We Love Durham NC

Library Show Afternoon

We caught two free shows at the library yesterday afternoon. The first was a Science Magic show with Dr. Elwell and his assistant Mike. We saw a Cartesian diver, a “clock” reaction of iodine and starch, a “stoplight” reaction caused by shaking a liquid, DNA from a strawberry, blue and red dyes extracted from grape soda, and dyes that reacted to acids or bases. The kids were sufficiently convinced that magic was happening, but also want to try the experiments at home. If you click the links above, it will tell you how some of the “magic” happens.

(Ms. Elwell told us if we liked this, to check out the Destiny Bus from UNC that comes around once a month. Dates are not set for 2008-2009, but the next one is in August. I also recommend books by Janice VanCleave.)

After a short intermission to walk over to Harris Teeter with our friends to get a dragon cookie, check our blood pressure, and zoom around in the rocket cart (I also bought an onion to go with squash for dinner), we walked back to watch the next show from Bright Star Children’s Theatre based out of Asheville.

The company’s costumes were primarily handmade, and brilliant. When Sadie the caterpillar came onto stage, several toddlers screamed at the strange realistic creature. Other characters were a grumpy roach from the Bronx, a British ladybug, a peppy sunflower, and of course The Beautiful Thing that Caterpillars Become. The story was about overcoming bullies, feeling great about who you are, and not judging people by what they look like.

We biked home, happy with a fun afternoon. A block from home the Boy ran slam into the back of a parked pickup truck. No broken bones this time, and amazingly both the bike and truck were also unharmed. Bless his heart.

Squash and crockpot for dinner. Early bedtime. Great day had by all!

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