It’s been a LONG time coming, but now that our dream backyard is fully complete, we have been hosting some really fun parties! My husband loves to grill and so creating a beautiful and functional outdoor kitchen was something we’ve been wanting to do for way too long! RTA Outdoor Living is an amazing company and working with them was basically seamless! They partner you with a designer to help you create the perfect outdoor kitchen for your backyard. Our RTA designer came up with some ideas we hadn’t even thought of and was able to educate us on all the products they offer. The design tool is really fun to work with, and as you can see, the renderings were so spot on and really gave us an inside look into what the outdoor kitchen could be. We chose to go with the Coyote grill and the Solo pizza oven which has been a blast!

I’d have to say the best part about my husband being a master griller is I don’t have to cook in the kitchen! Kacy has gotten really creative with what he’s been grilling and I have to admit, I feel like I’m winning!! Again, because mama don’t have to cook!

Thank you, RTA from one happy family! Check them out Here!

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While we were researching play-sets and what would fit best in our yard, we kept going back to Woodplay. We love how customizable they are and it’s so fun to be able to switch out the different types of swings. My personal favorite is the hammock, and Lennox’s is the saucer swing. I love watching him and his friends play for hours on end! Their little imaginations run wild and I’ve seen this amazing structure be a magical castle, a hospital , a cabin in the woods and on and on… When we were customizing the actual structure and choosing accessories, Lennox had three must haves on his list— a curly slide, a trapeze bar and a megaphone! We just ordered the spotlight and will be surprising him with it for Christmas!

I always dreamed of a backyard where we could have space for Lennox to run around and play and have all of his friends over. We lived in a townhouse for so many years and simply did not have that kind of space. Feeling so incredibly grateful to be able to look out the window and see our son having such a wonderful time, being active and using his imagination! If you happen to be looking for a play structure this one is number one on our list! We chose the Woodplay 5′ PLAYHOUSE COMBO 2 which I’ve linked HERE

And definitely check out Swingsets.com for the different play-sets they offer along with many other fun outdoor activities for you and your family!

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I’ve been wanting to go home to Arizona for months now. I want to hug my parents and all of our family and friends that we haven’t seen in way too long…It’s strange how planning a road trip looks so differently these days. It used to be that we would do the proper maintenance on our car to ensure everything was in tip top shape, and now, after making sure our car is good to go, we have to worry about testing for Covid-19 and make sure we as a family are healthy too. On top of all the stresses that quarantine and the coronavirus has caused, I feel comfort in knowing that some things never change. 

Kelley Blue Book has been there for our family over the years (and over 90 years as the most trusted third-party automotive brand!) to support us with car maintenance, any estimated repair costs and even possible recalls on our vehicles

The Kelley Blue Book Auto Repair Guide helps to keep our cars in working order and helps us prepare for road trips like ones to Arizona by eliminating any added stress. Kelley Blue Book has a Fair Repair Range Estimator which helps to give us an idea if the prices we are being quoted are indeed fair based on dealer averages. They also provide the ability to make any service appointments on the KBB.com website. They make it so easy, especially at a time when we all have to alter our ways of life.

Before you take that next family trip, you should totally check out Kelley Blue Book‘s Auto Repair Guide to make sure your car is in tiptop shape! I’m so glad we did! Onward and upward!

The post thinking about our first Road trip post quarantine appeared first on Amy Davidson - Working Mom Blog.

I’m also trying to keep grocery store visits to a minimum, so I definitely stock up more than I used to. As a result, I’ve had to be strategic about organizing my fridge to make sure we eat everything we buy. Our Bosch refrigerator is a dream because it’s not only built for custom organization, it also ensures that our produce stays at its freshest with their new four-point FarmFresh System. For example, VitaFreshPro balances both temperature and humidity levels based on the setting I select. All I do is choose whether I’m storing fruits, veggies, meats, cheeses, etc., and the fridge does the rest of the work for me! The FreshProtect Filter absorbs natural ethylene from produce to slow down ripening, so I can buy more fresh produce and enjoy it for longer. And, MultiAirFlow + AirFresh Filter keep everything perfectly cool and smelling great all the time, so no more baking soda needed! I swear, I can have produce in what I now call “the freshness drawer” for over two weeks and it’s as if I bought it that same day. I bought an enormous bag of kale and it literally lasted almost two weeks. It was almost an experiment for me. I would eat a little bit of kale every couple of days, taste it for freshness, and it was always delicious! Truly magical and mom approved

Lennox and I have also really started enjoying cooking meals together. Whether it’s a simple PB&J for lunch or Taco Tuesday for dinner, he can easily access the produce drawer and help me pick ingredients for the meal we’ve chosen. He also takes the liberty of going to the drawer every time he wants some fruit!  Sneaky! He ends up asking, but it’s the perfect height for him to open and dig around, so ya can’t blame the kid! Something that has helped me get creative with meal planning is the Home Connect app, which is connected to our fridge and has plenty of recipes, plus cooking tips and tricks. I love using it for recipe inspiration so I’m not always cooking the exact same thing! I have to say, I’ve definitely added a few new recipes to my repertoire recently and it’s continuously growing!

As someone who loves to cook for and take care of my family, it’s comforting to know that my fridge is keeping everything at peak freshness and at the ready so we can whip up healthy and nutritious meals together at any moment. Here are a few of my favorite snapshots of us in the kitchen the past couple months!

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There’s so much more about the reading that was wonderful to hear and learn, especially during these uncertain times. Being a psychotherapist AND astrologer, Debra helped me get to the core and look deeper into my personality traits and guide me to ways of working with them. vs. fighting against them which is my default reaction. She has such a loving and nurturing way about her, her POV and guidance simply made sense to me and has truly has impacted me since we spoke. All this without knowing anything about me besides my date of birth, where I was born and what time. I’m currently reading Debra’s book, and I’m loving it. If you’ve also been interested in astrology Debra is offering a free intro to Astrology packet HERE that you can explore.

“I truly believe that studying your birth chart — starting with the 4 Elements — will help you find deeper compassion for the quirky parts of you you don’t like or understand. That’s why I wanted to offer you this free gift, as an introduction to the elements and compatibility.”

~ Debra Silverman

FULL BLOG POST

I’ve always been interested in astrology. I remember when I was in high school, the first thing I’d do when I got a new magazine was flip to the back pages and read my horoscope. I’m pretty sure I didn’t really understand what I was reading. My knowledge was and still is pretty limited. I’m a Virgo- an earth sign, a perfectionist at heart, logical, practical, systematic, analytical (to a fault at times) and this is a good one- we’re ruled by our digestive system. I always thought these descriptions explained the majority about my personality, BUT they don’t! More on that in a just a second… I’ve always wanted to learn about astrology, but it wasn’t until I discovered Debra Silverman‘s website and YouTube channel that my curiosity peaked. Being completely transparent here- I’m in my head a lot. A lot. Always thinking and analyzing and obsessing about certain things. It doesn’t really matter what it is, if there’s something for me to obsess over, I will! Not too fun. Are there aspects of your personality that either drive you crazy or you can’t quite figure out, too? I was fascinated to learn there are reasons for these aspects of my personality (that seem to battle each other) that help explain why I am the way I am. Debra blew my mind! By looking at my chart and seeing how the different planets line up with each other in relation to the moon and the sun etc. (please forgive my description, I’m a newbie) Debra asked specific questions because of what she saw. She gave me explanations that literally nailed the way I grew up which molded my personality into what it is today. All without knowing anything about me besides my date of birth, where I was born and what time. It’s like she was reading my memoir, but it wasn’t a book, it was my astrology chart. I sat there in awe as she explained how me being a Virgo- the responsible aspect of my personality, is constantly in flux with my rising sign which is Sagitarious- the kid-like, carefree side of myself. She said no wonder I feel crazy and in my head at times! It’s like a kid constantly battling the mature adult. Debra explained it as this ongoing ping pong match in my head. Yep, spot on

There’s so much more about the reading that was wonderful to hear and learn, especially during these uncertain times. Being a psychotherapist AND astrologer, Debra helped me get to the core and look deeper into my personality traits and guide me to ways of working with them. vs. fighting against them, which is my default reaction. She has such a loving and nurturing way about her. Debra’s POV and guidance simply made sense to me and has truly has impacted me since we spoke. I’m currently reading Debra’s book, The Missing Element and I’m loving it. I highly suggest it! If you’ve also been interested in astrology Debra is offering a free intro to Astrology packet HERE that you can explore.

“I truly believe that studying your birth chart — starting with the 4 Elements — will help you find deeper compassion for the quirky parts of you you don’t like or understand. That’s why I wanted to offer you this free gift, as an introduction to the elements and compatibility.”

~ Debra Silverman

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One thing that has been keeping me sane or I should say helping to keep me sane, is the ability to get outside. Breathing fresh air, going on walks and moving my body has been truly a lifesaver. I was nervous that was all going to change but thankfully it has not. Silver lining people. Silver lining. I have to say thank you because a couple of weeks ago, while on one of our long walks I asked you all for opinions and advice on wagons. Lennox, Sophie and I literally walk for miles and it was starting to get tricky because he’s getting so big. Lennox’s is literally 41 inches and 40 lbs!!! I was bringing the stroller for when Len would get tired, because let’s face it, I can’t carry 40 pounds on my back very far!I mean… A bunch of you mentioned the Wonderfold Wagon and I can’t thank you enough. Getting outside has always been important to me, to us, and more so even now. I love packing snacks, jackets, books for Lennox and just going for an adventure. There’s barely anyone on the streets and we just walk and walk and walk. Can ya tell Lennox loves his “wagon throne?”

What are you doing to help keep your sanity? Are you going outside? Or are you afraid? We are being safe, respecting social distancing and truly just doing our own thing. I still smile at people from afar and say hello. That’s part of who I am, it’s in my soul. I can’t change that nor do I want to. Am I giving out free hugs? Absolutely not. Do I look forward to the day when I can? Yes indeed. Sending an enormous virtual hug to all of you.

Stay safe, friends….

.

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I’ve been more emotional this birthday than any of the three before. I’m not sure why? Maybe because you’re not a baby anymore… Although, you will always be my baby! Even when you yell at me, “I’m not a baby, mommy! I am a big kid!“ You will always be my baby… Lennox, you are the most amazing blessing that has ever happened to your daddy and me. Thank you for being kind, gentle, and so loving. Thank you for all the kisses you give me all over my face. One for my nose, my cheeks, the top of my head, my lips, my chin, my forehead, oh, and my earrings! You are so silly and so goofy. You are my sunshine. My son-shine. Happy Birthday, sweet Lennox! 4 looks good on you!

Your cowboy birthday party was a great choice and you definitely made a cute “outlaw!” I absolutely loved celebrating you on your actual birthday! From the mini photo booth to the piñata and pin the tail on the donkey (the old school version like daddy and I played at kids parties) to blowing out your candles, I am happy to say your party went off without a hitch! Thank goodness!!!

You are my little love and you bring joy wherever your go…We you, baby boy! Happy, Happy Birthday!

Xoxo

Mommy

The post Lennox is 4! appeared first on Amy Davidson - Working Mom Blog.

I’m new to the Whole30 journey, but I’m not new to Ball® jars! We’ve had them in our home for many, many years and I am so excited to be incorporating them into my new healthy eating journey in the new year. I’ve been scouring the internet for recipes and couldn’t believe all the information I found, not only about Whole30, but all the tips and tricks people are using to
incorporate their journeys with Ball® jars, as well. I’ve found so many beautiful colors of food- different rainbows of colors making up delicious meals. I’m inspired to say the least.

To start my journey, I decided to eat as clean and organic as possible. I eat meat, but I wanted to eliminate it for a few days and so my first mason jar salad is all veggies and full of flavor! I’ve learned that the key to making mason jar salads is all in how you layer them. You have to be strategic so your salad stays fresh and won’t get soggy. Start with the dressing on the bottom and then work your way to the top with the heaviest ingredients first, to the lighter ingredients which will be on the top. TIP- Greens always go on the top so they don’t get soggy! I used a Quart-sized Ball® jar for my salad but the smaller 4oz Ball jars work well when you’re not as hungry.

Layer one – your dressing.

Layer two – hearty veggies that can stand up to being “marinated” in the dressing, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, etc.

Layer three – protein, such as eggs, chicken, cheese, and nuts, etc.

Layer four – your lettuce.

**Then, pour the contents of the Ball® jar into a bowl, and you have a perfectly balanced (and most likely colorful) salad!

I have to admit my salad was pretty amazing! I started with a green goddess dressing, then layered organic heirloom baby tomatoes, broccoli, corn, kale and then topped it off with sunflower seeds. I ate the entire salad and then went back for seconds!! Eating all these organic vegetables is helping me feel good from inside and out.

I have discovered so many amazing recipes, not just salads. Another favorite so far is a simple fruit parfait. I started with coconut yogurt from Cocoyo Pure which is Whole30 compliant, (most yogurts are not), then added strawberries, bananas, blueberries, raspberries and sprinkled some almonds and pistachios on top. I put it in the small Ball® jar because goodness knows I ate every last bite and if it was in the large jar I would’ve had a crazy stomach ache LOL! This was the perfect portion for me to enjoy a sweet treat in the middle of the day and not feel guilty!  I’m so excited for my Whole30 journey and thrilled to share it with all of you. Here’s to a healthy, happy new year!

And, BONUS…you can “Spin to win” for some great prizes!!! You could win Ball products like (4oz jars with plastic lids, pour-and-measure storage cups), a Whole30 cookbook, a $25 Athleta gift card, or a $10 Visa cards to be used at retailers to pick up Ball products! Click HERE! And good luck! So excited to share my journey with you all!

Happy New Year!

xoxo

Amy

A yummy, dairy-free sweet treat for you below that I’m loving!

I used coconut yogurt from Cocoyo Pure, then added strawberries, bananas, blueberries, raspberries and sprinkled some almonds and pistachios on top.

The post My BALL JAR AND WHOLE 30 JOURNEY🍓🍑🍋🥒🍆🍉 appeared first on Amy Davidson - Working Mom Blog.

Along with Lennox’s new furniture we wanted to create a new theme for his bedroom, so we started looking at the children’s wall murals from minted. Y’all know I’m a huge minted fan! Lennox and I narrowed it down to two choices- a cactus theme which y’all know is my favorite LOL, and a beautiful space theme. I did not persuade Lennox at all, I swear! He chose the cactus them all by himself! He’s obsessed with his new room. I’M obsessed with his new room! Any sadness that I had of leaving his nautical themed nursery behind has been softened by the beautiful artwork of this mural. Just another reason I love minted! Cynthia helped me pick the color palette, decide on the furniture, placement of the wall murals and of course all the amazing finishing touches. She knew I wanted live plants in his bedroom and thought of these beautiful terrariums hanging from his ceiling. Thank you, Cynthia and minted! Lennox’s bedroom is my new favorite room in the house!

Here are a few other fun children’s murals that we loved!

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It is the most wonderful time of year, back-to-school season! I know we’re all making a list and checking it twice as we prepare for another fun year of learning and with that said, I wanted to share some exciting news. Paper Mate® has recently teamed with Box Tops for Education as the only line writing utensils that supports the program and since Lennox is learning to write, (OMG) I feel compelled as a MOM to help raise awareness! 

Being the daughter of educators has always been something I amincredibly proud of. My mom, dad and step mom spent their careers devoted to educating children long before I was born. I still love hearing stories of when they started teaching on the Indian reservation in Arizona and the little ones that impacted their lives. My mom still remembers some of their names! These kids were the introduction to my parent’s lifelong path of nurturing young minds. 

Some of my fondest memories growing up were helping my mom prepare her classroom for the new school year, and going shopping for all the supplies she needed for the room. I also loved spending summer days at my dad’s school helping out and volunteering in the kindergarten classes. My dad worked as a principal in several low-income neighborhoods throughout his career, followed by being an assistant superintendent of that same school district. He was very successful at turning failing schools into successful ones, one of which he did alongside my step mom. My mom taught middle school for over 30 years (good lord!) and managed to make 7th and 8th grade English fun for her students. She was definitely the teacher you wanted to have! 

I learned so much from all three of them about what it takes to not only teach children and run schools, but what also happens on the other side. For instance, I was privy to conversations  between my dad and step mom about school funding (and/or the lack thereof) because their school’s progress and success was always a topic of conversation. My mom shared with me that when we went school supply shopping for her classroom that was out of pocket money she spent. I had no idea at the time, but it makes sense to me now! I just spoke to my parents and they said they remember when Box Tops for Education started in 1996 and was only on Big G cereals, such as Cheerios, Total and Lucky Charms. They helped raise money and people invest in their local schools by purchases of consumer goods. Because it was so successful it expanded across the U.S and has earned over $868 million dollars for our U.S. schools. My dad and step mom shared how the PTA valued the incentive the program brought to schools which helped pay for supplies, athletic equipment and simply fill in the gaps the school was in need of. Being that my dad worked in low income schools, he stated that any and all incentive programs were incredibly important to the success of the school. Without proper funding it makes it very difficult for schools to succeed in that was always his number one priority. 

How it Works

Up until recently, individuals would physically clip the box tops of their products which they would then give to their local schools. Starting this summer, Box Tops for Education has rolled out a new digital format where consumers can easily scan the receipts of the items purchased to submit by downloading their app. Consumers will then be prompted to register and select a school, and then scan an eligible receipt containing Box Tops products. Schools will earn 10 cents for each Box Tops product purchased plus extra earnings for any Bonus Box Tops opportunities.

So as we quickly approach back-to-school season, I would love to encourage you and your families to join me and to take the #PaperMatePledge! When you go shopping for school supplies, know that Paper Mate® is going to give back to your local schools thru Box Tops for Education and you’re giving back by supporting the cause! Everybody wins!  

I am happy to be partnering with Paper Mate® on this post, however all thoughts are my own. 

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