In 2016 I watched a "Shark Tank" episode that featured Nohbo Shampoo balls, eco-friendly shampoo in the shape of a ball. I placed an initial order on Indiegogo when the pre-order was activated, and I received them after some months. However, the shampoo balls in their previous form arrived broken. I decided to order more, yet I was unable to do so. More than a year passed before I could place ... Read more
Grinch’s Grotto at Westfield Old Orchard
** Thanks to the Grinch's Grotto for hosting our visit. 2020 has been a Grinch of a year, so the Grinch's Grotto experience at Westfield Old Orchard (and other locations) seemed like an appropriate family-friendly holiday event this year. It's an opportunity to have a private meet-and-greet with the Grinch himself and even take home some souvenirs. The girls were so excited to meet ... Read more
Attending Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic Experience During the Pandemic
I was unsure if we'd attend Holiday Magic Experience this year, but capacity restrictions and required masks made it a possibility to go to Brookfield Zoo's annual holiday event. This event had more people in attendance than we saw on our last visit to the zoo on a weekday. We visited on a weekend night on its first weekend. Still we were able to distance as much as possible. Things to ... Read more
Gifts To Give This Holiday Season
** This post features content provided for the Floradise audience. Giving is my absolute favorite thing about the holidays. I love finding the perfect gift for each of my family members and friends -- it is so special when you figure out what they would love! There are SO many options when it comes to gifts to give this holiday season, so I wanted to give you all a few ideas, in case you ... Read more
Our Christmas Home Tour 2020 and New Lighted Christmas Decorations
** This post contains affiliate links and gifted lighted Christmas decorations. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise! This year I upgraded our family's Christmas decorations because we could use some extra cheer. I found some gorgeous lighted Christmas decorations on Lights.com and some other decor that have really ... Read more
Books About Diversity for Kids
** This post on books about diversity for kids contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise! If you're looking to add books to your family's collection, consider these books about diversity for kids. They tell inspiring and significant moments in history in a way that is interesting and ... Read more
DIY Christmas Wreath
** This post about my DIY Christmas wreath contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Floradise! Over the weekend I tried my hand at creating a DIY Christmas wreath using items I had in my home. I'm sharing what I used along with ideas for recreating this wreath while not spending a lot of money. ... Read more
Gifts for Kids
** This post about Christmas gifts for kids contains affiliate links. I am compensated for purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you. Have you started your Christmas shopping? While most of the gifts I am purchasing have been from small businesses, toys are one category for which I often shop at major retailers. I'm sharing several ideas of gifts for kids to consider ... Read more
My Experience as a Poll Worker in the 2020 Election
I have wanted to be a poll worker for many years, but the task seemed daunting. Election workers in many states have to work long shifts, from 5 a.m. until after polls close, usually after 7 p.m. This year I was finally motivated to sign up given the need for poll workers during the pandemic. The process to become an election judge began with an application. I have to credit Power the Polls, which ... Read more
Our 2020 Ofrenda for Dia de Los Muertos
I am proud of my family's ofrenda, or altar, for Dia de los Muertos this year. Day of the Dead is a holiday on Nov. 1-2 this year that celebrates our loved ones who have passed away. We set up an offering table with photos and memories of those who have died. I'm sharing what we included in our ofrenda this year: Faux flowers. I was unable to find marigolds because they are no longer in ... Read more