Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 138

April 30, 2013

Make a Hula Hoop Hideout via Apartment Therapy

I had no idea that my son’s hula hoop could double as a frame for the perfect hideout. Check out this article from our friends at Apartment Therapy. I love the idea of using it over a bed with netting (as seen here,) or for making a tent in the playroom. How clever! More on RealSimple.com: 11 Fun Things to [...]

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Published on April 30, 2013 11:20

Would You Use it? A Smartphone Thermometer

I have a digital thermometer, and I’m pretty much convinced that it has never worked. I never know if I’ve given it enough time to register the proper temperature or not. So basically, I’m unsure if I’ve had a fever at any point during the last let’s say 10 years. (Don’t tell my mother.) So I’m intrigued by this new [...]

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Published on April 30, 2013 08:45

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 30 Delicious Gluten-Free Desserts Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Organized How to Get Flawless Skin Filed under: Daily Thought

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Published on April 30, 2013 04:30

April 29, 2013

How to Clean Your Dishwasher

If you’re guilty of letting food-caked plates sit in your dishwasher for too long, your machine might develop a funk. To get it clean and smelling fresh again use this trick. Run your machine empty on a full cycle, but instead of dishwasher detergent, use 2 cups of white vinegar. It will naturally deodorize the appliance. And remember, scraping food [...]

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Published on April 29, 2013 15:30

Wedding Reception Idea from Loverly

[Photo by Stephen Devries] The wedding send-off has turned into quite the picture-perfect moment. From confetti and bubbles to sparklers and fireworks, nothing is too festive or off-limits. This DIY couple took a unique approach by handing out ribbon shakers, which can be made by attaching colorful strands of grosgrain ribbon to a wand or wooden dowel. Unique, fun, and [...]

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Published on April 29, 2013 10:45

How to Select and Store Rhubarb

The sweet, tangy stalk is at its peak right now (something my mother knows well; I’m still dreaming of the strawberry rhubarb pie she served up over the weekend!) To help you take advantage of rhubarb season, here’s how to spot a winning bunch at the grocery store or farmer’s market. Look for thick, firm stalks with glossy, bright fuchsia [...]

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Published on April 29, 2013 07:40

Today’s Thought

Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 8 Unexpected Vacation Ideas Mom’s Style Do’s and Don’ts A Guide to Cleaning Household Surfaces Filed under: Daily Thought

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Published on April 29, 2013 04:30

April 27, 2013

How to Make Your Morning Oatmeal More Exciting

Let’s face it—a bowl of oatmeal may be healthy, but it isn’t always the most thrilling breakfast in the world. You can jazz it up with standard toppings like cinnamon, maple syrup, raisins, and sliced bananas, but that can get a little tiresome, too. Here are some fresh new ways to serve up oatmeal: Try a tropical spin with fresh [...]

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Published on April 27, 2013 06:15

April 26, 2013

Come Join Our Twitter Party

If you follow @RealSimple on Twitter (and I hope you do!), you might have noticed that there have been some new faces and voices in our feed lately. In the past few weeks, several of our editors have started tweeting up a storm. Why? Because we want the opportunity to connect with you. We want to know what you’re thinking about, struggling [...]

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Published on April 26, 2013 12:40

Healthy Protein Sources for Kids via CookingLight.com

I am always on the hunt for new food ideas for my toddler, especially when it comes to protein sources. Admittedly, I have a very hard time breaking away from our go-to chicken meals each week. Our colleagues at CookingLight.com have compiled a list of protein-rich recipes and ideas that will help your child grow to be strong and healthy. To read the [...]

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Published on April 26, 2013 10:25