four simple things #11

What we are eating: One-Pot Southwest Pasta
I am crazy for One-Pot meals and this one is no exception. I add a pound of chicken or shrimp and increase the proportion of veggies. We also aren’t big cheese eaters in our family so I leave that out.
What we are playing: Simple Blocks
This week we made castles, slides, and tunnels. This is a staple toy that I should have given the toddler long ago. Other great uses are to practice pattern-making (I make a simple pattern and he complete it) and figure replication (I make a simple figure and he replicates it). These are great for open-ended play and planned activities as well.
What I am wearing: Not my Excursion Vest
Y’all remember that vest I wrote about last week? It arrived and it turns out my husband also has a green vest with brown corduroy trim that I gifted him two years ago (eek!). I posted them on Instagram. What do you think? Too matchy-matchy? (Please follow on IG too!)
What I am pondering: Wine
I recently ran across this interesting podcast series on drinking alcohol. It describes the organic process that happens in the body that makes us feel like we “need” a glass of wine after a long day. I found it fascinating—it has definitely led me to pass on the glass more than once in the last few weeks.

Denaye Barahona

Denaye Barahona is a loving wife and mama of two. She's a therapist for moms, an author, and the host of the top-ranked Simple Families Podcast. Denaye holds a Ph.D. in Child Development and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has been featured on the likes of The Today Show, Netflix, The Wall Street Journal, Real Simple, Forbes, and numerous other media outlets.