Although planning the week is still a bit new to me, I have noticed in the past  that Sundays are what Tan and I call our “slow day”.  We usually go to Sunday Morning Mass, visit my Mom afterwards, then we’re home in time for dinner and maybe a movie (while I do laundry -ah multi-tasking, gotta love it!) This past Sunday was one of those rare days where we actually had to change our plans and push everything off for today.  But no matter how busy I am, I try to set aside some time to prepare for the week ahead.  Right now, I’m in the process of doing my weekly planning, and felt inspired to share some of the tasks that I’ve planned to help keep me organized.

• Check calendar for upcoming appointments, birthdays.
• Make a “to do” list.
• Jot down what to make for dinner.
• Create a shopping list and cut out my coupons for the week.
• Wash and prep the kids clothes for the week.

If I don’t take the time to do these things, I feel like I spend the rest of the week playing catch-up. You know the feeling, right?

While my Google Calendar and my Daily Planner have helped make my tasks a bit simpler, I still find myself doing things the “old-fashion” way.  I guess it’s because I feel more accomplished when I can check things off, lol

If you’re like me and take pleasure with the “check of” system, then go here and download yourself a copy of my Weekly Planner and/or To-Do List.  A neat trick is to get yourself a 8×10 frame (from the dollar store) and a dry erase fine tip pen, that way you can use the glass to check off your completed tasks, then erase it for the following week!  How cool is that!

I totally encourage you to give this a try and  let me know what you think!

I love being organized and having a schedule!  For years I’ve lived my life just doing what I could when I could do it.  But as the kids got older, my work life and Tan’s work schedule have increased, it has gotten almost impossible for us to get anything done.  Just to buy groceries has been a difficult task for us.

A while ago I mentioned reading Pen & Paper Flowers and  iHeart Organizing and how I made a promise to keep my home and life better organized.  I’m happy to say that I’ve been doing very well and have continued to make small steps towards organization.  I’ve even created a Pin Board on Pinterest to help with my organization.  I have a monthly planner where I jot down all of  the tasks, shopping, birthdays, Dr.’s appt, etc and it’s my daily go to for anything.  I even have a back up calendar reminder on my phone for those days where I may have forgotten something.  Such a helpful tool to have!

Although I’m doing great I’m still having trouble with my home organization.  I sometimes get a wee bit overzealous and want to do it all in a day.  I’m so used to my motto being “Why put off for tomorrow what you can get done today”  but now I must say I need to learn “Slow and Steady wins the race”. To help me with my organization, I’ve decided to do a 30 Day Organizing Challenge.  I have written down a list of things I want to get done in 30 Days.  I’m hoping to work on my list and tweak it when needed.   I’m pretty stoked about it and can’t wait to share my list with you fine folks!  For now I’ll start with my first challenge:  Laundry.  I don’t mind doing the laundry.  I find folding the laundry very therapeutic at times and the smell of fresh clean clothes is wonderful -ahh! But I hate how long I take to get it done!  I mean it takes me hours to wash, then dry then fold and sometimes I can’t get to the putting it away part.  I have recruited the help of my kids but sometimes their help is not very helpful if ya know what I mean!  I often find myself refolding the clothes :\-which is NOT fun!  If you know of any neat tips or tricks in folding the laundry or home organization, then please help this Mama out! And I promise, as soon as I can, I’ll share my organization tips!  But please understand I am NOT a professional organizer nor  do I play one on TV!

While we were out, I decided to go to the local craft store (A.C. Moore) just  to browse around, all the while hoping to find some great deals and inspiration for Valentine’s Day.  So I was minding my own business when this kind elderly lady walked up to me and said with such sincerity ”Thank You”.  I looked at her for a few seconds not understanding why she was thanking me.  Then she proceeded to explain herself.

You see, the reason why she thanked me was because my middle girl was polite to her.  Nena said hello to her and smiled, something she always does to friends and strangers alike.  Then the nice lady explained to me that she has been out and about all day with not one person smiling, greeting her or showing a kind gesture.  I felt so bad for her.  Tan and I have always been the type of people to go out of our way to be polite and courteous to others.  Not that we are perfect, because I’m sure we’ve snubbed a few people in our life time (not on purpose, mind you) but when we get caught up in our lives maybe we didn’t say hello or didn’t put our best food forward.  Which is very rare I assure you  Anywho, the lady had said she was having a rough day and had spoken to her daughter about having a bad day (apparently a bad week) but my daughter’s smile made her happy.  She said she felt renewed and that my girl’s smile made her day brighter.  We also spoke about how sometimes when we smile, the person receiving the smile may have been through so much and that one single smile may have given them hope.  I know to some of you a smile is not much but I think beyond the smile.  A smile may lead to a renewed feeling or a warm greeting to the next person or a kind gesture to the next and so on..

I am a firm believer of doing good because good will return to you in abundance.  When we left the store that day, I had to say that I thought of this kind elderly lady and how she was beaming and it all started with a smile~

Mateo’s Mom, Autumn, was nice enough to send me pictures of her son’s birthday party and I thought I’d share some pics with you fine folks!  So here you go!

It just puts a smile to my face knowing that little “Teo” (as they lovingly call him) enjoyed his first birthday and that I was a small part of his joyous time  It makes my heart go pitter patter for little ones.

And how yummy is this cake?  When I saw this I was thinking Oooh I need to make myself a cake :p… Yum Yum Yum

Photo: Disney By Mark

Every year my family and I celebrate Dia de los Reyes Magos.  It’s a Hispanic tradition that I’ve been blessed to pass to my children.  What is Dia the Los Reyes Magos you ask?  Why it’s a very special day where many Hispanic families celebrate the Epiphany.  Remembering the day when the Three Wise Men followed the star to Bethlehem, arriving to bear their treasured gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for the Baby Jesus.  It is celebrated on the 6th of January every year.  Although it is not widely known through out the US and other countries, it is still celebrated as big as  Christmas in the Hispanic Community.

As a little girl I remember the excitement I felt when I first heard of the Three Wise Men.  How they came down to gift Baby Jesus their treasures.  I especially like that the Three Wise Men gave good children gifts too (hey, I was a kid what did you expect) I was so excited to see all the bright lights, the food and the music as well (to me there’s nothing better than some good salsa music)  Now as a mother I try my best to follow in the traditions of my family and teach my children their heritage.  Although we now live in the city of Philadelphia, Tan and I have adapted some of the traditions to fit into the life and schedule of 3 busy girls and 2 crazy pups. Since January 6th falls on a Friday this year and our girls have school plus a basketball game tonight, we’ll be celebrating Dia de Los Reyes on Saturday.  Which is great because that will give us a wonderful weekend of food fun and festivities.  I plan on making some great traditional Puertorican food.  I cannot wait to make some yummy arroz con gandules, empanadillas, tostones and pernil.  For desert we’ll enjoy some flan and arroz con dulce.  With my salsa mix cd playing in the background and yummy food, this will be a great celebration, if I do say so myself ~

FELIZ DIA DE LOS REYES!!!  HAPPY THREE WISE MEN DAY!!!

That being said I decided to have New Year’s Resolution this year.  Many of my friends and family members decided not to have a resolution because they won’t stick to it.  I thought that was kind of silly and realized, that that’s basically the same thing I say every year.  This year I decided to be different and actually HAVE a New Years Resolution.  It’s hard for me because I tend to be a bit of a perfectionist and an overachiever.   I usually write a list of things that are truly difficult of not impossible for me to achieve in the small amount of time I give myself.  This year, this year will be different.  A few months ago (back in February) I was reading one of my favorite blogs (Pen & Paper Flowers) and came across a Promise Me post.  It basically is a list of promises you make to yourself of things you will achieve in a years time. To put it in her words “An exciting, year-long adventure of keeping promises…promises I’ve made to myself.  Promises involving fun activities to strengthen relationships – especially with my daughters.  ”Promises” that will bring added value to my home…to my life…to my family…and ultimately to ME. Each of these promises has one resounding common thread: ENRICHMENT.”  She also has a Promise Me Pdf you can print and write your own promises.  Go get yours here!

When I read this I thought “That’s exactly how I feel”.  I’m always talking to Tan about self improvement and what can I do to have accomplished more in a day.  So back in November I made a list of the things I will be achieving this year.

One of the Promises I made to myself  is to be better organized.  I have been saying I’m gong to be better organized but then I get so over whelmed I stop.  Like I said I’m a perfectionist and an overachiever and when something isn’t done right the first time I get so frustrated I give up.  Not this year,  I’ve decided to make a promise and so far I’m doing very well (notice I said well and not great -perfectionist).  To help me in my organizational goals I have been reading  iHeart Organizing. There I have found some truly awesome tips and tricks for organization. From where to place my chicas art supplies to storing medicine and so much more!  If you’re like me, then stop on by Pen & Paper Flowers and iHeart Organizing and get started on your own promises or get organized.  Or do both!

This year means a lot to me and my family.  There are going to be BIG CHANGES heading our way.  Some of it is exciting and some a bit scary.  Although I can’t divulge anything as of yet, I promise I will definitely let you know the goings on very soon.  All I can say is that 2012 will be an exciting and challenging year for us at the HipnCreative Villa ~

A few days ago, I received an email from my sister-in-law about Pet Health and Safety and thought that this info would benefit all Pet lovers out there!  So I’m sharing a copy with you all.  You’re Welcome

Lights, decorations, good food… every year, as we celebrate the holidays, we fill our homes with seasonal cheer for ourselves and our families. However, what may seem beautiful and harmless to us may pose hidden dangers to our pets. Don’t let an emergency spoil the festivities! Below are some common holiday hazards for dogs and cats and ways to prevent them.

Dangerous Foods -The following can be toxic to pets: chocolate, raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, garlic, onion, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, bread dough, and sugar-free candy and gum containing the artificial sweetener xylitol.

Regular Foods -Despite tradition, bones should never be given to pets. Even beef, ham, and other “regular” foods that are not considered toxic can cause illness in pets. If your pet is a moocher, keep a saucer of his regular treats on the table to offer when he asks. He probably won’t know the difference!

New Treats and Toys- Even a pet-safe treat can cause stomach upset if it is new to your pet. Offer only one of these at a time (ideally, separated by a few days). If your pet becomes ill after eating a holiday treat, it will be easier to trace the source and discontinue it. Also, check new toys for sharp edges, pieces that can be chewed off, or other potential hazards.

Plants- Hazardous plants include mistletoe, some evergreens (including some types of pine), and holly bushes and berries. Try to keep these plants away from pets, or at least supervise pets when dangerous plants are nearby.

Decorations -Tinsel, tree ornaments, ribbons, string, and garlands are some items that can be dangerous if eaten by pets. Keep these items away from pets — especially when pets are unattended. Don’t forget to cover any electrical cords or keep them out of reach.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide- Monitor pets near fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, candles, and portable heaters. Also, don’t forget to check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are functioning properly. Space heaters, furnaces, and idling cars (in a garage) can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in pets and humans.

Christmas Trees- Monitor your pets when they are around your holiday tree. Pets may eat the needles (even from artificial trees) or drink water from the base of the tree, which can be toxic (especially if there are preservatives in it). Keep electrical cords and decorative lights out of reach, too.

In many cases, if your pet has eaten or drunk something toxic, warning signs will include gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Other signs may include tiredness and lack of appetite, especially in cats that have eaten lilies. If your pet shows any of these signs, or if you think he or she has eaten something dangerous but is not showing any signs yet, please call {your local veterinarian} right away. Treating your pet as soon as possible is essential!

From my Family to Yours We Wish You All a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!~

The first inspiration comes to us from And Everything Sweet.  I absolutely love this!  I think it’s so genius of Kate to set up her table with all sorts of decorating tools for her Christmas Wrapping Party!

How about this lovely wrapping tablescape from The Sweetest Occassion:

And how cute are these Chocolate Milk Ornaments?  Great for birthday party too, Eh?

How inspiring are these, hhmmm maybe next year I’ll host my own Christmas Wrapping Party! We’ll just have to see won’t we?~

Image: Wallcoo.net

A few years ago when my eldest was still in diapers, my wonderful husband Tan came home with a few books and printouts from a company health retreat.  I stored it for safe keeping and when I was cleaning out my file cabinet I came across this cute little print out from that very outing (I tend to keep things in its original packaging to remember where/when I got it )

I being of a generous nature, decided to share this list with you fine folks in the blogosphere!  So here you go!  Enjoy:

*Every child is special, and every child deserves to know this.  Feeling special helps children believe in themselves and have a positive outlook.  Here are 30 simple things you can do at home to help your child feel special:

1. Start each day with a smile.
2. Tell your child why she/he is special to you.
3. Say “I love you” often.
4. Share jokes or funny stories and laugh together.
5. Help you child see the brighter side of difficult situations
6. Say “I’m glad you’re part of this family”.
7. Really Listen to your child.
8. Attend your child’s school events, performances, and sports activities.
9. Ask “What do you think?”
10. Treat your child with respect, as you’d treat a good friend.
11.  Be aware that name-calling, teasing, and embarrassing remarks can be hurtful to your child.
12. Say “You can do it”.
13. Set aside special time for your child.
14. Take walks together.
15. Say “I love spending time with you”.
16. Ask your child for help.
17. Help your child learn new skills.
18. Fix meals together
19. Do chores together.  Say “Thanks for helping”.
20. Whenever possible, say “Please do this” instead of “Don’t do that.”
21. Read books together.
22. Do fun things together.
23. Be silly together.
24. Notice when your child tries something new.
25. Believe in your child.
26. Say “I like you.”
27. Say “I’m glad you’re you:.
28. Hug each other often.
29. At bedtime, talk about the good things that happened during the day.
30. Say “Sweet Dreams”.

I hope this above list will help you parents out there to strengthen your bond with your child or children.   If you would like a copy of this list, you can download it here.

Many of the items on this list is something Tan and I have been doing since before the kids we’re born.  We have always been nurturing people and truly enjoy each other’s company and in my humble opinion sharing love, respect and your time with your child will help them to grow up strong and make the right decisions.

Thanks for reading and I look forward to sharing with you soon!~

*List source: A Leader’s Guide to I Like Being Me, copyright 1997 by Judy Lalli and Mary Martha Whitworth.  Free Spirit Publishing Inc.

Like what you see? Just click on each image to go to the tutorial

An awesome sketchbook caddy is perfect for those long road trips.

Source: Simply Modern Mom

This fun mail carrier kit is great for playing Post Office.

Source: 12 Crafts Til Christmas

This looks like such a fun gift to make!

Source: Serving Pink Lemonade

What little girl doesn’t love a Fabric Doll House?

Source: UK Lass in US

I think this car caddy is so darn cute!

Source: homemade by Jill

Circle Zip Earbud pouch for the tween (and not so tween) in your life!

Source: Dog Under My Desk

My kids love finger painting just as much as I do!

Source: Easy Peasy

Another fun homemade gift is sidewalk chalk!

Source: Oh My! Handmade Goodness

Or maybe your prefer to make your own playdough?

Source: Skip to my Lou

How about these adorable Rag Dolls?  Sooo cute!

Source: Tip Junkie

I so love these Ruffled Flowers, great as hair accessories <3

Source: The Mother Huddle

Lastly on the list is upcycled crayons!  Who doesn’t have broken pieces of crayons laying around.  Now you can make one colorful crayons kids can play with over and over again!

Source: Make and Takes

I hope to have inspired you start making those Christmas Gifts!  You better get crackin’, you only have 9 more days to go!!!~