How we miss our library’s story hours!

But you can hone your storytelling techniques using the suggestions from The New York Time’s How to Tell a Great Bedtime Story using pitch, pacing, and pausing.

Family story time!  Excellent!

We seem to be living in such contentious times.  How do you disagree with another person with an opposing opinion without humbling that person, talking over them, or “winning” your point, which can only alienate that person and resolve nothing?  As Rodney King once said, “Can we all get along?”

Need a few tips?  Deepak Chopra’s How to Have a Disagreement Like an Adult in the NY Times may offer some insights as to whether you choose to engage or not, and if so, how.  He recommends listening to the other person and their values. Then formulate your thoughtful response using “insight, intuition, inspiration, creativity, vision, higher purpose or authenticity integrity.”  Take a breath, SMILE, and calmly respond.  Avoid what Chopra calls “black or white/you’re with me or against me” thinking.  If you’re being bullied, walk away; do not take abuse.  Don’t try to prove the other person wrong and don’t judge — try to be forgiving.  Finally, find a way to have a gentle laugh together, not mocking but to ease tensions.

Image thanks to needpix

It is still important to celebrate with our children but be remain mindful of healthy habits during COVID-19 time.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention created a list of activities that range from low risk of contracting the disease to high risk activities.  Check out their guidelines at their Holiday Celebrations site.

Riverton has always been a walkable town.  We have so many beautiful, unique, historic Victorian buildings, especially along the Delaware River, and you can best enjoy them during a walk around our “village.”  With lovely, mild weather finally here, fall leaves will make “leaf peepers” out of many of us – perfect walking weather!

Image thx to SnappyGoat.com

Thanks to the Historical Society of Riverton house plaques and historic markers are strategically placed on or in front of many historic buildings and homes throughout the town.  You can walk on your own and serendipitously find treasures, or if you wish for a small guided tour, you can access Betty Hahle’s 1989 Walking Tour #1.   And while  you’re looking at the HSR site, we invite you to become a member!  Check it out at Historical Society of Riverton.

Another noteworthy tour is not far from Riverton.  The New York Times included New Jersey’s Grounds for Sculpture among their Sculpture Gardens Around the Country.  Timed tickets are free for those under 6 years of age, with discounts for students, military, seniors.  Check out their site for details.