Toddler toys that are embellished with flashing lights and blasting sounds abound in toy stores. Like most toddlers, my daughter is drawn to these. However, despite her initial interest, they don’t hold her attention for very long. She favors battery-free toys that are simple and versatile. I love these toys, too, because they allow her … [Read more...] about The Best Low-Tech Toddler Toys
Easy Ways to Open and Serve Hard-to-Cut Fruits
My toddler ate fresh pineapple for the first time a couple of weeks ago and she loved it! I found pineapples on sale this week, so I purchased one and now it is sitting on my kitchen counter waiting for me to work up the initiative to slice it. I have to work up the initiative because I’ve always found cutting into a pineapple to be a … [Read more...] about Easy Ways to Open and Serve Hard-to-Cut Fruits
Why Today is So Important for Your Kids
So much of motherhood is about just surviving today. I can have patience today when my toddler throws a fit. I can manage to get the kitchen mopped today. We can make it through the grocery store without incident today. At the same time, so much of motherhood is about looking forward. When will my child reach the next developmental milestone? … [Read more...] about Why Today is So Important for Your Kids
Is Rinse Aid in Your Dishwasher Really Beneficial?
Dishwasher rinse aid is a relatively new concept to me. I don’t recall seeing or hearing about rinse aid products when I was a child, nor do I recall there being a special spot in the dishwasher where you were supposed to deposit one of these products. I’ve ignored the rinse aid reservoirs in the dishwashers I’ve had access to during my … [Read more...] about Is Rinse Aid in Your Dishwasher Really Beneficial?
Riveting Reads: March and April 2016
As I did in February, I am going to take a break from my normal posts to share with you some inspiring, insightful, and thought-provoking posts that I have read on other blogs during the last two months. I hope you enjoy these as much as I have. Riveting reads from March and April 2016 Jo at Finding Joy in the Everyday shares about … [Read more...] about Riveting Reads: March and April 2016
6 Easy Ways to Refresh Yourself Midday
I’m always excited to get some things done and to have a little “me time” when I put my daughter down for nap in the afternoon. Unfortunately, on many days I don’t get anything accomplished during her nap because I find myself feeling tired and having trouble focusing. Thankfully, there are a number of easy things we can do to … [Read more...] about 6 Easy Ways to Refresh Yourself Midday
Things to Consider When Buying New Appliances
We recently bought appliances for our newly purchased house. We knew when we first looked at the house that we would need to provide our own fridge, washer, and dryer, but we soon learned that it would be best to replace all of the kitchen appliances. We did a lot of research before making our appliance purchases. I’m so glad we did … [Read more...] about Things to Consider When Buying New Appliances
Cajun Chicken Penne
When we eat out at restaurants, my husband often orders Cajun pasta dishes. Because he likes them so much, I decided to add one to our menu this spring. I think he’ll be asking for this to be included on future menus! Ingredients (Adapted from this recipe.) 3 cups penne pasta (uncooked measure) 2 tablespoons butter 2 boneless, … [Read more...] about Cajun Chicken Penne