tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19928623001396730042024-03-23T00:16:07.340-07:00Live and LearnLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-82903363822455008052020-10-07T09:19:00.005-07:002020-10-07T09:33:36.859-07:00School Lunch Packing Must Haves - Budget Friendly, Dishwasher Safe<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Well, I managed to make it 6 years without packing school lunches, thanks to our daycare/preschool that provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks! Enter elementary school, and the jig is up. There are plenty of influencers out there promoting $40 bento box-style lunchboxes for kids, and I'm wondering who has the money to buy multiple (at least 2 per kid, right?) OR the patience for anything that requires hand-washing on a daily basis. NO THANKS. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">While I'm not super crunchy, it is important to me to minimize waste as much as possible, so I like for everything to be reuseable. When B and I brought our lunch to work (pre-COVID), we love <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=stasher bags&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=ffdd3fe2c6017e0e926e3d8c5a57fa07">Stasher bags</a> as a durable, reuseable option, but C's school requires that kids be able to independently open their own lunch packaging to avoid spreading germs. Stasher bags are a little too secure for his 6-year-old fingers, but he can handle all of these on his own.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Here's what we've been using so far this year - all dishwasher-safe and on the more affordable side! </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQkvqij4MbPaq51OsuSfD_NlH5c9fFrtbAyWDhQAqHGz9XqxtKAp3jQuirfqeVp0LQGg-qqEUPsZjEPzt5W0CGur8ZmsaAsvhUxLjYZJVaSww83nNczMOhN2lO9Z14zjNIuHTR7NH5Bc/s2048/School+Lunch+Packing+Must+Haves.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQkvqij4MbPaq51OsuSfD_NlH5c9fFrtbAyWDhQAqHGz9XqxtKAp3jQuirfqeVp0LQGg-qqEUPsZjEPzt5W0CGur8ZmsaAsvhUxLjYZJVaSww83nNczMOhN2lO9Z14zjNIuHTR7NH5Bc/w360-h640/School+Lunch+Packing+Must+Haves.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="text-align: center;">(Note: affiliate links below)</div></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.potterybarnkids.com/shop/backpacks-luggage/cold-pack-lunch+shop-all-lunch-bags/producttype-m-product-type-ff00050a161d25fe202020-1/"><b>Pottery Barn Kids Cold Pack Lunchbox</b></a> - these go on sale fairly often and are a good value for the quality at the sale price (and the designs are so cute!). PBK stuff is just so durable! I machine wash or scrub with a dish brush (see <a href="http://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2018/01/diy-how-to-clean-pottery-barn-kids.html">my post here</a> for cleaning tips), and they look good as new. The "Cold Pack" model is more rectangular in shape, which fits the reuseable lunchboxes we use (see below). It comes with an ice pack that Velcro-s into place, although I don't typically use it. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004S129AQ/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B004S129AQ&linkId=30c2834be84826a88b7c655c83253a02"><b>EasyLunchboxes</b></a><span> </span><span>- we've used these for years and years to take our lunches to work, so I ordered a few more for the school lunch rotation. These are super durable, go right in the dishwasher, nest into each other (space-saving!) and inexpensive. There are so many cute bento lunchboxes out there but many of them are pricey, hand-wash-only (NOPE), or too small for my kiddos' huge appetites. C can open these on his own. They fit (snugly) in the "Cold Pack" lunchboxes from Pottery Barn Kids. The 3 compartments work well for us - the larger one can hold a sandwich or other entree (soft tacos, cheese/crackers, etc.), and we use the 2 smaller compartments for a fruit and a vegetable.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BG4DH90/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00BG4DH90&linkId=e01d3bc7107c41cadb4b2f55dd56f157"><b>Sistema dip containers</b></a> - we use these little containers for dips - hummus or ranch for veggies, marinara for ravioli, etc. These are screw-top, which makes them well sealed (no spills!) but easy for a kiddo to open on his own (unlike press-on lids, which are either not tight enough or impossible to get off). These are small - they hold a few tablespoons. Dishwasher safe!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Ziploc Twist 'n Loc snack cups</b> - these come in several sizes, and we use these for snack (C's lunch time is at 10:40 AM, so they have an afternoon snack). Both the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07NT6WDTZ/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07NT6WDTZ&linkId=55f55bdd851e3236fb7284aabffab679">1/2 cup ("mini")</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ziploc-Twist-Extra-Small-pack/dp/B07NT72MBS/ref=psdc_3744021_t3_B07NT6WDTZ?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=1f43dc79f6f8573bf4719d13fbdade1b&camp=1789&creative=9325">1-cup ("extra small")</a> sizes work well for snacks; the 1/2 cup is better for small items like trail mix, while the 1-cup is better for larger snacks like veggies, muffin, those peanut-butter filled pretzels. (Note: smaller quantities are usually available at Target or Walmart). These are super thick plastic - not flimsy like many containers - and again, have the magic screw-on lid which makes them spill-proof but easy for kids to open on their own. Dishwasher safe, no warping!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MLYLDMN/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07MLYLDMN&linkId=056bd2942fc9758a5bc2f7b83aac84c7"><b>Thermos 16-oz water bottle</b></a> - our elementary school requires kids to bring their own water bottle everyday, so I bought 2 of these to keep in rotation. I put them straight in the dishwasher and they've been fine - no impact to the finish. No straws or rubber spouts to worry about keeping clean, and the stainless steel inside means no absorbing weird smells like plastic does. I fill these with ice water the night before (ain't nobody got time for morning lunch packing), and the water stays very cold until lunch the next day. We haven't had any issues with leaking, either. The tall, slim design fits well into his backpack outer pocket; it also fits in the side pocket of his PBK lunchbox, although he doesn't usually carry it that way (he keeps the lunchbox inside his backpack, so it's easier to access the water bottle via the backpack outer pocket).</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F2NZ16H/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07F2NZ16H&linkId=198825119b208b80608b18c51619112f"><b>Flexible Gel Beads Ice Packs</b></a> - I love these ice packs because they aren't rock hard with sharp edges like so many ice packs are when frozen! Because they have beads inside, as opposed to liquid, they won't leak slime everywhere if they do get punctured. They are also very slim, so they easily lay beneath or on top of our lunchboxes to keep cold items cool until lunch!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JVUQ53Q/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00JVUQ53Q&linkId=1f24da4acc7cceff5bcb457bd38776de"><b>Avery labels</b></a> - we use these on the lunchboxes, snack cups, and water bottles - they survive many rounds of the dishwasher without falling off. I just write his name on them with a Sharpie. </span></p><p><br /></p><p><b style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0794BJNQV/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0794BJNQV&linkId=5466b4f66c6e5eba925c0f183b3f51e3">Lunchbox notes</a></b><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> - these are sweet and easy enough to add to his lunch! I looked at a bunch of different designs, many with jokes that seemed like they'd go over his head. These looked perfect - easy for an early reader to read!</span></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-87451394780793193062020-09-23T16:00:00.001-07:002020-09-23T16:00:05.720-07:00Our Favorite Halloween Books! (40 books, from baby to big kid)<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> My kids LOVE holiday-themed books! We keep them packed away with the holiday
decorations each year and only pull them out at the end of September, so they
get the renewed ‘novelty’ factor each year!
During October, I keep Halloween books in a bin on our fireplace
(separate from the rest of our books) so they get extra focus. We add a few to our collection each year,
from board books to picture books. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Here are the Halloween books we personally own – I tried to
sort them from youngest (baby/board books) to preschool (shorter books) to
elementary school (longer picture books), but honestly – my kids read ALL of
these at all ages.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Note that not every
book is directly Halloween-themed…..some of them are stories about skeletons,
vampires, or ghosts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Let me know in the comments if we are missing any of your
favorites!</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqQQHHtNUNAsi0ae1nLCh7t31HIlyF6aVj1Z23qFMpWKe5xQ9WdLtDFs8w3xAl59YfALcHBIx-BG8q9YykfGlClECG2GKVKrLOAZTn1-owamYArSSk8Q89TKXhceTd_2Z4D4854BFoiA/s2925/halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2925" data-original-width="1075" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqQQHHtNUNAsi0ae1nLCh7t31HIlyF6aVj1Z23qFMpWKe5xQ9WdLtDFs8w3xAl59YfALcHBIx-BG8q9YykfGlClECG2GKVKrLOAZTn1-owamYArSSk8Q89TKXhceTd_2Z4D4854BFoiA/w235-h640/halloween.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">(affiliate links)</span></div><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312527381/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0312527381&linkId=1c38be3e3e0210a0189708b51e9b09fc">Boo!
Touch and Feel</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/037584418X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=037584418X&linkId=0192170f974502d46f5c9803670ce7d3">One,
Two…Boo!</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1338110853/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1338110853&linkId=34f36b6622221f6be7abcb329b262128">I
Love You, Little Pumpkin!</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/146546235X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=146546235X&linkId=7c927db694e608f5cd02e98e555ec4bc">Baby
Touch and Feel Halloween</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423647807/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1423647807&linkId=1e94f510cbdc50949f31f9351ba45d2d">B
is for Boo</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1465452761/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1465452761&linkId=a4c70ad1bf426099ba576b768ca2fb66">Pop-up
Peekaboo! Pumpkin</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439158044/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0439158044&linkId=5fb5093cc1bbb717dc414a653d8fe8e7">Ten
Timid Ghosts</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544772539/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0544772539&linkId=90e54fe811aa137711a3d2c6e36b0a8a">Little
Blue Truck’s Halloween</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/045146978X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=045146978X&linkId=e141b13ea87fb21b1e38de689dc0bf26">Llama
Llama Trick or Treat</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1481404296/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1481404296&linkId=b159d2b7d1f0d8e4aa3e3415eaae2566">Happy
Halloween, Daniel Tiger!</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0670058998/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0670058998&linkId=e43ea5a383422b3f814dc515b2f58238">Max’s
Halloween</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142411450/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0142411450&linkId=536f539181104f3cb655330112fded47">The
Ugly Pumpkin</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0142501123/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0142501123&linkId=6c4794923cefe1e74c9e48485cdcb1b8">Room
on the Broom</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545174805/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0545174805&linkId=ad1db1f4a377447f122cc28fd316a7a9">The
Spooky Wheels on the Bus</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545215951/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0545215951&linkId=51b79e77981cb38142ba941e0d3087ff">Clifford’s
Halloween</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439367409/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0439367409&linkId=12f6af74490512cfd3377f4ea9505806">Wee
Witches’ Halloween</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1605372234/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1605372234&linkId=bc7e569f454c6736a2c34753657d6c8b">Gilbert
the Ghost</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060502541/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0060502541&linkId=5828167d40fe88b3cb266f37b19cb12e">T
Rex Trick or Treats</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0448424991/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0448424991&linkId=9fbab02d210926ca2ee7a8826f916c76">Corduroy’s
Best Halloween Ever</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060539712/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0060539712&linkId=a45041ca47c7054de71f919c93fd419e">Happy
Halloween, Little Critter!</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1534413626/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1534413626&linkId=0e89ba2ef95aa0b3c97c96b73b3a41a1">Stumpkin</a>
// <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679800913/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0679800913&linkId=3fa1cbe55e58fcae6e0a0265d2384735">Berenstain
Bears Trick or Treat</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679808477/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0679808477&linkId=247ed9fb44fc756a5b27f7aeb3539f37">Berenstain
Bears Prize Pumpkin</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060574267/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0060574267&linkId=19cd2ebeb6ebf35ae9b10791cd5f2ea9">Berenstain
Bears Haunted House</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/006057383X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=006057383X&linkId=7c50eb3310dc52c1af2280e8fcb8fd53">Berenstain
Bears Ghost Walk</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394805658/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0394805658&linkId=4faa9ec2b28184c132355db3f6a8fbe5">Berenstain
Bears Ghost of the Forest</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0544668367/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0544668367&linkId=ec743305252c4ca31f370375223e2647">Bone
Soup</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/172666581X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=172666581X&linkId=062a64ea76909ed06e5541558e6ffe83">Skeletons
Are Not Spooky</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0763643378/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0763643378&linkId=ff9773122239408bd06ca94b9026fa8d">Where’s
My Mummy</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442402970/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1442402970&linkId=81bbb3e3373ccf4dda555b1da29fc023https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442402970/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1442402970&linkId=81bbb3e3373ccf4dda555b1da29fc023">Creepy
Carrots</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1442402989/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1442402989&linkId=c9537625d997b4e7d0a36f7e757b2a4e">Creepy
Pair of Underwear</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1536211141/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1536211141&linkId=ec1f03a362d59b9d84473485e435cfda">Gustavo,
the Shy Ghost</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1101919019/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1101919019&linkId=2e5fd793c96f2ab93054fd6f70faf195">How
to Make Friends with a Ghost</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1454930616/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1454930616&linkId=d968c1a804dd841a4615087e36991887">Moldilocks
and the Three Scares</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/068986731X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=068986731X&linkId=78e59a857f6158b77aeb2743bdf3c4bb">A
Very Brave Witch</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423157532/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1423157532&linkId=8303660f252d32bb79a4a984a5210886">Vampirina
Ballerina</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1416902767/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1416902767&linkId=1ac324c15019e426984a2810f7092737">Skeleton
Hiccups</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1101937688/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1101937688&linkId=78f9be37e75231295b49dd783f930392">Bonaparte
Falls Apart</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1484730461/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1484730461&linkId=3b21ce3919cefebe0b2db2b13a7099a4">The
Scariest Book Ever</a> // <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060781831/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0060781831&linkId=c57041297977de030d334ebfdd3db46e">Which
Way to Witch School?</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><br /><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-50482464526745361332020-08-14T14:28:00.003-07:002020-08-15T12:01:03.906-07:00Teaching My Kid to Read - 4 Steps<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">C just turned 6, and he will start kindergarten this fall reading like a champ! I can't take credit - he loves books, and his school helped out a TON - but here are some things that worked for us if you're working on teaching your kid to read!</span><div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBpVyHd-qbO-b7BUR844VPgghd0BhQHN90WWsjatxa6Xpf3JtrO_Xqn45wAGlat2XRmmkt_cuHK4aZwOIOwtZXgY2CnT3ErDnSl90kw3Lhrt0A8ALz4lUVV2XP1BnlqjZjNnFPu7tEKU/s1600/4+steps+to+learning+to+read.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGBpVyHd-qbO-b7BUR844VPgghd0BhQHN90WWsjatxa6Xpf3JtrO_Xqn45wAGlat2XRmmkt_cuHK4aZwOIOwtZXgY2CnT3ErDnSl90kw3Lhrt0A8ALz4lUVV2XP1BnlqjZjNnFPu7tEKU/s400/4+steps+to+learning+to+read.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm sure it goes without saying, but the first step is obviously letter recognition and letter sounds. Reading isn't going anywhere without having those skills mastered. We are now 2 for 2 kids on letting </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018N0JXGU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B018N0JXGU&linkId=22767b58dbd6b1179dfea5f68553b42c" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The Letter Factory DVD</a><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> teach our kids their letters and sounds -- we start this between age 2.5 and 3, and after about 2 weeks they've got it down. </span><a href="http://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2017/08/toddler-101-learning-alphabet.html" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Read my post here for more details on this</a><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">. The DVD teaches uppercase letters; you'll have to nail down lowercase letters too (we like flashcards). </span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">As far as learning to read, we started with phonics-based early readers (think "a cat is fat"). We used a set that my mom had saved from teaching us to read in the 80's, but the current equivalent are the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439845009/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0439845009&linkId=4a3dd3eae1ad38ca7f116fa41fc54d95">BOB books</a>. Our main tip for success with these books is that the parents/adults NEVER read these books. They are so simple that a child can easily memorize the words after hearing it read to them only once -- so if they want to read the book, they have to do it themselves. Start with the easiest book and work your way up; on every single word, I'd repeat "sound it out" until he made each phonetic sound and eventually figured out the word. This is VERY SLOW at first. If it's too frustrating, or they aren't showing enough interest, you can set it aside and wait a few weeks or even months...don't give in and read the book to them! They have to be both able and willing to do it themselves. (Of course, we continue reading lots of OTHER books throughout all of this -- even after he can read on his own.)</span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">With C, after he got the hang of it, he was eager to read more. The set we used had 40 of these books that worked up from easier words to slightly more complex words (long vowel sounds, etc.) The BOB books have a similar difficulty scale - start with the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439845009/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0439845009&linkId=5977436ac7bc641a20f320d580a1ed3d">beginner</a>, then <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545019222/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0545019222&linkId=b0262e35a94db343c44086d3bfa69f96">level 2</a>, etc. Personally, I find that phonics-based books are an easier starting point than sight words, but I'm sure this is heavily influenced by it being the same way I learned to read myself.</span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">After phonics books became easy, we moved onto leveled readers. These are great because there are so many books featuring different popular characters from TV shows or movies (Paw Patrol, Star Wars, Barbie, Daniel Tiger, etc.). There are several different brands of leveled readers, and we used all of them - primarily <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=step%20into%20reading&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=dfc3e1cb2b0f04dc43d691fb190fd899">Step into Reading</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=I%20can%20read%20book&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=350092001ac6748d70accd4a75f43ecd">I Can Read!</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=ready-to-read%20value%20pack&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=95a85b6a33165cd73ea7e2d8d87f444a">Ready to Read</a>, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=world%20of%20reading&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=4827e0c2f07717dc15cf9bc228e75d82">World of Reading</a>. I've included a photo below comparing the way each of these 4 brands defines the various levels; for example, Step Into Reading is levels 1-5, while the others all have a level lower than Level 1 (My First, Pre-1, Pre-Level One)...so not all Level 1 books mean the same thing. </span></div><div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTEY4LeHtZ8SDIY0U3TWj-F9JtE1kXbkeAVOBWbfTlc6PCvrrf1PWy9WadXTXVXgIF58F78hiyH2ZTsgG-8FhCj48ZLiFqE6wQy7ZXbaExY6HgT861y6JJaBS21hIQLQ6JEW2nSKV45Y/s1280/BEF0D7E0-83FD-4F2A-B6A7-A20E88B7891F.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="856" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTEY4LeHtZ8SDIY0U3TWj-F9JtE1kXbkeAVOBWbfTlc6PCvrrf1PWy9WadXTXVXgIF58F78hiyH2ZTsgG-8FhCj48ZLiFqE6wQy7ZXbaExY6HgT861y6JJaBS21hIQLQ6JEW2nSKV45Y/s640/BEF0D7E0-83FD-4F2A-B6A7-A20E88B7891F.jpeg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">We used these interchangeably based on whichever brand featured the characters/topics that would most interest my son. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062654594/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0062654594&linkId=ae8ac6320f5d8ff59f58f5396bba7a46">Berenstain Bears</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1481458450/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1481458450&linkId=1d7016e91a0c6e704a2170429c5851ef">Daniel Tiger</a>, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/148470438X/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=148470438X&linkId=bcc7aaac14a48448b8faec11d5e42a26">Avengers</a> were some of his first that peaked his interest. Some come in box sets and some are sold individually. There is also usually a huge section of these at the public library! We have the same rules on these books - the parents/adults don't read them.</span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">After progressing through the various levels of readers, he was ready for easy/short chapter books. (The Level 3-4 readers generally have paragraphs, so they are a good transition.) C is not yet at an age where he is interested in reading books without ANY pictures; most early chapter books still have a picture every few pages. He started with mystery books, because there is an incentive to get to the end of the book to find out the answer to the mystery. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3EHhx7uPcBCnWL64oKbMZwuPw8jM4cgF0HLwfG-I3dG7tSg6OWFUGMHmzkFuzKgMAXSLeZmXOe2WbK05QjK1Z8JwW7kkYpU0NqpIYq9oN388F1-2HHS6xzIYNgy0zznocqsL3uejT7s/s1600/Easy+chapter+books+for+beginning+readers.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB3EHhx7uPcBCnWL64oKbMZwuPw8jM4cgF0HLwfG-I3dG7tSg6OWFUGMHmzkFuzKgMAXSLeZmXOe2WbK05QjK1Z8JwW7kkYpU0NqpIYq9oN388F1-2HHS6xzIYNgy0zznocqsL3uejT7s/s400/Easy+chapter+books+for+beginning+readers.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Some of our favorites include:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=nate%20the%20great&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=746176f81764ef1443d80503c389b894">Nate the Great mystery series</a></span></li>
<li><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=cam%20jansen&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=a87763c130133e8136315bb28e1ccae1">Cam Jansen mystery series</a></span></li>
<li><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=jigsaw%20jones%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=0765d860f4d729ac62c93d1f7c32afd4">Jigsaw Jones mystery series</a></span></li>
<li><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=magic%20tree%20house%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=7607042c22f7b6297649705ed9ac9f93">Magic Tree House series</a> (these are his favorite)</span></li>
<li><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=flat%20stanley%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=f5822f1004b613dd7525e7593de08164">Flat Stanley series</a> </span></li>
<li><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=eerie%20elementary%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=abf526ddce27a377d03815af46425e90">Eerie Elementary series</a></span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I think all of the above would be great for either girls or boys; I've also heard the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=junie%20b%20jones%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=8d94c75391ba911d2b1f7ef4ebadf939">Junie B Jones series</a> is super popular with girls (C has only read one so far). Most of these books are rated with a Reading Level of 2 - 2.4 or for ages 7-10. The great thing about these book series is that once they find a character they like, there are many more books in the series that will likely appeal to them too! We plan to try <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=boxcar%20children%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=a151b09acef858a7ba5289209a06a2b0">The Boxcar Children series</a> next. Check your local library! I currently have 75 books for C on request from these various series (we don't worry about reading them in order).</span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I am hoping by Christmas he will be ready for the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=harry%20potter%20illustrated&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=e35e0ecd1c4289140bebcb821c475609">Harry Potter illustrated series</a>! (Again, I think the inclusion of illustrations will help him visualize the story and keep his interest for such a long book).</span></div>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-70384391212796693742018-02-21T03:00:00.000-08:002018-02-21T03:00:18.504-08:00From the Kitchen: Homemade Elderberry Syrup and Elderberry Gummy Bears<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is it just me, or is the flu worse this year than normal?! With 2 family members with asthma and an infant in the house, I am super paranoid this year! Any of the 3 of them are likely to end up hospitalized if they catch the flu due to their health conditions. We are being extra careful this flu season, which has meant making a few changes (in addition to getting our flu shots): we remove our shoes at the door to avoid tracking germs across the floor; we all wash our hands immediately when returning home from being outside or in public, and we are staying home as much as physically possible to minimize our exposure. This means no playgrounds or indoor play areas; switching off which of us goes to church to keep the kids out of childcare; and eating at home as much as possible to avoid public places. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjL_U2HuoE_UWFYY7cwDwy6Y7Snq8zmw5QeWQvM_S1ph77t1voRn8NECIBmaR44HjAW4GTAvPKqiIKm4MuzFXQkjKr4AGMR1H8cVrMRcdEbog-hZN1K80wdJQwZfaKPxxCdtiBKCg7zoE/s1600/Homemade+Elderberry+Syrup+and+Gummy+Bears+Recipe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="696" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjL_U2HuoE_UWFYY7cwDwy6Y7Snq8zmw5QeWQvM_S1ph77t1voRn8NECIBmaR44HjAW4GTAvPKqiIKm4MuzFXQkjKr4AGMR1H8cVrMRcdEbog-hZN1K80wdJQwZfaKPxxCdtiBKCg7zoE/s640/Homemade+Elderberry+Syrup+and+Gummy+Bears+Recipe.png" width="276" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I recently learned about elderberry syrup and its natural immunity-boosting properties. I am not normally one for "natural" remedies but, like I said, I am desperate to keep my family flu-free, so I figured it can't hurt anything. You can buy elderberry syrup pre-made (<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E8GO6G/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB001E8GO6G%26linkId%3Dd445f377e255a8149159947f6bc7c966&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNE6zVoWj7C3ufhC6BjW-dV9f6YVjg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E8GO6G/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001E8GO6G&linkId=d445f377e255a8149159947f6bc7c966" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Nature's Way</a> and <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F43LEKS/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00F43LEKS%26linkId%3Db57d12db79fe40b3bb73a0c902b7bc24&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNFQ0eoPyD40LKhhOACkLbggJL_tPw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F43LEKS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00F43LEKS&linkId=b57d12db79fe40b3bb73a0c902b7bc24" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Gaia Herbs</a> are two popular brands), but it is easy and less expensive to make at home - and you can control the quality of the ingredients by using all organic.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm not taking the elderberry syrup since I'm breastfeeding (there isn't any known contraindication, but there also aren't studies proving it's safe, so I'm abstaining), and baby M can't have any since she's under 1 and it contains honey...but hubs and C are going to take a daily dose for the remainder of flu season. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lots of people take it in syrup form, but that seemed potentially messy with a 3-year-old (it's dark purple); when I found out how easy it was to make gummy bears out of it, that seemed like the obvious method for us - I knew C would jump at the chance to have a piece of "candy" daily!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You probably won't be able to find some of the ingredients (especially dried elderberries) locally, but luckily they are sold online!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<h2>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Elderberry Syrup</span></b></h2>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yield: 2 cups (approximately 32 1-tablespoon adult doses or 96 1-teaspoon children's doses; makes a one-month supply for one adult; you may wish to double or triple this recipe if making for a family)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup dried organic elderberries (<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000UVUHXY/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB000UVUHXY%26linkId%3Db6638f9390d9ee717837130446a4faa9&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNH5LgCGHC64N__QejFtmbqwn6WKPQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000UVUHXY/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000UVUHXY&linkId=b6638f9390d9ee717837130446a4faa9" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Frontier</a> is a well-known brand)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NH8RQS/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB001NH8RQS%26linkId%3Dc622f00d493b7f92e9f3c53dbe0562b2&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNH7cn2DEXN8Tj4XU-96sygFkQp4ZQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NH8RQS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001NH8RQS&linkId=c622f00d493b7f92e9f3c53dbe0562b2" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">organic cinnamon stick</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 teaspoons <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WS3AMU/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB000WS3AMU%26linkId%3D3f0685f6e33183d731cc1053aae52dd1&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNG5ZdxA8lzVnoCfIA0AJBgYF4I2iQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WS3AMU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000WS3AMU&linkId=3f0685f6e33183d731cc1053aae52dd1" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">organic dried ginger root</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4 <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AJRKKI6/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00AJRKKI6%26linkId%3Dfbceecd28e792b843bbba524194ce17a&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNHsKtft4dyesqc_dU47Dg_SpT1RFA" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AJRKKI6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00AJRKKI6&linkId=fbceecd28e792b843bbba524194ce17a" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">whole organic cloves</a> or 1/4 teaspoon <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00269T9JQ/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00269T9JQ%26linkId%3Dc93d639bcf79f3183794a1d9b50f68b3&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNFKBYhgY4lRU6H6R1KgMpBdHAmfqw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00269T9JQ/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00269T9JQ&linkId=c93d639bcf79f3183794a1d9b50f68b3" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">ground organic cloves</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups water</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IR6J4CI/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB01IR6J4CI%26linkId%3D2635b56e35db18aa87b4245eba996654&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNF9rZUrSuxSclwJht3Zu-KX0zGY4g" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IR6J4CI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01IR6J4CI&linkId=2635b56e35db18aa87b4245eba996654" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">raw organic honey</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Put the dried elderberries, spices, and 2 cups of water in a small saucepan (uncovered) and bring to a boil. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to a simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the liquid reduces by half. Remove from heat and allow to cool until warm. Use a strainer to remove the berries and cinnamon stick while pouring the liquid into a glass jar. Stir in 1 cup of honey. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container (it should last 6-8 weeks).</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dosing:</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For maintenance/preventative: adults - 1 tablespoon daily; children: 1 teaspoon daily</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During illness: increase frequency to every 2-3 hours (using same doses as above)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Note: should <b><u>not</u></b> be given to children under 1 year, as it contains honey. No studies exist on the effects on breastfeeding or pregnant women, so they should refrain from use as well.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If your kids don't like taking it straight (from a spoon or medicine cup), try mixing it into applesauce! Or if you want to take the foolproof approach like me, make it into gummy bears :)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Elderberry Gummy Bears</span></b></h2>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yield: 105 approx 1" gummy bears</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups elderberry syrup (see recipe above)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 tablespoons <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0008D6WBA/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0008D6WBA&linkId=039e0beae0e40996b1c10c0df9ec091e">grass-fed gelatin</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oil spray (coconut, vegetable, etc.) - for greasing molds</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZXF9HE/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB01LZXF9HE%26linkId%3Ddd400cc78fff1b40e3e66ebcac42c801&source=gmail&ust=1518971268131000&usg=AFQjCNFEWdLBVHxRuEw-uNgt1KY240SKaQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZXF9HE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LZXF9HE&linkId=dd400cc78fff1b40e3e66ebcac42c801" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Silicone gummy bear molds</a> (these are slightly larger than other gummy bear molds)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Warm 2 cups of elderberry syrup (the whole recipe prepared per above) in a small saucepan, being careful not to boil. Sprinkle the gelatin powder over the syrup, allowing it to fully soak (will no longer appear white). Use a whisk to stir in the gelatin until smooth. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spray the gummy bear molds lightly with an oil spray to prevent sticking (I did not do this the first time and mine stuck to the molds!) and place on a cookie sheet or other hard surface to allow for easy transport after molds are filled. Use a dropper to fill each gummy bear mold with the gelatin syrup mixture, placing in the refrigerator for 2 hours to set. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gently remove each gummy bear from the molds and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dosing:</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For maintenance/preventative: adults - 3 gummy bears daily; children: 1 gummy bear daily</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During illness: increase frequency to every 2-3 hours (using same doses as above)</span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-9610830500564611682018-02-19T03:00:00.000-08:002018-02-19T03:00:25.638-08:00DIY: Two Fixes for a Motorola Video Baby Monitor that Stops Working<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Video baby monitors have a remarkable tendency to break on you, which is a shame considering how expensive they are and how much parents rely on them! We have a Motorola video baby monitor that we purchased in 2014, so it's well out of warranty. It has worked great for the last 3.5 years and we added <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005IWNNK4/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B005IWNNK4&linkId=cdefccc225bd91b9e0def8a487257e40">a second camera</a> for baby M in 2017. Our monitor is Motorola model <b>MBP36BU</b> (the model number is on the bottom of the camera), but the two fixes below should work for most Motorola video baby monitors (and maybe other brands as well. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Fix #1 - Parent Console Stops Holding a Charge</u></b></span></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">About a year ago, the baby monitor stopped holding a charge. It worked fine as long as it was plugged into the wall, but wouldn't hard a charge when running on battery power. I'd charge it fully, unplug it to carry around with me while baby napped, and the battery would die way too fast - sometimes only 20-30 minutes from fully charged to completely dead. Luckily, that is an easy and cheap (~$10) fix - you just need to replace the battery, which you can order inexpensively on Amazon. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01COL5UPC/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01COL5UPC&linkId=af28ed7753c66e82362562da120affad">This is the exact battery I ordered</a>, which has held up well for over a year now. Unscrew the battery cover on the back of the parent console, remove the old battery, and insert the new battery. Problem solved!</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6XmLKU5AB8gfNhfz5d1edrc3ZcqAnVE-eeqxYngkwAFa_vJDnWTL-lxPxU3a_oCFx0T3IEQekawEvZB8o_kcoQuM2UIBdKCIAJIfkgvodSXpOzSZUwxruTxKRgnwzrRbF3A1gg-71ajY/s1600/IMG_7039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6XmLKU5AB8gfNhfz5d1edrc3ZcqAnVE-eeqxYngkwAFa_vJDnWTL-lxPxU3a_oCFx0T3IEQekawEvZB8o_kcoQuM2UIBdKCIAJIfkgvodSXpOzSZUwxruTxKRgnwzrRbF3A1gg-71ajY/s400/IMG_7039.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Fix #2 - Parent Console Doesn't Recognize Charging Cable</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was NOT pleased when, this week, the parent console started not recognizing the charging cord being plugged in! (The charge cord was plugged in, but the battery symbol in the top right corner didn't show that it was charging.) This meant that, once the existing battery power was drained, the monitor couldn't be used either plugged in or running on battery power! After talking to friends and reading online, I found that this is a common failure point - sometimes you can wiggle or prop the charging cord just right to get the monitor to recognize it, but it loses contact repeatedly, resulting in the baby monitor dying after the battery runs out. </span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am nothing if not stubborn, so I refused to resort straight to buying a new baby monitor! Cue more research....apparently Motorola baby monitors in particular tend to have poor solder joints on the charge port; over time, repeatedly plugging and unplugging the charge cord over the years puts strain on and loosens these solder joints, eventually causing them to fail. How long this takes varies depending on the quality of the original solder and the use of the baby monitor (how often the cord is plugged and unplugged from the parent console, etc.) Apparently, at 3.5 years of daily use, ours lasted longer than many! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppl5LSW4nPZLT2EvlaMxFX4nUcNwzYXi5wuDAnXMPu34HxWT2WzE11y_ARfHtZ_0K5LyBACiT7zVsRicr7RDRQu2IqVBz3Ba6RUvri2afmwVK8iVqhweiXYvJluwA5jrelltZgoBP8mo/s1600/IMG_7033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppl5LSW4nPZLT2EvlaMxFX4nUcNwzYXi5wuDAnXMPu34HxWT2WzE11y_ARfHtZ_0K5LyBACiT7zVsRicr7RDRQu2IqVBz3Ba6RUvri2afmwVK8iVqhweiXYvJluwA5jrelltZgoBP8mo/s400/IMG_7033.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Based on the symptoms, it sounded like this is what had happened to my monitor - the charge port had come un-soldered. Before taking apart the monitor to confirm, I reached out to a local computer repair shop to see if they had someone who could re-solder the charge port if that was, indeed, the issue (emphasizing that it was a tiny part). When he confirmed he could help, I then got brave enough to open up the baby monitor to take a look! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Using a tiny Phillips head screwdriver, I first removed the plastic battery cover on the back of the parent console, removed the battery pack, and then removed the second screw located underneath the battery. I then used a tiny flat head screwdriver to gently pry open the baby monitor along the seam around the outside edge. This took a bit of finagling to locate exactly where the fasteners were located, but I was eventually able to gently pry the front and back of the baby monitor apart, revealing the circuit board. As soon as I did this, a small part fell right out of the inside of the monitor - sure enough, it was the charge port! The solder joints had come completely undone, resulting in the port being totally loose inside there - no wonder it wasn't working! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVuia_5j65smQQdGaxB4B2WNrcfDeZKEF6srY_u4yMiwU98vpeZFV1PrR1mawZJe6wTXQ14kRoc-VTPftI-D27mf-s_S2BbdG6TN1ghrNl1RKAegSwcWoai1LLvObzwTjIN5Nlg0gFVU/s1600/IMG_6913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1483" data-original-width="1600" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVuia_5j65smQQdGaxB4B2WNrcfDeZKEF6srY_u4yMiwU98vpeZFV1PrR1mawZJe6wTXQ14kRoc-VTPftI-D27mf-s_S2BbdG6TN1ghrNl1RKAegSwcWoai1LLvObzwTjIN5Nlg0gFVU/s400/IMG_6913.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I took the loose charge port and the disassembled parent console to the computer repair shop, where they re-soldered the charge port onto the circuit board. I put everything back together again - snapped the 2 sides of the baby monitor back in place, and replaced the 2 screws and battery pack, and presto - the baby monitor now recognizes the charge cord! This repair cost around $50 for the solder job; considering a new baby monitor system with 2 cameras would have run around $200, going the repair route was a significant cost savings, kept a baby monitor and 2 cameras out of the landfill, and saved me the hassle of programming and re-wiring new cameras!</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-9865353129430359902018-02-07T03:00:00.000-08:002018-02-07T03:00:22.719-08:00Toddler 101: Traveling with a Preschooler (Airplane / Road Trip Bag Ideas!)<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have several upcoming trips that will involve flying with our preschooler and infant, so I am stocking up on kid supplies for the flight! C got a Pottery Barn Kids backpack for Christmas, so I'm planning to fill it with snacks and entertainment to keep him busy (and hopefully quiet) on the plane! </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While we own all of the items below, I didn't buy them all just for this flight! We've acquired some of these over the years for other flights, road trips, Christmas gifts, etc; I keep them stored away in a closet so they maintain their novelty factor on airplanes or long road trips :)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4DwU20nLQG_6_FVoipWIvw5AwcrVzZecqtWnrO5MLlaZ3EofnUYIlnKfdGTfF-5i0UQ-8UDY9Qh8ZfpC0JXNYYi4_K3KZD7GdQW7668evPuVrw_ymycoF7iZp0uQSAKyT9eQ4DaQNo4/s1600/Preschooler+Airplane+Bag.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4DwU20nLQG_6_FVoipWIvw5AwcrVzZecqtWnrO5MLlaZ3EofnUYIlnKfdGTfF-5i0UQ-8UDY9Qh8ZfpC0JXNYYi4_K3KZD7GdQW7668evPuVrw_ymycoF7iZp0uQSAKyT9eQ4DaQNo4/s640/Preschooler+Airplane+Bag.png" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26keywords%3Dmy%2520little%2520world%2520sticker%2520book%26index%3Daps%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26linkId%3D1c7093bc4d3cb0e9e15005a5e770b15c&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNEHOFgpGPhjvs7boohoAuXwbZzrVQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=my%20little%20world%20sticker%20book&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=1c7093bc4d3cb0e9e15005a5e770b15c" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><b>My Little World Sticker Books</b></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - these sticker books are great - the price point (~$3) is great for the quality and the number of pages/stickers in these books. Most cheap sticker books only have 1-2 pages of sticker activities and are tiny; these are a normal children's book size, provide several pages of activities, and the pages are coated so that you can move the stickers around. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005F73RSA/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB005F73RSA%26linkId%3Da4685b5635500fdab1ce64c51d6993db&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNH80tuF3p9JPgXEb8CikcZh_8eYig" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005F73RSA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B005F73RSA&linkId=a4685b5635500fdab1ce64c51d6993db" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><b>Make-an-Animal Sticker Sheets</b></a> - these come in a 96-pack and are the cheap 1-page, smaller sticker sheets; however, these are great for "quantity over quality" - C can complete one and then move onto an entirely different animal.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001KW0606/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB001KW0606%26linkId%3D31729587adc6525be94d8203ad0ec868&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNHKSkBd52cYEloaavymi6KugQFZzw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001KW0606/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001KW0606&linkId=31729587adc6525be94d8203ad0ec868" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Color Wonder Travel Kit</a> </b>- I love Color Wonder - mess-free markers that only work on the special Color Wonder paper! No stressing over marker getting on the airplane seat! This one is great because it comes in a hard plastic travel kit; you can store the Color Wonder markers and paper inside, and there are clips on the outside to secure the paper. These are also great for road trips when there's no tray table to use - perfect for coloring in their lap! There are <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004UE4F/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00004UE4F%26linkId%3Dfb488e587b9dbe5289d12cdf87c58cd8&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNEQdUkVCtq2YFBUnzVH2f1K66niDg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004UE4F/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00004UE4F&linkId=fb488e587b9dbe5289d12cdf87c58cd8" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">blank Color Wonder pages</a> for free drawing, as well as <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26keywords%3Dcolor%2520wonder%2520coloring%2520pad%26index%3Daps%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26linkId%3D3cef23f868af8ad1b121f18637adb53a&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNFL_q4JZAceSUGa7M-ea02ie7iCGw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=color%20wonder%20coloring%20pad&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=3cef23f868af8ad1b121f18637adb53a" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">character-themed Color Wonder pages</a> for coloring. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&keywords=water%20wow%20books&index=aps&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=xm2&linkId=85ca9959a972e38d3439803fa0349d37" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Melissa & Doug Water WOW Books</b></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> </b>- these are great for travel - the fun of paint without the mess! The little water paintbrushes are easy to refill at a water fountain or from an airline cup of water, and the pages dry quickly so they can be painted and re-painted!</span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TLNXIPG/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00TLNXIPG%26linkId%3Dcbb2d21f639206b3f0cb40d40762ac83&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNFn588iAaaFHxsQvlLfXIqNmzjhHg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TLNXIPG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00TLNXIPG&linkId=cbb2d21f639206b3f0cb40d40762ac83" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><b>Contigo Kids Water Bottle</b></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> </b>- I pack this in C's backpack so we can fill it at a water fountain after going through security, instead of buying overpriced airport bottled water. I also like that it is spill-proof, so I don't have to worry about him knocking over an entire bottle of water on himself, me, or our bags!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312492510/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3D0312492510%26linkId%3D535e5071a315ffb355bf4f4c6a8593ab&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNF446oM3e2-CdUoyVdJxsbMjBL-5A" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312492510/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0312492510&linkId=535e5071a315ffb355bf4f4c6a8593ab" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><b>Wipe-clean ABC book</b></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><b> </b>- this is great for practicing letter tracing, and the marker easily wipes off with a baby wipe! This book is a compact size with sturdy pages and several opportunities to trace each letter (both lower and uppercase) on each page.</span></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439763096/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3D0439763096%26linkId%3Ddff54895456542cefe96c2701e94b05b&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNFNgIrPGtyjR6xqHBx76jbuwudLAg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0439763096/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0439763096&linkId=dff54895456542cefe96c2701e94b05b" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><b>I Spy 4-in-1 Book</b></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> </b>- C loves doing these I Spy books, and they provide a great opportunity for independent play. I like this one because it has 4 books in 1, which is both less expensive than buying the 4 books separately but also occupies him for longer since there are 4 times as many pages.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q3I690I/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00Q3I690I%26linkId%3D1cc96aedb7d80cd1ee7f64c8a6c556e9&source=gmail&ust=1517512751438000&usg=AFQjCNFkzPl7eQ-Gvnis5hZFKBZB2msb1Q" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q3I690I/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00Q3I690I&linkId=1cc96aedb7d80cd1ee7f64c8a6c556e9" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><b>LilGadgets Volume Limited Headphones</b></a> - these headphones are great because the volume is limited to a safe level, so I don't have to worry that he's damaging his hearing. There is also an extra jack for another set of headphones to plug into the child's headphones (a parent or a sibling), so two people can listen to the same audio simultaneously. Although we REALLY try to limit iPad use, we usually bring it on long road trips or flights for times of desperation - we load it with episodes of Daniel Tiger, a movie or two from Netflix, and a few children's audiobooks.</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZB7RYA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LZB7RYA&linkId=34b5e8c4758a6ad62a0811520f83e1de"><b>Wet Ones Resealable Antibacterial Wipes</b></a> - I never go anywhere without these! I like these slim, flat, resealable packages - I keep them in my car, purse, diaper bag, and there will most definitely be several packs coming on the plane with us! These are great for wiping hands before and after snacks or meals, as well as wiping down the germy airplane armrests and tray table.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And all the snacks! I usually bring <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GQ5GQEG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01GQ5GQEG&linkId=ad0b4f727ec7b7b6dd46bfe976b27a4b">small bags of goldfish</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C3DF056/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01C3DF056&linkId=62fca823a67bba33c1d6f1c14227d486">small boxes of raisins</a>, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00645QKCW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00645QKCW&linkId=23fc0288cd18ea348312d85c74fb0251">Dum-Dums</a> for a treat (and to help with little ears popping!)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-78615023207188930172018-02-05T03:00:00.000-08:002018-02-05T03:00:22.506-08:00DIY: Painted Brick Fireplace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have wanted to paint our brick fireplace since we first bought this house 6+ years ago; however, the brown brick looked OK with the then-tan wall color, and we were SO sick of painting...so it fell on the back burner. We just had the living areas repainted a light gray, and as soon as the painters left, I knew the brown brick had to go. It was finally time for a white-painted brick fireplace!</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApEBn1Na6jzx5lXdbXpTd2GtkjBhj_YRjmY-5RaEdlcPWQDAs3wYfyBH3DBLT5qeU9E6O5nzE-2PRsQMy77sJEnt_xwaoFP_rfkihAGMs-TDULBf_Pf-8a-rh4fabn8WQKToJpj5VZBA/s1600/How+to+Paint+a+Brick+Fireplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1183" data-original-width="1137" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApEBn1Na6jzx5lXdbXpTd2GtkjBhj_YRjmY-5RaEdlcPWQDAs3wYfyBH3DBLT5qeU9E6O5nzE-2PRsQMy77sJEnt_xwaoFP_rfkihAGMs-TDULBf_Pf-8a-rh4fabn8WQKToJpj5VZBA/s400/How+to+Paint+a+Brick+Fireplace.png" width="382" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">B wanted to have the painters come back to handle it, but I read a few articles online and thought we could DIY (plus, immediate gratification instead of waiting on an opening in the painters' schedule). If you're thinking of painting your brick fireplace, DO IT! It's both inexpensive and straightforward but makes a big difference in the whole room's look. Here's what we did:</span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Supplies:</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 wire scrub brush (we used <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KKRG66/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB000KKRG66%26linkId%3D0f9500f27bf94ddcb1d6ec9224fcf573&source=gmail&ust=1517283757758000&usg=AFQjCNHT_YBKPssDbZS764F0k2pxGx4jJQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KKRG66/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000KKRG66&linkId=0f9500f27bf94ddcb1d6ec9224fcf573" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">one similar to this</a>)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment (we used our <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002D47XOM/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB002D47XOM%26linkId%3Da4f361e3dd77628c85f98323a344d4ae&source=gmail&ust=1517283757758000&usg=AFQjCNFoTp8SGwL8uK5qKkahtWAglVQgdQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002D47XOM/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002D47XOM&linkId=a4f361e3dd77628c85f98323a344d4ae" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Dirt Devil Scorpion</a>)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 spray bottle</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 plastic scrub brush (we used <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004OCL3/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00004OCL3%26linkId%3D3b365667d32494fbf4f4fcf404d05481&source=gmail&ust=1517283757759000&usg=AFQjCNEJaPEB3C6wC7WW4jkIJAnqHagolw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004OCL3/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00004OCL3&linkId=3b365667d32494fbf4f4fcf404d05481" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">one similar to this</a>)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2-3 cups vinegar</span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 tube paintable caulk (we used <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058I2MD2/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB0058I2MD2%26linkId%3D3f355cbf5b3c8916a435610bc3065c6f&source=gmail&ust=1517283757759000&usg=AFQjCNENxVaUVpCRnTzbfKzylFinjmKqwg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0058I2MD2/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0058I2MD2&linkId=3f355cbf5b3c8916a435610bc3065c6f" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">this kind in a squeeze tube</a> since we don't have a caulk gun)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Painter's tape (we used <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Z8HB2A/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB002Z8HB2A%26linkId%3D99a06ce5628161031739d17386c4ca15&source=gmail&ust=1517283757759000&usg=AFQjCNGyXa_c7odeHNQ8AMm56yFGRRgHbQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Z8HB2A/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002Z8HB2A&linkId=99a06ce5628161031739d17386c4ca15" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Frog Tape</a>)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Plastic drop cloths</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 paint trays</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FPAQE0/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB000FPAQE0%26linkId%3D8ec6063715266e7137dab0ed047084c0&source=gmail&ust=1517283757759000&usg=AFQjCNG4fqRUnA52RUgca9ox1PWDmg9kBg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FPAQE0/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000FPAQE0&linkId=8ec6063715266e7137dab0ed047084c0" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">3/4" nap paint rollers</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 angled paint brushes (we tried several; <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002YC06T2/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB002YC06T2%26linkId%3D8fb7daaa3320b35316749be828bb74e0&source=gmail&ust=1517283757759000&usg=AFQjCNEkgB2oDXbilLAU2KgBhMtaFjsLuw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002YC06T2/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002YC06T2&linkId=8fb7daaa3320b35316749be828bb74e0" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">this one</a> worked the best)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 gallon masonry primer (we used <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000SKU8VI/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB000SKU8VI%26linkId%3Dc2c094d804cafd82bfdffaa07a40be04&source=gmail&ust=1517283757759000&usg=AFQjCNEEJxwaHddLGqis1XT4GmiPurzDpw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000SKU8VI/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000SKU8VI&linkId=c2c094d804cafd82bfdffaa07a40be04" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Zinsser 123 primer</a>)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 gallon interior latex paint (we used Benjamin Moore Simply White in semi-gloss finish)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3EwE2aOlpNiSFjVDGl-VfzJogtWdEeBR5067ZQ9qc7jRwp4EX8vXZS_7yHDV-_JcGGg1FztHafOVZ-juFHgFnuE0IA23Pd8F4rfzyZCut16oQqpvyRknpZKvZxNhRZ3i08DjHB3YdLc/s1600/IMG_4193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3EwE2aOlpNiSFjVDGl-VfzJogtWdEeBR5067ZQ9qc7jRwp4EX8vXZS_7yHDV-_JcGGg1FztHafOVZ-juFHgFnuE0IA23Pd8F4rfzyZCut16oQqpvyRknpZKvZxNhRZ3i08DjHB3YdLc/s400/IMG_4193.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 1: Scrub</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We used a wire scrub brush to scrub away at the brick, paying particular attention to the area right around the firebox that had soot buildup from the previous owner, who used wood in the fireplace (we have since switched it over to gas logs). The goal here is to loosen any debris or dust on the face of the brick, as well as in the mortar lines.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMta6FzSphtPMjGeBzKpiFuHCHhR2bzrTWJuh2rswVchTY1nARwgZEGNUI2kSM_dQYL3LtEQeegpBLW7Glhh1ED9DEqo_M2MsKERVxW7UwgD_QCimA8aD02QLaDeuHH6Dx10hRGKiTCAs/s1600/IMG_4194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMta6FzSphtPMjGeBzKpiFuHCHhR2bzrTWJuh2rswVchTY1nARwgZEGNUI2kSM_dQYL3LtEQeegpBLW7Glhh1ED9DEqo_M2MsKERVxW7UwgD_QCimA8aD02QLaDeuHH6Dx10hRGKiTCAs/s400/IMG_4194.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 2: Vacuum</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We used an upholstery attachment on a handheld vacuum to brush and clean the brick surface. The upholstery attachment helps brush out any dust or debris that might be stuck in the mortar lines.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_zd2uXsbXpSHKjIkg6Epbh0yC-bO-KmBlrGIwAsr5A-Vl_HOf3MVG3nRmV0HJIG_vH1ubzgraskP_GgeTMHSvRzFNBehpMDY4uh1fqYF_I6Q54ULLvldKulUOwfEWMb8v8Y3YALlpzo/s1600/IMG_4216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_zd2uXsbXpSHKjIkg6Epbh0yC-bO-KmBlrGIwAsr5A-Vl_HOf3MVG3nRmV0HJIG_vH1ubzgraskP_GgeTMHSvRzFNBehpMDY4uh1fqYF_I6Q54ULLvldKulUOwfEWMb8v8Y3YALlpzo/s400/IMG_4216.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 3: Clean</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Several articles I read recommended TSP, but I didn't want to use anything that harsh with an infant in the house. We used undiluted white vinegar in a spray bottle, saturating a small area of the brick at a time and scrubbing it with a scrub brush. This should further remove any remaining dust or buildup on the brick surface, prepping it for better paint adhesion. We allowed the brick to fully dry overnight.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyWkq9bfofqJ3aVupSIN0S9jHqmq3lVYKf0rimvSI_cCACHMEU2SG30tl2qeFziEEUhplSZ4ZkTSIO2vzzyixp35X09bAN49qxHXSB1jjXY9xem8Rn6MXaYxuJQI7hmi5rI9ZzsIOasM/s1600/IMG_4195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZyWkq9bfofqJ3aVupSIN0S9jHqmq3lVYKf0rimvSI_cCACHMEU2SG30tl2qeFziEEUhplSZ4ZkTSIO2vzzyixp35X09bAN49qxHXSB1jjXY9xem8Rn6MXaYxuJQI7hmi5rI9ZzsIOasM/s400/IMG_4195.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 4: Prep</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We applied Frog Tape to protect the trim and the wood floor around the brick, and covered the floor, firebox, mantle, and nearby furniture with a plastic dropcloth to protect it from paint roller overspray.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaYAAINCb_6Z_Uc17Dx44dj32lAJvjmnG_LwCTcbQZrX7YqdzzXPIccxMzGyOhORs-K4PFbIQGb5BdWBIY_YisMtmfk6GxzyqKuypNOQ3RPwCXwaVPQk7hLz8pgnhvZfso-arCNHGjVU/s1600/IMG_4285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaYAAINCb_6Z_Uc17Dx44dj32lAJvjmnG_LwCTcbQZrX7YqdzzXPIccxMzGyOhORs-K4PFbIQGb5BdWBIY_YisMtmfk6GxzyqKuypNOQ3RPwCXwaVPQk7hLz8pgnhvZfso-arCNHGjVU/s400/IMG_4285.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 5: Caulk</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We caulked any visible cracks, both on the surface of bricks themselves, as well as in the mortar lines. Since we were painting the brick white, I knew cracks would show up black against hte white paint and be even more noticeable. The caulk directions said to allow it to dry for 2-6 hours, but we let it dry overnight to be extra safe. After caulking, we re-vacuumed the hearth to pick up any bits of dried caulk that may have fallen.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfCidCRPGHjaYZJWusPzkFs4eVvj1uD1YYl8fmAzfkQBsvwMiyOlMsXdK_1zPpfwc_ye4ENcIO7fk-InQRav5q-D5JRfQmkwPBPic8wsLqTH9m3sX-adNlnY4vS4mGiG91CsSWosYa-w/s1600/IMG_4286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfCidCRPGHjaYZJWusPzkFs4eVvj1uD1YYl8fmAzfkQBsvwMiyOlMsXdK_1zPpfwc_ye4ENcIO7fk-InQRav5q-D5JRfQmkwPBPic8wsLqTH9m3sX-adNlnY4vS4mGiG91CsSWosYa-w/s400/IMG_4286.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 6: Prime</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We primed the brick using a primer made for masonry, first rolling on primer using a thick-nap paint roller, and then using an angled paint brush to apply primer to the deeper mortar lines and edges that the paint roller was unable to reach. We allowed the primer to dry overnight. We used gray primer, which was a MISTAKE under white paint - it took 3 coats of white paint to cover all the gray. Learn from our mistake and use <u>white</u> primer!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dbVAT2GseznsjIJGTVnrKvMaBLYmhcAakNELsGcBaewTOfcXpnDYNDMi-BtXXZ7l8CcgZ8uixrnD5k9MsqB-aevx76_xcQHACHgXMuvysYcwGrABNnLqo79MjB86sMyTfjKUAKv5RIc/s1600/IMG_4304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dbVAT2GseznsjIJGTVnrKvMaBLYmhcAakNELsGcBaewTOfcXpnDYNDMi-BtXXZ7l8CcgZ8uixrnD5k9MsqB-aevx76_xcQHACHgXMuvysYcwGrABNnLqo79MjB86sMyTfjKUAKv5RIc/s400/IMG_4304.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 7: Paint!</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finally! We used the same method to paint the brick as the primer - first, a thick-nap paint roller, followed by an angled paint brush on the mortar and edges. We used Behr semi-gloss paint, color matched to Benjamin Moore Simply White. It took 3 coats to cover the gray primer; if we had used white primer, we probably could have gotten away with only 1 coat - 2 at the most. Remove the Frog Tape while the paint is still wet to avoid pulling off paint.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2FmqA1XEDprZlo7Wu043pmb9q5hJDbHpZ5RznlNe3pOmaCFG7FJNS3LwYSIM5A2_v7UYmXnRgur3Bh42TZkAupDubUz7fRaXszUKHj17JnOEIJEByEHRKU8y_Or6_Ysb7lbdMxH5sVc/s1600/IMG_4310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2FmqA1XEDprZlo7Wu043pmb9q5hJDbHpZ5RznlNe3pOmaCFG7FJNS3LwYSIM5A2_v7UYmXnRgur3Bh42TZkAupDubUz7fRaXszUKHj17JnOEIJEByEHRKU8y_Or6_Ysb7lbdMxH5sVc/s400/IMG_4310.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 8: Touch Up</span></b></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After painting the brick white, the seam between the mantle and the fireplace, as well as the fireplace and the side trim, was noticeable - the gap looked like a black line between the white brick and the white mantle/trim. We used the same white caulk to caulk in between the mantle and the brick, and the brick and the trim. It looks seamless now! We also used a small craft paintbrush to touch up any spots we had missed with the white paint.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhQ2E1ZrQ5vpH8ZIt2a9l_3TM3KjYSUOZvTyFj5U9KHK5nbrkSSur3TrK90ap_O7f1gWimXL3EgtUwjMIw0L9K7a4T7tTwATmk2zUru4gPEzhOpDBuu9-rCnemvlJjVW-1rh53ryQ_iE/s1600/IMG_4467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1144" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhQ2E1ZrQ5vpH8ZIt2a9l_3TM3KjYSUOZvTyFj5U9KHK5nbrkSSur3TrK90ap_O7f1gWimXL3EgtUwjMIw0L9K7a4T7tTwATmk2zUru4gPEzhOpDBuu9-rCnemvlJjVW-1rh53ryQ_iE/s400/IMG_4467.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I LOVE the result! Our whole living room feels brighter with the white brick fireplace instead of the dull brown brick! I also love how much decorations "pop" against the white - our Halloween decorations show up so much better than they used to!</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-89254923820135735432018-02-02T03:00:00.000-08:002018-02-02T03:00:02.215-08:00Valentine's Day for Preschoolers FREE Printables<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I love holidays!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Valentine's Day is on the horizon and I'm finally learning to plan ahead! A couple of years ago, I didn't realize that 18 MONTH OLDS (!!) exchanged valentines until a list of names came home from school the DAY before, of course when B was out of town, and I was left scrambling!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpTrphItDekZQDRa8BEqA4f1exTr7sVPDYYHAsTS6YjURD_51RxS2wzvliofurur-4bpxzQicTDAwNLbb0R_G54HOjUSIs5e_UYKtBgG2dmwcz7yqpXZxXskbEg9zY7kiqnnQICx55Ss/s1600/Valentine%2527s+Day+FREE+Printables.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpTrphItDekZQDRa8BEqA4f1exTr7sVPDYYHAsTS6YjURD_51RxS2wzvliofurur-4bpxzQicTDAwNLbb0R_G54HOjUSIs5e_UYKtBgG2dmwcz7yqpXZxXskbEg9zY7kiqnnQICx55Ss/s400/Valentine%2527s+Day+FREE+Printables.png" width="307" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This year, I'm making Valentines well in advance. I know my years are numbered when I can convince them to hand out healthy-ish/non-candy items with their valentines, so I am taking advantage while I can! </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Valentine puns are my FAVORITE.</span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<br />
Baby M is giving her classmates applesauce pouches (I'm buying <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P4A3HYW/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00P4A3HYW&linkId=cc17f9560c2be2d5b5b79818a4f5110f">organic GoGo Squeeze pouches</a>), and I'm using these AWESOME-sauce Valentines. <i>(See bottom of this post for a link to the full-resolution PDF files for printing)</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqwTR9VVM9SceO0UhIO9YwqcHS9xFiQSYJNQhb67G3NFR7Jz-Xq4DrUgKyvS8soiQlejmqr6KA0EJpTTzMhi3ZL1heU38xlFJS2j6XlUtfWpih1js13A7qBVEhit97Xhhjs3K9ZzMIeU/s1600/Awesome+sauce+valentine+printable.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqwTR9VVM9SceO0UhIO9YwqcHS9xFiQSYJNQhb67G3NFR7Jz-Xq4DrUgKyvS8soiQlejmqr6KA0EJpTTzMhi3ZL1heU38xlFJS2j6XlUtfWpih1js13A7qBVEhit97Xhhjs3K9ZzMIeU/s400/Awesome+sauce+valentine+printable.png" width="307" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
C keeps going back and forth between <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IZ9N78/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000IZ9N78&linkId=dae4ed6947b357231a93b03639e20923">glow sticks </a>and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BJDXCIO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00BJDXCIO&linkId=0ac6528d8a3f8f74ce85cdb74bc1cb2c">yogurt-covered raisins</a>, so I'm prepared for both outcomes :) </div>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-AbLLD8X4_CFYUxxSCbKktR05fYfB32FW8R4gquXTmZVgimVdJpLYfVcRlMlBtfxd9Sy9exKXBteyXX2Rxzfxkk6yNnhC6Duatb-jFwRSLY9QjPD6-jg_IJc4B8uCH9oMlnoml-ZUSs/s1600/Glow+stick+Valentine+printable.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-AbLLD8X4_CFYUxxSCbKktR05fYfB32FW8R4gquXTmZVgimVdJpLYfVcRlMlBtfxd9Sy9exKXBteyXX2Rxzfxkk6yNnhC6Duatb-jFwRSLY9QjPD6-jg_IJc4B8uCH9oMlnoml-ZUSs/s400/Glow+stick+Valentine+printable.png" width="307" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlKPRklNNKeUYo45BJe3u7cJT0e-WWRama-z6yRpf8AWUHoXUYtbNwzuXEudxPnAmUKeIzBHZCxNYgmRgBznZzGHgm7choNETBg0jwePg5SvUqmNG1u7hC4j40flNOpGggOzSoD2vZFY/s1600/Raisin+Valentine+Printable.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="816" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlKPRklNNKeUYo45BJe3u7cJT0e-WWRama-z6yRpf8AWUHoXUYtbNwzuXEudxPnAmUKeIzBHZCxNYgmRgBznZzGHgm7choNETBg0jwePg5SvUqmNG1u7hC4j40flNOpGggOzSoD2vZFY/s400/Raisin+Valentine+Printable.png" width="307" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
If you want to use any of these free printables, click below for links to the full-resolution PDF files. I printed mine on normal <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0771TCLLJ/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0771TCLLJ&linkId=40bf3c4db3e30655f9ead5ce1154d60b">letter-size white cardstock</a> (they'll print 6 to a page). For the awesome-sauce and glow stick printables, there are 2 versions linked below - one addressed to "Valentine", and one with a blank space to write in a name.</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1aomUiTe430Umr6dCGsV75EQMbYqFbNHr"><br /></a>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1aomUiTe430Umr6dCGsV75EQMbYqFbNHr">Click here for the AWESOME-sauce printable</a></span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1W6I9Y3N403XiRMO5QR8_q2TNd7UhWYYJ">Click here for the AWESOME-sauce printable with space to write in a name</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1NZxymu1fwXrIgR57zMLWT4blpxcohdyD">Click here for the glow stick printable</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1B3K3nbUH-zJRbHtaiQY_4i2-13JLwO0G">Click here for the glow stick printable with space to write in a name</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1iz1yAL9dLZVUDTahjxcs1-MRH_cdpU0O"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Click here for the raisin printable</span></b></a><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
Click <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2017/02/free-printable-o-fish-ally-goldfish.html">here for a link</a> to the valentine we used last year with Goldfish crackers (it would also work with Swedish fish or Goldfish Grahams!)</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMN7iHRv-qcz32mke53rZ9FEebTgrQGYfsbkfpetqyRZQCkPRgpYOEUBer17wFl7_Q9roNSiOEPCu-HDoFeRU3YzKbJrPj4Lf_iUv4QX6eKuUTDkxWP94X2n4DNJpu9azQUOqvs-XG6ck/s1600/O+Fish+Ally+Valentine.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="637" height="371" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMN7iHRv-qcz32mke53rZ9FEebTgrQGYfsbkfpetqyRZQCkPRgpYOEUBer17wFl7_Q9roNSiOEPCu-HDoFeRU3YzKbJrPj4Lf_iUv4QX6eKuUTDkxWP94X2n4DNJpu9azQUOqvs-XG6ck/s400/O+Fish+Ally+Valentine.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTAZROro7R8CQDN7t8Iuqal7YQ4Ov2z6_oRzigvoTErM0vfqXVAa-oO_wzKyekPGCXJl9fxj1MvP2aRN-w3H_LZMf7SvSJBxz2H1l3UU9uvEKsUPhyphenhyphenmTxSLRXfpxninFwP9F7voScrYzw/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTAZROro7R8CQDN7t8Iuqal7YQ4Ov2z6_oRzigvoTErM0vfqXVAa-oO_wzKyekPGCXJl9fxj1MvP2aRN-w3H_LZMf7SvSJBxz2H1l3UU9uvEKsUPhyphenhyphenmTxSLRXfpxninFwP9F7voScrYzw/s400/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-19683547677830550102018-01-31T03:00:00.000-08:002018-02-01T17:53:25.320-08:00From the Kitchen: Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is hard to go wrong with a Pioneer Woman recipe! We had several friends over for dinner recently; since it was a Friday night, I needed something I could prep in advance since I didn't want my kitchen to be a disaster from trying to cook something on Friday after work. This was perfect - I prepped it on Thursday night, refrigerated it overnight, and popped it in the oven when I got home from work on Friday. My house smelled delicious but my kitchen stayed clean! This recipe makes a TON (we had 6 adults and ate less than half of it!); I froze the other half (unbaked) and used it for a quick weeknight dinner a few weeks later.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbAb02hKEMaaj9gCclT7Wxc5b-aGXUvXA_DYTl-EZs9aWZr9xNN0vYf87qm9M55TyW8hmajNV1CkQxDq6kgUAl8cpl5vlFac-2fFi0GyYd7lr1S9xuA3oNduUdR9mUfR2giCpKVmKPfA/s1600/Pioneer+Woman+Baked+Ziti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbAb02hKEMaaj9gCclT7Wxc5b-aGXUvXA_DYTl-EZs9aWZr9xNN0vYf87qm9M55TyW8hmajNV1CkQxDq6kgUAl8cpl5vlFac-2fFi0GyYd7lr1S9xuA3oNduUdR9mUfR2giCpKVmKPfA/s400/Pioneer+Woman+Baked+Ziti.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti</span></h2>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Adapted from <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/baked-ziti/&source=gmail&ust=1517283757767000&usg=AFQjCNHjZuwrdQCYMBgmDzudJkTjeFFVsw" href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/baked-ziti/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman</a></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Servings: 12 (this recipe made a large Corningware casserole and an 8x8" Pyrex for me)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 16-oz box ziti pasta</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 lb ground Italian sausage</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 lb ground beef</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3 cloves garlic, minced</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 large onion, diced</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 28-oz can whole tomatoes in juice</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 14.5-oz cans tomato sauce</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 teaspoons Italian seasoning</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 15-oz container ricotta cheese</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 16-oz block mozzarella cheese, grated</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 egg</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a large pot of salted water, boil the ziti noodles according to package directions until just shy of al dente (otherwise they'll be mushy after baking the ziti). Rinse it under cold water (I add ice cubes) to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set aside.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, saute the ground Italian sausage, ground beef, minced garlic, and diced onion until the meat is well browned. Drain excess fat. Add the canned whole tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Salt and pepper to taste, stir well, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes. Set aside 3-4 cups of sauce in a separate bowl to cool.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a mixing bowl, stir together the ricotta, 2 cups of grated mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Add the cooled, cooked ziti and the cooled meat sauce that was previously set aside and stir to combine.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a greased casserole (e.g., Corningware) or glass (e.g., Pyrex) dish, add half of the pasta mixture. Top with half of the remaining sauce and half of the remaining grated mozzarella. Repeat with another layer of the pasta mixture, the rest of the sauce, and the rest of the grated mozzarella.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bake at 375 degrees approximately 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbling. Allow to sit 5 minutes before serving.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Pioneer%20Woman">Click here</a> to see my other Pioneer Woman recipes!</span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-49875005041523953322018-01-29T03:00:00.000-08:002018-01-31T11:22:34.181-08:00DIY: How to Clean a Pottery Barn Kids Backpack / Lunch Box<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pottery Barn Kids has the CUTEST backpacks and lunch boxes for littles, but those suckers aren't cheap! Kids are rough on backpacks and lunch boxes with all the back-and-forth to school - the bags get dirty quickly! </span></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYTQzroBHcL95DGR8xjlBVgxZb6rNFhQb9dg9lnTYLY8jfep-KSRyFbwadr1PEM1-yDWn158sd4B5NkUJSNTHo7R9wOykXtfU7D5WjXsz7tUZh3fbhagu4TmRXeO5YN3WPpZ-prJL4zY/s1600/IMG_6979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYTQzroBHcL95DGR8xjlBVgxZb6rNFhQb9dg9lnTYLY8jfep-KSRyFbwadr1PEM1-yDWn158sd4B5NkUJSNTHo7R9wOykXtfU7D5WjXsz7tUZh3fbhagu4TmRXeO5YN3WPpZ-prJL4zY/s400/IMG_6979.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was handed down a used PBK lunch box for my daughter that had DEFINITELY seen better days. I checked the PBK website, where the care instructions say "spot clean with a damp white cloth". Um, sorry, that's not gonna cut it! </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ATTEMPT #1 - I tossed it in the washing machine with a hefty dose of laundry detergent and Oxiclean, but it still looked pretty bad - especially on the lighter-colored straps and zippers. Dang, Oxiclean normally fixes everything! </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ATTEMPT #2 - As a last resort, I scrubbed it with a <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004OCIZ/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00004OCIZ%26linkId%3Dcd30c816cf4c9386b9a8a7543e1f3d6e&source=gmail&ust=1517283296399000&usg=AFQjCNH9XPKUIOtkWOdq6O5qWbJeZyOEBQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004OCIZ/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00004OCIZ&linkId=cd30c816cf4c9386b9a8a7543e1f3d6e" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">plastic dish brush</a> in the sink, using dish soap...and VOILA! The stains came right out, both of the patterned fabric and the straps/zippers, with no damage to the pattern on the fabric. It took a little elbow grease, but the dish brush worked amazingly well! Since PBK's lunch boxes and backpacks are made of 600-denier polyester, they are pretty sturdy - that's the same material that must luggage is made of.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Give it a try! You'd be surprised what you can salvage - PBK's stuff is so well-made, it can take a good scrub!</span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-36221351140197298412017-09-18T03:00:00.000-07:002017-09-18T03:00:02.927-07:00From the Kitchen: Maldon Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5F1N_2b9hEDw1JP2I40G18OBciSxi4sL08SOurU57wyRIij_yh3EeKB22Cn4A9S7mlKqjiTk6gGVUB7wSGVEkQSaEA2EeDBlHYXGC-9q-bOnVFYGJibHpId1MOeZwxYecBrLa9yLbj_E/s1600/Maldon+Sea+Salt+Chocolate+Chip+Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5F1N_2b9hEDw1JP2I40G18OBciSxi4sL08SOurU57wyRIij_yh3EeKB22Cn4A9S7mlKqjiTk6gGVUB7wSGVEkQSaEA2EeDBlHYXGC-9q-bOnVFYGJibHpId1MOeZwxYecBrLa9yLbj_E/s400/Maldon+Sea+Salt+Chocolate+Chip+Cookies.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My sister-in-law made these cookies for a girls' night - they are SO good! I am a sucker for the sweet/salty combo. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00017028M/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00017028M&linkId=d006cb8a8d40f286825daac18a9e5287">Maldon sea salt</a> is what completely makes these cookies - I bought it on Amazon, but they also sell it at Central Market locally. They're huge, crunchy flakes (as opposed to crystals) of salt - they give a perfect salty crunch to these cookies!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7uqdU41VhiNEdoemt_1KOiAq-zrKlCZ-C2QIXeb1xgU_7H7gzbBJUtRYJnrd-WKrf-oGxHzN0nro7xl9d1_THkLZxhrRXHHybS2Y2nTWaOSXxN4Hv_506g2t0RdmYZ6WfzDIn2qg9Iw/s1600/IMG_3710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7uqdU41VhiNEdoemt_1KOiAq-zrKlCZ-C2QIXeb1xgU_7H7gzbBJUtRYJnrd-WKrf-oGxHzN0nro7xl9d1_THkLZxhrRXHHybS2Y2nTWaOSXxN4Hv_506g2t0RdmYZ6WfzDIn2qg9Iw/s400/IMG_3710.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These cookies are made using frozen dough; the recipe below yields a large batch (40 cookies), so the dough is perfect to make in advance and pull out of the freezer for homemade cookies in minutes! I freeze the dough on a cookie sheet and, once frozen, transfer the dough to a freezer Ziploc bag.</span><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Maldon Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Adapted from <a href="http://blog.draperjames.com/2017/08/perfect-chocolate-chip-cookie-recipe/">Draper James</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yield: 40 cookies</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></h3>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup old-fashioned oatmeal</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup butter (two sticks), room temperature</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/4 cup packed brown sugar</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3/4 cup granulated sugar</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 teaspoons vanilla extract</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 eggs</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3 cups chocolate chips (I used semi-sweet)</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 22px;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00017028M/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00017028M&linkId=d006cb8a8d40f286825daac18a9e5287">Maldon sea salt</a> for sprinkling</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Directions:</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Place the oatmeal in a blender or food processor (I used a Magic Bullet) and blend until it's a fine powder.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the 2 sticks of butter, brown sugar, and sugar, and mix on medium speed until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and 2 eggs, and mix until well combined. Add the dry ingredients (oatmeal powder, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon), and mix until just combined (do not overmix). Stir in the chocolate chips.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Using a cookie scoop (I use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000CDVD2/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0000CDVD2&linkId=180f633b930beef2ab481f71d36affd6">this one</a>), drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-paper lined cookie sheet. Place in the freezer for at least 1 hour (the cookies are baked using frozen dough).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To bake, preheat the oven to 350. Place frozen cookie dough on a greased or parchment-paper lined cookie sheet, sprinkle with Maldon sea salt, and bake for 12 minutes. The cookies should be lightly browned on the edges but soft in the middle.</span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-78994725276585992372017-09-13T03:00:00.001-07:002017-09-13T03:00:01.862-07:00Baby 101: Pumping Basics - Frequently Asked Questions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7CKh5hRdPPBAXIR4hAUsX22kZh3HADXzUzkqiQ5VdPsUL4KVoDEhMYCv539EKqxh3lXct__zdM2c8Hnb2cZnctRurOGwSkBAm5vQZevkl837CsKZz1qR7c3S2OBWF5qSqsi38pwPs7M/s1600/Baby+101_pumping+basics.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="578" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7CKh5hRdPPBAXIR4hAUsX22kZh3HADXzUzkqiQ5VdPsUL4KVoDEhMYCv539EKqxh3lXct__zdM2c8Hnb2cZnctRurOGwSkBAm5vQZevkl837CsKZz1qR7c3S2OBWF5qSqsi38pwPs7M/s400/Baby+101_pumping+basics.png" width="355" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Pumping might be the thing friends ask me about the most - and completely understandably, because pumping can be tricky! You've just barely got nursing figured out and then suddenly you go back to work / need to leave baby with a sitter / want to do anything for more than 3 hours without being tied to your baby, and pumping enters the mix. I'm certainly no expert, but I went back to work after 12 weeks of maternity leave with my son and pumped successfully enough for him to be exclusively breastfed until he turned one (woohoo!), so I have some firsthand experience. </span><div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some of my tips and tricks for the questions I get asked the most:</span><div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What breast pump should I get?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is personal preference, of course, but I love my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BLBLR1I/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00BLBLR1I&linkId=fc8d75b7276703ed7ca7e1ee89305155">Spectra S2</a> and prefer it to the Medela Pump In Style Advanced I used with my first - <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2017/08/buy-this-not-that-breast-pumps.html">read more about the differences here</a>. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't run out and buy one - most insurance plans cover 100% of the cost of one breast pump per pregnancy. Check with your health insurance company to see which DME (Direct Medical Equipment) supplier(s) they work with. I used <a href="http://breastpumps.aeroflowinc.com/">Aeroflow</a> for both pregnancies (I got a new pump each time, since the motors can wear down) and had a great experience - they handled everything (insurance, contacting OB/GYN, etc.).</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">When should I start pumping?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had a LOT of lactation consultant help with my first baby, and their advice was to wait to pump until baby is 2-3 weeks old. The first couple of weeks (especially with your first!) are stressful enough with figuring out breastfeeding, and it can mess with your breastmilk supply if you start too early (causing oversupply, which can result in foremilk/hindmilk balance issues, engorgement, mastitis, etc.) </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By 2-3 weeks, your milk supply will start to regulate, you'll hopefully be through the painful/confusing/stressful part of breastfeeding and have time to add in pumping. This timeline allows plenty of time to introduce a bottle to your baby between 3-4 weeks, which is the ideal window to ensure that your baby will accept a bottle without causing nipple confusion.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How often should I pump?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This depends on the reason why you're pumping. If you're still nursing full-time and just want to build a small freezer stash for the occasional babysitter, I was advised to pump twice a day; once AFTER nursing (to get the extra out for a "rainy day" and tell your body to keep producing that much milk), and once INSTEAD of nursing (to allow you to feed the baby a bottle of pumped breastmilk and ensure they'll continue to accept a bottle). </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're going to be away from your baby (going back to work, traveling, etc. - i.e., NOT nursing full-time), you should pump the same number of times, on approximately the same schedule, as your baby will be taking bottles while you're gone - for example, if your baby will take 3 bottles every 3 hours during the time you're gone, you should pump 3 times, approximately every 3 hours. Pumping less frequently than your baby is eating will tell your body to slow down milk production.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How long should I pump?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This varies depending on the individual and the pump. I find that my Spectra pump is much more efficient at removing milk than my Medela PISA was, so I generally pump for about 12-15 minutes (as opposed to the 20-25 minutes I pumped with my Medela). I pump until fully emptied (milk stops flowing), and then I press the "letdown" or "massage" mode button again to encourage a second letdown. Many women naturally have a second letdown around the 12 minute mark, but you can use the letdown feature on your pump to try to trigger another one once milk stops flowing from the first letdown. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the second letdown, I pump until milk stops coming out, and then for an additional 2-5 minutes to encourage my body to maintain production. If you're pressed for time, you can skip the second letdown and additional 2-5 minutes after milk flow stops, but you'll want to fully empty your breasts to avoid clogged ducts, mastitis, or an unwanted decrease in your milk supply.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What should I bring in my pump bag to work?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2014/10/baby-101-series-pumping-essentials.html"><br /></a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2014/10/baby-101-series-pumping-essentials.html">Check out my detailed post on this topic here.</a></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do I know if I'm pumping enough?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This varies so much by person - there is a huge range. If you're pumping in lieu of nursing, your goal is obviously to pump enough to replace the breastmilk your baby consumes by bottle during the same timeframe (so if your baby consumes 15 ounces of breastmilk while you're gone, you'll want to pump at least 15 ounces to stay "even"). "Normal" production from pumping in lieu of nursing is 2-4 ounces per session for both breasts combined. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're pumping while nursing full time (to build a stash), you can expect your output to be much less - "normal" is considered 0.5-2 ounces per session for both breasts combined.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep in mind that milk production is normally higher in the morning than it is in the evenings, so you may see different outputs from pumping sessions depending on the time of day. Also, remember that a baby is much more efficient at removing milk than a pump - your pumping output is not indicative of your milk supply.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What if I pump too soon to when my baby wants to nurse and there is none left?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Again, a baby is much more efficient at removing milk than a pump; even immediately after you pump, there is still milk remaining in your breasts that a baby can remove that the pump could not. Also, breastmilk is constantly replenishing, so even as you finish pumping, your body is already producing more. The milk flow may be slower than baby is used to and they may get frustrated, but don't worry that there isn't any left - there is. Allow your baby to nurse longer and/or switch sides back and forth.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Why is the suction on my pump weak?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're not getting good suction on your pump, first make sure everything is plugged in / assembled correctly - the tubing is well secured, both to the pump and to the flanges, and there is nothing (bra/shirt) in between the flanges and your breast breaking the suction. If you're only pumping on one side, make sure that you disconnect the tubing for the second side and use the little plug to "block" the tubing connection.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Double check the suction settings on your pump to make sure they haven't been accidentally adjusted.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're using battery power (rather than a wall plug-in), make sure the battery is fully charged and/or replace the batteries if using a battery pack.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Inspect the membranes (on a Medela PISA, these are the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001CTZ8K/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0001CTZ8K&linkId=2096fd3af9f623e17cfcee8cfb264ce6">white rubber circles</a>) or the valves (on a Spectra, these are the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XVASFGC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00XVASFGC&linkId=41349d1822cc693193fcffc7a75928dd">white duckbill parts</a>) for any tears; it is good practice to replace these parts every couple of months anyway, because they weaken over time and they have a big impact on the pump's overall suction. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm not pumping enough milk - how do I pump more?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, make sure your expectations for pumping output are reasonable - see "How do I know if I'm pumping enough?" above. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next, make sure there aren't any suction issues with your pump - see "Why is the suction on my pump weak?" above. You'll also get more milk out if you "prod" your breasts while pumping (some people say "massage", but I don't use motion - I just jab a finger or two into the breast tissue and hold them there while the pump is doing its thing, moving them every couple of minutes to trigger production from different ducts).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you truly need to increase your milk supply, <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2015/05/baby-101-maintaining-milk-supply.html">here is a detailed post on maintaining your milk supply</a>. In short:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- drink more</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- eat more</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- add galactogogues (fenugreek, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VH3ZYU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000VH3ZYU&linkId=6932f888d721e2295e7e754ed3e241c0">brewer's yeast</a>, oatmeal)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- pump more frequently</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- pump longer / pump through 2, even 3 letdowns</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep in mind that lots of things can impact your milk supply - time of day (milk production decreases in the evening), return of your period (my milk supply took a permanent hit when I got my period back at 7 months), illness, stress, and certain medications, including birth control.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If none of these things work, consider speaking to your physician about prescription medication to help increase your milk supply - Domperidone or Reglan. I have no firsthand experience with these, but it's an option that's available if nothing else works.</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My pumping output is vastly different between each breast, is this normal?</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, this is totally normal - many people have "a stud and a dud", where one side consistently produces more than the other side. You may also switch back and forth between which side produces more based on which side the baby last nursed. </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pumping is painful, is this normal?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pumping should not be painful; of course, if you are engorged, there may be some discomfort from the engorgement, but there shouldn't be pain from pumping itself. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make sure that you're not setting the suction on your pump too high; contrary to logic, a higher suction setting does not guarantee more milk and/or quicker expression. Slowly increase the suction to the point of discomfort, and then reduce it from there until you find the setting that is most comfortable for you.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You may also be using the wrong flange size if you're still experiencing pain; flange size is not related to breast size, so small-chested women may still require a large flange size, and vice versa. Most breast pumps come with a "medium" 24 mm flange size, but there are both smaller and larger flange sizes available. (Medela: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RZYJDC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000RZYJDC&linkId=d37d3f72e0cbfb2feedddd8d302ccfb6" style="background-color: white; color: #33aaff; font-size: 14.85px;">21mm</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">, </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001X9IMSE/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001X9IMSE&linkId=0b8146b73c48ef99f356791873138e63" style="background-color: white; color: #6699cc; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;">24mm</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">, </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001X6IVCO/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001X6IVCO&linkId=bc85ebfdefed2739506928c6e3aacc1e" style="background-color: white; color: #6699cc; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;">27mm</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">, </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001X9INMY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001X9INMY&linkId=1d9c906170b38bab9b4893789e189a52" style="background-color: white; color: #6699cc; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;">30mm</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">, </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NPHEAG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000NPHEAG&linkId=4ca56efb09987a285a5732a386de16e1" style="background-color: white; color: #6699cc; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;">36mm</a>; Spectra: <a href="http://www.spectrababyusa.com/store/p74/20mm_size_flange_ONLY.html">20mm,</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016724F1E/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B016724F1E&linkId=33f2a03e315bddb3c7f7f2cc0ce54dce">24mm</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0728312NF/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0728312NF&linkId=daa48061a9b61f7d27cc382fdf527721">28mm</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071L793M3/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B071L793M3&linkId=243e41992c5dff72da943c6c333a7eb6">32mm</a>) </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can use the graphic below to gauge whether or not your flange size is appropriate (although I find this hard to do); a lactation consultant can help fit you to the right size, or you can try a few sizes (they're inexpensive, or you can borrow from a friend) and use trial and error until you find the best fit.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for breast pump flange size" height="160" src="http://blog.medelabreastfeedingus.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Screen-Shot-2015-05-06-at-3.53.46-PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.medelabreastfeedingus.com/2015/05/medela-breastshield-sizing-guide/"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Via</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You may also want to lubricate the inside of the flanges to reduce the friction - you can use coconut oil or lanolin cream (I like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005MI648C/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B005MI648C&linkId=3dc83a4b716001d8d730ac562b1265fb">the Lansinoh brand</a>).</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do I store pumped milk?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, I always pump into bottles, rather than bags; some brands of breast pumps are compatible with breastmilk storage bags (allowing you to pump directly into a bag); however, these bags generally do not freeze flat, and the ounce measurements on the bags are not accurate since the bag is not a rigid storage container (making it difficult to accurately measure how much you've pumped). I keep my pumped milk in a refrigerator at work (there is a dedicated mini fridge in the "wellness room"), although you can also use a cooler with ice packs if you don't have access to a refrigerator.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You shouldn't combine warm milk with cool milk; to combine milk from different pumping sessions, only combine warm with warm, or cool with cool.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I pump during the work week; Monday through Thursday, I use each day's pumped milk to supply the next day's bottles. On Friday, I freeze the pumped milk in breastmilk storage bags, and on Monday, I thaw previously frozen breastmilk to make bottles. Freezing Friday's pumped milk and using (older) thawed milk on Mondays keeps my freezer stash current. Right now, I'm using <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006XISCNA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B006XISCNA&linkId=37197dc1324a9bc3cff26babcba8466c">Lansinoh</a> storage bags; <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2015/02/buy-this-not-that-breastmilk-freezer.html">you can read a comparison of milk storage bags here.</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pumped milk is good at room temperature for 4-6 hours; refrigerated for 5 days (you'll be able to smell if it's spoiled), in a regular freezer for 6 months, and in a deep freezer for 12 months. <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2015/03/baby-101-breastmilk-storage.html">Read a more detailed post about milk storage (freezing and thawing pumped milk; rotating a freezer stash to keep it current, etc.) here.</a></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do I find the time to pump?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is hard! If you're nursing full-time, you probably only need to pump once or twice a day to have a small stash in the freezer. Try utilizing baby's nap time or consider pumping one side while baby nurses on the other side.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you're pumping during the workday, you have to guard your pumping time! I block mine off on my calendar so the time will appear unavailable to my coworkers if they try to schedule a meeting. I try to stick to my pumping schedule closely; if you start letting it slide (delaying or skipping pumps), your milk production can suffer (and people will learn that your designated pumping times are flexible - it's a downward spiral). Another time-saver to consider is pumping while driving; I pump each morning during my commute to work, which saves me one pumping session out of the workday. You can <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2014/11/baby-101-how-to-pump-in-car.html">read more about how to pump in the car here.</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think having a hands-free pumping bra is a must-have; it will allow you to nurse, type, wash bottles, read, talk on the phone, etc. while you pump. My favorite is <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00295MQLU/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00295MQLU&linkId=6a5198be271d98a5091dbee32368fbc5">the Simple Wishes brand</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do I clean pump parts? </span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pump parts that require thorough cleaning are the flanges, membranes/valves (yellow/white parts), and obviously the milk collection bottles - all of the parts that come into direct contact with your milk. Tubing does not require cleaning; if you notice milk (or worse, mold) inside the tubing, you should just replace it. It's a good idea to keep an extra set of tubing on hand (you can buy <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00856XRLK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00856XRLK&linkId=7873d4430afdbeac895fa4011249e77f">Medela-compatible tubing here</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F42V2CE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00F42V2CE&linkId=a529fc2b85d970e1f0dc65723f19deb0">Spectra here</a>). If you see condensation inside the tubing, keep your pump running after you disconnect the tubing from the flanges to allow the tubing to dry.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can read <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/healthychildcare/infantfeeding/breastpump.html">the CDC's recommendations for cleaning pump parts here</a>. In short, they recommend washing with hot water and soap, and then air drying (or washing in the dishwasher) after each pumping session.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will admit that I do not follow these guidelines during the workday; I pump 3-4 times at work each day, and washing and air drying them each time is not realistic for me. I store my pump parts in a sealed Tupperware-style container (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001R6Z1RS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001R6Z1RS&linkId=a16b8c8474fca7d109237826af1e72ac">this is the exact one I use</a>) in the refrigerator between pumping sessions (I do not wash or rinse them first). Some people use gallon Ziploc bags, but I don't like the idea of throwing out a Ziploc bag every single day. Refrigerating the pump parts will slow the growth of bacteria on the pump parts in between sessions. You do NOT want to keep the pump parts at room temperature between sessions, because bacteria will grow too quickly on the residual milk on the parts. While refrigerating pump parts in between sessions is a widespread practice, it is not something I would recommend for a premature or immune-compromised baby.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wash my pump parts each evening, either with hot water, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EHHRKMS/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00EHHRKMS&linkId=54f7427625543298d899ca889ab2fb2e">Dapple bottle soap</a> (rinses clean faster than normal dish soap), and a bottle brush, or in the dishwasher, and then air dry them on a drying rack (I use the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J4S6G1Q/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00J4S6G1Q&linkId=00f2f5418fdec552eafb56c7fcae3e4c">Boon grass</a>). </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How often do I need to sterilize pump parts?</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I sterilize infrequently - when the parts are new (or coming out of storage for another baby), after illness (to kill any germs that survive the normal washing process), or when I'm traveling and unable to wash and dry the parts as well as I do at home (e.g., washing in hotel room bathroom sinks). When new, I sterilize pump parts in boiling water for 5 minutes; for all future sterilizing, I use the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000096QQ5/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000096QQ5&linkId=4a480c20aa4fe919636393e3d496360b">Medela microwave steam bags,</a> which are great - each bag (5 come in a box) allows for 20 uses, so one box = 100 sterilizations. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have a premature or immune-compromised baby, your doctor may recommend sterilizing more often; for a healthy baby, daily or even weekly sterilization is not necessary. Think about it - are your breasts sterilized when your baby nurses?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">How do I handle pumping when I'm traveling?</span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was intimidating to me at first, but I quickly learned the ropes and took numerous business trips while pumping for my first child. In short, know that the TSA allows you to fly within the US with an unlimited volume of pumped breastmilk. <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2015/05/baby-101-pumping-while-traveling.html">Read my detailed post on this topic here.</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Do you have more questions about pumping that weren't addressed here? Leave a comment and I'll add it to this post!</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Breastfeeding"><br /></a></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Breastfeeding">Click here to read all of my breastfeeding/pumping-related posts.</a></b></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-15613160309361091902017-09-11T03:00:00.000-07:002017-09-11T03:00:12.769-07:00DIY: Pottery Barn Kids Inspired Growth Chart Ruler Tutorial<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've seen <a href="https://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/personalized-orange-growth-chart/?catalogId=97&sku=353144&cm_ven=PLA&cm_cat=Google&cm_pla=Decor%20%3E%20Growth%20Charts&kwid=productads-adid^213818382700-device^c-plaid^343912733206-sku^353144-adType^PLA&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIotvfiYKc1gIVhTVpCh2GIwgvEAQYAiABEgI6kvD_BwE&cm_ite=[[BP]%20-%20Good%20Desktop]">these wood growth charts at Pottery Barn Kids</a> and loved the idea - tracking your kids' heights as they grow like our parents used to on a door frame or wall, but on something transferable in case you move or repaint. But, like everything at PBK, the price tag was hard to swallow - $99?! This is something I knew I could copy for a fraction of the cost, and it took less than an hour of effort (plus drying time). My board cost less than $10, since all I bought was the wood board - I already had sandpaper, leftover wood stain, a black Sharpie, painter's tape, and Command strips on hand.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdnQgUZx0hfidcGjvdOqvo-eV583OIabIldgvKhlaV19WtK2L6liMPwQierg8RwtNx1SagvVTNFmfExZDvXKqiKVKq2fEdqDshz78EDqG1GhBk8bbheJsuHl1bNs6zWqAbs-NAHqa8ZY/s1600/Growth+Chart+Ruler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1248" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdnQgUZx0hfidcGjvdOqvo-eV583OIabIldgvKhlaV19WtK2L6liMPwQierg8RwtNx1SagvVTNFmfExZDvXKqiKVKq2fEdqDshz78EDqG1GhBk8bbheJsuHl1bNs6zWqAbs-NAHqa8ZY/s640/Growth+Chart+Ruler.jpg" width="368" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Supplies:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1" x 6" x 6' wood board (I bought <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/1-in-x-6-in-x-6-ft-Premium-Kiln-Dried-Square-Edge-Whitewood-Common-Board-914762/100015248">this one</a> from Home Depot for $8.78)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">100-grit sandpaper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wood stain (I used <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007XHCJ0W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B007XHCJ0W&linkId=9fca8d16ab59614dfe02e43851d9218f">Minwax</a>) or paint</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rags or brush for staining</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ruler</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Black Sharpie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Painter's tape (I used <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Z8HB2A/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002Z8HB2A&linkId=6aed7298f5155cfd12b476f01ea73919">Frog Tape</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mechanical pencil with metal tip</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Template for numbers - stencils or computer-printed numbers for tracing </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LOQMCDM/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00LOQMCDM&linkId=ed54e2a8e0271f8774234161a6f5ce78">Command Velcro strips</a> for hanging</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First up - prep and then stain or paint the wood board. Lightly sand the board using 100-grit sandpaper to even out any rough spots. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpefFP1EiyCjGUCW-HfTlNEpckmeOHqFnje77Dtn2CjVhOlxJeJz6rWccTZ_0fp4qGtr_e3huHqU6vwXI1cX39AiD2nP-1FTlm_XTX-YKQCFIxtJM4O5D6zyESinE00_im596DrEs3jM/s1600/IMG_3737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigpefFP1EiyCjGUCW-HfTlNEpckmeOHqFnje77Dtn2CjVhOlxJeJz6rWccTZ_0fp4qGtr_e3huHqU6vwXI1cX39AiD2nP-1FTlm_XTX-YKQCFIxtJM4O5D6zyESinE00_im596DrEs3jM/s400/IMG_3737.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to stain mine; I mixed 2 colors of Minxax stain that the previous owner of our house left in the garage (one was too light and one too dark, so I mixed them to make a mid-tone color). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsjmi3VUhsGaTnHjeY77rVRi8OE1OvhUO068mmV6BakGHSt3kAwTZSMUeQnLSFKiJEe3xYWWh7j4EKwhO4SCVExPvBJ7wARL_GuNifXRTcCm0gCVvHMSg54RIi0NwbN7dmECPSM1mx0LU/s1600/IMG_3738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsjmi3VUhsGaTnHjeY77rVRi8OE1OvhUO068mmV6BakGHSt3kAwTZSMUeQnLSFKiJEe3xYWWh7j4EKwhO4SCVExPvBJ7wARL_GuNifXRTcCm0gCVvHMSg54RIi0NwbN7dmECPSM1mx0LU/s400/IMG_3738.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apply the stain using some rags (specifically, my husband's old holey undershirts that I cut up into rags for projects like this), making sure that the front, top, bottom, and side edges were all evenly stained. I did not stain the back, since it won't be visible and it would have added to the drying time. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QoQS0lyhGDNWp9a1vWzmXws6jA8wHBz_nQT-TreRxo_EkwcndHfLWfRF2bKzyI-dYX7Ra6cDGrKjHKRfMgzGABuWo9NOJsS1vb1N5IHTcbtuxB9vP2bROcTeMVWoZSghS3J974ldQtU/s1600/IMG_3740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1354" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QoQS0lyhGDNWp9a1vWzmXws6jA8wHBz_nQT-TreRxo_EkwcndHfLWfRF2bKzyI-dYX7Ra6cDGrKjHKRfMgzGABuWo9NOJsS1vb1N5IHTcbtuxB9vP2bROcTeMVWoZSghS3J974ldQtU/s400/IMG_3740.JPG" width="337" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let the board dry until it is no longer tacky to the touch (the can said this would take 4-6 hours; I let it dry overnight).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWC3GI__Xit0Q_tWTXP40EutTXpx2i22k4O-XRI8epkEj3l-c72VFPgPvG7_LjVKibDadpDmZfqpW9uVUmT9htlTksKW0xbA4shb6CUhrAjPIsoN_tB_GuPGA8JpATvGhImz1KI8PD5E/s1600/IMG_3741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWC3GI__Xit0Q_tWTXP40EutTXpx2i22k4O-XRI8epkEj3l-c72VFPgPvG7_LjVKibDadpDmZfqpW9uVUmT9htlTksKW0xbA4shb6CUhrAjPIsoN_tB_GuPGA8JpATvGhImz1KI8PD5E/s400/IMG_3741.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once the stain or paint is dry, use a ruler and a black Sharpie to mark small dots along the edge of the board every inch. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUirbEXC0KNH6WpipvWXWEMyF-I6B3gpNwhsEipoysA20lreLee-FzjNpDHY0-RVrDEeyqzwy26MMNyU1haSebZU_4luEBR0FU4CiSCKCCFdd2KGILFjjoGpNQHA7mMKwNInJGcDC6V4/s1600/IMG_3757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUirbEXC0KNH6WpipvWXWEMyF-I6B3gpNwhsEipoysA20lreLee-FzjNpDHY0-RVrDEeyqzwy26MMNyU1haSebZU_4luEBR0FU4CiSCKCCFdd2KGILFjjoGpNQHA7mMKwNInJGcDC6V4/s400/IMG_3757.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next, you'll mark the "foot" lines; to do this, first decide how high you want to hang the board. I decided to hang mine 6" above the floor (to allow room for the baseboard), so the "1 foot" line would be 6 inches (not 12) from the bottom of the board. This means that the board can be used to measure up to 6'6" in height overall. Apply Frog Tape down the length of the board so that all the lines would be the same length, with the foot lines being just shy of 1/2 the width of the board. Using a Sharpie, use a ruler to draw a line from the left edge of the board to the Frog Tape, beginning at 6" from the bottom of the board and every 12" thereafter.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFxflSPumwH_cIIYT_2ZNyRXNl7U44Q_XFjarTS6wxFKMe-JHG1cmghge_hdx2xwSNiLRoJ_YSR7MPC4xityB7LIXY80pMOcMbdXIweefLP3VV7CQVVXuY50njH-BhJ5b5ny0AkY0ZTc/s1600/IMG_3759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1113" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBFxflSPumwH_cIIYT_2ZNyRXNl7U44Q_XFjarTS6wxFKMe-JHG1cmghge_hdx2xwSNiLRoJ_YSR7MPC4xityB7LIXY80pMOcMbdXIweefLP3VV7CQVVXuY50njH-BhJ5b5ny0AkY0ZTc/s400/IMG_3759.JPG" width="277" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After labeling the "foot" lines, move the Frog Tape approximately an inch closer to the left edge of the board to draw the "quarter" inch lines (e.g., 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch), which are really 3 inches, 6 inches, and 9 inches from each "foot" line.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally, move the Frog Tape another inch closer to the left edge of the board to draw the "eighth" inch lines (e.g., 1/8, 2/8, 3/8, etc.), which are the 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, and 11 inch marks in between each "foot" line.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoSWDnMkRyVfQjhqZrCOyalwK9h9ZjYztBufOjTeeFWOzRRTsZZ-oDMFN2maXGMBmgBucyE53S4WOdHx7tH1uljfO8Oj09qMO2_Sa8VRYapSMNmkQzInaYfw5pHhNE8OadXYuaOrmDPU/s1600/IMG_3760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoSWDnMkRyVfQjhqZrCOyalwK9h9ZjYztBufOjTeeFWOzRRTsZZ-oDMFN2maXGMBmgBucyE53S4WOdHx7tH1uljfO8Oj09qMO2_Sa8VRYapSMNmkQzInaYfw5pHhNE8OadXYuaOrmDPU/s400/IMG_3760.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Print out a template for the number labels - I used Century Schoolbook font in size 275 in Microsoft Word. Using a mechanical pencil with a metal tip (with the lead pushed in so the metal tip was exposed), trace the outline of each number just beneath the applicable "foot" line by pressing the metal tip of the pencil through the paper; the wood should be soft enough that the pencil leaves a visible indentation. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lM15630hDEQ8jUOOX2EysWGCAdNE8P4625yvrczrR2CSxkNydKmbYS4AGpUYl6zRybdpcReKXpx93KCQNEJQNxupV4Rr_n5thfXAt4Av-JWc-TzuhFDdCQXHL9uYCuyl0srb8g8Lrt4/s1600/IMG_3762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lM15630hDEQ8jUOOX2EysWGCAdNE8P4625yvrczrR2CSxkNydKmbYS4AGpUYl6zRybdpcReKXpx93KCQNEJQNxupV4Rr_n5thfXAt4Av-JWc-TzuhFDdCQXHL9uYCuyl0srb8g8Lrt4/s400/IMG_3762.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use the black Sharpie to trace over the indentation and color in the interior of the number.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I haven't hung my board yet since we're having the house painted next week, but I plan to use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LOQMCDM/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00LOQMCDM&linkId=ed54e2a8e0271f8774234161a6f5ce78">Command Velcro strips</a> to hang it on the wall (the large size support up to 16 lbs, and the board weighs approximately 5 lbs). Follow the directions - including wiping the wall with isopropyl alcohol beforehand - exactly for best results!</span><br />
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-61273333956419714412017-09-06T03:00:00.000-07:002018-02-01T17:53:55.023-08:00From the Kitchen: Pioneer Woman "The Best Chocolate Sheet Cake Ever"<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's hard to go wrong with a Pioneer Woman recipe - they are all SO good (probably because they're so unhealthy, but I try not to think about that). I needed a dessert for last weekend when we had some of B's high school friends over for dinner; however, I was helping a friend out by watching her 3-year-old son while she went to a funeral that day, so I needed something I could make a day in advance. This was my first time trying this Pioneer Woman cake, and it was delicious - and tasted great even though it was made a day ahead of time!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All of the Pioneer Woman's recipes are scaled to feed a small army;<b> <u>this is a halved version</u></b> of her recipe so that it makes one 9x13" Pyrex-sized cake. (<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/the_best_chocol/">Her original recipe</a> makes a whopping 18x13" sheet cake that "feeds 24".)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWfpFWB5A1B_fqdwqCE-bJie_HgoJjZtDi9xs8NnVmv-y3zQ7aNYso4AZuAelRAl4WeE4aOC_Qmv354Oid0CfN19a3SPP-2MBZrglly834myC30bM6k1qYne9dwFE53ruhMfaDCnDj8Q/s1600/The+Best+Chocolate+Sheet+Cake+Ever.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWfpFWB5A1B_fqdwqCE-bJie_HgoJjZtDi9xs8NnVmv-y3zQ7aNYso4AZuAelRAl4WeE4aOC_Qmv354Oid0CfN19a3SPP-2MBZrglly834myC30bM6k1qYne9dwFE53ruhMfaDCnDj8Q/s400/The+Best+Chocolate+Sheet+Cake+Ever.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pioneer Woman's "The Best Chocolate Sheet Cake Ever"</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Serves: 12 (makes one 9x13" Pyrex cake)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Cake:</i></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup flour</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/8 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 heaping tablespoons baking cocoa</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 stick butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup boiling water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/4 cup buttermilk (you can use regular milk + 1 Tbsp lemon juice or vinegar instead)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 egg</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Frosting:</i></span></div>
<br />
<ul class="list-ingredients" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; list-style: square; margin: 10px 0px 20px 35px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/4 cup finely chopped pecans (optional)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">7 tablespoons butter (7/8 stick)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 heaping tablespoons baking cocoa</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3 tablespoons milk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 3/4 cups powdered sugar</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees and use cooking spray to grease a 9x13" glass Pyrex baking dish.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a medium saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter. While the butter is melting, measure 1 cup flour and 1 cup granulated sugar into a mixing bowl. Add 2 heaping tablespoons of baking cocoa to the melted butter in the saucepan. Stir, then add 1/2 cup boiling water. Allow the mixture to bubble for 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and pour into the mixing bowl over the flour and sugar, and stir to mix.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In a measuring cup, pour 1/4 cup buttermilk. Add 1 egg and beat with a fork. Add 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and stir to mix.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pour the milk/egg mixture into the mixing bowl and stir. Pour into the greased 9x13" baking dish and bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While the cake bakes, melt 7 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. While the butter melts, finely chop 1/4 cup of pecans. <i>(If you don't like nuts, you can just omit.) </i> Add 2 heaping tablespoons of baking cocoa to the melted butter in the saucepan. Stir, and allow the mixture to bubble for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and add 3 tablespoons milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir, then add 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar. Whisk the icing until no powdered sugar clumps remain. Stir in the chopped pecans.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pour the icing over the warm cake, spreading evenly. Allow to cool slightly before serving (or, if you're like me, make it a day ahead of time and warm in the oven.) This cake is great served with vanilla ice cream!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Pioneer%20Woman">Click here</a><span style="color: #222222;"> to see my other Pioneer Woman recipes!</span></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-38925167339247180662017-09-04T03:00:00.000-07:002017-09-04T03:00:17.118-07:00DIY: Faux Chenille Baby Blanket Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDfetH7OmUrLbhlJ_RCcH2eS68kZ3uXlc-FQAMpwx3MCIpJHZl_1ThhjmYH_AsIqGXmW0z5oZ-NvGnZWu9aNjV_VGZQVh17wlm8UB3pvrKk4kP1h5SSy136nHfQbmWYbzxFdCRG6uhi0/s1600/Faux+Chenille+Baby+Blanket+Tutorial.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="576" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDfetH7OmUrLbhlJ_RCcH2eS68kZ3uXlc-FQAMpwx3MCIpJHZl_1ThhjmYH_AsIqGXmW0z5oZ-NvGnZWu9aNjV_VGZQVh17wlm8UB3pvrKk4kP1h5SSy136nHfQbmWYbzxFdCRG6uhi0/s640/Faux+Chenille+Baby+Blanket+Tutorial.png" width="256" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I made one of these faux chenille blankets when I was pregnant with my son and used it as the backdrop for all his monthly baby pictures; despite the time-consuming process to make it, I wanted my daughter to have one of her own (#secondchildequality). It's a good thing I'm not planning to have a ton of kids because I'm not sure how many more of these blankets I have in me, but I LOVE the end result and hope it is something my kids will keep forever.</span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let me begin by saying I am VERY beginner-level at sewing. I haven't sewn anything since my last pregnancy, so....nearly 3 years of complete inactivity. This blanket really only requires the ability to sew in straight lines, so if you can do even the basics on a sewing machine, you can do this!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_05fs24hE4B8UG2MT5Kc7F08xBNEQB6SFaTKCEbHXQhmXVIVo2eidpN_vxRHPNJpwneLNFOygDm8QYF6ZyRdBxFuxxd_iZ5PlqxlX7yp80TJ0NruZFqUByo5U_sfGxKoCX8rJi-LuPs/s1600/IMG_9740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_05fs24hE4B8UG2MT5Kc7F08xBNEQB6SFaTKCEbHXQhmXVIVo2eidpN_vxRHPNJpwneLNFOygDm8QYF6ZyRdBxFuxxd_iZ5PlqxlX7yp80TJ0NruZFqUByo5U_sfGxKoCX8rJi-LuPs/s400/IMG_9740.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b style="color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Supplies:</b><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.25 yards patterned fabric</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 x 1.25 yards 100% cotton flannel (solid colors)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 x 250-yard spools thread that matches the patterned fabric (plus a 3rd spool of thread if your quilt binding is a different color)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 x <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017IYX83Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B017IYX83Q&linkId=25ab4ec3ca5e1fd2d32c62689113d146">3-yard double-fold 0.875-inch-wide quilt binding</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fabric marking pencil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yard stick</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Safety pins</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Straight pins</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CEALZM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001CEALZM&linkId=cbba1bd6bb4dadf237081f8c0d949fe7">Slash cutting tool</a></span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, fabric selection: you will have one patterned fabric that will be the "front" of the blanket, and then 3 colors of cotton flannel will be used to make the faux chenille texture. The "front" patterned fabric can be whatever fabric content you want (mine happened to also be cotton), but the 3 colors of flannel MUST be 100% cotton in order for it to fray properly. The flannel doesn't have to be solid colored, but any pattern on it is not really going to show up once you cut the chenille, so solid is usually easiest and cheapest. If you're going to spend money somewhere, spend it on the "front" patterned fabric and get cheaper solid flannel for the chenille. My front fabric was $12.99/yard and the flannel was $2.99 yard, for reference. The flannel colors you choose should coordinate (or contrast) with the "front" patterned fabric. Similarly, the thread color should coordinate with the fabric (especially the "front" patterned fabric) so that it blends in and hides mistakes/wonky lines. The quilt binding can either match or contrast your other fabrics, depending on your preference.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For this blanket, I used a pink-patterned floral fabric for my "front" patterned fabric, and 3 varying colors of pink flannel for the chenille. I used pink thread and navy contrasting quilt binding (note: if you use contrasting, rather than matching, quilt binding, you will need a 3rd spool of thread in a color that matches the binding). By using 1.25 yards of each fabric, you should end up with an (approximately) 45-inch square blanket.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first step is prepping the fabric. I do not wash mine in advance because I am brave/lazy like that and do not like trimming all the threads that come loose if you pre-wash. You run some risk of shrinkage in the finished product this way, but I did it anyway. Lay the "front" patterned fabric upside down (wrong-side facing up) on the ground. On top of it, layer the 3 solid-color flannel fabrics. The color on the very top (furthest from the "front" patterned fabric) is the color that will be most visible, so put your preferred fabric color on last. Use scissors to trim any uneven edges if your fabric doesn't line up perfectly.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsr4OAuoXB_7pkBIF8T2sLrmcWRoCb5gOoCNKZ9u0GYxJxCn_6Ln_pCH0yHXmzbfKKA_RDJzhnft2Bvp5lX3fN7J8up-BZ7q9eGpkAR40sjxtELGzb1m4XB8-8RNg4VaJFgAlM2a6Xymc/s1600/IMG_9741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsr4OAuoXB_7pkBIF8T2sLrmcWRoCb5gOoCNKZ9u0GYxJxCn_6Ln_pCH0yHXmzbfKKA_RDJzhnft2Bvp5lX3fN7J8up-BZ7q9eGpkAR40sjxtELGzb1m4XB8-8RNg4VaJFgAlM2a6Xymc/s400/IMG_9741.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use 10-12 safety pins to pin the 4 layers of fabric together, since the fabrics will shift some while you are sewing. Since this is a project that will likely take several days to complete, I like to use safety pins instead of straight pins since they are more secure. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPraXchC1j00P0KSanExGNjPT0gWyV63d7jV88s-KqroZo18bC_Vy-yhdWhldjm9CPl_ycan9ommLpbovKnuIc0uaHe3isn0keHk5XFnlTXlKBRzSoTTktHLz93Wxsvs-g-fSJSzIDco/s1600/IMG_9743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPraXchC1j00P0KSanExGNjPT0gWyV63d7jV88s-KqroZo18bC_Vy-yhdWhldjm9CPl_ycan9ommLpbovKnuIc0uaHe3isn0keHk5XFnlTXlKBRzSoTTktHLz93Wxsvs-g-fSJSzIDco/s400/IMG_9743.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Flip your pinned fabric over and use a yard stick to draw a straight line with a fabric marking pencil from one diagonal to the other. This will be the first line you sew, and you will work your way outwards to the corner.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCd6cBr-vo1QgkmrenmTubQC0_x6LjIULjZ7lUvlwgGdLTX5r-QhX5liIpEoQL10R34t9XB5bauVUiDXA-UD7Jy58dzAf2LYXhc874kOUo99lIwCZdJJng2-h-MK-lxoZcD2lQ3_5a0qs/s1600/IMG_9744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCd6cBr-vo1QgkmrenmTubQC0_x6LjIULjZ7lUvlwgGdLTX5r-QhX5liIpEoQL10R34t9XB5bauVUiDXA-UD7Jy58dzAf2LYXhc874kOUo99lIwCZdJJng2-h-MK-lxoZcD2lQ3_5a0qs/s400/IMG_9744.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally - time to start actually sewing! You will go through many, many bobbins of thread while making this project, so I like to thread at least 3-4 bobbins at a time to limit the number of times I have to stop sewing to rethread bobbins. Make sure to sew with the "front" patterned fabric facing up, because the stitching on this side will be more visible than it will be on the back/chenille side, so you want to make sure you aren't bunching the fabric. Start by sewing a straight line from one corner to the other on the pre-marked line. This is the longest line you will have to sew, so they get shorter from here! Backstitch at the beginning and end of each line to avoid unraveling once you start cutting the chenille.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After completing the first line, shift the fabric to the right so that the right edge of the presser foot is aligned with the line you just sewed. I find it helpful to roll up the excess fabric to keep it from bunching too much against the machine. Sew another line, keeping one-presser-foot distance from the first line. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Won5bCXDCoEvTJi6fGDznAzzBj-j-ePOGndErYEHE5qGUTeAUzwOg1-WWvrQ7rAWYkC_CTCyIWJ_wGaWARqS3c-PzhZiLpAeLFNSygj9Fc1LVvQ_jONXW4xOEFXP_WKIin_oW3e02N4/s1600/IMG_9745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Won5bCXDCoEvTJi6fGDznAzzBj-j-ePOGndErYEHE5qGUTeAUzwOg1-WWvrQ7rAWYkC_CTCyIWJ_wGaWARqS3c-PzhZiLpAeLFNSygj9Fc1LVvQ_jONXW4xOEFXP_WKIin_oW3e02N4/s400/IMG_9745.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep doing this, sewing lots and lots (...and lots) of straight lines until you eventually reach the left-hand corner of the fabric. When you reach the corner...you are halfway done! Turn the blanket around (with the "front" patterned fabric still facing up, but moving the completed half to the right-hand side and the uncompleted half of the blanket on the left) and do the same thing for the other half of the blanket. If you run out of thread in either the spool or the bobbin mid-line, don't worry - just reload, backstitch, and keep going. There will be so many lines that it won't be noticeable in the finished product :)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once you are done sewing lines, it's time to start cutting the chenille! You will want a </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CEALZM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001CEALZM&linkId=cbba1bd6bb4dadf237081f8c0d949fe7" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">slash cutting tool</a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> for this part - trust me! I can't even imagine cutting this many lines with scissors. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hlRDD9M1nvUJEDxSaK9_j-9KWYIxPbd9qEqJO5rO8RBX-rhgStBQSpktH67JxasOThEcN9l8k3iLoSVZc2UDfTWqwleB_fA6QNN1xKKXD_RskT4WKAra56fXCsuqkO7xZLQP-H46C1M/s1600/IMG_9801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hlRDD9M1nvUJEDxSaK9_j-9KWYIxPbd9qEqJO5rO8RBX-rhgStBQSpktH67JxasOThEcN9l8k3iLoSVZc2UDfTWqwleB_fA6QNN1xKKXD_RskT4WKAra56fXCsuqkO7xZLQP-H46C1M/s400/IMG_9801.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Place the blanket on the ground or flat surface with the flannel side facing up. You want to cut the 3 flannel layers in between each line WITHOUT cutting the "front" patterned fabric. I find it easiest to use a small pair of scissors to snip the flannel between each sewed seam to "start" the cut - it makes it easier for the slash cutter to do the rest of the work without having to pull too hard. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then, stick the slash cutter under the 3 flannel layers (but on top of the patterned fabric) and push the tool, parallel to the ground, towards the other end of the blanket to cut through the flannel layers. Cutting 3 layers of flannel at once, many, many times (between each pair of lines) will dull the slash cutter blade quickly, so when it starts becoming more difficult to push the tool to cut the fabric, make sure to rotate the blade to reveal a "fresh", sharp section of the blade (if you don't do this and use a dull blade, you will eventually use so much force to push the tool that you will rip out a seam). You will also have to pick flannel lint out of the blade every few cuts to keep the blade from getting clogged up.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgA3nlkoOk53KzyR4pXsijSvpmVMhCCRX_GvhnUMxeHRefuG2lYMxc6bfp0OGNStVSVm2bmYpL-YEYwGMdJauuXoHI4bwkG2uKtufe72I5yNduUvsi1FXCEWeyPyPPQ0O82qNurAfDqc/s400/IMG_9802.JPG" width="300" /></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once you have cut the flannel between all of the lines, use a yard stock to "square up" the edges of the blanket and trim off any excess fabric (since it likely shifted some during sewing), including the fabric selvage on the "front" patterned fabric. Don't worry if trimming involves cutting off some of the backstitching on the lines you sewed - the quilt binding will ensure that the seams don't unravel. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcj_goeCMWhJHf7kgohTfjbHd2enxVa_dvhGw4T4vp4RcIGw3-9OqyK0h7QSjUyD2CjQEl61ZAwYZXPrrYWzMYq3eQB2AopJCzFh-SvWJyaOuoRjWkHMN3yKOnyM9lzAJ29eKwu1-MMI/s1600/IMG_9839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcj_goeCMWhJHf7kgohTfjbHd2enxVa_dvhGw4T4vp4RcIGw3-9OqyK0h7QSjUyD2CjQEl61ZAwYZXPrrYWzMYq3eQB2AopJCzFh-SvWJyaOuoRjWkHMN3yKOnyM9lzAJ29eKwu1-MMI/s400/IMG_9839.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you want your blanket to have rounded edges like mine, use a rounded object (I used a salad plate) to trace and then cut a rounded edge on each corner. Trim off any remaining loose threads.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1Xids8kG7bu2x7RvTf8qfXTe0MUOymVcJZNv3Ngt5VCmZ0CavryzkhmQNTDnAbUNF4E201bDsSjNaoedoiVXM21qE9CxF9_U7Gi3viDUgD6-Gp0O8cVZ50PAhbpArSJOnv2IZ_aLhnQ/s1600/IMG_9840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1Xids8kG7bu2x7RvTf8qfXTe0MUOymVcJZNv3Ngt5VCmZ0CavryzkhmQNTDnAbUNF4E201bDsSjNaoedoiVXM21qE9CxF9_U7Gi3viDUgD6-Gp0O8cVZ50PAhbpArSJOnv2IZ_aLhnQ/s400/IMG_9840.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last labor-intensive step - the quilt binding! Use straight pins to pin the quilt binding around the outer edge of the blanket, making sure to sandwich all 4 fabric layers between the 2 sides of the quilt binding. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9532MI-R7xeqdJKoN8N31GlT512ZZcQo8gOwSNbGzHUjJXLILnxhdNIH5eJX2J_sIMYrgiBtoUvIGTo546I3WVxMq4hMt8Eo1NdqbN9qhhkhcSwcN-kYE3kqc5JIpvjL539GjBbpo-p0/s1600/IMG_9842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9532MI-R7xeqdJKoN8N31GlT512ZZcQo8gOwSNbGzHUjJXLILnxhdNIH5eJX2J_sIMYrgiBtoUvIGTo546I3WVxMq4hMt8Eo1NdqbN9qhhkhcSwcN-kYE3kqc5JIpvjL539GjBbpo-p0/s400/IMG_9842.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If your binding is a contrasting color, make sure to rethread your sewing maching with an appropriate thread color to blend in (my beginner sewing skills make sewing on the quilt binding the hardest part of the whole process, so I like to hide my mistakes as much as possible with thread that blends in!) Use your sewing machine to sew along the inner edge of the binding - as close as possible to the edge while still "catching" the binding on both sides of the blanket (I check the back side every few inches to make sure my seam isn't running off the binding). This part is very slow and steady for me, and involves a lot of seam-ripping and re-doing, especially when going around the rounded corners (but again....beginner-level skills). </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oDj3URLC0uleL32plMMGwJfND4Ig7o-D9I4bgbmUx95x4uc_Xd1B380PC079gSVmX5nVb94PX1-m0DpLcNkg8Mkj2jTkwjCZjBFAtS5yAQ4Vh2GwR7OkQip7nXI3Y3ar8TyK_u4fKc8/s1600/IMG_9851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oDj3URLC0uleL32plMMGwJfND4Ig7o-D9I4bgbmUx95x4uc_Xd1B380PC079gSVmX5nVb94PX1-m0DpLcNkg8Mkj2jTkwjCZjBFAtS5yAQ4Vh2GwR7OkQip7nXI3Y3ar8TyK_u4fKc8/s400/IMG_9851.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once you're done, double check the binding to make sure that there aren't any gaps in the seam all the way around. When you're satisfied that the edges of the blanket are fully encased in the quilt binding, it's time to wash! Wash the blanket (a regular wash cycle on cold water should be fine). Because I didn't pre-wash my fabric before sewing, I use a Shout Color Catcher sheet to soak up any dyes that might run during washing. Make sure you wash the blanket BY ITSELF - the cut flannel will generate a huge amount of lint that you don't want sticking to other things in the same wash load!! Machine dry the blanket on low or medium heat; if you remember, clean out the lint filter halfway through the drying time because IT WILL BE FULL. Like, really full.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAidJKXy6X-oit-Vn5Crdy0SZ_AJLQJnxi5l1EtKoi4N4CqEeKYq9K1f2q73SnAumGSA6l-g3a5coRbgYldzGWtRJ98-W4C18Hwt4z0R1oTaoIdm40TWaVvzAYv4iCLe6SDmpIBAbLGac/s1600/IMG_9853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAidJKXy6X-oit-Vn5Crdy0SZ_AJLQJnxi5l1EtKoi4N4CqEeKYq9K1f2q73SnAumGSA6l-g3a5coRbgYldzGWtRJ98-W4C18Hwt4z0R1oTaoIdm40TWaVvzAYv4iCLe6SDmpIBAbLGac/s400/IMG_9853.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When the blanket is dry, admire all the flannel that has fluffed up into a soft chenille texture! You did it! It may be time- and labor-intensive, but the end product of seeing all those lines of chenille is worth it!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKxWXG36QcuHmN-d6uimdAGVAI5-n2VklKiwcq3_MzRgW1_gmOJxNSZg52JTXi8wHCbVzadnjatrz3EMceZHUYOF33AeRQwBsNgjw19bmIZtEz3RTgzTnzuKkPnpBQpciO_IoAx61p0U/s1600/IMG_9854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKxWXG36QcuHmN-d6uimdAGVAI5-n2VklKiwcq3_MzRgW1_gmOJxNSZg52JTXi8wHCbVzadnjatrz3EMceZHUYOF33AeRQwBsNgjw19bmIZtEz3RTgzTnzuKkPnpBQpciO_IoAx61p0U/s400/IMG_9854.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-28720475065646975742017-08-30T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-30T03:00:08.319-07:00DIY: Pottery Barn Patio Furniture Refresh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NbrsqOAQCpXM-R4MDEYdFwhPa5fTMSeduwdA0DA6XB7lramYJQJV0WtbyA0dqGb0z8rELlTJdt9mdda8BEwTmW4iZvXrwW9cPc8jHiSOaQUI-RTIouohMVZD_qMpM4O6RCu3QC64F8c/s1600/IMG_0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="911" data-original-width="1600" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-NbrsqOAQCpXM-R4MDEYdFwhPa5fTMSeduwdA0DA6XB7lramYJQJV0WtbyA0dqGb0z8rELlTJdt9mdda8BEwTmW4iZvXrwW9cPc8jHiSOaQUI-RTIouohMVZD_qMpM4O6RCu3QC64F8c/s400/IMG_0206.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'd been wanting a couch or sectional for our back patio for a while now; our toddler loves spending time in the back yard, so we spend tons of time out there with him. We have a dining table and a couple of wicker chairs on the patio, but a couch seems so much more comfortable! I started shopping around online and realized that patio furniture is NOT cheap - especially couches and sectionals since the cushions really add up in addition to the cost of the furniture itself! On the low end, IKEA outdoor couches and sectionals start at $400-500, and more mid-priced options are well over $1,000-1,500.</span><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enter a secondhand sectional! I LOVE Facebook garage sale/resale pages - the one in our neighborhood is especially active and great deals can be scored on there all the time! I like that our page is local (meaning we won't have to drive too far to pick up), and it feels less shady than buying off Craigslist (since you have to know someone personally to get into the group and I can check out our mutual friends before buying). </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my friends from the neighborhood bunco group posted her <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id%3D632625810%26pid%3Duid6521-34332461-68&source=gmail&ust=1503437064869000&usg=AFQjCNHrY1ub1g-seoQocnlFNfKvtNGeaQ" href="https://api.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=632625810&pid=uid6521-34332461-68" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Pottery Barn Chatham sectional</a> for only $50 - it was in good shape but they're changing their patio setup to accommodate a dining table and needed it gone! It's still sold at Pottery Barn - for the configuration she was selling (including coffee table and cushions), it costs a whopping $2,381 new (plus over $500 in shipping and taxes). Although it needed some TLC, I was willing to risk $50 on a $3,000 outdoor sectional! </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KXbeBslGVWYXGnDvOraHqEYsp2CUWdL5MnqmsEg4oh4QUJuv8nZPXNCmAUdME3Em2Vbg51meYqgzjMRILtE2Ov8sP20AS8uHP9R3idtFlF9kGph4g60GYyGuxquDb7XIyeFij_1RkMQ/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KXbeBslGVWYXGnDvOraHqEYsp2CUWdL5MnqmsEg4oh4QUJuv8nZPXNCmAUdME3Em2Vbg51meYqgzjMRILtE2Ov8sP20AS8uHP9R3idtFlF9kGph4g60GYyGuxquDb7XIyeFij_1RkMQ/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cushions were a natural "canvas" color but had some mildew/mold from being left outside in the elements all winter. The sectional and coffee table themselves are wood (mahogany) but had some slight fading from the sun (the coffee table worse than the sectional). Overall, though, the cushions were still firm, there were no holes or rips in the fabric, and the wood was very sturdy. My father-in-law came over last weekend with his pickup truck to help us pick it up, and then we went to town giving it a little refresh!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Luckily, the cushion covers zip off! I ran them through the washer with a hefty dose of Oxiclean, which got rid of many of the stains. For the tougher mold/mildew stains, I tried Oxiclean spray, soaking in Oxiclean and hot water, and borax, which all helped some but didn't do the job completely. Finally (I wish I had started here), I mixed up a solution of 1 part bleach to 8 parts water in a spray bottle. The fabric care instructions say not to use non-chlorine bleach, but I tested the colorfastness on a hidden part of the fabric and it didn't change the color, so I decided to go ahead. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bleach spray worked great and got rid of EVERY trace of mold or mildew that was on the covers! They look brand new! I was thrilled with this since new cushions alone run over $500 (before shipping or tax!) Since the inserts were in good shape, once the covers were clean, they were good to go! We plan to bring them inside (or store in a deck box) when not in use to keep them from getting so mildew-y again, since I am not sure what the effects of continued bleaching might be (plus they are a hassle to zip on and off).</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for the sectional and coffee table wood, the stain was still in pretty good shape, but there was some sun bleaching and the wood was looking a little dry. Since the Pottery Barn website says they are made from mahogany and the wood wasn't heavily varnished, we refreshed the wood using this <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00179362C/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00179362C%26linkId%3D240c75f8ccf4d84d461b08d8e06ea3e4&source=gmail&ust=1503437064869000&usg=AFQjCNEx13SDB-X42nf8PP36zoIa4_R4iQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00179362C/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00179362C&linkId=240c75f8ccf4d84d461b08d8e06ea3e4" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">teak oil</a>. We applied a couple of coats using rags (my husband's old hole-y undershirts). It took less than an hour for the two of us to do the entire sectional plus the coffee table. The sectional looks SO much better! The coffee table was in worse shape so it looks better but still not perfect (it probably needs to be sanded and restained but we didn't want to hassle with trying to match the stain on the sectional right now). We let the wood dry outside for a couple of days before putting the cushions back on.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall, we are thrilled with how it turned out - especially considering it was only a $60 investment ($50 for the furniture and $10 for the teak oil).</span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-23678152359120948232017-08-28T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-28T03:00:09.072-07:00DIY: Pottery Barn Kids Harper Look-alike Curtains<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTX1lorm64C_HBGAV7yuOz8KfeZ7DaB25mhubwO6yjW_-ZN7RFBkZqYeWW6oVcWy_VCxn14vucEcsizyWr4wxLkGMW4llDFiofE95bmesYa-1RUAn4rbMa1CXmcseAEu8YNb6blkMvmRI/s1600/IMG_3288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTX1lorm64C_HBGAV7yuOz8KfeZ7DaB25mhubwO6yjW_-ZN7RFBkZqYeWW6oVcWy_VCxn14vucEcsizyWr4wxLkGMW4llDFiofE95bmesYa-1RUAn4rbMa1CXmcseAEu8YNb6blkMvmRI/s640/IMG_3288.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;">I am in love with Pottery Barn Kids stuff for baby and toddler rooms, but sometimes the price tag is just too much to swallow! When I started planning C's "big boy" room, I loved the look of the PBK Harper curtain panels, but (for the 96" length I wanted), they are $79 (+ tax and shipping) EACH! </span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for pottery barn kids harper curtains" height="352" src="https://www.potterybarnkids.com/pkimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/201712/0028/harper-blackout-panel-c.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As much as I love them, I could not justify almost $200 on curtain panels for my toddler's room! Like I did a with the rugby striped curtains in the nursery, I decided to try to DIY a less expensive version with a similar look. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Supply list:</b></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40111992/">Ikea RITVA curtains</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001144X3E/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001144X3E&linkId=bb15f0479756e17bfa3a75253eabef78">Iron-on hem tape</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Iron + ironing board</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/2-25-Red-Grosgrain-Ribbon-Solid-5-yard/141965447?variantFieldId=actual_color">10 yards 2.25" grosgrain ribbon</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/5-8-Grosgrain-Ribbon-Solid-370-Navy-5yd/131493234?variantFieldId=actual_color">10 yards 5/8" grosgrain ribbon</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scissors</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hot glue gun + glue sticks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00178QSE6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00178QSE6&linkId=7ff5c64c101f296af78bee9a02839bc5">Permanent fabric glue</a></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I bought a pair of </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40111992/&source=gmail&ust=1503434887611000&usg=AFQjCNH-RGwL9nuxUq2ohsTS99BLHRh1CQ" href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40111992/" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">98" white RITVA curtains from Ikea</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> for $24.99 (for the pair! I just tossed the included curtain tie-backs since I wanted the panels to hang straight.) To be fair, these are not true blackout curtains like the PBK ones are, but we have plantation shutters that block out plenty of light, so blackout curtains weren't necessary for us. </span><br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for ikea ritva curtains" src="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/images/products/ritva-curtains-with-tie-backs-pair-white__74227_PE194751_S4.JPG" /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wanted a similar look to the navy and white Harper curtains, so I bought navy grosgrain ribbon in both <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.walmart.com/ip/5-8-Grosgrain-Ribbon-Solid-370-Navy-5yd/131493234?variantFieldId%3Dactual_color&source=gmail&ust=1503434887611000&usg=AFQjCNHeqUwESWn9CXnKCK8LwxnFkOtR2w" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/5-8-Grosgrain-Ribbon-Solid-370-Navy-5yd/131493234?variantFieldId=actual_color" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">5/8"</a> and <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.walmart.com/ip/2-25-Red-Grosgrain-Ribbon-Solid-5-yard/141965447?variantFieldId%3Dactual_color&source=gmail&ust=1503434887611000&usg=AFQjCNFPRoB8_SkLdFtt4Ku2nfIwIsQVLA" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/2-25-Red-Grosgrain-Ribbon-Solid-5-yard/141965447?variantFieldId=actual_color" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">2.25" widths</a> on Walmart.com. I got a 10-yard spool of the 2.25" ribbon and 3 5-yard spools of the 5/8" ribbon, which cost a total of $14.53.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since the curtains are 100% cotton and say they have approximately 4% shrinkage, I washed and dried the curtains before starting to make sure that I didn't encounter any unwanted shrinkage or bunching in the final product. And, since they are 100% cotton....they came out a wrinkled mess! I spent FOREVER ironing them (with steam! and starch!) to get them flat again. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After ironing, I hung the curtains up on the curtain rod in C's room to see how much excess length there was. Since we have 96" ceilings and the curtain rod is a few inches from the ceiling, the 98" length was slightly too long. I used straight pins to pin the curtains to the desired length (just skimming the floor). Make sure to do both panels since they may have shunk to slightly different lengths!</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />After pinning up the excess, I used <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001144X3E/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB001144X3E%26linkId%3Dbb15f0479756e17bfa3a75253eabef78&source=gmail&ust=1503434887612000&usg=AFQjCNHCThyr9G-Ddl5ZcWMUMGcQ1vsnHg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001144X3E/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001144X3E&linkId=bb15f0479756e17bfa3a75253eabef78" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">iron-on hem tape</a> to hem each panel. This would also be easy to do on a sewing machine, but I already had hem tape on hand, and I didn't want to get my sewing machine out and set it up just to sew 2 straight hems.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Inline image 2" data-surl="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=af38c658fe&view=fimg&th=15b81e8adf110485&attid=0.3&disp=emb&realattid=ii_15b81e71d6785705&attbid=ANGjdJ8bZatsGMgD1wz9tSyCXn9PLyOPFqWGIQgbWBex11bAoDOJoqh8PkZHV8rWkF_46Pel7-D7yPJMLuWh6npvMHVaqcokA25i2x1QGqaTIULk_gJdbrp6J80j0ko&sz=s0-l75&ats=1503348487614&rm=15b81e8adf110485&zw" height="400" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=af38c658fe&view=fimg&th=15b81e8adf110485&attid=0.3&disp=emb&realattid=ii_15b81e71d6785705&attbid=ANGjdJ8bZatsGMgD1wz9tSyCXn9PLyOPFqWGIQgbWBex11bAoDOJoqh8PkZHV8rWkF_46Pel7-D7yPJMLuWh6npvMHVaqcokA25i2x1QGqaTIULk_gJdbrp6J80j0ko&sz=s0-l75&ats=1503348487614&rm=15b81e8adf110485&zw" style="margin-right: 0px;" width="400" /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I laid each curtain panel flat on our living room floor to glue on the grosgrain ribbon using</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00178QSE6/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00178QSE6%26linkId%3D7ff5c64c101f296af78bee9a02839bc5&source=gmail&ust=1503434887612000&usg=AFQjCNELeRSgHUOG81_37tfXq_ArSuY30Q" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00178QSE6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00178QSE6&linkId=7ff5c64c101f296af78bee9a02839bc5" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">permanent fabric glue</a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(make sure it is washable!) </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Inline image 3" data-surl="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=af38c658fe&view=fimg&th=15b81e8adf110485&attid=0.2&disp=emb&realattid=ii_15b81e7968013e66&attbid=ANGjdJ8m73q0i6dMaej1LgnpdMh4xSNC_Exc1W_fkSuTOXPMmSPGJT30KkiXKzKr9za4lGrEmNwq1rFQjFFggu5FoJWQtydyzZLevTU2KQ_-dJL82y-q5HZHDxV3x3c&sz=s0-l75&ats=1503348487614&rm=15b81e8adf110485&zw" height="400" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=af38c658fe&view=fimg&th=15b81e8adf110485&attid=0.2&disp=emb&realattid=ii_15b81e7968013e66&attbid=ANGjdJ8m73q0i6dMaej1LgnpdMh4xSNC_Exc1W_fkSuTOXPMmSPGJT30KkiXKzKr9za4lGrEmNwq1rFQjFFggu5FoJWQtydyzZLevTU2KQ_-dJL82y-q5HZHDxV3x3c&sz=s0-l75&ats=1503348487614&rm=15b81e8adf110485&zw" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-right: 0px;" width="173" /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Starting with the 2.25" ribbon, I used a small amount of hot glue to glue down the end at the top of the curtain panel (folding under the edge of the ribbon to keep it from fraying), then used the fabric glue to adhere the rest of the ribbon (since hot glue will probably come undone if the curtains are washed and dried, I didn't want to do the whole panel using hot glue). I used a piece of cardboard as a template to make sure that I was keeping the ribbon straight and an even distance from the edge of the curtain panel. I also used a large piece of cardboard under the curtain panel to prevent any fabric glue from soaking all the way through onto our hardwood floors. </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I applied fabric glue to the underside of about 2 feet of the ribbon at a time, then pressed it onto the curtain using my hand, before moving on to the next 2-foot section of ribbon. When I got to the corners, I again folded the ribbon (I did not cut it) to form a corner and used hot glue to secure it, since it held better (i.e., more immediately) than the fabric glue.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgSmPsSOLbkPQpHVpriEgcN8kXB4S2GXsaikf46nZTNVAl1Qq4ACRSwdDW8mYSFS0S_64eC-qRMP_BHzNYNiUOAL10iQNYWCFZM2o3Dwg3PIL3b-fPuqRm5DbWKNjjREUR29B_zO1ac8/s1600/IMG_3282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgSmPsSOLbkPQpHVpriEgcN8kXB4S2GXsaikf46nZTNVAl1Qq4ACRSwdDW8mYSFS0S_64eC-qRMP_BHzNYNiUOAL10iQNYWCFZM2o3Dwg3PIL3b-fPuqRm5DbWKNjjREUR29B_zO1ac8/s400/IMG_3282.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I finished gluing the 2.25" ribbon all the way around each panel, I then glued down the 5/8" ribbon, again using a cardboard template to make sure I was keeping it an even distance from the 2.25" ribbon in a straight line.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am so happy with the finished product! It achieved the look I was going for at a fraction of the cost of the PBK version. My total cost was less than $50 for 2 curtain panels (approx. $30 curtain panels + $15 ribbon + $5 fabric glue, since I already had the iron-on hem tape).</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-49253038413415370502017-08-25T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-25T03:00:16.238-07:00Friday Favorites: Favorites under $10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yay, Friday! We have a weekend full of birthday parties and plans with friends - I can't wait! This Friday I'm sharing some of my favorite recent purchases under $10...</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Belvita Breakfast Biscuits</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nabisco belVita Breakfast Biscuits Cranberry Orange - 5 Count" height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/812TLHo98uL._SX425_.jpg" style="text-align: center;" width="320" /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Normally, I eat breakfast at work, since my company provides a free cafeteria with hot breakfast and lunch. Since I'm home on maternity leave, I've had to figure out a quick and easy breakfast option to keep on hand. I first tried these <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0198TV3FE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0198TV3FE&linkId=38b2306599aaf2ba4b0aaa15f68e7179">Belvita breakfast biscuits</a> when they were included in the hotel "welcome bag" for my brother's wedding; now, I'm addicted and have tried 4 different flavors. (My favorite are the cranberry orange and coconut; the blueberry are good too. I like the cinnamon brown sugar the least so far). There are 4 biscuits in each package, which makes them perfect for on-the-go (or one-handed while nursing) breakfasts. Grocery stores generally sell them in a 5-pack, but Amazon has them at a better price in a 12-pack.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gain Scent Booster</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Gain Fireworks In-Wash Original Scent Booster 26.5 Oz" src="data:image/webp;base64,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" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am a sucker for good-smelling laundry, and I love these scent boosters that you add to the washing machine - the laundry comes out smelling great! I'd been using the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QQA0SL4/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00QQA0SL4&linkId=6169162a9158bc5731ba9864ec89f910">Dreft scent booster</a> for a while and wanted something new. The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J4GTAN4/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00J4GTAN4&linkId=e0251c78ddab6922d3e48968ce116734">Gain scent booster</a> smells amazing!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Love Unending devotional</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51wcsqpy5ML.jpg" width="259" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was looking for a new devotional and came across this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1601428103/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=1601428103&linkId=6d6a659b9bd2c514e6a91ea8d8544f29">Love Unending: Rediscovering Your Marriage in the Midst of Motherhood book</a>. I am loving it! This book has 21 days of "challenges", reflections, and prayers to strengthen your marriage - simple things, such as greeting your spouse when they come home, forgiving your spouse quickly, and being intentional about thanking your spouse. The focus of the book is on doing the things that came naturally at the beginning of your relationship (i.e., before kids) that sometimes fall by the wayside when we are stressed/busy/overwhelmed with raising a family. I mostly love how "real" the author is in describing her own experiences. I think it has definitely helped me change my attitude and my actions!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Braided 10-foot iPhone Charging Cord</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81H-VckoTbL._SL1200_.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Technically, these are more than $10, but that's for 3...so they come out to less than $10 each :) This seems ridiculous, but this thing makes my life SO much easier. The charging cord that comes with the iPhone 1) falls apart too quickly and 2) is not nearly long enough! My phone is almost always on super low battery, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MTQ80BX/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01MTQ80BX&linkId=726fccef0b559a766db4201623f67aab">these 10 foot cords</a> mean that I can have it plugged in AND still comfortably use it sitting on the couch or laying in bed. I think the braided cord is a lot more durable, too. I have one of these in almost every room of the house!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>OPI Passion nail polish</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="OPI Nail Polish, Passion, 0.5 fl. oz." height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61pF42cxrgL._SY679_.jpg" width="122" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002D4L046/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002D4L046&linkId=d750e511cd7247d558f9b976c321c85f">OPI "Passion"</a> is my go-to color right now - it goes on super sheer, so you can't tell how bad I am at painting my own nails or how chipped they are from constant dish and bottle washing. I feel more like a human when my nails are painted (and I pick at them less), so I slap on a coat or 2 of this once a week and feel much more polished (pun intended).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Ozark Trail (aka fake Yeti) Cup</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Ozark Trail 20-Ounce Double-Wall, Vacuum-Sealed Tumbler" height="320" src="https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/c222decd-9fbd-4b8a-94bb-32b167565799_1.a54a6824ebeb50a4856362c700c244c5.jpeg?odnHeight=450&odnWidth=450&odnBg=FFFFFF" width="320" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have a real Yeti cup and<a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ozark-Trail-20-Ounce-Double-Wall-Vacuum-Sealed-Tumbler/178742177?variantFieldId=actual_color#about-item"> this Walmart knock-off brand</a> is IDENTICAL - in size and how effective it is at keeping drinks cold/hot. I love all the color choices and mostly that it's LESS THAN $8. This way, I can justify having several since I have a 3-year-old who likes to drink out of my cup, so it's almost always in the dishwasher (which I think is technically not recommended but, again, 8 dollars.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-44317662513891270082017-08-23T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-23T03:00:19.017-07:00Mom Hack: Clothesline + Sun = Ultimate Stain Remover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxFvb4zalJvNtTem9U1MgZEqqhyphenhyphenxPafsvz-nkdVhOj1Gp2A3pmEtZ1zMLZ2_Nn8UFY72OHRnmvl4vsXKh0Ts1L3-lwaDvXlVJyheJiUgWJo9j-zG4kMxMHTVlARw3opTZT3DKYfb1RWc/s1600/IMG_7948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1236" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxFvb4zalJvNtTem9U1MgZEqqhyphenhyphenxPafsvz-nkdVhOj1Gp2A3pmEtZ1zMLZ2_Nn8UFY72OHRnmvl4vsXKh0Ts1L3-lwaDvXlVJyheJiUgWJo9j-zG4kMxMHTVlARw3opTZT3DKYfb1RWc/s640/IMG_7948.JPG" width="494" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Oh, laundry. It NEVER ends. Add to that the fact that both of my kids are/were MAJOR spitter-uppers, and the quantity of stained clothing/bibs/blankets/sheets/burp cloths is insane. It wasn't so bad during the first 6 months when it's just milk spit-up, but ever since baby food and solids came into the picture (and even now, in the preschool years), we have had a ton of hard-to-beat stains. I tried lots of Pinterest tricks - rubbing the stain directly with Tide or Dreft detergent, Oxiclean spray, soaking in hot water with Oxiclean powder, Dawn </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">+ hydrogen peroxide </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">+ baking soda, etc - and they worked fine on surface-level or fresh stains but couldn't get out the tough stains, particularly red and orange ones - carrot puree, ketchup, spaghetti sauce, and the like, or - the worst - baby poop stains!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Enter: the sun. The sun gets out ALL kinds of stains, but especially the tough ones! Anytime I have stained laundry, I do my standard Oxiclean-spray-and-launder; if the stain is still there after a wash cycle, I let the sun do its thing - I just set the (wet) item in direct sunlight, and the sun bleaches out the stain (while not affecting any colored fabric or graphics). Initially, I laid the stained clothes on our patio dining table, but then (since those got the clothes dirty again from sitting on an outdoor table) I'd have to rewash them after the sun got rid of the stain. Also, in the height of the baby food stain stage, I didn't have enough surface area on our table for all the stained clothes! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-8Cf9LVXF3oWI5WxSNA04hIA4tcb8T9navj7kvM-OFdJ3o_kFrKxic1-ZAfok1WNQMQ_zzK4pqmnNm0n2TQ77t_a3LWVtpOD1ou3_CFsHwJiEEjS5nXAR1VfpAFLJ6M6ur60fi2kges/s1600/IMG_8091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-8Cf9LVXF3oWI5WxSNA04hIA4tcb8T9navj7kvM-OFdJ3o_kFrKxic1-ZAfok1WNQMQ_zzK4pqmnNm0n2TQ77t_a3LWVtpOD1ou3_CFsHwJiEEjS5nXAR1VfpAFLJ6M6ur60fi2kges/s400/IMG_8091.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I eventually invested in an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0030BEPZM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0030BEPZM&linkId=dcec25abffddf5d06a9c0e2fe36ef780">inexpensive clothesline</a>; it is retractable, so when it's not in use, it's unobtrusively hidden by a gutter downspout in our backyard (B's biggest hesitation with getting a clothesline was that it would be visible all the time). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDexpyQ5PZjxKd-5j4o_3e3RJqya7AlXXi-RavTCBFuxqWPvLp69FeUAzsWMMiADjMJVFAu8rmrIskM08Xoi00HeSOVP3H2YmaUNTwNMbVNmmoBxw45Exiq50OANiFZf4_zM4uJEGQ5Q/s1600/IMG_8088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDexpyQ5PZjxKd-5j4o_3e3RJqya7AlXXi-RavTCBFuxqWPvLp69FeUAzsWMMiADjMJVFAu8rmrIskM08Xoi00HeSOVP3H2YmaUNTwNMbVNmmoBxw45Exiq50OANiFZf4_zM4uJEGQ5Q/s400/IMG_8088.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I also bought wood clothespins and this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I6739C/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000I6739C&linkId=52316286312deb3fcb77af5097f87ed7">hanging clothespin bag</a>, which hangs on the clothesline for easier access to pins while I'm hanging up or taking down laundry (instead of bending down to get them out of a basket on the ground). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqNcwTewKC6kxaeDwCP7_Tz9WHwZh5tomBTBNm8d8X2IiYqTppeAgLfrvm-ykw9m9GJwz2hSeIk-0-raLqwwtly8GlpXfx_T-dj_3jJ5Ts4D-JT_GRSojm2t6vLpXr5pL3Ccq09tgxW8/s1600/IMG_8090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqNcwTewKC6kxaeDwCP7_Tz9WHwZh5tomBTBNm8d8X2IiYqTppeAgLfrvm-ykw9m9GJwz2hSeIk-0-raLqwwtly8GlpXfx_T-dj_3jJ5Ts4D-JT_GRSojm2t6vLpXr5pL3Ccq09tgxW8/s400/IMG_8090.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This has saved me SO much time and energy using different stain removal products, scrubbing stains with a toothbrush, and washing and re-washing - now, the stains are gone by the time the item dries in the sun!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have you tried using the sun to get rid of tough stains? Try it, you'll be amazed!</span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-81469168477544781372017-08-21T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-21T03:00:00.229-07:00Toddler 101: Potty Training<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, potty training. This was definitely the hardest parenting task to date, and by no means was it successful. I am not writing this down as a "how-to", so much as a recap of our experience so I can remember for our next kiddo.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh44iiyjOrNFDoY78dk2Wyvoi-hdHpltQvza6SMTAijSALLgLVg1t0lYAo8VEK2LPz-2rBEVVmPLFkWvDep6WZHa9aVnfmLRMlj2B1O_dnmAKk7NO6_3bcf0EQvSYx5VzI8MlG9imB-yuY/s1600/Potty+Training.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="534" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh44iiyjOrNFDoY78dk2Wyvoi-hdHpltQvza6SMTAijSALLgLVg1t0lYAo8VEK2LPz-2rBEVVmPLFkWvDep6WZHa9aVnfmLRMlj2B1O_dnmAKk7NO6_3bcf0EQvSYx5VzI8MlG9imB-yuY/s640/Potty+Training.png" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We tried the </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IU8Y0AA/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00IU8Y0AA&linkId=038eb86b6ecfae5bb13c0ba4f4c3777c" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lora Jensen 3-day potty training method</a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> when C was just shy of 2.5 years old. This method basically involves cutting out diapers cold-turkey, putting your child in underwear 24/7 (including while sleeping) for 3 days, and constantly reminding them to let you know when they need to go potty. Unlike some 3-day methods, you do NOT put them on the toilet every "X" minutes to "try". </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There were a LOT of accidents. A lot. Some of my friends (mostly with girls) said it "clicked" with their kiddos after the first day, and the number of accidents drastically decreased. That was not our experience! After 3 days, he did not have a single successful potty episode - every single #1 and #2 was an accident. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was so helpful to have done this while he was still sleeping in a crib, since the crib mattress is waterproof (no worries about soaking through to the mattress) and crib sheets are SO much easier to change than mattress pads, sheets, and bedding on a larger bed.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some supplies that were critical for this endeavor:</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Potty seat (we used <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006I0R0XQ/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B006I0R0XQ&linkId=8c66ea24259204376c970037e1cf313f">The First Years seat</a>)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At least 14 pairs of underwear (we were still doing laundry daily!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001B0V5GG/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001B0V5GG&linkId=8b042087f8fc55ee802eeec7e3dcd305">Folex</a> (or other carpet/rug cleaner)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Disinfecting spray, like Clorox Clean-up (for hard surfaces)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A pile of rags for cleaning up accidents</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Old towels or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HUCQY1A/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00HUCQY1A&linkId=59e96296b51ece0b853d4fe2532bfcd2">disposable incontinence pads</a> for every absorbent furniture surface (i.e., upholstered couch)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LZ5IE7S/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LZ5IE7S&linkId=bd545558731c90d92c9d7be969a710b5">Oxiclean spray</a> for #2 accidents</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Plastic bags for containing soiled clothing in case of an accident in public - we used the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QKDI48/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001QKDI48&linkId=00fe3cd12b68c20bc689dac8f88ce741">Munchkin bag dispenser</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002ZVOM9W/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B002ZVOM9W&linkId=1c82a98d192f248cbe1bd11cf9c1d5dc">Kandoo flushable wipes</a> (toilet paper works but this works better IMO)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Juice or some other "enticing" drink to increase fluid intake</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Waterproof liner for carseat (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E1ABYSC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00E1ABYSC&linkId=db7b2945c9d512a206f5710b7635b657">this one is approved for use with Britax carseats</a>, which is what C uses) <i>*please do not use a liner unless it is made by your car seat manufacturer and approved for use with their carseats! These are crash tested by the manufacturer to ensure they are safe and are only compatible with the car seats they are tested on!</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Treats for rewards (we used mini M&Ms for #1 successes and mini Milky Ways for #2s)</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We did at least one load of laundry daily consisting solely of underwear, rags, towels, and crib sheets. After 3 days, we did see SOME improvement - although he was still having accidents frequently, he was staying dry for long periods during nap and at night (when normally he was a heavy wetter while sleeping). </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, starting on day 4, we had to return to work (and C to daycare) so it was into a pull-up he went. The 3-day method discourages the use of pull-ups, but we didn't have much choice - he was nowhere CLOSE to being able to go to school in underwear. At this time, he was the only child in his class working on potty training, so we weren't getting much help from school (there wasn't the "peer pressure" aspect since all the other kids were in diapers). However, anytime he was at home, he was in underwear - including naptime. We did make him "try" to use the bathroom before nap to minimize the chances of an accident in his crib.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Things slowly started clicking, and within 2 weeks, he was regularly telling us when he needed to go to the bathroom and having fewer accidents. Luckily, around this same time, he switched to the older preschool classroom at school which was FULL of kids potty training - so he was encouraged to use the potty at school by all of his friends doing the same. It was a slow and steady process - and there were a lot of mini M&Ms and Milky Ways consumed - but he was fully daytime potty-trained in about a month.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the initial 3-day method, we decided to hold off on overnight potty training - after several weeks, he was still having accidents every night and just wasn't ready. Since he was moving into a big boy bed with baby #2 on the way, I couldn't handle changing sheets daily (they're so much harder to change than crib sheets!)</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> He turned 3 a month ago and still wears a pull-up at night, although he wakes up dry about 75% of the time now, so he is getting there on his own without any effort on our part. </span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-38355099001812379362017-08-18T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-18T03:00:06.226-07:00Friday Favorites: Costco Edition<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's Friday, which means I'll likely make a Costco run this weekend! Like Trader Joe's, Costco is another place that I find overwhelming and need recommendations from friends in order to find new things to try! With the bulk quantity, I am always hesitant to try new things because we'll be stuck with a ton of it if we hate it! We just got a Costco membership about a month ago (the weekend before baby M was born!); here are some of our favorites. What else do you love to buy there?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for costco tortilla crusted tilapia" src="data:image/jpeg;base64,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" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Tortilla Crusted Tilapia</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My mom got me hooked on this; it is great to have on hand in the freezer for a quick dinner (it bakes in the oven in 10-15 minutes). Even my 3 year old likes it!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for costco tortilla soup" src="https://d2lnr5mha7bycj.cloudfront.net/product-image/file/primary_36735bd0-9496-464a-be14-b7e3e7100ce7.jpg" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Chicken Tortilla Soup</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I almost always have some of this on hand for a quick meal, too! It comes in a twin pack, so we'll often eat one right away and freeze the other for later (it freezes really well!) Add some avocado, grated cheese, and tortilla strips on top, and dinner is done! Again, my toddler will eat this, so I consider that a win.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for costco tomato basil soup" height="200" src="https://d2lnr5mha7bycj.cloudfront.net/product-image/file/large_972ba9dd-ce54-438a-ae4b-f83553370449.jpg" width="200" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Tomato Basil Soup</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ditto to everything about the Chicken Tortilla Soup above - this is also delicious, freezes well, and makes a great dinner paired with grilled cheese.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for costco chicken salad" height="189" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/75/c0/e3/75c0e33bc4e1fd37612920dc01f98175.jpg" width="200" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Rotisserie Chicken Salad</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This chicken salad is delicious! My husband likes to buy it on Sunday and then take it in his lunch for work all week. We always sort through all the containers to find the smallest one, though, because it is a huge quantity of chicken salad!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for blue moose boulder fig" height="152" src="http://bluemooseofboulder.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Fig-Spread-v2.png" width="200" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Blue Moose of Boulder Fig Spread</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They were giving out samples of this fig spread last week, and of course it was delicious and I had to impulse buy it. It is cream-cheese based and delicious on crackers as an appetizer. We didn't need a huge tub of it tempting us in the freezer, so I froze most of it in smaller portions -- hopefully it thaws well!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for costco multigrain crackers" height="200" src="https://images.samsclubresources.com/is/image/samsclub/0085335800038_A?$img_size_380x380$" width="200" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Multigrain Crackers</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These are the crackers that were being served with the fig spread above, and they are SO good - either by themselves or with a dip of some kind!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img alt="Image result for costco nature's garden snack packs" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/A1XuKsGvQLL._SY355_.jpg" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nature's Garden Trail Mix Snack Packs</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My toddler loves "trail mix", and so far I have managed to hide from him the fact that some of them contain things like M&Ms ad chocolate chips. I like these because they are individually packaged (easy for the diaper bag!) and contain only dried fruit and nuts - no added salt or chocolate.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for costco margarita mix" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEVfa_hDPOHgmyfiuKnB4bOEujTj27UYXP37d9LMYnihxUKEoRApf736OFioXaxiG1RmTf5xR7P3AisBcqNR8Pn92G6gXHMjCsoFo41wu4xEb9IDYrFTniL_huVWSWf-E-NWFCvVaJWJV/s320/KS-Golden-Margarita-Cocktail.jpg" width="160" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ready-to-Drink Margaritas</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is one of those things that I would never have tried if my mom hadn't introduced me to it! Call it tacky, but these ready-to-drink margaritas are delicious! Chill the bottle and, if you're classy like me, drink over crushed ice. </span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-78048931247597419992017-08-16T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-16T03:00:26.820-07:00Toddler 101: Learning the Alphabet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsvwHck2WIWVZyALla-QKSt_kImyQT_DQsYeVCe5FhowZPBKZysyFmezW96ftNSZG14G5amGmFpEWwJlOdVvFkdaBrNmvP4jR98TJmbkek9EcccG4BO_0Y_MTyGi4C9fjAnHWhSiRu2Q/s1600/Learning+the+Alphabet.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsvwHck2WIWVZyALla-QKSt_kImyQT_DQsYeVCe5FhowZPBKZysyFmezW96ftNSZG14G5amGmFpEWwJlOdVvFkdaBrNmvP4jR98TJmbkek9EcccG4BO_0Y_MTyGi4C9fjAnHWhSiRu2Q/s640/Learning+the+Alphabet.png" width="360" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<i style="color: #222222; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Note: this is not a sponsored post - I borrowed this DVD from the public library and was not compensated in any way :)</i><br />
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At around 2.5 years old, C had long known the alphabet song and had started expressing interest in identifying letters ("what letter is that?"); however, he had NO patience to sit still while I tried to draw letters and teach him their names. At first I chalked it up to him not really being ready, but he continued to ask me what letters were on signs, book covers, and labels. </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Somehow I came across <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TKUXUC/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB001TKUXUC%26linkId%3D94fd83fc5620df5570f1cb17731f682b&source=gmail&ust=1502832913411000&usg=AFQjCNGqp3xGwXH-9LNzCzZqweGIFvKjFw" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TKUXUC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001TKUXUC&linkId=94fd83fc5620df5570f1cb17731f682b" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">the Leapfrog Letter Factory DVD</a> while browsing Amazon one day and started reading reviews; there were SO many positive reviews that claimed their toddlers had learned to identify all the letters of the alphabet, as well as their sounds, purely from watching the DVD. We are SUPER strict about C's screen time (exception: on airplanes, anything goes) - most weeks he he has absolutely no TV or iPad time, but we occasionally let him watch an episode of Daniel Tiger or Bubble Guppies (like when he gets his hair cut). I wasn't a huge fan of the idea of him "learning" from a DVD, but I discovered our public library had a copy of the DVD and figured it was worth checking it out from the library for free.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The storyline of the movie is cute - the "letter factory" is where letters go to learn their sounds, and in the factory there is a room for each letter of the alphabet where the letters learn what to say ("the A says 'aaaah'). C LOVED the DVD - he laughs hysterically in the "I" room when the "icky" pen explodes. As soon as it's over, he begs to watch it again. As suggested by many of the Amazon reviews, we did let him watch the 30-minute DVD repeatedly for 1-2 weeks - I'm talking 4-5 times a week, which is WAY more screen time than he has ever had before, but I wanted to see if the content of the DVD would sink in (this is also when we painted the walls in his big boy room, so it was a great 30-minute distraction that I didn't feel totally guilty about). </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was SHOCKED at how quickly he picked up on the material; after a couple of weeks of frequent watching, he could identify all of the (uppercase) letters of the alphabet by sight and also knew their "sound". It has now been several weeks since he's watched the DVD, and he seems to have retained the material - he can still name all their letters and their sounds, and is so proud of himself when he can tell us the letters in a book title. This DVD was a much faster (and for him, more enjoyable) way to learn the alphabet than me trying to teach it to him. I initially checked it out (and renewed several times) from the library, but since it has been so effective and is <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TKUXUC/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB001TKUXUC%26linkId%3D94fd83fc5620df5570f1cb17731f682b&source=gmail&ust=1502832913412000&usg=AFQjCNELCVlA3rIC333ZENmRTqRwYh7iKQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TKUXUC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001TKUXUC&linkId=94fd83fc5620df5570f1cb17731f682b" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">only $7 on Amazon</a>, I think it is worth the investment!</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The one limitation with the DVD (if you can have complaints about a 2.5 year old knowing the alphabet and corresponding sounds) is that it focuses on uppercase letters only, so he still cannot recognize any of the lowercase letters which look different from their uppercase counterparts (b, d, e, g, h, q, r, etc.) </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now that he is so comfortable with uppercase letters, I bought some <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUUWT30/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00BUUWT30%26linkId%3Da689d88430d29e48f41e092b33b2afd1&source=gmail&ust=1502832913412000&usg=AFQjCNFX1fpVtoSIsuxPpZMPmadmqwV-9w" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUUWT30/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00BUUWT30&linkId=a689d88430d29e48f41e092b33b2afd1" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Crayola ABC flashcards</a> at Dollar Tree which have both the uppercase and lowercase letter on one side, and a picture starting with that letter on the opposite side. (I couldn't find them new on Amazon, but <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUUWT30/ref%3Das_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dlivandlea067-20%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26linkCode%3Das2%26creativeASIN%3DB00BUUWT30%26linkId%3Da689d88430d29e48f41e092b33b2afd1&source=gmail&ust=1502832913412000&usg=AFQjCNFX1fpVtoSIsuxPpZMPmadmqwV-9w" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUUWT30/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00BUUWT30&linkId=a689d88430d29e48f41e092b33b2afd1" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">here's what they look like</a> -- and it appears they're available through some Amazon third party sellers if you can't find them at your local Dollar Tree.) I punched a hole in the top corner of each card, mixed up the order, and put them on a binder ring so we can keep track of them and flip through them to practice letters. Since he already knows the uppercase letters, he is much more eager about doing the flash card approach than he was pre-Letter Factory. With them contained on the binder ring, they are easy to stash in my purse to occupy C while we wait at the doctor or at a restaurant.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All kids learn in different ways and at different stages/ages, but this has worked really well for us!</span></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-19846745898106148122017-08-14T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-24T12:31:52.839-07:00From the Kitchen: Homemade Acai Smoothie Bowl Recipe<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am super late to the acai bowl game - having had my first one at a local restaurant this weekend - but now they're all I can think about! B had never even heard of acai bowls, which are basically a thick smoothie in a bowl, with toppings, eaten with a spoon. Even though they're a glorified smoothie, something about eating it with a spoon instead of drinking it through a straw (as well as the fact that the toppings require chewing) makes it much more satisfying and filling. I love that they're full of healthy ingredients, too! I made my own homemade version for breakfast on Sunday, and they were just as good as the restaurant version - even my 3-year-old happily devoured 3 servings of "purple ice cream!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You will need a strong blender for this recipe - I have a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008H4SLV6/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B008H4SLV6&linkId=6496c49e8a16a20c73779df91254694b">Vitamix</a>, which is totally worth the hefty price tag for the use we get out of it making margaritas, homemade baby food purees, hummus, soups, and now, acai bowls :) Look for a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01688AFFC/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01688AFFC&linkId=1297606646cb05ffcb331448c27dd998">certified refurbished</a> or open box Vitamix on Amazon to save some money!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAulLBuek86XuEpAAiqh9ZvmZ26KszOlmYlN1KbM5x8GjFujaDShFZjqeJW14pdn9OG9oQOs2b11AtGtPQNR3V9w3jI4vQemHefb10vxPZu9foAOJ9MvqEEGmL_vUCHtmZWfGIjZJ_ggA/s1600/Slide1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAulLBuek86XuEpAAiqh9ZvmZ26KszOlmYlN1KbM5x8GjFujaDShFZjqeJW14pdn9OG9oQOs2b11AtGtPQNR3V9w3jI4vQemHefb10vxPZu9foAOJ9MvqEEGmL_vUCHtmZWfGIjZJ_ggA/s640/Slide1.PNG" width="266" /></a></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Homemade Acai Smoothie Bowls</b></span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Serves: 1</span><br />
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 3.5-oz packet frozen unsweetened acai puree <i>(this comes in a 4-pack for $4.49 at Trader Joe's in the frozen fruit section. You can also find it at Whole Foods or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HXARPO/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B004HXARPO&linkId=840676acabf9d1e8017752f708c1cd02">online from Amazon</a>, shipped in dry ice)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1 banana, cut into chunks and frozen <i>(can also use a non-frozen banana, but the end result won't be quite as thick)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5-6 frozen strawberries </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1/2 cup milk of your choice <i>(you can use cashew or almond milk for a vegan alternative; I used regular milk because that's what we had)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1-2 tablespoons peanut butter <i>(I use Laura Scudder's peanut butter, which has no added sugar)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwkSI2FGlKE3G5_WDXZ_9ts6oDiuXp1gS95QLPDdZuXwK1K9c9OZFpKqYWfBeY-dmkUQWKdIH2NNSVMb8Y9e6XUY7D_T7k3kO9BBfPexgZb76zJx7lYhPetJWw8H1S0l8kb3W5aIhU7s/s1600/IMG_3045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwkSI2FGlKE3G5_WDXZ_9ts6oDiuXp1gS95QLPDdZuXwK1K9c9OZFpKqYWfBeY-dmkUQWKdIH2NNSVMb8Y9e6XUY7D_T7k3kO9BBfPexgZb76zJx7lYhPetJWw8H1S0l8kb3W5aIhU7s/s400/IMG_3045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Toppings:</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Granola <i>(I used Trader Joe's Pecan Praline Granola)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Shredded coconut <i>(I used Trader Joe's sweetened shredded coconut)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Chopped fruit <i>(strawberries, bananas, mango, blueberries, etc.)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Chia seeds <i>(I was out but these would be good sprinkled on top!)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Run the frozen acai puree packet under hot water for 15-30 seconds to thaw it enough to break into large chunks. Put the first 5 ingredients (acai puree, banana, strawberries, milk, and peanut butter) in a strong blender and blend on high until smooth. The texture should be thicker than a smoothie, but thinner than ice cream - add more milk if necessary to achieve the appropriate texture. Pour into a bowl and add your choice of toppings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Interested in more breakfast recipes? <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Breakfast">Check them out here</a>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-48921094428861331382017-08-11T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-22T14:02:42.306-07:00Friday Favorites: Things to Do with Toddlers and Preschoolers in Dallas<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Woohoo, it's Friday!! I'm linking up with <a href="http://www.momfessionals.com/" style="line-height: 20.79px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Momfessionals</a><span style="line-height: 20.79px; text-align: left;">, </span><a href="http://graceandloveblog.wordpress.com/" style="line-height: 20.79px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">Grace and Love</a><span style="line-height: 20.79px; text-align: left;">, and </span><a href="http://tabanderika.blogspot.com/" style="line-height: 20.79px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">A Little Bit of Everything</a><span style="line-height: 20.79px; text-align: left;"> to share our FAVORITE toddler-friendly activities and destinations in Dallas! </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgufTO58cQ9YPr09heJ1iIm6bC7dPlyfyENMMFt3MvEEIk-50ngBnDI39-vJu4YjSPP2vU9VguDOBcrO2puNIaFk7KhyJhpwHp1x-HagR-zy2YxvW57IWlF0q19mdul4SPdaBaS0h74U/s1600/things+to+do+in+dFW.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgufTO58cQ9YPr09heJ1iIm6bC7dPlyfyENMMFt3MvEEIk-50ngBnDI39-vJu4YjSPP2vU9VguDOBcrO2puNIaFk7KhyJhpwHp1x-HagR-zy2YxvW57IWlF0q19mdul4SPdaBaS0h74U/s640/things+to+do+in+dFW.png" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am always in search of free or cheap things to do with my toddler - especially on days when it is cold, rainy, or super hot outside, since he gets bored easily at home; even when the weather is nice, we are frequent visitors of our local parks/playgrounds and splash pads, but those run their course and lose entertainment value if done everyday. So many kids' activities in Dallas are PRICEY - Little Gym, Kindermusik, and the like - that I'm not willing to pay for them very frequently. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are some activities we've personally tried and enjoyed with our toddler. Lots of them are either completely free or free for kids age 2 and under, so get busy while the admission is still free! These are generally listed from least expensive (i.e., free) to most expensive. I'd love suggestions on other ideas!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">INDOOR PLAY OPTIONS:</span></strong></div>
<div>
<strong><br /><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></strong></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for dallas galleria play area" src="http://www.dfwchild.com/images/features/mall%20play%20areas%20gd.jpg" height="266" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dfwchild.com/images/features/mall%20play%20areas%20gd.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<b style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Galleria Play Area</b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> (free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Of all the malls in Dallas, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.galleriadallas.com/visitor-guest-services/playplace/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNH28WXumXEeuhRTtlsXJpBWm6kN9w" href="http://www.galleriadallas.com/visitor-guest-services/playplace/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the play area at the Galleria</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> is my favorite. It is enclosed with only one entrance/exit, it is large enough to provide at least an hour of entertainment, everything is made of foam so it's safe for littles, and best of all, it's FREE. The play area is appropriate for kiddos from walking age up to the max height limit (42"). There are plenty of things to climb on and slide down, including a fake Jeep, boat, and hollow log. The play area is located on the 3rd floor of the Galleria near Nordstrom; I've found it's best to park on the first floor of the Orange parking garage outside Nordstrom and Belk (enter off Alpha); from the mall entrance, you can take the elevator (if you have a stroller) or the escalator straight to the 3rd floor. The Galleria doors open at 7 AM Monday-Saturday (9 AM on Sunday); to beat the crowd, get there early (before the stores open at 10 AM) because it gets progressively more crowded after 10 AM. Once you've had enough playing, you can walk around the mall or grab lunch and watch the ice skaters.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for prestonwood kidz zone" src="http://prestonwood.org/images/default-source/site-images/kids-playround-banner.jpg?sfvrsn=0" height="165" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://prestonwood.org/images/default-source/site-images/kids-playround-banner.jpg?sfvrsn=0"><span id="goog_192683766"></span>Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></a></div>
<br />
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Prestonwood KidZone</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> (Free)</span><span id="goog_192683767"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a bit out of the way in Plano, but for free entertainment it is worth the drive! Prestonwood Baptist Church has </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.prestonwood.org/connect/kidz/indoor-playground&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNEXnM6zzKF19_QFREn1w13ftsmgOQ" href="http://www.prestonwood.org/connect/kidz/indoor-playground" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">an indoor, enclosed, FREE kids' playground</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, and you don't need to be a member to visit. You do need to check in to the KIDZ welcome desk, and shoes are required in the play area. Food and drink (including water) are prohibited, but there is a huge lobby just outside where you can take kiddos to eat their snack or drink. The playground is appropriate for kiddos from walking age up to the max age (10 years). Think of a McDonald's or Chick-fil-A play place on steroids - lots of foam-padded things to climb and slides to slide down. If you enter the church through the main entrance, the play area is to your right. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The hours of the KidZone are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mondays: 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.<br /> Tuesdays: 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.<br /> Wednesdays: 9:00 a.m.–6:15 p.m.<br /> Thursdays: 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.<br /> Fridays: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The weekend hours are super limited and not worth it unless you're already there for a church service.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For younger kiddos, there is a second play area near the church's cafeteria. From the main entrance, you will go to your left; the main hallway will dead-end into the cafeteria, and the small play area is on your left. There doesn't appear to be a check-in process for this area.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for watermark tree fort" src="http://dallas.citymomsblog.com/wp-content/sabai/sites/11/File/files/8ad8171c4a3bb3505f2f3e265d285829.jpg" height="222" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dallas.citymomsblog.com/wp-content/sabai/sites/11/File/files/8ad8171c4a3bb3505f2f3e265d285829.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Watermark Tree Fort</strong> (Free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Watermark tree fort is another great indoor free entertainment option! There are tons of stairs and bridges for littles to explore in this two-story tree fort. The tree fort is enclosed by glass from the church lobby/coffee shop area, although we found that there are several places were kiddos can exit the tree fort on the second floor and roam around the church's hallways - so keep an eye on your kiddos to make sure they don't wander off on the 2nd floor! The tree fort is appropriate for kids who can climb stairs; younger kids will probably be bored, although there are 2 small slides for younger kids. If you enter the church through the main entrance, the tree fort is to the right, behind the coffee shop and seating area. You do not have to sign in to use the tree fort. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The hours of the tree fort are:</span></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sunday: 8:00 - 8:45 am and 12:30 - 4:15 pm (Closes before 9:00 am and 5:00 pm service)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Monday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Closes before re:generation)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tuesday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Closes before the Porch)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wednesday: 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm (Closed in the morning for Women's Bible Study)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thursday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm (Closes before Women's Bible Study)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Friday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Saturday: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></li>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Dallas Public Library Toddler Storytime</strong> (Free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Several branches of the Dallas Public Library offer toddler/preschool storytime in the library's small auditorium. At the ones we've attended, there is a 30-minute librarian-led session that includes reading 1-2 children's stories and singing several children's songs (with hand motions/shakers, similar to Kindermusik). After the 30-minute program, several bins of blocks and other small toys were brought out for another 30 minutes of free play. You do not have to register or sign in to attend, although sometimes the parking lot gets pretty full and it can be hard to find a place to park! The storytime is appropriate for any age of toddler or preschooler. Afterwards, you can extend the outing by reading books or playing with the puzzles in the library's children's area.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To check storytimes at your local branch, use</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://dallaslibrary.evanced.info/eventcalendar.asp&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNGr-7yBqrll4ZwDQlVUqcaYVAdoow" href="http://dallaslibrary.evanced.info/eventcalendar.asp" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> the library's event calendar </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and search for "Preschool" and "Infant &Toddler" Age Groups.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for northpark mall bookmarks" src="http://dallaslibrary2.org/blogs/bookedSolid/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/bookmarks.jpg" height="183" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dallaslibrary2.org/blogs/bookedSolid/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/bookmarks.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Bookmarks at Northpark Mall</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> (Free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Dallas Public Library has a storefront in Northpark Mall and has several infant, toddler, and preschool-appropriate free events each week, including infant-friendly Baby Basics Storytime and toddler Storytime Serendipity. The most convenient parking is in the surface lot off Park Lane between Macy's and Nordstrom. Enter at the main mall entrance between Macy's and Nordstrom, and the Bookmarks storefront is directly ahead on the right-hand side next to the restaurant La Duni. The free events are held in the Bookmarks storefront or in the open atrium area by the escalator. You do not have to register or sign in to attend. Check the calendar of events </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://dallaslibrary2.org/branch/bookmarks.php&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNGNQea-izxr-MOtDxINTJU1w_MTgQ" href="https://dallaslibrary2.org/branch/bookmarks.php" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">here</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for dallas rec open gym" src="http://dallas.citymomsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2015/03/IMG_8186.jpg" height="285" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dallas.citymomsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2015/03/IMG_8186.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Dallas Rec Center Preschool Open Gym</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($2+)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The City of Dallas recreation centers have toddler/preschool open gym times each week; during open gym, bounce houses and various toys/balls/foam climbing shapes are brought into the rec center's main gymnasium for toddlers and preschoolers to play. Each rec center has a slightly different setup in terms of the number/type of bounce houses and toys available. Open gym is appropriate for kiddos who can walk and older. Most of the ones I've been to (Campbell Green, Lake Highlands North, and Ridgewood rec centers) have a $2/child admission fee; I know the Walnut Hill open gym is more expensive due to the addition of trampolines to the entertainment offered. You will need to check in and pay the admission fee at the rec center's main desk</span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To check open gym times at your local rec center, </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.dallasparks.org/160/Recreation-Centers&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNEy1j7B6IrabjtradiTu7NRcRESGw" href="http://www.dallasparks.org/160/Recreation-Centers" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">select your rec center from the list</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and check the event calendar. Open gym may appear under multiple names, such as "preschool fun time" or "mom and me gym".</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for lake highlands wildcat fun zone" src="http://lakehighlands.advocatemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/005a.jpg" height="289" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lakehighlands.advocatemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/005a.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Lake Highlands North Rec Center Wildcat Fun Zone </strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">($3)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In addition to preschool open gym times in the main gym (see above), the Lake Highlands North rec center has an additional fun zone for kiddos. It has a climbing structure similar to what you'd find in a McDonald's or Chick-fil-A (except cleaner!) Admission is $3 for ages 6 months - 5 years, which you pay at the rec center's main desk. You purchase admission for one of several 1.5 hours time blocks throughout the day:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Monday – Thursday<br />9:00am -10:30am<br />11:00am -12:30pm<br />3:00pm - 4:30pm<br />5:00pm - 6:30pm</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for monster yogurt richardson" src="http://planoareamoms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/photo-2.jpg" height="300" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://planoareamoms.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/photo-2.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
<br />
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Monster Yogurt </strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(free with purchase of frozen yogurt)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is similar to the play area at a McDonald's or Chick-fil-A, but comes in handy when it's not meal-time so a trip to one of those places would be awkward. It's one of those self-serve frozen yogurt places with a million flavors and toppings, and there is an indoor play area for the kids to play in. There are 2 Dallas locations, in Richardson (Coit/Campbell) and Casa Linda.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hours:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Monday-Saturday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sunday 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for jump street earthquake zone" height="300" src="https://i2.wp.com/do512family.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/ljs7eq.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://i2.wp.com/do512family.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/ljs7eq.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Jump Street </strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">($5 ages 3 and under)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For kiddos 3 years old and younger, Jump Street (Dallas) has a toddler area ("Earthquake Zone") for $4.99 per child. The Earthquake Zone has 3 big trampolines to jump on (with rubber balls to throw/bounce), as well as a bounce house with slide. It doesn't sound like a lot, but it provides 1-1.5 hours of entertainment for my 2.5 year old. This activity is most appropriate for 2-3 year olds who have the balance to jump on a trampoline.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Jump Street's hours at the Dallas location are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sunday: 10am - 9pm<br /> Monday: 10am - 9pm<br /> Tuesday: 10am - 9pm<br /> Wednesday: 10am - 9pm<br /> Thursday: 10am - 9pm<br /> Friday: 10am - 11pm<br /> Saturday: 10am - 11pm</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for children's aquarium fair park" height="187" src="https://assets0.roadtrippers.com/uploads/poi_gallery_image/image/319740140/-strip_-quality_60_-interlace_Plane_-resize_1024x480_U__-gravity_center_-extent_1024x480/poi_gallery_image-image-7aa98dba-7646-4b0e-afa5-f1cd0699a9f5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://assets0.roadtrippers.com/uploads/poi_gallery_image/image/319740140/-strip_-quality_60_-interlace_Plane_-resize_1024x480_U__-gravity_center_-extent_1024x480/poi_gallery_image-image-7aa98dba-7646-4b0e-afa5-f1cd0699a9f5.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Children's Aquarium at Fair Park</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($8 adults / $6 kids ages 3-11 / free 2 and under)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://childrensaquariumfairpark.com/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNFAaUbfCk4qtH09ybkIYrG3xmQJFA" href="http://childrensaquariumfairpark.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Children's Aquarium at Fair Park </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">is a smaller aquarium that is manageable for a toddler's attention span. It is also much less expensive than the Dallas World Aquarium downtown - $8 per adult, $6 for ages 3-11, and free for ages 2 and under. There are a number of tanks inside with various fish, sharks, turtles, and lizards, and our favorite part, the outdoor (but covered) Stingray Bay, where there are giant open-air tanks of sharks and stingrays.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The aquarium's hours are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, 7 days a week</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="pdc9.jpg" height="266" src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57fba2e2e3df285b919d84a0/5844cf9920099e10cb7e8052/5844d0869f7456bcf35e182d/1480904866430/pdc9.jpg?format=1500w" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.playdateco.com/play">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>The Playdate Co. </strong>($10.50 ages 1+, $8.50 siblings)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.playdateco.com/">The Playdate Co.</a> is located in Richardson and is similar to Play Street Museum (see below), but I prefer it because of the layout - I can see the entire place from anywhere I'm standing/sitting, which means I can always have an eye on my son without having to move all around. There is also more seating for parents, which is a bonus. My son LOVES this place - there are so many options for creative play, including a grocery store, schoolhouse, art area, basketball hoops, house, and garage/workshop. We can easily spend 3 hours here, which makes the cost easier to justify.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Playdate Co.'s hours are:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: helvetica neue, arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, they're closed on the weekends for private parties.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for play street museum plano" height="224" src="https://s3-media4.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/FamAPiQPeolYJNvNW0Rr4Q/o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://s3-media4.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/FamAPiQPeolYJNvNW0Rr4Q/o.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Play Street Museum</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> ($11 ages 1-8)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.playstreetmuseum.com/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNGSwSwP02bChNBlbiF_DhJm8eoTRA" href="http://www.playstreetmuseum.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Play Street Museum </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">qualifies at expensive entertainment in my book - definitely not something we'd do weekly, due to the $11 cost per child ages 1-8 - but it is SO much fun. There are 3 locations in the Dallas area - Plano, McKinney, and Frisco, and each location has a different theme, with different activities. It's a drive from Dallas to any of them, but my toddler is entertained for 2-3 hours there, so I think it's worth it on occasion. The $11 admission includes a wooden token for a snack or drink, which I let my child redeem on our way out (since you can't eat the snack inside the play area). There are tons of options for pretend and dress-up play, such as a grocery store, play kitchen, and other areas that go along with each museum location's theme (e.g., Airstream trailer, campfire, fishing canoe, and cabins for the Great Outdoors-themed Plano location). Ages 1-8 are the target for the museum, although I think it is probably most appropriate for kiddos aged 2-5 (who are in the prime of "pretend play").</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Play Street's hours are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately, they're closed on the weekends for private parties.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for frontiers of flight museum play area" src="http://dallas.citymomsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2012/01/photo1-300x224.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dallas.citymomsblog.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2012/01/photo1-300x224.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Frontiers of Flight Museum</strong> ($10 adults / $7 kids ages 3-17 / free 2 and under)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This museum is fun for any airplane lover - my son loved it! After you enter, there is a big exhibit hall to the left with lots of historic airplanes; to the right, there is a kids' area with play airplanes and a play air traffic control tower they can climb in. There is also another exhibit hall (The Heart of our History) that has 2 life-size Southwest 737 aircraft that you can go inside. There is a small snack area with tables and chairs across from the kids' area for snack time!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The museum's hours are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">OUTDOOR PLAY OPTIONS:</span></strong></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for arboretum children's garden dallas" src="http://www.dallasarboretum.org/assets/library/images/Pure-Energy-Tower-and-Energy-Learning-Gallery_web2.jpg" height="224" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiC7vz-o7TVAhUGRCYKHbySAGUQjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dallasarboretum.org%2Fnamed-gardens-features%2Fthe-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden&psig=AFQjCNFgNhKItiRHrw4Hjz_ZzA-6YMWakg&ust=1501616562208204">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Dallas Arboretum Children's Adventure Garden</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($3 in addition to Arboretum admission)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNG6La_9iu83rckE9IExv_pwXB03lw" href="http://www.dallasarboretum.org/named-gardens-features/the-rory-meyers-childrens-adventure-garden" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden at the Dallas Arboretum </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">is great when the weather is nice (since it's all outdoors). There are activities for all ages from walking age up. The First Adventure area (to the left after entering the Children's Garden) is great for younger kiddos, with 2 areas to splash in (bring waterproof shoes and a change of clothes!), a small hedge maze, a small slide, and lots of things to explore. Older kids will appreciate the T. Boone Pickens Pure Energy area with water, solar, and wind-powered hands-on activities, and the Walk in the Clouds "tree house". There are activities scheduled throughout the day, including storytime, crafts, and skits; the volunteer at the entrance to the Children's Adventure Garden will give you an overview of the schedule and a map when you enter. The Children's Adventure Garden is stroller-friendly, with ramps available to access each area of the garden. Note that (for whatever reason) wagons are not permitted. Since you can bring your own food and drink into the Arboretum, it is perfect for a picnic after playing.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Admission is very reasonable if you are a member of the Arboretum; each membership level comes with a set number of free admissions to the Children's Adventure Garden (and free admission to the Arboretum and free parking); additional admission is $3 per individual age 3 or up. If you are not a member, admission is pricey - general Arboretum admission is $15 for adults (ages 13+), $10 for children (ages 3-12), and free for children 2 and under. Parking is an additional $15 (or $8 if you pre-pay online). On top of that, admission to the Children's Adventure Garden (designated by a wristband) is an additional $3 for each child or adult age 3 and up. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Each City of Dallas Rec Center receives a number of free Arboretum tickets each quarter, which are distributed first-come, first-serve (you can get up to 4 tickets). These tickets cover free general Arboretum admission and parking, so you would only have to pay for the additional $3 admission to the Children's Adventure Garden. These run out quickly (and the timing of when they are distributed is irregular), so it's best to call your local rec center to inquire about the availability of free Arboretum tickets before driving there. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Children's Garden is most easily accessed from the Arboretum parking garage; there is an underground tunnel that goes under Garland Road so you don't have to cross the street to get there. It is quite a hike from the Arboretum's main parking lot!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Note that the Children's Garden is closed for maintenance during January and February each year.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Arbortum hours are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 7 days a week</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for dallas arboretum" src="http://www.dallasarboretum.org/assets/library/images/DallasArboretum_OscarDuran.24100224_large3.jpg" height="224" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjF_8SUpLTVAhVp7IMKHZByDu4QjRwIBw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dallasarboretum.org%2Fvisit&psig=AFQjCNHzIpThufQk-NHasI7ZcEoqlBrQSg&ust=1501616668658510">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>Dallas Arboretum - Main Garden</strong> ($15 adults 13+ / $10 kids 3-12 / free 2 and under, or free for members)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The main gardens of the Dallas Arboretum are also a great place to visit when the weather is nice. We visited all the time when our son was an infant, since it was a scenic place to walk around with the stroller and then lay out a picnic blanket for lunch. The Arboretum's seasonal exhibits - Dallas Blooms (tulips) in the spring and the pumpkin patch in the fall - make for great photos, and the Thursday night concert series (Cool Thursdays) are family-friendly for all ages! In addition, during the spring and fall, the Arboretum has Mommy & Me Mondays and Tiny Tot Tuesdays on Mondays and Tuesdays from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM in the Pecan Grove, during which there is face painting, Kindermusik (12:00-12:30 PM), and a petting zoo. During the summer, these same activities are offered during Family Fun Fridays from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM on Fridays.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">See above for hours and pricing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for dallas zoo" src="http://www.dallaszoo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/MG_1398-Dallas-Zoo-Entry.jpg" height="266" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dallaszoo.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/MG_1398-Dallas-Zoo-Entry.jpg">Via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<strong style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Dallas Zoo</strong><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($15 adults ages 12+ / $12 kids 3-11 / free 2 and under, or free for members)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.dallaszoo.com/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNEGRksQJDh6RAdJI7f7Pbahjj5ThQ" href="http://www.dallaszoo.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dallas Zoo </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">is so fun - we started taking our son when he was 18 months old and went about once a month all year! Kids 2 and under are free, adults (12+) are $15, and kids 3-11 are $12. Parking is an additional $8 (free for members). Admission is cheaper ($7) during December through February "Penguin Days". It only takes a couple of visits for a membership to pay for itself. The parking fills up quickly (as does the zoo itself), so we usually try to arrive right when it opens. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are two main sections to the zoo - Zoo North (to the right from the main entrance) and the Wilds of Africa (to the left from the main entrance). The "big" zoo animals (think lions, zebras, elephants, gorillas, giraffes) are in the Wilds of Africa, so we usually go to that side first. There is a Children's Zoo in the Zoo North side that has a petting area (sheep and goats) and farm animals for the kids to see, as well as a small playground. You can bring food and drink into the zoo, so bring your own snacks (or a picnic lunch) to save some money! The entire zoo is stroller or wagon friendly, and you will probably want one due to all the walking. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The monorail ("Adventure Safari) at the zoo is an additional $5 per person (free vouchers are included with a zoo membership) but totally worth doing every once in a while! I thought it would be a gimmicky ride, but the monorail actually takes you past many exhibits and animals that you do not get to see otherwise (they are not accessible on foot). </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The zoo's hours are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 7 days a week</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What are some other fun activities for toddlers? Some things I want to try out this year are:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.dma.org/visit-center-creative-connections/c3-spaces-kids&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNHNYMSh7r4EkGC1ocYv2buAHOFvcA" href="https://www.dma.org/visit-center-creative-connections/c3-spaces-kids" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Arturo's Nest at the Dallas Museum of Art </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Hope Park in Frisco (free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.irvingbible.org/buildinginfo&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNFQCFvNRpzAg4JQni3d4n7kkPgVkA" href="http://www.irvingbible.org/buildinginfo" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Tubes at Irving Bible Church </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(free) </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Allan Shivers park/playground at the Dallas Scottish Rite Hospital (free)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Open gym (</span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.expresscheer.com/dallas/preschool-open-gym/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNEuu_0lpiKrmtMAAeODEfrO75ozWg" href="http://www.expresscheer.com/dallas/preschool-open-gym/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Express Cheer</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">) at the Walnut Hill Rec center ($5 ages 4 and under)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.littlelakewoodsalon.com/playhouse&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNEOogVQSXo5bXZOZdMjDkXEOGN8HQ" href="http://www.littlelakewoodsalon.com/playhouse" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Little Lakewood Playhouse</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($6)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.cor.net/index.aspx?page%3D32&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNFxkgE4cBtWSvX9GWPUbxsfrDPH5w" href="http://www.cor.net/index.aspx?page=32" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Heights Family Aquatic Center in Richardson</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($8 ages 4+)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.cityofcarrollton.com/departments/departments-g-p/parks-recreation/aquatics/rosemeade-rainforest&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNEL2PfvqFCZSqJjwt8vns-QDoDgew" href="http://www.cityofcarrollton.com/departments/departments-g-p/parks-recreation/aquatics/rosemeade-rainforest" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rosemeade Rainforest Aquatic Complex in Carrollton</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> ($9 weekday / $10 weekend for non-residents age 2+)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.heardmuseum.org/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNGCbuU02GGdv8Je_m7GPoOf6QoEPw" href="http://www.heardmuseum.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney</span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> (tickets vary by season; $9-11 adults 13+ / $6-8 kids ages 3-12)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.playdateco.com/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNG6JcY4c9gQK-AgQD6qFN-XofzG7g" href="https://www.playdateco.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Playdate Co. in Richardson </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">($10.50 for kid and $8.50 for siblings)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Dallas Children's Theater (tickets vary)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.perotmuseum.org/&source=gmail&ust=1484955850389000&usg=AFQjCNFIjK7U02aDq7dDrauvP13s0d76Hw" href="https://www.perotmuseum.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Perot Museum of Nature and Science </span></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">($19 adults 18+ / $12 kids ages 2-17)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1992862300139673004.post-89417045953585503042017-08-09T03:00:00.000-07:002017-08-09T03:00:31.719-07:00Buy This, Not That: Breast Pumps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMFDRnSpg_hds_0NM7figRjRjzcPPbNAgfkLgI1n_EOHIO2y6TVHVjdIpHZ9RL5wka0Ww2W3CVClqqQ145_kBYEB9A5GZXvPbHTstCNXLI8ShVl4UrgHz40cYe0MaLV2WxTV5TXkBJdQ/s1600/buy+this+not+that_breast+pumps.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMFDRnSpg_hds_0NM7figRjRjzcPPbNAgfkLgI1n_EOHIO2y6TVHVjdIpHZ9RL5wka0Ww2W3CVClqqQ145_kBYEB9A5GZXvPbHTstCNXLI8ShVl4UrgHz40cYe0MaLV2WxTV5TXkBJdQ/s400/buy+this+not+that_breast+pumps.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Atkmu-FclmTTpY0hvkEGoTFnOlpjnSy-hD3OxKlnTiU7opIPmVBt0ciVdW9aL_xP1G83_J_gc7XiRKVZrT-b8EnmTglbs1P_u1AT91a7nOP5AX8DLmL3UJmAn6IFGi5r1d5oZTdCRS0/s1600/good+better+breast+pump.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Atkmu-FclmTTpY0hvkEGoTFnOlpjnSy-hD3OxKlnTiU7opIPmVBt0ciVdW9aL_xP1G83_J_gc7XiRKVZrT-b8EnmTglbs1P_u1AT91a7nOP5AX8DLmL3UJmAn6IFGi5r1d5oZTdCRS0/s400/good+better+breast+pump.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<b style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Good</b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">: Medela Pump In Style Advanced</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After C was born in 2014, I got a trusty <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0011E75RK/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0011E75RK&linkId=0c1e100c0fe19504f797bafb077a1f45">Medela Pump in Style Advanced</a> breast pump (thanks, Obama!), which I used religiously 3-4 times a day at work for a year. At the time, I had no complaints...but I also had nothing to compare it to.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Better:</b> Spectra S2</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year, when I was pregnant with M, I had to decide which breast pump I wanted to order this time around. (Although I still have my old Medela PISA, the motor can wear out, and since a new one was fully covered by my insurance, I knew I wanted to get a new one - even if it was another PISA). I read a ton of online reviews, and the consensus seemed to be that the Medela PISA and the Spectra S1 or S2 pumps were the current favorites. Medela is still the better-known brand (as it is what most of the hospitals use, and has been around in the US longer than Spectra); however, every single review I read that compared the two preferred the Spectra. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to take a chance (knowing I had my old PISA if I absolutely hated the Spectra), and I am sooooo glad I did! I ordered the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BLBLR1I/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=livandlea067-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00BLBLR1I&linkId=8b64d93f336bb2dee5465c847bf07b14">Spectra S2</a>, as the cost was completely covered by my insurance; the S1 had an upgrade charge since it has a built-in rechargeable battery (while the S1 has to be plugged into an electrical outlet). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In comparison to the Medela pump, my Spectra pump is much quieter, gentler, and more efficient. The difference in noise is the most remarkable -- the Medela pump was loud, and the Spectra is whisper quiet. We can easily watch TV while I pump, and although my work has a dedicated pumping room, I think I could easily be on a phone call while the pump was running (NOT TRUE for the Medela!) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also think the suction on the Spectra is gentler -- probably because it is more customizable than the Medela. While the Medela has one dial that can adjust the suction strength, the Spectra can adjust both the frequency and the suction strength. The Spectra pump has a digital display and remembers your settings so that you don't have to reset them every time you use the pump; you can set frequency and suction strength for both the "let down" mode and the "expression" mode. I also like that the Spectra pump has a built-in timer so that you can easily keep track of how long each pumping session lasts; I've noticed that the Spectra pump seems to be more efficient than my Medela was. With my Medela, I frequently pumped for 20-25 minutes; with the Spectra, it usually only takes 10-12 minutes to fully empty my milk.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also like that the Spectra pump is a fully closed system, meaning that it can be safely shared among users or passed down to friends/family without risk of contamination. The Medela pump is not a closed system and, while plenty of people share or pass down their pumps, technically you're not supposed to. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are 3 downsides of the Spectra pump: (1) the lack of local availability of compatible parts; my local baby store and Target stock standard Medela pump supplies but not Spectra supplies, so if you forget to bring parts while traveling or something breaks, you're up a creek. (2) The Spectra pump parts also are not compatible with standard-sized bottles, and (3) the flanges do not come in as many different sizes as the Medela flanges do. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">However, there is a cheap and easy fix for all of these issues -- I use my old Medela parts with the Spectra pump. Since I use a larger flange size than the standard-issue flange, I use my larger Medela flanges instead of the smaller ones that came with the Spectra pump. Doing this not only solve my size issue but also ensures that I should be able to acquire Medela parts locally if they break or I forget them (as long as I remember the Spectra pump, tubing, and backflow protector, I'm good!) Since the Medela pump parts are compatible with standard-sized bottles, this also allows me to use my existing bottles without having to buy new wide-mouth bottles or adapter rings to use the Spectra. <a href="https://thephillipsblog.blogspot.com/2017/08/how-to-use-medela-pisa-pump-parts-with.html">Read my post here for how to use Medela parts with a Spectra pump.</a></span><br />
Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07739800828666696688noreply@blogger.com1