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Reduce Waste with Tom’s of Maine (Upcylced Mini Piñata)

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Tom’s of Maine for IZEA. All opinions are 100% mine.

Reduce Waste with Tom’s of Maine by celebrating Earth Month with an upcylced mini piñata craft. Visit Toms of Maine’s website for more information. I pledged to reduce 1 lb of waste per week with Tom’s of Maine’s #lesswastechallenge

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Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

This year Earth Day is April 22, and today I am sharing some ideas and tips on how to reduce waste by making an upcylced mini piñata using a Tom’s of Maine toothpaste box.  Tom’s of Maine has been developing natural oral care solutions for over 30 years, and Whole Care® toothpaste offers many solutions in one. It fights cavities, whitens with naturally sourced silicas, freshens breath, and helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup with regular brushing.  All Tom’s of Maine toothpaste and products can be found at your local Target store or Target online.

Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

I was actually a dental assistant for eight years before I got pregnant and had my daughter.  Oral health has always been a passion and I still inform people if they ask and I am teaching my daughter the importance of keeping her teeth clean and healthy.  I love Tom’s of Maine toothpastes because they are high quality products and never use artificial colors, flavors, fragrances, preservatives or animal testing.  Keeping me and my family safe is the utmost importance as well as reducing waste.

To celebrate Earth Month, let’s make an upcylced mini piñata perfect for parties and favors.  Maximizing product packaging, like toothpaste boxes helps to reduce waste and recycle.

Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

Supplies needed:

  • Tom’s of Maine toothpaste box
  • Tissue fringe
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • String
  • Goodies for stuffing inside

Instructions:

Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

Start by cutting strips of the tissue fringe to wrap around the toothpaste box.  I used a tape runner to tape the tissue to the box.  This tissue fringe is amazing because it is already cut for you making it super easy to use.  Make sure to leave one end of the box open so you can fill it with goodies.

Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

Once the toothpaste box is completely covered, cut a piece of string.  I hot glued the string to the top of the box.  You could also cut a hole in the top of the box and tie the string that way.

Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

Add the treats inside the box and use a piece of tape to take the bottom.  I love the idea of using these mini piñatas for party favors.  What are some ways that you reduce waste or upcycle?

Upcycled Toothpaste Box Mini Pinata

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This Moment Is Fleeting

My oldest is out of bed for the fourth time this evening. Part of me is frustrated and angry. I want to claim that time for myself. To recharge. To have a moment without the kids.

But there is another part of me. A part that can’t help but smile. A part that pats the couch cushion and invites him to come sit. A part of me that needs another kiss from him.

How to savor these fleeting moments with our children – even when it feels impossible.

Photos courtesy of  Amara Lea Photography

I waffle.

There’s a part of me that wants the screaming and the chaos of the day to end. To say hands down it’s bedtime, no matter what. To hold firm. And never budge.

Because parenting young kids is exhausting.

And draining.

And consistency is everything.

I return to the part of me that wants him to be little forever. To let him creep out of bed with his blankie and sweet sing-songy voice and hear him beg to sit close to me.

Because I know it won’t always be this way.

This moment is fleeting.

How to savor these fleeting moments with our children – even when it feels impossible.

He nuzzles his head on my chest and I put my arm around him. As I look down, he looks up and says, “I love you, mommy.” I kiss his forehead and hold his hand inside my own.

I think about my boundaries. That I need to take him back to bed. That I need to tell him who’s boss.

And yet—I don’t.

I hold him closer, grab a book and read it to him.

This moment is fleeting.

Consistency is everything.

But so is love.

And connection.

I know that one day my son will go to bed and tell me to stop hugging and kissing him so much. I know that one day he’s probably going to tell me that he doesn’t need me anymore. And I know with the utmost certainty that one day his hands will be bigger than mine.

We finish reading our book together. He puts it back on the shelf and looks to me. I tell him softly but firmly, “It’s bedtime.”

He nods — surprisingly.

I pick him up and throw his blankie over my shoulder. He is way too big for carrying, but I do it anyway.

For a moment I close my eyes and try to imagine what it was like when I carried him like this as a baby.

I’m forgetting.

Without looking at pictures or seeing a video, I’m struggling to truly remember what he was like as a baby.

This moment is fleeting.

How to choose connection on those days when parenting feels completely overwhelming.

It’s impossible to savor every moment. When the back talk and disrespect take over. When the power struggles seem like too much. When I’m trying so hard and my kids won’t listen.

My patience wears thin. I get angry. I’m only human.

But tonight?

I’m savoring this moment.

I’m holding him close to smell his sweet scent. I’m kissing his cheeks to feel the marshmallow squishiness. I’m hugging him tight trying to lock this memory in my brain forever.

I don’t want to forget any of this.

This moment is fleeting.

There’s a part of you that will always see your babies as your babies, but eventually they get old enough that they don’t see themselves as your baby.

They become independent.

You raise them to leave you.

They grow up.

Then there’s another part of you that just wants to do it all for them. A part of you that wants them to need you. Desperately. Forever. And ever.

You know…

This moment is fleeting.

Savoring the little moments while they’re still little.

I lay my son down in his bed. I cover him up exactly the way he likes: quilt, extra blanket, blankie, no sheet.

I kiss him on the forehead.

My voice cracks and I whisper, “I love you, son.”

In the darkness, I stand there for a moment. I turn to leave the room, then pause and turn back.

I’m about to do something I never do.

I crawl into bed with him and snuggle him as much as any mother could. I’ll sleep there next to him tonight.

His body nuzzles perfectly into my own.

One day it won’t.

A version of this post originally appeared on Military Wife and Mom. You can connect with Lauren of Military Wife and Mom on Facebook and Instagram.

If you resonated with this post, check out Lauren’s Happy Mom – A Free Email Series here.

How to choose connection on those days when parenting feels completely overwhelming.

Fast, Fun Park Workout: No Equipment Needed

Hey, friends! It’s Rachel Gainer from rachelrebuilt.com, certified personal trainer and fitness contributor here at Simple as That. Spring is officially here, which means no one wants to be cooped up inside while mom finishes a workout. Not even mom. It’s time to ditch the gym for a day and head outside for some family-friendly fitness. Today’s park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed! Just look for a sturdy bench, step, or nested playground with a good view of your kiddos at play.

This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Take Time for Self-Care

As a mother of four, I know it’s challenging to step away from your kids and put your health and sanity first. Scheduling time to workout can feel incredibly selfish, not to mention impossible, when your to-do list is a mile long. But if you really want to give your best energy to the people you love, you need to make sure your body and spirit are recharged and rejuvenated. Making time for self-care will help you face everyday challenges with more patience, optimism, and energy. Exercise is an important part of my self-care routine, because it helps me release tension, practice emotional endurance, and build the physical strength I need to keep up with my young family.

One way I balance mom-life with self-care is to multitask by making workouts fun for everyone. Sometimes, this means turning an ordinary game, like Mother May I, into an itty-bitty workout. Other times, I let my kids lift bottled water, while I lift weights. In springtime, I like to get outside where the kids can run around, ride bikes, and enjoy the sunshine. Today’s park workout is a great way to get a little sweaty and stay close to your kids.

This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Instructions for Park Workout

You don’t need any equipment for the exercises in this fast, fun park workout. Just look for a bench, step, or nested playground (like the one I use in my video). Learn each move by watching the summary video and reading the step-by-step instructions below.

Tackle this workout in one of two ways:

  1. Encourage your kids to self-entertain for 15 minutes; then perform 10–12 reps of each exercise for as many sets as you can manage in that timeframe.
  2. Make it a game to sneak in 5–15 reps of one exercise before the next child calls your name. You may not get as sweaty, but you’ll still get your heart pumping enough to generate some mood-boosting endorphins.

If you like this circuit, you can visit my blog for a second park workout using an inexpensive, portable resistance band.

Summary Video 

Individual Exercises

This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Box Jumps

  1. Stand with a bench about 18 inches in front of you.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and swing your arms backward to preload your jump.
  3. Following your momentum, jump up and forward, landing in a squat on the bench.
  4. Carefully hop backward, returning to the ground.
  5. Complete 10–12 reps.

Trainer Tips for Box Jumps

  • Land with both feet firmly planted on the bench. Make sure your heels do not hang off the edge.
  • Make sure you can safely clear the jump. A park date with your kids isn’t the time to get overly aggressive with height.
  • To increase intensity, pick up the speed with each jump.

This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Incline Corkscrew Push-ups

  1. Start in plank position with your hands on a bench. Position your hands just wider than shoulder-width apart, and place your feet close together.
  2. Bend your knees slightly, and twist your hips and torso to the left.
  3. Lower your body toward the bench, allowing your right shoulder and breast to drop deeper into the push-up.
  4. Untwist your hips and torso as you push-up powerfully, engaging your pectoral (chest) muscles to press back into plank.
  5. Repeat steps 2–4 on the opposite side.
  6. Complete 10–12 reps, counting each push-up as one rep (Right = 1, Left = 1).

Trainer Tips for Incline Corkscrew Push-ups

  • Don’t look straight down. Instead, look at the ground about 1 foot in front of you. This will keep your neck in proper alignment.
  • Remember to breathe—inhale as you lower your body, and exhale as you push up.

This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Tricep Dips + V-Leg Extension

  1. Stand with a bench behind you, and step forward about 2 feet.
  2. Place your palms on the front edge of the bench with your fingertips hanging off the edge. Grip the edge, if desired.
  3. Simultaneously, lower your body until you are “seated” mid-air about 1 inch in front of the bench.
  4. Lift your right leg off the ground, extending it at a 45-degree angle (creating a half-V shape).
  5. Using your triceps to bare your weight, lower your body toward the ground until your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle.
  6. Press up powerfully.
  7. Complete 10–12 reps; then repeat with your left leg raised.

Trainer Tips for Tricep Dips + V-Leg Extension

  • Keep your elbows tucked and pointing toward the back of the bench. Don’t allow them to flare to the sides.
  • Focus on your triceps, and avoid using your legs to lift your body.

This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Split Squats

  1. Start in a standing position with your back to the bench. Place your left toe on the bench, and slide or hop your right foot forward until it is about 1 foot ahead of your hips.
  2. Keep both feet planted, and lower your body toward the ground until your right leg forms a 90-degree angle.
  3. Press up powerfully through your right leg and glute.
  4. Complete 10–12 reps; then repeat with your right toe on the bench.

Trainer Tip for Split Squats

  • Step forward far enough that your lead leg has room to bend to a 90-degree angle. Don’t let your front knee drift forward over your toes.

Did you enjoy this workout? Visit my blog for a second park workout using an inexpensive, portable resistance band. Find free at-home workouts on rachelrebuilt.com and Instagram.

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This park workout is a quick, challenging circuit you can squeeze in between swings, slides, and monkey bars. No equipment needed!

Not a Perfect Mom, But an Enough Mom

I was going to be the Dr. Oz of parenting. I was going to be a guru, and then I realized that I would probably have to teach my kids to stop acting like wild raccoons at the grocery store. I don’t want to be negative but my kids are 10, 8, 6, and 3. This is never going to happen for me.

I am not a perfect mom, but I am an enough mom…and so are you! We love these kids through it all and that’s what makes everything else we do enough.

Photos courtesy of  Amara Lea Photography

You are not going to get advice from me on teaching toddlers to read, or getting your kids to stop gagging on their vegetables. I could however offer a step-by-step guide to watching them chew on the same vegetable for two hours, until you eventually give up and let them spit it out.

I am not very perfect at parenting, but I do love my kids enough to cuddle with them while they smell like pee, and I feel like that’s kind of a lot.

I’m not perfect, but I am enough…and so are you.

I enjoy them enough.

Sometimes I smell their hair and I kiss their cheeks. I laugh at their jokes and I marvel that I am so blessed. Time stops in moments like that and everything is perfect and worth it.

Other times I am unsure if I will survive the hours of 4:00-8:30 pm, and if one can die of overexposure to bickering.

One can. I’m sure of it.

I enjoy them enough.

I am good enough at bedtime.

Sometimes we read together. We snuggle on the couch and I read them Hardy Boys or Anne of Green Gables.

Other times I race through a bedtime song like I’m Alvin the chipmunk. I punctuate it with a kiss and I run outa there like it is a hostage situation. (Because it is). They cry out after me that their water is old, that their backs itch, and their underwear is twisted. This is when I hide behind the freezer door shoveling cookie dough ice cream into my mouth, wondering who will give up first…me or them.

I am good enough at bedtime.

 

I love my kids. I love them in all their messy, smelly, ridiculous, and hilarious glory and that’s what makes everything else I do enough. I’m not a perfect mom, but I am enough…and so are you.

I am together enough.

We eat meals together. We love each other, and we laugh together.

I also lose all school papers even though they come in a convenient shade of neon and my daughter (age 6) just asked me that, “if I’m going to come to her school today could I please wear ‘real’ clothes?” Then, on the way there (in case she wasn’t clear earlier) she asked me if I remembered my pants.

I am together enough.

I am fun enough.

Sometimes I take every single thing too seriously. Like crumbs and clutter and teeth brushing. I have an out of body experience while I am lecturing them and I wonder if they will remember anything other than me being grumpy.

Other times I laugh so hard with my kids that my stomach hurts. We play games, we go on hikes, and we dance in the living room in our pajamas.

I am fun enough.

I am not a perfect mom, but I am an enough mom…and so are you! We love these kids through it all and that’s what makes everything else we do enough.

I’m good enough at housekeeping.

Sometimes I pick crumbs off of the carpet and throw them under my couch. Sometimes the downstairs bathroom causes me to imagine the Health Department coming to my house and posting a D- in my front window. I fantasize that they will shut us down and we will be forced to eat at our parents house every single night from now on.

That sounds wonderful.

Other times my house is vacuumed and my counters are clean. I’m playing coffeehouse radio on Spotify and there’s a candle burning.

I am good enough at housekeeping.

I am good enough at self care.

Sometimes I cannot recall my last shower. I go to the grocery store with a pillow imprint still on my face and a pair of sweats that the 18-year-old cashiers never wanted to know about.

Other times I wear makeup and I brush my hair…and nothing…not a thousand rabid hyenas can keep me away from a ladies’ night.

I’m good enough at self care.

I am a good enough wife.

Sometimes I’m a great listener and an epic encourager. We laugh together and dream together and he is truly my favorite person.

Sometimes he gets all the brunt of my frustration. He gets my snappy responses and my rolling eyes. Sometimes when he needs a pep talk I say, “Why did you do that?”

Which he loves, for the record.

I am a good enough wife.

I love my kids. I love them in all their messy, smelly, ridiculous, and hilarious glory and that’s what makes everything else I do enough. I’m not a perfect mom, but I am enough…and so are you.

I am good enough at nutrition.

Sometimes I declare it a pizza night. We use paper plates and I share my love affair with ranch dressing.

Other times I buy large bags of organic carrots and force feed my children spinach. I plan meals and I worry if they’re eating too much sugar.

I am good enough at nutrition.

I love them enough.

I LOVE MY KIDS. I love them in all their messy, smelly, ridiculous, and hilarious glory.

I love them and I love them and I love them…

and that’s what makes everything else I do enough.

It makes everything you do enough too Mama.

We love them enough.

A version of this post originally appeared on Wonderoak. You can connect with Jess of Wonderoak on Facebook and Instagram.

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I am not a perfect mom, but I am an enough mom…and so are you! We love these kids through it all and that’s what makes everything else we do enough.

Easy Slime Recipe

This is our favorite slime recipe you guys! It was so easy to make and is 100% non-toxic! The kids loved making it so much and even this mom, who is a bit afraid of messy play, was on board with how fun it was!

Supplies

Resealable Containers

Contact Lens Solution

Washable Glitter Glue

Clear, Washable Glue

Jumbo Popsicle Sticks

Baking Soda

Craft Paint

Instructions

Find a bowl or cup to mix your slime in.

Pour out the entire contents of a 5oz bottle of clear school glue into the bowl or cup.

Add 3-4 drops of craft paint to color your slime.

Add glitter glue, however much you’d like.

Add 1/2 TBSP of baking soda and mix.

Add 1 TBSP of contact lens solution.

Mix until slime forms and begins to get harder to mix.

Take the slime out of bowl or cup and begin kneading with both of your hands.

If needed add 1/4 TBSP of contact lens solution to make the slime less sticky.

Store in an air tight container.

Huge Sale at Mindy Mae’s Market!

One of our absolute favorite places to shop for cute, comfy and modest clothing is Mindy Mae’s Market. Many of our tried and true wardrobe essentials come from Mindy Mae’s including their double hooded sweatshirts, their super soft loungers and clever graphic tees!

Four times a year they have a HUGE sale and I mean, big, big, BIG! I wait for these events so I can stock up on my most-loved Mindy styles.

Huge Sale at Mindy Mae’s Market

Set your alarms for 10am MDT April 17th – that’s tomorrow!

All of your favorite pieces are up to 70% off… amazing, right?!  And what’s even better than that, is you don’t have to change out of those sweats!

Get yourself prepped and ready! These are by far their craziest & best deals.

Sale will launch April 17th @ 10 am (MST) and will run until April 17th @ midnight.

CLICK HERE TO START SHOPPING

Scroll through a few of our favorites below from Mindy Mae’s Market and bookmark these links for the sale tomorrow! Remember – quantities sell out FAST!

DOUBLEHOOD™ SWEATSHIRT

DUSTY GREEN CARDIGAN

AYLA ANORAK JACKET

MOMHUSTLE GRAPHIC TEE

DAPHNE FLORAL TEE – MUSTARD

THANKFUL TEE

DISTRESSED STRIPED TEE

CHELSIE FLORAL MIDI DRESS

GRAPHIC TEES

Important Sale Details

  • Orders will still (and always) ship FREE! (US only) (Canada ships FREE over $100)
  • We will ship in the order received, but please allow 5-7 day shipping time frame (unless otherwise noted on a listing) just in case!
  • Most items are on their last production run, so if you want it… get it now!
  • Oh! Did we mention?! Due to the deep discounts, ALL items during this sale are FINAL SALE! (again, double check your order – no exceptions will be made!)
  • Sale will run from 10:00 am (MST) April 17th to midnight April 17th (MST).

**The site will be shut down for sale prep & inventory on Saturday evening. Quantities will be VERY limited on some items. If you don’t want to risk missing something in particular, we suggest purchasing before the sale starts to guarantee you get it!

Shop Mindy Mae’s Market April Sale here

This post contains affiliate links.

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables – Using a bare minimum of dishes, this simple, zesty weeknight meal will help you actually ENJOY dinner with your family!

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

Hey, it’s Rachel from Simple Seasonal! I’m back with another super easy recipe for the person who envisions their little family gathered around the kitchen table enjoying a home-cooked meal in between giggles and retellings of the day’s important events. Well, that is, without all the work a home-cooked meal entails.

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

If you’re anything like me, one thing you don’t envision is spending half of the evening working over a hot stove, and then the other half of the evening scrubbing pots while elbow-deep in dish water. That’s why I have become OBSESSED with one-pot and and sheet pan meals. Recipes like my Rustic Italian One-Pot Chicken and Rice or my One-Pot Tex Mex Chicken and Rice, as well as my Freezer English Muffin Mini Pizzas.

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

Today’s recipe for Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables is becoming one of my go-to weekday meals. It has a spring flair with fresh asparagus and baby potatoes. Not to mention it’s healthy, the prep is minimal, and it makes hardly any dirty dishes. Did I forget to mention that the lemon pepper flavor tastes amazing? Here’s to enjoying a healthy, home-cooked meal with the people you love!

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables
 
Print
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
POTATOES
  • 1.5 lbs baby potatoes cut into quarters
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
ASPARAGUS
  • 1.5 lbs asparagus roughly chopped with the tough ends removed
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
SALMON
  • 1 lb salmon cut in 4 filets and bones removed
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • ⅛ tsp thyme
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
  • 8 seeded lemon slices
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400ºF and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the potatoes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a ziplock bag and shake to coat the potatoes. Evenly arrange the potatoes on the pan in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes. Save the bag to use again.
  3. While the potatoes are baking, combine the asparagus, olive oil, salt, and pepper in the ziplock bag and shake to combine and set aside. In a small dish whisk together the salmon marinade, which contains olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper, and set aside. Cut the salmon into individual filets and remove the bones if the grocery store has not already done so.
  4. Once the potatoes have baked for 15 minutes, remove them from the oven, flip the potatoes, and combine with the asparagus. Arrange the salmon evenly at the center of the pan. Arrange lemon slices over the salmon, and then pour the marinade evenly over all four filets. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF. Serve immediately.

Sheet Pan Lemon Pepper Salmon and Vegetables

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A Simple Way to Get More Creative Photographs

Do you ever feel like you are taking the same photos time and time again? Then it might be time to mix it up so you can get more creative photographs!

Most of the time we tend to stick to the same shooting position when taking photographs – in the case of children, this is usually from standing slightly above them, shooting down a little bit on them.   Whilst that’s fine occasionally, it can get a bit dull when every image is taken from that exact same vantage point.

Therefore a very easy way to make your photographs look more creative and engaging is simply to change the angle that you take the photograph from.  The good news is you can do this with ANY camera – your point and shoot, a DSLR or even your camera phone!

Here are some suggestions and examples for mixing up your angles.

Shoot from Eye Level

Shooting from the same eye level as your subjects creates an instant connection, and helps anyone viewing the photos to feel more immersed in the scene.  All you need to do is make sure that the camera is directly parallel to your subject.  This means if your subject is lying on the floor on their tummy, so are you!  So, you can be standing, sitting, crouching or lying down – wherever you need to be to get the camera on the same level as your subject.

Here are some examples of images taken at eye level:

Shoot from Above

A really fun angle to shoot from is directly above your subject, so you are getting a bird’s eye view.  It can add a whole new dimension to a photograph (especially since it’s a not a view we usually see) and can sometimes really help tell the story better.  The trick here is to get right up and over your subject so that the scene you are photographing looks “flat”.

Again, it’s easier to show rather than tell, so here are some more examples, this time of images taken from above.

Shoot from Below

Again, this isn’t an angle we tend to shoot from, so it tends to give you a really interesting and unusual image!

One thing to avoid is shooting any type of portrait from underneath.  That’s because you end up looking right up their nose, which isn’t the most flattering of angles for most people 🙂

As a side note, it’s also a really great way to show height – so if you are photographing your child jumping on the bed, getting down and shooting from below will make that jump look even higher!

Shoot from behind

Why not try getting around the other side of your subject and shooting them from behind? Sometimes it can be a wonderful way to take an image on its own, or you could shoot from over the shoulder of your subject (leaving them partially in the frame) so you are taking a photo from their perspective.

Next time you find yourself taking a picture, think about whether you can take it from a more interesting angle.  One of my favourite exercises is this:  Take the first picture from a “normal” shooting position, then move around your subject 360 degrees.  Move around in a circle, taking pictures as you go, so you are capturing them straight on, from the side, and from behind, and then the other side.  Then get up and over your subject, before getting down underneath. This little shooting “formula” is a great way to get a range of photographs from one activity, plus I bet you get an image you LOVE taken from an angle you might not have first thought of!

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Choosing a Kids Chore System that Works for You


If you've tried and failed at more than one kids chore system, it's time to factor in your unique personality. Plus, 3 simple systems to consider. #ad #WRINGinSpring

This post is sponsored by O-Cedar in partnership with the Mom It Forward Influencer Network, as part of the #WRINGinSpring campaign.

When our oldest was four, he got it in his head that he wanted a scooter. Being a new parent full of optimism about my kids learning personal responsibility, I told him I’d pay him a quarter for every chore he did and he could save up for that scooter.

For the next few weeks, my determined little guy did every chore I suggested and plenty that he came up with on his own. We did so many chores that I almost wished I’d never come up with this scheme in the first place!

But before long, we walked into a toy store with a bag FULL of quarters, and we walked out with a shiny blue scooter.

A few months later, that scooter was scuffed with use, and our son had moved on to a new idea: he wanted the board game Ticket to Ride.

I made the same offer, even upping the payments to 50 cents (ooh!), but he didn’t take to the arrangement like he had the first time. The little money he did earn sat lonely in his piggy bank.

The same chore system he took to wholeheartedly suddenly held no appeal for him.

If you've tried and failed at more than one kids chore system, it's time to factor in your unique personality. Plus, 3 simple systems to consider. #ad #WRINGinSpring

In much the same way, I’ve tried various chore strategies with our three children over the years, usually starting out with enthusiasm and then sputtering to a sorry halt when I run out of steam.

As with anything in life, I think the key to a system you can maintain is knowing yourself.

Maybe you’re a mom who thrives on planning. Maybe you’re a mom who works well with routine. Who knows—maybe you’re terrible at both!

It’s all about finding a system that works with your personality. (And adjusting it as you change over the years.)

If you've tried and failed at more than one kids chore system, it's time to factor in your unique personality. Plus, 3 simple systems to consider. #ad #WRINGinSpring

Here are three approaches that I think are sustainable and can work with various personalities. You can choose one or multiple—This is a mix-and-match situation!

Also, I suggest having several jobs that are a permanent foundation, like clearing the table, hanging up bath towels, putting clothes away, etc.

Kids Chore Strategies for Moms

  1. Assign each kid a job that they do every day for an entire year, such as loading or unloading the dishwasher, taking out the trash, or wiping down surfaces after meals. Then, to keep things from becoming too routine, switch to a new job on the kids’ birthdays or at the start of the New Year. This one is great for moms who don’t want to take the time to plan out weekly jobs or manage a complicated reward system.
  2. Create an age-appropriate list of chores that each child does every Saturday morning. This is for the planner moms—or even the Pinterest-savy moms.
  3. Outside of your kids expected chores, have a list of “money jobs.” Set a price for each one (or if you like simplicity as much as I do, the same price for all of the jobs!), and let the kids know they’re welcome to take on money-earning jobs as long as they’re doing their everyday, foundational chores.

If you've tried and failed at more than one kids chore system, it's time to factor in your unique personality. Plus, 3 simple systems to consider. #ad #WRINGinSpring

The Right Tools

My last suggestion is having cleaning equipment that the kids take ownership of—and maybe even enjoy using! Ever since we got the EasyWring™ Spin Mop & Bucket System, our oldest son has honestly been asking me regularly to mop!

Here are a few features the kids and I loved about the EasyWring™ Spin Mop & Bucket System:

  • You don’t have to bend over and wring out a dirty mop head! A quick press of the foot pedal sends the basket spinning (splash-free!)
  • The microfiber mop head has a triangular design that’s great for corners.
  • The mop head can be thrown right into the wash, which means less waste (compared to other disposable products).
  • The bucket is lightweight and easy to move around, as well as easy to carry even when it’s full.
  • The system is a great value at $39.99, especially considering how comprehensive and durable it is. (Oh and kids who WANT to mop? That’s worth a pretty penny on its own.)

If you've tried and failed at more than one kids chore system, it's time to factor in your unique personality. Plus, 3 simple systems to consider. #ad #WRINGinSpring

I’m always looking for new ideas, so tell us—What kind of chore systems have worked for you and your kids over the years? 

This post is sponsored by O-Cedar in partnership with the Mom It Forward Influencer Network, as part of the #WRINGinSpring campaign. While I was compensated to write this post, all ideas and opinions are my own. 

Add These 8 Superfoods to Your Diet Today!

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine. 

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine.

Hi everyone, it’s Kelsey again from Simple Life by Kels. I am excited to be back talking about how you can add superfoods to your diet TODAY. Often when we hear the term, we start to think of mysterious things that grow in far off places that cost us an arm and a leg.

Today I am going to tell you about some superfoods that are easily accessible, power packed, and that need to be a part of your diet. Among them are some of my favorite foods. Let’s get started!

Almonds

While all nuts are beneficial, almonds have the highest source of calcium at 23 mg/serving. They are loaded with fiber and monounsaturated fat, which both lower cholesterol. Furthermore, they are a great source of healthy fat and also a significant source of protein.

Blueberries

Blueberries are high in antioxidants, and rich in nutrients that help fight chronic disease. In addition, they contain lots of fiber, vitamin C, and phytonutrients. Fiber is extremely important, though often overlooked. Not to mention they taste lovely and kids think they are candy!

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine.

Sweet Potatoes

This root veggie has gained a lot of popularity lately and for good reason. It is loaded with beta carotene (which is converted to vitamin A in the body), vitamin B-6, vitamin c, fiber, and potassium. If your family isn’t fond of sweet potatoes, try making them into baked sweet potato fries or throwing them in this Sweet Potato Quinoa Chili. 

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine.

Flax Seeds

Flax helps manage cholesterol and contains high levels of omega 3 fats. Diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation can be managed in part with flax seeds. Flax is full of essential vitamins and minerals and dietary fiber.

Because of its high oil content, flax meal is best fresh and refrigerated to prevent spoilage. My favorite source for flax is the sprouted flax meal from the Green Smoothie Girl.

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine.

Pastured Eggs

I am going to be picky here as far as sourcing since there are many varieties of eggs. It can be confusing to know which ones to buy, but I have a post all about deciphering labels to get the most nutrient dense eggs, HERE. If you read that, you know why I add the “pastured” to this superfood label. It is important.

Eggs are one of the most nutrient dense foods we can consume. They are one of the best sources of protein available, contain all nine essential amino acids, and are jam packed with nutrients. Often we have been told to avoid the yolk because of cholesterol, but egg yolks contain choline, which helps prevent cholesterol and fat from accumulating in the liver, as well as protects heart and brain function. They are actually helping you fight cholesterol! So, go ahead and eat the yolks!

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine.

Turmeric

There have been over 6 thousand peer-reviewed journal articles published on the proven health and disease prevention benefits of turmeric. It has long been hailed as a super herb used in healing. The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric alone would make it a great addition to any diet in my book, but the benefits go far beyond that.

Most chronic pain and disease is due to inflammation occurring in the body. Finally, turmeric has been used in cancer treatment, arthritis and diabetes management, digestive issues, as painkillers, steroids, and more.

This wonder herb can be taken in capsule form, or added to soups, broths, or smoothies.

The term “superfood” has been thrown around a lot in the last few years. It may not be as intimidating as you think. Check out this list and then add superfoods to your daily routine.

Cinnamon

Try to find more ways to consume cinnamon! Not only does it soothe the stomach, cinnamon also improves brain function, can suppress and fight off UTIs, lowers bad cholesterol, and encourages healthy glucose metabolism in the body. There is a reason that ancient civilizations prized cinnamon!

Hit two birds with one stone by making my Maple Cinnamon Candied Nuts using almonds. Eating healthy doesn’t have to taste bad!

Avocado

Full of healthy fat, avocados are one of the first foods I introduced to my four babies along with pastured egg yolk. Fats are essential for life, and yet, they are one of the first nutrients we shy away from because of cultural beliefs and some bad science that led to the no-fat/low-fat diet craze. Eating healthy fat is essential for life. Avocado is a perfect source of this life-enhancing fat, therefore it should be consumed regularly.

I hope this list helps you to realize that there are some foods right at our fingertips that can provide a major nutritional punch. Don’t get caught up in the health food hype, instead choose some of these superfoods to incorporate right now and be sure to let me know which are your favorites!

How do you add superfoods into your routine?

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