As the year comes to a close, I just wanted to stop and wish everyone a happy holiday season. I think, especially after recent events, it's very important to push pause on our crazy lives and enjoy the little things...such as baking cookies or even your little one saying "snow" for the first time.  The twins watched my favorites Home Alone and Elf with me for the first time and I am cannot believe they are almost 4! 

I'm going to take a little break to enjoy the season, but I'll be back soon!

Thanks for reading, I appreciate every one of you!

HUGS!

Mmmm Monday: Cranberry Hootycreeks

I love this time of the year because I dust off my apron and experiment with baking.  It's especially fun this year now that I can use one of our wedding gifts, our Kitchen Aid (thanks Mom and Dad!).  It really does save a lot of time and energy when you have a nice mixer.   Our old hand mixer used to smoke on batch two or three of cookies...probably should throw that away.

This year I was a part of a Cookie Swap with other bloggers. After baking a batch of cookies, you ship a dozen off to 3 different people. It's like a secret Santa with cookies...the best kind! Also, donations are made to Cookies for Kids' Cancer and Oxo will match $100,000! What a tasty way to help those in need this holiday season!

A few years ago, I made cookie jars for gifts and this was by far our favorite variety.  It's nice to step away from plain old (but delicious!) sugar cookies.  I was going to make something with peppermint, but this recipe just kept popping into my head. 

I'm sure not too many people have tried a hootycreek, so I thought I would share!  The only hootie I've heard of is of the blowfish variety...don't lie, you loved them too.

Cranberry Hootycreeks

(Adapted from this jar cookie recipe)

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla (I always add extra for cookies)
• 1 cup oatmeal
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans
• 1 cup Craisins

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350.  Line cookie sheets with parchment paper (or simply spray with Pam).
2. Combine flour, soda and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars with a mixer.  Add eggs and vanilla.
4. Mix in dry ingredients, slowly.  Next add oatmeal and pecans.  Finish up with Craisins and chips.
5. Drop onto cookie sheets and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until done.  (Mine tend to take 11-12 in our new oven).

ENJOY!

 

Hopefully the lucky recipients of these cookies have received their cookie box.  They are:

• Jennifer from Licious food
• Rachel from The Pescetarian and the Pig
• Ariel from PrincesssPea
   

 

 



How to use Ebates

Start saving money today! Sign up here!

I like to shop, but during the holidays I cannot stand the crowds.  Also, what's up with the grouchy people?  It's like all of the crazies come out of the woodwork to get gifts.  Not a fan at all!  It's the holiday season and I don't need strangers making me crabby with their attitudes!

I like to do my shopping from my couch.  I can find all of the deals and be comfy in my sweats!  Actually, I think I save money shopping online because I can find the best price and coupons for items...I don't have to wait for sales in the stores!

When I decide which website I'm shopping on, I head right over to Ebates.  There I can find coupon codes and get a percentage back from ordering.  If you have a better coupon code from your email or a text, you are not obligated to use ones you find on the Ebates website, which is nice. 

On the weekends, they tend to have double cash back days.  They are always adding new online stores, as well.  Recently, they have joined forces with Amazon and Groupon. 


Confused on how it works?  I get a lot of questions about it.  While on Ebates, you click on "shop now" and you are sent to the actual website you want.  After ordering, your percentage back will be applied to your account.  The only unfortunate part is that you only get your cash back 4 times a year.  I love after the holiday season though, because I get my money applied to my account in the winter when all of the good sales are going on!

If you are a new member, you get a free $10 gift card after you spend $25 or more on an order.  It's a nice little bonus!

How is your holiday shopping going?  What online shopping tips do you live by?

Disclaimer:  I was not paid for this post, I just love Ebates and wanted to share a money saving tip.  The links are referral links. 

Holiday giveaways #3!: Free month of California Wine Club!

Remember last month when I told you about my amazing delivery of wine?!  Well I was lucky enough to get 2 free months from the California Wine Club!  I can get used to getting wine delivered to my door monthly! 

This month we recieved a red and white again (Merlot and Chenin Blanc).  I'm not a huge fan of Merlot usually, but this was actually really good. Of course, I ended up drinking my wine at bedtimes (the girls, not mine...), so I didn't have any food pairings.  Whoops!  I also forgot to take pretty pics. 

All in all, I enjoyed my experience with California Wine Club.  It's nice to have a variety of wine delivered right to your door.  I tend to get stuck in a wine rut, so it's nice to try new types.  Would I pay $50 a month for this convenience?  Probably not.  I never would spend $50 on two bottles of wine!  But it would be a GREAT gift!

Now you can have a chance to try it out!  I have a $50 credit (aka ONE FREE MONTH) to giveaway to one lucky reader! Enter in the rafflecopter below!

This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media. Thoughts are my own. I received a 2 month Membership to the California Wine Club for the purpose of this review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

How I roll: grocery shopping

I get a lot of questions about my grocery shopping habits.  With the little ones, I can't just run out to the store whenever I want.  Well, I can...but it's not fun.  It turns into a 3 hour event.

I have tried a few different ways of shopping.

When the twins were babies, I would do my shopping weekly.  That was nice, but I found I spent more money because I wasn't really planning too well.  At that time, I was working and we went out to eat a lot more.

Once we moved to Michigan two years ago, our shopping habbits changed once again.  Here, there are no double coupons and food is much more expensive.  I had to really reevaluate how to shop and where to find deals.  Aldi has been such a lifesaver!

After we moved into our house a year ago, we joined Costco and I have changed how I shop yet again.  I try to do one large trip a month and supplement small weekly trips for milk, fruit, and any great deals I find.  Since the girls are eating so much more food now, we really need to shop in bulk.

The day we go shopping, I have a list, coupons and everything I might need all ready to go.  This includes snacks if the girls are with me and I make sure all of the Mperks I might need are uploaded to my account.  

On my list, I make sure every item with a coupon is marked.  I used to organize my coupons in an accordion file, but I have switched to the binder method.   I'm adding a post about that later this week!

We usually make three stops: Costco, Aldi and Meijer.  I like that order because I usually have the least amount of items to buy at Meijer.  Costco covers the big bulk items, Aldi covers the stock-up pantry items, chicken and produce and whatever we have left is at Meijer.  Yes, this takes about 3 hours but I am basically done for the month!  

If the kids come, Ricky is great at keeping them moving.  They love to get their free cookie at Meijer and a hot dog at Costco.  Hey, whatever keeps them happy!

This method has been such a lifesaver!  I have found that I can plan meals easier and having a stocked pantry is such a time saver.  I will admit, by the end of some months, I have run out of a few items.  But that is what All Recipes is for!  I use the simple ingredient search and I can find new meals to make in minutes. 

How do you shop?  Did it change drastically after having kids?

 

Make sure you check out my 2 giveaways going on right now...and stop back tomorrow for another exciting one!

Holiday giveaways #2: Juppy baby walker

When Gabby first started walking a few months ago, we were estatic.  She was over a year and we thought she would never walk!  To help her along, I would hold her hands up to help her keep her balance.  I guess that is the WRONG thing to do, I learned that it actually makes her lose her balance. 

Enter the Juppy.  This is a great product for various reasons.  First of all, it's simple.  You put your baby in it and they can learn to walk, yet still have your assistance.  I would have loved this when Gabby was first entertaining the idea of walking.  Also, it's very easy to throw in your diaper bag for on-the-go.  It's nice to have a baby product that doesn't take up space for once!!

I have found it super useful in public places.  Although Gabby can walk well now, it's nice for those days when she refuses to sit in her stroller while we are running errands.  I can keep her in my area, but it's not like one of those embarrasing kid leashes. 

My back is thankful too!  I was either leaning down or carrying Gabby too much and my back was feeling it!  She is a solid little toddler!

Would you like a chance to try a Juppy for your baby?  You can win one AND get it personalized! 

Just enter on the rafflecopter below!

Don't forget to check out yesterday's giveaway also, you can win 3 free bottles of Purex!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a8f128/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday Giveaways: #1 Purex with Oxi

It's time to dust off the blog a bit and have some fun giveaways!  I have quite a few lined up, good luck to you all!  I want to thank everyone for being so awesome and reading all year long.

First up, 3 Free bottles of Purex.  This time of year, a few extra bottles of detergent are needed!  We tend to have more stains from cookies and other fun treats.  I'll be honest, I usually spill some punch or wine on myself too.

 

I've talked about Purex many times now, but I love how well it works for such a low price!  Plus, the crystals are SO amazing.  I ran out and got a bottle of regular fabric softener that was on clearance and it was not the same! 

 

Enter on the rafflecopter below and stay tuned for more giveaways this week!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday shopping at Aldi

I'm in the Aldi ad again this week!  I wish I could change my last name!

I am starting to organize my baking for the holidays.  Ricky likes to make 5-8 different types of cookies, but he doesn't realize that WE are the ones who end up eating them all.  No bueno!  I am going to hold off for a few weeks so I don't gain 15 lbs this holiday season!  I cannot say no to a good sugar cookie!

Have you considered Aldi for your holiday shopping?  They have unbeatable prices on baking essentials, especially sugar, flour and spices.  I found a clearance section last week with spices for $1.25: ginger, cream of tartar and nutmeg.  Have you seen prices at other stores for those?  Over $4!

Other great stock-up items for the holidays:

• Eggs, butter and milk
• Sprinkles, frosting and vanilla
• Cereals: rice crispy, chex and corn flakes 
• Seasonal goodies: Gingerbread waffle mix is AWESOME, also the mint hot cocoa

This time of year they also have a toy section and other inexpensive gifts.  They have name brand and popular items at great prices.  Last year we found some great Fisher Price toys for the twins.  This year I am considering some Disney princess dolls I saw.

I know other grocery stores have sales, but really consider Aldi for a one stop shop for holiday baking and cooking.  In 15 minutes you can get everything you need and be on your way!  Time is precious this time of year.

While you're there, get some tasty ground coffee...you're gonna need it!

How is your holiday baking going so far?  I'm procrastinating, as usual!

 

What I'm reading: BFFs, Mexican food

Surprisingly, I have been a total bookworm lately.  Before I have used the excuse "I have no time to read!", but in reality I have plenty.  There is nothing better than curling up with a good book at night after the girls are in bed!

The local library is in walking distance and we go there all of the time.  The KDL system is great because I can set up holds online quickly for both regular and eBooks. 

Since I am always looking for new books to read, I thought I would share my recent favorites and hopefully you'll give me some good suggestions!

The first book, MWF Seeking BFF by Rachel Bertsche was found randomly through an ebook search.  It caught my eye because I can totally relate.  Since I've moved and had children, I feel that I am lacking friendships.  I am lucky to have friends all over, but everyone is so busy!  Also, only a few have kids and can actually relate to my life now.  No bueno!



In her book, Rachel goes on a yearlong search for new friends in Chicago.  She had recently moved from NYC and wanted some friends who were close.  With an ambitious goal of 52 friend-dates in a year, she started her search.  I can't imagine working a full time job, having a husband and trying to go on 52 friend dates.  It's interesting how she finds people- some are friends of friends and some are complete strangers. 

As I am reading the book (I'm not finished yet), I totally want to be her BFF.  Also, it kind of inspires me to want to branch out more in my area.  I feel like I should have some mommy friends by now!

The other book that I am loving right now is Mexican Slow Cooker by Deborah Schneider.   As you may have noticed, I love Mexican food.  This book is nice because there are so many things I have tried at restaurants that I would love to make easily at home, and it breaks down the recipes for you.  Last night I made carnitas (slow cooked pork) and it was amazing.  Most recipes seem pretty simple.  Definitely a great Christmas book idea!! 



Other books I love:

• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.  If you haven't read this yet, you should!  Everyone seems to be buzzing about it.  I had to wait for 3 months on the library list for it and finished it in 3 days.  It's one of those books than makes you think long after you are finished!  
• Anything by Jennifer Weiner.  Total girl books, but she does an amazing job with character development.  I read 5 of her books in October...I was addicted.  My favorites: Then Came You, Next Best Thing and Best Friends Forever.  She also wrote In Her Shoes, which I love the movie and it's next on my list to read.

What are you reading now?  I need to add to my list!  Also, I would love to start a local book club if anyone is interested!  

Don't forget, I'm doing local shopping tours!  If you are interested, fill out this quick form!

CD Review: Chris Mann

I think I am one of the only people who doesn't love The Voice.  I'm actually surprised I don't watch it, since I love Christina and Adam.  Recently, I watched an episode when there was nothing else on and I did enjoy it!

Last season, Chris Mann was on the show and he has a new CD out, Roads.  I like to listen to all types of music, so I signed up to listen to and review.  Since I had only heard his name, I checked out some  YouTube videos and was impressed. 

This CD has covers of older and newer songs.  I was excited to hear "Blower's Daughter" with Christina Aguilera because I love Damien Rice.

I will be honest, this CD is not really my favorite.  I really liked his voice in other videos I watched, but I feel that he was holding back on Roads.  Mann's songs were all soft and mellow, they all kind of blended together. 

Also, I felt he should have been a bit more inventive with his song choices.  I have heard too many covers of "My Way" or "Always on My Mind".  I would have liked to hear more modern covers, like his "Viva la Vida" by Coldplay choice.  When I searched on YouTube, I saw him cover "Heartless" by Kanye West.  Something like that would have been much more exciting to hear.

I think Roads would be great to put on for background music at a dinner party or to listen to in the car.

Are you a Chris Mann fan? 

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this CD by One2One Network, but all opinions are my own! 

California Wine Club review: great holiday gift idea!

By now you should know that I love some wine.  I'm not too picky: box, bottle...whatever won't give me a splitting headache (bad wine = headache in my book).  After dealing with the three little ladies for an entire day, bedtime is wine time for this Mama.  I really want a Cougar Town style glass...have you seen those? 

What's even better?  Wine delivered to your door!  With the California Wine Club, I didn't even need to make a trip to the store.  Major plus in my book!

Last month, the UPS guy was greeted with and extra big smile once I realized what was inside of the package I was signing for.  Eager to see what was sent for the month, I grabbed my scissors and dug in.

I like having a variety of red and white wine, since it gives us an opportunity to try new types.  We're stuck in a sweet white rut.  I love those in the summer, but I'm getting moscato-ed out.   As for reds, we tend to lean towards the cabernet types.

California Wine Club is great because they cater to your needs...if you are strictly a red type of family, you can get two reds sent or vice versa with white. 

For November we had a Temperanillo and Sauvignon Blanc. To be honest, I was planning on making meals to pair with each wine, but it never happened.  C'est la vie.  Next month I'll be more inventive.

What did I think?  Loved them both, although the Temperanillo is one I could see myself buying again.

Stay tuned in December for your chance to win a great prize from the California Wine Club!  If you are interested in memberships, check out their website here!


This review was made possible by Mom Spark Media. Thoughts are my own. I received a 2 month Membership to the California Wine Club for the purpose of this review.

 

My dog is a spaz!

This post brought to you by Comfort Zone® products. All opinions are 100% mine.

We adopted our dog Rambo a little over a year ago.  Everyone (including Ricky) thought I was crazy for wanting a dog, but I really wanted my girls to grow up with a pet.  Also, Ricky works late most nights, and I wanted to feel secure in our house with the girls.  Rambo was raised with children, so I had no concerns, especially once I saw him interact with the girls.  He jumps up in 5 seconds if Gabby starts to fuss and he always checks on them in their beds at night.  It’s very cute.

One bad thing about Rambo (aside from the fact that he is 100 pounds!!)?  He is kind of a spaz.  Thursdays are dreaded days because it’s garbage day and we have 5 different trucks that come through the neighborhood.  He likes to bark.  At everything.  It drives me crazy!  When we have visitors, my arm is almost dislocated from trying to hold him back.

When I had an opportunity to try Comfort Zone® with D.A.P.® in my home, I jumped at the chance!  I had never heard of a product that could calm dogs, aside from a shock collar.  Since it said it will help reduce barking and excessive whining, I signed right up!

The device looks like a plug-in air freshener and it releases pheromones which calm your pet’s nerves. I put it by Rambo’s bed, which is near the front door.  Killing two birds with one stone! 

Did it work? Kind of.  At first, I feel Rambo was a bit more on edge, especially with the begging and whining.  But as the days went by, I felt like he was starting to calm down.  Let’s be honest, he will always be a spaz, but this really seemed to work.  I have found that he calms down a lot faster when we have visitors.

Since you need to give the product 90 days to get results, I will keep using it.  Time will tell if it will be a good investment.  I think that this would be a great product for someone to get for a new puppy that is adjusting to a new home or for a family that has just moved.

Where can you get this wonder product?  It’s available at PetSmart and PetCo.  Also, you can also keep up with them on Facebook.

Overall, I think this product has major potential.  Anything that will help calm down Rambo is a plus in my book!  If you are a cat lover, they have a product that helps reduce scratching. 

 

Is your pet a spaz like mine?  Maybe it's a lab mix thing.

 

Christmas shopping alert: Younkers deals!

I just happened to see a few great coupons for Younkers (aka Boston Store or Carsons) today!  Starting tomorrow (11/14), they have $50 off your purchase of $100 or more for Wednesday and Thursday!  There are some exclusions, as always, but I'm sure you can find some great deals.  Also, if there is a big ticket item you are looking to buy, this would be a great way to do so...think kitchen appliances, etc.

What a great way to get some Christmas shopping started, especially for some clothes!  The girls need some pajamas and leggings.

I also noticed you can get a quick $5 off coupon for signing up on their email list! I got my coupon minutes after signing up.  The $50 off coupon isn't on their website, but I'm assuming tomorrow it will be on there, since they have a different sale for today.  Notice how you can send the coupon to your phone, instead of printing it off.  Love that option!








Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?  I starting to get myself organized.  We are saving our Meijer gift cards from baby food testing for some black Friday shopping. 

Mmmm Monday: turkey chili mac

I wish I had a decent camera...you know what chili looks like though!

Can you believe it's November?  Sunday is football day in our house: Go Bears!  I really don't enjoy watching football, but I do enjoy the food!  I also like to catch up on my magazines while the games are on.

I love to make turkey chili because I know it is at least somewhat healthy.  We have a big debate in our house: with or without macaroni.  Ricky thinks chili mac is weird...I think he's weird for putting hotdogs with his.  I totally win, right?

Turkey Chili Mac

Ingredients

• 1 package of lean ground turkey (usually 1.25 lbs)
• I really love Butterball brand, it crumbles so well!
• 2 cans of reduced sodium kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans of chili ready diced tomatoes (14 oz cans)
• 1/2 of a beer (any light variety works)
• 1 small can of tomato paste 
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced green chili peppers (4-6 oz)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1.5 packets of chili seasoning
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 box elbow macaroni
• Toppings: cheese, jalapenos, hot sauce, avocado, green onions, sour cream, Fritos...whatever you like!

 Let's get cookin'!

1. Cook macaroni as listed on package.
2. In a big soup pot, heat a bit of oil over medium high heat.  Add turkey and start to brown, crumbling with a spoon.  Add green chili, onion and garlic.  
3. Once browned, add cumin, chili powder and chili seasoning.  Put entire can of tomato paste and mix up and cook for 2-3 minutes.  Add half of a beer.  You might as well drink the other half!  
• The alcohol will cook off, but if you are concerned about serving to kids, just use 1 cup of chicken stock.
4. Add packets of chili seasoning, tomatoes and beans.
5. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
6. I like to put the macaroni in a bowl, top with chili and my favorite toppings.

Enjoy!

I hope you are enjoying this dreary Monday...what a perfect day for chili!

Mmmm Monday: Cajun bowls

There is nothing better than some spicy Cajun food!  Yes, the real deal is the best...but sometimes there isn't enough time for that! This recipe is quick and easy and it will fulfill any Cajun food craving.  We like to call this Jambo, a combo of jambalaya and gumbo.  If you don't like shrimp, add chicken.  Serve these with some corn bread waffle dippers and you are set to go in under 30 minutes!

Ever since I was pregnant with the twins, I cannot get enough spicy food.  We go through Sriracha (spicy chili sauce) and Cholula (Mexican hot sauce...the best!) so much that we have to get the big bottles now.  When I make spicy food, I tone it down for the girls.  Surprisingly, Maddie loves the spice, but Olivia hates it...Gabby will eat anything!

Here's what you need: 

• 1 package of turkey smoked sausage (Butterball is great) halved and chopped
• 10-15 shrimp, shelled
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1/2 large onion (1 small)
• 2 celery stalks
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 oz
• Beer (any light beer)- 1/4 cup. 
• Sub chicken stock
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 4 green onions, sliced
• Seasonings:
• 1/2 teaspoon Thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon Oregano
• 1 tablespoon Cajun spice

1.  Cook brown rice, as instructed on package. Once finished, add a dab of butter and some green onions.
2. In a chopper, dice up the onion, celery and green pepper.  I like to do them all separately and add them to a bowl for later.  Mince garlic cloves.
3. Heat canola oil medium-high in large pan (I like to use a wok).  Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 2 minutes.
4. Add chopped veggies and cook 6-7 minutes until soft.  Season with thyme, oregano and cajun spice. 
5. Make a hole in the middle and melt butter.  Add flour and let cook for 1 minute.  Mix veggies in together with roux.
6. Add beer and mix together.  Slowly add chicken stock and cook to a bubble.  If super thick sauce still, add a bit more stock. 
7. Pour in tomatoes, with sauce to wok.  Stir.
8. Add in smoked sausage and cook for 5-6 more minutes.  Shrimp should be added near the end so it doesn't over cook.
9. Season with more Cajun seasoning, to taste.  Sprinkle 1/2 of green onions (save the rest for garnish). Sauce should be slightly thin, perfect to pour over rice.

To serve: scoop up some rice, top with Jambo.  Garnish with hot sauce and green onions.

Enjoy y'all!

.

Simply Suzanne Granola: corn muffin waffles

I have been addicted to granola for a few months now.  Although I love a good fruit and yogurt parfait, I have been looking for some new ways to use granola.  This recipe is a perfect way to add some variety to your granola.  Granola + corn muffins = a perfect combo!  Taking it one step further, I made the corn muffin mix in my waffle maker.  So much faster and you can cut them into cute little dipper sticks!

Here's the easy recipe!

• 1 box of Jiffy corn muffin mix (also a Michigan brand!)
• 3/4 cup Simply Suzanne Original granola
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon chopped jalapenos (or 1/4 green pepper, chopped finely)
• 1/2 teaspoon Cajun spice
• 1 teaspoon Chili powder
• 3/4 cup cheddar cheese (or your favorite!)
• Few dashes of hot sauce
• Salt, to taste

1. Heat up your waffle maker and spray with some Pam.  I use setting 3, or whatever is in the middle.  
• Note: To make regular muffins, preheat oven at 400
2. Combine all ingredients and pour into hot waffle maker.  So quick and easy!  My maker beeps, but they take about 5-6 minutes.  Just keep your eye on them.
• For oven, bake for 15 minutes!

Recipe is derived from one sent to me by Simply Suzanne with some granola to taste.

These corn muffin waffles can be paired with some chili or, as we did yesterday, with Cajun food.  I have a recipe coming up later for my super easy Cajun bowl (Jambo, as I like to call it).

Check out the website!

Simply Suzanne granola is a Michigan company that makes amazing granola (duh!).  I received the Original variety to sample, but since we have purchased two other varieties: Very Cherry and Lotsa Chocolate.  It's very easy to find at Meijer and other local stores...usually in the natural or organic section.   Best part? It's super affordable, compared to other national brands. 

What do you like to do with your granola?

Favorite things: baby seats

Having three kids, I've gone through my share of baby products.  Some things you don't need (bottle warmers) and some things we couldn't live without (swaddler!).  The thing you realize once you become a parent is that some products other people love, will not work for you at all.

I love to help new parents register because usually you are just wandering around a store completely overwhelmed.  When we first registered, we headed over to Babies R' Us for hours...then at 20 weeks we found out we were having TWO.  Kind of a game change.

Here I am going to share about baby seats.  These two items we LOVE and they have lasted through three kids.

First up: Fisher price baby rocker

Here's why this is awesome: you can use it right away!  This seat takes you from itty bitty baby to toddler.  Such a great investment!  It's under $50 and frequently goes on sale at Target.  The twins still use these seats (when Gabby doesn't kick them off!) when they are having popcorn nights. 


Second: Summer infant 3-1 seat

I really loved the idea of the Bumbo seat.  It was so cute!  But, our kids have chubby thighs.  Maddie sat in hers for a week and then she got stuck...and she was pretty tiny! So, we needed another option.  I randomly found this seat on Amazon one day and we instantly fell in love.  The 360 tray is great for little babies and eventually you can add snacks.  The tray easily comes off and you can use it as you would a Bumbo: for feeding, as a chair, etc.  Now, as Gabby is older, we take it with us when we visit someone and she can now sit at the big girl table.  Another great investment.

What seats do you like for your little ones?

Disclosure: I was not paid for these recommendations, I just love these products!! 

Deal alert! Free holiday photo shoot!

[I thought I would re-post this to remind everyone now that it's November!]

It's that time of year again, believe it or not!  Christmas shopping season!  Fa la la lala!

When I think of Christmas shopping, I think of Christmas Vacation.  Definitely one of my top 5 favorite movies EVER.  Home Alone is up there too.  Plains, Trains and Automobiles.  Christmas Story.  Plus all of the decorations and family fun.  I love the holidays! 

Every year, I have a great elaborate plan to do my shopping early and get my cards done before December 20th.  Last year, we barely got cards out!

This is what our holiday photo shoot looked like:

This will be our classic Christmas photo...we had a canvas made!

This year, I am determined to get myself in line.  Step one: get a family photo.  I would like us ALL to be included this year.  (I will admit, I am dreading this...).

The minute I got this email, I made an appointment!

See my favorite word? FREE.

JCP is offering a free family photo all of November!  No sitting fee, nada!  You get an 8x10 and (most importantly) a digital copy sent to you!

Once you get your photo taken, you can go to Vistaprint or Shutterfly to get some cheap cards made.  I'll keep you posted on any deals I see.

Yay for freebies!  Anyone else see any holiday deals yet?

101 FREE Shutterfly prints!

From 10/31-11/2 Get 101 Free Prints from Shutterfly.com with promo code: SPOOKY

I cannot wait to take advantage of this deal!

From now until NOVEMBER 2, you get 101 FREE prints using the code SPOOKY.

ALSO, you can get 50% off photo books!

The girls are already itching to get into their costumes and it's not even noon yet.  It's going to be so cold tonight, I hope trick or treating goes well!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN everyone!  Be safe and eat some candy!!

Wordful Wednesday: enjoying a fall moment

I thought I would try to join in on the Wordful Wednesday fun this week! I figured a family update was a bit overdue and I have a lot of new readers who may not know about our crew!

Last week, we were able to have a fun (yet FREEZING) trip to Orchard Hill Farms.  If you are in the Grand Rapids area, I highly recommend checking it out.  It's a perfect size for little ones, a lot smaller scale than others we've been to.

It was 40 degrees that morning, we were COLD!

This fall has been so busy for us that it was really nice to stop and enjoy each other.  The twins are almost 4 and Gabby is quickly growing into a toddler.  I am trying to keep her a baby as long as possible, but it's just not working!

Early in the summer, I sent in the forms for the girls to enroll in preschool and they vanished in the mail.  Thinking they were signed up the whole time, I didn't worry about contacting the preschool until the end of the summer.  Since they never got our forms, we didn't have a spot!

At first I was super mad, but now I am very happy we waited until they are 4.  We have been doing play groups and fun trips as a family.  They have plenty of time to be in school!

Maddie, Olivia & Gabby. 

Olivia is all about funny faces.  Maddie is probably hiding something in her pocket.

As the twins grow older, it's so fun to just sit back and listen to them.  They have the funniest conversations while sitting in their bunk beds at night.  A lot of people ask me if they are identical and I really don't see how they look alike.  Especially since their personalities are night and day.

Olivia loves to color and do puzzles all day.  She can sit and read books for hours.  Olivia also thinks she is queen bee.  Poor Maddie just listens to her.  I think when she gets to school she is going to have a big reality check when kids don't actually listen to her.  I try to keep her attitude in line, but toddlers pretty much do what they want.

Maddie has completely different interests.  Out of the two, she is the most quiet...but also very silly.  If you tickle her once, get ready to do it all day long.  She is obsessed with princesses and jewelry.  Everyday she has her purse full of who knows what.  We have a little hoarder on our hands!  Maddie is the one who likes to sing and dance the most.  She can remember words to a song after hearing it just once or twice.  Her favorite line right now "OH OH OH! That's what makes you beautiful".

The funny thing is, even though they are so different, they insist on dressing alike most days.  We always pick out different outfits and they decide to dress identical. 

Gabby (or Gaga as she calls herself...) was on a mission to see some chickens.

It's really hard to believe Gabby is 15 months already.  Wasn't it just yesterday we brought her home? Now that she is walking, everyday is interesting, to say the least!  She cannot sit still and she is always running around with her car (pronounce Cah, like she's from Boston).   This week she hit 25 pounds and she is very close to being the same size as the twins.  I really didn't realize how small the twins were until we had this "little" lady.  She is quickly learning words and different ways to make us laugh.  It will be very interesting to see her interaction with the girls as they get older.  They always say "three is a crowd", I hope that's not the case!


Ricky is getting into the spirit of the season by decorating the house.  Every.Square.Inch.  Outside we have tombstones, boarded windows, spider webs and the whole works.  It's really cute how he gets so into Halloween and fall. 

As you may have noticed, I am rocking a new 'do.  I have a love/hate relationship with my short hair.  It's a big change!  At the end of the day, I have to remind myself it's just hair.  Things could be so much worse! 

I hope everyone else is enjoying this season!  I absolutely hate that I see Christmas trees lit up in every store already.  Let's slow down people!