Disclaimer: I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Charmin. I received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for my participation. All content and thoughts are my own. #TweetFromTheSeat

Isn't summer entertaining the best? It's much more carefree and laid-back!  That being said, there are some things that can still stress you out during a party: making the food, buying groceries, cleaning, etc.  The last thing you want to worry about is an embarrassing clogged toilet.  Did you know that Charmin is septic safe? They've got your behind covered! (Pun intended!)

Road Trip! Our Mini-Vacation to Mackinaw City #PureMichigan

 

Last year, we took a road trip to Mackinaw City with my parents.  Michigan has so many beautiful places to visit, it's nice that we can travel only 4 hours to a whole new world.  Since Ricky is a newbie Michigander, we had to check out Mackinac Island and the area surrounding it.  Be warned: I have a lot of photos!

Time for a quick history lesson for all of you who aren't native to Michigan: we have a lower and upper peninsula, which are connected by a 5 MILE Mackinac bridge.  We stayed in Mackinaw City (yes, it's spelled differently) which is in the lower peninsula.  To visit Mackinac Island, you have to take a quick ferry across the lake to the island.  The area has so much fascinating history and it's very remote, for being such a large tourist town. On Mackinac Island, there are NO motor vehicles aside from a few emergency vehicles--everyone gets around by foot, bikes or on horses.  How cool is that?

To see the whole post, head over to my new site: Dash of Evans. 

BBQ Favorites: Creamy Ranch Potato Salad

Nothing says summer like potato salad! It's perfect with burgers, ribs, sandwiches...anything! Everyone has their own style that they love.  Do you keep the skins on or peel the potatoes? Eggs or no eggs? Mayo, mustard or yogurt?

Aldi Haul: What I Bought For $50! [Video]

You all know by now that I LOVE ALDI. I've been shopping there for years--even before I had kids. It's a budget shoppers dream store and you can really find some gems there.  Their season section is always fun to browse.  Like I always say: you can get MOST of your groceries there, but not all.  I like to go there first to knock of most of my list before heading to Meijer or Costco.

Movie Review: #Disney Inside Out

Disclaimer: We received movie passes to facilitate this review, but all opinions are my own.

I'm really not sure who was more exited to see Inside Out between my kids and I.  Being a huge fan of the voices (Amy Poehler and Mindy Kaling, especially), I couldn't wait to see what their comedy chops could add to a Disney movie.  Originally, the twins had t-ball and it was going to be a Mommy date with Gabby.  The stars aligned for the twins and upcoming storms canceled their t-ball game and they were able to come along, also.

Going to the theater is a BIG DEAL for the family.  It's quite expensive to take the whole family to the local cinema, especially with popcorn and snacks.  We'd never seen a 3D movie, so this was even more exciting.

Movie Basics:

This story is about Riley, an 11 year old, and her emotions in her head.  There is a main headquarters and 5 main emotions that run it: Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust and Anger.  The story is told from the perspective of the emotions in the headquarters--they watch what is happening in her life and help her react to it, with Joy being the leader.

Thoughts:

We really enjoyed this movie.  My daughters (6 year old twins and 3) sat through the entire movie and laughed along with the different characters.  Nothing was overly scary and they only covered their eyes once or twice.  The 3D aspect was really cool, but I don't find it necessary for the extra money.  No matter which way you see it, you'll get a great movie.  

I will warn you that there is a slight ominous tone to the movie.  They mostly went over my kids' heads, but really hit home with me.  A lot of the movie deals with different memories from childhood and the emotions tied to them.  There is a point in the movie where the old memories are being stored in a "long-term" space and some were being erased--I started wondering how many memories I'd long forgotten about!  

They also touched on innocence and really made you remember how fleeting it is.  Many of Riley's memories were from when she was younger and you meet her Imaginary Friend.  In the beginning, everything has a touch of Joy and happiness, but as things change in the movie you'll see different emotions creating her feelings.  Disney touches on the idea of how you want everything to be through rose-colored glasses, but life is about ups and downs.  (Cue: Facts of Life theme song)

I like that Inside Out opens the door for conversations about emotions as a family. 

About the PG Rating:

I think this is the perfect rating and I don't think there was anything overly scary in this movie.  It isn't quite as light and fluffy as I expected, though. My 3 year old loved the movie and was laughing quite a bit.  I know many other Disney movies rated PG that she finds way to scary to watch (Brave, especially).  There are jokes for parents, as usual, which are really funny.  We all enjoyed the movie and it will be one that we purchase on DVD later.  

Have you seen Inside Out? What were your thoughts?

Cook Once, Eat Twice: BBQ Meatballs #SweetSwaps

Disclaimer: I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for the SPLENDA^® Brand. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation. All opinions and reviews are my own.

Lately, I feel like there isn't enough time in the day.  With so much going on, there is barely time for ME time, let alone time with my friends.  Sometimes a gal needs some adult conversation....and wine!  It seems many of my friends have the same situation: busy schedules that are impossible to sync up.  When my friend Becca suggest an outdoor Zumba class, I was in!  What's more fun than making a fool of yourself with your friends?

Our First Year of School: What We've Learned

The school year FLEW by and my twins are officially be FIRST GRADERS. What?! Where did time go? I am not gonna lie: this summer is going to be a rough one...but I'm ready!  Library here we come!

Gifts That Give Hope: Heart of Haiti at Macy's!

Summer is the time for gatherings--weddings, showers, BBQs and birthday parties.  Many people are searching for meaningful gifts; not your average home decor.  The Heart of Haiti line at Macy's offers handcrafted items by Haitian artists.  The items are available in 25 stores across the country and online.  Since each item is handmade, they are all unique.  I'm really drawn to the bright colors and unique pieces they offer.  The metal is made from oil drums which they pound down and stain--watch the video below, it's hard work that these artist put into this!

Bonefish Grill: Enter to Win a Fab #GirlsNightOut

As food posts on social media continue to gain popularity, the nation’s favorite seafood restaurant Bonefish Grill has teamed up with popular jewelry line Bourbon and Boweties for the two companies’ first-ever Instagram collaboration — in a series of photos that tell the story of how cocktails, food and fashion combine to create a great girls’ night out. (Follow the hashtags #IncredibleIs #DoYouBangle #Bourbonandboweties) Sweepstakes winners will be announced on July 6th!

Walmart Family Mobile: Stay Connected on a Budget! #Save4Summer

Disclaimer: This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and Walmart Family Mobile. All opinions are mine alone. #Save4Summer #CollectiveBias

Having a reliable phone is something you can't take for granted.  We've been seeking the lowest priced unlimited plan for a few months now.  A little over a year ago, we decided to take the leap at get iPhones.  BIG mistake.  HUGE.  We didn't really know what we were ordering and I guess the iPhone 4S was on it's way out.  What does this mean? We have SO many issues with our phones.   There is absolutely no space on the phone for apps, photos or even to function.  At least 4-5 times a day, my phone will shut off unexpectedly.  Also, I have to constantly charge it, even if no apps are running or syncing.  To take a photo, I have to delete apps--not quite convenient when you're trying to capture a quick moment at t-ball practice!  Every night, we have to hookup our phones to the computer and upload everything and start from scratch. EVERY.NIGHT.

Join Me For a Family Fun Day at Camp Macy's! #AmericanSelfie

Dislaimer: This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Schoooool's Out for SUMMMMER!  Woohoo! I'm both excited and terrified at the same time.  As I shared last week, I went many summer camps as a kid--even Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, which was mocked in the movie American Pie.  While I love camp, my asthma, allergies and straight up fear of bugs makes it less than fun.

Enter Camp Macy's! On June 14th at the Fashion Square Mall in Saginaw, there will be a family fun day! Indoor camp fun? YES PLEASE!

Mmmm Mondays: Cheesy Ranch Baked Chicken

When you're shopping on a budget, chicken thighs are the way to go!  The boneless skinless ones are perfect to marinade and grill up for tacos or stir-fry.  This tutorial on how to de-bone chicken thighs is a  game changer for sure--you can save SO much money.  For this recipe, I de-boned the thighs, but left the skin on.  When chicken thighs go on sale for $0.89/lb I stock up my freezer!

Quick Tip: if you buy a large family pack, be sure to break it into smaller portions before freezing.  I like to get two large packs and break them into 5 thighs in each bag.  You can pre-season them, too!

Ricky gets food samples from work--a major perk.  Usually they are products that aren't on the market yet or labeled.  The girls had plain silver juice boxes for the last few weeks of school--they were like "what ARE these?".  With an abundance of Hidden Valley ranch packets on hand from Ricky's work samples, I've gotten pretty crafty with using them.  This recipe is super simple and the kids LOVE it.  You can serve with a side salad, veggie or whatever you have on hand. A baked potato would be tasty too!

The Hidden Valley ranch packets are located in the regular dressing aisle, usually on the top shelf.  If you can't find them there, check by the McCormick's seasoning packets.  I love to make veggie dip with the new Greek yogurt packet.

Cheesy Ranch Chicken
Serves 4-6
Modified from Damn Delicious Ranch Cheddar Chicken

What You Need:

• 8 Bone-in Chicken Thighs, deboned leaving skin on (optional--you can leave bones in, too!)
• Here's the tutorial on how to de-bone
• 1 Packet of Hidden Valley Ranch
• 1/2 cup olive oil Mayo
• 1/2 cup Colby-Jack Cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon McCormick's Chicken seasoning (or Italian)
• Salt & Pepper, to taste

1. Preheat oven to 375.  Coat a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
2. After deboned, season chicken with salt and pepper, to taste.
3. In a small bowl, mix mayo and ranch packet. Set aside.  In another small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with cheese, parsley, garlic powder and chicken seasoning. 
4. Place chicken, skin side up, in the baking dish.  Brush on ranch mixture, making sure to evenly coat all of the skin.
5. Sprinkle with cheesy breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, or until cooked through.

How do you like to cook chicken thighs?

Don't forget to pin this recipe for later! Check out my Facebook page for more tips and recipes!

Calling All Bloggers: Are YOU heading to #SoFabUOTR Chicago?

Disclaimer: I am writing this post in exchange for a discounted conference ticket; however, all opinions are mine.

Blogging is definitely a job where you learn something new everyday.  I started this blog over 5 years ago (CRAZY!) and I'm still learning.  There are many different types of bloggers and everyone has their own style.  I've never aimed to be the biggest or best blogger--but I aim to learn as much as I can!  I keep doing this to have fun, teach people a little something and make some money for my family.  Plus, I've met SO MANY great people from blogging.

Of all of the companies I work with, Social Fabric is one of my favorites.  They really take care of their bloggers.  Plus, they have a great website to teach you MORE about your job: SoFab University. The courses are FREE and you can take them at your own pace, usually around 20 minutes each.  Seriously, they are so helpful.  

Many non-bloggers don't quite get the importance of a conference.  There are a variety of large and small ones available to go to each year.  At BlogHer Food two years ago, I was able to meet and connect with so many brands and other writers.  It truly helps you stay on your A-game. 

Conferences can be super expensive to attend: flights, tickets, food, etc.  I truly appreciate smaller, local conferences that don't break the bank.  When I found out SoFabU On The Road was heading to Chicago on July 11, I knew I had to go!  Three hour drive in my favorite city? Yes, please! 

To be the best blogger you can be, there will be sessions on video, networking, sponsored posts and other learning opportunities.  Plus, the national sponsors are Müller, Kraft and iBlog.  You know they'll have something tasty and fun up their sleeve. Not a SoFab member yet? NO PROBLEM! 

Chicago is limited to 50 attendees and it's expected this to sell out! Early Bird pricing ends 6/12.

Will you be joining me in Chicago on July 11?! Leave a comment and let's connect!

Check out my Blogging Conference Tips, too!