As soon as babies start pulling up and toddling around, our space becomes their space. Throw pillows and couch cushions can be found strewn across the room. As they grow older, they're not just pulling things down, they're building them up! Forts for make believe and stacks for jumping on! It's amazing... and also a wee bit frustrating for parents. We have a massive Ikea Kivik sofa with 13 couch cushions (plus 6 throw pillows). There was a time when more than half of these would go missing on a daily basis LOL!!
But, there is a solution! Kids play sofas!! And there is a new one in town that blows the others out of the water, with the game changer being included WATERPROOF LINERS!!! I'm so excited to be working with Acorn Couch on this sponsored review (and GIVEAWAY - enter to win in the Rafflecopter app at the bottom), so let's get to it!!
Founded and run by NJ mom of 3, Brittany Amoscat, who was frustrated by the other options on the market that were too expensive and also not waterproof, Acorn Couch is the newest kids sofa on the block and we are absolutely loving ours!! Here are some of the standout features we know you'll love, too:
When folded in half, they fit perfectly under our kids' beds! So they stow away quickly and easily, and can be pulled out in an instant to play or host a sleepover!
Many think kids' sofas are just for toddlers, but these will really grow with your kiddos!! Here are some of the ways my kids (and us parents, too) use ours:
We just love these and know you will, too!! Click here to learn more about Acorn Couch and shop, and enter to win in the Rafflecopter app below!
GIVEAWAY! ENTER TO WIN HERE!!
You just need to leave a comment and register in the app to let it know you did so, any extra actions taken such as sharing on social will be extra points earned to increase your chance at winning! US Residents ages 18+ only, giveaway ends April 9 at 11:59PM ET, winner will be randomly chosen and emailed after that! 
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Contributed post.
Planning a vacation overseas can sometimes feel like conducting a large-scale symphony with all the anticipation, excitement, and, let's be honest, stress. It's all too easy to forget important things that could make or break your trip in the rush of organizing your itinerary, finding places to stay, and booking your flights.
If you want to have a smooth and easy trip, here are some of the (genuinely important) things you’ve probably forgotten to account for and need to plan ASAP. Travel Insurance To start off with a reality check, let's face it: accidents happen, flights are cancelled, luggage disappears, and people can get sick or injured. Even though we always hope for the best, it's important to have comprehensive travel insurance to be prepared for the worst. But how much is travel insurance? This will depend on the type of cover you go for, and what you deem necessary. The more comprehensive your cover, the more you’ll be paying, but the less worries you’ll have. Regardless of what it costs, though, consider it your safety net, covering any unforeseen expenses on your trip that you certainly won’t want to be dealing with while you’re trying to enjoy a holiday. 
Health Precautions Your health is your wealth, and you need to pay extra close attention to it while visiting foreign places where you could be exposed to new diseases, climates, and foodborne illnesses. Speak with your doctor or a travel medicine specialist before heading off to a new destination to find out whether there are any vaccinations or preventive treatments you can or should be taking. Some common vaccinations can include typhoid fever, yellow fever, influenza, and hepatitis A and B, depending on the area you're visiting and your general health. You should also travel with a well-stocked first-aid kit containing all your usual medication as well as some extras for unforeseen emergencies. Currency Exchange Dealing with foreign currencies can be quite confusing if you haven’t done your research (and sometimes even if you have). Spend some time getting acquainted with the local currency and current exchange rates of the place you are visiting before you travel there. Although it could be tempting to exchange your money at the hotel or airport kiosk because of how easy this would be, keep in mind that these kiosks often provide bad exchange rates along with loads of additional fees. For the best deal, rather think about taking out cash from ATMs or exchanging money at local banks once you arrive. It’s also a good idea to keep a backup credit card on hand in case of any issues. After coming back home, if you have any foreign cash that didn’t get spent, you can always redeem leftover Japanese cash (or whichever currency you are possessing) through authorized currency exchange services, since they can ensure you get the best value for it. Connectivity Thanks to the tech of our modern and hyper-connected world, staying in touch with your loved ones wherever you go is ridiculously easy. However, you still need to think about it and have a plan in place. Before you leave, check out what your options will be for staying connected. One of the best and most seamless choices is using an esim for international travel, which allows you to connect to local networks instantly without the need for physical SIM cards or complicated setup. You’ll want to have a plan in place to get connected as soon as you can – you need to be online to access GPS and find your way around and, of course, to let your family know that you’ve arrived safely at your destination. Safety Precautions When traveling overseas, the phrase "safety first" is more important than ever. Foreign countries are always full of exciting adventures and new things to experience, but they also harbour unfamiliar dangers, especially for those who might be caught off guard. From political unrest and natural disasters to petty crime and theft, there’s a lot to be on the lookout for. Research the safety and security conditions in your destination country, including any travel advisories or warnings issued by the government, and keep yourself updated on local laws and emergency protocols. Personal safety equipment should also be kept on hand, and stay safe by avoiding unknown areas at night – especially when you’re alone. Backup of Travel Documents Every frequent traveller has had that unsettling nightmare of losing their passport or some other vital documentation on a trip and getting thrown in a foreign prison. Luckily, it’s unlikely to be that serious, but you should still be on the ball about keeping your travel docs on hand, and having backups as well – just in case. Digital copies are always going to be your friend, so keep all your files saved on a platform like Dropbox. But that being said, hard copies are usually preferred when it comes to travel documents, especially when flying, so try to keep your passport, ID, visa documents, and other important information in a travel wallet that you keep on hand at all times.  Contributed post; contains affiliate links - as an Amazon Associate, I receive commission from purchases made after clicking on these. When it comes to cleaning, there’s this weird relationship with it. The act of cleaning itself is so boring; sometimes, it can even be physically demanding (especially in those hard-to-reach places). But at the same time, when you’re done with cleaning, you feel like a champion; you feel like you’re on top of the world. Plus, usually, when something is outrageously filthy, it makes someone feel grossed out or uncomfortable anyway. Whether you enjoy the act of cleaning or not, for the average person, the feeling is mutual when it comes to dirty and clean places. But with that said, sometimes, a deep cleaning is needed. This deep cleaning is more than just removing residue from the dishwasher; it’s getting into those nooks and crannies, moving furniture, and, of course, decluttering. Actually, spring is just around the corner, so it's the perfect time to do some spring cleaning! But you can’t expect to do all the spring cleaning yourself; you definitely need some help with it! So, with that said, your help needs to be your family, but how can you hype them up for the semi-busy schedule of cleaning up the house and their rooms? Well, here’s how to do it! Get Professionals to Do the Challenging Stuff It’s a good idea to remove some of the stress for both you and your family by getting some professionals to take care of certain things. For example, you don’t need to hire a maid or housekeeper for deep cleaning. You can if you want, but there are some areas that might be cleaned and might need help, such as opting for experienced window cleaners or even hiring someone to pressure wash your house and driveway. If these more challenging jobs have another party doing them, everyone will feel more at ease. You can also outsource some tasks, such as vacuuming and mopping, to an amazing robot - my absolute favorite is the Narwal Freo (commission earning Amazon affiliate link). Make Sure the Tasks are Age-Appropriate While it’s sometimes nice to see what your kids are capable of, you don’t want to throw too much at them too quickly. So, just like with regular chores, make sure they’re getting assigned things that they are capable of doing and can do safely. For example, younger children (such as those below the age of 10) can help with simple tasks like dusting, sorting toys, or wiping down surfaces, while older children and teenagers can take on more challenging tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, or organizing closets. Make It Into a Game This is something more for younger children because teens might not be too interested in this. It’s up to you how to do this really, but there are some ways to get younger children interested in spring cleaning. For example, you can create a scavenger hunt where family members search for misplaced items and return them to their proper places. Another thing you could try is to set a timer and challenge each other to see who can clean a room the fastest. Offering little rewards might help, too. But making this into a game is really one of the easiest ways to get younger children interested, thus making it fun and cute for the parents. 
As a family of 5 we are always hunting for ways to save on flights and travel more. The dirt cheap tickets available through no frills airlines such as Spirit, Frontier, and JetBlue are definitely attractive, but once you start paying for a checked bag and carry on luggage, those fees really start to add up! Learning how to pack your personal item like a pro is key, and you start that off by finding the right small but mighty travel backpack for women, men, and kids! So let's get right to it - I'm going to show you how to pick the best travel backpack and how to pack your personal item to save money on flights!!
Disclaimer - this post was sponsored by Responsival and contains some affiliate links noted with ** after them. As an Amazon associate, I receive commission from qualified purchases made after clicking affiliate these links.
PERSONAL ITEM DIMENSIONS:
Every airline has its own maximum dimensions for the complimentary personal item every ticket holder in entitled to. If you're hoping to save on flights by not paying for a carry on or checked bag (or as few as possible), you'll want to know the dimensions of what bags and amenities are included in that ticket, and calculate the total cost including any bags you would need to purchase. For example, a no frills airline may have a cheaper ticket but if you MUST bring a full size carry on, check a bag, select your seat, and purchase a meal, a regular ticket with a bigger airline may be a similar or even better deal. Most airlines have set their max dimensions of the complimentary "personal item" at or above 17" x 13" x 8" (at least at the time of writing this post, which I confirmed for Allegiant Airlines, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airlines, Play Airlines, Spirit Airlines) which is a small backpack, purse, or laptop bag. The reasoning is that it needs to go under the seat in front of you, and not take up their valuable money-making overhead space. Some budget airlines are notorious for making you gently plop your bag in the measurement device at the gate, without allowing you to push or adjust the bag, if even a handle is sticking out, they'll force you to pay a last minute carry on or checked bag fee, which can be a whopping $60 or so. Suddenly, your Frontier Airlines deals are no longer deals... So let's avoid that by making sure your bag is well within the limits - get one that is small enough and do not over pack it. 
THE BEST PERSONAL ITEM FOR FLYING: Have no fear, I have found THE BEST weekender bag, laptop backpack for women and men, whatever you want to call it. I was sent this set and paid for my review but these are honestly amazing!! At just 17" x 12" x 5" the Day Owl Backpack has a minimalist look AND size (i.e. within the dimensions for every regular and budget airline I mentioned above), yet holds a whopping 21 liters and has a ton of pockets and compartments, including a padded compartment that will hold a 16" laptop, as well as a water resistant insulated side pocket that will hold that 750mL bottle of wine you splurge on at duty free (or huge water bottle, of course). Plus, each backpack is made from 26 recycled plastic water bottles!!! The Pouch is a great add-on, a cord organizer (or little clutch to hold your wallet / phone / passport etc). Watch my Day Owl Backpack & Cord Pouch review video below for a closer look! PACKING HACKS:
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR PERSONAL ITEM:
This list will differ if you're traveling with a carry on or checked bag (this is my FAVORITE 3 piece nesting luggage set** in case you're in need of gorgeous new suitcases!), or if you're only flying with your personal item.
Contributed post. Termites, often dubbed the silent destroyers, are fascinating yet formidable creatures. Although their reputation for extensive property damage is well-established, termites possess more secrets than we think! In this blog we'll dive deep into their world - exploring their biology, damage caused, prevention techniques and modern approaches to termite management.  A Closer Look at the Wood-Munching Foes
Although termites may resemble ants, these insects are actually closer related to cockroaches than ants. Since over 250 million years, termites have quietly altered ecosystems by breaking down cellulose material. But when these wood-eating beasts invade human habitats, their natural tendencies become problematic. Understanding different types of termites (subterranean, drywood and dampwood termites) as well as their habits is critical for homeowners and property managers alike. The Silent Havoc Wreaked by Termites Termite damage can be particularly destructive to properties. Their insidious nature makes them particularly hazardous: termites feed unnoticed on wooden structures of buildings for years without anyone realizing anything has gone amiss. Every year this activity costs billions in structural damage worldwide - not to mention paper insulation and pool liners or filtration systems are also at risk from their relentless nibblers! Prevention: A Stitch in Time Saves Nine "Prevention is better than cure" rings particularly true in termite management. Regular inspections and early detection are of paramount importance. Wood must be kept away from soil, getting the moisture levels around your property reduced quickly, and leaks promptly repaired as soon as detected, as these will discourage termites from making your property their target meal. Adding physical and chemical barriers during construction can provide further long-term protection. Modern Warfare Against Termites Long gone are the days when termite control meant dousing your property with toxic chemicals. Modern termite management relies on more sophisticated tactics. From bait systems that exploit termite social behaviors against them to eco-friendly treatments that protect without harming our planet, termite warfare has advanced exponentially over the past decades, and innovation continues in this space. New methods are being created daily to ensure sustainable termite control. Professional Termite Management While DIY methods of termite control may seem tempting, it's essential to recognize their limitations and risks before trying them yourself. Without proper training and equipment, you could miss key indicators of an infestation or use harmful chemicals that could endanger both yourself and the environment. Professional termite management offers not only expert expertise but also long-term solutions tailored to the unique needs of your property. Terminix professionals possess the resources and skills needed to effectively identify, treat, and prevent termite infestations. With regular inspections and treatment plans in place, you can rest easy knowing your investment is safe from termites and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is protected against this potential risk. Conclusion: Coexisting With Our Tiny Titans Termites are an integral component of nature, yet when they enter our homes they often create havoc and discord. Understanding these insects, the damage they cause and how we can prevent and manage infestations is key to safeguarding against becoming their next food source. With knowledge and modern termite control strategies at our disposal, we can keep our homes secure while simultaneously encouraging termites to recycle dead wood in nature where it belongs. These destructive creatures may seem formidable at first, but with proper management techniques in place they can be controlled effectively to preserve buildings while giving us peace of mind.
Contributed post.
As a homeowner, you have surely come across a few plumbing-related things that need to be fixed over time. After all, normal wear and tear occurs simply because you live in your home and use it as you should. There comes a time when you will need to either hire a professional to handle your repairs or take a more self-sufficient approach and do it yourself. It is especially important to understand how to repair things that are water-related. Failing to do so sooner rather than later may lead to water damage and even flooding within your home.
Of note, don’t be a hero and try to fix something complicated that is beyond your scope, as it can lead to more problems. Keep reading to learn some maintenance skills that you can, indeed, take on with confidence. 
Prolong the life of your washing machine. Washing machines are essential to keep your family in clean clothes and to ensure a functional home. If the washing machine breaks and dirty clothing begins piling up, nobody’s having a good day. To maintain this important appliance, you should learn some basic DIY skills, and a great one to start with is learning how to fix the seal of your washer. This seemingly simple rubber ring is vital to prevent water from leaking and causing unnecessary damage to your home. Once you have replaced it, keep the new one clean to prevent mold and mildew from building up on the seal, which will decrease its life. If you need a bigger repair, you still might be able to do it yourself. If you want to get the best result, find a store that sells supplies for appliance repairs, so you can use genuine parts that are going to last a lifetime. Repair a leaky faucet. Leaky faucets are not only annoying due to their monotonous dripping intrusion on your daily life. They also cost you more money on your monthly utility bill since the water going down the drain adds up very quickly. In addition, a small leak can easily turn into a broken faucet and unchecked water spewing out over time. Watch this quick video to learn how to avoid these potential problems and fix a leaky faucet before it becomes a bigger problem.
Unclog a toilet.
This one is not on anyone’s list, but it has to be done. Learning to clear an unwanted, unsightly, and smelly clog is a good skill to have at the ready. And once you learn how, go ahead and teach the rest of your family if they are old enough to take care of it on their own. Start by grabbing the basic supplies: Cleaners (for when you are finished), rubber gloves, a plunger, an old plastic cup or small container, and a bucket. If the toilet bowl is full, use the old cup or container to remove half of the liquid from the toilet into the bucket. Next, begin plunging. Tilt the plunger head so it fills with water, as it's forceful plunging of water (not air!!) that is key for pushing the clog through. It may take a few minutes. Once the clog clears, flush the bowl’s contents. Dump the liquid in the bucket back into the toilet and flush again. Now it is time to begin cleaning your tools! 
Now that you have some new skills under your belt, it is time to go forward with confidence. Be proactive and fix any problems before they become too big to handle on your own. You will be so proud that you can do it yourself.
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About ME:I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins + 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, helping busy parents find the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above! 
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