Hi friends!

Happy Friday!

Today’s Friday Five is going to be a little different. I have a couple good things to share with you, but first, I have a question.

#1 // Will you help me?

I realized recently that I don’t know nearly enough about YOU!

Please reply and tell me:

Where do you live?​
​Do you have children at home? How old are they?

That’s it. No survey, no form...just hit reply. I really do want to know who is out there reading!

#2 // Family movie night: The Sheep Detectives

We watched The Sheep Detectives and really enjoyed it. It’s funny and clever for the adults, with plenty for older kids to enjoy, too.

And since I can find a manners lesson just about anywhere, I loved the underlying messages about including others and looking out for your “flock.” It's available on Amazon Prime.​

I’d recommend it for older elementary kids and up. There is some death and loss, so keep that in mind for more sensitive children.

It's really a gem of a movie!

#3 // An easy family favorite recipe: Mrs. Jones’ Spoon Burgers​
​
Years ago, my son came home after having dinner at his friend Walker's house, raving about his mom's delicious "Spoon Burgers."

Of course, I had to get the recipe, and I’ve been making them ever since.

They’re nothing fancy: ground beef or turkey, a few pantry staples, and toasted buns. They take about 15 minutes and are exactly the kind of easy, hearty dinner every family needs.

When I make Spoon Burgers, I always think of Walker and his mom. The best recipes remind us of people we love!

Link: Mrs. Jones’ Spoon Burgers recipe​

#4 // A good read: Theo of Golden

I’ve just finished Theo of Golden, and it has me thinking about how so much of raising children can feel like it's all about do's and don'ts...say please and thank you, look people in the eye, speak clearly, stand up straight, use your table manners...and on and on.

But ultimately, we're hoping all those little things help shape who they become.

We hope to raise people who notice other people. People who are generous. People who make their communities better simply because they are in them.

Theo of Golden is a lovely reminder of that.

Have you read Theo of Golden? What did you think about the book?

Link: Theo of Golden​

#5 // One more question for you.

As I get to know more about you, I'd also love to know:

What would you like more help with?

• Modern manners and etiquette?
• Raising kind, confident kids?
• Family meals and conversation?
• Navigating friendships and social situations?
• Something else entirely :)

Because as much as I love sending you the things I think are useful, I'd really like to know what you want to hear about.

And if all you have time to send me is “NYC, two kids- 6 and 9!” I'll happily take that, too.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend- maybe with a movie, a good book, and a Spoon Burger!

Sending you all my best,

Dawn

PS) I recently subscribed to 1440, and I am loving their mission, "to be a comprehensive, unbiased news source." They are the real deal — check it out here:

PS) Affiliate links are included in this email. I only link to things I personally use and love. 💙