Ho Ho Holiday Cards with {Minted}

Do you send out Christmas or other holiday wishes to friends and family?  I enjoy designing the card every year. I always create a few different designs then let Adam choose his favorite. There are 100 places to make your holiday cards, but I always go back to Minted.
I choose to use Minted because they feature art from all over the world for their beautiful designs. Minted is the marketplace for independent artists, from around the globe. Their designs are not only gorgeous and unique, but their products are the highest quality.

This year, we took advantage of their free address book concierge. How beautiful are the fronts of our envelopes! This is a service Minted is offering at no charge for a limited time. Send your addresses in any format and Minted makes the hard part easy! You will thank yourself next year too, no searching for that address list!

There is still time to order beautiful cards for the holidays. Christmas Cards, New Year's Cards, and even special Minted gifts from Minted Art & Minted Home can still be ordered in time for Christmas.

Get cards with free rush shipping and 15% off with Minted promo codes: SHIPNOW and WINTER16 

Your cards will arrive by 12/20 if you use the free concierge service, you are still a step ahead and your friends and family will get their cards before Santa arrives!

Minted is known for its high-quality paper and printing. Minted’s Signature paper is thick and luxurious with a creamy cotton texture, and has been optimized for photo printing. You can also choose 100% recycled paper, Pearlescent paper which adds a subtle shimmer, DoubleThick paper or even TripleThick paper. Minted also offers postcards, ornament cards and 8 unique die-cut shapes.  A variety of backer options allow you to add additional photos, text, and customization options to your holiday card.

I was compensated for my time for this post but as usual all opinions are my own.

A Spa Bathroom by PlumbTile

Our basement bathroom is finally finished. Well, mostly finished I should say. While we’re all waiting on the photographer (me) to take decent photos for blog sharing--sometimes it’s still fun to do a little design daydreaming!  

I teamed up with PlumbTile to create a fun mood board for a dreamy spa-like bath. If you’ve been around Let’s Just Build a House for a while, you know I love incorporating vintage and rustic pieces in every room of my home. The bathroom is no different! It’s easy to get carried away though with all the neat finds at flea markets and thrift stores. It’s all about balance.

Let’s start with the floors. PlumbTile's glass tile & stone  selection is top notch. It was fun browsing the beautiful glass tiles they offer. But for this mood board I had to stick with a natural stone like the limestone. I’m pretty happy with our natural stone in the master bathroom, so it’s an easy choice for this room design. I love the color too.  Oh, and how about the accent tiles below? Wouldn't that be fun to incorporate into your bathroom? They reminded me of my recent vacation to Mexico! I had to pull them into the design for some fun and warmth. We typically stick with a neutral base tone of flooring and wall color, and then pair it with crisp white as accents. It helps to give a clean and spa-like tone. Towels, white linens, and of course the lighting is important!

PlumbTile is really a one stop shop. They have what seems an endless selection of lighting . I’d choose this white and chrome 3 light fixtures over the mirror, with matching sconces throughout the room. My favorite tip is to put your bathroom lights on a dimmer. It’s easy to create perfect mood lighting for soaking in the tub.

That brings me to the tub in this design.  Dream tub. Seriously. A copper tub is truly the showstopper in this design. 

I’d certainly love this beautiful copper soaker tub paired with the marble vanity & sink combo. This brings a nice balance to our rustic items with modern and sleek.  It’s always best to combine a few modern or contemporary touches into your decorating scheme to offset the rustic themes in the room. The gorgeous hand crafted vanity is a stand-out piece. It compliments the soaking tub and rounds out the bathroom design perfectly! Just picture yourself in this room, with a glass of wine, a good book, in that big copper tub!

Do you have a bathroom renovations,  refresh, or renovation in progress or on your mind? 

Sources:
sconce | vanity light | stainless towel rack | marble vanity  |  copper tub | limestone | soap dish

This post was written by me and sponsored by the PlumbTile.com. I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.

Kids Custom Name & Clothing Labels from {Minted}

I love opening a box of fresh stationary. We ordered our birth announcements from Minted and we were so happy with the quality. When we heard about the custom name labels minted was rolling out we were excited to give them a try.

There were so many adorable designs to choose from, I had a hard time deciding what to order, so I chose a variety of kid friendly goodies. The Minted name and clothing labels are a durable way to customize your kids' clothing, bottles, food containers, toys---anything! They're dishwasher safe, laundry safe, water proof and non toxic. These could go pretty much on every item Ben owns. Well, they are doing just that.

First, I got to work on a few thank you notes we had been slacking on. The flat personalized thank you cards are oh-so-cute and customization was simple.



They were easy to customize with Ben's name, plus, I had 100s of designs and customization options to choose from.

Then the best part, using the custom name and clothing labels on EVERYTHING. I ordered a few different sizes and styles for a fun variety.

First, I labeled his new books. We don't want any other baby getting his grubby hands on these awesome Eric Carle books.

Then, I started labeling some of Ben's Clothes, I stuck to outer wear for now--since that seems to be what we lose the most. Hats, sweatshirts and jackets.

These are great  so  that his stuff doesn't get mixed up at the sitter's. I got label happy pretty quickly after the first batch still looked so nice after I a load of laundry. 

All Ben's blankies labeled-- then tested these out right away too! They are still perfectly sticky after a few loads of laundry. 

These would be GREAT in a few years when Ben goes to school. You can personalize most of the designs with room number, teacher, phone numbers...anything!

Sippy cups were next. We typically use the cheapo ones---so everyone else has these too. It took me about 2 minutes to label all the cups in the cabinet.  The photos below are AFTER I took them out of the dishwasher. Still sticky, still attached, no movement, curling, or fading.

Of course, we had to choose one of the puppy themed stickers. He looks like a cartoon version of Ben's favorite puppy toy 'Kipper' don't you think?

Thanks to Minted for providing these handy and super cute goodies for us! 

A bit about Minted:

We believe that great design lives and thrives in the hands of independent artists that people do not have access to through traditional retailers. Minted uses technology to allow consumers to discover great creative talent, making Minted a place where artists can learn, gain exposure, and build their businesses. Minted is a design marketplace. We source creative content from a global community of independent artists, then sell the best content in the form of art, home décor, and stationery, directly to consumers. An early pioneer of crowdsourcing, Minted has held art and design challenges monthly since April 2008. Challenges are open for both submission and voting, the 'crowd' curates Minted's product selection by rating products, and Minted utilizes analytics to evaluate votes.  

My Stylin' Iphone Case: JimmyCase Review

Taking a quick break from home design and decor talk to talk about phone decor. FUNCTIONAL phone decor! The folks at JimmyCASE sent me this sweet Iphone Wallet Case for me to try out. I chose the gold and marroon with wood backer. I think it has a retro flair.

The case popped on easily and was a snug fit. I can still push all my buttons easily and switch my sound on and off, which was a problem with the previous case I had. I'm not one to have a big bulky protective case..surprising since I do drop my phone on a regular basis in the parking lot, or on the tile floor. I know you're wondering if this snazzy case provides any protection at all. I think it does. My phone has taken a tumble a few times in the past week and *knocks on wood* we are still in good shape. JimmyCASE has a full frame protection with a silicone bumper.

And the cherry on top? Made in the USA. Which you and me both know is an important selling point.

JimmyCASE can hold up to 6 cards plus your cash. It's stylish and functional. I can stick my ID and debit card in the back pocket and go. This is a HUGE deal to a new mom. I am always carting around way too much stuff with me nowadays. It's nice to be able to have something with a dual purpose that is stylish too! With the JimmyCase I grab what I need, stick it in the diaper bag and go. Or, on a rare evening out without the kiddo I leave my giant purse at home and throw my JimmyCase in my clutch. This leaves more room for important things like lipstick.

Head to JimmyCase now and pick out your custom Iphone 6 plus wallet case!

I was provided a product to review. As always, all comments and opinions are my own.

Lighting in the Basement: Shopping with Parrot Uncle

Lately, I've been spending more time shopping for basement fixtures, flooring, and lighting than I have shopping for cute baby clothes--which is most of my free time. To top off the basement shopping list I need beautiful lighting for the every room. I've been shopping all over and today I've compiled several choices from Parrot Uncle that I've got my eye on! 

Vintage Industrial Wall Sconce | Hat Shape Wall Sconce | Rustic Pendant | Pendant with Iron Shade 

| Foldable Ceiling Fan | Swing Arm Glass Shade Sconce  | Wooden Swing Arm Sconce

They had a great selection it was hard to choose a short list. I'd choose one of these two swinging arm sconces for the guest bedroom. Can't you imagine a swing arm sconce on each side of the bed? Perfect for reading.  The rustic pendant would go great over the cocktail table next to the wet bar. I love rustic style, and things brings some industrial edge into the room as well.

The one item that I thought was really different was the foldable ceiling fan. In the photo it just looks like a pretty hanging pendant, but it turns into a ceiling fan! We are ceiling fan people, but the looks of them isn't always the most beautiful light. You can have beauty and comfort! This might be at the top of my list.

They have a great selection of lighting for every room in your home. Modern Industrial, chic and sleek, and
Tiffany pendant lighting and Tiffany style lamps too! Whatever your're looking for to light up your rooms and make an impression or a design statement...they have it! For a steal! Parrot Uncle offers Free Shipping, free returns, and even 1.99 deals!

What light fixtures would you choose from at Parrot Uncle? 

This post was sponsored by Parrot Uncle but all opinions are my own. 

Basement Bathroom Shopping with Plumbtile

We’ve been busy working on our basement finish this Fall, and have big plans to get a large portion of this project finished by Spring. As I’ve mentioned before, we’ll have a family room which includes a wet bar, and a guest bedroom/office complete with its own en suite bathroom in our basement--once everything is completed.

The plan is to finish the bathroom first—and so far we’re right on schedule. Since we plan to DIY most of this part of the project ourselves, we can get a large chunk of the job done while waiting on our contractor to do his part.

I think the best part of working on a whole room finish from scratch (besides it being done, of course!) is researching, shopping, and daydreaming about all of the possibilities.  

I compiled a collage of different items from PlumbTile in my search for the bathroom design. I’m not sure how to categorize what style I’ve come up with. I’d like to think it has both a modern and vintage appeal.

Busby Gilbert Herringbone Tile | French Regency Mirror | Washbasin Sink | Regal Cast Iron Bath | Brizo Two Handle Widespread Faucet 

I’m loving that teal turquoise herringbone tile. It makes a statement, and feels both vintage and new, with a hint of eclectic! We’ve got big plans for the bathroom sink, but this one on PlumbTile was speaking to me. We don’t have a huge space for the vanity in this bathroom. This sink feels sleek and space-saving but not tiny. It has the vintage appeal we’ve got going on throughout the rest of our home. I like old things, and new things that look old!
I'd top off the room with a fun mirror like the one I chose above. It reminds me of old wood trim in Adam's grandparents farmhouse.

Of course, if I had an unlimited budget a bathtub like the one in my design board would be the star of the show. Unfortunately, I don’t think we’ll be going with one this fancy, but a girl can dream right? Imagine soaking in this beauty.

Do you have a bathroom renovations,  refresh, or renovation in progress or on your mind? Check out Plumbtile for your home improvement needs and start dreaming!

This post was written by me and sponsored by the PlumbTile.com. I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.

Is It Time To Pull the Plug on Your Water Heater?

Is it time to pull the plug on your water heater?

Did you know, second to heating your home, your water heater is the largest energy user in your house? The older your water heater is, the less efficient it gets. It will require more energy, which costs you more money. According to the Propane Education & Research Council, water heaters last about an average of 12 years. If you are a midwesterner like me, your water heater works even harder during those chilly Midwest winters.

Credit: Propane Education Research Council

If your water heater is closing in on a decade of age, it might be time to spring for a shiny new model. Don't wait until your water heater is on its last leg before your replace it. Simply replacing your water heater with an energy-efficient propane model can save you 13-16% in annual energy costs, which can add up to hundreds of dollars each year.

Did you know that propane is also a better source of energy than electric water heaters? Gas-powered water heaters deliver lower ownership costs overall. Tankless models are smaller in size than tank options, but they are more efficient – saving you money. If you factor in the annual cost to run an old, large electric water heater versus a tankless propane water heater with high efficiency, you will make up for the cost of the new heater and installation in no time!

Is it time to replace your water heater and switch to a different energy source?
Take this quick and handy 5 question quiz to find out if it's time to pull the plug on your water heater at KnowYourWaterHeater.com

This post was written by me and sponsored by the Propane Education & Research Council. I was compensated for my time, all opinions are my own.

Celebrating National Dog Week with Scouty & Beneful

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Beneful Brand Dog Food. All opinions are 100% mine.

I admit it. The minute we brought Benjamin home from the hospital Scout moved down the totem pole. We still love him just the same. He gets plenty of attention and playtime, and as you can tell by the looks of him--we haven't shorted him any treats. Scout better rest up now, before Ben is on the move and chasing him all over the place.

When Beneful offered Scout his very own swag bag in honor of National Dog Week, we were happy to accept.

To celebrate National Dog Week, we spent extra time doing all of Scout's favorite things.

Using our snazzy new leash...

To take an extra long walk.

Playing with new toys while enjoying special treats.

Scout's most favorite part of the day is mealtime. We are a longtime Beneful household. From when Scout was a teeny little pup brand new from the shelter--to his adult dog years. Giving our dog time for play and snuggles is only part of having a healthy pet. Making sure he gets a healthy meal a day and exercise are both important.

Whatever you do to celebrate National Dog Week, enjoy your time with your furry baby! Scroll down for money saving coupons and a chance for one of our readers to win their own swag bag for their pup!

National Dog Week

When: Right now! September 20-26

In honor of National Dog Week, Beneful dog good is offering $3 off a 13 lb. or greater size bag.

Get your own printable coupon Save $3 on Beneful

How will you Celebrate? learn more 

Giveaway!

1 Reader will receive a swag bag filled with goodies for your pup from Beneful!

It's easy to enter!

How will you celebrate National Dog Week? 

Use the Rafflecopter widget below to enter or 

Share with a picture of your pup on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and add the hashtags #NationalDogWeek and #FriendsWithBeneful then share the link in the comments and on social media! Tag me in the post and you will be entered to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Summertime Fruit Spritzers: Vacation Every Day with Palm Breeze

You wouldn't guess it by this goofy Illinois weather, but summertime is here. One of the best parts of summer is hosting friends on our back covered deck. We have the perfect outdoor space and we make good use of it. It's especially great this year, because with Ben...we sure need a breather and a chance to relax in the evenings! We won't be going on vacation this year with our new little one. But we still need to unwind.

My favorite way to relax is on the back deck--with a cocktail in my hand.

I have a few go-to drinks for this summer. Palm Breeze is a brand new drink perfect for mixing--and pretending like you are on a tropical island without a care in the world. It's flavored malt beverage (FMB). Which basically means it’s an alcoholic drink made with a malt base, kind of like beer. They created it with women as their target customers!

I found it at my local liquor store; sold by the case, or just by the can. I chose to purchase the cans individually so I could try both flavors. Palm Breeze comes in Ruby Red Citrus and Pineapple Mandarin Orange. Each can was just over a buck a piece. Since I planned to make mixed cocktails with them...that's less than a buck a drink. Delicious...and easy on my wallet.

I created 2 different drinks. I wanted to keep them both easy...I have a baby...ain't nobody got time for making fancy drinks with 10 different mixers.

Ruby Red Fruit Spritzer serves 4

• Palm Breeze Ruby Red Citrus (two cans)
• 34 oz Tonic water 
• Handful of fresh strawberries, sliced (even better if they are from your own garden!)

Muddled Pineapple Spritzer serves 2

• Palm Breeze Pineapple Mandarin Orange (two cans)
• Pineapple chunks muddled
• Ice

They were both simple to make, inexpensive, and yummy. This beverage is for those who are: spontaneous, carefree, confident, social & stylish; loves to spend her free time hanging with her girlfriends; loves to travel, enjoys outdoor activities and tries to soak up the sun!
I will be enjoying a few more of these this summer....all the while dreaming up my next vacation. Happy Summer!

P.S. If you are in a big city check out the Palm Breeze Bar Events near you!

• San Diego
• DC
• Austin
• Dallas

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Body After Baby: Supportwear Review, Giveaway and Discount Code!

Ben is almost a month old already. How did that happen?  It seems like he's only been here a week or so. We are both doing great. I guess when I think about it, I feel much better a month after his birth, than I felt a week after his birth! I remember a few days after being home with him thinking how long will I be this sore? 

In comes the Angelica from Body After Baby:

Body After Baby sent me their Angelica postpartum support garment to review. I'm so glad they did! I've been wearing the Angelica about 5-6 days a week, for about 6-8 hours a day. To be honest, sometimes I don't have time to take a shower and get dressed put on fresh sweats until 2 or 3 in the afternoon. That's when I put on the support wear, and usually wear it until bedtime. 

Speeds Recovery

• Stabilizes weak and stretched muscles from pregnancy and childbirth
• Targeted compression promotes circulation and reduces swelling, both of which speed recovery
• Supports tummy, hips, and lower back
• ObGyn recommended anatomical design focused on recovery
• Anatomical crotch panel supports and protects perineal tears and episiotomy incisions
• Reduces bloating discomfort

Comfort Focused

• Unique MicroNet™ soft-touch fabric free of harsh chemicals and dyes
• Lightweight and breathable MicroNet™ fabric keeps moms cool while recovering
• Undetectable and discreet under all types of clothing
• Adjustable and detachable shoulder straps

I'm happy I've had the chance to use the Angelica. I do think it helped me with recovery. Especially in the early days when having cramps from my uterous contracting, and general soreness. My hips and lower back have been pretty sore some days. I think it's a combination of general after birth recovery, and sitting in a chair most of the day while nursing and holding Ben. 

As far as comfort while wearing the Angelica it was what I expected. It is snug like other shape wear I've worn under bridesmaid dresses etc. It's super snug putting it on and it does suck you in the entire time. But at the same time, it's breathable. I took the shoulder straps off and it stayed on easy enough. it was just easier to nurse and more comfortable for me without the extra straps. 

I will recommend to my girlfriends and anyone who is is looking for postpartum advice to have support, and Body After Baby would be my first choice! 

Do you have a little one on the way? Or know someone who does? Enter to win an Angelica for yourself or for someone you know! 


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Oh and that's not all! EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT!  Body After Baby is also offering a discount on their other Postpartum & Pregnancy shape wear to Let's Just Build a House readers! 

30% off the Body After Baby Postpartum Collection (descriptions below)
Code: Build2
Expires: April 30, 2015
Limit: 25

The Angelica – For Post-partum Recovery 
The Angelica by Body After Baby is for postpartum women that want to reduce pain and recover faster so they can regain the strength they need to actively focus on their new baby. No other products focus solely on the recovery process. At Body After Baby, we believe a comfortable, supported mom is a better mom so start the recovery process today.

The Sienna – For Post C-section Recovery 
The Sienna by Body After Baby is for C-section moms that want to recover faster and more comfortably so they can regain the strength they need to actively focus on their new baby. Unlike C-section panties or post partum belly bands designed for vaginal deliveries, the Sienna supports the major body parts impacted by pregnancy including the hips, and lower back, not just the C-section incision. 

The Leilani – Post-Pregnancy Shapewear
Is it time to get back into your skinny jeans? You’ve been through the initial postpartum recovery stage and now it’s time to reclaim your body. The Leilani by Body After Baby is for postpartum active moms – whether active at the gym or at work or anywhere in between – that have healed from the delivery of their baby, lost the majority of the pregnancy weight and are now focused on losing serious inches. Unlike bulky post-pregnancy bands, the Leilani can be worn under fitted clothing and also supports all the body parts impacted by pregnancy including the hips, buttocks and thighs. Plus the slimming, “no back fat” design helps you look your best even in the most form-fitting of clothes.

Expecting and the Post Pregnancy collections seems far away? How about a discount on the Maternity support band?!

50% off The Motherload – Pregnancy Support Belly Band
Code: Build1
The Motherload by Body After Baby is for active pregnant women that need to relieve back, hip and abdominal pain and to reduce sciatica. Unlike other pregnancy support bands, the Motherload is especially designed for active pregnant moms. 
Expires: April 30, 2015
Limit: 10 



As always all opinions are my own. I was provided with this product to review.

BabyN's Birth Announcements with {Minted}

So, I've had big plans for BabyN's newborn photo-shoot for months. We can't wait until he's finally here and we get photos of him all sleepy and snuggled up in baskets and buckets! We have a super talented photographer lined up--and I know her photos of him are going to be great. We want to make sure we share them with his birth announcements! So I popped over to Minted and looked at what they had to offer in their 2015 collection of birth announcements.

Minted has gorgeous designs on quality paper. I had fun just looking through them all and dreaming up what ours will look like when this kid decides to grace us with his presence--- and gets his first photo session!

Let's scroll through my favorites just for fun shall we!?

These gold foil ones were an immediate favorite!

Gold Foil Birth Announcement from Minted

One of the awesome things Minted offers is you can customize the colors on your prints, but also your edges. Scalloped, rounded, straight corners..plus they have different paper options for customization too.

Meet Jacob Custom Edges Birth Announcement

This is such a cute design to list all the new baby's stats too! 

Infantgraphics Birth Announcement

This simple this one is a top pick. The shape is perfect...

Minted Birth Announcement

Options to customize the back too! You can write a sweet note, or baby stats!

Minted Birth Announcement

And OHMYGOSH look how sweet this one is with the scalloped edges. It's a little too girly for BabyN but it's still darling. 

Minted: Source

Minted will send out a free proof of your print/announcement too so that you can be sure to double triple check everything before they're printed. 

And if you want to see the quality of their work, they will send out a sample pack of birth announcement samples to you before you order. Just go here and enter your info. This will give you an idea of quality and sizes. Plus, it's always helpful to me to see them in person before I order. Especially something this important! 

I was compensated for my time for this post but as usual all opinions are my own.

Say Goodbye to Ugly Outlets with COVERPLUG

Our kid is not even here yet and we are already considering childproofing.  We will probably also make you put on GermX before you hold our kid. Yes, we are those parents.

We had a great electrician who placed outlets everywhere we would need them....but those buggers will need to be covered up when the kiddo is big enough to stick toys and fingers in the sockets.  I don;t know about you, but those plastic-y things you can get are #1 ugly, and also a PITA to get out when you need to vacuum.
Enter: COVERPLUG...

Source

Do you have a little extra paint leftover from last time you painted your living room/bedroom/playroom? Well, pair that with the CoverPlug and you are golden.

• Outlets Disappear! They are paint-able; the outlets blend right into your walls.
• Completely covers a standard grounded double outlet.
• Installs in seconds - No tools required. Seconds!
• Provides a visual and physical barrier. Fits snug, removable by an adult.
• Made in the USA! 

They are great even for those who don't have kids. They pop right on and off so they cover up the ugly outlets, and blend with the walls...but when you need to plug something in like your vacuum..it only takes a quick minute.

Adam and I both love this product, and we will be purchasing a few more for our home. We were able to test out a product that we wish we had 30 more of because it's awesome and so smart and so simple!

Where to buy your own CoverPug!

As usual, all reviews contain my own opinions on the products. I was provided with the product and compensated for my time to review this item. 

Financial Peace with Capital One {{Sponsored}}

We've talked about money in the past here at Let's Just Build a House. We told you how we paid off all of our debt. All of it. Okay, well, all of it except the house. But, we still say we are debt free.

Today we are teaming up with Capital One to give more financial advice. This time we are talking about what you can do to set yourself up for financial success in 2015. Isn't that a great New Year's resolution to have? Especially after spending a few bucks this weekend on Black Friday. I know you did...I sure did!

Make a plan, make a Budget: The best way to set yourself up, is to plan ahead. It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and lose sight of the goals we've set to help us achieve financial peace of mind. So make a plan!

Set aside "fun money": Even if you are trying to save money, and spend less in 2015, you still have to have some fun! Set aside fun money for yourself or you and your family. Whether it's a new pair of boots, or a trip to the movies, setting aside enough to splurge once in awhile helps so much when budgeting! We went on a "splurge trip" to Gulf Shores, AL this year. We REALLY wanted to go to an all-inclusive somewhere, but we had our goals set, so we splurged a little on a trip, and still stayed on budget.

Do you need it?: I know this is the opposite of what I just said. Have fun money, but also reevaluate everything you buy. I love my Birchbox every month. But is that a splurge or a need? At only $10 a month it may seem like nothing with all the fun makeup and goodies you get, but then again, it's $120 a year. If you have a credit card bill, or a debt that could go towards...maybe cancel that subscription for now!

You will feel so much better with a plan in place for 2015. I know we have a whole new kind of budgeting to do for 2015 with Baby N on the way! Kids, are not cheap, we already have figured that much out about parenting. But, don't you worry, we already have a plan in place. Now we have to stick to it!!

Be sure to check out Capital One's Black Friday sale (extended through this weekend!) to help you make your way to 2015 Financial Peace.

Once the Thanksgiving celebrations are done, be sure to add Capital One 360's Black Friday Sale to your shopping list. Visit http://clvr.li/cap1bfs to give yourself the lasting gift of financial peace of mind by taking advantage of Capital One 360's deals on banking, brokerage and mortgage products.


What tips do you have for saving moolah and getting yourself some #FinancialPeace in 2015? 


I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

A treat for our feet....and paws.

We purchased an area rug carpet remnant we plan to bind ourselves a few months back. It's snuggly and warm and it's the perfect size. But it didn't really have that much cushion. When we would get down on the floor to play with Scout, it was not as comfortable as we would have liked.

Then Rug Pads USA came to the rescue. They wondered if we'd like to try one of their pads, and we sure did. 

Because our area was so large (12x12) it arrived in two pieces. 

Adam hauled them in the house...perfect fit. The nice thing about Rug Pads USA is that even though they have about every size rug pad imaginable-- they give you the option of having the rug pad cut to custom size if you wish!

My husband always looks like a model when he vacuums. Or at least, he thinks so....

 Look at them legs...

There's plenty of reason to get a carpet pad. So that the rug doesn't slip around, to the protect the floors, and for comfort. +
We have a large area with heavy furniture anchoring it down, so we aren't really worried about the rug scooting around. Our biggest concern was comfort. Since we will probably be spending more time on the floor playing with the future Baby N, we decided we needed some cushion! We chose one of their memory foam rug pads.

We rolled them out, and Scout tested it first.

 Seems happy enough...

Then the tricky part, getting the rug back on and lined up nicely. This is probably a two person job. But I had two excuses not to help:
1. Preg ladies cannot lift heavy stuff. 2. I had to take photos for all of you.

Scout helped by standing on the carpet as we tried to re-align everything...he was a big help.

All three of us took our shoes off as soon as it was all set up and OOO-ed and AHHHH-ed. The floor was now super cushion-y and super dreamy feeling.

See for yourself up close. It was ultra plush and thick, but still kept it's shape when you walked on it. Since it was memory foam.

Scout approved of the upgrade.

 Scout laid right down on the carpet instead of his snuggly bed.
He was a little annoyed that I wouldn't let him go right to sleep with all my click click clicking on the camera and Adam still OOOO-ing and AHHHH-ing over the difference the cushion made on his toes.

 But he just looked so cute. So I kept snapping...

 And he rolled over to get more comfortable.

Then moved further away from me and gave me a dirty look...

Oops, sorry for all the Scout photos. I've turned into that creepy person that takes photos of her boyfriend dog sleeping....anyway....back to the rug pad.

If you in the market for a rug pad, go to Rug Pads USA first. You will not find better selection out there. They also stand behind their MADE IN THE USA (yay!) products with a 15-20 year warranty on all rug pads. Oh, and did I mention FREE SHIPPING? I hate paying for shipping!
Pop over to their handy buying guide and see which rug pad works best for your needs.

Anyway, thank you Rug Pads USA for providing us with your memory foam rug pad. Our feet, and paws are much happier. We've even had a few compliments on the extra cushion from friends and family who have noticed the difference of the extra cushion already!