Mountain Mother Runner

🍁 Each year we try to do new leaf activities like wax crayon rubbings, observation drawings, and color sorting. This time around, we put on our rain boots and explored the yard, collecting fairly flat items in a basket.  Autumn Suncatcher craft!  Capture the beauty of fall with this fun activity.  Lay one piece of wax paper out and arrange your leaves however you desire. Lay the other piece of wax paper on top (you want the shiny sides touching together), cover with a tea towel, and slowly iron until the wax pages fuse together. This may take longer than you expect, just lift the towel to check as you go. Cut out a frame using cardboard and tape along the backside so it isn’t showing. Hang in a window to allow light to shine through and enjoy your nature creation!  Supplies: •wax paper (2 sheets) •iron  •leaves/petals/nature goodies •cardboard  •tea towel (or pillowcase) •scissors •tape

We have been reading about life in the dessert and one of our favorite things is the cactus, obviously! They range from big to small, and some even have beautiful flowers! Not only have we looked at pictures and watched videos about them (did you know some types absorb rain water and swell up?), we have been able to hike and view them locally, as native species! Very cool! Here's a short educational video for you to watch with your child before starting this craft! Salt Dough Cactus Craft You will need: 2 ½ cups flour ½ cup + 2 tablespoons salt 1 cup water Large bowl Wooden spoon Baking Sheet Parchment Paper (optional) First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Now, add the flour and salt to your bowl. Pour the water in slowly and begin to mix with a spoon. Switch to mixing with your hands (or your kiddo can have fun doing this) to thoroughly knead the dough and get a sensory experience! If sticky, add a little bit more flour. If too dry...