Titanic 100 Year Anniversary

I had a wonderful time over the weekend. I went to a Titanic exhibit with my oldest son, my sister-in-law, and one of my nieces. Unfortunately, they wouldn't let me take pictures inside of the exhibit, but it was still a memorable experience.

My oldest son has read every book he can find on Titanic and the sister ships as well and is very educated on the events that took place and the people involved. He took this interest on his own, along with other past events and seems to really be into History. So, you could imagine my excitement when I found that an exhibit was coming to Michigan!

The layout was very cool. At one point we went down a hallway that was a replica of the hallways to go to the passenger cabins. It was as if we were on the actual Titanic. They also had sound effects of water and creaking from when the ship was hit and sinking, and we even passed through replicas of the water-tight doors. The best part of it all, at least I think so, was the replica of the grand staircase where you could get your picture taken.

It is a day that I will treasure dearly. Spending that time bonding with my son over something he has so much interest in is very rewarding. He's still young, so as he gets older he may not remember too much about going. Only that his Mommy took him somewhere that meant so much to him, and that's good enough for me. :)

Tip Tuesday: Make Your Own Household Cleaners

With so many out there trying to stretch their dollar as far as it will go, making your own household cleaners can be a huge money saver. Check out these household items that are readily available to do the job that expensive cleaners do without the expensive price tag.

• Cornstarch: Can be used to clean windows, polish furniture, or even shampoo carpets and rugs.
• White Vinegar - Cuts grease, removes mildew, odors, and certain stains.     
• Baking Soda - Cleans, deodorizes, and scours.
• Soap - Unscented soap in liquid form, flakes, powders or bars is biodegradable and will clean pretty much anything. Be sure to avoid using soaps which contain petroleum distillates.
• Lemon - One of the strongest food-acids which is effective against most household bacteria.

Bonding Time: Movie Night

One way of bonding with my children is by designating one night every weekend to do a movie night at home with them. We either hit the local rental kiosk or pop in a favorite dvd that we already own. We make it a sort of pajama party. Sometimes we include boardgames or play I Spy. Not only do my kids love it, but they will remember their Mommy spending that special time with them. Of course we do other things throughout the week as well, but they know this is their time to cuddle up on the couch with some popcorn and hang out with Mom. Just remember, what we do today molds our children into what they will become tomorrow. So, how do you get your bonding time in with your family?

Finally...I have a blog!

It has been a long time coming, and it's finally here! I have finally made a blog so I am able to share much more with you. I have also started brainstorming ideas for YouTube videos and I will be sure to let you know once I start posting. I'm so excited to start this next chapter and am ready to share my product reviews, money saving tips/deals, freebie finds, DIY projects and much more with you! For those who have just come across this blog and are not from my Facebook page, please check it out at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mandys-Money-Saving-Tips-CouponsCraftsDIY-Projects/218811121497482#!/pages/Mandys-Money-Saving-Tips-CouponsCraftsDIY-Projects/218811121497482 and be sure to "Like" it if you like what you see. I'm planning a giveaway once I reach 50 likes.