Number Hold'em 2 From Education.com

Can you beat Floyd by building a bigger number? Kids practice comparing numbers with this Education.com game, one of many games that tackle math skills.

Book Review: Too Blessed To Be Stressed for Every Day

Disclaimer: I was provided this book to review. All opinions are my own.

Ready to be rescued from the joy-sucking dully-funks? 
The Too Blessed to be Stressed devotional offers up a daily dose of devotions (and humor) for a woman's heart.

Thousands of women have had the pleasure of reading the wit- and near-wisdom-filled books from beloved inspirational humorist, Debora M. Coty. Her best selling Too Blessed to be Stressed has become a perennial favorite.

Now, be ready to be rescued from the joy-sucking dully-funks...

In this all-new 365-day devotional featuring just-right-sized, truth-filled readings (gift-wrapped in humor) for your heart. The Too Blessed to be Stressed daily devotional touches on everyday life topics like relationships, love, boundaries, hope, brokenness, and praise, while helping you to arrive at healing, refreshment, and revitalization of spirit, body, and faith.  Read on, and be blessed!
https://www.amazon.com/Too-Blessed-Stressed-Inspiration-Every/dp/1634098102
My life can get very stressful. Between the kids, family business, giving my husband a good start to the day, Koda therapy, homeschool, doctors appointments and testing, and my own business- it can be a bit much at times. Its at these times that I try to read my Bible more, give HIM more joy, and praise him for the ability to do it, for my family, and for the jobs. Sometimes that can be hard though and we are not always successful with our best intentions. 

Thats why this devotional stays by my computer. I know that way I will not forget to read it and it gives me that extra dose of time with God each day. The humor also helps me get through the day. If you are a busy lady, this is the devotional for you! 


Win it! FrontGate is giving away a copy of this book to a lucky winner. Just visit the site for your chance to win! http://www.blessedfreebies.com/tooblessedtobestressed.html

Go Back to School with The Learning Journey!


As your kids head back to school, they can keep the summer fun and learning going with The Learning Journey – a company that designs and manufactures high-quality educational games, puzzles and toys for toddlers, preschoolers and school aged children. 


You are probably already familiar with some of The Learning Journey’s most popular products such as Telly The Teaching Time Clock, Touch and Learn Phonics or the My First Match It! line.  In addition to these classic toys, The Learning Journey also has a full line of STEM toys. STEM, standing for Science, Technology, and Engineering, and Math is the future of young learning. The goals of STEM education are to prep kids for school by building spatial, reasoning, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The Learning Journey STEM products are meant to be “brain-boosting” playthings that will give kids hands on experience with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. STEM products are meant to make learning fun, but also pique kids’ interest into wanting to pursue courses at school based on the things that they are learning from these toys. STEM products from The Learning Journey will also help reinforce the STEM skills that children are learning as they head back to school.  The Learning Journey has a full line of STEM products including fun games, puzzles, and construction and activity sets. STEM products from The Learning Journey range from ages 12 months+ (My First Shape Sorter) to 8+ (Vortex 2.0; Alpha).


Some of the newest STEM products from The Learning Journey include the Techno Gears: Marble Mania Extreme 4.0 and Techno Gears: Quirky Copter.

Techno Gears Marble Mania Extreme 4.0 is jam-packed with fun and excitement. With over 200 pieces, this set creates marble runs like never-before with 3-D connectors, channels, a motorized power lifter and much more! The possibilities are endless with so many ways to build and “Power Up” hundreds of marble run designs!  The game is for ages 6+ and teaches mechanics and engineering skills inspires creativity and develops problem-solving skills.  Extreme 4.0 is available online and at specialty retailers for approximately
$39.99.

Kids love to build, and the Techno Gears Construction Sets are the perfect way to encourage your little engineer and architect! With each set featuring more than 80 colorful construction pieces, only the imagination of a child can limit the possibilities! This product aligns with the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) standards. Requires two “AA” batteries (not included). Ages 6+ years.  Techno Gears: Quirky Copter is available now for $15.99.

Some other exciting back to school toys from The Learning journey include ABC Melody Maker, Grab it! Space Match, Puzzle Doubles, Find it! Dinosaurs, Magnetic Spell and Learn Board and Magnetic Count and Learn Board.

The ABC Melody Maker is an exciting electronic toy featuring five fun games sure to entertain your youngster. This colorful interactive unit features an activity selector that puts kids in charge of choosing their fun. Children won’t even realize they’re learning! Available in orange and pink, the ABC Melody Maker includes games that develop language skills, build motor skills and reinforces listening and comprehension abilities.  The game is for ages 3+ and is available online and at specialty retailers for approximately $29.99.

Kids will love learning about shapes with this action-packed game. With the colorful space themed cards and dispenser, kids will push, launch, GRAB and match their shapes. Kids simply launch the shape discs from the dispenser and when their shape comes out, they GRAB IT! and place it on the corresponding spot on their game board.  The game is for ages 2+ and teaches shape recognition and problem-solving while having hours of interactive fun!  Space Match is available online and at specialty retailers for approximately $14.99.

Puzzle Doubles are two great products in one -- a giant 50-piece, 2’ x 3’ beautifully illustrated “talk about” floor puzzle that when completed becomes a game! The game can be played in two ways – object recognition and word recognition.  Children can learn object recognition by locating an illustration in the puzzle and placing the game piece over the matching object on the border.  And, kids can learn word recognition by flipping over the game piece and learning the name of the object that is pictured. As the object is identified in the illustration, place the word game piece over the same object located on the picture’s border. Puzzle Doubles are a fun and educational tool for all early learners.  Find it! Dinosaurs teaches children all of the names of the dinosaurs as well as their images. The game is for ages 3+ and is available online and at specialty retailers for approximately $14.99.

Learning to spell has never been this much fun! This unique learning system is portable, sturdy and contains 40 interlocking magnetic upper case letters, 10 magnetic pictures, and a handy storage compartment. The Magnetic Spell and Learn Board will help your child focus on developing early vocabulary, spelling and basic phonics skills. Ages 3+ years. Magnetic Spell and Learn Board is available now for $13.99.

Practice makes perfect and the Magnetic Count & Learn board provides the perfect space for your child to practice their mathematic and counting skills. Featuring 40 interlocking magnetic numbers,10 mathematical symbols and a handy storage compartment, this learning tool will help your child build important basic skills in readiness and mathematics. Ages 3+ years. Magnetic Count & Learn Board is available now for $13.99.

Organize Kids In The Car With #ThirtyOneGifts

Disclaimer: I received products to facilitate this project. All opinions are my own.

Keeping a car that kids spend time in organized can be a full-time job, at least for me. Add to it the extras needed for a road trip and life gets really complicated. Over the years, I have found what works for us, so I want to share some tips with all of my fabulous readers. Whether you need your car organized for everyday use, or for a trip, there should be something here to help you.

1. Backpacks: The kids have adjusted to using their Lil' Go Backpacks from Thirty-One Gifts. They work perfectly. Along the way, we found that putting a carabiner on the handle will allow you to hang it from the seat in front of them. If it is not hanging, the floor board works just fine. The Fold-Up Family Organizer keeps games, art supplies, books and more organized and handy. It has a strap that will allow you to hang from the back of a seat as well!

2. If you are going on a road trip, I have found the perfect place to pack kids' bed stuff is in the floorboard beside their backpacks. I pack their pillow, quilt, blanket, lovie, flashlight, and their Bible in totes they got for their birthdays. They are light weight and have Spiderman and Minnie mouse, but any light weight tote will do. I pack everything but their throw and pillow in the bottom of the bag. They can easily pull out a blanket or pillow if they get sleepy or want to get cozy and watch a movie. The Essential Storage Tote will work great for this as well.

Related image3. DVD Players/ Tablets: I have packed up our tablet hanging cases in favor of something more awesome! I use the Hanging Traveler Case from Thirty-One Gifts. When it is opened, it makes the perfect case for all electronics. There is a hanger that is perfect for hanging on the seat in front. The top pocket is perfect for the tablet/ DVD player while watching movies. The bottom pocket is perfect for storing accessories. If you are not in the car, the top can be folded back and the case will stand, making the bottom pocket great for watching movies. There is plenty of room for everything to be kept together! What can be better?

See all that space? Isn't it perfect? Accessories can be put in smaller zipper pouches for easy organization and access! Yes, my kids are that organized. (Not!!! I have to keep on top of it all!)

4. Drinks/ Snacks: The Fresh Market Thermal is perfect for road trips. It is easy to open and keeps goodies cold! Just put it somewhere that is easy access (I put it on the floor board between the kids' stuff). I can just turn around and unzip it and grab what I need. It is also easy to carry and store.

The Double Duty Caddy is perfect for meals on the go. It is the right size for a cup, french fries, and a snack on each side, as well as napkins. No more juggling burger, drinks, and fries. Use this instead!

Products like The Littles Carry-All Caddy, Summer Fun Caddy, Oh Snap Bin, and Oh Snap Pocket can hold drinks, snacks, and even napkins for those in the back seat. Sometimes car cup holders are hard for little ones to reach, but this solves the problem.

5. I like to Keep the Large Utility Tote in the back of the car for the whole trip. This allows me to keep swim gear, sun screen, a change of clothes and handier no matter where we venture to. It is great for the ride too, you never know when you may need a change of clothes! I use the second one to carry grocery bags with snacks and lunches to the hotel room at one time. The LUT is a miracle worker!

6. Extra Activities/ Needs: The Double Duty Caddy is perfect for essentials that are just easier to keep in the car, like extra diapers, sunscreen, bug spray, wipes, and more. It sits up straight, has a handle, and is easily organized.

Use a Fold-and-File or Catch-All Bin between the two front seats for maps, magazines, itinerary, purses, and more. Have everything at your fingertips and looking pretty.

The Hang-It Pocket Organizer works great hanging on the back seat of an SUV or Minivan. Store everything you need and have it handy!


The Your Way Rectangle and Lid are great for road trips. Put extra books, games, toys, snacks, movies, and more while you are on the road. The Lid is great for eating and playing games. Sometimes you need a solid surface. I even fit the kids' folding lap desk in it! It is perfect!

What are your car organizing needs. What storage solution have you found for your car? I would love to hear it!

Mom Approved: The Learning Journey

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

We are getting ready to start another school year at Owl Creek Academy, but our learning never stops in the summer. What I like to do during the summer is find games and toys that are educational and new to them to keep them engaged in the summer. That also gives me a chance to see how well that product will work for them as a supplement during the school year. It has worked well for us the past few years. The two items that The Learning Journey sent us are perfect and will work perfectly for this school year, where we will have a preschooler and first grader.

Telly The Teaching Time Clock

Telly The Teaching Time Clock (PRIMARY COLOR DESIGN)This little guy is awesome. Telling time is something we are still working with our oldest on. He is slowly getting it, but with so many digital clocks around, it is near impossible to force him looking at an analog clock. We haven't even started with our youngest. Telly The Teaching Time Clock has amazing features to make learning time easy and fun!

Let Telly The Teaching Time Clock help your child learn to tell both analog and digital time using two quiz modes. In the learning mode, Telly teaches time in five-minute increments when his hands are moved, updating his LCD screen. In the quiz mode, Telly asks your child to move the hands on his face to match the time displayed on his screen. Telly is also a real working clock. Learning to tell time has never been so much fun. Requires three AA batteries (included). Ages 3+ years.

We keep Telly by the kids' door, where their shoes, sunglasses, backpacks and such are. I've been telling them what time we are leaving or starting a new activity to get them looking at it. Each morning I even draw a random time on a dry erase clock that we have. The kids can either tell me when it is that time or tell me what time the clock says for a surprise. Telly is really helping them with this!

Match It! ABCs

Match It! - ABCsThis has been an awesome game for Snapper. She loves learning her alphabet but does struggle with it a little more than Tbomb did. Match It! ABCs is something she can do by herself and still learn. When she gets the right match, it excites her so much and we talk about it together after she brings me a pair.

This colorful set of 26 ABC puzzle cards provides children with an excellent introduction to the alphabet. Each card features a picture, the beginning letter (upper and lower case) and the name of the picture. The puzzles are self-correcting as no two puzzle cuts are the same. A fun way to learn the alphabet. Recommended for ages 3+ years.

Though  I wish I'd had this game with Tbomb was first learning letters, he picked them up very easily, so it was not a big deal. With Snapper, I like as many different tools as possible for her to learn with because she is much more hands on and needs the repetitiveness, where as Tbomb, he learns things almost as quickly as you can tell him. Snapper plays this game almost every day and it will be included in her daily letter box this coming year. I highly recommend this game to anyone with small children. There are so many things it teaches at once- letter recognition, upper/ lowercase matching/ sounds, and even hand/ eye coordination. It is definitely a winner.

As we wind down the summer and I am putting finishing touches on the coming school year's plans, I find myself wandering to The Learning Journey more and more and I cannot complain!

10 Ways to Turn Off The Screen And Get Outside

Disclaimer: I received items in exchange for this project. All opinions are my own.



I hope I am not the only one that feels this way, but sometimes it is near impossible to get the kids to turn off the electronics and get outside in the summer. Sometimes I have to find something that seems exciting to them to get them outside without war.

Here are some of the things we have been doing this year:

1. Finding Bugs: With a bug jar and magnifying glass from Oriental Trading, there is nothing like exploring the bugs in your yard for an evening of fun!

2. Nature Journal: A spiral journal, pen, colored pencils, and tape make for an amazing nature journal.

3. Blowing bubbles: Get jugs of bubbles, paper cups, and a variety of bubble wands for hours of fun.

4. Painting Nature: It is easy to paint a nature scene with a piece of posterboard and giant watercolors.

5. Birdwatching: Grab some fun binoculars and check out the bird life in the neighborhood.

6. Sky Watching: Lay on your back and watch the clouds or stars, imagining photos, picture life elsewhere, or dreaming. Add in some construction paper and crayons for a great activity for day or night. Add to the fun and do it in the pool. Flamingo drink floats make for additional fun here!

7. Night Time Scavenger Hunts: Grab a flashlight, glow wands, and a scavenger hunt paper for a fun night time scavenger hunt. Putting the flashlight on a lanyard helps little ones not lose it!

8. Nature Crafts: Make a birdhouse, birdfeeder, birds nest supply home, fairy garden, and more. Oriental Trading has everything you need to make your backyard a wonderland.

9. Campfires: The kids and I love sitting by the campfire, making smores, and telling stories. I enjoy doing crafts at the same time. the kids have joined me making crafts this year by the fire. They added glow in the dark beads to their headphones for a pop of fun!

10. Feeding Wildlife: Keep a stash of seeds, bread, and more and send the kids out for feeding time in the backyard. You can also put out apples, strawberries, berries, carrots, lettuce, and more. We feed the cats, bunnies, birds, foxes, deer, and anything else that may wander into our yard and it is something fun for the kids to do.


Oriental Trading makes summer fun easier with other products as well. Did you know that Oriental Trading offers pre-packaged snacks for grab and go goodness? My kids love the easter pretzels and the peas and carrots gummies- I'm wure yours will as well.

Book Review: I Am Devotional: 100 Devotions About The Names Of God

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

The God Who Saves. The God Who Provides. The Holy One. The names of God tell us who He is and how He loves us—explore the glory and the goodness of God in I Am Devotional.
Children will learn to trust God in everything as they learn about the names and character of God in the I Am Devotional. Through 100 devotions, children will see how God’s names reflect His love, strength, trustworthiness, etc., and what that means as they develop a strong faith.
Name of God: I AM
Meaning: God is to be worshipped
Application: Worship God by how you live!
Diane Stortz has a proven history of connecting well with both children and parents in her writing. With sales of 500,000 inspirational books for children, Diane is a trusted name for Christian families. The art of Diane Le Feyer has captivated readers of I Am and will continue to delight in this accompanying devotional with vibrant illustrations throughout and a vivid cover embellished with foil and lots of striking glitter.
The I Am Devotional is the perfect companion to I Am, the Bible storybook that first introduced children to the names and character of God.
I have spent much of the summer searching for a devotional book to use for the majority of our school year. We do a few specific studies throughout the year, but I usually stick with one memory verse and a devotional for our daily bible study, especially while the kids are young. I finally found this one and could not be happier. 
Since there are 100 devotions, it will last most of the year. I love that it teaches just how amazing God is so the kids can get a sense of this while they are still young. I have always loved learning about the names of God so it will be wonderful for me as well. 

Book Review: This Life I Live

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

The story she said he was born to write.
Her story. His story. The love story of Joey and Rory.
By inviting so many into the final months of Joey’s life as she battled cancer, Joey and Rory Feek captured hearts around the world with how they handled the diagnosis; the inspiring, simple way they chose to live; and how they loved each other every step of the way. But there is far more to the story.
“My life is very ordinary,” says Rory. “On the surface, it is not very special. If you looked at it, day to day, it wouldn’t seem like much. But when you look at it in a bigger context—as part of a larger story—you start to see the magic that is on the pages of the book that is my life. And the more you look, the more you see. Or, at least, I do.”
In this vulnerable book, he takes us for the first time into his own challenging life story and what it was like growing up in rural America with little money and even less family stability.
This is the story of a man searching for meaning and security in a world that offered neither. And it’s the story of a man who finally gives it all to a power higher than himself and soon meets a young woman who will change his heart forever.
In This Life I Live, Rory Feek helps us not only to connect more fully to his and Joey’s story but also to our own journeys. He shows what can happen when we are fully open in life’s key moments, whether when meeting our life companion or tackling an unexpected tragedy. He also gives never-before-revealed details on their life together and what he calls “the long goodbye,” the blessing of being able to know that life is going to end and taking advantage of it. Rory shows how we are all actually there already and how we can learn to live that way every day.
A gifted man from nowhere and everywhere in search of something to believe in. A young woman from the Midwest with an angelic voice and deep roots that just needed a place to be planted. This is their story. Two hearts that found each other and touched millions of other hearts along the way.
We followed Joey and Rory's story for so long. My daughter laughed with Indy, we cried with them all, and we cried when she died. We wipe tears as we watch Rory try to raise his daughter, run the farm, and keep a smile on his face. It is a heartbreaking, yet inspirational story from the beginning. 
When I heard the book was coming out, I knew I had to have it and it would be passed around the family. We did pass it around and laughed, cried, and had our hearts filled. I have not been disappointed. This is a book for all Christians to read. It is beyond inspirational. 


Mom Approved: Honest Kids

Disclaimer: I was sent samples to review. All opinions are my own.


A post shared by Cari | Chief This Handler💡 (@cari_on) on

My kids and I have fallen in love with Honest Tea Kids Juice! Yes, I sneak one on occasion- I guess it could be worse though. While you can buy them in a variety of packages, I buy the pouches because it is better than the other pouch options and is great for outside or on the go.  You can't get much better than a healthy juice pouch.

There are a wide variety of flavors available, including Super Fruit Punch, Appley Ever After, Berry Berry Good Lemonade, Goodness Grapeness, Cherry Go Round, and Twisted Tropical Tango.

Honest Kids Juice is flavored with natural fruit juice, which is always a winner in my mind!

Honest Kids is also USDA Organic, Gluten Free, Non-GMO, recycled & recyclable, and no artificial flavors or colors.

See why I love it so much!?

Mom Approved: Pure Growth Organic

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

Another love I found this summer!



First of all- here is a huge win for this summer's snacks! The kids love that the snacks sent to them are Disney Themed (yes, we are one of THOSE families)

The people at Pure Growth Organic were so sweet to send the kids a box of Strawberry Breakfast Biscuit Bites and Chocolate Banana Breakfast Bars. Both of them loved both types. We have bought more of them since and we have even tried more- they especially love the popcorn and cookies! Pure Growth Organic is definitely a win for car trips! In fact, I have been picking up snacks and breakfasts each time we go to the store for an upcoming trip and they do not forget to remind me to get "Mickey breakfast and cookies"

The Good Stuff: Whole Grains; organic, Kosher, fiber, baked in the united states.

They leave out the bad: Non-GMO, no artificial colors, no artificial flavors, no high fructose corn syrup.

Yep, a winner!

Mom Approved: Veggie Go

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

While I have started letting my little minions have more sugar, I still watch it very closely. I also watch artificial dyes, flavors, and preservatives. I can definitely tell a change in them when they have been loaded down with artificial things, even sweeteners.

This summer, I have made it my mission to find more packaged snacks (let's face it, they are easier) that I am okay with giving the kids. When we are running around like crazy, on trips, or running errands, I like to have that option. I have found several options and have been enjoying sharing what I have found with you guys.

On to the next- Veggie-Go's!


A post shared by Cari | Chief This Handler💡 (@cari_on) on

What do I love about Veggie-Go's? There is 1 serving of fruits and vegetables in each pack. So, my kids think they are eating fruit rolls or gummies when they are getting good for them stuff in as well. Also, they love the flavor, so it is a double win.

I have also been able to get them trying new vegetables because I'll remind them that it was in their Veggie-Go's and they get excited! How can we not win?

Veggie-Go's are also USDA organic Non-GMO, Gluten Free, sustainable, fueled by wind energy, and they use little plastic with recycled and recyclable packaging!

It all started with two people, an adventure and a borderline obsession with produce.

Veggie-Go’s™ founders Lisa and John have always had a thing for real food. Growing it. Eating it. Loving it. So after living and working on organic farms across Europe, their shared passion transformed a spark of an idea into a whole new slant on snacking: delightful fruit, vibrant veggies and flavors so unique they’re downright surprising. Now it’s your turn to open wide and devour the delicious results.

Organizing Multiple Kids With Thirty-One Gifts

Okay, so we have established my LOVE for Thirty-One Gifts. Now, I'm going to expand on that and share one more reason that I am absolutely in love with this brand.

I have two kids- they are color coded. This is the only way to manage the two of them. Not only does it help with Snapper's anxiety, but it helps with T-bomb's love for routine. If they have two completely different things, they will fight. However, if their things are just alike, it gets confusing. My solution is to color-code. Usually, Snapper has pink (if not, it is purple or orange) and Tbomb has green (if not, it is blue or gray). That is what works for us. Thirty-One really helps as well.


Here are some tips for color coding. Thirty-One is a really great help with this, as well. 

1. Decide on colors- you may as well make it colors the kids like, as they will be using it a lot

2. Go ahead and purchase tape (washi tape works well) for items like cups, electronics, and more that cannot be embroidered. 

3. Choose a few different patterns from Thirty-One that are complimentary and that your kids will love. Not all products come in the same patterns. (Snapper gets candy corners, loopsy daisy, anchors away, and candy strips. Tbomb gets the gray signature patterns, doodle dots, and digital camo). 

4. Choose a color and style to embroider. I just use the basic font and the bright green for both. However, if I was choosing solid color patterns, I would use different colors for embroidery.

5. Choose what you will embroider with. I use their nicknames (Snapper and Tbomb), you can use an initial, name, or whole initials, as well as symbols.

6. Labels can be your best friend. They are amazing to help keep little ones from losing items, as well as keeping items organized. You can color code these as well. I put "The Georges" on all the labels, but color-code them. It works perfectly.

7. Label/ Tape/ Mark/ Embroider EVERYTHING. It may seem obsessive, but you will be glad you did. Charge cables, drink cups, everything is labeled- it definitely cuts down on bickering and makes my life easier.

8. Talk with your Thirty-One Gifts consultant and she can help you pick out the right items for your family and coordinate the patterns. If you need a consultant, feel free to email me (thepalmettoqueen @ gmail.com) and I can help you find one.

10 Healthy Camping Snacks For Kids

I love camping. More than I can even describe, I love taking my family to be out with mother nature, to hear the lake while we drift off to sleep, and to escape the rat race with some fresh air. It is so incredibly peaceful.

Getting everything ready to camp is a different story all together. I especially stress when packing food. I worry I will not have enough healthy snacks to keep the kids going on the long days of being outside. With sugary snacks, they just crash and are hard to get along with. Over the years, I have learned of some ways to keep healthy snacks ready for summer fun, and found some great packaged ones as well.

1. Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Over the years, I have learned that if we keep fresh fruit and vegetables in zip-lock bags in the drink cooler, the kids will grab them quicker and enjoy them more. Also, it keeps them fresh longer. We get carrots, celery, and cucumbers. We also slice apples, pears, oranges, grapes, and more. Using a melon baller with watermelon, cantaloupe, and honey-dew melon works great as well.

2. Packed Fruits

While we are throwing things in the cooler, we throw in some fruit cups and apple sauce. We grab a few yogurts if we run to the store as well, but only for that day.

3. Brothers' All-Natural Fruit Crisps

You all already know how much I love this product, and yep, its great for camping as well.

4. Campfire Foods

If you do a quick google of campfire foods, you would be amazed at how many snacks, dinners, and desserts you can make with a campfire and aluminum foil

5. Cereal, Crackers, Pretzels & More

Just about anything your kids snack on at home can be transformed into great camping snacks. My suggestion is to divvy them up into zip-lock backs before you go. Believe me, it will make life easier.

6. Trail Mix

Always A Winner

7. Tostitos and Salsa

A nice refreshing snack, and healthy at the same time

8. Watermelon

Why not take an afternoon to cut a chilled watermelon (put it in the lake that morning and you are good to go by afternoon) then go jump in for a swim as a family

9. Popcorn

You can either get Jiffy pop to do on the fire, or pop a bunch before you leave and put it in baggies. Perfect snack! My kids like when I add sprinkles, reeses pieces, and other goodies in.

10. Mini Chip Bags

They may not be the healthiest, but sometimes you just have to have chips. The good thing about the mini bags is that they stay fresh, are easy to grab, no dirty fingers inside the big bag, and they are portion controlled.

What do you like to take camping?


Mamma Approved: Piggy Paint

Disclaimer: I received products to review for free. All opinions are my own.

My little SnapperBug loves painting her nails, as well as mine, daddy's, papa's, Nina's, and even her uncles' nails. I actually have a hard time finding a polish that I'm happy to let her use. One reason is that she bites her nails and I do not like the idea of her putting those chemicals in her mouth. The other reason is that I do not want to use polish remover on her, so I prefer nail polish that peels off or at least comes off easily. Piggy Paint to the rescue!

Piggy Paint: Natural As Mud!


Image result for piggy paint

Piggy Paint is a natural, eco-friendly nail polish for kids. Its non-toxic, hypoallergenic formula makes it safe to use on all piggies. Piggy Paint dries to a hard, durable finish that can easily be removed with our eco-friendly, low odor Piggy Paint nail polish remover. Both are made in the USA!
Available in an assortment of gift sets perfect for Holidays and other special occasions. Say good-bye to harsh, smelly chemicals and hello to Piggy Paint...it's as Natural as Mud®!

Mamma Approved! Rock The Locks

Disclaimer: I received products for free to review. All opinions are my own.

I have a confession to make: I dislike my hair very much. It is thick, dark, textured and curly. Thankfully, I have taken care of it over the years, so it has yet to reach the status of my fathers' curly mess, but it is not easy to deal with. Well, my little girl has the same curls- except hers is just really curly- no rough texture, it is thin, and it is blonde. I didn't realize that taking care of it would be so different from my own. I have struggled with finding the right mix of products, that is also appropriate for a 3-year-old.

Luckily, I found Rock The Locks!


A post shared by Cari | Chief This Handler💡 (@cari_on) on

Rock The Locks is hair care for kids, without the harsh chemicals. It is actually much harder to find the right products in a formula that is completely safe for kids. I never realized how many things are in the products that I use that I would not want on her head.

Rock The Locks sent me conditioning detangler, curl boost, flex style gel, hairspray, shampoo + conditioner, and texture paste. I use these products on both the kids and they love it. I love that it works and it is safe for the kids.

I could not be happier with these products and will continue to use them.

If You Can Only Do One, This Is the Bath Upgrade to Get

Fads and fashion come and go, but a high-quality improvement is a timeless way to add more function and appeal to your home. One renovation that almost always brings a solid ROI is a bathroom remodel. Bathroom remodeling contractors will tell you that even one major upgrade in your facilities can return anywhere from 64 - 182% of its cost on resale, depending on the area of the country you live in and the extent of the renovation. So, if you only have it in your budget to make one bathroom improvement, which is the best investment?

What Makes a 'Good' Upgrade?

Contrary to popular belief, high-style and luxury are less appealing to the average home buyer than functionality and ease. That is why things like swimming pools, which you would think of as generally appealing, can actually make it harder to market your home. People like the idea of having a pool but not the expense and time-consuming maintenance.

If your goal isn't to recoup your investment, the best upgrades are the ones that add enjoyment, efficiency, and comfort for you and your family. However, if you ask any home builder, Realtor or interior designer, they'll tell you that renovating a kitchen or bath are the two top ways to add these elements while also increasing value and the asking price of your home.

What's the Best Upgrade for My Bathroom?

Basically, homeowners - and prospective buyers -  favor upgrades on rooms that get a lot of use,  accessories that use fewer resources like water and energy or projects that offer more protection for their homes, such as new entry doors and roofs. The top trend in bath remodeling now? No-threshold showers. This feature is more a long-term trend than a fad, and it has many benefits that you wouldn't think of immediately.

For those who don't know, installing a no-threshold shower involves removing the traditional bath tub/shower combination and replacing it with an open, tiled space that's separated from the rest of the room by floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This option can open up a tiny bathroom or become the luxurious centerpiece of a larger space by adding elements like built-in benches and audio. These shower enclosures are easier to clean; you can simply open the doors and mop with the rest of the bathroom floor. The ease of entry also allows older homeowners to age in place, and the demand for more accessibility in homes for sale adds to the market value, especially as the population in general ages.

If you want to know the best way to improve your bathroom, talk to a reputable home improvement contractor in your area.

Fabulous Amazon Products For The Woman In Your Life



Disclaimer: I did receive products to review. However, my opinions are my own

There is a store that I really do love on Amazon. they have functional and fabulous items. They are inexpensive, but quality with a beauty that is hard to beat. Here are two of my favorites!

This beautiful macbook case is a chic addition to my tech items. It works for a 13" macbook, small laptop, large tablet, and even netbook.

You can always carry accessories in the case. It is sturdy, dustproof, has soft lining, thick protection, has shock protection and a durable zipper.

This Sherosa bag in a white rose pattern is chic and will help you look good as you head to work, the coffee shop, or for a meeting with your laptop.

Buy this bag, also available in solid colors for a more manly or business look, for your next business meeting.


This dress was the perfect addition to my summer wardrobe. Because of the kids, I do not wear dresses often because I never know if I will have to get in the floor or bend over. But, sometimes I still love to wear a t-shirt dress and it did not disappoint!

Kancystore's tshirt dress has a great fit and is just the right amount of dressy. It is a casual shirt dress, but could be dressed up with the right accessories. I like it with flipflops or sneakers, simple jewelry, and even a cap.

I was highly impressed with the fit of this dress. It stresses in all the right places, but keeps its shape. It is longer than I thought it would be, which is nice (but I am only 4'10").

I have gotten a ton of compliments on this dress, head over and get you one here.

Yummy and Healthy Snacking With Brothers' All-Natural Fruit Crisps

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

Brothers' All-Natural Fruit Crisps are definitely a new favorite in our house. The kids want them all the time and they are especially perfect after a swim, hike, or long afternoon of playing. I always grab a couple packs before we go on errands too.

The new 1/2 cup serving packs are amazing for the kids. They are a smaller package for smaller tummies and have Disney Clubhouse characters on the package. What's not to love?!



The Disney Mickey's Clubhouse come in: Mickey Mouse Apple, Mickey Mouse Apple-Cinnamon, Donald Duck Asian Pear, Goofy Strawberry-Banana, and Variety Packs. They are also available in Cars, Dory, and Frozen.

The "original" fruit crisps come in Fuji Apple, Apple Cinnamon, Asian Pear, Banana, Peach, Strawberry, and Strawberry Banana.

These fruit crisps have no sugar added and are freeze dried in a unique way that does not leave them hard like many other brands are. These are winners for our family and will be for your family as well.

Healthy On The Go With Kidzshake

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

Getting a healthy breakfast in my kids is hard enough. Add in travel or busy mornings and it becomes near impossible. Well, thanks to KidzShake, my life just got a whole lot easier.


A post shared by Cari | Chief This Handler💡 (@cari_on) on

KidzShakes come in chocolate cream, strawberry cream, orange cream, and vanilla cream. My kids have tried the chocolate and the strawberry and absolutely love it! One of my favorite things about Kidzshake is that it can be mixed using milk or water.

KidzShake

FAQs:

  1. KidzShakes are manufactured in a nut-free plant
  2. There is no gluten
  3. For Ages 2 and up
  4. GMO- free
  5. Certified Kosher

KidzShake is the perfect way to give any child’s diet a boost.
  • Developed by a doctor just for kids
  • Complete supplementation, containing organic protein, vitamins and minerals, probiotics, digestive enzymes, omega 3s and fiber
  • Use it as a meal replacement, on the go breakfast, or a healthy after school snack
  • Delicious flavor that kids love with no added sugar and no artificial sweeteners
  • All natural ingredients that are gluten free, nut free, lactose free and casein free
  • Kidzshake is easy to prepare: just add water or milk beverage shake in a mason jar or shaker bottle. My Favorite way to use KidzShake is in a smoothie. You can add fruit, nuts, grains and veggies and mix in a blender, or check out one of my AMAZING Kidzshake recipes at www.kidzshake.com/recipes.
  • Perfect for picky eaters, athletic kids and any kid that needs a healthy boost to their diet
  • DISCLAIMER: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Thirty-One Gifts Ultimate Summer #Giveaway For Mom

Disclaimer: I received products to review and Thirty-One Gifts is offering products for the giveaway. All opinions are my own.

Do you love Thirty-One and organizing as much as I do? Do you struggle to stay organized all summer? Here's a secret- I do too, but Thirty-One Gifts helps me get through.


One lucky winner will receive the following items in a fun summer print:
Perfect Cents Wallet
Hang It Up Key Fob
Mini Coin Purse
Clear As Day Duo
Cool Clip Thermal Pouch

Details will be at the end.

Why do you need these to keep you organized? Each item adds an exceptional element to daily organization.

1. Perfect Cents Wallet in Loopsy Daisy: The ultimate wallet- you can even add a strap or wristlet!
Image result for perfect cents wallet
2. Hang It Up Key Fob in U R U Phrases: So many uses
Image result for hang it up key fob u r u

3. Mini Coin Purse in Turquoise Graphic Weave: Keep your needs handy at the beach, game, or while shopping. 
Image result for mini coin purse turquoise graphic weave

4. Clear As Day Duo in Candy Corners: Perfect for Summer Fun
Image result for clear as day duo

5. Cool Clip Thermal Pouch in Topsy Turtles: Keep everything cold on a hot summer day
Image result for topsy turtles cool clip thermal pouch
To get organized this summer with Thirty-One Gifts, comment below. Tell me how you stay organized in the summer and what your favorite of these products is. Good Luck. A winner will be chosen Wednesday, July 19, 2017.


31 Uses For The Triple Duty Caddy #DoItWithThirtyOne

As you know by now, I not only love organizing and Thirty-One Gifts, but I also love finding new uses for things! When I got my Triple Duty Caddy, I knew what I would use it for, but also knew there would be a ton of uses.


Here Goes: 

  1. Homeschool Organizer
  2. Classroom Organizer
  3. Portable Office
  4. Beach Bag
  5. Car Caddy
  6. Road Trip Essentials
  7. Beach Bag
  8. Games and Activities
  9. School Bag
  10. Picnic Basket
  11. Diaper Bag
  12. Pet travel necessities
  13. Backyard fun and games
  14. Camping needs
  15. Entertainment center caddy
  16. Craft supplies
  17. Scrapbook supplies
  18. Home Care Needs
  19. Traveling Business Needs
  20. Tool Bag
  21. In-Car diaper bag
  22. Car emergency kit
  23. Baby Sitter Bag
  24. College School Supplies
  25. College Bathroom Caddy (clothes, towels, and everything)
  26. Beauty Supplies (for a cosmetologist)
  27. File Box
  28. Pool-Side Kit
  29. Fire Pit Supplies
  30. American Girl Accessories
  31. Team Mom Bag
What would you use a Triple Duty Caddy for?