landscape of blooming shrubs, weeping willows, ponds and fountains, it's easy to forget that this was once a quarry. In 1904, what cement manufacturer Robert Pim Butchart saw as an exhausted limestone deposit, his wife Jennie saw as an empty canvas. Little by little, the abandoned quarry was transformed into a sunken paradise.

The paved paths and themed gardens are great for families young and old. Strollers, park benches, changing stations and restrooms are strategically placed. Stop by the Visitor Information Center for a Family Discovery Walk worksheet, encouraging children to learn about the garden through drawing and discovery. In the Children's Pavilion you'll find the Rose Carousel ($2), sporting a menagerie of ostriches, bears, zebras and horses, as well as chariots to accommodate disabled persons. In the summer, enjoy the fireworks display every Saturday night. Click here for rates.

And of course, who can visit British Columbia without embarking on the requisite whale tour around the San Juan Islands?

I wouldn't recommend it for small children, as the boat ride is long and rather rocky...but if, like us, you don't happen to spot an orca, there's a lot of other wildlife the guides will be happy point out: harbor porpoises, harbor seals, elephant seals, nesting eagles and a multitude water birds.

For younger children, a visit along the shore will occupy them, and guarantee an encounter with Victoria's abundant marine life and birds.

Color the flag of Victoria, BC:

Color the flag of British Columbia:

More Victoria crafts and origami to come.

©2010 Tammy Yee
All rights reserved.

Japan

2010-04-08T10:14:00.008-10:00

Mount Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan, is actually an active volcano.

Japan, an island nation where more than 70 percent of the land is covered in mountains and hills, sits in the Pacific Ocean in what is called the Ring of Fire. Here massive plates of Earth's crust collide, creating volcanoes and deep sea trenches, and unleashing forces that are literally, earth-shattering: the islands are rocked by three minor earthquakes each day, or 1500 earthquakes every year. One out of every ten of the world's active volcanoes is found in Japan.

Japan has a rich cultural history stretching back tens of thousands of years. The Jomon and Ainu, two of Japan's earliest cultures, left behind some of the world's oldest pottery fragments. By 500 B.C. migrants from China and Korea introduced wet-land rice farming and metal-working.

Japan is home to the world's oldest surviving monarchy. Emperor Akihito can trace his lineage all the way back to Emperor Jimmu, who ascended the throne in 660 B.C. A legendary figure, Jimmu is regarded as the direct descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu.

Travel Fun: Mon
Before embarking on your family vacation, why not create a mon, or family crest? Mon were symbols of recognition for families and clans, or organizations such as merchant and artisan guilds. Most mon are designed in a circular pattern and feature animals or plants.

Here's the mon of the imperial family, that you can color. The mon is a yellow or gold chrysanthemum with 16 petals:

Here's another mon, used by the Tokugawa shoguns (generals), with three hollyhock leaves inside a circle:

What would your mon, or family crest look like? As you travel through Japan, how many mon can you find?

Fun Facts:

Name: Nippon-koku or Nihon-koku, "Land of the Rising Sun"

Founded: February 11, 660 BC (recognized as National Foundation Day)

National Anthem: Kimigayo ("The Emperor's Reign," one of the world's shortest anthems, with only 11 measures and 32 characters)

Capital: Tokyo
Head of State: Emperor
Head of Government: Prime Minister

Population: 127.5 million
Geography: archipelago of more than 4,000 islands. The four largest islands, Honshū, Hokkaidō, Kyūshū and Shikoku make up 97% of the land mass. The total area of Japan is about the size of Germany or Switzerland, or slightly smaller than California.
Money: yen

National Animals: green pheasant, koi

Holidays

March 3, Girl's Day
Hina Matsuri is the annual Girls' Day Festival celebrated on March 3 by families in Japan and Okinawa. Girls display their collections of elaborate dolls portraying the Japanese royal court, arranged on up to 7 tiers...
May 5, Boy's Day
On Boy's Day, Japanese families display beautiful carp banners outside their homes. Called koi-nobori, each streamer traditionally symbolizes a male in the household. The largest carp at the top represents the father, followed by the eldest son, while the littlest carp at the bottom represents the youngest boy...
Iris Festival (Shobu no Sekku). Each May, the beautiful iris, with long leaves resembling the blades of a sword, is celebrated. For centuries it was customary to place iris leaves in a boy's bath to give him a martial spirit. It is also believed that the powerful fragrance of the iris wards off evil, and in Yamashiro Onsen, Kaga-shi and Ishikawa, shrines are filled with straw bags stuffed with irises. The shrines are hoisted on the shoulders of young men and paraded around.

Print and fold an Iris Origami

Fun Stuff:

Coloring
Japanese Flag

Crafts
Carp Kite

Origami
Japanese Emperor

Japanese Empress

Olympic National Park, Washington

2010-04-02T08:56:00.001-10:00

Ruby Beach, Olympic National Park. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Primeval rainforests, rugged Pacific coastline, alpine forests and glacier-capped peaks, hot springs and tide pools...Olympic National Park has much to offer as a family destination.

Whether you're spending a day or a week at the park, a stop at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles will help you plan your family vacation.

Recommendation:
Falcon Guide produces a series of Best Easy Day Hikes, and we've found these useful while touring national parks, especially when we have a limited amount of time and require trails with bathroom facilities, or accommodations for family members with mobility issues.

Sea star at Salt Creek Tide Pools. Remember when visiting tide pools to always have a tide chart handy, and be sure to check ocean conditions with Park Rangers. Never turn your back to the ocean, and always keep children under close supervision.

Rocks may be slippery, so have proper footwear. Avoid trampling on plants and coral. Remember that tide pool creatures need to be submersed...return them to their pools, and if you lift a rock or a pebble while exploring, replace it in its original position.

There are a number of short hikes through old-growth forest that are suitable for young families. Sol Duc Falls is a 1.4 mi (round trip) hike through mossy temperate forests. Kids can look for millipedes and banana slugs along the way.

At Olympic National Park, you can explore several different ecosystems in a single day.

We stayed in a rustic cabin at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, which featured two queen-sized beds, a fully equipped kitchen, refrigerator, stove, microwave and (most importantly) coffee maker.

There are no telephones, radio, television or internet connection in the cabins, so tire the kids out during the day and have quiet activities (coloring books for the little ones, cards and puzzles for older children) and books available on hand.

Barn swallows swoop over the cabins at Sol Duc Hot Springs.

The restaurant overlooks the mineral hot springs where you can unwind after a day of hiking, and the convenience store will come in handy when packing for your day trip.

Other lodging is available within the park, some without modern distractions: Lake Quinault Lodge, Kalaloch Lodge and Lake Crescent Lodge. For families who can't vacation without television and wireless internet, there's the Olympic Lodge. For television and laundry but no internet, try the Rain Forest Resort Village. And for large families who prefer one and two bedroom suites, the Olympic Suites Inn is located within the city of Forks (tween alert: the popular Twilight series was filmed in forks!) along the Calawah River. Check for seasonal specials and make your reservations online.

Bald eagle over Rialto Beach

On the last day of our vacation we took a whirlwind tour, driving along the 73-mile scenic coast, stopping at Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach where we watched bald eagles soaring above the wind-sheared cliffs; took a short, family-friendly hike on snow-covered Hurricane Ridge, then explored the rich tide pools at Salt Creek, just outside the park boundaries.

Black tailed deer at Hurricane Ridge. Look for Olympic marmots, which are endemic to the Olympic Peninsula.

The Olympic National Park web site has articles and brochures you can download for children, to prepare them for your family vacation. Also, be sure to review the Park Service's Things To Know Before You Come.

Fun Facts:

Wildlife
Kids are chock full of questions you can't answer. Whenever we explore national parks, we always bring along an inexpensive pocket guide.

Our favorites are the boldly illustrated mammal, bird and plant identification guides and cards that turn hiking into a treasure hunt.

Download a list of animals you might see at Olympic National Park, and make a checklist that you can discuss after your family's day hike.

Remember that however cute and cuddly they may appear, the animals are wild and should not be approached, harassed or fed.

Pacific Northwest Marine Mammal and Seabird Word Search

Sea Otter
How much do you know about those lovable, fur-faced acrobats twisting and diving in kelp beds? Sea otters are one of the few mammals, aside from primates (monkeys and apes), to use tools. Floating on the surface of the water, they sometimes place a rock on their chest, using it as a hard surface to smash open shelled food like clams and abalone. Have you ever wondered how otters carry all that stuff to the surface? In their armpits, in loose skin folds! Try that with an urchin--better yet, don't try it.
Read more...

©2010 Tammy Yee
All rights reserved.

Fun Stuff:

Origami
Visitors in May and early June may be lucky enough to spot a bald eagle nest with new chicks:
American Bald Eagle Origami

Bald Eagle Paper Airplane

Humpback Whale

Sea Otter

One of the many butterflies you may find at Olympic National Park is the Western Tiger Swallowtail. Print and fold a swallowtail butterfly:

Hawaii

2010-04-01T20:35:00.004-10:00

Kohala Coast, photo by Tammy Yee.

White sand beaches, sunshine and unique culture...Hawaii has everything to offer on your next family vacation, including downtime for parents. Each of the main islands has its own personality, where you can explore a wide array of activities in diverse settings, from sandy shores, to tropical rain forests, to snow-capped volcanoes.

The Hawaiian Islands:

Oahu
From the gentle waves of Waikiki to the winter behemoths crashing along the famous North Shore, Oahu sports a third of the state's best surfing beaches.

North Shore Day Trip
Wintering on Oahu would be incomplete without visiting the North Shore...so rent a car and pack the kids. The waves at Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay can reach 30 to 40 feet; conditions in which only the best and bravest big-wave riders can compete. The roar of waves pounding the shore is an experience you won't forget.

Remember, as a safety precaution, always watch your children and never turn your back to the ocean. During high surf season, rogue waves can sometimes wash up on the beach, so keep children away from the shoreline.

While you're on the North Shore, stop by the Waimea Valley Audubon Center. Allow a couple of hours to explore 1,800 acres of tropical paradise, one of only two places where you can find Hawaii's elusive and endangered bat, the state's only endemic land mammal.

Torch Ginger, one of 5,000 species of tropical plants you'll find at Waimea Valley Audubon Center.
A leisurely 3.5 mi. hike or a ride aboard one of the free trams will take you to the 40-foot Waihi Falls (Waimea Falls). Call ahead to check on park conditions...the last time I visited, drought conditions had dried up the falls. But you'll still have a lot to see, and it's a great, inexpensive place where children can run free, and there are many small, safe side trails for kids to explore, as well as regular hula shows. Cost: Adults $8; seniors, military discount, local residents and children 12 and under $5; children under 3 free. Closed on New Year's Day and Christmas. Phone: (808) 638-9199.

On the way back to the hotel, be sure to take the kids to the old-time plantation-style Matsumoto Store in quaint Haleiwa town, for an island favorite, shaved ice. Li Hing Mui, lychee, guava, lilikoi, mango and coconut are just a few of the exotic flavors to experience--only in Hawaii!

One of your few opportunities to get up close to Hawaiian wildlife is also in Haleiwa. To the side of Haleiwa Beach Park is Ali'i Beach, where large pacific green sea turtles regularly come ashore to bask in the sun. The high tide water line at the beach is often strewn with debris, great for beach combers.

A sea turtle basks at Ali'i Beach, Haleiwa. Photo by Tammy Yee.

Before leaving Haleiwa, stop by Macky's Shrimp Truck, near the Haleiwa roundabout, to savor the best garlic shrimp in the islands (app. $12). Then topping off your trip, stop by Dole Plantation, where the kids can ride a sugar train (Adults - $7.75, Children 4-12- $5.75 9:30 am to 4:30 pm) or wander through Pineapple Garden Maze, which held the 2001 Guinness World Record as the world's largest maze (Adults - $6.00, Children 4-12- $4.00 9:30 am to 4:30 pm) while you kick back with a waffle cone of pineapple sherbert.

Fun Facts:

On August 21, 1959, Hawaii became the 50th state of the union.

The Hawaiian flag was commissioned by Kamehameha the Great in 1816 while Hawaii was still a kingdom. The eight stripes represent the eight major Hawaiian islands (Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau) and the Union Jack in the upper left corner symbolizes the kingdom's friendship with Britain.

Color the Hawaiian Flag

Nickname: The Aloha State

Motto: Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka 'Aina I Ka Pono (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness)

Song: Hawai'i Pono'i (written by King David Kalakaua)

Capital: Honolulu (on Oahu)

Geography: the Hawaiian Archipelago consists of 132 islands stretching over 1500 miles, and is one of the most remote places on Earth.

Population: 1.3 million

Demographics: Hawaii is known for its diversity. There are no ethnic majorities.

Japanese 23.3%

White 18.7%

Filipino 11.6%

Chinese 10.7%

Hispanic 4.4%

Korean 4.2%

Native Hawaiian 3.6%

African American 1.6%

Vietnamese 1.6%

Samoan 1.5%

Flower: Ma'o hau hele (yellow Hawaiian hibiscus, or Hibiscus brackenridgei)

Bird: nene (Hawaiian goose)

Color Hawaii's State Bird

Mammal: Humpback Whale
Insect: Pulelehua (Kamehameha Butterfly)
Tree: kukui (candlenut)

Gemstone: black coral

Color Hawaii's State Gem

History

World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

"The USS Arizona is the final resting place for many of the ship's 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives on December 7, 1941..." read more

Color the USS Arizona Memorial:

Kamehameha, the Lonely One
Legend surrounds the birth and death of Hawai'i's greatest warrior-king. Kamehameha I, also known as Kamehameha the Great...read more

Color Kamehameha the Great

Nature

Pacific Green Sea Turtle (Honu)
Did you know that all the hatchlings in the nest of the Pacific green sea turtle are either male or female? The sex of the turtles is determined by the temperature of the nest. Cooler nests produce a clutch of males, while warmer nests produce females...read more
Color a Baby Sea Turtle

Hawaiian Monk Seal
Today, there are less than 1,500 Hawaiian monk seals in the entire world. Monk Seal Hawaiian monk seals are one of only two mammals that are endemic, or found only in Hawaii...read more
Color a Hawaiian Monk Seal Pup

Fun Stuff:

Coloring
Count and Color Creatures of the Reef

Mammals of Hawaii

Hawaii State Flag
Under the Sea with Baby Honu

Crafts

Hawaiian Honeycreeper Mask

Hawaiian Owl Mask

Origami
Dollar Bill Folding: Aloha Shirt
Green Sea Turtle (Honu)
Hawaiian Butterfly (Pulelehua)

Hawaiian Limpet ('Opihi)

Hawaiian Owl (Pueo)
Humpback Whale

Puppets
Hawaiian Owl and Turtle

Puzzles
Kamehameha the Great Crossword

Coloring and Activity Books for long trips

Hawaiian Books Your Child Might Like:
A is for Aloha From the meaning of the word aloha to the plight of the state bird author U'ilani Goldsberry answers questions that most Malihinis have about this lush multi-island paradise. Completes Sleeping Bear Press's acclaimed Discover America State by State series.	From Hawai'i with Aloha, Grandma and Grandpa Did you know... That Kilauea has spewed enough lava to fill more than a million Olympic-sized swimming pools? That a newborn humpack whale calf drinks one hundred gallons of milk a day? Or that twenty-seven Waimea Canyons stretched end to end can fit into the Grand Canyon? Children learn about the wonders of Hawai'i as they join Grandma and Grandpa on a trip through the Hawaiian Islands.	Baby Honu's Incredible Journey Baby Honu has just hatched from his egg. Will he find the courage to face sand crabs and sea birds on his perilous journey to the sea? And what wondrous creatures will he encounter in the ocean? A best-selling island classic, with a helpful glossary to educate children about Hawaiian marine life.

Paper Maracas

2010-03-27T21:40:00.000-10:00

Here's a fun activity the kids can make before your family vacation to Mexico: Print and fold paper maracas!

Directions:

1. Print maracas on card stock paper.

2. Cut out along solid black lines.

3. Fold tabs and assemble with tape, leaving square top of maracas open.

4. Fill maracas with a few dried beans, then tape top closed.

©2010 Tammy Yee
All rights reserved.

Alabama, the Yellowhammer State

2010-03-27T08:38:00.002-10:00

Color the Alabama State Flag:

Admission: 22nd State (December 18, 1819)
Capital: Montgomery

Nicknames:
The Heart of Dixie (unofficial)
The Yellowhammer State (originating from the Civil War)
The Cotton State (unofficial)

State Motto: Audemus jura nostra defendere (We Dare Maintain Our Rights)
State Song: Alabama, lyrics by Julia S. Tutwiler, music by Edna Gockel-Gussen

State Amphibian: Red Hills Salamander
State Bird: Yellowhammer Woodpecker
State Bird (Game Bird): Wild Turkey

Wild Turkey Origami

State Butterfly: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail

Tiger Swallowtail Origami

State Fish (Freshwater): Largemouth Bass
State Fish (Saltwater): Fighting Tarpon
State Flower: Camellia

Pink Camellia Origami

State Flower (Wildflower): Oak-leaf Hydrangea
State Gem: Star Blue Quartz
State Insect: Monarch Butterfly

Monarch Butterfly Origami

State Mammal: Black Bear
State Mineral: Hematite
State Reptile: Red-Bellied Turtle

Red-bellied Turtle Origami

State Tree: Southern Longleaf Pine

Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly Origami, Mississippi State Butterfly

2010-03-25T10:15:00.001-10:00

This black swallowtail butterfly can be found in the eastern United States, and occasionally as far north as southern Ontario and south to Cuba. Caterpillars feed on spicebush or sassafras, while adults feed on nectar from azaleas, milkweed and thistle flowers.

The spicebush swallowtail is the official state butterfly of Mississippi.

Difficulty: Easy

Directions:

For the next few steps, follow instructions to Monarch Butterfly Origami:
2a. Print and cut out your two-tailed swallowtail origami. With printed side facing down,
2b. Fold in half diagonally along B.
2c. Unfold and repeat the diagonal fold along C.

3a. With printed side facing up,
3b. Fold in half horizontally along A.
3c. Unfold. Your origami should be creased as illustrated.

4. Carefully fold along creases, forming a "tent" as illustrated.

5a. Fold the right "tent" corner up along D, as illustrated.
5b. Fold the left "tent" corner up along E, as illustrated.

6. Your Origami Swallowtail Butterfly should look like this:

7. Turn butterfly origami over, printed side down.

8a. Fold up along F. Note that corners will pull in to either side.
8b. Crease corners flat, as indicated by arrows.

9. Turn your origami butterfly over.

10a. Fold butterfly in half vertically, so wings are together.
10b. Crease one wing down, diagonally, to form body.
10b. Fold down the other wing, diagonally, as shown.

11. Open wings up. Your butterfly is done!

Two-tailed Swallowtail Butterfly Origami, Arizona State Butterfly

2010-03-25T08:59:00.001-10:00

Arizona's official state butterfly, the two-tailed swallowtail, can be found throughout Arizona and in parts of California, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado and Nevada.

Found in canyons feeding on chokecherry, rosewood and sycamore, it can easily be mistaken for the tiger swallowtail--however, unlike the tiger, the two-tailed swallowtail has thinner black stripes on its wings, and has two tails on its hind wings.

Mexico

2010-03-23T10:25:00.026-10:00

Fun Facts:

Color the Mexican Flag:

Mexico is not only the third largest and the second most populous country in Latin America, it is also home to the most Spanish speakers in the world.

Name: United Mexican States
Capital: Mexico City

Holidays

Fun Stuff:

Origami
Cinco De Mayo Boy
Cinco De Mayo Girl

Paper Projects
Print and Fold Paper Maracas

China

2010-03-23T10:19:00.013-10:00

Chinese history spans thousands of years, spanning the early habitation by Peking Man 300,000 to 780,000 years ago, the 4,000 year-old Xia Dynasty, the establishment of a unified Chinese state under the "First Emperor" Qin Shi Huang in 221 BC, to modern day China.

One of the great cradles of civilization, China was one of the few to invent writing, alongside the Mesopotamians, Egyptians and Mayans.

Fun Facts:

Color the flag of China:

Name: People's Republic of China (Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo)

Established: 1949

Capital: Beijing

Language: Standard Chinese or Mandarin

Meaning of the Flag: Red symbolizes revolution, the large gold star symbolizes communism, while the four small stars represent the people

The Chinese Zodiac

Chinese astrology can be traced back more than 4,000 years ago when Emperor Yao ordered court astronomers to create a calendar so people would know when to plant and sow. 2,000 years later during the Tang dynasty (AD 618-907), astrology gained popularity when court officials were ordered to construct a Chinese almanac or Tung Shu. The almanac listed auspicious days to open a business, marry, embark on a journey or make other personal decisions.

There are 12 signs in the Chinese Zodiac: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Boar . People born under a certain sign will inherit some of the personality of that animal. Thus, those born in the year of the Tiger are courageous and dignified, like the Tiger, while those born in the year of the Dog are loyal and devoted, like the Dog.

Fun Stuff:

Paper Crafts
Chinese Lion Paper Bag Puppet

Dragon Fortune Teller

Origami Chinese Dragon Puppet

Monarch Butterfly Origami: State Butterfly of Minnesota, Vermont and West Virginia, State Insect of Alabama

2010-03-19T16:22:00.003-10:00

With its distinctive orange and black markings, the monarch butterfly is the most famous of North American butterflies, best known for its long migrations.

No single butterfly survives the journey. Instead, it takes four generations of butterflies to travel south to southern California and Mexico to winter in warmer climates. There, they roost by the thousands, sometimes covering trees. In the spring, they begin the long migration back up to the United States and Canada.

The monarch butterfly is the official state butterfly of Minnesota, Vermont and West Virginia.

Print and Fold a Monarch Butterfly Origami:

Difficulty: Easy

Directions: Follow the same directions as below.

1a. Print and cut out image along outer solid lines.

2a. With printed side facing down,

2b. Fold in half along diagonal line.

2c. Unfold and repeat the diagonal fold on other side.

3a. With printed side facing up,

3b. Fold in half along horizontal line.

3c. Unfold. Your paper should be creased as illustrated.

4. Carefully fold along creases, forming a "tent" as illustrated.

5a. Fold the right "tent" corner up along line A, as illustrated.
5b. Fold the left "tent" corner up along line B, as illustrated.

6a. Turn butterfly over, printed side down.
6b. Fold down along line C.
6c. Pinch or crease in center as illustrated.

Your monarch butterfly is ready to fly!

Camellia Origami, Alabama State Flower

2010-03-15T18:41:00.001-10:00

The Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica), also known as the "Rose of Winter," is the most beautiful and prized of all the camellias. Originally from China, Japan and Korea, the Japanese Camellia is the official state flower of Alabama.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Directions:

1. Print and cut out Camellia origami along outer solid lines.

2a. With printed side facing down, fold half along horizontal line as shown. Unfold.
2b. Fold in half along vertical line as shown. Unfold.

3. With printed side facing up, fold in half along diagonal line as shown. Unfold.

4. Your camellia origami should be creased as shown:

5. Fold along blue lines, pulling in on red lines to create a "tent" fold as shown. Your camellia should now be shaped like a diamond.

6a. Fold back right white corner as shown.
6b. Repeat on other side, folding left white corner back as shown.

7. Turn your origami over.

8. Repeat process, folding back right and left white corners.

9."Open" your camellia by pulling out right petal, then pulling out left petal.

10. Complete your camellia by folding back down, as shown.

Iris Origami: State Flower of Louisiana, Michigan and Tennessee

2010-03-14T06:52:00.005-10:00

The iris is the official state flower for Tennessee, and the official state wildflower for Louisiana (Louisiana iris) and Michigan (dwarf lake iris), and .

In Japan, the Iris Festival (Shobu no Sekku) is held each May in honor of this symbolic flower, the long leaves of which resemble the sharp blades of a sword. For centuries it was customary to place iris leaves in a boy's bath to give him a martial spirit.

There more than 200 species of iris around the world, and although we often think of irises as brilliant purple flowers, they in fact come in a variety of colors. In fact, the name "iris" comes from the Greek word for rainbow.

Iris Origami

Difficulty: Easy

Directions:

1a. Print and cut out iris origami along outer solid lines.
1b. Fold along diagonal line A as shown.
1c. Fold in half again, along vertical line marked in red.

2a. Note diagonal line, marked in red.
2b. Fold up along diagonal line.
2c. Unfold.

3a, b & c. Carefully open upper "flap" along creases to form a diamond, as shown.

4a. Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the reverse side, so that both sides resemble diamonds.
4b & c. Fold along the red lines so that the corners meet at the center, as shown.

5a. Fold along red lines,
5b. toward the center so that your origami appears as shown. Repeat on the reverse side.

6. Fold right side of origami over so that the picture of the large flower petals is showing. Repeat on reverse side.

7. Fold inner petals down as shown.

©2010 Tammy Yee
All rights reserved.

Red-Bellied Turtle Origami, Alabama State Reptile

2010-03-08T10:50:00.002-10:00

There are three species of red-bellied turtles in the United States: the endangered Alabama red-bellied turtle (Alabama's official state reptile), the threatened Eastern red-bellied turtle (also known as the American red-bellied turtle or the Northern Red-bellied Cooter), and the Florida red-bellied turtle.

The threats to these brightly colored turtles are many, ranging from wetland loss, habitat fragmentation, pollution, collection of turtles for food and pets. In Alabama, fences are being built to protect turtles crossing highways in search of nesting areas.

Alabama red-bellied turtle:

Print and Fold an Origami Red-Bellied Turtle:

Difficulty: Easy

Directions:

1A. Print and cut out origami along outer solid lines.
1B. Fold up along line A. Unfold.
1C. Fold down along line B. Unfold.

2A. Turn paper over so that printed side is facing down.
2B. Fold up along diagonal line C. Unfold.
2C. Fold up along diagonal line D. Unfold.

3A. Fold down along diagonal line E. Unfold.
3B. Fold down along diagonal line F. Unfold.
3C. Your origami should now be creased as illustrated.

4A. Fold bottom half up along creases as shown.
4B. Fold top half down along creases as shown.
4C. Your origami should appear as illustrated.

5A. Fold head up.
5B. Fold rear flipper down as shown.
5C. Repeat on other side.

6A. Turn your turtle over, so that the printed side is facing up.
6B. Fold side of shell under as shown.
6C. Repeat on other side.
6D. Fold top of shell under.

"Accordian" fold the tail by tucking it back, then folding it forward. Your red-bellied turtle origami is done!

Print red-bellied turtle origami