I don't know about you but, my kids are totally obsessed with Minecraft. I admit, it's a clever game and I love how they seem to be learning survival skills, life skills and how to escape this Hero Brian or Herobrine or Endermen or whatever in the world they are called. Either way, I am shocked at some of the things my children seemed to have learned from this game and I think this generation of Minecraft kids will end up showing us how they are able to get through anything. Well, almost anything.
As I am sitting here right now, typing this post, I am on the edge of my seat, just waiting, wondering when the next shriek will come out of one of their mouths. It gives me shivers just thinking about it! Yes, I allow my kids to play video games. No, they aren't on 24/7. Yes, we limit their time. I admit, there are times when I need a break. Just 30 minutes or so. Just to grab a quick shower or prepare dinner, even hide in the bathroom. Yes, I sometimes let the play even when they didn't necessarily earn game time. Why? Because I'm a mom who needs peace and quiet and I know it's nice to think of all of the perfect houses, with the perfect moms who do nothing but entertain their children and play with them for 12 hours straight and make sure to cook everything from scratch and take them with them, everywhere they go.
But, we aren't like this in the real world.
I bake and cook from scratch most every evening. (Or night. It depends on how busy we were with soccer or hockey or band or just regular everyday stuff.) I don't go overboard for lunches and the warmest breakfast I will ever cook is a Pop Tart. Ok, maybe some oatmeal. I just am not a morning person. Not only because of my RSD or any other health issue, but because I hate, absolutely hate to wake up early. (and then comes the need to refill my veins with coffee.)
"MOM! MOM! I just fought the Ender Dragon!" HUH?
We do fun things with our kids, we have craft nights, baking nights, sleepovers, play outside but, guess what? I will tell my kids, "Ok kiddos! Why don't you go play a game for a bit so mommy can get a few things done" This is often followed by, "HOORAY!" and other yelps and screeches and giggles. Plus, a huge sigh of relief from me. Knowing I will now have time to do whatever it is I need to do. Relaxation!
"STOP DESTROYING MY VILLAGE!"
OMG! I can't take it anymore! All I hear is constant bickering and something about Endermen (sp?) and Herobrine and one kid is freaking out over the youngest one because he keeps making to many signs and eats raw pork chops and OH MY GOD! As if it isn't enough for the bickering outside of the game, but now, I have to break up fights inside of a video game??
My children learn a lot from this game and I promise you, if they are ever thrown into a land that is made up of dots and just given a pickaxe and a few animals, they will get through. They will proceed to build a new village and a new house and figure out how to adjust to their new lives. So will your children. Is it silly of me to say such things all because of a video game? Maybe. But, I watched my 5 year old, (then 4), figure out which animals to save, how many of each, count 36 sticks, build a house for himself, a safe place for the animals he found and collected, and figure out how things work on a computer, a game console and in Minecraft land.
But what about when his brother and sister are in school and he decides to destroy their houses, steal their belongings, mainly their food and diamonds, and when they get home from school, everything they worked so hard for is gone? I don't know but, they all do it to each other at times and at other times, they work very hard together to build a giant village with houses all around the perimeter and they take care of each other's animals and work as a team. (I have no idea what happens between there and the time they decide to throw each other's diamonds in the lava!)
Every time they start yelling and arguing, it's time to turn it off and guess what they do next? They go outside and play "real life Minecraft". It's fascinating to watch yet somewhat creepy. But, their vocabulary has grown and their survival skills are far more brilliant than what I might do if I was dropped off in the middle of a bunch of dots and just thrown a few things every so often.
So, for now, I think I will deal with all of the craziness. I really wouldn't mind playing Minecraft myself but, there is no time. Plus, if I start, it will be to addicting so, I better steer clear! As long as time is limited, children are supervised, you are there to answer questions, help with debates, be the judge and jury, and get them out the door on a daily basis, I think it's just fine.
What do you think about Minecraft? Do your kids play? Please tell me I'm not the only mom who has to break up these screaming battles inside an actual video game?
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Lost In My Mind Book Review
** I received a copy of this book in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
Some people are afraid of spiders, some have a fear of heights, even roller coasters. Now, I don't care for spiders, especially since they seem to think I am quite delicious! I don't mind heights and I have a serious addiction to roller coasters. My biggest fears has always been anything related to brain injuries, head injuries, TBI, and amnesia. Usually that one of my children are involved, sometimes myself, but, either way, it has become something that eats at me and causes more trouble than anything. (Imagine being one of my kids and falling or bumping your head or even thinking about skipping steps!)
I think this goes back to a movie I watched once about a girl in the 1800's who fell down the steps and suffered from a serious brain injury. She started to hear voices and had multiple personalities and she wasn't the same ever again. In fact, she ended up murdering her entire family and was placed in a mental institution for many years. But then I think this fear started before all of this and I think I can trace it back to some books and biographies I read when I was much younger.
I don't know what it is but something about the possibility of a head injury causing you to be completely different and not remembering your own family or even having the same interests that you once had. Then, I think I think to much and I end up reading stories online about TBI and the horror stories and how it affected people and I can't help but feel horribly sad for these people. (I have Tripp Halstead's Facebook page set in my notification alerts)
I was scrolling through a list of books on a review list one day and, Lost In My Mind Recovering From TBI, caught my immediate attention and I applied to have this opportunity to read and share my thoughts on this courageous story. I didn't even know I was chosen as one of the reviewers, so, about 5 days later, a package arrived. I didn't expect this book and much to my surprise, there it was!
I was sitting on the porch when I opened the padded envelope and I was just mesmerized. I think I sat and stared at the cover, at Kelly Bouldin Darmofal, for at least 5 minutes. I was a bit relieved when I saw her face and her eyes are very bright, alert, comforting, but also, very wise beyond her years and you can tell she has a story to tell. I can't explain it, other then her photo has this peculiar way of saying, "Look at me! I have something to tell you!" and so, I opened it up and started reading.
I am a pretty fast reader and sometimes this aggravates me because when I am reading something that I am extremely interested in, I don't want it to end. Then it does. Then I'm stuck trying to decide if I should read it again or should I just hope for a second part or cut my losses and do something productive like, finish spring cleaning lol! I read this book in a couple of hours that Saturday afternoon and much like a fairy tale, this book captivated me in such a way that I will not be forgetting anytime soon.
Just like Kelly's eyes, the inside of this book grabs you and doesn't let you set it down. I even tried, a few times. I actually made a pot of coffee with this book in my hand, opened and reading and I only looked away when I had to pour the water in.
Lost In My Mind, tells the story of a 15 year old Kelly. A typical teenage girl who loved her friends, her family, cheerleading and was on her way to grab some food at Burger King, one night with some friends. According to Kelly, she was supposed to die on September 17, 1992. Fortunately, she didn't. However, her friend who was driving that night, turned to talk with another friend and ended up hitting a telephone pole. Kelly was in the passenger seat and hit the right frontal portion of her forehead, on the dashboard. This was her only injury in the accident. But, because she was struck on the right side of her forehead, her brain had a whiplash reaction, causing injury and bleeding to the back of the left side of her brain. She also suffered brain stem trauma.
The first half of this book is written by Kelly's mother, Carolyn Bouldin. who started writing a journal of sorts, for her daughter, so that she could have some memories as she got older. Carolyn's recollection takes you through one of the most horrifying things that a parent should never have to go through and she does an astonishing job. From the night of the accident that almost took her daughter's life to the very end, she covers everything about Kelly's accident, her feelings, the hospital, doctors, diagnosis, nurses, the people they met and ultimately, Kelly's new life after she was finally able to come home and start her recovery.
There are times when you are reading that you just want to reach through the book and grab some of the people they run into, especially at the schools. I have some not so keen experiences with schools and have had my fair share of fighting for my children's rights, but, nothing like what this family had to go through! You will go from angry to sad to wanting to hug her mom and tell her everything will be ok and yes, I suggest having a box of tissues nearby. You'll need them.
Kelly writes the second half of the book and starts around the time she returns home, after the accident and now has to not just struggle with being a teenager but with being a teenager with a traumatic brain injury. She goes into detail with everything and answers pretty much every question you may think of if ever you were interviewing a teenager or young adult with TBI. It is painful to read, just knowing that this is a true story and has actually happened to another human being. But, there are good parts and good endings and you will be amazed at Kelly's strength and determination and what she has overcome. (and continues to.)
One part in particular, just broke my heart... I'm not going to lie, a lot of her story broke my heart but something as simple as a teenage girl who just wants to be able to shave her legs by herself, but can't. It's the little things that are missed sometimes. It's very hard to imagine having to deal with any of these problems. Being to honest and blunt for some friends, friends not visiting as often, having to relearn everything, even walking. These are all things that a high school girl should not have to do. But, as with everything else, Kelly went above and beyond everybody's wildest expectations.
Lost In My Mind is an extraordinary look into the life of somebody who is recovering from TBI. You will feel so much joy when they find that Kelly is coming through and even more delight when she begins writing poems which offer a riveting look into Kelly's mind.
One of the things that really concerned me with this family's battles, was how Kelly and her family were treated at school and with cheerleading. I understand this took place in the 90's but even then, I would have expected the blatant discrimination to take place. I guess in a way, this was possibly part of the silver lining, since Kelly went onto college and became a teacher. (We need more teachers like her in our schools.) This is a story of triumph, dedication, strength, sorrow, friends, boyfriends, school problems, being disabled, fragmented memory, fear, hope, and faith.
I would recommend this for anybody who has a friend or family member who suffers from TBI, teachers, doctors, nurses, anybody who could use some strength and wisdom.
Some people are afraid of spiders, some have a fear of heights, even roller coasters. Now, I don't care for spiders, especially since they seem to think I am quite delicious! I don't mind heights and I have a serious addiction to roller coasters. My biggest fears has always been anything related to brain injuries, head injuries, TBI, and amnesia. Usually that one of my children are involved, sometimes myself, but, either way, it has become something that eats at me and causes more trouble than anything. (Imagine being one of my kids and falling or bumping your head or even thinking about skipping steps!)
I think this goes back to a movie I watched once about a girl in the 1800's who fell down the steps and suffered from a serious brain injury. She started to hear voices and had multiple personalities and she wasn't the same ever again. In fact, she ended up murdering her entire family and was placed in a mental institution for many years. But then I think this fear started before all of this and I think I can trace it back to some books and biographies I read when I was much younger.
I don't know what it is but something about the possibility of a head injury causing you to be completely different and not remembering your own family or even having the same interests that you once had. Then, I think I think to much and I end up reading stories online about TBI and the horror stories and how it affected people and I can't help but feel horribly sad for these people. (I have Tripp Halstead's Facebook page set in my notification alerts)
I was scrolling through a list of books on a review list one day and, Lost In My Mind Recovering From TBI, caught my immediate attention and I applied to have this opportunity to read and share my thoughts on this courageous story. I didn't even know I was chosen as one of the reviewers, so, about 5 days later, a package arrived. I didn't expect this book and much to my surprise, there it was!
I was sitting on the porch when I opened the padded envelope and I was just mesmerized. I think I sat and stared at the cover, at Kelly Bouldin Darmofal, for at least 5 minutes. I was a bit relieved when I saw her face and her eyes are very bright, alert, comforting, but also, very wise beyond her years and you can tell she has a story to tell. I can't explain it, other then her photo has this peculiar way of saying, "Look at me! I have something to tell you!" and so, I opened it up and started reading.
I am a pretty fast reader and sometimes this aggravates me because when I am reading something that I am extremely interested in, I don't want it to end. Then it does. Then I'm stuck trying to decide if I should read it again or should I just hope for a second part or cut my losses and do something productive like, finish spring cleaning lol! I read this book in a couple of hours that Saturday afternoon and much like a fairy tale, this book captivated me in such a way that I will not be forgetting anytime soon.
Just like Kelly's eyes, the inside of this book grabs you and doesn't let you set it down. I even tried, a few times. I actually made a pot of coffee with this book in my hand, opened and reading and I only looked away when I had to pour the water in.
Lost In My Mind, tells the story of a 15 year old Kelly. A typical teenage girl who loved her friends, her family, cheerleading and was on her way to grab some food at Burger King, one night with some friends. According to Kelly, she was supposed to die on September 17, 1992. Fortunately, she didn't. However, her friend who was driving that night, turned to talk with another friend and ended up hitting a telephone pole. Kelly was in the passenger seat and hit the right frontal portion of her forehead, on the dashboard. This was her only injury in the accident. But, because she was struck on the right side of her forehead, her brain had a whiplash reaction, causing injury and bleeding to the back of the left side of her brain. She also suffered brain stem trauma.
The first half of this book is written by Kelly's mother, Carolyn Bouldin. who started writing a journal of sorts, for her daughter, so that she could have some memories as she got older. Carolyn's recollection takes you through one of the most horrifying things that a parent should never have to go through and she does an astonishing job. From the night of the accident that almost took her daughter's life to the very end, she covers everything about Kelly's accident, her feelings, the hospital, doctors, diagnosis, nurses, the people they met and ultimately, Kelly's new life after she was finally able to come home and start her recovery.
There are times when you are reading that you just want to reach through the book and grab some of the people they run into, especially at the schools. I have some not so keen experiences with schools and have had my fair share of fighting for my children's rights, but, nothing like what this family had to go through! You will go from angry to sad to wanting to hug her mom and tell her everything will be ok and yes, I suggest having a box of tissues nearby. You'll need them.
Kelly writes the second half of the book and starts around the time she returns home, after the accident and now has to not just struggle with being a teenager but with being a teenager with a traumatic brain injury. She goes into detail with everything and answers pretty much every question you may think of if ever you were interviewing a teenager or young adult with TBI. It is painful to read, just knowing that this is a true story and has actually happened to another human being. But, there are good parts and good endings and you will be amazed at Kelly's strength and determination and what she has overcome. (and continues to.)
One part in particular, just broke my heart... I'm not going to lie, a lot of her story broke my heart but something as simple as a teenage girl who just wants to be able to shave her legs by herself, but can't. It's the little things that are missed sometimes. It's very hard to imagine having to deal with any of these problems. Being to honest and blunt for some friends, friends not visiting as often, having to relearn everything, even walking. These are all things that a high school girl should not have to do. But, as with everything else, Kelly went above and beyond everybody's wildest expectations.
Lost In My Mind is an extraordinary look into the life of somebody who is recovering from TBI. You will feel so much joy when they find that Kelly is coming through and even more delight when she begins writing poems which offer a riveting look into Kelly's mind.
One of the things that really concerned me with this family's battles, was how Kelly and her family were treated at school and with cheerleading. I understand this took place in the 90's but even then, I would have expected the blatant discrimination to take place. I guess in a way, this was possibly part of the silver lining, since Kelly went onto college and became a teacher. (We need more teachers like her in our schools.) This is a story of triumph, dedication, strength, sorrow, friends, boyfriends, school problems, being disabled, fragmented memory, fear, hope, and faith.
I would recommend this for anybody who has a friend or family member who suffers from TBI, teachers, doctors, nurses, anybody who could use some strength and wisdom.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Pandora's Succession Book Review
** I received a copy of this book in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
On the very first page, you are introduced to, Ridley Fox, who had just woke up after blacking out in Chechnya. You are immediately suffering from a pounding headache when you read the first paragraph and you are right there with Ridley, staring down the barrel of a Russian AK 108 assault rifle. Did I get your attention?
So, before I begin explaining a bit about what this intriguing, gripping, spy thriller is about, I must tell you, I am floored, (like, totally), with Russell Brooks' writing style. Honestly, I wish Clive Barker would take a few lessons here. (Yes, I said it. Yes, I mean it.) I just can't sit through a book when the author takes a page, or in Barker's case, a few pages, to describe the scene or the pain or the dress that the woman was wearing who walked by. It isn't necessary and I lose interest in books like that because I just don't particularly care so much about insignificant details.
What is fascinating about this book and this author, is that he is capable of painting the picture in a paragraph. Short, precise, detailed and onto the next thing. I found this to be true for the entire book and for me, this is something I envy and something I wish more writers would be able to do. Of course, writing styles are all unique and everybody enjoys something different. I just happen to like more of a story, more action and less of the "Look at me! I read a thesaurus today and I used all of the words instead of just a few!
That being said, I do wish this story would have lasted a tiny bit longer. It is a very fast moving, quick story that I feel has a few more chapters of life in it. I think at times, I felt a little rushed and some of the elaborations and "secrets" and different parts of the story that could have had more play, seemed to end abruptly. Sort of like the condensed version of the actual, entire book. Remember Cliff Notes?
This book fits in my favorite genre so, maybe I am being a bit partial but, this book has everything you would wish for in an action packed thriller, spy thriller, suspense, wherever you want to put this book. The story is good, the characters are interesting and it is delivered to you in a tight knit, well put together, little package. You won't be taking to many breaks with this one and you will ether be taking the book or your kindle to the bathroom if you start it. So, be sure to have some time available before beginning.
Ok, so, back to the book. Ridley Fox's fiance was murdered a couple of years ago and Ridley makes it his personal mission to hunt down the killers. It seems he gets in a lot deeper than what he expected or assumed he would be in, when he uncovers the terrorist group's plot to take over the world.
The Arms of Ares, are their name and they have a biological weapon called, Pandora. Ridley learns throughout the story, that Arms of Ares has been successful in infiltrating some of the world's highest organizations. (The British and the Russians!) He also meets, Dr Marx from the CDC and finds that Dr Marx is also aware of Pandora.
Pandora is an organism that feeds on DNA and not just Arms of Ares has this organism... Pandora could eat through an entire human in just a minute or 2 and there is no way to stop it.
Pandora's Succession has a mole in the CIA, creeps from the CDC, new world order, terrorists, cults, enough action to keep your heart pounding and you can tell the author did his homework when having to write about biological warfare, weapons, other countries and intelligence operatives.
I am very interested in reading books by Russell Brooks and I hope to grab a few autographed copies as well. (I found on his website that you can order these and I think that is one of the coolest options an author offers and would be a prized possession!)
On the very first page, you are introduced to, Ridley Fox, who had just woke up after blacking out in Chechnya. You are immediately suffering from a pounding headache when you read the first paragraph and you are right there with Ridley, staring down the barrel of a Russian AK 108 assault rifle. Did I get your attention?
So, before I begin explaining a bit about what this intriguing, gripping, spy thriller is about, I must tell you, I am floored, (like, totally), with Russell Brooks' writing style. Honestly, I wish Clive Barker would take a few lessons here. (Yes, I said it. Yes, I mean it.) I just can't sit through a book when the author takes a page, or in Barker's case, a few pages, to describe the scene or the pain or the dress that the woman was wearing who walked by. It isn't necessary and I lose interest in books like that because I just don't particularly care so much about insignificant details.
What is fascinating about this book and this author, is that he is capable of painting the picture in a paragraph. Short, precise, detailed and onto the next thing. I found this to be true for the entire book and for me, this is something I envy and something I wish more writers would be able to do. Of course, writing styles are all unique and everybody enjoys something different. I just happen to like more of a story, more action and less of the "Look at me! I read a thesaurus today and I used all of the words instead of just a few!
That being said, I do wish this story would have lasted a tiny bit longer. It is a very fast moving, quick story that I feel has a few more chapters of life in it. I think at times, I felt a little rushed and some of the elaborations and "secrets" and different parts of the story that could have had more play, seemed to end abruptly. Sort of like the condensed version of the actual, entire book. Remember Cliff Notes?
This book fits in my favorite genre so, maybe I am being a bit partial but, this book has everything you would wish for in an action packed thriller, spy thriller, suspense, wherever you want to put this book. The story is good, the characters are interesting and it is delivered to you in a tight knit, well put together, little package. You won't be taking to many breaks with this one and you will ether be taking the book or your kindle to the bathroom if you start it. So, be sure to have some time available before beginning.
Ok, so, back to the book. Ridley Fox's fiance was murdered a couple of years ago and Ridley makes it his personal mission to hunt down the killers. It seems he gets in a lot deeper than what he expected or assumed he would be in, when he uncovers the terrorist group's plot to take over the world.
The Arms of Ares, are their name and they have a biological weapon called, Pandora. Ridley learns throughout the story, that Arms of Ares has been successful in infiltrating some of the world's highest organizations. (The British and the Russians!) He also meets, Dr Marx from the CDC and finds that Dr Marx is also aware of Pandora.
Pandora is an organism that feeds on DNA and not just Arms of Ares has this organism... Pandora could eat through an entire human in just a minute or 2 and there is no way to stop it.
Pandora's Succession has a mole in the CIA, creeps from the CDC, new world order, terrorists, cults, enough action to keep your heart pounding and you can tell the author did his homework when having to write about biological warfare, weapons, other countries and intelligence operatives.
I am very interested in reading books by Russell Brooks and I hope to grab a few autographed copies as well. (I found on his website that you can order these and I think that is one of the coolest options an author offers and would be a prized possession!)
Beads For Every Occasion
I never put much thought into it until just recently when it occurred to me, (or my 8 year old daughter started her bead obsession.), that beads aren't just for making those little friendship safety pins we used to make in school. There are actually a lot of crafts and absolutely gorgeous things you can do with beads!
I consider myself a "DIY'er" however, I am limited to creating recipes, candle making, homemade beauty products, cheesemaking and my new fascination, mason jars and doilies and lots of pretty paints! I can't sew, (I know, weird huh?) My husband is in charge of fixing any buttons or hems or holes and I don't really want to learn at this point. I don't have the time, nor do I have the patience to even thread the needle. Sometimes, I think about all of the cute bags and things I could make if I only knew how to sew but then I get the needle and thread out and I'm ready to scream in about 5 minutes!
I stumbled across this website, that sells mill hill beads and after finding that beads just aren't the same anymore. (This is a good thing!) I think I may have to start a collection of different beads! I know my youngest daughter would go crazy over being able to make some beaded bracelets and design her own handbags, pencil cases, even bead dazzle a shirt or 2!
Now, if you are already a bead expert, don't laugh at me. When I think of beads, I just think of the typical, solid color beads that I used to buy by the bagful as a kid so I could make those totally rad safety pins to clip onto my backpacks. I didn't realize there are antique beads, glass beads, frosted glass beads, wooden beads, different shaped beads, I am completely shocked at the variety available!
If you are a newbie like me, you can start out with some kits and even try some wooden bead crafts first. I have been finding a lot of kid friendly and newbie friendly, bead crafts on Pinterest and on several craft blogs. I may be able to graduate to something really fancy and maybe make some beaded sleeves for my collection of mason jars! What do you think?
Maybe, after threading some beads, I will get the hang of it and be able to thread that sewing needle. Then, maybe I can get to these stacks of mix matched fabric squares I bought and make some fairy tale, drawstring bags!
Thursday, August 20, 2015
ROHA Measuring Spoons Review
** I received a free product in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. **
I am always in the kitchen, it seems. There is an army here who never stops needing food and drinks and I recently made a small makeshift office at the kitchen table so I can catch up on my computer work and emails and everything else a busy mom does. It's kind of where I spend most of my day and evening and part of the night time.
Of course a lot of my time here is cooking, baking, preparing, mixing, even butter and cheesemaking. So, of course, a good set of measuring spoons are a must have for me!
I like that these measuring spoons are light weight and stainless steel. I also think it's imperative to have the measurements, engraved in the spoon itself. Just like the other reviewers stated, it helps to not have the measurements rub off when you wash them. I also like the handy little ring that connects all of the spoons. I usually won't even bother with a set of measuring spoons without a ring to attach them to so I can hang them on a hook on the wall or my bakers rack.
These do the job and I don't really have anything negative to say about them. They are well made, the price is right and they are one of the best for the job. I will say, I did expect them to be a tad bit sturdier. I do like that they are light weight but they are very light weight and they are slightly bendable. But, this is just a personal preference and nothing at all against how they are made. I just happen to like things a little heavier then these.
I would recommend these to anybody who cooks or bakes or just needs a set or an extra set of measuring spoons. Yes, I would purchase a set if anything were to happen to these. I have a few sets and I like this specific set for granulated sugar and brown sugar. They just seem to be easier to get into bags or containers and level off. More so than other measuring spoons. To me, that alone makes them feel much more precise.
I am always in the kitchen, it seems. There is an army here who never stops needing food and drinks and I recently made a small makeshift office at the kitchen table so I can catch up on my computer work and emails and everything else a busy mom does. It's kind of where I spend most of my day and evening and part of the night time.
Of course a lot of my time here is cooking, baking, preparing, mixing, even butter and cheesemaking. So, of course, a good set of measuring spoons are a must have for me!
I like that these measuring spoons are light weight and stainless steel. I also think it's imperative to have the measurements, engraved in the spoon itself. Just like the other reviewers stated, it helps to not have the measurements rub off when you wash them. I also like the handy little ring that connects all of the spoons. I usually won't even bother with a set of measuring spoons without a ring to attach them to so I can hang them on a hook on the wall or my bakers rack.
These do the job and I don't really have anything negative to say about them. They are well made, the price is right and they are one of the best for the job. I will say, I did expect them to be a tad bit sturdier. I do like that they are light weight but they are very light weight and they are slightly bendable. But, this is just a personal preference and nothing at all against how they are made. I just happen to like things a little heavier then these.
I would recommend these to anybody who cooks or bakes or just needs a set or an extra set of measuring spoons. Yes, I would purchase a set if anything were to happen to these. I have a few sets and I like this specific set for granulated sugar and brown sugar. They just seem to be easier to get into bags or containers and level off. More so than other measuring spoons. To me, that alone makes them feel much more precise.
Friday, August 14, 2015
How To Drink More Water (Sweet Leaf Stevia Style)
** I received free products in return for my honest review as a part of the Mom's Meet Blogger Program. All opinions are my own. **
One of the hardest things to do as a mom, is to get my kids to drink more water! It doesn't seem so hard during the summer since, we can make our own popsicles, they get super thirsty from playing outside, and just love ice. But, give them a choice, water isn't their first choice.
So, like most everything else that parents have to do for our little ones when we have to teach them to eat their fruits and veggies, drink water, wash their hands, don't eat boogers, and all of the other icky things kids do, we have to be creative and try our best to make the not so fun things, more fun!
I know, it is super duper rough sometimes but we do have the internet now and a lot of brands and bloggers and Pinterest! All of these things make one of the hardest jobs we have as parents, all the more easier. The best thing is, we aren't alone! I spend a lot of my time online, looking for recipes, tricks, tips, and new products that will help make my life less annoying in some way. One of those products are the new Water Drops, by Sweet Leaf Stevia.
One of the hardest things to do as a mom, is to get my kids to drink more water! It doesn't seem so hard during the summer since, we can make our own popsicles, they get super thirsty from playing outside, and just love ice. But, give them a choice, water isn't their first choice.
So, like most everything else that parents have to do for our little ones when we have to teach them to eat their fruits and veggies, drink water, wash their hands, don't eat boogers, and all of the other icky things kids do, we have to be creative and try our best to make the not so fun things, more fun!
I know, it is super duper rough sometimes but we do have the internet now and a lot of brands and bloggers and Pinterest! All of these things make one of the hardest jobs we have as parents, all the more easier. The best thing is, we aren't alone! I spend a lot of my time online, looking for recipes, tricks, tips, and new products that will help make my life less annoying in some way. One of those products are the new Water Drops, by Sweet Leaf Stevia.
Saturday, August 1, 2015
Evgie Gift Card Giveaway!
We are in the process of remodeling different sections of our home. (Aren't we all, right?) It has been 8 years and we got a lot accomplished but as usual, something unexpected happens, breaks, explodes, lol, whatever the emergency, we have all been there.
We bought an old, ok, a REALLY old, house that used to be an inn with a barroom in the basement. It has a lot of character! (But, also has 2 floors that need completely redone since they are just as they were when they were built.) So, after a few years, we finally finished 2 bedrooms for the kids and we are in the process of planning for the youngest to have a new room and for our own bedroom.
I love creativity, originality, things that don't match and things that are unique! I can not wait to order some of these wall decals for the last 2 bedrooms! I may even have to order some for the other bedrooms! Which designs? I have no idea just yet because I can't decide between all of them. They are absolutely stunning!
Evgie is a great place to find wall decals. Their vinyl decals are made from high quality matte (made in Germany) vinyl which looks like it is painted on the wall. It is removable, so it’s simple to transform any room over and over again. Just peel and stick, it’s so easy! They will apply to most smooth surfaces. It’s also removable and won’t damage walls! Right now - the more you buy the more you save. You can save up to 25% on your order!
Check out some of our favorite designs!
Birches and Owl Bears with Honey Pot Space Monkey Deer, Teddy Bears, Birds and Trees
Safari Wall Decals
Panda Bears Wall Decals
Teddy Bears Wall Decals
Space Astronauts Wall Decals
Baby Nursery Wall Decals
They are also customizable. For example the Safari Wall Decals different colors are available at no additional charge and you can choose up to 7 colors from their color chart. With every order you get 3 FREE CUTE MINIATURE COPIES of their decals, your choice of monkeys, elephants or dogs or combination. You may put it on mirrors, glasses, your laptop or just hand it to your friends and relatives as it makes a great small gift.
More Reasons to Shop at Evgie.com
- 100% SATISFACTION – If it turns you don’t love your decal you may ship it back and they will refund your money!
- FREE test decal for you to practice on and EASY Step-by-step detailed instructions!
- They can adjust the decal size larger or smaller and add additional colors. Contact them for pricing!
- They also offer custom designs. If you have an idea in mind of a custom design, let them know!
Make sure you check out some of their products. Hidden in a few product descriptions are a code to save 20% -35%off off any product! The code is valid from August 1 - August 17 at 1159pm EST.
Now for the giveaway! One winner will receive a credit to spend $200 on Wall Decals at Evgie.
Details:
- Dates - August 1 - August 17 at 1159pm EST
- Open Worldwide - but if the winner resides outside the US they will need to pay the difference in shipping.
- Prize - $200 To spend on Wall Decals at Evgie
This information is brought to you by Evgie Wall Decals and SavingYouDinero.com. Blogger is not responsible for fulfilling the prize.
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