Friday Favorites

1.  A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka

When you open the book, you'll quickly realize why it was awarded the Caldecott Medal in 2012 (the top honor for excellence in picture book artwork).  Raschka's ability to vividly capture dog Daisy's emotions in regard to her favorite toy is impressive and touching.  This is a wordless book*, but the illustrations require no words to clearly communicate the story. 

*Wordless books are a staple of PK and Kindergarten classrooms where teachers use them to spark imagination and story-telling and to model what readers do when they are reading.  From demonstrating the ability to turn pages and "read" from left to right, top to bottom, to more sophisticated skills like thinking aloud and inferring, wordless books provide a platform for readers and non-readers alike.  Wordless books are also handy for reluctant writers as they can be the idea springboard for kids who complain that they have "nothing to write about."

2.  Banana Oat cookies (chocolate chips optional)

This super easy three ingredient recipe (or four if you include chocolate chips-and let's be real-I always include the chocolate chips) satisfies my need for something sweet and cookie like with out being a full-blown calorie disaster.  I like mine chilled in the fridge and served with a glass of milk.

Two ripe bananas
1 cup quick oats
1 heaping spoonful peanut butter

Mash bananas and mix with oats and peanut butter.  Spoon onto cookie sheet.  Cook for 15 minutes at 350 degrees.

3.  Almond milk smoothies

I tried almond milk while visiting Amanda in NYC earlier this year and was surprised how much I liked it.  While I still prefer the taste of 1% milk in a glass or on my cereal, I have found almond milk to be a great addition to my morning smoothie.  I blend almond milk with a banana, frozen strawberries and blueberries and a scoop of protein powder for a light but filling breakfast.  This smoothie is my go to before teaching Zumba because it isn't heavy in my stomach but gives me the energy I need.

4. Suave Professionals Mousse, Captivating Curls, Whipped Cream Mousse, 7Ounce
I have naturally curly-ish hair, but rarely wear it that way because it can be a chore to get the curls to dry uniformly and without too much frizz.  I am usually willing to spend the time with my round brush, blow dryer and straightening iron to get it nice and straight.  However, with the heat and humidity in full force, my desire to stay as cool as possible, and longer hair that isn't quite yet ready for a pony tail, I've decided to embrace the curly-haired me for a good bit of the summer.  I grabbed this product the other day and was very happy at what a great job it did managing my curls.  It doesn't have a strong smell and it was extremely reasonable, price-wise.  I think we'll be good friends this summer!

I don't know about y'all but I am excited that summer time is finally here.  I have a bag full of books courtesy of Jennifer, an aunt who has invited me to use her pool at anytime, and a slower schedule due to the end of SAT season. 

So chime in with your faves-especially your summer related ones!

Disclaimer:  As a member of the Amazon Associate program I receive a small credit for any items purchased by following the linked products on my blog.