It’s not always easy to get centered, but Dexter mom of two Karen Eisel discovered an app for that. Here, she tells us why she loves Headspace. A local dad shares his obsession with Tree Finder Books, plus find out why the Instant Pot is so great – and more.
If you’re obsessed with a product, tell us about it and we could feature it in Metro Parent and give you $25.
Tree Finder Books
I enjoy knowing the flora and fauna around me. One tool that helps is the Tree Finder book by May Theilgaard Watts (Menasha Ridge Press). It costs less than $5 and has an easy learning curve. Use the dichotomous key to narrow down to the species of tree you’re observing through a series of yes or no questions. No foliage left? Try IDing in the leafless season with the Winter Tree Finder by the same author, which focuses on identifying trees through twig shape and bark patterns. It’s a low-tech, interactive way to get you and your family to become neighborhood naturalists. Find them both at menasharidge.com.
– Scot Martin, dad of two young teens, Redford
IKEA Hemmingsbo Frames
My 12-year-old daughter likes to redecorate constantly. I bought her a few of the front-opening frames from Ikea. She can now easily slip new artwork and pictures in and out of the frames while saving all the rolls of tape and damaged paint to her bedroom walls. Everyone is happy.
– Angie Hibbler, mom of three, Milan
Headspace Meditation App
Amazing way to get myself and two kids (ages 11 and 9) off to a calm and centered start to the day. They even get ready for school themselves, so they don’t miss doing this short meditation before getting on the bus. It also has helped me get ready for a calm and centered day. Get it at headspace.com.
– Karen Eisel, mom of two, Dexter
Oxo Tot Perch Booster Seat
I am crazy about the OXO tot booster seat! Not only does the seat work the best as far as being stable and comfortable, it also easily folds to transport to restaurants or grandma’s house – and is neutral enough for my dining room. I brought home three other booster seats before finding the best (I recommend gray and white). It’s available at Buy Buy Baby.
– Adrienne Spitzer, mom of one, Shelby Township
Instant Pot
On a whim, I bought an Instant Pot off Amazon after a friend raved about how quickly it turns out meals. I’ve used it pretty much every day since – sometimes twice. The Instant Pot has multiple settings, but I use the pressure cooker and sauté functions most. It’s like having another stovetop burner but with its own pot. I’m hooked. The 6-in-1 version I bought was $79, but you can find discounts at places like Kohl’s.
– Kristen J. Gough, editor-at-large
Are you obsessed with something? Tell us what and why or email us your reasons at myobsession@metroparent.com. If we love your pick as much as you do, we’ll feature it in Metro Parent and give you $25.