Author Archives: Marya R

Why I Love My Fitbit #FavouritesFriday

I am constantly trying to make better choices in my lifestyle – whether it is drinking more water, or being more active.  I find that anything that challenges me, really helps me meet my goals.  That’s why I wanted to get a Fitbit last summer – to track my steps, and encourage me to increase my physical activity level.  About ... Read More »

Fun Family Features on Netflix #streamteam

So apparently having four kids is a “big family,” according to most of society. And the fact that they are all boys  – wow, I must really have my hands full! 🙂 I don’t mind all the comments. A big family is what I grew up with, and I love it. It is busy, noisy, messy, and definitely never boring. Our ... Read More »

Advice Book for Teacher Having a Baby

For the past few years, I’ve been teaching “planning time coverage” for primary grades. That usually means music, drama, gym, and whatever else needs to be covered.  One of the Kindergarten classes I teach in has a teacher who is about to go on maternity leave, and going to have a baby boy. The co-teacher and I wanted to do ... Read More »

Crumple Art – a Quick and Easy Art Lesson

Crumple Art

All the kids that I teach LOVE to doodle. They doodle all over their workbooks, their desks, and even themselves!  I also loved doodling in school, and I found it easier to focus while doodling. That’s why this Crumple Art lesson is so versatile!  It’s an activity that can either be for one easy, pre-planned lesson, or it could be ... Read More »

Spring Clean Your Spending Habits

We all know that spring is a great time to tackle chores around the house that haven’t been done in a while. Spring cleaning is great for renewing and refreshing our houses and yards, but it is also great for other things!  Have your finances gotten a little off track lately? Are you slipping into bad spending habits?  We’re over ... Read More »

Quick Cinnamon Rolls (only 2 ingredients) #GayLeaMom

Quick Cinnamon Rolls - only two ingredients!

Recipe & Giveaway I love recipes that are simple, and this one is no exception.  A recipe for quick cinnamon rolls that only takes TWO ingredients? And is done in 30 minutes, start to finish?  Perfect for unexpected house guests, or for Sunday brunch.  It’s also great for kids to help with, since there are not a lot of complicated ... Read More »

Dishwasher Soap For Next to Nothing!

I get a little annoyed sometimes at the price of dishwasher soap. You can pay some serious money for it. Fancy little tabs with a power-boosting ball in the centre.  Even the basic stuff (liquid or powder) can run up to 5 dollars or so and it gets used so quickly. Fill the entire dispenser, then the pre-wash, then sprinkle ... Read More »

How to Live Without Cable (or satellite)

I have never paid for cable or satellite, in all my adult life. For our first year of marriage, we chose not to have TV.  In subsequent years, we managed to rent and borrow enough movies and DVDs, while spending our money on important things like student loans and house down payments. For about one year, we even had “free” ... Read More »

Scientific Fun with Netflix #Streamteam

Our boys are not quite old enough for Science Fair. Our oldest will be doing it next year at his school, and he can’t wait! As parents, however, we’re not as excited, since a lot of the work gets done at home…and that means homework for Mom & Dad!   All our boys have always been fascinated by science, and ... Read More »

Cheesy Poutine Bites #GayLeaMom

As a Canadian, I grew up knowing that one of the best toppings for French Fries was cheese and gravy – that’s right, Poutine! While we didn’t have it often, it was such a treat any time I did eat it.  Those who are not familiar with poutine are missing out: warm, cheesy, melt-y, messy, and delicious!  There are all ... Read More »