Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Important Family Bonding at Utah Craft Fairs

By Rick Amorey

The most basic and important unit in a community is the family unit. For this reason, it is important to keep the family together by engaging in activities that all or most of the family members will enjoy. When this activity is neglected, the likelihood of breaking apart increases. You, as a parent, should be responsible in keeping your family occupied with an activity that everyone enjoys doing.

There are many fun activities that you may choose to pursue. The simple act of giving your pets a kid to take care of could be such an activity. If you do this, however, you should not fall into the trap of leaving the responsibility to your kids alone. Let them take care of the pet, but also schedule frequent trips with the pet so that you get to spend time bonding with each other.

Another alternative that I have explored with my own kids is the practice of crafts making together. There are many crafts to choose from: I noticed that my son was interested in miniatures, so I encouraged him to take it up. I bought books about the craft, and we started doing them together. And I have to tell you; it's a lot of fun.

The biggest obstacle that my family faced is the actual manufacturing of the small figures. We started by going around and buying kits and assembling the parts at home, which my kids then proceed to paint. Soon, I started making customized miniatures myself out of oven-baked clay. Sometimes with wood, but clay is the best choice. I feel like I'm contributing to the craft as well.

Today, my sons are experts with regards to painting the miniatures. If you look closely, you can see the minute detail in the paint shadings! And not to brag, but I have become quite adept at sculpting and baking them. We are now confident enough to show off our works in one of Utah's craft shows.

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