Last Minute Ideas to Celebrate the Eclipse

August 18, 2017August 18, 2017Leave a comment

If you have been on social media or seen the news anytime recently, then you know there’s a pretty significant solar event on Monday. It’s been especially the “talk of the town” for us, since the eclipse passes right over our little town in Upstate, SC. First and foremost, PLEASE, PLEASE view the eclipse SAFELY!!! Here are some tips from NASA on eclipse safety.

{Downloadable Map at NASA.gov}

I had the opportunity to create this fun invitation for a client who was WAYYYYYY ahead of me in planning for the #GreatAmericanEclipse happening on Monday, August 21st:

But if you’ve had a month anything like me, an eclipse party did not materialize from space. Back in the spring, we heard that there were going to be about as many people in li’l ol’ Anderson as for a Clemson football game (100 thousand or so…). In recent weeks, we’ve heard rumors that the number could be closer to 2 million. This week a friend listed their house on airbnb AND BOOKED IT for $1500 for two nights. HOLY ECLIPSE CRAZINESS BATMAN. That’s insane.

Even though I’m not going to get to have an amazingly, Pinterest-ly beautiful, Eclipse party, I am still going to try to get moon groovy on Monday. Even though I’ll be at work most of the day, there are still some fun things we can all do to celebrate, official party or not!

Watch the NASA Edge MegaCast: On August 21, 2017, NASA EDGE will join forces with the NASA Heliophysics Education Consortium, the University of Southern Illinois Carbondale, and Lunt Solar Systems to air a 4-hour 30-minute live webcast of the total solar eclipse from outside Saluki Stadium at Southern Illinois University Carbondale in Illinois. The webcast will begin airing at 11:45 AM EDT (3:45 PM UTC). During course of the Megacast, NASA EDGE will be tracking the eclipse as it starts in Oregon and makes its way across the country ending in South Carolina. You will be introduced to some of the leading experts in the field of Heliosphysics and learn all about the Sun-Earth Connection. Lunt Solar Systems will be providing high resolution and stunning imagery of the eclipse in three different wavelengths of light: Hydrogen-Alpha, Calcium-K, and white light. Oh by the way, you will experience a scientific balloon launch from inside Saluki Stadium, observe several science demonstrations, learn how you can become a citizen scientist, and engage with subject matter experts through social media. So if you’re unable to view the eclipse in person, don’t worry. Sit back, relax and let NASA EDGE turn your location into the best seat in the house!

Declare it a half-calorie day and take advantage of pre-made sun and moon themed food. Think SunKist, SunMaid Raisins, MoonPies, MilkyWay candy bars, Capri-Suns, Eclipse gum, Sun Chips…you get the idea. 🙂 See 10 more eclipse party food ideas HERE.

{Photo Cred: Less Than Perfect Life of Bliss}

Try your hand at photography and get your best eclipse photos using these tips from PicMonkey’s experienced landscape photographer and CEO Fritts Habermann. Read the full blog post HERE.

Make an eclipse pinhole projector. Here are some references from NASA.

Join a pre-planned party near you! Check out events near you! This map from NASA has events tagged all over the US, but here are some for our Upstate, SC and Tallahassee, FL followers:

Upstate, SC:

Black-Out @ Green Pond // Experience the eclipse from the shores of Lake Hartwell @ Green Pond Landing & Event Center. Green Pond’s unobstructed view-shed is to the Southwest, where the eclipse will occur. We’ll have an astronomer on-site to provide information and answer questions. Contact Visit Anderson for more information 877- 282-4650. Event Location: Green Pond Landing & Event Center: 470 Green Pond Rd. Anderson, SC 29625

Denver Downs Viewing Party // It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event! Our Eclipse Viewing Party is an experience that you and your family should not miss! Anderson, SC, is in the path of totality for the Total Solar Eclipse. Observers there will see approximately 2 minutes 34 seconds of totality! Total Eclipse at 2:37 PM. Music, food, activities and eclipse viewing celebration! Denver Downs Farm, 1515 Denver Road, Anderson, SC 29625

Eclipse Over Clemson // Clemson University is the only nationally ranked public research university in the path of totality for the 2017 solar eclipse, presenting a rare opportunity to share this extraordinary scientific event with the public at large. Clemson is making its scientists, experts and main college campus — which will experience a total solar eclipse at 2:37 p.m. Monday, August 21 — available to the public and the working press leading up to and on the day of the astronomical event. Connect with Clemson to see how you can share this once-in-a-lifetime experience with us! Event Location: 118 Kinard Laboratory Clemson University Clemson, SC 29634 #EclipseOverClemson

Solar Eclipse 2017 at Roper Mountain // Roper Mountain in Greenville, SC is the place to catch this rare celestial event! Greenville County and parts of surrounding counties will be in the path of totality for this awe-inspiring eclipse of the Sun on August 21, 2017. The rest of the Eastern United States will see only a partial eclipse. This spectacular event will engulf Greenville at 2:38PM (EST) in a dark shadow for around two minutes, giving observers a once in a lifetime celestial experience! Eclipse Week Activities: August 14 – 21, 2017 Special Hours Eclipse Day! Full Dome Shows in the new T.C. Hooper Planetarium. Special Programs on safe viewing of the eclipse. Special observation sites with Astronomers assisting visitors. Tours of the Daniel Observatory and historic 23 inch Alvan Clark Refractor Telescope, the 8th largest refractor in the country. Event Location: Roper Mountain Science Center 402 Roper Mountain Rd. Greenville, South Carolina 29615 United States

Belton SolarFest // On August 21, 2017, America will witness the first total solar eclipse visible in almost four decades. One of the best places to view it? Belton, South Carolina. Join us at the Listening Room on Main for a live streaming of the eclipse from NASA headquarters, hot dog sale, kids’ art contest, crafts, and more. Next door, Belton Center for the Arts will be featuring a full gallery exhibit of artwork related to the Great Eclipse. These events are free and open to the public. Join us for this historic experience! Event Location: 300 City Square, Belton, SC For more information search the web for : beltoncenterforthearts events

Tallahassee, FL:

Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee // In addition to the eclipse viewing, there will be educational activities and a planetarium show about the eclipse playing at 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm. All solar eclipse activities and planetarium shows are provided free of charge by theChallenger Learning Center of Tallahassee and the Tallahassee Astronomical Society. Event Location: 2200 S. Duvall Street, Tallahassee, FL

Eclipse Party at Frenchtown Farmer’s Market // Pre-party for the eclipse with Moon Pies and Sun Tea! We’re celebrating the Great American Eclipse by getting you ready for the biggest August tailgate event ’til 2045. This tasty demo is one not to be missed!
Of course, all your favorite vendors will be on hand and even some new faces. Come spend up your farmers market coupons before they expire with our new farmer from Tifton GA, Brighton Farm. Double your SNAP, and make new friends, as we get together to #GrowCommunity. 524 N. MLK Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32301

Eclipse Viewing Event at Maclay School, contact cbarton@maclay.org

Make an eclipse craft with your kiddos! Here are several options:

You can also learn even more about the Eclipse at NASA’s Eclipse 101 page.

…and please comment with your plans for Monday! We’d love to hear what you’re doing to celebrate this once in a lifetime experience.

Lauren {LAC} James is a Sr. Designer of Product Graphics for an international manufacturing company by day and a creativity crusader, designer, planner extraordinaire, artist and blogger in her “free” time. Follow her and The Olive Shoe on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram! Please subscribe to receive emails, and of course, come back and visit again soon!

Creative Water Animal Activities

August 17, 2017August 17, 2017Leave a comment

During the month of August my children often discuss water animals. Between shark week, beach trips, and it being the first theme at school each year – they get very interested in water animals during this month. I personally LOVE water animals and never really tire of looking at them or learning new things. Here are some great ideas to help you children create, learn, and engage different senses with water animals.

Sensory – Sensory activities are so important for a variety of reasons. They can help children who have sensory issues and it also teaches all kids about the importance of using and trusting their senses! Here are some great water animal activities that are fantastic for sensory learning.

Love this ocean dough idea! Cute and easy to create!

Love this fishing game!

I love this sensory activity because it includes sorting and a variety of textures:

Love this sensory activity because it is something they can continue to play with long after the activity is over.

I love this sensory table activity because it includes math and science as well.

I love this sensory activity because it includes element of environmental awareness:

I love this sensory activity because it is part sensory and part science.

Science – I love science activities for the kids. They are great for learning and so fun for me to do as well. Science activities are so important to understanding the world around us. These are terrific because they show a variety of different unique characteristics specific to water animals!

I love this activity because of the different layers and levels that can be completed by the children.

I love this activity because it involves both math and science!

This is another great activity demonstrating the layers of the ocean.

This science experiment is so fun!

Love that this science activity involves animals outside of ocean animals.

I love this environmental awareness activity.

Here is a great list of additional science activities that involve water animals:

Creations – Children love to create new and unique creations. It definitely promotes children to use all kinds of skills and creates a positive self-outlook. These creations are super fun and should keep your children entertained for hours as well.

I love this craft so much! It’s beautiful and so creative!

This book is great and I love the associated project that goes with it.

Ok so this isn’t necessarily a craft, BUT it is a great way to help children with reading and letters!

Love these Jellyfish creations!

I love this creation… guaranteed to create hours of imaginative play:

I love this creation with the different forms of medium:

Love this turtle creation:

Love this creation activity because of all the options children have to be creative:

Love this creation!

I love this great list of water creature creations!

There are so many more great water animal activities out there that it was kind of hard to choose. I hope you enjoyed these activities as much as I do. These activities are great for a variety of reasons because they inspire creative play in addition to different learning activities. I hope they inspire some great family memories because that is what these activities should really bring out for both you and your child!

Lauren Cop is a SAHM (Stay At Home Mom) of Irish Twins and Senior writer/editor of the Olive Shoe Blog. Currently Lauren and her family live in Tallahassee, FL where she helps teach at a local pre-school. A Clemson fanatic, alumni and general sports enthusiast. She loves reading, gardening, food, and traveling. Follow her Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Lauren {LAC} James is a Sr. Designer of Product Graphics for an international manufacturing company by day and a creativity crusader, designer, planner extraordinaire, artist and blogger in her “free” time. Follow her and The Olive Shoe on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram! Pleasesubscribe to receive emails, of course, come back and visit again soon!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Other Posts by Lauren Cop:

What Is The Olive Shoe? The Short and The Long-ish Version…

August 14, 2017August 14, 2017Leave a comment

“When I stopped trying to find what was perfect for me, perfect showed up.” – LAC

“Sooooooooo (higher pitched – very long ‘o’ sound)… what IS the olive shoe? Do you sell shoes?” We get this a lot. I’ve actually had people tell me to change the name of my business because it’s misleading. Valid point. But, no thank you.

Actually, a good portion of this post typically resides under our “ABOUT” or “START HERE” pages depending on whether you’re on the home page or blog, but coming up on 4 years of this little dream becoming a reality…I thought it was worthy of an “informative post” with a little expansion, a refresher for some, and just a little update for all.

The Olive Shoe has always been a bit of a work in progress, but it has taken a more solid shape in the last couple of years with the growth of my invitation and stationery business and the addition of Lauren Cop to the blog. (We seriously have had a blast, y’all!)

The adventure started as about 100 post it notes on my dining room wall, set to a soundtrack of The Avett Brothers, Mumford and Sons, and Adele. It was a creative voice while I was finding my footing again after a ginormous life shake up. It was a realization of a calling, a stir within, and a sweet spot to explore all the things creative through writing and photos on the interwebs and share with whoever wanted to follow along. I have always known I would do something creative for a living, and when I stopped trying to find what was perfect for me, perfect showed up…in ALL aspects of my life.

One by one friends, and family, and friends of friends began to ask for things I designed – especially my invitations and stationery. I started dabbling more in acrylic painting. I looked up how to do this and that and then how to produce this and that. A little more recently, as a gift for a dear friend, I picked up watercolor painting again after a near 10 year long hiatus…and what I had first taught myself came back just like riding a bicycle.

So what IS The Olive Shoe?

The short answer is that The Olive Shoe is a serving dish. This…drumroll pleaaaaasssseee…is the olive shoe:

But, as evidenced by the company name, it means a little more than that, so here’s a little back story…This is me and my Grandma when I just a wee little thing…

{Grandma and I in 1981}

We have a shoe thing. You see, she is quite a fashionable woman…one of the most stylish, polished, classy, kind, generous, ladylike women I’ve ever met and probably ever will. It is truly an honor to know her, and it’s an understatement to say that I’m lucky to have her as my Grandma. Tear. Whew!

Anyhoo, like I was saying, we have a shoe thing. She began commenting on my shoes when I was in middle school and started wearing something more than the white Keds® that everyone used to wear wayyyyyyyyy back in the late 80s and early 90s (and apparently they’re coming back?? Hellllooooo age check. *facepalm. Sometimes she approved of my shoe choices, and well, sometimes…she…didn’t. It was always fun to wear a new pair to see her, though, and gauge her reaction. Honestly, I still choose my shoes thoughtfully when I know I’m going to see her.

{The illustration above is of a pair of shoes I had in college. I adored them. Sadly, one of them broke after I had owned them for about a year…sigh…I still miss them…}

Over the years, we’ve given each other shoe themed gifts as kind of a running joke, and just for fun, and well, now I have quite a few eclectic items – a clock, a shoe matching game (like Memory), shoe note cards, shoe dessert plates, shoe towels, a shoe cell phone holder, shoe wine charms, shoe wine stoppers, shoe throw pillows…. And enough shoe ornaments to decorate a 3’ Christmas tree, which highly entertains people….and THE olive shoe dish is one of said “eclectic items”.

In the more recent past, the olive shoe (the dish) has come to be expected when I entertain, filled with olives of course. It is one of my favorite things, and it has come to represent several additional values, ideas and meanings:

– A bit of an obsession… I love shoes. (You’re probably at this point thinking, well yeah, obviously)… but I really do love them. New shoes, old shoes, comfy broken in shoes, shoes that you only wear once a year, kitten heels, ballet flats, wedges, flip flops, suede, patent leather, canvas, pumps, peep toes, stilettos OH MY! I love them. My heart skipped a beat writing all those adjectives…I’m a shoe nerd. Lawwwwwwdd knows I can’t afford all the shoes I want (or have the space to store them), but oh how I do love them….

– A reminder… I am quite a sentimental mush when it comes down to it, and little things like a serving dish shaped like a high heel can grow to embody so much more than what they are to the naked eye over time and usage. For obvious reasons, it reminds me of my grandmother and how dear she is, and as a result, of family… and FRAMILY (Oh, and side note, I often use non-Oxford words, soooo…please just bear with me). The olive shoe, as a dish, could easily get knocked off a counter or hit in just the wrong way and shatter, so I have to be careful with it…which is true of my relationships with those important to me. With care, it will last a lifetime; it’s also a reminder that some things aren’t always what they seem at first glance (I have definitely gotten “Is that a high heel? With olives?” a few times), and that a simple dish for olives can be in the shape of a shoe because…well… life just needs a little whimsy and maybe even some eyebrow raising now and again.

– A metaphor… the olive shoe is itself a piece of art AND it’s functional AND it’s fun AND I love it dearly. That’s how I try to live – creatively, to the art-fullest, with heart, purpose, and a sense of humor. That’s how I try to create, too.

The blog is run by my sister-in-law, Lauren, and myself…and yes, we’re both Laurens and we are more like sisters than in-laws. The blog is a creative collective that focuses on family, home, gardening and entertaining…and well, just celebrating life.

To read more about Lauren Cop Carlisle (on the right), click HERE. To read more about me, Lauren {LAC} James, click HERE.

The Olive Shoe Paperie and Goods is a thoughtfully curated online boutique and home to all of my stationery designs and folk art, as well as some fun goods to gift yourself or someone else. We are adding new items to the shop every week, and it is so exciting! I pour a lot of love and care into every piece of stationery I design, and the gifts and goods you’ll find here have all been hand picked by us especially for you. There is too much muck and yuck in the world today, and the intention of this space – and our mission – is to help you celebrate life’s little and large moments with the people you love.

You people – clients, friends, readers, “cheerleaders”, prayer warriors, and especially family, have built The Olive Shoe…and it’s still growing…and I thank you. Truly. We have big plans, and big ideas, and big expectations for this little baby, and we’re only getting started.

So that’s the long-ish version. The really long one will hopefully be a book one day. 😉 Thanks from the bottom of my heart for stopping by. How can we help you celebrate today?

Let’s Celebrate | First Day of School is Almost Here

August 7, 2017August 6, 20171 Comment

That’s right – summer is coming to an end and school is just around the corner. As a student, I had mixed feelings of excitement and sadness. As a teacher (both high school and preschool) I needed more time but was excited. As a parent, these last days of summer seem to drag and I look forward to some minor freedoms – BUT when they do go back I do feel pain in my heart at how much they have grown from the previous year. School is so important to our little ones’ lives. After experiencing the first day of school from multiple perspectives, I decided to write a post about some of my thoughts on school in preparation for the upcoming school year.

School Clothes – Oh I have agonized over this on so many levels. Although it may not seem like a big deal – unfortunately, clothes do make the very first impression. Now I am not saying to go out and purchase a ton of new clothes or anything like that. In fact, I think most new clothes should be bought throughout the school year and not at the beginning, especially since we do not know how much a child will grow in a year. Here are some basic pointers I have learned over the years.

Wear Layers – the schools are usually super cold. Kids often come in not dressed appropriately in sandals, shorts and tanks. It can be hard to pay attention when you are too cold – so bring layers.
Wear Something Basic – the simpler the attire the less likely you will receive unwanted attention. I am not saying NEVER wear those items to school. But the first day of school is already stressful, so let’s not add to the stress!
Wear Something Appropriate – For middle and high schoolers, please make sure you follow the school dress code. There is nothing worse than being the teacher that has to call out the kid for not following dress code. Also for preschool and elementary kids, please try to have the kid wear clothes they CAN get dirty. Please eliminate the stress from you and your child by allowing them to get dirty in their school clothes.

{ This image was created by me using Polyvore – Most of the clothes pictured are from Gap, Old Navy, and Target}

School Supplies – School supplies can be so daunting especially if you are on a tight budget! Not to mention all of the options out there for kids to choose from – making it so much more difficult for our Moms. So here are so helpful hints that I have learned over the years for getting all of those school supplies together.

School Supply Lists – First of all, when you get those lists a lot of times there are necessities and some are extras for the teacher. If you are on a budget, you may want to check with the teacher on which items they will use most often and at the beginning of the year – and which ones you can get later in the season. For instance, they may not need the paper protectors until October. Also the supply lists may be general for the grade level – so teachers may have their own additional lists. So it’s very important to talk with your child’s teacher about the school list. Also, teachers often have to buy their own tissues, Clorox wipes, and paper. If you do have extra funds, I am sure your teacher would be incredibly grateful for any extra supplies you can provide.

Back Packs – Backpacks are definitely essential to school. Now I am not for getting a new one every year! In fact my husband still has his from middle school. So again I wouldn’t get a character backpack. But some of the ones with patterns or animals are really cute and could definitely be used again. I also really like the backpacks that kids can color – even if they are just plain because it allows them to personalize their bags. Here are some of my favorite backpack options.

I love galaxy prints! They are so fun and timeless!

You can never go wrong with a Jansport. Whether in a color or pattern, they are a trusted brand for a reason.

This is a fantastic bag for young kids. Plus they have lunch boxes and other school supplies with the same animals.

Love this backpack – patriotic and timeless!

I love this backpack because it’s really fun and simple at the same time!

Lunch Boxes – Now, school lunch boxes I feel like are needed every year. They get so much bacteria, mildew, and beaten up during the year that they deserve an update. This is one of the few items where I think buying a character is acceptable. Here are some great ones that I really like. Although I will say, I do love a brown paper bag as well!

I love the Bento box style lunch boxes. This one is especially my favorite because it has a handle, is indestructible, and keeps foods warm.

I love this lunchbox because of the included icepacks that are built in! This way you don’t have to worry about the kids losing them or accidentally throwing them away.

I love this lunch box because it is durable, has a lifetime guarantee and is so cute!

Other Fun Stuff – Here are some other fun items that you may want to add to your kids’ shopping lists. Not only are they fun and cool but they are must-haves for this school year!

{These images were created by me using Polyvore. Most items are from Target}

Student-Parent-Teacher Relationship – This relationship is extremely important to the success of students in the school system. Parents need to play an active room in the classroom yes – but also let the teacher teach. They are trained professionals. Yes, they are also human and can make mistakes. It is important that everyone establishes their own boundaries and reasonable expectations to have a successful school year. So please make sure…

Students respect their teacher’s authority
Parents are in contact with the teachers but generally let them do their job
Teachers care for their students as if they were their own
Teachers communicate with parents so they understand where their student is succeeding AND also where they need improvement

First day of school is so fun and first impressions are often impactful for the rest of the school year. I hope these few ideas on outfits, school supplies, and teacher relationships will help you start off with a fantastic school year. Education is so important and making the right first impression for these young kids will definitely set them up for success. Happy first day of school!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Other Posts by Lauren Cop:

Reflections on Another BlogHer Conference

July 27, 2017July 24, 20171 Comment

This year’s BlogHer did not disappoint! There were inspiring speakers, great sessions, and great attendees! It was a little bit different than I expected because it included food bloggers as well. I had the added bonus of having a great time bonding with my SIL at Disney World! Not to mention I was able to complete some bucket list items of listening to Chelsea Clinton and Cecil Richards speak AND meeting Carla Hall!! We have already implemented some of the information that we learned and we have already seen a great boost in our blogging and response from our views (so THANK YOU). So far this BlogHer was one of the best ones for our site.

{Photo by Lauren Carlisle : Lauren and I at Disney Hollywood Studies }

{Photo Owned By Lauren Carlisle : Lauren and Carla Hall at BlogHer }

Goals Achieved – I had several goals in mind that I discussed in my previous post ——— . This year I feel like we did such a better job with meeting our goals, keeping open communication, and networking.

Sessions: This year I made a conscious effort to be more selective and deliberate in attending sessions that better fit our goals! I learned so much from the sessions this year that it has already really helped to streamline what we are doing with the Olive Shoe while also driving more viewers as well. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the sessions this year, I felt much more empowered.

Networking: We also were more successful with networking this year. We were able to recognize and reconnect with some of the women from last year which was amazing! It was so nice to see them and how things had changed for them over the year as well. We also made some great new connections which has already helped us learn about more conferences and how networking can further improve our outreach. I look forward to cultivating these relationships in the future.

Anxiety: I can safely say my anxiety was at an all-time minimum this year! I didn’t let myself get overtired or anxious. I took time out when needed. I knew my limits. It was seriously one of the best trips I have been on because I was able to curb my anxiety!

{Photo Taken by Lauren James : Lauren and I entering BlogHer 2017}

What’s Next? So what is next for the Olive Shoe? Well, Lauren and I have lots of plans for new content, new products, videos and more collaborations to help others who want to spread their creative spirit! In fact, some of our favorite projects are working with other Creativity Crusaders like us. I cannot wait for you all to see the changes that are bound to come for the Olive Shoe.

{Photo Taken by Lauren James : Lauren and I post BlogHer }

Future BlogHer Improvements Although BlogHer was a great success for us this year… we still have more plans for future BlogHer events. There is no end to the amount of knowledge, information and inspiration that we can gain from conferences like this. We hope that in future conferences, we can keep up our new connections and friends. We want go to more private events for more intimate connections. We want to go to more sessions so we can gain more knowledge on how to improve our blog and brand as a whole. We want to see more women succeeding in what they are doing and help them to get to their goals in any way we can!! It really is so inspiring to be together with these women and see so many of them succeed in such a short period of time.

{Photo Taken by Lauren James : Welcome Sign for BlogHer 2017}

As I said before, BlogHer seriously did not disappoint. The things we have learned at the conferences are indispensable to our future. We have already doubled our amount of viewers… sometimes even tripled them! I cannot thank them enough for their inspiration and advice that we have been able to use with our brand. I seriously cannot wait to fully implement everything we have learned. So cheers, BlogHer, to another successful event! We looks forward to joining you for many more in the future.

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Other Posts by Lauren Cop:

Summer Sun | Bring Out the Water Guns

July 12, 2017July 12, 20174 Comments

I LOVE the summer time!! It’s my second favorite season… after fall of course! There is so much fun to be had outside – where I try to live year round. Growing up in Pennsylvania, we didn’t have the beach or a lake. We had the Delaware River, Jersey Shore, and public pools. Most days my Mom would round us up and we would have swim practice in the morning, go home for naps, and then spend the rest of the afternoon at the community pool. However, we also had several days at home where we would play in the sprinkler, paint the driveway, use a water table etc… Now that we live in Tallahassee, I have to come up with fun, new creative ways for water play – since we don’t have a pool and can’t always make it to the beach or lake. So after some searching, I found these great water play activities that have been wonderful to use with my girls!

Science Activities – I personally think these activities may be more fun for me than the kids lol. Sometimes kids don’t like to wait for the reaction. Luckily with these activities they do not have to wait long! Plus they are easy to do over and over again, allowing the kids plenty of time to learn a new concept while also having fun!

This is a great activity to show how water reacts to different surfaces, runs, and mixes!

This is a great activity to help kids learn how to measure and how water flows. There is tons of learning to be had with this activity. Not to mention if you add some food coloring, it’s a great way to show how to mix colors.

I love this activity because not only is it sensory play, but it also has science to back it up!

I LOVE this super easy science experiment!

I love this activity too – so many possibilities for the races with obstacles… change in vehicles etc…

Sensory Activities – Sensory activities I think are mine and my kids’ favorite activities to play. Not only do they learn so much but it really is so fun to do! The only drawback to sensory activities is it does take some planning and can sometimes be messy. What I love about these activities is many of them can be done outside or inside in your bathtub!! Check it out!

I love this “small worlds” play activity. It is surely going to create hours of fun!

Frozen figures are one of my all-time favorite activities! Its great for hot weather or in the bathtub as well!

This is another great sensory activity because it has multiple mediums and will also teach your kids how to clean their toys! It’s a total win-win!

This activity is also super fun… plus you can leave it up and they can play it for several days in a row without needing much clean up!

Here is a great list of sensory activities for both toddlers and infants!

More fun – Here are some other fun water activities that you can do with the kids that really take minimal set up and will be so fun for the kids to play! These will surely be a crowd-pleaser and most are easy activities to add to your summer parties and BBQs as well.

Who needs to buy a water table when you can create one for a fraction of the cost! I really love this idea because it can really change the game for many people.

This is a great activity to inspire imaginative play!

This is another great imagination play activity that could easily lead to helping in real life – who doesn’t love imagination play that can teach how to complete future chores!

Here is a great collection of activities to do with water play

These great activities can be used at home for the kids or for a gathering at your home!

So water play doesn’t have to be just a location, sprinkler, or water guns. There are so many different activities that you can do with water to keeps the kids entertained and cool as well. Although I will say my family has some pretty epic water gun fights since we keep them stashed around the house for any time an occasion crops up. SO get out in that sunshine and cool off with some of these great activities. And who knows… you may even learn something in the process!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Other Posts by Lauren Cop:

American’s “Christmas” in July | Local 4th of July Ideas

July 3, 20172 Comments

So this blog post is going to be pretty short – but definitely a sweet one! The 4^th of July is by far my favorite holiday… EVER!! Seriously nothing makes me happier than fireworks, BBQ, drinks, hot weather, picnics, and friends and family gathering. I have spent the 4^th at the beach, mountains, cities, country-side, and even in other countries! I grew up in a Philadelphia suburb so the celebrations were very large when I was growing up – especially since fireworks are illegal any other time of the year! I have had some people suggest to me that the 4^th of July celebrations in the North is larger than Christmas – this couldn’t make me more proud by the way – and it is so true! Everyone gets together for some kind of big event.

For my family we usually hosted a large party with our neighbors. During our annual travel to South Carolina to visit family, my Dad would stop at South of the Border to pick up fireworks for the celebration. My mother made her annual dessert, a sorbet dessert that looked like a watermelon. Neighbors partook in a pot-luck, games, and lots of fellowship! Some of my favorite childhood memories are from this holiday! Listed below you will find some great links on some of our local 4^th of July celebrations.

Tally Suggestions – So this year I am new to Tallahassee so I had to ask for suggestions and get information from the locals in order to figure out my 4^th of July festivities! Luckily since we live in a state capital and near the water there is really no shortage of firework view options. There are also several community events and even a race to attend! I so look forward to celebrating the 4^th in our new home this year.

Best List of Attractions: http://fun4tallykids.com/Whats-Happening/July-4th-Events/

Best Event : http://www.talgov.com/parks/july4.aspx

Laws on Fireworks : https://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Portals/0/PolicyPdf/02-02-3.pdf

Upstate Suggestions – Now the upstate is a little bit different than what I grew up doing for the 4^th of July. First of all it is a mostly rural community so the big events are far apart and you may not be able to find many events locally. Luckily fireworks are legal all year so it is easy to stock up, grab some friends, and head to the lake for an epic bash! There are some great events in the upstate though – even the local events are pretty well done and often include parades. I will definitely miss celebrating the 4^th with our family this year.

Best List of Attractions: https://kiddingaroundgreenville.com/fireworks-july-4th.html

Best Event: http://www.visitgreenvillesc.com/includes/calendar-of-events/Wells-Fargo-Red-White-and-Blue-Festival/27812/

Laws on Fireworks: http://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t23c035.php

See, I told y’all this one would be short! I really just wanted to hone in on some of my hopeful and favorite events that we could celebrate with this year. But honestly celebrating the 4^th really takes minimal effort… put out those red, white, and blues, fire up the grill, grab loved ones, beer, music and you got yourself a fantastic celebration! And if your one of the lucky ones you will be surrounded by fireworks and the show of a lifetime! Happy 4^th of July!!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Other Posts by Lauren Cop:

Creating Your Secret Garden Part 3: Keep the Kin-dears in the Garden

June 22, 2017June 14, 20178 Comments

So far in this series, we have discussed preparation and planning for your crops – with little discussion on incorporating the children. This post will mostly be about the kids with some suggestions for hardy summer crops as well. This is my oldest child’s third year with a garden – but I have had her out there since day one. Obviously when she was only 10 months old there wasn’t much for her to do – but now at almost 3, she is really starting to get involved and even has her own flower she takes care of as well. Most kids love to be outdoors to learn and discover the world around them and creating a garden is the perfect way to help keep them involved! I even invite fellow friends and neighbors to come and enjoy in all the glory of our garden.

Garden Chores – There are many ‘chores’ that need to be done while creating and maintaining the perfect garden and children really can help out with most of them, and some of the more tedious ones as well. Here is my quick list of things my children help me with in the garden that require little supervision and have been completed by my children between ages 1 and 3.

Watering – There are tons of cute kid’s size watering cans that they can use to water the garden – but they can also help you hold the hose and place the sprinkler as well. Just know they are bound to get wet – which I usually end up wet when I water too, so I guess they are not that different!

{Picture of Noli with her watering can by Lauren Carlisle}

Pulling Weeds – This may require supervision if you have plants already in the ground – but if not I always have the kids help pull weeds before putting plants in the ground. I also have them help me once plants have been planted. Yes I do need to show them which plants to pull, but this season they have almost gotten the hand of it!
Digging Holes – This is an easy one and most kids love to put holes in the ground – so take advantage. Whether it’s big or small, kids are great at this. If your ground tends to be hard, make sure to try to do this after a heavy rain. You can even get a tape measure down and have them use that as a guide on how far apart to put their holes.

{Picture of the girls digging a hole by Lauren Carlisle}

Planting Seeds – Once their holes are in the ground, you can have the kids count out seeds or get them from you to place in the holes. This is a super easy task that most kids can handle. Also, if they have a gentle touch, they can also put the plants in the ground as well.

Fertilizing – This is obviously not for all fertilizer; we use the pellet slow-release fertilizer in our gardens. So I will give a small scoop to each child with a shovel and let them pour them over the plants or seeds they put in the ground.
Pruning – Once a flower or leaf has spent I have the kids go around and pick them. I find this not only prevents them from picking my flowers unnecessarily, but it also is less time consuming for me as well! Lastly, it helps out plants maintain health and stay lush!
Harvesting – Once your children understand when a fruit is ripe, it is so nice to let them just go to town. My kids love to pick ripe tomatoes, strawberries, and even beans. Yes they may eat some as they go, but who doesn’t!

{Picture of Viv harvesting strawberries by Lauren Carlisle}

Garden Crafts – Regardless of the type of garden you have, they are meant to bring joy! So why not spice it up with some arts and crafts. There are so many options available – bird feeders, garden markers, stepping stones, sitting areas etc… One of the new trends that I find so intriguing is the fairy gardens. They are so cute and easy for kids to take care of – I hope to have my girls create one to put in our future flower garden! These crafts don’t have to be tacky and they can even have a legitimate purpose. Here is a quick list of some of the activities that I found most intriguing.

Children Veggie Gardens

30 Ways to Get Ready for Gardening With Your Kids

12 Garden Crafts for Kids

Biodegradable Birdfeeders

15 Fantastic Fairy Gardens Ideas

Summer Crops – Summer may be the easiest season to plant and have blooms, but can be the hardest to maintain. Between the heat, drought, bugs, and oversaturation, there is a lot to consider when maintaining your summer plants and which ones to choose. You can never do enough research about how to plant and maintain your garden.

Summer Crops

Summer Flowers

Summer Blooming Shrubs

Summer Flowering Trees and Shrubs

I hope these quick lists have encouraged and inspired you to get your children out there in the dirt. Kids these days are encouraged to live in a bubble and honestly I am afraid of the damage it will cause our future generations. It is so important to understand our environments and where our food comes from – more on this to come in a future blog. Gardening is just the first step in a long list of things you can do to encourage your children to live a healthy lifestyle, be creative, get involved in science, and to generally appreciate life! There are so many good things that can come from gardening and very few, if any, adverse effects. My children so enjoy working in the garden that my 3-year-old asks daily if we need to pick the strawberries or if the garden needs to be watered. I love hearing my girls talk about our environmental surroundings – I hope you and your children love these activities just as much as we do!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Other Posts by Lauren Cop:

Fantastic Father’s Day

June 14, 20171 Comment

I am lucky enough to have many fantastic fathers in my life. My own father, father-in-law, husband and grandfather – not to mention the extended family fathers and friends – there is an abundance of greatness among these fathers. Some of the similar characteristics these men share are their dedication to their families, ability to be present (Physically and mentally), be sensitive while maintaining their strength, intelligence and silliness. These men have been such an important influence on my life and on what I expect from my husband as a father as well.

My father is very important to me for so many reasons. Although my father was fairly strict it was only because he wanted what was best for me. Some of my favorite moments of my father was he wasn’t afraid to let me be “one of the boys” but also made sure to pick me a rose from our rose bush. He always treated me as the strong female that I wanted to be and understood me the most, as I suffer from anxiety and depression. My Dad was never afraid to carry a tune or dance with me. Most importantly through him and his parents (my grandparents) I learned the importance of family. Although my relationship with my father hasn’t always been the most solid… It is incredibly solid now and I am so thankful for the relationship we have today.

{My Dad and I the day they brought me home : Picture owned by Lynn Coppotelli}

{Picture of my Dad and I before I walked down the aisle : Picture owned by Drew Carlisle}

My husband luckily has many of the same qualities as my Dad as a father but in his own way (of course). From the moment my husband has become a father he has been very hands-on. I couldn’t have had a better partner in labor. Once we came home from the hospital Drew changed all the diapers until I was more mobile. He is always quick to take the girls when he senses I need a break. Drew is always teaching the girls new things, being silly, and a constant companion. I am thankful to have him as my constant companion and partner. Without him I would not be as successful in the hardest thing I have ever done – being a mother.

{ Drew holding Viv for the first time : Picture by Lauren James}

{Drew introducing Viv to Noli : Picture by Lauren Carlisle}

Useful Gifts – Some Dads really prefer the useful gift over anything else. Sometimes finding something useful that fathers need can be difficult to discover. Especially if you want to get something out the ordinary (ties, mugs, socks, etc.)… Here is a fun list of some great gift ideas for your father.

Professional Dads – These fathers can be very particular about what they want specifically. Here is a short list of things that I have gotten in the past that fathers have loved. I hope they help inspire you to get something that your picky professional father may want as well.

I bought this office bag for my husband who travels a lot and it is awesome. Durable, compact, and able to hold a ton! It has been the best gift I have ever gotten him. What I think I like best is that you can even make your own custom bag!

These are fantastic office headphones that will not only cancel outside noises but are also great for conference calls as well.

This is great for the office or at home. Both stylish and handy – I mean who doesn’t have a bunch of electronics they need to keep charged throughout the day!

Handy Dads – Handy Dads are slightly easier to shop for because there are usually tons of new equipment they want or need. Here are some out-of-the-box ideas that you could get them for Father’s Day.

This is the best tool for any kind of major demolition – it’s a fantastic all-in-one.

This is a great tool – everyone needs a light, but it is also magnetic so it is perfect for projects that your handy Dad may be completing.

This is a fantastic gift for your handy Dads and Moms!! It’s perfect for many projects with tiny parts or anything that is needed up a ladder.

Cooking Dads – Not all Dads love to cook but those that do are so special! Both my husband and father cook in the home. I always love watching them cook and do things so differently than my mother or I did.

This gift is perfect for those who wish they could add more smoky flavor without a smoker or non-gas grill!

Who doesn’t love spreadable butter all the time?? This will seriously change your view on butter.

This may not seem like a great tool but if you eat a lot of garlic and don’t want the smell on your hands this is fantastic. Not to mention it gets that pesky skin off in a skinny minute. I grew up with one of these, but soon realized this wasn’t a common kitchen item. I thought I would share!

Fun Gifts – All gifts don’t necessarily need to be functional – here are some fun gifts that the Dads in your life will be sure to enjoy – and maybe even share as well!!

Drones are all the rage and so fun to play with as well. Here is a great one to introduce to a new flyer.

Let’s face it: there isn’t anything quite like listening to vinyl! Here is a great way to listen to those old vinyl’s again!

Let your Dad reminisce the old days with this great old school gaming system!

This is a fantastic gift for those Dads who are really into golf and gadgets!

This is a great gift for hunting Dads or for Dads that appreciate nature.

DIY Gifts – Personally I love creating gifts with my children as keepsakes for people. They are so personal and a great way to get the children to be creative. It is also great for their confidence seeing their creation being appreciated by others. Here is a short creative list of DIY Father’s Day gifts.

I LOVE this idea!! I did this with my girls this year for Father’s Day and it turned out to be so incredibly adorable!

This is such an incredibly cool idea that could be used for really any gift giving event!! It’s not necessarily DIY but it is so creative and interesting!

This is a fantastic gift idea for the beer lover in your life!!

I absolutely love this picture idea – especially since my husband works in photography!

This is an adorable idea for several reasons. It’s also easy and fun to do again and again.

I hope you found this list fun, exciting, and inspiring for you to find something for the special father in your life. I know sometimes it can be hard to find the right gifts for men – but it doesn’t always have to be difficult. Sometimes it just needs to be a little more creative. I hope you can find the right gift for your fathers – but if not, there is always next year and they will love you anyway! Happy Father’s Day!

Lauren {LAC} James is a Sr. Designer of Product Graphics for an international manufacturing company by day and a creativity crusader, designer, planner extraordinaire, artist and blogger in her “free” time. Follow her and The Olive Shoe on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram! Please subscribe to receive emails, of course, come back and visit again soon!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

Celebrate | Super Party for my Super Girls

June 9, 2017June 10, 20171 Comment

Another year and yet a whole new love for my children and who they are becoming. Viv is my negotiator, type-A, artistic and nurturing sweety! She amazes me with her ability to care for the lowest of maggots (EW!) and concentration on endless paintings. It has been so fun to watch her grow at school, home and with friends. Then there is our fun-loving, silly, performing water baby, Noli. She has really started perfecting her humor and loves to follow in her sister’s footsteps. It was a fantastic year being able to help in her classroom and being so hands-on with her for once. This year for their birthdays, the girls wanted a super hero party! I was excited to have such a fun theme and the party was so fun and easy.

{Picture of Viv and Noli taken by Lauren Carlisle}

Invites – Invites should be so easy for me – I mean, hello, have you seen the work by my talented SIL?? But for whatever reason I always feel sheepish asked for custom invitations especially if I feel there may be a time crunch. However, as usual, once I mentioned the idea to Lauren she right away reminded me how silly I was being and got me a sample immediately. The invites turned out so incredibly cute and the girls were sooo impressed that their “E L” had drawn them as super heroes.

Activities/Set-Up – We are lucky enough to have a large property which makes it very easy to plan different activities for parties. We also have a playground and a friend who lent us their bounce house. This took care of most of the activities for the party. If it had rained, I had planned for the kids to decorate some masks and capes. Luckily, it was perfectly gorgeous – so we set up the capes, masks, and water guns at a refill station. Also, in the spirit of a super hero party, we needed to have a villain to attack – so we set up a monster piñata filled with super hero barrettes, bracelets, tattoos, and candy. It was super fun and so easy with minimal clean up as well.

{The BEST Uncle came in costume playing with the kids : Picture by Drew Carlisle}

{Costume and Refill Station : Picture by Lauren Carlisle}

{Super Hero Training Station : Picture by Lauren Carlisle}

{Birthday Super Girl Viv taking down her monster villain : Picture by Merritt Newell}

Food – As far as food is concerned, again I wanted to keep it simple. We had kosher hot dogs, hummus, dips, veggies, fruit, and a bunch of different types of chips. Basically the best of the kiddie finger foods. Easy to pick some healthy options and options the children would enjoy as well. I also made the girls’ cakes which turned out so adorable if I might add!! Everyone seemed happy and full.

{Main course spread : Picture by Lauren Carlisle}

{Viv and Noli’s (Magnolia) Super Girl Birthday Cakes : Picture and Design by Lauren Carlisle}

Pinterest Inspirations – Here are some of my inspirations for the girls party this year. It is so great to have an outlet to get ideas from so quickly.

Here is a fantastic post about some great girl super hero party ideas:

Here is some great budget friendly tips for a super hero party:

Here is some great food inspirations:

Here are some great ideas for super hero training:

Here is one more link to some great party ideas:

It was fantastic to see all the children and parents get along with minimal meltdowns and great play time. It was so nice to have our new friends over all together in the same place for such a happy occasion. I am so thankful that my children have made great friends so far (I know this will not always be the case) as well as my husband and I. We are so blessed to be able to throw parties like this for our children. My children were so excited and thankful it really made the whole experience that much more enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next celebration with my children so we can all shower them with all the love they deserve!

{Amazing Birthday Picture of Viv : Picture by Drew Carlisle}

Lauren {LAC} James is a Sr. Designer of Product Graphics for an international manufacturing company by day and a creativity crusader, designer, planner extraordinaire, artist and blogger in her “free” time. Follow her and The Olive Shoe on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram! Please subscribe to receive emails, of course, come back and visit again soon!

Please visit the online art gallery {Art by LAC} and Etsy Shop too!

The Blog at The Olive Shoe |

A Creative Collective

Last Minute Ideas to Celebrate the Eclipse

Creative Water Animal Activities

What Is The Olive Shoe? The Short and The Long-ish Version…

Let’s Celebrate | First Day of School is Almost Here

Reflections on Another BlogHer Conference

Summer Sun | Bring Out the Water Guns

American’s “Christmas” in July | Local 4th of July Ideas

Creating Your Secret Garden Part 3: Keep the Kin-dears in the Garden

Fantastic Father’s Day

Celebrate | Super Party for my Super Girls