Tag: crafts

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Apple Crafts for Kids

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on Apple Crafts for Kids
Apple Crafts for Kids

Fall is in the air. Can I get an amen?!

To celebrate I see no better way than apple everything with the littles (until pumpkins are officially acceptable to do everything with and out in stores!) eeeeek! So exciting! This is my favorite time of year if you can’t tell.

With out further a due lets just dive right in shall we?

Apple Stamps – Take an apple, cut it in half. Grab some card stock and paint. Let the kids use the half apple as a “stamp” by dipping into the paint and letting their imaginations fly to what they want to make! Below are some inspiration ideas to get you started.

Dried Apple Faces – Take an apple and peel it. Collect together some googly eyes, bark for teeth, fabric for a hat and a hot glue gun. Allow the children to place all the scrap items you have gathered in creating a “witch” or “apple face” and hot glue the pieces on the peeled apple. Once you have your desired result hang up to dry and it will shrivel into a work of magic (so exciting watching the “drying” process as well.)

Paper Plate Apples – Ahhhh the magic of a simple paper plate. These activities are the easiest and some of my favorites for kids because you can really watch their little wheels turn with creativity. I usually gather some scrap supplies and paints I have lying around ahead of time then give each kid 1 paper plate and tell them to create the first “apple idea” they think of. Watching everything come together is just magnificent.

Sensory Apple Bin – All the feels!!! I love every single thing about sensory play. It’s so crucial for children’s development. Sensory bins can be next to free to make as well with a little creativity. Go out side gather some different textured items – rocks, bark, dirt, Cheerios, leggo pieces, things that feel different. Then to make it a “fall theme” add some sliced up apples. (If your littles like mixing like mine, add in a couple of measuring cups to allow them to pour and scoop.)

Caramel Apples – Maybe it’s because I’m pregnant? Baking has been such a bonding experience for my littles and I the past few months. The fails we giggle at, the success we enjoy and turn in to baking and movie nights! I discovered the caramel peels you can get at the store for $2 and the kids love placing the molds on the apples and baking them (This is a complete mama win because they are mess free!)

I would love to see your apple adventures – Follow us on Pinterest @thesweetestlittlelife and share your apple wins! Here’s to kicking off a wonderful Fall season full of family and new memories and traditions.

xxxo

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Inexpensive DIY Classroom Graduation Gifts

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on Inexpensive DIY Classroom Graduation Gifts
Inexpensive DIY Classroom Graduation Gifts

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Every year we try to do something special for my sons class mates! This year he wanted to do graduation gifts and we found the perfect creation that his friends will be over the moon for! Best Part – I made 28 of these for under $20! Naturally, I had to share our DIY creation with you other mamas!

Quick Supply Run – (or order if your like me and survive on Amazon Prime.)

  • 2 Gallons of Elmers Glue (This was for 28 and I had just enough glue.) – Elmers Glue
  • Borax
  • Water
  • Food Coloring
  • Shaving Cream
  • Some fun little toys to add in at the end. – Plastic Fishies
  • Plastic Containers, Mason Jars, Zip lock Bags.

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Now for getting started!!!!

  1. In a large bowl pour 2 cups of elmers glue and shaving cream to top the glue area (About a quarter of a can.) Mix together and add food coloring.
  2. Once mixed add 1/2 cup of water and continue to mix til a whip cream texture.
  3. Once your satisfied with the consistency, add in 1/2 cup of water with 1 tsp. of borax. (Tip: Place borax in measuring cup and make sure water is running HOT before adding in so the borax gets completely dissolved.)
  4. Pour into bowl and start kneading with your hands to squeeze out extra water. Be patient with this step work with the slime until it feels not too sticky! (If it is stickier or slimier than you prefer just add a little shaving cream to the slime.) I whipped out the roller and let my little guy roll it out just for fun.
  5. Once everything is perfect go ahead and equally divide up into jars or bags. We created an assembly line where I would place the slime in and my son would pick the toy and put in each package. Repeat steps 1 – 5 until you have as many slime gifts as you need.

 

Our finishing touch was adding some fun ribbon and printing out little sayings that said “Sliming into Second Grade.” You can get as creative as you want with this step!

That’s it! Simple & Sweet Entertainment that the kiddos will love you for!

Happy Crafting Friends.

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Easter Baskets on a Budget

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on Easter Baskets on a Budget

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Easter Baskets do not have to cost a ton to be absolutely magnificent. Lets cut to the chase, the kids are after the candy and the eggs. Every thing else is just a perk!

Lets dive in to some thrifty ways to make every one excited on Easter Morning!

  • Skip the packaged grass  – Use a paper shredder and some colorful construction paper you have in the craft stash.

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  • Get items such as sidewalk chalk, peeps, toys, coloring books, crafts etc at your local dollar store.
  • I love to get my little’s seasonal socks, I hit up the Target bulls eye dollar section and always find the cutest bunny themed socks, headbands, and fun extras to put in their baskets. (You can usually get the giant bubble wands here as well for $1.00)
  • Don’t be afraid to sneak in a few necessities. Does your little need something? Add it in as a perk of the basket!
  • Play the golden egg game. Put $5 in one Golden Egg and candy, change, etc. in the other eggs. The golden egg winner gets the big bucks! In the basket plan a scavenger type plan to find the Golden Egg, add little notes and hints in the basket to help the little’s along the way on the great golden egg adventure. (Lets be real…scavenger hunts are awesome sauce and every  kid LOVES them!)

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  • Re Use your baskets. Michael’s, Target, Wal-mart all have clear out sales after Easter to get rid of last seasons products! (This is your time mamas!) I got a $40 tutu princess basket last year at Michael’s for $10 which I reuse yearly. (You can also DIY and make your own!)

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  • Make your own slime! On the blog we have a super simple recipe you can conjure up in less than 15 minutes and this year slime is everything!
  • Make your own Peep Habitat – You can get all the ingredients at the dollar store and make this for under $5.

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~Happy Easter~

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Rainy Day Bored Jar

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on Rainy Day Bored Jar

On cold rainy days, when your children are at the point of a wold war 3 break down, the bored jar will be a saving grace! Being a mom of two very spirited little ones, I have learned the art of parenting strategically with attention changing ideas. I found this little gem on pinterest a few years back and have put a few spins on it, but Im telling you what Mama bears…..Every time I run out of ideas this is my go to. Lets get to making!

        You will need:

  • Mason Jar
  • Wooden Craft Sticks (Big enough to write on.)
  • Sharpie

I have a list of activities Ill include below, however add your childrens favorite indoor games, crafts, a favorite movie, all of these things can be written on the stick as suggested ideas!

  1. Watch a movie and make popcorn.
  2. Bake cupcakes.
  3. Have a dance party.
  4. Make a fort.
  5. Go on a scavenger hunt.
  6. Play a board game.
  7. Play Simon Says.
  8. Lazer Tape – Take masking tape and create a maze – each child has to make it through without their body touching the tape.
  9. Childrens Yoga.
  10. Finger Paints.
  11. Make Slime – Amazing Recipes in this book.
  12. Play Hide & Seek.
  13. Make mud pies.
  14. Cozy up with blankets and books.
  15. Make Super Hero Capes.
  16. Make a Volcano – Baking Soda, Vinegar, & Food Coloring.
  17. Draw a picture.
  18. Put together a musical or play.
  19. Home made bowling with plastic water bottles.
  20. Make a list of dream vacations to do as a family.
  21. Lay down masking tape and create a race track.
  22. Stage a tea party for stuffed animals and dolls.
  23. Make an indoor sand box of rice, rubbing alcohol, flour and baby oil.
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Shipping

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on Shipping

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Over the years I have read several how to articles learning the ins and outs of what works for different businesses and hand-made companies. I kept seeing a shipping station repeatedly in blogs and articles and thought it was something worth investigating a little deeper. When the Holiday Season hits for most makers it’s as if you are struggling to stay above water, especially for a one man show.

An ultimate goal of every maker is to stay organized, have fun, and love what you do. I created a shipping station OUTSIDE of my office in the garage so it was out of sight and out of mind when I was creating. When I finish an item I simply place it on the table and at the end of the day I go out and package everything up. Packaging is a job within it self (if you’re doing it properly.) It’s crucial to have something visually stimulating and exciting for your customer to open up. Often times I will go with seasons and add little trinkets, ribbons, shred, etc. This is also a branding trick and customers are more likely to remember all the extra effort you put into their order. You took the time to make it special. That is why the shipping station is so crucial it gives you time to focus on one thing….SHIPPING….

It’s a known fact most creative people are “squirrelly” type personalities, so having focus, direction, and guidance is crucial. I wish I would have started this years ago, so here I am screaming it from the ROOF TOPS – create a damn shipping station! Have all your bubble wrap, ribbons, boxes, tape, and goodies to add in all in ONE SPOT! (Also toddlers can’t steal your trinkets this way! hehe)

Now let’s get to shipping!!!!

No really…

Go Now….5.4.3.2.1.

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Tuna Noodle Casserole

by Weddingsbycourtney1 Comment on Tuna Noodle Casserole

Store run: 

  • Stalk of Celery
  • 3 tbs butter
  • 1/3 cup of Olive Oil
  • 1/2 onion thinly chopped
  • 1 pound of wide egg noodles
  • 5  cups milk
  • 1 can of drained artichoke hearts
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan

Lets get cooking ladies and gents……

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Start boiling water in a large pot and add noodles for about 2 minutes or until al dente, drain the noodles and return to the same pot.

In a separate pan heat oil in a heavy pan on medium heat. Add onions and 3 stalks of chopped celery with salt and pepper. Cook for 4-6 minutes than add in flour stirring for about a minute. Add milk until a smooth texture and let simmer for one minute.

Add mixture and noodles together. Add in tuna, artichoke hearts, and salt and pepper. Mix it up well. Place in baking dish and sprinkle over the top with parmesan! (I also added mozzarella for some extra zing!)

Bake 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling on top!

Enjoy~

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It’s not how much. It’s what.

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on It’s not how much. It’s what.

When I was a little girl I remember my grandma always telling me “It’s not how much you have, it’s what you have.” When it comes to home, decorating, life, material things, I am finding this simple statement more and more true.

We can have a million shitty things, and guess what, we are still going to feel shitty. You can have one thing of something so special and meaningful that it makes every thing else not matter. When starting in this room to room organizing series were doing, I want to challenge you to throw away anything you have not touched, brings a not so fawn memory, or you have no worn in 6 months. You don’t need it and for some reason are holding on to some materialistic “thing” which is holding you down.

When I first did this step in the purge I decided to sell on FB and donate the rest to Goodwill…..You’ll be amazed how something you have never touched is another’s treasure.

With decor for Holidays I try to remember this same moto as a little goes a long way. Have a few special pieces or additions you add to the mantle not clutter of a million bats you will have globs of dust on come Halloween.

I am super excited because come this week we are starting at the kitchen and working our way through living room, bedrooms, and bathrooms! First though…..First we must de clutter and simplify to the important things.

Lets Get Started….

  • Throw away anything you have not used in 6 months. (pots, pans, clothing, decor, silverware, bathroom supplies, etc.) Go piece by piece through your house. If it is not useful, or make you smile….TOSS IT.
  • If you can’t sell it in 7 days off it goes…… To the Goodwill or Dump. You can pick!
  • Clean. Like deep ass clean. The walls should have a twinkle. After you are completely purged and we are diving into the next step! It makes it far more simple!!!!

Ok. Ok. Ok….. Get your booty off the computer. Grab a garbage bag. Get to working!

“Nothing in your life will ever change, if you don’t change something in your daily routine. To get the end destination of your goal, you must do something differently.” 

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Simplicity.

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on Simplicity.

We as humans always want “more”. If I only had this I would be happy. If I only got this promotion I would be satisfied. If only I made this income I would be excited.

Stop.

Just Stop.

Be Happy Right Now. Right Where Your Life Has Brought You. Keep it Simple.

Do you want something different? Do Something Different. 

I made it a life, mom, and wife goal this year to straight up simplify. To be blunt. We had too much shit. 20 pots & pans (4 of which we used), clothing of littles I was saving as memories, clothing my booty has not fit into in 4 years, sippy cups with no lids, towels which did not match, I hated it….Literally the little things were driving me to a breaking point. After we remodeled I knew it was the perfect moment to get rid of every thing but what we needed. (I still had hand me downs from my first apartment okayyyy?!) So I said these simple words. 

I AM TAKING CHARGE OF MY LIFE.

I found hacks for organizing every single aspect of every single room and square foot of our home.

It’s important to ask yourself these simple questions before you begin this giant purge…..

  • Have I touched it in 6 months.
  • Is it useful?
  • Does this need to be replaced?
  • Does this match the end result I’m dreaming of?

If no to any of these questions! Toss it! Start fresh.  Get minimal. Become Thankful.

YOU ARE ENOUGH.

pst……(Organizing hacks for EACH ROOM OF YOUR HOME is our next series) eeeeeekkkkk!!! ok get excited hit that little share button, because good stuff is coming your way~

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The Moment it Happened.

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on The Moment it Happened.

December to August in my house was Chaotic, Hectic, Busy, Non Stop, and Confusing. We all hit these times in our Mommy or Career Lives where we have to sit back and pull the reigns. In my case I needed to completely halt them! I have always had goals and ways to reach them, but when you are on the move non stop with no time to be in the moment because you are consistently planning or running it makes life fly by and messy.  While running late which had become a new usual for me, on my way to football practice (which my son was begging after day 4 to not do), with the baby crying in the back from being over tired, listening to “Little Sprigs” podcast on conscious parenting and being in the moment it hit me like a TON OF BRICKS…. Not like a pillow case blow, but literally made my head hurt to the point I turned the car around. I have been running so fast for so long I am missing what is important in my life. Lets rewind a little….About 3 weeks ago, I started to get some serious anxiety just around life in general. I was like the 2-year-old that still hears back round noise and feels the ‘missing out” so can’t sleep. I had my hands in way to many jars with absolutely no direction or focus. I needed to get clarity and focus. I knew a few things so I began to write…..

  1. My children needed me to be present and not always stressed out about what was to come next. Children feed off our feelings and absolutely need us to be present and in the moment with them.
  2. I was so stressed out over work and never getting any thing done I had become in a habit of being in ‘catch up’ mode.
  3. My health and taking care of myself had become non existent and on the back burner. (I even went to the doctor thinking I was sick and got informed that stress can be hidden and sneak up on you with out you realizing it, thus showing signs your “sick.”)
  4. I was trying to be supermom, super woman, super wife, super career with no strategy or organization.

Now lets fast forward…..I started this blog over 30 days ago and have since made some serious dedication to organize and re strategize my entire existence. I failed a few times but here is a list of things that so far, have been serious game changers in balance, freedom, simplicity and over all happiness.

  • I laid out my children and I’s clothing in outfits on hangers for the entire month. No more out fit arguments in the morning, no more sweats and a tank top for me everyday. The best part…. all we do is grab a hanger and the entire outfit is ready for the day.
  • DO THE DISHES….No matter how tired you are. Do the dishes and a quick clean on your kitchen the night before. There is nothing more stressful than waking up and the first thing you think is “oh shit I have cleaning to do from yesterday.”
  • Stay on top of laundry. I have one basket in our entire house that holds exactly 1 load of laundry. When that basket is full, I take it to the washing machine, wash it, dry it, and put it on “out fit hangers” immediately.
  • Write everything down immediately. I have major mom brain and commit to a hundred different things and then forget deadlines. I have two things I write in, my planner for events and scheduling, and then a little notebook of daily to do’s in accomplishing my small and big goals. Every day I work towards something.
  • Handle it. Once. If something needs to be done, do not procrastinate just get up and handle it. Pick up the phone and handle it. Than its done and not lingering on to your next day. Something that once would take you 2 minutes turns into an hour of finding things, sorting things out, making it right. Handle it.
  • Meditate. Pray. Breathe. Repeat. – several times throughout the day.
  • Throw it away. If you havent used it in over 6 months, get rid of it. Having too much stuff makes it impossible to feel de cluttered and free.
  • Plan. Far far far in advance. I’m a dive head first type of girl so this is my biggest struggle. I had on my to do list to plan my September Palette & Paint class. Instead….I planned the dates and booked the location through January. This creates more room and freedom with 1 phone call and a contract.
  • Check List. I Framed cute little Morning and Evening to do’s for my littles so they know whats happening and when it’s happening. Children thrive on STRUCTURE.

These few little things have helped me in a big way over the past month and I hope you can take just one thing that helps you too live more balanced and happy!

#momminainteasy

 

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10 k

by WeddingsbycourtneyLeave a Comment on 10 k

When I first started Etsy & Instagram Marketing in 2014, I was an owner of a failing business, in the negative, drowning in debt, and completely miserable with no passion, confidence or direction! Today my Etsy business made $40,000 last year and my Instagram just hit 10,000 followers! I’m not saying this to brag by any way, shape, or form. Being humble and thankful is everything to me.

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I do, however, want to offer some inspiration and motivation to the person who is down on themselves thinking they can never follow their passion. You can!!!!! Once you find your nitch, follow it! From the beginning I knew I loved art. I attempted being a make up artist because this is what every women in my family does, so naturally I followed steps…. However I knew traveling and working with high maintenance clients was not my cup of tea. I still do makeup and love certain events and styles, however my two passions in life are being a mother and HomeDesign – Art.

I knew somehow in this lifetime I needed to follow this path. For me, it was Etsy that was my starting point. I began to meet these amazing clients who I grew relationships with and they came back! I started truly connecting with each and every one of my instagram followers and not treating them like strangers but truly trying to connect with them as a wife, as a mom, as an artist. I want to help people succeed from the bottom of my heart.

Enough of my sappy story…. Lets get in to what you really want to hear….How did I do it? Etsy is for another post but tonight I want to focus on what I wish I knew about Instagram Marketing years ago….

Instagram-strategies

  • Connect : Do not just post what you do… Post who you are.. We are human. We need human connection. Give people sneak peeks into your life. What are your hobbies? Who are you? Who is your family? Whats your office look like? Include people in the day-to-day.
  • Timing….Is everything yo! I used to post at these random times, than I learned that there are prime posting times! WHHHAATTTTTTT…Ok ready for the crazy part…There all at night.(Normally past my bedtime!) Prime time for posting is between 7-10 p.m. when people are winding down scrolling on IG.
  • Hash Tags: ######hashtags for days….. On a serious note. If you hit for example #mom and look in the top right hand corner the most popular used hash tags will pop up under mom. (Click on the first 5 than move to the next word.)
  • Don’t be Snooty: ALWAYS REPLY….. If someone gives you a compliment or ask a question, REPLY! If there is no connection, no one will want to follow you. People need that “online connection” to feel like your noticing them.
  • Follow people to get follows: This one confused me at first, but REALLY is a genuine way to get organic followers. Type in people who interest you in the search button on instagram. The most followers….FOLLOW. People will than start to follow you back. I try to follow at least 10 new people a day who inspire me. (Not to mention when scrolling instagram you than have a feed full of motivation and inspirational people.)
  • Be Authentic: This goes back to Dr. Suess…*yes that happened* “Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er then you!” Just be yourself, and the right followers and collabs just all fall into place.

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I hope these tid bits help you a tad on your journey to success! A HUGE THANK YOU to everyone who is along this dream chasing ride with me! Life is too short to do anything but what your heart calls. Never let fear stand in your way!