Mother's, Grandmother's Day Gift Ideas unique and thoughtful

These gifts are available at ETSY.com
I Love Etsy because you can find unique gifts that are personal and thoughtful. 

Mother's or Grandmother's Gifts: Here are some of my favorite finds

Lovely place to put your favorite trinkets
Back Bay Pottery nesting dishes
$44.50

Wood Cutting-board-with a feel good message for Mom to see when she uses it that will make her smile:) and feel loved.

$38 AHeirloom

Mother's Day Gift Set / Soap Lip balm and bath salt Gift Sets Gift Ideas For Her bath and beauty Gift Sets Soap Boxed Set Mother's Day Gifts

$25.00 LittleFlowerSoapCo

Clover Necklace - Diamond Necklace - Tiny Clover - Four Leaf Clover Necklace - Mother's Day Necklace - Mother's Day Gift Jewelry

$28.00powderandjade

Hand Stamped Mommy, Grandmother, Nana Necklace - Personalized Mother's Day Gift - Silver with Swarovski Crystal Birthstone

Family Tree Necklace. Personalized Sterling Silver Jewelry. Swarovski Crystal Birthstone Necklace. 

$59.00for Nana Necklace

ForeverHeartPrints



Tree of Life Pendant. Mother's Day Gift.

$36.00 

PetiteBoutique02

Family Tree Birthstone Necklace pendant Mothers Day gift Tree of Life Great Grandmother Mother in law Sterling Silver Personalized jewelry

$45.00mandalarain

Grandma Gift- Family Tree - Personalized gift for Grandmother - Mother's Day Gift wall print colors and fonts 8 x 10

SET of THREE Wall Planters, Hanging Planters, in WALNUT wood, includes 3"x3"x3", 5"x3"x3", and 8"x3"x3" sizes, air plants sold separately

$65.00thewoodybeckers

$20.00WordsWorkPrints

Garden Stake - Metal Word Dragonfly with a dragonfly attached - Steel

$21.95metalgardenart

Metal Succulent Wall Art & Planter - 12" x 12" Square with Free Shipping, Hanging Planter and Wall Decor, Vertical Garden

$145.00UrbanMettle

DIY Slate hanging Art Home Decor-Inexpensive and Easy

Supplies you will need for project:

1. Slate-it came with twine and ready to hang

-available at local craft store-I found mine at Hobby Lobby

$5.99 use your 40% off coupon in Sundays Paper

2. Mod Podge

available at any at any craft store.

3. Decorative Napkin or Paper for your Design

3. Scissors

4. Clear gloss finish gloss

Directions:

1.  Look at Decorative Paper and Design and decide

 how you would like it to fit on your piece of slate.

Cut it to the size you would like.

2. Remove 1 section of the white backing-there is usually

 2 plus the design to each napkin. I leave one because on the black slate it shows up better.

3. Control tear the sides. I use one hand to control the tears as a guide and tear with the other slowly.

There is no right or wrong way it your desired effect-I like how it melds into the slate and has no strong edges when it is torn.

4. Put a thin layer mod podge on the slate in the entire area of your design-I use my fingers.( I had purchased all the tools but found my fingers worked best. Save your money.) Note* the paper is thin and when it gets wet it gets very delicate and can tear easily-the less you play with it the better:)

5. Now place your design on the desired area and with a finger with mod podge gently cover the design flattening any bubbles or lines-it doesn't have to be perfect-it looks better when it not. When it dries it sort of shrink wraps to the slate-I love it-to me it is really cool.

6. With a slightly damp paper towel wipe off any mod podge on the edges-it will look white over your design but will dry clear.

7. Once dry, apply a coat of gloss to seal it.

Now wasn't that easy?:)

Portion control is one of the keys to losing weight-what is 1 serving size?

  An important key to losing weight is portion control. Unfortunately, portion control is one of those things that people usually get wrong-me included.

1 Serving portion size we should be eating is:

Pasta, milk, leafy greens-1 cup
Raw fruit, cooked vegetables, Brown Rice-1/2 cup
Lean protein-4 ounces
Nuts-22 or 2 TBSP. of Peanut butter
Cheese-1 oz.
Dark Chocolate-1 ounce

Good to know... I think:) I say that because I realize my portions have been way to big its hard to get excited about eating less:)

***It is suggested to drink a glass of water before a meal, load up on veggies and use smaller dishes:)

The boy who won the math lottery...true story

   There was a boy who didn't do his homework he felt like he did well enough on his tests that homework wasn't worth the effort. He convinced his parents to get him a cell phone and gaming computer-everything that would make him happy in life-parents hoped it was enough to keep his eye on the prize- knowing he would lose them if his grades went below a B average. Feeling confident he didn't do extra credit or anything to buffer his grades knowing what was on the line if his grades dropped.
You guessed it-his grades dropped and he lost everything. He tried to blame it on anything but the truth he didn't try as hard as he should have. So he tried harder knowing there wasn't enough time left in the semester to bring his grade up enough unless he got 100% from now on. He checked his grades every night on his student portal. One night he couldn't believe it-his math grade was up to an 83. Was he imagining it? Had all his hard work finally paid off? He looked closer. He had just had a test and got a 40 out 40-and the teacher entered 140 which some how came out to 350%. WOW! I'll show Dad and I'll get everything back he thought. This is awesome! I will have the best weekend because I will get all my stuff back:) He showed his Dad, thinking will he notice? He thought, it is worth a try. He showed his Dad and at first was like good job and then he got to thinking-wait a minute and looked closer. He said, "Dad, technically it is 83 which is a B". His Dad said, "If it stays that grade after Monday, we will talk but it is an error". The next day he checked his grades again-they were back to a 71. If a only for a day he felt like he had won the math lottery-what were the chances of this happening? If only his Dad didn't notice. It was almost meant to be. True Story:) It shows that everyone is human and errors-even math teachers doing math:)

Man Shower...Baby Shower for Dudes:)

I saw this on the Today Show this morning.

Man Shower...

   My first thought was.... really:) But then I thought why not? A child-is a Couple's Joy!
I think the Baby Shower should be a Couple's Shower-not separate. What is your thoughts?

A Man Shower is a great way to get the men involved earlier. It is hard for them because they don't have the baby growing inside of them and all the changes. I had purchased my husband a book for father's  to be when I got pregnant and had him come to some of my doctor visits to start to get him involved. I wanted him to be apart of our kids lives. I say that because I felt like my Dad really wasn't. It wasn't his fault he had a very difficult childhood and was an only child. I think it is important to change the cycle. If a party gets them involved have a party for them:)

Some party ideas for Man Shower/Baby Shower for Dude were:
Stroller Olympics, diaper football toss and drinking beer out of a baby bottle the fastest-to name a few.
I personally like who can put the diaper on a baby without it falling off. I had entered my son in a beauty contest and the dad's had to do that. When my husband picked up my son the diaper fell off in seconds-I never laughed so hard:) Plus it is something that they need to know-just saying:)

  I  Love that men are becoming more involved in their children's lives. Father's are so important!
My kids really look up to my husband- he sets a great example of a provider, confidence and security- he gives them invaluable time and makes them laugh ++++++++so much more.
 It fills my heart to see how much he Loves our boys-it makes me Love him even more:)

Fake Eyelashes so Chic...What to Buy and How to Apply

     Fake Eye Lashes are the Chic Beauty Fashion Trend. Everyone is wearing them. I love the way they look-they make your eyes stand out a little more, especially if you are blonde and your eyelashes barely show up.
      The thought of applying them can be intimidating if you have never applied them before. No worries...with the right products and these 3 easy steps you will be a pro in no time:)

Products you will need:

This is one of the best sellers

Blondes and Red heads-buy Brown
Dark Hair-buy Black
Clear Band for Beginners
***most importantly buy ones close to your natural ones-fringed! You want them to enhance not be obvious:)

Ardell Fashion Lashes Pair - 110 Demi Lashes (Pack of 4)

List Price:	$14.76
Price:	$9.94 & FREE Shipping
You Save:	$4.82 (33%) amazon.com

Duo Eyelash Adhesive, Dark Tone - 0.25 Oz

List Price:	$10.00
Price:	$6.00 & FREE Shipping

amazon.com

SEPHORA 
Bulls Eye Lash Applicator

$12.00

Application:

1. To take out of package use thumb in downward motion gently to remove.

Bend slightly like the natural shape of your eye-gently.

2. Apply glue using angled bottom of applicator to underside of lashes.

 Let dry slightly to get tacky-few seconds.

3. Use applicator to push in place against natural lashes gently. Use the applicator to gently curl new and your own eyelashes together.

Now was'nt that Easy:)

11.

1

Chic Mini lighting Pendants that make a Statement-instant style- on Sale!

    I fell in Love with these mini Lighting Pendants the styles are very Chic. You will not find these in your local stores which I love you want something that not everyone has. These are recommended for foyers or dining rooms but I would use them over a vanity or tub in a bathroom or over an island in a kitchen...so many possibilities:)

Available at Joss and Main



Joyce Mini Pendant in Polished Nickel
Sale $62.95         Originally $143.85

Pesaro Crystal Mini Pendant

Sale $100.95              Originally $237.00




Brindisi Mini Pendant
Sale $73.95        Originally $177.00





Yorke Pendant
Sale $113.95             Originally $267.00

Mother's Day Gift Ideas-Leave your shopping to me:)

 Available at Uncommongoods
hand carved soap flowers $20.00

the story

Clean Design

Who says soap can only make suds? Using a single block of soap, fair trade artists in Thailand carve delicate petals and beautiful blossoms that look as if they've been lifted straight from a Zen garden. Hand painted in gorgeous shades of purples, blues, and more, each aromatic bloom is placed in a mango wood box. While these gorgeous designs won't make bubbles anymore, they do still carry the lovely aroma of a crisply clean bouquet. Handmade in Thailand.

 


butterfly puddler by Jo-Anne & Gerald Warren$40.00

the story

Gardens Take Flight

There's nothing quite like a garden aflutter with wild butterflies in the afternoon sun. Attract your neighborhood beauties with this sand-and-water puddler, designed to hold on to natural minerals after water evaporates.

Its shallow well of recycled glass holds sand or rock salt along with a teaspoon of water. When the water evaporates (in under a day), butterflies are attracted to the minerals left behind from the hard water and sand/salt. Once butterflies know where they can find these minerals, they return regularly. Place it in a conspicuous nook to transform your outdoor space into an enchanted garden.

 

succulent living wall planter kit by Heather Auchter$100.00

the story

Wallflowers

This growing wall art kit is sure to help your garden get off the ground. The rustic, wood-framed box garden is designed to grow indoors or out, vertically or horizontally. Hang it from a wall or fence, or lay it out on a patio table as a living centerpiece. The frame's soil is held in place by a layer of water-preserving moss and a light mesh. It comes with everything you need to plant the succulent cuttings in the frame with detailed instructions helping you along the way. Succulents are fairly easy to grow, but they will have the greatest likelihood of thriving when cared for according to the included instructions. Tend them well, and your living work of art can flourish for years.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

This would cute for a little one to give their Mommy:)

diy cupcake planter kit                       

by Ricky Giacco$15.00

This sweet little treat is the perfect, zero-calorie pick-me-up for you or a friend. Rather than a guilt-inducing cupcake, it's a cupcake-shaped planter for indulging in a bit of nature indoors. The planter has the familiar, ridged shape of a cupcake paper, but is cast from a special blend of concrete made from materials that are native to the mid-Atlantic United States. The kit comes with potting soil and a mix of wildflower seeds, but you can also plant your own favorite varieties of flowers, herbs or other seedlings 


leave a trail necklace by Kathy Bransfield$90.00

the story

Find Your Way

Whether you've always marched to your own drummer or just found your voice, this beautiful necklace by Kathy Bransfield dares you to be different. Made from sterling silver and 22kt gold plated brass, this design features a two-piece pendant that contains a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson as a hidden message for the wearer.

Available at Overstock.com

 

 

 

Sale $41.64                               Save $7.35 (15%) Today $48.99  Item #: 12986192 Handcrafted of genuine freshwater black pearls, mother of pearl and quartz, this necklace makes a bold fashion statement. Imported from Thailand, each necklace is gorgeous and unique. Product Features: Handcrafted of wax cotton rope Made with black pearls, mother of pearl and onyx Pearls measure 3-6 mm wide Grade A-B pearls Lariat circle measures 40 mm diameter Necklace 44 inches long Story Behind the Art:'My name is Thidarat. I am a full time government employee working in Bangkok, Thailand. I love to design and craft the jewelry by myself. In 2003, my husband and I started a small business and opened a shop at the weekend market so we can do it outside of our work time. I am happy when I see others appreciate my designs. This inspires me to make more beautiful jewelry. My designs are made by friends and family in Lamphun, the northen province of Thailand. My satisfaction comes from the pride of being able to create jobs and income for the people back home so that they can have a better life. Sale $38.67 Save $6.82 (15%) Today $45.49  Item #: 13733930 Handcrafted of genuine freshwater white pearls, mother of pearl and reconstructed turquoise, this necklace makes a bold fashion statement. Imported from Thailand, each necklace is gorgeous and unique. Product Features: Style: Wrap around Pearl type: Freshwater Size: 5-9 mm Color: White Grade: B-C Gemstone colors: Blue, white Reconstructed turquoise and mother of pearl Materials: Brown cotton wax cord Clasp: Toggle Pendant dimensions: 40 mm in diameter Necklace dimensions: 44 inches long Story Behind the Art:K.Thidarat (Jeab) grew up in Lamphun, located in the northern province of Thailand where there is a large cultural influence from surrounding hill tribes who are well known for their hand-made crafts and jewelry. She brought her knowledge and patience of making jewelry to Bangkok and began displaying her skill in stores and markets. She has taught her family members back home to make some of the designs. Her creative designs and successful business model have brought income to the family while preserving the hand crafted traditions of her home town.

Picking the right College

My son was looking for the right college we thought we knew what that was and realized what was really important after viewing the second college. We wanted him to narrow down his choices to the top 2. I would highly recommend visiting at least two. Once he did and got his acceptance letters we toured them as a family. We have another son that is a Freshmen in high school and wanted him to see why he needs to keep up his grades and open his eyes to his future.


The first college we toured was Georgia Southern University. We were impressed with the campus it was bigger than we thought for what we head was a smaller University and well kept. My son talked to some of the professors and felt like this would be a good fit or his needs.


He was especially impressed with their food plan it was amazing I would compare it to Disney. The on campus living was ok it had what a college student would need-the one thing that I really liked was Free laundry facility. to be honest we thought this it we will look at the other college but our choice was pretty much made.




The second college we toured was Southern Polytechnic State University. My first impression was it didn't feel right. We talked to Professors and then went into the auditorium to see their early show (they made it like a late night talk show). Which at first I thought, Weird, but that quickly changed. They actually took a more creative way to show students about their college and we really enjoyed it. Then we went to the Engineering Department to hear from some of the professors what their program is all about. That really changed our mind. We learned that it is an accredited University which is huge. When he gets his license it will have that on it. Also they have apprentice opportunities-some that they can get paid for + you can get experience which is so key to getting a job once you graduate.

The professors are also ones that were passionate about their jobs and have experience in the field. These are the reasons we chose this college. To be honest these are what are really important. The whole reason to go to college is to get the best education and increase your opportunities to getting a job to make the most of your career. Sure the college experience is important some people you meet in college you may work for or network with in the future. Food is important you have to eat, but not the most reason to choose a college:)

Organize your Kitchen-Cool New Products-Great Mother's Day Gifts!

An Organized Kitchen at Last:)

    I have been having my boys empty the dishwasher my husband says they need to help out. I am use to having things organized and it has been driving me crazy because they do not put things back properly my drawers and cupboards are a mess. When I saw some of these products on the Today show it totally inspired me...I am excited! I love to be able to find things-organization is key:) Anyways when I went to find these products I discovered more and thought I would share my finds with you.
Yeah! The end of Chaos:)

These would make Great Mother's Day Gifts!!!


$25 available at JosephJoseph.com-I saw on the Today Show.
Bases nest neatly inside each other and lids snap conveniently together making them very easy to find – and all elements are clearly color-coded for speedy pairing. When closed all containers are airtight.





I just saw on their site they have bowls and measuring spoons that nest too-I Love this!
$50 available at JosephJoseph.com
Both mixing bowls now have non-slip bases and wider carry handles and the measuring cups have been redesigned to ‘snap’ together more securely.

An additional spoon in the centre means that measurements from 1 teaspoon (5 ml) up to 1 cup (250 ml) can now be made.

The small mixing bowl still includes measurements inside for added convenience (ml/fl.oz) and a spout for accurate pouring.

A new improved stainless-steel mesh sieve and a large colander complete the collection.

Nest™ 9 Plus is the most comprehensive set in the range comprising:

5 x measuring cups
1 x small non-slip mixing bowl with measurements
1 x stainless-steel mesh sieve
1 x colander/strainer
1 x large non-slip mixing bowl

Frees up counter and draw space-plus super handy. This is also a way  to keep out of reach for small children.
$59.99 available at epicureancs.com

This attractive Magnetic Knife Holder displays your favorite knives while holding them in place like magic. Our sleek, wood fiber design conceals powerful, embedded rare-earth neodymium magnets––the strongest type of permanent magnets commercially available. The knife-friendly surface looks sharp and does not scratch or dull blades like traditional metal knife strips. Attach to your wall using removable adhesive Command™ Strips by 3M or with screws and anchors that fit into a keyhole on the back. Both wall-attachment options are included.

$17.99

Expand-a-Drawer® Cutlery Tray

Storing a large collection of flatware stretches many drawer organizers too far. The Expand-a-Drawer® Cutlery Tray features compartments of various sizes for separating and organizing cutlery, small gadgets, and accessories. Our Expand-a-Drawer® Organizers adjust to the width of your drawer for a custom fit in an instant.

$19.99

I have tall cabinets and I cannot see most of my spices and I have so many that they fall out all the time-in fact, one fell yesterday and broke-I am definitely getting this.

Wire Spice Racks

$9.99

Our Wire Spice Racks won't pinch your budget or crowd your spices. They come in two roomy sizes with tightly spaced wires so small items won't fall out.

• Exclusive to The Container Store

Note***if you select pickup option at checkout enter GOSHOP14 in promotion field to get 10% off!

4-Sort Dividers

Created exclusively for us, our white, vinyl-coated steel wire 4-Sort Dividers have many uses. Use them in the kitchen for organizing pans, lids, and cookbooks; in the office for holding files and binders; in a kid's room for games, albums, or magazines.

available at the container store   Medium $4.99 

Kitchen Wrap Organizer

$4.99 available at the container store

"Roll Call" is now easier thanks to our Kitchen Wrap Organizer. Keep six rolls of plastic wrap, foil, plastic bags, and waxed paper present and accounted for. This organizer requires no mounting.

$14.99 to 19.99 available at the container store

Grook™ Utility Holders

Our Grook™ Utility Holders are an ingenious way to store all of your cleaning tools and gardening equipment. They're good looking with a silver metal base and non-slip rubber hooks. Its smart design allows you to store tools in three ways: tool handles through the loops, handles placed between the loops, or hanging from the hooks on the front of the loops.

• Mounting hardware is included