We are coming up to Mother’s Day weekend, the shops have their (over-priced) cards at the forefront and the ads are everywhere encouraging you to buy {flowers/chocolate/jewellery}. I will admit that we do not make it a big day around here. My parents have always called this a “Hallmark Holiday”; a commercial event to encourage us to spend money. In our household, crafts and activities are emphasized and I have always loved what has been done.
SPROUTING CREATIVITY
Budget Friendly Tips for Mother’s Day Presents | Get Rich Slowly
Think outside your wallet this Mother’s Day and enjoy some time with your family.
ORGANIZING OUR ROOTS
Most people know about Kijiji and Craigslist; you might have even bought or sold an item. Did you know there are more personal and localized groups on Facebook? A few years ago, friends opened my eyes to the Buy & Sell world on Facebook. When you have a child, the outdated clothing and toys pile up fast. There is also the expense of purchasing the next size or age range. This is where my local sites help me. I can post the items we are done with and make some money back. Then find some items we need for less than retail. Win, win!
Need an example? We used the Kidco Peapod with our daughter for about three years. She is little too big for it now and it has been collecting dust. I posted it for $40. Another mom posted a large sunshade that can be used at the park and splash pads. I wanted one to protect my sensitive skin and it was posted for $40. Win, win – all the sunshade cost me was gas money!
Pantry Hack | Kath Eats Real Food
I am having pantry envy. This built-in pantry is amazing and then Kath took it to the next level with her organizing tricks. Some easy ideas to implement in this post.
LIL SPROUTS
How Teenagers Can Become Millionaires | Dave Ramsey
This post is from 2010 but has started making the rounds again. This is an excellent article about the benefits of compound interest and retirement. I would like families to use the same idea when saving for their child(ren)’s education. The earlier you place funds in an RESP, the more available to the child in their post-secondary years.
SPROUTING HEALTH & WELLNESS
Good Habit Box | Snack Girl
This is a new to me blog and this post had her being sponsored by American company Good Habit Box. I decided to share this as a concept for good snacking (note: the company is not available in Canada). I have gotten into the habit of having a good snack in my bag. What is a good snack? I believe you need something that is healthy, minimally processed (or not at all) and has a good combo of protein/fat/carbohydrates. Nuts and dried fruit carry well in my bag so that is my usual choice. There are premixed snack mixes available but they tend to be a little heavy on the dried fruit which means it is high in sugar. So why don’t you head out to your local Bulk Barn, pick up your favourite flavours and mix your own!
SPROUTING [P]INSPIRATION
Looking for some ideas on recipes, organization or things to do with your Lil Sprout? Come check out my Pinterest page and the things that inspire me to become more balanced.
In the comments, please share articles that you read this week that helped you SPROUT some BALANCE! And remember to follow us and SPROUT a conversation on Twitter – @sproutbalance
Sprouting Balance 
Best post yet!
LikeLike