MIlestones & More, the Play Kits That Grow With Your Little One!

 *DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Milestones & More for providing product samples in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own. 

Check out this fun new line of play kits from Milestones & More that grows with your little one:

Milestones & More play kits include carefully selected age-appropriate toys, bilingual books, and activities for you and your child to explore. You'll create memories together while building the foundational learning skills that will enable babies and toddlers to develop their early learning abilities. Included in the kits are a magazine, activity cards, a board book, a skill builder, a health and safety item, and a plush.

As your toddler gets older, they are using their growing language skills to tell you what’s on their mind. They are also building friendships with other children and showing affection to familiar adults. Their growing physical skills—walking, running, and climbing—help them explore the world in more adventurous ways. There is wonder in everything your toddler does at this age. So, get ready to explore with them!

What a fun box to share with your little one or to gift to someone you love!

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Disclosure: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Why Your New Build isn't Automatically Comfortable

 **Disclosure: This is a collaborative post. Links may be affiliate** 

 

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Moving into a new house feels amazing, right? Like, you’re walking through those rooms thinking about where the couch goes, what color to paint the walls, and how good your kitchen’s going to look once you finally unpack the blender. All of this is super exciting, especially for newly built houses, because you usually don’t have to worry about seasonal disasters like you usually do when it comes to older houses.

But even with all of that said, there’s still an issue here; it’s the comfort aspect of all of this. Yes, older houses are already known for sometimes not being that comfy, but yeah, it can technically happen to some older houses, too. While sure, that doesn’t immediately cross a person's mind, eventually that reality is going to set in. Maybe it's one specific room in the house that’s freezing, or one that feels like a sauna, or maybe you’re just struggling with the thermostat for some weird reason.

Just generally speaking, not all newly built homes are automatically comfortable, and, well, like any house, it’s a matter of trying to make it comfortable and figuring out how to do it ASAP because the extreme temperatures start happening outside.

It Might be the Filters

Most people don’t even think about the air filter, but it’s usually the first thing working against you. Builders often pop in the cheapest filter they can find, and if it’s been sitting through weeks of construction dust, basically, it’s already gross before you move in. How about that “new home smell”? 

Well, half of it is just drywall dust blowing through your vents. So you just need to swap it out right away. But really, a fresh filter does more for your comfort than that new throw blanket you just bought.

What’s the Thermostat Settings?

Well, to be more specific here, do you know the settings for your thermostat? Is it a smart thermostat? Well, a lot of new builds come with basic models that are fine, but not great. Sure, sometimes it’s a smart thermostat, sometimes not. But anyway, it might be a smart decision to look into upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat (one that’s actually easy on you). But looking into this keeps everyone a little happier and helps with the energy bill, too.

How’s the Airflow Looking?

New house, new ductwork… so everything should be perfect, right? Well, not always. Airflow can be tricky; sometimes you need to reach out to air conditioning and heating professionals, sometimes you don’t need to. It just depends on how your ducts are. 

But if the vents are placed so that one room gets blasted while another barely gets a breeze, then you obviously have a problem. The same goes for vents being placed in weird locations, like directly next to windows (because window treatments go over the windows). But it helps to just take a lap around the house, and see if there’s anything you can personally do about it (ideally before you put up furniture

BunBebes, Your Kiddo's New Bestie!

 *DISCLOSURE* Thank you to BunBebes for providing product samples in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own. 

Are your kiddos as obsessed with stuffies as mine are?  If so, BunBebes are sure to be a hit!

BunBebes is a collection of irresistibly adorable, limited-edition plushies designed to bring people of all ages closer to the magic of play and connection. Every BunBebes character is designed to spark play, creativity, and imagination. These delightfully round, soft-bodied friends are perfect for cuddling, tossing, or simply holding close when the world feels overwhelming. Crafted from fleece-like material for unmatched softness and baby-safe, they’re as soothing to hold as they are fun to collect. Kids can discover a digital universe with downloadable coloring pages to further connect with each BunBebes.

A fell in love with Zulos the Blue Dragon as soon as we opened our package.  Zulos is your wise and caring bestie, bringing balance, comfort, and protection wherever he goes. With his majestic blue fur, vibrant red spikes, and white horns, Zulos stands out as a symbol of strength and serenity.

Find your kiddo's new bestie at BunBebes!

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Disclosure: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Screen Free Family Fun with Puzzles of Color!

 *DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Puzzles of Color for providing product samples in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own. 

Check out one of our favorite new puzzle companies, Puzzles of Color:

Puzzles of Color is a black-owned family business deeply rooted in preserving and celebrating Black culture. Their puzzles, created in collaboration with artists of color, are a beautiful pastime, a connection to a rich heritage, and a celebration of shared identity.

“Summertime Collards” by Marcene Ogawa

Designed to spark imagination, with its fun details and calming colors, the Summertime Collards puzzle is perfect for little hands and big dreams. This colorful puzzle depicts a mother and daughter tending to their garden and is inspired by peaceful summer days. 

For families looking to reduce screen time and get everyone together for fun, there's something to capture everyone's interest. The puzzles are art worth displaying and conversation starters.

We loved putting together this puzzle!  It's gorgeous and fun for puzzlers both young and old!

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Disclosure: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Screen-Free Fun for the Whole Family with Popdarts!

 *DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Popdarts for providing product samples in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own. 

Check out one of our favorite new screen-free family fun activities...Popdarts!

Popdarts 

Price: $22.50+

Available on Amazon

The best-selling suction cup dart game that took social media by storm introduces Rookie! A line designed for even more fun, accessibility, and screen-free play for all ages. The Rookie Popdarts land almost every time, making them ideal for family and friends, game time, and indoor/outdoor entertainment this summer. Looking for an easy spot to play outside? Don’t forget about car hoods, patios, and, of course, the Popdarts board series!

The Popdarts® Rookie Pack is the perfect way to kickstart your Popdarts journey!

Whether you're learning the ropes, enjoying family game night, or having friendly battles with your friends & family, this pack is all about fun.

What's Inside: 📦

Game rules and easy how-to instructions.

6 Rookie Popdarts (2 sets of 3 darts for each team.)

1 Rookie Target Marker.

1 Carrying Bag (complete with easy-to-follow rules and built-in ruler!)

2 Stickers to show you’re officially part of the Popdarts® Rookie Crew!

BONUS: Pro Popdart for when you're ready to level up.

Popdarts has definitely leveled up the fun on family game night around here!  

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Disclosure: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

4 Effective Ways to Manage Anxiety

 **Disclosure: This is a collaborative post. Links may be affiliate** 

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Around 40 million adults in the US are thought to be currently living with anxiety, according to the ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America. And the National Alliance on Mental Illness states that approximately 7% of children aged 7 to 13 experience anxiety, too.

If you're feeling overwhelmed and burdened with anxiety, this post is here to equip you with some practical, tried-and-tested tips. These are not just old tropes that can do more harm than good, but effective strategies that you can implement in your daily life.

Let's take a look at some of your options for dealing with and managing anxiety levels. 

Exercise

Sure, this can be seen as another "trope" rolled out by people who think exercise can cure the world's problems. But regular exercise can help you feel better, and when you feel better, it can seem easier to manage your anxiety.

And if your anxiety limits you from exercising outdoors in the presence of others or using crowded gyms or fitness classes, then working out at home on your own is a viable option for you.

It doesn't even matter what exercise you do; a simple walk around the block or following an online walking workout can be beneficial. Simply add some exercise to your day every day and use it as a part of your anxiety management, not a miracle cure. 

Supplements

Supplements for anxiety can be used alone or alongside prescribed medications for anxiety. And while not all have proven benefits, some are more anecdotal than others; there might be some benefit in trying different ones to see if you experience any benefits. Even if it's the placebo effect, it's worth getting all the help you can right!

Supplements for anxiety can include ashwagandha, magnesium, Valerian, Vitamin D, Theanine, and

THC+CBD+CBG for anxiety.

Deep Breathing

When things feel like they're spiralling and you cannot remain in control, remember that deep breathing techniques are a flexible tool in your anxiety management kit. There are multiple different breathing techniques you can try, and the best one for you is the one that feels most comfortable and effective.

Not sure where to start?  You can choose from

• Diaphragmatic breathing, ie, belly breathing

• 4-7-8 breathing (inhale through the nose for 4, hold for 7, and exhale to the count of 8).

• Box breathing involves visualising a box and breathing in deeply for the count of 4 as you draw one line. Hold for 4 to draw the next line, exhale for 4, hold for 4, and you will have drawn a box.

• 7/11 breathing involves inhaling deeply for 7 and then exhaling to the count of 11.

• 
  

Sleep

Everything—and we mean everything—feels worse when you're not sleeping, so if your anxiety is threatening to overflow, it's important to focus on getting more sleep or better quality sleep. Practice some good sleep hygiene practices and improve your bedtime routine. Don't be afraid to take naps if you need to. And when you're sleeping better, you will feel your stress levels become more manageable.

LIVE TO EAT - The New Cookbook from Emily English

 *DISCLOSURE* Thank you to the publisher for providing product samples in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own. 

Check out our latest cookbook addiction, LIVE TO EAT:

Number 1 bestselling author Emily English (@emthenutritionist) returns with a new collection of simple, nutritious recipes that you and your body will love. 

 

In Live to Eat, Emily simplifies healthy eating with over 80 brand-new recipes that are not only nutritionally balanced, but easy-to prep and, most importantly, incredibly delicious. Sharing her knowledge with her millions of followers, Emily makes healthy eating a joy rather than a chore with accessible and achievable recipes grounded in nutritional science. 

Recipes include: 

 

-Spiced Harissa Turkish Eggs  

-Olive Oil Honey Toasted Oats 

-Hot Smoked Salmon Potato Salad  

-Sticky Cashew Orange Slaw 

-Sea Bass with Crushed Piperade Potatoes  

-Simple Super Greens Pasta 

-Strawberry Shortcake Loaf  

-Yogurt and Honey Panna Cotta 

There’s a recipe here to fill any occasion! 

Alongside these incredible recipes, Emily outlines simple habits and routines to make living a healthy lifestyle second nature. This is your go-to guide for living a healthy life deliciously.  

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

EMILY ENGLISH is a fully qualified, registered nutritionist with a degree from Kings College London. Her passion began from an early age through her family of cooks and chefs. Spending her childhood summers in the kitchen, with her school terms in the chemistry lab, Emily’s curiosity grew for both what was on her plate and what was going on inside our bodies. 

 

She continued her academic journey at the prestigious university Kings College London, ranked number 1 in the UK for nutritional sciences, where she flourished and discovered the true depth of the subject. Using her knowledge for both cooking food, nutrition and human physiology, she is able to achieve incredible results in her private London clinic. 

 

Title: Live to Eat 

Author: Emily English 

Pub date:  7/1/25 

Publisher: MOBIUS    

Format: Hardcover    

Price: $30 US/ $38 CAN    

ISBN:  9781399620079 

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.