Kaley Ann Lifestyle Photography

I am really starting to wonder why it is called the “terrible twos” and not the “terrible threes”.  I don’t remember the twos being so bad at all.  But the threes…the threes are a bit challenging.

I have seen the idea of a “calming jar” floating around on Pinterest forever, but never really thought it would work for us.  I had everything I needed in the house already so I figured it was worth a try.  The first few times I tried using it, let’s just say that she was not impressed.  But she warmed up to it, and now even requests her “magic jar”.

Her explanation of the jar is so perfect, far better than anything I could come up with:  ”When I’m mad or sad I just shake the jar and watch the magic float to the bottom.  And when the magic floats to the bottom then I’m not mad or sad anymore.”

Supplies needed:

• a jar
• glitter
• water
• glycerin

Directions:

1.  Choose a jar.  If you think your child might throw or drop the jar, a plastic container like an empty peanut butter container might be a better idea.  I love my collection of vintage blue jars, so I used one of those.  I hope I don’t regret it.  ;)

2.  Fill the jar with water, leaving about an inch at the top empty.  Add 2 tablespoons of glycerin and 2 tablespoons of super fine glitter.  Put the lid on the jar and tighten well.

3.  Shake the jar until everything is blended.

Your magic jar is ready to use.  Shake it gently and watch all the glitter float to the bottom.

I had actually bought white glitter and glycerin because we were going to make snow globes before Christmas, but never got around to it.  I am loving how this turned out looking like a beautiful snow storm.  Perfect for this cold January we are having!

Happy Christmas Eve!  Hopefully your Christmas shopping is done, and you are just relaxing today.  If not, or even if you are done but still want a super easy, super cheap, last minute stocking stuffer, you are going to love this!

It has been pretty cold in San Francisco lately, and we have all hard wood floors in our apartment.  Sock weather + wood floors = a lot of slipping and sliding.  A $2 bottle of puffy paint and 5 minutes of my time took care of that problem.  And yes, it is the same puffy paint that we rocked on our sweatshirts in the 80′s.  They still make it!  :)

It really is as easy as making a few easy designs on the bottom of your kid’s socks, and letting it dry overnight.  But if you would like the full details, it is all over on HelloBee.