Smell on, Ferdinand

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I know that I am VERY late to this party, but I have fallen in love with a bull named Ferdinand.  Thanks to Gretchen Rubin's The Happiness Project, I was introduced to this bull who quite bullishly does not conform.  Ferdinand is Ferdinand, with no apologies or acquiescences.  It has been in the house for less than 24 hours, and has been read aloud at least six times.

  The take away?  Be yourself. . . great counsel for young and old alike.  Smell on, Ferdinand.    

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And, a new favorite line in literature. . . .and a fabulous parenting motto:

BIG Questions

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This book is a gem.  It was recommended by Maria at Brain Pickings  (see her review here) and it has provided much needed spice into our read aloud lives.  Big Questions from Little People and Simple Answers from Great Minds is a compilation of questions and answers from leading British thinkers.  Due to the British tone, my children and I are finding it particularly charming.  To date, our favorite questions and answers include What makes cake so delicious? (abridged answer:  butter, sugar, and MAGIC), and Is it true that no two snowflakes are alike? (answer:  Scientists believe that's true, but we can't be sure, and one obsessed man died trying to find out).  Fun for all, this little tome.  We all look forward to seeing what's next.