Changing Focus

I went on a walk today.

I wasn't looking for anything particular, just needed some fresh air.

I saw a flower growing in some rocks and it felt familiar.

"Bloom where you're planted."

I snapped a pic with my phone and kept walking.

I was bummed when I saw that it's out of focus though.

Nice clear rocks, fuzzy flower.

Typical!


Then it hit me:

"You're focusing on the wrong things."

LITERALLY.

I started blogging to find and to share inspiration.

I feel like sometimes I'm successful but mostly

I think I'm trying hard to be like other people.
I stopped blogging because it's stressing me out.


THE FANTASY:

"Look how cute my house is because of my incredible DIY talents!"

MY REALITY:

My house is usually a mess. I work full time and just want to veg out when I get home, not scrub toilets or make planters out of toilets.


THE FANTASY:

"Every meal I make is a picture-perfect masterpiece that my whole family loves!"

MY REALITY:

I hate making dinner. It takes hours of work for 10 minutes of eating and it rarely pleases everyone.


THE FANTASY:

"Look how skinny I am because of my herculean efforts to change my life!"

MY REALITY:

I'm tired. I want to sleep. And I ate potato chips for lunch yesterday.


THE FANTASY:

"Watching my little ones grow is so inspiring!"
MY REALITY:
I have 3 teenage boys. And sometimes they smell. But I love them.


My reality means trying to juggle work and kids and church callings and family outings and doctor appointments and panic attacks and allergy season. I feel like I don't have time to blog because it takes so much time. But I think I'm focusing on, and therefore blogging about, the wrong things.

So instead of just "tp tube crafts" and "cheesecake recipe" posts, you're going to be seeing more
"I survived a social engagement" and "Well, that didn't work" posts.


If that's your reality too, let's enjoy this ride together.

YAY, life!

Kid Craft: Baby Owls

How cute are these little big-eyed babies?! I love them!

This simple Baby Owl Craft is an easy way to add a touch of autumn to your home.

Here’s a list of supplies you’ll need,

most of which are probably in your house right now!

– cardboard tubes (empty toilet paper rolls to be exact)

– cupcake liners (just 2 per owl). Wilton has some fresh and unique designs!

– scrap paper (not much; just enough for the eyes and beak)

– scissors (again for the eyes and beak)

– a hot glue gun (good old Elmer’s glue works too, just not as quickly)

1- Start by folding in the top of the tube.

2- Add a drop of glue to one side to keep your fold in place.

3- Fold 1 cupcake liner in half.

4- Glue it to the back of the tube to create the wings.

5- For outstretched wings, cut a cupcake liner in half.

6- Glue each half on the back of the tube at a slight angle.

7- Cut another cupcake liner into thirds. Trim off the flat base so only the ruffles remain.

8- Glue each ruffle, starting at the bottom of the tube, to cover the tube with “feathers”.  Add eyes and a beak and Viola!

Happy Fall, y’all!

This was originally posted on East Valley Mom Guide.

 

Always at Surprise at D.I.'s

Deseret Industries is both a nonprofit, vocational rehabilitation facility as well as a thrift store.

You never know what you’ll find at DI — each store has a large selection that is restocked every day.

Go often for the best selection!

 

We saw lots of families getting the most bang for their buck for the new school year!

The Deseret Industries is a great back to school destination: they have a wide variety of new and like-new children’s clothes (including designer brands), backpacks shoes and more. You can easily put together an entire outfit for under $10.

SWEET!!

   

We love the ease of their donation drop-off, too!

If your children have clothes and/or other items they’ve outgrown, consider donating them to Deseret Industries. Donations are tax deductible and help your community by providing job training for associates. Donated items can find new life with other families, like mine!

 

The LDS Employment services are on-site to help job seekers find the perfect place for their talents.

They have connections in various areas of industry. Easiest job search ever!

 

The Stud joined me to shop around and we had so much fun!

It's like a scavenger hunt for the best deals and coolest products!

We picked up a couple of 'new' board games for our weekly family night.

(This one only cost $1 and it's already a family favorite!)

 

And some speakers for blasting killer tunes for Saturday morning chores.

I even got myself some T-FAL pots and pans that cook like a dream!

 

They're clean, friendly, organized and affordable. That's my kind of store!

I'm SO glad we went to DI's!

Visit their newest Valley location at 6825 W Bell Rd, Glendale, AZ 85308.

To find a location near you and check out the DI’s donation guidelines, please visit deseretindustries.org

 

Happy hunting, my friends!

Stowaway Love

My friend Courtney has released a new scenic music video called “STOWAWAY” and you have to see it!

 

Phoenix, AZ singer-songwriter, Courtney Cotter King, released a single and music video today, Friday, July 1st, 2016, entitled "Stowaway". It is available on Youtube, iTunes, other distributor outlets and on www.courtneycotterking.com. Be the front line of this news-worthy release!

Have you ever had a past love return to your thoughts? Anyone who has experienced a parting of ways with someone they once loved, understands that walking away doesn’t necessarily mean their past love has disappeared from thought. This strongly symbolic song tells the tale of a “stowaway” who’s hidden as a passenger in this woman’s mind, and as much as she’s trying to sail away to be free of him, he won’t leave. Make sure to watch the artistic video, shot on a desert oasis lake, to find out what happens!

Courtney Cotter King was born with a piano as an appendage, and is inevitably attached to the keys. A raw talent, with smooth vocals and lyrics beyond her years, Courtney commands a room with merit for listening. Courtney’s artistry at the piano drives her songs with a compliment of strings and agile vocals that shoot straight to the soul in a masterful blend of indie and jazz influences.

Her other works include; Fervor Records release "Rooftops" in November 2013, independently released “Home I Roam” in 2011 and her single dedicated to parents of children with special needs, "For the Better" on May 5th, 2015.

Courtney is available for interviews. Please contact through the following:

Courtney Cotter King Management

courtneycotterking@gmail.com

@courtneycotterking

480-200-0602

Web:

www.courtneycotterking.com

Song Samples:

https://soundcloud.com/courtneycotterking

iTunes Link:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rooftops/id709841012

Press links:

http://azmusicmatters.com/tag/courtney-cotter-king/

http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/uponsun/2014/05/5_songs_from_phoenix_bands_you_should_hear.php?page=5

http://valleyhype.com/courtney-cotter-king-debuts-stand-rain-music-video/

Let me know what you think!

  

3 Reasons YOU Need Desert Storage

 

3 Reasons Arizona Moms Need a Storage Unit

 

Between getting the kids ready, navigating a career, and trying to find a moment to relax, it can be especially hectic for you as a mom. So why not simplify your life by investing in a storage unit?

A storage unit may not be the first solution that comes to mind, but it should be! We’ve seen moms from across Arizona choose Desert Storage for the following three reasons:

 

1 - They want to simplify their morning.

You can use a storage unit to streamline your morning routine. Clear clutter in the kitchen by relocating the kitchen tools you may not necessarily use for the family. Things like a fondue set or espresso machine can be stored away today and returned to the kitchen later (when the kids have grown and left). Minimize the toys that take over your living room, store seasonal clothes or nudge your husband to finally relocate his recreation vehicles.

 

2 - They want to grow their family.

If you and your significant other plan to have another child (but aren’t interested in buying a bigger home), a storage unit can support your family through the transition. You can easily make room for a nursery by clearing out a guest bedroom or home office and keeping the items in storage.

Or maybe you don’t want another baby right now, but also aren’t ready to give away the baby clothes and toys. You can keep these items safe and easy to access by storing them in your storage unit.

3 - They want to renovate the house.

Renovating your home can be a stressful process, especially when you have a family. You may be wondering, “Where will I keep furniture and my family’s things while I rehab?” The answer is storing it in a climate-controlled unit. Keep bulky items and fragile possessions safe and out-of-the-way by temporarily relocating them to your storage unit while you renovate.

Ready to use storage for your family?

If you’re interested in simplifying life with a storage unit, you can start by finding out how much space you would need. Use our space estimator tool and don’t worry if you over or under estimate. Our flexible month-to-month leasing makes it easy to upgrade or downgrade at anytime without breaking a contract.

Have any other questions? You can use our contact page or visit one of our 11 facilities in Scottsdale, Glendale, Cave Creek and Peoria to speak to a friendly, storage expert. Check our Facebook and Twitter pages often for tips and info.

What will YOU store at Desert Storage?

5 Ways to Save with the AZ Pogo Pass this Summer

My family had a blast this past year with POGO Pass! Here are some great ways you can play:

1 -Sunsplash! We all need a way to cool down this summer and Sunsplash is the perfect way to do it! Every Pogo Pass holder receives one FREE admission to Sunsplash Water Park which is a $30 value for adults and $20 for kids. Go to Sunsplash and one other Pogo Pass venue, and the pass has already paid for itself ($40 with discount) making everything else FREE!

2 - Indoor Fun! Check out all the indoor venues that will keep you and your kids having fun and out of the sweltering heat. Go skating at Skateland for free every month, or do some laser tag, climb the rock wall at the Play Factory, or create crafts at the IDEA Museum. You won’t run out of air conditioned venues this summer with your Pogo Pass. 

3 - Date Nights! The kids shouldn’t be the only ones having fun this summer! Get out of the house with your spouse and have some FREE fun with the Pogo Pass. Skip the usual movie and go rock climbing for FREE at the Phoenix Rock Gym, enjoy some fun competition with a game of paintball, or have a blast riding rides at Castles N’ Coasters.  

4 - Birthdays! Do you have any summer birthdays? Want to treat your kids and visit a fun place on their special day? Use the Pogo Pass and get in free at Makutu’s Island or Enchanted Island.  Maybe they’d like to do bowling or glow golf for their birthday activity. There are so many options that are sure to please any child.

5 - 12 Months of Fun! Even when the summer has ended, your Pogo Pass is good for 12 months from purchase, and can be used to have fun all year! You can look forward to Diamondbacks Games, trips to the Phoenix Zoo and much more, and it’s all FREE with your Pogo Pass! Each pass has over $1000 value and you can get yours for only $40 with promo code AZBLOSSOM

PogoPass Quick Facts

*One Pogo Pass per person and is not transferable (each is personalized with name)

*Pogo Passes are good for 12 months from purchase date

*Passes are recommended for ages 2 and older as that is when most venues begin charging admission.

*Once purchased online, your Pogo Pass is available to use immediately.

*To use your pass, just log into your account and bring up your pass on smart phone or print off pass and show at venue and they will scan it. Some venues require pre-registration.

* All admissions are FREE, not discounted, FREE!

The AZ Pogo Pass currently offers:

Castles N’ Coasters- 1 visit

Diamondbacks- 2 games

AZ Rattlers- 3 games

Air Time Jump Centers- 2 visits

Idea Museum- 2 visits

Makutu’s Island- 2 visits

Skateland- 2 visits/month

Stratum Laser Tag- 2 visits

Enchanted Island- 4 visits

Sunsplash- 1 visit

Fat Cats- 1 Game Glow Golf/week, 1 Game Bowling/month  

Phoenix Zoo- 2 visits

The Play Factory- 3 visits

Phoenix Rock Gym- 2 visits

Tempe Paintball- 1 visit/month

Phoenix Mercury- 3 games

Sun Devil Athletics- Multiple Sports

Each Pogo Pass is valued at over $1000!

Get yours for ONLY $40 with promo code AZBLOSSOM. 

Out West Balloon Fest GIVEAWAY

***** GIVEAWAY CLOSED *****

The West Valley is the place to be this weekend for

The 2nd Annual Out West Balloon Fest!

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday you and your family can enjoy an up close experience with these beautiful hot air balloons. My family went last year and loved it!

The weather is perfect to watch a Morning Launch or

take in an evening filled with the soft lights of the Balloon Glow.

There's food and fun for the whole family and YOU can join the fun FOR FREE!

Enter to win

a Family Four Pack

of tickets to the event of your choice

(see schedule of events HERE)! 

THERE ARE 2 WAYS TO ENTER:

1 - Follow me on Instagram and comment about this giveaway.

2 - Like my Facebook page and comment about this giveaway.

(If you already like/follow, just leave a comment to let me know.=)

  

There will be 2 winners so tell your friends!

LET'S PLAY at THE OUT WEST BALLOON FEST!

2nd Annual Out West Balloon Fest

Out West Balloon Fest and Fun Run

Takes Flight March 4, 5 & 6

 

50 hot air balloons will decorate the sky at the 2nd annual Out West Balloon Fest and Fun Run, Featuring the G1GABLAST Fun Run benefiting Cox Charities at the University of Phoenix in Glendale, Ariz. on March, 4, 5 and 6 2016.

 

This event will be the largest balloon race in Arizona where pilots will be competing for the Arizona State Champion title.

 

Spectators will witness the launch and landing of the most beautiful vehicles in the sky and partake in a weekend full of special activities to keep the whole family entertained.

 

“It not only generates a competitive edge for our balloon pilots, but it’s a magnificent site to see by spectators,” said Vanessa Clifton, owner of Aerial Solutions, LLC, event operators for the Out West Balloon Fest.

 

This year, the stadium will not only allow spectators to watch balloons launch each morning, but will also be able to watch them fly toward the spectator field and watch them glow on Friday and Saturday evenings.

 

After each morning mass ascension, the Prescott Regulators and their Shady Ladies will be putting on one of the best gunfighter shows in the Southwest. Other activities include tethered balloon rides, a kids zone, a 5k Fun Run (Saturday morning only), live music and much more.

 

Fun Run

 

The G1GABLAST Fun Run benefiting Cox Charities is happening Saturday, March 5. Runners will be following a course that will wrap around University of Phoenix Stadium. As they run they will have the unique opportunity to watch balloons launch into the sky and cheer them on from above. Each runner will have a chance to race across the one and only hot air balloon finish line in Arizona.

 

The day of the event, race packet pick up will be from 6 – 6:45 a.m. The run will start promptly at 7 a.m. and the balloons will launch shortly after.

 

Runners can register at outwestballoonfest.com. Registration is $30 and includes a t-shirt, racing bib, a medal and admission to the Out West Balloon Fest Glow on Saturday night, March 5.

 

All proceeds from the Fun Run will benefit Cox Charities. Cox Charities will also be raffling off an iPad Pro to a lucky runner. Winner does not need to be present to win.

 

Balloon Glows

 

On Friday and Saturday evening, bring the family out and enjoy special activities including live entertainment, music, a special kids zone and of course more than 30 balloons on the ground lighting up the night.

 

Bring your appetite because on the ground attendees will find dozens of food and novelty vendors, wine and craft beer tastings and opportunities to mingle with the balloon pilots.

 

Event Times

 

Friday                                      Saturday                                 Sunday

Morning:                                 Morning:                                 Morning:

5:30 a.m.: Gates Open         5:30 a.m.: Gates open                     5:30 a.m.: Gates open

6 a.m.: Dawn Patrol launch            6 a.m.: Dawn Patrol Launch            6 a.m.: Dawn Patrol launch

                                                Runner Packet Pick-up starts

7 a.m.: National Anthem    7a.m.: National Anthem     7 a.m.: National Anthem

Mass Ascension                   G1GABLAST Fun Run start   Mass Ascension

                                                7:10 a.m.: Mass Ascension

8 a.m.:Music, Kidszone       8 a.m. Music, Kidszone       8 a.m.: Music, Kidszone

Food, vendors                                   Food, Vendors                                  Food, Vendors

9 a.m.: Prescott Regulators            9 a.m.: Prescott Regulators            9 a.m.: Prescott Regulators

And their Shady Ladies       and their Shady Ladies       and their Shady Ladies

11 a.m.: Gates Close                        11 a.m.: Gates Close                        10 a.m.: Pilot Award

                                                                                                Ceremony, Arizona

                                                                                                State Champion named

                                                                                                11 a.m.: Gates Close

Evening:                                  Evening:

4 p.m.: Gates Open              4 p.m.: Gates Open

Live music, Kidszone, Food            Live music, Kidszone, Food

Vendor Market                     Vendor Market

5 p.m.: Tethered Balloon    5 p.m.: Tethered Balloon

Rides                                      Rides

6:30 p.m.: Balloon Glow      6:30 p.m.: Balloon Glow

9 p.m.: Gates Close              9 p.m.: Gates Close

           

Gate Tickets

 

Morning: $10 adult, Kids 12 and under free

Evening: $15 adult, $7 child, kids 2 and under are free

 

If you purchase your tickets online before the event:

Morning: $7 adults, kids 12 and under free

Evening: $11 adult, $4 child.

 

Combo tickets for both the morning and evening event can be purchase for $15, adult and $4, child.

 

More information can be found at www.outwestballoonfest.com

 

*Events subject to change based on weather.

 

***Some activities require an additional fee. Please visit the website at www.outwestballoonfest.com for more information.

STAY TUNED FOR A FUN GIVEAWAY!!