Little Miss...

Mommy, Blogger, Creative, Travel & Disney Lover

Little Miss…Mommy, Disney, Creative and Travel

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Stitch Fix for Kids Review

Filed Under: Kids

Is Stitch Fix Kids Worth It?

I’ve seen Stitch Fix ads and Stitch Fix Kids ads for a while but never tried them out, until recently.  It’s become increasingly difficult to find the kids clothes in stores, especially during Covid.  This led me to try Stitch Fix Kids.  I needed something that wasn’t going to be stressful, didn’t involve me going to ten different stores, and would be something the kids liked.

Stitch Fix Kids Sign Up

The sign-up process is very straightforward.  You tell your kids names, ages, and size.  They also ask about current brands that you buy and what sizes you buy in those brands.  There’s a $20 stylist fee which goes towards your purchase if you decided to buy.

There are also various clothing pieces that come up so you (or your child) can select if it’s something they would be interested in.   I’ll admit I was very nervous the first time trying this.

 

How Stitch Fix Works

You pay $20 per “fix” for the stylist to create your box, it took about a week to get the fix.  When you receive it you can pick and choose what you want to keep.  I’ll be honest, had I tried to budget this and say no to some pieces the kids probably would have been a little upset since the clothes were already in the house. If you buy all of the clothes, your $20 goes towards the purchase and you get an additional discount.  This makes buying the full box very enticing.

 

Did The Kids Like Their Stitch Fix?

That’s a big YES.  They were so excited; I didn’t have to fight them to try anything on and they really did love all the pieces.   I was also amazed at how well everything fit.   When you are setting up your fix, they will ask you about other brands you buy and what sizes you buy in those brands.  This apparently, is very helpful because everything we got fit great.

 

The kids also loved that the stylist wrote them a little note and shared what pieces went together and why they paired them that way as well as how to mix and match.   You can choose to keep your stylist or switch to a new one for your next box and they both chose to keep theirs.

 

Mom’s Thoughts on Stitch Fix

I was not sure at first, but between the lack of inventory I can find in stores, and the concern of having to be in and out of places this was so much easier.  Plus, the clothes were really cute, and I didn’t have to convince them of the outfits.   It really made the entire process so much easier.  I will say I probably spend more at one time then I might if I went shopping in a store, but they are also getting more than what I’d be able to find in one store.

 

I looked up some of the pieces online because some of the brands I wasn’t familiar with, and they were cheaper through Stitch Fix than if I had found them online so that was kind of nice as well. Plus, if there is a style your child really likes you can purchase additional through the Stitch Fix app.

 

Does anyone else have trouble finding cute kid’s clothes, especially after your child hits like 8?  Where do you shop?

 

Skin Care for Busy Women

Filed Under: Mommy

Simple Skin Care for Busy Women

Skin Care for Busy Women

Why Do I Need A Skin Care Routine?

A good skin care routine prevents acne, treats wrinkles and keeps your skin looking it’s best.  While fancy devices may be nice to have, they definitely aren’t required.  A good skincare can be super simple, and the most important part is consistency.  So what do you need to get started? Is there a difference between daytime and nighttime?  Find out how to get started taking care of your skin today!

Simplifying Skin Care

The skincare industry is filled with a ridiculous number of options and tools so it can be very overwhelming when you look at it. So what is skin care for busy women? What do you need? What will work? What is overpriced?  What is just a crazy trend?  All of these questions may come up when you think about Dermatologists recommend a routine as simple as cleanser and a moisturizer.  For nighttime; a cleanser, repairing serum and moisturizer.  There’s nothing wrong with adding more, but when you’re getting started it’s easier to stick with simple and not overwhelm yourself.

 

So, let’s start simple.

 

  1. Cleanse

2. Moisturize

 

It is also recommended to use an SPF on your face as well.  For me personally, I use a makeup that includes SPF, otherwise it seems to irritate my face.

 

Basic Skin Care Routine

 

  1. Cleanser

Cleansing your skin is a must, regardless of age of skin type.  Whether you do that in the morning, a night or both is up to your preference.   Some people prefer to just splash some water on their face in the mornings before starting their moisturizer and makeup routine.   Here’s a helpful Cosmopolitan post on How Often Should You Wash Your Face and  5 Reasons I Don’t Wash My Face In The Morning

 

  1. Moisturizer

You will pick a moisturizer depending on your skin type.  Whether

  • Normal
  • Oily
  • Dry
  • Combination

there is a moisturizer made for all.

Types of Skin

  1. Oily Skin: Your skin secretes natural oils to keep itself moisturized but when you have oily skin, it adds more to the process.  Typically, people with oily skin have bigger pores.

According to Dr. Doris Day, founder of Day Dermatology and Aesthetics in New Yor City “you’re prone to oily skin if you notice that when you apply moisturizer, and almost anything you apply, you break out.”

 

  1. Dry Skin: The first sign of this is if your skin appears dull and lifeless. Dry skin has this look because it’s covered in a layer of dead skin cells.  Light reflects off the skin cells in different directions, whereas with hydrated skin it has a smooth service that reflects life more evenly.
  2. Sensitive Skin: This skin type may have acne, rosacea or contact dermatitis. It can be prone to stinging or burning. Often, it’s an overreaction to certain ingredients in a product.
  3. Combination Skin: With this skin type the forehead and nose tend to be oiler and the cheeks drier. Skin type can change seasonally as well, meaning that you tend to be dry in the winter and oily in the summer.
  4. Normal Skin: This is actually difficult to define but really it means that it can tolerate most things without overreacting.

 

More information on skin types.

 

Once you know what skin type you have, it makes it easier to pick out your moisturizer. A benefit of moisturizer is that when your skin is hydrated, it makes makeup go on easier and look better.  I also highly recommend using a primer after your moisturizer such as Heir Atelier because it helps to also smooth the surface of your skin.  While in a Sephora once a salesperson said it didn’t matter what brand of makeup you used, it came down to using a good moisturizer to make sure your skin was prepped for makeup.

 

The ingredients in moisturizers will actively help improve the look and feel of the skin. By applying these at night, it gives the skin enough time to soak them in and start to repair itself without being exposed to pollutants.

 

That’s the best place to start with skin care.  Just creating a routine of those things.  Once you have that down, you can add a repairing serum to it as well.

 

Additions for Your Skin Care Routine

Once you are ready, you can add on to your skin care routine with things such as:

Toner

Serum for cellular turnover at night (Such as Retinol)

Serum for skin brightening (such as Vitamin C)

 

Toner

Removes any last traces of dirt, grime and impurities stuck in your pores after you wash your face.  When used daily as part of a skincare routine it can have a positive impact on the appearance and tightness of your pores

 

Cellular Turnover

Cellular turnover is the continuous process of shedding dead skin cells and replacing them with younger cells.  It results in skin that is shinier, tighter and has fewer fine lines and wrinkles.  While your skin does the naturally, the process starts to slow as you get older.

 

Serum for Skin Brightening- Vitamin C

Vitamin C promotes collagen production which then helps to hydrate skin and brighten it.  Vitamin C is also an antioxidant so it protects skin cells from damaging radicals cause by UV exposure.  It inhibits melanin production of the skin which helps to lighten hyperpigmentation, even out skin tone and enhance skin radiance.

 

 

Types of Skin Care Serums

Anti-Aging Serums

Skin Brightening Serums

Acne Fighting Serums

 

Anti-Aging Serums

These treat the most common signs of aging along with slowing down the process in general.  This means it targets fine lines, sagging, wrinkles as it firms and plumps the skin.  It helps to rejuvenate skin and smooth out the overall texture and appearance.  Many of these are recommended for nighttime use because it is suggested that retinol is negatively affected by the sun’s UV rays and could lead to adverse skin effects if used during the day.

 

Skin Brightening Serums

These help to brighten dull skin by smoothing complexion, fading age spots and sun spots, evening skin tones and diminishing hyperpigmentation.  It gives skin a natural, radiant glow. Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Green Tea are often ingredients in these serums.

 

Acne Fighting Serums

Acne fighting serums actually work to prevent breakouts before they forum.  They are formulated with molecules that dive deep into the skin and deliver potent active ingredients. These types of serums have ingredients such as salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), tea tree, thyme, and cucumber to name a few.

 

Hydrating Face Serums

These serums work with your moisturizer to amplify its hydrating effects.  You will apply the moisturizer after applying the serum.  Ingredients related to hydrating face serums are Argon Oil, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, all over, rosehip oil, rosewater, jojoba and vitamin E.

 

Retinols

Retinols are one of the most tried and true anti-aging ingredients available over the counter.  It boosts the amount of collagen your body makes and plumps out of skin which then cuts down on fine lines and wrinkles.  Also improves skin tone and color

 

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a sugar that is found naturally in our skin that holds water and helps to keep it hydrated and plump.  Topical products can make the skin appear more dewy and younger because it improves skin elasticity.  According to a study on The Hype On Hyaluronic Acid by Harvard Health Publishing topical HA is an excellent moisturizer but if you are looking to improve the loss of volume and laxity of your skin (which naturally occurs) the injectable HA (with a dermatologist) is the preferred treatment.

 

 What Order Should Skin Care Be Applied In?

The consensus from dermatologist, beauty magazines such as Allure and Cosmo as well as brands such as Kiehls is to layer your products starting with the thinnest, water-based formulas and ending with the thickest products.  Allow each product to absorb before layering on the next product.   Lightweight, water-based formulas are more penetrable and quicker to absorb than heavier products.  It is recommended not to use more that 2-3 serums in your skin care regimen.

 

Don’t forget to Pin the image below!

Skin Care for Busy Women Pin

 

The Story of WandaVision

Filed Under: Mommy

WandaVision and Storytelling

Story of WandaVision

Storytelling has a formula, and in most stories, you can find that formula. The basis of stories is a piece of the human condition and conveying it in a unique situation. This may be something like (but not limited to) birth, growth, emotionality, aspirations, or conflict.  This is the initial incident.  Then, a rising action that complicates or frustrates leading to a climax where there is a turning point for the protagonist character.  This leads to falling action which starts to lead to the resolution.

 

For WandaVision, the human condition it is built around is grief.  The show is built around Wanda’s grief. You don’t know that if the first few episodes.  I wasn’t sure what to expect as all when we began watching.  It looked like a fun take on old sitcoms that were starring Marvel characters however it goes deeper than that.

 

As the story unfolds, we learn that this is a world that Wanda has created but we don’t know exactly why or how.  It’s not until later that we learn it is out of her deep grief that this has been born- some of it she didn’t even realize was her own doing.  The sitcoms are related to the favorite sitcoms she watched as a child with her family before her parents were killed.

 

Stages of Grief

We watch Wanda in her denial, where she lives in a sweet sitcom and gets her happily ever after with the one she loves.  In another episode, we see Wanda in the midst of denial and anger as she tries to stop threats and curiosities from destroying her world.

As we sat and watched it, I got it; what she was feeling, her need to protect it and keep her sanity, casting out the things that poked holes in what she created.

 

This leads Wanda to move to the next stage of grief, bargaining.  In this stage, the bereaved starts to accept that they can’t willfully resist the changes of the world around them but still believe that there are measures that can be taken to ease their suffering and hold on to their happiness.   During this episode Wanda storms out of the world she has created in Westview and confronts S.W.O.R.D. directly returning to her familiar accent from Avengers Age of Ultron.

 

Eventually it all becomes too much and she begins to break down, entering depression.  Wanda reflects the characteristics of lethargy, doubt and self-deprecation that eat away.

WandaVision Covers over head

WandaVision- Wanda Im fine

WandaVision Case of the Mondays

In episode 8 of WandaVision, the Disney+ show there is a flashback scene with Wanda and Vision where she is sad over the loss of her brother, Pietro.  Sitting on her bed she explains to vision that she is so tired, like she’s swimming against a tide that keeps trying to drown her.

 

Vision tries to console her saying, “It can’t all be sorrow, can it? I’ve always been alone, so I don’t feel the lack.  It’s all I’ve ever known.  I’ve never experienced loss because I’ve never had a loved one to lose.”  The true gem comes in his last sentence, “but, what is grief, if not love preserving?”

Love Preserving Quote

It is one of the most prolific lines ever, and at first, I thought it was just me until I saw the internet’s reaction to it as well.

 

In the end, Wanda realizes she can’t live in this world she created and it while it breaks her heart she comes to realize that her grief is as fueled by love as it is sorrow but she has to choose to commemorate love rather than pain.

 

I’ve heard some argue that Wanda is the villain, after all she cast a spell on the people of Westview holding them hostage.  The point though, of the story is that this was born out of her extreme grief and as we see her walk through her grief and go through different stages she begins to see that what is going on isn’t right and that she has to move forward.  Grief isn’t easy and it isn’t pretty.  It’s messy and often downright ugly but necessary.  Understanding that grief is as much about love as it is sadness can help us normalize the grieving process.

The Truth About Turning 40

Filed Under: Mommy

The Truth about Turning 40- What it’s Like

Turning 40- Why it's not so bad

It’s the F word that people have long dreaded, and it’s thrown people into mid-life crisis or depression but is it really so bad?  There are so many pre-conceived notions about turning 40 some that are valid and some that are not.  I’ll admit I hate the term middle-age and definitely see how it can make something seem completely undesirable.  There are good things about turning 40 though, that outweigh the negativity of looking at it as middle age.

Why Turning 40 Isn’t All Downers

At 40, you’ve lived and learned enough of life to (in many areas) know what works for you and what doesn’t.  The pressure that is often felt to impress people gets a little lighter.  You’ve got experience and knowledge that you have gained in your twenties and thirties.

 

Reflection, Not Regret

Forty is a time where you can reflect on where you’ve been but don’t wallow in regret over it. If there’s something you want to change, decide how you’re going to do it.  Want to go back to school? Learn a new skill?  Do it.  It’s not too late.

 

You’ve faced adversities and are so much more prepared then you were trying to take on the world at 18.  As a famous General and great strategist once said, if you know your enemies and know yourself, you can win a hundred battles without a single loss.

 

Focus on the good and the possibilities that you have.  This way, in ten years when you look back you see all that you accomplished and don’t look back and think “I wasn’t all that old then and I could have…”.

 

Who Else is 40?

I know it’s probably a super nerdy thing to do, but it makes me feel better when I find people/celebrities that are 40 and up and think, ‘Wow they still look fantastic!  This doesn’t mean I’m past my prime.” For example, Gwen Stefani, she’s 51 and breaks all the age rules.   Other celebrities turning 40 this year include Alicia Keys, Justin Timberlake, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Britney Spears.    (40 Celebrities turning 40 in 2021)

 

I had planned to take 40 on with a positive attitude, and even wanted to plan a big family trip to Disney (after all if it’s for my 40th birthday my parents and siblings couldn’t deny going with me, right?) but then Covid hit and well, there’s that.  We did do dinner and cake though which was nice.  My husband, kids and I stayed for a couple days at Disney’s Treehouse Villas which is a perfect social distancing getaway with a little Disney magic.  We didn’t visit a park, although we did check out Disney Springs and since it was a weekday they were slower. It was a nice getaway and was something that will always make me smile when I think about turning 40.

 

I’m not the same person I was when I turned 20 and I wouldn’t change the knowledge I have to go back to that person.  It’s funny, 30 wasn’t bad at all but I think that’s because I was pregnant with my first baby that was due in three months so it didn’t even matter that I was turning 30 because my dreams were coming true with having a baby.

 

Turning 40 has definitely been more reflective and made me stop and think some but I refuse to think that my value starts to decrease.

 

What is it About 40 That Makes People Sad?

Adriane Berg, an influencer for successful aging, healthy longevity and lifelong contribution said in an post (Advice to a Woman Turning 40 from a Woman turning 70) that she has found “depression in folks turning 40 or 50 because of age stems from fear of increasing irrelevance.”

 

There’s nothing crazy about having those feelings, especially with society how it is.  Although, we’ve come a very long way from years past and looking at (especially women) as losing relevance the older they get.  It’s important to remember that there is so much to look forward to and so much that you are still capable of accomplishing.

People Who Accomplished Great Things After 40

  • Arianna Huffington founded the Huffington Post at age 55
  • Tim and Nina Zagat were 51-year-old lawyers when they first published their collection of restaurant reviews under the Zagat name in 1979.Now it’s a culinary authority.
  • Betty White didn’t become an icon until she joined the cast of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” in 1973 at the age of 51
  • Henry Ford was 45 when he created the Model T car in 1908.
  • Vera Wang entered the fashion industry at the age of 40
  • Donald Fisher was 40 and had no experience in retail when he and his wife Doris opened the first GAP store in San Francisco in 1969.
  • Sam Walton founded Wal-Mart when he was 44 years old
  • Martha Stewart was 41 when she achieved success publishing her first book. Entertaining.
  • Coco Chanel was 70 when she made a triumphant return to the fashion world after previously closing her business due to the outbreak of WWII and the economic depression of the 1930s.

 

Staying Relevant at 40 and After

Eleanor Roosevelt once said “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

This applies to the 18-year-old just joining the adult world as well as the person turning 40.

Keep learning, keep doing and don’t let other people stop you from achieving what you set out to do.

 

Not 40 years old.  Not 40 years young.  40 years blessed. 40 years loved. 40 years wise. 40 years thankful.

40 Years

 

Review of Lauren Conrad Beauty Skin Care Products

Filed Under: Mommy

My Review of Lauren Conrad Beauty Skin Care Products

Lauren Conrad Beauty Skin Care Products

Skin care is important and it’s not just about looking good. Yes, your skin does have an effect on how you feel about yourself and it’s been proven that when you look good, you feel better as well.  Regular skin care is about more than that though, it helps protect you against the elements.   Dry skin, itchy skin, rough skin- are all uncomfortable and a regular skin care routine helps protect you against those things.

Many times, as mothers we pass it off as not having time for it because we’re busy taking care of those around us.  The truth is though, that in order for us to take care of others, we have to take care of ourselves (check out the post “The truth about Motherhood” for more on that).   You don’t drive a car on empty and then get upset because it won’t go.  Another point to consider is that by taking care of ourselves, we teach our children the importance of taking care of themselves as well. Isn’t that something that we want to pass on to them?

In a previous post, I created a Review of Lauren Conrad Beauty Makeup and decided to create one for the skin care line as well.

Lauren Conrad Beauty Facial Cleanser (Dry to Normal)

Lauren Conrad Beauty Facial Cleanser

Said to “Cleanse your skin with this gentle, non-stripping formula that’ll leave your skin balanced and hydrated.”  Like the makeup line, this product is vegan friendly, cruelty free, clean beauty and paraben free.

This facial cleanser has a light, milky feel to it.  I want to absolutely love it; however, I don’t feel like it totally cleans my face.  There is one review on the LC Beauty website that states they tried first without removing their eyeliner and mascara and the cleanser left absolutely no residue after washing however even after attempting multiple times I haven’t found that to be the case.   I don’t wear heavy makeup( I’m actually using the Lauren Conrad Eyeliner and Mascara) so I’m not sure how it could absolutely leave no residue.

Vitamin C Oil

Lauren Conrad Beauty Vitamin C Oil

I was a little skeptical of the Vitamin C Oil, when I looked at the packaging online I thought that it was in a plastic peach colored bottle but it’s actually in a ceramic bottle.  According to the Lauren Conrad Beauty website, the Vitamin C Oil “brightens your skin with this luminous Vitamin C oil that helps hydrate and improves skin’s overall radiance.”

To use, you squeeze a couple drops of the oil into your palm and then massage into freshly toned face and neck in an upward, circular motion.  It is then recommended to follow up with face cream.  This literally takes just a couple of drops; a little bit goes a long way for sure.

The Vitamin C Oil definitely leaves skin feeling hydrated and brightens it as well.  It can feel a little too much at first, but it does soak into your skin to hydrate.  This is one of my favorite products in the skin care line.

Common Questions about Vitamin C Oil

What is Vitamin C Oil good for?

Helps blemishes, reduces hyperpigmentation, hydrates skin giving a glow.  Consistency is key to get the maximum effect.

Can People with Oily Skin Benefit From Vitamin C Oil?

While the idea of an oil may concern some, studies show that vitamin C oil can help in treating inflammationassociated with acne, treats damaged skin as well as brightens and has been shown to benefit oily skin as well.

The Face Cream (Dry to Normal)

Lauren Conrad Face Cream

 

“Helps to balance, hydrate and brighten dry to normal skin while improving the look of the skin with a non-greasy, rich, and creamy formula.”  (LC Beauty)

This face cream does a fantastic job of moisturizing, hydrating and brightening skin.  The clinical results on the Lauren Conrad Beauty site show:

  • “100% of participants showed increase in skin moisture”
  • “100% agree the product improves the texture of skin and provides more even skin”
  • “100% agree my skin looks more radiant, energized, and bright”
  • “100% agree that my skin has a smooth texture and felt deeply hydrated throughout the day.”

To me, this is completely accurate and I totally agree with the findings in the clinical results.  The Lauren Conrad Beauty Face Cream is creamy and not greasy and does a great job of hydrating and brightening skin.  I love to use it following the Vitamin C Oil to lock in moisture.

The Toner Mist

Lauren Conrad Face Toner

“Get balanced, hydrated skin with this misting toner that rebalances and refreshes” (LC Beauty)

Toner helps in removing any last traces of dirt and impurities in your pores and can have a positive impact on appearance and tightness of pores. The primary ingredients for the toner are listed as Rose Water, Vitamin B5, and Licorice Root Extract.

  • Rose water is known for its ability to balance natural oils, reduce the appearance of temporary redness and hydrate skin.
  • Vitamin B5 helps to restore the skin’s natural hydration balance while repairing damaging skin tissue.
  • Licorice Root Extract may help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
  • The toner does a great job of balancing and hydrating skin, preparing it to be treated and moisturized.

The Toner Mist is super light and refreshing.  It feels like a refreshing mist on your face.  It feels more lightweight than other toners that I’ve used, but I think that has more to do with the way it sprays (which I love!).

Verdict on Lauren Conrad Beauty Skin Care Line

Overall, I think this line is fantastic and affordable.   My personal favorite products are the Vitamin C Oil and the Face Cream.  Using consistently, I have noticed my skin is more hydrated and brighter than it previously was.  Similarly, to the make up line, the skin care line is made to be vegan friendly, cruelty free, clean beauty and paraben free so while not only making you look good, you can feel good about what you are using as well.  Overall, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the products in the line.

Valentines Day Picture and Crafts Ideas

Filed Under: Creative, Holidays

Valentines Activities

Fun Valentines Activities with Kids

Valentines Day is right around the corner!  Usually, I’m a little more into it especially with the kids but this year I feel drained with all things Covid.  It is what is is though, and we must press forward, so let’s do it!  Here are some fun Valentines activities with photoshoot and  valentines craft ideas.

These are some fun ideas to help spark some creativity while not spending a ton of money.  It’s always good to enjoy the moment and celebrate the small things because once it’s done, you’ll feel better.  It’s also a great way to make memories with your kids!

Valentines Activities- Picture Ideas

What’s more fun the than a photoshoot?  Now more than ever it’s easier to take great pictures at home and even on just your cellphone.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for photographers and their talent but there are moments when you either don’t have the time to schedule something or  it’s out of your current budget.  Below are some of my favorite valentines picture ideas!

This adorable picture is from The Pregnant Chicken First Valentines Day  Photo Ideas.  Easy and adorable!

Valentines Activities- Valentines Photo Shoot Ideas
from ThePregnantChicken

I LOVE this idea of an adorable outfit (which isn’t Valentines specific and can easily be used on any other day as well!) along with some balloons!  It’s from Take Time For Style.

Valentines Picture Ideas - Dressy Outfit with Balloons
from TakeTimeForStyle

This picture is super easy as it just requires some heart garland for the background and a larger poster heart.

Valentines Picture Ideas - hearts

Here’s another adorable photo that has lots of red, garland and balloons.  Garland and balloons are always a way to dress up pictures that you want to take.  The best part is, you only need a small area, you don’t have to do a whole room.

 

Spreading love!  This photo would be super easy to create by cutting out some hearts and tape them on the wall and you have an adorable photo!

Valentines Picture with Girl air kissing hearts

Valentines Crafts

The possibility with mason jars are endless!  Just like my previous post on mason jar craft ideas, you can decorate them for valentines day to use at home or to give to someone.

 

This heart table runner is so easy to do and absolutely adorable!

from A Night Owl Blog

 

This is sure to bring a smile to kids faces as they make themselves into a valentines ladybug!

Ladybug Valentines with child's picture as face
from The Best Ideas for Kids

I love gifts that help brighten things up, or are useful beyond the day.  These succulent valentines are a great idea!  Not into succulents?  The decorated pot works great too!  They will be useful for a long time!

 

Succulent Valentines in decorated pot with heart
from A Night Owl Blog

Find some old tree branches in the yard, paint them and cut out some hearts to make this adorable valentines tree!

Valentines Tree with hearts and painted branches
from The House That Lars Built

These gnome Valentine crafts are cute and fun to create!  They’re easy to make and allow you to get creative with decorations!

Gnome Valentines Day Craft, DIY Gnome Valentine
from I Heart Crafty things

Another fun option combining pictures and crafting! These Valentine Balloon crafts are these adorable cards using your child’s picture and then making hearts and drawing strings a the balloons.  These make a great memory or gift for loved ones!

Valentines Activities- Kids Valentine balloon craft, picture and red heart balloons
from The Best Ideas for Kids

This Valentine Heart Garland is great for decorating or creating your own photo backdrops!!  Some construction paper or decorative card stock is all you need to get started along with some string!

Valentine Heart Garland

One of my favorite finds, 100 Dollar Store Valentines Day Decor Ideas because there is so much you can put together and make with dollar store finds that in the end would cost you way more to buy than just making it.

 

 

It’s still a off year, but especially as moms we do our best to push forward and make memories for our kids that are good ones.  It’s simple Valentines activities such as pictures and crafts that help us to that without losing our sanity attempting it.   Do you have any plans for Valentines day?  I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Looking for Valentine Gift Ideas?

DIY Tassel Craft Ideas to Make at Home

Filed Under: Creative, Gifts

Easy DIY Tassel Craft Ideas

Tassels are pretty, can be used on keychains, home décor, or furniture to dress it up and make it personal which is why these DIY Tassel Craft ideas fun.  They also make great gift ideas because you can make a lot of them and not spend a fortune!   You can also customize the colors, thickness, and lengths that you make.

Gift idea for: House warming, friends, teachers.  They are also cute to personalize and use on a backpack as well as a back to school gift!

 4 easy Tassel Crafts

1.Furniture

Tassels are great to use on drawers, cabinets, and even added to things like pillows.  There are so many possibilities to get creative with them.
Gold Banded Tassel2.  Keychains

These keychains are cute and add in some beads to personalize them!

DIY Keychain Tassel
3. Easy DIY Tassel Keychain

Know someone who looses their keys often?  This is a pretty way to help them keep track of them!
Pretty Tassel Keychain
4. Tassel Tutorial

I love the different size selections this tutorial shows.  These are simple, straightforward but lovely and elegant at the same time!
Mini Tassel Clips

Tassels are a great way to create affordable gifts for people and have them be thoughtful and useful.  Other fun ideas are diy bookmarks, jar gifts, and washi tape crafts!

Surviving a Merry Broke Christmas

Filed Under: Holidays

A Merry Broke Christmas

A Merry Broke Christmas

When You Are Broke at Christmas

Christmas isn’t all about what you can buy.  It’s difficult to remember that when you can afford things, let alone when you can’t.   The stress from trying to figure out what to buy for whom can be overwhelming.  People will often tell you “well, if you can’t afford it then don’t.”  It’s not that simple though when you are someone who just loves to give, it eats away at you and takes you down a rabbit hole of sadness.

What Do You Do?

Have a Movie Night

Plan it with a classic movie that is coming on tv or available to stream.  Pop some microwave popcorn, grab some candy from the dollar store and spend time together.  People will often forget the gift itself, but they’ll remember how it made them feel.  This is true for kids and adults.  Never underestimate the value of quality time.

Make Treats

Whether you do it as a family as an activity to make memories, or you are looking for something to give people you love, making treats is a great way to accomplish both.  Check out these easy treats for the holidays that are easy to do and even include some non-baking options!

Jar Gifts

Another easy to make, affordable gift are jar gifts.  This could be a soup mix in a jar, spices in a jar, or even body/foot scrubs in a jar.  They are pretty, thoughtful and will be useful to the recipient!

Craft Gifts

Making a wooden sign, a personalized cup, notebook or pencil holder are also great ideas that allow you to involve the kids and are great ideas for gifts to those you love.  Finding a notebook at the dollar store that you take the time to decorate with washi tape is just as meaningful as finding a $20 journal that you would gift but it is worth even more because of the time you put into it.

Another fun thing to do, especially with kids is make Christmas ornaments to give.  These are great because each year they come out to remind you of the memories doing them together.  They also make great family gifts!

Broke at Christmas with Kids

When you’re broke at Christmas and you have kids it does make it feel even harder.  Keep in mind though that many times, it is ourselves putting that pressure on.   Make it special by spending time together watching Christmas movies, baking, checking out lights and drinking hot cocoa.  Even the act of making presents for people is a great way to spend time together and show your kids the value in thoughtfully creating things.

Remember, you don’t have to have a pile of presents.  After all, many times kids have one or two things they actually play with and then the rest gets set aside.  Yes, the idea of opening fifteen presents sounds fun but in reality, it means most of it won’t be touched after it’s opened.  The important part about any gift giving is making in meaningful.  Don’t underestimate a child’s ability of gratitude, they are pretty amazing when it comes down to it.  In doing this, you also help set them up for a realistic approach to life and understanding they don’t need everything that is out there.

Crafty gifts are a great idea because it’s not only something cool to open, but also gives them an activity to do!

Check out these creative options:

Washi Tape Crafts

Slime

Homemade Body Scrubs

If you are struggling with putting presents under the tree, there are places to get assistance with Christmas, such as local organizations and churches that do toy drives and can help you.  Everybody struggles from time to time, just as you are willing to give a helping hand; understand that sometimes you’ll need that helping hand too and there’s no shame in that.

 

Mason Jar Craft Ideas

Filed Under: Creative, Gifts

Mason Jar Craft Ideas For Home or a Gift

Mason Jar Craft Ideas

Mason Jar Craft Ideas can be used for your own home or for a gift that you want to give.  The really great thing is you don’t necessarily have to go out and buy a pack of Mason Jars.  You can also use things like spaghetti sauce containers for many of these craft ideas.  When something can be repurposed into something new and be effective, it’s always a good thing to do!  Don’t forget to check out these jar gift recipe options for more ideas!

 

Back to school Striped Mason Jars

These adorable striped mason jars are great for back to school, teachers appreciation, or a holiday gift.  The same idea could be applied for home to… give it a Kate Spade feel with some black and white stripes!
Striped Painted Mason Jar Teacher Gift Ideas
Water Color Mason Jars

These Water Color Jars are beautiful and simple to do.  Again, perfect for brightening up your home or offering as a gift.

Watercolor Simple Mason Jar Supply holder
Painted Mason Jars

Painted jars do wonders to transform them!  For jars this size you could recycle a pesto jar to create something new with it.

Vintage mason Jar Gift with Heart
Glitter Mason Jars

Dress up jars with glitter and tape to make a fun, personalized jar!
Glitter Mason Jars
Glittery Winter Mason Jars

Mason Jars make great flower holders, even for fake arrangements!  This one is a pretty glittery winter option that could be used as holiday decoration, a housewarming gift, or a present!

Winter Painted Mason Jars with flowers
Mason Jar Vases

Another great way to dress up a jar and make something new and unique!

Pretty Mason Jar Vase gift idea
Mason Jar Pencil (Supply)Holders

These would be great to help organize kids craft crayons/pencils/markers!  They are easy to do and would make a fun family project!  They also make great teacher gifts!

Painted Mason Jar Pencil Holder with cute faces
Dinosaur Topped Mason Jars

These Dinosaur Topped Mason Jars could be used to store things, a party, or even a fun alternative to a “gift basket.”
Dinosaur Topped Mason Jar Decor
Mason Jar Cupcake Holder

Baking is always a heart felt thing to do but sometimes it would feel a little awkward to present someone with just a cupcake.  That is, until now.  Use a jar to create an easy cupcake holder that you can add a bow and personalization to creating a total package!
Individual Cupcake Holder

Self Care Gift Ideas for Her

Filed Under: Gifts, Mommy

6 Self Care Gift Ideas for Her

Gift Ideas for Her

Self-Care isn’t about over indulging or being selfish, it’s about deliberately taking care of yourself so that you can be your best to take care of others.   Sometimes it’s the little things that just make you feel better and give you the extra ‘oomph’ you need to get through.

Here are a few of my favorite self-care gift ideas for her that can be a stand alone present, part of a gift basket, or stocking suffer!

Self Care Gift Ideas for Her

  1. Lauren Conrad Liquid Eyeliner

Feeling good about how you look makes a difference to your day.  Have some fun, be bold and let your eyes stand out with this incredible (and affordable @ $20!) eyeliner from Lauren Conrad Beauty.  See more of my favorite Lauren Conrad Beauty items.

Perfect Liquid Eyeliner from Lauren Conrad Beauty

 

  1. Dermatonics Hard Skin Removing Balm

This stuff is like pure magic.  It takes cracked heals and callused feet and makes them feel incredibly smooth and sets you up to be ready to walk your road more comfortably.  It literally shows a difference in the first 24 hours. I have tried so many products that didn’t work, but this one is worth every penny!  Plus it’s not too greasy and has a light sweet scent.

  1. Kopari Coconut Body Milk

I love the Kopari brand, and this body milk does an amazing job of moisturizing even the driest of skin while not leaving you feeling greasy.  It has a light scent so it isn’t overwhelming.  Soothes dry, itchy skin and leaves it feeling soft and smooth!

Favorite Beauty Products Kopari Coconut Body Milk

  1. Stella & Grace Rose Gold Face Roller

This Rose Gold face roller says it helps with lymphatic drainage, firms the look of the skin and reduces puffiness while helping you relax and destress.   I am not a skin expert and can’t speak to the lymphatic drainage but I can tell you it’s incredibly relaxing and does help with puffiness.

  1. Heir Atelier Lip Primer

This primer from Heir Atelier gives you silky smooth lips and prevents lipstick from feeling dry and cracked.  It can be used alone or with lipstick/lip gloss. Check out my full review in this Favorite Beauty Products post!

 

  1. Heir Atelier Face Primer

Face primers help create a smooth base for makeup, can help foundation last longer, and can give an extra boost of hydration to skin.  Not all face primers are made equally though.   This primer from Heir Atelier is an absolute favorite for myself and as a gift to others- my mom absolutely loves it too and says she sees a notable difference with and without it.

More Beauty Product Suggestions