These are fun and easy to make butterfly straws. They would be great for your Spring or Summer party decorating!

Here’s what you need:

-Small pieces of pretty paper or you can use white paper and decorate it yourself.

- Scissors

- Straws – clear straws work well, it makes the butterflies look like they are floating

I started with a piece of paper that was 6 inches by 4 inches then I folded it in half with the patterned sides together. (1) Trace the butterfly template on the folded edge.  (2)Cut the butterfly out and fold it together with the patterned side out. (3) Cut two small slits near the top for the straw to slide through. (4) That’s it!

You can play around with it and make them smaller and use different shapes for the wings.  We made one white and then decorated it with crayons and colored pencils.

Spring is finally here!  It’s time to start packing away our winter clothes to make room for those breezy summer dresses.  Soon, we’ll be trading in our wool socks and boots for pedicures and strappy sandals.

As tempting as it might be to toss your winter boots into the attic, taking just a few extra steps will ensure that your boots will still look fabulous next winter.

1. Get Clean: Wipe off all debris and salt stains before storage.  For suede boots, try using a kneadable eraser, followed by a clean, dry, toothbrush to raise the nap.  For leather, just mix equal parts vinegar & water and rub with a damp cloth.
2. Get Fixed: If your boots need repair, take them to the shop now.  You don’t want to be stuck without your favorite pair when winter comes again!
3. Get Rid of Odor: Your boots might smell “okay” now, but lingering odors will only get worse with the heat of summer.  Fill the foot of a sock with some cat litter, knot the end and slip it into the foot of your boot for storage.
4. 4. Get in Shape: Help keep your boots in shape and avoid permanent creases in the leather or suede by using something to keep them upright.  You can use rolled up magazines or stuff them with old newspaper, but I’m not a fan of either option, since paper can hold moisture and attract mice!  Instead, I like to use a product like Booty Shapers (no, not that kind of booty shaper!).

Booty Shapers are inflatable supports that automatically contour to the shape of your boot.  It’s as simple as inflating them and placing them into your boots before storage.  You don’t need to deal with messy newspaper and when you don’t need them, it takes up very little storage space after they are deflated.  They’re easy to find; you can get them at CVS and even Bed, Bath and Beyond.

Once you’ve prepared your boots for storage, simply slip them back in the original box or use plastic storage containers to keep them free from dust for the next few months.

Disclosure: Booty Shapers were provided to me to review, but the opinions of this product are strictly my own.

We have this area in our kitchen, just after the garage door  (our counter), that is just a magnet for clutter, broken things and things that need to be organized. I hate it! I’m always trying to sort through paper, put away misplaced items and locate scissors and tape. Most of the stuff was just waiting to be returned to it’s rightful spot, other things just needed to be thrown away. The remainder did need to be organized, but it was always a project I never wanted to start.

First I Threw Away the Garbage

I knew I had to throw away anything that was trash. I started on the bottom shelf and worked my way up. I tested every pen, every pencil, every marker. I threw away every broken crayon, every fast food receipt and the giant pixie sticks that I would NEVER let my children eat anyway. I pulled out the things that weren’t mine. I took a bunch of water bottles and put them in our camper, because anyone who has camped with kids knows that a cup just doesn’t cut it.

Next I Sorted and Organized

I refolded placements, I sorted batteries and I regrouped items we use to send mail.

Last I Grouped and Labeled

Once the items I took out were in their new homes, I set to make it fool proof to keep it clean. I figured if I could find a way to keep the paper at a minimum, it would help, because they I wouldn’t be sorting through stacks to find one sheet. So I grouped them: School stuff, bank deposit envelopes and slips, coupons (if I lose them, what’s the point in cutting them), stickers (I have to keep the big reward stickers up in the cupboard, but they too were getting lost among the stack of paper) and the incoming mail to handle.

I used envelopes taped securely to the cabinet doors to do this. They are labeled and taped in such away that I’m not able to shove a bunch of stuff in there and forget about it, just letting it build up. I actually have to handle it. By doing that, I was able to clear a file holder off of the counter and take it to work, where it look pretty and serves and actual purpose, other than junk holder. I took our change out to take to the bank. I realized that keeping a phone book around was silly, especially since I don’t update it when someone moves.

It took a lot to just let some stuff go, but I had to. I realize that I’m a pack rat, but you never know when you are going to find the item that requires that little seal you found on the floor last week. I mean, you never know.

In the end, as my slideshow shows, I was able to get the cabinet under control and even use it better. I was able to move some wine glasses we don’t use that frequently, into the cabinet and makes some room somewhere else. Doing that allowed me another cabinet in which to put some of the small kitchen items that were just shoved in any old corner.

Organization. Finally.

I am on vacation soon and I can’t WAIT to do this in more areas of my house. Clutter feels heavy to me. It weighs on my house, it weights on my mind and it weighs on my ability to be productive. I’d love to get it all under control so that I can feel like my house is light and airy for the upcoming summer months.

And now my wish list:
I am considering a small desktop shredder to help keep the mail under control. We have a large shredder in our office in the basement, but it’s too big to keep upstairs and around the kids. Something like this would be perfect.

I would like one of the Power Mat Wireless Charging Station. We are charging our phones in the bedroom, my iPod on the alarm clock dock and my iPad at work. I would like to have one place to put it all without a bunch of wires. Plus, my husband could utilize it too.

I keep my laptop on that counter and there are cords for the USB hub that we use to load up the iPods and plug in the card reader to download pictures. I’d like something like this cord organizer to help manage some of that.

I’d also like a plant. Something that won’t die (I’ve killed a Lucky Bamboo so, you know, something low maintenance) and that doesn’t require a lot of light. It’s a counter in the wall with no windows where I keep my computer. But it doesn’t have to be a dark, unhappy place! Maybe a plant would help make it look more homey.

So that’s where I came from, where I went and where I want to go. I’m glad Organizer Sandy is taking a look at it and I welcome her suggestions, but I’m happy I did this! It makes me feel efficient, effective and on top of things.

Pop Pals www.pop-pals.com

Pop Pals are America’s first insulating ice pop holder designed by a frustrated mom tired of wrapping paper towels around the bottom of ice pops to keeps her children’s hands warm and to catch messy drips. Pop Pals warm clean hands,keeps pops cold…and no sticky fingers! Slide this soft, insulated cover over icy freezer pops, and little hands stay warm and clean. Makes it easier for kids to push up the treat, while minimizing drips. Works great with yogurt tubes, too. Plus, they’re fun! For use with most major brand of ice pops. Our fun unique design and flexible material allows children of any age to use Pop Pals.

Visit www.pop-pals.com $4.99

Littlest Pet Shop Petriplets

The LITTLEST PET SHOP brand is delighted to welcome triplets into the family with the introduction of the LITTLEST PET SHOP PETRIPLETS assortment. Girls will experience three times the fun with this adorable set of LITTLEST PET SHOP siblings. Choose between eight sweet sets of pets including bunnies and bears.  Each set of LITTLEST PET SHOP PETRIPLETS includes three unique triplet pets, each housed in their own environment, and lots of accessories. Each sold separately.

Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. $12.99

Furreal Friends Snuggimals

So cute and small, you’ll want to adopt them all! FURREAL FRIENDS SNUGGIMALS palm-sized pets are a handful of fun. Pet the adorable SNUGGIMALS puppies on their backs and they’ll move their heads and wag their tails, ready for playtime! SNUGGIMALS kitties love to have their tummies rubbed, and furry SNUGGIMALS bunnies are comfiest when they cuddle into your palm. When you stroke their backs, watch the cute SNUGGIMALS seals wiggle about in your hand.  Little girls can choose from more than 20 different SNUGGIMALS pets, but it’s more fun with more than one! Each pet is sold separately. Requires one “AA” battery, included.

Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. $7.99

Furreal Friends Newborns

All pets in the FURREAL FRIENDS NEWBORNS assortment come complete with their own nurturing accessory and adoption certificate. This year, the FURREAL FRIENDS NEWBORNS assortment welcomes a PENGUIN to the family, which also includes a BIRD, CHIMP, BEAR CUB, PUPPY and KITTEN. Each pet is sold separately and requires three “AAA” batteries, included.

Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.  $14.99

Wett Giggles Soap www.wettgiggles.com

Wett Giggles are three in-one products that make bath time fun while encouraging kids to learn about keeping themselves clean. Shaped like cute and playful animal characters, the Wett Giggles product has natural glycerin soap with essentials oils and Shea butter. Plus, the toy also serves as a manicure brush to help keep fingernails clean. When the soap melts away a nailbrush is revealed!

Designed for children under the age of 12,Wett Giggles have Shakespearian names and come in variety of scents so your kids can choose from Hamlet the frog, Beatrice the cow, Romeo the dog and many others. Each soap and toy/manicure brush is $10.00. You also get a free soap dish with each order.(while supplies last).  Any purchase over $20.00 comes with a 20% discount. Flat rate packing and shipping at $4.99.

Visit www.wettgiggles.com $10.00

Recordable Story Book Werner’s Hallmark

The “I Love You Storybook” is a fun interactive way to create a keepsake your child and family will cherish for years.  Recordable storybooks allow you to “read” classic stories to children – even when you can’t be present.  Voice Capture technology allows a person to record their voice while reading the story.   Your voice is permanently saved to share.   Your child or grandchild can hear you read the story to them whether you are in the room or a thousand miles away.  Other titles will soon be available including “I Love Grandma” in time for Mother’s Day.  These recordable books can be found exclusively at Hallmark Gold Crown Stores.

Visit Werner’s Hallmark $29.95

Zhu Zhu Bunny Werner’s Hallmark

Just in time for Easter Hallmark stores introduce a new addition to the Zhu Zhu pet family.  These adorable little Zhu Zhu bunnies will delight  children with their activity.  With the press of a button these little electronic animals will entertain you with crazy sounds and wacky movements.  When left alone they  automatically fall asleep to conserve energy.   The Zhu Zhu bunny makes a perfect addition to any Easter basket and can be found exclusively at Hallmark Gold Crown Stores.

Visit Werner’s Hallmark $12.95

Jamie Rae Hats Inc www.jamieraehats.com

Jamie Rae Hats Inc offers flower hats & headbands with beautiful flowers that bloom from birth on! Each flower hat & headband are handcrafted with care made with a child’s comfort in mind. Functionality and style working together to create a hat that makes people smile! With over 6 years in the business, Jamie Rae understands the importance of quality and an incredible selection. Products range from $9.00-$26.00.

Special for Detroit Mommies: FREE shipping!  Use code EASTER

See Kai Run and Smaller by See Kai Run www.seekairun.com

See Kai Run features a range of classic styles for pre-walkers to post-toddlers 6 months to 3 years old, with a modern unique flair – we have a shoe to fit every blossoming personality! Our shoes are made of butter-soft leather with padded collars and leather lining. A generous toe box allow for plenty of wiggle room. Adjustable hook and loop closures make our shoes easy to put on and ensure a great fit. Our flexible soles are healthy for developing feet and tough enough for outdoor play. See Kai Run goes everyone kids go.

Smaller feet everywhere, from newborn to 24 months, will love these soft-soled baby booties in ultra-hip styles. Created especially for the youngest among us! Constructed with butter-soft leather, our baby booties cradle tiny feet in comfort. Soft suede soles have non-slip rubber pads for traction and protection, perfect for light outdoor play. Smaller arrives in metallic silver packaging with a see-through window, making it an impressive gift.

Our footwear meets the American Podiatric Medical Association’s rigorous standards for foot health and functionality and has been awarded the APMA’s prestigious Seal of Acceptance. Retail prices start at $32. For more information, please visit us at www.seekairun.com.

Flutter by Leggings™ www.frostcool.com

Get into something sweet without making a mess with Flutter by Leggings™. Designer Angela Frost took the guess work out of sugar and spice with a collection of girlswear that has a leg up on other lines. The perfectly packaged collection of leggings and dresses feature whimsical designs in downright tasty combos: choose from Lace Icing with Sprinkle’s Raspberry Truffle, Coco or My First Tea Party just to name a few. Available in 8 different scrumptious designs, all of Flutter by Leggings™ confections are made in the US from the same nylon used in swimwear which gives high wear, brilliant color and comfort. Retailing under $45 and available in sizes 2 – 6X, Flutter by Leggings™ can be found at fine boutiques nationwide.  Fashionable, sweet, and the only thing more darling than the packaging are the style names.  With easy wash and wear care, this adorable ensemble is the perfect treat to satisfy fashion cravings big and small.

Visit www.frostcool.com $43 each

Piggy Paint www.piggypaint.com

Piggy Paint is a non-toxic, eco-friendly nail polish designed for fancy girls. Its hypoallergenic, odorless formula makes it gentle enough for sensitive little hands and noses, yet dries to a hard, durable finish that can easily be removed with Piggy Paint Remover. This unique remover is also safe to us and contains none of the solvents that could offend your nose or harm our atmosphere. It’s already a favorite of Tori Spelling for her daughter Stella. Say good-bye to harsh, smelly chemicals and hello to Piggy Paint…it’s as Natural as Mud! Please check out our website at www.piggypaint.com for valuable product information. Available in an assortment of fun, vibrant colors and gift sets!

Visit www.piggypaint.com $8.99 each

Rainy-Play Raincoat and Rainy-Play Rain Boots http://whoopsbunny.com/

Does your little bunny want to play in the rain and jump in those irresistible puddles? They’ll never have a whoops in this vibrant multi color bunny-patterned raincoat and hand-patterned coordinating rain boots! Other bunnies may be getting wet but yours won’t. The rain-coat is made from 100% polyester and printed with AZO-free dyes with a soft cotton-polyester lining and pockets. The rain boots are made from 100% natural rubber lined with a cotton blend and come with handles so even the littlest bunny can pull them on themselves. Ages 2 to 8.

Visit

www.whoopsbunny.com $34.99 for the coat and $29.99 for the boots.

Myself Belts www.myselfbelts.com

Myself Belts are the only easy, one-handed closing belt on the market!  Two sisters (both inspired by motherhood) invented this must-have fashionable and functional children’s accessory for kids ages 2-10.  FINALLY, a belt closure designed specifically for young children! Myself Belts promote independence and boost self-esteem by allowing children to easily fasten and unfasten their belt on their own.  Praised by teachers, kids and parents, Myself Belts help make a child’s day a little easier and provide children with an “I did it by myself!” moment.  No more droopy drawers and a frustrating problem is solved for both parent, teacher and child! Myself Belts have been featured on The Today Show, In Touch Weekly and were part of People Magazine’s 2009 Gift Guide.  Celebrity fans include Courteney Cox, Brooke Shields and Shaquille O’Neal. Myself Belts come in adorable designs like airplanes, hearts, trucks, and even traditional leather; some styles can be personalized! Retail prices are $9.99- $26.95. Larger sized Myself Belts are also available for teens/adults with hand dexterity challenges due to cognitive or physical difficulties.  With a faux buckle, it looks like a traditional belt!

Visit www.myselfbelts.com $14.95 each

Ficklets www.ficklets.com

For most kids, the negative image surrounding eyeglasses still exist today.  Ficklets make eyeglasses “cool”. Ficklets are a patented removable charm hugger for eyeglasses. They’re designed to adorn eyeglass frames in a fresh, fun way to help kids feel comfortable in their glasses and make the whole experience more enjoyable.  Ficklets charm huggers are the first of its kind in the marketplace.  There are over 100 designs offering options to change out your eyeglass look depending on your interest, outfit or mood. By the way, moms wanted to jazz up their glasses too, so we’ve expanded our collection to include more sophisticated designs answering to their plea.
Visit www.ficklets.com $5.98 per pair

Hershey’s

Hershey’s has some Easter candy this year that is exclusive to Walmart.  From miniature Cadbury eggs to Reese’s pieces shaped like a carrot to Hershey’s chocolate crosses…there is something yummy for every basket on your list!

Visit Walmart.

Here are your random numbers:

20

Timestamp: 2010-03-29 12:10:47 UTC

Christine

Submitted on 2010/03/22 at 9:42pm

Tweeted at http://twitter.com/justicecw/status/10905121024

You can get me to sing, but you might not like what you hear.  You might even throw a tomato in my face to try and get me to shut up…oh yes, I am that bad!

I do like to sing, so one way I could get away with singing was in a chorus.  I could sing along with everyone else and the audience heard a harmony…no screeching and off tunes.

So, if you love music like me and would like to join a chorus, the Troy Community Chorus wants you!

The Troy community Chorus will be accepting new adult singers on January 12, 2010.  Registration will be at 6:30 p.m. at Troy Athens High School chorus room.

Rehearsals will be held every Tuesday from 7:30 p.m.- 9:30 p.m.  The cost is $30 per person and $50 per couple to join the 2010 spring season.

For more information about the chorus including sponsorship opportunities and how to join, visit www.troycommunitychorus.org or contact Shirley Darge at 248-879-0138.

Courtney is the ultimate multitasking mom!  She runs  three blogs Giftfully Simple, The Digital Mommy and Detroit Mommies , is a Social Media Marketing Consultant and has 3 girls under 6 years old.  Courtney is the founder of Detroit Mommies.  You can follow her on Twitter @theappleofmyeye.  She has worked with companies like Johnsons & Johnsons, Dove, e.l.f., Stride Rite, Sorel, 20th Century Fox, The Palace, Melissa & Doug, Panera, Tiny Prints, Disney on Ice and Ford (to name a few).  Courtney is a Purex^® Insider and a Max Mom for Office Max.