Approved by the Queen: Rubbermaid LunchBlox

Being part of Rubbermaid Buzz, I get to try out some amazing products when they come out. Recently, I was send one of their newest products, the LunchBlox. This is one of the coolest lunch contraptions I have seen yet. Although I no longer work outside the home, I have a slight addiction to lunch containers. This one reminds me of my Hello Kitty Bento Box. I love how Bento Boxes keep the different parts of your lunch separated. One thing I cannot stand is for my lunch to touch and get nasty. (I also don't like for my dinner to touch, but that is a separate pet peeve)

I received the sandwich kit, which was perfect. I actually used to use a combination of sandwich bowls and small bowls to make my salad for lunch in. I don't like for my tomatoes and other moist things to touch my lettuce (I know I'm picky, but at least I make my own lunch!) This particular kit is perfect for salads, sandwiches, soups with sides, and even snacks. No matter the type of meal you pack, there is a kit for you. The sandwich container actually fits regular and specialty bread. I guess that means the bread-maker is going to get some use again!

This BPA-free kit is perfect for our family, although the prince is not in school yet (and will be home-schooled) and I work at home. We actually took the LuchBlox on vacation with us. I put it in the car up front with us- we didn't have room for a cooler besides in the trunk, so this was the perfect solution. I packed different types of snack in it for different times during our drive. I put a sandwich in for lunch, some applesauce, carrots, and some cookies. Then I could pull it out and give him whichever I wanted without having to tell him that he had to wait for the cookies. The containers are also microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe so that just adds to the functionality.

For me, an added benefit is the fit of the lids. The lids fit perfectly and helps insure that my toddler doesn't decide to help himself to a snack.

This product is perfect for anyone in school, goes on play dates, works, or likes to take their lunch with them for any activity. It is also perfect for tailgating season that is FINALLY here!

The Blue Ice kept it cold and lasted longer than other versions I have had of the same thing. I also adore how they all snap together with each other and the Blue Ice. It makes lunch so easy!

Something else I love about the kit is that it fits inside my favorite lunch box, and there is still room to put another snack and drink inside.

You can buy the Rubbermaid LunchBlox Sandwich Kit at many retailers nationwide for the suggested retail price of $12.99.

Disclaimer: I received this product to test, but all opinions are my own.

Southern Charm Sunday: Etiquette Books

September is ushering some amazing things for The Palmetto Queen. 

There will be event planning posts, the prince's birthday, some surprises, fall love, and an amazing line up for Southern Charm Sunday. 

I am going to share with you some of my favorite etiquette books today. 

Source: prettylittlezumbie.tumblr.com via Adrienne G. on Pinterest

Source: amazon.com via Linda on Pinterest

Source: barnesandnoble.com via Crystal on Pinterest

Source: bebebol.blogspot.com via Emmie on Pinterest

Source: amazon.com via Mandy on Pinterest

Source: ebooknetworking.net via alex on Pinterest

Source: ebooknetworking.net via alex on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Pam on Pinterest

Some of these books I own, some I have read, some I have drooled over, and some I have just learned about. 

I adore etiquette books, they are one of my secret (not so secret anymore) pleasures in life. 

I believe everyone should own at least one etiquette book and everyone should be given one for their 16th birthday. 

I received my first Emily Post book at 16, although I already considered her a hero! 

I urge you to go find an etiquette book you love. If you already have one, I would love to know what it is. 

My Search for the Perfect Drink: Zebra Martini

I love a good glass of wine or champagne. I even love a really great beer. Girly frozen drinks even have their place. Some days demand a yummy margarita or even a shot of tequila. 

BUT, this post isn't about all of my favorite ways to partake in nectar. This post is about my search for the perfect martini. 

I had indulged in a few martinis, but they were nothing to get excited over. That is, until I started working at a resort. I would occasionally waitress and host on the weekends. One night after work, my boss asked me if I liked martinis. My response was something along the lines of "eh..." She was shocked and proceeded to make me an amazing classic martini. PERFECTION!

After that, the love affair began. After work, we would experiment with different recipes and unwind after 12 hour shifts of running drinks. I learned the art of making martinis (along with other cocktails) and I still love a great martini. My favorite was the Zebra Martini (recipe after.)

I have had all kinds of martinis and have rarely found one I didn't like. I have my favorites among all the categories. One of my all time favorites is the Cosmo at Ted's Montana Grill in Atlanta. 

My friends even know about my obsession and have introduced me to some amazing creations and products. I know most love Grey Goose vodka, but nothing compares to Pravda (Thanks to my amazing aunt for introducing me to that one.)

I have even dreamed of a Champagntini, but have yet to find one. 

With this all being said, I have great news for you! Because I love the art of cocktail creation, I am going to start sharing them with you. Every month (if not more often), I will share with you a southern style cocktail. 

I am also on the hunt for the perfect Cari-Tini. (Maybe this should be a contest- what do you think?) I will share that journey with you as well. 

Let's kick off this project with the Zebra Martini. It may not be southern, but it is preppy, so that counts, right? 

Zebra Martini

1 ounce vanilla vodka

1 ounce which chocolate liqueur

1 ounce butter schnapps

1 shot espresso

chocolate syrup

optional whipped cream 

Directions:

1. Stripe martini glass with chocolate syrup

2. Combine alcoholic ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice

3. Strain into glass

4. Shake espresso with ice

5. Strain into center of glass

6. Garnish with a little whipped cream

This is such a yummy drink- you should try it today, as in right now! 

Remember: Do not drink and drive. Keep this alcohol tester on hand, just in case. 

Please Excuse My Absence!

For the past week, I have been a little absent in the blog world (and I missed you so much). This is not to say that I have been absent from the internet world. It is actually the opposite. I have been super busy getting NighLon Solutions up and running. It turned out to be a HUGE project, requiring the great majority of my attention.

NighLon Solutions is a place for me to showcase my portfolio, offer my services, and share resources with my clients.

Services

Portfolio

Pre-made Designs

Freebies


I hope you decide to visit me at my "office" and see something you like. If you want a brand image that is a true representation and want to work intimately with someone who is passionate about their work, NighLon Solutions is for you! 

In celebration of the NighLonSolutions.com launch, I am giving away a social media icon set- ENJOY! (There are more freebies as well!)

Grab It Here! 

Why We Will Be Homeschooling

Since the time my hubby and I found out the prince would make an entrance to our lives, we have struggled with one decision. Would we send him to public school or homeschool? (Private school is out of the question in our area.) We don't want him to miss life lessons children learn in school, but every time I thought about sending him to school, I would start to panic. I have always been taught to trust my gut, but this is a decision that will affect him for the rest of his life.

Pirate Man

We decided that it was time to make the decision. If we want him to go to pre-school, it is almost time to start registering. It quickly became crunch time. My hubby and I analyzed our feelings about school, and were able to quickly come to the conclusion that our gut instinct was the right one.

I first want to discuss the things we find on most lists for pro-homeschooling. These items were no where on our list.

1. The avoidance of a schedule
2. Learning at his own pace
3. Religious views
4. To shelter him

In fact, we believe in the opposite of these. Here are our thoughts on homeschooling. 

1. It is important for children to learn routine and a schedule. Routines will follow our children in one form or another their whole lives. If they fail to learn routines and schedules, this will only hinder them when it is time for college or a job. 
2. Children learning at their own pace is a tricky one. Children learn differently; they should be stimulated and allowed to truly learn lessons- not just pass a test. I also believe that if we expect our children to succeed and have faith in their abilities, we are setting them up for success. 
3. My religious views have nothing to do with this decision, except for one issue. I don't want someone I barely know teaching my son their religious views, forcing their views on my family, or teaching him moral lessons. That is my job, as his parent. (Yes, this does still happen)
4. I don't want to shelter my son from cultural or social differences. (One of the reason I don't like private schools.) I do, however, believe I can do a better job at exposing him to social differences than schools can. The only thing I want to shelter him from (until he is older) is the evil in the world. Violence, war, and school shootings should never be discussed in an elementary school classroom. Period. 

The other issue my husband and I have discussed is socializing. We want him to learn to work well with others and build relationships. We came to a few conclusions regarding this. 

• School is for educating, not socializing and making friends; just like work is for working and not making friends. 
• My husband and I learned the most valuable lessons about relationships outside of schools. 
• We do have to make sure he is involved in organizations and activities that involve teamwork and fun socializing.

Being like Daddy!

These are not all of the reasons why we are going with homeschooling. These just happen to be the core reasons. We made this decision because it is what we believe to be best for our family. My husband and I will do whatever it takes to insure our son has all the opportunities available for success. This journey will not be easy, but the rewards will be great. I hope you follow along with our journey. 

I would love to know your reasons for the schooling decisions you have made. 

Southern Charm Sunday: Teaching Kids to Eat Healthy

Not only am I back from not posting Southern Charm Sundays for a couple of weeks, but its time to get back to traditional etiquette. I just love etiquette and I'm ready for fall and winter, which means family gatherings and dinner parties. It is important that children learn manners and proper table etiquette. There is formal and not so formal etiquette, depending on the situation.

One of the things I have struggled with the most is getting my son to sit at the table. Eating dinner at the table is very important to me, its the way I grew up. We always had family dinner (besides the rare occasion that we had a movie night with pizza on the living room floor!) That is easier said than done. With today's hectic schedules and timing, we don't always eat dinner together. So, sometimes teaching the prince to eat at the table is a little difficult.

I have found a solution to this though. I was contacted by Copy-Kids about reviewing their DVD with kids eating vegetables. The DVD highlights toddlers and preschoolers enjoying their favorite vegetables. It is absolutely adorable!  I'm not the only mom who thinks so, either!

What I did was this:
We were having an especially difficult dinner time, so I set up the DVD in my laptop, set it on the table, and turned it on. The little guy was having so much fun watching the other kids eat, he forgot that he would rather be playing and running around the house like a wild man. He ate his dinner and wanted more, which is a very rare incident. Now, he even loves bell peppers!

 

Even though I am a huge advocate of etiquette and think it is one of the most important things we can teach our children, making sure they eat healthy comes first. I am able to teach him to eat at the table and eat his vegetables without a battle every night. Also, children learn best from other children. Its not just eating vegetables that my little guy is learning from these children on the video. He is also learning communication skills because he talks back to them. He is still learning table manners. The children in the video have obviously been taught manners. I love this. 

So, if you struggle to get your children to eat, this is a perfect solution! Kids want to copy other kids, so why not let them watch other children eating! 

Here's another tip: follow Copy-Kids on Pinterest for great tips and tricks! 

The people at Copy-Kids have graciously offered a copy of Copy-Kids: Eat Fruits and Vegetables to one lucky reader! 

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Keeping Up With Trends: Tips for Consignment Shopping

When I was pregnant, I was introduced to a whole new way (new to me) of shopping. When I was a newly pregnant woman was about the same time that EVERY retailer in my county decided to stop selling maternity clothes. I could drive an hour and shop, but I wasn't going to do that. I worked A LOT and honestly, just didn't have it in me. I was whining about this to a friend, who quickly told me to go to Mello Trends. Mello Trends is a consignment store in my county. I had never consignment shopped, so I wasn't sure what to expect.

I was greeted by a beautiful happy lady who promptly showed me the maternity section. When I was finished buying some gorgeous clothes, she checked me out. She also told me when new things were put on the floor, talked to me about baby clothes, gave me some maternity advice (the sweet kind), and told me about bringing my own items in. I was hooked!

I have since returned several times to buy things for my little guy, every time leaving with something I absolutely adore. I think my favorite purchase is his bouncy seat. In fact it was because of Sally (the owner) that I bought the bouncy seat. I was looking for a high chair, but couldn't find one that he was big enough for. So, she told me she fed her babies in a bouncy seat when they started eating. It worked brilliantly, and he loved it! 

I actually got a chance to chat it up with Sally and this is what she said:

I discovered consignment/resale thrift stores when I had my kiddos. I fell in love! Keeping the children cute and stylish was just so important to me, I love finding name brand clothing for 50% of the retail price (quite often even more), bargains are just fun and exciting! 
My store has become successful on a number of things. My eye for perfection in selecting items is key. I am super picky bc I AM a thrift store junkie! I only shop resale, I love it. I can pass on too-worn clothing, Walmart and Kmart brands (even tho I love Walmart and Kmart for clothes at some times). I love the dollar finds at those stores, I cant compete with them so I take mall/designer or boutique brands only. 
I suggest to recycle as much as you can, this includes clothing! Clothing is an investment and in this economy we must reuse and preserve at all times. If we spend money on new clothes, we should remember to take great care of those items and make some $$$$ for the new things we want to wear, family included. 
The love of resale shops is growing and I'm proud to be a part of it.

I want to share with you some of the tips I have picked up along the way. These are actually things I have learned shopping Mello Trends and other places. 

• Be skeptical, not everyone is as conscious of what they are buying for their store as Sally.
• Remember to buy quality items and mix in trendy things. 
• Remember what is already in your closet. Don't rebuy things you already own and buy things that will coordinate with items in your closet. 
• Consignment stores have sales too, watch for these. You can save even more money. 

Here are some of the gorgeous items Mello Trends has in now (be sure to visit their website- http://mellotrends.com)

Its not just clothing and accessory items that can be bought at consignment stores. You can also buy baby/ children items, book bags, furniture, and most anything you can think of. I urge you to go to a consignment store and see what you can find, or go visit Sally! 

Of course, an added benefit is shopping locally and helping out the local economy!

What is your best/ favorite consignment find? Do you have any tips you would like to share? 

Disclaimer: I have not been compensated in any way to write this post. I really enjoy shopping at Mello Trends and wrote this post on my own accord! 

A Letter To My Readers

I wanted to write my readers a letter about why I started The Palmetto Queen. There are several reasons, including having somewhere for the mommy in me to vent. Before I get to these, I want to let you know a little about me.

I am a girly-girl who loves anything pink and sparkly. In fact, my husband says that if I'm mad at him, he can show me something shiny and I will forget all about it. (I disagree, but he does buy me a lot of jewelry.) I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and business owner. I own NighLon, where I am a logo designer, branding consultant, and professional know-it-all. I am the person who takes on project after project. I am never bored and insist on living a full life. This is my way of doing that.

The Palmetto Queen is a way for me to document my journey and share some tips on managing chaos and keeping life glitzy. I hope you find useful posts here.

What you will find here at The Palmetto Queen:

Organizing: Without organization, I cannot accomplish anything. I have always been organized, but in the past two years, my strategies have stopped working. Since becoming a mother, I have had to rethink my past organizational tendencies. I still require a paper planner, post-its, lists, and colorful pens. 

Family Topics: First and foremost, I am a mother and wife. my biggest challenge is balancing all of my projects with family life. It is a struggle at times, but at the end of every day, it is worth it. 

Book Reviews: Beneath all the glitter, makeup, and jewelry, I am a nerd. I love to read and tell others about the books I find. The majority of books you see here will not be ones that are in main stream media (I stress most) I seek out the books that are off the beaten path, if you will. I am also not a big fiction reader. I read fiction when I am stressed. Otherwise, I want to either learn something or be on a journey to self improvement. 

Home School: This is a recent decision we have made and I hope you will follow along. Later in the week, I will be sharing why we made this decision. 

South Carolina: My home state is beautiful and full of history. I will share fun facts, history, and tips on local shopping and entertainment (for where ever you live.)

Southern Charm Sunday: Growing up, I was taught classic southern etiquette. I wish to instill these values in my family and hope to bring a renewed interest to this lost art. 

Favorite Products: Every girl has products that make her life easier and that she cannot live without. I will share mine with you! 

Note: I will be taking a break from List 5 Friday until after the holidays. I want to take some time and participate in some link ups from other bloggers. 

I started The Palmetto Queen so that I would have a space of my own that wasn't business or family.. It didn't take me long to find out that it would never work that way. This is The Palmetto Queen: a tale of a crazy life full of beauty, family, mason jars, moonlit nights, and "yes ma'ams"! This is my whole story. 

On a side note, I am looking for guest posts for my next busy month. In September, I have a lot going on. I would like two weeks worth of guest posts about event planning. If you have an idea for a post that has anything to do with event planning and birthdays, I would love to hear from you. Just send me an email at thepalmettoqueen(at)gmail(dot)com. If you want to guest post for me, and don't want to write about event planning, that's okay send me an email anyway, I'm sure I have a spot for you. Thanks for being a constant source of support and encouragement!  

10 Tips for Traveling With Toddlers

The family went on a short kind of last minute vacation last week and it was a blast. We all really needed a get away and to relax. It was nice to get away from every day life. I made my hubby proud, I didn't even work while  we were gone.

Ms Pac-Man is my favorite game ever!

We went to the bear zoo- This is an Asiatic Bear. It was catching treats in its mouth!

My little fish!

The Prince beat his daddy at Air Hockey

A grist mill with the honey!

Looking at rocks like daddy showed him!

 Since this was the little guy's first trip, and it was a success, I am going to share some tips.

1. If your little one has a favorite toy or blanket, give it to him/ her in the car- the ride will go much smoother.

2. If you are changing elevation, let them drink something so their ears will not pop.

3. Get a new toy for the car and hotel room, something new will hold their interest longer.

4. T actually plays with with the dogs on a dog bed at home and loves it. He even tries to take a nap on it, so we got him his own for the trip.

5. Make sure to do things that will be of interest to your toddler. My little guy loves animals and video games. We visited the Bear Zoo and took several walks to the arcade.

6. No matter how long you will be gone, make a list for what needs to be packed for the trip- I do this for day trips as well. Or, I will forget something.

7. Even if you plan on eating out the whole time you are gone, pack your little one's favorite snacks- it will be more like home!

8. Be sure to pack a separate bag for in the car. Even if it is just a few hours, you never know if you will need a change of clothes, extra toys, or extra water.

9. I won this cooler pouch and used it on the trip. I kept his squeeze apple sauce cold in it. I also added in a few baby wipes and a little lotion to keep cool. My little guy gets hot.

10. Make a list for what you need to remember to bring home. Whatever you do, do not forget your son's security blanket in the hotel room- yes, I am the worst mother ever!

I hope these tips help! I will be bringing you more tips later in the year. If all goes as planned I will be visiting my Mother in Florida *fingers crossed*

Sunday Social- Fall Edition

Well, I'm back from vacation and I promise to blog about that this week, and even share some tips for traveling with a toddler. Today, I'm skipping the Southern Charm Sunday while I continue to get back into the groove of everything. I do have some amazing ones lined up though!

I saw this link up on Kristin's blog and decided to jump in. Its nice to change things up a bit sometimes.


I'm linking up with Neely at A Complete Waste of Makeup
This week is all about FALL- my favorite season (I CANNOT wait!)
1. What is your favorite Fall activity? There are too many- carving pumpkins, halloween parties, costumes, thanksgiving, looking at leaves, playing in the leaves, and the list continues.

Source: southernliving.com via Seasons on Pinterest

2. Do you follow a football team? if so which one and why? I love football in general. I really don't care what team I watch, even though I love the Steelers. The two games I never miss are the Clemson-Carolina game (its tradition) and The Superbowl

Source: Uploaded by user via Gamecock on Pinterest

3. What is something fun about Fall in your area? The Apple Festival in my home town and all the fairs! (And football!!!)

Source: frenchessence.blogspot.com via Vicki on Pinterest

4. Fav Fall outfit staples? Boots, flats, sweaters, jeans, scarves, dark nail polish, big jewelry, hats, huge bags, gorgeous sunglasses- can you tell I'm excited about fall?

Source: ster-dub.polyvore.com via Cari on Pinterest

5. Thing you are looking forward to most about this coming Fall season? Carving pumpkins, scary movies, Thanksgiving dinner, playing in the leaves, trick-or-treating, my mom's visit, being on tv, pumpkin butter, pumpkin cookies. I love fall- can I say that enough?

Source: iowagirleats.com via Anna on Pinterest

 
6. Favorite Fall holiday? Traditions? Its a toss up between Thanksgiving and Halloween. I love them both. Either way, pumpkin is involved. I look forward to making pumpkin butter every year- and anything else that I can possibly make with pumpkin. I am going to attempt my Mother's pumpkin drop cookies this year. 

Source: mybakingaddiction.com via Desiré on Pinterest

What do you love about Fall? Head on over to visit Neely and link up!