Kodabug's Favorite: The Sweetest Story Bible For Toddlers

Disclaimer: I received a product to review. All opinions are my own.

I have been looking for Kodabug her own Story Bible since she surprised us over a year ago. All of the ones I looked at just didn't fit right. Tbomb has his own, so I wanted her to as well. The one he has is perfect for him, so I wanted her to have one just as special. Thanks to Zondervan, Kodabug has her own prissy little Story Bible.

This board book is a beauty from the time it is seen. The cover is gorgeous and the illustrations are beyond beautiful. With language appropriate for children, it makes the perfect bed time book. The cover is even padded! The illustrator, Sheila Baily, has worked with different companies, including Hallmark to create beautiful pieces of art. The author, Diane Stortz, has written several Christian childrens books, and several books with missionaries in mind. The Sweetest Story Bible For Toddlers contains 8 different stories, 4 from the old testament and 4 from the new testament. Each story is just a few pages- long enough to teach the lesson, but short enough to keep their attention. The selected stories are chosen to show little ones how much God loves them. The illustrations are designed to captivate the imaginations of little girls every where.

Kodabug just loves this Story Bible. Even though she is only 16 months, the illustrations fascinate her and she will sit with it and pet the pictures. She has even fallen asleep with it. When I get it out to read her bed time story, she gets so excited. The prissy illustrations keep my prissy little girl captivated. One of my favorite things about this Story Bible is that it is even perfect for beginner readers. The words are simple, but the message is strong. I can't wait until she starts reading and can read the stories to me. Tbomb even gets in on the fun and tells Kodabug the stories in it (it's so cute- he thinks he's reading!). This Bible will be used regularly for many years to come, and I hope one day she passes it to her own daughter. I love that Queen Esther is even included- what better role model for little girls?!  

Stationary Saturday: Basic Invite Baby Shower Invitations

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. However, all opinions are my own.

Last Sunday, I wrote a post about baby shower etiquette. This is a topic I had been thinking a lot about lately and while the post started as a rant, I realized while writing it that it is something that I should write more about. While I am finished having kids, many of my friends and family members are just starting to have babies. I love baby showers, so I want to share with you a company that makes gorgeous invitations- perfect for a baby shower. Now, I'm itching to plan one.

Basic Invite's baby shower invitations are gorgeous, great quality, and have those perfect touches to make the invitation special. Their styles are truly beautiful, and there is something for everyone. There are cute, whimsical, classic, and even styles just for twins! The premium paper is available in different finishes to promise the perfect card for your event.

One of my favorite things about Basic Invite is the ability to coordinate events with similar styles. Not only can you also get thank you notes, but birth announcements as well. Wouldn't it just be adorable to get matching announcements. If I had discovered them sooner, I would have coordinated shower invites, thank you notes, announcements, and even first birthday invitations. That would have been perfect for my prince and princess.

Basic Invite has their guarantee covered from before you even order. Something they offer that I very rarely see is a truly custom sample. Pick your card,  customize, and check out. You can hold the card you want in your hand and see exactly what you are getting.

To further this, their "Love It Guarantee" promises exactly what your order. If you are not satisfied, you can get a reprint or a full refund.

If you have a baby shower to plan (let me help) and be sure to check out Basic Invite's invitations and announcements. 

Versatile Award Goes To SnakeClamp

Disclaimer: I received a product to review. All opinions are my own.

I have come across the most amazing product ever recently.The SnakeClamp is a dream come true. Lucky for me, the folks at SnakeClamp got me all set up. As you all know, I'm a pretty busy lady, I'm a mom, a homeschool mom, a business owner, a podcaster, a paranormal investigator, and a bigfoot researcher. As you can guess, my gadgets (including my tablet, phone, and cameras) are a big part of my life. I am always needing them in awkward places, struggle to find the right way to mount them, or just give up because none of the options work for me. Well, all of that has changed with The SnakeClamp. I can use my gadgets virtually anywhere. 

When you order a SnakeClamp, you choose an attachment, a flexible goose neck or rigid arm, and a mounting base. Their options are phenomenal. After explaining to them what I do, they set me up with the perfect options. They sent me 2 flexible goose necks, a multiclamp base (attaches to many surfaces, including poles), an eReader attachment, and a variety of camera mounts.The only thing I would add to my collection would be either the workholding attachments or the microphone clip, so I"m really looking forward to getting them. I can attach the SnakeClamp to tables, poles, or basically anything. I could even attach it to the 4wheeler and get shots with the GoPro with it. The only thing I would change about the SnakeClamp is add an option for a lighter weight arm, and a smaller attachment- I would love a lighter one I could attach to my backpack for a camera, or even a light. 

Unfortunately, I have not been able to explore all that the SnakeClamp can do yet, but it's warming up and I can't wait to start using it on expeditions and for filming. Be sure to keep looking on Instagram to see the new ways I've found of using it. In the mean time, head on over to SnakeClamp.com and start building your ultimate set up.  

Unboxing: #DisneySide @ Home Party

Disclaimer: I was lucky enough to be chosen to host a Disney Side at home party. All opinions are my own. 

When Tbomb found out that we were chosen to throw a Disney party, he was beside himself with excitement. When he found out that it was a Disney Cars party, he went WILD. I'm telling you, that kid is a maniac. Kodabug was, well, she's excited about everything! She was especially excited to show Minnie Mouse the box all the goodies came in!

It's here #disneyside #athome #disneycars #mailcall #tbomb #kodabug @momtalkradio

A photo posted by cari (@cari_on) on Jan 21, 2015 at 2:55pm PST

I was pretty excited myself, especially when we opened the box and found all the goodies we would get to experiment with!

Seriously, everything you need to throw an amazing Disney Cars party. I know the kids are going to LOVE IT!!!

Book Review: I Can Learn The Bible

Disclosure: I received this book to review. No other compensation has been received. All opinions are my own.

I Can Learn The Bible is a 52 week devotional for kids. Holly Hawkins Shivers has adapted The Joshua Code (that was actually written by her father) so that kids can benefit from this amazing system. The kid-friendly language of this devotional book teaches kids the scripture and to live the scripture. There are 52 different scriptures that are important for little minds to remember. Each week, the children will learn a verse, read a devotional, and work on memorizing that particular scripture. I Can Learn The Bible teaches children that the 

“God’s Word is FOR ME and TO ME, it is IN ME and working THROUGH ME, and just like His love, it goes on and on forever!”

I Can Learn The Bible has quickly become one of my favorite resources within our family. Not only do we use it for the Bible study part of our homeschool day, but we discuss what we learned as a family at dinner time. So, this devotional book has actually become a devotional for the whole family. I love that not only are the devotions written in kid friendly language, but the verses are as well. The verses and devotions are relevant to children and the problems/ challenges they face. This book will not only be the perfect devotional guide for your family, but you can use it in group study as well.

On the blog later. I love this children's devotional book. It is perfect for young minds. #icanlearnthebible #joshuacode #joshuacodeforkids #booklook #thepalmettoqueen #sponsored

A photo posted by cari (@cari_on) on Jan 19, 2015 at 10:40am PST

The author, Holly Hawkins Shivers, has included a guide for how to use this book with your own family. There is no guess work and it is not too much for little ones to take in. One of the things that I enjoy about it is that I can find the same verse in my bible and use that devotion- so I am doing it along with Tbomb. I love that every time we read a scripture, there is something new to see.  

Party Like A Squatch: Birthday Party Highlights

I'm a bit behind, but I'm finally getting around to posting about Tbomb's and Kodabug's birthday party. It was awesome! Tbomb turned 4, and per his request we had a bigfoot themed party "Party Like A Squatch." The main focus was camo and a 7 foot tall (to scale) Bigfoot. It was actually the same size as "Patty" from the famous Patterson-Gimlin film.

Because it was also Kodabug's first birthday, we mixed in some pink camo for good measure. It turned out amazing!

Look at all those homemade cakes and cupcakes. Yep, those are cream cheese packages waiting to be made into icing... That was a lot of baking

This is how their cakes turned out. Kodabug's was strawberry and Tbomb's was died green. Not bad for my first try at decorating. However, the peanut butter trim icing didn't stay too well. But, we have to start somewhere. 

Since we were all running around like mad the morning of the party, Nina and Papa surprised Tbomb with a gift to keep him occupied. 

These are the goodie bags and baby Squatch- it's a monkey with the tail cut off and banana removed. I thought making this sign would be a great addition to the party decor. 

Kodabug's high chair decor turned out great and it can even be used as a tutu!

I have to say, the matching bow turned out great too!

Before the party guests arrived. We had the opportunity to mix his birthday with the Leapband/ Zbar party too!

Check out this bigfoot their papa made just for the party. Isn't it awesome?! It's now hanging in Tbomb's room!

Cliff Barackman of Finding bigfoot even sent him a birthday card! I put it in an old DVD case to protect it!

Kodabug enjoying her loot

Her first cake--- "all mine!"

Passed out after the party

Tbomb enjoying his other present from Nina and Pap- yes I insisted on headphones!

For the next milestone event in the family, I am sending out fancy invitations. I love handwritten calligraphy invitations because they have a vintage feeling. Plus, they will be something special to save and remember the occasion for years to come.

Baby Shower Etiquette: Southern Charm Sunday

This post has been on my mind for a while now. Several months ago, I was not invited to a shower that I should have been. I'm seriously not being a brat- I really should have been. I was crushed- completely crushed. Then I thought, not everyone knows proper etiquette, so maybe they don't either. So, here are some etiquette tips for baby showers. There are tips for guests/ hosts/ and the guest of honor.

1. Invitations can be sent via email/ Facebook (depending on how formal the party is). 
2. Thank you notes should never be sent electronically
3. Make sure to accommodate the expectant couple's schedules. If this is a surprise work with close friends/ family members to avoid date conflicts. 
4. Modern baby showers can include both parents (and modern etiquette dictates this as the way to do it). However, if the party is being thrown by a group of girlfriends, sorority, etc, it is okay to let the dad sit it out. If this is the case- get someone to throw a "dad" party for fun things for baby and daddy. 
5. No matter which "side" of the family is throwing the party, immediate family members should be included. For instance, if the mom's family is throwing one, the dad's parents, siblings, and grandparents should ALWAYS be invited, and the same with the dad's family. Honestly, it's just rude not to include them. 
6. It is okay to have showers for second, third, etc babies. They should be celebrated too. However, it is acceptable to make these a "diaper and wipe" party. Also, if the baby is of a different gender, it can even be clothes and gear party. 
7. Want to throw a party and focus on the parents? Throw a pampering party and ask for gifts to relax mom and dad- maybe even get the family and friends to volunteer to cook on the week baby arrives. 
8. Strict with traditions? Tradition states that close family members should never throw a baby shower. However, what's the fun in that! 
9. Be gracious, no matter what- always show appreciation for the party, gifts, and guests presence. 
10. Show your appreciation for the host/ hostess. Don't forget that thank you note, but why not pick up something super special for them!
11. Baby showers should be held 4 to 6 weeks before the due date, although having one after baby's arrival could be fun as well. 
12. When throwing a baby shower, ask for anyone the honoree would really like to be there. 
13. If you want to take a baby to a shower, be sure to clear it with the hostess/ honoree. Sometimes it is fine, but other times just not appropriate. When making this decision keep in mind your baby's temperament, age, closeness to the honoree. If your baby starts crying, politely excuse yourself. If someone focuses too much on your baby, redirect the focus to the mom-to-be. 
14. Always remember general etiquette rules. 

Now that I've had my say about baby shower etiquette and finally gotten that off my chest, what are your thoughts on baby showers?

Want to get more involved in the fun? Learn how to support new mothers by becoming a doula at www.doulatrainingguide.com

Thirty-One Doing Good

Disclaimer: I did receive products from Thirty-One, however I wanted to do something extra that I was not asked to do- this is part of that. 

I love hearing about companies that give back to the community and really try to make a difference in the world. I love it even more when it is a company I already love.

Thirty-One Gives is the department of Thirty-One that focuses on giving back to the community. Some of their efforts include the Today Show Toy Drive, Value and Vision Scholarship, Ronald McDonald House, Girl Talk, Habitat for Humanity, and more. For their complete partners list, visit this link.

Are you part of a nonprofit organization? You can even request a Thirty-One Gives kit. This includes 6 popular items that can be used as raffle prizes or in an auction.

Did you know that Thirty-One products can be customized with an awareness ribbon with any color thread they offer? What a great way to raise awareness for a cause close to your heart. Learn more here.

I have fallen in love with what I have learned about Thirty-One Gives and the Thirty-One Gives Care Council mission.

Our Mission
We have a passion for serving and supporting girls, women and families. We believe strong, confident girls will grow up to become strong, compassionate women, who will be the driving force behind strong, healthy families and communities. Our mission is to celebrate others for who they are, giving them the support and self-esteem needed to lead a purposeful, thriving life. When we all work together and give a little piece of our heart, we can make a huge difference.
For more information please visit our FAQs.Thirty-One Gives Care Council (U.S. Only)

Thirty-One Opportunity For Moms

Disclaimer: I did receive products from Thirty-One, however I wanted to do something extra that I was not asked to do- this is part of that.

I have talked before about how much I love Thirty-One. One of the things I love so much about them is the opportunities that they create for moms (and other women). Thirty-One is a woman created and run business. It has become one of the biggest women-owned businesses in the country. They strive to help women's lives better by giving opportunities for them to own their own business. 

While the business model is not unique- other companies like Avon, Mary Kay, and Tupperware have started the same way. The difference is the passion within the company. I not only see it with the company itself, but with the women who run their own Thirty-One business. There is a passion and support system like no where else. It is truly amazing to connect with these women and see just what they see and what they love about the company. 

For a small start up fee, you can start your own company. The fee is actually a kit including what you need to run the business and hundreds of dollars in merchandise. There are several of these kits, starting at just $99. You can even have consultants under you and earn even more money. 

I have thought about signing up as a consultant for years now, but just haven't found the time to be the hostess with the mostest. However, I feel that time coming on! I've just been itching to do it for so long! 

I want to urge you to check out their business model, perks, and kits. It might just be that oomph you need in your life. Visit their consultant info page. 

Thirty-One Busy Bags and More

Disclaimer: I did receive product to review. However, I continue to be so impressed with Thirty-One that I am writing extra posts.

For a while now, I have been thinking about getting another Timeless Beauty Bag or two (from Thirty One Gifts). I thought about using them for special busy bags for the kids- mostly for when we are going to be waiting for a while or in the car for a while. I thought about it when I had to take Kodabug to the Cardiologist (Thank God- there was nothing wrong with her heart) and Tbomb had a long wait with my parents at the hospital. We loaded up on goodies, but I new there had to be a better solution. Of course, Thirty One popped in my head. Since then, I occassionally search for ideas and always end up lingering on the ideas that involve Thirty-One. So, I thought I'd share with you a few of my favorites.



This is one of my favorites- doing it this way, the kids have easy access to everything in the car and all that is needed is handy and confined. Hang them from the headrest for easy viewing and fold them up and stick them in the "family" bag when you leave the car. Found on Pinterest. (Timeless Beauty Bag)

I love the idea of using a Timeless Beauty Bag as a snack pouch. What a great idea for road trips, camping, or an impromtu picnic. It would even be great for sending to a babysitter, or hanging in the pantry for easy access. Found on Pinterest.

Someone turned the Timeless Beauty Bag into the ultimate busy bag. No explanation necessary. Found on Pinterest. 

This travel bag by What Matters Most Now is what my dreams are made of. 

This one is Tbomb's dream come true. Found on Indulgy

It isn't really a busy bag for kids, but I love this project. It would be perfect for someone in the hospital. Chemo Care Bags

In fact, the more I see these, the more I think my children need the Timeless Beauty Bags and that I need many more things from Thirty-One Gifts! I want to urge you all to visit this Pinterest board to see all the awesome ideas! 

Spring is Coming: Celebrate With Warby Parker

I'm not sure about the rest of you, but this time of year makes me think of one thing. Spring- I cannot wait for it to get here. On top of that-- this year, it is sooo cold. I can hardly stand it. I've been wearing fleece leggings under everything and SHOES. If you know me, you know that even the snow can't make me put shoes on. Well, it happened- I've been wearing shoes.

I guess I have a little bit of cabin fever because even my glasses have been looking dreary.

Feeling #geeky

A photo posted by cari (@cari_on) on Dec 14, 2012 at 8:50am PST

I guess it is about time for an upgrade. I have had these frames since right after Tbomb was born.  As you can imagine, I've been having fun checking out the new fun spring frames at Warby Parker. Yes, I have been drooling over them. I'm telling you, their eyeglasses styles are phenomenal.

Warby Parker has added so much sass to their line up, with the new Spring line. They have added 8 new shapes and 6 new colors. These frames have a classic feel, but with unexpected details. These new designs are inspired by a nautical point of view. They are inspired by anchors, coral, sandy beaches, and marine life. You know I'm head over heals with these - they make me miss my home on the coast.

In fact, I think I need these now!

The new spring line is available today (January 13th) online, in stores, and in showrooms. Want to shop online, home try on is even available (try up to 5 pairs). Prices start at just $95. Check out the new Spring line by Warby Parker.

Here are a few of my other favorites.

Organize Tech with Thirty-One

Disclaimer: I did receive product to review. However, I continue to be so impressed with Thirty-One that I am writing extra posts.

I love the organizing options with Thirty-One Gifts. They organize every part of my life. The one thing that I am continuously reorganizing is my tech stash. This is things that go with my computer and devices, paranormal investigation/ bigfoot hunting gear/ podcasting equipment, and those random gadgets I love so much.
While trying to figure out the best way to organize, Thirty-One keeps coming up, so I am going to share with you my wishlist for organizing my gear. Remember all of these items are available at ThirtyOneGifts.com and through your consultant.

I hope one or more of my suggestions solve a need you have!

Cable Organizing

The Timeless Beauty Bag is truly an all in one organizer. Do you have a lot of cables to keep track of, this case will allow you to keep them organized and visible.

Computer 

The fashion editor is the perfect on the go case for your computer. It allows room for other gadgets or personal necessities as well.

Tablet

The Hang-Up Activity Organizer allows you to view your tablet and keep other items handy. It can hang just about anywhere, including from a headrest, or hook.

Need to keep your tablet and other equipment on you without a large bag? The Organizing Shoulder bag is perfect for this. You can use it as a shoulder or cross bag for your best convenience.

Gadgets

The Double Duty Caddy has so many uses- with your imagine they are endless. I love the handle, sturdy sides, and mesh pockets on the side.

Attach the Oh-Snap pocket to just about anything for easy access to your gadgets.

Photography equipment

Ever considered using a lunch box for your camera? As long as you have some padding to go around it, they work perfectly. In fact, that is what my mother always used for her cameras/ camcorders. In fact, you can end up with a better option this way. Around The Clock Thermal.

Have a large lens, night scope, or other item of similar shape you want to protect? Why not use the Bring-A-Bottle Thermal to protect it. The sinch top will keep it secure and the carabiner clip allows you to hook it anywhere- including a belt buckle!

Tiny Treasures/ Hardware

I always use coin purses to organize tiny items inside o my larger bags. Tech is no different. If you use hardware (screws, washers, adapters, etc.) these little coin purses will help you keep it together. What I love about the Canvas Crew Coin Purse is the lanyard attached- makes it easy to keep track of. The little window can store replacement part information, ids, and even business cards.

General Organizing

I use my Baubles and Bracelets Case to organize all accessories inside my backpack. It holds my usb battery charger (charge with computer, power bank, or plug in), small microphone, extra cord, 3.5 splitter, power bank, and so much more. I can put it in my investigation pack and easily move it to my car bag for a road trip. It is the perfect size for those necessities. It has earring/ ring straps in the lid that I use for cords. It also comes with two mesh bags that are great for headphones, and other items that get lost or tangled. 

The Sling-Back Pack is perfect to grab and go. With several pockets, including the large interior, it makes a great option for general equipment. The exterior pockets allow you to stay organized and not lose tiny essentials.  

The Deluxe Utility Tote is the perfect general tote. Designed for any use, it is sturdy. This is perfect for larger equipment, rarely used items, or to carry everything together.