School On The Go With Carson-Dellosa

Disclaimer: I am a Carson-Dellosa Brand Ambassador and was sent items for review and for the completion of a project.

Because we homeschool and I work at home, I try to get all of our errands and appointments done at once when we have to be gone during the week, so I am always sure to take some school work along so the kids can do it while we wait. After the first of the week, Snapper will be having speech twice a week and I have to find her a group to join with other kids her age. This is all exciting, but it means that we will be gone much more often than what we are now. So, I'm trying to make adjustments to make sure that we stay on track with school.

Carson-Dellosa has some awesome products that are helping me get ready for this change.

Grade Specific Workbooks

Workbooks that are specific to a grade level and that cover a variety of topics are great for using for school on the go. They are like reviewing and helping to cover the lessons you are working on. I always include a few pages along with our school work for the day that can be done without my help. Then, when we get home or on the weekend we can work on the lessons that need mom's help.

Not Your Usual Workbook Product ImageThink outside the box with a second-grade math and language arts workbook that appeals to young learners.

Filled with engaging language arts activities and math puzzles for second grade, Not Your Usual Workbook by Thinking Kids helps children build skills for success in a standards-based classroom. This workbook focuses on:


  • place value
  • time
  • money
  • addition
  • subtraction
  • parts of speech


Not Your Usual Workbook for second grade provides a variety of interesting ways to develop essential skills. Perfect for car rides and the kitchen table, this workbook captivates attention and engages children with colorful illustrations, unique puzzles, and exciting activities.

Fun, unique, and challenging, the Not Your Usual Workbook series for kindergarten to third grade offers a fresh, exciting approach to important skill development.



Prekindergarten Skills Workbook Product ImageHelp your child build skills for prekindergarten success with this early learning workbook!

The Prekindergarten Skills workbook helps your child learn these essential skills and concepts:


  • Colors
  • Shapes
  • Letters
  • Numbers
  • Social Skills
  • and more!


Each page features a learning activity specially designed for young children.

Prekindergarten Skills provides fun, child-friendly activities to help early learners practice writing, counting, matching, drawing, and more. Special features along the way promote a growth mindset and remind your child to try hard, get along with others, dream big, stay healthy, and be positive. Prekindergarten Skills challenges your child to develop the academic and social skills needed to thrive in the classroom.


Complete early skills instruction and practice—all in one big workbook! With developmentally appropriate activities, an emphasis on the social and emotional skills needed for classroom success, and a child-friendly design, each workbook offers comprehensive resources to help young children succeed in school.

Specific Lesson For Days Outside Of Home

The kids have started learning a little of different languages. Some I am excited about, others not so much. However, I do not want my lack of excitement to affect them, so we break it up. They have learned some sign language, some Spanish, some Japanese, and some French. They have even gotten to read some braille. I have been wanting to work Spanish more into our curriculum, but haven't really been able to work it into our schedule, so I decided to do something different.

Since we are gone 1 to 2 days a week and I need school work for those days, I thought Spanish would be perfect. A workbook that is self explanatory makes it even more perfect. Now, I take him a few pages and he can work through it on his own. He loves learning things on his own, so I know he will do great. Then, by next year, I can make it a regular part of the curriculum, but he will be a little ahead.

The Complete Book of Starter Spanish Workbook Product ImageSet a solid foundation for Spanish fluency with a beginner Spanish book for kids.

The Complete Book of Starter Spanish for prekindergarten to first grade provides focused instruction on the following skills:


  • numbers
  • letters
  • expressions
  • parts of speech
  • days and months
  • family and community terms
  • This Spanish activity book for children includes a Spanish-English glossary.


The Complete Book of Starter Spanish to help children build knowledge and skills for a solid foundation in Spanish provides focused instruction. Filled with kid-friendly activities, The Complete Book of Starter Spanish supports skill mastery, encourages learning, and helps children hone the skills for Spanish proficiency.

The Complete Book series offers activities that encourage independent learning and support skill mastery in these topics:


  • Spanish
  • handwriting
  • maps
  • geography
  • the alphabet
  • numbers
  • time
  • money
  • arts and crafts

Each subject-specific, comprehensive workbook engages children with detailed instructions and fun activities. The full-color photographs and illustrations hold attention while children learn important concepts

Workbook Kits

These workbook kits are my ace in the hole for Snapper. Both kids carry backpacks- school work, tablets, on the go fun, and other goodies are much easier organized in the backpack. Plus, their action figures and dolls can ride along. Tbomb usually waits in the car with his Grani, so he's not stuck in the waiting room. Because Snapper is in the waiting room sometimes for a while, I need stuff for her that is contained and is easily cleaned up. These workbook kits from Carson-Dellosa are perfect for her. We just grab a kit, put it in her bag and we are good to go!

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



All Set for Kindergarten Workbook Kit Product ImageStrengthen early learning skills with an early childhood kit, packed with kindergarten flashcards, stickers, and more!

The All Set for Kindergarten Kit provides a variety of ways to practice these standards-based skills:


  • handwriting
  • phonics
  • counting
  • addition
  • subtraction

This early childhood kit includes alphabet flash cards, kindergarten activity books, and more.

Prepare your child for school success with the All Set for Kindergarten Kit. The kit is packaged in a sturdy, clear, child-friendly bag with handles and a hook-and-loop closure—ideal for on-the-go learning! The All Set for Kindergarten Kit features these fun learning materials:


  • 1 activity workbook
  • 1 skills workbook
  • 26 number flashcards
  • 26 alphabet flashcards
  • 10 sheets of punch-apart manipulatives
  • 10 double-sided activity prompt cards
  • 4 double-sided dry erase practice sheets
  • 162 stickers
  • 1 dry erase marker
  • 1 parent guide

The Thinking Kids® All Set for Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Kits feature engaging materials to help your child learn essential skills while having fun. From shape and color recognition to addition and subtraction practice, the concepts covered in these kits are important for early learning success.

All Set for Kindergarten Workbook Kit Product ImagePrepare children for school success with an early childhood kit featuring prekindergarten activity books, flash cards, and more.

The All Set for Prekindergarten Kit provides a variety of ways for children to learn the following important concepts:


  • letters
  • sounds
  • numbers
  • colors
  • shapes

From alphabet flash cards to age-appropriate workbooks, this kit includes a variety of hands-on learning resources.

Your child’s educational journey starts now—prepare him for success with the All Set for Prekindergarten Kit. Designed for easy travel, the kit is packaged in a sturdy, clear, child-friendly bag with handles and a hook-and-loop closure. The kit contains these engaging learning materials:


  • 1 activity workbook
  • 1 skills workbook
  • 26 number flashcards
  • 26 alphabet flashcards
  • 10 sheets of punch-apart manipulatives
  • 10 double-sided activity prompt card
  • 4 double-sided dry erase practice sheets
  • 162 stickers
  • 1 dry erase marker
  • 1 parent guide

Help your child strengthen early learning skills while having fun with the Thinking Kids® All Set for Prekindergarten and Kindergarten Kits! From number and letter recognition to addition and subtraction practice, the concepts covered in these kits are important for early learning success.

Book Review: I Am Wonder Woman

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



An entertaining look at some of the most influential women in history.

I Am a Wonder Woman is an entertaining and inspirational look at some of the most influential women in history, from ancient times to the modern day. Each page is filled with amazing stories about the women who have shaped the world and inspired others to follow in their footsteps. Readers can step into the lives of these pioneers by completing unique activities and answering thought-provoking questions. Quirky artwork throughout helps bring each woman’s story to life.

This is such a wonderful gift for a young girl, especially a tween girl. Most girls this age are trying desperately to find their personal strength and to find out who they are. This workbook will help girls with this struggle. It will also teach them about so many women in history that were strong and made the world what it is today. Many of these women are forgotten about in history books. I have gifted this particular one to my niece, who wants to be a teacher now more than ever!

Get Help Online For Seasonal Depression

Seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a mood disorder characterized by depression that occurs at the same time every year. It affects more than three million people a year in the United States alone. If you suffer from this disorder, there is help, and you are not alone.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is treatable, usually resolves itself in a few months, is usually self-diagnosable, and does not require lab tests to diagnose. Many people suffer during the winter months, when it is colder, less daytime, and more people are inside. This is no reason to suffer for the whole season. Counseling is available. In a disorder like this, online therapy can be especially helpful.

SAD is sometimes known as the "winter blues," and can dramatically affect your life during the particular season. Seasonal Affective Disorder can happen in the warmer months, but is less common, and starts and stops around the same time each year.

Here are some facts:

  • About 5% of the US population experiences seasonal depression in any given year
  • The further you are from the equator, the more likely you are to experience seasonal depression.
  • 4 out of 5 people with seasonal depression are women
  • While symptoms can appear earlier, the usual onset of seasonal depression is between 20 and 30 years of age. 
Symptoms include depression, anxiety, mood changes, sleep problems, lethargy, overeating, social problems, and sexual problems. The cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder has been linked to the reduced level of sunlight in the fall and winter, lower serotonin, and increased melatonin. Phototherapy, or bright light therapy, antidepressants, and even cognitive behavioural therapy have been shown to achieve results in treating SAD. Luckily, because the onset is around the same time each year, it is a very predictable cycle, so you can prepare yourself. 

If you or someone you know suffers from Seasonal Depression, I encourage you to look into help. Even if you do not want to venture out for help, online therapy can be a godsend. 

Managing Your Family's Health with Telehealth

Being a mom means that we are always busy and always have a to-do list a mile long. For my family, and probably yours, many of these items are related to doctor visits and dealing with other medical conditions. In addition to this, keeping up with medications, health concerns, doctors, and medical conditions can take a toll on my memory. I have finally found a way to get a little help with this and be more in control at the same time.

The Health Resources Services Administration defines telehealth as the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support long-distance clinical health care, patient and professional health-related education, public health, and health administration. Technologies include video conferencing, the internet, store-and-forward imaging, streaming media, and terrestrial and wireless communications.

I actually use a telehealth service provided by our local hospital. With it, I can refill prescriptions, send doctors an email, check test results, schedule appointments, and even look over-diagnosis and previous conditions. I can also pay bills and so much more. I have the main account and all of the family has a "proxy account" undermine. It has definitely made dealing with our family so much easier for me and saved me a lot of time.

Another benefit of telehealth, that I have not used yet, is online counseling, physical therapy, and even meetings with doctors. There are also services available that allow you to talk with a doctor over video or phone to diagnose a simple illness, or let you know if you need to venture to the hospital, urgent care, or your primary physician.

I have only gotten to the tip of the iceberg with using telehealth with my family, but I am looking forward to using it more and seeing all the benefits that I can use for my family.

Gift Guide 2018: Sophia's Doll Clothes & Accessories

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

I have shared before how my daughter's 18-inch doll is a type of therapy for her. "Bailey" has helped her start talking, deal with emotional and social issues, and has helped with her anxiety. They go everywhere together. So, play sets, clothes, and accessories are always on her list. This year, my little princess asked for one thing only for Christmas: a bathtub for Bailey.

Sophia's Doll Clothes to the rescue! I love the sets and clothing from Sophia's Doll Clothes. They are made with quality materials and craftsmanship. They stand up to my kids and not many brands can do that. One of the great things about Sophia's doll clothes this time of year is that the packaging is beautiful and there are so many ready-to-gift options, including clothing.

Quick Shop: Complete Clothing Sets, Including Shoes

 
 

These outfits are just too stinking adorable (yes, there is clothing for boy dolls, as well). There are daily outfits, swimwear, pyjamas, outerwear, "formal" wear, sports, and even career-centred clothing. There are outfits for 15-inch baby dolls and 14-inch dolls as well. 

My daughter received the outerwear outfit on the bottom right and loves it. The coat is similar to her winter coat, making it perfect. She loves putting this outfit on her to play snow day and even having Bailey wear the coat when she wears hers. 

Again, these outfits are made with quality materials and craftsmanship. There are also separates, costumes, accessories, shoes, and so much more. There is the perfect outfit for any boy or girl on your list. 


  
  

Check out the Winter fun that can be had with dolls. They can snowboard, snow tube, and have all kinds of fun outside. Then, they can come in for a warm bath, and relaxing on the couch with some hot cocoa and treats! Girls can have so much fun imagining with their dolls and having their dolls mimic the things they do. My daughter does a lot of mimicking, but my son loves to pretend with his doll and they are often found doing stunts and having scientific discoveries. 

These play sets stand up to a lot of play and a lot of love! My kids have been having so much fun with them, even taking them out when we had snow a couple of weeks ago!

Another thing to be sure to check out on the My Doll's Life website is their page of new items. This is where they highlight all the new fun the team has come up with. You will be sure to always find something new to amuse the kids with! 



31 Uses For The Get Creative Sleeve #ThirtyOneGifts

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

I have fallen in love with the Get Creative Sleeve from Thirty-One Gifts. I love that you can put all items for a project together and take them anywhere, with it all together. Talk about a win/win. It is 13" x 13.5", making it perfect for so many different projects.

There are so many different uses for the Get Creative Sleeve.


1. Coloring pages

2. Current scrapbook pages

3. Card making supplies

4. Monthly bills

5. Current paperwork

6. College Applications

7. Homework

8. Daily homeschool work

9. Schoolwork on the go

10. Adult coloring supplies

11. Research paper supplies

12. Genealogy research

13. Current book reports

14. Stickers

15. Dry erase sleeve

16. Large tablet case

17. Maps (fold to the area you need and use a dry or wet erase marker to mark your path.)

18. Medications- slip the schedule in the front for easy viewing

19. Emergency contact information on the refridgerator. 

20. Labwork/ paperwork for doctors- the sleeve will protect them

21. Paper doll supplies

22. Lego books

23. Emergency paperwork while travelling

24. Playdoh mats- keep them clean

25. Store kids' artwork

26. Keep handwriting practice sheets handy

27. Stamps and mailing supplies

28. Journal & Supplies

29. Collectors' items paperwork

30. Paperwork for coaches, PTA, class mom, snack mom, etc. 

31. Magazine clippings

The uses for the Get Creative Sleeve are infinite. What would you use it for? 

Get Creative & Organized With #ThirtyOneGifts

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

Sometimes organizing the small items can be the most troublesome. I have found this especially true with my planner supplies. I never know what to do with the stamps, tape, post-its, and other small items that bring my planner together. Finally, I have a solution! The Get Creative pouches from Thirty-One Gifts makes organizing the small items a breeze! Plus, there are so many other uses for them that it is ridiculous!


I love how well the Dot Trio print matches the falling feathers! It is just beautiful all together.

In the Get Creative Cylinder (clear lid), I have stamps, glue, and stamp pads. I don't use these a whole lot, but they tend to get in the way. Now, I have something perfect to put them in, they are out of the way, but easy to find when I need them.

In the Get Creative Rectangle, I have a smaller pouch with clips and blank cards.

The Get Creative Slim Pouch holds my washi tape.

My odd shaped post its are in the Get Creative round pouch and I use the Get Creative Sleeve for current projects- whether that is school related, gifting, or anything else. It makes it a breeze to keep projects together and organized!

What would you use Get Creative pouches for?

My Planner Supplies re Finally Organized #ThirtyOneGifts

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

I may not have as much planning supplies as some people I know do, but I till have a lot and I like to keep it all together and organized. So far, I have tried many things with no luck. Thirty-One Gifts has a new line of craft cases and caddies. The Get Creative Caddy, along with the collection of Get Creative pouches have organized my planner supplies perfectly!



Doesn't the Falling Feathers print just look gorgeous with my gold planner cover and teal pens? I just love it! The Dot Trio that the Get Creatives pouches come in match it perfectly too. It's a timeless look as well, which you can't beat.

Not only is this caddy the perfect size, but it has all the right pockets for whatever your crafting love is!




These are also perfect for scrapbooking, crochet, knitting, painting, and so much more. I was even thinking of getting one for my mom for her family tree supplies! What would you use the Get Creative Caddy for?

"Live The Untangled Life" with Cordskinz

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

One of my biggest pet peeves is tangled headphone cords. I have even been known to give up and just buy a new pair. I keep mine pretty well detangled and in good shape. My kids are a different story. They use regular "DJ Style" headphones at home, but away from home, they use the clip kind that are similar to earbuds. Those stay in their backpacks and get tangled very easily. I've had to replace several pairs. No more, thanks to CordSkinz!


The cords no longer get tangled in their backpacks and I can stop replacing them or fighting to get them untangled when the kids want to play tablets or listen to mp3 players in the car.

The cool thing is that it was extremely easy to install them. The instructions were very clear and the tool needed came in the package. It took only a couple of minutes and I could not be happier. I'll be investing in them for mine and my husband's earbuds as well! They would even make a great Christmas gift for a music fan! (Especially in a basket with earbuds and a gift card!)


Photo By Thirty-One

I love photos of my kids, but running out of space for more photos is a real problem. There is only so much wall space to hang them on. I'm sure you have a similar problem. Luckily, Thirty-One gifts has a solution for us all. Introducing: Photo By Thirty-One.

Simply upload your own photos and create beautiful works of art and jewelry. Learn more about Photo by Thirty-One.




Sophia's Doll Clothes: 18" Doll Kitchen

Disclaimer: I received a product for free in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own. 

A conversation I had with Miss Koda the other day made a lot of her doll play make sense. I asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. Her answer: "A Mommy" Her favorite thing to play with her doll, Bailey, is cooking. She also likes to have Bailey play mommy. When Bailey drives her jeep, Koda even puts smaller dolls in the back like her babies and then she cooks for them and feeds them. She's been begging for a kitchen for Bailey.

I had been shopping around for doll kitchens, but my questions were answered when Sophia's Doll Clothes offered to send me a doll kitchen for Koda and Bailey. It is absolutely perfect!



The Chef's Kitchen & Accessories from Sophia's Doll Clothes is the perfect kitchen for girls who love their best friends as much as Koda loves Bailey!

Order's Up! Your American Girl® Doll will have a blast cooking for all her friends with this 19 piece Chef's Kitchen and Accessory Set. Not only does this kitchen set come with a stove, sink, oven and shelving unit that has lights and sounds, it also includes the following cooking accessories:  a pot w/lid, frying pan, 4 utensils, teapot and 2 teacups with saucers, cupcake pan and 4 cupcakes, cake stand and a canister.  Need additional cooking accessories? You can extend your accessories with LA-BS, not included with this set. Fits most 18 inch dolls like Sophia's®, Madame Alexander® and American Girl®.

In addition to this amazing kitchen, Sophia's also has many playsets that brilliantly compliment this kitchen. I love that it is light, so Koda can carry it to where she wants to play. Also, it is one single piece, making organizing simpler. Koda has played with this kitchen every day since she received it. She plays with it with bailey and sometimes without Bailey. What a wonderful addition to a playroom! 

 

Doll Play: Clean Up Time

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

I have written many times about my daughter's doll "Bailey" being her best friend and a wonderful therapy tool for her communication disorder and anxiety. She wants Bailey to do whatever she does and she loves vacuuming, so this cleaning set from Sophia's Doll Clothes is perfect for her!


This cleaning set is so stinking cute. The vacuum is the classic canister style that goes everywhere. It even makes noises and throws the little beads around like they are working. (Don't forget the batteries). The set comes with a "full-size" doll broom and dustpan, as well as a handheld version. Her doll can clean to her heart's content and pull the vacuum behind her.

This is sure to keep your little one busy while you are busy vacuuming and teach a valuable lesson at the same time on how cleanliness is a necessity. As always, the play set is made of wonderful quality and will stand up to plenty of play with your little ones- it even stands up to my son!

31 Uses for The #ThirtyOneGifts Creative Slim Pouch

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

Last week, I reviewed the Creative Slim Pouch from Thirty-One Gifts. I'm really love this product. It is very versatile and keeps me and the kids organized. I'm constantly thinking of other ways to use it, so I wanted to share them with you.



  1. Knitting Needles
  2. Crochet Needles
  3. Washi Tape
  4. Crayons
  5. Stencils
  6. Pens
  7. Storing Dry Erase Markers
  8. First Aid
  9. EpiPen and other allergy relief
  10. Charge Cords
  11. Take out sauce packs
  12. Storing cutlery in a glove box
  13. Small puzzle pieces
  14. Storing knives while camping/ travelling
  15. Reading Glasses
  16. Store Poncho
  17. Lint rollers & other emergency fashion items
  18. Store pantyhose for travel
  19. Keep up with sensory toys
  20. Barbie Accessories
  21. Legos in a car
  22. Markers
  23. Reward stickers
  24. Crafting baubles
  25. Small brush/ comb and hair accessories
  26. Planner supplies
  27. Small electronics accessories
  28. Bible Study Pens
  29. Emergency sewing kit
  30. Drop Cords
  31. Cake decorating supplies
There are so many more uses for the Creative Slim Pouch. This is just 31 things I thought of. What would you use the Creative Slim Pouch for? 

Doll Play: Let's Play Store!

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

My kids love to play shopping/ cash register. Snapper has been wanting a cash register like hers for her Bailey, so that they can go shopping for groceries, clothes, and all kinds of other fun stuff! I was surprised that these are not as easy to find as you would think. When Sophia's Doll Clothes offered to send me one for Snapper, I was ecstatic and it did not disappoint!


It comes with a carton of milk, granola bars, cereal, a garlic, potato, pumpkin, and two apples. Change, dollars, and a charge card are also included. The really fun thing is that the register actually makes noise, has a drawer that opens, a scale, and a scanner. How fun! Just don't forget the batteries!

This is an adorable playset that your child will have hours of fun with. Snapper has played grocery store, mall, salon, and even veterinarian with this set and I'm sure she will come up with even more things that are fun to play with it. Like other sets from Sophia's, these can be fun on their own as well, even without a doll!

Creative Slim Pouch: Organize With #ThirtyOneGifts

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

I received the Creative Slim Pouch from Thirty-One Gifts to organize goodies with. Oh, I've had so much fun with these getting me and the kids organized! I think I find a new use for them every day (don't worry, a 31 uses for post is coming soon!)


These are perfect for my washi tape collection and I have room to expand on it. It would be perfect for my knitting needles, pens, and so much more. I also use them in the kids' backpacks. They hold crayons, pens, pencils, stencils, and more. They can lay them beside them in the seat and be able to get to what they want without a problem. Then, we have supplies for coloring, school, and more with us at all times.

What I love the most about these is that they are durable. I've bought many pvc pouches for the kids and they last no time at all. These will last for years to come!




Doll Play: I Got A Dog! Play Set

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

Snapper loves animals, so playing animals with her doll is often seen around our house. She plays pets, farm, zoo, and veterinarian. She loves adding to her collection of pet play for her doll. Sophia's sent me this playset for her and she instantly fell in love.




This is a fun and beautiful playset. It comes with a dog carrier, dog, collar, leash, dog bed, bone, ball, brush, and food. Plus the box it comes in is beautiful, as are all Sophia's boxes. One wonderful thing about this set is that everything fits inside the dog carrier, as well as the dog. The dog is soft and fluffy, too! Hours of play for your little girl, her doll, and her furry friend!

The construction is wonderful and beautiful- perfect for kids to play with! It won't fall apart with play!

Book Review: Not My Jesus

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



I love this book. It is one of those that can hit a nerve, but I see it like sitting through a sermon. If you sit through a sermon every Sunday and your toes are never stepped on, something needs to change. Either you need a new church, need to pay attention, or need to open your heart. This book is like that. It is so easy to see Jesus in a box and forget the other parts of him- he ate with "sinners", called people names, judged, got angry, drank wine. That does change who he is, but realizing this can make our walk with him much more rewarding.


Quotes from the book…

“We find a version of Jesus we like and we stick with it. We opt for the bits we like most and propagate them…”

“We can reinforce the God-given potential in every human being in our thoughts and actions.”

“The reality is that Jesus was judgmental.”

“The Holy Spirit infused work of God’s people is His prescription for the ills of the world.”



Purchase here.

You can win your very own copy here!

Cat & Jack: Clothing Made For Special Needs Chilren

I have just discovered the best thing since sliced bread! Cat & Jack, a line of clothing from Target is made with special needs children in mind. I know this is an old press release, but I'm sharing just in case you do not know about it!

I know Koda will be wearing quite a bit of these clothes!

Group of kids posing and wearing new Cat & Jack collection

July 7, 2016

It’s a kid’s world with Cat & Jack—our newest (and largest ever) line of clothing for kids and baby, with our youngest guests—real kids from around the country—helping design the collection, model the clothes, and so much more.

Let’s start from the beginning: While creating the line, we asked kiddos of all ages (and moms and dads, too!) to weigh in on everything from legging prints and t-shirt slogans to fabric choices and more. We even invited a group of them to Target headquarters in Minneapolis to play buyer for a day, where they provided feedback on which pieces they loved and how we could make the collection even better.

The result? Nearly 2,000 A+-worthy wardrobe staples and seasonal pieces that are durable enough for the playground and stylish enough for school picture day. Cat & Jack includes sizes 4-18 and 2T-5T, and Baby Cat & Jack includes sizes 0-24M, offering families one high-quality, affordable brand that they can shop together as kids grow. And for those of you crunching the numbers: Within its first fiscal year alone, Cat & Jack is expected to bring in more than $1 billion in sales. How’s that for big business?

The collection also comes equipped with a few special features, based on what youngsters (and their parents) shared about what’s most important to them.


  • About 20 pieces within the Baby Cat & Jack layette collection are made from Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified organic cotton and safe dyes – who wouldn’t want to snuggle up to that eco-goodness?
  • The uniform pants and leggings are all made with trademarked Tough Cotton that actually gets stronger as it’s washed (seriously)!
  • All Cat & Jack pocket bags, girls’ denim and swimwear is constructed from a recycled polyester called Repreve—yes, we’re helping the planet too!  

The fun doesn’t stop there—real kids also are helping us launch Cat & Jack this back-to-school season by appearing in our look book and on signing within the kids’ area of our stores. Check out some of them sporting our favorite pieces below, and see the full line on Target.com.

The Learning Journey Is Proud To Announce The Launch Of The All New Line Of Educational Toys… Code & Learn!



The Leaders in High Quality, Educational Toys, The Learning Journey, Introduces the Code & Learn Line of STEM Toys

Phoenix, AZ- (June 13, 2018)- The Learning Journey announces the launch of the Code & Learn line of toys that teach young children the basics of coding and programming through interactive play! The line will launch with two adorable products featuring a Ladybug or a Spaceship. These fun and educational coding toys teach sequencing, directions, problem-solving and logic. They also align with the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math standards (STEM). The Learning Journey designs and develops award-winning, high quality, educational toys and games that teach children through fun. 

CODE & LEARN LADYBUG

The new Code & Learn Ladybug will introduce kids to basic programming and coding in a simple and fun way!  The Code & Learn Ladybug has two modes of play.  In the first mode, children use the coding cards to input directional ques into the remote control that will code the bug to land on the correct colored square within the grid map. Once the coding is completed, hit green to go. The coder will know if he or she has programmed correctly when the antennae of the ladybug light up with the color that corresponds to the coding card. The second mode allows children to “drive” the remote-control playmate around for free-wheeling fun. 

CODE & LEARN SPACESHIP

The new Code & Learn Space Ship operates in a similar fashion to the Ladybug. The coder will know if he or she has programmed correctly when the cockpit of the Space Ship light up with the color that corresponds to the coding. If it matches the card, they are correct!

Code & Learn Ladybug and Space Ship retail for $39.99 at many major retailers and specialty stores nationwide and at The Learning Journey




The Learning Journey opened its doors in 1995 with the mission of providing an opportunity to offer every parent affordable, high-quality educational materials to ensure a successful start in school for their children. Since then, The Learning Journey has been designing and manufacturing an exclusive line of award-winning children's interactive educational products. All products at The Learning Journey encourage learning and develop confidence as they enhance a child's potential. All products build on the skills necessary for children to be prepared for school and beyond.  With The Learning Journey's complete range of interactive products, children have fun while learning and parents and educators know they have the right quality educational products for their children.

How I Keep My Family Organized With #ThirtyOneGifts

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

Keeping my family organized is the only way to save my sanity. Thirty-One gifts has helped me to keep us organized on the go and at home. Here are a few ways I use their products to keep us organized.


I use a Catch all Bin at my computer to keep things I am working on and that I use a lot handy. It also gives me a place to put my laptop away. I also include my tablet, book I'm reading, netbook, and bible.


I use the clear pocket-a-tote for a ton of different purposes (don't forget to label it!). If the kids spend the night at grandparents or I need them to have a change of clothes, it is perfect, then I just slip it into their backpacks.

We also use them for toiletries, medicines while traveling, cleaning supplies on the go, and things like that. With the strap that goes through the tote, it makes a great tablet holder for the car.


The hanging traveler case from Thirty-One gifts is one of my favorite discoveries. We use them while we travel or have long days in the car. It hangs on the back of the seat, with their Kind Fire Kids Editions fitting perfectly in the top pocket. Their headphones, mp3 players, cords, battery packs, and everything else they need fit neatly in the bottom. I added a strap to make it easier for them to carry.


This littles caddy is perfect for keeping medication that needs to be handy together- especially for my mother-in-law that is going through cancer treatment.


I love my Triple Duty Tote. It is absolutely perfect for school. I organize our week in this bag and then we can learn anywhere! It would also be great for craft supplies, a mobile office, and planning supplies.

I use my catch-all tote for my planning supplies and it could not be more perfect- I can even take it with me if I want to plan away from home or in front of the TV. Plus, it fits perfectly down inside the front of my file drawer.

We use the double duty caddy for organizing our Bearded Dragon supplies. One side if for cleaning items and the other for feeding! Couldn't be more perfect!

31 Uses for the Thirty-One Gifts Cinch Sac

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

These cinch sacs from Thirty-One gifts are amazing. Not only are they definitely a classic, but the uses keep coming to mind. They are easily packed away without losing their shape, easy to grab, take up very little space, and are very versatile. Everyone needs one! I especially love the zipper pocket on the front- really helps stay organized. These have become a must-have in our family- here's why!


1. Bookbag- in its simplest form!

2. Toiletry bag

3. Sports bag (especially rec sports and after school sports)

4. Gym Bag

5. Extracurricular bag- boy/ girl scouts, etc.

6. Band bag

7. Trick-or-Treat bag

8. Sleepover bag

9. Wrap gifts!

10. Pool/ Beach bag

11. store pajamas

12. Dance/ Gymnastics bag

13. Carry-On

14. Vacation essentials (media, camera, hat, etc)

15. Toy/ entertainment bag (relatives, play dates, doctors, sporting events)

16. Camp/ Vacation dirty clothes

17. Bridesmaid/ Groomsmen gifts

18. Wedding day needs

19. Storing Legos

20. Day of boating/ rafting

21. Day trip bag

22. Hiking essentials

23. First aid kit

24. Extra clothes/ needs in mom's car

25. Travel bag for blankets/ pillows

26. Pet travel bag

27. Hands-free mom bag

28. Library bag

29. Farmer's market bag

30. lightweight diaper bag

31. Hanging storage

Movie Review: Paul: Apostle of Christ

Disclaimer: I received a copy of the movie to review. All opinions are my own.

The hubby and I are movie buffs. Because we have turned off our satellite in favor of streaming and DVDs (too much junk on the channels and too much money for how often we watch), our littles have turned into movie buffs as well. We have been making a real effort to find movies (not cartoons) that are appropriate for the whole family- most of the time that is easier said than done.



Paul: Apostle of Christ (Sony Pictures) has changed that. It has become a family lesson. Tbomb loves it and loves asking questions. His favorite thing to do is read the Bible and discuss it- this movie is perfect for that! Koda doesn't quite follow along and gets bored, but she is only 4- however, she is learning from the discussion. This movie is definitely a winner for our family!



What an amazing movie!

Paul (Faulkner), who goes from the most infamous persecutor of Christians to Christ’s most influential apostle, is spending his last days in a dark and bleak prison cell awaiting execution by Emperor Nero. Luke(Caviezel), his friend and physician, risks his life when he ventures into Rome to visit him. Paul is under the watchful eye of Mauritius (Martinez), the prison's prefect, who seeks to understand how this broken old man can pose such a threat. But before Paul's death sentence can be enacted, Luke resolves to write another book, one that details the beginnings of "The Way" and the birth of what will come to be known as the church. Their faith challenged an empire. But their words changed the world.

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY:Andrew Hyatt

PRODUCED BY:T.J. Berden and David Zelon

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:Eric Groth, Rick Jackson, Harrison Powell and Jim Caviezel

STARRING:Jim Caviezel, James Faulkner, Olivier Martinez, Joanne Whalley and John Lynch

Facebook
Instagram

#PaulMovie





* indicates required