Around my house summer is smoothie season. It's by far the easiest, healthiest breakfast I can make for me and the kids... and everyone will happily eat/drink it!They're also an amazing way to get my kids protein. In fact, with my 2-year-old's current eating habits, it can often be the only guaranteed way!Plus, there are endless varieties to be made. So if your kiddo gets bored all you have to do is swap out a few ingredients and, presto, a whole new breakfast.Today Kristin is … [Read more...]
Online Summer Classes for Kids that are Perfect for Down Time
If you're like me, this summer you might find yourself desperately needing something to fill the space between the trips to the pool and the park play dates. Sure, it's great to spend time outside and get all the energy out. But, summer is long.There are a lot of hours in the day and parents are like cruise ship directors in the summer. Kids want to know, what are we eating and what are we doing next?We've rounded up a list of 9 different free online summer classes that you can use … [Read more...]
Parenting Styles: 9 Ways to Squeeze in One-on-One Time with Your Kid
Some days when I'm at work, I feel guilty that I'm not with my kids. And some days when I'm with my kids, I'm feeling guilty that I'm falling behind on my workload.As I've gotten older, I've learned to be present. At least, I'm getting better at it. When I'm at home, I'm trying not to think about work. And when I'm at work, I know my kids are going to a great school they love and they're being influenced by their wonderful teachers.In an effort to be present, I'm trying to squeeze in … [Read more...]
15 Summer Hairstyles that Take 5 Minutes or Less
As the school year comes to close, I'm looking at my personal time shrinking like crazy. Don't get me wrong, I love spending the days with my kids at the beach or the pool. I also love not having to pack lunches.But, let's admit it, having my kids home from school means that I may not get a shower before we start the day. It also means that my hair will look less than stellar.This summer, I'm looking for hair styles that take 5 minutes or less.I'm also looking for styles that … [Read more...]
Healthy Eats: Taking Avocado Toast Up a Notch
Have you heard of the 'momiform'? This is what we wear on the regular.I'm talking favorite jeans with some version of a soft tee, a cardigan (in either navy or black) and a comfy leather shoe. The momiform is our go-to outfit that we wear on the daily.I actually love having things that I know work for me. Yes, it's predictable, but it's easy and always looks great. Let's move that thought to lunch.Avocado toast has the become the momiform of lunch. It's easy to smear some … [Read more...]
9 Family Dinners Perfect for Beginning Kid Cooks
Bringing kids into the kitchen not only teaches them valuable skills that will serve them well later in life, it gives you time with them. And we all know that time is precious. Start using the time you're making dinner to involve the kids.There are nights where you're eating on the run or you have company coming and it might not be the best time to have a little one helping you. But, on the nights where it's just the family and you don't have any place to be, involve your kids in the … [Read more...]
Easter Potluck Must-Have: Rice Krispies Easter Egg Nests
Rice Krispies treats have always been a kid-favorite around our house. So we decided why not take the recipe and make it into an Easter-themed treat?This recipe is one that kids can help with, there's no oven time, and you'll be done in about 15 minutes. It's that easy!Not to mention these little 'Easter baskets' are as cute as can be.Ingredients7 cups Rice Krispies 1 package mini-marshmallows 3 Tablespoons butter 1 package cream cheese 1 cup powdered sugar … [Read more...]
Self Care: 7 Days of Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water
In my renewed quest to eat healthier, my husband and I have recently become totally hooked on sparkling water.Something about the bubbles, make it seem like a treat instead of plain old water, and the health benefits of substituting it for all our other drinks have been amazing!We've also found that while the store-bought, lightly flavored stuff is OK, infusing the water with fresh fruits, citrus and often some mint makes them feel even fancier. (Friends are especially impressed when we … [Read more...]
Free Printable: A Week’s Worth of Valentine Lunchbox Knock-Knock Jokes
I credit my years as a first grade teacher for my love of holidays.Every holiday is thoroughly celebrated in the younger elementary years. We spent weeks putting together themed crafts, sing-alongs and writing projects. I've carried on my love of celebrating holidays as a mom.When the kids were younger, I helped them make personalized valentines and now I make a special trip to the bakery for my teenagers that aren't handing out valentines anymore. It's those special touches that make … [Read more...]