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 Michelle Pierre is a freelance writer and Registered Dietitian. Michelle writes comedic essays from a mother’s point of view at www.betweenthecushions.com. She has been designing crafts and party planning for many years. Some of her creations can be seen on her Facebook site, Lucia Grace Bowtique. She can be reached at designsbymichellepierre@gmail.com |
| Getting your children ready for a new school year is a tradition for many. New clothes, shoes, backpack. Some may have toddlers going off to pre-school, teenagers starting high school or maybe going off to college. If you are the type for making memories you will want to capture those first day moments. A DIY frame to use year after year is perfect. Purchase a large frame with wide enough edging so you can write on it. Paint the entire frame white then paint two coats of your favorite color chalkboard paint on the bottom. Buy wooden letters at a craft store to spell out "First Day Of" and paint in a coordinating color. Hot glue the letters on top of the frame and you are done. If you are a sentimental fool like me you can even lug it to their college dorm and amidst rolled eyes snap one last shot before they are off on their own. Some kids may be bursting at the seams to move out and start on their new adventure and others may need a little coaxing. The transition to college life can be a tough one on both of you. In addition to the essential package of highlighters, send them off with a warm and comfy bathrobe, fuzzy socks, and a throw blanket. Ideas for decorating their new living space may include hanging a colorful tapestry on the wall and or a set of string lights to create a fun vibe. A little DIY item that is very popular right now is a decorated initial. You can paint it or hot glue tiny flowers on the letter. In case your freshman is feeling a bit homesick the first month away send them a "Box of Sunshine" (see picture). It will be a welcome surprise. All things bright and cheery go in the box. As the semester goes on you can create different themed care packages for every holiday. It's a fun and easy thing to do to let them know you’re thinking of them. Or if you haven’t heard from your son or daughter in a while then you can always embroider a pillow with the words CALL MOM on it. This fall, make sure www.mabelslabels.com Mabel's Labels is on the back-to-school checklist. With a brand-new selection of personalized waterproof and durable labels designed for students from little kids to tweens and beyond, keep school supplies, backpacks, lunch boxes, sports gear, and other belongings organized – and out of the lost and found! Also new for back-to-school 2016, Mabel’s Labels makes it easy for families to keep all the memories and achievements in just one spot, and look back on them for years to come, with the debut of a customizable keepsake book. |
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20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 