Digging For Gems

As we all know, Bradyn loves doing crafts.  What you may not know, is that she has really started to get interested in science experiments and "sciencey" kinds of things.  (As a matter of fact, she's outside with her friend Lola right now, looking for bugs and using her bug kit to trap and examine them!)  

One of the many wonderful presents that Bradyn got for her birthday was a Smithsonian Rock and Gem Dig kit.  She wanted to rip it open on the day of her party, but I managed to hold her off for a few weeks.  While I was doing some work in the office one Sunday afternoon a few weeks ago, we agreed it was time for Bradyn to break out the block of dirt and get started on her gem hunt.

It really is a neat kit.  It comes with a block of dirt that has rocks and gems hidden in it.  You put on your protective goggles (because trust me, there is a LOT of dust generated) and then use the pointed dowel, mallet, brush and magnifying glass to carefully dig through and find the hidden treasures.  This kept her busy for at least 30 minutes.  LOL

I have to admit that while I did continue to work, I spent a lot of time glancing over at what Bradyn was doing.  She was SO serious about the job, and gave me a running commentary on what she was doing.  Too cute!

Thank you for the great gift Jonathan!