The Simplicity of Life

So I'm taking a break from the 'nanny' portion of my blog to share a eureka I recently had. However, before I explain my amazing revelation, I must share this picture of a princess I have the privilege of hanging with every day. This is what happens when you give 3 year olds too much cake:



Anyway, I went camping this past weekend with my brother and friends and had an amazing realization: camping makes people happier. Now, I realize I live in Idaho. And in Idaho, it's not weird for people to come up in the grocery line and ask you why you're buying barbecue sauce and suddenly invite themselves to your party. I wish I was exaggerating.

It didn't matter what we were doing, hiking, biking, swimming... everyone was helpful and excited to talk to us!

I guess there's something to be said about the simplicity of life. When you take away the 'toys' (which seem SO NEEDED)... what is left is rest, peace, and relaxation. Sure, sleeping in a tent is not the warmest nor the most comfortable, but when your biggest stress in life is whether or not your marshmallow is going to be 'perfectly bronzed' then the other things just seem to melt in the wind. Take a look at your life and ask yourself.. is all this stuff really bringing more to my life or really taking it away?


Our amazing campsite!


So maybe Emma had more stress than simply roasting the perfect mallow.... ;)

The Fourth of July!

Growing up in a family where we make huge deals out of every holiday, I always get fluttery and excited the week before each occasion. This year's Fourth of July is no exception! So, intent on making my two small subjects as patriotic as possible, this week has been filled with red, white and blue!

I know we're merely a day away from the big day, but if any of you are lacking for creative ideas until then, here are a few!

*Flag Nails:
We painted our nails like flags... and they thought it was really cool we all matched!



*Flag vests:
I got this idea off my fellow-nanny, Monique, who saw it in a Martha Stewart article. Simply start with a paper bag, turn it upside down and paint a picture of a flag on the front. After you have helped them paint the flag, have them decorate the front and back with all sorts of things, stickers, markers, paint... whatever they choose! At the end, cut off the handles, cut a hole for their head and both arms, then a slit down the front to make a vest! It's a great, creative idea to get them in the patriotic spirit! (and they will look super cute!)





*Flag treats
This is both fun and yummy! We made cupcakes then decorated them with red, white, and blue... then stuck little toothpick flags in each one! It was super messy but so much fun! Also, we made a strawberry pie... put cool whip on the top then made a 'flag' with strawberries and blueberries. The girls loved the little flags so much they stuck them all over this as well! :)





Hope you have fun with these ideas... and happy Fourth!!!!!!!! God bless the USA!!!