Paper Garland

It's time to start making Christmas crafts. My youngest two girls (ages 4 and 6) really enjoy making things. Today, we made paper garland, which is a traditional Swiss decoration. The girls had a blast and were pleased with their creations. We will probably make more to put on the window sills in their bedroom.

The project started by drawing a simple tree outline. The lower branches and base will keep the trees connected.



The tree outline is placed on a long sheet of paper. I used paper from a large sketching pad. The paper was cut in half lengthwise, then taped together to form a long, narrow sheet.



Fold the long sheet of paper back and forth, accordion style.




I gently taped the tree outline to the front of the long, folded sheet of paper. Cut the tree outline, being careful to not cut the branches and base where they connect to the next tree. For cleaner edges use a craft knife.




Unfold the paper and decorate the trees as desired. My two girls glued various sequins on the trees as ornaments.

Children's Music and Dance Classes

My 5 youngest children have been participating in free dance and music classes. Two members of the community wanted to work with children/teens to teach music and Colombian dancing. They met with a homeschool mom who is very active in the community. After working out the logistics of time and place the classes began. On November 22, the children will be dancing, singing, and playing instruments in the Christmas parade. I was able to take some pictures of today's rehearsal.



Paige and Alison playing drums. They are in the front row.

Paige, Alison, and Madelyn performing in their Colombian-style skirts. Paige and Allie are wearing purple. Madelyn is wearing pink.

They love their swishy skirts!


Paige drumming on her portable drum set.
Joe (in orange) and Steve (in gray) keeping the beat.