Category: Reviews

10 Healthy and Delicious Dessert Recipes

 

Desserts are undoubtedly the favorite part of every meal but are also usually full of white sugar, white flour and everything the specialists advise us not to eat. The good news is that there are some secret recipes that exclude the unhealthy bits, but are ultimately tasty. It turns out it is a myth that healthy food can’t be delicious and we can prove it. In this article we have selected 10 of our favorite, and by the way super easy to make, desserts. Enjoy them as much as you want – they won’t do you any harm.

 

 

 



Chocolate is probably the best human invention and the brownie is our favorite way to consume it. It is sweet, chewy, crunchy, melts in your mouth and it smells like heaven. The best part is that it allows for many variations, even healthy ones! The classical brownie is made of flour, sugar, butter, eggs and chocolate. However, you can achieve the same consistency with other ingredients – mix dark chocolate and 2 smashed avocados. Instead of white sugar pour coconut sugar and use almond flour instead of regular flour. For the frosting, you’re going to need coconut oil, maple syrup and some melted chocolate. Serve the healthy brownie on a beautiful plate and surprise your guests with an amazing chocolate gluten-free dessert!




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A well-known fact is that nature makes great desserts – you just have to pick them from the trees. Baked stuffed apples are an amazing way to make the best of several natural ingredients. Carve an apple and fill it with nuts, cinnamon, butter, maple syrup and dried fruits. Pour apple juice around the apples, cover with a lid and cook low for 4 hours. Voila – you have just achieved perfection!

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Saturday morning smells like pancakes. This is what we`ve been waiting for throughout the whole week – pancakes are a good reason to live. So, in order to live longer, here is a recipe for healthy pancakes. Mix eggs, coconut oil and honey. Add coconut milk and vanilla extract to the mixture. Lastly, add coconut flour, a pinch of baking soda and salt. When the pancakes are ready we recommend that you serve them with a lot of maple syrup on top.




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Vanilla ice cream is the queen of all the ice cream. It is the ultimate classic. However, ice cream from the market is full of preservatives and other not-so-natural ingredients, which don’t make it the healthiest option. If you make your own ice cream at home, you will at least know exactly what is in it. It is quite easy! Just mix heavy cream, half-and-half cream, sugar and vanilla extract and serve the mixture in a beautiful cup after it freezes.

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Banana bread is one of the most delicious options for anyone who is lactose intolerant or simply doesn’t like dairy desserts. Plus, it is super easy and takes no time to prepare. You just need bananas, margarine (or coconut oil), self-rising flour, eggs and nuts. A pinch of cinnamon will add a great aroma to your creation!


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Traditionally, tiramisu is made using a lot of milk and mascarpone cheese. However, if you’re not into dairy there is still a way to enjoy the magic of tiramisu. Just get coconut yoghurt instead of dairy products. It’s as tasty as the mascarpone, but it also has that sweet gentle coconut aroma.


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We consider coconuts as one of the best miracles nature has ever given us, because they take part in the creation of so many other miracles in the kitchen. For example, these vegan tea biscuits, which are extremely delicious and at the same time very easy to make. All you need is coconut oil, coconut milk, flour, baking soda, kosher salt and honey. As simple as that! When ready, arrange them on a high tea stand and surprise everyone at your tea party with this healthy treat.

 

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Surprise! Chocolate is for everyone and goes well even with vegan desserts. Actually, if you succeed with this recipe no one would be able to tell that there are no eggs or milk inside. This vegan chocolate cake is not even difficult to prepare. Again, avocados make the magic happen – smash them well and mix them with the other ingredients. When the cake is ready you`ll be so proud of it, that you`ll want to put it on a cake stand.

 

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When you’re up to a challenge, every ingredient can be turned into an amazing cake – even carrots. This recipe is so delicious, that no one would ever think it is also healthy and gluten-free.


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Chia can be used in numerous ways, but this pudding recipe is surely among the best ones. It is healthy and full of nutrients, and at the same time, it tastes wonderful. It is made with just 6 ingredients, none of which is sugar. Don`t worry, this doesn’t mean that it’s not sweet. The sweetness comes from ingredients that won’t give you diabetes, such as maple syrup or blended dates.


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Conclusion

Who said that healthy food can’t be tasty? We have been lied to – butter, cream and white flour are not the only ingredients that make your desserts delicious. There are many other natural ways to make a sweet meal. We hope ideas have been useful, now start cooking!

House Proofing Your Home: Getting Into The “Disaster Mindset”

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Wherever you are on the property ladder, whether you are moving to a new home, or you have a property that you intend to keep for a long time, no matter how many different circumstances arise, there is one thing that we can’t control, the weather. The effects of weather and natural disasters on our home can end up costing us a lot financially, but also, if we end up losing our home, our lives could end up in tatters. House proofing our home, ready for disaster, can take many forms, and what are the best ways for us to make sure that we have adequate protection, but also peace of mind?

 

Keeping On Top Of The Superficial Problems

Looking after your home requires an understanding of the superficial problems we all get from time to time. Undertaking regular inspections of your home to keep on top of problems like cracks, and sealant wearing away, can give you that additional piece of mind. But also, it wouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg when it comes to paying for these repairs.

 

Be Insured Up To The Eyeballs

So many people have insurance, but tend to just have a basic policy in place. While a basic policy is beneficial, if you don’t know what it actually covers you for, especially when a natural disaster occurs, you might have been paying it for nothing! It’s much better for you to get an understanding of the cost of the most comprehensive policies that covers areas like flood damage. In making sure you are adequately covered, if you have a good quality policy in place, you will be far better covered, but you will be safe in the knowledge that if disaster does strike, that you will be professionally supported.

 

Have Professionals On Speed Dial

We all have preferred contractors in our immediate area, and if a natural disaster occurs, we can rely on these people to help bring our home back to normality. Companies like Restorationeaze will help clear the flooding out of your home, so you can get back on track. In addition to this, having various bits of information on how to fix superficial problems yourself gives you a far better idea in how you can paper over a crack until the professionals can get to you. For example, making sure that a fence holds together after being damaged by a storm.

 

Have A “Bomb Shelter”

Not in the literal sense, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea nowadays! Having somewhere to store emergency supplies is incredibly beneficial. In addition to this, making sure that you have extra bedding, tinned goods, and generally, ways to keep you surviving if you were hit by disaster, will reduce the shock. It’s beneficial to get into the “disaster mindset” so you can think what would happen in the worst case scenario, and what you would desperately need. Having additional batteries for your phone, as well as a backup generator, and a way for you to keep warm, are just a few things you need to tick off your emergency list.

 

Have A Backup Plan

It’s not just about protecting your home, but it’s about knowing what you can do if everything else goes wrong. If you get trapped in your home, for example, you need to think of a escape route. For example, if every room in your house is blocked, what is the best way to escape that is completely foolproof? Your garage could be one of those, so you need to be aware of how to manually release the lever for the garage door. Thinking laterally, as well as undertaking a proper inspection of the best escape routes, is the perfect way to have a backup plan in the back of your mind. It’s always best to think in this disaster mindset, and consider the worst case scenarios.

 

Secure The Perimeter

When thinking about securing your home, the exterior should be top of your priorities. Making sure that outdoor items are secure, from bicycles, to benches, as well as garden toys, will prevent you having further disaster or causing injury. By securing these items outside, especially during storms, this additional damage to your home could be one extra problem that you couldn’t have foreseen. Storm shutters are another way to secure the windows of your property, especially if there is a chance of debris hitting them, and storm shutters don’t cost a lot. They are incredibly sturdy, but they are also built to withstand the vast majority of wind and rain. On top of this, if you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you need an additional plan in place to stop flooding entering your home. Water barriers are one of many options, and if you have the space, having a few sandbags on standby will mean the difference between a dry home and a wet one.

 

Communication

If all else fails, you are going to need a way to communicate with the emergency services. If your mobile phone network is down, or there are power outages, a landline is going to be a lifesaver in this instance. The great thing about a corded landline telephone is that it is relatively immune from water damage. And most people don’t consider a landline telephone to be a priority now, but if you live in an area that is prone to disaster, this could be your lifeline to getting the emergency services to your property on time.

 

House proofing your home for disaster is vital, regardless of where you live in the world. But if you are in an area that is more prone to natural disasters, from hurricane, to natural flooding, you need to start thinking with a disaster mindset, so you can prepare your home accordingly, and save your family’s life in the process. The best time to begin is now, so draw up an action plan and get yourself ready. There’s no telling when a disaster could strike, and if if you’ve only got one home, if you need to protect it with all you’ve got!

 

Start an Acne Smart Diet

Studies have found that the diet plays an important role in controlling or contributing to an acne condition. Even though dealing with acne can be a lot to deal with for some people, it is important to remember that there is always a solution and you don’t have to go through this alone. With the help of adult acne products and a good diet, hopefully you’ll start to see your acne improve over time! When it comes to dealing with acne, there is a lot to it that many people do not understand. From the types of food you eat, to dealing with stress and some products you use that may not be suitable for your skin, these are things to consider when trying to control your acne. Even if it is something as simple as clicking here to check out other potential solutions, you’re on the right track to finally managing your acne and finally have it under control.

This article will contain an overview of the absolute WORST culprits in the development of a full-blown acne condition. If you eat any of these foods regularly, try avoiding them for a full week and see if your condition hasn’t improved even just a bit.

Cow’s Milk – A study performed in 2010 showed a definite link in the consumption of cow’s milk and the development of an Acne condition. Although the scientific and medical community is still not sure why this is, there several theories.

Insulin levels are also increased and this heightens the production of skin oils, or Sebum, it is the overproduction of sebum that allows the bacteria to affect clogged pores and this causes more Acne.

Furthermore, much of the milk produced in today’s dairy industry is taken from pregnant cows, this means there are various hormones present that can affect an acne condition, for the worse. Then there are the growth hormones to worry about. While we are still not sure what the full extent of their effects may be, it is quite likely that an aggravated acne condition can be one such effect.

Skin cell production is also improved when you drink milk. As new skin cells arrive and older ones fall off, the dead skin cells can become caught in the sebum and add to the pore clogging concoction.

Dieticians have also noted that those demographics and regions that drink little or no milk during their teenage years are less prone to the conditions of acne as those that drink a lot of milk when young.

Sugar – your mother probably warned you that sugar will aggravate an acne condition and she was right. The link between high sugar diets and acne conditions has been well-established. But, this doesn’t mean that you eat a cookie and you get a pimple. It really comes down to the amount of sugar entering your body and how it is, or isn’t being processed in a healthy way.

If you were to accompany a chocolate bar with a sugary soda, you may see a spike in your blood sugar levels and an outbreak within hours. Consider lowering the amounts of sugar you eat and especially at one time. The after-dinner dessert is often the one way to incorporate unhealthy processed sugars into the diet. The best way would be to swap them out for a variety of fruits that contain natural sugars.

High-glycemic foods – these are foods that can be rapidly broken down by the body triggering blood sugar and insulin spikes. This promotes hormonal fluctuations and this is one of the primary causes of excess sebum and subsequent acne conditions.

The foods in question are white breads and refined grain products. Cereals, white rice, potato chips and all manner of sweet breads from bear paws to snickerdoodles can also promote skin conditions. Consider something from the low-glycemic food section like whole grains, sweet potatoes and veggies. If you find that you need help with acne then look herehttp://www.dore.sg/acne-scar-removal/

Junk food – as you may imagine, junk food ticks off almost all the boxes in the category of foods that contribute to acne. Avoid these for a time and see if your skin and face don’t thank you.

Fast food – fried potatoes, white bread burger buns and greasy meats cause serious inflammation when eaten and for this reason should be avoided after surgeries, complex dental work and if you have an acne condition you hope to be rid of. Consider having a yogurt or salad and make the skin-smart decision.

While cutting out the foods mentioned above will certainly do much to help your skin, it will be equally important to consume the types of foods that will do your skin good. Perhaps you haven’t Here are some foods that can give the body a fighting edge over an acne condition.

Fish or flaxseed – In the western diet, Omega-6 can lead to a lot of inflammation, it would be better to tone this down and increase the Omega-3 intake you rely on for good health. Try eating more fatty fish, walnuts and the like, this will help reduce the inflammation in your skin and prevent breakouts.

Green tea – green tea has a wealth of antioxidants that can help keep the body safe from your toxins and helps acne too.

Oysters – Zinc has been found effective at taming an outrageous acne condition, but it’s better to get your zinc from food rather than supplementation, as they have been found to feature negative side effects. So, order another half dozen oysters, tuck into the toasted wheat germ and help yourself to some more roasted pumpkin seeds.

Juicing – eating a few more fruits and veggies can help to clear up acne, and what better way to enjoy all that nature provides than in a top-quality juicer. Choose dark leafy veggies and berries as the Phyto nutrients in these foods are the best selection for your needs.

Of course, diet is only one side to the acne condition, to truly be rid of your acne you may want to consider topical anti-inflammatories. But, you should always consider the natural options before making your skin a testing ground for every chemical response on the market. Purchasing all these cleansers and moisturizers packed with chemicals (that will in fact worsen your acne) seems pointless when using something as simple as CBD oil from sites like https://www.getsabaidee.com is proven to tackle acne efficiently, as well as being completely natural. As well as this, adding CBD to your diet should allow you to feel the other benefits it offers, such as a lessening of anxiety and stress (which can contribute to a flare-up of acne). Combining this method with a scrub for acne could help getting rid of acne efficiently. Try a small dab of honey on the affected region after washing the face. Within 20-mins the honey will reduce the inflammation and restore a healthy skin color to your face.

Four Reasons to Send Money to the Philippines

high rise condominiums and office blocks in rockwell part of crowded makati city in manila the philippines

If you’ve never sent money abroad before, you may be wondering why some people choose to send money to the Philippines. The short answer is that it’s easier than ever before!

With Remitly, you can send money to dozens of banks quickly and easily. They even partner with cash pickup sites, which is perfect for people who don’t have a bank account. However, that doesn’t really answer why people are willing to send their money, no matter how easy it is.

Here are four reasons why some people use a money transfer service to send money to the Philippines.

They Have Friends and Family to Support Back Home

The most common reason people send money to the Philippines is to help support friends and family back home.

It isn’t uncommon for people to travel to the United States to find work, not only to support themselves, but also to support the friends and family they are leaving behind. If you’re working away from home, you may choose to send money every once in a while, or you may send money on a regular schedule. Many people choose to send money for special occasions as well, like birthdays and graduations.

They Want to Support a Child Studying in the Philippines

Saying goodbye to a child who is studying abroad can be difficult for parents. There are many ways to prepare for your child’s adventure, one of which is planning to send cash their way when they need it.

Parents, grandparents, and other family members send money to students studying in the Philippines to help pay for:

  • Room and board
  • Living expenses
  • Textbooks
  • Tuition
  • Food
  • And more

They Are Getting Married Abroad

One of the most exciting reasons to send money abroad is for a wedding! There are some stunning natural wonders in the Philippines that can provide any bride with a beautiful wedding backdrop. Others are simply returning home so family can be present at their nuptials.

There are plenty of people to send money to. You have to pay for the venue, the caterer, the photographer, and more, and transferring the cash is the easiest way to do it.

They Have Property in the Philippines

Having vacation property abroad is a dream of many, but that doesn’t mean finding the right property is easy. Maintaining it when you live in another country can be tricky too, but paying for it isn’t!

Wiring money is an easy way to pay a mortgage payment if you have a home in the Philippines. It’s also an easy way to pay cleaners, maintenance, and other professionals who live in the Philippines and work on your home.

If you’ve never sent money abroad, especially to the Philippines, hopefully, this list makes it clearer why it’s such a common practice. Given the number of requirements that the Philippines government has in place, it is important that one does enough research and only continue further. For instance, if you are looking for a business loan there, there are certain philgeps requirements that one must comply with. Perhaps, while sending money to your loved ones over there, all of these factors can be kept in mind.

And who knows! Maybe someday you’ll have a student in your family who studies in this country. Or, maybe you’re finally ready to make your dream of owning a vacation property a reality. Sending money to the Philippines might just become commonplace for you in the future!

 

Spring Cleaning with Ora – The Paper Towel Revolution

With the spring cleaning season here we are all looking for a fresh start.

New things to try and do. New products that can help make life better and easier.

One of the hot new products for 2018 are the new Ora Kitchen Towels.

Being a busy parent, any way we can find to simplify life and make clean ups easier I am ALL for it! I feel like most days I am cleaning up one mess after another. The coolest new product I have found in household products is the Ora Household Towel. The cone, stack-style towels are easy to use, super absorbent and very versatile.

” The round household towel is here! Easy one hand grab – no tearing, no unravelling, no wastage. Twice the number of sheets than on a conventional kitchen roll. Clever, economical and too good-looking to hide under the sink. ” – Ora

These stacked style towels make for easy access – giving you the ability to remove the towel with one hand. This is a top feature for me. I often need a paper towel when I am busy and have a mess going on – by being able to use only one hand to remove the towel I can move and work faster than before. My kids love using them for treats and snacks, I love that they are not created another disk for me to clean! They can stay in the cone shape, making them perfect for holding snacks like Goldfish, greasy chips, hot sausages and really any other dry or greasy foods you would put in a bowl. It’s even useful if you find yourself having a little spill on your office furniture you got from somewhere like office monster so your office is tidy for you to work in (be it your company’s office or your home office, they are great for either office).

When it comes to your office furniture though, it’s important to make sure that you look after it and get it cleaned regularly. You need your work environment to be clean otherwise you won’t be productive. If the company you work for currently don’t have a cleaning company then you could suggest that they try someone like GCC FM (GCC FM are an office cleaning company in sheffield), to help keep your office spotless.

A tidy desk means a tidy mind, so you won’t be distracted and can get on with your work. Obviously though, the cleaners won’t be in your office all the time so it’s a good idea to have these Ora paper towels on hand, so that if anything is spilled, then you can easily clean it up yourself. It doesn’t make sense for you to just leave your mess all on the floor anyway. You wouldn’t do that at home, so why would you leave a mess in your office?

It does make it easier having a cleaning company at your office though, you won’t have to worry about deep cleaning the carpet, or making sure that your sofas are looking nice. They’ll also be able to bring in special products that can help clean even the dirtiest of places. For some reason, cleaners have a load of tricks up their sleeves, so if your office doesn’t have a cleaning company, then make sure you mention it to your boss about how much more helpful it can be to have one.

A good friend of mine works in an office in New York, and since hiring office cleaning services in NYC, she told me that she has noticed a big difference where the productivity of her team is concerned. Clutter, mess, and dirt can all be incredibly distracting, so it is important to stay on top of keeping everything clean, especially in a busy office space.

There’s only so much that an Ora paper towel can clean up. However, everyone should be cleaning up after themselves anyway. Be it at home or in the office. However, there’s something nice knowing that a cleaning company has been to clean your office and there isn’t a speck of dirt anywhere. It certainly helps you concentrate as you’re sat at your desk. You could also consider getting a cleaning company to help tidy your home if you think that that would benefit you as a person as well. After all, we forget that keeping your home tidy isn’t the easiest task, and we forget the small and hard to get places. If we don’t keep our houses clean, we can sometimes end up with a pest infestation, which is never something you want to deal with. The only solution to this is calling pest treatment wisconsin, as tackling this yourself isn’t easy!

Each Ora comes with 100 towels, giving you much more than an average roll of paper towels contains. Plus, it’s simple and beautiful design make it much more attractive than that old fashion paper towel roll sitting next to your microwave. With the circle shape, which is what the cone opens up into, makes it perfect for warming things in the microwave! I love how it sits perfectly (because of the natural cone bend in it) on top of a plate or bowl. I no longer worry about the paper towel falling off my dish while rotating in the microwave. This feature keeps my microwave cleaner and that is itself is a lifesaver.

The round shape and size makes it easy for all hand sizes, small and large, to control easily. I love how my kids and my husband alike have no issues cleaning up spills with the Ora Towels. More so, “each stack has the equivalent number of sheets of two regular paper towel rolls and less packaging. that means fewer trucks are needed to deliver Ora – so that’s less pollution and congestion for all of us..” – Ora’s Website.

Ora is available through Amazon!

Connect with Ora Paper Towels

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Ora is the most versatile disposable towel I have ever used! Some ideas for use are:

  • Sticky fingered kids
  • Oil changes
  • Office desk coffee spills
  • Greasy splashed while cooking
  • Muddy gardening messes
  • Car pool lane spills in the car
  • Wet pet paws
  • Setting cookies on while dusting with sugar

Our Top Pick for a Kindergarten Aged Car Seat

Our kids grew up – and so should their car seats.

Safety is at the top of my priority list when it comes to a car seat for my kids. I really wouldn’t want anything bad to happen to them if we were in a car accident (touch wood it never does happen though). All I want to care about is getting the right car accident lawyers, with the knowledge that everyone is safe and alive at least. Furthermore, taking precautions incase something awful was to happen is equally important. My baby has a good car seat and I know everything about life insurance and long term disability insurance, so that in the event of an accident, I know what my first move should be. It’s important to protect everyone in the car and insurance is the best way to protect myself as a parent. What’s more – a good car insurance policy will also cover your child’s car seat. If you were to be in an accident, your insurance company will pay to replace the damaged car seat.

Now that my 5 year old is getting taller, starting to weigh more and has stronger bones…we know that she is still a small child in the big picture of things. After my best friend bought an isofix car seat, I’ve been on the hunt for a car seat too.

I fully believe in staying in a 5 point harness as long as possible. It is safer, hands down. I’d hate for anything bad to happen. I know car accidents do happen, that’s why it’s so easy to get yourself a lawyer who specializes in law (for example, you could use someone like Batta Fulkerson). However, I would much prefer to not have a car accident (and I’m assume everyone else is thinking the same).

After looking around I saw that it was an option for her to move to a booster based on her weight (45 lbs) but I know in my heart of hearts it is not the time for her to move to a booster and seat belt only restraint. I know she wants to feel like a big kid, look like she is in a booster, but I want her strapped in safely. This is where is Diono rXT all-in-one convertible car seat steps into our lives.

The sleek and more vertical design of this seat makes it perfect for preschoolers and kindergarten aged children.

The sleek design also can fit 3 of these seat in the same row, for families with multiple children

Extended rear-facing

The radian® rXT keeps children comfortably rear-facing from 5-45 pounds for the safest possible position. Premium, plush head and body support cushions are included for newborns and infants.

Room to grow

Accommodates forward-facing children up to 65 pounds in a 5-point harness and converts to booster mode for kids 50-120 pounds. The aluminum reinforced, adjustable head support and sidewalls provide additional side impact protection.

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I love how this seat will change into a booster when my daughter gains more weight and needs to go into a true booster style seat. I am thinking this will happen by fall 2018…but who knows with the rate kids grow – it seems so random at times doesn’t it?

As soon as my 5 year old saw this seat she said “Woah! A car seat for big kids!”

MamatheFox’s Favorite Aspects of the Diono rXT

  • Safety First! The manual comes with tons of great information, helping you set up the car seat the way you should based on your child’s size
  • Learned new informationTo learn how car seats keep your child safe check out Parenting Pod. Because my daughter is under 50 but over 40 lbs, I no longer use the latch system with this car seat! I did not know this at all – and I am so glad Diono took the time to inform me of the right steps to take when installing my seat based on what is most safe for my child. For her weight I was to use the seat belt and the rear anchor.
  • Easy to buckle in and tighten the straps. One of the main issues parents have with car seats is pulling the straps tight enough. I have struggled, and I mean practically fought with tightening straps properly in other car seats. The Diono rXT has a cool feature that clicks as it tightens. You can feel it click, which makes it much easier to tighten to the correct place on your child’s chest.
  • Cup Holder is Removable. The grossest, most odd things can be found in your kid’s car seat cup holder. Having it be removable for deep cleaning is such a perfect and parent loving design.
  • Wider hip room for bigger children. Kids are build differently, just as adults are. This seat has a fun feature that allows your children to grow with their seat. The hip area can snap to a lower, wider setting, allowing your child to truly grow with their seat.

Click Your Bricks with a Brick Loot Subscription Box

Click Click!

 

That is the sound every day at the Fox house. We LOVE building with bricks. Lego, Duplo, any brand you can think of – we love them all.

 

My husband is the brickman. He loves playing with bricks with the kids and has really helped them develop a creative side that I never knew how to engage.

My son, age 4, loves to play with things that allow him to create his own, one-of-a-kind toy. The easiest way for him to do this type of play is with bricks, which is also why they are so popular in this house.

 

By engaging our kids in STEM activities, we help them unlock new ideas & learn to use their minds in creative and healthy ways.

 

Thankfully, Parker, creator of Brick Loot, also has a deep love for LEGO’s!  As a boy who collected massive amounts of bricks, he quickly saw something missing in the marketplace, a subscription box for people who love LEGO’s and bricks!  He took this as a hint and decided to act on this issue, by creating his own company! Parker, now age 13, with the help of his awesome parents, has launched this highly successful subscription box. As time goes on, and as Parker has grown, he keeps taking on more and more of the responsibility of running and managing the business.

 

Let’s help support child entrepreneurs by gifting someone you know a subscription to Brick Loot

 

 

 

But we all know that bricks aren’t just for kids!

 

 

 

With Brick Loot you can get new, exciting Lego’s and other compatible Bricks, along with other exciting items shipped to your home each month!

 

AWESOME ITEMS INCLUDED IN EACH BOX


Custom Kits with LEGO Bricks

Kits by famous LEGO Designers

Brick Loot Exclusives

LEGO Accessories

Custom LEGO Minifigures

LEGO Compatible Products


 

 

We received the March 2018 Brick Loot Box

 

The March 2018 Brick Loot Box had the following items:

  • Motorcycle Madness  (Exclusive 100% LEGO Build Designed Set)
  • Speedway Racer Arcade – with an LED Light Kit!
  • Pinky’s Arcade Hat
  • Arcade Mystery LEGO Minifigure

This months theme was Game On II – giving you several exciting arcade themes products.

 

We really liked the LED light that was included, which made the arcade game way more exciting and was extremely interesting for our 4 year old son.

 

What was kinda tricky were the directions – they were not like a typical LEGO instruction set.  They showed several steps per step, making it sorta confusion for an adult, so it would probably be a tad tricky for a kid. This may have been a unique circumstance for only that one set/box. Just a heads up.

 

Connect with Brick Loot

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Extra Extra Read All About It


Also available on the Brick Loot website:

Exclusive mini figures

Lego Artwork

Storage Containers

and much much more!!


Brick Loot is a box subscription company for LEGO and Brick fanatics! Their subscribers will receive a monthly box filled with unique, custom and never-before-seen items that work with LEGO bricks and custom building.

New Parents: Treat Yourselves with These Easy Options

Finding time for yourself when you’re a new parent can seem impossible. This new bundle of joy requires all of your attention, so there doesn’t appear to be a lot left to give yourself. Even new parents can find ways to treat themselves, though, whether it’s in big or small ways. Some changes that you make can improve your lives for the better for the next few months or years, while others can give you small moments of pleasure in between the daily drudgery. If you feel like you need a treat to cheer yourself up or so you can get a break, try one of these ideas.

Pic credit: Pxhere

Make Your Bed More Comfortable

Sleep is so important when you’re a new parent, but it’s being a parent that can stop you from getting enough. It can take a long time for your baby to sleep through the night, and even then, it’s early mornings for the next few years, at least. You can’t do much your baby’s sleeping habits, apart from establishing a routine as soon as possible, but you can do some things to make your sleep better. Some people are put off buying a new mattress because they’re worried about the disposal of the old one. Luckily, junk removal companies can provide a solution by taking all of your unwanted junk (such as a mattress or yard waste), and dispose of it. One thing to try is getting a new mattress. Take a look at Mattress-Guides for more info on how a new mattress could help. When you are able to get some shut-eye, you can be sure that you’ll get better quality sleep. If you want to learn more about natural mattresses, you may find that you want to get a new mattress for yourself.

Eat a Decent Meal

When you’re short on time, eating well isn’t always a priority. When you first have a baby, some friends and family members are nice enough to drop off meals. But as that comes to a stop, you might resort to eating quick and easy meals. They might be healthy enough, but you’re mostly focusing on nutrition and not pleasure. One way to treat yourself is to have a meal that you eat for the joy of it, and not just to make sure you’re eating enough. You don’t have to leave the house or even cook anything. Get something delivered and enjoy not even having to wash the dishes.

Pic credit: Public Domain Pictures

Do Nothing

While sometimes it’s difficult not to just collapse on the sofa at the end of the day, there’s always a voice nagging that you have things to do. But sometimes you just need to ignore it and do absolutely nothing for a while. Even if it’s just for an hour or two, watching TV or closing your eyes for a bit is much better than doing another load of laundry. You could find that you are more likely to be productive if you sit back and relax for a couple of hours. Seeing as you could be part of the 120.6 million households who have TV, (check out more cable tv statistics for 2020 here), then it would be a shame to see this appliance get wasted. It is there to be watched after all. Don’t worry, all of your chores will still be there in an hour. If you don’t have a TV, it might be worthwhile thinking about getting one as it is a perfect pass time if you just need to chill out. Why not also consider getting something like these corner TV units if you are running out of space in your living room. This might be the perfect way for you to relax after a long day.

Have Some Time Off

It can be difficult to let someone else look after your child for the first time. However, sometimes it gets more difficult the longer you leave it. Find someone you trust to look after your baby, even if it’s just for half an hour. Taking some time off, when you can go and get a coffee, go shopping or just take a walk, gives you a well deserved break. And it starts getting both you and your child used to being apart.

New parents deserve to treat themselves sometimes. It’s important to look after yourself so that you can be a better parent.

Get Silly with Silikids

It seems like the world is depleting quickly, am I right?

“Going green” seems to be the new catch phrase for people these days; and for good reason. I think we have a responsibility to take care of our planet.

Not only is taking care of our planet important, but taking care of our bodies is important too.

That’s why our family is starting to transition away from plastic and over to silicone.

Well, that’s where Silikids comes into play.

Silikids was founded in 2006 and offers alternatives to plastic tableware found in our homes. Their products are safe, modern, and made completely from silicone.

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Silicone is:

Safe. Silicone is primarily made up of silicon. Silicon is a natural element that is found in sand and rock. When silicon is combined with oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen, it’s transformed into silicone. Silicone is inert – lacking the ability or strength to move – so it doesn’t react with food or liquid. Silicone is hypo-allergenic and does not promote bacteria or fungus growth.

Non-toxic. Silicone is BPA free and does not contain toxic chemicals like bisphenol-A, lead, PVC and phthalates.

Durable. The durability of silicone means that you will really not have to worry about disposable for a long time. The long lasting silicone takes away from the waste that you would otherwise create. You can also recycle silicone. Send your Silikids products back to them and they’ll recycle them for you!

Universal Tops

These tops are super great. Just like the name says – they’re universal. These tops fit on any cup, regardless of size. The beauty of these tops is that they turn any cup into a children’s cup in just seconds. Seriously so cool!

Two options are available for these tops – sippy top or straw top. Both of these options are great for children of any age. Not only are these tops good for the environment, they are a great money saver. Having cups in the house already means you only need these toppers. No extra kids cups sitting around the house taking up unwanted space.

Although the universal tops are made to fit any size cup, I would recommend using the tops on smaller sized cups. I had a few experiences with the toppers where some of the cups I used were just a little too big. Better be safe than sorry and use a smaller rimmed cup! But even better, invest in the Silikids silicone cups. These cups are perfect for kids, won’t break, and make the switch over from plastic complete.

*Note that the photo above is showing a sippy top. The cup in the photo is not a Silikids cup.

Reusable Silicone Straw

These silicone straws are great for children and adults. Six packs and three packs are available and come in different lengths, for different cup heights.

The straws are perfect for little teeth and especially great for teething kiddos. The softness of the straws are great for soothing gums; any baby will enjoy that! That being said, these straws are also a fabulous alternative for adults with sensitive teeth or sore gums! In some cases, these sore gums may be a canker sore lurking inside the cheek, luckily treatment such as Luminance RED is available to help alleviate that soreness, however, if it is their gums, the appropriate treatment is a must. A friend of mine has recently had to undergo treatment for periodontitis (also known as gum disease) so I will definitely be recommending these silicone straws to her. Which reminds me, my friend told me that if you are considering treatment for periodontitis Sydney is home to some fantastic dental professionals that can provide the advice and support you need to get your smile looking back to its best. Just be sure to reach out to a few different dentists to find the best treatment plan for your needs.

Reusable Snack Bags

These reusable bags are the perfect replacement to disposable bags. Use them over and over again and don’t feel like you’re hurting the environment; because you’re not!

If you’re like me, it’s really easy grab a ziplock bag and fill it with snacks for the kids or food for hubbies lunch. But now that I have these reusable bags I love grabbing one and filling it with goodies, I feel better that I’m not waisting anything.

The bags are super easy to open and close. The simple closure on the bag pops into the hole and is easier use than a zipper. Due to the way this bag closes, there is not a complete seal. I would recommend not putting food into the bag that should be sealed shut in order to stay fresh. We mostly use the bag for fruit, veggies, and nuts.

You can even write on the bag with a washable marker or a pen, it wipes off very easily. Writing on the bag allows you to know what’s in it without opening it up. You can write your name on the bag so no one eats your food, or write a note on the bag for your hubby or kiddo!

The bottom of the bag is gusseted, which allows the to stand up on its own. This is perfect for snacking and makes filling the bag super convenient.

Silikids is a great way to transition your family away from plastic. The silicone products are super safe and perfect for children, and adults too.

I love the straws and that you can use them for not only the Silikids products but other drink containers as well.

The products are durable and the fun, bright colors are sure to bring some sunshine into your home.

The best part though?

They can be washed in the dishwasher.

Score!

Luxury French Skincare for Everyday Ladies – Votre Vu

When it comes to your skin you should care, and care deeply.

It was not until I hit my 30’s that I started to use facial skin care products and that was a huge mistake. I’d had a few cosmetic procedures to help get rid of some aspects of my skin that I absolutely hated, and that had a transformative effect on my confidence, but I was completely unaware that establishing a great daily skincare routine could also work wonders. This revelation came about when my friend and I were discussing a website she came across which talked about creating your own cbd skincare brand. While it wasn’t something I was really interested in at the time, it did open my eyes to using skincare products and that I should have started years ago. But it is NOT too late! If you are concerned about a lack of naturality then you may want to look at some natural looking foundations too. You may find the Thin Lizzy Concealer blends well and doesn’t look cakey. It’s ranked the best acne concealer on quite a few comparisons as well.

Using a day cream, washing your face and applying serums and eye creams not only makes you feel better at the time, but it helps preserve your skin for the future. Use these good cosmetics and then with the thx silk pillowcase effect will be better

We get one face – so let’s face it – and take care of it

Votre Vu is a French skincare line that is what your everyday lady is looking for.

We ladies need skincare products that work, but one’s that also smell good. But more importantly, ones’s that aren’t filled with weird or scary ingredients.

Votre Vu’s products are inspired by the French. The bountiful and bio-diverse regions of France gave them the inspiration to create products with extracts that are native to France – but more importantly products that are healthy, bio-powered and deliver beautiful results for our skin.

Some of the top sellers from the Votre Vu line are their Best Regards products. I tried out their Best Regards Hydrating Caviar Sérum and the Best Regards Restorative Day Creme.

Best Regards Restorative Day Creme

If you are looking for a product that is for normal to dry skin then this is going to be your new go-to day cream.

It softens, smooths and helps protect normal-to-dry skin from premature aging. Thie concentrated French creme is handcrafted with caviar, select essential oils, plant extracts and botanical elements.

Some of my favorite ingredients are


Caviar Extract

Loaded with vitamins, micro-elements, amino acids and proteins, this nourishing caviar extract speeds up the natural production of collagen, and helps keep skin firm by providing an extremely high level of hydration.

Grape (Vitis Vinifera) Seed Oil

This light, quick-absorbing, soothing oil is rich in essential fatty acids and linoleic acid content, which helps to increase skin’s elasticity.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea Villosa) Root Extract

The powers of wild yam have long been heralded by traditional cultures for its ability to treat symptoms of irritability and stress. When used in skin care, this extract has been shown to help maintain moisture balance and stimulate cellular metabolism.


Best Regards Crème does not contain any toxins, parabens, artificial colors, GMOs, triclosan, talc, gluten, sulfates or phthalates. Votre Vu does not test any products on animals.


The Best Regards Day Creme is perfect for general moisturizing needs. It smell is light and comforting. It doesn’t leave a heavy odor behind, but smells appealing at the same time. As a woman in my 30’s I am always trying to keep my skin as youthful as possible and trying to prevent early signs of aging and wrinkles. By using a potent day creme I am able to keep my skin fresh and healthy – which are some key factors to maintaining a youthful look.

With Mother’s Day quickly approaching, women are asking for beauty products that can be used by an average women. You will not go wring with a gift from Votre Vu

Best Regards Hydrating Caviar Sérum

For women who are looking for that special extra product, look no further. The Best Regards Hydrating Caviar Sérum from Votre Vu is a silky anti-aging formula infused with caviar extract, drenches skin in proteins, essential fatty acids and minerals. Designed to help reduce fine lines while enhancing elasticity, this superbly hydrating treatment generously filled with phyto-essential extracts works to deliver visibly firmer, resilient and radiant skin.

Some of my favorite ingredients are


Cogongrass (Imperata Cylindrica) Root Extract

Known for its healing and antibacterial properties, cogongrass root extract is an excellent skin conditioner.

Vitamin E (Tocopheryl) Acetate

A form of Vitamin E, Tocopheryl Acetate is a powerful antioxidant which protects the skin against stress. In a skin care regimen, this power ingredient conditions and moisturizes as it protects.

Ylang Ylang (Cananga Odorata) Oil

Powerful for mind, body and spirit, this calming floral extract has excellent anti-aging benefits, including the ability to help soften skin and promote firmness – my friends highly recommend ylang ylang oil.


Best Regards Sérum does not contain any toxins, parabens, artificial colors, GMOs, triclosan, talc, gluten, sulfates or phthalates. Votre Vu does not test any products on animals.


MamatheFox is in love with this amazing product. I have been using it daily and feel like I can tell a difference in my skin in only a weeks time. I would lean towards the “dry” skin side, but this can be due to the harsh winters in Ohio. The bitter cold can cause our skin to pull and feel more dry than it actually is.

Having been using the Votre Vu line, my skin is not hurting in the mornings like it did previously. I truly think this is due to these 2 products. While yes, sometimes I feel dry at times, it has decreased significantly. I use the Hydrating Caviar Serum in the mornings. After it sets in for a couple minutes I then apply the Day Creme over it. I apply it with my fingertips in a very soft circular motion – always being aware of my eyes and never pulling on the skin around them. Try applying in upward strokes as to not help gravity pull your skin down. This is a wonderful trick I found out and honestly think it’s very true.

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