CLN's 10th Anniversary

CLN is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. We officially launched Children's Literature Network on February 22, 2002. You've been a part of that ... thank you for making this possible.

For those of you in the Twin Cities area, or who will be near the Twin Cities on this date, we're inviting you to a Potluck Picnic as a celebration.

On May 19th, from 11 am to 3 pm, we'll gather at Elm Creek Park Reserve, 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove, MN 55369, at the Acorn Picnic Pavilion. You can get directions by clicking here. We'll eat lunch at 12:00 noon.

Bring your family! There's plenty of outdoor activities at the Reserve. Immediately adjacent to our Pavilion are horseshoe pitches, sand volleyball lots, bike and walking trails, and everything described on the website.

Melanie Heuiser Hill is organizing this event. She has planned games for children and adults (with prizes). Immediately after lunch CLN member Peter Pearson and his father, Jack Pearson, will lead a hootenanny. (These guys are pros who love music and children's books.)

There is no cost to you. We have the space until 9:00 pm, so you're welcome to stay and enjoy the day with family and friends.

We ask that you bring a potluck dish to share (drumroll, please) inspired by or with a tie-in to a children's or young adult book. Need some ideas? Melanie's brain is fruitful. Sal's Blueberry Coffecake. Curious George's Banana Cream Pie. Noah's Ark Sundaes (rainbow sherbet with animal crackers). Rebecca Estelle's Pumpkin Bread. Frances's Bread & Jam. Strega Nona Soup. Gingerbread Boys & Girls. Baby Bear's Porridge. The Odious Ogre's Favorite Muffins. Paddington's Orange Marmelade. Anne Shirley's Liniment Cake. The Very Hungry Caterpillar's Fruit Tray. Bring a sign that names the dish and tell us what's in it. That will be half the fun.

Please bring your own beverage. We'll have punch and water available. (Beer and wine are allowed in the parks; hard liquor is not. Beer must be in a can or bottle.)

The Pavilion has electrical plugs, countertops, and a roof, as well as many picnic tables. We'll be okay if weather is inclement.

We're looking forward to celebrating with our favorite people. Expect surprises. Expect laughter. Expect singing. Expect fun.

Do us a favor. that you'll be attending, and how many people will be with you. That way she can buy enough supplies for eating and good times. Please RSVP no later than May 10th.

For all of our members who don't live close enough to join us at the Picnic, please know that we think you're swell. We wish we could magically transport you all here to be a part of the day. We'll see you online!