Parrot on a PorchA Journey Toward the Little Mansion Dream

“You get a chunk of chocolate and you do what I do
You roast a marshmallow, you toast it just right
You smoosh them all together and you take a big bite
Cracklety crackers and lickity sweet
Mmmmmmm, S’Mores. They’re so good to eat.
Mmmmmmm, S’Mores. A real camping treat.”

If you are a parent who has a Barney fanatic son, then I guess, you are familiar with these lines and probably even sang it. It could also have been your frequent LSS (Last Song Syndrome) many times. So what brought me to think about S’mores and camping and bonfires? Well, apart from feeling chilly on this cold Thursday night, I suddenly recalled our bonfire childhood days as I see these fire pits from Outdora. We were on sixth grade then and it was the school’s first time to conduct an overnight recollection or to what they call a spiritual retreat. One of the highlights was we were grouped into a smaller number, circled around an improvised bonfire and tried to read the surprise recollection letters our parent sent us through our teachers. It was really touching and inspiring and I must say that the bonfire thingie was effective and added the much needed reflective mood.

Even though our parents weren’t there, we felt their comforting words and wisdom through the warmth exuded by the outdoor fireplace. It’s as if they were talking to us in person.

Now this topic suddenly gives me an idea for the Little Mansion’s outdoors. We have a little space outside where we could allot a spot for a camping or S’mores night with my son. I bet my son would love to experience that every now and then. Conversations over bonfires can be a one of a kind bonding moment for the whole family especially during chilly nights such as now. I just have to make sure though to consider putting fire rings for everyone’s safety. If the limited space won’t suffice, this portable Patina fire pit from Outdora will do. The moon and stars cut-out design will surely capture my son’s heart. I can already hear my son’s voice singing Barney’s S’mores song while roasting mallows in my imagination.

There are tons of charming designs at Outdora.com that you might want to check out. Based in Sonoma, CA, Outdora offers wide array of high-quality selection of outdoor fire pits, outdoor fireplaces, and patio fireplaces.

One of LM’s three bedrooms is already reserved for Asher. We’ll let him sleep though in his own room come the time when he’s capable to do so perhaps in three years time or more. But as it is, the second room will be decorated and designed child-friendly.

Here are some guidelines for parents in making a childproof bedroom:

1. Use childproofing devices such as corner cushions, plug and outlet covers, cabinet slide locks, toddler gates and finger pinch guards to ensure safety.

2. Check all materials used in furnishing, painting, and decorating your child’s room for hazardous substances such as lead, splinters, etc .

3. Paint. Use eco-friendly paints. Be sure to get rid of awful odor of a newly painted wall before letting your child come in or stay inside the room The odor can irritate your child’s sense of smell.

4. Flooring. Carpeted, wood flooring, area rugs or rubber mats: it actually depends on the parents but do know that each has its pros and cons. Carpeted floors may cushion a child’s fall but may harbor bacteria that cause respiratory problems in kids like common colds.

5. Walls. Do not hang any decor in a baby or toddler’s bedroom because these may fall on him.

6. Window treatments. Allow natural light into your baby’s room. Blinds cords must use use cord shorteners. Curtain’s length must be kept short to keep your little one’s playful fingers from tugging at them. Be sure to change frequently cloth curtains as these can harbor dusts and other allergens.