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We moved over the summer and I thought it would be a good time to share our top tips for moving and packing that we find make our moves go smoother. Declutter as you Go We started weeks before we moved and decluttered small spaces when we had time. We would start with one closet or kitchen cabinet at a time. Things like our linen closet ended up being a storage space for things we weren't ready to get rid of at the time, but after having it in the closet for a while, we were able to part with things we didn't have a sentimental attachment to. This is a great time to sell things on local resell pages and make donations to thrift stores. Save Money by Packing Yourself If you can, pack as much as you can in the weeks before your moving day. We spent many nights and weekends packing up things we had in our house that we didn't "use" every day. Books, decor, linen closet, 80% of the kid's toys, unique kitchen items, seasonal decor, we packed it all. All the movers we called charge by the hour and that can add up quickly when they are packing everything. Also, you can take the time to purge anything you don't want and trash doesn't get packed with your belongings. I'm not even kidding, we've had trash get packed with our bathroom items in a previous move. It's not fun. Get Boxes from Your Local Community. If you really want to buy boxes, I suggest getting the same size boxes to make packing easier. Medium boxes with handles were what we used the most because we could move them easily after they were packed. But, we saved a lot of money by posting in local Facebook groups asking if anyone had boxes we could use. After our move, we posted "free moving boxes" in our neighborhood group and they were gone within an hour. Pack a First-night Box This is going to be the box you unpack first, but one that you pack last. Pack this box with things you will need to spend the first night in your new home. Pack things like bedding, pillows, air mattresses (if you won't have furniture right away), toiletries, basic tools (hammer, screwdrivers, scissors, or box cutter), first aid kit, flashlight, phone chargers, and important medication. Don't forget things like comfort items for kids. We let our kids pick two snuggle toys each a book and a nightlight to have that first night so that transition goes a little bit easier. Label Everything In the moment, it's easy to think you'll remember what you packed where, but honestly, once you get a stack of boxes, you start wondering, which box that item was packed in. Labeling helps so much when you go to unpack. And don't just put "kitchen", take it another step and put "plates and mugs" etc. so you will know what you are unpacking on the other end. When we moved we didn't have the same storage space in our kitchen and had to figure out what we wanted unpacked first and what could stay packed up a little longer until we could figure out what the new spot was going to be. Make a Master List Write down anything and everything you think of as you prepare to move. This could include things like calling the movers to confirm a moving date, setting up new internet, finding a cleaner, and starting water service. This list can be used by the entire family so everyone knows what has already been done and what can be done by them. Take it from us, call to set up as much as you can. We filled out an online water start service but when we signed the papers for our house, the next day the water was shut off and wasn't switched to our name like it was supposed to be. I had to call the company and found out their online forms were backed up. However, since I called she was able to schedule service to be turned back on that Monday. Luckily, we were still staying in our old house for a few days, but it was still a hassle. Schedule a Cleaner Whether it's cleaning the old house or cleaning the new house, moving is a lot of work and while we only booked a cleaner for our old house and cleaned the new house ourselves, it saved us a lot of time. We did general cleaning, but let our cleaning service do all the nitty gritty work and we had a receipt for our landlords as well. Take Photographs Not only because it may be your kids' "first room" or maybe it's your first home together. But, also take pictures of random things like how that gallery wall is organized or how you organized the shelves in the garage to hold all our holiday decorations. Create an Important Folder. Keep receipts related to the move in the folder and any personal and financial paperwork you want to keep safe. We got a zippable folder and kept pest control, lawn care, and our cleaner receipts, and copies of our recent bills so we had account numbers easily accessible, passports, birth certificates, things like that. This stayed with us and made it easy to know where important things were at any given time. Plan Meals to Use up Food Take the time to go through and see what things you can use up from your freezer, fridge, and pantry before you move. While you're at it, go through those spices and get rid of the outdated ones. We don't need to move things unless we have to. Make Time for Self-care Moving is hard and stressful and takes so much time. Make sure you make time to do something for yourself too. Go see a movie, have a dinner date, go for a hike, schedule a massage, plan an outing with friends. Whatever it is that feeds your soul and creates joy for you, make sure you schedule some time to do that. Yes, schedule it. Even if it's planning a day to put on pajamas early and watch a movie with snacks, make yourself a priority too. Best Moving Supplies: Medium Boxes with Handles Safe Box Cutter Packing tape Space saver bags Moving labels Foam Sheets 39 piece General Tool Set Tips for moving with pets and kids Moving with Kids Make sure you honor their feelings. Kids can get pretty attached to their rooms, neighborhood parks, friends, school, etc. If you're making a big move, it can be especially overwhelming for them. Allow them to express those big feelings and understand that they might be sad and excited at the same time, and that's okay. - Offer times to talk about those big feelings. - Get them excited to decorate their new room. New paint, new wall decor, new bedding, whatever it is, sometimes shopping and buying something new for their room can help get them to feel excited about their new space. - Let them help pack. This applies mostly to older kids, but let them get involved. They can pack their own toys in boxes and choose what they want to go in their first night box. - Do something fun once you move. We hit up our neighborhood pool pretty quickly after we moved. It was a good chance for all of us to destress and do something fun together. Moving with Pets First and foremost, know your pets. If your pet is laid back, it might be less stressful for them, but some pets don't like moving and learning a new place at all. - Make them a safe space whether it's a kennel or a room, with hiding space, while there are so many moving people and so much noise in their space. - Book them into a doggy daycare or kennel if you feel you need to. Maybe it's overwhelming to think about managing them while you pack and move. - Make sure you have enough food and pack their beds and bowls in the first night box. - If you're moving to a new town, make sure to find a new vet and get records sent over, especially if they are on medication or a special diet. - For our cats, we set them up immediately in the office room with a litter box and water. They had a desk they could hide under and on top of while they got used to the new smells and sounds of the new house. Moving is a lot, but you can do it, and it's always fun to decorate a new home!

In honor of it being my dog Ollie's birthday month, I wanted to share a fun dog DIY snuffle mat that we made! This DIY Snuffle Mat is a great way to add some enrichment into treat time. Sniffing is hugely beneficial for dogs. I read somewhere that just 20 minutes of sniffing is like an hour of walking time. It's good for their brains and is very stimulating for them. Then and now! Look at this baby when I first made him a snuffle mat! Supplies: Plastic Sink Mat Fleece fabric (I used about 2 yards total) Rotary cutter Self-healing mat Acrylic ruler I used two different colors of green fleece but you could totally do one solid color throughout, colors that match your decor, or a rainbow of colors! Directions: Using your rotary cutter, self-healing mat, and ruler, cut your fleece into strips that are about 7- 8 inches long and 1 inch wide. This is the type of DIY that can also be done with scissors if you don't own or don't want to purchase a rotary cutter. I just find the rotary cutter to be a much faster and cleaner way to make your cuts. However, this project doesn't have to be perfect and scissors will work just fine. 2. Take a strip of your fleece and tie it to your sink mat. I double-tied mine to just make sure they were secure since my dog was going to be digging around in the finished product. 3. Repeat these steps, tying fleece in the areas between each hole. If you're making a colorful or two-toned mat, make sure you swap the colors up to create a pattern. 4. Once you've tied all your strips, and covered all the spaces between the holes, your mat will look something like this. To use the snuffle mat, tuck small treats into and around in the flaps of fleece and let your dog have fun using his nose to search out the goodies! Ollie's favorite treats are these Zuke's Turkey and Cranberry Holiday Trees but your dog's favorite small treats or pieces of treat will be great! We like to use our snuffle mat when we're home but can't be very engaging. It's good for when I'm having to do work. This also makes a fun gift for dog lovers in your life!

If you're anything like me, Barbie dolls were a staple in your childhood. My friends and I played Barbies a lot together. I won't name names, but we even got certain brothers in on the Barbie fun! I made a DIY cardboard Barbie house as a child and had so much fun cutting and gluing "decor", aka magazine clippings, into my house. From pictures of rugs to art, and even kitchen appliances, Barbie had her dream house decked out! Once I had my daughter, she had her own 3 story doll house. Barbie had her own private pool, jacuzzi horses, and a convertible! Almost all of it was that signature Barbie pink color! The new Barbie movie is a chance to dress up and bring back that nostalgic Barbie pink! We've rounded up some cute Barbie outfit inspiration to wear to the Barbie movie with friends, costume party, or even incorporate into your closet for everyday wear. Why not embrace our inner girlie girl?! Barbie says we can do/be anything, so let's embrace that attitude! Barbie Outfit Inspiration by Rows Retro Love Glasses, Pink Earrings Set, Pink Tulle Dress Pink Ruffle Dress , Tweed Dress Suit , Hot Pink Dress , Pink Romper Barbie Girl Shirt , Barbie Party Shirt , Pink Barbie Shirt , Barbie 90's Tank Square Neck Top, Bow Crop Top, Off Shoulder Top , Sequin Shorts Criss Cross Halter Top, Pink Feather Top , Sequin Skirt, Leg Warmers Set, Pink Converse Shoes, Metallic Skirt, Barbie Necklace How will you add pink to your outfit? See you at the movies!

Amazon Prime Days are here!! July 11 and 12 will be full of savings on all types of fun finds on Amazon. We bought a house and are moving into our new home soon, so of course, I've been doing more shopping and wishlist building than usual, and what better time to take advantage of some of the BEST Amazon prime day deals?! Here are some amazing prime day deals that are tempting me and you might like them too! Peel and Stick Wallpaper - 27% off! There are several different patterns on sale. I adore this vintage-style floral wallpaper for a powder room or guest bathroom. Dekala Arches Gradual Sunrise Alarm Clock - 30% off! This 6-1 sunrise alarm clock is also a wireless charging dock, Bluetooth speakers, a white noise machine, and more! I can't decide if I want this for me or my teenager! StarWars Echo Dot - 30% off! This Echo bundle includes the limited edition Darth Vader stand. My little guy would love to have this in his Star Wars-themed room! Shark AI Ultra Voice Control Robot Vacuum - 50% off! If you're looking for a robot vacuum this one empties itself and has great reviews! It says it's great for homes with pets and we have a dog and two cats. Samsung Frame TV - 36% off! This smart tv with Alexa comes in sizes 32-85 inches. The 75-inch one I would get is 36% off. Art mode with anti-reflection matte display and slim fit wall mount with a motion sensor and you get a customized frame too! Emerald Bench - 63% off! Coming in at only $36 this was one of the best deals I found and look at that gorgeous green color! 5 piece wicker patio set - 22% off! Under $300 for 5 seater patio set! How cute is this one that can be mixed and matched to create different seating arrangements. Hammock Chair Swing - 20% off! My daughter has this exact swing in her room and she loves it! Snag one for yourself while they are on sale. It was a great "big Christmas gift" for her! Bluetooth Turntable & Speakers - 31% off! Enjoy the aesthetic of a class turntable with Bluetooth bookshelf speakers. It's designed to play both vinyl records and stream music from any connected device! Eero Mesh System - 35% off! This three-pack Eero 6+ wifi system covers 4,500 square footage! No more dropped calls. Kids Art Frames - 20% off! Set of 2 art frames that measure 9x12 for those larger pieces they bring home from school. You can hang them vertically or horizontally. Under Desk 2 in 1 treadmill - 36% off! So many of us work from home and having a desk treadmill is a game changer. This portable, foldable treadmill can be used under your desk, or fold the handrail up and go jogging for a more intense workout. USB outlet - 20% off! Update your outlet with this USB outlet. Phomemo Thermal Printer - 49% off! This compact thermal printer doesn't even need ink! Compatible with Ios, Android and computers/laptops, it's a great choice for everyone. Novogratz Her Majesty Upholstered Daybed and Trundle - 31% off! Coming in at less than $300 this daybed with trundle would be perfect in an office to use as a guest bed! Crosley Furniture Seaside Hall Tree - 59% off! Organize your entryway or mud room before school starts back with this cute bench and coat rack! Cast iron dutch oven - 40% off! This six-quart cast iron Dutch oven in cream is calling my name. I can totally see myself cooking my "Million Dollar Spaghetti" in this bad boy! Blink Whole Home Bundle - 50% off! This blink whole home bundle comes with a doorbell camera, outdoor camera, and mini camera and works with Alexa! It's just over $100 and sounds like a steal! Lilpartner 6 in 1 stand mixer - 44% off! Upgrade your stand mixer! This amazing kitchen gadget can be used as a pasta machine, meat grinder, blender and more! Shark HZ602 Ultralight Pet Pro - 35% off! Looking for something corded and not in the robot family, this one is lightweight and has a separate pet brush. VECELO C Shaped End Side Table - 21% off! This set of 2 c shaped tables would be a perfect addition to a sectional with not a lot of space for setting stuff on. Retro Bar Stools - 20% off! These retro-style barstools are faux leather and come in a few different colors. Sleek and modern, I'll take 4 thanks! Outdoor Waterproof Curtains - 26% off! Heavy duty canvas-like curtains to block out the sun and create privacy. Solar Tiki Torches - 41% off! How cute are these solar powered tiki torches for your yard or garden! The flickering flame has an auto setting that runs from dusk until dawn. Portable Carpet Cleaner - 30% off! This portable carpet and upholstery cleaner is a great price for something I rarely see deals on! Marble Run - 60% off! This 100-piece magnetic tile race track toy set is a great STEM toy for kids! Dog Talk Buttons - 50% off! Train your dog to communicate through words using these recordable buttons. Nest Smart Thermostat - 35% off! Upgrade your HVAC system with this Google Nest Smart Wifi thermostat. Enjbrick Up House - 40% off! Got a Disney lover? This UP! house is adorable to add to their collection.

This Whipped Ricotta French Toast is one that screams breakfast in bed, but is actually pretty healthy and easy to whip up! It's quick enough to pull together, that I've made it on the weekends and during the weekdays (if I actually get up when my alarm goes off). Whipped Ricotta French Toast *Serves 4 Ingredients: 8 slices of whole-grain toast (2 per person) 5-6 eggs (depending on size) milk cinnamon nutmeg 3/4 cup ricotta 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 2 Tablespoons maple syrup (plus more for topping) fresh berries (we like strawberries and blueberries) *Special tools: griddle Directions: In a small bowl, crack your eggs. Add a splash of milk and cinnamon and nutmeg, as desired and whisk together. Preheat the griddle to about 300 and spray with nonstick spray. Coat each piece of bread in egg mixture, flipping to coat each side. I let mine sit on each side to really soak up the egg mixture. Place each slice of coated bread on the hot griddle. Repeat with all the slices of bread. Once the bread is cooked on one side, flip each piece to cook the other side. Remove to a plate for later. (not pictured - vanilla and nonstick spray) 6. In a clean bowl, mix together the 3/4 cup ricotta, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Whip together with a fork. You can also use a handheld immersion blender if you have one. 7. Plate your French toast (this recipe gives 2 pieces of toast per person) and top with 1/4 of the ricotta mixture. 8. Wash and slice your strawberries. Top your French toast with strawberries and blueberries or other fruit of your choice. 9. Serve with another splash of maple syrup on top and enjoy! I'm not kidding when I say my kids devour this! At first, the kids think the ricotta is weird but once I got my kids to taste it, they actually request the ricotta mixture anytime I mention making French toast. The ricotta gives it a bit more protein to make it a more filling breakfast and of course, the whole grain and berries help provide fiber and antioxidants so you can feel good about feeding your family in the morning! You may also like: Healthy Green Smoothie

Ahh baseball. A classic American sport. My little guy played baseball and it was SOO cute. Of course, as a great team parent, I had to supply snacks and I found some adorable baseball snacks for kids that don’t take much prep work. Your little baller will love them! Baseball Snacks for Kids I was that crazy parent who signed up for the first game snack of the season. I wanted to do something cute, but easy. We found these cute boxes of Cracker Jacks and knew they would have to kickstart our first season! "Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the crowd! Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jacks!" All of the parents were singing the song. The kids loved the little prizes inside (tattoos) but were lost on the novelty of Cracker Jacks at their first baseball game. At the end of the baseball season, we wanted to thank his fellow teammates for a great season. I created this simple printable and attached them to these yummy Hostess Baseball Cupcakes as a thank-you treat! Get the printable PDF here We added his name to the bat in white marker. Then, I printed them off and stapled them to the baseball cupcakes to give out to his friends. They were much easier on Mom than trying to make baseball-decorated cupcakes and they had creme inside! I’d say that’s a win/win. The kids loved them and we hope your little baseball fans will too!

This is a fun project for toddler or preschoolers but honestly big kids (moms included) can have fun making these coffee filter butterflies! Supplies: Coffee filters Watercolor paints Paintbrushes Paper plates Pipe cleaners Directions: Lay your coffee filters out on paper plates and let the kids paint them with watercolors. Try out many different designs. We set out multiple plates with coffee filters on them at once so they had a lot to work with. Once the coffee filters are dry, scrunch them in the middle. Fold a pipe cleaner in half and wrap around the middle. Curl the antennae out to complete it and ta-da! One coffee filter makes one butterfly! We like to string our butterflies up on display so we can talk about them. They make a fun addition to the playroom during the Spring.