Induction cooking has become a popular alternative to electric or gas cooktops. If you’ve wondered what induction cooking actually is and how it works, look no further! We’ve explained everything you need to know about induction cooking below. 

What is Induction Cooking?

Unlike electric and gas cooktops, induction uses electromagnetism to heat the pot directly, leaving the burner and surrounding areas cool to the touch. If you have a family with small children, this may be a good option for you because it is the safest form of cooktop heating. You can place your hand directly on top of the turned on cooktop and not be burned because the heat will only transfer to a magnetic surface.

via Put That On Your Blog

Because induction uses electromagnetism, you do need cookware with flat, magnetic bottoms in order for this cooktop to produce heat. If you aren’t sure whether your cookware will work with an induction cooktop, use a magnet to see if it will stick to the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, your pans will work! If it doesn’t, you may have to replace your cookware.

Because there is no wasted or escaping heat with induction cooking, you can instantly and precisely change the cooking temperature. Not only will this making cooking easier, your kitchen will stay cooler without the extra heat.

Induction cooking is a new technology you may have to get used to, but once you have it’ll change how you cook and use your kitchen. If you’re looking for a new induction cooktop, RC Willey is the place to look.

Do you think you’d like an induction cooktop?

Who doesn't love summer?  Spending almost every afternoon at the swimming pool, going on fun family vacations & adventures, chasing fireflies at dusk, and eating every meal out on the patio is about as good as it gets in my book.  While summer is without question absolutely magical, it's not always exactly relaxing as a parent. Especially when kids are out of school and home all day!  Here are six staples that are helping me survive (and thrive!) this summer.....

1. Method All-Purpose Spray
Kids home all day = grubby handprints EVERYWHERE.  Especially in the kitchen!  This Method all-purpose surface cleaner has become my best friend and sanity!  It's an all-natural solution that quickly cleans my kitchen table and countertops (multiple times a day) and leaves the place smelling amazing.  I love the pink grapefruit flavor. 

2. Paper plates
Why is doing dishes in the summer about 10 thousand times harder than any other time of the year?  I don't know the answer, but I know the solution: paper plates!  We basically have converted to using them for just about every meal.  I know they aren't really easy on the wallet or the environment, but I've got to say, they sure make kitchen cleanup a breeze.

via target

3. A fresh basil plant
I love cooking with fresh basil in the summer, but I hate buying fresh basil from the grocery store. It's so expensive and you barely get enough for one meal.  The simple solution is to pick up a basil plant, throw it in a pot, water it amply, and bam! You've got basil growing out of your ears and you hardly did anything to get it!

4. Popsicles
The very first thing my three year old daughter asks me when she wakes up every morning is, "Mom, can I have a popsicle?!"  Otter-pops are like currency around here, and I am not above using them as bribes to motivate my kids to do their chores.  We would be lost without these!  Also, I highly suggest adopting our "popsicles have to be eaten outside on the patio" rule.

5. A Camelbak water bottle
My kids love their sugary popsicles, and I love my ice cold water (or soda!) on the go.  My sister sent me this stainless steel eddy camelbak water bottle a few months ago for my birthday, and it's been a favorite companion this summer. 

 dvia amazon

6. A designated swim bag
We go to our neighborhood pool at least three or four times a week.  This year I've learned to store everything we could ever need at the pool in one designated bag, and I keep it hanging on a hook by the door.  It's filled with sunscreen, pool toys, swim diapers, etc.  It sounds so simple, but it's really helped to eliminate a lot of the stress of taking three little kids to the pool by myself.  With a pre-packed bag I'm ready to be "fun mom" and go to the pool at a moment's notice.  

 
via target

What are your own summer survival staples??

Looking for living room inspiration? You’ve come to the right place! There’s something about nearing fall that makes me want to redecorate and refresh my house. We spend so much time in the living room that it seems like the perfect place to start. No matter your personal style, you’ll be able to find something that inspires you in the pictures below. 

Living Room Inspiration

via Coco Kelly

via The Glitter Guide

via My Scandinavian Home

via Bless'er House

via Thoughts From Alice

What ideas do you have for upgrading your living room? 

You may have wondered what a convection oven is and whether or not it makes a difference in baking. If you’re lucky enough to have an oven with a convection setting but don’t know how to use it, or if you are thinking about purchasing a new oven and want to know if spending the extra money on a convection oven would be worth it, we have the answers for you! Keep reading to learn all about convection ovens and how to use them. 

What is a Convection Oven?

Without the convection setting, your oven heats from the bottom up. This leaves the oven with pockets of warmer and cooler air, making it difficult to cook things evenly. If you’ve ever had to turn your cookie tray to get everything browned evenly, you know what I’m talking about.

Ovens with convection settings, on the other hand, have a fan and exhaust system that flow hot air all around your food, which allows your food to cook evenly and quickly. Because the exhaust system is pulling the air out of the oven, extra moisture that builds up in other ovens is removed, allowing your food to brown and caramelize while leaving the interiors moist.

via A Spicy Perspective

WHEN SHOULD I USE A CONVECTION OVEN?

There are definitely times when you should use a convection oven and when you shouldn’t. Because the convection setting can be turned on and off, you’ll be able to adapt your cooking style depending on what you’re making.

Best times to use a convection oven:  

• If you’re roasting meat or vegetables use the convection setting to end up with crispy exteriors and moist interiors.
• When making pies and pastries the convection setting will help you crusts be flakier and more delicious.
• If you’re trying to bake multiple trays of cookies at once, a convection oven will bake them evenly and they will all be finished at the same time.

When you shouldn’t use a convection oven:

• Because the fan blows hot air around the food while it’s cooking, anything that needs to rise in the oven such as cakes, souffle, or quick breads, won’t rise as well if baked with the convection setting turned on.
• If you don’t want a crust on something, like a custard, you should avoid turning the convection setting on.

TIPS FOR USING A CONVECTION OVEN

• Lower the temperature of your oven by about 25° F. Convection ovens get hotter than conventional ovens.
• Check your food sooner than you usually would. Things cook more quickly in convection ovens.
• The air needs to circulate throughout the oven, so make sure you use pans and trays with low sides and don’t overload your oven.

If you haven’t even cooked with a convection oven, you’re missing out! You’ll be shocked at what a difference it’ll make on the taste and texture of your food. Check out all of RC Willey’s ovens to find a convection oven for your own home.

Thes BBQ sauce recipes are the best way to upgrade your summer barbeques. It’s always nice to know what is in the food you’re eating, and by making your own BBQ sauce, you’ll know exactly what is going on your dinner. Even better than that, once you find a BBQ sauce recipe you love, you’ll have a unique flavor to impress your guests! Try out some of these BBQ sauce recipes below for your next barbeque. 

Neely's BBQ Sauce

 This BBQ sauce recipe is from Pat and Gina Neely the hosts of the Food Network show Down Home with the Neelys. They run some of the best BBQ restaurants in Tennessee, a major BBQ state, so you can bet this one is delicious. 

Peach-Mustard BBQ Sauce

This BBQ sauce recipe is very interesting. With onion, garlic, mustard, peach jam and bourbon, this might be the most Southern mix of flavors we have ever heard of. 

Cola BBQ Sauce

I already know this BBQ Recipe will be good. It has liquid smoke in it and "cola." (Did they get sued or what?) Anyways, this will be sweet and smoky and that is a winning combination. 

Memphis BBQ Sauce

Technically you aren't supposed to serve Memphis BBQ with sauce but if you do order it, expect something with vinegar and molasses. 

Simple Barbeque Sauce

This BBQ sauce recipe goes best with pork or chicken and it features a secret weapon: smoked paprika. 

Which one of these BBQ sauce recipes do you want to try at your next barbeque? 

One of the things I love about living on the east coast is that we are a quick two hour drive to Virginia Beach.  There is something about feeling warm sand under my toes and watching my kids run around squealing in excitement as the ocean waves crash against the shore that makes me feel alive.  It always seems to refuel my soul, and reminds me that I am part of something bigger than myself.  

Did I mention I love the beach?

I've learned in the short time that we've lived here, that spending a day at the beach with kids is about 72 billion times more exhausting than spending a day at the beach alone with a good book.  I mean, I sure love them, but they don't exactly make it a walk in the park.  The first time I was ambitious enough to take my three kids (ages 4 and under) to the beach by myself I learned the hard way that planning, preparation, and packing smart are a MUST! (Note: pushing a double stroller crammed to the brim with all of your stuff on sand for an extended period of time is not a good idea.) So whether you are going on a beach vacation for a week, or simply spending the day there, here are 13 essentials that you'll want to pack along to help make for a smooth and relaxing experience...... 

1. Rolling Cart
The rolling cart is truly a life saver.  It's a little bit of an investment up front, but if you want to be able to cart around your chairs, towels, umbrella, and beach supplies easily, look no further!

2. Plastic Beach bags
I used to bring all of our beach supplies in a cloth bag.  Cute, but definitely not functional!  I had to wash it in my washing machine after beach trip, and it was impossible to get the sand to every go away completely!  Then, I wised up and learned to pack everything in large plastic bags (think the re-usable grocery shopping bags).  You can find them for just a few bucks and they work perfectly!  Sand brushes out easily and they hold everything!  

3. Sunscreen
DON'T FORGET THE SUNSCREEN!  In my book, this is the most important thing you need to remember for a day at the beach.  You don't want anyone to burn- especially your kiddos!  If you missed my post about the importance of a using a quality sunscreen a while ago, make sure you check it out STAT.  This is the sunscreen we use at our house....

4. Additional Sun Protection
I am pretty serious about my sun protection!  Sunscreen is not enough for me.  A few other things that I always bring along:
a) rashgaurds: I LOVE these.  I have them for all of my kids, and even bought one for myself.  I love knowing that even if our sunscreen job wasn't sufficient, they will be protected from getting burned by their long sleeves.  My kids actually prefer them to their other swimsuits. 
b) sunglasses: I couldn't live a day without mine.
c) hat: you won't ever find me at the beach without one.

5. Water shoes
Speaking of protection- it's always good to think about your feet!  I like to throw in water shoes for myself and my littles.  I hate it when you've found a lovely beach for the day, only to find out that the sand is quite rocky and hard on your feet.  Water shoes to the rescue!  

 
6. Beach umbrella
Because an entire day sitting on the beach without a major source of shade is completely miserable.  We first realized the beauty of a beach umbrella when taking our newborn to the beach last summer.  It's easily 10 degrees cooler underneath, and a safe place for babies and everyone else when they need a break from the hot sun.  

7. Beach blanket
Obviously this goes hand in hand with the beach umbrella.  Really, a must in my opinion- especially if you have babies or small children who will want to relax under the umbrella!  Bringing a big blanket along makes it so much easier and comfortable to camp out for the day.

8. Toys
For my kids, the best part about hanging out at the beach all day is playing in the sand!  They could sit and build sandcastles for HOURS.  We bring a big bucket of beach toys (you can find them at the dollar store!), but I think my kids' favorite toys are always the plastic spoons and cups I throw in!   

9. Beach Towels 
Another seemingly no-brainer.  But trust me.  I learned from a rough experience that you definitely don't want to leave behind the pile of beach towels.  Also, one beach towel is NOT enough for a family of five to share.  Ha! 

10. FOOD
Because duh, right?  What's a day at the beach without your favorite snacks?  Make things easy for yourself and fill up a big cooler with plenty of snacks, ice cold water, soda, and lunch to get you through the entire day. That way, once you are finally camped out on the beach you won't have to worry about packing everything up again (or at least your valuables) to go scrounge around for food. 

11. Beach Chairs
I'll be honest.  I used to just bring a big blanket to the beach and thought the whole beach chair idea was over-rated.  That is, until I actually tried out a beach chair for a whole day.  Maybe that means I'm getting old, but I am definitely SOLD.

12. Baby powder
The only thing I really can't stand about going to the beach is the fact that it's kind of impossible to not take the sand home with you.  It's not unusual for me to find it in my daughter's hair for a week.  I recently heard about the power of baby powder!  Simply rub it on your hands, feet, hair, or wherever sand is stuck on your body, and VOILA- sand comes off like a breeze!  

13. Sweats/Comfy clothes
Say no to staying in cold, wet swimsuits!  Make sure you throw in your sweats and comfiest clothes for a cozy ride home.  

Am I missing anything?  What are your beach essentials with kids??

Modern nurseries are a great way to keep your baby’s bedroom simple, clean, and serene. I love how easy it is to keep a modern nursery more gender neutral as well. If you’re getting ready to design a modern nursery for your baby, you’ll find everything you need at RC Willey. Check out these nursery inspirations and get ready to shop the look below. 

via Elisabeth McKnight

I love the simple, mid century modern look of this crib. This crib would work if you're looking for something similar to include in your own baby's nursery. 

via Coco & James

A small chair in a small nursery is perfect for nursing or cuddling your baby before bedtime. This modern plastic rocker will add just the right touch to any nursery.

A pouf, especially something like this knit one, is a great seat for story time or relaxing. Add one in your nursery and you'll be surprised by how often it's actually used!

via Emerson Grey Designs

A white dresser, similar to the one above, adds so much storage for everything from tiny baby clothes to blankets to diapers and wipes. Stick a changing pad on top and you've made your own changing table as well. 

What would you like to include in your modern nursery? 

If you’re lucky enough to have a bonus room in your house, there are endless ideas for small rooms. The trick is landing on the right idea that will look great, be functional, and make sense with the rest of your house. Check out these small room ideas from RC Willey. 

If you need an extra bedroom: 

• Add a mirror to trick your eye into thinking your room is larger than it is.
• Add storage under the bed by using baskets or boxes to keep your shoes or other small items in.
• If you are hoping for a workspace as well, use a desk as your nightstand. Something like this white modern desk would be perfect. 

If you have little ones who need a playroom:

• Little artists love having a space for crafting and drawing, so include a small table and chairs just for them.
• Include something like this fun circle rug to soften hardwood floors and protect your carpet.
• If you have space, include at least one comfy spot for the grown-ups to sit while they watch their kids play.

via Vanessa Francis

If you work from home and would like a home office: 

• Think about which direction you should place your desk that will help you be the most productive. Try out facing the window, the hallway, or the wall to see what works best for you.
• You’ll be sitting at your desk for extended periods of time so make sure you have a comfortable desk chair that looks good too. 
• Include fun accessories and home-like touches to make your home office somewhere appealing and comfortable to be.

via Tilly and the Buttons

If you love creating and want a craft room:

• Find a variety of storage ideas for all your odds and ends to keep them organized. Think about displaying some of your favorite craft supplies in glass jars.
• Get one large table to fit in your room to give you a big workspace.
• A kitchen island like this green mobile island will give you extra counter space and storage.

What small room ideas do you have? 

We finally got to check off one of the items on our 2017 Summer Bucket List that I've been wanting to try for years now...... a shrimp boil!  I was always a little intimidated about the idea because I wasn't really sure how it worked. I didn't realize how effortless it really was until our friends invited us over the other night for one!  It was so easy to cook, and it tasted delicious!  There really is something about corn and sausage and shrimp and potoates all mixed together that is really wonderful.  Most importantly, it was a fun and memorable experience sitting around the table eating with our fingers to our hearts' content!  My kids were in heaven!   

 Here's how to throw your own shrimp boil!....

Ingredients:

¹⁄₂ cup Old Bay Seasoning
2 tablespoons salt
4 quarts water
8 medium red potatoes, cut in quarters
2 large vidalia onions, cut in wedges
2 lbs smoked sausage, cut in 1- 2 inch lengths
8 ears corn on the cob
4 lbs large shrimp, in shells

Directions:

1. In an 8-quart stock pot, bring Old bay, salt and water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the potatoes & onions, then cook for 10 minutes.
3. Add smoked sausage & corn, then cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp in shells, then cook for 4 minutes.
5. Drain water.
6. Pour contents of pot onto a table covered with newspapers.  It's okay if it looks haphazard!  It's part of the fun!  
7. Sprinkle everything generously with Old Bay seasoning.  
8. Bon Apetit!  You can choose to have plates, dipping sauces, and butter on the table, or you can go the easy route and let everyone dig in with their hands! This is part of the fun!

Don’t spend your time searching for a hanging planter that fits your style and space when you can make your own DIY hanging planter. Adding greenery to your home will add color and help purify the air. There have been studies showing the importance of including plants in your home to help decrease stress as well. With all the benefits of having plants in your house, why not make your own DIY hanging planter? Check out some ideas below. 

FIND INSTRUCTIONS HERE

FIND INSTRUCTIONS HERE

FIND INSTRUCTIONS HERE

FIND INSTRUCTIONS HERE

FIND INSTRUCTIONS HERE

Which one of these DIY hanging planters would you like to make and where are you planning on hanging it?