Schools Out For Summer

The school year is about to be over. The day has finally come. My kids have been anxiously awaiting the last day of school since the first day of school. Now it is up to me to entertain them for the next two months!

The thought of facing an entire summer without a plan is sure to make any mom quiver in her flipflops. But, this is New York City and the world is our oyster. I can surely fill their days with plenty of education, movement, and Italian ices. 

Mission 1, Day 1: Italian Ice!

An Italian Ice is not a snow cone. Although it does have some similarities. Italian ice is made in a similar process to ice cream. The ingredients are mixed together and frozen like ice cream. It is similar to sorbet. Italian ice does not have any eggs or dairy which makes it a great treat for kiddos with allergies or sensitivities to dairy.
  

History

The history of this delightful desert is not exactly clear. The Arabs, Sicilians, Europeans, Turkish, Chinese, French, and Spanish all claim to be the creators. They are all probably right in some shape or form. Each may have developed it in their own country, sadly we will never know who we can actually give the gold star to. What we do know is that it is an international dessert, enjoyed the world over. The classic ingredients remain the same, however, flavors and textures differ.

Functions

The Italian ice can offer more than just sweet relief. It has also been used to cleanse the palate between meals. The most popular use for the Italian ice is simple, it just cools you off on those hot summer days.

Our Favorite Place

 

So, tomorrow on the last day of school it will be a balmy 79 degrees. We will surely spend the afternoon in our local park, it is my plan to get the kids moving and walk over to our favorite local ice spot Pesso's. The menu is extensive and always changing and they offer a frequent buyer punch card. 

Although I am sure we will make several pilgrimages to our favorite spot this summer, we will also be attempting to make our own. The combinations are endless and it really is easy. This will give my kiddos a new appreciation for their own talents and creativity. I have included this "e-how" video that gives a simple recipe for a delicious dessert. What is great about creating your own dessert is that you control what goes in. You can adjust the amount of sugar that is added, or opt for sugar free juice concentrate. Let your kids have some creative freedom this summer and see what they come up with.

Once the ice's have been eaten, get them back outside to enjoy the summer.

Remember, a body in motion . . . stays in motion!

Going to the Beach

On hot days all the kiddos want to do is cool off. Some days the garden hose is just not enough! The easy solution and something that makes everyone happy is a trip to the beach. It doesn't matter which beach we go to, if I want the day to go smoothly, I must come prepared. I have compiled a list of essentials that every parent should have on on hand when going to the beach.

Lindsey's Beach Essentials

• The first item may seem like a no-brainer, but sunscreen is an essential. There are several different types out there, Today.com, offers a list of the best picks for 2016. A common mistake parents make is applying the sunscreen once they arrive at the beach. If you follow the directions on the container, it will say to apply 15-20 minutes prior to exposure. I recommend applying before you leave the house, and then reapplying as necessary throughout the day.
• A fitted sheet. Why you ask? A fitted sheet can provide you a sand free sanctuary when the corners are stretched out and held in place with bags or coolers. 
  
• Assorted beach toys, are always a must. No matter the age, kids love to dig and build in the sand. Parents.com, lists great beach toys for kids of all ages.  
• A ziploc bag will keep your cell phone dry, unless you decide to invest in a LifeProof phone case. 
• Baby powder will save you at the end of the day. It will assist in removing the moisture and sand from your body. The Honest Company has a talcum free baby powder that is both gentle and organic.
• Beach friendly snacks and plenty of water are always a must, but how will you tote all this stuff to your final destination? I suggest investing in a rugged all-terrain wagon. 

Having these items on hand will make your day at the beach a breeze. The best part is that everyone is out of the house together and having a blast. The beach is a great place to get the kids out and moving! 

Remember, a body in motion . . . stays in motion!