Tag Archives: crafts

Mar 26 2013
10 Comments
Product Reviews

Dottiebox

Dottiebox LLC

In my next life I want to be a crafter.  I have a great love for it, I just lack the time.  Luckily I satisfy most of my “DIY” cravings by perusing Pinterest and Etsy, gawking at all the unique and amazing homemade creations.  There is so much good stuff out there, it can be hard to know where to start.  Thanks to Dottiebox, I am able to enjoy some of the best in homemade goods delivered straight to my doorstep for only $20/month.  Sounds like an awesome deal, right?

Check out what arrived in my first Dottiebox…

Dottiebox Goodies - In Her Chucks

Dottiebox LLC Hazelnut Latte Lip Balm-  I LOVE lip balm.  I take it wherever I go, and if I forget it, I pick up a pack at Target.  Or I can plan ahead and stock up on this deliciously smelling Hazelnut Latte Lip Balm.  This stuff has definitely taken my addiction for soft lips to a whole new level.  I find myself applying it to my lips even when they aren’t dry because I love the smell so much.  It makes me feel like I just devoured a naughty dessert that left my lips feeling silky and smooth :)  Heaven.

Sharee Boutique’s Quality Cosmetic Hair Chalks-  Did I ever mention that I used to have pink hair?  It was a while ago but I got in pretty big trouble for it (a teenage mistake that I neglected to run by my mom).  Anyways, now you can enjoy the excitement of colorful hair without the commitment (or the punishment).  Sharee Boutique’s Hair Chalks are vibrant and beautiful but are also temporary.  And I love the variety of colors they offer.  I think I’ll go with teal this time.

Make it Stick Mustache Nail Decals-  Mustache’s are all the rage.  And these nail decals take the trend to a whole new level.  But Make it Stick doesn’t stop there.  They have chevron, bow ties, and my favorite, stars.  I love how easy they are to add to your most colorful manicure or to jazz up a nude nail.

1love Candles (‘Butt Naked’ Scent Votive Candle)-  The aroma of a fragranced candle can either make me sick or make me smile.  This candle did the latter.  The fresh scent of this candle takes me away to a special place.  Sweet, clean and light, it’s the perfect candle to warm up your home and set the mood for a relaxing evening.

Jen Ramey Designs Two Tone Wine Charms-  My mom always taught me to never show up to someone’s house for dinner empty handed.  So I am always on the hunt for cute and thoughtful hostess gifts.  And these fit the bill.  Whether you are purchasing them for a friend or for yourself, Jen Ramey Designs has a variety of wine charms to choose from.  I love this idea of his and hers.  In my home, I am the only one who drinks wine (and my wineglasses happen to be stemless) but I can see how these would come in handy for a couple (possibly a pair of newlyweds…)

Baby Off the Hook Coffee Cup Cozy-  Ever since Conscious Box encouraged me to live more consciously in 2013, I have been successful in utilizing my reusable straw and reusable hand towel on a regular basis.  So adding a reusable coffee cup cozy to the list is a perfect way to reinforce my resolution.  Plus, it’s way cuter than those disposable ones anyways.  And for only $6 a pop, I could easily justify picking them up in a few colors (just don’t tell my husband…).

Pretty sweet box of goodies!  Want one for yourself?  Test your luck in Dottiebox’s giveaway.  Not one to gamble?  Then subscribe today for only $20/month and be inspired by a variety of beautiful homemade goods.

*Full Disclosure: Dottiebox did provide me with a box free of charge. I was not paid to write this post. With exception of some of the factual information given about the various products, all opinions regarding the products are my own and 100% honest.

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Dec 21 2012
8 Comments
Babies

22 Months

22 Months

Only 2 more months until my little princess is 2 and life is SOOO good!  I love waking up to her smile every morning and seeing the world through her fresh pair of eyes.  Her smile lights up the room and she brings joy to the lives of everyone she meets.  Harper always has a song in her heart and isn’t shy to belt it out.  You can find her serenading her “babies” to sleep, practicing her abc’s while we are out and about or simply singing a tune to herself as she stacks her blocks.  She is living life to the fullest, without inhibitions.  And as much as I want to hold her close, this mama bird is proud to watch her little birdie soar.

Harper’s Firsts:

First Thanksgiving in Texas:  Once a year my family gets together for a holiday.  In the past we have always done Thanksgiving, but last year we choose Christmas.  This year we were back to our regular routine and were happy to spend Turkey Day in Texas.  My sister recently moved to a beautiful 37 acre farm and Harper loved nothing more than to explore every inch.  She enjoyed spending time with her cousins and going on daily walks around the property.  Can’t wait to make another trip back there soon.

Texas

First Camel Ride

As I mentioned before, this year we visited a Christmas tree farm where we got to cut down our own tree.  Not only did we ride a train to get there but once we arrived, there were many more options for transportation.  Camel ride anyone?

camel

I was worried that Harper was going to be scared, but she thought it was so cool!  Now every time we see a camel in a book or television show, she says, “Camel, ride it”.  Guess I need to look into finding our own camel to ride…Santa?

First Pony Ride

Why stop at a camel ride?  The Christmas tree farm also offered pony rides.  But this time Harper had to ride it on her own.  Again, she did awesome and made sure to request “the black one”.  My sister (the horse trainer) would be so proud :)

Horse

Harper’s Favs:

Favorite Toy:  So I guess this is not technically a toy, but Harper has recently decided that she loves blankets.  I always had a blanket companion growing up.  His name was “budda” and he was around until I was 17 (when I left him on a plane :(…).  But Harper never seemed to take to the many blankets she had before until one day she picked out a pink and purple blanket from her closet and now has made them part of the family.  And in case you were wondering, she named them “pink” and “purple”.

Favorite Song:  E-I-E-I-O (otherwise known as Old MacDonald) is one of my most requested songs in music class.  And now it is the song Harper requests most throughout her day.   She loves to choose which animals are going to be on the farm and even has a special dance that goes along with it (wish I had a video of it…it’s SOOO cute!).     

Favorite Book:  My mom loves to travel.  She also loves to send Harper “souvies” from each of her trips.  On her most recent trip to Argentina, she sent Harper a book about colors that was written in Spanish.  So now, not only does Harper like to practice her colors in English, but she is learning them in Spanish too.  Gracias Abuela!

Harper Goes:

For a 22 month old, Harper Marie is one busy girl (I guess I am the one to blame for that…).  Don’t get me wrong, there are days when we do our best to stay in our PJs all day and lounge.  But on other days we love to go out and get involved in fun activities.  Here are some of the places Harper has been going lately…

On Play Dates…

Playdates

Harper loves all of her friends and enjoys getting together with them as much as she can.  After spending time apart, Harper is excited to have her friend Robin back from the UK.  On our most recent play date together, the little ones got busy on some beautiful Christmas decorations to help spread the holiday cheer.

To the Park…

Park

We are extremely lucky to have so many wonderful parks in our area.  There is nothing like setting a toddler loose in the park to run and jump and play.  Let’s see…does Harper look like she is having a good time?

To See Santa…

Santa

What would the holidays be without a visit to see Santa?  I can’t say it was Harper’s favorite outing, but at least she didn’t cry (then again, I didn’t push the issue of having her sit on the man’s lap alone…then we might have had a problem).

With only a few more days left until Christmas, it’s hard to believe Harper will be celebrating her second holiday season already.  Time really does fly when you are having fun.  My little girl is growing up fast and she isn’t looking back.

Happy 22 Month Birthday Precious Pie!  Mommy and Daddy love you :)

PS:  Thanks Hillary for the awesome pic!

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Jun 27 2012
37 Comments
Blogging

An Award and A Giveaway!

It’s a bright and shiny day here at InHerChucks.com.  Once again I am feelin’ the blog love and I’m smiling from ear to ear.  Liz from Family Foodie Survival Guide and April from Daily Frosting both surprised me with nominations for the Sunshine Blogger’s Award.  This award is special because it is given to “bloggers who positively and creatively inspire others in the blogosphere”.  Wow!  That puts a little pep in my step :)  Thank you ladies for honoring me with this award.  The feeling is mutual.  Liz, your passion for eating healthy, local and fresh inspires me to eat well.  Thank you for spreading the word on the truth about good food.  April, your ability to relay stories which include humor, life lessons and truth is beautifully eloquent.  Thank you for being the daily frosting on the cupcake of my day :)

Now on to my award responsibilities.  Once I have linked back to the people who presented me with the award, I need to answer a list of questions.  So here is goes…

1.  Favorite Number: 9

2.  Favorite Nonalcoholic Drink:  Iced Tea

3.  Facebook of Twitter:  Facebook.  I have yet to create an account on Twitter, although I have been told that I need to.  So stayed tuned :)

4.  My Passion: Helping others

5.  Favorite Pattern:  Damask

6.  Favorite Day of the Week:  Wednesday

7.  Favorite Flower:  Any flowers that my husband gives me :)

And now it is my pleasure to pass this award on to 10 more bloggers.  So in alphabetical order, the nominees are…

1.  The Accidental Pumpkin:  As a CSA subscriber for the past two years, there have been many times where I felt in need of a handbook.  Now, thanks to CSA Survival Tips by The Accidental Pumpkin, CSA subscribers are able to maximize their produce and face the CSA challenge with confidence.  If only I would have found this blog sooner…

2.  Almanac of Eats:  Thanks to Steff Deschenes, I have learned, that everyday is a holiday!  In her attempt to eat whatever the National Food Holiday is, readers are introduced to new recipes, products, and restaurants.  And with days like National Chocolate Pudding Day…I can get used to these kinds of celebrations :)

3.  Food. Fun. Life.:  Mikelle’s food makes me happy.  From Rainbow Swirl Cookies to Meatloaf “Cake” my tummy and imagination are satisfied.  Her food is healthy and delicious but still has enough spunk to get you and your family excited to sit down for a meal together.  Now if I could only decide which recipe to make first…

4.  Have Dessert First:  Anyone who suggests I eat dessert first is a winner in my book.  But with meals like Grilled Fish Tacos and Shrimp Summer Rolls I have to admit, I am finding it hard to deny my main course.  Not only does Novagirl offer mouth-watering recipes, but she posts nutrition facts for each recipe.  So now you can have your cake and eat it too!

5.  Me and Monster:  A mother to an adorable toddler, Lynn uses her blog to document her little monster’s milestones, life as a stay at home mom, and the joys of raising and child.  I love the way Lynn tells her stories with a humorous tone.  Take this post for example…chances are if you have ever mothered a toddler, you have become familiar with the no pants party :)

6.  No Giving Up Now:  A newly single dad, Michael writes about everything from his kids sporting events, to dinner prep successes.  I enjoy following his journey as he learns how to adjust to this new life of his.  What inspires me most about his content is his “never give up” attitude.  His positivity and determination are infectious.

7.  Pink and Green Mama:  A stay at home mom to two adorable little girls, bored is not a word that exists in MaryLea‘s vocabulary.  Whenever I need a craft idea, I turn to this blog.  There are so many amazing ideas, it’s hard to know where to start.  I made this for Father’s Day and it was a huge hit!  I am inspired daily by the ongoing creativity that is Pink and Green Mama!

8.  Real Food, Real Deals:  Feeding your family real food on a budget is no longer a myth thanks to Annemarie.  With recipes that are easy to follow, using food that is affordable and fresh, Annemarie creates dishes that are tasty and appealing to the entire family.  I mean, who’s gonna pass up a fresh baked Chocolate Zucchini Bite?

9.  Sybaritica:  Nothing inspires me more than people who try something new.  C. John Thompson of Sybaritica not only loves to cook but he loves to experiment with his food.  From Jellyfish and Cabbage Salad to Chocolate Dripped Cape Gooseberries his blog posts are always raising the bar on the age-old question…”What’s for dinner?”.

10.  Unschooled Locavore:  With a passion for all things local, Mason inspires me to stay close to home.  A foodie with a mission to cook and eat food that he can trace back to its roots, Mason has created some killer meals with his local produce.  Rhubar-b-q Pizza anyone?  And with a resource page that features local products, Mason is making a difference, one blog post at a time.

Because I love my fellow bloggers and am extremely grateful for my faithful readers, I have decided to participate in an exciting giveaway.  Remember when I introduced you to the Conscious Box back in February?  Well the lovely people at Conscious Box are offering a free box for the month of July to one lucky reader.  So here’s the scoop…

To enter:  ”Like” Conscious Box and In Her Chucks on Facebook.  Leave a comment on this post letting me know you’ve done so.

For additional entries…

1.  Follow @consciousbox on Twitter and leave a comment on this post letting me know you’ve done so.

2.  Subscribe to this blog and leave a comment telling me you have done so.  If you’re already subscribe to my blog, then leave me a comment telling me that you are already subscribed (and thanks for the support!).

3.  Pin this giveaway and comment here with a link to your post.

4.  Blog about this giveaway and comment here with a link to your post.

5.  Tweet about this giveaway and comment here with a link to your tweet.

The more entries you have, the better your chances are to win.  The giveaway will close at 12:01 am on July 4th.  A winner will be randomly selected and announced on July 5th.  Make sure to include your email address with your comment so that I can contact if you win.

Good Luck!!!

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Jun 19 2012
8 Comments
Going Green

Green Kid Crafts

Growing up, one of my favorite activities was arfs and cracks (or for those of you who don’t speak 3-year-old, arts and crafts).  It was a fun way to bond with my mom while at the same time foster my creativity.  We had it all…glitter, feathers, and construction paper galore!  I could spend hours working on projects and letting my imagination fly.  Those were the days  :)

So you can imagine how excited I was when Penny Bauder, the CEO and founder of Green Kid Crafts, contacted me to see if I would be interested in doing a review of their monthly craft subscription box.  My answer…a cheerful and enthusiastic, “Yes!”.

As much as I have loved all of my subscription boxes to date, I think Green Kid Crafts might just be my favorite.  As a mother, there is nothing more important than spending quality time as a family.  But sometimes, you get stuck in a rut, looking around desperately for new activities to enjoy together.  With Green Kid Crafts, the entire family can engage in eco-friendly, monthly projects that not only help to spark creativity but cultivate a respect and love for the environment.  Fun with a purpose. Gotta love that!

What sets Green Kid Crafts apart from other craft subscription services is that they are the only carbon neutral service in the nation.  Every project created with Green Kid Crafts is 100% earth friendly.  For supplies, they avoid plastics and foams in favor of materials that are natural, recycled and good to the earth.  They are also passionate about avoiding waste, so they use minimal and 100% recycled materials for shipping and all of their craft projects are packaged in plant-based compostable cello bags.

This month, the box contained a wooden wind chime, pirate loot, and “All About Me” personal scrapbook project.  Each craft was individually packaged, containing an info sheet and sustainable materials needed to complete the projects.

Wooden Wind Chime

Wind chimes are widely used around the world.  They are said to have a healing effect on the mind and body.  Their sound can help release stress and calm your thoughts.  Many people consider wind chimes to be good luck.  Harper enjoyed the delicate ring that it made and paraded around the house striking the chimes together.

This project was fun and easy.  I love the idea of having a blank slate and variety of different materials at your finger tips.  Children have the option of using paint or markers to color both sides of the wind chime.  After completing the background of their choice, there are mosaic squares and sequins provided to use as adornment.  Once the wind chime is finished, this project becomes a beautiful ornament to hang from a door or tree, and plays peaceful and delightful music.

Pirate Loot

As summer kicks off and children begin to enjoy weekend trips to the beach, their imaginations will run wild with this fun and creative pirate loot craft.  Complete with an eye patch, pirate hat and hidden treasure, this project becomes a fairy tale in action.

This project helps to incorporate some great basic skills.  Cutting is always an important skill to practice and this craft makes it easy as the children just cut along the dotted lines.  They can also work on cutting circles to make the treasure coins.  Children get a chance to practice their writing skills by adding their name or decorations with chalk.

“All About Me” Personal Scrapbook 

Being that Father’s Day was a few days ago, I decided to make the “All About Me” scrapbook into a Happy Father’s Day scrapbook. I love to make collages, and nowadays it is hard to find the time.  So this project was the perfect excuse to tear through some old magazines and favorite photos and go crazy.

This project was my favorite of all three because the materials were so diverse. They included recycled and salvaged ribbon, fabric squares, allergen-free stickers, recycled paper and recycled collage shapes.  There were so many materials to choose from!  The paper mache accordion book makes the perfect compact display for pictures while allowing for plenty of room for additional decor.

In addition to the three packets of crafts, there was another booklet filled with even more ideas for wind, pirate and book projects.  Suggested materials include supplies commonly found around the house.  So really, just when you think you are all crafted out, the fun continues!  After reading through the various craft ideas, I will never recycle another toilet paper roll again.  Who knew how many fun projects you can make with them :)

Even though Harper is still too young to enjoy this craft box, I was thoroughly impressed by Green Kid Crafts and their overall product.  I would highly recommend this to anyone with children of pre-school age and older.  I can only imagine how much fun Harper and I are going to have in a few years.  But don’t think I didn’t have a ball creating these projects by myself.  The age range on the box might suggest kids 3-8 but this 29-year-old kid was having a blast!

Not only does Green Kid Craft’s website have tons of wonderful ideas for crafting, but they dedicate an entire page to green parenting as well.  Check out their suggestions for green food blogs, products, and health and safety resources.

Interested in ordering a Green Kid Crafts box of your own?  Monthly memberships are available for only $19.95.  Looking for an awesome birthday or holiday gift for your child and their friends?  How about a gift subscription for three, six, or twelve months.  And there is even an option to include additional supplies for a sibling too!  For a limited time, Green Kid Crafts is offering $10 off your first craft box!  Just use the code: SUMMER when checking out.

*Full Disclosure: Green Kid Crafts did provide me with a box free of charge. I was not paid to write this post. With exception of some of the factual information given about the various products, all opinions regarding the products are my own and 100% honest.

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