My Pineapple & Hospitality

This pineapple sits on my kitchen counter. I wouldn't say it necessarily matches my other décor, but yet I keep it there anyway. Why? Well, I once heard it said that the pineapple was the symbol for hospitality, and being hospitable is most definitely a priority in our home.

The dictionary defines hospitality as:

1. the friendly reception and treatment of guests or strangers 2. the quality or disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way.

I love #2 - How I long to have a disposition that genuinely receives others...genuinely welcomes others in a warm manner.

Most of us can relate to this scene:

You hear the doorbell ring.

You jump up and start straightening your living area.

You start cramming your mess in closets...under the furniture...in the oven.

(Okay, I've never actually thrown any of my mess under the furniture or in the oven, but those would be good hiding places, huh?)

The doorbell rings again.

You start to head to the door.

You run to the bathroom, look in the mirror to make sure there isn't anything in your teeth...or on your face...or in your hair.

The doorbell rings again.

You start to head to the door.

You realize your toddler has smeared peanut butter all over the front of your pants.

You start to head to the kitchen to wipe off your pants, but then...you just give up...

...and you answer the door.

You know what? Life is messy...Your house is going to get messy...especially if you have little ones. It is okay. (Aren't those words so incredibly soothing sometimes?)

Let me say them again...It.is.okay.

When we moved in to our new house, we felt strongly that we use our living space to bless others. After cramped apartment living, my husband and I were both excited about the idea of having a revolving door on our home - We love to have guests. We love to entertain. We love to host overnight visitors.

I also decided that this philosophy would be the best way to encourage me to keep up with my housework. Knowing I have guests coming throughout the week definitely helps me stay motivated to maintain order in our home. However, there have also been the times when gals have sat in my living room with me...sipped coffee with me...and chatted with me...all while a huge, unfolded mound of laundry sat next to us on the couch. I have learned to embrace the possibility of these types of things. It really doesn't bother me, and it doesn't bother [true] friends either....or at least I don't think it does...maybe I should ask. ;-)

Some people have an open-door policy with their closest of friends. I love this idea! Your inner circle should be free of judgment. They should be stopping in to see you...to spend time with you...not to judge your space in any way.

However, if you know that someone is planning to stop by, here are a few things you might consider:

1. Clean up all the dirty diapers....Okay...maybe that's a given...Let's start over...

1. Light a yummy smelling candle - I usually light one in my kitchen, and it typically helps the house smell delicious even if I burnt my eggs that morning (or forgot to pick up a dirty diaper somewhere). *smile*

2. Have some kind of small treat prepared ahead of time. When I am in the mood, I bake additional items to throw in the freezer for days when I have guests. It is easy to pull something sweet out of the freezer that morning and have it ready to share with them when they come. If you're not in to baking, I have also been known to buy a few Banana Nut Breads from Bob Evans or Fresh Market, throw them in my freezer, and serve warm slices to guests when they arrive. I have a friend who keeps several gallon-sized bags of fruit in her freezer. She serves it [to guests] on pound cake slices, over yogurt, on top of ice cream, etc. The freezer definitely helps make it easy to always be prepared with a treat.

3. Turn on music that you think your guests will enjoy - nothing wild & crazy...just something nice to have in the background when they arrive.

4. If it's chilly outside, I love to have my fire going - super cozy no matter who is coming for a visit.

5. I try to remember to have my front blinds open - so our house doesn't look like the Munsters'...so our visitors know we are actually home. If they're arriving in the evening, I will turn on lamps, etc. just to give a nice warm glow to the interior of the house.

6. You know what else makes me feel welcome in a home? I love when there are throw pillows and blankets easily accessible. You want your friends to feel comfortable curling up on your couch with a hot cup of coffee or tea and staying awhile.

You may be thinking I don't have time for this. It is so important that we wholeheartedly embrace the idea of community and reach out - in tangible ways - to others. We have to be intentional about this - structuring our days to include this type of thing - oftentimes planning for it in advance...as - most the time - it simply will not just happen on its own.

Keep in mind, however, that these are merely suggestions/ideas - I most definitely am not saying your house needs to be perfect before you can open the door for guests. In fact, I love The Nester's thoughts in her post: Why You've Got to Have Guests When Your House isn't Perfect. 

While hospitality includes the welcoming of family, friends, acquaintances, it is also important that we are welcoming to strangers. This will look different for everyone...Each situation will be different and require different things from you...but I challenge you to think about how you can be hospitable even to the strangers in your life. You may or may not choose to have them in your home - Either way, let's not miss the opportunities to treat everyone (including strangers) in a warm, friendly, and generous way...even if they cut you off in traffic...even if they are rude to you in the grocery store...I will stop there, I'm starting to feel guilty...

I will most definitely include myself in this "Hospitality Challenge".

Hospitality Challenge: to create a warm, safe place for others to land - remembering to put people before things...always - taking no thought for what may be in it for me.  

In my mind, it is oftentimes the small things that go a long way.

What does hospitality look like for you? What other ideas do you have for helping guests feel welcome your home? Have you ever shown genuine hospitality to a stranger? What did that look like?

I would love to connect with you and have you follow my day-to-day journey:

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Portions of this post were originally featured on The Fisk Files~

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I would love to hear from you! I am passionate about helping small businesses grow, and I look forward to working with you to further your on-line connections.

Flag Cake

July 4th is on its way, and I am starting to get excited about all of the red, white, and blue!

This year, celebrate with this fun Flag Cake:

I usually start by baking a plain white cake.

After the cake cools, I top it with Cool Whip and then add blueberries and strawberries to make the flag design.

I have seen this done lots of different ways, but this picture shows how I did mine last year.

(That third row of strawberries looks a little high to me, but hey, it tasted great!)

This year, keep it fun & easy!

Happy Birthday, America~

If you enjoyed this post, you might also like to check out my Sweet & Simple Ideas for the Fourth of July...

as well as my recipes for Memorial Day weekend.

My Heart for Moms

 Just over a year ago, I shared a post that included a few encouraging books that I had recently read. One of those books was "Desperate" by Sarah Mae and Sally Clarkson. 

After finishing the book, I published this confession and a follow-up~

Needless to say, I have a passion to encourage other moms!

Before having children of my own, I understood how to care for the physical needs of children. When I was still a child myself, I was babysitting. I walked beside many friends as they started they families. I had been an elementary school teacher. Little ones were not scary to me. The big surprise? ME! I was not prepared for what motherhood would mean for me...

From Classroom Teacher to Full-Time Mom

A Recent Letter I wrote to You, My Readers, Explaining "Why I Blog":

Dear Reader,

It was a few years ago - as a first-time mom - when I started reading/following blogs. Middle-of-the-night feedings were torture for me unless I had something to DO while my little one nursed. So, I started Googling various issues that I thought I [or my new baby] had. This kind of "research" only lead me to feel even more frustration and worry than I was already facing in my new role as mommy. I very quickly realized that I needed to replace my reading material with something more encouraging, and that is when I discovered this incredible on-line community. In the middle of night - when it felt like everyone in the world was asleep except for me - It was then that I was encouraged, inspired, challenged, and empowered by so many different writers who had taken the time to share [openly and honestly] about their life.

When my oldest was about four months old, I created this space as a way to communicate [in addition to Face.book] with our out-of-town friends and family. Since that time, this particular spot on the world wide web has grown into something even more. It has become a place where I communicate [and hopefully encourage] those who come into my path. I would love to think that - somewhere - there is a new mommy up with her newborn for the 15th time - feeling encouraged by something she is reading on this blog. I would like to think that there is a discouraged friend being refueled with hope as a result of visiting this page. I would be honored to know that there is tired and frustrated sister in Christ who spotted an idea on "All Kinds of Things" that may help make her days feel just a tad smoother. These are the reasons I write, dear friends. This is my way of saying "thank you" to the countless others in the world of blogging who have encouraged me on the days when I needed it most.

When I think about my favorites blogs, they are not the ones that solely focus on fashion or cooking or decorating...they are the ones that pull from all different areas of life...faith, marriage, motherhood, friendship, homemaking, frugality, everything under the sun. From this idea is how "All Kinds of Things" was born.

From recipes and DIY projects to organizational tips and thoughts on faith and parenting, my prayer is that "All Kinds of Things" will encourage you to live well in your day-to-day journey. Can blogging be a ministry? I wholeheartedly believe it can be, and my prayer is that each time you visit me in this forum, you will walk away blessed.

With Much Love,

Elizabeth

Sweet Mama, I know that the world thinks you are spending your day sipping [hot] coffee and watching reality television shows while your children play quietly at your feet, but I know what your day really looks like. Others think you are living a very privileged existence, and while being a mother is absolutely an incredible blessing, I understand that many of you are making great sacrifices. I realize that you rarely get time to yourself, and I can relate to the fact that the demands on you now are much greater than those you faced in any career you may have left.
You do not have to defend yourself to me...I understand.

I Choose Motherhood.

Let me first describe my specific situation. I am a stay-at-home mom to two little boys I have a husband who - while he is an incredibly devoted father who is 110% dedicated to our family - oftentimes works long hours. Our relatives do not live near us; Therefore, we do not have built-in help. Most of the time, it's just me - 100% me - facing the day alone with little ones. If you have walked in these shoes, you understand.

To further complicate the situation, there's my personality: I am extremely task-oriented. I find myself getting frustrated when I go an extended period of time without having a chance to organize, create, complete projects, etc. Can you relate?

I'm sure you've heard well-meaning people say things like "Don't worry about the laundry and dishes. Your children are only little once. The laundry and dishes can wait." "Wait until when??" I ask. My personality screams: The laundry and dishes need to be done. Healthy meals need to be prepared. Toilets need to be cleaned.

For a long time, I dealt with guilt over feeling so torn between playing with my children and doing my chores. No matter which I chose, I felt guilty. I finally came to a place where I realized that I can.not.change my personality, but I can make some adjustments that will provide me the time I so desperately crave.

Let me stop here and clarify:

I am not interested in a perfect house that will pass a white glove test - My frustration simply comes when basic chores are not completed. I feel that my family's quality of life is better when the toilets are wiped down every once in awhile and they have clean clothes to wear.

Moving on...after a lot of prayer and thought, the following brainstorms have become a reality.  I hope that by sharing these ideas, you might see something [or think of another approach] that will fit you...your personality...your family's situation. Everyone's situation is different, so what works in our house may not work for you - and that's okay - but I challenge you to take a step back and get creative.

Here are a few ideas that have worked great for us!

Mommy's Helper - Find a responsible young girl who can come to your house for a couple of hours each week or every other week. This may be a girl who is new to babysitting...not yet of driving age...but one who really enjoys playing with little ones. She can play with your kiddos while you complete tasks around the house. Here are some of the things I have been able to do when my "Mommy's Helpers" have come:

Put away laundry.

Clean up the aftermath of breakfast/lunch in the kitchen.

Work on freezer meals.

Price consignment sale items. 

Organize closets.

Clean bathrooms.

Clean floors. & Wipe down baseboards.

Take a nap.
Just kidding about the nap...However, if you are a mom of a newborn - or teenagers - you may seriously benefit from this. *smile*

Grocery Delivery - I have recently discovered a grocery delivery service that does not charge a delivery fee nor are tips accepted. While I realize something like this is not available everywhere, you may want to check your local listings just in case! You may be surprised! The best part for me: No getting the kids ready to go...No dealing with car seats...No driving to the grocery store...No dealing with car seats...No worrying about Caleb's potty routine and Isaac's eating schedule...and No dealing with car seats.

Dry Cleaning - Let me start by saying that we do not do this every week. I keep an eye out for local coupons, Groupon deals, etc. and when I find them, I have hubby's work clothes dry-cleaned. On a regular basis - without money-saving deals - this is not a cost effective option for us, but when I can work a deal, it makes perfect sense, and I can not tell you how very, very helpful it is. It lightens my laundry load tremendously. It saves David tons of time. We love when we find a deal on this service (or any other service like car detailing, etc.)!

Cleaning Swap - Find a reliable friend [preferably one with children] who can come to your house and oversee a play date for the kiddos while you clean, and then return the favor for her. I am currently doing this on a weekly basis. One morning each week, a friend of mine comes over and the kids play together while I clean, and then the following week, I take my boys to here house to play with her little one while she cleans. We have been doing this for awhile now, and it works out great! We give each other two full hours - During those two hours, there is no chit-chat! We clean, clean, clean, clean, clean until the time is up, and then we like to gab, of course. :-)

Cleaning Service - As I mentioned above, a cleaning swap is a great idea...and totally free, but hiring a cleaning service is also a great idea - and actually not as expensive as some might think. A full-time mom hiring a cleaning service? Uh, yes! On an as-needed basic, we unashamedly use a cleaning service. Ladies, if you are able to set aside a little extra money to make this happen, don't you dare feel a bit guilty about doing some delegating - In this stage of life, it has been a great, great option for our family! We found a great option for our vehicles as well!

Swap with Hubby - David and I completely understand that each of us needs time [alone] for completing projects/doing activities that we enjoy, etc. David likes to do these things during weekend nap times. This works great for us! He has strongly encouraged me to take time for myself in the evenings - when he gets home. However, all parents know that oftentimes the real work begins after the kids go to bed. It is during that time when we attack projects around the house, etc. - all when we would rather collapse on the couch and watch tv. Sooooo, needless to say, I do not always take this time, but when I do, I am always glad that I did.

Babysitting Swap - Find a trustworthy friend [preferably one with children] who can oversee a play date for the kiddos while you take care of any errands, etc. that you need to do and then return the favor for her. A friend of mine and I have been doing this since our boys were itty bitty, and it is been such a great situation. This time can be used for anything and everything - doctor's appointments, Christmas shopping, homeschool lesson planning, anything.

The best thing about the swaps is that everybody wins! The moms get lots done! The kids have fun playing! The pocketbook isn't touched - It's free!! I have also heard of these ideas being carried out in group form. Unless everyone is super organized, I could see things getting a tad complicated, but I have no doubt that it could definitely work (with the right mix of people, of course).

These ideas have been incredibly helpful to me! They provide me with some time to take care of the things I need to do - but more importantly, they have given me the freedom to feel completely engaged with my children when I am with them...because I am not worrying about the laundry or the dishes.

Maybe - if for whatever reason(s) - these ideas would not work for you, I hope that they have at least sparked some thoughts in your mind as to how you can get creative in managing your home.

Interested in more practical tips?

I would love to connect with you and have you follow my day-to-day journey:

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Our Summer So Far...

The teacher in me will always approach life in academic years - I can't help it. I've lived that way for too long to change at this point. May 31st brings the year to a close...with summertime spent regrouping for New Year's Day which typically arrives sometime in August. As our recent "year" came to a close and activities starting winding down just in time for summer, I thought carefully about the weeks ahead and the things that I wanted to do during this time leading up to the start of a "new year". Here is a glimpse in to what we've been doing lately:

Traveling - We have already spent some time at the shore and are looking forward to more of that!

I have also done lots of driving - making sure my little guys get to spent some quality time with out-of-town friends and family. Yes, I make 3-hour/4-hour drives...alone...with my itty bitties. Though I have our packing down to a fine art, it is a hassle....Though I could make the drives in my sleep, they are exhausting...Though my kids are good travelers, using a potty seat in gas station parking lot is annoying; but we do it. Why? Because it's important! Interaction with family is an important part of our family mission statement (mentioned here), and we work hard to make it a priority...even when it's difficult.  

Time Outdoors - I love being outside with my kids - even though I am a little persnickety about outdoor temperatures. I love talking walks...spending time at the park...going to the pool...playing in the yard...and they love it, too! Every once in awhile, a rainy day is cozy; but for the most part, we love to get outside! Mornings in the fresh air usually result in a great naptime, and then we love to head back outside after everyone wakes up in the afternoon.

Home Projects - I'm sure you can relate to there always being a project around the house that needs tackling. Our list is always overflowing with big and small things that need to be done. With two little ones on our hands, we've learned to attack our projects as we're able. Spring/Summer weather has given us a fresh motivation to work on some of the things that we let sit during the winter months. I have recently been making an effort to do the little tasks that I've known - for a long time - would make our lives run smoother: hanging extra hooks in the bathroom; reorganizing the cup cabinet in the kitchen; adding an extra shelf to one of my upstairs closets...de-cluttering my guest bathroom cabinet. These little chores literally took minutes...yet I had put them off and put them off - but I'm so glad I've checked them off my list. That feeling of accomplishment has been encouragement to keep going (as if the list will ever be complete).



Our Outdoor Space

Homeschool Planning - This past year, we tackled a new letter of the alphabet each week. This next year, we will delve deeper into Homeschool Preschool. I have recently spent additional time organizing our homeschool space, curriculum, etc. to accommodate our plans.

 

Keeping it Simple - With nicer weather on our hands, I want us to take the time to visit new farmer's markets, try new restaurants, check out a different splash pad, etc. so I have made an effort to keep things simple. For example, we have been eating on paper plates - a lot. Some may think this is wasteful...terrible for our environment...I could go on...However, I can not tell you how much time and energy doing this saves me! Some may label this as laziness, but I would much rather spend time enjoying my family then cleaning up my kitchen. Most moms will tell you that their kitchen is literally up and running from sun up to sun down, and anything a gal can do to lighten her work load is wholeheartedly embraced!

What has your summer looked like so far?

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Five Easy Methods for Documenting Everyday Life

Today, I want to share with you five methods that I use to document our everyday life. 

Calendar  - When it comes to documenting, my calendar is close by my side. At the start of the year, I explained my plans for using my calendar as a place to document the things for which I am most grateful. I have loved this exercise! It has been interesting to see the things that stand out to me most in the day-to-day~ At the end of the day, I rarely make notes about the "big things". I find myself - with a grateful heart - jotting down memories of how fun it was to read books with my toddler or hold my little one while he slept. I also use my calendar as a place to document milestones that my children reach; new things they are doing; funny things my toddler says, etc. So while my hubby and I most definitely use our shared Google calendar, a hard-copy planner is a must for me.

Photos/Videos - I have always loved taking pictures, and since the birth of our first child, you will rarely find me without a camera in hand. I snap lots and lots of photos, and it is important to me that they are backed up in 12,758 places! I make an extra effort to keep our pictures organized, and this most definitely keep me from getting overwhelmed with the documenting process. After years of not completely loving the way my photo files were organized, I came across this method, and my brain loves it! Since making the transition to this labeling system, I sleep much better at night; and it makes it much easier to attack special photo projects - like prints for framing, albums, etc. I also love to take videos - My favorite ones are of simple, everyday moments. I will set the camera down near where my children are playing and press record. Sometimes, I will let it record them for 5-10 minutes, and I absolutely love looking back on these day-to-day recordings of simple moments.

How to Create a Family Yearbook

Letters to My Boys - A couple of years ago, I told you about my Letters to Caleb. This is something I have continued for my kids, and I would love to think that I will continue to be able to do it. As I mentioned in my original post, it is not something I am able to do everyday....or every week...In fact, sometimes I do well do write them monthly, but I make the effort to do this as often as I can. I have already enjoyed going back and reading things that most likely would have been forgotten had I not documented them. In order to keep up with this, I will keep a short little record of notes in my phone (that can be quickly added to as my toddler makes a funny comment or my infant reaches a new milestone, etc.), and when I sit down to type their letter(s), I mostly refer to that.

Some of their Art Work - Earlier this year, I wrote about our methods for keeping clutter to a minimum. In the post, I explained that we do not keep all of the artwork, etc. that our children create. With the exception of a few items here and there, I typically snap photos of their work and toss it. I am then able to label the photo and include it in my system for organizing photos.

Quotes/Words - Through the years there have been key people in my life who have spoken words of life into me. Their words will always be in my mind and heart, but I also have them recorded in a document. I never want to forget the powerfully encouraging words that - at times - have been life-changing! In this document, I also include quotes, Scriptures, etc. that have had significance in my journey. Any important hard copy cards, letters, etc. [from my hubby, my parents, other important people in my life] are stored in hat boxes - organized by person/year.

These systems work well for me, and as life goes on, I'm sure they will continue to evolve~

How do you document life? What works well for you?

Five Things to Take to a New Mom

When I was a new mom...and even the second-time around, so many of our friends and family offered us sweet support in a variety of different ways, and I want to remember the things that meant the most to me. I want to make sure to do these things for other moms I know when they bring little ones home from the hospital.

Ever asked yourself, "What should I take to a new mom?" This post has your answer as it includes a list of Five Things to Take to a New Mom!

[ONE] Be considerate.

Do they want visitors? Following my first delivery, I was not interested in visitors for quite some time. I love to socialize, but at that point...I was consumed with healing from my delivery...getting "Thelma & Louise" [aka my bosoms] under control...trying to function on very.little.sleep...and wondering if my house was ever going to be clean again. Once I got used to my new normal, I was ready to - once again - grab life by the horns, but it took me awhile to get there. While everyone is different, definitely be considerate [and understanding] of her specific needs when approaching a new mom.

[TWO] Let me sum this up in one word: Food!

Make sure that sweet mama does not have to cook for at least three years following her delivery. Take her a home-cooked meal. Take her 19 freezer meals to space out over the next couple of months. Then show up every two months from that point on with 19 more meals in your hand. Okay, maybe not...but in addition to a home-cooked meal, provide an additional freezer meal (or two) for her. This gesture may trigger tears of gratitude from the post-partum sweetheart, so be prepared.

[THREE] Disposable Goods

Don't you dare show up at that poor mama's house with food in a container that you need back. For crying out loud, put the food in a disposable pan. The last thing she needs to be worrying about is getting your Corningware back to you. In addition to disposable containers, provide her with paper plates, plastic utensils, napkins/paper towels, leftover containers - whatever she might need. She may even appreciate if you show up bearing a few extra rolls of toilet paper, but I would reserve this for gals that you consider to be in your "inner circle". *smile*

[FOUR] Items for Baby

Bring along some diapers and wipes - if you know her brand/style of choice. If I'm not sure what route a mom has chosen when it comes to diapers, I at least bring the wipes. What mom doesn't use the fire out of some wipes? It is also very kind to consider older sibling(s) that may be in the family. When Isaac was born, we had several families bring a little something special for our older toddler - very, very thoughtful & sweet.

[FIVE] Something Special for the Mama

This all depends on how well you know the gal, but here are a few ideas:

Restaurant Gift Cards - These could be for easy take-out places or for a future date night with her hubby. You may even include a "coupon" for free babysitting - She'll need that, too!

A Gift Certificate for a House Cleaning - While I would wholeheartedly welcome something like this, once again definitely consider the mama - as this could potentially be offensive to some.

A Spa Gift Card (for a mani/pedi or a haircut or a massage) - Let me tell you, this is my love language.

A Package of Thank You Notecards - Make sure she knows you do not expect one from her, but it seems like having a baby goes hand-in-hand with writing lots of thank you notes, so these may be helpful to her~ Maybe consider including some stamps as well!

Most importantly, do not show up full of advice...if the new mom needs to talk, listen...and if you say anything at all, let it be "You are a good mom! You are doing a great job!" That is all she needs to hear~

For a peek in to My Three Pregnancies:

New Moms and Friends, also be sure to check out My Tips for Low-Stress Freezer Meal Preparation as well as my favorite Family-Friendly Freezer Meals.

Time at the Beach

 Don't let this picture fool you~ We all know that taking kids to the beach is about as relaxing as a colonoscopy...Except that for a colonoscopy, you get to lay down...or so I've heard...I've never had one, but...okay, maybe I should've used a different comparison to make my point.

Before we started our family, we made ourselves a promise that we would continue to travel...even with kids; and we have kept our promise. Yes, our trips look a little different these days, but we make them happen - and even when they are hard (and they oftentimes are), we are always glad that we made the effort.

This little fella thinks the waves are okay, but his favorite thing about the beach is the sand!
He can't get enough of it~

Caleb loved chasing the waves...as I was snapping this picture, he had just finished yelling, "You come back here right now."....He was talking to the wave...I think.

 When it was just David and me....and we would sit on the beach from 9am-5pm....while I read a book....and he ate Doritos, he would say things like, "I can't wait to have a kid so I'll have someone to play with at the beach." I'm so glad he finally has a playmate~

We love spending time at the shore and will be there as much as possible this summer.

I was so glad to have my parents along on this trip. It was great spending time with them! We love watching our parents enjoy their grandkids! It was also nice because they hung out with the kids while David and I took a little time to ourselves on the beach - such a gift!

While we were there, I read two books! Can you believe that? With our two kids with us!
My choice in reading material? Melanie Shankle's Sparkly Green Earrings & The Antelope in the Living Room - two super hilarious quick reads that every wife/mama needs to read!
My copies are pictured here - before the sand, a little bit of ocean spray, and a couple drips of coffee hit them.

Our Outdoor Space & A Flower Named "Jesus"

Last week, I posted this picture (w/ the following caption) to my Instagram account:

Our firepit area is going in this week~ When it comes to home projects, my toddler likes to stand at the window and watch the machinery...I like to hide inside (in the fetal position) and hold my breath til they're complete.

Let me just say, I can not imagine taking on a project like this! For all of you DIYers out there, my hat goes off to you big time. I see you tiling and removing wall paper and such and some of you are even smiling while you do it...like you're having fun. I have to tell you...I am totally impressed.

My hubby is great at these kinds of things! However, we brought a crew in for this project because this as a one-man job would have meant I would not have seen David for the majority of the summer. No thank you....I digress.

I love to be creative, and while there are certain home projects that are right up my alley (like hanging pictures and fluffing pillows), this type of strenuous labor would not be considered a part of that.

This Spring, I painted the garage with my hubby, and I thought we were both going to be in traction for a week. It was great bonding time...so was sitting on the couch together popping motrins and moaning about our aches our pains. Folks, our golden years are going to be exciting - be sure to check back for that.

In the meantime, here are a few other snapshots of our outdoor space.

We look forward to using our new outdoor area for all kinds of fun things. We're currently shopping for a large handmade cauldron to use as a fire pit - not just your typical metal fire pit...but a gigantic rustic bowl....possibly hand-made. We had originally planned to have the work crew put in a coordinating fire pit - made with the same pavers you see here...but we changed our mind. We do that often. Any thoughts on the cauldron? Do you know of anyone who makes this type of thing? Preferably someone who will ship one for under $2,000.
*I am not exaggerating....that seems to be the typical freight cost due to the weight, size, etc. of what we'd like to have.*

Moving on...this past weekend, we finally planted some flowers that we have had sitting around for a few weeks. Other portions of preparing our outdoor space for summer seemed to take priority over getting our spring flowers in pots. Each year, Caleb gets to plant a flower of his own, and then I let him name it.
Last year, his flower's name was "turtle". This year? "Jesus". Oh my...

 Here's a snapshot of our back porch~
We love to sit out here...with the ceiling fan on...and a book in hand.
Well, I like sitting out here with a book in hand.
My hubby likes to sit out here with a pizza.

This is a glimpse of our front porch. We purchased this handmade piece of furniture (plus two matching rockers - located on the other side of the porch - not pictured) from a Virginian Farmer's Market. These pieces were made from wood found in a barn near where my husband spent some of his growing up years.

This double rocker is perfect for taking family photos....like this one~

I hope everyone is having a great summer; and if you're tackling homeowner projects, we feel your pain!

We are featuring our favorite summer recipes, and we would love to have you join us! You will fall in love with my recipe for yummy Strawberry Hand Pies.

Follow All Kinds of Things's board All Kinds of Things' Recipes on Pinterest.

Re-Play's Reusable Plates & Bowls

Have you tried Re-Play's plates and bowls?

They are BPA-free - made from recycled milk jugs.

You can find these gems on Amazon, but I grabbed mine from Wal-Mart.

They are dishwasher safe & super durable.

Unlike a lot of options out there, these plates & bowls are deep - perfect for my big eaters!

I love all of the fun color options!

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Making Homemade Baby Food with a NutriBullet

A few weeks ago, I gave the NutriBullet a try~

I don't own one, but a relative let me give hers a try; and I had lots of fun playing around with it.

I made several batches of homemade baby food, and I thought I would share a little bit about how I did it!

Making Homemade Baby Food with the Nutribullet

 You know I love my Classic Beaba Baby Cook,

but it was fun experimenting with something a little different.

I mixed Greek Yogurt and a variety of fruit and made these fun Smoothie Popsicles.

I put some of the smoothie mixture in these Squooshies (Reusable Food Pouches).

I played around with a variety of other fruit & veggie mixtures.

(I typically add spinach to just about any of my concoctions.)

 Not only did I use my Squooshies, but I also used my BEABA Storage Containers.

The NutriBullet allowed me to make lots of baby food really fast!

My little ones have loved mashed banana...mashed avocado...mashed peas...etc. but the following concoctions have been some of our go-to favorites:

Recipe Ideas:

Recipe #1

Green Beans or Carrots

Potatoes

Spinach

w/ a smidge of Apple for a sweet taste or garlic for a savory taste

Recipe #2

Apple

Baby Oatmeal

Ground Cinnamon

Recipe #3

Pear
Zucchini

Spinach/Greens

Recipe #4

Pineapple

Carrot

Recipe #5
Sweet Potatoes
Apple
w/ a smidge of Ground Cinnamon for taste

Recipe #6
Blueberries
Spinach

For more recipe ideas, check out the BEABA Babycook Book?

Also be sure to check out Nutribullet's website! They offer all kinds of great ideas - including these delicious smoothie recipes!

Do you make food for your little ones? What's your favorite way to go about it?

What are your best go-to "recipes"?

Share them over on our Facebook Page!

If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy:

Making Homemade Baby Food in Beaba Baby Cook

Expectant Moms, be sure to check out My Top Picks for Your Baby Registry:

as well as how you can save time and money by stockpiling a few items before baby arrives:

Follow All Kinds of Things's board All Kinds of Things - Thrifty Tips on Pinterest.