Kids Activities: Dry Beans

Sometimes, despite perfect weather, the girls don't want to go outside. They'd rather be lazy and piddle around the house. I don't blame them. I like to be lazy too, but they still need some sunshine on their skin.

On days like this, I find a little activity for them to do outside that doesn't call for running and sliding and digging in the dirt...the stuff that they usually get into. This time, it was just quiet play.

Dry beans.
A few cups or bowls.
A table or blanket.

If you're wondering what Savannah has in her hands, well that's bubbles. This is her way of making sure Hope doesn't take it from her. The whole idea of sharing is a slow process. We're getting there though.
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That's it!

Usually, they'll play with the beans for a while and move on to their rambunctious mannerisms and then come back to the beans. I like to sit back and watch them for a while before playing with them. It's neat to see their imaginations turn corners and round-a-bouts.

This is not only a fun little activity but it helps them with their motor skills, focus and concentration, creativity.  But overall, it's my sneaky little way to get them outside to burn some of the endless fountatin of energy they have flowing inside their little hams. Moma knows best!!! *wink*

Witness of Moments

We've had an unsurprisingly cheerful weekend. We welcomed Pa Pah back to Charleston and he so graciously brought the cold air with him. After lunch and a short drive home, we showed Pa Pah how we groove to the natural rhythm of our backyard.

Tucked back behind the comfort of our fence. Secluded from the outside strange that lurks the curvature of the neighborhood. We feel safe in our little nook. Turning the corner of the yard is an adventure within itself. You never know what may be welcoming you. A blue bird perched atop the cottage, a squirrel feasting on yesterdays bean activity remnants. It's always a pleasant surprise and one we look forward to each day. 

Everyday we wander out and awake our senses. Sometimes I illustrate possibilities and they mimic quite well. Ups and downs, highs and lows, turn arounds and sit downs. But today, I sat back. I withdrew my daily invite and simply watched them create a world of adventure all on their own.

Princesses

With an unexpected greeting form a neighbor, our house was quickly filled with welcomed pass-me-downs. I am always more than accepting to a bag of clothes no longer needed by a little girl. It's such a big help. Burried deep in the bottom of the bags were two little princess dresses that once spotted, had no hope for rescuing. 

Daddy helped his little ladies step into their lovely attire while I, once again, sat back and watched. I more than often help to direct the play and I am enjoying playing part of the audience for once.

While the week is full of what ifs and wild possibilities, we are enjoying the moments of the now for what they bring. 

Laughter on a steady repeat. 

Sweet random kisses from little princesses. 

Bonds that forge through the depths of distance

And pure joy of being with family. 

Clips:

Smoky Potato Bake

This is one of those "I can't believe it's so easy!" dishes. A new favorite in the kitchen for both myself and the hubby. And the great thing about it is, it can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge til time to cook supper. It also makes a great freezer meal. Makes supper time a breeze. 

Here's what you'll need:

4 potatoes

4 slices of pepper jack cheese (or cheese of choice)

2 T sour cream

1/2 T butter

1 t olive oil

1/4 cup milk ( I used skim)

Salt and Pepper to taste

McCormick's Smoke House Maple seasoning

Boil the potatoes until slightly cooked through. Allow to cool for easier handling. Then slice them up as close to equal width as possible. Peels and all.

Once you've sliced them, coat your pan with the olive oil. Arrange the potatoes in an overlapping pattern. Work from the outside in.

Next, add the seasonings. Sprinkle generously over the potatoes. I didn't measure this because it really depends on your taste. If you like a deeper flavor, add extra. I kept it light for the little ones.

In a small sauce pan, slowly warm the milk and butter together. Add the cheese and stir until the cheese has melted. 

Once the cheese has melted, pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes.  Take the sour cream and spread over the top. If you're planning on freezing the dish, this is where you'll want to stop and wrap it up. Place in the freezer for a quick go to dish. If you're storing it for supper time like I was, cover and put in the fridge.

To cook:

Turn oven to 350 degrees. Cook for 20-30 minutes until the top is slightly browned. 

Now, if you're like me and you have little ones running around, then this might be a little tip for you. Sometimes, we make a meal that the girls can't eat. Whether it's too spicy, they simply refuse to eat it, or they 're not old enough to eat it (like soup). In these cases, it's nice to have some sides to pair with a protein for them. So when I make this, I save the ends of the potatoes. 

Cut them into bite size pieces. Warm them through. Add some salt and pepper (or not) and a 1/4 t of butter and  serve with some shredded chicken and they're set! 

I love potato dishes. They are so versatile is crazy. Add meat to it and it makes for the main entree. Can beat that, huh? After making this, I looked around Pinterest for some similar potato dishes. Here are three of the favorites I found. Links are listed below. 

 Click for the Sources:

Dish 1, Dish 2, Dish 3