Tuesday, December 31, 2013
CLOSED Runner Runner #giveaway CAN/US 1/12
Runner Runner will be released on January 7th to Blu ray and DVD. Have you seen it yet? Now is your chance to enter to win a copy.
2013 Re-Cap
Here is a re-cap of some of my most popular posts from 2013. A few recipes, a few DIY posts and a review - oh, and can't forget the lilac thief also.
Have a look at the posts below, which one is your fav?
10) How To Make an Indoor Sandbox
9) DIY Christmas Wreath
8) The Best Shortbread Cookies
7) Great Gift Ideas For Teachers
6) Mint Topped Chocolate Cookies
5) Caramel Cream Cheese Apple Dip
4) Peanut Butter Balls
3) The Lilac thief strikes
2) Green Beaver Sunscreen Review
AND - the top post of the year
1) Home made pizza crust with SteamWhistle Beer
and below you will find a list of MY favorite posts from 2013 (not in any particular order)
- Showing holiday spirit by giving back
- This was a sponsored post, however I loved that it got us working together as a family to do something kind for others
- The things kids say
- A conversation with Mr. K about my dad
- Cirque du Soleil - Totem
- An amazing experience (only happened because of the blog) with my cousin/friend
- The Lilac thief strikes again
- this post means a lot because of the kindness of a stranger - the good outweighed the bad
Monday, December 30, 2013
What Do Kellogg's Cereals and The Sun Have In Common?
Can you guess what it is? Hint: what does the sun give us? Vitamin D! Yep - that's right - Kellogg's has added Vitamin D to 13 of their most loved cereals (including Rice Krispies, Fruit Loops, Frosted Flakes and Corn Pops), to help us get the very important D that most of us are lacking.
I remember when my kids were born, it was stressed that they needed a Vitamin D supplement since I was nursing. I did a little research, and found that most adults are lacking in their Vitamin D. The sun is the most natural source for it. Spending time outdoors is a great way to absorb it naturally from the suns rays, however in the winter with the angle of the sun, the rays just don't reach us here in Canada like they do in the summer. Adding a supplement or increasing your intake of foods rich with Vitamin D is a great substitute for those months.
As a Kellogger, I was sent a special "Winter Sunshine Package". It was a nice surprise when it showed up on my door! The kids and I were excited to open it, and we found a few boxes of the new Vitamin D fortified cereals, as well as a really cool sun alarm.
The sun alarm acts as an alarm clock, and approximately 30 minutes before you set the wake up time, the "sunshine" starts. It starts off slow and the light increases, to try and help you wake up naturally. I have been using it for a few weeks now and find that I am much more awake when I first get up than I was before. Kind of like in the summer when I wake because of the light coming in the windows. Much better than the groggy feeling when you awaken to a loud alarm.
As a mom, I am happy to know that when I pour their morning bowl of Rice Krispies or Special K, and add in 1/2 cup of milk that they are now getting 45% of the amount of Vitamin D that Health Canada recommends. The cereal, some fruit and yogurt and they have a great breakfast in their belly to start the day.
In addition to the Vitamin D fortified cereals, to make up the rest of the recommended daily intake you can take a Vitamin D supplement or add in other fortified foods to make the difference (certain fish and egg yolk are natural sources, milk and margarine are also fortified sources)
It is reported that over 85% of Canadian children do NOT meet the recommended daily amount of Vitamin D - and only 68% of Canadians have sufficient levels to keep their bones healthy. Does your family get enough Vitamin D?
**As a Kellogger I receive special packages from Kellogg's. The opinion expressed belongs to Tales of Mommyhood and your experience/opinion may vary. Read the Tales of Mommyhood Disclosure policy.**
I remember when my kids were born, it was stressed that they needed a Vitamin D supplement since I was nursing. I did a little research, and found that most adults are lacking in their Vitamin D. The sun is the most natural source for it. Spending time outdoors is a great way to absorb it naturally from the suns rays, however in the winter with the angle of the sun, the rays just don't reach us here in Canada like they do in the summer. Adding a supplement or increasing your intake of foods rich with Vitamin D is a great substitute for those months.
Winter Sunshine Package from Kellogg's |
The sun alarm acts as an alarm clock, and approximately 30 minutes before you set the wake up time, the "sunshine" starts. It starts off slow and the light increases, to try and help you wake up naturally. I have been using it for a few weeks now and find that I am much more awake when I first get up than I was before. Kind of like in the summer when I wake because of the light coming in the windows. Much better than the groggy feeling when you awaken to a loud alarm.
As a mom, I am happy to know that when I pour their morning bowl of Rice Krispies or Special K, and add in 1/2 cup of milk that they are now getting 45% of the amount of Vitamin D that Health Canada recommends. The cereal, some fruit and yogurt and they have a great breakfast in their belly to start the day.
In addition to the Vitamin D fortified cereals, to make up the rest of the recommended daily intake you can take a Vitamin D supplement or add in other fortified foods to make the difference (certain fish and egg yolk are natural sources, milk and margarine are also fortified sources)
It is reported that over 85% of Canadian children do NOT meet the recommended daily amount of Vitamin D - and only 68% of Canadians have sufficient levels to keep their bones healthy. Does your family get enough Vitamin D?
**As a Kellogger I receive special packages from Kellogg's. The opinion expressed belongs to Tales of Mommyhood and your experience/opinion may vary. Read the Tales of Mommyhood Disclosure policy.**
December 30 Giveaway Linky
Feel free to list any open giveaways you have. Please ensure that you list the prize, end date and eligibility (WW, CAN, CAN/US etc) without these, your entry will be deleted. Tweeting out the linky will add more exposure for everyone, so please help share.
Friday, December 27, 2013
Keeping My Feet Warm With Baffin Boots
Well folks, it is that time of year again. The time my children love - gearing up and spending time playing outside in the snow. Forts, snowball fights, snowmen and of course - the street famous toboggan run in our front yard fill our days with lots of outdoor playtime - which means lots of snow and lots of cold.
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Boxing Day Shopping
Are you the type that braves the malls on Boxing Day looking for the best deals? or do you stay home snug and warm with your family?
Growing up I used to head out with my mom and dad if they were shopping, but as I got older I stopped - I really dislike crowds and line ups (which is why I try to be finished my shopping by December 1st).
Now, we stay home on boxing day and the kids play with their new toys. I tend to start taking the Christmas stuff down so that we have ROOM for their new toys.
If the weather is nice, we will play outside - otherwise when they get tired of playing we will throw on a new movie!
Growing up I used to head out with my mom and dad if they were shopping, but as I got older I stopped - I really dislike crowds and line ups (which is why I try to be finished my shopping by December 1st).
Now, we stay home on boxing day and the kids play with their new toys. I tend to start taking the Christmas stuff down so that we have ROOM for their new toys.
If the weather is nice, we will play outside - otherwise when they get tired of playing we will throw on a new movie!
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
DIY Christmas Canvas - Handprint Christmas Tree
Merry Christmas From Our Family To Yours
Photo (c) Kerwin Lewis |
**Yes, Mr. K is holding a red sweater. It is his "lovey" he somehow became attached to one of my sweaters and it is now his comfort item. Some kids have a doll, teddy bear or blanket - Mr. K has a sweater and it was only fitting it join us in our family picture, as he has it with him almost all times at home**
Monday, December 23, 2013
Christmas Eve Traditions
cookies and milk all set for Santa, and of course Carrots for the Reindeer |
Santa Visit 2013
2013 Santa visit at Hazeldean Mall - Ky was a little nervous, but no tears |
Sunday, December 22, 2013
We Love Our Elf, But It's OK if You Don't
This is a little bit of a rant...so please forgive me but it's been driving me nuts.
When the Elf on the Shelf first came out, I thought it was ridiculous. Why would you buy an elf to get your kids to behave? But after seeing different things on facebook and pinterest with the elves in hiding places and what not, I thought ok - my kids would probably have a lot of fun with this.
So, Zolly arrived last year and has been a lot of fun for the kids, and hubby and I have fun finding different places for her to hide.
So if I am happy with our elf - you are probably wondering about the rant? Here goes - what really bugs me is when I hear parents complaining about the elf and they have to do this and have to do that. Well - you don't HAVE to do anything. No one is forcing you to have an elf. If you do have one, I can only assume that you bought it, therefore it was YOUR choice to bring it into your house.
No one is making you find funny places for your elf to hide, or making you come up with cute things for them to do (angels in flour/sugar, marshmallow baths etc) that is all a choice you are making. If you don't want to do it - then don't do it. If you haven't introduced the elf, nothing says you need to. If you have, then the elf could always leave a note for the kids that they were needed back at the North Pole early and won't be returning - it's completely up to YOU how it plays out. So decide what you want to do for your family, and stop complaining about it.
That's my rant
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Candy Cane Marshmallow Hot Chocolate Dippers
A few weeks ago I saw a post on pinterest about Candy Cane Marshmallow Dippers. It seemed like such a great, simple idea that I decided we would make them for the teachers and bus drivers this year. We gathered all of our needed items
- candy canes
- marshmallows
- chocolate chips
- crushed candy canes
- cello bags
- hot chocolate packs
Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
Step 2: Place end of candy cane through (not all the way, but almost) a large marshmallow
having a cute little helper is great! |
Step 3: Melt chocolate chips (you could use white or chocolate, or even candy melts) over a double boiler
Step 4: Dip bottom of marshmallow into melted chocolate
Step 5: Roll chocolate covered marshmallow in crushed candy cane (you could also use sprinkles, or leave them plain)
Step 6: Place back on parchment paper and set in fridge for a little while
Step 7: Place finished product in a cello bag, add a package of hot chocolate and tie closed!
A simple, affordable and creative gift idea that is sure to be enjoyed! Mr. J was able to help with it, and he really enjoyed making something for his teachers!
A simple, affordable and creative gift idea that is sure to be enjoyed! Mr. J was able to help with it, and he really enjoyed making something for his teachers!
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Christmas Cake for Grade 1
This year Mr. J picked a Santa and his sleigh pan for his Christmas cake. The grade 1's are having a Christmas presentation Wednesday afternoon, followed up by a party in their classroom. This is our contribution to the party
Mr. K has chosen a frosty pan for his class celebration, so that is up next on my list of things to do....hopefully tomorrow!
CLOSED Disney On Ice - 100 Years of Magic #GIVEAWAY
"Join the celebration as more than 60 of Disney’s unforgettable characters from 18 beloved stories come to life in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic! You’ll be captivated by the one and only Mickey Mouse, the irresistible Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio and many Disney Princesses. Be thrilled by exciting moments from The Lion King; Mulan; and Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, and Toy Story films; in a skating spectacular filled with magical Disney moments you’ll remember forever as Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic!"
Saturday, December 14, 2013
His First REAL Purchase
Late last summer, Mr. J spent some time with his cousins. They both have Nintendo DS systems, and he decided he wanted one. He asked me if we would buy him one. My answer - NO. I told him if he wanted one, he would have to save up the money for it and could buy it himself.
Christmas Ornaments
One of my absolute favorite things about Christmas is decorating the Christmas tree. I have memories going back to when I was a kid, gathered in the living room with lights, garland and ornaments surrounding us. Christmas music playing in the background and drinking hot chocolate.
My parents never had a "themed" tree. My mom collected ornaments and whether she bought them or was given, all had a special meaning. Her love of ornaments rubbed off on me, and I started collecting them not long before we bought our first home.
The first ornament I purchased for our tree the first year we lived here was a round ball ornament, and I had my fathers name put onto it. Unfortunately, it got broken 2 years ago (I was pretty heartbroken about it); Santa however managed to find a small personalized bell/ball ornament with his name on it, and it made it's way into my stocking that year. Not the same as the one I bought, but makes me happy to see it.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Picking The Perfect Flooring For Your Home
When hubby and I were first looking at houses, one of the things we were hoping to find in THE house was hardwood flooring. Unfortunately that wasn't so. Our home has carpet in the living and dining rooms, and tile in the kitchen, bathroom and hallway. Our upstairs family room and all bedrooms also have carpet. While we would love to change our floors now, we are going to wait until the kids are a little older, and then we hope to replace with hardwood. Read a little about hardwood flooring below.
When it comes to choosing the right flooring option for your home, it's often best to stick with the classics. Picking a flooring style that is timeless and will also be in trend is a great way to justify the investment and enjoy your room for years to come. When it comes to timeless style and flooring options, the best choice is hardwood flooring. Hardwood flooring has always been a popular flooring choice and will more than likely always be a popular choice. The natural beauty of hardwood flooring and durability make it a wise investment, and the large number of colors and styles makes finding one that speaks to your design preferences even easier.
Visit any local Flooring America and see the large number of hardwood flooring options that exist, just to see what we're talking about. It's often a stressful burden finding the best flooring for your home, but it doesn't have to be. Here are just a few benefits of hardwood flooring:
When it comes to choosing the right flooring option for your home, it's often best to stick with the classics. Picking a flooring style that is timeless and will also be in trend is a great way to justify the investment and enjoy your room for years to come. When it comes to timeless style and flooring options, the best choice is hardwood flooring. Hardwood flooring has always been a popular flooring choice and will more than likely always be a popular choice. The natural beauty of hardwood flooring and durability make it a wise investment, and the large number of colors and styles makes finding one that speaks to your design preferences even easier.
Visit any local Flooring America and see the large number of hardwood flooring options that exist, just to see what we're talking about. It's often a stressful burden finding the best flooring for your home, but it doesn't have to be. Here are just a few benefits of hardwood flooring:
- Hardwood flooring is durable.
- Hardwood flooring is timeless.
- Hardwood flooring is easy to clean.
- Hardwood flooring can add to the property value of your home.
- Hardwood flooring is sustainable.
- Hardwood flooring is hypoallergenic.
If you're looking for unsurpassed beauty and value, consider adding hardwood flooring to your home today!
Read the Tales of Mommyhood disclosure policy
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Friday, December 6, 2013
Transformers Prime Seasons 1, 2 and 3
Just in time for Christmas, Transformers Prime Seasons 1, 2 and 3 arrive in stores on DVD. Available December 3rd at Walmart and Target, you can pick up these great DVD's to include under the tree or in your child's stocking.
Mr. J is a fan of Transformers Prime and since he loves to watch his shows over and over, will be thrilled when he finds the DVD's on Christmas morning.
Also available is Rescue Bots: Griffin Rock Rescue - this is great for Mr. K (do you see a theme for him this year) since it is his favorite show at the moment. We now have a DVD with 5 Rescue Bots episodes. Available for purchase at Walmart and Target ARV $14.93
View more items in Tales of Mommyhood's Holiday Gift Guide!
DK Canada Gift Boutique
This year for Christmas I was stuck on what to get my nephew (soon to be 7 years old). I figured I would get him lego, but I wasn't sure what exactly to get. I was browsing the DK Canada website and saw their gift boutique. I had a look around to see if anything piqued my interest and came across this great Lego brickmaster set. It is geared for children 7 and up
It comes as a story with the accompanying Lego bricks to build the characters IN the story. It seemed really neat, and I am hoping that he likes it!
Lego Brickmaster Cover |
neat tips throughout the book to help them |
Instruction for building the characters laid out step by step |
Will you be buying any Lego this Christmas? Who will it be for?
Thursday, December 5, 2013
The Pirate Fairy
About The Pirate FairyI just saw a preview and my boys will love this! Can't wait to see it when it comes out
From the world of “Peter Pan” comes “The Pirate Fairy,” a swashbuckling new adventure about Zarina (voice of Christina Hendricks), a smart and ambitious dust-keeper fairy who’s captivated by Blue Pixie Dust and its endless possibilities. When Zarina’s wild ideas get her into trouble, she flees Pixie Hollow and joins forces with the scheming pirates of Skull Rock, who make her captain of their ship. Tinker Bell (voice of Mae Whitman) and her friends must embark on an epic adventure to find Zarina, and together they go sword-to-sword with the band of pirates led by a cabin boy named James (voice of Tom Hiddleston), who’ll soon be known as Captain Hook himself. With laughter, heart, magic and thrills, “The Pirate Fairy” sets sail April 1, 2014.
CLOSED Holiday Cash Giveaway ($205.00)
I am so excited to join up with a group of bloggers to bring you this awesome Holiday CASH giveaway! The giveaway will run from December 5th to December 19th and is open World Wide (prize is awarded via paypal, so winner must have a valid paypal account). Thanks to Ninja Mommers and The Ranting Ginger for hosting and organizing this great giveaway!
**All entries will be verified so please ensure you have completed any you are committing to. Winner will be emailed as soon as chosen and will have 48 hours to respond before prize is forfeited and another winner is drawn. This giveaway is not sponsored by Paypal**
Good luck! What would you do with the money if you won?
To find more great giveaways, check out Tales of Mommyhood's Giveaway Linky!
Disco Fun with Playmobil
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Grab a Patch, Stick it On with Easy Peasy Patches #giveaway
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Elf on the Shelf - Zolly Brings Kisses
The kids didn't find her when they woke up today - Mr. K noticed her around lunchtime
Zolly hanging around our tree |
Zolly brings kisses from Santa |
Zolly went for a sleigh ride with Eeyore |
Monday, December 2, 2013
Keep Your Computer and Information Safe With McAfee
Valid in US only |
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Super Adventure
Showing Holiday Spirit by Giving Back #cbias #shop
As a mother, it is important to me to teach my children about giving back. I want them to grow up being kind and generous to others, both friends and strangers. I want them to understand that the little things we do CAN make a big difference in someone's life. There have been times where I have been on the receiving end of a random act of kindness in a drive thru line, and it has made me smile - and sometimes even turned my day around!
When we go out to play in the snow or shovel our driveway, it fills my heart to see my kids running over to our neighbours to shovel their front walk
Other ways we teach them about giving back are adding food to the donation bins when we do our grocery shopping. At Christmas, we donate toys and food to a local initiative to help families in our area that don't have food for Christmas dinner or gifts for under the tree. Even something as simple as saying hello with a smile to people you pass on the street.
This year I wanted to add something else. We went to our local Walmart store to purchase supplies, and then we came home to make cards and treats. We made these cards so that we could visit a local nursing home and brighten the day of a few of the residents that may not have family or friends to visit them.
Construction paper, scissors and glue purchased at Walmart |
Mr. K hard at work decorating one of his cards |
They wanted to make a Christmas Tree card! |
We had a lot of fun with our activity, and really looked forward to delivering the cards to a local seniors home. We then decided that we would bake some treats to go along with the cards!
Chocolate Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
- Devils Food Cake Mix
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup of shortening
unsure of original recipe source |
Once the cookies were cooled, we packed them in a container and headed off to the retirement home.
Cards and Cookies all ready to go |
arriving at the retirement home |
We told Morgan why were there, and she said that she would be happy to hand out the cards and cookies to the residents! Then we asked if we could take her picture to include with our post.
We are hoping that our afternoon of craftiness and baking will help to put a smile on some faces of others, and after completing our activity will add it as an annual tradition! What do you to give back in your community?
**Read about Tales of Mommyhood's Disclosure Policy**
**Read about Tales of Mommyhood's Disclosure Policy**
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