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Saturday, December 16, 2017

Organizing Your Kitchen Cupboards - Where to Start?

I don't know about you, but my kitchen cupboards get messy (and we won't even talk about the odds 'n ends drawer!). I think in my mind I believe I should have a walk in pantry, but in reality I don't which means that it's not big enough! Back in the real world I'm sure that my pantry is big enough for my household, I just need to review how to organize it better!

I did buy an expandable metal shelf for the cupboard that houses my mugs and teas and this was fantastic, but I didn't think it would work the best for my pantry.

Problem number one is herbs and spices. Now the old spice racks that I used to have would be great except I have no where to put them and also I have a couple of herbs and spices that I buy in larger containers as I use more of them.

Problem number two is cans. I buy quite a few canned goods especially when they're on special, but I have to stack them on top of each other to see what I have and if I want to use something it can no longer be stacked so it sits behind something else and get's doubled up.

A solution? I came across a three tier cabinet organizer and thought yes, this could be it! I tested it out with my herbs and spices and then with my cans and went back to get a second one.

Now I know you can get can organizers that you can fit lots of cans in and they just roll out, but I just didn't think that would work very well in my home. With this three tier organizer I can pop on my cans and see at a glance what I have. Now you might look at the image and think well I can't read what the label says, but I pretty much know what the cans I buy look like so I can see enough to know exactly what's there.

three tier organizer for kitchen cabinets

Click image to go to Amazon and check the price of this awesome organizer (and buy it if you want to!)

As far as my herbs and spices go I find it works well, but it may not be the best organization solution for you as you don't really see the names on the spices.

Photo by Lou16

Check out my image to see what I mean. Now this is fine by me because I keep my herbs and spices in alphabetical order except for the the larger containers which aren't showing (they're to the right if I had a better photo to show you).

If that sounds a little OCD - it's not, I just worked retail for a decade and in my mind alphabetical for herbs is the way to go!

I also know exactly what herbs and spices I have - someone coming into my kitchen may have problems using my organizer, but you know what? I don't care, I just want to have it organized for me (and my husband as he's a great cook)!

I have a few other problem areas that need to be organized and I'm working on them. I need to organize my cake decorating stuff - I have an idea on how to do that so stay tuned!

Another problem area is all of the bulk foods that I have especially since my daughter turned vegan. I also think I have a solution for this problem too so there will definitely be a follow up post on organizing your kitchen cupboards.

Do you use anything special to organize your pantry?

One thing that my entire home lacks is enough storage so I've tried lots of different ways to keeping things organized, I hope to share more with you in the future.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Friday, December 15, 2017

Leopard Faux Fur Stroller Coat Reviewed

The Perfect Gift for Animal & Fur Lovers

If you want an outstanding gift that will be adored and loved, I have the perfect recommendation! A Fabulous Faux Fur Leopard Stroller!

My first Fabulous Fur™ was a full length faux fur mink coat. It is wonderful! I have always thought that mink coats were beautiful, but I would never purchase a coat made at the expense of any animal's life much less several little animals.

I consider myself an animal rights enthusiast, but my mother says I am actually an activist. I don't consider myself an activist because my picket sign carrying days are in the past, but whichever word you choose to describe me, I confess it would probably apply. Therefore, when I discovered Fabulous Furs by Donna Salyers and their marvelous alternatives in fur coats, I was elated.

Every Fabulous Fur coat I own is truly fabulous, but my personal favorite is my Leopard stroller. It is more of an every day coat. I reserve my full length beauties for dinner parties and the theater.

Every Fabulous Fur Coat I Own is Exquisite!

Donna Salyers Fabulous Furs
Signature Knee Length Faux Fur Coat

Close Up of the Leopard Stroller Fabric

Take a look at this beautiful close up shot of the faux fur.

My leopard stroller is so gorgeous and warm that it makes me weep when I see the real furs in the department stores and realize just how unnecessary it is to kill a lovely creature just to enjoy an animal print coat.

Animal furs are naturally beautiful and it is not surprising that humans covet their coats. I am thrilled that Fabulous Furs can duplicate the look and feel of an animal fur. I feel proud when I wear one of my faux fur coats.

People Love to Touch My Leopard Faux Fur Coat

I am not fooled. Not everyone who rubs my back when I wear my Leopard stroller, is petting me. I completely understand. It does feel soft and luxurious.

Most of us would not just run up to a leopard and pat his back, but even infants (with clean hands) can enjoy the texture and feel of this stunning coat.

Oh, and did I tell you how warm it is to wear and how the workmanship is absolutely remarkable? I have owned and worn these coats for years and have never had one problem with any of them. Well, except I hate to take them off!

Fabulous Furs by Donna Salyers
The Leopard was my first Fabulous Fur short coat, but I now own several and highly recommend either of these coats

Fabulous-Furs Donna Salyers Leopard Signature Knee Length Faux Fur Coat (Leopard, Large)Check Price Fabulous-Furs Donna Salyers Sable Signature Knee Length Faux Fur Coat (M) (Sable)Check Price

More Fabulous Furs Reviews

My first Review This review of Donna Salyers "Fabulous Furs" included home decor, as well as, coats for children. If you would like to read it, you will find it here: Fabulous Faux Fur Coats, Jackets, Throws and More Reviewed

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Movie Review - Wonder

If you are looking for an inspirational, feel-good movie the whole family can enjoy this holiday season, look no further than Wonder. This film has everything that leaves a moviegoer satisfied—characters you actually care about, themes that matter, and a happy ending. You might shed a few tears, like I did, but they will be the kind of tears that make you feel something beautiful.

Based on the runaway best-selling book by R.J. Palacio, Wonder takes us into the life and times of August Pullman, a ten-year-old boy born with the kind of severe facial deformities that cause most everyone he meets to respond to him in ways that are very painful. The movie follows Auggie as he makes his grand entry into the public life of a fifth-grader after previously being home-schooled. Anyone who has ever been the new kid at school will be able to relate to Auggie's experiences with bullies and the extreme distress of not fitting in.

The movie's storyline is revealed to us as the main characters take turns presenting their perspectives. I don't always like this cinematic or literary technique, but it works well in this movie. It is a very effective way of telling the stories within the story and it helped me form bonds with each character. Getting to briefly run around inside the heads of the supporting characters fleshed out the movie's themes and made them multi-dimensional.

Choose Kind

We are introduced to Wonder's guiding principles through the precepts of Auggie's English teacher, Mr. Browne. Choosing kindness, a major theme, is unveiled early in Mr. Browne's classroom via this quotation by Dr. Wayne Dyer:

"When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind."

The mark of an exceptional movie, at least for me, is what happens when I step out of the theater after the closing credits. Last night, upon arriving home, I found myself spending hours online learning more about Treacher Collins Syndrome (Auggie's condition), the Choose Kind movement inspired by Wonder, watching video interviews with families affected by this syndrome, and reading up on how R.J. Palacio came to write Wonder.

Nurture Kindness

This movie is one that will impact me for a very long time. As a former teen who was bullied for merely being the new kid at my middle school, I have never forgotten the misery and deep pain caused by that experience. It shaped who I became as a teacher and continues to remind me that we each have an awesome responsibility to nurture kindness in young people. If I leave no other legacy as a teacher and human being than that of planting seeds of kindness and compassion, I will feel as though I did something meaningful with my life.

I encourage you to take a child or grandchild to see Wonder. My gifts to young people this Christmas will include the book Wonder, along with related journals and t-shirts that promote the Choose Kind message. It is just one of the many ways I intend to celebrate the hope and wonder of the season.

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Amazing Hobby Kits That Will Encourage Dexterity and Fun! A Hobby Review

Kids love to use their hands! Let's Review how to help them make beautiful and fun things!

Christmas is just days away and everyone, kids and grown ups too, are looking forward to those fun family times that they can spend together. Making great memories is all part of the fun at Christmas time. Those memories are made up of the times we play together, learn together and just have some fun together. So let's get down to Reviewing some great ways to make memories and get those children using their creative juices in fun and crafty ways.

I can't think of a better way of making lasting memories than sharing what we love! It's so easy to do, with a little foresight and planning your children and grandchildren will be so engaged in something new.

Crafts that keep their hands busy are especially wonderful. They will learn new skills and make something that they can share with their friends too. These crafts like embroidery, can easily be taught to those children in the 7 to 9 year range or older. They have enough dexterity in their fingers to handle the tiny details. They can try to make something extra special with several different kits that you can put together yourself or there are kits available that have everything needed to complete a project from start to finish.

Whether it's knitting or sewing, origami (paper folding), or needlepoint, little hands love to try and we as parents and grandparents love to share! Premade kits are available and generally they have a great range of ages that are capable of following the instructions! You don't want to overwhelm them with something too difficult for their little hands to accomplish.

I personally love this kit from Amazon! You see I was a dressmaker for many, many years and my love for sewing started out when I was 7 or 8. I made pillows and little critters for everyone. My mother whose 86 now, still has a pillow that I made for her! So if sewing is one of your favorite pastimes, this kit would be a perfect way to share that love!

So many projects and they are all very interesting and creative too! You don't have to invest a lot of money into a craft, just find out if that particular craft resonates with your young ones. If not, then they will still have learned a lesson in creativity!

Maybe your little one's hands aren't ready for those really small motor skills or they are much more interested in putting their visions and ideas onto paper! One of my granddaughters is a master at drawing and loves to do that more than anything.

Her poor dad is always running out of computer paper because my little Miss Addie, has drawn on each and every page available to her. We needed to find something for her so that her Dad could keep his paper where he needed it and she could draw to her hearts content. We found a great compromise and she is over the moon about it too!

Have you heard of Boogie Boards? They are similar to the "Etch-a-Sketch" that we had in our day, but easier to use. Kids can draw on the pad with a stylus and then erase it at will. It's great for long road trips when you know the children will get restless, and a great way for kids to use their hands creatively.

Now if you have a budding scientist in your midst, then I would suggest one of the many kits that are available for them too. They can Tumble rocks or grow their own crystals, or even make their own soaps and beauty products. There are kits for knitting and crochet, macrame and T-shirt printing. Anything that is hobby related has a book or several books to give children ideas and projects that will keep their hands busy.

Grammie Olivia's Hobby Central
This is one of my favorite pages on Amazon. All of my grandchildren will be getting something special from these pages, because there is just so much to choose from. Please let me know if you find that special something for your children or grandchildren! Have fun making memories and great crafts too!

My friend Bev, just did a great review on a Science Lab that would be perfect for little girls too, you can check out her Review right here!

pictures are courtesy of Pixabay.com

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Tuesday, December 12, 2017

Ancestry DNA Kit Reviewed

Genealogy Made Easy

Someone's ancestor painted this

Have you considered getting an ancestry DNA kit to find out what your heritage is? It is something that I have wanted to do ever since I found out that it was a possibility. At first the cost seemed rather expensive to me and I would think that perhaps it was something that I could ask for as a gift. Then I would feel guilty thinking that it was rather an expensive thing to ask for.

This year, the various companies that offer this service have placed their ancestry kits on sale. Suffice it to say, they got my attention. I also saw a report a few weeks back comparing the top three selling kits. This report used a set of identical triplets to send the samples to. All three were accurate and came up with the same results. That was really about all I needed to hear to make me take the plunge.

I decided to go with the one from Ancestry.com (not an affiliate link) because they have the largest database to look into. To be honest, at first I decided to give a kit to my father for his Christmas present this year. Once I had put it into my cart, I decided to treat myself to one too.

DNA Kit

Both kits arrived at my door very quickly. So, I decided to go ahead and send my sample in. Dad won't get his until Christmas morning. It is all pretty easy. They send you a vial to spit in (ewww!) and then you send it to the lab. There is a number on the vial that you have to register so that they can identify whose kit it is. They send you an email to let you know that it has been registered and I just got an email telling me that it has arrived at the lab and is waiting to be tested. The drawback is that it will take 6 to 8 weeks for them to test it and send me the results. I am hoping that by the end of February I will get the report telling me where my ancestors came from.

While I am waiting, I decided to get a membership on the site to begin the process of finding the names of some of my ancestors. That is not a requirement to get the results of the DNA testing, by the way. You get matches with the test but you are limited in what you can search for without a membership.

On my maternal side, I had a pretty good feel for what my heritage is from that branch of my family tree. A few of my uncles were curious about our genealogy back in the days when they had to go look for records in courthouses and such. Plus, my mother's family was very good with oral history. For as long as I can remember my maternal family has been proud to have come from Scotland and Ireland. As I work through building a family tree on the site, that information is holding true. Many of my ancestors did immigrate from Scotland, Ireland and England.

What has been interesting is working on my paternal branch of the family tree. I found a few ancestors who crossed the ocean from England, a few more from Ireland and Scotland but the surprise was the number who came from Germany. My grandfather's people hailed from Germany for the most part. Perhaps I should consider getting a pair of lederhosen! So far, I have been able to trace ancestors as far back to 1550 in Germany on the Rumler side of the tree. That is incredible!

Oddly, I am having difficulty finding my paternal grandmother's people. Well, not so odd if the truth be told. Our family lore on her side was always a little guarded. Legend on this side has always been that my great-grandfather was Native American and ran away from a reservation. This may turn out to be factual. Oddly, the only records that I can find for him are of his marriage to my great-grandmother and the children they had together. Beyond the marriage certificate issued in 1896 there are no records of him. Other family members have stated that he was born about 1873 but they do not indicate exactly where he was born. Even odder is that I can't find birth records of his wife, either. She was supposed to be Caucasian so why can I not find records of her birth and her parent's names? Did they disown her when she married an Indian? Well, it would be one thing to say she is disowned but it would be another to destroy records of her birth, wouldn't it? Quite the mystery! She did seem to suffer from a bit of an identity crisis. The marriage certificate names her as Leanna. Later census reports sometime name her as Lena while others name her as Anna.

I can hardly wait to get the results of the ancestry DNA testing kit! From the research that I have done already it should show a strong presence of German, Scottish, and Irish genes. Will it show a presence of Native American DNA? Time will tell.

How about you? Do you know your own genealogy? Have you considered getting the kit or have you already done so? Have you considered giving one as a gift this holiday season?

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