Nanny to Mommy

"Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker" NOW on Blu-Ray {Craft, Activity, & Giveaway}

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Lucasfilm and director J.J. Abrams’ riveting, inspiring conclusion of the seminal Skywalker saga, electrified audiences around the globe, earning more than a billion dollars worldwide. Soon fans can complete their collections when Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker arrives digitally in HD and 4K Ultra HD™ and via Movies Anywhere on March 17, two weeks before it lands physically in 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD on March 31.

Bonus material includes a feature-length, making-of documentary, which goes behind the scenes with the cast and filmmakers from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and explores the legacy of the Skywalker saga. Bonus features also dig into the film’s Pasaana desert scenes, including the thrilling landspeeder chase, and the ship in which Rey discovers family secrets as well as a new little droid named D-O. Plus, fans will hear from Warwick Davis, who reprises his role as Wicket the Ewok, as well as the creature effects team that created a record 584 creatures and droids for the film. Digital consumers will receive an exclusive feature highlighting legendary composer John Williams, who has scored every episode in the Skywalker saga.

If like many moms up and down the country right now, you are wondering how best to entertain your kids during the extended time at home you have together, we have some ideas for you here. After all, the days are long, and you will all need something fun to do to while away the hours.

Tips for Transitioning Your Child into Eyeglasses

Monday, March 30, 2020

If your son or daughter is suddenly falling behind in classes, it’s easy to judge everything. Is the teacher not giving enough time to my child? Has my child developed ADHD; are they not getting proper sleep? The list goes on and on. A multitude of reasons can run through a parent’s mind as they try to figure out what’s going on, but oftentimes it’s something much simpler: not being able to see something that the others kids can. Yep. Eyesight. Luckily, that’s easily addressed.

If you think your child might need an eye checkup, check with your insurance to see what is covered before heading in. Some will automatically cover an optometrist, for example, but would need a reference to see an ophthalmologist. Ideally, you’ll want to make an appointment with a development optometrist, since they’re specialized in understanding how eyesight changes and develops as a child grows.

"Not All Heroes Wear Capes" - Doctor/Nurses Coloring Sheet Free Printable

Here is a free coloring page to show appreciation for doctors and Nurses in these trying times. Share your work on social media to let our essential working Nurses and Doctors know how much they mean to us in these trying times. Use #ThanksHealthHeroes #StayHome, if you'd like. Please tag me @mdiana_chastain_ so I can see them too! Click image below to print.

This would make a great addition to RedRibbon Week or learning about community helpers curriculum.

How to Make Homemade Household Essentials

Sunday, March 29, 2020

With all the craziness going on right now, I thought it would be wise to calm some people down with a handy list of ways you can make homemade household essentials in case you didn't make it to the store in time before they ran out. Please also remember that the stores are restocking, they also couldn't prepare for this, so be kind when/if you do go out to the stores.

I will mark what is recommended of a need during a pandemic. I am not commenting on the severity of the virus. I don't think we should live in fear, but I do think it is smart to prepare ourselves. Your personal needs are different from others. You should be responsible and consider others before clearing shelves. Remember with a little kindness we will all get through this together.

Buying A Gift For A Mom? The Ideas To Inspire You

Thursday, March 26, 2020

When it comes to buying a gift for someone you know who is about to become a mom, be that for the first time, or if they have added to their family, you may want to think outside of the box in terms of the gift you give. You might also be in a situation where you need to buy a gift for your mom, be that a special day like Mother’s Day or even something like a birthday or special occasion. With that in mind, here are some of the options to consider.

Candyless Easter Basket Giveaway Featuring Prestel Junior’s All Around Bustletown Series

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Since we are all stuck in doors and practicing safety by washing our hands thoroughly and practicing social distancing (if not quarantined altogether), I thought I would share a fun giveaway that features some nice books for the littles to keep them entertained or could make a fun Easter basket Stuffer!

Tips to Boost Your Family's Immune System

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Although, I received this product for free from Moms Meet to use and post my honest opinions, I believe these tips to boost your immune system and how probiotics can help is valuable information that I wanted to share. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.

I don't know about you, but I have been researching how to boost my immune system. I have been a work at home mom for a long time now, so I already am not exposed to as many germs as the rest of my family. Now, with everything going on in the world right now, we are told to stay at home and only go out for essentials because of COVID-19. So I have been staying at home even more. No gym, no school for the kids, my husband is considered an essential job so he has to work. We make sure he washes his hands as soon as he comes in the door, takes off his shoes before he enters the house, and changes his clothes/take a shower as soon as he comes in as well. But I have still been looking for tips to improve my family's immune systems as much as possible. And thankfully I was introduced to a new product that can help, but thought I would share what I have found in my research as well.

6 Tips For Homeschool Science Labs

Monday, March 23, 2020

As a mom who works at home and enjoys exploring supplemental education and hands-on learning with my children, I can appreciate tips from a veteran teacher. This post has great tips for an at-home science lab whether you homeschool or want to encourage to further your child's education out of a classroom setting. Thank you Greg for sharing your expertise.

I fell in love with science labs in college and graduate school. I loved being able to “see” the science happening rather than just reading about it. As a homeschool dad and former college professor, I'm passionate about teaching science, in particular, Christ-centered lab science to homeschooled students. But, I know that on average we don’t provide enough lab experience for our homeschooled students – often very little. And, for many of them, that puts them at a tremendous disadvantage going into college – and in understanding how science works.

If you’re a homeschool parent, may I offer a few homeschool science lab suggestions:

Spring Bucket List Ideas with Free Printable

Saturday, March 21, 2020

I didn't really have plans to create a spring bucket list, but my summer bucket list is doing very well on Pinterest right now. So I thought I would share this list ideas and free printable for spring so my readers can enjoy some ideas since most of us are playing the self-isolation game.

Spring Bucket List Ideas with Free Printable

I like creating these lists seasonally anyways though, I had so much fun creating and completing our Ultimate Christmas Bucket List. Here are some ideas to add to your Spring Bucket List plus either grab the pre-made bucket list or the blank free printable version to add your own ideas! This list also includes helpful links to find recipes and more for easy reference.

The Ultimate Guide To Moving House (And Keeping Your Kids Happy While Doing It)

The moving day is approaching fast, and your whole house is a chaotic whirlpool of running kids, half-open boxes, dismounted furniture. All parents have been there at least once, and, invariably, they find themself a step away from tearing their hair out. Next, you will need to pick whether to keep your kids with you or to send them to grandparents during the move. While having a minute to organize everything without screams and complaints could be tempting, moving house is an important and exciting moment for your whole family.

Keep calm and turn relocating into a splendid bonding time!

ONWARD - Arriving Early On Digital & Disney+ AND Activity Pages

Friday, March 20, 2020

I am bummed that I won't be able to see this in theaters, but I am excited to share the news that The Walt Disney Studios announced today that Disney and Pixar’s ONWARD will be available to buy digitally and on Movies Anywhere beginning today at 5:00pm PST/ 8:00pm EST and on Disney+ on April 3rd in the U.S.

The film premiered in theaters on March 6th and earned rave reviews from audiences, including a 95% Verified Audience Score on RottenTomatoes. With cinemas currently impacted by closures due to the global health crisis, Disney will offer the film ahead of schedule to purchase on digital platforms in the U.S. beginning today at 5:00pm PST /8:00pm EST for $19.99.

The Most Creative Ways To Document Your Child's Growth

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

Being a parent is very strange. You’re always full of mixed emotions, as so many situations demand different responses. For example, one of the joys of being a parent is watching your child grow up. You see them go from a tiny newborn into a toddler, then into a full-on child with a schoolbag on their back! Equally, this is also the worst thing about being a parent. You don’t want your child to grow up as you wish they could stay small and be your baby forever. You see, contrasting emotions!

Realistically, you have to accept that your child will grow up, and you should embrace this. Tracking the growth of your child is a brilliant way to do just that. So, here are some creative ways you can document your child’s growth:

Math Games to Play at Home with Elementary Kids

My elementary school aged daughter's school shared these math games with dice and cards to play at home and I thought I would share them with all of you. The title of the game is a link to the game instructions and other materials that may be needed to play. Have fun while brushing up on those math skills!

The awesome thing is that children are practicing their math skills without even realizing it!

How to Keep Your Home Safe

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

It’s a common fear for every tenant or homeowner when it comes to your property; nobody wants to experience the intrusive horror of having their home broken into, and their privacy invaded. Neither do they want any issues to occur within the house, which could compromise the integrity of their lifestyle or property.

There are many ways you can take precautions and make sure that your home is the safest it can be – here’s how.

Enjoy All Things Entertainment from TVStoreOnline + Giveaway

Monday, March 16, 2020

I thought I would distract everyone with a giveaway since we are playing the self-isolation game anyway. If you know anything about my family, we love all things entertainment. Disney, Marvel, TV Shows, and more. That's why I love collaborating with TVStoreOnline because you can find apparel from every fandom that you enjoy!

I have been working off and on with TVStoreOnline to showcase some of their cool hoodies or shirts. From Costumes, Beanies, Accessories (and so much more), TVStoreOnline goes above and beyond to find merchandise featuring characters, logos, or catchphrases from your favorite TV shows, Movies, and cartoons. As the demand for rare pop culture merchandise has exponentially grown around the globe, so has TVStoreOnline. The founding members of TV Store Online still strive to generate the best selection of T-shirts, Costumes, and Accessories everyday.

The Ultimate Lazy Baker’s Pumpkin Muffins with CocoaVia

This is a sponsored post for Review Wire Media on behalf of CocoaVia™.

I personally never considered myself a supplements person. I thought, "I can just get everything I need from food". But honestly? It is really hard to get everything you need, daily to help your body perform at its best just by food alone. Though I do believe a well balanced diet and regular exercise routine are key, I have been looking into different supplements.

Recently, I was introduced to CocoaVia™. CocoaVia™ is a plant-based, daily cocoa extract supplement that delivers 450 mg of cocoa flavanols in every serving and has been clinically proven in numerous scientific studies to improve heart and brain health by increasing blood flow and pushing nutrients throughout the body. The flavanols in CocoaVia™ ensures that your entire brain remains nourished and can perform at its best, every single day. Their product has been used in over a dozen peer-reviewed scientific papers and is backed by 20 years of scientific research. I have been adding their Unsweetened Dark Chocolate Cocoa Flavanol Drink Mix to my daily cup of coffee. I love that I can just add supplements to something I plan to consume anyways. It gives my coffee a mocha taste which I am loving!

30+ Free Educational Resources During Emergency School Closures

Sunday, March 15, 2020

My first thought when I heard that they were closing schools was, "How are those children that get free lunch going to eat?" Thankfully, my school district is still passing out lunches. I would still go and deliver peanut butter and jelly sandwiches if that is what needed to be done. My next thought was, "How are we going to educate our children?" My son gets IEP and so this was a major concern whether he was going to get behind or not. Thankfully I have resources like ABCmouse and RevolutionMath, but not everyone is so lucky.

I came across this list from Amazing Educational Resources Facebook Group so I thought I would share here as well so more people can find it. I do encourage you to follow that group for more. Just click on each link below to find out how to access their free program.

How to Tie Dye a St. Patrick's Day Shirt

Friday, March 13, 2020

If you are looking for a green shirt (or hat, socks, etc.) to wear for St. Patrick's Day and you are coming up short (and no one wants to get pinched), then you can make a relatively inexpensive one with most things that you probably already have on hand with this fun Tie Dye shirt tutorial! Tie Dye is becoming popular again, just like so many trends from past generations, and this is a fun activity for the kids to get involved in too! St. Patrick's Day is a great day to teach and celebrate Irish culture.

My daughter was so excited when I told her we were going to tie dye shirts that she would NOT let me forget! She kept asking "when is St. Patrick's Day?". And when I let her know that St. Patrick's Day is March 17th, she made it very clear that she was counting down the days. She is a hoot! So here is what we did for our tie dye shirts. We went with a spiral because I think it looks the coolest, but there are easier designs as well as some more complicated ones if you do a little search, like maybe "Tie Dye Shamrock". This Tie Dye Tutorial uses vinegar and food coloring which can be a safer alternative if you want to include your kiddos in on this activity. These ingredients are usually found around the house in a pinch, but remember that your colors may not be as vibrant as using fabric dyes.

Bringing Home A New Dog? Here's What You Need To Think About

Thursday, March 12, 2020

So, you have just walked through the door with your new four-legged friend, and within minutes, he has peed on the couch, stolen the socks and is running around the garden with your favorite underwear. While you know you are going to adore your new pup, you are probably very quickly realizing that bringing a new dog home is not easy, and you have to both be eased into the process.

Whether you have adopted the staff’s favorite dog from the animal shelter or chosen the one with those cheeky eyes from a litter of Black Lab Puppies, your new dog will come with a personality. It will have thoughts, opinions, emotions, habits and quirks that probably did not cross your mind amid the joy and ruckus when choosing your new furry companion.

However, with a bit of prior preparation and work, bringing a new dog into the fold can be a smooth and stress-free experience for all involved.

5 Steps for a Healthy and Happy Pregnancy

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

If you are expecting a baby or planning to have a baby in the near future, then being prepared for what pregnancy will be like, and being prepared to have a healthy and happy pregnancy can go a long way too. After all, you are growing a human and it can take its toll on you. So here are a few things to think about and to plan for.

Celebrating Women’s History Month The Nuff by Veronica Waldrop

Sunday, March 8, 2020

A mother of two who only had weeks to live, Veronica Waldrop knew what she had to do – write an enduring message for her daughters, ages two and five, so that they might know truth, hope, and strength well beyond their mom’s fight with breast cancer. In support of International Women’s Day 2020 (March 8, 2020), Tailwind Publishing presents The Nuff, Waldrop’s heartwarming story written to inspire her daughters after she was gone and empower girls everywhere to be the bold and confident individuals they were born to be.

This children’s book about courage and self-discovery follows the adventures of the Nuff, a colorfully-illustrated unicorn with a broken horn that young readers will love. The Nuff reads books and rides bikes, dresses up and dances with a flower crown, and plays basketball and scuba dives. No matter what she does, the story reminds her that “when the world says you can’t and you should just give up....know you are brave and beautiful. You will always be a NUFF!”

6 Reasons To Choose New York for Your Next Family Vacation

Friday, March 6, 2020

Deciding where to go on your next family vacation is a tough one. There are so many amazing places on your bucket list, so how do you narrow it down? You absolutely love travelling as a family, especially to new and vibrant destinations. If you have never been to New York City, this is definitely the perfect place for you to go. There are a tonne of exciting activities that will keep your little ones entertained throughout the whole trip, so check out some ideas below.

DIY Gifts for the New Mom in Your Life

Thursday, March 5, 2020

Whether it’s the birth of her child, her birthday, her first Mother’s Day or “just because,” the new mom in your life deserves a gift that will make her feel special and appreciated. New moms are often somewhat forgotten about in all of the excitement surrounding the precious new life they brought into the world, but by making her a heartfelt gift, you can ensure that she will know just how much she means to you.

There are a lot of great things about becoming a parent, but life as a new mom can be hard. It’s often quite lonely, too, once the initial excitement of bringing home a brand-new baby has worn off. If you are looking for gift ideas for a special occasion or you would just like to do something special to brighten the new mom in your life’s day, here are a few DIY gifts that she is sure to love.

6 Natural Ways to Care for Your Senior Pup

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

As your dog ages, you must adapt their care to their individual needs and toward any health conditions which they may start to develop. This will ensure that your senior canine can maintain a high quality of life throughout old age and into the end of their lives. Here are some top tips on how to care for older dogs.

Low Carb Lasagna Recipe {Freezer Friendly & Perfect for St. Patrick's Day}

Monday, March 2, 2020

This Low Carb Lasagna Recipe was a hit with the entire family, easy to make, and keto friendly. It was sneakily green, perfect for St. Patrick's Day, and a great way to sneak in those veggies to picky eaters.

We have been focusing on a low carb diet for a while now. When we re-focused our nutrition and really start losing weight, cutting out carbs is the way we have done it. If you have asked us what our diet looks like and I don't really give you an answer, it's because no we don't do keto, yes we do low carb, but we still eat carbs because we need them with the amount that we work out. The dinners I make are almost always low carb.

So why do I say this is perfect for St. Patrick's Day?

Tips to Drink More Water {Plus Zoku Giveaway}

Sunday, March 1, 2020

On my journey to lose 60 pounds, I have learned so much. That's why it has taken so long. So, I keep sharing what I have learned through trial and error so maybe you all can learn from my mistakes. I share a little while back about some of my tips to jumpstart a healthy lifestyle and I mentioned make sure to drink your water. So, I thought I would share the ways that have helped me get more water in and make sure to enter the fun giveaway below too!