From My Desk: A Little Friday Update

Hi friends,

How’s your week been? I’m counting down to the weekend—there are a few lovely things planned, and I’m really looking forward to some slower, intentional drawing time. This week I’ve been fitting in some quick sketches and doodles here and there as warm-ups, but I can’t wait to stretch out with a sketchbook, a cup of something warm, and no rush.

Day 2 of my May Doodle Challenge was “bounce.” I had so much fun with this prompt—some happy, bouncing smiley circles, and a few little sun catchers made their way into my sketchbook. If you haven’t yet, you can still jump in! Here’s the challenge if you’d like to join: Doodle Month at From the Pond.

Why not pick up a pen right now and doodle something for “bounce”? Think bouncy lines, bouncy shapes, or maybe even something that helps you bounce into your day (coffee, anyone?).

If you’re looking for a fun little math warm-up to kick off your day or week, here’s one I call 

Hug Bug:

• Grab your Hug Bug, Rainbow Grid, and 1-3 Dot Cards from the Math Kit Bundle.
• Place numerals, dots, or counters on your Hug Bug.
• Take one of each and add or subtract 1-3 (the numbers are so close, they’re “hugging”!).
• If the answer is on your Rainbow Grid, cover it with one of the Bug’s dots.

You can find the resources here if you need them:
👉 Number Cards for Math Games (0-100)
👉 Hug a Bug Math Warm-Up Cards
👉 Numbers to 3 Dot Cards

And lastly, I’ve added a new art class lesson plan for a Mother Bear Directed Drawing, perfect for Mother’s Day coming up! It’s a sweet, approachable project for kids—and you can find it here: Mother Bear Art Lesson Printables.

Wishing you a gentle slide into the weekend—with time to doodle, dream, and rest.

Until next time,
Melanie