Salutations!
I’m still on a celebration kick, and decided I’m staying the party path until it stops being fun. So let’s get ready for June. In this love letter, I offer you lots of ideas for fun activities related to occasions in the month of June. From Cheese Day to Pride Day, it’s a wild ride. I’m hoping something in this letter inspires you to plan some fun, mischief, or even mayhem for the kids you love. Welcome June! — Mary

Photo: AI generated

JUNE 4 • NATIONAL CHEESE DAY

Thanks to a cheese-loving granddaughter, who is a champion of cheese, our family celebrates cheese every day! I put together a faux website for an imaginary Curd Collective as a gag gift for her 25th birthday. I invite you to play along and eat cheese while you read excerpts from this one-of-a-kind website. Here goes…

“HEY, CHEESE LOVER!

That’s Ada below. She’s the Big Cheese around here because she embraces the cheesy side of life like no one else! So let me tell you a little bit about her and her Cheese Journey. Don’t worry. It’s rated G, a delicious adventure suitable for the whole family.

In a world filled with flavor enthusiasts and culinary adventurers, there is one extraordinary cheese lover who has remained devoted to her passion for almost two decades. Her name is Ada, the founder of The Curd Collective (formerly known as Ada’s Cheese Club). She is celebrating her 25th birthday this year, and, in a twist of fate, has decided to reopen membership exclusively to her beloved family. As we embark on Ada's remarkable cheese journey, we invite you to indulge in the enchanting world of cheese, filled with delightful flavors, mouthwatering recipes, and whimsical cheese crafts. I should know. I’m her Granny.

Hi! I’m Ada. This is my Cheese Club and childhood dream. You’ve probably heard of nerds — you know, those people who geek out over their obsession. Well, what better name for a cheese nerd than “curd.” So that’s me, and if you’re one too, welcome to the collective!

Pictured above is the Curd Collective’s Board of Directors at their annual meeting. It is their practice to determine the new Chairman by elimination. The last Curd who remains conscious takes the reins for the coming year. 

Our most recent adventure was an unforgettable cheese tasting soiree. A family friend was one of the renowned Judges of Cheddar at a prestigious national cheese competition last month. He snagged generous samples of the twelve finalists which became our evening’s delight! His narration was both educational and awe inspiring. It was a transcendent experience! Here are the various post categories for organizing the Collective’s cheese wisdom…

Ada's Cheese Journey is an invitation to savor the delectable world of cheese alongside a passionate cheese lover. As Ada opens her heart and her club to her family, she promises an adventure filled with delightful flavors, joyous discoveries, and unforgettable memories. So we don our cheese-loving spirit, grab our cheese knives, and embark on a cheesy escapade like no other.

Although, you may not be daft enough to create a crazy cheese website just to make your granddaughter laugh, no matter how you celebrate Cheese Day, make it “grate.”

______________________________

”CHEESE IS MILK’S LEAP TOWARDS IMMORTALITY.”
• Elsie the Cow •

JUNE 12 • RAGGEDY ANN & ANDY DAY

Welcome to the world of Raggedy Ann and Andy! They were created by American writer Johnny Gruelle in the early 20th century, and have become two of the most beloved icons in children's literature. In this raggedy world, Ann, with her iconic red yarn hair and embroidered smile, and her adventurous brother Andy, with his blue sailor suit and cheerful demeanor, embark on magical adventures. We still keep a pair of the dolls in our Toy Room for visiting children.

When our daughters shared a bedroom as young children, the theme of their room was Raggedy Ann and Andy. Keith drew jumbo portraits of the twosome which watched over our daughters while they played and slept. We still cherish them (the kids too) and hope someday, despite their yellowed paper, they find a new home where they are loved.

More recently, Keith cast the two of us as Raggedy Keith and Raggedy Mary for his annual Christmas card illustration a couple years back on the first Covid Christmas. My favorite part is “a case of poor judgment” lettered on the wood beer case.

If you’re wondering why we’re such fans of Raggedy Ann and Andy, the answer is “goodness.” Generations have grown up reading the adventures, cuddling the dolls, and immersing themselves in their world. They embody positive values such as kindness, friendship, and courage. Through their adventures, they teach important life lessons about empathy, resilience, and the power of imagination. We appreciate them for that and their unending cuteness.

We think they should be part of every childhood, whether it’s dolls, storybooks, cartoons, or animated films, we hope you celebrate the spirit of Raggedy Ann and Andy with your little ones on this special day.

JUNE 14 • FLAG DAY

Flag Day honors the day the United States flag was adopted. It's a wonderful opportunity to educate the kids you love about the history, significance, and symbolism of the flag while instilling a sense of respect. Here’s some ideas to make their Flag Day memorable.

FIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE FLAG DAY

1. FLAG HISTORY: Share the story of the American flag's origin, including the significance of the stars and stripes, and the evolution of its design. Use books, videos, or presentations to make the lesson engaging. (Be sure to click HERE to brush up on your own history first)

2. FLAG CRAFT: Provide paper, markers, and a star punch or star stickers for kids to create their own flags for their own country. Encourage them to be creative. When they’ve finished, ask them to explain the symbolism in their flag.

3. FLAG ETIQUETTE: Teach the proper ways to handle, display, and fold the flag. Include demonstrations and practice. (First, click HERE if you need to refresh your technique).

4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: I am very sensitive to this particular topic. I can’t stress enough how critically important it is to discuss the meaning behind the Pledge of Allegiance and practice reciting it together. Through an unfortunate parenting mishap, my oldest daughter understood pledges and allegiance at a much more serious level than the average first grader. Her refusal to recite the Pledge of Allegiance earned her a trip to the principal’s office where she explained, “I can’t say it because it would be a lie. I have already pledged my allegiance to France.” They agreed she could just mouth the words, which I suspect she still does. (We did our best and try not to look back). The Flags of Valor website has a great explanation to help you. Click HERE.

5. PATRIOTIC SONGS: Learn and sing patriotic songs such as "The Star-Spangled Banner," "America the Beautiful," and "This Land is Your Land." American Literature has all the lyrics in one spot for these and other patriotic tunes. Clear your throat and click HERE to access them.

These activities not only celebrate Flag Day but also sneak in a little history. Although it’s great to foster appreciation for the American flag, the most important lesson we all should take to heart are the values it represents.

JUNE 16 • FATHERS DAY

Keith has been a father for over fifty years, and Father’s Day is over fifty times more special. It’s a wonderful opportunity to show him appreciation and love, as we should show to all fathers and father figures in our lives. Making it special can involve a blend of time, gifts, and thoughtfulness, but it takes some soul-searching to get it right. Here are some ideas to create a memorable Father's Day.

FIVE IDEAS FOR A GREAT FATHER’S DAY

1. PERSONALIZED GIFTS: A personalized gift shows thoughtfulness and effort. Consider items that can serve as cherished keepsakes that remind fathers of how much they are loved. One of Keith’s favorite gifts is a book our girls put together. It featured handmade art by each member of our ever-growing family - all on the topic of “apples,” — his daily delight! Anything will work as long as it’s personal and homemade.

2. QUALITY TIME: Spending time together can be one of the most meaningful gifts, but Dad’s too often get dragged to restaurants or events that are not a good fit. Instead, plan activities that align with his interests like a hike, a fishing trip, an art museum, or simply a day spent at home watching his favorite movie. It’s only one day. You and the kids can survive it. The key is to create moments that allow for bonding and enjoyment.

3. HOMEMADE MEALS: Cooking his favorite treat or meal, or organizing a family cook-out can be a delightful way to celebrate. Involve your kids in preparing the meal, adding a personal touch to the effort.

4. HANDWRITTEN NOTES: A handwritten note can be profoundly touching. Encourage your kids to write a heartfelt message expressing what he means to them. These notes can be compiled in a little booklet for him to cherish forever. (Can ya tell I’m big on little books)?

5. A DAY OFF: Another winning gift is to give him a day off from his usual chores. Rally the kids to take over his household tasks, his errands, or just let him sleep in. A break from his routine will always be appreciated.

The essence of making Father's Day special lies in the love and thoughtfulness behind the gestures. Whether grand or simple, actions that come from the heart will always make a lasting impact.

JUNE 22 • MIDSUMMER

Midsummer's Eve is celebrated around the summer solstice, on the Saturday that falls between June 20-26th. It marks the longest day of the year. It has Northern European roots in ancient pagan traditions that honor the sun and nature, and it often involves various customs, dances, and rituals to celebrate the abundance of light and the warmth of summer. Today, while most of the mystical elements have faded, the essence remains. Here’s some ancient customs that our ancestors practiced to honor the advent of summer. They will all be familiar to you and perhaps are already part of your summer evenings.

FIVE IDEAS FOR YOUR CHILD’S MIDSUMMER FUN

1. CREATE FLOWER CROWNS: Gather wildflowers and greenery to make traditional flower crowns. It connects children with nature and introduces them to a hands-on craft. Or, for a more durable crown, use artificial flowers.

2. HOST A BACKYARD BONFIRE: A bonfire is a central element of Midsummer's Eve. Families can gather around the fire, roast marshmallows, tell stories, and sing songs.

3. NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT: Create a list of natural items for children to find, such as specific leaves, flowers, rocks, or insects. This can be an educational activity that gets kids moving and exploring the outdoors. Doing it on Midsummer’s Eve fosters a sense of adventure and discovery in nature.

4. MIDSUMMER FEAST: Involve your children in the preparation of a festive meal that includes summer fruits, vegetables, and traditional dishes. Enjoy the feast outdoors, celebrating the abundance of the season.

5. DANCE AROUND A MAYPOLE: Use any tall pole, add some long ribbons and decorations — and, VOILA, you’ll have yourself a maypole! Teach the children how to weave the ribbons around the pole through simple dance steps. This activity is memorable fun and will burn off some of that sugar energy from the roasted marshmallows.

This celebration of light, nature, and community is a great opportunity to honor the spirit of Midsummer's Eve, and a chance to instill a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world in children's minds.

JUNE 24 • INTERNATIONAL FAIRY DAY

International Fairy Day is dedicated to the enchanting world of fairies and the magic they represent. This day invites children and adults alike to embrace their imagination. Rooted in folklore and myth, fairies are often depicted as mystical beings with magical powers, living in a hidden realm just beyond the reach of the ordinary world. Here are some ideas to help your Fairy Day spark creativity, wonder, and a sense of playfulness.

FIVE ACTIVITIES TO CELEBRATE FAIRY DAY

1. BUILD A FAIRY GARDEN: Create a miniature garden for fairies in your backyard or in a small container. Small plants, moss, pebbles, and tiny decorations like miniature furniture or fairy houses can make a magical garden space where fairies might visit.

2. FAIRY DRESS UP & STORYTELLING: Use wings, wands, and sparkly outfits to transform into fairies. Pick your fairy names and take turns telling stories about your fairy characters.

3. FAIRY DOOR CRAFT: Use small wooden or cardboard pieces to create tiny doors. Paint and decorate them with glitter, stickers, and other embellishments. Place the doors at the base of trees, walls, or hidden corners to invite fairies into your home. This adds an element of magic to everyday surroundings that will last long after your Fairy Day. I think this idea is adorable!

4. FAIRY TREASURE HUNT: Create a treasure map or list for children to follow. Lay out some items for the kids to find on their adventure. The items should be things the fairies could use like acorns for bowls, little vials of glitter, or pretty ribbons. You could do this before making the Fairy Garden and use those supplies as the fairy treasures.

5. FAIRY TEA PARTY: Set up a tea party with tiny sandwiches, fairy cakes, and magical drinks like fruit punch or herbal tea. Decorate the table with flowers, glitter, and fairy figurines. Encourage children to invite their dolls or stuffed animals as fairy guests.

International Fairy Day is a celebration of magic, imagination, and the enchanting world of fairies. It is a chance for you to create a magical day for the kids you love by bringing the fairy world to life.

JUNE 25 - GLOBAL BEATLES DAY

Beatles Day commemorates the date in 1964 when The Beatles returned to Liverpool after their first world tour. This day is a tribute to one of the most influential bands in music history, celebrating their music, creativity, and cultural impact. Keith and I went to great lengths to assure an early introduction to Beatle’s music for our children. In turn, they did the same with theirs. Here are some activities for you to help your kids learn about The Beatles and enjoy their timeless music.

FIVE BEATLE-INSPIRED ACTIVITIES

1. BEATLES SING-ALONG: Have a sing-along session with popular Beatles songs such as "Yellow Submarine," "Hey Jude," and "Let It Be." Provide lyrics and encourage everyone to join in.

2. CREATE BEATLES ART: It might be fun to spend a little time online appreciating the Beatles’ album covers. Filled with all that inspiration, draw or paint pictures inspired by the album covers or by Beatles songs. Display their artwork in a "Beatles Gallery."

3. BEATLES DANCE PARTY: Host a dance party with Beatles music. Teach children some popular dance moves from the 1960s and encourage them to create their own routines.

4. WATCH A BEATLES MOVIE: Show a Beatles movie, such as "A Hard Day's Night" or "Yellow Submarine." Discuss how the music enhances the story.

5. HOST A BEATLES CONCERT: Organize a mini-concert where everyone can perform Beatles songs. Provide instruments and microphones, and encourage them to dress up as their favorite band member.

   Beatles Day is a great way to introduce kids to the rich musical heritage of The Beatles, and to develop a deeper appreciation for the band's legacy and the lasting impact they’ve had on music and culture.

JUNE 27 • HELEN KELLER DAY

Helen Keller is an inspirational figure in American history, renowned for her incredible achievements despite being both deaf and blind. Her life story is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and the human spirit. She was born on June 27, 1880, in Tuscumbia, Alabama. At just 19 months old, she contracted an illness—possibly scarlet fever or meningitis—that left her both deaf and blind. Navigating a world without sight or sound seemed insurmountable, but with the extraordinary help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, Helen Keller broke through these barriers.

Anne Sullivan began working with Helen when Helen was seven years old, teaching her to communicate using tactile sign language. This breakthrough opened up a world of possibilities for Helen. She went on to learn to read Braille, speak, and write. Her academic achievements were extraordinary. She graduated from Radcliffe College in 1904, becoming the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Helen Keller's influence extended far beyond her personal achievements. She became a renowned author, activist, and lecturer, advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, as well as for women's suffrage and labor rights. Her life story continues to inspire countless people around the world to overcome their own challenges and strive for their dreams.

One of my many love projects with my grandchildren was History Letters, where I sent letters to my granddaughters from inspirational women. With the letter I included a bookmark featuring her photo and an inspirational quote. There were also challenge activities based on the good works of that person. Helen Keller is my favorite. Here’s some ideas for your own “Helen Keller Challenge.”

FIVE ACTIVITIES FOR THE HELEN KELLER CHALLENGE

1. SIGN LANGUAGE: Spend time learning the American Sign Language (ASL) alphabet and basic signs. Use online resources, such as videos and charts, to guide you. Practice spelling out your names and common words. This activity not only helps you appreciate how Helen Keller communicated but also provides a valuable skill that can be useful in many situations. Click HERE for online resources.

2. SENSORY EXPLORATION: Create a sensory exploration activity to help your children understand how Helen used her senses of touch, smell, and taste to navigate the world. Fill a box with various objects, like soft fabric, a rough sponge, a smooth stone, and a fragrant herb. Blindfold your children and let them identify each item using only their sense of touch and smell. Discuss how different textures and scents can tell us a lot about our environment.

3. BRAILLE: Introduce your child to Braille, the tactile writing system used by the visually impaired. This activity gives insight into how Helen Keller read books and wrote letters. Braille books are available at most public libraries.

4. THE MIRACLE WORKER: Watch this classic film about Helen Keller’s life, "The Miracle Worker." It depicts the early relationship between Helen and Anne Sullivan and the breakthrough moments in Helen's education. It’s packed with lessons on resilience, determination, and the impact of education.

5. THIRTY MINUTES OF BLINDNESS: To help children understand the challenges Helen faced, create an activity where they are blindfolded for 30 minutes to role-play being blind and deaf. We did exactly that with our youngest granddaughter. Here are some things they could do to experience this state:

• NAVIGATING A ROOM: Have your children try to navigate a familiar room, identifying objects by touch.

• EATING A SNACK: Provide a simple snack and let them experience eating without seeing or hearing. We used oatmeal.

• POURING A DRINK: Guide them through pouring a glass of water using only their sense of touch.

• COMMUNICATING: Use simple tactile signs or writing on their hands to communicate a message, mimicking how Helen learned to understand language.

• FINDING ITEMS: Place a few common household items in different locations and ask them to find them by touch alone.

• DRAWING: Give them a piece of paper and some crayons or markers and ask them to draw something based on their imagination or memory.

After the blindfold experience, discuss how it felt to rely solely on touch and how it might have been for Helen Keller to learn and communicate without sight and hearing. Lilly’s empathy for Helen was overwhelming to her. It was all she could do to hold back her tears. It’s an experience she won’t forget. I hope you enjoy a meaningful and educational Helen Keller Day!

________________________________

”THE BEST AND MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS IN THE WORLD CANNOT BE SEEN OR EVEN TOUCHED — THEY MUST BE FELT WITH THE HEART.”

• Helen Keller •

JUNE 28 • PAUL BUNYAN DAY

Paul Bunyan is a giant lumberjack with superhuman strength with his equally colossal blue ox named Babe. The tales about him originated with loggers in the mid-19th century. These stories were passed down through generations. Paul's legends include him creating the Grand Canyon by dragging his axe behind him and forming the Great Lakes to provide drinking water for Babe. Here’s how we honored him with our grandkids. Feel free to steal any ideas you like.

We celebrated our “inner lumberjack" with our own “Paul Bunyan” party. It started with a hearty breakfast of flapjacks with maple syrup, bacon, donut holes, and warm spiced apples. Lumberjacks have hearty appetites so everyone had “seconds.”

Believe it or not, our grandkids had never even heard of Paul Bunyan and the many tall tales that made him famous. We watched the animated “documentary” from Walt Disney in which Paul saves the life of the blue ox he names “Babe.” We couldn’t stop singing the theme song.

We had fun making logs out of Swiss Rolls. We sliced one of the donut holes and put it on the ends to make it look more real. The kids got to use sharp steak knives to cut and gently lift the frosting so it looked like bark. They love danger. Then we ate them.

We were cozy and warm in our flannel shirts and tuques, which is how Canadians say “stocking caps.” We had a discussion about whether girls should be called “lumber-jills.” We decided not because it would probably annoy Paul Bunyan.

Although we learned a little about logging, the most captivating for us was the petrified wood our friend Bonnie brought back from out West. It is truly amazing to see all the bark and wood turned into stone. We had a little coloring contest too. A favorite activity was the homemade tree. It has fake branches stuck into drilled holes on a real tree trunk. The kids pretended to chop it down.

One of the best parts was sharing with the grandkids the art of our friend James who is one of the foremost experts on Paul Bunyan. He has an amazing collection of PB art and artifacts we viewed online.

JUNE 28 • PRIDE DAY

Pride Day is a pivotal moment for families to reflect on the values of love, acceptance, and support. June is Pride Month, and it’s not just a time for parades and festivities, it’s an opportunity to affirm the identities of LGBTQ individuals, particularly children who are navigating their sense of self in a complex and politicized world.

For parents, creating a supportive and affirming environment for their LGBTQ kids is crucial to nurturing their child's well-being and self-esteem. No matter what your personal or religious views are on this topic, we each have a chance to foster love and acceptance for LGBTQ kids who are likely struggling and ridiculed, bullied, and discriminated against in important areas of their lives.

In our own homes, we can encourage our “straight” kids to stand up against homophobia, transphobia, and any form of discrimination. Teach your children the importance of respect and equality for all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.

If you are a parent of an LGBTQ kid, maybe it’s time to write your child an affirming and supportive letter. This can be a lasting memento for your child to remind them of the love and support that surrounds them. By standing as visible allies, you are in the best position of anyone on the planet to create a nurturing environment that supports your child’s growth and self-expression. Every child deserves that!

AND THAT WRAPS UP THIS ISSUE!

• • • GRANNY BUNNY ARCHIVE • • •
If you’re looking for other ideas in the back issues of these
Granny Bunny love letters, grab a cup of your favorite beverage,
sit back, and relax - then click HERE to find them all.