Earth Day 2011

Mr. Sun shined his good graces on our part of the world today. A balmy 45 degree afternoon and the ladies and I were in heaven. Ironically, we dawned our bikes and took to down town for Logan's first annual Earth Day street festival. I would have loved to head to the mountains, but the festival promised good activities and I was in the mood to have the children entertained by things other than myself.

Turned out to be a good choice. The crowd was minimal and the choices abundant. First stop was Earth Day chalk art, where everyone who desired a seat on the pavement, could color to their hearts content. In a matter of minutes, Liberty drew a giant Earth complete with ocean, land and trees. Sure made me happy. Aspen drew her name... in cursive. Her nine year old self is into leaving her mark these days. Abbie made eggs and grass. For me, a giant pink daisy.

Next up. Pottery building from recycled clay. Aspen and Liberty got a chance at throwing a pot on the wheel. Delicately, Liberty shaped and reshaped dozens of bowls and vase like structures. She worked her magic with clay, the pedal, her fingertips and some water. I could tell her brain was focused and enjoying every second of this new adventure. Art is her specialty.

Aspen, lacking patience like her mother, squished and rebuilt her clay over and over again. First making plates, then cups and ending with a hollow pipe like figurine made out of trace amounts of remaining clay. She was frustrated at the lack of delicacy of her quick fingers and hands. Meanwhile, Abbie made worms and spaghetti. We were all covered in clay residue by the time we finished.

There was face painting (rainbows!) live music, free daisy planting and basil seeds, soft chairs, fire pit rings, gardens structures, bean bags and backpacks made out of old used tire inner tubes. Aside from enjoying it all amid pavement, it was a delightful afternoon in the sunshine promoting Earth and all her wonders. I'm only sad I took the camera and was too busy having fun to take any awesome pictures! Wished I had one of the girls at their wheels. This one of their pots (transported wet, via bike helmets) will have to do.

Happy Earth Day!