July 28, 2017 · 11:56 am

Part 2 of our Kitchen Transformation

If you have not seen Part 1 of our Kitchen Transformation click HERE.  You can also see our video constructions updates for a more in-depth, up close and personal look at everything, including the lessons we learned along the way.

So, the was the first piece of quartz installed. Sorry for the poor lighting, they still had not installed all the lights at this point. Also, outside the kitchen window is a temporary storage shed that will be moved, once we can move our stuff back in.

There will be a false drawer front that matches the cabinets surrounding the farmhouse sink. It is still being made in the factory, but we will show you what a difference it makes when installed. Again, the shed in the back is just temporary.

That is my plumber checking out the island top. I noticed after they left it was not even so they had to come back and redo that and the sink. Fun times.

The opening for the cooktop is cut on site. They bring in a fan that sucks out the dust and through an attached large tunnel tube it is blown outside. They also have a vacuum running.

Once the sinks had set, the faucets were installed along with the dishwasher and cooktop. We also installed the 3 pendant lights over the island and the one over the sink.  Then, the rest of the cabinets could be installed.

We need to get the crown molding installed on top of the cabinets and most of the interior cabinet lighting as well as the under cabinet and upper cabinet lighting. The cabinets still need to be aligned and the hardware installed. My biggest problem is, I cannot find a backsplash tile I like. Hope to do that this weekend. We have some more work to do but we have come a long way.


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· 2:00 am

Our Kitchen Transformation

So, if you don’t follow us on YouTube you might have missed all the construction updates on our house. If you would like to catch up, you can go to the Construction Update Playlist. In those videos, I share all the goofs, mishaps, mistakes and problems we encountered along the way. Here are some photos to show you where we started and how far we have come.

This was the kitchen before as is, it was a mess when I took these photos because we were in the middle of moving out.

This was during the demo of the kitchen, after the tile floor was removed.

The soffits were coming down, so they had to rip them out. We found a surprise under them.

That pipe near the window was our surprise. At first they thought it was a waste line from the upstairs bathroom that could not be moved, but they found out it was not, and we were able to move it!

Some new electric lines were installed and then they started putting the new insulation in. The recessed lighting also was moved.

Next, the sheet rock was put up and spackled.

Then they had to paint. They installed Hardibacker Board in preparation for the tile.

Next the tile floors needed to go in.

After the tile was in and grouted, our Wood-Mode Cabinets were delivered.

We protected our floors with a Red Rosin paper that is used as an underlayment for wood flooring

There were a lot of cabinets, moldings and trim delivered.

These were the first cabinets installed.

The new ovens were ready to be installed.

 

We had to wait to install the upper cabinets on the other side until the template was done for the quartz countertops because the cabinet in the corner sits on the countertop.

That is the end of this update, be sure to check out Part 2 of our Kitchen Transformation and Picking out our backsplash.  If you want to see more check out our YouTube Construction Update Videos.


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July 25, 2017 · 8:38 pm

How to Choose a Bathroom Faucet

We are almost ready for our bathroom renovation reveals. When renovating and remodeling, there are so many decisions that need to be made, we talked about choosing the toilet, WASHLET and vanity for the bathroom, but I did not mention the faucet yet. When choosing a faucet there are several things you need to consider.

Faucet Type

First off, if you are updating and keeping the same vanity top and vanity, you are limited to what you can choose. You cannot install a single handle faucet if you have widespread faucet. Well, you can but it will have to have a plate that covers the other holes so you won’t have the same look. If you are starting from scratch, you have all the options you want. I chose a single handle faucet because I like the sleek look and find them easier to clean.

Sink Type

The type of sink you have is also a factor, if you have a vessel sink, make sure you choose a faucet that will work with it. The type of mount and gallons per minute are other things to keep in mind when choosing your faucet.

 

Finish

The next choice is the finish. Again, if you are not starting from scratch, you need to consider the colors of the other fixtures in the bathroom. We had a clean slate to work with so I went with the brushed nickel.

Style

Next, the hardest part. What style faucet do you want? There are so many styles to choose from! We could not believe all the choices we had in front of us when we were checking out TOTO USA’s website for a bathroom faucet. With so many great styles to choose from, it was hard to decide. In the end, we went with something traditional and elegant. We choose the Guinevere faucet and just had it installed. It is absolutely beautiful.

About Our Faucet

Guinevere as we call her, is more than beautiful, she has a durable brass construction with a ceramic disc cartridge. She has a WaterSense Approved Low-Flow of 1.5 gpm. Guinevere comes in three fabulous finishes: polished chrome, polished nickel and brushed nickel. A metal pop up drain is included.

Our plumber told me that he was very impressed with the faucet. I laughed and told him to handle her carefully and that her name was Guinevere. We both had a good laugh on that, but we still call her by her name. The faucet and pop up drain were easy for him to install without any issues. Guinevere works flawlessly. I will show you how well in a video as soon as we do the reveal.

If you are looking for a new faucet check out TOTO USA. You can also follow them on Social media on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube to see more of their products and here the latest news.

Stay tuned, and subscribe to our newsletter and social media channels so you don’t miss the reveals. Let me know what you think of our choice.


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July 24, 2017 · 2:02 am

Caregiver Basket Tutorial

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ConquerInco #CollectiveBias

Being a caregiver for a loved one is not easy, especially when it is a family member we are close to. After my mother passed away suddenly, I became a caregiver for my father. My father passed away 364 days after my mother. In those days there were many emotions that surrounded me, my own grief, my father’s grief and my children’s grief. Even though, it was a sad time, we still were able to do things together like go out to dinner, visit with friends and family, travel during the holidays and more. Those special times created many precious memories we treasure today.

My father never lost his love of cooking for his family, and he liked to get out and shop for the things he needed with me. One of his favorite stores was Sam’s Club. Sam’s Club made it easy for us to get everything we needed including all the caregiving needs for my dad.

Today, I have several close friends and relatives who are acting as caregivers for aging or sick parents.  I know they too, appreciate being able to have a one stop store like Sam’s Club where they can get all their essentials along with the caregiving supplies they need. Sam’s Club Members Mark Total Protection products like their adjustable briefs for men and women are the perfect choice to help your loved ones carry on doing the things they love, without losing their self-confidence. Total Protection briefs help them #conquerinco with quality and performance that is just as good if not better than the more expensive brands.

Loaded with features like adjustable side panels for a secure fit, these briefs quickly wick moisture into a super absorbent core for superior dryness. The odor guard technology gives wearers confidence to get out and do the things they want without fear. This is a great thing, because everyone should enjoy, every moment, doing the things they love for as long as possible. This means more fun times making cherished memories together.

Members Mark Total Protection products are located near the pharmacy department of  your local Sam’s Club. The large packs are affordably priced, giving you the great value and superior quality that Sam’s Club members like myself depend on.

Thinking about my friend, I decided that making a caregiver basket would be a really good thing. Many times as caregivers, we focus so much on the needs of others, we can forget to take care of ourselves. I wanted to make sure my basket would include things to help caregivers replenish their energy and hydrate their bodies so they can be the best they can be for their loved ones.

 

Below you can see a video tutorial for creating a caregiver basket. If you know someone who is caring for a loved one, why not make them up a similar basket to let them know you care about them.

 

I packed everything in a medium size plastic bin but you can use any kind of container that will fit the contents. Don’t stress too much over making it perfect, because the thought will mean the most to them.

What do you think about this basket? Do you think it is something a caregiver would appreciate?  Have you ever been a caregiver to someone. Let me know in the comments.


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July 18, 2017 · 2:41 pm

Best Kitchen Renovation Tips Revealed by the Experts

This is a sponsored guest post that may or may not represent the views of Mommy Ramblings.

There are all kinds of renovations you can do in your home, but few have as much impact as a kitchen renovation. With that said there is a lot to consider when you are planning the renovation, going through the design process, and picking your materials. In order to ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed during the process, here’s a look at some of the best kitchen renovation tips from the experts themselves.

Make Sure the Design Stage Gets Enough Attention

While it’s easy to jump ahead and start envisioning what your perfect kitchen will look like, it’s important not to get too far ahead of yourself. Perhaps the most important step in the renovation process is actually the development of the design.

Ideally you want to hire a kitchen designer who will work with you through this stage. This is even more important if you plan on changing the configuration of your kitchen. You want to be sure the design is well thought out, flows, and makes sense. This is also the time you will be discussing the budget. Sure it would be great to design a kitchen without any concern for the costs, but that’s probably not reality. The designer should be made aware of your budget right from the start so it fits your needs.

As a side tip you may find it helpful to go through various design magazines that showcase kitchens before you meet with the designer. You want to be able to share your thoughts on the configuration, size, color scheme, materials, etc. Showing the designer pictures will help create an idea in their mind.

Picking Your Materials

For many homeowners the most exciting part about a kitchen renovation is getting to pick their materials. This is typically the area that also seems to have the most “opinions” involved. Designers can help you through this process as well, especially when it comes to sticking to the budget.

The designer and contractor can discuss what materials will work best for your needs and what will work with the design. Some of the items you’ll be picking include appliances, countertops, backsplash, cabinets, lighting, paint color, flooring, etc. If possible, it’s always handy to find a place that allows you to take samples home to try them in the space. It also gives you a chance to see how all the different materials work together.

Beautiful custom kitchens are built around materials and designs that not only look great, but also work well for that client’s needs.

Understanding the Timeline

The last process or step is to get an idea of the timeline. Obviously once you decide you want to go ahead with a renovation project you want to hurry up and get it done, but that isn’t usually possible. In general the typical timeline is anywhere from four to six months if you’re talking about a complete demolition job. Obviously this can be shorter or longer depending on the job, the materials chosen, and the construction crew.


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July 13, 2017 · 8:56 pm

How to Talk to Your Kids About the Importance of Mental Health

This is a sponsored guest post, that may or may not express the views of Mommy Ramblings.

Years ago, mental health was more of a taboo subject, and people were more likely to hide their struggles.

Thankfully, we’ve come a long way as a society. Most people now understand that mental illness isn’t much different from physical illness. The brain is a muscle that we must nurture and exercise in order to avoid issues. Now for explaining this all to your kids…

Why it’s important to discuss mental health

According to data from the CDC, suicide rates are on a steady incline for the first time in over three decades, and one of the most concerning demographic group is girls between the ages of 10 and 14.

To be honest, no one is really sure why suicide rates have increased so drastically in this group, but one theory has to do with puberty.

If you have a teenager, you are intimately familiar with the way hormones can impact your child’s mood. And there’s a ton of research that links puberty with depression in both boys and girls.

To say the least, it’s a precarious time for the child and parent.

Opening the discussion of mental health can let your child know that it’s ok to feel down sometimes, but it’s also important to talk about your feelings.

 More consequences of mental health issues

Suicide is a terrifying consequence of mental health issues, but it’s not the only one. Teens who struggle with anxiety and depression are more likely to experiment with drugs in an attempt to self-medicate. Not only is this a problem for teens, but it can lead to bigger issues in adulthood. No less than 90 percent of all adult addicts in the U.S. started smoking, drinking, and/or using drugs under the age of 18.

Tips for talking to your kids about mental health

  1. Start with the basics – Talk to your kids about mental health as it relates to overall health. Let them know that it’s as important to be mentally healthy as it is to be physically healthy, and there’s no shame in having mental health struggles.
  2. Have compassion for others and for yourself – If someone is or seems to be struggling with mental health, try not to take it personally or react in anger. Their actions are not this person’s fault any more than they are your fault. Have compassion. Treat this person with kindness to the best of your ability. The same applies to yourself. If you find that you’re struggling with mental health issues, show yourself some compassion. Try not to be hard on yourself.
  3. Talk about your feelings – If you notice you’re having a lot of negative feelings that you cannot control, don’t be afraid to get help. Let your kids know that they can talk to you about anything. If they don’t feel comfortable talking with you, let them know that you can make a counselor available to them. The important part is to talk to someone.

The topic of mental health should never be taboo – and your children should always know this. They should always feel comfortable talking to you about how they are feeling. And this is more likely to happen when you open the dialog. For more tips, check out this Parents Guide: How To Help Your Team Cope With Mental Health Issues. Let me know what you think, and if you have any tips to share, leave them in the comments.


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July 12, 2017 · 12:21 am

Isn’t it time you took a #SummerCakeBreak?

I love summer, it is my favorite month. My kids are out of school, the weather is warm and we can enjoy these days making memories to cherish forever. Did you know July is National Ice Cream Month? It is, and what better way to celebrate summer than with ice cream? Better yet, let’s really celebrate with an ice cream cake.

Carvel Ice Cream Cakes were the cake we celebrated every birthday and special occasion with in my house growing up. I have so many great memories of my birthday parties with my school friends gathered around the table for ice cream cake. I continued that tradition in my own family, and my kids are sure glad I did.

When I was growing up we went to the Carvel store in the next town to get the cake, but today they are available at most major grocery stores like Shop Rite and Walmart.

Most of you know that our house is under a huge renovation and our kitchen is halfway done. Our lives have been in a great upheaval for several months, so we are trying to do things fun for the kids. This past Fourth of July weekend, I thought I would pick up a Carvel Family Size Ice Cream Cake when I was shopping in Walmart and have a nice treat with the family. My littlest ones could not wait, as soon as they knew I had that big Carvel Ice Cream Cake in the freezer, they started asking non-stop when we could eat it.

So, we set up a table outside and had an ice cream cake party to celebrate Independence Day. We let freedom ring with a scream for ice cream cake. With my house under construction and most of my things in storage, I did not have a lot to decorate with, but we did our best. I picked up some red star plates, some flag napkins, a flag tablecloth and a theme cowbell that I really like. The kids did not need a lot of fanfare, normally I would decorate the actual cake with my stash of cake decorating items, but they are in storage. Nevertheless, the kids did not mind and neither did the adults.

 

What about you? Isn’t it time for a #SummerCakeBreak? 

This is a sponsored post as a blogger working with Collectively Inc. As always my words and views are 100% my own.


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July 7, 2017 · 6:26 pm

Discover “Destination” Fun at Darien Lake

How is your summer going? We are in the middle of an entire home renovation. Thankfully, we live on a lake so afternoon swims happen daily when the weather is good. We have some small trips lined up for August when things should be mostly completed. Other than that, we are taking day trips and doing what we can, without totally coming unhinged.

Darien Lake is one of the places we are going as a family this summer. Their wide range of entertainment has made it “destination fun” since 1964. That is longer than I have been alive! Darien Lake is located just 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, N.Y.

Today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including six world-class roller coasters, dozens of family friendly rides, the regions largest water park complete with a wave pool and 20,000-seat performing arts center. Everything is operated by Live Nation; and  world-class in-park entertainment.

The Viper is celebrating its 35th year at Darien Lake. Okay, I am older than the Viper, but not anywhere near as old as Darien Lake.

Click HERE to schedule your visit today! Have you ever been to Darien Lake? I would love to hear about your experience in the comments.

This is a sponsored post, as always my words and views are 100% my own.


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July 2, 2017 · 1:47 am

A Stork’s Journey Available on DVD July 4th! Giveaway Added!!!

Have a fun, family movie night with A Stork’s Journey from Lionsgate with your family, available July 4th!

Get ready to soar on this grand adventure, featuring the vocal talent of Drake Bell, Justine Ezarik and Jane Lynch.

Watch The Trailer Below:

  

A Stork’s Journey follows Richard, a sparrow orphaned at birth and raised by storks who believes that he is a stork, too! But when winter comes and the storks prepare to migrate to Africa, his stork family must reveal his true identity and leave him behind in the forest with the other sparrows since he would not survive the long journey. Determined to prove he is a stork after all, Richard ventures south on an epic adventure, accompanied by friends big and small, to unleash his true potential and be reunited with his family.

This family-friendly, feature-length animated adventure will be available on DVD, Digital HD, and On Demand on July 4th! The Dove Foundation awarded A Stork’s Journey with 5 Dove’s, their best rating, “due to it’s originality and fun storytelling,” The film is Dove “Family-Approved” for all-ages and is “entertaining and fun for the entire family.”

DVD/Digital HD Special Features

“Giving the Characters a Voice: At the Recording Studio with Drake Bell, Justine ‘iJustine’ Ezarik and Jane Lynch” Featurette

PROGRAM INFORMATION
Type: Home Entertainment Premiere
Rating: PG for some mild peril
Genre: Family
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Feature Run Time: 84 minutes

Would you like a chance to win this DVD? If so, enter below.

Lionsgate is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings. One lucky blog reader will win their own  A Stork’s Journey on DVD! Thank you to Lionsgate for the review DVD and for sponsoring this fantastic giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!! Open to US residents.

A Stork’s Journey on DVD Giveaway on Mommy Ramblings Rules:

Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Good Luck!!!

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June 30, 2017 · 12:45 am

Simple Steps To Make Buying A Car Easier

This is a sponsored post for Cars.com. As always, my words and opinions are 100% my own.

When you are shopping for a new or used car, the process can be daunting. Everywhere you look you will find different information. All of it can leave your head spinning and wondering what to believe. I understand the frustration, so I want to help by giving you some simple steps to follow to find the right car for you.

First things first, do your research. If there is a car you want, check out and learn everything about it. One resource that I like is Cars.com, it has a wealth of information that will let you do your due diligence and make an informed purchase. They even have a Video & Reviews feature where you can see extensive reviews for all different makes and models of vehicles.

Don’t worry that you will be seeing some bogus reviews, they shoot straight and you will see the good with the bad. They are not going to hide bad reviews, performance records or anything else. This is one of the reason, you should check their site out. So dive in and do your research, the more information you have, the better decision you will make and not have buyer’s remorse. What you will have, is the best car for you at the best price. That will make you and your wallet feel great!

Don’t get stuck going to just one dealer. I know there are mega dealers that have huge inventories of many makes and models of vehicles, but that does not mean their prices are the best. Try checking out other dealers for the kind of car you want, this will help you get a baseline price. With that in mind you can easily get the best price, because you know what you should be paying.

If you are shopping for a used car, checking out different dealers is a must. One of the most important things to take into consideration is the mileage. The higher the miles, the more wear and tear the car has, and that affects the price. Don’t try to guess the value of a used car based on the mileage, because that is not reliable. Visit a few different dealerships to price similar used cars, this will arm you with the knowledge you need to show the salesperson you are informed and ultimately get you the best price.

Don’t rush, I know you may be chomping at the bit to get your car, but take your time and do your research. There are so many types of cars available with different features that making a rush decision will probably leave you with regret. When you finally make your decision, it is one you should feel right about. A car is not something you are going to buy every day, so make sure it is what you really want and need.

Enjoy the journey and follow these simple steps to find the right car for you at the best price. A little research goes a long way, especially when you are shopping for a car. When you break it down into steps the process does not seem so stressful or complicated. Knowledge really is power,  the power to put you in the driver’s seat when negotiating a deal and driving your car off the lot.


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