I’m not the type of person who likes things. I prefer experiences. However, here are some simple things that I love and/or make my life easier:
Kid-Friendly Toilet Seat – My brother installed these in both of our bathrooms when we were in Russia on Trip 1. They are the best! The thing I love the most about these is that they are so respectful of children’s needs.
Dr. Bronners Almond Castile Soap – You can dilute this if you are saving your pennies and it goes a Long Way. I prefer the consistency of it undiluted though. We use it as hand soap, bath soap and kids’ shampoo. It smells wonderful and works really well.
Trader Joe’s blueberry goat’s cheese – This is a Must Try, even if you’re not crazy about goat cheese. I always serve this if anyone comes over. I like it with plain crackers. You won’t believe how good this stuff is!
Food chopper – I found this refurbished on Amaz*n for only $28. It’s simple, no extra parts and easy to clean. I’m very particular about which gadgets I bring in, because we live in a small space. This one is apartment sized. It really only has one setting (which chops things to smithereens) but it’s perfect for us because I can sneak all types of meats and vegetables into any dish I cook and Ali will eat it.
Foogo kid’s cup & Sigg kids water bottle– I was starting to get self-conscious that my child was the only 3 year old drinking out of a sippy cup but I can’t handle the spills of a regular cup or water bottle, so these cups are perfect while she’s learning coordination.
Laptop platform – I’m on my laptop too much a lot. It gets hot and I don’t like the idea of whatever radiation is coming out on to my lap. Sometimes I use it at the kitchen counter, but usually I’m sitting in a comfy chair, so this lap thing has been priceless. Targ*t has a new one I haven’t tried.
Amaz*n – I know, I know, it’s corporate America and I should shop close to home, but the convenience factor wins for me. I can order whatever we need from the convenience of my home at 10pm or whenever it occurs to me that we need something. I only purchase things that are eligible for Free Shipping. If the purchase is less than $25, I leave the item in the shopping cart until there is something else we need. The purchases over $25 ship free. The packaging is an annoying waste though! Recent purchases include used books, waterproof mattress protector, luxurious sheets, Melissa & Doug puzzles on clearance, soap, pajamas, etc.
Go*gle Chrome – This is my (internet browser) of choice. I’m on Russi*n websites quite a bit and do a lot of international research for my volunteer work, and this browser translates everything automatically! It saves me so much time. I used to use Go*gle Translate (and still do for certain things) but the auto-translate feature on Go*gle Chrome is the best.
Yaho* Groups – I won’t admit how many groups I am a part of, but I learn SO much from so many intelligent people out there. Any interest you may have, you can find a Yah*o Group for, and you’ll be connected with like-minded people. I participate in adoption groups, health groups, peaceful parenting groups, travel groups and life learning groups.
Electric toothbrush – Not just any electric toothbrush – I’ve tried a few and this is the only one worth buying. I feel like this toothbrush is actually keeping the dentist at bay. It’s not cheap but I believe it’s worth every penny. Brushing teeth for everyone in the family is now quick, easy and highly effective.
Meyer’s Clean Day dish soap – I’m not crazy about doing dishes (huge understatement there), so this is a small luxury that makes the task slightly more manageable.
Stain Remover - I know this is #12 on a list of 11 things, but this stain remover is saving me so much money. I didn’t use it the first month Ali was home and her clothes got wrecked, so I won’t be able to pass those down to Zen. Ever since I started using stain remover, I don’t think one thing has been ruined. (Thanks Mom!) What’s your favorite kind?
Great list! I’ve added a couple to my wish list and will look for others. Another thing I like about the potty seat is that it’s streamlined without having another article in the bathroom.
Are you signed up for Amazon Mom? You get a few free months of Amazon Prime and then you can keep it up if you spend at least $30 on baby stuff per month. If you use disposable diapers or any other kid things you order regularly, you can get really good discounts with Amazon Mom combined with Subscribe and Save!
And, I also have a 3 year old and 4 yo (nearly 4 and 5 years!) still using special no-spill cups for most drinks. I just like the ease factor of the kids carrying them everywhere and being able to have them in the car without worrying about spills. They use the Playtex tumbler cups. I really like the look of the cup and bottle you posts… might have to get those.
Ooooh-thanks for letting me know about amazOn mom. I’ve never heard of it-will definitely sign up. I’ll check out the cups, too. Thanks!
Comparing the cups you have, the tumblers might be a might easier to assemble and clean. They just have a lid and one of those rubber pieces to keep the liquid from spilling. They are also cheap… I think we paid about $5 at the grocery store. But, they are plastic (BPA-free though) and my kids thought the water came out too slowly at first.
I am going to have to try some of these things for sure, especially the toilet seat! I have seen them before and I think it’s a great idea!!!
I have to admit, I adore “amazoo” too! I’ve been doing Prime for years, and I love Subscribe and Save as well. I really, truly try to shop local, but if it’s a choice between one big box store or another, why not have it shipped right to my house?
My big kids used plastic sippy cups until they were at least 4 (and that was before I was aware of issues with BPA!) This time around, I want something healthier and easier to clean. Will definitely check out your suggestion!