Hey y'all.... see that wagon over there? The big red one rolling down the street?
Ya, that's me on the side of the road. I fell off the wagon....
I started blogging because it was fun, and I had some fun things to do/say. Recently it's become more of a chore than fun. While I feel like some people are interested in reading this (as some people do tell me in person), I also feel like no one is reading it and I'm talking to myself :-P
I haven't posted in 10 days, and the only thing that's changed is the fact that I keeping writing "BLOG" at the top of my To Do Lists. Some days I have more time than others to get behind my computer and write something out. But I don't want to just put anything out there, which is why I stopped the Blogging Challenge.
Starting November, I'm going to be doing the National Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo. It's a month long challenge to write 50,000 words-- the length of a small novel. I completed the challenge in 2014, and plan to do it again in 2016. Which means all my free time will be going towards that. So blogging will take another backseat.
Honestly, if I don't post this to my facebook page, no one sees it anyway. If for some reason you do, will you leave me a comment and let me know? I will try to keep posting randomly, with Kiddo Krafts, some more Room Makeovers (not sure what will be next though), and some 15 minute projects if we do any. But I'm not going to force any posts just to have a post.
So I hope you enjoy what gets put up. Let me know what you'd like to see!
Friday, October 21, 2016
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Blogging Challenge: Day 7
Day 7: Your 5 Favorite Songs
Hmm... another hard one. I've never really been one for a favorite song. I have favorite songs at the time, where I am in love with a song for a while, but not really any of all time.
I guess some that stand out are:
1. Savage Garden, I Knew I Loved You
I remember when this song came out. I listened to it over and over and over. I knew I wanted to use it as the first dance song at my wedding. While everyone else was obsessed with Truly, Madly, Deeply, I was obsessed with this.
2. Jason Mraz, The Remedy
I have loved Jason Mraz since this album came out. I remember buying it, and playing it in the rental car while with my dad when we visited my aunt and family. Luckily my dad doesn't mind all the crazy things I do, and was willing to listen with me. I still think its a great reminder to not worry about things and to let loose. Its also one of my favorites to sing along to!
3. Fun. Some Nights
I love this song. I rocked out in my car a hundred times to this song. Booger knows that when this song comes on, its "mommys song". The craziest part of this song is how your perception of it changes after you see the video. I also love dancing around the house to this. Many, many times. I so wish they would come out with another album.
4. Imagine Dragons, On Top of the World
Such a fun, happy song (see a pattern?) The best thing about this song is when I saw them play it live in concert last year (June, 2015). I went with my BFF. It was monsooning outside, literally ocean waves coming down on my car. It was also the night of the Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup final game. The concert started, Imagine Dragons played songs from their newest album, Smoke and Mirrors. Then they started a ballad. A slow, steady, heartfelt ballad. When all of the sudden, a loud rousing cheer began to spread through the stadium-- not a normal cheer for a slow song. Everyone was on their phones in a second as the cheer got louder and louder and louder-- the Hawks won the Cup!! The band was so confused, they stopped playing. The lead singer bent down to ask a dude in the front what was going on. The guy placed a Hawks hat on him and told him they won. The singer announced it to the crowd to more whoops and hollers. Then the band left the stage, gave us our time to celebrate and came back out a few minutes later. They said they weren't going to do this song, but it felt like the right time to do so-- and started in with On Top of the World. It was perfect. The rest of the concert was amazing as well.
5. Gavin Degraw, I Don't Want to Be
This was the theme song to one of my favorite TV shows ever-- One Tree Hill. It introduced me to Gavin Degraw, who I now love, love, love. I also went to one of his concerts with my BFF :-P All of his albums are amazing. Not to mention, hes super cute and awesome. I'm so upset he doesn't have any dates in the Chicago area for his new tour with Andy Grammar...
So there you have it-- my top 5 favorite songs (currently, at least!)
Hmm... another hard one. I've never really been one for a favorite song. I have favorite songs at the time, where I am in love with a song for a while, but not really any of all time.
I guess some that stand out are:
1. Savage Garden, I Knew I Loved You
I remember when this song came out. I listened to it over and over and over. I knew I wanted to use it as the first dance song at my wedding. While everyone else was obsessed with Truly, Madly, Deeply, I was obsessed with this.
2. Jason Mraz, The Remedy
I have loved Jason Mraz since this album came out. I remember buying it, and playing it in the rental car while with my dad when we visited my aunt and family. Luckily my dad doesn't mind all the crazy things I do, and was willing to listen with me. I still think its a great reminder to not worry about things and to let loose. Its also one of my favorites to sing along to!
3. Fun. Some Nights
I love this song. I rocked out in my car a hundred times to this song. Booger knows that when this song comes on, its "mommys song". The craziest part of this song is how your perception of it changes after you see the video. I also love dancing around the house to this. Many, many times. I so wish they would come out with another album.
4. Imagine Dragons, On Top of the World
Such a fun, happy song (see a pattern?) The best thing about this song is when I saw them play it live in concert last year (June, 2015). I went with my BFF. It was monsooning outside, literally ocean waves coming down on my car. It was also the night of the Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup final game. The concert started, Imagine Dragons played songs from their newest album, Smoke and Mirrors. Then they started a ballad. A slow, steady, heartfelt ballad. When all of the sudden, a loud rousing cheer began to spread through the stadium-- not a normal cheer for a slow song. Everyone was on their phones in a second as the cheer got louder and louder and louder-- the Hawks won the Cup!! The band was so confused, they stopped playing. The lead singer bent down to ask a dude in the front what was going on. The guy placed a Hawks hat on him and told him they won. The singer announced it to the crowd to more whoops and hollers. Then the band left the stage, gave us our time to celebrate and came back out a few minutes later. They said they weren't going to do this song, but it felt like the right time to do so-- and started in with On Top of the World. It was perfect. The rest of the concert was amazing as well.
5. Gavin Degraw, I Don't Want to Be
This was the theme song to one of my favorite TV shows ever-- One Tree Hill. It introduced me to Gavin Degraw, who I now love, love, love. I also went to one of his concerts with my BFF :-P All of his albums are amazing. Not to mention, hes super cute and awesome. I'm so upset he doesn't have any dates in the Chicago area for his new tour with Andy Grammar...
So there you have it-- my top 5 favorite songs (currently, at least!)
Room Makeover- The Playroom... almost done!
Guys, my computer has been so super slow lately. It's taking forever to edit some pictures to put in this post. It is very annoying and I am very frustrated and I have no idea what to do about it. Any computer helpers out there?
Anyway, the playroom is *almost* done. I have one more set of letters to paint and hang ("Laugh"- Target just couldn't have all the letters in stock at the same time!) and the shelf/ bench to put in- Husband is working on it this week- he needs to take all his stuff off and find a replacement.
Other than that, we're done! The chairs are in, the toys are set, the other words are on the wall. I have one puzzle to hang, but that takes only a moment.
This is where we currently are:
The shelf/ bench will go where those bins are now, hopefully with new bins to hold more of the toys.
"Laugh" will go to the right of the windows, at the same height as "Play".
We decided against the floor cushions for now. Booger still loves to run around and kick balls and generally be a dork, so we want the extra floor space. When the kids get bigger and do more video games/ movie watching in the room than toy playing, then we'll add the cushions. For now, the chairs work well (and are mainly sat in by me anyway while watching them play).
Then we'll be done! I'll post a before/after post later this week, if we get the shelves in. Maybe this weekend as I work a few nights this week. For now, here we go:
We're also decorating for Halloween this weekend, I'm going to review all the new shows I'm watching this season, I have a Book Review on tap and homemade applesauce to share (not literally, just the recipe. But make it- it's delicious!)
Anyway, the playroom is *almost* done. I have one more set of letters to paint and hang ("Laugh"- Target just couldn't have all the letters in stock at the same time!) and the shelf/ bench to put in- Husband is working on it this week- he needs to take all his stuff off and find a replacement.
Other than that, we're done! The chairs are in, the toys are set, the other words are on the wall. I have one puzzle to hang, but that takes only a moment.
This is where we currently are:
The shelf/ bench will go where those bins are now, hopefully with new bins to hold more of the toys.
"Laugh" will go to the right of the windows, at the same height as "Play".
We decided against the floor cushions for now. Booger still loves to run around and kick balls and generally be a dork, so we want the extra floor space. When the kids get bigger and do more video games/ movie watching in the room than toy playing, then we'll add the cushions. For now, the chairs work well (and are mainly sat in by me anyway while watching them play).
Then we'll be done! I'll post a before/after post later this week, if we get the shelves in. Maybe this weekend as I work a few nights this week. For now, here we go:
We're also decorating for Halloween this weekend, I'm going to review all the new shows I'm watching this season, I have a Book Review on tap and homemade applesauce to share (not literally, just the recipe. But make it- it's delicious!)
Monday, October 10, 2016
Blogging Challenge: Day 6
Hi!
If you didn't notice, I am not planning on doing the Blogging Challenge over the weekend days. Those are reserved for family and fun!
On Saturday, we took the kids to the pumpkin/apple farm. We have gone the past 3 years (1 without kids, 2 with just Booger, and now with Chunk too!). Booger had a great time helping us pick out the bag of apples, the apple donuts, and her own small cider pumpkin sippy cup. She held onto that thing for the rest of the trip.
Then it was time to go to the other side with the fun activities and pumpkins! This was definitely her favorite part-- a giant slide (she even went down once by herself!), tractors to climb, animals to see. She loved the corn kernel "sandbox".
Chunk was in and out of sleep most of the time, but he loved looking around at everything and everyone while he was up!
Sunday was my best friend's baby's first birthday. I cannot believe he is already ONE! It seems like just yesterday we were getting our matching tattoos (2012), or rooming in college (2004-2005), or playing mancala, going swimming, seeing Titanic in the theatre and oogling over Leo, or playing badminton in my backyard. I've known this girl since before I was 10 years old (neither one of us knows exactly when we met!) and here we are, a handful of kids between us. Life is crazy, isn't it?
So on to Blogging Challenge
The easy way out of this challenge is to just say something like Spiders or Bees or those super creepy crawly things with 800 legs.
While those are all terrifying, thats not a challenge.
There are two things I genuinely fear, but one has been around longer than the other. One thing is losing my children. I get flashes of car crashes, accidents, kidnappings etc all. the. time. Probably the same as any parent, but its truly frightening. My stomach clenches, my heart seizes up, and I start to panic when I think of things that could happen.
But the one thing that has been around longer than my fear of losing my children is the fear of failure. I truly fear being a failure at things. A failure as a mother, a failure as a wife, a friend, a sister, a daughter, an employee, etc. Especially if it is something that I have total control over. If it's personal. I try to do my best, but sometimes my best is only so good. I take things personally, even if it was not my fault. I try to please everyone, try to be the problem solver, the middle man. I try to make everyone see both sides of the story, so that no one is too unhappy.
Failure is always a possibility. It's how you react to it, and grow from it that shapes who you are. It is something I will always have to work on, to tell myself to use it as a learning tool instead of a fear.
What is something that you fear?
If you didn't notice, I am not planning on doing the Blogging Challenge over the weekend days. Those are reserved for family and fun!
On Saturday, we took the kids to the pumpkin/apple farm. We have gone the past 3 years (1 without kids, 2 with just Booger, and now with Chunk too!). Booger had a great time helping us pick out the bag of apples, the apple donuts, and her own small cider pumpkin sippy cup. She held onto that thing for the rest of the trip.
Then it was time to go to the other side with the fun activities and pumpkins! This was definitely her favorite part-- a giant slide (she even went down once by herself!), tractors to climb, animals to see. She loved the corn kernel "sandbox".
Chunk was in and out of sleep most of the time, but he loved looking around at everything and everyone while he was up!
Sunday was my best friend's baby's first birthday. I cannot believe he is already ONE! It seems like just yesterday we were getting our matching tattoos (2012), or rooming in college (2004-2005), or playing mancala, going swimming, seeing Titanic in the theatre and oogling over Leo, or playing badminton in my backyard. I've known this girl since before I was 10 years old (neither one of us knows exactly when we met!) and here we are, a handful of kids between us. Life is crazy, isn't it?
So on to Blogging Challenge
Day 6: Something You Fear
The easy way out of this challenge is to just say something like Spiders or Bees or those super creepy crawly things with 800 legs.
While those are all terrifying, thats not a challenge.
There are two things I genuinely fear, but one has been around longer than the other. One thing is losing my children. I get flashes of car crashes, accidents, kidnappings etc all. the. time. Probably the same as any parent, but its truly frightening. My stomach clenches, my heart seizes up, and I start to panic when I think of things that could happen.
But the one thing that has been around longer than my fear of losing my children is the fear of failure. I truly fear being a failure at things. A failure as a mother, a failure as a wife, a friend, a sister, a daughter, an employee, etc. Especially if it is something that I have total control over. If it's personal. I try to do my best, but sometimes my best is only so good. I take things personally, even if it was not my fault. I try to please everyone, try to be the problem solver, the middle man. I try to make everyone see both sides of the story, so that no one is too unhappy.
Failure is always a possibility. It's how you react to it, and grow from it that shapes who you are. It is something I will always have to work on, to tell myself to use it as a learning tool instead of a fear.
What is something that you fear?
Friday, October 7, 2016
Blogging Challenge: Day 5
Day 5: My Proudest Moment
These are getting so difficult, as I have to keep choose one time!
But I don't think that I can.
My deepest sense of pride comes with my babies. I constantly tell Booger how proud of her I am for everything she does. From the first time she rolled over, to present day, Not a week goes by without me telling her that I'm proud of her. Lately it comes in the form of being a great big sister. Seriously, she could not be better (ok, except for the times she starts screaming outside of Chunk's room while hes napping, but other than that...). She is always finding ways to help me with him, always saying nice things to him, always ready to play, or sing, or talk, or hang out next to him.
I am so proud to call these two kiddos mine. They are both amazing and I know I will continue to be proud of their accomplishments, their personalities, and their successes over the years.
(Short post this morning; working on a Room Makeover post for this afternoon!
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Blogging Challenge: Day 3 (and Day 4); Making Popsicles
I swear, I had Day 3 posted yesterday.... but here I find it sitting in Drafts and not Published.. oops!
So here is Day 3 AND 4 AND a quick post on a fun activity for Kiddos!
So here is Day 3 AND 4 AND a quick post on a fun activity for Kiddos!
Day 3: Your Favorite Quote
This one was a bit difficult... there are so many good quotes out there that inspire, make me happy, make me thankful, etc. One that has always stood out to me is a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote:
I've actually had this printed out and in my planner for a long time, so I could see it every day. Its a great reminder to relax, enjoy life, and not take things too seriously. A good reminder to not stress over the little things and to live in the moment.
What's your favorite quote??
Day 4: Your Dream Job
This one is tough too! I think my dream job would be something with travel. Or something in Australia. Maybe Samantha Brown's job, from the old Travel Channel shows. She got to just explore different countries and cities and film a TV show about it. There didn't have to be anything specific she had to do, just roam around, finding different places to eat, things to do, people to talk to. I think that would be fabulous. I would start in Australia, travel the whole country, then move on to Europe.
Of course, I would bring my whole family with me. And it wouldn't be stressful travelling with babies (one can wish, right?).
Yup. That would be it. Be Samantha Brown :-)
Making Popsicles
Booger has been asking me for popsicles for days now, and I kept forgetting until Tuesday afternoon. It's such an easy and quick thing to do, and Booger loves to help! I need to start cooking more and including her as a helper. She makes a fantastic sous chef...at least with stirring. Worlds Best Stirrer is her new title.
We bought our popsicle mold from Ikea years ago, but these from Amazon are super cute too!
I also like making our own, as we can control the ingredients and how healthy to make them!
For this batch, we first had to make some lemonade. Booger was the best at that, as there was a lot of stirring to do :-)
Then, we used the lemonade and some juice (100% juice-- orange, strawberry, mango blend). There are 6 molds, so we did 3 lemonade, 3 juice.
In each, we also added some fruit. 2 raspberries, 2 blueberries, 2 strawberry.
The best part is eating-- you don't know which popsicle is which so its a nice surprise!
Have you made your own Popsicles? They're so easy and fun for the kiddos to help!
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Blogging Challenge: Day 2
Challenge: 10 Things About Me
1. I am adopted. My parents searched for me through the newspaper (hey, it was the 80's!). They had a few mothers considered and I was the first one born. I had my first plane ride at only 4 days old!
2. I've worn glasses since 2nd grade, contacts since 8th, and am not a good canidate for Lasik because my prescription changes every. single. year. This year one of my eyes actually got better! Thanks, pregnancy!
3. I've been skiing since I was 2 years old. I entered a few contests at resorts we've been to when I was in high school, but nothing major. My brother and I were so good, though, that our parents had to put us in Ski School because they couldn't keep up with us (by the time we were like 7/8). But we were so good, we got our own instructor because the other kids couldn't keep up either. Jumps, tree trails, and tricks were my favorites.
4. I started competitive swimming in High School because my mother said I had to do something after school. Glad I joined swimming, because I've now made an entire life and career out of it...
5. I'm a very fast reader. It's actually a problem because I finish books too fast and then buy more. I attended multiple Harry Potter midnight releases, and my friends hated me because I read too fast and sometimes would accidentally spoil things by laughing or crying...
6. I've always had dogs in my life. My parents had a dog when they got married. When I was in 1st grade we added a Golden Retriever. The first dog passed when I was little, and then we got a crazy mutt. Both the Golden and the Mutt had to be put down (they were inseperable) when I was a senior in High School. A few months later, my mom got a Yorkie. 6 years ago, Husband and I got Cozmo, our crazy Corgi1
7. I dislike trashy reality TV. Any of the Real Housewives, Bachelors, etc drive me crazy. I don't understand how people watch that junk. Some reality shows are ok, but not those types.
8. I don't understand Twitter, Snap Chat and Instagram. I have a Facebook...which does the job of all of those things in one place. I've had a Facebook since 2005, when my college (Go Bradley!) was approved for it....yes, when it was still for college kids and you had to have an approved college and college based email to register.
9. I love organizing but am messy at the same time. I tend to put things in piles while organizing, but sometimes those piles stay in that place for a while... I've always loved organizing and rearranging rooms, but get super distracted while doing so, and then move on because I get bored... whoops.
10. I like to travel, but don't do it often. I've been to a lot of US states, Canada, Mexico, London, Belgium (all over the country. LOVE LOVE LOVE it there), Germany (just 1 city though), France (just 1 city) and Australia. If I could split my time between Belgium and Australia, I would in a heartbeat. I want to go back to Australia so bad, and would love a summer home in Brugge!
Monday, October 3, 2016
Blogging Challenge: Day 1
Challenge: Discuss Your Blog's Name:
Why did I choose Be Happy, Be Bright, Be You?
Because it embodies everything I try to be and I try to instill in my kiddos.
Be Happy. I want that not only for myself, my children, but for everyone. I want this blog to be a place about happiness, about laughter, about enjoyment. The only negative aspect you'll see me post here is usually about what jerks toddlers can be :-P But then again, its all about love.
Be Bright. I try to tell this to Booger quite often. It has a lot of different meanings-- be bright, as in smart. Be bright, as in internal happiness, a sort of glow. Be bright, as in shine in everything you do, try hard, give it your all. Be bright, as in be happy, a bright smile.
Be You. I almost didn't have this at the end, but after a few days with the name, I had to add it. Its one thing to be happy and bright, but another to just be YOU. Be who you are, be who you want to be. Don't try to be someone else to make others happy. Empower yourself!
So I guess my blog name isn't really about me, its about YOU. These are all aspects I want YOU to be, to strive for, to achieve. I hope my posts reflect that!
Sunday, October 2, 2016
I'm Still Here!
Hey y'all! I haven't forgotten about you!
This week has been busy, and I haven't had too much to post. I'm working on the playroom, but running into a few delays (Target hasn't had all the letters I need to make the words for the wall, Husband hasn't found a new shelving unit he likes to replace the one we're going to put down in the playroom, etc).
We did get the chairs and they are in place! I'll update that this week for sure. All that's left is to move a tub out, put the bookshelf in, put the words on the walls and order the floor cushions! I'm grabbing the clipboards from Target today (hopefully they have them!)
I'm also going to be doing a 30 day blogging challenge starting tomorrow! Some posts will be short, some longer, some interesting, some not. Make sure you check it out each day, or subscribe (link on the right!) so you can stay up to date! I won't be linking each one to Facebook, as that would get obnoxious, so bookmark the page and come back often!
During the challenge, I'll also be posting the normal 15 minute projects, Kiddo Krafts, and Room Makeovers. You might get 2 posts on some days!
Stick with me-- I'm still here!
This week has been busy, and I haven't had too much to post. I'm working on the playroom, but running into a few delays (Target hasn't had all the letters I need to make the words for the wall, Husband hasn't found a new shelving unit he likes to replace the one we're going to put down in the playroom, etc).
We did get the chairs and they are in place! I'll update that this week for sure. All that's left is to move a tub out, put the bookshelf in, put the words on the walls and order the floor cushions! I'm grabbing the clipboards from Target today (hopefully they have them!)
I'm also going to be doing a 30 day blogging challenge starting tomorrow! Some posts will be short, some longer, some interesting, some not. Make sure you check it out each day, or subscribe (link on the right!) so you can stay up to date! I won't be linking each one to Facebook, as that would get obnoxious, so bookmark the page and come back often!
During the challenge, I'll also be posting the normal 15 minute projects, Kiddo Krafts, and Room Makeovers. You might get 2 posts on some days!
Stick with me-- I'm still here!
Sunday, September 25, 2016
Kiddo Krafts-- Mickey's Medals
Anyone else have a Mickey Clubhouse fan? Booger is obsessed! One of the newest episodes was Olympic- themed and called "Mickey's Sporty-thon". It had the Clubhouse members and friends doing all sorts of sports-- basketball, swimming, running, biking, etc.
At the end, they all got Mickey Medals.
So what does Booger need for when shes plays obstacle course in her playroom? A Mickey Medal, of course!
Now, before we go further into this Kiddo Kraft, know that I had to do this on the fly, so there are spots I will explain how to do it better than I did!
You'll need:
**Tin foil
** ribbon
** Scissors
** Tape (I used scotch tape, but duct tape would probably stick to the foil better)
** hard circular object (cardboard would work well, so you could leave it inside the foil for structure)
Making the medals was pretty easy:
1. Take a piece of foil, wrap it around your circular object. I used a lid to a water cup, so I first wrapped it around, took out the lid, then flattened it back into the circle shape. This is where a piece of cardboard cut into a circle would be better-- wrap the tin foil around the cardboard and leave it in for structure.
2. Cut a piece of ribbon as long as needed to make the medal necklace length for your kiddo.
3. Tape the ribbon to the "medal" and voila! You can also decorate it, make different color medals for different places, etc. I did have a flower taped to one, but Booger didn't like it and ripped it off....
And that's it! Mickey Medals for everyone!
At the end, they all got Mickey Medals.
So what does Booger need for when shes plays obstacle course in her playroom? A Mickey Medal, of course!
Now, before we go further into this Kiddo Kraft, know that I had to do this on the fly, so there are spots I will explain how to do it better than I did!
You'll need:
**Tin foil
** ribbon
** Scissors
** Tape (I used scotch tape, but duct tape would probably stick to the foil better)
** hard circular object (cardboard would work well, so you could leave it inside the foil for structure)
Making the medals was pretty easy:
1. Take a piece of foil, wrap it around your circular object. I used a lid to a water cup, so I first wrapped it around, took out the lid, then flattened it back into the circle shape. This is where a piece of cardboard cut into a circle would be better-- wrap the tin foil around the cardboard and leave it in for structure.
2. Cut a piece of ribbon as long as needed to make the medal necklace length for your kiddo.
3. Tape the ribbon to the "medal" and voila! You can also decorate it, make different color medals for different places, etc. I did have a flower taped to one, but Booger didn't like it and ripped it off....
And that's it! Mickey Medals for everyone!
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Stickers, Stickers, and more Stickers
I remember when Booger was tiny, under a year old, I saw a mom with a small child (maybe 6 years old) working on a sticker book together.
I expressed my thoughts to them-- how I love seeing them working together and how I couldn't wait until my daughter was old enough for stickers. The mom replied with a laugh and an "oh, just wait" type of answer.
And now I know why.
Stickers are the devil.
But, stickers are also the best thing ever. Booger L.O.V.E.S. stickers, even if she doesnt really use them right. She's not so much into placing stickers into a correct spot than she is just putting them onto paper wherever her fingers land. Usually all in one pile.
Exhibit A:
When we took a trip to WI last month, we bought her a new pad of stickers, Frozen themed of course. I kept the book up with me, and when she asked for some, I only gave her 1 sheet at a time, in order for them to last the whole 4-5 hour car ride each way.
This is what happened to those stickers:
She also found a love of stickers for her slide...
But anyway, to my point. Stickers are great for other reasons-- we have successfully used sticker charts for both potty training and changing to her toddler bed. How?
For potty training, we printed out a little game like maze. Every time she went on the potty, she got a sticker. After a certain amount of stickers, there were prizes (a cookie, a toy, a milkshake, etc). Once the game was done, stickers were done as well. Now, that didnt mean she was completely potty trained at the time, but it worked for long enough (a few days) for her to get the point of potty training. Going #2 on the potty took another few months to master, and a few more milkshake bribes.
Before we potty trained her, we also converted her crib into a toddler bed by removing the front railing. I was petrified of doing this because I had heard all the horror stories of kids waking up at 5am and jumping into bed with mom and dad, or going downstairs, or playing in their room. Booger can open all the doors in our house (except the ones that lead outside, thankfully), so I knew we would be doomed if she knew she could get out.
A few days before removing the side, we started telling her she would be sleeping in a big girl bed. Every time we talked about it (usually while rocking in the chair before nap or bed), we would always say "Now, in your big girl bed, you have to stay in bed until mama or dada come and get you. You can't get out until we come get you." I mean, we DRILLED this into her brain, having her repeat it over and over for us.
So when the big day came, I removed the side and repeated it again and again. Then, together, we went to make a sticker chart. For every time she successfully stayed in bed until we got her, she got a sticker. At the end of week 1, she got a treat. End of week 2 she got a book, then a toy, then a special outing (to see Dory- which coincided with her yay! you're officially pretty much potty trained outing).
I'm telling you, this girl will do ANYTHING for a sticker. Shes been in her big girl bed for almost 4 months, and has only gotten out once-- randomly a few weeks ago she left after a nap to go potty... I found her in the hallway. It was weird and scared the crap out of me.
But that was it. Not one other time has she left her room. She'll hang out in her bed talking to her stuffed animal for a while before I realize shes awake from a nap.
Our newest sticker chart is for Good Behavior. We've fully entered the Terrible Twos, and are bordering the Threenager stage. Lots of "leave me alone" and "go away" and "no!" and other mean phrases. I'm trying to encourage more nice words, nice hands (no hitting), more please and thank you's, etc. I'm hoping a sticker chart will help... but the first day brought nothing, unfortunately. Today has been a bit better, but still might take some convincing on her part.
She gets stickers for good behavior, whether its spontaneous on her part (Husband asked me to get him a bottle of water yesterday, and she took it upon herself to take my bottle, bring it to the bathroom and fill it up just for him, So considerate!), whether its asked for- aka do this the nice way and get a sticker, or whether its a random act of kindness. She can also get stickers taken away for bad behavior.
Today at nap time, I told her that if she got into bed without jumping, screaming, yelling, flipping around etc, she could have TWO stickers. Going down for a nap has been quite the challenge here lately. Unfortunately, we not only did not get two stickers, we had a time out before falling asleep. I'm hoping the stickers have more power over her and she's not losing interest in them yet!
(Oh, by the way, she almost asked for the time out so she could use her glitter bottle! She finally came around and likes using it now!)
Do your kids love stickers? Do they use them the right way or just love to peel and stick? Have you had success with sticker charts?
I expressed my thoughts to them-- how I love seeing them working together and how I couldn't wait until my daughter was old enough for stickers. The mom replied with a laugh and an "oh, just wait" type of answer.
And now I know why.
Stickers are the devil.
But, stickers are also the best thing ever. Booger L.O.V.E.S. stickers, even if she doesnt really use them right. She's not so much into placing stickers into a correct spot than she is just putting them onto paper wherever her fingers land. Usually all in one pile.
Exhibit A:
When we took a trip to WI last month, we bought her a new pad of stickers, Frozen themed of course. I kept the book up with me, and when she asked for some, I only gave her 1 sheet at a time, in order for them to last the whole 4-5 hour car ride each way.
This is what happened to those stickers:
She also found a love of stickers for her slide...
But anyway, to my point. Stickers are great for other reasons-- we have successfully used sticker charts for both potty training and changing to her toddler bed. How?
For potty training, we printed out a little game like maze. Every time she went on the potty, she got a sticker. After a certain amount of stickers, there were prizes (a cookie, a toy, a milkshake, etc). Once the game was done, stickers were done as well. Now, that didnt mean she was completely potty trained at the time, but it worked for long enough (a few days) for her to get the point of potty training. Going #2 on the potty took another few months to master, and a few more milkshake bribes.
Before we potty trained her, we also converted her crib into a toddler bed by removing the front railing. I was petrified of doing this because I had heard all the horror stories of kids waking up at 5am and jumping into bed with mom and dad, or going downstairs, or playing in their room. Booger can open all the doors in our house (except the ones that lead outside, thankfully), so I knew we would be doomed if she knew she could get out.
A few days before removing the side, we started telling her she would be sleeping in a big girl bed. Every time we talked about it (usually while rocking in the chair before nap or bed), we would always say "Now, in your big girl bed, you have to stay in bed until mama or dada come and get you. You can't get out until we come get you." I mean, we DRILLED this into her brain, having her repeat it over and over for us.
So when the big day came, I removed the side and repeated it again and again. Then, together, we went to make a sticker chart. For every time she successfully stayed in bed until we got her, she got a sticker. At the end of week 1, she got a treat. End of week 2 she got a book, then a toy, then a special outing (to see Dory- which coincided with her yay! you're officially pretty much potty trained outing).
I'm telling you, this girl will do ANYTHING for a sticker. Shes been in her big girl bed for almost 4 months, and has only gotten out once-- randomly a few weeks ago she left after a nap to go potty... I found her in the hallway. It was weird and scared the crap out of me.
But that was it. Not one other time has she left her room. She'll hang out in her bed talking to her stuffed animal for a while before I realize shes awake from a nap.
Our newest sticker chart is for Good Behavior. We've fully entered the Terrible Twos, and are bordering the Threenager stage. Lots of "leave me alone" and "go away" and "no!" and other mean phrases. I'm trying to encourage more nice words, nice hands (no hitting), more please and thank you's, etc. I'm hoping a sticker chart will help... but the first day brought nothing, unfortunately. Today has been a bit better, but still might take some convincing on her part.
She gets stickers for good behavior, whether its spontaneous on her part (Husband asked me to get him a bottle of water yesterday, and she took it upon herself to take my bottle, bring it to the bathroom and fill it up just for him, So considerate!), whether its asked for- aka do this the nice way and get a sticker, or whether its a random act of kindness. She can also get stickers taken away for bad behavior.
Today at nap time, I told her that if she got into bed without jumping, screaming, yelling, flipping around etc, she could have TWO stickers. Going down for a nap has been quite the challenge here lately. Unfortunately, we not only did not get two stickers, we had a time out before falling asleep. I'm hoping the stickers have more power over her and she's not losing interest in them yet!
(Oh, by the way, she almost asked for the time out so she could use her glitter bottle! She finally came around and likes using it now!)
Do your kids love stickers? Do they use them the right way or just love to peel and stick? Have you had success with sticker charts?
Monday, September 19, 2016
Room Makeover- Playroom Update
Hi all!
What a crazy week last week was. Husband was out of town for a work trip from Tuesday through Saturday, so I was on my own with both kiddos for 5 days.... I'm happy to report we all survived with minimal scarring (Serious about that.. Booger did manage to get her first bee sting while at the zoo on Thursday. Luckily it doesn't look like shes allergic- it barely affected her at all!)
So the playroom took a small back burner last week. We did get two things done- moved all the toys in and paint some letters for the word PLAY. Since the walls are dark, I'm going with lighter colors- pink, white, blue and sea green.
I moved the toys in there last Monday when we babysat my two nephews. It was way easier to have all the kids in one room with a door! It cemented the idea that the playroom was a good idea-- see Husband? I said you were right...
So, the update. For now, this is the configuration we are having. We do plan to add two small chairs in the corners (the tub in the back corner is leaving eventually) and possibly a small bench with storage bins to the back wall.
Booger has spent almost every waking minute in this room. Remember, its all the toys she had out in the living room before... so nothing new. But for some reason she is loving this room way more. I do enjoy that there is enough room to put Chunk on the ground to play while room for Booger to run around and go crazy at the same time.
What is left?
** rearranging wall items- we have two Star Wars posters and three puzzles I've completed. I'd like to put the puzzles more around the room instead in the back corner by the weight bench.
** adding a few clipboards to the walls over the bench (when that comes down). That way we can hang some of Booger's artwork, and swap them out easily.
** adding fun painted words-- PLAY, CREATE, LAUGH around the room
** buy or make 1-2 floor pillows (one for each kid to relax on- for Chunk when he is big enough). Boys and Girls links
** get two small chairs for the corners to relax on, and use when playing the video games (found here)
** bringing in the bluetooth speakers so we can play music!
What a crazy week last week was. Husband was out of town for a work trip from Tuesday through Saturday, so I was on my own with both kiddos for 5 days.... I'm happy to report we all survived with minimal scarring (Serious about that.. Booger did manage to get her first bee sting while at the zoo on Thursday. Luckily it doesn't look like shes allergic- it barely affected her at all!)
So the playroom took a small back burner last week. We did get two things done- moved all the toys in and paint some letters for the word PLAY. Since the walls are dark, I'm going with lighter colors- pink, white, blue and sea green.
I moved the toys in there last Monday when we babysat my two nephews. It was way easier to have all the kids in one room with a door! It cemented the idea that the playroom was a good idea-- see Husband? I said you were right...
So, the update. For now, this is the configuration we are having. We do plan to add two small chairs in the corners (the tub in the back corner is leaving eventually) and possibly a small bench with storage bins to the back wall.
Booger has spent almost every waking minute in this room. Remember, its all the toys she had out in the living room before... so nothing new. But for some reason she is loving this room way more. I do enjoy that there is enough room to put Chunk on the ground to play while room for Booger to run around and go crazy at the same time.
What is left?
** rearranging wall items- we have two Star Wars posters and three puzzles I've completed. I'd like to put the puzzles more around the room instead in the back corner by the weight bench.
** adding a few clipboards to the walls over the bench (when that comes down). That way we can hang some of Booger's artwork, and swap them out easily.
** adding fun painted words-- PLAY, CREATE, LAUGH around the room
** buy or make 1-2 floor pillows (one for each kid to relax on- for Chunk when he is big enough). Boys and Girls links
** get two small chairs for the corners to relax on, and use when playing the video games (found here)
** bringing in the bluetooth speakers so we can play music!
Friday, September 16, 2016
Book Review- The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay
When I first read The Sea of Tranquility, I knew it was a contender. I know a book is good, and I mean really good, when I re-read it again right after I finish it.
I read this one three times in a row. And it got better each time. I read this book back in February of 2013, and to this day it is the number 1 book I recommend.
It's so good, one of my other favorite authors- Colleen Hoover- subtly references it in one of her books. I thought I was crazy (I won't spoil it, but you'll find it if you look hard enough) at first, having read TSoT just before, but a while later I read an interview with CoHo and she mentioned that TSoT is HER favorite book too. And she said it again at the author signing I went to last month.
This book is THAT good.
So what is The Sea of Tranquility? Its a Young Adult book with themes that span into the adult world. Its a love story that transcends the meaning of love story. Its a real world meets fiction in a way you want to jump right in and live there. It's a "that's so me" type of story. It's part mystery, emotions, love, friendship, finding your true self, and questions about life.
You wont be able to put it down.
Nastya has just transferred to a new school when she goes to live with her aunt. Josh is a loner-- literally. People leave him alone due to his association with death- everyone close to him has died. It's ok, Josh prefers silence. Which is great, because Nastya doesn't speak. Ever. It's not that she can't, but more of she won't-- until she finds the one guy who took everything away from her. Then, she'll have a lot to say.
Nastya and Josh somehow become the odd couple. They're not dating and they hide their friendship from the world, but somehow they fit together like a strange puzzle.
Pick up a copy today. You won't be disappointed.
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Top 5- Items for Toddlers
Did you miss the Top 5 post from last month? Check it out here-- Top 5 items for babies.
This month is following a similar theme, but upping it to Toddlers. Here are my Top 5 items for kids aged 1.5-3.
1. Mini Trampoline
Once Booger got to the point where she needed creative ways to get her energy out, I knew we needed something inside the house. I wanted to get her one for Christmas, but we got her a slide instead (which she still loves). When the weather outside is too bad to send her out to run around, she can bounce!
2. Plastic Bowls and Plates
(from Ikea)
3. A DVR
If your kiddo is like mine and only likes to watch a few shows, you NEED to have those shows available at all times! Our bedroom TV has a DVR on it, and it literally only has Disney Jr shows (Sophia, Lion Guard, Mickey, Elena and Miles) plus some movies when they play them. This way, we always have a happy camper! I let her watch sometimes while I'm nursing Chunk and its so much easier to be able to press play instead of hoping a show she likes is on!
4. Puzzles
One thing I like about puzzle time is that there are so many ways to learn from them. Once the kid masters doing the actual puzzle itself, it doesn't end there! I always find a new way to play with Booger and puzzles-- I ask her to find a certain piece (where's the horse? where's the square?) or a certain color. I turn the pieces upside down and see if she can figure it out without looking at the picture part of each piece. I time her and see how fast she can finish a puzzle. She loves doing puzzles and never is bored with them!
5. Blanket, Animal, Lovie, something they love
Toddlers are great about finding one item and becoming obsessed with it. However, it's the items that last that make the difference. By this age, toddlers usually have a blanket or an animal they just cannot live without. Booger has 3 blankets and 2 dolls (a Minnie and a Corgi). They bring her comfort when shes upset, she shares them with her brother because they are important to her, she sleeps with them every night, she brings them to snuggle time, etc. While they are her favorites, they do have rules-- none of them go downstairs unless mama or dada say so. This way they stay clean, don't get lost, or ruined. But it's important for a kid at this stage to have something that brings comfort besides a person. They're learning to wean themselves from a parent, but still need a physical item to feel safe.
Those are my Top 5 items every Toddler needs! What are some other items you would add to the list?
Sunday, September 11, 2016
Room Makeover- The Playroom
Update time!
We sold the two couches earlier this week, and they were picked up yesterday.
Once they were gone, and the room was vacuumed, we realized just how much SPACE there really was! Booger has played in there every time we've been downstairs in the past 24 hours. As much as I loved those couches, they really did take up way to much space for that room to be a decent play room.
Here is how the room looks now (no judgement!)
We've moved the weight bench to the back next to the dresser. When we use it, we can move it out, but most of the time it'll stay out of the way.
Next up:
** clean out junk that doesn't belong
** sell TV stand; find taller/ more storage option (TV mainly for DVD's and video games)
** find 2 comfy chairs- one in each corner that can be brought out when using for gaming
** find/make floor pillows or cushions for the kiddos
** bring down or buy new shelving unit; make bench top
** organize, decorate, enjoy!
I'll be posting a mood board for the room later this week, as I wrap up finding all the items we are looking for! Our budget is strictly set to the items we sell from this room (couches, TV stand, old teacup shelving unit), so we have to find items that fit within that.
I'm excited about the room already and can't believe we didn't do this sooner :-)
We sold the two couches earlier this week, and they were picked up yesterday.
Once they were gone, and the room was vacuumed, we realized just how much SPACE there really was! Booger has played in there every time we've been downstairs in the past 24 hours. As much as I loved those couches, they really did take up way to much space for that room to be a decent play room.
Here is how the room looks now (no judgement!)
panoramic view
We've moved the weight bench to the back next to the dresser. When we use it, we can move it out, but most of the time it'll stay out of the way.
Next up:
** clean out junk that doesn't belong
** sell TV stand; find taller/ more storage option (TV mainly for DVD's and video games)
** find 2 comfy chairs- one in each corner that can be brought out when using for gaming
** find/make floor pillows or cushions for the kiddos
** bring down or buy new shelving unit; make bench top
** organize, decorate, enjoy!
I'll be posting a mood board for the room later this week, as I wrap up finding all the items we are looking for! Our budget is strictly set to the items we sell from this room (couches, TV stand, old teacup shelving unit), so we have to find items that fit within that.
I'm excited about the room already and can't believe we didn't do this sooner :-)
Friday, September 9, 2016
Kiddo Krafts and Saving Mama's Sanity
They suck.
The End.
How many mama's could write that book? These little pint sized dictators with their emotional roller coasters are exhausting. Perfectly fine one minute, then the world ends for twenty minutes, then they become a super cuddle bug and back to perfectly normal.
This was our house 5 times the other day. Yes, we had FIVE horrible, hysterical, manic, full blown meltdown tantrums. Three within the first 2 hours of the morning. I tried being nice. I tried being stern. I tried being strict, I tried ignoring. I tried everything I could think of to keep my sanity. It didn't work. By 3pm, both Booger and I were absolutely exhausted. And then she had one more.
We used to do time outs, but those have become super stressful for both her and I. We've tried 'time in's' but those usually end up with me being punched or scratched as she tries to escape, which becomes more stressful for her. We've tried quiet time in her room until she calms down, but that ends with multiple escape attempts, sometimes trashing her room, and usually prolongs the tantrum a bit until she is done.
I've tried connecting the dots-- when does she have meltdowns? Is it because of something that happens, or at a certain time of day? I've found that most of them happen around the time she is getting hungry-- snack times, meal times, a while after a meal she didn't fully eat. If she doesn't end up eating all her breakfast, I know we'll have some tantrums that morning. Sometimes the first tantrum starts with me asking her to finish her breakfast...
So anyway, moving onto the Kiddo Kraft-- one item I've been thinking about using for a while is a Sensory Bottle. A DIY item where she can sit quietly and watch the glitter fall in order to get herself to calm down.
I'm hoping to make a couple of these bottles-- at least one to keep downstairs and one to keep upstairs. That way we can sit and offer the bottle when she gets crazy. Hopefully this solution will work for more than two days..
Materials:
** empty bottle (plastic water bottle, etc)
** glitter glue in your choice of color
** extra glitter
** water
** optional: small toys (legos, figurines, etc) to watch moving around the bottle
1. Empty, wash, and dry the bottle.
2. Pour glitter into the bottom (if you have multiple types, it makes for more to watch)
3. Squeeze glitter glue into bottle (tip: let the littles squeeze a bit, then take the cap off and do the rest yourself. We used about 1/2 bottle of glue for each bottle)
5. Add toys (optional)
6. Hot glue cap onto bottle
7. Shake, shake, shake, shake! It'll take a bit for it to all combine.
The more glitter glue you use, the longer it'll take to reach the bottom. My plan is to let her use the bottle until she feels calm, but you could tell a kiddo that time out is as long as it takes for the glitter to settle.
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
Room Makeover- September Edition
Does anyone remember that home makeover show with Hilde and Vern and the neighbors who swapped houses for a weekend to re-do a room? Remember how horrible most of the rooms turned out? Man, we've come a long way since then. Now we have shows like Fixer Upper (obsessed!) and Property Brothers and Flip or Flop that actually make homes liveable and nice...
Anyway, small detour there. This month's Room Makeover is going to be....
I struggled with the function of this room since we moved in 3 years ago this month. Its a fantastic space-- a rather large room with a closet and large bathroom (handicap accessible bathroom). There are lots of windows on the front end, with gorgeous plantation shutters. However, the space is off in its own "wing" if you will, so it's not very accessible for every day use. Plus, it was built way after the original part of the home, so it has its own heating system, and no A/C, so we normally keep the door closed so we don't have to heat/cool it.
All those reasons lead this room to be a glorified storage area. We tried to make it a movie/ hangout room. But with no cable box, it didn't work like we wanted (we watch a lot of movies off of HBO, or Netflix on the Xbox). We tried to make it a game room with Husband's vintage gaming systems, but we usually forgot it was there. We tried to make it a workout room, but we became lazy.
When we decided to do make this room the Room Makeover for September, Husband threw out the idea of making it the kids playroom. We knew when the kids got older that we would make it into their hangout (and be the cool parents, right?) and Booger's big toys were taking over the living room. I was a bit hesitant at first, as it is a closed off room and away from our normal living areas, but in the end, it made the most sense.
So! We have a lot of work to do! Luckily the room is already painted, so we are not changing that.
What we are doing:
** clearing out the area-- selling the couches, the shelving unit and the TV stand
** replacing the TV stand with one a bit taller with more storage
** adding two comfy chairs that can be moved to use to play video games, watch movies, etc
** adding floor pillows for the kiddos
** moving the weight bench and weights to the back of the room
** adding a storage bench for toys and reading spot
** moving Boogers toys (slide, trampoline, tunnel, etc) into the room
** adding bright colors to the walls and fabrics
Follow my Pinterest board for some of my ideas!
I'll post later this week with our first updates!
Anyway, small detour there. This month's Room Makeover is going to be....
The Addition!
Or, soon to be known asThe Playroom!
I struggled with the function of this room since we moved in 3 years ago this month. Its a fantastic space-- a rather large room with a closet and large bathroom (handicap accessible bathroom). There are lots of windows on the front end, with gorgeous plantation shutters. However, the space is off in its own "wing" if you will, so it's not very accessible for every day use. Plus, it was built way after the original part of the home, so it has its own heating system, and no A/C, so we normally keep the door closed so we don't have to heat/cool it.
All those reasons lead this room to be a glorified storage area. We tried to make it a movie/ hangout room. But with no cable box, it didn't work like we wanted (we watch a lot of movies off of HBO, or Netflix on the Xbox). We tried to make it a game room with Husband's vintage gaming systems, but we usually forgot it was there. We tried to make it a workout room, but we became lazy.
When we decided to do make this room the Room Makeover for September, Husband threw out the idea of making it the kids playroom. We knew when the kids got older that we would make it into their hangout (and be the cool parents, right?) and Booger's big toys were taking over the living room. I was a bit hesitant at first, as it is a closed off room and away from our normal living areas, but in the end, it made the most sense.
So! We have a lot of work to do! Luckily the room is already painted, so we are not changing that.
What we are doing:
** clearing out the area-- selling the couches, the shelving unit and the TV stand
** replacing the TV stand with one a bit taller with more storage
** adding two comfy chairs that can be moved to use to play video games, watch movies, etc
** adding floor pillows for the kiddos
** moving the weight bench and weights to the back of the room
** adding a storage bench for toys and reading spot
** moving Boogers toys (slide, trampoline, tunnel, etc) into the room
** adding bright colors to the walls and fabrics
Follow my Pinterest board for some of my ideas!
I'll post later this week with our first updates!
Thursday, September 1, 2016
Kiddo Krafts-- Wonder Crayons
This is a kiddo kraft I've been meaning to do for over a week now, and we finally got the chance to do it this morning.
The best part about this one? It spanned over an hour and a half and I didn't even realize it! I was looking back on the time stamps on the pictures and was amazed-- time truly flew with this one.
Wonder Crayons
Materials--**silicone baking mold
**oven
** crayons (perfect craft for all the broken, run down crayons at the bottom of the box)
1. Pre-heat oven to 175*
2. Peel paper from crayons, break into small pieces (Booger was very helpful and excited to do this. She loved being able to peel and break them without getting into trouble!)
3. Place broken pieces into mold (in hindsight, we should have only done max 3-4 per mold, some on the very top didn't melt as well)
4. Place into oven for 7-14 minutes (start low and check routinely), until crayons are melted. This is where some of the ones on top did not melt fully. It doesn't effect the use of the cray, just aesthetics. I did try to mix them a bit with a small knife-- maybe a toothpick would have helped more?
5. Once cooled (we went for a walk for 10-15 minutes to let cool), turn mold upside down and pop out-- note, it did stain my mold. Not sure if it comes out in the dishwasher or hand washing as I haven't tried yet.
If not fully cooled, place into freezer for a few minutes. Then, use a paper towel and rub the outside of the crayon (like washing off a strawberry). I found some residue that got on my fingers, and it seemed to wipe off with the paper towel. The crayons still left some color on our fingers, but nothing that couldn't be washed off in the sink.
6. Enjoy and color! We colored a nice picture for Papa. I probably wouldn't recommend the starfish shape, as the legs tend to wear quick with how hard Booger presses, but any shape should do the job! It's fun when the colors come out together- orange and blue with one swipe? Wow!
That's it! Over an hour and a half of entertainment (with a walk thrown in there) and now she has 6 new crayons to play with (3 are being sent as a present to her cousin). It reuses old broken crayons, lets them pick their favorite colors (let them choose which colors to put in each mold), and shows them how to make something new from something old!
I can see this as a great item for a party gift bag, part of a birthday present with coloring books, or just a fun activity for kiddos!
Monday, August 29, 2016
15 Minute Projects- Hanging Mementos
Yesterday, Husband and I set out to get a good long list of things done. Cleaning the bathrooms, changing the oil in my Jeep, vacuuming, and hanging the wire I bought from Ikea almost 2 weeks ago were on that list.
#Truth: Husband had to YouTube directions to hang it. Sometimes the vague Ikea directions just aren't enough!
Backstory: Behind the door to the garage (our main entry/exit point) is this little cut out area. I have grand plans for a bench, hooks, cubbies and more, but they have not come to fruition just yet. In the meantime, we have a nice table that has 2 drawers, a shelf and 2 baskets which is providing all the storage in the area for now. A few months ago we hung up a memento board to hang invitations, tickets, reminders, and Booger's artwork. The artwork has taken over and most papers were too big for the little board, so it was time for something new.
Browsing through Ikea the other week, I saw this tension wire clip photo holder and knew instantly that it would solve our problem (it says curtain wire, but they had it in the store holding pictures!). Being able to utilize the length of the wall would be much more helpful than the tiny board.
My ever so handy Husband took over the job of putter-upper. I did get to use the drill to put in one screw, though :-) Once up, I organized Boogers art, our zoo attraction tickets, and some pictures and voila! All done!
The clips slide on the wire, so nothing is stuck in place. It almost looks bare compared to the over cluttered memo board! Booger needs to get to work making some more projects!
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
Room Makeover- Chunk's Nursery finished!
Welcome to the final edition of Room Makeover- Chunk's Nursery!
While this will always be a room that evolves, I couldn't be happier with how it finally turned out.
Adding the artwork to the walls instantly added some color and visual interest.
The shadowbox still makes me smile every time I enter the room.
Organizing his closet allows me to make sure I keep on top of his clothes-- adding the too small ones to the box and rotating in the correct sizes.
And finally, I bought a small drawer organizer for the corner to hold his books and toys. I debated between a shelving unit with baskets and a drawer set, but ultimately the drawers won. I wanted to stick with the gray/navy theme, and felt a white shelving unit would stick out like a sore thumb, especially next to the wood furniture.
My original thought was to put it under the window, however with the air vent and the curtains, it didn't make much sense, so next to the dresser it went.
How cute is the black box on top (it has Darth and a Storm Trooper on it)?? For $5 at Target, I couldn't pass it up. It doesn't hold anything yet, but I know it will be useful in the future. It matched his little Star Wars theme perfectly, so I had to get it!
Oh, and his window. We painted the windowsill finally, but the screen may take a bit more work. The only thing we can do to it right now is tape it back together until we get a new window :-( It won't look all that nice, but it should be functional enough for the nice cool fall nights.
Some things I might still add: possibly his name with wooden letters like Booger's room (maybe by the light switch or hanging behind the crib?) and eventually changing the closet and adding more storage for toys and books as he gets older (though Booger is so good at sharing with him, he'll probably just use her toys in her room!).
And now.... you get to choose the next room for Room Makeover September!
Will it be:
What do we want this room for? Multi-function. It's right off of the living room, so if we have people over, we open up this room (especially because of the bathroom). We also like having the small weights and bench in there. It houses some of Husbands game systems and toys, as well as all of our movies.
I want to get rid of the baby toys (though they have to wait for Chunk to grow out of first), the shelving unit and possibly one of the couches. This room needs some direction and help! The hard part is the fact that it houses the crawl space opening, so nothing can go on top of that, and next to the closet is a weird nook too...
(These pictures depict the room as is in this current moment. I like to call it crazy chaos.)
or
Husband says we should save time and money for the remodel, but knowing us, it'll be at least another 5 years before that happens (he says next year, but no way!). We have big plans for it, including opening up the wall behind the fridge into the dining room, relocating the sink to the back wall (which means replacing that window which is huge, but too low for cabinets) and adding a small island.
Leave me a comment with your choice, and tune in next Wednesday for the result!
While this will always be a room that evolves, I couldn't be happier with how it finally turned out.
Adding the artwork to the walls instantly added some color and visual interest.
The shadowbox still makes me smile every time I enter the room.
Organizing his closet allows me to make sure I keep on top of his clothes-- adding the too small ones to the box and rotating in the correct sizes.
And finally, I bought a small drawer organizer for the corner to hold his books and toys. I debated between a shelving unit with baskets and a drawer set, but ultimately the drawers won. I wanted to stick with the gray/navy theme, and felt a white shelving unit would stick out like a sore thumb, especially next to the wood furniture.
My original thought was to put it under the window, however with the air vent and the curtains, it didn't make much sense, so next to the dresser it went.
How cute is the black box on top (it has Darth and a Storm Trooper on it)?? For $5 at Target, I couldn't pass it up. It doesn't hold anything yet, but I know it will be useful in the future. It matched his little Star Wars theme perfectly, so I had to get it!
Oh, and his window. We painted the windowsill finally, but the screen may take a bit more work. The only thing we can do to it right now is tape it back together until we get a new window :-( It won't look all that nice, but it should be functional enough for the nice cool fall nights.
(a panorama picture, so it looks way smaller than it is)
Some things I might still add: possibly his name with wooden letters like Booger's room (maybe by the light switch or hanging behind the crib?) and eventually changing the closet and adding more storage for toys and books as he gets older (though Booger is so good at sharing with him, he'll probably just use her toys in her room!).
And now.... you get to choose the next room for Room Makeover September!
Will it be:
A) The addition:
This mother-in-law suite was added to our house between 10-15 years ago (so not part of the original home). It is a rather large, open space with a full bathroom and closet. The plantation shutters match those in our living room and are absolutely gorgeous.... but we never use this room. It has become more of a dumping ground.What do we want this room for? Multi-function. It's right off of the living room, so if we have people over, we open up this room (especially because of the bathroom). We also like having the small weights and bench in there. It houses some of Husbands game systems and toys, as well as all of our movies.
I want to get rid of the baby toys (though they have to wait for Chunk to grow out of first), the shelving unit and possibly one of the couches. This room needs some direction and help! The hard part is the fact that it houses the crawl space opening, so nothing can go on top of that, and next to the closet is a weird nook too...
(These pictures depict the room as is in this current moment. I like to call it crazy chaos.)
From doorway looking straight in
(see the odd area in the back? The door is the bathroom, and in the weird space is the hatch to the crawl space under the floor...)
(I promise I don't normally display our teacups on the weight bench...)
(Panorama shot taken from bathroom doorway)
or
B) the Kitchen:
Husband does not want to do this, but I do! We are no where near able to do a full kitchen remodel for at least another few years. In the meantime, I think it would be nice to paint the cabinets white again (they are so old and dingy), put some nicer paper on the shelves, get some new hardware (drawer pulls, handles), redo the pantry shelving, and potentially replacing the counter top (such a small area, it shouldn't be too expensive).
(yes, this is my entire kitchen... the door on the left goes to the backyard, door on the right is the pantry and the door at the back is to the dining room)
Husband says we should save time and money for the remodel, but knowing us, it'll be at least another 5 years before that happens (he says next year, but no way!). We have big plans for it, including opening up the wall behind the fridge into the dining room, relocating the sink to the back wall (which means replacing that window which is huge, but too low for cabinets) and adding a small island.
Leave me a comment with your choice, and tune in next Wednesday for the result!
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