Practical Accessories

I came across these encouragement bracelets in a magazine and thought they were such a good idea I had to share them with you. They have encouraging reminders written on them such as, "We are a smiling family". What a great way to remind yourself and loved ones to have a better attitude! They would make a great little gift for someone or just for your own pick-me-up throughout the day. I found them at www.aboverubies.org in the book and music store under the category (bracelets). What encourging items have you come across? Do you know of any other accessories that are just as practical as they are charming?

KID-friendly websites

I just HAVE to share the new internet site we have added to our computer for our family. It is called ZOODLES. The basic version of this program either for your computer or your mobile device is free - but we quickly decided to pay for a year subscription upgrade after we saw how convenient and fun it was. There is now a ZOODLES icon on our desktop. The kids click on it when they are granted computer time. It takes them to a ZOODLES page we've created with folders for each of them. They click on their picture and it takes them to a "play area" full of educational games and books and videos all geared for their age group. With the parental control feature we were able to block all ads and tailor the content to their needs : like increase math and science for one child and literature skills for another. We also have the ability to go in and set a time limit that will automatically boot the kid off after the time is up. That is so handy for me as I often forget to set the oven timer when they are turn-taking. We are really enjoying it! I have the free version on my android phone that keeps them busy in the car or in waiting rooms. I love that it is all educational content and not just "entertainment". Good job, ZOODLES! go to www.zoodles.com

Spring is in the Air!

One of my favorite parts about spring is the smell of lilacs. It lets me know summer is right around the corner. Alas, there are no lilacs in my yard. I am excited to discover, however, that I can keep the lasting smell of lilacs in my home anytime I want now with Scentsy's new lilacs and violets fragrance for their plug-in warmers. My whole house smells divine! If you have never heard of Scentsy, you might want to check it out. It is a "home-party" business like many others - but I find it more affordable to indulge on their products than a lot of their competition. I never mind attending yet another scentsy party because its so fun to smell all the good fragrances and see what's new. What are your favorite home scents?