Melly Moments

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2016-01-31T22:33:00.002-06:00

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My Top 6 Posts of 2015

2016-01-05T09:44:00.003-06:00

2015 had come and gone in a blink of an eye. I suppose part of it has to do with my second son being born this past summer. Those of you with young kids know all too well how fast the time flies. It's hard to believe I actually had time to blog, let alone put together some festive parties, craft up a few fun gifts, and attempt a couple DIY projects. It was a busy and eventful year and I sure learned a great deal! Heck, I even made some great blogging friends along the way. I sure am thankful for all of you that stop by on occasion to see what I'm up to. If you're new, you've come at a great time.

Don't be shy. Come take a peek at this recap of my top blog posts from the past year!

My top 6 contain ideas for birthdays, baby showers, Father's Day, Get Well Gifts, and Teacher/Student Gifts. The best part is that most of these contain cute and colorful freebies/printables that you can download and use for your next party or gift idea.

#6 - 'BOSS OF THE SAUCE' BASKET

Coming in at #6 on the list this year, the Barbecue Bucket was a frequently visited post! The 'Boss of the Sauce" basket is perfect for a pit master or grilling enthusiast, as it contains all of the essential items to create your perfect backyard BBQ. This serves as a great birthday, anniversary, or Father's Day gift. Click on the image below to see this post and download the free printable tags!

#5 - BOX FULL OF SUNSHINE

Rolling in at #5 was this bright and cheerful Box Full of Sunshine. Let's face it, who doesn't know someone who, at one point or another, could have used some sunshine in their life?! If you're not the flower sending kind of person, or you just want to do something different and unique, this fits the bill. You can easily brighten up anyone's day with this simple and easy gift. Added bonus? Free printable tags are included to put the finishing touch on your box or basket!

#4 - ELMO & SESAME STREET BIRTHDAY PARTY

This may have been one of my all-time favorite parties I had the chance to plan. At #4, my son's second birthday bash, All Aboard the Elmo Express, combined his love for Sesame Street and trains. This post received a TON of traffic and I've been lucky enough to create some special momentos and party decor for many other kids who, like my son, had this birthday party theme!

#3 - END OF YEAR GIFT FOR STUDENTS

Being a former teacher, I was always searching for ideas on what to get my students at the end of a school year. I never knew this post would be such a huge hit, as it has been my most pinned post on Pinterest...of all-time! The best part is how inexpensive and simple this gift idea is. Just grab the free printable tag and a pack of glo sticks for a $1 and you're all set! I'd call that a win :)

#2 - STORYBOOK THEME BABY SHOWER

This one was such a fun party to put together because I got to plan it with with mom, aunt, and SIL for my twin brother and his wife's baby shower! This gender neutral theme included a lot of fun details all centered around well-known children's books. One of my favorite parts was the snack/dessert table. It was full of yummy treats that accompanied a coordinating book. As always, free printables are included as well!

# 1 - END OF YEAR TEACHER GIFT

And, the most popular post of 2015 was my "Splash into Summer" teacher gift idea for the end of the school year. Come May, every teacher is ready for some fun in the sun, so this mason jar filled with goodies is a perfect way to say THANK YOU!

And there you have it....the top posts of 2015. I sure hope you all were able to use these ideas to help inspire your own gift giving and party planning ventures. Going back and looking through all of these projects motivates me to keep creating and I hope it does the same for all of you!

THANK YOU so very much for your continued support and encouragement. I'm super excited to see what 2016 has in store!

Looking Fear in the Face

2015-12-15T22:45:00.001-06:00

I went out to lunch with my mom a few weeks ago. As we sat at the table, I told her about a random thought that had been consuming me, "I feel like everyone I can possibly think of has gone through, is currently facing, or has always experienced a really big struggle in their life." Whether it be...

Marital issues and/or divorce,
Finding out someone has cancer or a lifelong illness,
Having a child with special needs,
Losing a loved one,
Experiencing job loss,
Fertility issues,
Financial distress....

There are people I know who are experiencing these. I expressed that when I thought about my life up until this point, I didn't feel as though I had faced any BIG type of struggle, but knew it would be looming in the near future. I constantly thought, "When was my problem going to surface?!"

I mean, everyone faces hardship, so it would only be a matter of time before mine came about. When I talked about these so-called hardships, I meant going through something that requires a type of strength and resolve that you didn't know you had. Something only God can help you get through. My mom calmly responded, "You can't look at life like that, Mel. When something happens, you will deal with it then. The more you anticipate it's arrival, the more you live your life in fear."

And then.....my day came. AND she was right. You learn to deal with your struggle.

You face it and ask God for strength....because there are a lot of storms in life that you won't be able to weather on your own.

The day before Thanksgiving, I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes.

This means I will be dependent on insulin for the rest of my life. To some, this may not seem like a big deal. But, this chronic (and crappy, I might add) disease runs in my family and has wreaked havoc on both my grandfather and dad's health. My children have a 1 in 50 chance of getting this autoimmune disease, too. Diabetes, if not managed well and kept within tight control, can greatly affect your kidneys, eyes, nerves, feet, teeth, and many other aspects of your body. Over time, it takes its toll. For a worrier like myself, a person who doesn't deal with change all that well, this has been a hard one to grasp. Even though I've always had a feeling that I would eventually develop this, the realization still stings.

Although challenges do strengthen people, they also make you feel weak, discouraged, and incapable. As we experience tough times, many emotions emerge.

It's the change of lifestyle that you grieve.
It's the loss of control (or what you think you had of it).
It's the waiting or the inconvenient timing.
It's the feelings of uncertainty.
It's the constant "what ifs".
It's the blame you put on yourself and the shame you take on.
It's wishing you could wake up and pretend it's just a dream.
It's the moments when you put on your happy face to those around you, when in reality, you feel nothing close to happiness.

Regardless of the battle a person faces, or for how long you have to endure it, there comes a time when you have to look fear in the face and not let it take hold of your life.

I'll be quite honest, I find myself riding the pity train at times. I hop on and ride for a bit and then hop back off. It ebbs and flows. Each day I go through ups and downs, sometimes feeling confident and ready to conquer this thing, and other times feeling completely overwhelmed and defeated.

Now, add worrying to the mix. Worrying is what amplifies fear.

The more I worry about the road that lies ahead and my future....the less I am able to live a healthy life and ENJOY the blessings I've been given.
At my church this weekend, one of our pastors gave a fantastic message on worrying and shared a pie graph similar to this:

Notice the blue. Only 8% of our worries are legitimate. 92% is out of my control. The more I try to control life's outcomes, the less reliant I become on God.

I try to remind myself of the lyrics in one of my favorite songs by Casting Crowns:

And when you're tired of fighting
chained by your control
There's freedom in surrender
Lay it down and let it go

So when you're on your knees and answers seem so far away
You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held
Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place
I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held.

My diagnosis initially made me feel like my life moving forward would always be stressful and hard to manage. I needed to shift my focus and realize that this is a blessing in disguise. As the lyrics state, my world is not falling apart, it is falling into place. Because of this, I will lead a healthier lifestyle. I will need to eat better, exercise consistently, and become more in tune with my overall health. This will only help me in the future. The things is....God meets us in the middle of the storms. We have to be willing to relinquish our desire to control and let him lead the way.

Thankfully, I've had gestational diabetes with both of my pregnancies, which means I have a leg up on someone without any experience or knowledge of this disease. Having grown up with a dad who has T1D, I've learned a lot already!

At the end of each day, when I feel anxious about the difficult times I will face, I step back and remind myself that most of my struggles pale in comparison to THIS.

My journey is just beginning. I've been blessed with a very supportive family who will undoubtedly help me navigate and see my way through this. My husband helps me to keep things in perspective and encourages me to see the silver lining in all of this:

God uses our struggles so we can someday help others who are going through the same situation, to bring about more awareness , encourage others who are in our shoes, and connect with those we may never have had the chance to otherwise!

You've Been BOOED: Halloween Door Hanger

2015-10-29T15:52:00.001-05:00

A simple and easy way to create some fun in your neighborhood, school, or workplace is to BOO someone with a special treat! This little Halloween activity takes minimal preparation and time. All you need to do is download the door hanger and accompanying sign below. If you would like to weather proof it like me,

you can have it laminated! Either way works fine.

Fill a cup with candy, put together a little bag of goodies, or share a spooky sweet and put it on someone's doorstep! Although Halloween is in two days, it can still be done in a day's worth of time! So, go ahead....print this out and join in on the fun!

FREE PRINTABLE HALLOWEEN DOOR HANGER

A Cheer Up "Sunshine" Basket

2015-10-06T10:36:00.000-05:00

Lately, a few people in my life have been going through some challenging times. The struggles they are facing have brought about stress, worry, uncertainty, and feelings of pain or sadness. You wonder how you can help and make things better. I'm sure we all know a person or two who is fighting some kind of battle. While we can't make their problems disappear, there are many ways we can brighten up their day.

Do you know of anyone who needs some sunshine in their life? Do you want to cheer them up, but aren't quite sure what to say or do? Sometimes, a simple phone call is the right move. Other times, it's nice to grab lunch or send a care package. To help spread some positivity and make them feel loved, you can create this BOX FULL OF SUNSHINE to let that friend, neighbor, coworker, or family member know you care and are thinking of them! Whether it be a get well gift, a sweet surprise to uplift someone's spirits, or serving as a thank you present.....you're sure to put a smile on their face!

To create your own "Sunshine" basket, most of the yellow themed items above, I found at my local Target store. It just so happened that I was also going with a "Turn Lemons into Lemonade" theme and happened upon the adorable lemon designed I-phone case. Score!!

As I've said before about making themed baskets, I always stroll through the Target Dollar Spot to look for cute containers. I just so happened to snag this yellow basket, which was perfect for this little gift. The mason jar and checkered lid were also discovered in this area. Total win for the day!

I wanted to create two different types of baskets, so I decided to use a wooden crate as well. It's fun to jazz up simple things with festive ribbon. I added the yellow polka dot ribbon to give it a little flare. Then, to bring the "Turn Lemons into Lemonade" tag to life, I thought it would be fun to add some lemon head candy (LEMONS) and Minute Maid Drops (LEMONADE) into the mason jar.

These were all of the fun items I was able to find to add to the baskets. Creating a colored themed basket is really a lot of fun. From food to jewlery to health/beauty items, you can get really creative with what you put together! Yellow happens to be easier in the summertime, but there is no right/wrong time to create a themed gift basket!

If you know of someone who could be uplifted and use some cheering up, be sure to print out these FREE printable tags and make your very own sunshine basket!

Oval Lemonade Tag & Rectangular Sunshine Tag

To check out some of the other gift ideas

(with free printables) I've created, check them out here:

BABY GIFT BASKETS

"BOSS OF THE SAUCE" BBQ GIFT SET

MASON JAR MOTHER'S DAY GIFT

TEACHER THANK YOU GIFT

HAPPY HOUSEWARMING GIFT

DIY New Baby Gift Baskets

2015-09-02T08:06:00.003-05:00

This year has already been and will continue to be FULL of new babies! 11 people I know, including myself, will have had a baby in 2015. Something MUST be in the water!

When it comes time to make that first visit to meet a new little love, you certainly don't want to arrive empty handed. While pretty much anything you bring is appreciated (especially dinner so cooking can be avoided for awhile), something I enjoy giving is a themed baby basket! This can be made in a variety of ways, whether it's girly, boyish, or gender neutral! Here are just a couple ideas that you can use, including free printable tags and a Do Not Disturb door hanger!

A secret that I've come to know about making the perfect gift basket is always stocking up ahead of time. The Target dollar spot is one of my favorite go-to places. Anytime I see a cute, little basket...whether it be wooden, plastic, metal, I always snag one (knowing I will use it sometime in the future!). This little woven basket is a prime example!

BABY BOY BEDTIME BASKET

While this basket was for a baby boy, it can definitely be adjusted to be given to a girl. In this basket, I included the following items (click on each for more info):

Embroidered, Lion Lovey Cuddler from KennedisCloset (Etsy)

Summer Infant Swaddlepod in Pea Green

The Sleepy Little Alphabet book

"Baby is Sleeping" Door Hanger in Blue Waves OR Green Polka Dot

One of the finishing touches that I always add to a gift basket is a cute tag of some sort! All you do is punch a hole through the top, string some yarn or festive twine through and you're set. Often times, I write a little note on the back to serve as a card! Get the "Oh Sweet Baby" tag for FREE below!

"OH SWEET BABY" GIFT TAG - BLUE (FREE PRINTABLE DOWNLOAD)

GENDER NEUTRAL PEA POD BASKET

With a lot more people wanting to be surprised these days as to the gender of their baby, it can be difficult to put together a gift in advance, especially in you're wanting to have it ready to bring when visiting the family at the hospital. If you're in search of something gender neutral, this themed gift basket is a great way to show you care!

Click on the items below to create your next basket!

Summer Infant Pea pod Muslin Swaddle Blankets

Hudson Organic Onesie - Go Green Pea Pod

1-2-3 Peas (The Pea Series Book)

Little Green Peas: A Big Book of Colors (The Pea Series Book)

LMNO Peas (The Pea Series Book)

Any green colored scented candle (w/ Dirty Diaper Diffuser label)

Download the free printable tags:

Oh Sweet Baby (circular) & Little Pea Pod (rectangular)

Again, I can't stress enough the secret to creating a gift basket that doesn't require a lot of time and energy. I truly believe that half the reason we give gift cards are for ease and simplicity. But sometimes, the thought factor is eliminated. To give a thoughtful gift without a lot of preparation, you need to snag items when you see them (even if you're unsure of what to do with them at the exact moment). This wired basket was a Target dollar spot swoop, as were the tiny little clothespins!

I knew they would come in handy at some point....and voila, they certainly did!

GUND FUZZY SPOTTED DOG - Plush Stuffed Animal

This snuggly, little puppy was given as a gift to my son when he was born. He sleeps with it EVERY. SINGLE. NIGHT. It definitely has seen its days and looks ~~tattered and worn~~ LOVED on by him. You can tell this puppy has provided a lot of comfort and cuddles. If you're not a gift basket type of person, this little pup would make the perfect present. In fact, this is what my son gave his new cousin as a welcome home gift!

Something I included in the Pea Pod Themed Baby Basket was this little candle and sticker label! If you've ever changed a baby's dirty diaper before, you are well aware how long that lovely smell can linger! This little treat is added to the basket for mama's sake. Add a candle of your choice to the mix and stick on this circular label to the top or side of the candle. It adds a cute and creative touch!

Dirty Diaper Diffuser Circle Sticker (Free Printable Download)

These gift baskets are great for welcoming home a new little cherub, but also can be given at baby showers, too! Go ahead and give it a try. It'll be worth the effort!

A few other items that I have LOVED receiving or giving for a baby is shared below.

I hope you love them just as much as I have/do:

Personalized Stat Blocks

Birth Stat Block

Baptism Block

Birthday Block

I See Me Personalized Children's Books

Hello World! It's Me, (Name)!

The Super, Incredible Big Brother

The Super, Incredible Big Sister

(Name), Can Change the World!

Personalized NAME gifts

Plush Hooded Towel with Embroidered Name

Colorful Wooden Name Stool

Here are some more ideas for what to get a baby with my TOP 5 BABY GIFT IDEAS!!

Must Haves for Moms: Post Pregnancy

2015-08-20T18:06:00.001-05:00

For those of you who don't know, this lady recently became a proud mama of two!! Six weeks ago, we welcomed another beautiful baby boy into the world! With dirty diapers to change, middle of the night feedings, and a body that just went through birth, there are a few things that have helped me to get by each day. These Mom "Must Haves" are some of my favorite items that make life a little easier and more enjoyable!

Being a mom is an amazing thing, but your needs can easily be pushed to the wayside....with the baby often being at the forefront! Remember, it's really important that you take care of yourself and find products that help you navigate the challenges of motherhood. From nursing your little one every couple of hours to taking your first trip to the store with two kiddos in stowe, daily stresses can AND WILL wear you out! Come check out four of my favorite items that have helped me feel confident and capable as a mom! I'm certain they will be useful to you, too!

The Belly Bandit Company has so many wonderful products for before, during, and after pregnancy. For moms who are busy like me, we don't always have time in our day to workout and lose the dreaded baby weight! Having gone through pregnancy two times now in my thirties, my metabolism just isn't as fast acting as it once was....sadly (wipe away tear). Let's be honest....it takes a lot more effort to stay in shape these days!

Because time is limited, AND because I have a family wedding to attend in September (hoping to fit into a fun, little black dress), I've needed something to help minimize the "belly" without being uncomfortable. Trust me, recovery was already uncomfortable enough! ENTER.....the Belly Shield and Belly Bandit, folks. As the say, these will help to, "Shrink, Tighten, and Control". The thing is...they are comfy and easy to put on and wear. The pictures above show me wearing the Belly Shield four weeks post partum. This little gem is extremely soft, helps minimize stretch marks, and helps to keep your skin hydrated. I wear this underneath my Belly Bandit....

The nice part about the Belly Bandit is that it's different from other compression aides, like girdles with snaps at the bottom. I know I wouldn't be able to wear one of those when my lady parts just went through war! Can you say, OUCH! It is a lot simpler and less complicated, which is a huge plus in my book. Here are just a few of the many ways that the Belly Bandit helps moms during post pregnancy:

- Helps you lose inches on your waist

- Accelerates healing through compression

- Supports back, leg, and core muscles

- Adds support while breast feeding

I can wear my Belly Bandit with most tops, but prefer them to be just a little more loose fitting, as the velcro part sometimes is visible with tight fitting tanks. Other than this, it can and should be worn throughout the day, even while you are sleeping! A couple other pieces I plan to get next is their nursing bra or tank since I will be breastfeeding for a good while! Convenience and comfort is key. Did I mention their fabulous Mother Tucker Leggings?! With Fall soon approaching, I need to get my hands on a pair of these. I practically live in leggings and long sweaters from September through May. These are simply fabulous for so many reasons:

- Tummy flattening center with layer of compression

- 3 targeted compression zones shape your body, belly, butt, & thighs

- 360 degrees of compression

- Smoothes "muffin top"

- Seamless, breathable knit

- holds its shape wash after wash

Now, another item that I use EVERY day is my Covered Goods multi-use nursing cover. While this has come in handy while I breastfeed my son, it most certainly can be used my moms who aren't nursing, as a scarf, grocery cart and car seat cover! I particularly love that I can use it as an infinity scarf. These are super soft and stylish! I have two of them and they coordinate great with outfits I wear.

With my first son, I tried different kinds of nursing covers and they all left me exposed at some point, feeling stressed as I try to nurse in public or in front of other people. I was always terrified that I would flash everyone around me. When you have a hungry, crying baby.....time is of the essence. Instead of having to dig into the bottom of my diaper bag to search for my cover and get it on in a hurried manner, I just wear this all day and simply slip it over my little babe when it's time for him to eat.

I truly like wearing it as a scarf, regardless of breast feeding. It's nice to know that I don't have to pack it away once I'm done nursing. Plus, this piece provides great coverage for all of the spit up stains that accumulate throughout the day. Aint nobody got time to change an outfit when you've got a toddler and a newborn to tend to.

Next up, are my all-time favorite tank tops...and they sell them at my favorite store...TARGET! They were just meant to be! These tank tops are fabulous because they are LONG. When you are pregnant, no one wants the big ole belly hangin out...and trust me, once you get to the end, it's hard for this not to happen (yikes!).

The thing is, they are insanely comfortable, wash and keep their shape well, and don't shrink in length! I wear these tanks ALL. THE. TIME....even after pregnancy. Although they are part of Liz Lange's maternity line, I ignore the label and wear them even when I'm not pregnant. They are perfect for layering and I own more than I can count on both of my hands. Yup, I guess you can say I like them.

And now for something that every mom with an infant MUST HAVE. You know how you sit back sometimes at an invention and say to yourself, "Why didn't I think of that?!". Well, this was one of those moments for me. With my first son, I only had a thick, wool car seat cover for the winter. In the summer, I had to use a swaddle blanket and tie it to the handle, finagling a way to keep it attached to the sides. Every time I took a walk on a windy day, the blanket would fly open

and I would have to stop and put it back on again. SO FRUSTRATING.

Well, look no further. DRUM ROLL PLEASE. Welcome the Milk Snob car seat cover!! This little beauty comes in many different styles. I have the black and white striped cover and LOVE it! This totally eliminates the issues I had with blankets flying off. This cover helps to protect my son from the bright sun and intense heat on a hot summer day or from the rain on a gloomy day. It also serves as a great barrier to those onlookers who want to poke and prod at your lovely, little newborn

(typically from the germy hands of excited young children!)

Whether you are a first-time mom or one with loads of experience, we can all use these helpful items to get us through the more trying times! Don't make life any more complicating than it needs to be. Simplify your life with these awesome products and free up yourself from worry and stress!

I sure hope you feel more capable in your role of motherhood and confident while raising those perfect little humans! Enjoy :)

The BEST of Back to School: PARENT & TEACHER edition

2015-08-10T08:57:00.000-05:00

It's BACK TO SCHOOL time and I know many of you parents and teachers are in preparation mode. Gearing up for all of those special kids in your life, it's time to get ready for another fabulous year! Buying supplies and creating unique memories can be time consuming and EXPENSIVE! Whether it is to help you get your classroom ready, create that one-of-a-kind gift for your child's teacher, fancy up your kiddo's supplies with personalized labels, or start a tradition that continues throughout the years, I've got some really cute and creative ideas that I'm featuring today! They come from some super talented bloggers. Come take a peek at the FREE (easy to download) printables and fun decor that will help you get going...

OPEN HOUSE TEACHER PRINTABLE

I just LOVE this adorable sign from School and the City blog.

What a cute message it sends to parents at curriculum night or Open House.

This can even be used during parent conferences!

(Via School and the City)

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - GIFT TAG

Because I just love the "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" book series, I had to share this super cute printable tag with you all from Thirty Handmade Days. Whether you make the cookies yourself or pick them up from a local bakery, there isn't a teacher I know that wouldn't appreciate getting this treat from your child on the 1st day of school!

(Via Thirty Handmade Days)

YEARLY "BACK TO SCHOOL" HANDPRINT SHIRT

There are so many fun traditions to start with your child, but this handprint t-shirt from Where the Smiles Have Been is truly unique. What a special momento this will be when your child graduates high school! It doesn't take a lot of prep work....just some paint and a handprint is all you need each year!

(Via Where the Smiles Have Been)

GETTING TO KNOW YOU - STUDENT/TEACHER PRINTABLE

Pen and Paint is one of my FAVORITE shops. She creates beautiful prints of all kinds and she doesn't disappoint with these fun, FREE printables that help students (and their parents) get to know his/her teacher... and vice versa!

(Via Pen and Paint Blog)

7 FREE PRINTABLE CLASSROOM POSTERS

(This one included!)

Heading to the teacher store can leave you with holes in your pocket. Even if you intend to just pick up a few items, it's nearly impossible to walk out without breaking the piggy bank! Classroom posters can add up, especially because there is so much wall space to fill up. These 7 posters are bright, colorful, useful.....and FREE!! Nothing beats that.

(Via Melly Moments)

DOOR HANGER PRINTABLES

There are times throughout the day when the door is shut and you don't want to be disturbed. These printable door hangers let visitors know what's taking place in your office or classroom, prompting them to be extra cautious upon knocking or entering!

(Via Melly Moments)

FREE PERSONALIZED SUPPLY LABELS

Parents....you will LOVE these! From glue sticks to pencils to lunch boxes to pretty much any school supply you can think of, these personalized labels from Lia Griffith Design are FREE to download and EASY to edit. Your kids will LOVE that all of their personal belongings are labeled with their initial or name.

Forget the markers that smear, use these tags and stickers instead!

(Via World Label Blog - Lia Griffith Design)

10 SCHOOL THEMED FONTS

If you plan on creating any type of print material, such as forms, worksheets, newsletters, etc......these fonts are great for anything school/teaching related!

(Via Melly Moments)

20 BACK TO SCHOOL BULLETIN BOARDS

This is a great compilation of crafty bulletin board ideas for grades K-6! What will be your inspiration for door decorations or hallway displays? Let's see your creations!

(Via Melly Moments)

Customized Stat Posters: BACK TO SCHOOL & BIRTHDAYS!

2015-08-02T16:10:00.001-05:00

Because It's Back To School time, I wanted to share an old post of mine that I thought you might enjoy! I've gotten a lot of requests to bring these back, so here you have it! Plus, I've added some new designs for you to check out.

Are you someone who wants to document your child's life in a unique way, but frankly, you just don't have the time or energy to create that special something? These posters are a fun and cute keepsake, which serves as the perfect momento.

You can print them in 8x10 or 8.5 x 11 if you want to create a scrapbook or memory album for their years throughout school. If you want these for picture taking purposes...having your child hold it for a photograph, I would recommend going with poster sizes such as 11x14 or 16x20! These posters can be customized for any grade level, boy or girl! Yes, those of you who have preschoolers, this is perfect for you!

BACK TO SCHOOL POSTERS

If your child already experienced their first day of school, don't you worry. You can still have one made. Rather than it saying, "First Day of....", it can say "2014-2015" like these...

If you would like to order one of these for your child, email me ASAP at mellymoments@gmail.com for more details! Please Note: The colors shown in the pictures vary slightly and these are pictures taken of the PDF file. If you would like to see a more accurate image, please send me a message!

COME CHECK OUT OTHER POSTER DESIGNS.....

BIRTHDAY POSTERS

How about those birthdays or special celebrations?? Here are some of the other designs, from first birthday bashes to a 60th surprise party!

Here are a couple from my son's first birthday party. Check out his sports themed stat poster HERE! These posters aren't solely for first birthdays....

they can be customized for any & all ages!

Guest Post: DIY Cool Kid T-Shirt Tutorial

2015-07-15T22:46:00.000-05:00

Hey, Friends! Some of you may have noticed that I've been on a blogging hiatus the past couple of weeks. That's primarily because I was getting ready to welcome baby #2 into our family! Because I knew life would take on a whole new level of busy, I asked my friend, Christine, from Where the Smiles Have Been if she would be so kind to share a guest post with all of you! She cheerfully agreed, and trust me on this one, you won't be disappointed. If you aren't already following this talented blogger, you should be (without hesitation). She has TONS of fabulous DIY projects that are simple and adorable, from all things kid related to fun and festive holiday decor and so many projects to spruce up your home. She is one of my all-time faves and I just LOVE everything she creates!! So without further ado, check out her fabulous tutorial below....

Hi, everyone! My name is Christine and I'm the gal behind Where The Smiles Have Been. I'm so honored to be guest-posting today over here at Melly Moments!

Today I'm sharing how I made my son a DIY t-shirt using some glitter heat transfer vinyl. He's one cool kid who's always been a fan of rocking a pair of sunglasses ever since he was born, so I thought I'd combine those two ideas into one quick and easy project. Here I'll show you just how easy it is to make, and I'm sharing the FREE cut file as well if you'd like to make one for the cool kid in your life!

One Cool Kid T-shirt Tutorial & FREE Cut File!

SUPPLIES

White t-shirt

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV): Black Glitter & Blue Glitter

Silhouette Cameo & Cutting Mat

Scissors

Iron

Spare Cloth

My Design

I quickly created my design in Silhouette Studio....and when I say quickly, I mean it! This whole project was completed during my son's nap, so about an hour and a half from designing to completion. I just love wham-bam-thank-you-maam projects like that.

Once I was ready to cut out my HTV, I first needed to mirror my design (or flip it horizontally) since the HTV gets cut on the back. Then I changed my cut lines so everything except the blue sunglasses would be cut, and finalized my cut settings.

Silhouette Cameo Cut Settings for Glitter HTV: I've found that the default settings for Heat Transfer Material: Flocked work perfectly every time (of course, do a test cut first!):

Blade: 3
Speed: 5
Thickness: 33
Cutting Mat: Checked

I then pulled out my handy dandy vinyl storage organizer and grabbed both sheets of HTV as well as my 12" x 24" cutting mat. Then I loaded the black HTV sheet onto my mat *shiny side down* and then fed it into my Silhouette Cameo.
I hit 'Cut' and watched the magic happen!

The black pieces were now perfectly cut (yes!), so I returned to Silhouette Studio and moved everything off the mat except for the blue sunglasses. I changed up my cut lines so only this part of the design would be cut....

....then loaded my blue glitter HTV sheet onto my mat and into my Cameo. Once 'Cut' was hit, it only took a few moments for all my pieces to be ready.

Weeding the HTV

Now that my HTV was cut, I trimmed up all the pieces off the sheets then weeded (or removed) the excess vinyl....and this part is soooo easy to do with glitter HTV! It's one of the many reasons why I absolutely love working with this medium!

Now all that was left was ironing the HTV pieces onto the shirt!

Applying the HTV to the Shirt

I first preheated my iron to the Cotton setting (no steam) and ironed my shirt, just to make sure it was nice and smooth. Oh, I like to get my craft on at my dining room table, so I also put down some cardboard to protect the table from the iron's heat. I'm lazy and never feel like hauling out the ironing board from the laundry room.

Next, I positioned my black HTV elements on the shirt....

....then laid a spare cloth (a.k.a. an old t-shirt of my husband's) over the HTV then started ironing away. I just applied firm and even pressure with the iron, pressing down for about ten seconds then moving over and repeating the steps.

I would occasionally remove the spare cloth and check how the HTV was adhering to the shirt by peeling away the clear backing. If there were any spots that came up with the backing, I would simply lay everything back down and start ironing again. After just a minute or two, everything was adhered nicely, so the entire backing was removed.

Next, I positioned the blue shades onto the shirt and repeated the ironing steps to apply it.

Once it was fully adhered, its backing was also peeled off. I then laid the spare cloth back down and ironed everything one more time, then removed it and flipped the shirt over so I could apply some heat to the backside of the shirt/HTV.

The Final 'One Cool Kid' T-shirt!

And here it is! Super cute, no? I know glitter HTV is typically used more with girls' clothing, but I just love working with it, so my poor son is stuck wearing it. Plus, it's black and blue, and that's way boyish!

And here's Mr. Cool Kid himself, wearing his cool new shirt.....and shades, naturally. ;)

Download the FREE Cut File!

If you have a cool kid of your own, feel free to download this cut file for FREE! It's a .studio3 for use in Silhouette Studio.

>>>CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE CUT FILE!<<<

{The fine print: This cut file is free for PERSONAL USE ONLY. No commercial use or redistribution is permitted. Check out my policy information for more details. Thanks!}

Other Creations Using HTV

Here are some other things I've created using HTV!

Thanks for taking the time to check this out, and thanks again, Mel, for letting me share this over in your neck of the digital woods! :)

Sesame Street & Elmo Themed Birthday Party

2015-06-22T09:35:00.002-05:00

My son just recently turned two and has been all about Elmo and Sesame Street (not to mention Thomas the Train!!). To combine these two "loves" of his, I decided to have a party theme of "All Aboard the Elmo Express". With baby #2 on the way in just a couple of weeks, sometimes I think I tend to bite off more than I can chew. Party planning took over many nap times and late nights, but I really DO enjoy

DIY projects and crafting....especially for my little guy.

Last year, for this SPORTS THEMED 1st Birthday Party, he still was a bit unaware of what was going on. This year, he really got into opening presents, playing with his cousins and friends, and got excited at all of the decorations, especially the big balloons!! To see his face light up makes all of the prep work worth it...every single second!

Many of you know that my nephew is roughly 5 hours apart from E, but they have birthdays a day apart. What a coincidence, huh? Well, he lives out of town, but came in for the party to celebrate with all of us. So, the party was for BOTH boys!

This year's SESAME STREET theme highlighted Elmo & friends, along with a few train touches added within. Come take a peek at all of the party flare and the many FREEBIES/PRINTABLES included at the end of the post!! I hope this helps you plan the perfect party for your little and saves you some time, energy, and money!

First up on the agenda was making his party invitations. Last year, I created Sports Themed game ticket invites, and I kind of wanted to stick with the ticket theme again. So, I created these customized train passes in the "All Aboard the Elmo Express" theme. Obviously, we don't live on Sesame Street. The info is changed for privacy reasons.

If you're going to send out a fun and colorful invite, you have to make sure to fancy up the envelope as well. Creating return address labels, mailing labels, and sticker enclosures didn't take much time at all and motivated me for more party planning.

To download these cute Cookie Monster stickers, go to the end of the post for the file!

The food table display that I put together included character food tent cards, my son and nephew's customized stat posters (one on each side), a "Sunny Day's backdrop with white/blue balloons as clouds, grassy green tablecloth, and 3D TWO Blocks.

My uber talented and super thoughtful aunt made these ELMO treats. They were beyond adorable and delicious. Who doesn't love rice crispy treats?

To have them resemble Elmo...even better!

To add some pop of color and dimension to the food table, I wanted something to accompany the food tent cards. So, I created the faces of Sesame Street characters, printed them out, and placed them on the paper rosettes. Finally, I glued each on a wooden skewer and stuffed a small jar with colorful pom poms to match. It really was super simple and easy, but added that special touch to the table!

After scouring Pinterest and ETSY for cute shirts and something personalized for my son to wear, I realized that I could make one for a lot less money. So, I decided to make his birthday shirt and one for me to wear, too. I know...I'm the dorky mom who matches her kid, but hey....ya can't take yourself too seriously. It's all in good fun!

Being that I was just over 8 months pregnant, I thought it would be cute to have a picture of cookie monster on my belly, with the words saying cookie MOMster instead. Oh, the play on words....love me a good pun every once in awhile ;)

I made the shirt below for my son and nephew to wear on the day of the party. I wanted it to coordinate with the invitations and highlight the party theme. I simply printed out the design and ironed it on with special heat transfer paper. It's as easy as that! To download the t-shirt files for FREE, click on the link at the end of this post!

Ever since my son turned one, it has been harder and harder to keep up with his baby book. I'd like to think I would have been able to keep on top of things like this, but life can become so hectic! So, to remember some of the important things throughout the year, I started making him stat posters for each birthday like THESE. I made my nephew one as well, so they had similar designed posters.

It's a fun keepsake to hold onto and look back at over time!

This fabulous cake was made by my cousin, who also made his smash cake for his first birthday party! She is super talented and generous. How awesome did it turn out?!

The food table was my favorite to put together. Here was the spread that was offered:

Oscar's Trash = Peanut Butter/Chocolate Muddy Buddies.

Abby's Fairy Wands - Chocolate covered pretzels & pink/purple sprinkles

Cookie Monster's Chocolate Chip Cookies

Elmo's Goldfish Crackers

Murray Monster's Mixed Fruit

Bert's Brats

Snuffleupagus Pasta Salad

Big Bird's HB eggs

Choo Choo Cheese Tray = An assortment of cheese and crackers

Grover's Guacamole and Chips (I'm ashamed to discover the typo on the card. Yikes....you think I would have caught this error prior to printing. Oh well!)

Another fun element to the party planning was creating the favor bags! As I used with the St. Patrick's Day Bags and Easter Goodies, these favors fit perfectly into the

Wilton brand 50 count 3x4 treat bags. All you do is buy the travel size goldfish pouches and a box of crayola crayons (8 count) and close the bag shut with your double sided bag topper. On the front, I had my son and nephew's names. On the back, it says a thank you message. If you would like to download a general version saying, "Elmo..." instead of a child's name, see the end of this post!

While the food table was the primary focus, I didn't want the rest of the room to look bare and empty. So, I created these posters below to hang on doors and cabinets. You can enlarge them to any size you'd like! They helped make the room feel more cohesive and complete :) Each one can be downloaded for free below!

The party came and went in a flash of a second. I still can't believe my baby is TWO already. We had a terrific time with family and friends. He is so lucky to have been surrounded by so much love. It was now time to send out thank you's to family and friends for helping us celebrate this special guy. Here are the Thank You cards I created, with a special note written on the back of each one.

I sure hope you find many of the party decorations useful. Please feel free to download any or all of the prints you'd like. Attribution back to my page is always appreciated when using my work. Thank you and enjoy!

Party Printables for FREE below:

ENVELOPE STICKERS

Cookie Monster "It's Party Time"

PINWHEEL/ROSETTE CHARACTER FACES

Big Bird & Cookie Monster

Elmo & Oscar

Abby & Grover

MOM and CHILD T-SHIRTS

Birthday Boy Elmo/Train design

Cookie MOMster design

FOOD CHARACTER CARDS

Cookie Monster's Cookies & Abby's Fairy Wands

Murray's Mixed Fruit & Snuffleupagus Pasta Salad

Big Bird's Eggs & Choo Choo Cheese Tray

Elmo's Goldfish & Bert's Brats

Oscar's Trash & Grover's Guacamole

FAVOR BAG TOPPERS

Generalized "Elmo Loves his Goldfish..."

PARTY POSTERS

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DIY Gift Basket for Men (Grill Master Edition)

2015-05-29T09:27:00.003-05:00

My hubby's birthday was yesterday and summer is officially ready to begin! A few years back, I bought him a green egg grill for his birthday and he LOVES using it to cookout. This is one of my favorite times of the year because he makes some REALLY good food, especially his ribs! My mouth waters every time I think about them. He has even perfected BBQ chicken legs on his smoker.

As many of you know, it can be quite difficult trying to figure out what to get the men in your life, year after year. You want to be creative and thoughtful, but at the same time, not get something they will never use. It has to be somewhat practical, too!

So, because I know that he really enjoys grilling and started to experiment more with cooking as of late, I decided to put together a BBQ/GRILLING Birthday Basket. The best part is that this works perfectly for Father's Day, too, which is just around the corner. So, for those of you who know someone that enjoys grilling in the summer, this is the perfect present! Dads, grandpas, husbands....this works for any special guy in your life!

You can call it whatever you would like....BBQ Pitboy Basket, The Grillmaster Gift Basket.......OR, what I decided to call his this year.... 'BOSS of the SAUCE' basket. Because, after all, he has quickly earned this title in our house :) Of course, all of the tags and labels you see in the pics are FREE TO DOWNLOAD. Just click on the images at the end of this post to get yours quick and easy! Print using adhesive paper and stick it on your present! I want to make this as simple as possible for you!

(Links or attribution back to my blog are always appreciated)

Wondering what exactly to include when making this gift basket? Just grab a container of some type and add the following items! I found a rustic, red tin at Home Goods, but they also have a great selection of silver bins and wire baskets.

Check out the goods I bought on AMAZON... just in time for Father's Day!

CLICK LINK TO PURCHASE ITEMS:

1. ART OF SPICE: PORK AND BARBECUE RUB

2. BEAR PAWS MEAT HANDLERS

3. BAYOU CLASSIC SPICE/MARINADE INJECTOR

4. CUISINART SAUCE POT

FREE DOWNLOADS BELOW:

TAGS AND LABELS

FATHER'S DAY TAGS - Dad, Grandpa, Papa, & General

BOSS OF THE SAUCE Labels/Tags

BBQ BIRTHDAY Labels/Tags

5 Things I Want My Son To Know

2015-05-28T07:19:00.001-05:00

You only hope that as you grow older, you also grow wiser. Some of us look back at our youth and think, "Huh...my (enter parent of choice) actually did know what they were talking about". Once you have a child of your own, you realize the significance of what your mom and dad taught you growing up. You see things in a new light and understand why they made certain decisions or how tough it was to raise a family. With each passing year, your parents gain a new type of respect in your eyes.

Looking back now, there are 5 things my dad (probably unknowingly) taught me that I want my son to know. It will help shape him into a better person!

1. Sacrifices won't always be noticed or given merit

I grew up in a middle class family and was afforded much of the nice things you can think of...going on yearly family vacations, having nice clothes, being able to participate in a multitude of activities, to name a few. This was all in part due to the many sacrifices my dad made, almost always behind closed doors. Growing up, he worked 3 different jobs at once to help provide the best life for his family. I vividly remember him waking up in the middle of the night to go to his paper route job, delivering newspapers to local businesses. At the time, I thought it was an exciting adventure when I would get to wake up in the middle of the night and join him. Looking back now, I realize how tired he must have been by day's end. After finishing this job, he went to his full-time "day job", followed by his 3rd job of being a referee at different sporting events. My dad made CONSTANT sacrifices for our family that most people never knew about. He did this so his children would be able to live a life they desired. I want my son to know that he will have to make sacrifices of all kinds in life and they will often require extra time and effort. Many sacrifices we make in life will go unnoticed, and sometimes even, unappreciated. It's okay. Remember that they will be worth it in the long run.

2. It's easy to criticize until you've walked in their shoes

I've learned this lesson a great deal over the past three years, especially when it pertains to my family's history of diabetes. My dad has been a juvenile diabetic (requires insulin shots/pump) for over 30 years. For as long as I can remember, my siblings and I have always given him a hard time, criticizing the way he manages his diabetes and how poorly he takes care of his health. We continually make comments like, "Dad, you should have more self control!" or "Why are you eating that?!" or "You're seriously having that big of a piece? You need to watch your portions." and the list goes on. Yes, we obviously love him to death and want to see him thrive and live a long, healthy life. But, it's FAR easier to criticize someone until you've walked a day in their life. This is now my second time having gestational diabetes during pregnancy, where I'm up to taking 5 shots a day of insulin and having to follow a strict food regimen. For someone with a massive sweet tooth like myself and LOVES carbs, it's a very hard disease to maintain. For the first time ever, I realize the struggles and temptations he faces on a daily basis. When you are at a wedding, baby shower, birthday party, backyard BBQ, holiday, work function....anywhere that dessert is offered and EVERYONE is eating it RIGHT. IN. FRONT. OF. YOU.....it's pretty damn hard to constantly refuse and say no. The phrase, "You want it more because you can't have it" has never been so true. What's even harder are the days where you eat the exact same thing and your glucose readings are completely different. What?!?! Stress, lack of sleep, illness....there are so many factors that impact diabetes. Yes, my dad can certainly be more consistent or make better choices. But, can't we all?? Having gone through this, I realize how easy and quick it becomes to criticize the actions of those around us. We become so quick to offer advice, our opinions, or share what YOU would do in a situation, many times offering a "simple solution" to their problems. Much easier said than done. I want my son to try and walk a day, week, month, heck...a year, in someone's shoes before criticizing and condemning someone. You just never know what they go through or face each day!

3. Hard work takes you a long way

I'm not just saying this because he's my dad, but I have one of the smartest out there. Truly. Unfortunately, the term "SMART" has many different meanings to many people. Some believe that the higher degree you earn, the smarter you are. In my eyes, my dad proves this theory to be entirely false. Did he go to college and graduate? No. Could he if he had tried? Without a doubt. My dad wasn't cut out for the academic life. He is as smart as a whip and more knowledgeable than most people I know, but it just wasn't in the cards for him. The single factor that makes him more successful than most people in my eyes is that he has worked hard his entire life. You can have every credential in the book, but it's grit that brings you far in life. Being a teacher for 8 years, this could be said for kids as well. I had kids in the magnet and gifted programs, acing every test. I had students pegged as "low" or "developing" because they didn't perform as well on tests. None of that mattered. What mattered most were the ones who came in each day and worked hard, giving forth their best effort. They will be the most successful in life. My dad was able to provide for his family not because of his degree and fabulous job he landed, but because he worked hard, day in and day out. I want my son to know that education is important, absolutely. But, the true path to success and growth in life is hard work, plain and simple.

4. You're capable of what you put your mind to

My dad never went to trade school. He learned everything he knows through trial and error....picking up a book or reading an instruction manual. My dad was quite the handyman growing up, building our entire deck from scratch, constructing bunk beds for me and my brothers, creating elaborate home projects that one would think someone earned a degree for. Rather than hiring out help, my dad always found a way to fix a problem or make something happen. I swear, he was and always will be, a jack of all trades. The man is 60+ years old with two toes left on his feet (damn diabetes) and absolutely NO balance, but he STILL manages to lay the flooring in my brother's attic at his new house and help him restore parts of his old home. Just last year he built my husband a stand for his grill just by "eyeballing" it. The lesson I want my son to learn is that you can do ANYTHING you put your mind to. Pick up a book, watch a video, ask questions, and be open to learning. There is so much you are capable of if you are willing to try! You'll make mistakes along the way, but that's the only way you learn.

5. Life isn't fair. You have to roll with the punches.

While some of the misfortunes in my dad's life are a result to choices he has made, a lot of the struggles he has faced happen regardless of what he does or does not do. My dad has had open heart surgery, multiple amputations on his feet, and far too many hospital stays than we can count with our fingers. Living with diabetes hasn't been easy, on him or my mom. But, it's a genetics thing and something you have to deal with. Life can be unfair. You have good days and bad days. Sometimes you have GOD AWFUL, HORRENDOUS days....over and over again....and you have to learn to roll with the punches. He has been a great example of this. Through all of the difficult days he has faced, he takes them in stride (which sometimes drives us all nuts....his calmness, casual attitude). But because of his ability to do so, he has taught us all the importance of rolling with the punches and keeping your head up, one day at a time.

End of Year Gift for TEACHERS!

2015-05-07T09:37:00.000-05:00

Teacher Appreciation week is almost over, but it's never too late to let an educator know how special they are! This is the perfect present for teachers of any grade level, from preschool all the way to high school. Daycare providers, swim coaches, dance teachers....you name it! This DIY Mason Jar gift, similar to the Mother's Day Edition,

is super easy to make and very affordable! Consider this a

gift that will brighten up someone's day, helping them splash into summer!

All of the essentials for this little treat can be found at Target and will cost you about $20. Yes, getting a gift card might be a touch quicker, but it's not nearly as thoughtful! Being a former teacher myself, a creative gift always went a long way and really made me feel appreciated. To know someone made something for me was very touching!

To create a "Splash into Summer" theme, I wanted to add items that can be used in preparation for a pool day or things to help refresh and relax on a hot, sunny day! One thing I made sure to do was find items that fit into the bright color scheme of pink, orange, or yellow....because it needs to have that cheerful vibe to it!

GIFT JAR ESSENTIALS

Mason Jar (Found in dollar spot)

EOS Strawberry Sorbet Lip Balm (Found in checkout lane!)

Crystal Light Liquid Drink Mix

Essie Nail Polish (Watermelon)

Purell Hand Sanitizer (Found in travel size section)

Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen (Found in travel size section)

Tropical Twist Trident Gum (Found in checkout lane!)

If you plan to use this as a Teacher Appreciation Gift, you can download these "Thank You" tags for free. The smaller size is perfect to wrap around the lid with some cute ribbon or twine. I poked a tiny hole at the top of the tag with a pin and pulled through the twine....easy peasy! This requires hardly any work on your part.

The larger sized circular label can be printed on adhesive paper and used as a sticker on the front of the mason jar! All stickers/tags can be downloaded for free below!

If you choose to give this gift at the very end of the school year, I would suggest using the "Happy Summer" tags like the ones below. It's vibrant and colorful....

and matches well with the items waiting inside.

I can promise that you won't find a teacher out there that isn't ready for summer come May/June! The thought of sitting poolside with a cold beverage in hand (in their mason jar, of course) and the sun shining down is what helps get them through the last few weeks! Help them get a fresh, fun start to their summer with this thoughtful gift!

DOWNLOAD FREE TAGS (CLICK ON IMAGE)

These DIY gifts can be used universally. Teachers can give them to their principals or fellow teachers. You can give them as a simple "thank you" gift to anyone you would like to recognize....a boss, coworker, bus driver....anyone! HAPPY SUMMER!

Shop Michaels Online

10 Ways to a Happier, Healthier YOU!

2015-05-05T19:59:00.004-05:00

Sometimes, it seems that good is never good enough. There are days when I feel like a failure of a parent where I can't manage to keep up...trying to avoid drowning in the daily struggles that arise. Many of us, including myself, live life at such a rapid pace, trying to squeeze as much as we possibly can into our schedule.
This comes from the desire to be more productive, efficient, successful.

I want to cross everything off my checklist by day's end.
I want to be more efficient with my time.
I want my hard work to pay off.
I want to DO. IT. ALL.

But, I step back at certain moments and think to myself, "Am I actually
enjoying all of this? Or, am I simply going through the motions??

This type of lifestyle can easily create feelings of discontentment, and slowly, we begin to feel more unfulfilled. Living in a dog eat dog type of world creates this pressure to prove yourself to those around you and the need to measure up to our friends, coworkers, neighbors...anyone, really. Soon, I find myself determining my self-worth based on the opinions of others. I try to live up to the expectations and standards of those around me and life soon becomes a competition.

Since entering my 30's and becoming a mom, my perspective on what it means to live a happy and healthy life has changed a bit. I used to view "health and happiness" primarily from a physical standpoint. Ya know, the more I exercise, eat nutritiously, drink water, and get enough sleep, the more I will feel good about myself and pleased with the person I am. In turn, I will be happier.

If only it boiled down to these few things.

Yes...physical health is good to keep in mind, but I now realize how often I overlooked the importance of staying mentally fit and emotionally strong.
These are just as vital to your happiness as physical wellness.

Each new stage of life will bring about lessons, ones that are challenging, yet purposeful. They help you grow to become a better version of yourself. In the past few years, there have been 10 ways that have allowed me to be a happier and healthier person!

(Image courtesy of StockImages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

1. LAUGH AT YOURSELF

Life WILL throw some serious curveballs. You can fully expect to experience some twists and turns during this thing we call LIFE. The important thing to remember is to try and laugh along the way. As I've learned from my dad, who has endured a lot of hardship over the years with Type 1 Diabetes, you've got to roll with the punches and be able to laugh at yourself. Don't take life TOO seriously. We all have things about ourselves that we wish we could change or improve. But, don't forget to honor what makes you different and celebrate your quirks. We all have them. Try and strive to be authentic over being accepted.

2. QUIT COMPARING

It's so easy to ASSUME that other people have it better than you. Social media paints a really distorted picture of reality, allowing us to feel inferior, incapable, or inadequate in many areas of life. The more we size ourselves up to people, the more we are robbed of the simple joys in life. Focus on what you DO have and be thankful for those blessings. Someone you are comparing your life to may have it harder.

3. STOP JUSTIFYING / MAKING EXCUSES

Being a perfectionist, I always find myself with a litany of reasons as to why I didn't do this or that. I can rationalize like crazy. But the truth of the matter is, no one will pursue my dreams for me. You've just got to START, as my husband often reminds me. Worry about the "what ifs" later.... or the potential bumps in the road that may or MAY NOT appear. You can't always prepare for everything in life. The longer you wait to get going, the more excuses you will make. It's easy to justify your behaviors or create reasons for why certain things did or didn't happen, but it's important to take charge of this short life. We all have the chance to make it noteworthy and meaningful.

4. FORGIVE

Much easier said than done, I know. It's a very hard thing to do. Forgiveness can free you from the tight grasp that negativity has on you. Holding a grudge will wear you out and weigh you down over time. Without even noticing or realizing it, you may begin to harbor bitterness, have resentment, and become numb to certain feelings. Trust me, forgiveness may not feel warranted. You very easily could think, "What good will come of it...what's the use?" Regardless of who was at fault, you carry the burden too, as long as you hold onto it. When we forgive, we empower ourselves and let go of all the negative energy that takes over. Over time, you will be much happier when you do.

5. MAKE TIME / PRIORITIZE

There are 24 hours in a day, plain and simple. Without even realizing it, work overtakes our lives and we look back wondering how time escaped us so quickly. We WISH we would have been more adventurous...more spontaneous. The thing is, you can....as long as you prioritize and make the time. It really is a matter of priorities and what you value. Some things must be given up in order to live the life you envision. Little by little, you can make small changes that will have a big impact. Indulge in a hobby, take a class on something that interests you, read a book, take time for yourself, plan a vacation....or heck, even just a date night. Our days are limited. When you get to the end of the road, you'll want to look back and feel like you made the most out of them! Think....how are you spending your time?

6. BUILD OTHERS UP

A compliment can go a LONG way (as long as it is genuine, of course)! Remember the imprint that words leave on people, both positively and negatively. Still to this day, I will never forget when I heard the shorty story, NAILS IN THE FENCE. The main lesson being that you can put a knife in a man and draw it out. But, it won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there. No one likes to feel judged or scrutinized. Do your best to avoid gossiping with those around you. Stop criticizing and picking apart the things someone does wrong....but rather, recognize something they do right. Our words have tremendous impact on others. The simplest thing you can do each day is to build someone up and encourage them. Be sincere. Be thoughtful. Be the person that uplifts instead of putting someone else down. It's incredible the amount of love someone feels when you pay them a kind word or two.

7. STOP REMINISCING OR REGRETTING

Change is an essential part of life. Whether deemed good or bad, it will happen. Stop beating yourself up for missed opportunities or mistakes you've made. You live and you learn! At one time or another, we've all had the thought, "Well, in hindsight, I should have seen it coming. I should have known." But, no one is perfect. The more you dwell on feelings of regret, the less likely you are able to enjoy the present moment. Maybe it's not regret that holds you captive, but instead you reminisce about the happier moments in life. You recount instances when things seemed easier and life was simpler, less hectic. Reminiscing doesn't help you appreciate what you have here and now. During hard times, reminiscing makes us feel temporarily better. It's like sticking a bandaid on a wound. Focus on what lies ahead and how you can be happy in the present. No looking back!

8. TAKE CHANCES / RISKS

Speaking from the master (me), it is really easy to let fear take control of your life. The fear of failure....the fear of judgment.....the fear of not reaching your full potential....the fear of striking out....the list goes on. Sometimes I convince myself that I can't do something before I even try. But, how will I ever know? It's important to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Becoming a creature of habit limits you. Break the monotony and venture out into the world, even if it's one tiny step at a time. One of my favorite quotes is by author, Paulo Coelho, and it says, "If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it is lethal." A life that is predictable confines you and stifles creativity. Yes, I admit....it can be scary as hell to take a chance on something, especially if it leaves you feeling uncertain and skeptical. The planner in me always tells me NO, but as I get older, I realize how much I'm missing out on when I don't step out on a limb and take some chances.

9. ENGAGE

This one is probably the most important on this list. As a society, we are no longer interacting with one another. Social media has taken over our lives and consumes our free time. Email and text messages are the "go to" way to communicate. Sadly, we are so disengaged with everyone around us and relationships are suffering because of it. Turn off your phone. Grab a cup of coffee with someone. Be an active listener. Let go of the need to know what everyone else is doing and LIVE your life! I am certainly guilty of this myself and need to be reminded often of the importance of this lesson. We have to show our children what it looks like to pay attention when it matters, to look people in the eyes, and ENGAGE!

10. LEARN TO SAY NO

You really can't do it all, no matter how hard you try. Most of my life, I've been a people pleaser....trying to make sure everyone was happy in some way. I tried my very best to attend every event I could, mainly guided by the fear of missing out on something. Other times, I felt like I could complete more than I was capable....resulting in disappointment and feeling discouraged. I wanted to say YES to everything and everybody. If someone asked for my help, I couldn't decline. If someone wanted to hang out, it was too hard to pass up. But, you stretch yourself too thin. You wear yourself out. Focus on quality over quantity. Sometimes, you have to learn to say NO to people, to opportunities, and to tempting offers. It'll help you get more out of life!

By no means am I implying that I do all of these things consistently. I simply strive to make them a part of my daily life. Slowly but surely, as I focus on these 10 things, I find myself more content and satisfied with where I am!

Is there anything you would add to this list that you have found has led to a happier, healthier version of you? Please share! I would love to hear.

Mother's Day Gift Jars

2015-05-04T08:10:00.001-05:00

Mother's Day is a week away and it's time to think about that special lady in your life. Whether it may be your own mom, grandmother, aunt, a friend, or someone who has played the role of "mom" in your life, it's important that you reach out and let her know how special she is to you and the impact she has had on your life!!

I know...buying gifts for multiple people can become expensive. Flowers, manis/pedis, brunch, perfume.....none of these are cheap. But remember, Mother's Day is a time to be thoughtful. An easy way to let each lady feel loved is by creating your own gift jars. Fill them with her favorite candy, small items following a color scheme, etc.
Add a cute printable tag and you're all set!

Some mamas are more girly and appreciate the PINK! If this is the case, you can find this adorable pink checker topped mason jar at the dollar section of Target right now! All you have to do is grab a bag of the Starburst FaveReds bag (yes, it's amazing....only the pink and reds are within the bag!!) and fill up the jar. It's inexpensive but cute!

If she doesn't care too much for pink, it's okay! The Target dollar section also has mason jar cups in a pretty teal/green color. To fill up this jar, I bought a bag of the MINT flavored M&Ms. For either jar, you can download the matching circular tag FOR FREE! Just poke a pin through the tag and string through a piece of twine or yarn.

Simply tie it around the lid and you're set!

While these can be given to someone on Mother's Day, it really can be used for any special occasion. The "Oh Happy Day" tags are universal and can be used with any gift.

These gift jars cost just about $5 and are super simple to make! If you find yourself looking for gift ideas last minute, no need to worry.

This little gift takes no time at all to put together.

Happy Mother's Day to all of the hard working, devoted mamas out there!

You deserve far more than a little jar full of goodies, but hopefully this makes you smile.

DOWNLOAD FREE PRINTABLES

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End of Year Gift for Kids (Free Printable)

2015-04-24T07:25:00.002-05:00

Welp, the end of the school year is approaching and teachers all across the nation find themselves thinking things like, "It feels like it was just August." or "Is it summer yet?" I know this because I taught 3rd grade for 8 years and the end of the school year brings about a full of range emotions. You are so busy closing everything down, but often find yourself reminiscing about all the special memories that have been created.

While you a certainly ready for summer break, you quickly become saddened about your students who will be moving on to the next grade level in the coming months. You create a very special bond with them throughout the course of the year, as these little souls bring about the best in you (and sometimes the worst). Each child with his/her own unique personality, your classroom has been filled with love and laughter. I always remember saying at the end of every year that I learned FAR MORE from my kiddos than I ever taught them! They are special little humans that make the job so rewarding. To let them know you care, a fun gift is something you can share with each one.

It doesn't have to break your bank or empty out your pockets. Trust me, I know how much teachers tend to spend during the year out of their OWN money. But, you can still be cute and creative and spend only $1 per child with this exciting gift! Yep, that is less than $30 for your whole class! Winner, winner....chicken dinner! I'll take that.

What kid doesn't love anything that glows in the summertime?

From catching lightning bugs to wearing glow bracelets/necklaces at night, summer is all about the little things that make life fun! The best part is that they have such a great selection of glow products at the Target dollar spot, Michaels clearance bins, and Party City stores right now!! From bracelets to necklaces to specialty wands.....they offer such a variety. The best part you ask?!? They are only $1.

You won't find a gift that kids will like for any cheaper.

To help make life a touch easier, as if you don't already have enough to prepare at the end of a school year, I've created these FREE PRINTABLE TAGS to be attached to your glow item. Simply poke a tiny hole somewhere at the top and string through a piece of cute thread/yarn/string to tie it around the tube. You can also tape it to the package if that works better! The free download has an empty space in the name area for you to write your own name! I used to leave these on their desk for the last day of school or slip inside their report card envelope as a special surprise! Whichever you choose, it's a great way to let them know how much you enjoyed having them in your classroom.

DOWNLOAD BY CLICKING ON THIS IMAGE BELOW!

Hey, if you aren't a teacher, but are someone who is looking for a cute gift idea for a special kid in your life, this surely works for any and all! No matter your role is, this is just another small way to kickoff the start of a new season!

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Storybook Themed Baby Shower

2015-04-16T16:27:00.005-05:00

Last weekend, I co-hosted a baby shower for my sister-in-law! My twin brother and his wife are due about 6 weeks before our little love is expected to arrive. Our family is so excited for the two new bundles of joy that will soon join the world. To help the mom and dad-to be celebrate this exciting time in their life, we threw them a storybook themed shower......because who doesn't need new books to help build the baby's library?!

First up....invitations! We found these adorable invitations s on ETSY from Gretchen at The Little Bohemian Papier. She couldn't have been easier and more accommodating to work with. She is extremely talented and super helpful. Be sure to check out her work!

The whimsical invitations came with a creative "library card" insert. Take a peek at the front and back of the insert card. Wasn't this fitting for our Storybook Theme?! What a great way to add a little message without having to write inside the book itself!

Here are some photos I snapped during the day of the shower of some of the DIY decorations we put together! One of my favorites was the BABY boxes that sat on the fireplace mantle. It's a nice way to make a statement with minimal materials. All you need is 4 of the same size boxes and wrap them in paper of your choosing. Then, get some cardboard letters and paint them. You can hot glue them on at the end!

When it comes to planning parties or events, hitting up the Target dollar spot and Michael's clearance bins is a MUST! You'll find so many gems within the little cubbies. I found the burlap banner there and simply added vinyl letters and scrapbook paper for the "Stories & Sweets" sign, which helped create our backdrop for the dessert table.

For party favors, we had adorable little flower pots and blessing bracelets that adorned the tables. It added a perfect touch of Spring! The Baby Wish Cards sat atop the appetizer dish for guests to fill out. They are such a fun way to share tips, advice, or any special sentiment you have for the parents-to-be! I had these at my baby shower and still go back and read them all! They still make me smile and laugh!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE BABY WISH CARDS

The Blessing Bracelets were one of the party favors that are unlike your typical shower favor. They sat on top of a wooden easel to be displayed easier. My insanely talented aunt came up with this thoughtful idea and created the beautiful bracelets and gorgeous cards. To match the Baby Wish Cards, I created the message tag to be attached.

To keep within the color scheme of the shower, I customized a seating chart using my Silhouette Cameo machine. Gawwwd, I love the Silhouette America's Design program...makes it so easy to create custom designs. I printed the seating chart out in a 16x20 print and used adhesive spray to mount in on foam board. It was an inexpensive and simple way to let guests know where to sit.

This BABY wood art display is much like my VALENTINE'S DIY WOOD ART that I made a few months back. It's such a simple project that adds character to a space in need of some attention. You can make a set of these with my step-by-step tutorial!

Another fun, little project I enjoyed making was this wooden chalkboard sign that I snagged in.....yep, the Target dollar spot. I swear, I just have no will power when I walk past that section of the store. Anyhow, I wanted to include a quote from one of my favorite children's books, I'll Love You Forever, and this was the way to do it! A DIY tutorial will be posted soon on how to make one of these stands. You can replace the ultrasound pic and quote with a photo of your choice and give it as a gift for Mother's Day, a birthday, or put it on display during the holidays!

To add some festive flare to the dessert table, I wanted to add a little dimension. Paper rosettes were calling my name! They are SO easy to make and are a great way to add that pop of color to a party table! Keep your eyes out for a post coming soon with details on how to make these little pretties!

And now to the books, the main theme of the shower! These were the selections we chose and the food that was paired alongside each one. It was so much fun creating this dessert table! I think one of my favorites was the chocolate covered toffee pretzels that accompanied the Goodnight Construction Sight book. It really did make it look like the dump truck was full of mud and sand!

Aside from the assortment of yummy desserts and snacks, we had to have a party punch station! What better book than Pinkalicious?! The pink lemonade was delicious and refreshing, even for this pregnant mama who can't have alcohol!

Although we couldn't think of food items for every book we wanted to share at the shower, there were other ways to incorporate them into the overall design! I created 4x6 prints to be placed inside white pedestal frames that would sit on top of the bar and tables around the room. They showed quotes from some of the best children's books, such as Where the Wild Things Are, Winnie the Pooh, and a few more!

DOWNLOAD THE BOOK QUOTE PRINTS FOR FREE!

And there you have it.....a Storybook Themed Baby Shower. It was a lot of fun being able to get together with my mom, aunt, and SIL to plan this special day for two of our favorite people. We hope they know how much they are loved!

"You've Been Egged" Door Hanger

2015-03-30T16:28:00.002-05:00

Easter is on its way and I have another little gem to share with you today! I made this cute door hanger using my Silhouette Cameo....and I just can't seem to get enough of it. After my friend, Christine, over at Where the Smiles Have Been shared her adorable Sleeping Baby Door Hanger, I decided to give it a whirl and make something to ring in a new season! If you haven't stopped by her blog yet, you NEED to ASAP.

Trust me, she has tons and tons of fabulous DIY projects with simple tutorials to follow. She is one of my favorite bloggers and you don't want to miss out on her creativity!

So, what better way to help your kids get into the Easter spirit than by visiting a friend or neighbor's house and leaving them an exciting surprise!

It requires hardly any work on your part. All you need to do is grab 10 plastic eggs and fill them up with little goodies. Then, you simply leave this hanger on their door and hide the eggs somewhere in their yard. It's a fun way to spend time with your kids.

Because...who doesn't love surprising someone?!

For the best quality, I printed on business cardstock paper (at Office Depot...they are fantastic!) and then had the card laminated to make sure it is waterproof.

Don't forget to tape this "I GOT EGGED" sign to the front door

so everyone knows your house has been visited.

Download the FREE printables below for a PDF or Silhouette File:

I GOT EGGED SIGN - PDF / SF

DOOR HANGER (OUTDOOR) - PDF / SF

To those of you that don't have kids, but would still like to join in on the fun...

NO WORRIES...you still can! I have also created a Teacher/Office environment door tag. This is a much simpler version, as all you need to do is fill one plastic egg and download the door hanger and sign! You can make the work environment an exciting place to be!

DOOR HANGER (INDOOR) - PDF / SF

SHARE THE LOVE AND PIN THIS PRINTABLE!

Easter Themed FREE Printables

2015-03-28T15:09:00.000-05:00

Easter is just a week away, and hopefully Spring will be joining it's arrival.....the warmer weather and sunshine, that is. I know many of you are probably getting started with basket preparations. Instead of simply sprinkling some candy eggs into the faux grass and calling it a day, why don't you add a cute touch with these bag toppers? They are FREE to download and super simple to put together. I promise! These days, I don't have a lot of time to spare, so my prepping needs to be quick and easy.

It really doesn't take a lot to create these cute treat baggies and they are the perfect size to add to any type of Easter basket. Plus, it keeps the candy contained instead of sinking down to the bottom of the basket where you can't see them! If you plan to put them in plastic eggs, you can put those eggs inside this treat bag!

All you need is a few supplies and you are SET. You can certainly choose any type of candy egg or bunny you choose, from Peeps to Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Eggs (my personal fav) to Starburst Jelly Beans. Anything works. These are just what I used because I loved the colors.....and the candy :)

Wilton Brand Pretzel Bags or Treat Bags

Annie's Brand Bunny Crackers (any flavor)

Reese's Pieces Eggs

M&M Peanut Butter Eggs

Any type of foil wrapped chocolate egg

Easter Treat Bag Printables (see below)

As you can see, there are two different designs you can download and print. They both come in two sizes, one for the pretzel sized bag and one for the wider treat bag!

They are all double sided, with a "To and From" section on the back! All you do is fold across the middle line and place on top of the bag. Staple it closed and......VOILA!

Pop that baby right into your easter basket.

To download, click on the appropriate link below

(Blue = PDF , Red = Silhouette File)

Yellow & Coral Bunny Bag Topper

Wide Treat Bag- PDF / SF

Pretzel Bag - PDF / SF

Green & Blue Eggs Bag Topper

Wide Treat Bag - PDF / SF

Pretzel Bag - PDF/ SF

Would you like more FREE Holiday printables?

Come check them out below:

Valentine's Day #1

Valentine's Day #2

St. Patrick's Day

Top Bedtime Books for Kids

2015-03-11T10:55:00.001-05:00

Story time with my son just might be my favorite time of the day! Thinking back to my childhood, I loved when my parents would read to us at night. Books like Little Critter, Berenstein Bears, and Winnie the Pooh were just a few of my favorites. Now that I'm a mom, I light up each time E grabs a book and brings it over to me. His excitement is palpable. Although he is still quite young to understand them all, the magic of reading is beginning to grow. He is at the stage currently where he will pick the same book over and over for weeks straight. The only way to get him to choose a new one is to hide the previous and offer different selections. On the other hand, there are days when I read 2 pages and he is "All Done"....ready to move onto more books.

As for what sits inside your library collection, I'm sure MANY of you are with me and have gotten tired of the same old titles that have became so popular....being deemed as, "Must Reads". Goodnight Moon, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Pat the Bunny, and Curdoroy....just to name a few. Don't get me wrong, you've got to have the classics. BUT, after reading them a few times, I find myself itching for something different and new...a little more creative. I'm always on the hunt for new books....can't help myself.

So, here are some of our favorites that you can check out at your

local library or purchase through the links below!

To find out more about each book and/or to purchase for your little one or someone you know with kids, click on each book image below. They are listed in no particular order. These books would make great gifts for baby showers, birthdays, or just because!

THE DREAM JAR

Author: Lindan Lee Johnson Illustrator: Serena Curmi

This magical story is a wonderful read for children of any age who experience nightmares. Through beautiful and whimsical illustrations, this book focuses on helping kids get through bedtime issues, specifically having bad dreams. Although the emphasis is on the relationship of two sisters, the overall message is great for any child, boys included. When the main character is scared and nervous to sleep by herself, a dream jar helps her get past her fears! A great activity to go along with this book is making your own version of a dream jar! What a great way to combat those scary nightmares and turn them into pleasant dreams.

THE SLEEPY LITTLE ALPHABET

Author: Judy Sierra Illustrator: Melissa Sweet

This book should be given at every baby shower you attend! It is one of our all-time favorites. My son requested this for at least 3 weeks straight before I had to steer him to other selections, as I practically memorized the entire book and could read it with my eyes closed. This story is just the best. The capital letters, which are the moms and dads, are desperately trying to get their kids (lowercase letters) to get ready for, and, go to bed. From c, d, and e who are taking a bath to o and p who experience bathroom issues, this story will have you smiling from ear to ear and chuckling at the turn of each page. The illustrations are so unique and creative....I'm not sure if it's me or my son who enjoys this book more! This is another book that lends itself to an adorable art activity. Purchase a cardboard letter from the craft store (most likely the letter your child's name starts with) and decorate it however you'd like....decoupage, paint, washi tape...any kind of embellishment you can think up! Once your child adds his/her own personal touch, display it in their room on top of a table or dresser.

THE PRACTICALLY PERFECT PAJAMAS

Author: Erik Brooks

A book about a Polar Bear named Percy who wears fun and funky pajamas, only to be judged and criticized by the others for being different. He allows his self worth to be determined by the opinions of his peers. This story provides a wonderful lesson about peer pressure and finding a way to honor individuality. It reminds me of the ELMER series, the books about a patchwork elephant that stands out from his fellow jungle friends. Both of these books send a great message to kids!

THE SLEEP BOOK

Author: Dr. Seuss

Although my son is still a touch young to fully understand the rhyme scheme and fantastic work of this book, we still read it in sections. It is a longer book length wise, but we just break it into chunks. It is such an incredibly clever and charming book. As with almost all Dr. Seuss books, the illustrations are quirky, colorful, wacky....and that just adds to the cute and funny text! As a parent, I love reading all of the silly and goofy made up words and my son gets excited at looking at the illustrations. This is one of my favorite Seuss books and it's perfect to get your little one ready for bedtime!

THE NUTS: BEDTIME AT THE NUT HOUSE
Author: Eric Litwin Illustrator: Scott Magoon

This book is written by, Eric Litwin, acclaimed author of the popular Pete the Cat series. To begin with, how can you not love this title? If you have young children, preparations for bedtime will automatically, at some point in life, make your home a "nut house". The antics we take to get kids ready for bed are humorous and exhausting at the same time. I absolutely love the witty tone in this story, with the use of clever puns like Wally and Hazel as two of the characters. While this book may be better suited for older children who could understand these puns and figurative language, it is still a cute story for younger children to enjoy.....and parents most of all will get a laugh out of it!

SNOOZERS

Author & Illustrator : Sandra Boynton

This book is better suited for babies, toddlers, and younger children. I particularly love that the stories are short and simple. Our favorite is the "Pajamas" story, which features different animals attempting to fit into their pajamas, with some that are too tight, need buttons, have a hat to match, or require feet that attach. The "I'm Not Tired" story allows your child to interact and respond. I really enjoy Sandra Boynton's bedtime books for the simplicity behind them but cute characters that depict going to bed. We also love The Going to Bed book also written by her.

I NEED MY MONSTER

Author: Amanda Noll Illustrator: Howard McWilliam

This book is geared more toward preschool and older age children. I'm super anxious to start reading this with my son when his imagination begins to soar and he better understands that monsters aren't real. This story creates a wonderful balance of creepiness with laughter and silliness. No worries that this will create or promote bedtime fears with your kid, as it more so helps turn the concept of having a monster under your bed into something exciting, funny, and adventurous! It really has an odd way of diffusing anxiety about monsters in a witty and clever way.

A BEDTIME FOR BEAR
Author: Bonny Becker Illustrator: Kady MacDonald Denton

Bear is quite a curmudgeon, cranky and set in his ways about what bedtime routine should be like. He wants things done "his way"...until a little mouse comes along and shows him how to become more friendly and adaptable. The relationship between the two characters is enchanting. The pictures are simplistic and not over the top, which allows you to enjoy the message of this story. I really love that a small animal is the one chosen to change the heart of a bigger animal. It shows that strength and wisdom come in all shapes and sizes.

BRINGING DOWN THE MOON

Author: Jonathan Emmett Illustrator: Vanessa Cabban

An endearing book about a mouse who makes many attempts at trying to grab hold of the moon and bring it down from the sky. The other animals try to warn him often that "It's not as close as it look", but that doesn't stop determined, little mouse. I love all the effort he goes through to try and capture/own the beautiful moon. He comes to a realization at the end that is heartwarming. The language in the book paints a beautiful story as wonderful as the illustrations do!

HOW DO DINOSAURS SAY GOODNIGHT?
Author: Jane Yolen Illustrator: Mark Teague

If any of you have ever read the book, Moose on the Loose, then you will certainly love this, too! Both books portray large animals engaging in human like behavior that will have you and your little one giggling at the change of each event. To imagine a somewhat frightening dinosaur getting ready for bed can be quite humorous and kids will surely love this entertaining read!

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means when you purchase an item by clicking on a link through my blog, Melly Moments receives a small % of the purchase. Your support is genuinely appreciated and allows me to continue blogging!)

Are there any other titles that you feel would be a great addition to this list? Please share your experiences with us. I would love to hear some of your child's favorite books/stories to read at bedtime.

St. Patrick's Day Printables

2015-03-03T15:52:00.003-06:00

Being that I'm Irish, I love all things related to St. Patrick's Day....green beer (yes, that is what came to mind first), festive shamrock crafts, clever shirts....and anything that brings luck my way. It's such a fun-spirited holiday and I certainly loved celebrating it as a kid. My mom would always make sure the milk in the fridge had "turned green"....with the magic of food coloring (unbeknownst to me, of course) and I was always excited to pour it into my cereal! When I was a teacher, I always saw the 2nd grade students squeal in excitement when they walked into their classroom to see a trail of gold glitter surrounding their leprechaun traps, indicating they ALMOST caught the tricky little man!

From delicious food and treats to cute and colorful decorations, there is a lot to make this year's event a special one! Something I love to do around the holidays is send care packages....since my son isn't quite old enough yet to bring treats to school. Today I'm sharing some FREE PRINTABLES for you to use! These are a great addition to add to that package you're sending off to family or friends.
Kids will LOVE opening up their mail to this fun surprise.

The best part about these printables is that they don't HAVE to be used just for St. Patrick's Day. They can be used as party favors for a rainbow themed bash. They are very easy to make and require minimal supplies. The Wilson brand pretzel bags and treat bags can be found at Michaels and an Amazon. Then, you add the candy or cereal of choice and staple the bag topper for closure!

You can use the pretzel sized bags with Lucky Charms or Rainbow Twizzlers and

use either of the two bag topper options!

Because of the various versions I've provided below, you can give these little sweet treats to your coworkers, relatives, teachers, neighbors, coaches, nanny or daycare provider....or anyone important that you want to recognize, telling

him/her how LUCKY you are to know them!!

For the treat sized bags, I added skittles and rolos with the RAINBOW BAG TOPPER!

A quick note for assembling that makes it easier for you. With the skittles, I put them into a separate treat bag of its own and fold the top over. Then, I put that bag inside another treat bag with the rolos at the bottom. This way the two candy types were separated and wouldn't mix together, as shown in the picture with the skittles on top and the rolos on the bottom. It just looks more visually appealing :)

Each Bag Topper is double sided, with a cute message and graphic on the front and the message portion on the back (which includes a TO and FROM section for personalizing!)

To download the bag toppers in PDF version or a FREE SILHOUETTE CUT FILE (SF), click on the links (in red or blue) below. Different versions are offered:

GOLD/RAINBOW (PDF) (SF)

LUCKY - Friend (PDF) (SF)

LUCKY - Cousin (PDF) (SF)

LUCKY - In My Class (PDF) (SF)

LUCKY - In My Life (PDF) (SF)

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5 Reasons I Dislike Going on Vacation

2015-02-27T19:16:00.001-06:00

We just recently went on vacation and enjoyed every second of the warm weather, time at the beach, and being able to spend the majority of our days outside! Life sure is good while you're ON vacation, especially for us Chicagoans who can escape winter for a bit. But, upon returning home, I realized there are a few reasons why I DISLIKE vacations.

Yes, you heard me correctly. There are actually some reasons why I DISLIKE going on vacation. Call me crazy, but it's true. While there aren't many.....and the good most definitely outweighs the bad, there are still a few downfalls that exist.

WASTED TIME

SO MUCH time is wasted in the traveling process, I tell ya. If you're flying, you can almost guarantee that a good portion of the first and last day are wasted in an airport. When we fly somewhere, we need to leave a minimum of an hour to get to the airport (pending traffic). An hour in the car with a toddler, or children of any age for the matter, is plenty long. Then, you'll most likely have 1-2hrs in the airport before your flight departs. Such a joy waiting in security and standing in line to board the plane. Not to mention sitting on the landing strip for takeoff could potentially take some time, too. Fast forward 2/3/4/5+ hours on the actual airplane with kids who are easily bored and restless. Then, you patiently wait to get off the plane, take a potty break, head to the baggage claim, and get on your way to the final destination.....ultimately arriving 6-8 hours later. Do this all over again a week later. ALMOST TWO FULL DAYS out of your vacation time are used in this way. Exhausting.

MOUNDS OF MAIL
The amounts of mail that can accumulate while you are away is baffling. My poor mailman has to shove each day's worth of mail in the tiny crevices that somehow remain. While most of what we get is junk mail and bills, you can't help but feel overwhelmed when seeing the massive pile. It all just makes you feel so backed up on life....especially when you felt free of mental clutter a few days back.

UNPACKING

This just might be the top reason I dislike going on vacation. The unpacking.....and the laundry. Really....need I say more?! It's bad enough that you spend your last day traveling instead of relaxing, but then you get home without any ounce of energy to unpack. So, the suitcase sits by the door until the next morning. OKAY, who are we kidding...it will sit there for a few days, if not longer, until you muster up the energy and will power to unzip and man up. OR, if we are really being candid, the only driving force for us to open up our luggage is when we realize we are out of socks or in search of a certain item. Then, BAM...it hits you. LAUNDRY. Ugh! The dreaded task that accompanies unpacking. Why do the two have to go hand in hand?

DIFFERENCE IN DEGREES

When we go on vacation during the winter months, it is usually to visit some place warm...to escape the frigid temperatures, enjoy some fresh air, and bask in some sunshine. But, reality really slaps you in the face upon returning when it's snowing and you no longer are able to take walks outside sporting a cover up and flip flops. Going from sunny and 75 to coming home and seeing your breath as you walk outside is simply wrong....a really mean joke, in fact. Couldn't the change be a little less drastic where we could ease ourselves back into real life? One could hope...

AN EMPTY FRIDGE

I don't know about you, but the week prior to leaving for vacation, we always plan to go light on grocery shopping. Knowing we will be away for a week or more, we don't want to come back to moldy fruit or open up the fridge to foul smells. So, to avoid this...we do our best to eat as much of what's inside so we don't come back to rotten food. Great thinking, but the worst is when you come back late in the evening and you have no food! The very last thing I want to do is hit up the grocery store for some late night/early morning shopping. Jetlag still hasn't let go of its grasp on me and I need a little time to adjust to getting back into the daily grind. So, we resort to the pantry or take out. Nothing wrong with that, right?

(Image courtesy of podpad at FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

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DIY Shape Magnets for Early Learning

2015-02-25T09:31:00.004-06:00

They say that kids are sponges....soaking up everything around them. My son is 20 months old and it's incredible all of the new things he learns on a daily basis. Something I will always strive to do in our home is make learning fun for him....rather than it being an arduous task or forced endeavor.

Recently, puzzles have been his new inquisition. Simple shapes, the ABC's, animals....he's attempting to figure out what each one is and how the pieces fit. To make it more exciting for him, I decided to make some magnets for the fridge.....

The kid LOVES magnets....and they have really helped him acquire a ton of new words in a non-pressure some way. You can make these bad boys, too. It's really quite simple. I've included a tutorial for you to follow. All you have to do is download the free file for the 9 shape cutouts and make sure to have the following materials prior to making:

Cork board/disks (ArtMinds from Michaels is what I used)

Magnetic Adhesive Sheets (the business card size is too small).

Black Marker (permanent provides better quality)

Sharp Scissors (or exacto knife to be more precise)

Adhesive Paper or White Colored Vinyl

After seeing this project through to the end, there is a change I would have made to improve the overall quality of the finished magnet. Initially, I used adhesive paper to peel back and stick onto the cork disk. But, after a few days of my child playing with the magnets, the corners began to peel away. I realized I needed a slightly more durable type of paper and I didn't want to have to use glue. This is a perfectly fine option, to use glue, but I wanted it to be quick and easy. So, I decided to use white vinyl to print out the shapes on and then cut them out. This worked out MUCH better!

To download the free shape cutouts, click on the image above for the PDF version or below for the free Silhouette Cut file!

Silhouette Cut File - Shape Magnet Squares

SHAPE MAGNET TUTORIAL

Step 1: Cut out shape card and place (with adhesive still on) on top of the cork disk.

Step 2: Trace the square using a fine tip pen and cut it out with your sheers or exacto knife.

Step 3: Use a black marker and color the border of the cork square to match the magnet

Step 4: Peel off the backing and place the

shape sticker on the cork square.

Step 5: Trace the square onto the magnet and cut. Peel the adhesive away and place on the back of the cork square. Press down firmly.

Now you have yourself some early learning magnets that kids

can use to learn their shapes in a fun way!

They are bright and colorful and easy to grasp! Your little one will love sliding

these on and off your refrigerator or any other type of magnetic surface!

They really pop nicely against our black fridge! My son loves to practice saying the words....."TAR!" or "SARE" or "OVUH". I love hearing him attempt to say them :)

Be on the lookout for more magnet sets in the near future! I plan to share the ABC's, animals, and everyday items that can be found in the house.

I sure hope you find this to be a simple, yet fun learning experience for your wee ones!
For more shape fun, be sure to check out these wonderful resources we LOVE!

SHAPE BOOKS & DVD

SHAPE TOYS

(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Your support is genuinely appreciated!)

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Luck of the Irish Giveaway!

2015-02-21T08:24:00.000-06:00

I'm Irish and proud of it. To prepare for March and one of my favorite holidays, I'm taking part in the Luck of the Irish Giveaway and providing my lovely readers a chance to enter! St. Patrick's Day will soon be here. What's better than finding that pot of gold at the end of a rainbow? Well, winning $500 in PayPal cash certainly contends! There will be 3 very lucky winners and you could be one of them! Read below for the simple details and be sure to enter with the rafflecopter at the end of this post!

#LuckOfTheIrishGiveaway

"May your pockets be heavy...." with MONEY

*CASH PRIZE of $1,500!

ENTER TO WIN!

*Three winners of $500 each

A HUGE thank you to the

84 amazing blogger friends of

A Peek Into My Paradise for giving YOU

the chance to "make your pockets heavy"

Please be sure and thank the team of amazing bloggers who joined me to offer this phenomenal cash prize! I encourage you to hop over and take a peek into their paradise!

May good luck pursue you each day and night! Happy St. Patricks Day from all of us to you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open worldwide to participants with a verified PayPal account.

Three entries will be drawn for $500 PayPal Cash to each of the three winners.

All entries will be verified. In the event an entry can not be verified participant chooses to forfeit that entry and another winner will be chosen.

Winner has 48 hours to respond to the winning email.

Giveaway will run from February 20, 12AM PDT Time to March 17, 11:59PM SDT.

Any taxes or fees associated with the winnings of this contest are the sole responsibility of the winner according to their county, state and/or country laws.

CASH prize is in US Dollars and will not be converted to any foreign currency.

Void where prohibited by law.

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