Swordplay has always been a major part of my extended family's get-togethers, from plastic tube "swords" for the younger ones to realistic wooden swords as they grew. No one has yet taken to fencing formally, but maybe they should. This morning's Orlando Sentinel featured an article on how fencing improves mathematical skills. Apparently it improves spacial awareness, geometric visualization, abstract reasoning and other mathematical concepts through physical action.
That doesn't surprise me as much as it once might have, since I have been hearing a lot lately about the critical importance of physical activity (such as crawling, creeping, walking, running, brachiation, and activities that stimulate the vestibular system) for mental and intellectual development.
En garde!I'm supposed to be writing about our trip to Europe, but the discussion on a friend's blog (begun here and continued here) tempted me to respond, and why waste a long essay in just one place?
The discussion began with the statement, "I loathe the spanking of children," and some very interesting comments followed. Herewith my own contribution. (More)
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We just returned from a dream vacation in Europe—hmmm, that sounds a bit pretentious, doesn't it? But it's true. It had all the earmarks of a great vacation—visiting with family and friends, wonderful weather, awesome food, more to see and do than we could take in—plus a view of other countries and cultures from the inside, and a stay at at fairy tale castle to boot!
Li'l Writer Guy went quite crazy, having so much to say and no time nor opportunity to say it. I trust he will be able to deciper his hastily-scribbled manuscripts and produce both chronological description and commentary while I'm unpacking and trying to catch up with "normal" life. In the meantime, here are some random thoughts inspired by our trip. Bear in mind that we only experienced small parts of France and Switzerland (and a minuscule portion of Germany), though I will occasionally use the terms "Europe" and "European" for convenience. (More)
