A New Friend In Our Midst

This is our new friend, Danny. Not a very appropriate name, but as he has had it for 8 years....I think he'd miss it quite a bit if we tried to change it. :-) If I could, I would name him KaBlooey (after a wool sweater of mine that was mistakenly put in the dryer). He looks remarkably like he's had the same ride as that sweater.  We found him in the local classifieds, looking for a new home because his old one couldn't give him all the attention he seemed to need. He's half traditional persian (which accounts for all the *poof*). He's a great fit for our house....we are giving him all the attention he can handle. The munchkin is overjoyed. :-) He's incredibly friendly and cuddly. And, I imagine he's going to rule our house in no time.

Yup, we've been conquered.

Lemonade Stand Sign

This is a funny lemonade sign I made for a neighbor whose little gal is an entrepreneur. :-) And, only 25 cents for a lemonade?? C'mon, who could pass that up?!?! Goodness, you can't find anything for that price anymore. And, I always tip them.... and it is STILL a good deal.

Pretty simple sign. Plywood painted yellow and then green stripes added. Big different colored yellow oval in the low center and two dark green leaves added to one side. White and pink to make the bendy straw coming out....and then pink lettering. Mod podge it all for a final touch. I did this all by hand....and I have no doubt it would look better if it were done more precisely. BUT, I am a fan of vintage style....and that's what this reminds me of. Nothings perfect, right??

Here are the parties I linked up to.....be INSPIRED!!

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday

Works For Me Wednesdays

Show Us What You're Working With

Thrifty Thursday

Little Tikes School Bus Review

I was recently asked if I wanted to do a review for CSN Stores in exchange for a gift certificate. This is the ride-on toy I picked out as a present for a friend's baby.  Looks pretty fun, huh?

Here's What I Like:

• It's a Little Tikes Brand (known for their durability)
• Two modes of operation: Rocking on base and Scooting
• Ease of assembly
• Quick shipping from CSN!!
• Bright Colors
• Inspirational theme (you're 1 and ALREADY riding on the school bus?!?!) ;-)
• It's for ages 12-36 Months....but I think it could easily be used well beyond that

        Here's What I Don't Like:

• Not many interactive parts on the Bus, it's a simple design (which can be a GOOD thing)
• Limited rocking range

The child I gave this toy to just turned one year old, and this toy is something that he is *just about* developmentally ready for. I think this skewed the review a bit. If my munchkin had had a chance to play on it, I know it would have seen a LOT more use. This baby had also received a couple of other ride-on toys that had many more gadgets than the bus, and held his interest more. However, I think a lot can be said of simplicity; it leaves more to the imagination and doesn't overwhelm the senses as easily. Too many gadgets, in my mind, can be too much for little kiddos.

This toy would be perfect for those of you whose children like to be moving, those who are easily overwhelmed by too many gadgets, and those parents who are looking for a toy that's a little more quiet than others. :-) This is the type of toy that will be used diligently by toddlers, by riding/rocking on it, and even incorporating into their play.

If you're interested in buying the toy

Click Here!!!!