Tag: mothers day

  • Diamond Stud Earrings for Mothers Day

    Diamond Stud Earrings for Mothers Day

    While most 21 years old went out and celebrated with their first drink, I went and got my ears pierced. I received these Diamond Stud Earrings from Anjolee in exchange for a review. This is my honest opinion.

    Anjolee Diamond Stud Earrings for Mothers Day

    As a young girl, I was obsessed with earrings. My parents even bought me a picture book called “Earrings” – all about a girl who begs her parents for earrings.

    When I turned 16, my parents allowed me to pierce my ears. The problem at that point – I was a low maintenance type of person. I didn’t want to worry about caring for my ears and earrings.

    So, I resorted to wearing clip-ons, and even had a beautiful pair of pearl clips that I wore at my wedding! Since getting them pierced at 21, I still rarely wear earrings, except for special occasions – church and date night usually.

    Flower Petal Diamond Stud Earrings from Anjolee Diamonds.

    When Anjolee Diamonds offered to send me a pair of their tulip inspired Diamond Studs though, I decided I couldn’t resist. They were pretty, but also a simple design that I could enjoy. Just because I’m low maintenance, doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate a beautiful pair when I see one.

    These Diamond Stud Earrings are truly gorgeous! It took me a bit to put them in because of the screw backing, but I felt so much more secure knowing I wouldn’t accidentally lose an earring. When you have small children who love to tug on hair and ears, and especially shiny earrings, the screw back is insurance!

    So why do I love these Anjolee Diamond Earrings? Well, for one because they are fully customizable. From the type of metal, diamond size and quality, and even the length of the full piece are your choice. You’ll get exactly what you want from Anjolee.

    These particular studs I chose are the Flower Petal Diamond Stud Earrings in Silver. The setting from the side looks like beautiful tulips which are one of my favorite flowers. The Tulip Poplar also happens to be the state flower for Indiana. It’s the little things like this that draw me to certain pieces of jewelry.

    Anjolee earrings come packed in a it’s own display box with an LED light to put the spotlight on those beautiful studs. It’s the little things like this extra design in the box that make me feel special.

    As a mother, it’s really all the little things combined that bring us joy, isn’t it? The first time we hold our little ones, feel their little toes, examine the little fingers, and getting excited over the first little smile.

    Anjolee gets that.

    That’s why this Mothers Day, I can’t recommend Anjolee Diamonds enough. Pair a set with some flowers, and Mom will be set! If she’s anything like me, wearing these will make her feel like a million bucks.

    Need more Mothers Day Gift ideas? Check out these 7 gifts she’s sure to love!

  • 7 Mothers Day Gifts She’ll Love!

    7 Mothers Day Gifts She’ll Love!

    I love to celebrate my own mother on Mothers Day, but now that I am a mother myself I also like to take this day to reflect on how I can be better. I won’t lie, though – I enjoy being shown just a little extra love, even if it’s just homemade cards – a little something to show that what I do does matter. This post contains affiliate links and I will receive compensation if you make a purchase after clicking on the links.

    Spoil Mom this Mothers Day with these 7 gift ideas she will love

     Breakfast in Bed  

    Let her sleep in – even if she’s not actually sleeping. Allowing mom to relax in bed for just this one day will rejuvenate her mind and body.  She’ll be happier, and so will everyone else. Make it extra special with a homemade chocolate butterfly <-tutorial! Top it on a yogurt parfait, her favorite breakfast smoothie, or just decorate the side of her plate with it. Just remember, Mom’s don’t want to come out and clean up the breakfast mess after they’ve eaten.

    Family Photo’s

    Mom’s want pictures of their family – nice pictures. There are so many different ways to go about this. You can send her a photo book with her favorite photos, or purchase a beautiful canvas from your last photo session. On hard days Mom will love looking at those photos to remind her how much love she is surrounded by.  Don’t have a recent professional photo? Schedule one and surprise Mom with it. Trust me, she’ll be happy to have one less thing to schedule herself.

    Shop Blurb Online

    Homemade Cards 

    Moms don’t need expensive gifts to feel loved. A hand drawn card made with love will always mean more to mom than anything else. Help the kids decorate some cardstock, pull out the stickers, markers, paints! Just be sure to clean up when you’re done.

    Jewelry 

    Depending on the Mom, jewelry can be a wonderfully tangible gift. Not every mom will appreciate this type of gift, though. If she wears jewelery frequently then it’s the gift for her. If you think she would enjoy a new piece, even if she doesn’t wear a lot of jewelry, make sure it has some meaning. A piece with her children’s birthstones, or something like these state necklaces to remind her of home. 


    Flowers 

    Mom’s love flowers. Pick them from your own backyard, or personalize a bouquet from a local shop. Every time she sees these flowers she’ll be reminded of the love she has from her family and it will bring a smile to her face. If you have a garden loving Mom, get her some flowers to plant that will last even longer! 

    Fashion 

    Every Mom would love a new outfit. Chances are she rarely buys something for herself that she truly loves. Unless you know her style, though, I don’t recommend purchasing the outfit yourself. Rather pick out a gift card from a place like eShakti that will allow her to customize her choice of outfit just the way she likes it. 

    eshakti, custom clothing, womens fashion, womens dresses, plus clothing, day dresses 

    Clean House

    The number one thing I want every single year on Mothers Day is a clean house. One that I didn’t have to clean. Preferably one that was cleaned by a happy smiling family. It’s not a gift if you do it grudgingly and with a bad attitude. With that in mind, if you don’t want to clean the house either, you can always hire it out to a cleaning service. Mom won’t care who does it, as long as it’s not her. 

     
    Now you know what to get Mom!  Don’t be like me, and wait too long to order. I have the bad habit of wanting to buy something online, but forget it takes a few days for shipping. Order early to have it in time for your mom!
     

     What will You be Sending Mom this Mothers Day?

  • Thank Mom for Giving You Life and Give another Mom Life

    Thank Mom for Giving You Life and Give another Mom Life

    This post is sponsored by the Everywhere Society and Macy’s. All opinions are my own. 

    This Mothers Day thank Mom for giving you life, while also giving life to another Mom with a purchase from Macy’s Heart of Haiti line. 

    Thank Mom and Give another Mom Life with a purchase from the Heart of Haiti line at Macy's. ad #HeartofHaiti #MothersDay

    I’ve shared my love for the Heart of Haiti line before, and since moving here to Indiana I’ve been able to incorporate it more year round in our decor. So when they asked me to check out what was new in the line, I was more than happy to. I was drawn straight to this Papier Mache Tree of Life tray.

    Papier Mache Tree of Life Tray from #HeartofHaiti ad

    The Tree of Life on this tray represents the connection between all life. It almost immediately made me think of my Mom, and the life she has physically given to me, but also the life she continues to give me through her constant support, counsel and friendship. I owe so much to my own mother. 

    After I graduated high school, my mom decided to go back to school. She had dropped out when she decided to have a family, and so my whole childhood she was home. From teaching piano to babysitting, she always found ways to be with us while still helping out financially. Her drive and love for us has meant to much to me. 

     

    Similar to my own Mom, mothers all over the world are doing the best they can to make a difference and be an example for their children. Just like Yvette in this video. She employs a number of artisans in Haiti and supports her own child, nieces, and nephews. She does this all through the support of Macy’s Heart of Haiti line. 

    Heart oF Haiti Papier Mache tray for Mom. #HeartofHaiti ad

    All profits from the Heart of Haiti line go back to mothers like Yvette who are doing their best to be an example for their children, and those around them. I feel incredibly blessed to have this Papier Mache Tray on my table now. The display will change throughout the year, but it will always contain items to remind me that Mothers are all connected, no matter where we are, or what path we’re on. 

    Heart of Haiti helps Mom's give life to their family and communities #HeartofHaiti ad

    How will you Thank Mom this year? Check out the Heart of Haiti Line at Macy’s today.

     

  • Foodie Friday Featuring Mothers Day Recipes

    Foodie Friday Featuring Mothers Day Recipes

    I would love it if you took a moment to visit my co-host Diane at Simple Living and Eating
    If you’re new to Foodie Friday, here’s the run down
    1. Link up your recipe or any food related post below
    2. Browse the linky, visit some new blogs, and share if you feel so inclined. 
    3. Please only link up 3 posts. This lets us visit as many of you as possible.
    4. By linking up you give me permission to feature your photos on Home Maid Simple (always linking back to you of course!)
    5. Each month I send out a newsletter with the most popular links from that month – you may be featured!!  This is a once a month newsletter, no spamming involved. Sign up over there ——>
    This week I’m featuring some recipes for Mom’s day. If you’re a mom, share this with your kids and husband and let them know what you want, but then sit back and let them take over the kitchen this Sunday.
    Start Mom’s day out with these delicious looking Blackberry Scones with Lemon Glaze from Cook with Sara
    Add an OREO Overload Milkshake from Love Bakes Good Cakes for the perfect chocolate fix Mom needs. 
    OREO Overload Milkshake - a delicious OREO milkshake topped with homemade whipped cream, chocolate syrup and more OREOS!! #milkshake #oreo #drink
    Or perhaps your mom would like to start her day out with this Mixed Fruit Crumble from Living the Gourmet.
    For dinner treat Mom to some Garlic Parmesan grilled Chicken Wings from This Silly Girl’s Life
    She’s also got a fabulous looking Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings recipe.
    Finally end mom’s night right with a a little sweetness from this 4 ingredient Strawberry-Kiwi Sorbet from Family Food Friends.
    Picture
    How are you celebrating Mothers Day?
  • Memories of Mom Link Party

    Memories of Mom Link Party

    I’m so excited to be sharing Memories of Mothers with some of my favorite bloggers this week! We’d love for you to join in and link up your Mothers Day posts below. 

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    I came across this post on facebook and just love it. I do believe God can actually be everywhere, but there is a special kind of comfort and direction I have always received from my mom. When I feel sad, question things, or have something exciting to share I find myself turning to my Mom.

    One thing I remember about my mom is she was always around. Even though there were almost always extra kids underfoot she babysat, and she gave piano lessons to many kids after school – I still remember my mom being present in my childhood. Here are some of the many things I recall my mom did
    • She taught us – There was a time she’d put quotes up on a whiteboard and have us memorize them. As we started coming home with more homework, she made it fun. We’d have timed math lessons that included running laps around the table as we finished a certain amount. 
    • She made our birthday cakes. They weren’t by any means fabulously professional looking cakes, but they were baked with love and care. I recall a ballet themed cake one year when I was really small. 
    • We had tickle fights. With both my parents, but they were a riot with my mom since she is terribly ticklish on her feet. 
    • She values hard work. My mom taught us how to clean, and to value the work that came along with it. I remember every spring break we “spring cleaned” the house. I have memories of us all in the kitchen in various states of cleaning – on top of the counters, inside cupboards, and scooting around a mopped floor on towels to dry it. 
    • I had many friend troubles as a preteen and teen (who doesn’t). My mom was there for every one of them. Encouraging me, letting me cry on her shoulder, listening, and giving sound advice as it was needed. 
    • My mom taught me to play the piano. Although it was never very formal lessons, she took the time to teach me so I could play hymns in church if the need ever arose. 
    This Mothers Day I hope you’ll take the time to tell mom how much she means to you. Remember the gifts she’s given you and don’t forget to say “I love you”.

    Rules!

    You knew that there was going to have to be some, but I promise we are totally keeping it tame.
    1) You don’t have to stick to the theme of “memories of Mother’s Day” if you don’t want to, just as long as you have linked up Mother’s Day themed posts we are happy as clams!
    2) Nothing that is controversial, I have no idea how you would manage that with this theme but just throwing that out there.
    3) Though you don’t have to run around and comment on everyone’s post we would LOVE you so much if you would hope around to a couple that POP out to you.  If you love it share it, give some love.  NO PRESSURE!
    4) HAVE FUN!!!  I can’t wait to start reading all your Mothers Day posts!

  • Mothers Day Sales 2014

    Mothers Day Sales 2014

    1 more week until Mothers Day! Are you ready?? I realize most of you are MOM – so have you pampered yourself recently?  Check out some of these sales going on this weekend, and let your family know about them!

    Fashion Friday- 5/2/14- Mother's Day Gifts- $9.97 Shipped with Code MOTHER
    Today only at Cents of Style
    Mothers Day gifts for $9.97 and FREE shipping 
    use code MOTHER

    Today and Tomorrow
    Get 60% OFF any purchase at Flirty Aprons
    use code FLIRTY60
    Creativity kits for kids!
    Do something FUN with your kids this Mothers Day with Kiwi Crate
    40% off 1st month new subscriptions
    use code HEARTMOM
    IfOnly Give Mom a Memory Memorable Gifts for a Remarkable Woman Shop Now > Hand-Signed Copy of American Beauty
    Mom has everything? Give her the gift of experience from IfOnly
  • Super Moms – Help my friend!

    Super Moms – Help my friend!

    It’s almost Mothers Day, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than to help another Mom out. Together we can all be Super Moms!

    Let me tell you about my friend Sheri. She’s a wonderful mom to two cute little girls. She has an eye for design and the way things work together beautifully. Last year she took our family photos, and truly captured moments with my kids and husband that I want to hang on to.

    Sheri also has poor eyesight. When it comes to her photography business Sheri needs her eyesight working top notch. Last year she selflessly let her husband get Lasik for his eyes, but now she’s ready to be a superhero not just to her kids but to herself.

    Will you help Sheri win Lasik?  It’s going to take all of 10 seconds to vote when you follow this link – just look in the bottom right corner for the picture above.

    This Mothers Day be a Hero to yourself and give yourself a little pampering.

  • Today I was Mom

    Today I was Mom

    As I sat in church this past Sunday, and listened to talks about Mothers, my 3 year old Princess used my in much need of a shave, legs as a racetrack for the car we brought. As I watched her happily run the car up to my knee, and back down to my foot, these thoughts ran through my head. I came home, and put them to paper, but spent a little time tweaking it. 
    These are my thoughts on motherhood.  Enjoy.

    Today I was Mom

    Today I was a Racetrack
    and my lap your favorite cushion
     
    Yesterday I made 3 meals
    And Cleaned 3 dirty rooms
     
    Tomorrow I will play chauffeur
    And nurse, and Biggest Fan
     
    There was a time I was just me
    But then you came along
     
    Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow
    I’ll always be Your Mom.
     

     

  • Motherhood Matters {Book Review}

    Motherhood Matters {Book Review}

     
    About the Book

    Motherhood is a divine calling—but it may not always feel that way. Now you can show the women in your life how much they matter to you, with this delightful and heartwarming volume of wit and wisdom about the divinity, reality, and rewards of motherhood. Fresher than flowers and sweeter than chocolate, it’s a perfect gift for the women who give so much.

    In these hectic days where life’s demands can quickly become a heavy burden, Motherhood Matters helps you find more memorable moments and take the stress out of the to-do lists. Written with clarity, concision, and wit, this short, yet indispensable handbook is better than flowers, more guilt-free than chocolate, and gives back to the woman who sacrifices so much of herself every single day.

     

    BUY THE BOOK





     

    About the Author

    Connie Sokol is a mother of seven, a national and local presenter, and a regular speaker at Education Week. She is a monthly contributor on KSL TV “Studio 5,” and regular blogger for KSL “Motherhood Matters.” She is a former TV and radio host for Bonneville Communications and columnist for Deseret News and Utah Valley Magazine. Mrs. Sokol is the author of several books including the award-nominated romance Caribbean Crossroads, the 8-week Challenge program of Faithful, Fit & Fabulous, Life is Too Short for One Hair Color Series, as well as talk CDs and podcasts. Mrs. Sokol marinates in time spent with her family and eating decadent treats.

     
    CONNECT
    Website * Facebook
     
    My Thoughts

    Mothers Day is coming!  Are you ready for it? Have you found that perfect gift to tell Mom how much you truly appreciate her?
     
    I received an e-copy of Motherhood Matters by Connie Sokol in order to share my review here.  True to any good small inspirational book, Motherhood Matters is full of inspiring tales and words of wisdom.  I was expecting to feel a nice little uplifting as I read this book, but I got so much more. I was reminded that what I do as a Mom does matter, and it matters so much more than I often give myself credit for. Connie helped show how even on those not so good days, we can still find joy and hope in the journey. 
     
     
  • Mothers Day Breakfast In Bed

    Mothers Day Breakfast In Bed

    It’s an iconic image for mothers day. Shown with burnt toast, an overly messy kitchen, and always a homemade card. A Mothers Day breakfast in bed doesn’t have to follow those messy trends. With a little forethought and Dad’s help, you too can have a breakfast in bed.
     

     Mothers Day is coming up. That means it’s time to get those gifts ready, and make plans to remind Mom just how much you love her. As a mom, I will tell you right now, it’s the little things that mean the most – an acknowledgment of all she does and the little sacrifices that may not seem like much is all Mom is looking for.
    Last week I shared 7 gifts Mom will love – today I’m giving you 2 simple recipes to make Mom’s breakfast in bed extra special.

    Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins

     

     

    Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins
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    Ingredients
    1. 1/2 cup shortening
    2. 1 cup sugar
    3. 2 eggs
    4. 3 Bananas
    5. 1 3/4 cup flour
    6. 1 tsp baking soda
    7. 1 tsp salt
    8. 1/2 cup chocolate chips
    9. Streusal Topping
    10. 1/4 cup butter
    11. 1/4 cup sugar
    12. 1/4 cup brown sugar
    13. 1/3 cup flour
    14. 1/2 tsp Roasted Saigon Cinnamon (gives it a very light kick)
    15. 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
    Instructions
    1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
    2. Cream together shortening, sugar, eggs, and bananas.  Set aside.
    3. Sift flour, baking soda, and salt together.
    4. Add dry to the wet ingredients, and mix until well combined.
    5. Fill muffin liners 1/3 full with batter.
    6. Add a few chocolate chips, and fill the muffin liner up to 2/3 full.
    7. In a bowl combine butter and sugars.
    8. Slowly add in flour and spices until just combined. Crumble on top of muffins.
    9. Bake for 50-60 minutes.
    10. Cool on a wire rack.
    Home Maid Simple https://www.homemaidsimple.com/

    Oatmeal Yogurt Parfait

     
    Oatmeal Yogurt Parfait
    Serves 1
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    Ingredients
    1. 1 cup water
    2. 1/2 cup Rolled Oats
    3. 1/2 cup frozen mixed fruit, thawed
    4. 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
    5. Fresh blueberries and strawberries
    Instructions
    1. Boil water, and add the oats.
    2. Stir until well mixed.
    3. Layer a 1/4 cup oats in the bottom of a cup or parfait dish, top with 1/4 cup frozen fruit mix, then 1/4 yogurt.
    4. Repeat the layers.
    5. Top with a spoonful of fresh blueberries and a strawberry.
    Home Maid Simple https://www.homemaidsimple.com/

    You can add that touch of special with a chocolate butterfly! Directions for that can be found at We Lived Happily Ever After.


     

    Don’t forget to pretty up the breakfast tray! Add some fresh flowers, her favorite book, whatever it is your mom likes. Go ahead, spoil her! 

     

     

     BWS tips button

    Please visit my co-host Diane at Simple Living and Eating. She has a Sausage and Eggplant Cassoulet for you today.

    Maybe your mom doesn’t care for oatmeal, yogurt, and muffins. Or perhaps you’re looking for a special dinner.  Check out these other ideas you could whip up for Mom!
     
    ~FEATURES~
    Raspberry Sweet Rolls
    I would enjoy this for breakfast any day!
     
    Chicken and Tortellini with Tomato Cream Sauce
    Creamy tomato and pasta? Yes please!
     
    Actimel Mango and Passion Fruit Smoothie with Fresh Basil
    Smoothies are a Mom’s best friend to get through the crazy days. These look especially good and easy to make.