Refreshing Homemade Lemonade

Easy Refreshing Homemade Lemonade

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Once temperatures begin to rise in summer everyone looks for a refreshing drink to cool off and quench their thirst. A classic favorite for many is a glass of fresh lemonade.

Many people may choose to grab some already made from the store as it is quicker and easier. Homemade lemonade can also be put together fairly quickly and easily. It doesn't really matter which you choose as long as it is satisfying.

If you would like to try to make a batch on your own and feel a little intimidated you can try this simple recipe. It is not time consuming at all and you will be left with fresh and flavorful lemonade.

Servings: 6-8 cups (depending on cup size)

You will need the following:

5 1/2 cups water, divided

1 1/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

Ice cubes

Directions:

1. In a large saucepan, add 1 1/2 cups water and 1 1/4 cup sugar.

2. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Cool to room temperature.

3. Transfer to a 2 quart (1.89 litre) pitcher. Stir in juices and peels. 

4. Cover and refrigerate at least one hour. 

5. Stir in remaining water. Serve with ice cubes.

Do you enjoy a glass of refreshing lemonade during the summer?

How to get Rid of Moths Naturally

10 Ways to get Rid of Moths Naturally in your Home

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If you discover moths inside your home it is most likely that either your foods or fabrics have been targeted. They seem to enjoy cereals, nuts, grains, and other dry foods. Clothing favorites are those made of synthetics, furs, silk, wools, and other fabrics. They can cause a significant amount of damage even in a short time.

Firstly, the areas of infestation will have to be thoroughly cleaned by following these steps :

Throw away any food that you see moths or larvae in, or any that you are the least bit suspicious of being infested.

Vacuum the entire area, including all cracks and crevices. Make sure to empty out the vacuum once all vacuuming is finished.

Wipe down every surface in the pantry with hot soapy water and let dry.

Check all cans and jars for moth webbing and wipe them down with vinegar before returning to pantry.

Here are a few items you can use to help protect items naturally:

1. White Vinegar. Mix equal amounts of vinegar and water into a spray bottle. Clean surfaces using this spray to help prevent infestations.

2. Cucumbers. Cucumbers are one example of natural pest control when it comes to moths. In addition to moths, cucumbers are helpful in ridding ants, mites, wasps, and other insects. The more bitter the cucumber, or cucumber peels, the better.

3. Bay leaves. Bay leaves emit a strong odor that moths do not like to inhale. You can add bay leaves to potpourri or simply place some in cabinets and closets.

4. Mint. Mint leaves are another effective moth repellent. Place a handful of dried peppermint in a sachet, or place loose leaves among your clothes. 

5. Lavander. sprinkle some dry lavender flower or you can simply spray lavender oil in the areas you find moths. Lavender helps take away them almost all from your house fast.

6. Cedar chips. Pick up some cedar chips or blocks from the store, and place them wherever they're needed. You can even buy cedar drawer liners or cedar rings that fit over hangers.

7. Herbal pouch. Fill a sachet bag with one or a combination of these four herbs to keep moths at bay for months. While moths don't like the smell of these herbs, humans sure do. Replace the contents of your sachets every six months, or whenever they begin to lose their fragrance. 

8. Water traps. Water traps are a tricky, but natural way to kill moths. Make a water trap by filling a container with water and suspend a night light over it. Moths will be attracted to the light and will wind up diving into the water and dying. It's a good idea to add dish soap in order to ease the surface tension of the water moths are crashing into.

9. Pheromone traps. Find sticky pheromone traps in the insect aisle of your supermarket or order them online. If you get re-infested, or you miss any, they will be drawn to the pheromones where they will stick and die.

10. Hair dryer. On clothes or dresses that you cannot vacuum, but you can give it a try using a blow dryer to give it heat therapy in order to kill the moths by heating them and also their eggs. Try this method to get rid of moths fast.

Do you know of other natural ways to get rid of moths?

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Shop Stella & Dot's Mother's Day gift ideas!

Need a Mother's Day gift idea? Shop Stella & Dot!

**I was compensated for this post. This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

With Mother's Day quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to make this the best Mother's Day ever for mom. Carefully select  the gift that will be sure to warm her heart and put a huge smile on her beautiful face. Along with your gift, treat her to a special day where she will feel like a queen.

You can treat mom to a breakfast in bed, her favorite home cooked meal, a fancy dinner out, or spa treatment. From jewelry to scarves to totes, Stella & Dot has great gift options for every mom to wear or take along on her special day out.

This versatile Mullti-stripe getaway tote would be the perfect option for a day at the park, the pool, or for a quick weekend gataway.

Another great choice is this Classic sterling silver locket. This simple yet beautifully detailed locket was hand modeled in Stella & Dot's NY design studio. Personalize with a monogram or a special date to make it unique.

Stella & Dot has a wide selection of scarves such as this Infinity style scarf. It features custom S&D pattern in neutral cream, grey, white, and the perfect pop of pink, finished with modern tassels.

Also, from now until Monday 05/15, buy two bracelets and get a third one for 50% off! Stack your style with more bracelets for a lower price now! Offer valid while supplies last.

Whether you have a close and happy relationship with your mom or not remember that she is still your mom. Moms deserve to be treated special not only on Mother's Day but every day of the year. Make this a Mother's Day she will always remember and cherish.

PlayStation 4 Call of Duty Bundle Giveaway

Enter to Win a PlayStation 4 Call of Duty Bundle

**This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission after you have clicked on my link.

Just Free Stuff is giving away a PlayStation 4 Call of Duty Bundle on June 01, 2017. 

Enjoy playing online with your friends, get free games, save games online and more with PlayStation.

Connect with your friends to broadcast and celebrate your epic moments at the press of the Share button to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.

Bundle includes: 

New slim 500GB PlayStation 4 system
Matching Dualshock 4 Wireless Controller
Call of Duty Infinite Warfare
Call of Duty Modern Warfare digital download
Average Retail Value: $299.99

One Time Entry. Expires May 31, 2017. United States and Canada Only.

If gaming is not something you enjoy, consider entering this giveaway anyway. If you win you can sell the bundle. You could also give the bundle away to someone else that would enjoy playing it. The choice is yours!

Just Free Stuff Playstation 4 Call Of Duty Bundle Giveaway

12 Sleep Tips During Pregnancy

12 Tips for a Good Nights Sleep During Pregnancy

**This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission after you have clicked on my link.

During pregnancy it's not uncommon to experience sleep disturbances. These are usually due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, or anxiety. As your pregnancy progresses, you may find it more difficult to find a comfortable position for sleep. You may also have to make several trips to the bathroom as the pressure continues to mount on your bladder. 

The following are twelve ways to help ensure that you get a good nights rest during your pregnancy.

1. Routine. Try a nighttime ritual such as having a warm bath, reading, or drinking warm milk. This can increase your body's natural sleep responses.

2. Drink up! Drink plenty of fluids during the day, but cut down before bedtime to minimize frequent nighttime urination.

3. Eat Well. Completely eliminate caffeine and alcohol to prevent insomnia. If nausea is a problem for you, try eating frequent bland snacks such as plain soda crackers throughout the day. Keeping your stomach slightly full helps to calm nausea. Try to eat a well-balanced diet as this is not only is this crucial for you and your baby's health but getting the necessary nutrients will help keep you feeling satisfied and will help you sleep more soundly.

4. Keep moving. Exercise regularly during the day for optimum health, and to improve circulation. This can help reduce those aching nighttime leg cramps. Avoid exercising late in the day though since exercise releases adrenaline that can keep you awake at night.

5. Extra pillows. No matter how you lie, you’ll need extra support to get comfortable, especially by the third trimester. Pregnancy pillows which are full-length body pillows are great for providing extra support. You might also get by just using some extra regular pillows. Try placing pillows under the arms, wedged between knees, or snuggled into your sides. You may have to experiment a little before you find what works.

6. Nap during the day. If you're not getting enough rest at night, take a nap to help reduce fatigue. Find a quiet spot and relax, even if only for half an hour.

7. Reduce stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety are key culprits in preventing a good night's sleep. Remember that worrying won't help you, but talking about your problems will. Find a friend or a professional who can listen and help you if there are issues in your life that are causing you to worry.

8. Keep heartburn at bay. To prevent heartburn, don't lay down for an hour or two after a meal. Sleep with your head elevated on pillows. Avoid spicy, acidic, or fried foods as they may worsen symptoms.

9. Get some sun. A little natural light exposure during the afternoon will help your body clock understand when you’re supposed to be awake and when you’re supposed to be asleep.

10. Clear the bedroom. Remove the television, computer, mobile phone, and anything else that could stimulate your mind and keep you awake.

11. Proper position. After 20 weeks, sleep on your left side to allow for the best blood flow to the fetus and to your uterus and kidneys. Avoid lying flat on your back.

12. Keep a regular sleep schedule every night. Your body uses light to regulate its sleep/wake cycle. If it gets confused, you could be tossing and turning for hours.

Do you have any additional sleep tips for expecting moms?

20 Clever Uses for Rubber Bands

Clever Ways to Use Rubber Bands Around the Home

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Rubber Bands are known for holding things together, and are also fun to shoot at each other. But did you know there are many other uses for the little contraptions that have become a universal household name? In case you didn't know, here are some other practical uses for rubber bands you may find helpful in everyday life.

1. Keep teabag tags out of your tea. Simply place a rubber band around the mug securing the strings and tag.

2. Help prevent a sliced apple from turning brown. If you need to slice an apple for some time prior to eat being eaten wrap a rubber band over it to keep its shape and from becoming exposed to air.

3. Create a gripper to help open tight lids. Wrap a band around a bottle top or can lid to help get a better grip for opening.

4. Keep packaged foods well sealed. Keep cereal, nuts, and other bagged foods fresh by folding the top of the bag over and then wrapping a band around the whole thing.

5. Prevent a cutting board from slipping. If the board is sliding on the counter surface, wrap a rubber band around each end. Now, it will hold steady as you cut.

6. Help young children hold a glass. Slip rubber bands around a drinking glass to help children get a better grip.

7. Convert your broom into a swiffer. Secure a cleaning cloth to a long-handled broom with a large rubber band to clean hard-to-reach high places.

8. Bookmark. Wind a rubber band around the last page you read in your book to simply pick up where you left off.

9. Temporary leak fix.  Wrap a fat rubber band around the hole in a pipe or hose. This will help slow the leak.

10. Catch candle wax. Wrap a large rubber band around a candle to stop wax from dripping onto the table.

11. Pencil gripper. Simply wrap some rubber bands around the area of the pencil where you like to hold it creating more comfort.

12. Keep clothes on hangers. Attach rubber bands around the ends to keep clothes from slipping off.

13. Secure pants that need to be loosened. Whether you overate a little or have a little one on the way your usual fitting pants may be feeling tight around the tummy. To help loop a rubber band through your fly to give your pants a little extra elasticity.

14. Extend the life of your liquid soap. Wrap a rubber band around the top of a pump bottle, so that the dispenser pump only goes down partway. Each pump will yield half as much soap—still plenty for getting hands clean—so you use less soap.

15. Organize your desk. Secure loose items together such as pens, pencils, markers, and other items together.

16. Shorten cords. Simply wrap a band around the excess to shorten them.

17. Prevent paint from dripping off a paintbrush. Before starting your paint job stretch an extra large rubber band across the paint tin. Use it to wipe off any excess paint from your brush.

18. Remove a stripped screw. Place a rubber band over the top of the screw and then using your screwdriver you will be able to remove it easily.

19. Childproofing cupboards. Simply wrap bands around the knobs tightly to prevent small children from opening the doors.

20. Adhesive. If you find yourself in a pinch and need to glue something quickly you can melt some rubber bands.

Do you have any clever uses for rubber bands ? 

Groovy Takes Pride in Their Boxes

Groovy Lab in a Box - Pride in our Box

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Every month subscribing STEMists (kids ages 8+) receive a groovy, retro style Groovy Lab in a Box that contains hours of exciting STEM fun and engineering design challenges. Each box is carefully put together and filled with theme-specific objects that make up their Groovy Lab in a Box. Many STEMists don’t realize that there is more to the friendly, retro Groovy Lab in a Box than meets the eye. So, who puts the Groovy boxes together? Employees of the non-profit Versability Resources of Virginia get the job done!

“Groovy Lab in a Box is proud to partner with VersAbility Resources to ensure our subscribers receive their completed box delivered right to their STEMists’ door,” said Elaine Hansen, co-founder of Groovy Lab in a Box.

Since 1953, VersAbility Resources has been helping individuals with disabilities gain independence through work and living experience to help them lead fuller, richer lives. VersAbility creates opportunities for individuals to make the most of their abilities, contribute to society, and enjoy the satisfaction of working and earning their own living. “There is much excitement when the new boxes are being built,” said Laurie Williams, Senior Operations Manager. “A job filled with a colorful variety of elements like Groovy Lab in a Box work is fascinating.”

Senator Mark Warner of Virginia learned how the VersAbility team aka "Team Groovy" carefully assembles all the Groovy Lab in a Box parts and materials. Senator Warner talked about the importance of business leaders supporting programs like Versability Resources in addition to developing more initiatives for the disabled. He praised VersAbility Resources for the work they are doing. “I just wish I could bring more business leaders and members of Congress to see this remarkable, remarkable organization."

The VersAbility business services team carefully assembles all the Groovy Lab in a Box parts, including every electronic, Groovy lab notebook, pipette, battery and other materials that make up the themed Groovy Lab in a Box. VersAbility now serves over 1,400 people with disabilities and their families each year in employment, community living, day support, and early childhood programs explained Williams.

There is planning discussion in the weeks leading up to the fulfillment with Groovy Lab in a Box creators to collaborate and design the best product while keeping in mind any special needs of the business services staff. The process to assemble the boxes is collaborative with some people building smaller elements that make up the box. Other individuals may make the box itself, while someone else is putting the final touches on placing all the products in the box,” said Williams. “The work between VersAbility Resources and a customer is a true collaboration that can enhance a great product through the fulfillment and delivery. We have an excellent relationship with Groovy Lab in a Box, which makes for an amazing product and an enjoyable work relationship.”

VersAbility’s goal is to help people obtain meaningful work opportunities and participate fully in their communities. The business services aspect is only one of several services available through the non-profit. Other services that provide VersAbility participants the opportunity to earn a living and lead an independent life include bulk mailings, publishing, linen and food services, community service, summer camp counseling and more.

Monica Canavan, co-founder of Groovy Lab in a Box said, “Groovy Lab in a Box places great value on VersAbility’s vision that helps to improve the quality of life at work, home, and in play for persons with disabilities at all levels.”

So, the next time you find your STEMists’ Groovy Lab in a Box on your doorstep or in your mailbox, know that the assembly of all its parts was carefully and proudly packaged by individuals who may have a disability, but have an enormous heart and display great pride in their work.

Subscribe to Groovy Lab in a Box or check out a Single Box today with FREE SHIPPING! to help your STEMists continue to stimulate their science, technology, engineering, and mathematic abilities.

Have a blog or website? Sign up with the Groovy Lab in a Box Affiliate Program and start earning.

Family Eye Care on a Budget

Take Care of Your Family's Eye Care on a Budget

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It is time. You know that you need to take the kids into the optometrist, but you keep putting it off. As if it were not bad enough that you have a big home remodel project around the corner, those darn glasses frames are going to set you back hundreds, perhaps even more than a thousand dollars. But you know that your kids are a top priority and you need to make sure that you treat their eyes properly if you want them to succeed in school – otherwise you are going to be looking at a few more home remodeling projects to add on bedrooms for their long term stay past 18 years old!

If you want to set your kids up for success, you need to make sure their eyes are well taken care of. Many parents do not realize it, but a big reason many children have a tough time in elementary school is because of undiagnosed eyesight issues. To ensure that your children not only get treated properly at the optometrist, but stick with their treatment plan, you need to look into using contacts over glasses.

Not only will contacts be a lot “cooler” at school, and have a much higher likelihood of staying in your kids’ eyes all day long than glasses do of staying on their face, but contacts also save money for you. If you take advantage of the amazing deals through 1-800-Contacts’ new Groupon Coupons page, you can score on huge deals such as $30 off plus free shipping, $10 off of your order, $20 off, a 10% discount, and many more!

Making sure that your family stays under budget, while doing its best to take care of your kids’ needs is a tough job. You have to balance several conflicting demands all of the time. But if you take advantage of the Groupon Coupons offered at 1-800-Contacts’ new page, you will be able to make sure that all of your kids at least are able to see properly and have a fair shot at all of the opportunities presented to them down the road. Plus, you will be able to stay under budget and keep a little money leftover for that upcoming home remodel project.

How do you take of your family's eye care on a budget?

10 Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

The Importance in Avoiding Certain Foods During Pregnancy

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During pregnancy it is important to have well-balanced meals containing an abundance of minerals, nutrients, and vitamins. These are essential to maintaining a healthy pregnancy and ensuring that your baby's development progresses normally and healthy.

Most foods are safe to consume during pregnancy, however there are some foods that should be avoided. The following list will help you wean out foods that could be harmful to you and your baby. When in doubt on a particular food item it is always best to do your own research to give yourself peace of mind. 

1. Unwashed vegetables. While it is a general rule to wash these foods in many households it is especially important to do so during pregnancy. The soil where the vegetables were grown may have contained toxoplasmosis.

2. Fish with high levels of mercury. Mercury is a highly toxic element and is commonly found in polluted water. Large fish such as shark, tuna, swordfish, and king mackeral can accumulate high amounts of mercury and can lead to brain damage and developmental delays.

3. Raw shellfish. Under-cooked shellfish such as clams, mussels, and oysters can cause many sea bourne illnesses. Cooking them thoroughly can prevent some of the infections, but not the algae related infections.

4. Deli, or under-cooked meat and poultry. Consuming deli meats, under-cooked meat or poultry increases the risk of infection from several bacteria or parasites including E. Coli, Listeria, Salmonella, and toxoplasmosis. Bacteria and parasites can threaten the health of a newborn by causing severe neurological illnesses and even stillbirth.

5. Under-cooked or raw eggs. Whenever you eat raw eggs you are putting yourself at risk of being infected with salmonella which can lead to illness. It also increases the risk of premature birth or stillbirth.

6. Unpasteurized milk, cheese, and juice. Unpasteurized food and drinks may contain listeria, salmonella, and other bacteria which can to lead to serious illness and even poisoning. 

7. Excessive caffeine. Too much caffeine is not good for the body, especially during pregnancy. Caffeine acts as a diuretic and is linked to low birth rate. While you don't have to give it up completely, excessive amounts should definitely be avoided.

8. Salads from the deli or restaurant. Prepared salads from these places may not contain a high quality of eggs, meat, fruit, or vegetables and contain listeria and other bacteria.

9. Herbal Teas.. While there are some herbal teas that are good for your pregnancy, there are others that can do more harm than good. It is best to find out if your herbal tea is safe to drink during pregnancy before consuming any.

10. Alcohol. Not even one drop of alcohol should be consumed during pregnancy. Prenatal exposure to alcohol can interfere with the healthy development of the baby and lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or other developmental disorders.

Were you aware that all these foods should be avoided during pregnancy?

Create your First Video with Aminoto

Aminoto Makes it Easy to Create Professional Videos 

**I was compensated for this post. This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Animoto makes it easy to create professional videos on the web and on the go. They want you to get inspired and share how to create your first Animoto video!

Did you know there are two different products Animoto offers? Slideshow videos and marketing videos! Slideshow videos, depending on your subscription, allow logos within video, as well as design-rich or premium video styles to choose from! Marketing videos, depending on your subscription, allow logos, custom brand colors, advanced text control, voice-over, and pre-built storyboards! These are just a few of the features of the two products.

To get started with your first video, choose from a variety of templates. Customize videos with one of nearly 50 beautiful styles. Animoto has styles for any video you want to make, be it for travel recaps, special occasions, memories with your family/kids, or your business. Pick from over 1000 great soundtracks within a range of genres in our curated music library. And with a Pro account, you get another 1000 tracks of commercially licensed music. Already have your photos online? Animoto can grab them from Facebook, Flickr, Photobucket, Picasa, SmugMug, or Instagram. Manage them on your computer? Use Animoto's Lightroom or Aperture plugins for easy uploading!

If you haven't already, take advantage of a free trial with Animoto for a hands-on experience!

Right now 10% off annual photography plans with code PHO10OFF at Animoto

10 Ways to Pass Time While Breastfeeding

Things you can do to Pass Time While Breastfeeding your Baby

** This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission after you have clicked on my link.

After hearing some moms mention that they often become bored during breastfeeding I was inspired to share some helpful tips on how to pass time while feeding your baby. There were times when I would lay down with my baby and just rest or sleep while he fed and then other times I would multi-task. 

Multi-tasking is nothing new to moms. This is especially true during baby's early years as they require constant care and attention. During breastfeeding there is an opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy a bonding moment with baby. However many moms may feel that it is a great time to get a head start on some minor chores that can be done while sitting down.

There are many ways to pass the time while breastfeeding your baby. Whether it be just watching your baby while he is feeding, getting some extra fluids such as water, or planning and preparing things relating to home. Here are some great ways to pass time while breastfeeding your baby in a relaxed and enjoyable way.

1. Read. Read a book, magazine, or news article to yourself or silently to your baby while feeding.

2. Interact with your other children. Put together a puzzle, play a game, or simply talk and listen to them.

3. Social network. Connect with family members and friends online or catch up with the latest trends.

4. Take an online class. There are a wide variety of classes available online for free. There is everything from cooking classes to university level classes.

5. Have a snack. Choose healthy protein rich foods that will give you more energy to care for your baby. Nuts, peanut butter sandwiches, and hard-boiled eggs are all high in protein and easy snacks that you can eat with one hand.

6. Make a shopping list or plan meals. Stick to simple and healthy meals that can be prepared quickly. Plan meals around the weekly specials to help save money at the same time. 

7. Watch television. Catch up on the news, your favorite programs, or enjoy a movie.

8. Play games. Phones have many free apps you can download including brain teasers, word games, and strategic board games.

9. Jigsaw puzzle. These are really great for your mind and will keep you occupied for any length of time.

10. Write. Whether you are a blogger, keep a journal, or author you can use this time for brainstorming, finding topics, and making notes. You would be surprised at how much you can get accomplished over several short periods in a day.

If you have breastfed in the past or are currently breastfeeding what do you do to pass the time?