You Will Never Look At A Toilet Paper Roll The Same Way Again

Beleive it or not, although there is a snow storm in the North, it is almost seed starting time here in the South. This life hack got me looking for more ways to recycle and reuse toilet paper rolls. I didn't realize there were so many ways to reuse something I tend to toss!

As a seed starter... 

 

Impromptu iPhone holder...

 For organizing cords...

 

For keeping wrapping paper from unrolling...

For wrapping small presents... 

Source: http://factorydirectcraft.com/factorydirectcraft_blog/upcycling-toilet-tube-gift-box/

Add fabric for a jewelry tray...

Source: http://blah-to-tada.blogspot.com/2012/04/jewelry-tray.html

For the birds...

Source: http://fortytworoads.blogspot.com/2012_02_01_archive.html

To manage bathroom appliance cords... 

Source: http://www.lifehacker.com.au/2010/05/from-the-tips-box-security-questions-bathroom-cords/

Fun for  your little pets...

Image source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090305171903.htm (Credit: Image courtesy of University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio)

For Teh lulz...

Source:

http://www.yousaytoo.com/glove-gun-4-teh-lulz/2804068

Now that we've looked at the practical, what about the beautiful?

 Yuken Teruya has some very beautiful paper craft works of art...

Source: http://www.yukenteruyastudio.com/projects via http://senseandgrace.com/?p=2429

So does Anastasia Elias...

Source: http://www.anastassia-elias.com/view-album/10

What about mini masks by Junior Fritz Jacquet?

Source: http://www.boredpanda.com/weird-toilet-paper-roll-art/

How about something a little less refined but just as fun for the kids? Make a circle or heart stamp for Valentines Day! Use the stamp to make cards and wrapping paper from newspapers!

Source: http://www.aprettycoollife.com/2012/02/weekly-pinterest_18.html

Source: http://www.parenthacks.com/2012/02/toilet-paper-roll-heart-stamps.html

Source: http://creativecarmella.blogspot.com/2012/07/toilet-paper-roll-paintinga-diy-project.html

Christmas Poinsetta Wreath!

Source: http://www.darkroomanddearly.com/2012/12/10th-day-of-christmas-poinsettia-wreath.html

Another crafty option... Everybody loves owls!

Source: http://www.tonyastaab.com/

Just because...

Do you have any awesome ways of reusing paper rolls?

*Original sources are unknown for several of the above photos. If the above are yours, please let me know and I will gladly add credit where credit is due.*

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Math Is Fun & So Is Saving Money!

For all of you math and savings nerds like me...

Thanks buzzfeed.com

How To: Make A Wishing Tree Vase

"A wish tree is an individual tree, usually distinguished by species, position or appearance, which is used as an object of wishes and offerings. Such trees are identified as possessing a special religious or spiritual value. By tradition, believers make votive offerings in order to gain from that nature spirit, saint or goddessfulfillment of a wish."

- Wikipedia

    

 I think the concept behind a wishing tree is really beautiful. Although this is not a post about wishing trees in their original uses, this simple and easy craft project is meant to emulate the symbolism of wishes as a really basic how-to make a wishing tree vase for sentimental and meaningful decorations at weddings, showers, and birthday parties.

 

We threw a baby shower for my friend and coworker, Kristie and I helped coordinate decorations. Kristie is having a little girl so we used pink, purple, and yellow.

 

 Wish trees are very easy to make and super affordable.This kind is basically a bouquet of twigs with notes attached and with a little bit of planning, it is practically free, but priceless in terms of sentimentality! I love things like that! This is proof that you don't need to spend an arm and a leg or be super extravagant  or extremely crafty to do something nice for someone.

How To: Make a Wishing Tree...

1. Simply gather branches, a vase, tags or note cards of some kind.

2. After your guests arrive they can write their well wishes for you and attach to the branches.

3. We used premade cardstock circles and mini clothes pin clips. You can also punch a hole and tie with string or purchase pre-made paper luggage tags.

4. Get creative! Come up with ideas for how to attach the wishes in a unique way that fits the theme of your event. Make it funky. Make it elegant. It is up to you!

Ours turned out beautifully and the best part was that at the end of the day Kristie had all these wonderful note to put in her daughter's baby book.

Would you make a wishing tree vase for your shower?

This post is dedicated to Kristie and little Jenna. Kristie recently brought home her little bundle of joy, Jenna. Congrats!

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How to Be a Super Mom: Part 2: Morning Routines

Krystal's three beautiful children...

 
The following is the second in a guest post series by Krystal Taylor my good friend and “Super Mom” of three...

 A few months after her second and third children were born (surprise, twins!), her husband got laid off so she had to go back to work. Here are a few of the life saving tips that she uses to balance work and home life.

Getting ready for school…..the battle of the sleepy kids! My son, like most five year old children, much rather play then to get ready for school. Since I realized (late in life) that being organized and managing time is important I wanted to start teaching him the same thing. I made him a chart he is responsible for each and every morning. Every day he completes his tasks he gets a sticker. He can use them for small rewards (choosing a movie on movie night) or save them up for larger ones (getting a new game or book)

Karson and his morning routine chart

Other Posts By Krystal: 
 Miss How to Be a Super Mom Part 1? Check it out here: What's For Dinner?
Here's some sound financial advice: How to Set Up a House Account

Check out Krystal's Blog: Quest Of A Crazy Mom

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