On September 28, Cobb School Montessori welcomed community members to its annual Country Fair, celebrating 26 years of this cherished tradition that began with the vision of parents in the community. The event, run by parent volunteers and staff, brought together families to enjoy a day filled with crafts, games, and delicious food, all set against the backdrop of a perfect autumn day.
Visitors, including parents, grandparents, friends, and alumni, embraced their creativity with a variety of seasonal crafts, including orange pomanders, nature crowns, decoupage frames, nature weavings, and adorable pine cone owls. For toddlers, a delightful hay bale maze offered hours of fun, complemented by a scavenger hunt to find a magna-tile hidden in the haystack.
Adults enjoyed a selection of hot and cold beverages from Cobb Cafe, a student-run venture showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of two sixth-year elementary students.
The perfect weather added to the joyful atmosphere. With laughter, creativity, and community spirit in abundance, this year’s Country Fair was a memorable celebration for all involved. Cobb School Montessori looks forward to continuing this beloved tradition for many more years to come.
Bring the Fall Craft Tradition into Your Home
Parents and students loved making orange and clove pomanders at Cobb School Montessori’s Country Fair.
How to Make an Orange Pomander with Your Child
What You’ll Need:
- 1 orange
- Whole cloves (about 50-100)
- A toothpick or nail (optional, for easier poking)
- A fruit zester or sharp knife (for adult use)
- Ribbon or string (optional, for hanging)
- A bowl (for any mess)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Orange: Start with a clean orange. Wash it gently to remove any wax or dirt.
- Zest the Orange: Use a fruit zester or a sharp knife (with adult supervision) to make shallow channels or lines on the surface of the orange. You can create a pattern, like stripes or spirals, for a more interesting design.
- Poke Holes: If you prefer, use a toothpick or nail to poke small holes along the channels you created. This will help make it easier to insert the cloves.
- Insert Cloves: Take a whole clove and gently push it into the channels or holes. Arrange the cloves in your desired pattern, filling the orange with them.
- Add Ribbon (Optional): If you want to hang your pomander, tie a ribbon or string around the top of the orange. You can make a loop to hang it.
- Let It Dry: Place your pomander in a bowl or on a drying rack. Leave it in a cool, dry place for a week or two to let it dry out and develop its scent.
Enjoy: Once dried, hang your orange pomander in a closet or place it in a bowl as a lovely decoration that smells great!