Thrifty Mommas Tips

Holiday Gift Guide: Powerful Reads by International Authors

Paula — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 15:47:00 +0000

As the holiday season approaches, there is a distinct joy in finding a present that feels truly meaningful. You know the feeling. The one that invites a loved one to slow down, explore new horizons, and see the world through a fresh perspective. For the passionate readers and armchair travellers on your list, this entry in my gift guide should help. For a reader, few gifts carry quite as much weight as a book. These translated books from international authors are well worth considering for the book lovers on your list. Translating literature across borders bridges cultures, fosters empathy, and transports us directly into the heart of lived experiences in far-off places. Many thanks to Other Press for consistently sharing their incredible authors with me this year. My opinion is all my own. Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. I receive a small commission from purchases made via qualifying links. Gifts for Well Travelled Readers If you are looking for thoughtful literary gift ideas this year, Other Press has curated a remarkable collection of international authors and voices that belong on every well travelled book lover’s shelf. Here are three titles that may captivate the well-traveled bookworm in your life this holiday season. My take on each of these below. 1. The Stars Shine Brighter: A Father and Son in Gaza by Rami Abou Jamous Info: The Stars Shine Brighter: A Father and Son in Gaza, by Rami Abou Jamous, translation by Adriana Hunter, Other Press, 159 pages, published 2025 in French originally. Translation was published in 2026. $16.99 USD, $22.99 Canada. Also available on Kindle. Tops on my list of absolute must-reads this holiday season and well into 2027 is The Stars Shine Brighter by journalist Rami Abou Jamous. This extraordinarily powerful account offers a deeply moving and unforgettable glimpse into resilience, family, and survival in Palestine. Written through the intimate lens of a father navigating life with his young son amidst ongoing conflict, Abou Jamous delivers a tender, urgent, and profoundly human story. It is a vital work of international journalism and personal memoir that leaves a lasting impact long after the final page is turned. In the late summer months when I began reading this powerful book, I texted my daughter immediately that I was already heartbroken and literally had only read the first chapter. Expect this book to educate, shock and move you emotionally. This is one of the best books I read this entire year. Because it is written by a journalist, it’s a personal and emotional account of the ongoing war and genocide in Gaza. This is a book I wholeheartedly recommend and it was one of my personal favourites of the year. Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. Any purchases made via qualifying links may mean a small commission for me. 2. Sinking Francis by Masashi Matsuie For readers who appreciate subtle atmosphere, quiet elegance, and rich character studies, Japanese author Masashi Matsuie’s Sinking Francis is a wonderful and quick addition to any winter reading list. Matsuie has a talent for crafting contemplative prose that immerses you completely in the textures of daily life and human connection. Set against evocative backdrops in Northern Japan, this novel explores theme of memory, legacy, and quietly shifting relationships with the delicate, thoughtful pacing that fans of contemporary Japanese literature will deeply treasure. This is part character study and it will transport you this winter. Matsuie is an international author that is new to me. The setting is delightful in this coming of age post breakup journey. Main character Keiko, in her 30s, has broken up with her boyfriend and moved to Hokkaido, a spot she once spent time in as a student. There she becomes a mail carrier, as a work side quest from her usual job and finds some simple joy in meeting the people she delivers mail to. She also meets a middle aged man who becomes her lover. He is the caretaker for a hydroelectric mill called Francis. Info: Sinking Francis, by Masashi Matsuie, translation by Margaret Mitsutani, Other Press, 144 pages. Released Dec. 1, 2026. This was an advance copy. 3. Mother Tongue: Immersions and Other True Stories by Fabio Morábito Rounding out this international showcase is Mother Tongue: Immersions and Other True Stories by Egyptian-born Mexican author and poet Fabio Morábito. Perfect for readers who love essays, literary vignettes, and reflections on language, Morábito’s collection dives into how words shape our sense of identity, home, and belonging. It is an intellectual and sensory treat for world travellers, offering clever observations about the translation of life itself across geographical and linguistic borders. For the Armchair Travellers Whether wrapped under the tree or tucked into a cozy stocking, these translated international books are guaranteed to inspire, move, and delight. These are ideal for the armchair traveller or the well travelled reader on your list. Don’t Miss the First entry in the Gift Guide: The Ultimate Slipper Edit

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How to Enjoy Travel When Things Don’t Go to Plan

Paula — Mon, 26 Oct 2026 14:12:00 +0000

Your vacation doesn’t have to be perfect to be perfectly enjoyable and memorable. I was reminded of that recently when I was going through my old photos and videos from that time we visited Alkmaar, The Netherlands, not far from Amsterdam. If anything, that trip down memory lane was also a good reminder of how to enjoy travel when it threatens to be less than magical. Our First Huge Europe Adventure Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. Purchases made via qualifying links may mean a small commission for me at no added cost to you. Amsterdam, The Netherlands, was our first trip together to Europe. It held so many amazing moments but also a few chaotic travel transitions and tribulations as well. Now don’t get me wrong, we loved this trip and will remember it forever. But, some might have lost their minds. A less experienced traveller or a person without kids might be horrified if they went through half of the trials we did when we embarked on a three person family trip to Amsterdam. My youngest kiddo was about 19 and frankly travelled really well as a kid but on this trip had some wild plane related issues. Motion Sickness Let me just start by saying there was nothing wrong with the flight. It was not overly turbulent or delayed or anything extreme. It was a flight like every flight I have been on in the past ten years – a tiny plane as usual with crowded conditions that felt tolerable to me but not so much for my sensitive kid with sensory processing disorder and FASD. I mean there have been a zillion times I have been uncomfortable on a plane in the last decade as airlines have all worked to squeeze more bodies into smaller spaces while charging premiums for choosing seats and so forth. But most of us tolerate the plane so that we can simply get the reward of experiencing the other end of the voyage. My coping mechanism for those times is read a book on my Kindle or Kobo or get up at least once an hour to stroll the aisles and go to the restrooms if needed. My legs need a break when I am feeling cramped. How to enjoy travel when you are cramped, motion sick or claustrophobic? I mean many of us can see the reward at the end of the flight. And that can be enough. This trip was as they say the trip to end all trips. (But of course it didn’t end the trips because I could never…) My youngest developed extreme nausea and motion sickness as the plane climbed and it did not stop at all on the 6 hours to Iceland where we had a short stop over around 2 a.m. So, picture me and Noah racing through the airport trying to find Gravol or equivalent. Also, picture us racing through with no Icelandic currency. US currency was not accepted in the airport. Racing Through the Airport So, looking for currency first at that hour and of course there wasn’t any. Oh I had brought all sorts of Euros and still had some Canadian and US funds and a debit card. BUT, make note of this for your own knowledge. NO, Euros would be accepted anywhere in the airport. We had a one hour layover which as anyone who travels knows is not long. So, we parked Payton by the gate for our second plane and ran through the airport looking for something to quell the vomiting. (Props to the airplane crew who were very understanding on that plane.) But we couldn’t find anything at all until we reached the absolute farthest section of the airport in Reykjavik, Iceland and discovered something Paracetamol like and waited in line to purchase with debit or credit. Not that Much Longer Thankfully we managed to buy that. But it put us perilously close to missing plane. Unbeknownst to us our names were being called. We couldn’t hear them, but we knew we were pushing it so we sprinted through the airport. Now, remember we’d been up all night. I had been rubbing one’s back and holding barf bags and my travel companion was on empty and had been vomiting all night. So we were probably not as fast as we could have been. I don’t want to even think about how bad we might have smelled, but at least the airplane flight sickness bags worked to contain the mess. My biggest lesson from this trip was never leave home without Gravol. Honestly, we hadn’t needed any in a decade or more so I assumed we were safe and that was the dumbest assumption I have made in years. Not going to lie had I packed the nighttime one that makes you sleep I would have been so much better off than I was on the trip. My poor little adventurer was done. But we had to keep moving. Transportation is simple in the Netherlands. Get your tickets to the GVB public transport before you go. Anyways, eventually we rocked up to the gate and spied Payton, my anxious child, standing there crying and a gate attendant with her trying to calm her down. We hadn’t seen her anxiety flare up before that moment really but that was it for her. She had been there tired, exhausted, hungry and panicking and I felt horrible but we all made it and hopped on the tram or bus or whatever transportation vehicle they had that would ferry us to the next spot. She would have been even more miserable if I had dragged her running through the airport in search of something to calm her sibling’s stomach so I mean thankfully I left her at the gate for that part. Still felt like we didn’t have enough people to spread out the parenting tasks. Waiting for your AirBnB AirBnBs have certainly made travel more comfortable for so many reasons. Bigger spaces that feel like home and lovely options for entire families so I am not complying about that by any stretch. But when you fly overnight from Europe you will often find yourself arriving at your destination in the early morning or by noon. A lot of places won’t allow you to check in before 4 p.m. We had the sweetest loft space outside of Amsterdam which we all loved. It was completely worth it and we would rent the same spot over again. The loft had ample space and a sprawling upstairs with in suite laundry and Alkmaar was delightful. But we showed up around noon and the owner worked in Amsterdam and couldn’t get to us until 3:30 or 4 as agreed. While that wasn’t a massive issue just know you will be exhausted when you get in and you might need to crash immediately and lose some time. We found the cutest cafe to hang out in for a couple of hours and then we walked to ensure that we were closer to our loft. Shout out to Brownie’s and Downies in Alkmaar. AirBnB mishaps Loved this loft and still dream about it. It was wonderful. (except for the stove.) When you are visiting The Netherlands you will of course have some cultural differences to adjust to quickly. That was not an issue and we were prepared for most scenarios. Thankfully my kiddo’s stomach settled the moment feet were back on the ground and we were ready for food and drink and sleep of course. But, that said, we couldn’t have foreseen what a crazy glass top on the stove would do one day after noon when we were craving some noodles for lunch. I turned away from the stove top as the pot was boiling and heard a big bang and that was that. Glass shattered and was a mess and the noodles were garbage. But we were okay. Most unexpected outcome. We all worried we’d get hit with a big fine. But my first reaction was text the AirBnB owner and deal with it immediately. That was the right communication strategy at that time and he commiserated and was worried mostly that we were okay. When I clarified that we were all fine but the stove was not usable he noted he’d replace it for the next vacationers and was super relieved we had not been hurt. Some people might have been annoyed that the stovetop was now out of commission but this was another lesson in how to enjoy your trip even when things go sideways. Honestly charcuterie, dinners out and takeout was our plan for most of the rest of the trip anyways. So, no big deal. Rain In the Netherlands in the fall it rains a lot. I only mention that because you should know that this happens. Obviously we bought $5 umbrellas and made the absolute best of it. As someone I know once said, rain hits different when you are travelling. Indeed it did. There was a part of me that didn’t even care because I was away with my kids showing them what it was like in Europe and stoking that love of travel and resilience that comes with simply being away. You can’t visit Europe in the spring/ fall or winter even without expecting rain. So get used to it. My best advice is bring a waterproof rain jacket or even a light winter jacket that is waterproof and water resistant with a hood. Umbrellas sometimes are a mess here depending on where you are visiting. The winds easily trash those if you are not used to Europe. This is even more true in the United Kingdom. On the Way Back When we had to leave, we were in fact all super sad. Alkmaar was a hit as was Amsterdam. In fact, we really had enjoyed the trip and had made the absolute most of our time. We saw every single thing but for one or two museums that we had on our lists. Anne Frank House, by the way needs to be booked well in advance of your trip if you want to see it. In summary, this was one of the trips I will fondly look back on forever. The kind of memory I might bring up at the kid’s weddings (should they choose to get married.) Remember that time you threw up all the way to Iceland? Finding the Magic Travel chaos and ups and downs are all part of the process. If you have travel transitions and experiences without any blips then consider yourself very fortunate. Go buy a lotto ticket now. The journey is part of the adventure when you travel and accepting that early on will lead to less disappointment or frustration later on. At the very least the crazy chaotic moments can be part of the story you tell later.

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Fall Footwear Guide to Keep Moving

Paula — Fri, 23 Oct 2026 12:00:00 +0000

The fall season has never been my favourite but most of you know that by now. However, every fall the brazen red leaves, the trees spinning a gradient of greens, golds and oranges in one lovely package and the chilly temperatures bring me a little bit more joy. Maybe we mellow with age? Maybe I am just learning to find the joy everywhere because life is simply happier that way. No matter the season, I am determined to keep moving and I know many of you are too which is why I am sharing my Fall Footwear guide with all of you. Moving is crucial for my mental health and obviously physical health too. Good footwear supports both of these aspects of my life. ALLSWIFIT ActiveBreeze 2.0 Women’s Sneakers This fall I have been on the move a lot. I have been doing a good deal of social media through my business Thrifty Mom Media Fractional Marketing for some new local clients and I have been canvassing alongside a former colleague from 25 years ago. I mean honestly who says LinkedIn doesn’t work? Not me. So, I needed reliable and comfortable shoes. Some of these options are super affordable so I had to share this Fall Footwear Guide with you. I received product for consideration on Thrifty Mommas Tips. My opinion is all my own and affiliate links are also included as a service to readers who like to shop efficiently like me. The ALLSWIFIT ActiveBreeze 2.0 Women’s Sneakers combine an APMA-accepted arch-support footbed with a hands-free slip-on design, making them an effortless choice for active commutes, long walking days, and volunteer shifts. LOVE how easy these are to slip on and they are crazy comfortable. Hands-free slip on design is not just for people over 45, we have a slip on pair of hiking shoes that Payton loves too. These are all typically easy to find on Amazon. So check them out there too. Fall Style Guide: How to Wear Them Styling the ALLSWIFIT ActiveBreeze 2.0 Women’s The cool navy colour is a dream for autumn wardrobe layering: Fall Walking Shoes For Men The Cushionix Stride Comfort Mesh Sneakers in Black, First Impressions & Full Wear Test (photo above) Finding a sneaker that strikes the perfect balance between all-day support, breathability, and everyday style is a feat sometimes. We’ve put these through their paces to see if they truly live up to the hype for daily wear and extended walking. Let’s just start by saying these are crazy comfortable like many of the Nortiv 8 sneakers we have had here in the past year. Here is my honest breakdown of how the Cushionix Stride holds up out of the box and on the pavement. Design, Materials & First Impressions Right out of the box, the first thing you notice about the Cushionix Stride is how lightweight it feels. The upper is constructed from a flexible, high-density mesh designed to maximize airflow—a crucial feature if you’re prone to warm feet during long walks or traveling. The aesthetic is clean, minimalist, and functional. The versatile black is easy to style with virtually anything: activewear, leggings, dark denim, or comfortable travel outfits. It’s a classic, low-profile design that doesn’t look overly bulky despite offering generous cushioning underfoot. Don’t forget to Pin for Later Hiking Boots for Fall My kiddo has had some great hiking boots over the years and has a whole lot of trouble relinquishing well loved pairs. These are now a treasured part of their regular wardrobe though. So that tells you something.”They are so comfortable, Mom.” That is huge praise. Also, totally has worn them almost exclusively for a week now, hiking and walking around town. Any boots or shoes that keep my young adults moving are solid options in my books. Styling the NORTIV 8 Tactical Boots (Black) The sleek black utility design adds an instant touch of rugged edge to functional fall outfits: They have a zipper on each of the side of the boot in addition to the laces so that makes them easy on and off or alternatively lace them up to make them fit a narrower foot. If You Like to Stay Busy in the Fall If like me you are on the go a lot and really need something comfortable to slip into or go hiking in, then these are all solid options. Volunteering or running out the door to capture content? My Nortiv 8 ALLSWIFIT ActiveBreeze 2.0 Women’s Sneakers, well let’s just say I could definitely use a pair of these in every single shade. They are crazy comfortable. No rubbing, blisters or discomfort. And the Nortiv 8 Tactical Boots are versatile and sturdy and more than worth the money.

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Holiday Gift Guide: The Ultimate Slipper Edit

Paula — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

When the temperature drops, a chill hits the air and you just want to hang out indoors with a cup of tea, it’s time for house shoes aka comfortable slippers. Nothing says holiday comfort quite like sliding into a fresh pair of ultra-cozy slippers. Whether you are shopping for a secret Santa, updating your own winter lounge setup, or looking for that crowd-pleasing gift under the tree, warm footwear is a guaranteed hit. My Favourite Slipper Picks Here are two standout pairs that deliver exceptional style, warmth, and total relaxation this season. This is the first post in my Holiday Gift Guide for 2026. Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping! Trendy & Playful If you are looking for a gift that combines cozy comfort with a fun, festive pop of colour, these Dream Pairs Fuzzy Slippers are an absolute winner. That’s why I am including them in my ultimate slipper edit. Dream Pairs Fuzzy Slippers with Pink Trim We got our first pair of Dream Pairs slippers late last fall and we loved them so much that I bought a pair for my daughter for Christmas. We both wear ours all the time. Dream Pairs as a brand is affordable and comfortable. The brand also carries a wide range of super cute boots, runners, sandals and more. If you are looking for fashionable options at a good price and have no huge foot pain, back or hip issues the brand is perfect for you. The Supportive Everyday Essential For the person on your list who needs real, lasting foot support—or anyone who spends long hours standing, cooking, or working from home—the KURU Loft 2 in Sand is the ultimate upgrade. KURU Loft 2 in Sand KURU Footwear makes so many great shoes and boots and they focus on eliminating foot pain. I have the KURU sandals, Noah has some gorgeous hiking boots (KURU Quest 2) and Jim has some running shoes that are ultra supportive. This brand is a massive winner in our books. Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. Product purchased via qualifying links may mean a small commission for me at no extra fee for readers. These are both gorgeous Christmas gift options and I’d be more than happy to find these under my tree. Which Pair Should You Pick? Happy Holidays! This is the first of a series of Christmas gift guide posts. Interested in placing a product in the guide this year? Connect with me: Paula – inkscrblr@rogers.com. Gift Guide content features a mix of gifted products and compensated posts. In received product for consideration here. My opinion is all my own.

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Place Value Task Cards and Why Learning This Concept Matters

Paula — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 12:55:00 +0000

Math, as you all know, has never been my favourite. But it is also a necessary daily skill. So, I’ve been sharing a few math activity sheets and numeracy style learning activities over the years. This Place Value Task Cards post is my latest printable educational content for you. I hope you find it helpful. Why Place Value Matters Math matters to literally most common daily things you do as an adult. Think about going to the grocery store, baking a cake, creating a budget for the family or paying the bills. All of these things rely on mathematical concepts such as comparing numbers. Learning Place Value Builds Number Sense It Unlocks Multi Digit Math Supports Mental Math Prevents Errors Prepares Kids for Advanced Math Concepts If you enjoy this activity then you will also like the comparing numbers task cards. All of these activities are free to you my readers because I know you love them and you keep returning for more. I am forever grateful for all of my readers. Numeracy and More While literacy has been a massive topic of study and concern in the last decade, numeracy seems to be gaining some attention worldwide. Don’t just take it from me. This Western Professor has the scoop on numeracy, numeracy screening and why that matters for children. Don’t forget the supplies Printer paper helps. I know it is pretty expensive these days. Amazon Basics paper is good. Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator is excellent. Highly recommend. And bonus it doesn’t take up much space in your family room or your home office. If you want to reuse my printables then laminate them and take them with you.

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Why The Kuru Quest 2 Hiking Boots Are an Instant Classic

Paula — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 13:25:00 +0000

For years, Noah clung to the same battered pair of hiking boots. You know the type—the ones held together by sheer willpower, memories of past summits or camping trips, and soles worn down so smooth they hardly create a barrier between you and the dirt trail anymore. The Emotional Weight of Footwear My youngest was always that kid, the one who wore boots out. The cutesy rain boots as a child were done to death and falling apart before Noah would move on to the new pair. The winter boots, well those would be falling apart with holes and leaking in the snow before this one would ever say I need new boots. In truth, I would discover wet socks and realize something was not working. As a young adult it is a little different but I swear to you the kid has an emotional attachment to clothing, shoes and boots even still. I mean it is hard to let go of the hiking boots that have carried us through 5-6 years of family camping trips. My kids are both on the shorter side, so I know they purchase and outwear shoes and boots that seem to make them appear taller, and this was also the case with the old pair of boots. Putting Old Shoes and Boots to Rest Retiring a reliable piece of gear isn’t easy, but when a boot’s time is up, hanging on only leads to sore arches, blisters and compromised traction Enter the KURU Quest 2 in Walnut Brown / Jet Black. We received product for consideration. My opinion is all my own and it is also truthful. Out with the Worn-Out, In with the New Upgrading wasn’t just about replacing a worn tread; it was about elevating the everyday look without sacrificing trail-ready performance. The Quest 2 immediately bridged that gap. KURUSOLE’s heel-hugging design protects your heel and arch on trails and pavement, which is why it’s great for plantar fasciitis and heel pain relief. It pairs a rugged nubuck/suede upper and trail-ready rubber outsole with an 8mm heel-to-toe drop and ~17 oz men’s weight, so you get protection from rocks and roots but also don’t feel these are overly heavy to wear. The look of these is to stylish and we love Kuru for several reasons. I first discovered these in the summer when Kuru sent me some gorgeous comfortable sandals. After spraining my ankle a year ago, I needed more support from my shoes for months and this brand is a big part of the solution. My husband has also been using these Kuru sneakers for workouts and getting around town. The Guarantee Kuru’s guarantee is another reason I love this brand. KURU Feel Better Promise™ guarantees that my feet (and yours) feel better in 91 days or you get your money back. Kuru footwear can 100% claim to improve some common foot and pain issues. So basically, if you have back pain, bunions, flat feet, heel pain, hip pain, plantar fasciitis or a host of other conditions, these will help make you feel better. We’ve discovered that they also have some wide shoes and boots for sale now too. The Verdict After making the official switch, Noah hasn’t looked back. The Quest 2 delivers the rare combination of high-end durability, genuine ergonomic support, and a sleek silhouette that effortlessly replaces the old well-loved boots of yesterday. If your outdoor footwear is overdue for an upgrade, this pair proves you don’t have to choose between trail performance and modern style. This brand is so worth the cost. It is high quality and pain free plus it looks great. After a week of wearing these Noah reported they are a 10 out of 10 for fit, style and comfort. You can’t ask for more than that.

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Cleaner Teeth and Ranvoo’s Technology Changing Oral Care

Paula — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000

My teeth have literally never felt cleaner than they do this week. And cleaner teeth? Well, that’s a big win for me actually. I have been very self conscious of my teeth for years. As a child for a while we didn’t have dental care and then we suddenly did as my Mom transitioned back to teaching after being home raising us. Oh she supplied for years and worked also when we were little and then my parents got divorced and frankly she needed stability as did we. So, full time teaching and health and dental care came and we were the lucky beneficiaries of some exceptional health benefits. But my teeth were a bit crooked. I had an overbite and my gums were not good. Then I had some health issues growing up and cavities were typical despite the amount that I brushed. I drank a lot of coffee in university and afterwards just to stay up studying or working and frankly that stained my teeth. Cleaner teeth have always been something I wanted but rarely had. Until now. Electric toothbrushes have followed the same basic formula for decades: high-frequency motor vibration paired with nylon bristles to scrub away plaque. While effective, the aggressive mechanical scrubbing can leave people with sensitive gums, recession, or enamel wear feeling uncomfortable. Ranvoo’s Technology takes a different approach with its AirJet™ series (most notably the flagship AirJet X5), replacing harsh physical scrubbing with fluid dynamics to clear hard-to-reach spaces without damaging soft tissue. You know that cleaner teeth feeling when you glide your tongue over your teeth after a dentist appointment and think to yourself, wow! That’s the feeling I get with my new Ranvoo. Tailored Cleaning Modes Rather than simply changing timer durations, each of the four modes adjusts liquid flow rates, oscillation angles, and motor frequencies. I use soft mode most often but also like the whitening mode. Who Is It For? Key Features Listen, battery life was a concern for me at first but I am 100% not at all worried about this after seeing it in action. Battery life as below is up to 2 months. Uh, wish my iPhone had a battery that lasted that long. Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. Purchases made via qualifying links may mean a small commission for me. I received product for consideration here. My opinion is my own and it is always truthful. My Take Highly recommend this toothbrush. It is doing incredible work on my teeth. They feel so much cleaner than they usually do and a healthy smile equals confidence so that’s beneficial for so many reasons. When I first got this I made kale chips. They are so easy and we love them but unless you are on a different planet you know what kale does to your teeth. It’s crazy to smile in the mirror and see that your teeth are peppered with green chunks that make you look like a Halloween character. So, I specifically started using this toothbrush on my kale teeth and was blown away. Don’t sweat the little bits in your teeth anymore. They are no match for Ranvoo AirJet X5. Facts RANVOO laboratory testing shows 99.96% bacterial removal, with supporting data and methodology available if someone wished to review. Aside – I am a sucker for clever packaging and this is CRAZY good. On another level, even reminding me of APPLE product packaging. Somewhat luxurious. Where to Buy You can find it online through the RANVOO Official Store or order it directly from Amazon here Ranvoo AirJet.

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A Visit to Copenhagen Botanical Gardens: Botanisk Have

Paula — Tue, 29 Sep 2026 18:37:18 +0000

Is it worth the time to visit the Copenhagen Botanical Gardens, or Botanisk Have in Copenhagen? If you adore butterflies, beautiful architecture, strolls in the park, and stunning plants, lunch by a tiny lake, then yes the botanical gardens in Copenhagen are well worth a visit when you are in Copenhagen. Plus what an affordable whimsical way to start a trip through the city. On our first full day in Copenhagen we woke up with Danish pastries on our minds. And coffee or lattes of course. Immediately after our first Danish treats of the mother daughter trip, we were ready to start exploring. So off we went to the Natural History Museum. We strolled through the Botanical Gardens on the way there and then after visiting the museum we took the time to enjoythe Palm House and the Butterfly House. The Gardens are a public space that is free to roam and take photos in. There’s a lovely rock garden and some stunning statues throughout. They are stunning even in late October when we visited Denmark. Multiple outdoor flowers were still blooming and throughout Copenhagen roses were thriving which surprised us. It is not super normal to see roses thriving in late October at home in Ontario, Canada. Peppered with charming statues and lovely climbing plants trailing over arched pathways, the garden walkways are charming and very romantic. Where Can You Find Copenhagen Botanical Gardens? Located in the center of the city, the University of Copenhagen Botanical Garden (Botanisk Have) covers 10 hectares and holds Denmark’s largest collection of living plants. Operating as part of the Natural History Museum of Denmark, the oasis serves as a research institution, a conservation hub, and a peaceful refuge for visitors and locals too. Grab your lunch or latte and have a seat. There are some lovely open benches near the water. The Parkmuseerne District The Botanical Garden is a part of the Parkmuseerne museum district in and around King’s Garden, just five minutes’ walk from Nørreport Station. A ticket to Parkmuseerne gives you access to all six museums in one ticket if that’s the way that you want to go and if you are a big museum and history lover. Inquire in advance on line if you need a ticket to the Palm House or Butterfly House to ensure you are not disappointed. History & Foundations The garden was established in 1600 as a modest medicinal herb plot. So historically cool. There is in fact a herbarium but it is not open to the public. Over the next two centuries, as the botanical collection expanded, the garden moved locations several times. In 1870, after Copenhagen decommissioned its old city fortifications, land was set aside to construct a permanent layout. Designed by landscape architect H.A. Flindt, the current garden officially opened to the public in 1874. Today, there are over 13,000 plant species at the Botanical Garden, which are organized into specialized outdoor sections, including native Danish flora, rock gardens, conifer groves, and living gene banks. There’s also a relatively new rhododendron garden, a flower shop and a cafe. The Palm House (Palmehuset) At the very heart of the garden stands its central landmark, the grand Palm House, built between 1872 and 1874. Inspired by London’s famous Crystal Palace, this stunning glass-and-cast-iron structure was designed by architect Peter Christian Bønnecke with generous support from Carlsberg Brewery founder J.C. Jacobsen. Inside the Palm House, the plants are witchy and magical and several reminded me of the tropics. But also, it’s more than a little bit like a really elaborate sensory trail. Memorable Architecture Spanning 2,500 square meters, the Palm House creates a climate-controlled sanctuary for delicate tropical and subtropical species. The interior is divided into separate distinct zones representing different ecosystems, ranging from aquatic habitats and mangrove swamps to arid desert regions filled with cactuses, succulents and dense tropical rainforests. A favourite highlight inside the central dome is the 16-meter-tall cast-iron spiral staircase that leads visitors up to a high canopy walkway, offering wonderful aerial views of giant palms and the city skyline beyond. You can climb this one at a time as it is very narrow and check the view from the top. It is humid of course and while not arduous, it’s also not for the super faint of heart. Narrow wrought iron and see through stairs are not easy for some. Stairs are narrow and winding but there really aren’t that many. However, when we were there was a lineup of people waited to ascend. I suspect this spot gets busy often. Check the web site you go. Sections of the Palm House are slowly being renovated in 2026 and are expected to be completed sometime in 2027. Rotating sections of the Palm House are closing as they are renovated. The Butterfly House Nested within the Palm House complex, the Butterfly House offers a peek into insect biology and plant-animal coevolution. We never met a butterfly house or observatory we didn’t like, so naturally we were happy here. The butterflies liked Payton’s bag, but don’t worry we didn’t leave there with any. Live tropical butterflies flutter freely through a warm, humid rainforest environment filled with blooming orchids, passionflowers, and vanilla plants. Several landed on Payton’s purse and I got a few great pictures. It reminded me a bit of a butterfly conservatory we have visited just outside Cambridge. Beyond the obvious butterfly appeal the exhibit offers an engaging educational experience where visitors can observe every stage of the butterfly lifecycle—from eggs and caterpillars to pupae displaying emerging adults. It also serves as a reminder of broader environmental efforts, using butterflies as indicator species to illustrate the impacts of habitat loss and climate change on global biodiversity. Together, the historic glasshouses and living collections bridge 19th-century botanical heritage with modern conservation. The garden is also used to protect and conserve some endangered species. The Copenhagen Botanical Gardens in 2025, earned the Botanical Garden earned the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI)’s Conservation Practitioner Accreditation. The accreditation highlights the garden’s role in supporting efforts to understand, protect, and preserve plants and their habitats. When we visited, as mentioned, we also explored the Natural History Museum that day which has easy access to the Botanical Gardens, The Butterfly House and the Palm House. The museum itself was also a treat and a great museum to start with. Might share a separate post about that later. Prices were not exorbitant at all and they had a wild number of specimens which really impressed Payton. Anyways, here’s a suggested itinerary you might try if you visit. A Day One Itinerary An efficient itinerary for a day in this area might look like this: Stop 1. The Natural History Museum Stop 2. The Botanical Gardens Stop 3. The Palm House Stop 4. The Butterfly House Grab some food or snacks on the street or at a cafe along the way. Post may contain affiliate links as a service to readers. Any purchases made via qualifying links may mean a small commission for me. Part 2 of the Same Day Moving down the street you will find Kongen’s Have, King’s Garden and the Rosenborg castle. The gardens again are free to stroll and you must actually see these gardens as they are pretty famous, featured on The Bear and a few other movies, and series. Rosenborg Castle: Really enjoyed the castle as well and the Crown Jewels. If it is cold or rainy, the indoor venue obviously is a good spot to hang out. We had good weather when we visited and sunny warm Copenhagen October afternoons. There was really only one chilly windy day and that was in Nyhavvn which of course is right by the water. Kongen’s Have Head back to the area where you are staying and grab yourself some dinner. For us, that was a full day. Save Where You Can While Copenhagen in general can be one of the more expensive cities to visit in Europe, we have several options for inexpensive ways to round out your itinerary. Gardens are often high on the list of free or low cost things that you can do in the United Kingdom and in Europe. Splurge where you need to on the excursions and grab some low cost meals at the grocery store in order to make the most of your time there. Leave Christianborg Castle for Day 2 or 3 and the National Museum of Denmark as well.

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Axolotl Colouring Pages

Paula — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:58:00 +0000

These cute creatures are experiencing a moment, aren’t they? Axolotls are so unique and adorable but also a little bit weird, right? Recently, my youngest young adult child here asked if we could get one, so I did a little deep dive for a hot second and determined it’s probably not a fit for us. They demand a complex filtration system according to what I understand and if my youngest could take great care with that I’d consider it but don’t really see it. Ten Axolotl Facts Axolotls are some of the most unique and fascinating creatures in the animal kingdom. There are a few of these little cuties at Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto. We were entirely enamoured with these little things the day we visited the aquarium recently. Forever Young? Super Powers Activate Home on the … Horns or Gills Water Dog Hoovers Endangered What Colour Medical Research Transformed Cute, quirky and a little bit otherworldly, who doesn’t like these creatures? Download the activity here: Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. I receive a small commission via purchases made. Paper and Printer: Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink like nobody’s business. Crayola Twistables are perfect for craft days. STEAM Activities and More Don’t miss this summer STEAM activity sheet while you are here. My Pinterest boards have many activities for kids and parents to use all summer long. There are dozens of lifecycle worksheets. I also have several travel related kid’s learning activities. All About England is a cute one to start with today and do the tour of Europe with the France Colouring Sheet and workbook. Enjoy the Fall Months! As we shift indoors every day just a little bit more, you will be looking for indoor activities so please let me know what you need or want and I will do my best to share the activities that I love here.

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Finding Peace in the Shift

Paula — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 12:43:47 +0000

Let’s be completely honest right from the start. Autumn is not my favourite season. While the rest of the world seems to collectively lose its mind over pumpkin spice lattes, chunky knit sweaters, and crisp morning air, I am usually standing on the sidelines mentally and physically preparing myself for the cold months ahead. I have never been one of those people who naturally relishes the fading light or the chill in the air. For a long time, the arrival of fall felt less like a cozy invitation and more like an unwelcome reminder that summer was slipping through my fingers. Autumn Affirmations for a Period of Transition But life has a funny way of teaching us patience, and perspective changes the longer we stick around. In the past few years, I have been working hard on shifting my mindset. Instead of bracing myself against the seasonal change, I’m learning to try to accept it and find things to do such as travel or go camping in the fall months too. I am trying to view autumn not as an ending, but as a crucial transition space. It is a bridge between the vibrant, high-speed energy of summer and the joy of winter skiing. And honestly? There is something quietly powerful about learning to move with grace rather than resistance. Transitions Transition spaces are inherently uncomfortable. They ask us to let go of what was and adjust to what is coming, often without giving us a clear roadmap. But nature does not rush its transitions, and neither should we. When I look out at the changing leaves now, I am trying to see them less as a symbol of decay and more as an act of release. The trees are simply letting go of what they no longer need to carry so they can rest, recharge, and prepare for new growth down the line. That is a lesson I desperately need in my own life. Autumn invites us to slow down our internal pace, even when our to-do lists try to convince us otherwise. It encourages us to check in with ourselves, honor our boundaries, and reflect on the past months with kindness. We do not have to love every single aspect of a season to find value in the lessons it brings. Discovering Hygge in Copenhagen Two years ago we discovered Copenhagen and hygge and have started using that here during the fall months. Believe me it helps. I keep the pool open all the way until Thanksgiving when possible and bring blankets outside if needed so I can still sit outdoors. It’s really partly about being outside for me anyways. When it gets colder and we shift more to indoors that makes me feel a bit less joy so I extend the length of time that summer transitions to fall. It works. Gentle Reminders for the Season If you, like me, struggle with the transition sometimes intentional thoughts and mantras help. Here are a few for this season: Learning to accept autumn has taught me that we don’t have to force enthusiasm for things that don’t come naturally to us. Acceptance is much quieter than enthusiasm; it simply sounds like breathing out, lowering your shoulders, and saying, Okay, we are here. Let’s see what this space has to teach us. Moving with Intention and Calm To help us both navigate this transitional time with a bit more intention and calm, I put together a free printable featuring these autumn affirmations. You can easily print it out, stick it on your fridge, or tuck it into your planner as a gentle daily reminder that you don’t have to love the cold to find peace in the transition. Grab your copy below and let’s get through this season together. Download these here: Don’t Forget The Paper and Supplies: Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink and money like nobody’s business. If you want these to last you might also buy an affordable laminator. Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator is excellent. Highly recommend. And it doesn’t take up much space in your family room or your home office.

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