A Whole New Year

The latter part of 2010 was quite interesting. Story Time Adventures took a whole new twist since I was able to bring in quite a bit of business as Mrs. Claus. It was such a delight dressing as Santa's 'better half' and reading Christmas stories to children. I appeared at the YMCA after school program, at Anubee Children's Boutique in San Jose, CA; for the Girls Scouts--it was a great deal of fun. But, I may have been 'caught' a few times during my sessions. Girls who still believe in Santa and the magic of the North Pole did recognize me, and some parents had to do some quick thinking as to why Mrs. Engelhardt was dressed as Mrs. Claus.

I had the most fun as Mrs. Claus when I appeared for home visits. One was for a friend who had 'won' a story time adventure program from me. She originally wanted it for one of her son's birthdays, but he decided he didn't want a story teller. I still wanted to give her her prize, so I suggested bringing Mrs. Claus in. She did, during a play group over the holidays, and it was delightful. The kids ranged in age from about 3 or 4 year old, to second grade. After her home I went to a day care and performed there. The last performance of the season was for a home visit for a delightful 3 year old girl. She was so wonderful. Everything has been great, yet, I don't think I'm ever going to get used to having my picture taken so many times.

I'm also pleased with publicity I've received this past year. OCFamily.com, a parenting magazine based in Orange County, California, did an article about me. Kristen Schott, the writer, did a magnificent job, and I am indebted to her for her kind words and brilliant prose.

I was also interviewed for a local cable program called Arts 101. They did a five minute interview with me about Story Time Adventures, then they let me read on camera, one of my favorite books called Bubble Path Pirates.

But, with a new year stretching ahead of me, I have new opportunities in the works. In February, I will be presenting at a showcase for performers. This allows peformers to display their wares to librarians, in hopes of getting hired. Keeping my fingers crossed that this will happen and I will gain some work that way.

I'm just thrilled with the support I've received and how many new friends I've made through this.

If you want to see more, go to www.storytimeadventures.wetpaint.com. I hope to hear from you!
Julie Engelhardt

Mrs. Claus in Hollister

Hello, my friends. Yes, it's me, Mrs. Claus! Again, I'm ready, ready, ready to visit your home this holiday season. I'm located in Hollister, CA, but I will travel to Gilroy, Morgan Hill, south San Jose, Monterey, Prunedale, Watsonville, Aromas.. you name it! I can't wait to visit all of my friends.

Christmas time is such a wonderful season. So many people concentrate on the presents, but the most important thing is to concentrate on the goodwill that we can spread. In fact, we need to spread that all year long. Try to instill in your children the act of kindness, and doing a good turn daily. That's what the young man in this picture has been learning in Cub Scouts.

Remember, if you'd like to book a visit to your home, school, or party, or would like a letter for your children from Santa, email my friend Julie at Jengelha@aol.com.

Love,

Mrs. Claus!

Fall Story Time Adventures

And.. why is it you aren't attending story time at Mars Hill? Putting the word out again today that you will have a great time if you join us!!

This next one will be August 4 at 1:30 at Mars Hill, 610 San Benito Street.

But thinking towards more this fall. Planning a PJ story time for September, and most definitely two for October. One will be for the Renaissance Faire time--Story Faire--where you can dress up like your favorite knight, princess, nobleman, or dragon! Countess Julie will be on hand to share her favorite fairytale stories. Huzzah! Three cheers!

But, I love Halloween, and we will do it up right at Mars Hill. I've already put in an order for my costume.. an absolutely adorable scarecrow costume made by friend Dee. Dee did her own last year and it was more than adorable! Thank goodness I have friends who are so darn creative!

Thinking of holding this one on Oct. 30 which will be a Saturday. Need to find some groovy Halloween music so the kids can rock out, then we'll pull out our not-too-scary books and listen to some great Halloween tales.

Again, a big THANK YOU

More on Story Time Adventures

All Aboard!!

On Wednesday, August 4, I will hold the last Story Time at Mars Hill Coffeehouse at 1:30 PM. I'm very excited about this story time, which is titled, "Let's GO! Cars, Planes, Trucks and Trains." It's all about different types of transportation.

I came up with this idea because I know how much little children like to play with toy vehicles, so I thought I'd try to bring them to life.

Two of the books I'll be reading are 'Fast Food,' by Saxton Freymann and Joost Eiffers, and 'Freight Train,' by Donald Crews.

I'm very excited because I've been able to partner with local businesses and individuals.

Casa de Fruta in Hollister has graciously provided me with passes for their train ride to use as prizes, and Tiffany Ford in Hollister, celebrating 100 years, provided me with more than 65 Hot Wheels cars to give out. Drive Rite School in Hollister is lending some of their large street signs to use as props, and local model train enthusiast, Bob Peck, is bringing in model trains to share.

Mars Hill Coffeehouse is located at 610 San Benito Street at the cross of 6th Street, on the west side of San Benito. You can't miss it. There are lavender awnings over the windows. If you are a fan of the "Friends" series, Mars Hill reminds me a bit of the Central Perk local, but unfortunately, you won't find Chandler, Monica, Joey, Ross, Phoebe and Rachel--or Gunther, hanging out. I guess they have better things to do.... :-)

Hope to see you on August 4th!

Julie Engelhardt

Story time presenter..

Story time success!

It's been awhile since I've posted, but my first story time was a great success! It was Buccaneer Bay-Pirates held at Mars Hill Coffeehouse on July 14. 72 people were there--62 of them were children!

My next story time will be on Wednesday, July 28, at 11 am at the same location. The theme next time is WILD for Animals! I'm hoping children will either dress up as their favorite animal, or they will bring a stuffed animal to share.

I hope you'll join us next time. We had so much fun!

Mars Hill is located in Hollister, CA, at 610 San Benito Street at the cross of 6th. This is FREE!

Take care!
Julie