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If you've been following my blog for any length of time, you know I love DIY decor projects! So this Christmas, I had lots of fun putting together several projects that are perfect for the entire winter season. If there were any year where cheery decor were necessary all year, it would be this one, right? Check out these gorgeous farmhouse designs, plus tips for recreating the looks!
Dining Room Table Centerpiece
Using the same off white recycled jars from this project (see the Thanksgiving jars), I was able to create a beautiful centerpiece! I traded out the autumn foliage for faux pine branches, pinecones, and berries, and used a gold metal tray as a base. I then wrapped twinkle lights (with leaves attached) around the vases, and placed the battery pack in the center vase (beneath the greenery). The finishing touch was the addition of a few pinecones on the tray. I paired the centerpiece with a table runner, plus white and gold candles.
Farmhouse Style Wreaths
These wreaths are super basic and easy to make; just purchase a faux pine wreath and use a hot glue gun to add a few pinecones and a burlap ribbon (the ribbons I used had gold thread intertwined). Because there is no red, no ornaments, and no other holiday related additions, I'll be able to keep these wreaths up all winter!
Birdcage 'Potpourri' Light
I loved the birdcage decor I used for the fall so much that I repurposed the item for winter! I wrapped evergreen garland (which had bells attached) and twinkle lights around the cage, and then filled it with some scented pinecones. This farmhouse style DIY piece is a huge upgrade from your grandmother's potpourri dish, and made for a festive addition to my foyer.
Products You'll Love
Want to try one of these great projects? Here are some products you may love!
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This craft is super easy, and loads of fun for toddlers and preschoolers. You probably have all the supplies necessary already at home:
To create your Santa, follow these simple steps:
That's it! Be sure to check out my Christmas Guide for other activities, gift ideas, personal stories, and other holiday inspiration!
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. You can learn more about my participation in this program here.
With 4 stars or higher, these toys for kids of all ages are sure to impress!
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More Gifts by Age!
Get even more gift ideas for kids!
And see my Holiday 2020 Gift Guide for gifts for the whole family!
This Thanksgiving, I'm grateful for being included in this amazing web series episode by Food Allergy Research and Education. Check out the entire video below! 
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. You can learn more about my participation in this program here. All commissions earned help support this blog!
You got my holiday gifts for her last week, and now, I've got all the hottest gifts for him! Based on my husband's favorite purchases (and all highly rated products on Amazon) here are the gifts the guys on your list will love this holiday! And be sure to keep an eye on my Holiday 2020 Gift Guide for great gift ideas for the entire family! Coming soon: Great Deals on Gifts, Great Gifts for Book Lovers, The Best of Amazon Gifts, and more!
Everyday Waterproof Boots
​My Pick: Rockport Men's Rugged Bucks Waterproof Boot
My husband's favorite pair of casual boots are these fantastic Rockports! They are just stylish enough to pair with somewhat nicer clothing (not that we are really going out right now), while casual enough to wear every day. He also says they are super comfortable! And with 4.5 stars and well over 1K reviews, I'm confident these boots will be perfect for the man in your life, too!
 
A Funny Graphic Tee
My Pick: Now I Am Unstoppable Funny T-Rex T-Shirt
If your husband loves funny graphic tees as much as mine, he is sure to love this one! My husband was quite excited to find this one, and while I don't quite understand his enthusiasm for silly tees, I do love seeing him happy!
 
For the Lawn Enthusiast
My Pick: Remington RM25C 25cc 2-Cycle 16-Inch Curved Shaft Gas String Trimmer, Orange
We normally do our shopping at the local hardware store for things like this, but when our last weed wacker broke after just a year, my husband went searching for a better one. He has been very happy with this gas powered Reminington, and is enthusiastically sharing about how well it works to any neighbor who will listen. If the guy in your life takes as much pride in his lawn as my husband does in ours, this gift is a must have!
 
For the Football Enthusiast Who Loves His Vehicle
My Pick: FANMATS NFL Unisex-Adult NFL Truck Emblem, 2-Pack
My husband got a new truck this year, and as a football fan, wanted to show pride in his team. These vehicle emblems are easy to apply and look great! Fear not, Patriots haters; they come in a variety of other team versions, too! If you are looking for a great stocking stuffer for the sports fan in your life, look no further!
 
For the Gadget and Beer Lover
My Picks: Xthel Titanium Keychain Beer Bottle Opener with Stainless Steel Key Rings and ALBATROSS 6-in-1 Modern Damascus Steel Folding Pocket Knife
As a restauranteur, my husband is constantly in need of a bottle opener on the go (it is all about customer service!). He is also that guy who has a million gadgets on his key ring or in his pocket. He is loving this key ring, and with 4.5 stars and over 600 reviews, your guy will, too. If your guy isn't into beer, what about the perfect pocket knife? My husband has found a million uses for his, and with the bright LED light, he has stopped buying tons of mini flashlights! These also make perfect stocking stuffers!
For Your Favorite Fisherman
My Picks: Okuma Classic Pro GLT & Rods, OKUMA FISHING TACKLE ABF55b Avenger ABF B Series Baitfeeder Reels, and Berkley Trilene Big Game Monofilament Fishing Line
My husband took his first salmon fishing trip this year, and needed a suitable rod (his rods are for surf/ocean/shore fishing, and not for salmon fishing... whatever that means!). If the guy in your life goes salmon fishing, or fishes for larger fish fly fishing style, check out these highly rated recommendations! The fishing line is even an Amazon #1 Best Seller! My husband had a lot of great things to say about these products, so they are bound to impress!
For the Busy Coffee Fan
My Pick: YETI Rambler 30 oz Tumbler, Stainless Steel, Vacuum Insulated with MagSlider Lid
If your family is like mine, you are always on the go, and always fueling up with a hot beverage. If that is the case, you can't do better than a YETI tumbler! My husband uses his to make coffee before work almost daily (yes, he is going to work in person; yes, his industry is deemed "essential" in our area). This cup is HUGE, and super sturdy. And, if your guy loves being outdoors, YETI is the go to brand for all things high quality active lifestyle!
 
For the Outdoor Enthusiast: Anything YETI!
There is a reason people love YETI. Their products are high quality and durable, plus well designed for your active lifestyle. Their products are on my family's Christmas list regularly. From camping, to sailing, to hiking, and more, YETI has you covered! You can check out their entire holiday guide HERE.
When He is Insisting on Investing in a Fish Tank
My Pick: BioCube LED Tanks and Combo Kits
My husband has had a number of fish tanks over the years. I hate them with a passion, and celebrated when he got rid of his last one. They are hard to maintain, have a ton of pieces, and we even had on spring a leak on us. Ugh. So when he wanted to get another fish tank, I was hesitant. But he sold me on this one! The Biocube tank is self contained, unlike traditional tanks, and easier to maintain. The lighting system is also pretty impressive! If you are looking for a compromise like we were, this tank is it! I don't hate it (like our old tanks), and it makes my husband really, really happy. Score!
 
And Finally, for the Hard Worker Who Deserves to Relax
My Pick:The Perfect Hammock
I won't lie.... my husband and I both love this one! We got ours this spring, and my husband relaxes in it nearly every day (no matter how cold outside). It is sturdy, comfortable, and massive. The perfect gift to tell the guy in your life you appreciate all his hard work, and that he deserves some time to relax.
 
What would you add to this list? Comment below to share!
And if you love this, be sure to Pin it! 
Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. Commissions earned help support this blog. You can learn more here.
Get your holiday shopping out of the way with great gifts for the entire family! This post contains links to all my gift guides, as well as my Must Have Products page. More content will be added throughout the holiday season, so check back regularly! As always, many of the products I recommend are ones we use in our own home, and love (if there is a product we haven't used, I always make selections based on overall product rating, brand, and a review of the product's details).
The Gift Guide Roundup!
1. 10 Great Toddler Toys - Toys my child loves, and your's will, too!
2.Stocking Stuffers (and small gifts) for Toddlers and Preschoolers - This post contains both Christmas and Hanukkah gifts and books!
3. 3 Types of Bath Toys Your Toddler Will Love - These bath toys make for amazing gifts for your toddler, or an addition to a baby registry.
4. Great Nonfiction Reads for Dog Parents - Get the dog lover in your life a book they will love! These are some of my favorite nonfiction books about dogs (mostly​...).
5. Fishing Themed Toys and Books - Does your child love the ocean? Is your family big into fishing? These ocean and fish themed books and toys make for great additions!
6. Gifts for Her - Great gifts for the woman in your life. Home spa and self care products, clothing, accessories, and much more!
7. Gifts for Him - These gifts are sure to impress, and with top ratings (and an enthusiastic recommendation from my husband), you will have no problem finding the perfect gift for the guy in your life!
8. Top Rated Gifts for Kids - These 4+ Star gifts (almost all are 4.5 and higher) for kids of all ages are sure to impress!
9. Holiday Deals on Amazon - Find the latest deals on Amazon here!
Nothing on this list striking your interest? Check out my Must Have Products page for tons of recommendations for craft materials, organizational items, decor, books, toys, and much more!
And be sure to check back regularly for more additions to this list! Coming soon: Budget Gifts, The Best Gifts for Book Lovers, and more!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. My participation in this program comes at no additional cost to you, and helps support this blog. You can learn more here.
Whether you are shopping for a Christmas or Hanukkah gift, or just looking for something to say "I care" to a loved one, this list has items sure to make her smile! Here are some of my favorite products, plus a few that look promising (and are based on products I already own)!!!
Home Spa Essentials
One of my favorite ways to destress has been to turn ordinary activities into luxurious ones! These products are the perfect way to elevate self care.
Disclaimer: I do promotional work for Zentyme. The opinions are entirely my own!
I love making shower time special, especially since it is sometimes some of the only self care I get during the day. These essential oil shower steamers certainly have helped! If the woman you are shopping for is a busy mom like me, this is a perfect gift to help her unwind!
​
 
Disclaimer: I have done promotional work for Zentyme. The opinions are entirely my own!
This Zentyme bath pillow is ergonomic, and super plush! Getting this for the woman in your life says "take some time just for you!". This pillow is so comfortable, I have considered replacing my regular pillows with this one (I'm only half kidding)!
 
Anything from The Savannah Bee Company!
If you have been following me for awhile, you know my extended family lives in Savannah, and the Savannah Bee Company is a stop every time we visit. Luckily, Amazon has started carrying their amazing products. You may wonder, why not Burt's Bees? 1. I like Savannah Bee Company products much better, and 2. Savannah Bee Company is a smaller company than Burt's Bees. I absolutely love every product I've tried from this store, and I know the person you are shopping for will, too. Here are just a few of their amazing products!
One of my favorite self care routines is a nice cup of tea in the evening, and Mighty Leaf is by far my favorite brand. This Ginger Twist tea is soothing and delicious. Plus, the box lasts for what seems like forever! And that means plenty to share with family or guests!
 
Essie, by far, is my favorite nail polish brand. And Angora Cardi, the color seen below, is one of my favorite colors. The perfect all year round pink, it is just bright enough for summer and just muted enough for fall and winter. And if you don't believe me, take it from social media! Angora Cardi has even been the most popular color on Pinterest, at least according to this Glamor Magazine piece (they also show how the color looks on multiple skin tones.... it works for everyone). It is a perfect stocking stuffer for the women in your life. Pair it with essie's All in One base, top, and strengther for a full manicure at home, with only two products! (Trust me, it is the perfect time saver for busy moms like me!)
  Great Wardrobe Staples
I bought this top in September, and it has quickly become one of my favorites! It is comfortable, perfectly oversized (get true size, or perhaps go up one size if you have any concerns), and stylish. It also comes in several different colors. I've always been reluctant to shop for clothing online, but once I started, I found it to be a great way to find new pieces for my wardrobe without the hassle of going to the store!
 
Another favorite piece, I bought this dress in September as well. My first statement to my husband was "I want this in every color". It is beautiful and very, very comfortable. Plus, it has pockets! It runs on the big size, so get true size, or maybe one size smaller.
 
Okay, so I did too much shopping online this fall! I got this dress recently as well, and it is beautiful and stylish. I can't wait for COVID to be over so I can wear it on my date nights, or to parties! It also has pockets, which is always an amazing addition.
 
I'm a huge Kate Spade fan, and only just found out Amazon carries some of their products! While we all carry cell phones now, there is something really special about a classic analogue watch. This one will go with almost any outfit, and is sure to make the woman you are shopping for smile!
 
Kate Spade Bangles
I have a bunch of Kate Spade bangles, and love them. So when I found some online, I knew I had to share them with readers! They come in three colors, and are super trendy. These will make for perfect stocking stuffers, or a regular gift. They pair perfectly with both casual and dress clothes, too.
For the Kitchen
While kitchenware is not the right gift for everyone, I know I love receiving it! My family is big into cooking (how could we not be with a husband who was a chef for so many years), and these are some of our favorite kitchen products/appliances.
This mortar and pestle is gorgeous and super heavy. It makes for a functional decorations; we use it for grinding sesame seeds for OIT, but it could be used for any herb or spice for both cooking or creating cocktails.
 
My Instant Pot is a weeknight meal lifesaver. I use it constantly, and can't recommend it enough. If the person you are shopping for hasn't jumped on the Instant Pot wagon yet, this is a must purchase! This is the model I have, and I absolutely love it.
 
The Amazon Holiday Gift Guide is recommending a newer model of the Instant Pot that does way more than mine does. I wish this version was available when I got mine, because it has an unbelievable number of great functions. From replacing your old slow cooker to serving as an air frier and dehydrator, this Instant Pot will replace a ton of other small kitchen appliances.
 
Given my child has food allergies, we do a ton of baking. And baking has become so much easier with our Kitchen Aid stand mixer. There is a reason these are so popular; they are just that good. While this is a pricier gift, it is one that is absolutely worth it!
 
Another trendy kitchen item that is worth the splurge. Le Creuset cookware is amazing for a number of things, and we use our dutch oven regularly!
  For the Busy Mom
Shopping for someone who is always on the go? These gifts are perfect!
We love our Yeti tumbler. It is oversized (so plenty of room for lots of caffeine), and heavy duty (so, perfect for a toddler mom!).
 
If the woman you are shopping for complains about never having time for makeup, but still loves makeup, this BB cream is the perfect fit. It is high coverage and provides substantial moisture, without causing my skin to breakout. It is, by far, my favorite BB cream ever!
 
Making running quick errands or going to the gym even simpler with this beautiful Kate Spade keychain wallet! Just big enough for all the essentials, while small enough to carry along with car keys!
 
I love my Kate Spade wallet, and this one is similar to the one I carry. This wallet makes for a perfect, higher end gift.
  Candles
Candles are super popular in our home, and Amazon happens to have a number of great options. Here are two ultra popular brands that make for perfect gifts!
Crafting
I love crafting, and these products have made it that much easier (and in turn, more fun!). These are perfect for the crafty person in your life!
These acrylic paint pens are perfect for fine details on glass, canvas, rocks, wood, or any other base. They are easy to use and come in a variety of great colors.
 
Coloring Supplies
Coloring is one of my favorite relaxation/mindfulness activities. There is something soothing about creating a masterpiece from a white piece of paper with lines. One of my favorite tools for coloring are colored pencils. And these aren't your kids' Colored Pencil Set! They come in a variety of beautiful colors, from metallics, to bolds, muted tones, and more. Purchase with an adult coloring book for a relaxing activity for whoever you are gifting to.
 
Gel pens also work great for coloring projects! If you are looking for a brand recommendation, Arteza products are ones I've tested, owned, and love!
Admittedly I don't own a cricut... yet. But I've been sold on how great they are, and added this one to my Christmas list (you might just be seeing some projects from me next year using it!). This #1 best seller has an astounding 5 star rating with over 11,000 reviews​. You read that right! Perfect for DIY projects of all kinds, the crafty mama (or teacher, or auntie, or anyone) in your life is sure to love this as a gift!
  Gifts for the Rest of the Family
Be sure to check out all my great gifting ideas!
Or, head straight for my Holiday 2020 Gift Guide post for links to all of these guides, and more!
Love this? Be sure to share!
Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. My participation in this program comes at no added cost to you, and helps support this blog. You can learn more about my participation in this program here.
With Thanksgiving around the corner, check out these great books and activities! They are perfect for both homeschooling families, and those just looking for themed activities.
Classic Handprint Turkey
If you grew up in the United States, you almost certainly have memories of doing handprint turkeys around Thanksgiving. The concept is simple; trace your hand, then add a beak and some legs. Voila! You have a turkey!
As a mommy blogger, of course I have to give my own take on the project!
The core concept remains the same, but I've added a few flairs of my own. Here is my take on the classic handprint turkey craft!
What you will need:
How to make your turkeys:
And that's it! Want to elaborate on this activity, or dress it up some? Try these great modifications:
Coloring Pages
No subscription needed for these great coloring pages!
Gratitude Journal/Collages
Create a family gratitude list or journal! You can do this in several ways. One is to use a nice journal or notebook, and add entries each day with what each family member is grateful for. Younger children can add drawings to the book. Another option is to create a scrapbook of collages with what each family member is grateful for. An alternate form of this activity is to have your child create a gratitude collage by printing pictures of things that symbolize what they are grateful for, and gluing them on paper. Older children can also add captions or printed words to their collages. Finally, you can also use my gratitude journal printables and put them in a binder using page protectors or just a 3 hole punch.
Printables
If you are a newsletter subscriber, be sure to check out the Thanksgiving folder for some great new printables! Included are some velcro activities (I used them to make a Thanksgiving binder book game; you can get instructions on how to make one here), a counting worksheet, and gratitude journaling pages for the entire family!
Great Read: I am Thankful
I am Thankful is a new seasonal favorite in our home this year (both me and my child love it!). Featuring a diverse cast of characters, this relatable story discusses the many things children may experience as Thanksgiving traditions, and the many things (and people) they may be grateful for. The book also contains a variety of activities you can do.
Other Highly Rated Thanksgiving Books Your Child Might Like!
Create Your Own Parade Floats
Using materials of your choice (boxes, plastic bottles, paper, pom poms, sequins, toys, balloons, etc.), create parade floats and put on your own Thanksgiving Parade around the house!
Baking
Baking is one of my favorite activities to do as a family, and Thanksgiving baking is no different. Check out some of my favorite recipes, or use your own!
I'll be sharing even more soon!
Even More Ideas!
I love this turkey building activity from Beary Sweet Home. There are also tons of recommendations for other activities, books, and printables!
I also love this turkey weaving activity from The Growing Creatives (you can also find it pinned on my Pinterest).
You can also find a bunch of great activities on Amazon. Here are a few highly rated options your kids may love!
Want even more ideas? Be sure to check out my Pinterest account! I have tons of Thanksgiving and autumn ideas from other bloggers across a number of different boards. And stay tuned to my blog; I will be adding more activities soon!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. My participation in this program comes at no added cost to you, and helps support this blog. You can learn more about my participation in this program here.
For our homeschooling letter W theme, I picked the seasonally appropriate word 'witch'. And what better book to celebrate Halloween and discuss the concept of witches than 'Room on the Broom'. This adorable picture book discusses the themes of kindness and friendship, as a witch is helped by a series of new pals, who she (in return) allows to join her and her cat on their adventures. But that is just the start of how these new friends help one another on a particularly stormy autumn evening! I'll not give spoiler, but I will provide you access to some of the awesome activities I developed (or in some cases, collected) just for this book!
Room on the Broom Velcro Activity
As you read the book, you can use this velcro activity to help children track what is happening in the story. Have your child pick out the appropriate pieces, removing them or adding them to the velcro board. The activity is a great, hands on, visual aid for comprehension.
You can find this activity in my free subscriber's resource library.
Room on the Broom Videos
My little one has been enjoying watching this cute Room on the Broom cartoon on YouTube. It pairs imagery with the classic book text, read out loud.
A second fun version reads the book outloud as a song, with video graphics!
Witch Themed Coloring Pages; Letter W Coloring Page
I'm making a few of these pages available for immediate download. The rest are available in my subscriber's only resource library.
For immediate download:
And for those who have subscribed to the library, check out the newest addition to coloring pages! The letter W page is already uploaded there.
Witch Matching Velcro Activity
Another subscriber's resource library exclusive, I added this activity to my busy book for independent play and learning. Simple laminate two copies, cut out the shapes from one copy, and add velcro to make your own. You can also have your child color the pages prior to laminating (for extra fun).
Witch's Hat Craft
What you'll need:
This activity is super simple! Just cut out a witch's had shape (use the stencil below)- use one plate/piece of paper for the triangle shape, and one to make a flattened oval. Glue them into the shape of a hat, and then decorate!
If you want to make a band, simple place the hat on your child's forehead, use the paper or twine and measure the circumference, and then tie or glue to the hat! Make sure to leave room for your child to pull the hat on and off, though.
Magical Mud Sensory Play
Making magical mud is easy. It is just ooblek! If you've not made it before, the recipe is easy, and uses ingredients you probably already have in house:
That's it! You'll need a 2:1 ratio, so 1 cup of cornstarch for 1/2 cup of water (or whatever sized batch you'd like)
Want to make it extra 'muddy'? Just add food dye; you'll want to add all the colors to make a nice, gunky, brown color. Then, let your kids play! If you'd like, you can let them cover animals in the ooblek, too (just like the animals cover themselves in mud in the book). The great thing about ooblek is it really does seem magical. Defying the boundary between solids and liquids, this amazing activity is bound to get your kids thinking. 
This ooblek was dyed pink, not mud brown. But it was no less fun!
Witch's Brew Sensory Play
This one isn't my activity, but head over to Tot School Resources for their Spooky Witch's Brew Science Experiment. It is a perfect complement to my Room on the Broom activities!
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Celebrate Halloween with free themed coloring pages, and help communicate with Trick or Treaters or party guests about important allergen information with easy to read alert cards.
If you love these, be sure to check out my subscriber's library for tons of other great (and free) printables!
Coloring Pages
Food Allergy Alert Cards
Let Trick or Treaters or guests know what goodie bags are safe for those with food allergies by pairing these cards with clear bags. Or, use them to display in front of trick or treat bowls.
Disclaimer: Always read individual labels before ingesting if you have a food allergy, or are giving food to someone with a food allergy.
And check out even more Halloween themed printables in the exclusive and completely free subscribers only resource library.
Just some of what you will find there! Teal Pumpkin Project inspired printables, 10 Little Pumpkins printables, more coloring pages, Halloween worksheets for elementary aged kids, binder book activities, and more!
Love this? Be sure to share with others!
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