Archive for 2011

Looking Back at 2011: Join in and Link Up

Looking Back at 2011: Join in and Link Up
I found this thought provoking list on a fellow mom’s blog  and thought it would be fun to try my own to answer the questions. Surprisingly, it took some time to jog my memory as to what happened the past 12 months.  It’s a treat to reflect on the time period and take stock in my successes, failures and goals;  a reality check to see if... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 29, 2011 at 10:54 am • 

My Tips for a Successful Trip to Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier

My Tips for a Successful Trip to Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Winter WonderFest arrives every December at Navy Pier.  Although, we have only gone for the past three years, I fancy myself somewhat an expert on a hassle free visit. 1.  Arrive Early.  The Exhibition Hall opens its garage door at 10:00 a.m.  I suggest arriving around 9:45 to buy your tickets so you are ready... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 27, 2011 at 6:38 pm • 

Post-Holiday Detox Smoothie

Post-Holiday Detox Smoothie
This morning I woke up to the uncomfortable feeling of a weekend of over indulgence.  I enjoyed parties filled with fried potatoes, big portions, delicious desserts and little to no yoga.  I’m starting today with a green smoothie in hopes for setting the tone for a healthy last week of 2011. There is no official... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 26, 2011 at 7:55 am • 
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Giving Truly Can Be Better Than Getting

Giving Truly Can Be Better Than Getting
As my son learned from somewhere (TV I’m afraid), “The holidays are not about getting, but giving.”  I’m glad he brought this up as it was a perfect segway into explaining that one night of Hanukkah instead of getting, we will be giving; this year to Open Books. Surprisingly it was easier for the kids to give... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 23, 2011 at 8:13 am • 

Why Doesn't Anyone Talk About Marriage Being Hard?

Why Doesn't Anyone Talk About Marriage Being Hard?
I notice many, many blog posts on the hardships of parenting, but few on the challenges of married life.  Maybe because, like me, I would never want to criticize my husband and partner in such a public forum.  Or maybe because we know our families are reading this (hi guys, no need to worry).  Still I find it... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 21, 2011 at 8:14 am • 

Make Your Own Monday: Legwarmers

Make Your Own Monday: Legwarmers
The verdict on my feelings about the 80’s creeping its way back into our wardrobe is not in yet.  I can handle, and maybe enjoy, the off the shoulder shirts and leggings, but draw the line at neon and big hair.  Legwarmers are one of those trends that are very practical.  My daughter’s skinny body and long legs... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 19, 2011 at 8:30 am • 
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Donate Used Books and Support Literacy

Donate Used Books and Support Literacy
This time of year gives me anxiety.  It is the over indulging, dark afternoons and intense socializing.   One tradition that makes December brighter is giving back and helpings others.  In 2010 I wrote about Bundle of Joy, a charity that gives diapers to babies that don’t have clean diapers.  If you have diapers that don’t fit,... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 15, 2011 at 8:50 am • 

Sometimes Separating Children is a Good Thing

Sometimes Separating Children is a Good Thing
One of my favorite parts about the fact that my kids are rapidly growing older is to watch their relationship form.  Every day I am thankful that they love, look out and play with each other. Not until this weekend did I realize that sometimes keeping them together is not a good thing. While my husband was out... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 13, 2011 at 8:16 am • 

Handmade Headband Holder

Handmade Headband Holder
In my constant quest for organization, I’ve been looking for an easy way to create order with my daughter’s endless hair accessories.  I find them everywhere from the floor to random drawers and decided we needed order. The rubberbands and bows are in a tupperware type container but the headbands are bulky and don’t fit.  I... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 12, 2011 at 8:24 am • 
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Searching for a Hiding Place for Holiday Gifts

Searching for a Hiding Place for Holiday Gifts
I really try to be a minimalist.  I feel overwhelmed by the amount of kids’ stuff crowding my house and honestly do not think my kids need anything.  But, my husband tells me I’m being a Scrooge and I should allow our offspring to enjoy the excitement of the holiday, like we did when we were little.  Per his... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
December 9, 2011 at 8:52 am •