tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49318589862816302682023-10-14T03:38:39.612-04:00A Rosy OutlookCrafting, Cooking, and Motherhood Musing Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.comBlogger751125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-12073830841238241592020-08-06T15:46:00.003-04:002020-08-06T15:46:25.409-04:00Elephant and Piggie Day! <div>Last week we celebrated Elephant and Piggie Day. Really, all things <a href="http://pigeonpresents.com/">Mo Willems</a>! I planned a lot of different activities for the kids centered on Mo's books. I introduce the daily theme for the kiddos with a short (rather bad!) poem. This one said: <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We started the day by reading a few of our Elephant and Piggie books. I find reading the book first gets us in the right mindset. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Then we did the graphing worksheet linked <a href="https://www.totschooling.net/2018/11/elephant-and-piggie-pack-prek-kindergarten.html">in this post</a> by Tot Schooling. I had a few questions for them afterwards, such as which Elephant was there the most of, which Piggie column had the fewest Piggies, and what were they doing in each activity. I love charting because it involved coloring, counting, and identifying patterns (sometimes). <br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dLCWzNnfds/XyxWpGNDu-I/AAAAAAAATo0/s3lBcxYJpx0xACzjwxLsEd2VWokSnnfYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7dLCWzNnfds/XyxWpGNDu-I/AAAAAAAATo0/s3lBcxYJpx0xACzjwxLsEd2VWokSnnfYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2898.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graphing Elephant and Piggie <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>After that, I dug out a new to us book, My Friend in Sad. I decided I wanted to use a book to talk about emotions after <a href="http://creatingreadersandwriters.blogspot.com/2015/03/fast-finds-vocabulary-activity.html">seeing this post</a>. Mo's drawings are so often filled with emotions (I mean, THE BEST!) and helping my kids identify emotions in others will help them to be more empathic later in life. Each kiddo had two post its and placed them on the appropriate page as we read the book. They did a great job. And honestly, this was a HUGE success. They loved doing this!! <br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GewQTraj67E/XyxWpTAskcI/AAAAAAAATo8/xqG-CS7g1a889_m_uEL5BEiBIEbywrCDACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GewQTraj67E/XyxWpTAskcI/AAAAAAAATo8/xqG-CS7g1a889_m_uEL5BEiBIEbywrCDACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2899.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>We also made Pigeon. They had a choice between making Pigeon or making Elephant and Piggie. Both crafts were super cute but goodness, I do love how their Pigeons turned out. <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/178525572718139902/">This little video</a> inspired our Pigeon. I love that we use our hands and it's easy to do. The hardest part for my kids was cutting their hand outline. I had to help both of them a little. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lx96F-rGIMM/XyxWpGcYfiI/AAAAAAAATo4/QoHE-X1hDPYM_GIbRUggwA5imWCLMUYYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lx96F-rGIMM/XyxWpGcYfiI/AAAAAAAATo4/QoHE-X1hDPYM_GIbRUggwA5imWCLMUYYwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2912.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And yes, it was a PJ type of day! <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Then we watched a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tVfVvmJP7E">Mo video</a> from March. Those are so good and inspired a lot of art creation!!My daughter drew Piggie and then we all tried our hand at animation. You can see my son's dancing Pigeon (but not really dancing!) below. <br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MPZGU49i0N8/XyxWp9d65TI/AAAAAAAATpA/AlI0WHpplFo592As99Hf83JEvsI9crEqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MPZGU49i0N8/XyxWp9d65TI/AAAAAAAATpA/AlI0WHpplFo592As99Hf83JEvsI9crEqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2915.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>I try hard with these day to do a little English language arts, math, physical education/movement, science, and social studies if I can. In an effort to add more ELA we did a <a href=" https://www.gradeonederful.com/2012/09/its-elephant-and-piggie-fest.html#.U7IaKBbobu0 ">write your own story activity</a>. Turns out, I ended up writing it out. BUT, they both came up with the plot lines and told me what to write so still a win in my book. And then they added color to the drawings. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J5twY63-flk/XyxWqeRDo4I/AAAAAAAATpE/cmglU6FBw0Ahh6Uebfp0UvRYlYAkb2mwACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J5twY63-flk/XyxWqeRDo4I/AAAAAAAATpE/cmglU6FBw0Ahh6Uebfp0UvRYlYAkb2mwACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2918.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>My daughter is learning the order of the alphabet and my son could use the additional practice. I saw this <a href="https://www.totschooling.net/2018/11/elephant-and-piggie-pack-prek-kindergarten.html">complete the alphabet sheet</a> on Tot Schooling and figured it would help reinforce the alphabet. What a cute handout! <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We had a great Mo Day! I love putting these together for the kids to explore a book (or author in this case) a little more fully. And since then, we've checked five more Mo books out of the library. I'd call that a success!! <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>All of other Mo Willems Day ideas can be found <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/stacykraus/teaching-at-home/mo-willems-day/">here</a>! I keep a Pinterest board for each story day. <br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="height: 512px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 640px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YUWSkH2sOO8/XyxWqmaPmeI/AAAAAAAATpI/sfKte-H0gX4OgEJyVRzPcudFf093vBQNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YUWSkH2sOO8/XyxWqmaPmeI/AAAAAAAATpI/sfKte-H0gX4OgEJyVRzPcudFf093vBQNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2927.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complete the Alphabet<br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-60970147558602005632020-07-07T14:37:00.003-04:002020-07-07T14:37:43.479-04:00Give a Moose a Muffin Day A little over a week ago, we spent the day with the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/If-You-Give-Moose-Muffin/dp/0060244054/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1XNKGS2BPTOE6&dchild=1&keywords=if+you+give+a+moose+a+muffin&qid=1594145234&sprefix=if+you+give+a+%2Caps%2C720&sr=8-1">If You Give a Moose a Muffin</a> by Laura Numeroff. The kids have been enjoying the theme days so I'm trying to do them once a week. I started the kids day by putting muffins on the floor outside their rooms so they would discover it first thing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W2u0hjw4EeM/XwS7VYt_oRI/AAAAAAAATlg/tqReZoeh6cICMWJYFO5G6mzw3zZ3ei4TACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W2u0hjw4EeM/XwS7VYt_oRI/AAAAAAAATlg/tqReZoeh6cICMWJYFO5G6mzw3zZ3ei4TACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2126.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
We, of course, ate muffins for breakfast. No homemade blackberry jam though. I honestly don't remember what Pinterest reeipe I used which is shameful because they were so good! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CFxYqTq_qww/XwS7VV3I4NI/AAAAAAAATlk/d98GTg2jDi8rDEG6Uo8snc5sS1TDxAopQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CFxYqTq_qww/XwS7VV3I4NI/AAAAAAAATlk/d98GTg2jDi8rDEG6Uo8snc5sS1TDxAopQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2131.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Afterwards, we read the book. I had a few little <a href="https://owensfamily-gwyn.blogspot.com/2018/04/free-mouse-and-friends-puppet-sticks.html">moose and friends puppets</a> attached to popsicle sticks for them to use during the moose story and other If You Give a.... stories.<br />
<br />
Then made our own moose puppets with paper bags, construction paper, and googly eyes (obviously. We rarely do a craft without them!). I traced antlers for them and they tried to cut them. I had to help both kiddos towards the end as those curves are tricky. But I was proud of all they did do! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2BX5V3CkfYQ/XwS7Vsch5CI/AAAAAAAATlo/xTGr7_6Vo3o8qgY-sdKU23ip0pc0qui-wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2BX5V3CkfYQ/XwS7Vsch5CI/AAAAAAAATlo/xTGr7_6Vo3o8qgY-sdKU23ip0pc0qui-wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2142.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
My daughter's puppet looks like a minecraft moose. Oh, straight lines are so much easier to cut! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVPUjEbpyF0/XwS7WHRsoJI/AAAAAAAATls/iL-FudOaXKwXMGrjmt3_ZnCxks4AMM9IQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVPUjEbpyF0/XwS7WHRsoJI/AAAAAAAATls/iL-FudOaXKwXMGrjmt3_ZnCxks4AMM9IQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2146.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I also had both kiddos retell the story with <a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/free-give-moose-muffin-printable-pack/">this sheet</a>. Cutting, pasting, and coloring. Yay for working on fine motor skills and story recall and ordering. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wXpOsNhcdbI/XwS7W5VfTgI/AAAAAAAATlw/gIwdHJtFJskDgDAgQZtKMUBR9OZLb-NCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wXpOsNhcdbI/XwS7W5VfTgI/AAAAAAAATlw/gIwdHJtFJskDgDAgQZtKMUBR9OZLb-NCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2154.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
We took our moose stuffies for a walk around the neighborhood because burning off energy is my jam. My daughter narrated a bunch of our walk for her moose. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uM9fMNrWMDs/XwS7XVNXaBI/AAAAAAAATl0/DCmHDKk09LkpS2Ej9VllJeTE1O6WCwIxACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uM9fMNrWMDs/XwS7XVNXaBI/AAAAAAAATl0/DCmHDKk09LkpS2Ej9VllJeTE1O6WCwIxACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2159.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
And lastly, we frosting some muffins.I cut out muffins for each of them and dug out one of our cans of shave gel for frosting. Again, I love working the fine motor skills. This is a great one and relatively easy clean up, especially if you do it outside like we did. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Q_JCEAe8eU/XwS7XYPbSjI/AAAAAAAATl4/tahoTNdwms8kZdPgvLsJpDX5aC-Qq_eogCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Q_JCEAe8eU/XwS7XYPbSjI/AAAAAAAATl4/tahoTNdwms8kZdPgvLsJpDX5aC-Qq_eogCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_2160.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
The one thing we didn't get to was the math activity. I had <a href="https://www.kindergartenworksheetsandgames.com/2018/10/if-you-give-a-moose-a-muffin-math-activity.html">these muffin cut outs </a>prepped and planned to have them pull two muffin numbers from a hat and add (or subtract) them together. I was bummed to not get our math activity in but I might use them another time.<br />
<br />
All in all, the kids had a great muffin day. I'm so glad we're exploring fun kiddo books with a variety of activities and learning. I'm already working on Sheep in a Jeep for this week. Stay tuned for the update!<br />
<br />
<i>Resources used: </i><br />
<a href="https://www.freehomeschooldeals.com/free-give-moose-muffin-printable-pack/">Cut and paste activity sheet</a><br />
<a href="https://www.kindergartenworksheetsandgames.com/2018/10/if-you-give-a-moose-a-muffin-math-activity.html">Muffin tin numbers</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOPFVSiB5uQ&feature=youtu.be">YouTube reading of the story</a><br />
<a href="https://owensfamily-gwyn.blogspot.com/2018/04/free-mouse-and-friends-puppet-sticks.html">Printable puppets</a>, just add stick <br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-26322081973406519072020-06-19T19:35:00.001-04:002020-06-19T19:35:46.135-04:00Going on a Bear Hunt Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h-oFklSUZJo/Xu0nnnif8rI/AAAAAAAATZ0/uyADA0H4m9w3veQu9Flw0DLanGN7uJRtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h-oFklSUZJo/Xu0nnnif8rI/AAAAAAAATZ0/uyADA0H4m9w3veQu9Flw0DLanGN7uJRtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1930.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Today, the kids and I went on a bear hunt. Most likely, you are familiar with the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Were-Going-Classic-Board-Books/dp/0689815816/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3CXA22EWW0X7Y&dchild=1&keywords=we%27re+going+on+a+bear+hunt+book&qid=1592600584&sprefix=We%27re+going+on%2Caps%2C213&sr=8-1">"We're Going on a Bear Hunt"</a> by Michael Rosen. If not, the premise is five siblings who go on a bear hunt together. It's a delightful and fun poem.<br />
<br />
When the kids came down this morning, they found <a href="http://www.nuttinbutpreschool.com/going-on-a-bear-hunt-picnic/">bear footprints</a> leading them to the table and our copy of the book. I explained today would be all about the bear hunt. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RtZebk7qq2g/Xu0nnwmcM6I/AAAAAAAATZ4/8iEAD4iyZjcHQI3qIonZMU2qtLV0Tg_hwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RtZebk7qq2g/Xu0nnwmcM6I/AAAAAAAATZ4/8iEAD4iyZjcHQI3qIonZMU2qtLV0Tg_hwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1935.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After breakfast, we started by painting our bear caves. I used two paper plates stapled together to make the caves. Both kids painted for probably about 30 minutes!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LdzUDpdsn5o/Xu0noI-JCNI/AAAAAAAATZ8/zeSOmJ7PAxU_6bDG5KHgEoZ9PfhkMPQ1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LdzUDpdsn5o/Xu0noI-JCNI/AAAAAAAATZ8/zeSOmJ7PAxU_6bDG5KHgEoZ9PfhkMPQ1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1943.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After that, we read the story. I had put a number of the words on cards that I printed out from <a href="https://www.sparklebox.co.uk/thumbs236-240/sb236-were-going-on-a-bear-hunt-story-set.html">here</a>. Both kids loved laying them out and it was a great way to reinforce what the word looks like. We also talked about the parts of the story: beginning, middle, end, characters, setting, and title. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJHaVNlOkTE/Xu0noTRHMOI/AAAAAAAATaA/8OieOm3Qxpso9pXpPxjfpJ3lQ09vLqRAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1181" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eJHaVNlOkTE/Xu0noTRHMOI/AAAAAAAATaA/8OieOm3Qxpso9pXpPxjfpJ3lQ09vLqRAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1953.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
Then, we went for a walk around the neighborhood with our bears. We looked for any bears we might see out in the neighborhood. Surprisingly, there were no bears in our Philly suburb this morning! But it was good to get out and walk through our neighborhood "forest" and "long, wavy grass". <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s7xaoaXE74o/Xu0noiZHuUI/AAAAAAAATaE/FZgpAsb_940dSFMPpeh04Zms15JbVAfKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s7xaoaXE74o/Xu0noiZHuUI/AAAAAAAATaE/FZgpAsb_940dSFMPpeh04Zms15JbVAfKQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1959.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
When we came home, it was definitely time for a snack. I had bought Teddy Grahams for snack. We did some simple addition and subtraction as part of this. I'd have them put three bears in the cave, add 4 more, and tell me how many were in the cave. Then, I'd ask them to eat two and tell me how many were left. My son loved this so much that we did a second round this afternoon! It was a great way to add a little math to our day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qliz4O1YiBw/Xu1Kj8Li8uI/AAAAAAAATas/Ym4i3C68YG0t4e3YjOZumChvt9e-_UkywCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qliz4O1YiBw/Xu1Kj8Li8uI/AAAAAAAATas/Ym4i3C68YG0t4e3YjOZumChvt9e-_UkywCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1969.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
After snack time, I had another little art project for them. The <a href="http://www.pinkstripeysocks.com/2014/07/3-easy-bear-hunt-activities-with.html">adorable bear hunt map</a> in this post is such a fun addition to any We're Going on a Bear Hunt activity. Both kids colored their maps (What color is our house Mommy?) and then moved the characters through it, retelling the story to themselves. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fGeTIOZuAho/Xu0no8UgluI/AAAAAAAATaI/tZOUer8gQdYBX83dALmjAVry9L387_J7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1963.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fGeTIOZuAho/Xu0no8UgluI/AAAAAAAATaI/tZOUer8gQdYBX83dALmjAVry9L387_J7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1963.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
In the afternoon, we did Cosmic Kids <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAT5NiWHFIU">We're Going on a Bear Hunt yoga</a>. We are big <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5uIZ2KOZZeQDQo_Gsi_qbQ">Cosmic Kids </a>fans and this was the perfect physical activity to go with our day. I love Jamie's joy in making yoga accessible to small people. And my daughter is a huge fan. We even had to do a second video!<br />
<br />
Afterwards, we watched the We're Going on a Bear Hunt <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d1_Z068z74">video</a> on YouTube. We just can't get enough!!<br />
<br />
We finished up the day by eating some thick oozy mud, otherwise known as chocolate pudding, for dessert at dinnertime. Pudding bar night is a favorite with my kids. We added toppings to our bear - mini M&Ms, sprinkles, or crumbled cookie. And of course a small cloud of whipped cream! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCfNyfX9bgo/Xu1JoPsBUsI/AAAAAAAATag/_XjB2wXDbfwSNOZNFHyB6_iL1_oV0026ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lCfNyfX9bgo/Xu1JoPsBUsI/AAAAAAAATag/_XjB2wXDbfwSNOZNFHyB6_iL1_oV0026ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_1967.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
It was a perfect bear hunt day. I love that we touched on English language arts, math, physical activity, and art all in one day. Both kids and I had so much fun! Story day might become a regular part of our summer weeks. Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-72824892428283696642020-05-28T14:58:00.002-04:002020-05-28T14:58:44.603-04:00How I'm Trying
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve really struggled with what to say regarding George Floyd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve struggled with what to say about all of
the black and brown people taken too soon by police officers. Every time a story
breaks, there is a flood of comments on Facebook or other social media. People
share resources, some of which are really wonderful. And then we fall quiet
again. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I believe there are no words I can offer up on social media
that can make a difference. People who want to learn and embrace the idea of social
justice will. People who bristle at the mention of white privilege will
continue to do so. My hollow words on Facebook aren’t going to change that. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The real true difference is in how I act. And honestly that’s
in ways you probably won’t see. That’s in me educating my son, after we listen
to a school book on MLK, that everything isn’t as hunky dory as they make it
seem at the end. That’s in me welcoming new people, whomever they are, to my
neighborhood. That’s in me silently watching a police interaction with a black
man outside of my Target knowing that if necessary I need to turn on my camera
phone. That’s in me calling out a joke or comment that is racist. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was raised to believe in and trust the police. I still do.
I’m a freaking white woman. The system is designed to protect me (generally. Yes,
we could debate that point.). I struggle to reconcile the police I believe in
with those I see in these videos. And I struggle with how to educate my kids that
although we trust the police to protect and serve, not everyone has that same
ability. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I promise I will keep trying. I will trip over my words when
talking to my kids. But I will say the hard things. I will do the hard things,
like turning on my cell phone camera. I know for some that might not seem hard
but I am not a challenge authority type. I will make mistakes. I will probably do
things that are racist. And I will try to listen and reflect when called on
that. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, I note the irony of posting this after
saying there are no words I can share on social media that will make a
difference. I post this not to change any minds. I post it because I want my
black and brown friends to know I will keep trying. I want them to know that I
know I’ll screw up but it’s okay to call me on it. </div>
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style>Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-31584589854623545382020-04-24T17:28:00.001-04:002020-04-24T17:28:22.598-04:00Life in the Time of Quarantine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I don't know about you but I'm definitely on the struggle bus today. I'm an introvert and with no escape, it gets a bit much. I struggle with the constant "Mommy, mommy watch this". I'm tired of making dinner for everyone. I want to lay down and nap every afternoon. And focusing is a challenge. Today is cloudy and grey, adding to the melancholy. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWlJ8t6sb3U/XqNVwzS25tI/AAAAAAAATI8/1VA6CXEs-vYs7O9GiRdnSx0zYf8jvXmXACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OWlJ8t6sb3U/XqNVwzS25tI/AAAAAAAATI8/1VA6CXEs-vYs7O9GiRdnSx0zYf8jvXmXACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0106.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
My stress has manifested as a tight neck with a knot on the left side that just won't go away. My hip flexors are super tight, even with a long pigeon pose every morning.<br />
<br />
I am appreciating the bits of joy - chocolate chip pancakes on a Friday morning with the whole family, lilacs blooming in the yard, and my daughter's love for learning. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7XuqAhGl7Fw/XqNVxTseINI/AAAAAAAATJE/piEunGVth38z6Ef3-pR5SfhCnX1XwBQWACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7XuqAhGl7Fw/XqNVxTseINI/AAAAAAAATJE/piEunGVth38z6Ef3-pR5SfhCnX1XwBQWACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0091.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
I've been making masks for people. I've made 89 so far, shipping them as far as California, Ohio and New York and giving some away locally. It feels good to do something for the common good. I'm hoping to make 100 and then give myself a brief creative break to make something for me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5gmFt9oYjI/XqNVwyY6I1I/AAAAAAAATJA/eoj2AuWOdfAkRyZKdIf9nsd8WdElBeUhACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t5gmFt9oYjI/XqNVwyY6I1I/AAAAAAAATJA/eoj2AuWOdfAkRyZKdIf9nsd8WdElBeUhACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_0130.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And I've been doing lots of little educational things for my daughter. My son has his assigned kindergarten classwork. Abby is itching to do something too and constantly asking about her "homework". The other day she "scooped" these ice cream cones while Chase did his English work. I'm getting a workout creating fun learning activities for her but it's probably a good channel for my energies right? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6--2_ogR-h8/XqNVxymyOaI/AAAAAAAATJI/6bX3dAOzB3A3I_rzrK8eYlKnTH3TPX9nwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_9940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6--2_ogR-h8/XqNVxymyOaI/AAAAAAAATJI/6bX3dAOzB3A3I_rzrK8eYlKnTH3TPX9nwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_9940.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
And like so many other quarantiners, I've been baking. Muffins, sourdough bread, and other things. I'll probably make those chocolate cupcakes soon.<br />
<br />
Yet I'm still stir crazy. This is tough. How are you channeling your energies productively? Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-20407500940697658952020-03-05T10:30:00.000-05:002020-03-05T10:30:11.369-05:00Counting with Dominos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been looking for a way to use our dominoes - a current favorite - for learning fun. I have two different ideas after some Pinterest searching. In all transparency, I'm not sure whose pin I got this idea from but there are a number of pins exactly like this game. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This domino game, aimed at the 3-5 year old age, involves counting. I wrote out post its with zero through 12 on them and lined them up on the carpet. My daughter, who is almost four, and I sat down together. I explained the idea and showed her the first one or two. Then the "I can do it myself" kicked in and she took over! <img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b6V5eUFIpxw/Xl8aIcqALaI/AAAAAAAATFg/R_Qtu50vO9QC6znZDFprs4SGBstOBqSuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/fullsizeoutput_856f.jpeg" width="640" /></div>
We went through all of our dominoes counting and assigned them. She had the best time!! The next day, she pulled everything out to do it again. The second time, we didn't get through all the dominoes but I still consider it a win because she loved the counting and identifying the number. I even saw a little progress with sequence understanding. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjppM13nUZ0/Xl8aIQNz1jI/AAAAAAAATFc/ZBJ-pG6xDCM9DslxoAR8M2-AaTPc6OXnACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_8439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PjppM13nUZ0/Xl8aIQNz1jI/AAAAAAAATFc/ZBJ-pG6xDCM9DslxoAR8M2-AaTPc6OXnACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_8439.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
For my son, we're going to do a different version that involves adding since as a kindergartner, he's doing some of that in school. I just have to find a time to introduce everything when his little sister is otherwise engaged!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-87430619389709891102020-03-03T21:51:00.001-05:002020-03-03T21:51:09.543-05:00Word Family DuplosI recently took a few of our spare Duplos from the basement to use for word families for my kids. Seriously, we have so many Duplos why not use some for learning? <br />
<br />
I made five different families of five blocks each. We have ag, ig, op. og, and ug. I put all the blocks into a bucket and explained the concept. My son, who is five and in kindergarten, got the idea with a little explaining and some course correction throughout. My daughter, who is three, did not (unsurprisingly since I didn't have a chance to sit down and do it with her). However, I have faith when we sit down to do it together, she'll grasp the concept pretty fast because she's fairly clever. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qLwOItbWED4/Xl8TNhk4nEI/AAAAAAAATE8/PnDjPNuRCnowqfYZnSnbZS0d8FhKBMvnACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_8419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qLwOItbWED4/Xl8TNhk4nEI/AAAAAAAATE8/PnDjPNuRCnowqfYZnSnbZS0d8FhKBMvnACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_8419.JPG" width="640" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That said, the other day I realized part of the problem was that what letters they needed to focus on wasn't completely clear especially for my daughter. And I knew we had more Duplos downstairs and I could tweak the game slightly to make it more clear. Enter smaller bricks with the word family letters only on them! Now, they can start their stack with the small brick and it will help them know what letters to identify for success. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3yNRv3jq6U4/Xl8UZ94UeuI/AAAAAAAATFQ/IcKV75gbQ0QX8scOPU81dN9jEBF3F2ilwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/fullsizeoutput_8594.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3yNRv3jq6U4/Xl8UZ94UeuI/AAAAAAAATFQ/IcKV75gbQ0QX8scOPU81dN9jEBF3F2ilwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/fullsizeoutput_8594.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
If you are looking to do these with your kids, we used the following words:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
ag - sag, rag, bag, tag, and wag</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ig - dig, big, rig, wig, and big</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
op - cop, mop, hop, bop, and lop</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
og - log, dog, bog, fog, and hog</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
ug - bug, lug, tug, rug, and mug</div>
<br />
I'm hoping to dig these out again with my daughter in the next few days while big brother is at school. I'm looking forward to building our stacks together and also going through each end sound and word. Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-7644892546119230812020-01-21T16:32:00.002-05:002020-01-21T16:32:53.596-05:00Forgiving MyselfMotherhood is just a series of moments where you seek to do better than the moment before. Today I yelled. And then I yelled some more. Did my sweet, vivacious, and energetic girl deserve it? No. I just failed to be patient. To be kind. To be adult. To be better. But also, I'm (working to) give myself grace. I apologized. I got us out of the house.I'm remembering I can continue to be better. Every minute is a new opportunity to work towards being the mom I want to be. I'm taking a deep breath, admiring her block tower, and allowing myself forgiveness. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QQpyre42og/XidssmDs2RI/AAAAAAAATBk/haW_QXgNMfsRhw609xQM_TneuTkAaI-8gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_7381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QQpyre42og/XidssmDs2RI/AAAAAAAATBk/haW_QXgNMfsRhw609xQM_TneuTkAaI-8gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_7381.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
That's one of the joys of kids, right? They forgive us so easily. We fail. We yell. We get distracted. We are generally imperfect. Yet we're all they want - our attention, our kindness, our love, and our hugs.<br />
<br />
Motherhood is a series of challenges, screw ups, and successes. All we can do is keep moving forward. All we can do is forgive ourselves and keep striving to be better. And to love our little people as only we know how. Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-17226542822747910482019-09-12T06:39:00.000-04:002019-09-12T06:39:34.801-04:00Letter from 90 Year Old Me to Current Me <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dear Stacy, </div>
<br />
We’ve had a great life. Along life. A life filled
with joys and trials. As the old you I have a bit more wisdom and a few
more winkles. I want to share just a few thoughts, hoping they will
bring you to this beautiful old age with more amazing life experiences. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FmKcAZ9vKZ8/XXofr1pFq1I/AAAAAAAAS3k/sCySid716C4bbJm4D3CIKONr5ctRE8qWACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_3196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FmKcAZ9vKZ8/XXofr1pFq1I/AAAAAAAAS3k/sCySid716C4bbJm4D3CIKONr5ctRE8qWACEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_3196.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Always find the love. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Dream. Imagine. Grow. Believe in yourself. <br />
Breath. Be patient. Count to 3. <br />
Keep practicing kindness and reinforcing that value with Chase and Abby. <br />
Find more time to date Ted. Your “us” is worth it. <br />
Keep exercising. It’s what gets you here. <br />
Slow down when you eat. Enjoy your food. <br />
Follow your passions. They help you to be the best you there can be. <br />
Create. It makes you happier. <br />
Celebrate your friendships. <br />
Hug your people whenever possible. <br />
Watch your words. They can’t be taken back. <br />
Love with fierceness and great loyalty. <br />
Stretch. Both body and mind. <br />
Speak up for others. Use your privilege. <br />
Trust your instinct. <br />
Reframing things can be beneficial. <br />
Love. Always love. <br />
<br />
You will do amazing things. Do them fully, with kindness, and with belief in yourself. We are so blessed. <br />
<br />
Love, Stacy Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-20760335992776090592019-09-09T10:22:00.000-04:002019-09-09T10:22:13.485-04:00Pattern of the Month! I've been sewing more and more lately. It's been awesome to get in to my sewing space, play with fabric, and make little tweaks to patterns here and there. In an effort to keep up the creativity, I'm going to do a monthly feature here called Pattern of the Month.This month's pattern is decidedly the <a href="https://www.heyjunehandmade.com/product/lucerne-blouse/">Lucerne Blouse</a> from <a href="https://www.heyjunehandmade.com/">Hey June Handmade</a>. I've made this blouse four times in the last month and a half. The first time I found the sleeves confusing and it took a while. And then, the blouse was a bit too big.<br />
<br />
Once I figured out the sleeve instructions and went down a size (!!) I made this pink and turquoise version. It fits great and is soft, comfy fabric. Success!! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QvSsbVEa21w/XXZdHRgLBDI/AAAAAAAAS24/FsadzqRDkAkAd4QpEgotpxgrE3PCgoB1gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QvSsbVEa21w/XXZdHRgLBDI/AAAAAAAAS24/FsadzqRDkAkAd4QpEgotpxgrE3PCgoB1gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2651.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric: From <a href="https://www.joann.com/">JoAnn's</a> line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I loved how it came out and was such a simple way of dressing up my
wardrobe, I decided I needed to make another one. However, this one was
going to have plain sleeves so it could transition into fall more
easily. Simple pattern tweak - lengthen the sleeves, don't cut the notch
or the ties.I hit up the JoAnn's sales and found a darker fabric that doesn't need to be pressed and has constellations. Win! Seriously a fast sew. The only flaw on this was a bit of rippling at the bottom hem. No one bet a fellow sewist would notice I'm guessing. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0l_8AVw_nk4/XXZdHbeVaeI/AAAAAAAAS28/x-vvLqLBEFgW_UaY5ln4HV0_j2BcRDQ9gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0l_8AVw_nk4/XXZdHbeVaeI/AAAAAAAAS28/x-vvLqLBEFgW_UaY5ln4HV0_j2BcRDQ9gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2901.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric from JoAnn's in house line</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And then I had a yard of this poppy fabric from <a href="https://milymaefabricshop.com/">Mily Mae Fabrics</a>. Honestly, I should have bought two yards because it was on sale. But I had one. Another Lucerne with contrasting sleeves!! This is my football-is-back-on shirt as I sewed it during the Eagles game yesterday. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk9AsmjLR54/XXZdHQhzkZI/AAAAAAAAS20/aZzYydrU8RU518oXX7dm8J4zEZZripq8gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sk9AsmjLR54/XXZdHQhzkZI/AAAAAAAAS20/aZzYydrU8RU518oXX7dm8J4zEZZripq8gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3510.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric from Mily Mae Fabrics, sleeve fabric from JoAnn's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have a bunch of other fabric in my sewing space to make some pants, sweaters, and other cozt fall items. I can't wait to share them with you in this new monthly feature. Happy sewing friends!! Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-55252677346263185082019-07-11T21:01:00.001-04:002019-07-11T21:04:11.345-04:00Bead Bowl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jxH9RuKl214/XSfXanAUh7I/AAAAAAAASzY/3RnK-iOe5gU1UHMDnsaL4fo8qq5fSlM-gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jxH9RuKl214/XSfXanAUh7I/AAAAAAAASzY/3RnK-iOe5gU1UHMDnsaL4fo8qq5fSlM-gCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1025.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
It's been so hot lately so I've been trying to find ways to keep the small people entertained in the house during part of the day. The other day I stumbled upon this tutorial for creating a bowl from those little plastic beads. You know those beads I'm talking about? Those little plastic ones that you put on pegs and then iron to melt? The ones that your kids spill on the floor and you spend an hour picking up? Well, we had all the supplies already on hand and I wanted to engage my son in something other than legos and Paw Patrol while his sister was napping. <br />
<br />
We coated an oven safe bowl with some Pam cooking spray and went to town at putting beads in, trying to ensure they went up the sides a bit in the process. Make sure you thoroughly coat the sides with the cooking spray so they stick nicely. My daughter woke before we were done so she was able to help by putting more beads in the bowl. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKrDqCBOcEw/XSfXatMaM7I/AAAAAAAASzc/952QcR4U8iYsLjD2DU3hnPPn1KsE_HdMACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKrDqCBOcEw/XSfXatMaM7I/AAAAAAAASzc/952QcR4U8iYsLjD2DU3hnPPn1KsE_HdMACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_1028.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Once done, we put the bowl in the oven, preheated to 400 degrees, and baked it for 15 minutes. When I checked on our bowl we needed more beads and more time. I dumped a bunch more in and put it back in the oven for another 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
Once it was pretty melty (yes, I'm inventing words) I took it out and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then I placed the bowl in the sink and filled it was water. A while later I noted that our bowl was floating... but more importantly cool enough for little hands.<br />
<br />
The kids were pretty pleased with their final product. My son put it at his place at the table so he could show Daddy. And today he insisted on playing with it!! A definitely sign of a winning craft in my world. <br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-9478387778068554542019-06-17T16:27:00.000-04:002019-06-17T16:27:24.197-04:00Traveling with Kids: Airplane Edition I've been busy preparing for our upcoming vacation and my kids first flight that they will remember. My son flew right after his first birthday but with only one and with him being so little, it barely seems to count.<br />
<br />
So I've been searching Pinterest for ideas, hitting up the dollar store, and raiding my stockpile of activities in the closet. Here's a little of what we're doing to keep them busy and happy during our flight! <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Nj35pBGH10/XQfz0ckVT2I/AAAAAAAASxI/L0MxS7LrBCUvs6An63OAhqFalea9lcLngCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9369.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Nj35pBGH10/XQfz0ckVT2I/AAAAAAAASxI/L0MxS7LrBCUvs6An63OAhqFalea9lcLngCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_9369.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son's backpack</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I saved a new book from our last Scholastic order at school to put in each backpack. They both also have some dollar store plastic figures, a sticker book, food (including lollipops for take off and landing), pipe cleaners, and a surprise goody bag from Walmart (75 cents!).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57wsVhP4vR8/XQf0aLuowiI/AAAAAAAASxQ/BsZdlP4N_Mgtn_ttMjuzOhfriLBjCQUNACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57wsVhP4vR8/XQf0aLuowiI/AAAAAAAASxQ/BsZdlP4N_Mgtn_ttMjuzOhfriLBjCQUNACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_9372.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter's backpack</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I also checked out these <a href="https://npcwomen.dynamic.omegafi.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2037/2019/06/NPC-Advocacy-Building-Blocks.pdf">playaways</a> out from our library for my son. He's a big fan of listening to The Magic Treehouse in the car and also loves The Boxcar Children. I got him <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0186EMA36/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">the headphones</a> on Amazon. I ended up checking out three additional books for my husband and me too so if we're stuck in the room at bedtime we can listen to something fun! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zctHzaQj_Yo/XQf0-WDT7OI/AAAAAAAASxc/7a8uYcGk_2ki_jU2oMyp6z1P0IK1n36RACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zctHzaQj_Yo/XQf0-WDT7OI/AAAAAAAASxc/7a8uYcGk_2ki_jU2oMyp6z1P0IK1n36RACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_9885.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Lastly, I saw these referenced on Pinterest and of course can't find the pin now. But I put together these Fruit Loop necklaces to entertain them in the terminal as we wait for our flight. They can string their necklace and wear it on the plane.... and munch away whenever they want.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ttfx-ZqKkE0/XQf2Wooyd0I/AAAAAAAASxo/wu72xlMoj0YbNLVXRDBpVtBLKiSehTNDgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9886.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ttfx-ZqKkE0/XQf2Wooyd0I/AAAAAAAASxo/wu72xlMoj0YbNLVXRDBpVtBLKiSehTNDgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_9886.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
I do think I'll need to control it because I don't want them doing it on the plane and sending Fruit Loops everywhere (as a friend worried!!). But hopefully stringing them while waiting will keep them happy if we're delayed.<br />
<br />
<i><b>What are your favorite activities for keeping the little ones entertained and happy at the airport or on a flight? </b></i>Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-18937755350103579152019-05-21T17:55:00.000-04:002019-05-21T17:55:02.922-04:00Potty Training I’m in the midst of potty training my daughter. My strong willed, funny, I-can-sit-all-day-singing daughter. She knows what to do but isn’t about to do it yet. On some level I get it. It’s control. But I also am so challenged. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2fHNwDMeTHc/XORzPgqFAFI/AAAAAAAASvI/7whVS-VlQv02kZIuaQVUAFfqBm5CNpU8QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8386.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2fHNwDMeTHc/XORzPgqFAFI/AAAAAAAASvI/7whVS-VlQv02kZIuaQVUAFfqBm5CNpU8QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_8386.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Here’s part of the equation. We’re going on a Disney cruise in June. If she’s fully potty trained she can spend time in the big kid room. It’s the room her big brother will be in. And I know she’ll be more comfortable if she’s with him. <br /><br />She’s resistant for some reason. I want to back off, knowing she’ll get there. Yet I also feel this time crunch. Right now I’m just trying to keep my patience and keep moving forward. <br /><br />Here are a few of the suggestions I’m going to try to keep in the front of my mind as we move forward with potty training over the next few weeks or <shudder> months. <br /><br />1. Every child gets there differently. My son responded to different rewards than my daughter does. I need to tweak my style to fit her. <br />2. Breathe. Being calm will help her gain confidence. <br />3. Buy more vinegar. I need to put her in undies more for success and that means I’ll be cleaning the carpets. <br />4. Celebrate the wins. All. The. Wins. <br />5. If the poop is bad enough, some underwear should just be thrown out.<br />6. Training undies for school are a good idea. <br />7. It’ll click. And she’ll be so darn proud. </shudder><br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-36215951892310288902019-04-28T07:58:00.000-04:002019-04-28T07:58:22.710-04:00Preschool LearningIn September, my son enters kindergarten. I'm still not sure how that's possible but we're excited for this new experience. And, I truly am. I haven't been weepy yet. I believe he's ready to learn, explore, and meet new friends. I hope I never get weepy. Wistful maybe but not weepy. <br />
<br />
That said, I also want to ensure he goes in fully prepared. I know he'll learn a lot there but I want to do what I can to make the transition as seamless as possible (knowing it won't be at all seamless!! Hello full day or activities! Hello exhaustion!). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sRHFUHZk65Y/XMWH7ZEGRJI/AAAAAAAASso/93wY4FNHwzoPf10GOLG325-F8_kN-ljWwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_7449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sRHFUHZk65Y/XMWH7ZEGRJI/AAAAAAAASso/93wY4FNHwzoPf10GOLG325-F8_kN-ljWwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_7449.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
The other day I made this number sort on our kitchen floor. Now, my son knows his numbers fairly well. Sometimes he gets a little tripped up and forgets 13. But generally he's good. Basic counting is one thing, but this is both sensory and a bit of math. I like that we can learn and move at the same time! And, his sister likes it too. And, so far I haven't stepped on a small figure while cooking dinner!! That's also a win I think.<br />
<br />
We're also working on fine motor skills. He writes his name each time I drop him off at preschool. However, he's challenged by the process; it's something we definitely need to keep practicing at home. Luckily, a friend had extras of these dry erase pouches. One one side we have his name to trace. And on the other, I have these great sheets from <a href="http://education.com/">education.com</a>. We have beach words right now because I'm prepping the kids for our cruise this summer and time on the beach. I gave Chase the "answer key" so he can write the words next to the full word. My daughter has the ones you can trace because although she's got fairly good fine motor skills, writing is still very new to her. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzOJBCunurY/XMWH7p1iEMI/AAAAAAAASss/vCbAEla6QCgoJEx-y1rPi6LezVCYWMsuQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_7471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzOJBCunurY/XMWH7p1iEMI/AAAAAAAASss/vCbAEla6QCgoJEx-y1rPi6LezVCYWMsuQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_7471.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Make a splash as your child builds early writing skills in this
snorkeling themed word tracer! Visit Education.com to check out our full
collection of <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.education.com/resources/ela/reading/&source=gmail&ust=1556331233955000&usg=AFQjCNH9wfSIlLuy2UuTZWNeQZ7k2Vs2OQ" href="https://www.education.com/resources/ela/reading/" target="_blank">reading and writing resources</a>.</strong></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was poking around the education.com website and I love that they have so many resources I can download to use with my kids. I can see us using some of the dot to dot sheets to continue our counting. And as we continue doing sight words (they are all over the house already!), I will definitely be downloading <a href="https://www.education.com/worksheet/article/make-word-write-missing-letter/">this worksheet </a>and others like it.<br />
<br />
Education.com also has social emotional resources. The toddler/preschooler mom AND the higher education professional in me loves that. We're always working to manage emotions (hello calm jar! hello <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chickering%27s_theory_of_identity_development">Chickering</a>!) and I'll take any way I can continue to dialogue on that. Note, I probably wouldn't use the preschool sheets with college students..... although who knows because <a href="https://www.education.com/worksheet/article/mindfulness-deep-relaxation/">why</a> <a href="https://www.education.com/worksheet/article/yoga-for-kids-dog-pose/">not</a>? <br />
<br />
I have also been working on recognizing and spelling her name with my daughter. We got this activity from <a href="https://busytoddler.com/">Busy Toddler </a>on Instagram. She loves putting her name together. Currently, I'm leading the activity, helping her to identify the right letter and processing what belongs where. However, I can see a day where she can do this on her own. And it's exciting to think she'll be good at recognizing her letters and name!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-627p0-p-DKY/XMWJsy8YxFI/AAAAAAAASs4/bNMRPSen3TELzMmWqoSVjl42d2I1e9JgACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-627p0-p-DKY/XMWJsy8YxFI/AAAAAAAASs4/bNMRPSen3TELzMmWqoSVjl42d2I1e9JgACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_6168.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Any other preschool learning activities you are a big fan of? We're always developing new ideas over here and welcome things from everywhere!!<br />
<br />
<br />
This post was written in collaboration with education.com. All opinions are my own. <br />
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-72220854447137708802019-04-26T15:38:00.003-04:002019-04-26T15:38:59.003-04:0030 Acts for 30 DaysMy dad died 30 years ago this June. He was 44. He died from a heart attack. There were no smaller heart warnings (none he heeded at least). In 10 days I turn 44. I've been thinking a lot about if my life were over this year and all that I'd leave behind. My kids are so young. I was young at 14 but at least I have lots of memories. Who knows if Abby would truly have any of me.<br />
<br />
All of this is why I workout almost daily. I know heart disease is an issue in my family. My grandfather died at 42. My dad died at 44. I'd like to see far beyond 44 or even the (imaginary) add-two-years-with-each-generation 46.<br />
<br />
But with all of this on my mind, I decided I wanted to do something to commemorate the age my dad didn't get past. I wanted to do something positive that embraced life. I wanted to complete an act that was future thinking. Because my life is just at the mid-point and I have a lot of living to keep doing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bd1TOe72u4Q/XMNc49oU7cI/AAAAAAAASsU/ps6-m_v7GvohPhZa_-PV2_JBPlepICtRQCEwYBhgL/s1600/30%2Bacts%2Bfor%2B30%2Bdays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1500" height="512" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bd1TOe72u4Q/XMNc49oU7cI/AAAAAAAASsU/ps6-m_v7GvohPhZa_-PV2_JBPlepICtRQCEwYBhgL/s640/30%2Bacts%2Bfor%2B30%2Bdays.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Thus #30Actsfor30Days was born. For thirty days - one for each year my dad has been gone - I'll be doing a random act of kindness or an act of self-care. I'll be promoting kindness. I'll be sharing love. And I'll be finding ways to enrich my health and well-being. I'd love for you to join me!! The calendar is in this post and can be accessed <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/192N2w1T1DSGV5rU2kX_3aRzD4_yBQAIF/view">here</a>. If you participate, even just for a day, please share your experience on social media with #30Actsfor30Days. Help me to spread kindness, embrace life, and remember the legacy my father left to me. I would be so honored.<br />
<br />
XO <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-37224224299040080032019-03-08T14:34:00.000-05:002019-03-08T14:34:54.708-05:00Happy International Womens Day<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D4wbETdUyVc/XILCUDJsUvI/AAAAAAAASnk/ytsn6mMPH_IkeAy15vqOosjdndjL_31igCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D4wbETdUyVc/XILCUDJsUvI/AAAAAAAASnk/ytsn6mMPH_IkeAy15vqOosjdndjL_31igCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_2940.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
You see that girl? She is vivacious, funny, kind, enthusiastic, challenging, smart, and beautiful. I want the world for her. I want her to know her power and her strength. I want her to make her mark on the world, however that is defined.<br />
<br />
Too often women and girls are limited. Limited by what people think they can accomplish. Limited by education. Limited by controlling their wealth. Limited by their menstrual cycle. Limited by reproduction. Limited by the perceptions of their gender, by those that call them "princess" and "honey".<br />
<br />
Yet women are strong. They sacrifice daily for their children. They find ways to create, to buildSh some financial security for their families. They go without - clothes, vacations, books, and sometimes even food - so that others can prosper. They give birth. They become caretakers - for kids, partners, and parents. They lift up girlfriends in times of trial. <br />
<br />
I want that girl above to have it better. I want her peers to recognize her as an equal always. I want her to always be able to explore her passions without question or limitations. I want her to harness her power to move mountains. Always. She is worthy of so much. I hope the world remembers that.<br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-12635573267539079902018-10-07T10:40:00.000-04:002018-10-07T10:40:30.188-04:00Our Country
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The United States. My country. My heartbreak. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s been a difficult week for a lot of people. We continue
to see the divide in our country grow. We’re not talking; we’re posting on social
media. It’s snippets and soundbites, not dialogue and compassion. We’re being “led”
by those who don’t seek to unite but rather do all they can to divide us
further. Trump, the GOP, and the Democrats will be the unraveling of this
country. But average Americans won’t be. We’ll fight, like we always have since
the beginning of the republic, to uphold our freedoms and make this country
united. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are deeply flawed. We judge people based on race. We turn
away those who are desperate to escape a hell we certainly helped to create. We
have stripped children away from their parents at one of their most vulnerable
times. We are unkind and unloving to our LGBTQIA sisters and brothers. We
mistreat women, the creators of us all. We don’t listen to the stories of these
people. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Yet I cling to hope. I cling to the belief that we do bend “towards
justice” (Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.). I try every day to lead a life that
I believe exemplifies Christianity. I try to love my neighbor. I seek to
understand others. I’m far from perfect. I call myself out regularly. Others
have called me out. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I firmly believe that we must seek to embrace and help “</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">your tired, your poor, your huddled masses
yearning to breathe free” (</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Emma Lazarus)</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. I firmly believe Black Lives Matter. I
firmly believe women deserve autonomy over their bodies and livelihood. I firmly
believe families belong together. I firmly believe we must believe survivors. I
firmly believe in equal rights for LGBTQIA friends. Do I understand how people can
vote (what feels like) against those things? No. Am I willing to listen? I'll always try. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It’s been a
difficult week for a lot of people. Many people in this country are feeling
marginalized, frustrated, or saddened. But we must rise up. We must listen to
our neighbors. We must love our neighbors whether they wear a red hat or are
rooting for a blue wave. We must overcome: overcome our leadership that continually
fails to unite us, the leadership that thrives on our divide. We need to take
the threats to our unity seriously. We need to strive for equality. We need to
ensure our black and brown brothers and sisters live in a country that does not
prioritize the comfort of white privilege over their very safety. We need to
remember that for thousands of years, women have struggled to feel safe. Don’t “protect”
me. Rather, call out misogyny. We need to remember it’s not a choice to be gay.
It’s how someone was created. And we must remember we have created tragedy and
heartache is many places of the world and we have a role in fixing that. We need
to listen. Embrace. Live with compassion. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The United
States. My country. My hope. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
@page WordSection1
{size:8.5in 11.0in;
margin:1.0in 1.0in 1.0in 1.0in;
mso-header-margin:.5in;
mso-footer-margin:.5in;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-62219489621950759692018-07-07T21:34:00.000-04:002018-07-07T21:34:46.503-04:00Sharing My Scoliosis Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What people don’t realize about scoliosis is that it’s a lot more than
just a crooked spine. Yes my back hurts. But when my alignment is off -
which happens easily with a crooked spine - it manifests sometimes as a
headache. A good crack of my neck can make me feel better. But that’s
not always easily attainable. <br /><br />I also can’t stand or walk for a
long time because I will have significant back pain. Carrying a heavy
pack can cause a muscle spasm. <br /><br />Jumping and running aren’t really
feasible. According to the doctor, my spine gets twice the pressure on
it than someone with a straight spine experiences. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpN8rKNg2YE/W0FpFED1DuI/AAAAAAAANqU/-Tz5nshxDtcuh7M0uI2YpCxal7JoI5nRACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpN8rKNg2YE/W0FpFED1DuI/AAAAAAAANqU/-Tz5nshxDtcuh7M0uI2YpCxal7JoI5nRACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0319.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
When I was pregnant I had near constant back pain, only relieved by heat and a steady diet of Tylenol. Inserting the epidural was very complicated. With my second baby, it took close to an hour and two different doctors trying. <br /><br />Lastly, the hit to my body image is something that I’m just now starting to combat. My left ribs stick out. My hips are at different levels. They have different curves to them. When I bend over one side of my back sticks up higher than the other. I am very asymmetrical in a symmetrically focused world. <br /><br />I share all this because I’m guessing most people don’t realize any of this. I’m not looking for sympathy. I’m sharing because we all have limitations or obstacles. We all have challenges, physically or mentally. It’s valuable to be vulnerable and share what makes you different. It’s good for people to know the challenges you face. Different isn’t the curse we thought it was in 7th grade. It’s part of your strength. Challenges are part of your story. Seeing someone else’s resiliency can help us all become more resilient. Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-39296648857495829702018-06-24T16:22:00.002-04:002018-06-24T16:22:33.122-04:00A Tired Soul? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yesterday my sorority sister Amy Phillips from <a href="https://www.lovemyselfrevolution.com/">Love Myself Revolution</a>
shared the quote “sleep doesn’t help when it’s your soul that is
tired” and it really struck me as exactly where I am right now. I always
tired. But I’m getting sleep. Ultimately, I don’t think it’s a physical
tired. <br /><br />I think my challenge is it’s a personal tired. Each day I
make meals. I change diapers. I plan play dates. I play legos. I clean
up toys. I do laundry. I clean bathrooms. I get drinks. I could go on
about all the little things.<br /><br />And I love my kids and being a mom.
Watching them grow, learn, and develop can be very rewarding. But those
little things? Not so much. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQxWTOZQnD0/Wy_8TuCnsvI/AAAAAAAANnM/IeF2ZIasNFYPfLhdeeEeU5BfmtXS32eVACEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_5607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQxWTOZQnD0/Wy_8TuCnsvI/AAAAAAAANnM/IeF2ZIasNFYPfLhdeeEeU5BfmtXS32eVACEwYBhgL/s640/IMG_5607.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
I think my soul is tired. Tired of not being challenged. Tired of not thinking. Tired of the same routine. Tired of not following a passion. <br /><br />I googled the quote because there was no source when I saw it. Most of the graphics did not have a source either. One attributed it to Paulo Coehlo. In an effort to give credit, I’ll hope that’s accurate. Two articles listed the following:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
7 things that can make your soul feel sick<br /> 1 Not being true to yourself<br /> 2 Saying yes when you really mean no<br /> 3 Giving of yourself when you are empty<br /> 4 Negative self-talk<br /> 5 Feeling as if your purpose is unfilled<br /> 6 Engaging in petty arguments, gossip and being around toxic people, online and in real life.<br /> 7 Surrounding yourself with clutter, both physical and mental<i> </i> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Source: </i>http://www.patheos.com/blogs/ahappymedium/2017/03/soul-sick-sleep-doesnt-help-soul-tired/</blockquote>
For me, I can see number 3 and 5 being possibilities. I think number three is motherhood, especially when your kids are young. Other than relying on my husband as best as possible when he’s home, I don’t know an exact fix to that. <br /><br />Number 5 is maybe easier to fix as it’s more concrete. I know creating and helps by people are my purposes in life. So the task becomes how specifically so I want to ensure I’m meeting those passions. Do I pursue them individually or together? Right now I see myself doing them separately. I create art. I hand letter. I sew and embroider. I coach through Beachbody. However, I’ve been kicking around an online class that I want to test. The goal of it would be to provide people the opportunity to self reflect on their passions and identify how to make them a larger part of their life. <br /><br />The best thing I can do for me is find a way to live my life fully. Actually, the best thing I can do for my kids is find a way to live my life fully. Every day, it’s a challenge as I have to balance their needs (food, attention, baths, sleep - you know, some of that basic hierarchically stuff!!) with my own. But my tired soul isn’t helping to grow them as effectively I can and ideally should.<br />
<br />
Do you ever feel similarly? How have you gotten out of it? I'd love advice. And I plan to report back on progress I make towards putting my greater purpose into action. Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-82336709272651908202018-06-18T11:22:00.001-04:002018-06-18T11:22:28.730-04:00That Postpartum TimeI was talking to a friend who is a new mom about the transition to motherhood and how tough the challenges can be. Four years in I still firmly recall bringing Chase home for the hospital and being somewhat overwhelmed with the responsibilities.Who thought trusting me - even at 38 - with a newborn was a wise decision?<br />
<br />
There's a lot of advise out there for navigating this big life change. Here's mine:<br />
<br />
1.) <b>Throw out the "sleep when the baby sleeps" advice</b>. Personally, I hate this one. Sleep when you can. There will be times you need to do laundry (because spit up.... amiright?). There will be times you need to make a meal. There will be times you can't shut your brain off. I think the "sleep when the baby sleeps" advice can cause guilt or frustration, two things you don't need right now. Do the best you can.<br />
<br />
2.) <b>Allow yourself to cry. </b>The hormones are flowing. You're not getting solid sleep. Everything is changing. Crying is okay. People might say "oh you must be so happy" or "he/she is so beautiful. How blessed you are." And that might be true. (It also might not be but that's a separate item!) But you're also allowed to cry. It's healthy even. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QuHh_wSnkQ/WyfJyhs4jlI/AAAAAAAANmY/w90OTgu4WVkRdeLc2vt_V6zMu10avRkggCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QuHh_wSnkQ/WyfJyhs4jlI/AAAAAAAANmY/w90OTgu4WVkRdeLc2vt_V6zMu10avRkggCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_0030.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
3.) <b>Both breast and bottle are okay.</b> I struggled with breast feeding with both kids. I wasn't producing enough. With my first, I didn't have enough knowledge and worked with the lactation consultant at the hospital. But when I went home it was just HARD. I tried breast feeding then pumping to increase my supply. But it was so stressful and ultimately just not healthy for me. So we switched to formula. With my second, I tried again. I saw a International Board Certified Lactation Consultant before delivery. I made a follow up appointment for afterwards. I met with someone at the hospital. But my supply wasn't there and the stress was too much. So again I quit. A healthy and happy mom is truly the best for the baby. Do what's best for you. As my pediatrician said "I was formula fed and look, I'm a doctor."<br />
<br />
4.) <b>Take the drugs but also recognize when you don't need them. </b>I had c-sections with both kids. The first was an emergency because of crooked neck Chase. He wasn't coming out. I have scoliosis so that might have been a factor. The second was a scheduled c-section because they believed the same challenge might occur again. Following my doctor's advice on taking the drugs but also listening to my body and knowing when my pain decreased was huge. Addiction runs in my family so I'm very tuned in to listening to myself. Manage your pain with the drugs. But try to tune in to when that pain is decreasing.<br />
<br />
5.) <b>Take all the help offered you. </b>People want to help. Let them. But set boundaries as needed. Helping isn't coming in and cuddling the baby for hours (unless that is what YOU want). Helping is doing a load of laundry. Help is dropping off dinner, preferably without staying. Helping is emptying your diaper pail or vacuuming. Don't feel guilty or like you shouldn't say yes. Let people help.<br />
<br />
That said, some people will "help" in their own way. You're allowed to set boundaries. If people are sick or haven't had the requisite vaccinations you want, you can say no to them coming close to your baby. If people park themselves in your living room and stay foreverrrrr, have your partner or parent ask them to leave.<br />
<br />
6.)<b> If you are feeling sad, down or overly emotional, keep the lines of communication open with your medical team. </b>My family is also prone to depression. I've also had my own challenges over my life. With this in mind, I left the hospital both times with a prescription for an anti-depressant. Sometimes you need help, whether it is counseling or a prescription. Don't hesitate to talk to your doctor or other medical professionals about this. My doctor, the pediatrician, and the lactation consultant all talked to me about it. I'm so glad they did!<br />
<br />
7.) <b>Follow your instincts and advocate for yourself. </b>You know your body best. You know your baby best. If something isn't quite right, don't let the medical professionals dismiss you. Serena Williams has very publicly shared the challenges she faced post delivery. If she didn't push, she might not be alive now. I know it can be tough to tell a medical professional "you're wrong" but ultimately you have a great sense of what's okay and what isn't. Push when you need to!!<br />
<br />
8.) <b>Don't feel you need to do all the things people do now. </b>And don't feel guilty if you want to! We didn't do newborn photos for either kid. I don't regret it. We took a ton of photos of our own. That said, I love looking at other people's newborn photos. We have more and more "must dos". Determine your own. <br />
<br />
9.) <b>Be prepared to buy that thing you didn't even know you needed! </b>We didn't have the best swing for our son who was super colic-y. So we bought a new one. Babies will determine what you need and it might not be what you have. Be flexible if you have the resources to be. <br />
<br />
10.) <b>Find your mom network. </b>Having other moms to bounce things off of is HUGE. I had a small group of new moms and some experienced moms I could count on for advice or could run things by. Join a <a href="https://momsclub.org/">MOMS Club</a>. Put together a Facebook group of moms at similar stages. Join the Facebook group for your <a href="https://www.thewonderweeks.com/about-the-wonder-week-app/">Wonder Weeks</a> month. Join the support group at your hospital or local lactation support center.<br />
<br />
You've got this Momma! As you navigate this life change, I'd love to hear what advice you think I missed. And please, believe in yourself. How lucky that kiddo is to have you!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-5126959807246638302018-06-10T07:19:00.001-04:002018-06-10T07:19:20.747-04:00Motherhood TearsMotherhood has often driven me to tears. Just yesterday, my daughter was complaining about dirt of the floor and “clean it Mommy, clean it”. Like I need housekeeping criticism from a 2 year old. Add that on top of being overtired, frustration over some knee pain, and the desire to fix breakfast without someone whining at me and you have a solid recipe for tears. <br /><br />Motherhood is tough. It pushes you - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Little people need you constantly. They need milk or a snack or someone to play with. They need you to wipe their tush, change their diaper or reach something on the counter. And yes that stuff can be rewarding (except maybe the poop parts!) but it’s also completely exhausting. It is all consuming. It leaves no time for you to exist in any role other than "mom" sometimes. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYn_xOA8Cto/Wx0EXBHMInI/AAAAAAAANl0/ywa8m_IP8YctULHxSzMbyApXcTIH9YROgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYn_xOA8Cto/Wx0EXBHMInI/AAAAAAAANl0/ywa8m_IP8YctULHxSzMbyApXcTIH9YROgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5684.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />I struggle with self-care. I wake up early, eat some food, read, and workout. All before my family is up. I go to sleep early (most of the time). I create. I sew, paint, or hand letter. I get outside. But I’m also very much an introvert. There is never enough time with small kids for the time I need to truly recharge. By myself.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />And so sometimes it builds up. Sometimes the release is tears. Sometimes the release is begging my husband to stay with them while I slink off to try to get alone time. And sometimes I just have to wait it out, hold it together, and know the next day (or hour!) will be better.<br />
<br />I will say motherhood is also one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. With apologies to the US Army, I think they got it wrong. Motherhood is the toughest job you’ll ever love. With all things worth doing, tears sometimes happen. It's how you know it matters. I'm so glad I'm doing it but goodness I could use a nap. Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-83731612940357076532018-06-05T21:23:00.005-04:002018-06-05T21:23:59.858-04:00First Time (Working with Lace)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Last night the hubs and I went out to dinner to celebrate his birthday. I don't get a ton of chances to dress up and what better occasion than celebrating the man I love entering into this world. I made this skirt the day before. I've had the fabric and the idea for quite some time but finally I had the time to do some selfish sewing! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAV1DGC-12o/WxczWkSzfcI/AAAAAAAANT8/3bsrZ5JCURcj5k8xYtFxfgICLTmIuM61wCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_3adc.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="750" height="636" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAV1DGC-12o/WxczWkSzfcI/AAAAAAAANT8/3bsrZ5JCURcj5k8xYtFxfgICLTmIuM61wCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_3adc.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
I used a LuLaRoe Cassie from my closet as a guide, adding seam allowances when I traced it. You'll see from the pattern photo, I cut two main skirt panels - a front and back - and two waistbands. I had this green lace I got on clearance that I envisioned using as an overlay. Altogether I cut six pieces.<br />
<br />
I attached the overlay front and back to each other and sewed up the side seams. I did the same with the black main fabric and the waistband pieces. I then turned the seamed sides in, placed the green skirt pieces on top of the black skirt. I carefully pinned the waistband piece, folded in half, to the main body and sewed around. Last step was hemming both skirt bottoms. Since my overlay was cut slightly longer to provide a sheer bottom, both were hemmed separately. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QGkcCakNOq4/WxcxXn5nEyI/AAAAAAAANTk/nh3JJUkFJQIWt5gMZcFPL08n6KQBw0nOQCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_3ac7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1088" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QGkcCakNOq4/WxcxXn5nEyI/AAAAAAAANTk/nh3JJUkFJQIWt5gMZcFPL08n6KQBw0nOQCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_3ac7.jpeg" width="434" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The skirt is a great somewhat dressy piece to add to my closet and altogether, cost about $15-20 total. Such a steal!! I used less 1 yard of both the lace and the black knit. Both were purchased at my local <a href="https://www.joann.com/">JoAnn's</a> this spring. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I paired it with a thrifted shirt from <a href="http://www.thredup.com/r/GT7ZDH">ThredUP</a>, Cole Haan heels from my closet (DSW discount pair!), a Stella and Dot necklace, bangles my kids gave me for Mother's Day (<a href="https://www.fivebelow.com/">I think they are Five Below</a>!) and a Vera Bradley clutch from the outlet sale. I felt sexy and well dressed! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KIoqEofMLGU/WxcxXRN6s4I/AAAAAAAANTg/p_ouZWh11dMA78T4BfkUBUKr-wt4FPzBgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KIoqEofMLGU/WxcxXRN6s4I/AAAAAAAANTg/p_ouZWh11dMA78T4BfkUBUKr-wt4FPzBgCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_5569.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-33364946879917685612018-06-01T19:25:00.002-04:002018-06-01T19:25:40.779-04:00Hawaiian ChickenI didn't really have a game plan for dinner tonight. I had gone grocery shopping yesterday and bought a bunch of good for us food but I hadn't meal planned in advance. My son was itching to cut into the pineapple I bought and so Hawaiian Chicken came to mind. I didn't have a lot of time to research recipes so I winged it. Honestly, that's my favorite type of cooking. Here's what I used:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAlQ4z9m9os/WxHVKtr6ZWI/AAAAAAAANMg/cozQk5_4My84j-nlv4Mq4v9RkLh6aZLogCLcBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_38fa.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAlQ4z9m9os/WxHVKtr6ZWI/AAAAAAAANMg/cozQk5_4My84j-nlv4Mq4v9RkLh6aZLogCLcBGAs/s640/fullsizeoutput_38fa.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
2 tbsp of soy sauce<br />
1 cup cut pineapple<br />
2 chicken breasts<br />
6 to 7 stalks of asparagus<br />
1 boil in a bag rice packet<br />
<br />
Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees. Smash the pineapple and add the soy sauce. Spoon over chicken breasts in a 9x9 pan. Add asaparagus, cut in pieces. Cook everything for about 30 minutes. In another pot, bring water to a boil and cook the rice according to directions on the box.<br />
<br />
Pour rice on plate and put chicken, asparagus, and pineapple/soy mixture on top. Pour any of the liquids in the pan over rice mixture.<br />
<br />
It turned out delicious. If I make this again in the future, I might add some cashews for a little extra crunch! <br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-38377625583969626672018-05-30T09:02:00.001-04:002018-05-30T09:02:13.130-04:00The Best Products in my Mom Streamlined RoutineSince I became a mom I've really streamlined my morning routine. I don't have the time or need for a lot of makeup. Maybe it's that I'm more confident. Maybe it's time. Maybe it's being older. Whatever it is, I'm happier with a more naked face. So what am I doing to ensure my skin is still protected, clear, and happy?<br />
<br />
This past year, I switched to <a href="https://laurarock.myrandf.com/ContactMe">Rodan + Fields</a>. If you're anything like me, you have at least five friends who sell R+F. I had tried a bit here and there. And then my friend Laura let me try a regimen. I use Soothe and it has made a world of difference for the redness on my skin. It's even helped with some sunspots! And it gives me a sunscreen as part of the regimen so it's one less thing to think about, which is huge for me. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_5E5vPXPqfs/Ww6cdr1qOCI/AAAAAAAAM_g/JD4AaaCi5KEErTXuOaZmmADFMp2Gb2f4gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_5E5vPXPqfs/Ww6cdr1qOCI/AAAAAAAAM_g/JD4AaaCi5KEErTXuOaZmmADFMp2Gb2f4gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2878.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
I also use a sugar and coconut oil scrub to slough off some of the flaky skin on my face (or anywhere really). This is part of my homemade skincare. It works well, does the job but is easy on my skin, and doesn't taste bad if I accidentally get some on my lips.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C1v_GUePEIk/Ww6dEvKP1CI/AAAAAAAAM_o/xgLQw97MLNgPWR-W9QN7WNHK9Jv_l4UmwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C1v_GUePEIk/Ww6dEvKP1CI/AAAAAAAAM_o/xgLQw97MLNgPWR-W9QN7WNHK9Jv_l4UmwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2883.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
My other homemade product is lotion. I mix shea butter (bought on Amazon) with coconut oil and peppermint essential oil. I use it on my legs daily. with every store bought lotion I used, I'd still get dry patches in the winter. This mixture has saved me and made my skin so much softer. It's great especially for dry patches on the ankles or elbows.<br />
<br />
I've cut back on washing my hair to twice a week. Second or third day hair tends to be best for me anyway. Still, day one hair was frizzy and I was unhappy with it. While randomly looking for products at CVS one day I talked to a woman who used this <a href="https://itsa10haircare.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_cqZq72t2wIVBQaGCh0jnwWiEAAYASAAEgINWPD_BwE">It's a 10</a> product. She said all of her friends did too. It was a little more than I'd normally spend, especially on a product I hadn't tested already. But I went out on a limb and tried it. And it's a winner. It's a good leave in condtioner, helps detangle, and tames the frizzies better than most things I've found (except perhaps my hairdresser. She rocks!). I also fell for this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AFV4DVG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask</a> after getting it in an Influenster box. It makes such a difference! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8OBmDJAHA2I/Ww6dulJqJCI/AAAAAAAAM_0/LWwVVau2QRAqfUEj72H3G96ji5Iz59WAQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8OBmDJAHA2I/Ww6dulJqJCI/AAAAAAAAM_0/LWwVVau2QRAqfUEj72H3G96ji5Iz59WAQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2882.jpg" width="300" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All of that said, I still use a few makeup products somewhat regularly. Although my face is most often naked, I love these products when I need a little something. I keep the Pixie out and use it on my cheeks and sometimes lips for color. I also love love love Dr. Jart's BB Cream. It's got a good sheer coverage but still helps disguise some of my skin imperfections. And that chubby stick is a classic. It feels so creamy on and is just the right color to add a little something. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tu8RFjs-QJE/Ww6fWG1zRsI/AAAAAAAANAA/Gc536JLG4y4wzt7HkxfLJdR17moCThFMgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_2880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tu8RFjs-QJE/Ww6fWG1zRsI/AAAAAAAANAA/Gc536JLG4y4wzt7HkxfLJdR17moCThFMgCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_2880.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
I do sometimes wear a fuller face but this is closer to my day to day. I'm happy with the improvements to my skin - even as I age - and feel better about the minimalism. What are your favorite products? <br />
<br />
<br />Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4931858986281630268.post-53657980576861224552018-04-25T14:31:00.001-04:002018-04-25T15:10:42.979-04:00Right Now....Right now, I'm....<br />
<br />
<b>listening to: </b>my son play with his legos and make up stories. He's building a monster truck police car. <br />
<br />
<b>ordering: </b>more <a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/lavender-essential-oil">lavender essential oil</a>. I love the aroma as I drift to sleep each night. <br />
<br />
<b>reading: </b>Better Homes and Gardens magazine.... from March. I just finished. I'm so behind but still enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZB9pupqMww/WuDKI9pDdhI/AAAAAAAAKPU/5k7K9N-NmDAZIX1SSPea2rGML4BFdJIGACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZB9pupqMww/WuDKI9pDdhI/AAAAAAAAKPU/5k7K9N-NmDAZIX1SSPea2rGML4BFdJIGACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3525.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<b>eating: </b>this spinach salad on repeat. With a few different tweaks each time! Today it was spinach, chick peas, goat cheese, tomato, hand boiled egg and balsamic. <br />
<br />
<b>creating: </b>I'm in the midst of some selfish sewing, as it's called. I just finished a dress for me. Sadly, it's a velvet dress I started in October or November. So now it will sit waiting for fall! I have fabric and a pattern for a cold shoulder dress which I'm hoping to start soon. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nwlQ1XioxUM/WuDMPFFefUI/AAAAAAAAKQA/QvSAJtAptfs3V1t_G-ifEFzgemHJBw5dACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nwlQ1XioxUM/WuDMPFFefUI/AAAAAAAAKQA/QvSAJtAptfs3V1t_G-ifEFzgemHJBw5dACLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3493.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<b>smelling:</b> the flowers my husband brought home last Friday. They still look so fresh too!<br />
<br />
<b>wearing: </b>workout clothes. Each day! I'm trying hand to get a sweat on each day. I know it helps with those little aches and pains. And after taking a few days off, I'm feeling it in my hip.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7JIYwJKlAUQ/WuDMPJ-K9tI/AAAAAAAAKP8/gyTEAHFWRO4NkyANWSIp8hXLm2EeYdpAwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7JIYwJKlAUQ/WuDMPJ-K9tI/AAAAAAAAKP8/gyTEAHFWRO4NkyANWSIp8hXLm2EeYdpAwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_3495.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>painting: </b>place cards for my friend's wedding. They are half done. And I'm loving the challenge!<br />
<br />
<b>anticipating: </b>a short vacation with my husband to attend the above mentioned wedding. I can't wait to get away with his for two nights. It feels like it's been a long time since we've been able to just spend time together. <br />
<br />
<b>drinking: </b>tea with honey most mornings. I haven't been a regular tea drinker ever but honestly, this small ritual makes my mornings better. <br />
<br />
<b>wanting: </b><a href="https://www.moonglow.com/collections/women/products/charmed-simplicity-moon-charm-necklace">this necklace</a> with the moon of my wedding day. I fell for it at the store the other day. Here's hoping my husband heard me offer a hint about this!! Our anniversary is coming. <br />
<br />
<b>cleaning: </b>a bit of everything. We swiffered the first floor like crazy the other day. I have been trying to organize the craft room and our pantry. It must be spring! Deep cleaning the first floor bathroom is next.<br />
<br />
<b>hand lettering: </b>a quote from <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119313/quotes/?tab=qt&ref_=tt_trv_qu">Hope Floats</a> - "beginnings are scary, endings are usually sad, but it's the middle that
counts the most. Try to remember that when you find yourself at a new
beginning. Just give hope a chance to float up. And it will, too..." For some reason it popped into my head today.<br />
<br />
<b>celebrating: </b>my daughter used the potty for the first time today!!<br />
<br />
<br />
Play along! Please feel free to use this prompts for yourself. Tag me if you can so I can see you answers! Stacy Kraus McDonaldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08975331975501844839noreply@blogger.com1