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Posts Tagged ‘tips’

General Children Traveling Tips

In Travel on March 8, 2010 at 5:00 pm

Spring is coming and so is spring break. Summer is also coming, which means summer vacation. As you make  your travel plans, I will be updating you with travel tips. This is only part 1 of the series, general traveling tips for children. In the coming weeks, I will have specific tips for road trips, flying domestically and flying internationally. Safe traveling!

No-mess snacks.

Kids are kids and they will find a way to make a mess with whatever you give them. It brings them a sense of accomplishment. So think of snacks that will minimize their success for a mess. Think bite-size. Also think non-powdery seasoned snacks. And the non-sticky stuff. When it comes to drinks, think less spills. My friend, Kelly, introduced me to reusable spill proof water bottle tops. This also cuts out the less healthy stuff, too. Try 100 calories cookies and cracker packages. Reusable water bottles. Fruit strips. Dehydrated or dried fruits. Beef jerky or other meats. Individually packaged fruit snacks. Raisins or Craisins. Store bought prepackaged apple slices. I also have an easy recipe for a traveling snack coming later this week.

Each child gets a backpack.

He can fill the bag with whatever they would like to take on the trip to keep him busy. This is to be filled with stuff other than clothes and toiletries. His favorite toys, blankie, pillow, a special snack just for him, iPod, games, stuffed animal, coloring books or a camera.

Surprise them with something new.

Before the trip, purchase something that will keep the kids occupied during the travel. Don’t tell them about it until you are well on your way. Or you might even want to save it for when they get restless. A new movie to watch on the portable DVD player. A new toy. A new CD. A new book. When we traveled to Taiwan with Kaye, I got her a travel size My Little Pony set. It not only helped on the 24-hour plane ride, it also helped when we were in Taiwan as she missed playing with American toys.

Something familiar too.

As I just mentioned, children may miss home when they are traveling. So it is helpful to bring something from home, especially if they have a favorite doll or toy. It can bring them comfort and safety. Probably help them to sleep at night too. Both my girls have a blanket they can’t sleep without. And Kaye, for the longest time had a Baby Bop doll that she couldn’t loved dearly. That doll came with us on many trips (see picture below).

Think compact, travel size.

Pack light. It doesn’t matter how long you will be gone. If your travel is more than a week, you can always purchase most necessities while you are there. Yes, there are some things you can’t get elsewhere, mostly for if you are traveling internationally. See if you can do without or get a in a reusable version (filter water bottles, snack bags). This seems to be the hardest thing to do when you are traveling with kids. You have your stuff and they have theirs. See where things can be condensed. And visit the travel section in your local superstore. They have improved on a lot of traveling items, even for kids. I can probably dedicate a whole post about how to pack sensibly and light.

Get a good multipurpose bag for you.

You’re the mom and chances are you’ll be carrying a lot of the miscellaneous stuff for everyone. Whether you use a diaper bag, backpack or purse, get a good one with lots of pockets inside and out. Make sure you keep one plastic grocery bag in there for emergencies (collecting trash, tie up a stinky diaper, waterproofing something and even to catch throw up when someone gets sick).

Don’t forget medications.

Make sure you pack the emergency essentials with over-counter medication, such as non-asprin pain medication. Throw in a few Band-Aids and ointments. If your baby is teething, don’t forget gum numbing medications. If you tend to get heartburn or a headache, pack for those. However, you don’t need to take your whole medicine cabinet. Over-counter medications also come in travel size. It might be a good idea to keep a small first aid kit in your car, too.

Prescription medication is a little different. I used to work as a pharmacy technician. So here’s my tip: Make sure you have enough of that to last the whole trip. If you need to, you can get a travel/vacation override from your insurance company to get enough of certain prescriptions early to last your entire trip. Talk to your pharmacist and doctor about it.

» Tell me… What is your travel advice for traveling with children?

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Teaching Children Culture

In Education Week, Life on February 15, 2010 at 9:00 am


I don’t know if you’ve noticed. I’m Chinese. Born in Taiwan. Raised in the U.S. I am as Americanized as anyone can get. Then I spent my childhood in Hawaii a place with a good blend of cultures.

Since I am so Americanized, it means I don’t do a good job teaching my children about the Chinese culture. I do give myself credit in the sense that I expose my children to cultural experiences. I believe it is important for my children to learn about people and the world around them. And when Kaye was just under 2, we all flew to Taiwan to visit my mother’s family.

I am excited that so many Americans are looking into other countries for adoption opportunities. By the time Kaye and Elle go to school, they won’t be the only Chinese (half Chinese) in their classes. How exciting!

Whether you are in a multicultural family, adopted children from other countries or wanted to teach your children about the world, here are some ideas…

1. Attend cultural events in your community.

Be in the know. Look in the local papers. Research online. Talk to your neighbors. This is a great way for children to learn about dances, music, food, celebrations and traditions. Last year we took Kaye and Elle to Greek Fest. We also attend Chinese New Year Festivals where the girls watch the dragon dance and taste Chinese food not available in restaurants.

2. Visit cultural towns.

China Town, Little Italy, Bavarian towns, alpine villages. Try them. They’re fun.

3. Find origins of things around us.

Architectural designs, food, clothing, ideas. Fact or fiction: Chinese fortune cookies, is it really Chinese? French fries, did it come from France?

4. Famous people from other countries.

Not exactly celebrities, although that would work too.

5. Invite someone over who is from another country.

Know someone from another country? Know someone who has a friend from another country? Invite them over to share their culture and traditions with your family.

6. Incorporate culture in the meals at home.

Have a culture week where you make meals of a different culture each day of the week.

» Tell me… What are some ways you teach your children about culture?

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How To Love Your Children

In Life on February 12, 2010 at 9:01 am

Elle kissing baby.

Of course you love your children. Duh. Hugs, kisses, snuggles, I love you’s. Said and done. But ever get the feeling there might be something more you can do? There is. And it’s actually quite simple. All listed below.

Ever read or watched The Nanny Diaries? That was me a few years ago. I was a nanny in NYC. And my experiences were similar to those written about in the book. Never read or watched it? Let me tell you about it. Not the book. I’ll tell you about my personal experience being a nanny at age 18 and 19. Why would you want to know? Because in the end, you’ll know how to really love your children. The kind of love they want and need from their moms, well and dads too.

The summers after high school graduation and after my freshman year at college I was a small town girl in the big city, New York City to be exact. Both time I nannied the same family. A father who worked all day and night. A mother who stayed at home but still had a nanny and a maid. Two boys and a girl, aged 8, 7 and 1. They lived in a nice home, drove extravagant cars and had everything they ever wanted. Everything except love.

How could I tell there wasn’t enough love in that family? I could tell because the boys would be in tears when the dad left for work each day, and all they wanted was their dad to throw a ball with them. Although the mom was home with the children, she spent most of her time getting herself groomed, shopping or talking to her friends on the phone. The parents purchased anything the children wanted – bikes, roller blades, basketballs, baseballs – but didn’t teach them how to use it. It all sat in a pile of other never been used things their parents bought them. No sign of affection at all in that family.

Then the only time the wife and kids had with the father was when he scheduled once a week lunch or dinner with them. The whole family dined at a fancy restaurant, nanny in tow of course, and ate a meal in dead silence. The mom and dad sat away from each other and had nothing to say unless they were disagreeing. I eventually learned the father was having an affair and the mother knew about it.

Being the nanny, the kids were afraid to get close to me because they were afraid to love or accept anyone. They were rejected by their own parents for love and affection. However, once they warmed up to me, they were thirsty for attention. They were attached to me at all times because I gave them what all children long for – love.

I knew I would be different with my own children. And I am. But sometime, I need a good reminder of the basic needs of my kids. Love. And not in any form that can be bought.

1. Teach them something new.

They are fascinated by new things. Teach them a new skill and you will grow closer to them.

2. One-on-one time.

Even when they are teenagers. They may not act like they want to hang out with their parents, but they need that undivided attention from you every once in a while.

3. Listen intently.

Just listen to what they have to say without giving feedback or comments unless asked. As parents, we tend to jump in and try to fix things or correct them when they are wrong or give them our opinion on everything. Stop. And then listen.

4. Put the spotlight on them.

Not in a way that is embarrassing. Spotlight them with the things they are good at doing. It will make them feel special.

5. Goof off with them.

A great excuse for you to act like a child. Let loose. Get dirty. Act silly.

6. Encourage their talents.

Talents don’t have to be in the form of singing, dancing or art. I can come in forms of communication, listening, writing, math, curiosity and even generosity. Help them strengthen their talents.

7. Cut them some slack.

It is not easy being a kid or teen these days. Allow them do to some things their way, even if it is not your preferred way. It doesn’t mean it’s the wrong way.

8. Be interested in their interests.

They will go through phases of special interests. Learn it with them. Take part in their creativity and imagination.

9. Take them to a new place.

Go out. See new things. Learn something new. They will remember the experience when they are old. It doesn’t have to be anywhere fancy – a new park, an ice cream shop, a museum, a hike.

10. Build confidence.

Kids need to know who they are. They need to know they are loved. They need to believe in themselves. Help them succeed. Help them learn from their mistakes. Help them have faith in themselves. It will make a difference in the rest of their lives.

Tell me… How does your children like to be loved?

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Blog Swapping Today

In Featured on February 4, 2010 at 10:56 am

I have Emily and Anne from Bloom posting on Simply Said today, and I’m over at Make and Takes talking about how to implement Project 52: Date Nights into your lives… it is doable. Come read.

If you came from Make and Takes, welcome! Come in. Have a seat. Stay a while. And I hope you will become a regular here on Simply Modern Mom.

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BTB Tips: Custom Framing

In Arts, Back to Basics on February 1, 2010 at 9:00 am

My years of working as a custom framer I have one advice to give for picking out frames and mats for whatever it is you are framing. Make sure you design the frame and matting to fit the image/picture you are framing. Don’t pick out styles or colors to match where you want to put the picture.

Surprisingly, that is one of the biggest mistakes people make. They know where it is going to go in their house, so they pick out that bright blue mat to match the wall coloring. Ooops. What happens when you repaint the wall? Or when you want to put the frame somewhere else in the house?

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BTB Tips #9: Birthday Calendar

In Back to Basics on January 15, 2010 at 9:00 am

{image by Kennalyn}

We all have a list of people’s birthday we want to keep track of each year. Several ways of keeping track of it all to fit your lifestyle…

For the paper lover: Make a chart with the month in the heading. Then list each day of the month below it, not set to any days of the week. Fill in people’s birthdays accordingly. Kennalyn.com is offering this free printable birthday calendar (pictured above) on her site for a limited time. It’s free until Jan. 21. After that you can purchase if for $2.

For the online savvy: Hallmark and American Greetings offer free online birthday and special event calendars. They will alert you of the approaching birthdays in advance sending the reminder to your email or phone. You can even keep an address book of people to send cards to and when it is time, you are a few clicks away from having a personal card sent.

For the iPhone user: There is an app for that. Actually several apps ranging from free to $0.99. myDays seems to me to be the best since it allows you to create a personalized eCard that you can send to the person from your phone.

For the computer friendly: If you are already using the calendar on your computer to organize your family calendar, simply turn on the reminder or alert for each person’s birthday.

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Simply Said… Melissa from The Inspired Room

In Home, Life, Simply Said on January 7, 2010 at 9:01 am

As part of SMM’s new addition to the new year, I have a segment called Simply Said where I feature other bloggers and select followers of SMM. Melissa from The Inspired Room is my first guest. She is the reason for the makeover of our master bedroom. She is an inspirational interior designer. Her site is full of marvelous advice and tips for the home. I asked her specifically to help me with a problem I had in my home… keeping the kids and their stuff out of our bedroom. A million thanks to Melissa for sharing her wisdom with us and encouraging me to makeover our bedroom.

I am so excited that Tiffany invited me to share a post on her blog. It was such fun awarding her the HomeGoods gift card and seeing how she has turned her bedroom into a lovely and peaceful retreat.

My husband and I have three children. Two of them have now flown the coup to college, but our 9 year old son is still at home. We’ve experienced all the challenges parents face in trying to keep their sanity while raising children, including how to create a peaceful master bedroom to retreat to as a couple at the end of a long day!

It can be difficult to justify time or money spent on a creating a master bedroom. Not only is it hard to justify it, it is hard to make it happen with kids underfoot! But after being married now for 23 years, I can say with certainty that it is not selfish at all to create a sanctuary for just the two of you! I think a healthy marriage between happy parents is one of the best gifts you can give your kids. If your kids are like mine, they have the run of the rest of the house and take up a lot of our available energy every day. But when we cross the threshold of our bedroom, we need to leave that chaos behind.

Think having a private retreat is an impossible goal right now? Think I don’t know YOUR CHILDREN or YOUR HUSBAND or YOUR HOME? Here are my top five tips that might help get you started, in spite of your own personal challenges!

1. Grab & Box Technique.

If your room is overrun by toys, electronics and piles of laundry, it most certainly won’t feel like a relaxing retreat! If your house is small or you have trouble keeping your room clutter free, here is my realistic suggestion for a quick solution: at the end of the day, right before dinner if you can manage it, do the ‘grab & box technique’ (a highly technical term I made up myself.)

Take a big box or laundry basket and gather up all the stray stuff that has made its way to your room and set it “somewhere else.” While you will still have the basket to deal with later, at least your room will feel clean and ready to unwind in at the end of a long day!

2. Chose Pretty.

Make your bedroom as inviting and beautiful to you as possible. Oftentimes as parents we spend so much money on bills, the kids or the rest of the house we neglect our own space. Pretty doesn’t have to be expensive, and honestly, an inexpensive but pretty room is always cheaper than therapy. Just sayin’.

3. Make Your Bed.

This is definitely a mom thing to say, but us moms need to follow our own advice! While it is a fairly simple suggestion, it is possibly the most beneficial step we can make in our goal of having a peaceful master retreat. Getting into the habit of making your bed in the morning will set the tone for the mood of the room. It will make you think twice before piling junk on the bed or around the room all day. It will remind you to keep the space sacred, and will hopefully remind the kids that this is not their personal flop house. A bed that is made and set up all pretty only takes a few moments of your day. Time well spent, I think!

4. Indulge your senses.

In the rest of the house, life tends to revolve around the needs of family. In your personal space, you deserve to be surrounded by everything YOU love. Think about what you want your room to feel like, smell like and look like. Light a candle, turn on a pretty lamp, snuggle in a soft blanket, open the windows for fresh air and breathe a sigh of relaxation. Whatever stage of child-rearing you are in, this is YOUR space– so indulge yourself and your senses.

5. Lock the door.

Once your kids are old enough, they can learn to knock on your closed door and wait for your response. Even if you are just reading a good book you deserve a place in your home where you can enjoy a few moments of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

If you do not have a lock, I would encourage you to teach your kids about knocking and waiting until they have been invited in before entering. And even better, if you have kids old enough to read, make a sign for your door that reminds them that you are having a few moments to yourself. I know that isn’t really an option when kids are tiny, but once they enter grade school you can expect them to respect your privacy and stay out of trouble for a short while each day.

Having a master bedroom retreat is important for your sanity and good for your marriage — and those two things are a gift to your children! I know I am inspired by Tiffany’s bedroom makeover and her commitment to weekly date nights this year!

Thanks for allowing me to guest post!

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Bedroom Makeover Q&A

In Home on January 7, 2010 at 9:00 am

Thank you, thank you. Thanks so much for all your comments, suggestions and questions regarding my master bedroom makeover. I was overjoyed by the responses. Many of you gave great suggestions and I will be working on those next. Many of you also asked wonderful questions that I wanted to answer…

Why are the empty wall frames so high above the bed?

Two reasons actually. One, Nathan and I both like to sit up in our bed leaning up against the wall for support. We do this mostly as we read in bed. Having the frames lower would mean it would be in the way of our heads or backs when we lean against the wall. Two, Nathan pointed out that eventually, when we do get a headboard for the bed, the frames should be high enough where we can keep them there. You can call it laziness.

How much did you end up spending making over the room?

Knobs on the wall — $32 for 4 (used a gift card we redeemed with our credit card points)
Wall paint — $32 for 2 gallons (used a gift card we redeemed with our credit card points)
Corner shelves — $20 for 2
Decorations from HomeGoods — $200 gift card from The Inspired Room and I think I went over by $17
Thrift store frames — $15 for 4
White spray paint — $15 for 3 cans (used coupons)
Drapery fabric — $20 for 6 yards (on sale + coupon)
Drapery rod set — $13 (on sale + coupon)
Blank canvases — $30 for 2 (on sale 40% off)

Total out of pocket expenses: $130

Everything else we had in the house.

What brand of paint did I use to paint the room?

I love Ralph Lauren paints. And Polaris comes from their Thoroughbred Collection. RL has the best colors. All the colors in my home comes from RL. However, I have yet to use actual RL paint on my walls. It’s a bit too pricy for our budget at this time. So I get Home Depot to match the RL colors. One day though, I will be using the actual RL paints. Some day.

Where can I find the tree canvases on your wall?

I am glad so many of you share the same obsession I have with trees. In fact, the other day Nathan and I watched (500) Days of Summer for the first time and in the scene where they were at a wedding reception at night I noticed the gorgeous tree. I said aloud, “I love that tree!” By then, the scene had passed and Nathan said, “There was a tree?” He had to go back to that scene to see what I was talking about. Trees. Love them.

Anyway, the tree canvases is an original artwork by myself. I have a whole post dedicated to the tree canvases I made coming next Monday.

Why are the shelves placed so high?

Two reasons. One, I like to use the high spaces in the room. I think it makes the room look taller. Two, Nathan is relatively tall, 6′2″ to be exact. He comes from a family of giants. The shortest member of his family is his mother at 5′6″. One of his youngest brothers, a twin, is 6′6″. So when we put thing at eye level on the wall, it’s a bit higher for Nathan. Which is fine with me (at 5′6″ myself) in some instances because I have a fear of running into things and hitting my face if it is exactly at my eye level. Maybe I’m a klutz?

Why don’t you put artwork or something in those empty frames?

I am plain and simple. You probably all ready knew this about me seeing the design of Simply Modern Mom. But may I add the word elegance in there? I like to describe my taste as simple and elegant. I enjoy lots of white spaces, open spaces and empty spaces. It’s another way I feel relaxed. I think we all need to bring back the white space. Simplicity is good in a world of busyness.

Although, some of you have given me some great suggestions about what I can put in the frames if I ever decide to do so. Probably some natural elements coming straight out of my backyard.

Why don’t you have more colors in the room?

It was intended to have Polaris as the color in the room. Then white everywhere else. That’s our how we define tranquil and relaxation. The bed spread, guitar, a couple of the bowls and tree canvases provide a few other colors in the room.

Please keep asking questions. I love answering them. Maybe I should do Q&As more often. What do you think?

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Christmas Cards & Newsletters

In Holidays on November 23, 2009 at 9:00 am

christmas cards

Yes, it it not even Thanksgiving yet, but if you are planning on sending out Christmas cards or newsletters this year, you might want to think about this. Christmas cards do require some preparation.

  1. Make a list. Begin by making a list of friends and family you will be sending cards to this year. Email people for updates of their addresses. To save time next year, you may want to keep this list somewhere safe or type it on a spreadsheet. You need to know how many cards to purchase or order. Narrow your list by taking off those you see all the time. You may also want to think about those you can email a holiday greeting to and save on paper and stamps.
  2. Order soon. Dec. 21 is the last day for you to send first-class mail and have it delivered anywhere in the U.S. by Christmas Eve. If you are ordering cards, photo cards, or personalized stamps, you will want to order them soon. Most orders take 3-5 business days to process then another 5-10 business days to arrive at your house. You will also need time to write a note, insert newsletter, address and stamp.
  3. Check the deals. It is that time of year where everything goes on sale and deals are everywhere. Check sites such a Retail Me Not for printable coupons or online codes.
  4. Size matters. Consider the size of the envelope. The maximum letter size for it to be $0.44 is 6 1/8″ x 11 1/2″. If you are unsure, you can check USPS rates here.
  5. Forgo lines. Don’t wait in the long lines at the post office. Order postage online or ask your mail carrier for an order envelope (see pictures below). You place your order on the envelope, insert a check, and the mail carrier deliver it to your mailbox the next day or two. No shipping or handling charges.
  6. Simplify newsletters. You don’t have to do it all in one sitting. Break it up, think ahead, write notes of things you would like to mention.
  7. Be creative. Have everyone write their own portion. Better yet, draw names and write a tidbit about that person in the family. One year we did a newsletter emphasizing numbers (number of trips we had taken, number of movies we watched, number of visitors in our home). Last year we used the alphabets to talk about our year.
  8. Family photos. Hiring a professional requires you to schedule early. This is one of their busy seasons. Alternatives may include asking a friend or neighbor to do some candid shots with your camera. Using a tripod and the camera’s timer.

order stamps envelope

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Friday’s 5 at 5: Ways to Relax

In Friday's 5 at 5 on November 20, 2009 at 5:00 am
{image by Fitness Magazine}

{image by Fitness Magazine}

I am feeling the stress of the holidays coming on all ready. Looking at our calendar, we have every weekend booked until past the New Year. How about some ways to relax?

  1. Hot and steamy showers. It is also the only time when I get time to think without any interruptions. Some of my best ideas came from a nice shower.
  2. Take a 5 minute guilt-free break. Going along with the idea from the Pomodoro Technique, take a 5 minute break and do something fun, different, creative or relaxing. I like to play with my kids, listen to a pick-me-up song, flip through magazines, grab a healthy snack and sometimes not so healthy snacks.
  3. Call a friend. I have some of the most amazing friends in the world. Nothing like taking a break from the day-to-day mundane tasks by catching up with a friend.
  4. Hand massage. I work with my hands all day long making things, typing, cooking, and cleaning. Then I am constantly washing my hands because I am sort of a germaphobe. Add the dry winter weather and my hands are always chapped. Some kneading with hand lotion is a great way for me to relax.
  5. Stretch. Taking deep breaths while stretching always does it for me.

What are some ways you relax? And don’t forget about the Pomodoro Giveaway!

Happy Friday, everyone!

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Intriguing Sites: Pomodoro, a Giveaway & Free Book

In Giveaway, Intriguing Sites on November 19, 2009 at 9:00 am

Pomodoro

Conquer time. Every parent, working or staying at home, knows time goes too quickly when you are juggling kids and a million other things. Thanks to the mastermind of Francesco Cirillo, he developed the Pomodoro Technique. During his university studies, Francesco found himself in a slump and needed a way to focus. His solution came in the form of a tomato timer from the kitchen, pomodoro meaning tomato in Italian. This pomodoro was his time tutor. Then came the technique.

The technique is pretty simple. At the beginning of each day, go through your task list and organize according to priority. Then set your pomodoro, a timer, to 25 minutes. Work on the task for 25 minutes then take a 5 minute break. That is the gist of it. This technique allows you to stay focus on the task you are working on, keep track of interruptions and calculate exactly how long it takes you to get something done. Simple. To the point. And that is how we like it around here. The short 45-page book goes into more detail while giving tips on how to eliminate interruptions, simplify tasks and so much more.

The Free Book

Available to everyone, a free PDF version of Francesco’s book, Pomodoro Technique, is available to download. Read and apply. Click on link to download.

The Giveaway

*This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for all the entries! Find out who won here.

The Pomodoro Team is offering THREE readers their soon to be released Pomodoro Kit. Yes, you’ll be one of the firsts to get it! The kit consists of the official Pomodoro 25-minute timer, Pomodoro t-shirt, pencil, and to do today pad.

pomodoro kit

To enter, do any of the following. For multiple entries, do more than one and make sure you leave a separate comment for each entry.

  1. Leave a comment below and tell me what is your biggest time waster.
  2. Go to Pomodoro Technique, look around, then tell me what you like about it in separate comment.
  3. Blog about this giveaway and leave a link to the post in your comment below.
  4. ‘Share’ this giveaway by doing one of the ‘Share’ options below (Twitter, Facebook, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, or Email).

Good luck to everyone and the entries will close on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 26 at 10 p.m. EST. The winner will be announce on Friday, Nov. 27. I know it will be Black Friday and all of you will be out shopping.

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Entertaining the Children

In Crafts, Entertainment, Holidays on November 18, 2009 at 9:01 am
{image by Parents Magazine}

{image by Parents Magazine}

If you are hosting a party or the actual holiday itself, one of your sanity savers this holiday season will be keeping the kids busy. Sending them outside won’t always work. Here are some children’s craft and game ideas to keep them entertained on their own. Or designate another adult or a teenager to supervise. And don’t forget about the Thanksgiving garland.

  1. Prop improv. Gather random things around the house and the kids have to improv a scene with that prop.
  2. Sock puppet show. Collect old socks, provide decorations, and have the children make sock puppets. Then have them do a show for everyone.
  3. Magic tricks. Look up some simple magic tricks online and have the kids learn a few.
  4. Entertaining kids’ table. Cover the table with butcher paper and have a cup of crayons or markers for the kids to doodle while eating. Let them design their own placemats with pre-cut paper shapes or foam shapes.
  5. Yarn necklaces. These never get old as long as you supply them with edible beads such as Fruit Loops and LifeSavers.
  6. Fake mustaches. Have them make fake mustaches on a stick. Then take a picture of each child with his/her mustache to take home as a souvenir or mailed later as a thank you card.
  7. Fingerprint tree. Draw a tree with only the trunk and branches. Or use brown yarn and glue on paper. Then have the children fill the tree with leaves made by their finger prints. Use water based paints that will be easy to wash off such as tempera paint.
  8. Pumpkin bowling. This will have to be done outside. Use uncut leftover Halloween pumpkins as the bowling ball and empty liter soda bottles as the pins.
  9. Gratitude pie spinner. It is pictured above from Parents Magazine. Go to link for a how to.
  10. Mayflower place cards. It is picture below, also from Parents Magazine. Go to link for a how to.
{image by Parents Magazine}

{image by Parents Magazine}

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Free Christmas Shipping

In Products on November 16, 2009 at 9:00 am
{image by Free Shipping Day}

{image by Free Shipping Day}

Did you hear? Many merchants are jumping on board to the 2009 free shipping day, December 17. Thus far, 263 merchants are signed up to the event. When you shop their site on December 17th, you get free shipping and it is guaranteed to arrive by Christmas Eve. American Eagle, Buy.com, Anne Klein, Aerie, JC Penny, Borders, Macy’s, Office Max, Nordstrom, Overstock.com, Perry Ellis, and Zappos just to name a few.

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Friday’s 5 at 5: Tips for Guests

In Friday's 5 at 5 on November 13, 2009 at 5:00 am
{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

If you are a traveling guest in someone’s home this holiday, please keep this in mind…

  1. Be accommodating. When you are staying at someone’s house, don’t expect it to be a hotel. If you wanted a private room, a clean bathroom, and room service then check into a nearby hotel.
  2. Offer to help. Even though this is your vacation and you are a guest, it’s nice to offer a helping hand. Most of the time, the answer will probably be, “No thanks, I’m fine.” But it’s good to hear the offer nevertheless.
  3. Keep the kids occupied. It helps a whole lot if you can keep the kids out of my hair. I can get a lot more done that way.
  4. Don’t judge me. I may not do things the way you do it, but that doesn’t mean it’s the wrong way. And please over look my dusty house, rumbustious children, and meals that didn’t turn out quite right.
  5. Thank yous are always welcomed. It’s nice to be appreciated for all the stress, pressure, and hard work.

What are your tips for guests?

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Guest Friendly Rooms

In Home, Inspirations on November 12, 2009 at 9:00 am
{image by Country Living}

{image by Country Living}

If you have guests arriving this holiday season, give the guest room a little more luxury feel by providing…

  1. Luggage rack. If you don’t have one, it is nice to have a place for them to put their luggage, even if it is a short stool or ottoman.
  2. Light reading material. Pull some books from your library or even borrow some from the public library or magazines. Place it on the nightstand with a note, “Thought you might enjoy a good read.”
  3. Extra towels. Fresh towels in the bathroom, but also provide a set of extra towels in the bedroom.
  4. Toiletries. Although most guests bring their own toiletries, it is nice to have some extra in case they forgot something like a blowdryer.
  5. Places to visit. Provide your address and a list of local shops, markets, and events you think your guest may enjoy during their stay.
  6. Sheet spray. Provide a relaxing scent by spritzing lavender sheet spray on the linen.
  7. Alarm clock. Don’t want to miss a flight or an appointment.
  8. Water and glass. A small glass pitcher or carafe is great so the guest won’t have to go in the kitchen for a quick drink.
  9. Stationary. Even postcards are nice to have around for them to send letters home.
  10. Mirrors. Preferably a full length one.

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Holiday De-stressing Tips

In Holidays on November 10, 2009 at 9:00 am
{image by Country Living}

{image by Country Living}

Take that tensity level down a notch this holiday season with these 10 tips…

  1. Gather ideas. Look in magazines, search online, talk to friends. Find ideas and put them in a folder for referencing. Better yet, add to the folder all year long so you are ready when the holidays arrive,
  2. Recruit help. Regardless of what you think, you don’t have to do everything yourself. Get the family to pitch in and help with cleaning, decorating, shopping, gathering ideas, whatever you can think of to delegate to others. Hire help if needed.
  3. Purchase gifts in bulk. Only the gifts for everyone else – your neighbor, PTA moms, mailman, hair stylist, kids’ teachers. A general gift that will cover them all such as stationary or your favorite gourmet food ingredient.
  4. Order what you can online. Skip the hassle of waiting in lines, especially at the post office. Check www.freeshipping.org for free shipping codes or deals.
  5. Stick to what you do best. Keep it doable for your lifestyle. If you are best at doing the main course but not the dessert, then make the main course and purchase the dessert. Or ask others to bring their favorite desserts.
  6. Make a time chart. If you are doing all the food, you will have to plan ahead to know when to cook what at what temperature to keep all the food warm.
  7. Gather supplies early. Make sure you have the necessities on hand. Grab all the canned and dried stuff early. If you have guests staying in your home, stock up on extra toiletries.
  8. Plan entertainment for the kids. It will keep them out of trouble and out of your hair.
  9. Reserve appointments early. Weekends in November and December gets booked up fast. If you are planning a party, reserve those dates with your friends and family early. And don’t forget about your hair, nail, and massage appointments.
  10. Let it go. Most likely, everything will not go as planned. So just let things be and enjoy the moment.

What are some of  your holiday de-stressing tips?

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Simplifying the Holidays: Table Centerpieces

In Holidays on November 9, 2009 at 9:00 am

We are two and half weeks away from Thanksgiving and seven weeks away from Christmas. Are you stressed yet? From now until the holidays are over, I will be focusing articles on simplifying all the worries that surrounds this time of year. I am going to throw ideas at you, make up a few lists, and inspire you to have a delightful holiday season. Are you ready?

Simple 5-minute table centerpieces. Click on picture for details, descriptions below. What are your centerpiece ideas and tips?

  1. Floating fruits in glass vase. Also good to mix the colors or use fall colors.
  2. Bold color fruits in serving bowls.
  3. Gerbera daisies in wheatgrass box.
  4. Pinecones in glass vase or other glass serving bowls.
  5. Fall wreath hanging from a ribbon.
  6. Pumpkins and foliage on cake dish and table runners.
  7. Vegetables tied to candle with ribbon.

Tips for centerpieces:

  • Use what you have around the house — serving bowls, antique china, glass vase, cake stands, platters, bottles, trays, candles.
  • Use what is outside of your house — leaves, twigs, thin branches, berries, nuts, seeds, sand, rocks.
  • Use what is in your grocery bag — fruits, vegetables, candies, nuts.
  • Think colors — bold colors, fall colors, shades of white.
  • Table runners can be made from anything — wrapping paper, tissue paper, colored plastic wraps, scrapbook paper, butcher paper, fabric.
  • Don’t make it too tall. It blocks people’s views and slows conversations.
floating fruit in vase centerpiece

(image by Real Simple}

{image by Real Simple}

{image by Real Simple}

{image by Real Simple}

{image by Real Simple}

{image by Real Simple}

{image by Real Simple}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

{image by BHG}

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BTB Tip #8: I.C.E.

In Back to Basics on October 26, 2009 at 9:00 am

In case of emergency (I.C.E.) are ways for professional help (police, firemen) to find information about you in situations where you unable to communicate with them. The first place emergency response members look for information about you is the wallet. Second, your cell phone. So write or print on a little index card your I.C.E. information for your own safety. I did this when Kaye was first born. I made I.C.E. cards, even for the kids, with the following information and slipped it in our wallets.

  1. Full name.
  2. Address and phone number.
  3. Birthday, including year so they can determine your age.
  4. Who to contact in case of emergency, preferably 2 people, a spouse or parent and someone not in the same household.
  5. Blood type, in case you are in need of blood in an accident or something.
  6. Insurance information. I would be nice to have your insurance card in the wallet too.
  7. Any medications or vitamins you are taking.
  8. Allergies.
  9. Family doctor’s name and phone number.
  10. Any health conditions (diabetic, anemic, and so forth).
  11. A profile picture of the person would be helpful too, especially for the children so they can identify who they are treating.

You can also go to www.childsafekit.com to get as many free tri-fold Child ID kits as you need. It saves your child’s emergency information, including fingerprints.

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BTB Tip #7: Safe

In Back to Basics, Education Week on October 8, 2009 at 9:00 am

LWM copy

Invest in a personal fireproof and waterproof safe or file box. You can find them at Target, Wal-Mart, or office supply stores. Put the originals of important documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, marriage certificates, bank and credit card information, emergency contacts (someone outside of your household). Have copies of your important files in your regular filing systems for easy access.

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BTB Tip #6: Yard Sales

In Back to Basics on September 29, 2009 at 9:00 am

Planning on a fall cleaning and getting rid of some things? Do a yard sale. But plan the yard sale toward the beginning of the month as that’s when most people receive a paycheck and more willing to spend.

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BTB Tip #5: Notes

In Back to Basics on September 14, 2009 at 9:00 am

Don’t forget that pen and paper is still the best way to write a note. It will make the world of difference to your spouse, children, friend, family, or even teacher to receive a surprise note carefully hidden in their lunches, books, computer, bathroom mirror, desk, or even mailbox. Thank yous and I love yous are always appreciated. A great excuse to keep fun stationary around.

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BTB Tip #4: Out the Door

In Back to Basics on August 27, 2009 at 9:01 am

Now that the children are heading back to school (except mine because they’re not old enough), make heading out the door in the mornings easier. Do most of the work the night before. Have each child prepare his/her backpack and set it next to the door or in the car. Prepare lunches if you can. If not, pack the non-perishable items the night before. Check to make sure they have all their papers signed, forms, assignments, and homework. Have them lay out their clothes. Get non-perishable breakfast foods to set on the table. It will calm your mornings.

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BTB Tip #3: Fabric Care

In Back to Basics on August 20, 2009 at 9:00 am

When purchasing fabric for a sewing project, make sure you write down the fabric care/washing instructions. Pin the instructions to the fabric so you will remember how to wash it when you finally get around to using it. And if you are making a gift for someone else, be kind and write the care instructions and attach it with a pin or ribbon to the gift.

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BTB Tip #2: Carpet Secret

In Back to Basics on August 13, 2009 at 9:00 am

Changing the air filter in your home regularly keeps the carpets clean. The air in your house flows along the edges of your carpet. If you change the air filter every 3-4 months, it prevents dark lines from developing where the carpet meets the walls.

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BTB Tip #1: Trashless Car

In Back to Basics on August 6, 2009 at 9:00 am

Introducing…

Back to Basics (BTB) Tips. Ideas, suggestions, and hints to help you with everything and anything. Hoping it will help in making our lives simple. Resulting in more efficient use of our time. Leading to more time to enjoy or do the things we love.

No. 1: I often receive comments from others about the cleanliness of my car with two children passengers. I learned it all from my father. The trick to having a clean car is to keep the trash out. Even if it’s not vacuumed or haven’t been dusted or polished, the car will be noticeably cleaner if you just get rid of the garbage and put away things that do not belong in the car (shoes, food containers, blankets, toys, books).

Reuse plastic grocery bags and keep a few somewhere accessible, but not too noticeable such as the pockets on the back of the driver or passenger seat. Any time you have trash in the car, grab a bag and collect all the pieces of garbage. Do a routine check every few days. I do a quick scan over of the interior of my car whenever I park the car in the garage. Collect the trash, grab the things that needed to go back in the house, then come back for the kids. It only takes seconds.

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