Fun Products to Celebrate Valentine’s Day from Home! (WITH the kiddos!)

Another Covid Holiday approaches, and with things not back to normal yet (Hoping soon!!!) it looks like it will be another quiet day. If nothing else, this pandemic has made us have more quality time with our family and children, yes? I know I have certainly spent more time at home then I ever have, and quality time is more than ever- sometimes, too much, amIright? Haha. It’s also an never ending battle to get kids away from screens, and while screen time certainly has it’s place, so does being away from it and stretching other muscles.

Since so many holidays have cancelled or forced to celebrate differently the past few years, here are a few ideas to help you make the most out of your Valentine’s Day this year with the kiddos. 

Creating new traditions will be a great way to make memories and will give the kids something to look forward to even while being stuck at home. A few ideas include building sets like those from Magformers and Thames & Kosmos or delicious vegan baking mixes from Lehi Mills. All of which stimulate creative problem solving, encourage hands-on learning and last but not least will get kids away from the screen.

make your own night light

Creatto

Creatto is a simple yet versatile building system that consists of just two primary components that can be woven together into countless 3D creations. The flexible yet durable plastic tiles interlock quickly and easily for all skill levels; no additional materials or hardware required! Each Creatto kit includes assembly instructions for four different configurations, but the possibilities are limited only by your imagination. Add strings of colored LED lights to illuminate your works of art from the inside out. Creatto is available in a variety of designs for $9.95-$29.95 and is for Ages 6+.

magnet blocks

Magbuddies Sets

Step into the world of Max’s Playground Set, Maggy’s House Set, Milo’s Mansion Set, Minibot Kitchen Set and build your own amazing Mag City. Collect all 4 and see what you can create. Ages 3+ MSRP: $49.99 each. 

bubble gum kit

Super Duper Bubble Gum Lab

It’s time to have some gummy fun with this awesome bubble gum making kit! Mix up your gum base and then sweeten it with sugar. Next, use the three included flavors to make your gum more delicious than ever. Choose from watermelon, orange, and classic bubble gum  or try them all! Finally, cut it up, package it, and label it with stickers to give away as gifts. While you make these yummy treats, you’ll also learn about the scientific properties of elastic materials. Ages 6+ MSRP: $19.95.

best baby toy

Stick-O Cooking 16Pc Set

The Stick-O Cooking 16 Piece Set brings out your child’s inner chef. This themed magnetic kit inspires kids to assemble and cook delicious foods including an egg, lollipop, candy, carrot, and more. The 16 Piece Cooking Set includes 2 Spheres, 2 Sticks, 1 Curve Stick, 1 Oval Stick and 1 Half Sphere. Ages 18m+ MSRP $24.99.

vegan baked goods

Lehi Mills Certified Vegan Line
Lehi Mills is a premium baking mix company that recently launched their Certified Vegan Line. With over 100 years of milling experience, quality has always been their first ingredient.  Included in the Lehi Mills Certified Vegan Line is the delicious Vegan Pancake and Waffle Mix, Vegan Raspberry Muffin Mix and Vegan Double Fudge Brownie. All of which are plant-based and perfect for when you want a wholesome, vegan treat. 

exit game

EXIT

EXIT: The Game is a series of party games for up to four players that offers a unique, unforgettable gaming experience, perfect for Valentine’s Day fun! These games allow you to bring the excitement, intensity, and team spirit of an escape room to your living room. In each EXIT game, your team starts out locked in an imaginary room, or trapped somewhere. You must solve a series of riddles and puzzles in order to unlock doors and reveal new riddles. Each correct solution brings you to another riddle and eventually to freedom. EXIT is constantly expanding with new stories. Ages 10+ MSRP: $14.95.

Cute Elegear Rainbow Throw Blanket #GiftGuide

Are you looking for a cute gift that will be appreciated by almost any age? Easy to give, soft and warm (so it’s perfect for winter) and bright colors. Sounds good, right?

Check out this cute Rainbow throw blanket- it comes in two colors, pink and purple. It’s a fun tye-dye that kids, teens, and tweens are sure to love.  And really, it’s winter- who can’t use a blanket?

soft blanket

This blanket is 100% Flannel With Japanese Heatwarm +2℃ Technology, so it will be super warm as well as super cute. Your gift-ee will love the warm and cozy touch and feel of the blanket and would be great to nap with on the couch or sleep with in bed on chilly nights.

The rainbow throw blanket is handmade, so that the color and pattern of each blanket are different. The tie dye blanket uses environmentally friendly dyes (also skin-friendly) and beautiful tones to create these plush blankets.

Premium Quality & Safety – The blanket has passed the OEKO-TEX certification, so your children can also use it safely. The fabric is added with moisture-absorbing and heating yarn, which can quickly heat up 2~5℃. The 260GSM flannel blanket will not pile up over time, will not shed hair, will not fade. At the same time, the fleece blanket is anti-static, keeping you away from annoying static electricity in winter.

It is also machine washable – just throw it into the machine. These blankets are tightly stitched and are resistant to shrinkage, so they can maintain their shape after each wash. Avoid direct heating, and of course do not bleach.

It makes a great gift- any kid needs a beautiful and colorful throw blanket, whether at home, school, traveling, or camping.

soft blanket

Buy it here

But don’t forget to use your discount code-  T2EPN5MT   end date: 2022-11-30

Fantastic Toys For Christmas Gifts

If you are still on the prowl for a few gifts for the kiddos on your list, check out these awesome finds that they will love (and without a mega price tag).

laser x

Laser X Revolution Two Player Micro Laser Tag Gaming Blaster Set

Do you have a fan of laser tag? If so, your child might like this toy.

My kids love these games- they are huge laser tag fans, so being able to play wherever and whenever they want is great. My husband gets in on the games on occasion as well, LOL. We are giving them this set for Christmas this year, and I know they will be playing Christmas morning, haha.

Laser X is the #1 home laser tag system worldwide. Kids love it because they can play laser tag at home, in their backyards or playrooms. Zap the other team from up to 200 feet away, no matter if you are inside or out, in the daylight or at night. You can choose from more than 10 team colors to light up your blaster. Blaster beams go through windows and strategically bounce off walls and mirrors to hit opponents. The Micro Blaster’s compact size is easy to take anywhere and play on the go. All Laser X gear works together, with other packs and sets- this way, your games can include unlimited players. Requires 6 “AAA” batteries (not included). It is recommended for ages 6 and up- but there are no tiny parts, so use your judgement.

Highlights

  • Set equips 2 players with Laser X Revolution Micro Blasters
  • Blast opponents up to 200 feet away
  • Blaster to blaster play – no chest or armband receivers!
  • Play as teams or individuals
  • Choose from 10 different team colors
  • Sounds and lighting effects keep track of your shots and hits
  • Requires 6 “AAA” (1.5V) batteries (not included)
  • Does NOT use a real laser; Infrared beam is not visible

laser x

Laser X Equalizer

For more Laser X, check out the new Laser X Equalizer. It’s the latest addition to the game, and my kids are really enjoying it- just be careful they aren’t tossing it at each other or at your windows. Ah, kids.

This is a fun new addition to the Laser X toys- my kids really enjoy the laser blasters, and they LOVE messing around with this. It’s something new and interesting to liven up the game even more- add more excitement and something special other laser tag games don’t have.

The Laser X Equalizer is the ultimate addition to your Laser X Gear. Toss it into the game to EQUALIZE the playing field. Blast the Equalizer in the air or on the ground and it blasts multiple players within a 50-foot radius. Play inside or out, in darkness or bright sunlight.  The Laser X Equalizer Disc works with all Laser X blasters including the original, Revolution and Evolution Laser X gear. Games can include unlimited players. Ages 6+.  Requires 3 “AAA” batteries (not included).

Highlights

  • Toss it through the air or place it on the ground. Blast the disk to blast opponents within a 50-foot radius!
  • Works with all Laser X Blasters (blasters not included)
  • Requires 3 “AA” (1.5V) batteries (not included)
  • Does NOT use a real laser
  • Infrared beam is not visible
  • Ages 6+

football throw

All Pro Passer Robotic Quarterback

For the athlete or football fan in your life, check this out-

No matter if you want to go long or short, it’s always the perfect throw with this toy.Tthe All-Pro Passer Robotic Quarterback is “the most accurate quarterback on earth”. It is programmed with the skill, timing and accuracy of a pro quarterback, the aptly named All-Pro Passer can launch the ball over 25 yards. With nine different passing zones, it lets you practice hundreds of plays. Just select your play, then press hike, slant, post, short or long. The All-Pro Passer throws a perfect spiral every time. Play one-on-one, three-on-three or with as many players as you want. You can even practice catching on your own. Perfect for the park or backyard. Football included. Requires 4 “C” (1.5V) batteries (not included). Recommended for ages 8+, but again- no small parts, so use your judgment. Or even better, go out and play with them and supervise! More fun anyway.

My oldest loves football, so this will make a great gift for him. I hate to play (sorry! LOL) so this will let him play for more time than I have stamina for. I suppose mental stamina? Patience, whatever. It’s great that he can program it to do what he wants- he can’t do that with me, so it will make his life easier. Moms are horrible like that, ay? But honestly, I don’t have a great arm anyway- this will be a great Christmas present.

Highlights

  • The most accurate quarterback on earth
  • Programmed with the skill, timing and accuracy of a pro quarterback
  • Throws a perfect spiral every time!
  • 9 different passing zones – lets you practice hundreds of plays
  • Launches the ball over 25 yards
  • Play one-on-one, three-on-three or with as many players as you want. You can even practice catching on your own
  • Requires 4 “C” (1.5V) batteries (not included).
  • Ages 8+

 

Kid Friendly Cooking: Chocolate Macaroon Snowballs Kit with Kidstir

Looking for a fun family activity or a great gift for kids this holiday season? Get kids in the kitchen with Kidstir’s single or subscription cooking kits. Each month brings a new box with 3 step-by-step recipes, kitchen tools, and a brand-new, activity-filled Foodie Fun magazine. In addition to mastering tasty recipes, kids learn hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, improve math and reading skills.
cooking with kids

This month’s theme is “Our Merry Table” and includes recipes such as vegan Spaghetti & Beetballs, a guide on how to make your own oat flour, a DIY dog
treat guide, delicious gluten-free Macaroon chocolate snowballs, and more. Please let me know if I can send samples or images for any stories.
cooking with kids
The items in the box include a small child size oven mitt, small spatula, and many recipe cards. This is not one of those kits that include the food and other items that you will need to cook the food and recipes, you will have to buy those things on your own.
kidstir
Every months has a different batch of recipe cards, based on what time of year it is and holidays and things such as that. I have no idea if they change up the oven mitt and spatula- both boxes I got had them in it (Oct and Nov boxes) as well as recipe cards for the Day of the Dead and holiday themed things like latkes and eggnog. They might always have that, I’m not sure.
If you are looking for a monthly box of recipes to ty out, this is the site for you.  Check out this site or you can visit Amazon and pick one up. Enjoy!

Adorable Holiday Clothing with #CastawayNantucket @CastawayACK

Do you love to wear festive clothing? If you follow me on any social media channel at all, then you know I do. I really, really do. It’s madness, according to my teenagers- but I love it. We recently discovered Castaway Nantucket, which has not only fun holiday items (think Christmas, Hanukkah, Halloween, etc) but also great year round items. Summer or shore dreaming with lobster prints, margaritas or wine- so many things to choose from. And super cute- tiny little embroidered prints, nothing too big or flashy.

holiday prints

Did you know that more than 52% of Americans put off their holiday shopping to the last minute? With all the delays expected this year, you should consider jumping on it, even if you typically fall into that category. As you start to shop for those on your list, or you are picking out your own holiday ensemble, look no further than Castaway Nantucket.
Castaway Nantucket features hundreds of styles for men and women, and even has matching (and adorable) styles for families. From seersucker to madras, to gingham and plaid, Castaway Nantucket offers beautifully crafted, elevated styles for every member of the family.
holiday clothing
Fashion is a personal choice, but there are some outfit staples that we can all agree look good on everyone- and make great gifts. For a classic, fresh look for men, women and kids, look no further than Castaway Nantucket for you and every fashion lover on your list. (And how cute would a Holiday card be this year in these? Everyone in matching gear that they actually liked!)
cute pants
About Castaway Nantucket 
For four generations, the Bridier family has run the Murray’s Toggery Shop on Nantucket. Brothers Matt and Andrew worked countless summers, vacations, and weekends at Murray’s honing their skills and learning the haberdasher trade, going on to start Castaway Nantucket in 2005. Castaway Nantucket features truly-preserved American style for men and women buoyed by tradition, quality, and the ideals of life by the sea. Castaway Nantucket features hundreds of men’s and ladies fashion staples and accessories to complete a refined look for any style.

Got Mask-ne? Check These Out #ClothMasks

If you are like us, you have tried a thousand masks out over this past pandemic-era. Not all masks are created equal, so here is a little round up of some of our favorites.

cloth masks

Ollie Belle’s new Phyto Anti-Acne Mask is made up of a proprietary fabric blend that has been proven to kill 99% of bacteria! Using multifunctional, antibacterial technology, Ollie Belle’s face mask includes a zirconium-silver compound, embedded in the fiber. These silver fragments work to release positive ions that attach to the negative ions in bacteria, ultimately preventing the growth of bacteria and blemishes.

But wait, there’s more. Check out these additional points on why you should recommend Ollie Belle to your audience of skincare lovers:

Odor fighting properties
    • Ability to fight viruses and airborne pathogens
    • Lightweight, breathable, soft fabric keeps the skin dry and free from synthetic fibers that cause acne
    • 99% UV protection
    • Quick-drying: 90% faster drying time than polyester & cotton
      ​What is Phytoncide? 
      ​Phytoncide is the main mascne protecting factor in Ollie Belle’s face mask. Phytoncide is a substance emitted by plants and trees (think of it as tea tree oil!) Phytoncides are naturally produced to help plants and trees to protect themselves from harmful insects and germs. In this case, it is being used to protect us against face bacteria caused by the wearing of face masks.

cloth masks

If you want reusable gloves in addition to masking, or are annoyed that you can’t properly use your fingers with gloves on- try these out-

 GHLUV is very innovative personal protection accessory  launched in late Spring 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic.  GHLUV was featured in Forbes.com and CBS news as one of the most creative innovations that have been developed to fight the spread of Covid-19 and has proven to be a valuable gear to offer extra protection in everyday life with comfort and style.

Ghluv can be worn on the wrist and easily be pulled down on the hand to avoid direct contact with high-touch surfaces when opening doors, pushing buttons and shopping carts. It is treated with the Swiss antimicrobial technology  HeiQ V-Block NPJ03 to prevent most microbes from being spread upon contact and to minimize the potential transmission of bacteria from textiles.  Ghluv is reusable and can be washed up to 30 times maintaining 99.9% of its antimicrobial properties. This offers a more sustainable option compared to one-use latex gloves in everyday life.

The Ghluv collection features matching ear loop mask with the same antimicrobial treatment now also available in kids sizes.

Pretty interesting, yeah? We loved both these masks, they are lightweight and easy to breathe through, and don’t make you sweat to death while you are wearing them like some do. They also don’t ride up constantly, covering your eyes and driving you mad, or droop down and end up on your chin every time you speak.

All in all, I’d say both these brands are winners- perfect for stocking stuffers and little gifts for anyone you know that has being driven a little mask-crazy, haha. Listen, we may not love them, but they are required for many places and for the current “new normal” of things such as travelling and going to theater, etc. Make the best of it with masks you won’t hate. They also wash really easily and dry quickly- I’d only line dry, though, on a personal preference.

Easy Office Holiday Decorating Ideas – Marchpower and Areker Lights

If you want to inject some fun and holiday festive feeling into your office space, and make those long work hours just a little bit more enjoyable, utilize these excellent design tips and class up your office space in a jiffy. Whether you’re working in a home office or go to an office building across town, there are simple fixes to help you improve your work space and make the long days go by quickly. Like anything, your output will always depend on the tools you have in place. 

decorate for christmas holidays

Close up of decorated christmas tree in office with business people working in background. Xmas celebration in corporate office. Detail of christmas balls and lights with working office.

  1. Give Yourself Some Motivation

Make yourself more motivated with some well-placed inspirational quotes or photos that will give you an extra kick in the pants when your productivity is dipping. Find an image online of a quote you adore, or a place you’re working to visit, and make it your background image. You’ll see it every time you fire the computer up and receive that extra ounce of motivation with no effort at all.

  1. Bring In Some Nature

Plants are an excellent way to class up your office. They breathe a bit of life back into the often sterile office space, they improve air quality, supposedly can decrease stress, and make the humidity level rise to a healthier standard. Whether it’s a small succulent on your desk or a leafy green wonder in the corner of your office, incorporating plants into your design will do more than you think.

holiday lights

  1. Extra Lighting for the Holidays

We all know that office lighting is the worst, so adding some holiday lights and layers of brightness to your desk space for a better vibe all around. Making your eyes strain all day long is terrible for your eyesight, so brighten up your space for both productivity and mood purposes. What’s more uplifting than Christmas Lights? New LED strawberry bulb colored or or white Christmas lights that you can string along the walls for an ethereal glow, your peepers will appreciate the extra illumination. The colorful or white twinkle options from Marchpower on amazon are so easy to use- since they wrap back up so neat and fast, they won’t tangle or make life messy for next year’s use, either. My son loves the strawberry bulb option so much, we got some for home use- they will be great for the buses outside the house this season. 

christmas lights

  1. Clean up the Clutter

Clutter leads to a disorganized mind, and that’s the opposite of what your desk should be. Keep your items organized and keep your computer on top of a clean surface. Cleanliness and organization will help you remain focused and on task, and will look better should your boss or supervisor happen to walk by and check in on you. A clean and clutter-free desk looks more professional, it will help your company’s image, and a deep cleaning once a week can keep you protected from those year-round germs.

  1. Get Modern

It’s easy to find office gadgets and décor with clean, modern lines. Any of the trendy products will impress your colleagues and higher ups, and you’ll get tons of practical use out of them at the same time. Whether it’s thought-provoking artwork that lines your walls to impress clients, or amazing glass sculptures you’ll love showing off, you’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces in no time.

  1. The Power of Scent

Scent is one of the most powerful triggers of emotion, so make sure your office space smells calming and is beneficial for your productivity. Whether it’s a plug-in that you place in the wall, or a car freshener that you place in a drawer for a burst of good smells whenever it’s opened, you’ll be amazed at the effect scent can have on your day. It will also help you avoid the lingering stench of coworker’s lunches, and make your desk space one that colleagues and supervisors love to visit. You can easily throw some laundry sheets into your desk, or keep a small pillow perfumed with your favorite scent nearby for a mid-day sniffing pick-me-up.

  1. Surround Yourself with Memories

In the midst of a hard day we can all use a little pick me up. Help yourself recall fun times by placing pictures of smiling family and friends around your desk. Create a calendar on a photo site, and use each month to display some of your favorite photos. You’ll find it hard not to smile when you look up and see your little one or husband smiling back at you.

  1. Stay Healthy

Sitting at a desk hour after hour can have some serious health consequences and as we know, healthy employees are better workers, meaning your productivity will skyrocket if you keep your body in top condition. One way to do this at the office is to use a different type of desk or chair. A standing desk will help you fight the negative effects of sitting up to eight hours a day, or a core building office chair will help keep your stomach tight and toned throughout the day, improving your posture at the same time.

Bathorium’s Little Charlie Bubble Bath Milk

Babies and kids spend a ton of time in the bath, but unfortunately these experiences aren’t always as beneficial as they should be – as many bath products are typically formulated with parfums, toxins, and harmful surfactants that aren’t safe for their sensitive skin.

It doesn’t have to be like that- there are so many products to choose from that don’t use harmful ingredients or harm to the environment, nor will they bother your baby’s sensitive skin. I know I prefer products that are better for us and for the environment, and I try very hard to use them as much as possible. We try really hard not to buy toxic items, and with your skin being your largest organ, what you put ON yourself is as important as what you put IN yourself, which I think is often forgotten.

baby bath

Check out Bathorium’s Little Charlie Bubble Bath Milk, which offers the massive bubbles and fun scents that your child knows and loves – but is made with clean, good-for-you ingredients like plant milks and light essential oils for a bathing experience you can feel good about. This bubble bath will nourish skin and provide no harsh drying effects, making it a safe choice for even the most sensitive bathers.

Notable Ingredients:

  • Organic Coconut Pulp CO2: Natural soft scent and packed with skin-nourishing and soothing properties
  • Coco Betaine: This gentle surfactant helps create rich, foamy bubbles with none of the harsh drying effects
  • Organic Benzoin Resinoid: Powerful natural healing agent that reduces inflammation and helps protect your skin barrier

$15 on Bathorium.com & The Detox Market

They smell really nice, and do create a nice sudsy bubble as well- which is of course fun for the smaller kids (and the kid in everyone). When looking for new bath items to try, consider Little Charlie Bubble Bath, and see what you think. Enjoy!