a job and a drink

 I discovered that a toothpick, a toothbrush, and a rag may be all that you need to keep a five year old engaged... 

My daughter wanted a job, something real. Our blender base was sitting on the counter, unplugged,  in a very sorry state from heavy use during the heat wave.  I provided an old toothbrush; my daughter  came up with the toothpick and provided her own elbow grease. She cleaned out every crevice of our "smoothie machine" with complete concentration and satisfaction.

So, if you're looking for new ideas for your children, consider giving them a cleaning job. Look for something where they'll be able to see a tangible difference right  away.  They'll feel so proud of their work. This job is just an iteration of another "rag job" my daughter enjoys.  She has a spray bottle with a little vinegar in it, that she keeps in a basket with a rag. I'm often asked  if I need the windows cleaned!

So what happened after the blender was transformed? We used it, of course!  I found two quarts of blueberries hiding in the back of the freezer... the very last of the previous years crop. We combined a couple of handfuls with lemonade in the blender. Slushy blueberry-ade was born. Drank it all weekend long!

Doesn't it look delicious? I love photographing food. My son often assists. I thought you'd like to see a behind the scenes shot, too. That lovely photo was taken in the play room/sunroom where we have the most light... it rests on our tea party table with a poster board propped in front. Happy Monday!