Mark's robot ears

Mark got hearing aids yesterday.  We've already heard him make new consonant sounds!  I'm working hard to keep those tiny machines safe.

Holding rainbows

We're at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, one of the many impressive and accessible museums near our house, and I'm corralling my wild mustangs who have scattered around the lobby/stairs/giant purple Christmas tree. This is the only spot snacks are allowed, and I know they all need a little food and a bathroom trip before we see the exhibits if I want to avoid meltdowns. It takes patience to convince everyone of this now that they are too old and too many to simply scoop up. I'm head down, really sticking to the must-do mothering list when I notice that we have rainbows dancing on our hands.

A little bit of physics magic lifts my head and reminds me to appreciate the fleeting, beautiful moments with my own little rainbows.

*we are the lucky ones*

Green smoothies

These are a breakfast favorite at our house right now!

For 1 meal-sized serving, blend:
1/2 a pear
1 frozen banana (I peel overripe ones and freeze in a big ziplock)
3 prunes or 2 dates (or honey)
2 tsp chia seeds
2 handfuls kale leaves
3/4 c almond or coconut milk
5 ice cubes