20 Uses For A Cookie Sheet While Traveling

I've seen many posts about using a cookie sheet in the car or kids to draw on and what not, but I really didn't think they would be too handy for my family. In fact, I thought they would be a bit too big, so I just didn't worry about it and put that in the back of my mind to possibly use with Kodabug and Tbomb are older.

That was all brought to the front of my mind a couple of weeks ago when I was in Dollar Tree picking up some school supplies. It's almost time to really start some serious homeschool, so I'm trying to be as prepared as I can. I was wondering down the aisles looking for inspiration when I saw the pans. I picked a couple up thinking we could use them for magnetic letter spelling. What I picked up was a little different than what I've seen though. I picked up some rectangular cake pans that are about half the size of a cookie sheet. So, if you have little ones, that might be the size for you.

After getting home and making my list for our next trip, I realized we could use them in the car like other people use cookie sheets. I thought of a few other uses as well, maybe you will like them.

1. Let kids use it as a hard surface to draw/ color on 

2. Glue magnets to small toys (cars, dinos, etc) so they can play without dropping toys in the car

3. Use as a surface for bracelet making- all you need is string and tape

4. Paint with chalkboard paint and let them chalk-it up

5. Paint with white-board paint (or use adhesive white board) 

6. Because they are washable, you can use Crayola dry-rase crayons on them like it is and just wash it off. 

7. laminate paper dolls and add magnets for a diy paper doll closet

8. Using found items, popsicle sticks, paint, and magnets, create a custom town for your little guy's cars. (here's the pin) 

9. Play Alphabet Scavenger hunt. Put all the magnetic letters on the sheet. When they find the letter (or a word that starts with the letter) let them pull it off and put it in a bowl or bag. 

10. Put magnets on the crayons, use a magnetic clip, and set them loose with some color fun

11. Laminate a travel bingo sheet (there are tons of free printables), get some magnetic dogs, and play magnetic travel bingo

12. Put magnetic dogs on the back of puzzle pieces so they can put a puzzle together in the car!

13. Add magnets to the ends of popsicle sticks and let them make shapes while traveling- tell them to make the shapes of the signs they see.

14. What a great time to practice handwriting. Print some worksheets, grab a dry erase marker (preferably with eraser and magnet attached) attach magnets to the back of a sheet protector and you have a travel handwriting station. 

15. In the hotel at night, make each kid a charging station by putting electronics on charge and laying them on the cookie sheet- then they know all of their stuff is together. 

16. Add magnets to the back of scrabble pieces (btw, I buy scrabble at garage sales when I can just for the letters) for a game of scrabble down the road. 

17. Put stickers on paper and cut around them- then add magnets- diy magnet scenes! 

18. Laminate printed game boards and yatzee sheets- put magnets on game pieces and you have a diy travel game station. Don't forget to put the dice in a clear bowl with lid! (see more here)

19. Make a travel lap desk. If you glue magnets to the travel pillow case, it would be easier to clean and you are carrying less because you can slip their pillow inside the pillow case instead of using a different one. 

My favorite:

20. Use as a tray during meal time. While we were on vacation last time, the kids kept sliding their food off their plates on accident and making a mess and getting their food germy. I think this will prevent that on our next trip- in the car or hotel room

Press Release: Join ITC, Google and CI&T for the WVEF Tech Challenge to help women entrepreneurs trade more globally

(Geneva/São Paulo) – The International Trade Centre (ITC), Google, and CI&T have launched the WVEF Tech Challenge 2015, calling on software developers and other IT and graphic specialists to help create a digital platform for women-owned businesses (WOBs) across the world.

The Tech Challenge forms part of this year’s Women Vendors’ Forum and Exhibition (WVEF) – ITC’s annual event connecting WOBs to markets – to be held in São Paulo, Brazil, from 2-3 September in partnership with Apex-Brasil, and a call to action to help 1 million WOBs enter international markets by 2020.

With the WVEF Tech Challenge, ITC, Google and CI&T want ideas to develop a digital tool that can help corporations include more women-owned businesses – especially from developing countries – in their supply chains. The Tech Challenge will result in a web or a mobile application on which women-owned enterprises can register their businesses to increase their visibility to potential partners across the world.

Everyone – from software programmers and developers involved to IT architects and graphic designers – are invited to join the challenge (in teams of maximum 3 people) and register between now and 31 July 2015 to create a future in which women-owned businesses can participate equally in the global marketplace. 

The applying companies and participants must have experience with mobile and web development, a good understanding of Google tools and Android OS, experience with social-media APIs and web services, and knowledge about business culture. Up to five finalists will be invited on an all-expense paid trip to São Paulo in September where they will present their ideas and a winner will be announced during WVEF.

The WVEF Tech Challenge is designed to address the need among multinationals and larger enterprises to engage with companies owned by women. However, WOBs are difficult to locate and identify. The WVEF Tech Challenge therefore wants your help to solve this issue in a creative and innovative way.

For further details on the Tech Challenge and to sign up, please visit: www.intracen.org/wveftechchallenge 

About the International Trade Centre

ITC is the joint agency of the World Trade Organization and the United Nations. ITC assists small and medium-sized enterprises in developing and transition economies to become more competitive in global markets, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development within the frameworks of the Aid-For-Trade Agenda and the Millennium Development Goals.

Simple DIY: Repurpose Snack Pouch Into Ice Pack

I am always looking for ways of repurposing containers our food comes in. I just hate throwing out all that trash. In fact, I buy very little in single serve containers for that purpose. I don't even buy snack pouches for the kids, I use our washable ones. However, sometimes other people have snacks for the kids that are single serve.

Their nanny brought them yogurt pouches for their outside evening snack the other evening. (We love living so close to family). I was thinking that I could definitely repurpose those and relized they would be great ice packs. So, I made ice packs out of them and it was easy peasy.

Just add one part rubbing alcohol to 3 parts water and put it in the container (you could even use a zip bag). I used 1/3 c alcohol to 1 c water and divided it between the two pouches. I used a medicine dropper to put it in the pouches because I couldn't find the funnel. Then, pop it in the freezer and be ready for the next bump or bruise- or to pack lunches. You can never have too many ice packs on hand!

On the blog today. Check bio for link

A photo posted by cari (@cari_on) on Jul 21, 2015 at 11:16am PDT

These fairy lights are very versatile

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

I have this strange fascination with lights, lamps, and anything that lights up- especially fairy lights. I love to use them all over the place- inside and outside. They just make me so happy.

I love finding unique ways of using them, so when Frux Home and Garden sent me these awesome Fairy-Star Lights to review, I knew I was in for a treat. We have used them in several different places around the house and I really can't decide where I like them better. Currently, I have them on my dresser in a jar to use as a lamp.

These lights are weather-proof and come with a unique ability. You can plug these into the wall, or use the battery adapter for them- isn't that awesome?!

I'm still finding things that I would like to do with these lights and hope I get the chance at some point in the near future to get started on at least one project. That being said, I have found the ultimate use or these lights in my family.


I am going to put them in a plastic bottle that seals really well- or maybe a jar since the mouth will be wider and seal it up with the battery adapter in it. Then, we can take it camping, hiking, fishing, and even bigfooting without worry of getting the lights saturated- it also creates a glow effect this way. I think this will be the coolest project and no power needed. We will be heading out for some primitive camping next month with the kids and I'll be sure to let you know how well it works.

This would also make a great travel night light for kids- mine hate being in the dark, so I think I'll do this when we head to the mountains in a couple weeks!

Head on over to Frux Home and Garden to get your very own Fairy-Star light set.

Twas The Night Before A Trip: 10 Things To Do The Night Before For A More Successful Trip

We prepare and prepare for a trip. Then, there is always something at the last minute that we forget to do (I hope that isn't just me). About a year ago, I made a list of things to do the night before so I wouldn't be scrambling the morning of. This made the morning less stressful and helped ensure I didn't forget anything. Yes, there may have still been small things I forgot, but for the most part, I had it covered. I now want to share ways that you can have the same list going on.

This will help with car trips, day trips, plane trips, sending kids to camp, and even over the hill and through the woods. This is not a ready-made list. This is a guide for you to make your own list. I think this will help.

1. Make a morning of list. This may seem odd, but list everything that needs to be done that morning (I even include dressing kids, breakfast, drinks from fridge, phone from charger, makeup, and jewelry). Not only does this help make sure you don't forget anything, but listing things you do every day keeps you from getting wrapped up in prepping and forgetting simple things. Plus, it always helps to be able to mark those simple things off- you feel more accomplished.

2. Charge Charge Charge. I put everything on the charger the night before to make sure we have a full charge, including backup batteries, extra AA rechargeables, battery packs, kids electronics, adult electronics and any equipment I may take. If it can be charged, it is plugged in the night before.

3. Update devices. There is nothing worse than listening to your 4-year-old whine about not having the next level of his bible story app or needing to update Minecraft. The solution? I go through his apps the night before and update any apps that need it. While I'm doing this, I go ahead and sync my kindle, update my apps, and update/ switch settings on the LeapPad and LeapBand.

4. New Content. My kids each get a new app for a trip. I download it the night before so they are surprised when they get their tablet or LeapPad the next morning. This works miracles for them, actually. I also switch up the movies on their devices (That I convert to mp4). I also remind my hubby to update his games and download something that does not need wifi. While I'm at it, I download me some new music.

5. What To Pack In The Morning. This list is always kind of long, but I have recently made it a little shorter by purchasing backup USB chargers for each person to put in their electronics cases. I still have to add things like pillow pets, blankets, lovies, electronics from chargers, and all those other things that will be needed until morning. Otherwise, I will forget something critical like Tbomb's pillow pet, which he cannot sleep without, or Kodabug's blanket, which is at times the only thing that will soothe her.

6. Household chores. The night before, we make sure the house is spotless, the laundry is done, and the plants are watered. This makes sure that we can come home to a clean house, start on vacation laundry, and there isn't as much for the doggy sitter to do. It makes a huge difference coming home to a super clean house.

7. Check In With Family. The night before, I go ahead and call close family members to make sure they don't need anything, have my correct phone number (it is surprising how many people still have my number from college), and know where we are going and for how long. This isn't common knowledge, so only the closest of family members get this info- in case they need us or another emergency happens.

8. Check the Car. Check the oil, tire pressure, clean out anything that is not needed, check first aid, emergency supplies, and even vacuum and wash the car. Believe me, you will be glad you did this. You can go ahead and pack some things. While you are at it, check the car seats to make sure all is well.

9. Double check directions and itinerary. I have too often ended up with bad directions, even printed off the internet. One thing I always do is double check the directions I printed with another site, an app, and if I know someone that knows the area, I'll check with them- I hate getting lost. Also, make sure you have a good map of the region/ country. There is still nothing that can replace a map.

10. Rest. This may seem like a lot, but it really isn't if you plan for it. In fact, some of these things can be done a couple days before and they can be spread out throughout the day. So, watch some TV with your love, set the alarm, and sleep soundly knowing that your morning is going to be less stressful and you won't forget anything!

I would love to hear what you would add to this list!

Ghost Hunting Equipment: Must Have Accessories + #giveaway

I'm sure you have all realized by now that I'm a bit of a tech geek and gadget hoarder. Being a paranormal investigator and bigfoot researcher only adds to this. I love my equipment.

Most people know about the basic ghost hunting equipment like night vision camera, flashlight, voice recorder, KII meter, Bushnell night vision binocular, and even thermometer. However, some of my favorite gear is the gadgets that add to the functionality of my general equipment. I'm going to go over my favorites here... but hang around to the end because there is a giveaway.

1. Lights

There are all kinds of lights to use during a paranormal investigation. There are flashlights, color filter flashlights, spot lights, black lights, and IR lights. They all have their own purpose and should be used accordingly. 

Flashlights may seem obvious to see where you are going, but some people use the ones with twist off and on to get answers from entities. Color filter flashlights can help your eyes adjust better and even make the light not as harsh on cameras. I have seen black lights been used in experiments, and I have conducted some of my own, so they are definitely a fun addition. IR lights have a specific function in a paranormal investigation- an external one can help extend the range of your night vision goggles or camera. 

2. Tripods, Monopods & Selfie Sticks

I have many different tripods- I have standard ones, table top ones, laser grid holders, gorilla pods, and more. I also have several monopods and selfie sticks for different purposes, as well as attachments for both so I can attach whatever equipment I want and just have one hand full of gear. This also allows me to set up a tripod with a camera and external IR light for a better range- a camera bracket helps that.

I do have a favorite selfie stick- the Alezan selfie stick allows me to use my camera, phone, or go pro with different accessories so that I can accomplish what I need to. See my review here. (giveaway at bottom.) See it on Amazon

3. Power

Power is a very important part of paranormal investigations- we always need to make sure our equipment is charged, have backup batteries, and a way to charge on the go. There are many different battery packs on the market that will allow you to charge anything via USB. There are also solar chargers that can help with this. I have recently bout some adapters that will allow me to use a 9volt battery to in place of a dc adapter- great for old buildings with no power and outside investigations. I use it on a security camera and ir lights. 

4. Tape, Bungees, Etc. 

This may seem odd, but you should always have a supply of these items on hand. I have had to use bungee cords to attach items to tripods, to fix tripods in a pinch, and even help with command central. Tape is great for measuring, holding down cords, emergency fixings, and even for documenting anomalies like items moving. Gaffer's tape is the best option. It is what photographers use and is a matte black so that you do not have the shine in a photo or video

Other items to include are screwdrivers, measuring tapes, and a first aid kit. 

5. Phones and Tablets

I love using my phone and tablet on paranormal investigations. I actually use my old LG Optimus L90 with some paranormal apps to measure different things, take photos and videos, and record evps. I use the old one because I do not have to worry about getting calls during an investigation. There are all kinds of apps to add to the functionality of phones and tablets during investigations. Some of these include vibration sensor, ghost meters, echovox, spirit boxes, emf detectors, etc. There are even apps from T.A.P.S. I will actually be testing and reviewing some of these soon.

Giveaway

Have you read my post: "The Selfie Stick That Beats Them All?" It is about Alezan Mobile's amazing selfie stick that I am completely in love with. If you haven't, then you really should - this is really an amazing selfie stick. I can use my gopro with it, and even use the phone adapter with my go pro mounts. Seriously, see why I love it so much! 

Well, the amazing folks over at Alezan Mobile have offered one of these amazing selfie sticks for a giveaway. That means that one of you lucky winners get one. Even better?! If you don't win, you will have the chance to get an awesome discount! 

Want in on this? Comment below and let me know what your favorite feature is- I love the locking mechanism! A winner will be chosen July 27th, so don't forget to leave your email.