Archives by: Karen Shadrach
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
Our Grammy on the Go columnist spends a lot of time visiting playgrounds with her two sets of twin grandchildren. She says, "It seems like most of the communities in Northeast Ohio have playgrounds that are now open and the grandkids are yearning to make up lost time, playing and visiting with their friends. We have a few favorites I’d like to share that we will definitely try to get to this summer." ...
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In early spring in Northeast Ohio, our large snowfalls finally come to an end, yet there’s still a definite chill in the air. This is when I think: Ugh... I need to escape to a warmer place! If you feel the same way but can’t jump on an airplane to fly South for awhile, then take your grandkids to enjoy a warm adventure right here in the Cleveland area. ...
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Our winter holidays are not yet over — the month of February brings us Valentine’s Day, and there’s nothing better than a homemade valentine.
Cards can be made for friends, family, teachers or neighbors. Valentine’s Day is a chance to share your love and appreciation with those special to you. They will bring a smile to someone on what could otherwise be a cold and dreary Northeast Ohio February day. ...
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Let’s try snow painting! All that’s required are a few spray bottles plus some food coloring, and you’re all set. Mother Nature will provide the snow! Both you and your grandkids can experiment with colors in the snow to create a new form of art... maybe even your own colorful outdoor art museum. ...
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Christmas will soon be here, and on its heels will be New Year's Eve! What to do? The grandchildren always want to celebrate the New Year’s Eve holiday but they (let’s face it, and we grandparents, also) have a difficult time staying awake until midnight! Why not host your own party? We call these parties Noon Year’s Eve since the magic hour is at 12 o’clock noon! ...
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Connect with other family and friends with a Zoom meeting before, during or after your meal. If some relatives are unable to join in, be sure to find a way to reach out to those who are close to you and the grandkids. ...
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No trick-or-treating this year? No problem! Grammy on the Go has terrific, creative options that will keep your grandchildren excited and happy with Halloween at home! ...
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The library systems in Northeast Ohio have once again opened their doors, and even though storytimes have been suspended, you can still enjoy a story outdoors on one of many storybook trails. The storybook trails are short stories that you follow from sign to sign, reading as you go along and following their directions. These trails help to build children’s interest in reading and are for children of all levels to enjoy the outdoors and read a book with their families. ...
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