Archives by: Karen Shadrach

Karen Shadrach

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About the author

Karen Shadrach is an on-the-go, in-the-know grandmother of two sets of twins, and our NEO Grandparent columnist. Prior to retirement, she worked within the Cleveland Clinic Health System for 33 years, both as a Registered Medical Technologist and a Lead Research Technologist in the Ophthalmic Research Department. Now retired(?), she spends most of her time babysitting-teaching and entertaining the twins. When she’s not grandmothering, Karen spends time with friends, plays flute in the Independence community band, is a member of the Cleveland Astronomy Society and walks her basset hounds, Tucker and Herman. Do you have grandparenting questions about where to go and what to do when you get there? Email Karen at [email protected].

Karen Shadrach Posts

Holiday Festivals with the Grandkids

For grandparents, one of the greatest joys is watching the little ones discover the wonder of shopping for gifts amidst the colorful booths and bustling crowds. Their eyes grow wide as we wander down the aisles, taking in the handmade treasures on display.  ...
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Grandparenting: Summer Concerts

There’s something special about summer concerts. The warm weather, outdoor setting and lively music create the perfect recipe for making unforgettable memories with our grandkids.  ...
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Outdoor Play Spaces for Grandkids

With unstructured playtime down and technical use up, the time kids spend outdoors drops every year. It’s important that we, as grandparents, make the most of our time together and spend as much time as possible doing activities outside. After all, nature is the best playground. ...
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Flowers for Mom

Want to help your grandchildren create everlasting flowers for their mom? It's fun and simple to craft colorful flower arrangements with personalized sentiments from common household items. Try these sweet ideas and enjoy a very Happy Mother's Day. ...
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Birdwatching with the Grandkids

Winter birding is a family-friendly activity easily enjoyed from the comfort and warmth of your home. Watching the birds provides a great educational experience for grandkids. February is also National Bird Feeding Month, so it’s the perfect time to get started.  ...
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Grammy on the Go: Holiday Music

The holidays lie before us and the wonderful sounds of the season are about to begin. Christmas music best communicates the holiday messages of peace, love and hope. Enjoy a holiday performance with your grandchildren. It can become a tradition that you all look forward to every year. ...
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From Rocket Ships to Dinosaur Bones: More Unique Playgrounds

Grammy on the Go Karen Shardrach adds to last month’s blog on magical playgrounds. She and her grandkids and have discovered several other unique and fun playgrounds here in Northeast Ohio that feature unexpected climbing structures, pathways, tunnel slides, bear bridges and even dinosaur bones! ...
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Waterfalls with the Grandkids

It’s amazing how many waterfalls are located right here in Northeast Ohio. I was surprised to learn that there are about 100 waterfalls in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP). Most are located in the northern section of the park, but many do not have an established trail to follow. Other waterfalls can be seen throughout the Cleveland Metroparks Emerald Necklace. ...
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