The Tale of Two Libraries

We started reading the classic novel, Tale of Two Cities, tonight.  Edward told me that it was fitting for the adventure we had today.  Some of the best things we have done as a family have taken place at the library summer programs.  We take full advantage of these events each summer.  Today that meant going to two different libraries in opposite directions!

We started out at a concert for the children at the San Antonio library.  This particular concert was pretty special…we have been a fan of this singer for MANY years.  We were introduced to Lucas Miller, the singing zoologist, when Amanda was a young participant in a wildlife educator’s workshop.  She was so excited when she came home with the first of many CDs.  Miller sang the songs that related to what we were teaching in our 4-H projects.  We especially loved the Wild...Wild...Wildlife song...but Snakes Aren't Slimy and The Bald Eagle's Song were played often as well.

Miller did not let us down...he had a great performance and we got a chance to thank him after the show.  Zaira and Brendan danced and all of us sang along with the music.  He even surprised us with a couple of new songs!  We also found out he has several books for sale as well.  We will have to check those out soon!

Our library adventure was not over...we took the children home and Michael, Zaira and I headed to the Spring Branch/Bulverde library for an adult program.  There was a one man show (Duffy Hudson) in which we learned about the life of Einstein.  This was a great show because it was both informative and entertaining...actually quite humorous!  Unfortunately, Zaira decided sitting quietly for over an hour was not her idea of fun, so I had to take her out after the first twenty minutes!  Michael on the other hand enjoyed hearing about Einstein’s life, the speed of light, time travel, gravity and space!  

Over the years at these events, our family has had the opportunity to have our picture taken with "famous people."  The actors get a kick out the photo opportunity and we fill our memories with the event and what we learned.  There is nothing like telling someone that you met Einstein and watch their reactions!  We have "met" Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, The Wright Brothers, Martha Washington, Bill Clinton...and many other historical characters!  It is a great way to make the information stick...instead of the "boring" school text!   

I wish all the children could have enjoyed the experience tonight.  Maybe he will come again as a different character in history.  We were told he also acts out Edgar Allen Poe, Dr. Seuss, and Charles Dickens!  

A big thanks to both libraries for helping us have a great experience.  Libraries help to keep the boredom of summer at bay!  The best part...Michael and I got to spend our 21st wedding anniversary doing what we love best...spending time with each other at the library!