Tag Archives: Mommy Ramblings

Christmas in Heaven DIY to Remember Those We Have Lost

The holidays can be very difficult to get through when you have suffered a loss. When I first made this DIY, I had not lost my oldest son. I made it in remembrance of my parents. Since losing my son, I appreciate the sentiment more than ever. I thought I would share this with you.

Perhaps you could make this for someone who has lost someone or for yourself. I hope you will let me know what you think in the comments. God Bless and Merry Christmas.


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Christmas DIY Glitter Ornaments

My Grinch Glitter Ornaments

I love crafting, and one of the best things I learned to make was glitter ornaments using clear plastic ornament shapes. The first time I made them I used Polycrylic and extra fine glitter. I eventually tried the Mop and Glow instead of the Polycrylic. I think both products worked well, but I do think that the Polycrylic may hold up better in the long run.

Watch My Tutorial

I used my Cricut Maker to further decorate the ornaments with words or the Grinch graphics. I gave them as presents to family, friends and my children’s teachers. For their teachers, I personalized the back of the Grinch ornaments with their names. The teachers absolutely loved the ornaments, they were a huge hit!

My Glitter Ornaments
My Grinch Glitter Ornaments
My Glitter DIY Ornaments

You can check out my videos and also my Instagram. Please subscribe to us on YouTube. Merry Christmas and please leave a comment on what you think and let me know if you try this.


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7 Must-Have Kids Cooking Accessories for a Fun and Safe Kitchen Experience

Free Woman in Purple Robe Holding White Ceramic Bowl Stock Photo

To most mothers, it is undeniably essential to teach their children the very pinnacle of domestic chores. Cooking is a task that engages both the mind and the body. Children often find it interesting to know how to create the delicious meals they eat.

When children come of age, parents often want to equal their eagerness by making the teaching process enjoyable. However, curiosity may put them in difficult situations without the proper guidance or equipment.

To avoid potential mishaps, there are several kitchen accessories you can purchase to ensure  a fun cooking experience with your kid:

Apron

The need for a cute, colorful, and small apron requires no explanation. Children are visual learners who effectively imitate the most notable things they see. An apron will prevent messes and make them genuinely feel the role of cooking because they see their parents wear it.

Although the primary function of the apron is to teach your children not to get food on their clothes, children must also learn to look bright and presentable like their parents. You can find many great shops around such as My Happy Helpers that offer quality aprons perfect for the kitchen and allow your children to retain that adorable outfit.

Free A Girl Standing at the Table Stock Photo

Tongs

Frying is inevitable in cooking, especially when most of the food children enjoy is often dipped in oil. If the heat emerging from the pan scares your little helper, tongs help keep a safe distance, allowing them to participate in the process.

In addition, not only do tongs help with flipping the nuggets, but they also reach through boiling water. Cooking may also involve handling foods from the oven. It is the same principle of keeping away from the heat except, now, distance is being used.

Gloves

Cooking is not always cooking! Often, children will feel sudden cravings for cookies. Baking involves a lot of skinship with the ingredients, and therefore, it is vital to instill in the child’s mind the importance of wearing gloves.

The material over their hands will prevent any harmful particles from entering the food they are making. Of course, washing hands before handling the ingredients is most appropriate, but no one can monitor what else the child has touched. Therefore, using gloves is the safest way to go.

Free Children Slicing Vegetables Stock Photo

Arm Cuffs

Arm cuffs may sound new to the parent. It is a literal cotton cuff that covers below the elbow towards the wrist and serves as protection from oil, heat, or grease. The lower region of the arm is a child’s most vulnerable part of the skin.

Arm cuffs are usually made of cotton or muslin material which easily shields the skin from unwanted substances. Muslin fabric is incredibly breathable for the skin. Therefore, it is only rightful that arm cuffs be worn to avoid scars or burns, often gained in that part of the body.

Ceramic Blade Knife

The holy grail of the cooking  process is cutting. Among many others, children want to learn the precision and sharpness of the cut, or maybe experience it. Ceramic blade knives, then, are highly recommended.

Ceramic blades are manufactured in a way that precisely cuts through food but requires great force to cut through flesh. The lightness of the design also allows children to lift and use it comfortably. Thus, if you’re looking for a safe way to let your children practice slicing, a micro-ceramic blade is the perfect tool for the job.

Stainless Steel Pan

Non-stick pans are all the rage nowadays. In addition, most households use non-stick pans for convenience due to the lack of time allotted for cooking. However, stainless steel pans are a better start for beginners as the heat is evenly regulated on its surface.

Children are yet to learn how to adjust the heat level and so they need an evenly regulated pan to assist. Of course, parents will be present to give them detailed explanations on how to do it properly; children must practice with the utmost comfort for them to enjoy the experience.

Wood Handle

Aside from using potholders, it is essential to use fool-proof items in the kitchen that eliminate every possibility of danger. Therefore, any equipment within the child’s reach must have a wooden handle; as much as possible.

Any other material except metal may suffice, but wood promotes a tighter grip and much less heat conductivity. Wood also has a brighter color contrast to the pan. Most wood handles come in beige or maple in color and will be identifiable compared to the dark gray portion of the pan, which visually engages the children to move their hands away from it.

Final Thoughts

Cooking is an exciting endeavor for children despite being quite exhausting for adults. Creating meals brings a family together as much as delectable food. But make sure to keep your kids away from the heat, the sharp edges, and the mess! Happy cooking!

Free Crop focused African American child rolling out dough near parent while preparing gingerbread cookies at home Stock Photo

This is a collaborative post. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.

 

 

 

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Printique Brings Moments You Treasure To Life!

When my oldest son passed away unexpectedly in May of 2020, I learned how important photos are. When it is all you have left of the life of the child that you love beyond words, photos are everything! I used Printique to print some of my favorite photos onto wood and canvas. I treasure the finished product. Check out my video below to see them.

Showcase the memories you have made with your family and friends with photo books, wall decor, canvas prints and more when you use Printique.

When moments matter, print them. Printique is an online photo boutique that specializes in printing memories on photo books, prints and wall decor. Take the time to print your life for you and your little ones. Save 15% on your first order with code: WELCOME15

Remember savor those moments, they are so special. When you have your favorites captured check out Printique and Save 15% on your First Print Order – Click HERE for your coupon code.

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Subscibe, Bake and Discover with Baketivity!

Do you love spending quality time with your children or grandchildren? Who doesn’t right? Spending time together creates those memories that all of you will treasure for a lifetime. Baking in the kitchen with the kids is a great way to bond and have fun. An easy way to get started is with a Baketivity Baking Kit. 

Baketivity is more than just a baking kit; it’s a wonderful way to bond with your kids and build skills in an informal way. It’s easy, fun and mess free and you will end up with the most delicious results.

Baketivity Kits are filled wiwht wholesome ingredients so you can create masterpieces and memories with Fresh, Certified Kosher Ingredients That Are Manufactured In An FDA Approved Facility In The USA.If you are intimidated by baking, relax. Baketivity is a cake walk, just mix and stir the pre-measured ingredients and simple, kid-friendly instructions.

Each kit has a recipe book with step-by-step instructions with colorful, kid-friendly illustrations to make sure every bite comes out perfectly. Don’t be stressed, Baketivity provides enjoyable learning where you and your kids can explore exciting, colorful lessons and play educational games while your goodies bake. A detailed shopping list for all the wet ingredients and baking tools is provided in each kit.

As a fun bonus, you can dress for the part with the free chef’s hat and apron. Your little baker will love it! Best of all, you can enjoy sweet savings today with code FAMILYGUIDE to get 18% on any subscription plans. Click Here for Coupon.


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Filed under Baking, Family Fun, subscription boxes

Dinner Made Easy with Gobble

I was sent a big box of deliciousness from Gobble. Do you find planning, shopping and cooking dinner to be a hassle especially during the summer and back to school time of the year? I can totally relate if you answered yes to my previous question. When I was contacted to try Gobble, I jumped at the chance and I want to share it with you.

When you use Gobble it is so easy to put a delicious dinner on your table in just 15 minutes. The first step is to choose your meals from Gobble’s diverse weekly menu, including low carb & veggie options! Gobble’s team of chefs will then work to select and package their carefully sourced, quality ingredients that are freshly prepped and portioned. No need to measure, chop or peel! 

When your Gobble box arrives, you just need to unpack and put it away in your fridge.  Now everyone knows what’s for dinner and you will love how Gobble’s  prepared meal kits make cooking fast, so you have time to unwind and be with family.

Don’t be intimidated, even if you are not Gordon Ramsay or Bobby Flay in the kitchen. Gobble’s step-by-step recipe cards make it simple to follow along and end up with a delicious meal you and your family will savor.

The best way to share is to let you see it on video. So check out my videos below and then click the link below the videos to take advantage of a special offer.

The first dinner I made was Chicken Marsala with Broccolini and Toasted Orzo

This is my video cooking the Sheet Pan Basil Pesto Salmon with a Panzanella Salad

Here is a short with ASMR of the Chicken Marsala

Don’t you just love the ease and freshness of the Gobble dinner kits? If so, click the banner below or at the top of this page for a special offer from Gobble. Let me know your thoughts in the comments. 


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Fur You Only: 7 Reasons Why It Is Good to Raise Kids With Pet

Black and Tan Long Coat Dog

So your kids have been asking for a pet as a gift. As their parent, you’re uncertain whether they’re up for a commitment as big as taking care of a kitten or a puppy. The problem is, their sweet faces are too adorable to resist! How about shifting your focus on the benefits you’ll enjoy once your family starts raising children with pets around?

Your child asking for a pet is more than just wishing for a hot new toy. They see animals, big or small, as a potential best friend, a companion they can cuddle when you’re too busy doing chores. It also helps them have a positive emotional development as they grow up. Discover more of the reasons why it’s beneficial for children to grow up with pets below:

Pets Teach Kids Responsibility and Empathy

When taking care of an animal in the house, it is normal for them to become dependent on the human they trust the most. Usually that person would be your child. After spending time with each other, your child can’t help but predict the needs of their pets. They would even worry if they notice their rabbit, dog, or cat looks sad.

All these activities will slowly teach your kids the value and beauty of responsibility and empathy. For example, your child has been worrying about your golden retriever scratching nonstop for several days already. They will then start looking for options with you, such as browsing through websites like the Aristopet website for a remedy.

Free stock photo of adult, architecture, boy

Pets Help Improve Language Skills Among Children

You might not believe it, but child development and relationships with animals are interconnected. So, if you want to enrich your kid’s language skills, having a pet for them to talk to all the time comfortably can help. Animals are so much more than a simple animated toy; they can even be emotional support for your child to rely on when growing up.

Pets Decrease the Risk of Asthma and Allergies

Some studies prove exposure to animals has decreased the chances of allergic rhinitis among 7 to 9-year olds and asthma among 12 to 13-year olds. Most children who have had pets growing up also had negative skin tests for outdoor (grass and ragweed) and indoor (dust and pet-mite) allergens.

All these reasons may help you to take the plunge into pet ownership. Whatever you decide, be a responsible pet owner and make sure the pet you choose fits your lifestyle.

Woman in Yellow Sweater While Reading a Book

 

Pets Encourage Your Child to Be More Active

Hiking with your adventurous cat or taking your dog for a walk helps encourage your kids to go outside and be more active. In this situation the world has now, children are forced to spend most of their time in online classes, making their physical activities more limited.

But when you allow your child  to take care of a pet, they can enjoy all health-related benefits of an active outdoor lifestyle. Just by playing fetch with their dogs, children can get at least 5 hours of physical activity. That’s a big number, considering this remote set-up.

Group of trekkers with dog resting on mountain top

Pets Make Relationship Among Family Members Grow Stronger

Animals around your house help relationships among family members grow much stronger. As you spend more time with your pets, they tend to become the focus of all your activities, allowing you to have common things to talk about together.

For example, you can drive as a family to have your cat checked in a veterinary clinic. Or, your kids can share responsibilities with feeding, grooming, or playing with the dog. This leads to siblings going along, making them happier and comfortable. Pets can even distract your children from fighting or shouting at each other.

Pets Can Reduce Loneliness and Boredom

Most kids are often easily bored, which leads them to feel lonelier at the house. Pets are a great companion for kids of all ages. They can play together, snuggle up on the couch, or sleep beside each other. Besides, children often talk to their pets differently as they do with grown-ups.

With imagination as creative as children have, they imagine their cats or dogs talking back to them, making them less lonely, especially now that they don’t get to see other kids their age. At least, having an animal around the house allows them to have a reliable friend to hang out with.

Pets Increase Your Family’s Sense of Security

Pets, especially dogs, can help increase your family’s sense of security as they can easily scare off burglars or trespassers just as much as alarm systems. Animals like birds and cats are also sensitive to strange sounds, so they can alert you whenever there’s trouble around the area.

Takeaway

Apart from the treasured moments and memories, animals can give your kids, they can also help in improving their emotional development and physical health. If you’re still hesitant about getting a pet for your child, this can be your sign to adopt or go to the nearest pet store to grab your kid’s dream puppy or kitten.

Short-coat Brown Dog Lying on Snow

 

This is a collaborative guest post. The ideas presented do not necessarily represent those of Mommy Ramblings.

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Check Out How We Refreshed Our Eastern Jungle Gym Fantasy Play Set- Swing Set

When you invest in a quality wood swing set, you want to make sure it lasts and that your kids won’t outgrow it. We are so happy with our Eastern Jungle Gym Fantasy Swing Set. This set is even strong enough for adults and what adult couldn’t use a turn on the swings or a ride down the slide every now and then?

Fantasy

 

When we were shopping for a wood swing set we wanted to go with a company we could trust. Eastern Jungle Gym has been the industry-leader in backyard playsets since 1992. They use the highest quality materials and that means your swing set will be around for many years of fun and memory making. Heavy duty hardware, recessed hardware and cedar construction makes every Eastern Jungle Gym swing set safe and sturdy.

Our play set was purchased around 10 years ago and is still going strong. This year, after a rough winter we gave our set some much needed TLC. You will be amazed at how nice it turned out. It literally looks brand new.

If you are shopping for a new swing set or accessories, check out Eastern Jungle Gym. We could not be happier with the quality and customer service. Let me know what you think.


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Filed under Home & Garden, kids, Outdoor Fun

“Will You Be My Friend?” Book Review and Giveaway

Who does not love Big and Little Nutbrown Hare? They are the sweetest things and you are sure to know them from Guess How Much I Love You? Well, I have wonderful news if you love them as much as I do. Will You Be My Friend? is the delightful sequel by legendary author and illustrator duo Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram.

Little Nutbrown Hare is out exploring on his own. Off he hops along the path and through the grass until he reaches Cloudy Mountain, where something extraordinary happens: he discovers a new friend! Now the fun can really begin. Twenty-five years after we met the Nutbrown Hares, this enchanting new tale about friendship is bound to capture the hearts of Guess How Much I Love You fans—and everyone else—the world over.

The beautiful and charming illustrations in this book just make me smile from ear to ear. It is the sweetest book to share with the children and grandchildren in your life. This book makes a perfect gift for expectant parents as well. It is never too early to introduce children to books. I read to my children in utero.

We are thrilled to announce that we are having a giveaway for one copy of this hardcover book. You can read the rules and enter for your chance to win below.

Will You Be My Friend? Hardcover Book Giveaway

Candlewick Press  is sponsoring this giveaway on Mommy Ramblings. One lucky blog reader will win their own hardcover copy of Will You Be My Friend! Thanks to Candlewick Press for providing me a copy of this book and for providing a book for the giveaway winner! Open to US Residents. Good Luck.

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One Big Canvas Awareness Book Tour and Giveaway

 

We are thrilled to take part in the One Big Canvas Awareness Book Tour. One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece is a delightful and insightful book that uses colorful paintbrush characters to help children understand what autism is. The book never mentions autism verbatim, instead it talks about the different ways someone with autism might act. This makes it seem not so scary or odd for kids and helps them to accept other’s differences. It is reassuring that all is okay even though some behavior is different. 

I think this book is a great resource to use with your own children or in a school setting. Tolerance and understanding is what we need to impress on kids when dealing with everyone’s uniqueness. Helping children understand and accept that not everyone is the same and that is okay, can help them embrace these differences instead of being afraid or annoyed by them.

The other book I was sent, One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay dives a little deeper into how to interact with kindness and understanding. The paintbrushes are excited for their new friend Clay’s visit. They go about preparing a banner to welcome him. However, when Clay arrives, his loud voice is too much for Paul who covered his ears and rolled up in a ball. Clay asks the other brushes what’s wrong with Paul who kept repeating it was too loud. Reese steps up to tell Clay that loud sounds bother Paul and that they try to speak low.

Clay learns that Estelle will stop humming when she is ready and that Jerry loves boats and ships so much he talks about them over and over. When Clay gets annoyed, Reece steps in again and reminds him of the importance to be caring and kind. When Clay thinks it over, he comes back in the shape of a ship. He explains it’s for Jerry to have a fun trip. Clay does not forget to let Paul know that they will quietly float on the blue painted waves. All the brushes jump onboard and show kindness and compassion is the way.

I think both of these books help convey the message that everyone is unique and the things we may at first think are annoying may be something more. Instead of responding with anger or frustration, it can help children understand that there may be other reasons why someone hums low or says the same thing over and over.

ABOUT THE BOOKS

One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382

Publisher’s Synopsis: Join a spunky collection of paintbrushes as they set out to create a grand masterpiece.

When some of the brushes don’t cooperate, is it because they are misbehaving…or is there another reason entirely? In this story, young readers are introduced to some of the behavioral differences in their autistic peers.

Without ever mentioning any particular challenge or disability by name, this story helps children recognize and understand what autism is, and impress upon them the importance of showing kindness to those who are different, wrapped into a fun story with lighthearted, engaging characters.

They worked through the day, then stopped and admired,

the wisdom their now-painted canvas inspired:

their painting was perfect, It all meshed just fine,

with its colorful circles, and angry green line.

It was a true masterpiece, not one thing was wrong,

including the hum of their single-note song.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3v9ibq3

One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382

Publisher’s Synopsis: The brushes are back! Join Reese, Estelle and the rest of the gang in the art studio in another adventure as they learn the value of kindness and understanding.

When Clay comes to visit from the other side of the art studio, the brushes are excited to welcome their friend. But when a few of the brushes start acting differently, Clay needs to be reminded that it’s important to be accepting:

“Some brushes are different, so we like to remind,

it’s kind to be caring, so take care to be kind.”

Will Clay leave the brushes in frustration, or will he learn to mold his thinking as he comes to understand and accept that brushes have different abilities and challenges? Without ever mentioning autism or any particular disability, The Molding of Clay helps introduce children to the behavioral differences of their autistic peers, creating an opportunity for discussion. It helps teachers and parents impress upon them the importance of understanding, acceptance and kindness, through a fun, lighthearted story with quirky and colorful characters.

https://amzn.to/3dIFdxZ

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

The REED Foundation for Autism is committed to providing individuals with autism the opportunity to learn, live, work and thrive at every stage of their lives. For more information, please visit https://www.reedfoundationforautism.org.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a ‘One Big Canvas’ book series prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

  • A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
  • A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
  • A $50 Amazon gift card

Two (2) winners receive:

  • A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
  • A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

The giveaway begins April 23, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends May 23, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

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I have partnered with The Children’s Book Review and the REED Foundation for Autism in this book tour. While I received the books to facilitate my review, all opinions and views are 100% my own.


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