Independent Travel Agent with Academy Travel

Categories: Lifestyle

Disney Store eGift Card Giveaway

Disney lovers, this is for you! Who doesn’t want some extra spending money before your next trip to Disney? Entering to win is simple, just follow the directions below. Good luck!

$200 Disney Store eGift Card Giveaway

Enter for your chance to win a $200 eGift Card to The Disney Store (or Amazon if you prefer)! This giveaway is open to the United States and Canada, only where permitted, age 18 and older. This giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on 3.31.23. See below for terms and conditions.

This giveaway is hosted by Chatty Patty’s Place and The Review Wire. 

All entries will be verified—only one entrant per mailing address per giveaway. Any person who has won a prize (or whose household has won a prize) in any promotion sponsored by the Sponsor in the past thirty (30) days before this contest start date is not eligible to win a prize in this contest. Entrants who have created social accounts purely to enter Competitions or Sweepstakes will not be eligible to win. All social accounts used must be public.

The winner will be chosen randomly and contacted via email. A reply to the winning email is required within 48 hours before a new winner is chosen. Void where prohibited by law. One person entering per household, please.

If you are looking for more tips and information to start planning a Disney trip, check out some of my latest blog posts!

Categories: Home, Lifestyle

Closet Organizing Basics to Reclaim Your Space

Do you dread opening your closet because of how disorganized it is? Reclaim your closet and say goodbye to clutter with these closet organizing basics! With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can transform your closet into a calm and inviting space where you can easily find what you need.

Over time, I have made my closet one of my favorite spaces in our home. I have worked to find the best organization items, pared down my wardrobe and accessories, and found ways to highlight items that make me happy. There are many closet organizing basics and tools that you can use to organize your own closet, no matter the size. Here are my top ten tips to organize your own closet.

Closet Organizing Basics black hangers on white sheets

10 Tips to Help You Organize Your Closet

1. Change out items seasonally and pare down: Each season, I go through my clothing items and clean out anything that I didn’t wear, don’t love, or is no longer in great condition. You can donate these items, give them to friends who might appreciate them, sell them online on sites like Poshmark, or toss the ones that are damaged or worn out. I have a couple of bins that I store seasonal items in storage and rotate with the seasons.

2. Turn all of your hangers around: Turn the top of your hangers so that they are all facing backwards. Once you’ve worn an item, hang it up with the hanger facing the way it normally would. After a certain amount of time, you can see what you never even wore! You can do this at the beginning of each year, each season…whatever works best for you.

3. Use matching hangers: This helps give your hanging clothes a clean and cohesive look. Using the thin velvet hangers will also take up less space (and give you more room!) than bulky ones. I am hoping to change over the wooden hangers I’ve had forever to pretty blush velvet hangers this year. I also recommend a hanger stacker if you have room to hold all of your unused hangers in one spot.

4. Use pool noodles to keep your boots standing up: Some of my boots stand up by themselves, especially the taller ones. Find some pool noodles somewhere, like Target or the Dollar Tree. Cut them to fit the height of each of your boots to keep them upright and sturdy. This is inexpensive and it works great!

5. Sort your clothing in a way that makes sense for you: Personally, I sort my hanging clothes by sleeve length for both tops and dresses. Within each length, I then sort by color order (ROYGBIV). Others prefer to sort solely based on color for each. Do whatever is best for you! I like to look at my clothing items by sleeve length because if I’m layering anything this visually makes the most sense to my brain.

6. Use a valet hook: I use a valet hook to prep my outfit for the next day. I’m able to hang everything together, make sure it’s steamed and free of wrinkles, and ready to go when I am getting ready in the morning. It’s something that is really helpful and it’s nice to have one designated spot to keep things tidy.

7. Use shelf dividers: I use acrylic shelf dividers to get those most use out of my shelf space for folded items. They keep things spaced correctly and prevent items from falling over. They have made such a difference! The kind I have just slide over the front part of a solid shelf, but they also have dividers that work with wire shelving if that’s what you have.

8. Hang scarves on a tiered pants hanger: Try hanging your scarves on a tiered pants hanger. The slim design and multiple tiers can hold quite a few scarves. Just loop your scarves over each arm. Make sure you keep the loops as close together as possible to fit the maximum amount of scarves on your hanger.

9. Use baskets or bins to contain folded clothing, accessories, etc: I have a few decorative baskets that I keep my workout clothing and bathing suits in on some shelves in my closet. I also use varying sizes of clear acrylic bins to store hair accessories, belts, and more. It’s nice to be able to keep these items contained. Bonus points for using labels! Grab these clip-on bin tags, they’re my favorite for baskets. I ordered custom labels from The Home Edit for my clear bins, but you can also find pre-made labels online. It really helps to keep things neat and tidy when everything has a home.

10. Take advantage of vertical space: Make the most out of the space you have. Hang hooks for necklaces, display your hats, or find storage bins that fit on your tops shelves to store your belongings. Find boxes or bins that stack to fill in the shelf space. Vertical space is often wasted so be sure to use it to your advantage.

Closet Organizing Basics built in closet shelving and organization

If you need some more inspiration, take a look at these closet organizing ideas on Pinterest.

What do you need help organizing or storing in your closet? What do you struggle with? Please leave a comment below and let me know what I can help you with in your closet!

Categories: Lifestyle, Recipes

Cooking in an Air Fryer Oven

The air fryer is one of the most popular kitchen appliances around – and for good reason. With an air fryer, you can quickly create delicious snacks and meals with less fat and fewer calories compared to traditional deep-frying methods.

Plus, the hot circulating air cooks food from all sides at once, so your food gets crispy and evenly cooked on the outside while remaining moist and juicy on the inside. No wonder it has become a favorite! Read on for all of the best tips for cooking in your air fryer oven.

white air fryer with basket of french fries in kitchen air fryer oven

Cooking in an Air Fryer Oven

Air fryers are a great way to cook our favorite dishes without all the added oil and fat usually associated with traditional frying methods. Air fryers use heated circulating air to quickly and evenly cook food, resulting in deliciously crunchy snacks and meals that are healthier than deep frying.

Plus, you don’t have to wait for the oil to pre-heat or deal with disposing of used cooking oil afterwards – making air frying one of the most convenient cooking methods out there. Try experimenting with different ingredients in your air fryer today, and you’ll soon understand why so many people love this appliance!

What kind of Air Fryer should I get?

When it comes to choosing the right air fryer, there are a few things you should consider. The size and capacity of the fryer will depend on how much food you plan to prepare at once, while the wattage of the appliance will determine how quickly your food cooks.

Additionally, some models come with preset functions and adjustable settings that can help you customize your cooking experience. They often have a touch control panel that’s helpful for setting the temperature and timer, as well as accessing pre-programmed settings.

You’ll also want to decide if you need a small air fryer or family-sized air fryer to make larger quantities.

We suggest doing your research to find an air fryer that has the features and capabilities you’re looking for, so you can get the most out of your kitchen appliance. With the right air fryer, delicious, healthful dishes are just a few clicks away!

We have the Beautiful 6 Quart Touch Screen Air Fryer by Drew Barrymore and it’s perfect for our home. The matte finish and sleek design are so pretty. It also comes in a larger, 9 Quart option with two baskets for a larger household.

Beautiful 6 Quart Touchscreen Air Fryer, Black Sesame by Drew Barrymore

Can I Reheat Food in My Air Fryer?

Yes! Your air fryer is a great tool for quickly reheating food – especially snacks like fries and chicken nuggets, or leftovers. But remember to keep an eye on the temperature of your food while it’s cooking, as some ingredients can overcook very quickly.

For optimum results, set the temperature to about 350°F (176°C) and run the air fryer for 3-4 minutes. As always, use caution when handling hot food items from the air fryer oven. Enjoy your delicious snacks!

The Best Foods to Cook in an Air Fryer

When it comes to heating, reheating, or cooking food in an air fryer, the possibilities are endless. Air fryers can be used to cook fish, meat, vegetables, and anything else your heart desires.

Some of our favorite foods to cook in an air fryer include French fries, chicken nuggets, wings, vegetables, and even desserts like donuts or brownies. Tater tots in the air fryer are a delicacy all on their own!

basket of french fries cooked in air fryer oven

Here are some of the best dishes to make in an air fryer:

1. French Fries: Cut up potatoes into thick wedges or fries, season with your favorite spices, then cook in the air fryer for a quick and tasty snack. Tater tots in the air fryer are always a big hit too!

2. Fried Chicken: Make restaurant-quality fried chicken without all the mess by marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk then coating them with a mix of flour and spices before cooking in an air fryer.

3. Vegetables: Whether it’s sweet potato wedges or cauliflower florets, almost any vegetable can be cooked in an air fryer for a delicious side dish or snack. So easy!

4. Spring Rolls: For those looking for something a little bit more adventurous, try wrapping your favorite ingredients such as pork, shrimp, or vegetables into spring roll wrappers before cooking them in an air fryer for fresh flavors and textures.

5. Bacon: You are going to love this one! It comes out nice and crispy and there’s a lot less mess when you cook your bacon in the air fryer. All you have to do is place a single layer of bacon in the basket leaving some room for the air to still flow. Cut the bacon in half if it fits better that way!

6. Desserts: Tired of the same old cakes and cookies? Try air frying them for a unique twist on your favorite sweet treats.

Frozen items like chicken nuggets or chicken strips, pizza rolls, pot stickers, and onion rings are all easy and convenient for a quick side dish. They are perfectly crispy after cooking in the air fryer!

If you need some more ideas, check out the Taste of Home Everyday Air Fryer recipe book to really dive in.

Helpful Tools to Use with Your Air Fryer

There are so many different air fryer options available now, so be sure to check that the item is compatible with your machine before purchasing. Most items are universal but sometimes the size and dimensions of the basket can make a difference.

1. Olive Oil Sprayer: Easily spray an even mist of olive oil onto items before placing them into the air fryer to cook. While you can use a brush to apply the oil, the sprayed is much easier and a favorite kitchen item of mine.

2. Silicone Tongs: You’ll need these to turn items over hot items or remove them from the air fryer. The silicone tips won’t damage the non-stick surface of your air fryer basket.

3. Silicone Basket: If you are cooking something that might be a bit messy, you might want to use a silicone basket in your air fryer. It will keep any mess contained and make clean up a breeze.

4. Silicone Cupcake Liners: If you want to make cupcakes or egg bites, these are the perfect liners for your air fryer. They hold their shape well and can be placed directly in the air fryer basket.

5. Parchment Paper Liners: Another great option to eliminate a messy air fryer basket. I like that these liners have holes in them so that the air can still flow through them. Be careful though, do not preheat your air fryer with parchment paper inside!

No matter what you decide to make in your air fryer, you’ll definitely enjoy guilt-free snacking that tastes just like deep-fried foods – minus all the grease! With an air fryer, you can have all your favorite snacks and meals with a fraction of the fat and calories. So go ahead and start cooking delicious meals in your air fryer today! Enjoy!

Categories: Health & Wellness, Lifestyle

How to Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Are you having trouble getting a good night’s sleep? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! Getting a good night’s rest is essential for our physical and mental well-being, so it’s important to make sure that we get the quality sleep that we need. Here are some tips to help you get a better night’s sleep tonight.

How to get a better night's sleep pink sleep mask with eyelashes on white sheets

Set Up A Sleep Routine

Routines are key when it comes to getting better sleep. Our bodies become accustomed to certain patterns and activities, so it’s best to stick to the same bedtime routine every night. This could include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or doing some light stretching before crawling into bed. Consistency is key here, try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day as often as possible. Doing this will help your body recognize when it’s time for sleep and help you to wake up naturally. This is how to get a better night’s sleep at home.

I love using my Hatch Restore to set up my routines to wind down and wake up naturally. There are soothing sleep sounds and a sunrise alarm to gently wake up with light and sounds in the morning.

Hatch Restore Alarm how to get a better night's sleep

Reduce Stimulation Before Bed

This next tip is one of the best ways to get a good night’s sleep. Avoid using technology for at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from screens can interfere with our body’s natural circadian rhythm and make it difficult to fall asleep. Instead, try doing something relaxing that doesn’t involve screens such as reading a book or writing in a journal before bedtime. Using blue light blocking glasses during the day can also help out.

How to Get a Better Night's Sleep books stacked with glasses on top

Exercise During the Day

Exercise can help tire out your body so that when it comes time to go to bed you will be more likely to feel relaxed and sleepy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise or movement each day either through walking outdoors or doing some form of light activity indoors like yoga or stretching. 

Create The Right Environment For Sleep

Creating the perfect environment for sleeping can be tricky but it’s worth it in the end! Make sure that your bedroom is dark and cool, this will signal your body that it’s time for bed. If you have any electronics in your room like computers or TVs, be sure to turn them off as they emit blue light which can disrupt your natural melatonin production (the hormone responsible for making us feel sleepy). You should also consider investing in blackout curtains or an eye mask if necessary.

How to Get a Better Night's Sleep nightstand next to bed with candle

I also use Goli’s Dreamy Sleep Gummies to help me fall asleep quickly. They are made with melatonin, lemon balm, magnesium, and vitamin D. You can try them out for yourself and save on your order with my code, DEVINEFAIRYTALE.

Change Your Diet Habits

What you eat throughout the day can affect how well you sleep at night. Eating heavy meals close to bedtime can cause indigestion which can interfere with your ability to fall asleep easily. It’s best to avoid caffeine late in the day since this stimulant will keep you awake longer than usual. Instead opt for foods that are rich in magnesium such as nuts and seeds or drink chamomile tea before going to bed, both of these will act as natural ways to help calm down your mind before sleeping.                                 

Getting a better night’s sleep doesn’t have to be difficult if you know what steps to take! By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to set up routines, create environments conducive for sleeping, and adjust your diet habits accordingly so that you can finally achieve those sweet dreams you’ve been dreaming of! Good night and sleep tight.

Categories: Home, Lifestyle

How to Set Up a Coffee Bar at Home

If coffee is your version of breakfast, you may be considering setting up an area for your morning java. How to make a coffee bar is not limited to a specific space. Dedicated coffee lovers can set up shop at home with a few simple tips. Keep reading to find out how to set up a coffee bar at home.

How to Set Up a Coffee Bar at Home Blog Ideas

What is a Coffee Bar?

A coffee bar is an area set up and dedicated to brewing coffee in your home. Ideally, it would have everything needed to make the perfect cup all in one place. Here are some ideas to set up your own special space.

Choosing Your Kitchen Coffee Bar Space

When you’re ready to set up a coffee bar, first consider your location. You’ll want to find a spot that has ample counter or shelf space. If you’re short on counter space, try using a small table or cart.

Second, think about storage. You’ll need a place to keep all of your coffee supplies, like beans, grinders, and mugs. If you’re using a table or cart, look for one with shelves or drawers. A coffee bar cabinet is also a great idea to create a space where you can enjoy your morning cup of coffee.

Third, think about lighting. You’ll want to find a spot that has good lighting, so you can see what you’re doing when you’re making your coffee. If you’re using a table or cart, try to find one with a built-in light.

And lastly, be sure there is an electrical outlet nearby to plug in your coffee machine and other items.

Wondering where a coffee bar should be placed in your house? A counter in the kitchen, the dining room, or a cozy nook near a window are some popular picks.

Assembling Your Supplies

Now that you’ve chosen your space, it’s time to start stocking up on supplies. Of course, you’ll need coffee beans and a grinder. If you don’t want to grind your own beans, you can also buy pre-ground coffee or single serving pods.

You’ll also need a coffee maker or espresso machine. If you’re short on space, consider a small single serve machine. These are perfect for making one cup at a time. I personally have the Keurig K Café and love that it has the built in milk frother.

Keurig K Cafe Coffee Machine for Coffee Bar at Home

If you really want to level up your coffee bar, I highly recommend a milk frother. There are many options, from an electric frother that heats the milk to a handheld option, if your machine doesn’t have one built in.

When it’s time to stock your coffee bar, consider not only your needs but what your guests will enjoy. Some common preferences are non-dairy cream options, decaf coffee, and a variety of different flavors.

In addition to coffee and a coffee machine, you’ll also want to have:

  • Mugs
  • Sugar (and sugar substitutes)
  • Creamer (dairy and non-dairy)
  • Stirrers and/or Spoons
  • Napkins or Coasters
  • Flavored Syrups (the Skinny Syrups are my favorite! You can use my code DEVINEFAIRYTALE to save on your online order)

You may also want to include items to make hot tea in this area as well. Consider adding in an electric kettle, tea bags, and honey.

Stroopwafels or Biscoff cookies are also nice additions to have a little something extra with your morning cup of coffee.

Cozy Coffee at Home

Making Your DIY Coffee Bar Complete

Once you have all the essentials, it’s time to make your coffee bar complete. Add some personality to your space with a fun coffee-inspired sign or a chalkboard to use as a menu board.

You can also display coffee beans in a glass jar for a pretty touch that is useable.

I add my syrups to small, decorative glass bottles so they look pretty out on display.

If you have room, consider adding a small fridge to store cream and milk. You can also use it to keep sugar and stirrers on hand.

If you have nearby wall space, a hanging mug rack would be the perfect addition to display all of your cute mugs.

For the finishing touch, add a few decorative items like photos or flowers. This will make your coffee bar feel like your own and have a unique flair. All that’s left is to invite some friends over for a cup of joe and a chat to catch up.

Coffee cups with foam art on top

It’s possible to create a simple DIY coffee bar with very little effort. With a dedicated space and the right supplies you’ll be ready to start your day right- with the perfect cup of coffee.

Create your own coffee bar and take advantage of the flexibility of brewing any time of the day or night that you choose. 

Blog Archive