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Minted Holiday Giveaway

*This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations go to Anne Molino! Please contact me via the ‘say hello’ button above to claim your prize in the next 48 hours! Thank you to all who entered! 

Our Christmas cards arrived in the mail yesterday and I couldn’t be happier with how they turned out! In the spirit of keeping things simple this year I’ve been eliminating a few things from my holiday to-do list. One thing was taking an official family Christmas photo and another was designing my own Christmas cards. It felt good to just let go and use an older photo that I already had and to turn the job of card design over to the lovely folks at Minted. Continue reading to find out more about our experience at Minted.com and enter to win an incredible $250.00 Minted credit!

When I started to have a look around at the holiday card choices at Minted.com I was amazed at the variety! There were so many gorgeous designs to choose from – the sky was the limit with what I wanted to do with our cards this year. I ended up going with something simple – if that’s a surprise. 😉 The front is pictured here and the back of the card is plain white, perfect for including a personal note to family and friends or even a picture drawn by the kids for the grandparents.
I’m a visual person, so one thing I loved about the order process at Minted was the quick view option where I could see a preview of how our photo would look in a variety of different card designs. It was so helpful in picking out a design that worked well with the photo I was using!

Once I’d chosen our card design, uploaded the photo and customized the message – that was it! Our cards were done and on order in less than an hour. I did have one quick question and I was so impressed with the quick response from customer service. Our cards arrived promptly and now I can’t wait to get them sent out! 

Check out the 2013 selection of holiday cards from Minted here. A few that caught my eye were the beautiful foil-pressed cards, some of their classic non-photo cards and their unique shape cards. Check out their coupon page for all the latest discount codes, which currently includes one for 15% off. 



Minted Flash Giveaway Details!

Today Minted is giving one lucky Simple as That reader the chance to win a $250.00 credit! This is HUGE and this is a flash giveaway, meaning it ends SOON so be sure to get your name in the draw ASAP. The giveaway will remain open until Thursday November 28th at midnight and the winner will be announced Friday morning! 

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25 No-Fuss Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Last year marked our first year with the Elf on the Shelf tradition and we had such a fun time during our visit from Harvey the Elf that we can’t wait until he returns on December 1st! While this tradition was magical, I realized quickly that it could also get overwhelming. Trying to come up with creative ideas every night and weeding through the hundreds of Elf on the Shelf ideas on Pinterest was tricky. I’m doing my best to keep things manageable this year thanks to some of these ideas!

This magical tradition has a way of getting overwhelming at times - but it doesn't have to! Here are 25 no-fuss Elf on the Shelf ideas that are fun for kids and easy on Mom! Includes free printable elf note cards.

Today I’m sharing 25 no-fuss Elf on the Shelf ideas that you’re going to love! These are things our Elf did last year and others I’ve found around the internet and on Pinterest. All of these ideas are quick, they involve little to no cleanup and they don’t cost much. Most importantly, these ideas are sure to inspire magical memories this holiday season!

1. Play hide and seek with tree ornaments. My kids thought this was so silly and had fun searching for the missing ornaments. See photo above.
2. Roasting mini marshmallows over a flameless candle.
3. Writing an email or letter to Santa.
4. Playing a board game with the toys.
5. An Elf message spelled out with candy.


6. Making paper snowflakes.
7. Working out with mini marshmallow dumbells.
8. Elf captured by Lego figures or other toys.
9. Fishing for goldfish crackers.
10. Coloring silly faces on framed family photos using a dry erase marker. See photo above.

11. Draw a red rudolph nose on the kids while they’re sleeping using a washable marker.
12. Go for a sleigh ride, animal toys dressed up as reindeer using brown pipe cleaners for antlers.
13. Have a paper sack race with stuffed animal friends.
14. Zipline through a room in the house with a candy cane.
15. Havw a bubble bath in the bathroom sink with mini marshmallows as bubbles.

16. Elf tangled up in ribbon while trying to wrap Christmas gifts.
17. Tie Mom or Dad’s shoelaces together.
18. Read a favourite Christmas book.
19. Toilet paper the Christmas tree, my kids thought this was SO funny! See photo above.
20. Color in a Christmas coloring book. See photo above.

21. Write “I will not….” lines on a chalkboard.
22. Sneak into a family members piggy bank. I made the money bag using kleenex and the mask with a piece of adhesive backed craft foam. See photo above.
23. Take a nap in a box of tissue.
24. Hide candy canes around the house, send kids on the hunt for them.
25. Trying to sneak a peek inside one of the presents under the tree.

There are all kinds of Elf on the Shelf ideas to be found out there. If you’re looking to keep this tradition simple then some of these things might be just what you’re looking for! 🙂 Another resource you might be interested in is this printable Elf on the Shelf calendar from my friend Kristina of One Happy Momma!

Our Elf Harvey often leaves a little note for the kids to explain his antics or tell them about a special treat he’s left for them, so I created some simple printable note cards to have on hand.

elf_printables

For more Christmas ideas and inspiration you may want to check out these popular posts:

Free Disney Frozen Printable Gift Tags

DIY Photos Cards using Digital Templates

2013 Photography Gift Guide

12 Quick Tips for Memorable Holiday Photos

Snowflake Ginger Crinkle Cookies

A Simple Christmas Bunting

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer Hairdo

Simple things Sunday Photo Link Party No.134

Yesterday we dug out the Christmas decorations and did some sorting and purging. For me, keeping things simple this Christmas, starts with keeping our home clutter free. We don’t have a lot of extra space in the house we’re renting so we’ve picked out some of our favourite decorations and will leave the rest packed away. We’ve also been going through all the kids clothes and toys to assess what they need this year. This will help us make some very intentional gift purchases and getting rid of the old will make room for the new.
  

Now it’s your turn to share what simple moments you’ve been celebrating this week! Join Stacy of KSW and I for Simple things Sunday! You can share your photos on both of our blogs using the linky tool below or  join us on instagram using hashtag #SimpleThingsSunday. Stacy on Instagram // Rebecca on Instagram

 
What is Simple things Sunday?

This weekly photo share is all about taking time to photograph the everyday details that make your life unique, beautiful, and special. Each Sunday we gather here to share our photos with each other. To enjoy the beauty that can be found in the ordinary and to be reminded of just how important the simple things are. 

Just a few quick rules to play:

1. Grab a Simple things Sunday button and include it in your simple things post.

2. Link back directly to your simple things post not your blog/website.
No links to other linky parties, giveaways or craft projects pretty please. 
This linky is all about the photos.

3. Be sure to pop by and visit at least 3 other links and leave a comment. Leave as many as you can.

Merry Christmas Printable Wall Art

A few weeks ago I shared these fun and free printable Christmas gift tags and today I wanted to share some coordinating art prints that are a simple and inexpensive way to add a little festive flair to your home decor.

 I’m such a fan of simple, timeless typography and these prints are available in the digital shop on sale through December first for only $2.00. They come in chalkboard, turquoise or red and when you purchase a set, it comes with an 8×10 and 11×14 size version.

I have an inexpensive white frame that I purchased at Walmart and I love to change out the artwork that I display in it seasonally. It can sit on a shelf as part of a larger display or hang on a wall on its own. I love being able to change it up and that it’s so inexpensive to do so – only $2-3 dollars for enlarged prints at my local photo lab!

You can purchase the Merry Christmas art prints in the Simple as That Digital Shop here.

For more information about my Retro Type Christmas tags and to download a free set for yourself, visit this post. They come in the same color set as the art prints and they’re a cute way to add a little personal touch to your holiday packaging.

Holiday Cards from Minted

It’s that time of year again! Time to start thinking about sending out Holiday cards. I enjoy designing my own cards, but this year, I’m thrilled to turn the job over to the folks at Minted! I’ve got our cards ordered and they’re on their way. I can’t wait until they arrive so I can share them with you! 



About Minted

Minted is the world’s premier marketplace for independent design. Their mission is to find exceptional artists and designers all over the world and bring their work to consumers who appreciate great design. Minted crowd-sources design and art from a global community of independent designers, then sell their best designs as fine products such as stationery, wall art, and décor for the home, holidays, and occasions. They only use fine paper stock, rich inks, and crisp printing methods. 


Minted has just released their 2013 Holiday Card Collection and their lineup of exquisitely designed cards is something to see. Scroll down to see a few designs that caught my eye.

I really like their new foil-pressed cards. They are so beautiful and add just the right amount of shimmer and shine.



You can choose from hundreds of photo and non-photo cards and I love that Minted offers custom shapes. They are such a fun way to add a unique flair to your holiday card design.



I really like the idea of this Year in Review card. The typography is pretty and the ability to customize this card and fill it will fun details to share with family and friends is so great!

There are SO many more gorgeous holiday card designs at Minted, you can check them out here!


This post is sponsored by Minted.com but all opinions are 100% my own.

Simple things Sunday Photo Link Party No.133

We’re off for the weekend enjoying some gorgeous views in Northern Arizona. We hiked Bell Rock yesterday and it was amazing! I’m feeling so grateful for a much needed break in Randal’s school schedule, a last minute family trip and the beauty of nature that is all around us!

Now it’s your turn to share what simple moments you’ve been celebrating this week! Join Stacy of KSW and I for Simple things Sunday! You can share your photos on both of our blogs using the linky tool below or  join us on instagram using hashtag #SimpleThingsSunday. Stacy on Instagram // Rebecca on Instagram

 
If you’re new to Simple as That I’d love for you join us in this weekly tradition! 

What is Simple things Sunday?

This weekly photo share is all about taking time to photograph the everyday details that make your life unique, beautiful, and special. Each Sunday we gather here to share our photos with each other. To enjoy the beauty that can be found in the ordinary and to be reminded of just how important the simple things are. 

Just a few quick rules to play:

1. Grab a Simple things Sunday button and include it in your simple things post.

2. Link back directly to your simple things post not your blog/website.
No links to other linky parties, giveaways or craft projects pretty please. 
This linky is all about the photos.

3. Be sure to pop by and visit at least 3 other links and leave a comment. Leave as many as you can.

Give Thanks Printable Quotes Collection

I appreciate Thanksgiving and the opportunity it gives me to examine my life more closely and express gratitude for things that I so often take for granted. I may be feeling a little off centre, celebrating Thanksgiving in November, along with all of our American friends, but I couldn’t let that stop me from creating a few quote cards focused on the meaning behind this special holiday.

I really enjoyed searching for quotes and putting these designs together. I found so many great reminders to live with thankfulness everyday. My favorite quotes mini album is slowly beginning to fill up and I love it more now that ever. When I need a quick pick me up,  flipping through this little album filled with inspirational words seems to do the trick every time! You can read more about my album here and here.

There are eight cards in the new Give Thanks Collection and you’ll find a fun freebie that coordinates with the set that can be download right here. There are (4) 3×4 and (4) 4×6 cards included in the set and they come in PDF and JPG formats, making them easy to print at home or at your favorite photo lab.

Download the FREE Give Thanks Printable Quotes Now!


I hope you enjoy this collection as much as I do! I’m always on the hunt for new quotes that I can turn into cute printables. What is one quote that you would add to your favorite quotes album?  I’d love for you to share in the comments and who knows, it may be included in my next set of printables!

Arbonne Christmas Giveaway

*This giveaway is now closed. The winner, according to random.org, is Darcie Putnam. Congrats Darcie! Contact me using the ‘say hello’ tab above and we’ll get you your prize!

Don’t forget about the HUGE Arbonne savings for all Simple as That readers! Contact Susan to save 35% on your entire order – includes any of Arbonne’s incredible products + holiday gifts!

I’m excited about this fun Christmas giveaway from a company that I love! I discovered Arbonne about a year ago and have been using their products ever since. As a woman in her mid thirties, I can appreciate their products anti-aging properties, and as a mother, I value the fact that all of their products are safe and healthy for my family.









What I love about Arbonne

Arbonne has been in business for over 30 years manufacturing quality, safe and effective health and beauty products. Here’s what I love about Arbonne:

* Their products are botanically based, contain no artificial dyes or other unwanted chemicals.
* Arbonne is a green company with earth friendly packaging.
* Arbonne stands by their products and offers a 45 day money back guarantee.
* Arbonne is an international company and is sold within the US, Canada, the UK and Australia. With warehouses in each country, shipping is available to your home without international shipping charges.



35% off Arbonne for Simple as That Readers

I was first introduced to Arbonne by Susan Casement, an independent consultant and regional manager. She knows her stuff when it comes to Arbonne and today Susan is offering all Simple as That readers an incredible opportunity to save! You’re not going to find this offer anywhere else!

Susan will be using her own consultant ID to give you 35% off your Arbonne order. Shipping and taxes still apply and will vary depending on where you live. To take advantage of this offer you can shop the Arbonne catalog here and get in touch with Susan via Facebook or email her at susancasement{at}yahoo{dot}ca with your order or any questions you may have. This discount is typically only available to consultants, so if you’ve ever wanted to try Arbonne, purchasing now is a great opportunity to get some incredible products at a great price!

This 35% discount offer is only available in Canada or the US. You can take advantage of this discount now through December 31st. Products ship from within your home country so no international shipping charges apply – the products ship right to your door. If you’d like your order to arrive before Christmas orders must be placed before November 30th.


There are so many items I have on my gift list from the current Arbonne catalog. The Pampermint Foot care set is always a must + they sell out quickly because they make the perfect gift to give to teachers, employees or coworkers and friends/family! 


I also love Arbonne’s baby care line, it’s soft and gentle and they have a brand new bubble bath set that smells amazing!

More of my favorite Arbonne products include their amazing vegan nutritional line of supplements and daily essentials, their renowned makeup primer, their sea source fortifying hair mask and SO much more! Shop the entire selection of holiday gift ideas from Arbonne here.


Enter to win an Arbonne Prize Package valued at $85.00

Today Susan is giving away a Pampermint Foot Care Set + a 10 pack of Vegan Protein Shakes! Prize value is $85.00! Simply follow the prompts in the rafflecopter widget below. Earn 10 bonus entries by placing an Arbonne order {at the incredible 35% discount mentioned above} between November 14 – November 20th! Be sure to leave your email address in the widget so that Susan contact you about upcoming Arbonne promotions and information about products that you have your eye on! Good luck everyone! Giveaway closes November 21st at 12am MST.


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A Monster Party Made Easy

Our son turned nine last week + he wanted a monster themed party. We were able to have lots of fun with it, while still keeping things simple + budget friendly.  I thought I’d share a few of the favours and activities from the party along with some quick + easy tutorials on how we put things together.

These are the invites we sent out for the party. I made them in photoshop then had them printed as 4×6’s at Costco – super cheap + fast. If you don’t want to make your own invites, I found all kinds of cute monster invitations on Etsy that were made to order or were available as an instant download to customize + print yourself.

The first thing we put together for the monster party were these cute party bags. My son helped me make them and they took no time at all. When it comes to party prep, I love including my kids in the work!

The supplies you’ll need to make your own monster party bags are: an extra large circle punch, 1 inch circle punch, 1/2 inch circle punch, a regular hole punch, green party bags, and a gluestick.

Monster Party Bag Instructions

1. Punch a circle out of white cardstock using the largest circle punch.
2. Punch a circle out of blue paper with the medium size punch and a black circle using the 1/2 inch punch.
3. Next glue the small black circle in the center of the blue circle. Using the regular hole punch, make a hole as pictured above, through the black and blue circles. This little hole is what will add a little sparkle to your monster eye.
4. Now glue the blue/black circle piece on top of the large white circle and attach to the center of the green party bag.

When the boys arrived at the party, my oldest daughter and I had this Monster Factory set up at the kitchen table where they could each make their own monster. We had 9, nine year old boys crafting up a storm with these little felt monsters and they loved it!

I cut out the basic shapes from felt and then the boys made their own unique monster with any combination of monster parts. We had bodies in different shapes and sizes, horns, teeth, eyeballs, mouths, arms and legs. It was cute to see all the one-of-a-kind monsters that the boys created!

These monster cupcakes were really easy. Just a batch of vanilla cupcakes plus green icing + wilton white candy melts and melted chocolate chips for the eyeballs. 
At the party the boys made their felt monsters, played a rousing game of Don’t Eat Pete the Monster, then after cupcakes and ice cream they all enjoyed watching Monsters University. 

I decorated the front door to look like a monster using a dollar store table cloth, paper plates and poster board. It was a fun backdrop to use for a group photo of all the party guests before they all went home.
It was a fun party and like I said, it definitely didn’t break the bank. If you’re looking for more Monster party inspiration you can check out my Monster Fun pinterest board where I’ve been pinning lots of fun ideas!




Family Tradition | Christmas Book Countdown

With just a few more weeks until December first, I’m starting to get things ready for our annual Christmas book countdown. This simple, yet meaningful tradition is one that my children love and look forward to each year. As a mom and book lover, I’m absolutely thrilled that this special tradition centers around reading!



We have many fond family memories of snuggling up on the couch and reading Christmas books by the light of the Christmas tree each year. I love that this tradition brings a bit of calm to the craziness of the holiday season. It gathers our family together at the end of each day, fosters connections and creates special memories.

A little bit about our Christmas Book Countdown

Through the years I’ve slowly added Christmas books to our collection. We borrow them from the library before we buy to make sure we’ll really love them first. Near the end of November I pull our Christmas books out of storage and wrap them up to be place under the Christmas tree in a special basket/container. We start our countdown on December first and the youngest child gets to open the first book. Each night before bed – pajamas must be on and teeth brushed first – we take turns opening that days book and then read it together as a family.

When wrapping our books I label each package with the number 1 through 24 so we know which book is to be opened each day. Some years I’ve written numbers on the wrapping paper with a black sharpie, other years I’ve gotten a little more adventurous. We always read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” on Christmas Eve so that one is the last book we open. Before we’d collected 24 Christmas books of our own, I would wrap up library books to be opened near the beginning of our countdown so that they could be returned to the library ASAP.



This doesn’t need to be an expensive tradition. You can use what books you have and purchase a book or two each year to slowly add to your Christmas collection.

If you’re looking for some book recommendations, here’s a list of 50 fabulous Christmas books that all got my kids stamp of approval last year! Included in this list are some of our family’s absolute favorites – Stickman, The Jolly Christmas Postman, The Crippled Lamb, Snowmen at Christmas and Dream Snow to name a few.



What are some of your family’s most loved Christmas books? Books you remember reading as a child? I’d love to hear in the comments. Do you do a Christmas book countdown at your house too?

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