Bright Ideas for Moms

Banana Muffins We Bake Again and Again

2026-07-12T22:29:05.159-04:00

I can't tell you how many bananas I've rescued from becoming compost simply by turning them into muffins. At this point, my kids know exactly what happens when the bananas start getting brown.

"Are we making banana muffins?"

The answer is almost always yes.

Making muffins with the kids is always about more than just using up our ingredients that are going bad, though.

It's a learning opportunity. One is practicing fractions while measuring out the chocolate chips, the other kiddo is practicing number recognition as we set the temperature on the oven.

We take turns, we stir things up, we dance to music, and we enjoy our time together and muffins afterwards!

Are you looking for a great treat, that's super easy to eat and a staple in our house?

Here's my gluten-free banana muffin recipe, be sure to pin this so you can come back and make it again!

Banana Muffin Recipe

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin pan or grease each cup.
Mash the bananas in a large bowl.
Stir in the melted butter.
Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Stir in the baking soda, flour, and salt.
Fold in the chocolate chips. I said 1/2 a cup but we always just pour until the kids are smiling.
Divide the batter evenly into the muffin cups.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool slightly...if your family can wait that long.

A Little Encouragement, Mama

Some of the sweetest family memories aren't made during big vacations or elaborate activities.

Sometimes they're made while mashing bananas at the kitchen counter, laughing over spilled flour, and waiting for the timer to ding.

Backyard Nature Scavenger Hunt for Kids (Free Printable)

2026-07-09T18:59:42.218-04:00

I don't know about you, but some of my favorite childhood memories happened outside.

Not on expensive vacations or at fancy attractions—but in the backyard, collecting interesting rocks, chasing butterflies, and seeing who could find the biggest leaf.

Now that I'm raising my own kids, I've realized those simple adventures are still some of the best ones.

Whether we're checking on our garden, looking for lizards in the flower beds, or simply wandering around after dinner, there's always something new to discover when we slow down long enough to notice.

That's exactly why I created this free Backyard Nature Scavenger Hunt.

It's a simple way to encourage curiosity, get kids moving, and turn an ordinary afternoon into an adventure.

Why We Love Nature Scavenger Hunts

One thing I love about scavenger hunts is that they don't require much planning.

Print the page.

Grab a pencil.

Head outside.

That's it.

Some days we'll spend fifteen minutes checking things off the list. Other days we'll end up outside for over an hour because one tiny discovery leads to another.

A butterfly lands on a flower.

Someone spots a ladybug.

We find a feather.

Before we know it, we've forgotten all about screens and we're completely wrapped up in exploring.

Those are the afternoons I hope my kids remember.

Why This Matters

I think our kids spend enough time being entertained.

What they don't always get enough of is the chance to simply wonder.

To ask questions.

To notice the tiny details most adults walk right past.

Nature has a way of slowing all of us down.

It reminds us that not every afternoon needs a schedule.

Sometimes the best adventures happen just a few steps outside the back door, exploring the wonder right in front of us.

Download Your Free Printable

Ready to head outside?

Click above to download your free Backyard Nature Scavenger Hunt and see what your family discovers.

I'd love to hear what your kids find first!

A Little Encouragement, Mama

You don't need an elaborate plan to create meaningful memories.

Some of the sweetest afternoons begin with nothing more than a printed page, a curious child, and a backyard full of tiny wonders waiting to be noticed.

Slow down. Look closer.

You might be surprised by what you find right outside.

Our Homeschool Morning Basket: What We Keep Inside (and Why We Love It)

2026-07-07T22:45:00.000-04:00

*This post contains amazon affiliate links, these don't cost you a thing but they do help me earn a teeny percentage of Amazon's $, feel free to click through and shop!*

When we first started homeschooling, I imagined our mornings would begin with everyone happily gathered around the table, books open, pencils sharpened, and ready to dive into the day.

Reality looked a little different.

Someone couldn't find their math book. Someone else was fingerpainting with their yogurt before I was even able to get a sip of coffee. The dogs were barking, Alexa was belting out K-Pop and there were the remains of an intense game of 'The Floor is Lava' left all over the house.

It wasn't chaotic, it was just...life.

That's when I realized we needed a gentler way to ease into our homeschool day.

Enter our morning basket.

It's one of the simplest things we've added to our school-year routine, but it's made one of the biggest differences. Instead of rushing straight into independent work, we start our day together with books, conversation, and a few favorite activities that help everyone settle in.

If you've been curious about homeschool morning baskets or are wondering what to put in one, here's a peek inside ours.

What Is a Homeschool Morning Basket?

A morning basket is simply a basket (or bin, tray, tote, or even a shelf!) filled with the books and activities you want to enjoy together each morning.

There's no single "right" way to create one.

Some families use it for Bible study, poetry, and read-alouds. Others include memory work, music appreciation, nature study, or fun educational games.

That's one of my favorite things about homeschooling—you get to create routines that fit your family instead of trying to fit your family into someone else's routine.

Why We Started Using One

Before we had a morning basket, our homeschool mornings sometimes felt rushed.

Everyone knew what needed to get done, but it took a while to find our rhythm.

Now, our morning basket gives us a gentle starting point.

We gather together, enjoy a few shared activities, and ease into the day before everyone branches off into their individual lessons.

I've found that beginning with connection makes the rest of our homeschool day feel much smoother.

What We Keep in Our Morning Basket

Our basket changes throughout the year, but these are the items we reach for most often.

Read-Aloud Book

We always have a chapter book we're reading together. It's one of the easiest ways to build vocabulary, spark conversations, and create memories..

Bible or Devotional (Optional)

If faith is part of your homeschool, this can be a peaceful way to begin your morning together.

Memory Work

Whether it's multiplication facts, Scripture, geography, or famous quotes, spending just a few minutes reviewing together adds up over time.

Nature Journal

We love taking our basket outside when the weather cooperates. A simple nature journal gives the kids a place to sketch interesting leaves, insects, birds, or flowers we notice throughout the week.

Colored Pencils and Dry-Erase Markers

Keeping basic supplies in the basket means we're not constantly getting up to search for them.

It sounds like a small thing, but it saves us from a lot of unnecessary interruptions.

Conversation Starters

Sometimes our favorite part of our morning isn't a lesson at all—it's a good conversation.

A few thoughtful questions can lead to discussions about kindness, gratitude, history, or whatever happens to be on our minds that day.

The Best Part? It Changes With the Seasons

One thing I love about our morning basket is that it never feels stuck.

During the summer, we might add field guides, books about ocean animals, or simple nature activities.

In the fall, we'll swap in stories about changing leaves and harvest time.

Around Christmas, our basket naturally fills with seasonal books and family traditions.

It grows right alongside our family.

You Don't Need Fancy Supplies

If there's one thing I hope you take away from this post, it's that you don't need a Pinterest-perfect basket to make this work.

Use a basket you already have.

Borrow books from the library.

Print a few free activities.

Add one meaningful item at a time.

The goal isn't to create something beautiful for social media.

The goal is to create a rhythm that helps your family start the day together.

A Little Encouragement, Mama

If your homeschool mornings feel messy, you're not doing it wrong.

Some mornings our basket is the centerpiece of our day.

Other mornings it barely gets opened because life takes us in a different direction.

That's okay.

The beauty of homeschooling isn't found in perfect routines—it's found in the freedom to adjust, try again tomorrow, and create a home where learning feels welcoming instead of rushed.

Start simple, stay flexible, and remember that the moments you spend reading, talking, and wondering together often become the ones your children remember long after the lesson is over.

The Best Learning Happens Outside the Classroom

2026-07-06T06:30:00.000-04:00

"What did your kids learn today?"

I think people often wonder this about homeschool kids.

Most people expect the answer to include math worksheets, spelling tests, or whatever chapter we're working through in science.

Sometimes it does. We don't skip textbooks, but we don't strictly learn from them either.

Some of our favorite learning moments don't happen at a table at all.

They happen while baking cookies, walking through the grocery store.

Watching a thunderstorm roll in, measuring sticks to build a backyard fort, or trying to figure out why the moon looks so big on the drive home.

Those moments may not look like school, but they've taught my kids some of the most memorable lessons.

And honestly? I think every family, whether you homeschool or your kids attend public or private school—can find opportunities for learning in everyday life.

Learning Through Everyday Life

One of my favorite things about homeschooling is that it has changed the way I look at ordinary moments.

Instead of seeing errands as something to check off my to-do list, I see little opportunities to spark curiosity.

A trip to the grocery store becomes a math lesson when we compare prices or estimate the total before we get to the checkout.

Cooking dinner turns into reading practice, measuring fractions, and learning how to follow directions.

Even something as simple as folding laundry can become a lesson in sorting, matching, and responsibility.

None of these moments require expensive curriculum or elaborate lesson plans.

They just require slowing down enough to invite our kids into what we're already doing.

Curiosity Is a Better Teacher Than Pressure

I've noticed something over the years.

When my kids ask a question because they're genuinely curious, they remember the answer so much longer than when I simply tell them what they need to know.

Some of our best rabbit trails have started with questions like:

"Why is the sky orange tonight?"

"How does a bridge stay up?"

"Why do flamingos stand on one leg?"

Instead of rushing to give an answer, we'll look it up together.

Sometimes that turns into a five-minute conversation.

Sometimes it turns into an afternoon spent learning something neither of us expected.

Those are the days I treasure most.

It's Okay If Learning Looks Different

For a long time, I thought learning had to happen sitting at a table with pencils and workbooks. But it's that and so much more.

Then I realized my kids were learning just as much while:

Building elaborate LEGO cities.
Digging holes at the beach.
Helping Dad fix something in the garage.
Watching butterflies in the backyard.
Creating imaginary worlds with cardboard boxes.

Children are naturally curious.

Sometimes our biggest job as parents isn't filling their heads with information.

It's protecting that curiosity.

A Lesson I'll Never Forget

One afternoon, we were headed to the neighborhood park when one of my kids noticed a construction crew working nearby. Instead of hurrying past, we stopped.

For the next twenty minutes, we watched cranes lifting items and talked about how the crews were moving our power lines since our area is growing. We guessed what each machine did and counted the trucks driving by.

It wasn't part of our lesson plan. But I guarantee my children remember that afternoon far more vividly than many workbook pages we've completed.

Moments like that remind me learning isn't confined to four walls.

It's happening everywhere, if we're willing to notice it.

You Don't Have to Homeschool to Learn This Way

This is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear.

You don't have to homeschool to embrace everyday learning.

In fact, families with children in traditional school can do this just as easily.

Ask questions at dinner. Bake together on the weekends. Visit your local library.

Explore a nature trail. Let your child help you plant flowers.

Turn everyday moments into conversations instead of rushing through them.

Those little moments add up.

A Little Encouragement, Mama

If you're a fellow homeschool mom worried that you are not "doing enough," let me encourage you with something I've had to remind myself more than once.

Your children don't need every moment of every day to be educational.

They need a mom who's willing to wonder with them.

Some of the most meaningful lessons they'll learn won't come from a textbook.

They'll come from baking cookies beside you, spotting shapes in the clouds, asking questions you don't know the answers to, and discovering the world together. Those moments count.

Don't underestimate the power of simply being present.

Why We Homeschool Year-Round: Our Relaxed Summer Routine

2026-07-05T20:34:00.000-04:00

One of the questions I get asked most often recently is, "Do you take the summer off from homeschooling?"

The short answer? Not really.

But that doesn't mean we're sitting around the kitchen table doing hours of schoolwork while everyone else is at the pool. I don't make the kids read a stack of books before meeting friends at the fence line for a backyard play date.

In fact, this is how we school year round. My kids never have a regimented "school time". We fit school into their schedules naturally. Before we run out to a co-op meet up, we squeeze in an art history lesson. On our way to the art museum, we practice fractions. School happens where it fits, instead of fitting our days around a standard school schedule.

Contrary to public school schedules, during the summer we actually school more. But it's still at our leisure and I don't limit play time for school time, ever.

Summer honestly has become one of my favorite seasons to homeschool during because everything slows down for us. We almost always are on the go, but during the summer we stay home more, we spend time embracing air conditioning and learning neat things while staying cool.

Don't get me wrong, we still make time for fun. We spend plenty of afternoons outdoors. We do it all the fun Florida things and spend tons of time exploring, swimming and sliding down our giant neighborhood slides, catching creepy crawly bugs outside, visiting the Tampa zoo, hitting the coolest parks up, or eating popsicles on the back porch.

I've learned over the years that consistency doesn't have to mean rigidity and we don't have to follow anyone's timeline when it comes to school. We school more during the summer simply because it fits our schedule more, but we still squeeze in school to our schedules like we do year-round.

A short math lesson before heading to the pool still counts as school in our house.

Some mornings our lessons happen at the kitchen table with snacks and art supplies sprawled out from one end to the other. While other mornings we read pool side and jump in when we get 10 answers in a row correct... and honestly, I think maybe those are the days my kids will remember the most, because we have so much fun and embrace the chill... We laugh, we learn, we cool off in the pool, and no one feels like they've spent the day "doing schoolwork".

Instead of taking one long break and spending weeks trying to get back into a routine, we simply keep learning as part of our everyday life. It's slower. It's more flexible. And for our family, it's so much less stressful.

One day we may knock out 3 math lessons and read a few chapters all before breakfast and other days we may learn fractions while measuring a sand castle at the beach. We like to learn while on the go and learn via textbook, it's simple - school happens on our schedule, school is part of our everyday life. We don't fit life around school. We fit school into our life.

If you've been wondering what homeschooling actually looks like, I hope this little peek into our routine encourages you to create a rhythm that works for your own family—not someone else's.

A Little Encouragement, Mama

If you're feeling pressure to make your homeschool look a certain way this summer, let me remind you of something I have to remind myself often: your homeschool doesn't have to look like anyone else's to be successful.

Some seasons are filled with field trips and science projects. Other seasons are filled with library books, popsicles, and simply showing up each day.

Both are enough.

Give yourself grace, enjoy your kids, and remember that learning is happening even when it doesn't look like school.

💡 Bright Idea

Keep a basket in the car with library books, coloring supplies, and educational card games. Whether you're waiting for an appointment or heading to co-op, those little pockets of time become effortless learning opportunities.

50 Boredom Busters for Kids at Home (Easy & Screen-Free Ideas)

2026-07-03T14:31:00.000-04:00

Parents know the phrase "I'm bored!" all too well. Whether it's summer break, a rainy afternoon, or just a slow weekend at home, finding fresh ways to keep kids entertained can feel like a full-time job.

The good news? You don't need expensive toys, elaborate crafts, or endless screen time to beat boredom.

We've rounded up 50 simple boredom buster bright ideas that encourage creativity, movement, learning, and family fun. Most use items you already have around the house, making them easy to try whenever boredom strikes.

Let's jump in!

Indoor Boredom Busters

Build a blanket fort.
Have an indoor scavenger hunt.
Make homemade playdough.
Create an obstacle course with pillows and chairs.
Build the tallest LEGO tower.
Put on a puppet show.
Read books with flashlights.
Write and perform a short play.
Have a dance party.
Make friendship bracelets.

Outdoor Adventures

Go on a nature walk.
Create sidewalk chalk art.
Blow giant bubbles.
Wash the family car.
Fly a kite.
Build a fairy garden.
Collect interesting rocks.
Play tag.
Make a bird feeder.
Have a picnic in the backyard.

Creative Activities

Paint rocks.
Make paper airplanes.
Create a comic book.
Decorate cardboard boxes.
Make homemade slime.
Paint with water outside.
Design your own board game.
Build with recycled materials.
Make paper flowers.
Draw a family portrait.

Learning Can Be Fun

Bake together.
Learn simple magic tricks.
Visit the local library.
Start a reading challenge.
Learn a few words in a new language.
Grow a bean in a cup.
Make a weather journal.
Practice measuring while baking.
Build a bridge with popsicle sticks.
Try simple science experiments.

Quiet Time Ideas

Work on puzzles.
Color printable coloring pages.
Listen to audiobooks.
Write in a journal.
Do yoga for kids.
Build with magnetic tiles.
Make a gratitude list.
Organize toys.
Create a photo album.
Write a letter to a grandparent.

Tips for Parents

Remember, boredom isn't always a bad thing. In fact, giving kids unstructured time encourages creativity, problem-solving, and independence. Instead of rushing to entertain them every minute, offer a few ideas from this list and let them choose what sounds fun.

You may be surprised by what they come up with on their own!

Final Thoughts

Every parent hears "I'm bored!" from time to time, but with a little creativity, it's easy to turn those moments into opportunities for learning, imagination, and family fun. Save this list for the next rainy day or long summer afternoon—you'll always have a fresh idea ready to go!

25 Easy 4th of July Snacks for Kids They'll Love

2026-07-02T10:58:28.582-04:00

We all know that no 4th of July celebration is complete without festive snacks! Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a neighborhood picnic, or enjoying fireworks with family, these easy 4th of July snacks for kids are colorful, delicious, and simple to make.

From healthy fruit treats to fun desserts, these patriotic snack ideas are sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

1. Red, White & Blue Fruit Kabobs

Thread strawberries, blueberries, and mini marshmallows onto skewers for a healthy snack that looks as festive as it tastes.

2. Patriotic Popcorn

Toss freshly popped popcorn with red, white, and blue candy-coated chocolates or festive sprinkles for a sweet-and-salty treat.

3. Firecracker Pretzel Rods

Dip pretzel rods in white chocolate, then decorate with red and blue sprinkles before they harden.

4. Watermelon Stars

Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to turn watermelon slices into patriotic stars.

5. Berry Yogurt Parfaits

Layer vanilla yogurt with fresh strawberries and blueberries in clear cups for an easy no-bake dessert.

6. Patriotic Rice Krispie Treats

Cut Rice Krispie treats into stars and drizzle with red, white, and blue icing.

7. Red, White & Blue Popsicles

Freeze layers of strawberry puree, vanilla yogurt, and blueberry puree for homemade popsicles.

8. Mini Flag Fruit Tray

Arrange strawberries, bananas, and blueberries into an American flag design.

9. Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes

Bake cupcakes directly in flat-bottomed ice cream cones and decorate with patriotic frosting.

10. Star-Shaped Cheese and Crackers

Cut cheese slices into stars and serve with crackers for an easy savory snack.

11. Patriotic Trail Mix

Mix pretzels, popcorn, dried cranberries, yogurt-covered raisins, and blueberries for a grab-and-go snack.

12. Red, White & Blue Jello Cups

Layer red and blue gelatin with whipped topping for a colorful dessert.

13. Strawberry Shortcake Cups

Layer pound cake, whipped cream, and strawberries in small cups.

14. Firework Cupcakes

Top cupcakes with swirls of red, white, and blue frosting and festive sprinkles.

15. Frozen Banana Pops

Dip bananas in white chocolate and decorate with patriotic sprinkles before freezing.

16. Patriotic Puppy Chow

Coat cereal with white chocolate and powdered sugar, then mix with red and blue candies.

17. Mini Sandwich Skewers

Alternate cubes of turkey, cheese, and cherry tomatoes on skewers for a kid-friendly lunch.

18. Fruit Pizza

Spread sweetened cream cheese over a sugar cookie crust and decorate with berries.

19. Star Sugar Cookies

Bake classic sugar cookies using a star cookie cutter and decorate with red, white, and blue icing.

20. Frozen Yogurt Bark

Top vanilla yogurt with berries and freeze until firm before breaking into pieces.

21. Berry Smoothies

Blend strawberries, blueberries, yogurt, and milk into a refreshing summer drink.

22. Patriotic Snack Mix

Combine popcorn, pretzels, cereal squares, and festive candies in a large bowl.

23. Red, White & Blue Donuts

Decorate store-bought glazed donuts with colored icing and sprinkles for an easy shortcut.

24. Apple "Fireworks"

Slice apples and arrange them in a burst pattern with grapes and blueberries for a playful fruit display.

25. DIY Snack Board

Create a patriotic snack board filled with fruit, crackers, cheese, popcorn, cookies, and colorful treats so kids can build their own plates.

Final Thoughts

These easy 4th of July snacks for kids are perfect for backyard parties, picnics, classroom celebrations, and family gatherings. Whether you're looking for healthy options, sweet treats, or quick appetizers, there's something here for every celebration.

Which snack will your family be making this year? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to check out our other 4th of July ideas and free bingo printables for even more holiday fun!

25 Screen-Free Summer Activities for Kids They'll Actually Love

2026-07-02T01:25:00.000-04:00

Summer break is full of opportunities for adventure, creativity, and family fun—but keeping kids entertained without relying on screens can sometimes feel like a challenge. The good news? You don't need expensive outings or elaborate plans to create memorable days.

These screen-free summer activities are easy to set up, budget-friendly, and designed to keep kids engaged while encouraging creativity, movement, and imagination.

1. Build a Backyard Fort

Use blankets, chairs, pool noodles, or cardboard boxes to create the ultimate hideout. Kids can read, play games, or enjoy a snack inside.

2. Create a Nature Scavenger Hunt

Make a list of items for kids to find, like feathers, pinecones, flowers, butterflies, or smooth rocks.

3. Have a Water Balloon Toss

Cool off with a classic summer game that's fun for the whole family.

4. Paint Rocks

Decorate rocks with colorful designs, funny faces, or inspiring messages to display in the garden or hide for others to find.

5. Make Homemade Popsicles

Blend fresh fruit with yogurt or juice and freeze in popsicle molds for an easy summer treat.

6. Read Outside

Grab a blanket and head to the backyard, park, or porch for an outdoor reading session.

7. Build an Obstacle Course

Use hula hoops, cones, jump ropes, and pool noodles to create a fun backyard challenge.

8. Wash the Family Car

Kids love playing with soap and water, and you'll end up with a cleaner car.

9. Plant Flowers or Herbs

Teach kids basic gardening skills while adding color to your yard.

10. Fly a Kite

A breezy afternoon is the perfect excuse to head to the park and watch colorful kites soar.

11. Sidewalk Chalk Art

Create murals, hopscotch courses, or obstacle paths on the driveway.

12. Make Friendship Bracelets

Kids can create colorful bracelets to wear or share with friends.

13. Go on a Bug Hunt

Bring a magnifying glass and see how many different insects you can safely observe.

14. Build with Cardboard Boxes

Turn old boxes into castles, rockets, grocery stores, or race cars.

15. Have a Picnic

Lunch always feels more exciting when it's eaten outside.

16. Blow Giant Bubbles

Experiment with different bubble wands to make extra-large bubbles.

17. Make Bird Feeders

Use pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed to attract feathered visitors.

18. Learn a Magic Trick

Kids love practicing simple tricks to perform for family members.

19. Dance Party

Turn up your favorite songs and dance around the living room or backyard.

20. Create a Summer Journal

Encourage kids to write about adventures, draw pictures, or collect souvenirs from special days.

21. Visit the Library

Many libraries offer free summer reading programs, crafts, and activities.

22. Cook Together

Choose a simple recipe and let kids help measure, stir, and decorate.

23. Make a Time Capsule

Fill a container with photos, drawings, and favorite memories to open next summer.

24. Watch the Sunset

Pack a few snacks and enjoy nature together while talking about your favorite part of the day.

25. Have a Family Game Night

Bring out classic board games or card games for an evening filled with laughter.

Final Thoughts

Keeping kids entertained this summer doesn't have to involve expensive trips or endless screen time. With a little creativity, you can fill your days with activities that encourage learning, movement, and quality family time.

Which of these screen-free summer activities is your family's favorite? Let us know in the comments—we'd love to hear your ideas!

Free Printable 4th of July Bingo Cards for Kids

2026-07-01T01:54:09.151-04:00

Free Printable 4th of July Bingo Cards for Kids

Looking for a fun and easy activity to keep the kids entertained this Independence Day? These Free Printable 4th of July Bingo Cards are the perfect addition to your holiday celebration! Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, attending a family picnic, planning a classroom party, or just looking for a screen-free activity before the fireworks begin, this patriotic bingo game is sure to be a hit.

Best of all, it's completely free to download and print!

Why Kids Love 4th of July Bingo

Bingo is a classic game that's easy to learn and fun for kids of all ages. The patriotic-themed cards feature festive images like fireworks, American flags, popsicles, hot dogs, stars, eagles, and more, making it the perfect activity for celebrating the Fourth of July.

Parents love it because it keeps kids entertained while everyone waits for the food to finish cooking or the fireworks to start.

What's Included?

Your free printable download includes:

Multiple unique bingo cards
A printable page of calling cards
Easy-to-follow instructions
Colorful red, white, and blue patriotic graphics

Simply print the pages, cut out the calling cards, and you're ready to play!

How to Play

Playing is simple:

Print enough bingo cards for each player.
Cut out the calling cards and place them in a bowl or container.
Give each player one bingo card and something to use as markers (coins, buttons, cereal, candy, or bingo chips all work well).
Draw one calling card at a time and announce the picture.
Players cover the matching image on their card.
The first player to get five in a row—across, down, or diagonally—wins!

Perfect For

These printable bingo cards are great for:

Family cookouts
Backyard BBQs
Classroom parties
Daycare celebrations
Neighborhood block parties
Church events
Summer camps
Rainy-day indoor fun

Make It Even More Fun

Here are a few ideas to make your bingo game extra special:

Give small patriotic prizes like glow sticks, stickers, bubbles, or mini flags.
Use red, white, and blue candies as bingo markers.
Laminate the cards so you can use them year after year with dry-erase markers.
Let kids take turns being the bingo caller.

More 4th of July Fun
If you're planning a full day of patriotic fun, be sure to check out our 15 Fun 4th of July Ideas for Kids That Will Keep Them Smiling All Day for even more games, crafts, snacks, and family-friendly activities.
Have a safe, happy, and memorable Independence Day!

15 Super Fun 4th of July Ideas for Kids of ALL ages!

2026-07-01T00:01:00.846-04:00

The 4th of July is one of the most exciting holidays for kids. What's not to love? Between backyard barbecues filling the air with delicious scents, fireworks illuminating the sky, and joyful family and friend-filled gatherings, it's the perfect time to create lasting memories together.

If you're looking for simple, affordable ways to keep the kids attending your party entertained, these 4th of July fun ideas are easy to put together and full of patriotic goodness to keep the kids smiling all day long! Whether you've got a rambunctious trio or a chaotic group of all ages, here's your sign to go ahead and stock up on some goodies via Prime!

Now tell me, bestie, are you ready to make Independence Day even more memorable? Let's have some fun with the kiddos! Which one of these activities should we start with first?

1. Make Patriotic Crafts

Set up a craft table with red, white, and blue construction paper, markers, glitter, stickers, and glue. Kids can create flags, stars, pinwheels, or festive paper wreaths to decorate the house.

2. Host a Backyard Water Balloon Battle

Nothing says summer like a water balloon fight! Divide everyone into teams or simply let the kids cool off while burning some energy.

3. Decorate Bikes or Scooters

Don't forget to jazz up all your rides for the holiday! It's time to decorate your bikes, wagons, golf carts, or scooters with streamers, ribbons, balloons, and mini American flags. Then organize a mini neighborhood parade.

4. Create a Patriotic Scavenger Hunt

Hide red, white, and blue items around the yard (think toy cars, barbie accessories, etc) and make a checklist of the items for the kids to find. You can even offer small prizes for everyone who finishes.

5. Make Festive Treats Together

Kids love helping in the kitchen and it's a tasty way for everyone to get snackin'. I suggest making something simple like:

Red, white, and blue fruit skewers
Patriotic popcorn
Star-shaped sugar cookies
Yogurt parfaits with berries
Ice cream sundaes topped with festive sprinkles

6. Play Classic Backyard Games

Simple games never go out of style and since we are celebrating America's 250th birthday - let's throw it back to the good ol' days and play the "field day" style of games everyone loves. Try:

Sack races
Three-legged races
Ring toss
Tug-of-war
Water relay races

These games are fun for both kids and adults and will leave everyone giggling. The prep time is minimal with a kit like this delivered via amazon!

7. Have a Glow Stick Dance Party

Once the sun starts setting, hand out glow sticks, glow necklaces, and bubble wands. Play upbeat music and let the kids dance before the fireworks begin. Glow sticks are also a great way to keep the kids super safe if you live in a busy neighborhood.

8. Read Books About America

Take a quiet break during the afternoon with books about Independence Day, American history, or famous landmarks. It's a great way to mix learning with holiday fun.

9. Create Sidewalk Chalk Art

Give kids colorful sidewalk chalk and let them decorate the driveway with flags, stars, fireworks, and patriotic messages. We sometimes like to make simple obstacle courses out front that involve hopping, skipping, spinning, etc.

10. Play Patriotic Bingo

Use these fun bingo cards (and call cards) or try and create simple bingo cards featuring classic 4th of July images like flags, fireworks, stars, hot dogs, popsicles, eagles, and red, white, and blue balloons. Use candy, small toys, or stickers as markers, and hand out fun prizes for winners.

This is a great activity for family cookouts or block parties since kids of all ages can play together while waiting for food or the fireworks to begin.

11. Make DIY Bubble Stations

Mix up homemade bubble solution and provide different-sized wands, cookie cutters, or pipe cleaners for kids to experiment with giant bubbles.

12. Make Patriotic Slime

If your kids love sensory activities, whip up a batch of red, white, and blue slime. Add glitter, star confetti, or tiny foam beads for a festive touch. Let each child create their own unique slime to play with during the celebration and take home afterward.

It's an inexpensive activity that's always a hit with elementary-aged kids.

13. Paint Rocks

Collect smooth rocks and let kids paint them with stars, stripes, hearts, or fun patriotic designs. They can display them in the garden or hide them around the neighborhood for others to discover.

14. Make Friendship Bracelets

Set out red, white, and blue beads and string so kids can create bracelets to wear or share with friends and cousins.

15. Watch Fireworks Safely

End the day in the most traditional, American way, by watching a local fireworks display together or lighting some of your own fireworks. Bring blankets, snacks, and glow sticks, and be sure to talk with kids about fireworks safety before the show begins.

Tips for a Stress-Free 4th of July with Kids

A little planning goes a long way. Pack sunscreen, bug spray, extra water, and a few quiet activities if you'll be out late. Younger children may also appreciate noise-reducing headphones during fireworks displays.Most importantly, don't worry about making everything perfect. Kids usually remember the laughter, games, and time spent together much more than elaborate decorations or expensive activities.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating Independence Day doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. These 4th of July ideas for kids are easy to customize for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children, making it simple to create a day filled with fun, laughter, and family memories.

What are your family's favorite 4th of July traditions? Share your ideas in the comments below I'd love to hear how you celebrate!

Fun Holidays to Celebrate on June 29th

2026-06-29T02:23:31.647-04:00

Fun Holidays to Celebrate Today (June 29): Camera Day, Waffle Iron Day & More!

Who says every day has to be ordinary? One of my favorite ways to add a little fun to family life is by celebrating some of the quirky "national days" that pop up throughout the year. They're simple, inexpensive, and sometimes they're the perfect excuse to make an ordinary Monday feel a little more special.

Here are a few fun holidays happening today!

📸 National Camera Day

Whether you use a fancy DSLR or your smartphone, today is all about capturing memories.

Here are a few easy ways to celebrate:

Take a family selfie.
Go on a neighborhood photo walk.
Let your kids be the photographers for the day.
Print a few favorite photos you've been meaning to hang up.
Snap a picture of something that makes you smile.

Sometimes the best memories aren't the perfectly posed ones—they're the messy, everyday moments.

🧇 National Waffle Iron Day

Breakfast for dinner, anyone?

Pull out the waffle iron and get creative!

Try topping waffles with:

Fresh berries
Peanut butter or almond butter
Chocolate chips
Whipped cream
Ice cream for dessert waffles
Fried chicken for a fun twist

If you don't have waffle mix, today might be the perfect excuse to make homemade waffles together.

🤗 Hug Holiday

Life gets busy, and sometimes we forget how much a simple hug can mean.

Today's reminder is easy:

Hug your kids.
Hug your spouse.
Hug your parents.
Hug a friend.

Those little moments of connection often become the ones we remember most.

🌍 International Mud Day

This one is definitely kid-approved.

Instead of worrying about dirty clothes, let the kids splash in puddles, build mud pies, or create a backyard "mud kitchen."

Childhood is messy—and sometimes that's exactly how it's supposed to be.

Just keep a towel by the door!

Make Today a Little More Fun

You don't have to spend money or plan a big adventure to make memories.

Maybe today you'll:

Take a few extra photos.
Enjoy waffles for dinner.
Give someone an unexpected hug.
Let the kids get a little muddy.

Sometimes it's the little things that become our favorite family traditions.

Tell me in the comments—which fun holiday would your family be most excited to celebrate today?

A Wild (But Gator-Free) Day at Myakka River State Park

2025-05-31T01:33:00.000-04:00

You know those adventures where you go in expecting one thing and you end up getting something totally different—but somehow, it’s still completely magical? Better than you could've expected, even...

That was our day at Myakka River State Park.

We packed our water bottles, binoculars, and brave faces, fully expecting to see at least one lazy alligator basking in the sun. I mean, it is Florida and we see them almost daily, even in our neighborhood ponds. The whole state is basically a reptile resort, right?

But here's a real plot twist: not a single gator graced us with its scaly presence. We walked the water's edge, looked over bridges and even peered of the end of a pier... and no gators were spotted!

They must have all been off together, plotting— I like to think they were attending a secret swamp meeting. They may have been sitting below the water's edge, lurking in mass quantities. Either way, zero gator sightings.

But before you feel too bad for us, don’t! Because what we did see was a whole cast of nature’s underrated all-stars.

The Wildlife Cameos We Weren’t Expecting:

🦌 Deer, casually strolling through the trees like they were on their afternoon coffee break. One even stopped and looked at us like, “You guys lost or something?” He ran off into the woods, the opposite direction of his mother, so we sat there waiting for mom to pass us as well. She took off running after a moment... and we were left with an amazing little moment, none of us will forget.

🦋 Butterflies, fluttering around like they were auditioning for a Disney movie montage. We saw a variety of butterflies, but loved getting to watch them flutter about with their dragonfly counterparts.

🐦 Birds, chirping, swooping, and generally acting mysterious up in the trees. We heard all kinds of calls and saw lots of pretty varieties...

The Trails, the Bridge, and the Tower (aka: Quad Day)

We took on the trails with energy and ambition—and maybe a few dramatic sighs in the heat—but the real highlights were high in the sky.

The canopy bridge gave us serious jungle explorer vibes, and it does bounce a little when you walk across it, which makes it just the right amount of thrilling. It’s like Florida’s version of an adventure ride, but with better scenery and no admission fee.

From there, we climbed to the top of the observation tower, where we were rewarded with a sweeping view of treetops and marshlands. Honestly, it felt like we were in a different world up there. One with fewer bugs and better breezes.

The One Letdown? The Bird Walk Was Closed. 😢

Yes, sadly, the bird walk was blocked off. We were a little bummed, but we still saw plenty of birds on our journey. Can’t blame them. We hope they enjoyed their acai bowls and worms.

Final Thoughts

Even without any gator drama, Myakka River State Park totally delivered. There’s something extra special about walking through nature with no agenda other than, “Let’s see what shows up.” And while it wasn’t the scaly safari we expected, we ended up with dragonfly zoom-bys, beetle fashion shows, and deer that could win “Most Chill Mammal of the Year.”

Would we go back? Absolutely. Next time, gators—don’t be shy.

Have you ever been to Myakka? Did you see any gators, or were they ghosting you too? Let me know in the comments! 🌿✨

It's My Birthday - Let's Celebrate the Chaos!

2025-03-08T01:14:00.000-05:00

Today’s the day, friends—it’s my birthday! Cue the confetti, the cake (gluten-free, so everyone can indulge including my other half), and the overly ambitious plans that will probably be derailed by a toddler meltdown. Ah, the sweet joys of motherhood!

A birthday as a mom is a little different than it used to be. Gone are the days of sleeping in and leisurely brunches, no longer do I stay out past midnight celebrating the night before. Instead, I’m kicking off the morning with an encore performance of 'A Million Dreams' from The Greatest Showman, wiping yogurt off the walls, and pretending that my espresso is still warm. But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Birthdays feel different as we get older—not in a bad way, just in a “I’m going to bed at 10 PM and that sounds glorious” kind of way. I might not be blowing out a candle and downing a glass of wine at a fancy restaurant tonight, but I will be making a wish that my kids don’t notice me sneaking a piece of dark chocolate before dinner.

So, in honor of my special day, here are a few simple ways I’m celebrating:

Giving myself grace – No pressure to make the day perfect. If we end up eating frozen pizza or stopping by chick-fil-a, that’s still a win. I just wanna relax and enjoy the day.
Soaking up the little moments – Birthday snuggles from my little ones? Best gift ever. I really don't need anything so I look forward to embracing the moments.
Doing something just for me – Maybe I'll end the night indulging in a silent painting session or a warm bath with no interruptions (a true luxury!).

If you’ve ever had a “mom birthday,” you get it. The celebration might not be Pinterest-perfect, but it’s filled with love, laughter, and just a little bit of chaos—my favorite kind of party.

So, here’s to another trip around the sun! And if you feel like giving me a birthday gift, let’s make it easy—just send coffee. Lots and lots of coffee. ☕🎉

P.S. What’s your favorite way to celebrate your birthday? Let’s swap ideas in the comments!

The Hard Days of Motherhood (and Why You’re Still Doing an Amazing Job)

2025-02-04T01:07:00.006-05:00

Some days, being a mom feels like pure magic. You watch your kids laugh, hold their tiny hands, and feel like the luckiest person in the world. But other days? Other days feel impossible. The days where the laundry is overflowing, the toddler is melting down over the wrong color spoon, and you haven’t had a real meal or moment to yourself in what feels like for-ev-er.

Motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also exhausting, overwhelming, and downright hard sometimes.

The Weight of It All

No one truly prepares you for how much weight you are going to carry when you become a mother. We are the planners, the nurturers, the peacekeepers, the ones who remember which child likes their sandwich cut into triangles and which one needs the crusts cut off. We take on the invisible load—the late-night worry sessions, the constant scheduling, the responsibility of shaping tiny humans into kind, capable people.

And some days, it’s too much.

Some days, you feel like you’re failing. The house is a mess, the to-do list is a mile long, and patience runs out faster than coffee. The noise, the chaos, the never-ending demands—it’s enough to make anyone feel like they’re drowning.

But You Are Not Alone

But mama, hear me: You are not alone in this. Every mom has hard days. Every mom has moments where she wants to hide in the bathroom for five minutes of peace. Every mom wonders if she’s doing enough, being enough, loving enough. Every mom wonders if they are enough.

The truth? You are. Even on the messy, overwhelming, nothing-is-going-right days, you are exactly what your kids need. They don’t need perfection. They don’t need Pinterest-worthy crafts or gourmet meals. They need you—your love, your presence, your imperfect, tired, beautiful self.

Giving Yourself Grace

It’s okay to have hard days. It’s okay to cry in the shower or let the dishes sit in the sink. It’s okay to take a break, ask for help, or decide that today, survival is the goal.

Motherhood is not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about showing up, loving fiercely, and giving yourself the same grace you’d give a friend. Some days will be magical, and some days will be hard—but every single day, you are doing something incredible.

Finding the Joy

Even in the hardest moments, there are tiny pockets of joy. The unexpected hug, the sleepy “I love you,” the giggles over something completely silly. Look for those. Hold onto them. Let them remind you that while motherhood is hard, it is also full of love, wonder, and moments that make all the chaos worth it.

So to the mom who feels like she’s barely holding it together today—you are seen, you are loved, and you are doing an amazing job. Keep going, mama. You’ve got this. 💛

Here's to 2025: A Year for Moms to Celebrate (or Maybe Just Survive...in style!)

2025-02-02T01:01:00.001-05:00

Ah, 2025 — it’s here and whether you’ve been meticulously planning for it or simply Googling “What’s the future like?” between school pickups and sports drop offs, one thing’s for sure: this year is shaping up to be a pretty fabulous year.

From techy gadgets that make life easier (or at least look cool) to self-care trends that could actually add a bit of fun into your routine, 2025 has a little something for every one.

So grab yourself a glass of wine (or your kid’s leftover juice box), sit back, and let’s dive into the delightful rollercoaster ride that is going to be 2025 — because this year is shaping up to be your year, mama.

1. Tech That Actually Helps (No, Seriously)

We all know that tech can be a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s obviously amazing. On the other hand, it can be unreliable and difficult, I mean sometimes I honestly wonder if my Wi-Fi is secretly plotting against me, I assume I'm not alone with this struggle. But fear not — 2025 promises to bring gadgets that can actually ease the chaos of mom life. Imagine a world where:

Robotic Vacuum Cleaners don’t just clean your floors; they can even mop for you and send you encouraging messages when their missions are complete! These new models are equipped with artificial intelligence that can recognize which areas of the house need the most attention — and they might even send you a “Good job, Mom” notification after their job is done.
Smart Kitchen Gadgets: Your oven will preheat itself (yes, really), your fridge will remind you when you’re out of milk, and your blender will even regulate the texture of your super healthy green smoothie! Let the machines do the work for you and make your days easier in 2025!
Smart Scheduling: No more calendar caused chaos! Keep those sports practices and drama rehearsal times straight with this supercharged version of Google Calendar will analyze your day, suggest time slots for important stuff (even the simple things you NEED - like a nap), and you can even set it to remind you to "take a deep breath" between picking up the kids, meal prep, and juggling a thousand tiny tasks!

In 2025, technology will finally catch up with your chaotic mom brain! Who else is excited to add some great gadgets to their daily routines?

2. Self-Care That Actually Feels Like Fun

Let’s face it: self-care is a buzzword and has been for a while, but finding time to truly indulge in things that benefit YOU can be difficult with all you have on your plate. But don’t worry, 2025’s self-care trends might just be the thing to save you.

Nap Pods: That’s right, in 2025, it’s not just a trend — it’s a lifestyle. Forget lying on the couch with your phone in hand, hoping for a 20-minute power nap. Now, you can literally schedule a nap in a cozy pod that will cocoon you in comfort while your phone reminds you of your existential to-do list. (Honestly, it’s just nice to have a place to shut down without hearing, “Moooom!”)
Mindful Moments for Busy Moms: 2025 will bring mindfulness practices that are actually short, sweet, and helpful. Forget 30-minute meditations. How about a three-minute “mom mantra” session before you pick up the kids? It’s like a mental reset button, and it’s all about helping you feel zen — even if it’s just while standing in the grocery line.

Wrapping Up the Future of Mom Life

2025 used to sound so futuristic, but now it's HERE and it’s bringing some seriously exciting opportunities for moms. Whether it’s tech that makes your life smoother, self-care that doesn’t require a passport, or simply finding more time for play and joy, this year has a little something for every mama. So here’s to the future — may it be filled with less laundry, more naps, and way more laughter.

In the words of every mom ever: You’ve got this.

The Best Amazon Products for 2 to 3-Year-Olds

2025-01-02T23:42:00.000-05:00

I think all mamas can agree, that sweet spot in toddlerhood from the ages 2 to 3 is such a magical stage! It’s when kids are curious, adventurous, and full of energy. I love that eagerness to learn and the playfulness to let loose that toddlers all seem to have. As a parent, finding the right items to nurture their creativity, independence, and growing skills can make all the difference. Amazon is packed with great finds that are perfect for this stage, but here are the top products that every parent of a 3-year-old should know about.

1. Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Blocks Set These classic wooden blocks are perfect for encouraging creativity and fine motor skills. With a variety of shapes and colors, your little one can build castles, towers, and anything their imagination dreams up.

Why Parents Love It: It’s a timeless toy that grows with your child and offers endless play possibilities.

2. Crayola Washable Finger Paint Set Let your 3-year-old explore their artistic side without the stress of permanent stains. This set includes vibrant, non-toxic paints that are easy to wash off hands and clothes.

Why Parents Love It: It fosters creativity while keeping cleanup easy.

3. Green Toys Dump Truck Made from 100% recycled materials, this sturdy dump truck is perfect for indoor and outdoor play. It’s durable, eco-friendly, and just the right size for little hands.

Why Parents Love It: It’s safe, sustainable, and encourages imaginative play.

4. LeapFrog My Own Leaptop This toddler-friendly laptop introduces letters, numbers, and basic computer skills through fun, interactive games. It’s lightweight and perfect for travel.

Why Parents Love It: It’s an educational toy that keeps kids engaged and learning.

5. Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Set These magnetic building tiles are a hit with 3-year-olds. They’re great for developing spatial awareness, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

Why Parents Love It: It’s an open-ended toy that provides hours of entertainment and grows with your child.

6. Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike Perfect for teaching your little one how to balance, this lightweight bike is a great introduction to riding without the need for training wheels.

Why Parents Love It: It builds confidence and motor skills while being fun and safe.

7. Melissa & Doug Scoop & Serve Ice Cream Counter This adorable pretend play set lets your child serve up colorful ice cream scoops and practice counting, sorting, and role-playing.

Why Parents Love It: It encourages imaginative play and social interaction.

8. Play-Doh Kitchen Creations Ultimate Cookie Making Playset This Play-Doh set comes with fun tools to help your 3-year-old create their own pretend treats.

Why Parents Love It: It’s a hands-on activity that improves fine motor skills and sparks creativity.

9. Little Tikes 3’ Trampoline Perfect for burning off some of that boundless energy, this mini trampoline is safe, sturdy, and great for indoor active play.

Why Parents Love It: It helps with coordination and lets kids get their wiggles out, rain or shine.

10. Water Wow! Reusable Coloring Books by Melissa & Doug These mess-free coloring books use water-filled pens to reveal vibrant colors. Once the page dries, your little one can start over again.

Why Parents Love It: It’s portable, reusable, and keeps kids entertained without any mess.

These Amazon finds are perfect for fostering your 3-year-old’s growth, creativity, and independence. Whether it’s learning through play, exploring their artistic side, or burning off energy, I think you'll agree these items will make the perfect gift for the 2-3 year old in your life.

What’s your favorite gift idea for a child in that 2 to 3-year-old range? Share it in the comments below! Let’s help each other navigate this exciting stage with the best tools and toys on the market!

P.S. If you found this list helpful, share it with other parents of toddlers! Let’s spread the love for these amazing finds!

Keep shining bright,
Lauren

Exciting News: Welcome to Bright Ideas for Moms!

2024-09-23T01:14:00.003-04:00

Hello again, wonderful readers!

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve officially taken the plunge and the blog has a new look! I've rebranded from LaurenPaints.com to Bright Ideas for Moms.com! This change reflects my journey in life and my desire to create a space that truly resonates with all of you.

Why the Change?

As many of you know, my blog started as a creative outlet to share my love of painting and DIY projects. While I still adore those things, my experiences as a mom have profoundly shaped my perspective. I wanted to expand the focus of the blog to encompass not just my artistic endeavors, but also the everyday joys, challenges, and creative solutions that come with motherhood.

The name *Bright Ideas for Moms* embodies my mission: to provide inspiration and support for moms navigating this beautiful (and sometimes chaotic) journey. I believe we can all shine a little brighter together - sharing, supporting, caring as a community of moms.

What to Expect

With this rebranding comes a renewed commitment to delivering content that speaks to your needs. As a reader you can look forward to:

- **Creative Parenting Tips:** Practical advice and innovative ideas to make parenting easier and more enjoyable.

- **Fun DIY Projects:** Engaging crafts and activities that you can do with your kids, fostering creativity and bonding time.

- **Delicious Family Recipes:** Easy, healthy meals that even the pickiest eaters will love.

- **Community Support:** A welcoming space for sharing experiences, asking questions, and connecting with other moms.

I’m incredibly excited about this new chapter and all the possibilities this change will bring. Your support has meant the world to me, and I hope you’ll continue to follow along as Bright Ideas for Moms evolves. We can inspire each other and create a vibrant community that uplifts and empowers all mothers, making this world a brighter, better place together.

Thank you for being a part of this journey! I can’t wait to share more bright ideas with you.

With love,

Lauren

DIY Girly Haunted House Halloween Decor Craft for Kids to Make

2023-10-24T11:20:00.005-04:00

We've been getting crafty around here.

There's just something about Halloween and this time of the year that leaves me feeling inspired! I can't be the only one who loves this time of the year and absolutely can't wait to embrace all things fall! Right?

Are you also excited for spooky season? I know we certainly are stoked to celebrate and my oldest is legit counting down the minutes until it's time to go trick-or-treat! To help pass the time, her and I decided to get crafty this week and make a bunch of adorable new spook-tastic decor for our house! This little girly haunted house project is probably one of the easiest projects we've ever made and great for kids to craft up, almost completely alone (especially if you opt for Elmer's instead of hot glue).

If you're feeling the spirit of the season and you'd like to make your own cute, girly little haunted house, here's the details on how we made ours.

Supplies you'll need:

These Jumbo Popsicle Sticks from Walmart
Orange Paint
This printable I crafted up
Hot glue &/or Elmer's glue
Glitter Paper
Scissors
Beads & Pipe cleaner are optional for "added flair", you could always just use a marker instead!

We started by gluing this beauty together, then cut out all of our cuteness from the printable.

Next, we glued our glitter paper on to the back and painted our house orange.

Finally, we glued down all the little details like my printable pieces, beads, and pipe cleaner. If you decided not to include the optional flair, you could easily just draw on a door!

And just like that, you've got an adorable addition to your Halloween decor! We placed ours just above the front door and it's so perfect!

Are you more of a visual person? Check out this quick tiktok to see how we made the haunted house!

Don't forget to download the FREE printable I made for this project HERE!

My Favorite Mom Wins with Babbleboxx

2022-09-28T11:52:00.003-04:00

This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx.

Being a mom is the most rewarding thing I've ever experienced, from the grins and giggles to watching them learn something new - every second of taking care of my babies is genuinely a reward. Watching my older kiddo grow into a big girl, talking about boys and giggling with friends is such a special reward and on the other end of the journey of parenthood, watching my sweet baby learn to sit up, hearing that first giggle, and seeing the light in her eyes when she's accomplished something as simple as putting a toy in her mouth is absolutely so special. Being a mom is the most inspiring, rewarding, and awe-worthy thing I've ever done and it's better than I ever could've dreamed.

I'm not going to lie, it's also the most challenging time I've ever had in my life, but they definitely are worth the sleepless nights, changes in my body, and long days full of soothing emotions and fits. It's funny how that works, I feel equally blessed and stressed and I wouldn't have it any other way - being a mom is amazing.

While I'm discussing the amazing parts of motherhood, I thought I'd share some mom wins with you guys - this box from Babbleboxx came stocked full of "wins" I felt were worthy of sharing with y'all on the blog.

We'll start with a product we've been using since our little busy bee was born - CeraVe. This company's mission is to provide therapeutic skin care for everyone, including our sweet little babies! I love that their products offer an exclusive blend of three essential ceramides to mimic our skin's, as well as a revolutionary MVE technology to restore our skin's natural protective barriers, providing our kiddos with the best possible way to clean their bodies without all the bad stuff involved.

The Baby Wash and Shampoo has been sitting bath side since before Holly was born and it cleans her while helping to soothe and protect her skin.

After giving her a CeraVe bath, we love to lather her up with their lotion as well. The CeraVe moisturizing lotion is a lightweight soothing way to make sure her skin has all-day hydration! The best part is that pediatric dermatologist helped to develop the line so I know I'm putting what's recommended on her skin, without a doubt.

Another brand household name for us is Lamaze. We love their toys and have enjoyed raising Delainey to learn and grow through play with their science-backed brand. From cute little stacking rings to fun dollies, I thought I had already scored a majority of the wonderful toys they make- but it turns out I was wrong, Babbleboxx sent us over 3 new Lamaze toys to add to Holly's developmental toy collection and they are truly winners!

Starting with her absolute favorite from Lamaze: The Wacky Giraffe. This little guy makes the whole family giggle with silly sounds with every good whack she gives the table. Holls loves hitting this unique sensory toy into everything and I love that with both ends being nice and soft, it's painless and causes no damage to any surface she whacks. She cracks up with us as we all giggle at her swinging the little guy around - it's truly a hoot! When she sees this little fella, she knows it's time to play!

While we're talking about things that tickle her. The Puffaboo Elephant from Lamaze is truly the cutest way to get her to giggle! From playing peekaboo with his crinkly ears to squeezing it to hear it squeak, it's just adorable - but the best part is when it's squeezed this little elephant blows a tiny puff of air. This little puff is the perfect gentle distraction - making her Puffaboo the perfect toy for her fussy days.

Another toy we run to grab on her fussy days is made by Lamaze as well, it's the Soothing Heart Panda. This little bear friend is soothing and adorable, the perfect mixture for getting Holly to chill. With four different melodies, each with a soothing vibration synced to the rhythm of a resting heartbeat - or press the heart five times and you'll hear the heartbeat! It's such a calming, yet incredible toy and one we love to give her whenever we are winding down before bed time!

Speaking of bed time, we have a baby who loves to go to bed with a full belly. I usually nurse her to sleep and then we sometimes provide her with a little "top off" from a bottle, when she allows for it. We've tried a handful of different bottles and she isn't so sure about most of them but the Phillips Avent Anti-Colic bottles with Air-Free vents seem to work well for her! These special bottles were designed to reduce feeding issues, colic, gas, and reflux - all of which we've had to battle with Hollyn!

Not only are they great for her, they are easy to clean with less parts and somewhat adjustable since you can adjust the nipple size as baby matures and remove the Air Free vent, if you'd prefer. Honestly, I'm not sure why you would though - I love that the Air Free vent helps prevent her from "drinking air" because the nipple of the bottle stays full even when she is drinking it at an angle while sitting upright, bringing us both comfort whenever she gets a bottle.

Another way we've learned to comfort her lately is with her new Phillips Avent Soothie Snuggle , we were sent a sloth and it has to be the cutest little lovey I've ever seen! These lightweight plush toys attach to a removable Phillips Avent Pacifier, meaning they can be cleaned without a bunch of hassle.

They also make the cutest accessory while being a comforting little companion for Holls, so it's a win-win! It isn't just a cute little fluffy stuffy though, I love that I'm able to locate her paci much quicker with her little sloth friend attached and that it's made with safe and durable materials so I don't have to worry which part of the toy she decides to soothe herself with while we are in this stage of putting everything in her mouth!

Another item from the Babbleboxx that I know is going to be super durable is our Stonz!

These cool shoes and booties are kid-certified, made for developing little feet, vegan, non-toxic, and offered up with a 365 day warranty! Stonz makes everything from adorable casual shoes to snow booties and mittens, all in a range of sizes - designed to provide comfort to kiddos at any age, in any climate, at any time!

The Stonz toddler booties we were sent will be the perfect addition to Hollyn's winter outfits, especially when we travel home to finally introduce her to family (hopefully) this winter. Keeping her warm in coziness that stays on those kicking feet will be absolutely necessary. I love that these booties are all-weather wind resistant and they just slide on her little foot, easy peasy! All I have to do is tighten them up with the adjustable toggles and she's good to go!

The other shoe Stonz sent over was their Cruiser. These shoes made my day with how stinkin' adorable they are, I mean who knew baby and toddler footwear could be so cute? These Cruisers are 100% my favorite pair of kicks she owns, with a sweet peachy color and a earth-friendly, sturdy and wearable construction, what's not to love?

We've still got a ways to go until Holly B can walk but I love that these shoes are made with a reinforced heel and are safe for walking, when she's ready. They're also made with a breathable mesh upper and a hi-poly insole, so we won't have to worry about her little shoes stinkin' the place up - they'll be fresh and ready for another wear soon.

Speaking of fresh, I absolutely adore the next product that was sent in my Babbleboxx! T.N. Dickinsons Witch Hazel is game changer and always has been in our home! They make a wide variety of products but two that are amazing post-partum are the T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel Hemorrhoidal Pads with Aloe and the T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel 100% Natural Astringent!

The Witch Hazel Hemorrhoidal Pads with Aloe are a lifesaver those first few weeks after a vaginal delivery. Even if you don't suffer from the dreaded pregnancy hemorrhoids, these extra soft pads help soothe vaginal pain as well and can be used daily to help provide relief!

On the other end of their product line is the T.N. Dickinson’s Witch Hazel 100% Natural Astringent! This wildly powerful astringent is actually gentle enough for daily use on your face and body but it does it's job unbelivably well. I use it to help when my skin is especially greasy looking or when I'm trying to fight a blemish before it becomes too bad and love how well it works!

While we're on the topic of things that work well, I think it's time to discuss Oilogic. This company takes the stress out of stressful situations with their solutions-based wellness products. Their products arefree from petroleum, phthalates, parabens, sulfates, gluten, dea, dyes, mineral oil, artificial colors, and synthetic fragrance, but they still get the job done - isn't that impressive?!

The two Oilogic products I was sent were the Oilogic Slumber & Sleep Essential Oil Linen Mist and the Oilogic Stuffy Nose & Cough Essential Oil Vapor Bath - both are lifesavers and total "wins" with Holly!

The Slumber and Sleep Linen Mist is beyond soothing. The natural aromatherapy calms and relaxes us both, while getting Holly ready for bed. I try and spray the blend everyday before I lay her down so she knows to associate the smell with bed/nap time and so far, it seems like it could be working..

The Oilogic Stuffy Nose & Cough Essential Oil Vapor Bath uses the natural power of essential oils to help treat babies not old enough for traditional forms of medicine. It helps stuffy little ones clear their nasal passage and calms little coughs. Both of these Oilogic products are now available nationwide in the baby aisle at Walmart, CVS, buy buy Baby, Amazon and more!

So tell me, what do you consider a "mom win" in your home?

Hollyn's Favorite Baby Toys from VTech Baby!

2022-07-21T21:54:00.002-04:00

This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx, regardless all opinions listed below are completely my own.

I feel like Hollyn just came into the world, then I blinked and my baby is now a big, strong three month old. It goes by so quick...

I'll be real, I'm already kind of missing that sweet newborn stage, but it's so exciting to see her blossoming and learning. She's really coming into herself! I'm cherishing every minute of each stage, knowing she's only little once and watching her recently roll over for the first time was legitimately so exciting. She surprises us daily with new skills and her athletic ability and agility makes tummy time an adventure daily, that's why we are loving all of her VTech® toys lately.

The one toy we've been grabbing for the most lately is the VTech® Kick & Score Playgym. This cute little play mat is the coolest. She's a huge fan because it lights up and plays songs, I'm an even bigger fan because she's learning while she's playing.

The playgym has a little bit of everything to keep my sweet busy bee entertained. From kicking the ball, to playing sounds and familiar phrases, to batting at the fun play pieces nearby the giraffe, she's constantly moving & grooving while chillin' on the Kick & Score mat. I'm able to lay her down on her mat and get a few things done while keeping an eye on her nearby.

It's amazing to see her face light up with excitement when she manages to kick the ball and it's even more fun to see her smiling when she swats at the giraffe toys and hears the rattle of the ball moving. She's so proud of herself and, in turn, I'm so proud of her!

We don't just lay her on her play mat on her back though, we occasionally flip her over and let her use the mat for entertainment during tummy time. It's so amazing to see her face light up seeing a different angle of her favorite toy. She loves seeing the buttons light up and looking around at all the "animal friends" on the toy definitely sparks joy for her!

Even more amazingly, she's starting to wiggle herself around and army crawl a little while laying on the mat, I credit the adorableness of the gym as a source of encouragement for her.

The playgym is not just a toy for babies though, big sister can't wait til Holly is a bit older and they can use the gym as a soccer goal. Until then we look forward to lots of "play" at this stage, for now big sister has been pointing out the numbers on the top of the playgym, playing with the dangling toys while Holly watches. It's fun watching them play together and I love that it's helping Holly strengthen her language skills while they both are exploring the music and songs as a team!

Looking for a great gift for a new baby in your life? Maybe your little one needs a good toy added to their Christmas wishlist? Make sure the VTech® Kick & Score Playgym is on their list this year!

While we are discussing toys, I feel like I need to mention another toy on the top of our list - the VTech® Turn + Learn Ferris Wheel is most definitely a favorite in this house. The way it lights up and sings songs has Hollyn mesmerized and I love that we can use it pretty much anywhere since it's little and attaches to surfaces by a suction cup.

Her face literally lights up when she manages to hit one of her new animal friends and makes the ferris wheel start singing. I imagine we'll be using this toy for years to come at dinner outings, play dates, and beyond.

Speaking of going out on the town, the last toy I want to share with you today but certainly not our least favorite is the VTech® Turtle's Busy Day Soft Book. This adorable little book has a story easy enough for big sister to recite to Hollyn but also has elements to keep them both entertained, from hide-and-seek little puppets to buttons to push to hear songs and phrases, they both are huge fans!

I've been encouraging D to read this to Hollyn while I'm making dinner lately and I love looking over and seeing them both so engaged with a sweet little book.

So, tell me, do your kiddos have a favorite toy? I'd love to hear all about it in the comments!

Reduce Waste and Sip in Style with GoSili

2022-04-12T09:31:00.000-04:00

This post may be sponsored, regardless all opinions expressed below are completely my own.

We all know life is better when we learn to adjust and grow, one way we are working on growth in this season of our life (other than growing our family) is learning how to live with less, specifically how to produce less waste. It actually is a simpler task than I originally thought and I love that we are doing our part to hopefully help the planet.

While there's a handful of ways we're trying to cut back on waste, one of the best and most effective ways we've been able to produce less waste is changing some of our kitchenware to GoSili products!

From the Toddler drinking cups for my little pre-k nugget to the Baby bib and silicone teething spoons for our newest addition, I'm super excited to make a change that benefits us all.

The 16oz Silicone to-go cup is Delainey's new favorite, coming in a stunning array of colors - we were gifted the pink and D is obsessed! I'm equally as obsessed since it's non-toxic, eco-friendly, and toddler-squeeze friendly with the embedded stainless-steel ring. Whether she wants a random hot chocolate treat or a refreshing ice-water, I love that I can grab for this cup and it's safe and easy-on-the-environment to use!

Once baby is big enough, I can't wait to teach her how to use cups using GoSili too. With their line of drinking cups and straw tops, I know it'll be a breeze. We tried all kinds of sippies for D and I wish we had known about GoSili and their easily adaptable straw toppers and these amazing little cups!

As I mentioned, they also sent over a bib and teething spoons for baby. I'm not going to lie, I wasn't sure about the bib, since we've never had a silicone bib - but I'm already a huge fan. It's made with the same platinum grade silicone but is made to be so comfortable for baby! It's the perfect bib to fold up and go with us places, especially because it has a little pocket to catch all the little bites that don't make it into babies mouth.

On that note, the teething spoons are definitely going to be a life-saver once baby is starting to teeth! These utensils are made with little nubs for easy gripping, but we all know they are also going to be the perfect texture for babe to soothe her gums! I plan on sticking them in the freezer, thanks to advice from GoSili and can't wait to see what baby thinks of them.

I didn't just change the kiddo's tableware though, I decided to go ahead and upgrade my daily cup to a GoSili cup and I haven't been disappointed. Not only is it "eco-friendly", it's adorable and convenient while also being the best way to make sure I'm staying hydrated enough each and every day as this pregnancy comes to an end.

This women-founded company manufactures and designs silicone tableware products for the whole family and their Silikids products are most definitely a hit in our house. GoSili products make the basics better by bringing an alternative to plastic, allowing the gap to be closed between great design and affordability while improving our quality of life. It's really a win in my book.

Check out their entire collection at www.gosili.com.

Step into Style with Pediped Shoes

2022-04-11T21:42:00.002-04:00

This post may be sponsored - regardless all opinions expressed below are completely my own.

Pediped has been around for a while, so you likely already know about this adorable shoe brand but did you know Pediped footwear has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for the promotion of healthy foot development? I had no clue, although I've always heard Pediped shoes are great for little feet - I found it so comforting to know I'm choosing shoes that help my baby once I learned this.

Not only are Pediped shoes award-winning, they are perfect for every outfit and occasion, with all the various styles and looks, it's nearly impossible to resist a shopping spree each time I see their catalog of shoes. The Originals are soft-soled shoes made for babes ages newborn to 24 months, The Grip 'n' Go are thin rubber-soled shoes perfect for ages 9 months to 3 years, and the Flex are perfect rubber-sole shoes for children ages 3 years to 9+ years available in European sizes up to 36.

Whenever Pediped approached me to feature them in my Baby Shower gift guide, I was so excited to see that I could get baby and Delainey a matching pair of shoes. Browsing their website lead me to so many cute designs with over 100 different options to choose from but these silver shoes stole my heart and I can't wait to see their cute little footsies matching in them together.

For now, we'll settle with talking about how comfortable Delainey thinks her shoes are, perfect for a dressy occasion or a trip up to the playground, I love that she can easily put them on and take them off without a fuss and they are just so stylish - I'm obsessed!

Interested in trying a pair of Pediped shoes for your little one? Check out their entire collection here.

Baby Basics Kit from fridababy

2022-03-23T16:52:00.004-04:00

As you all know, our second baby is expected to arrive any day now. We are beyond excited to welcome her, but still prepping for her arrival.

When I first found out she was coming, one of my first thoughts was that we needed to get FridaBaby products stocked up before she comes.

From the "snotsucker" to the "snipperclipper" things are just easier when FridaBaby is involved.

While I highly recommend all of the items FridaBaby makes, a good starting point for any mom (new and seasoned alike), is the Baby Basics kit.

This kit comes with all the vital FridaBaby items and then you can obviously add to your collection as you see fit.

So what's in the Baby Basics Kit?

As I mentioned, The "Snotsucker" also known as the Nose Frida, is one of the many items included but honestly one of the most important items you'll ever have when it comes to baby and snot noses.

Next on the list of what's included and what you'll be super thankful for is the Windi "Gasspasser". It does exactly what it sounds like, helping your little one soothe their tummy while passing gas.

Another item I never knew I'd want but I'm super thankful to have is the "snipperclipper" Nail Frida. It does the job so carefully that you don't have to stress about hurting baby, something we all don't want to accidentally do when trimming their little nails.

Lastly, the "skinsoother" Derma Frida is a lifesaver when it comes to bathing baby and keeping their skin fresh.

Have you tried any of the fridababy products? Do you totally agree that they are lifesavers? Tell me all about your experience in the comments below!

Don't Miss Out! Catch Hotel Transylvania - Transformania on Prime Video!

2022-01-13T10:23:00.002-05:00

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Amazon Studios & Sony Pictures Animation.

Change can be kind of scary, as we all know, but Hotel Transylvania - Transformania shows us that change can be amazing and incredibly entertaining as well.

My family had the pleasure of viewing this new movie a few days early, and let me go ahead and tell you, that you are in for a good time when the movie hits Prime tomorrow! This movie has all the fun you would expect from a Hotel Transylvania film, but with a twist.

The group of monsters isn't as "frightening" this time around, once they all transformed due to the "monsterification ray", but they all have to team up and battle time to turn things around.

Honestly when Drac & his pack were all transformed into humans, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I loved the twists and turns and actually felt a little sentimental as Drac & Johnny were discussing finding the sweetness inside us all as they ate s'mores over the campfire.

My five year old daughter was hooked and loved every second of the movie and I did too! We viewed our movie with some "transformative" popcorn - a mixture of caramel and cheddar and we snacked on s'mores afterwards, leading us to have a conversation about the sweet, gooey inside we all have.

If you're ready for a whirlwind of an adventure with some touching moments thrown in, where Mavis kind of saves the day, be sure to tune into Prime Video and check out Hotel Transylvania 4: Transformania on January 14th! Take a minute and watch the trailer to see what you're in for...

The Update on Baby #2: 28 weeks Pregnant with ___________!

2022-01-10T18:40:00.006-05:00

Finally sharing another update related to my pregnancy!

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I feel like I shared more when I was pregnant with Delainey, but that's likely because I had more free time. With that said, I'm 28 weeks and a couple days pregnant and yes, I count those couple of days because I'm legitimately counting down the minutes until my due date.

Don't get me wrong, I'm thankful for this baby. I consider her a blessing and I'm beyond excited to meet her, but I'm gonna be the one to say it - Pregnancy isn't always fun, it's not always rainbows and butterflies. It's kicks to the ribs and long, restless nights of trips to bathroom and charlie horses, it's heavy, it's uncomfortable at times, and it's down-right tough at other times... But it's rewarding, the end result makes you forget all that other stuff. Once I meet this baby girl, I know I'll fall in love and I have a feeling I'll miss this stage of my life - that's just the way things work.

It's funny. I went from craving flaming hot cheetos my entire pregnancy thus far, to going weeks without eating even one this past month. I have yet to finish off a bag that's been in my pantry forever and I'm not gonna lie - I don't know if I ever will.

I've been craving sweets, like a mad woman, and I occasionally indulge - but on the other hand, I balance my diet by eating salads like they are going out of style. Lately any salad with fruit in it and a good savory dressing is my favorite.

One thing, out of many things, that is different with this pregnancy vs when I was expecting Delainey is the fact that I think my belly button may "poke out" soon. I've always had what I would describe as a completely "innie" but this pregnancy has it looking (and feeling) a little more like an outie!

This past month we painted baby's room a super girly shade - premium pink, we hung up a light that matches her theme, put together her furniture, and started to organize the clothing I've held on to since Delainey was little and the few items we've been given.

I finalized my registry, you can take a peek here if you were interested in looking. I don't expect anyone to buy us anything, I've just been adding things to our list and keeping track of what we still could use.

Beyond all of that, I've been debating with myself (and my husband) about what her name should be. Should she have one middle name or two? Should she have a name starting with the same letter as big sister or should we give her a name that isn't as trendy? Naming a kid is hard, naming your second kid is harder. For now, we'll just assume this kid will eventually have a name and hopefully soon I'll be able to announce it!

So tell me, how many kids do you have? Were your pregnancies completely different from one another? What about your kiddos - are they similar or complete opposites? If you don't have kids, tell me about the family you grew up with, what was the dynamic like with your siblings and you?

I wanna hear the scoop.