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?