Fresh Ideas & New Traditions

This past Monday during pickup a Mo said, "Your programs are different—thank you." To be honest, that is one of the best compliments I could ever receive. It’s what keeps me motivated to keep dreaming up new ways for us to connect!

From "Ice Storms" to "Nibble and Scribble"

Winter tried its best to slow us down. After a successful holiday brunch at Anita’s in Vienna, my attempts to host follow-up brunches in January and February were thwarted by ice and snow. But the delay gave me time to think: How can I make brunch even better?

I initially thought of Bingo, but my husband challenged me: "You do enough Bingo! Why not try a Pictionary game?"

That’s how the Nibble and Scribble Brunch was created. This past Monday at Anita's, we had the upstairs room to ourselves and enjoyed a delicious meal while drawing animals, veggies, and household items from index cards. It was relaxed, creative, and a total hit!

Refining the Favorites: Pizza & Bowling

It is always a challenge to create high-quality programs on a limited budget, as we rely entirely on registration fees. However, on March 13, we had our most well-attended event yet: Friday Night Pizza and Bowling!

I’m always looking for ways to improve, so for our next outing on Friday, June 19, I’m making a few logistical "upgrades" based on what I learned:

• The Bumper Guarantee: I realized not all lanes have bumpers automatically, so I’ll be ensuring they are up for everyone this time!
• Better Timing: We are moving the start time to 6:30 PM. I’m asking everyone to arrive by 6:15 PM so we can get shoes on and names entered into the scoreboard before the clock starts.
• Bottomless Refills: I’ve coordinated with the venue to keep the pizza, fries, and drinks replenished continuously so no one goes hungry.

Pizza and Bingo: A New Monthly Staple

On March 18, we debuted Pizza and Bingo at Tony’s in Oakton. I’m not sure what people were more excited for—the game or the fresh, hot pizza—but it was my biggest Bingo crowd ever!

To make this even better, Pizza and Bingo will now be held the third Wednesday of every month (except July and December). I’ve also extended the time to 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM to allow for a more leisurely pace for eating and socializing. Plus, I’ll be bringing my laptop to display the numbers so everyone can see them clearly across the long tables.

Coming Soon: Pups in the Park

In May, I’m thrilled to host a unique event at Meadowlark Gardens called Pups in the Park. On Wednesdays, the gardens allow dogs to stroll the grounds.

You are invited to bring your own furry friend, but if you don't have a dog, don't worry! You can join me and walk with my two dogs, Spot and Daisy. It’s going to be a beautiful morning of fresh air and wagging tails.

The Promise of "Fun Programs By Stacy"

As we grow, my mission remains the same:

• Creative Programming: Unique ideas you won't find anywhere else.
• Responsive Service: I am dedicated to making every program a positive, inclusive experience for individuals and families in the disability community.

I can’t wait to see you at our next event!