I have been doing MANY MANY crafts lately because Pinterest is becoming my secret drug... will post pictures later :)

Play Kitchen Ideas and D.I.Y

I've gotten into quite the crafty mood lately since my summer classes are a lighter load. I've finished Evan's curtain and I also completed sanding and staining our dresser last week, so I'm feeling pretty productive. As of now I'm making a busy bag for Evan as he gets older and less patient in the car, restaurants, etc. Pretty good progress! My next plan is a several small crafts for Evan and a play kitchen!

Ok, so many don't assume that a play kitchen is what most moms make their toddler boys, but play kitchens can certainly be entertaining without being girly. They're very good social activities when other children come over, and kids like anything that has plates, bowls, and other random objects they can play around with. (Evan will entertain himself with two plastic plates for an hour.)

Since most play kitchens are very girly and expensive, I've done a little research on DIY projects. I found this one that I LOVE:

So, this one is made from IKEA furniture (the table is only $7.99!) and different other accessories. She used many IKEA things, but I think I can get some for cheap at the local Habitat Discount Store. One more issue: the instructions are completely in German and the Google translation has some odd translations. But I think I can figure out mostly everything from the pictures.

Reasons to love this table:

1. not girly at all!
2. has wheels!
3. small, so it will fit in our apartment well!
4. can be played with on all four sides!
5. cheap!

I think this will be a great summer project, very excited!

5.20.2010

Did a little shopping yesterday and got some great deals:

Publix
Arm and Hammer Toothpaste (2)
BOGO $2.99
(2) $1/1 Coupons
Paid: $0.99/2

Corn on the Cob (4)
$0.25
Paid: $1/4

Athenos Yogurt
BOGO $1.20
BOGO Coupon
Paid: $1.20/2

Burts Bees Baby Starter Set
$10.99
On Clearance
Paid:$3.00

Rite Aid
Crest Toothpaste (2)
$2.99
$2 +UP Rewards
(2) $1/1 Coupons
Paid: FREE

Oral B Cross Action Toothbrush (2)
$2.99
$2 +UP Rewards
(2) $0.75/1 Coupons
Paid: $0.48/2

Ziploc Storage and Freezer Bags (2)
$4/2
$1 +UP Rewards
$1.75/2 Coupon
Paid: $1.25/2

Glade Carpet and Room Deodorizer (2)
$4/2
$1 +UP Rewards
(2) $0.50/1 Coupons
Paid: $2/2

Total: $41.01
Total Paid: $9.92
Total Savings: 76%!!

Hello All!

So, I've begun the exciting journey of couponing! Since I'm literally stuck around the house because of my gigantic tummy, this gives me something to do besides making baby goodies. Michael and Mom poke fun at me about it, but they love the rewards that come from it! Coupon Saving Game is an awesome blog that has tons of coupon matchups and advice for new couponers like myself. :)

On another, but similar topic, Mom and I always participate in making Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes every year, and now that I'm becoming used to saving with coupons, I hope to make more this year. Although I usually start later in the year, I'm starting now to make the most out of my coupons and sales. I don't have much of a stockpile, but I did find some Colgate Children's Toothpaste (given out in one of my education classes by a guest), and 2 packs of Ivory Bar Soap that I got for free at Walmart with coupons a few weeks ago. Plus, since we've gotten SO much stuff for the baby, we have an overload of baby coupons and I'm sure we'll have plenty of extras we can give later in the year. Although OCC doesn't have an option for infants, a similar program through our church does, so I'm hoping to make boxes for both. I hope that others will try and  fill boxes as they are able as well! If you need tips on what to pack or other information, go to Operation Christmas Child or Operation Christmas Joy.