Archive for August 2015

Surviving a rainy day with no electronics

Surviving a rainy day with no electronics
A few times a year, my family needs an electronic cleanse.  My 9-year-old and I had an interesting conversation about how one can become addicted to the iPad and we discussed how we both could relate to the urge to check my phone, computer, iPad or even watch TV. We escaped to a lovely and compact... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 31, 2015 at 9:31 am • 

What I am Reading: A Spool of Blue Thread

What I am Reading: A Spool of Blue Thread
At our latest library visit, I spied A Spool of Blue Thread by Ann Tyler on the Just Returned rack.  I had no idea what the story was about, but something about the image and title, made we want to check out and read more. The book follows a love story of Abby and Red... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 26, 2015 at 9:04 am • 

Almost Meatless Monday: Egg Drop Soup and Fried Rice

Almost Meatless Monday: Egg Drop Soup and Fried Rice
This summer, I’ve been pretty bad about Meatless Monday and cooking in general.  We’ve been eating a lot of grilled foods, salads and eating out too frequently. Luckily, I found two recipes and got excited to prepare an Asian inspired vegetarian meal with Egg Drop Soup and Vegetable Fried Rice.  It was a hit and... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 24, 2015 at 10:44 am • 
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Replace Anger with Loving Kindness

Replace Anger with Loving Kindness
I read these words recently and jotted them down in my iPhone notes section to remember and use as a mantra. “Replace Anger with Loving Kindness.” When we are running late for camp and my daughter can’t find her shoes, then wants to go back upstairs to find a specific stuffed animal, my son has... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 19, 2015 at 12:00 pm • 

Sensory Bins: What are they and how can they help my child

Sensory Bins: What are they and how can they help my child
Sensory bins are a simple and inexpensive learning tool that can benefit all children.  Through sensory play kids use all five senses, improve focus and concentration and build fine motor, math and language skills. An added bonus is the imaginative play and fun doesn’t seem like learning.  I’ve watched kids of all ages (and adults) enjoy... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 12, 2015 at 11:44 am • 

How to create a rainbow Inside Out birthday party

How to create a rainbow Inside Out birthday party
My daughter’s summer birthday barbecue is one of the only annual parties we have at our home. I enjoy party planning, but admittedly end up stressed. This year we comprised on a rainbow and Inside Out theme.  My goal in sharing this with you, to help or give you ideas to make your next party... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 10, 2015 at 12:40 pm • 
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Interview with my 7-year-old on her birthday

Interview with my 7-year-old on her birthday
This child has gone through a lot this year.  We have had highs and lows and everything in between.  The good news is I’ve learned a lot about her and the way “she works” this year through trial and errors, some good therapists and quality time together. She is athletic, stubborn, sweet, creative, strong willed,... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 8, 2015 at 8:12 am • 

The Best Yoga Pants for Real Bodies

The Best Yoga Pants for Real Bodies
I spend most days in yoga studios and wear yoga pants six days a week. I see many different styles, lengths colors and brands of leggings and have tried out many of them.  Through trial and error, I’ve found the pair that work best for me, but since no two bodies are the same, I... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 6, 2015 at 1:34 pm • 

Fifteen Hours of Six Flags Great America

Fifteen Hours of Six Flags Great America
7:00 a.m. I wake up make myself black coffee, bummed we are out of milk, and find breakfast for the kids. Then I sit down at my computer to research Six Flags Great America.  My son earned a free pass for reading 200 hours from his school and it expires tomorrow. 8:30 a.m. Husband wanders... Read more »
By Beth Prystowsky,
August 3, 2015 at 12:16 pm • 
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