How Old is Too Old for Trick-or-Treating?

Trick-or-treating is a big part of Halloween. It is pretty obvious that this tradition was designed for children to participate in (often accompanied by their parents). Is there an “age limit” for trick-or-treating? At what age does a child become too old to go trick-or-treating? Ultimately, a parent needs to make that decision for themselves. Here are some things to consider when wondering if your child is too old to trick-or-treat this year. Check the local rules. Many cities or towns will issue specific rules regarding trick-or-treating. These rules usually consist of things like the hour that trick-or-treating can begin … Continue reading

Fun Items for Frugal Dress Up Play

There is a quick and easy way to entertain your preschooler for at least half an hour or so. Let him or her play dress up! Preschoolers tend to love this activity because it lets them “become” someone else for a while. Dress up is a great opportunity for using one’s imagination. Here are some frugal ideas for dress up play. Frugal Dress Up Ideas for Preschoolers Old Costumes Previously worn Halloween costumes are great for playing dress up in. Your child can become a princess, a superhero, or both in the same day. Reuse the Halloween costumes that your … Continue reading

Making Money When You Are Already Too Busy

These days, many of us need to find ways to make some extra money. Figuring out how to fit that in when we already have families and jobs (in the home or outside of it) to fulfill  can be tough. How do we find the time to make money when we are already so busy? Combining Jobs When I got a call last week asking if I would babysit for our church’s Women’s Bible Study that takes place one morning a week I readily agreed. While the money isn’t much, it allowed me to take my youngest child with me, … Continue reading

Sign up for Free Samples and Save

In my bedroom right now is a basket that contains a good number of samples of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap, toothpaste, dental floss, and lotion. I take from the basket on a regular basis. Each sample yields anywhere from two to ten uses before the envelope, bottle or other container is discarded. I currently have enough samples to last me a few months before I have to break down and actually purchase any of these products. In the kitchen, I have samples of vitamins, granola bars, fruit snacks, protein shake packets, pain reliever (I keep medications out of reach … Continue reading

Kids Have Love Languages Too

I was lucky enough to be blessed with a child who has the same love language I do. We both value quality time above all else. While we both show each other love in multiple ways, nothing says, “I love you” more than spending time together. As a busy single parent there isn’t always a lot of time to sit down just the two of us and play, but I have found that when I make time for the little things, not only does our relationship grow stronger, but he also behaves better as well. When my son feels important … Continue reading

Toddler Road Trip Wrap Up

Last night we returned to our home after a nine day vacation with my parents. Four out of those nine days were spent on the road, driving for many hours. This post is for any parent who is wondering whether it is a good idea to take such a long trip with a toddler (or, as in our case, a toddler and a baby). I am not sure if there was a specific reason that our trip went relatively smoothly, but it did. There were certainly moments where things got pretty intense, but we worked through them. When I stopped … Continue reading

Super Reads

For some kids, getting a book in their Christmas stocking is about as exciting as receiving underwear, a toothbrush, or an apple. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way. Shatter the myth this holiday season by gifting your good guy or gal with the following super reads that pit bad blood against legendary super heroes: Superman Classic: Attack of the Toyman Don’t let the name fool you. Toyman is no Santa Claus. In fact, the diabolical villain is trying to play all of Metropolis. His first move: Unleash an attack by attaching explosives to remote-control cars. Toyman’s evil plan … Continue reading

Smylebii: Something to make you Smyle

I love the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit that some homeschoolers display. One homeschool business that I am excited to see flourish is Smylebii. Smylebii is the creative effort of four homeschool girls who have learned to find joy in all situations. They want to spread that joy through their business. Smylebiis are figurines, charms, and keychains, that are sure to make you smile. They will custom make a one of a kind Smylebii just for you! Who are the Smyles behind Smylebiis? We are four home schooled daughters of an Evangelist/Missionary to North America. We love to make people smile … Continue reading

Spice Up Your Halloween Story

When it comes down to it, a scrapbook layout is really an adventure in storytelling. Photos, embellishments, memorabilia, captions and journaling all help recount a special memory and preserve it for years to come. With Halloween just around the corner, now is the time to start strategizing holiday layouts. Consider how you want to tell the tale of your All Hallows’ Eve festivities. For example, if you want to put an emphasis on photos rather than write out lengthy journaling blocks, consider spicing up the shots by taking them from unique angles. Experiment with some extreme close ups and or … Continue reading

It Is Never Too Late To Work From Home

No matter how long you have been in your current job outside of the home, it is never too late to make the switch to working from home. Perhaps you are ready for a career change and want to try something new. You may have always dreamed of having a different career, and now might be the right time to explore it. If you are over fifty and you are thinking of making the switch to working from home, go for it. Do not let anyone talk you out of it because of how far you have come in your … Continue reading