"No tv!" and a day at the ballet

We had a very interesting week this past week. Hubby and I set a challenge to the children to have a 'no tv' week all week. Why? Well, we got home from our vacation and all they wanted to do was sit and watch dvds. There is so much to DO ... let's go out there and do it! Now, I'm not TOTALLY against tv, after all, at least we choose some good viewing material. Also, since I grew up without one permanently in the house, I knew that one can survive the experience.

So, we put it to them ... then out came the paints and brushes (hadn't seen them in a while!) Canvas painting was attempted for the first time ever, which was a lot of fun and really captured Maestro's attention as it was so different to using paper. I can see a lean toward more of this, which is great! We also had visits with friends, creative salad making (as it was SOOooooo HOT, there was no way we were going to do any baking!), a day at a Rollerskating arena, more 'read-alouds' and visiting the library, then before we all knew it, it was Friday and the end of the week. They succeeded! I think we may set such challenges again in the future, making sure I've got plenty of materials to keep them busy creating. :)

Then today, Sunday, was a special Mama and Mariposa day out to the ballet to see Angelina Ballerina with the English National Ballet dancers. Just delightful!

There were so many little girls, dressed up especially in their beautiful dresses or tutus, on an outing with Mum or Grandma. We had the pleasure of meeting up with friends and sharing lunch together in Melbourne, along Southbank. Perfect timing, as there were LOTS of craft stalls selling their wares (and giving me ideas, lol!)

And what does one do when home from such an exciting event? Well, dance, of course!!! On went the classical music, the ballet shoes, and up went the hair!

The only regret of the day? That she didn't get to see the dancers without their costumes, and to talk with them.