Nanny to Mommy

Sweet Pea's Christmas List: Linking Up with Toddle Along Tuesday

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Sweet Pea's Bday is December 9th so Christmas and Birthday presents kind of run together. If we thought about it when we planned to have her, we would have probably planned when her birthday was a little better. We don't mean for them to get mixed together, they just kind of do. We don't have time to completely recover her birthday and then Christmas comes.

Her first Christmas she was only 2 weeks old, so we didn't worry about Christmas presents PLUS it snowed...in Georgia...her first Christmas. ♥ Last Christmas, we didn't buy her that much because we knew others would and she wouldn't know the difference. Is that bad? And she wouldn't have had time to enjoy Santa stuff anyways.

This year, all that changes. We still aren't going crazy with the gifts. We are buying her a big present this year and we are making sure she is going to have time to enjoy it, but besides that these are some ideas maybe for others. *wink*wink*

1 - Carter's 2-piece pajamas: Sweet Pea needs pajamas and loves Elephants and Daddy would get a kick out of these.

2 - ~~Classic Disney Princess Rapunzel Doll~~: $10 yesterday at DisneyStore.com. PLUS FREE Shipping so I snagged it for her. (shhh) But she does love Rapunzel. She also loves Leaf Frog but with Scout and friends not the frogs, Elmo and Cookie Monster, and Curious George.

3 - Laugh & Learn Apptivity Case for iPad devices: She loves playing with our iPhones and the iPad. Issue? She can get rough with them at times. Especially with the iPad. I love for her to play with it because it has educational games and can keep her entertained in a tough spot. And Fisher Price made this awesome toy.

4 - ~~Rapunzel Classic Doll Collection 5pc Accessory Set~~: $8 yesterday at DisneyStore.com. PLUS FREE Shipping. I snagged it too.

5 - Little Tikes Deluxe 3-1 Tricycle - Girls: We are buying her this awesome cool 3-1 tricycle. This is going to be her big gift. Love the idea of handles and straps while she is young and that it converts!

6 -Disney Princess Toddler Helmet Value Pack: Everyone needs a helmet! :)

7 - Rapunzel Jewelry Box: And I did not buy this jewelry box, but saw it when I was getting pictures for this post. I just love it. But she may be a little young for it.

8 - ~~Minnie Mouse Beauty Set~~: I also bought a Minnie Mouse Beauty Set for her yesterday, although it's not pictured. :)

{Edit - Add} 9. I also love this Disney Princess Sweat Suit outfit too. ♥ Found at DisneyStore.com in Disney Parks section.

So my question is for you, what do you plan on getting your little one? Also if you or your child's birthday is close to Christmas, how do you avoid smushing them together?

Scream! Cheese Swirl Brownies

Monday, October 29, 2012

I've told y'all how I'm a Hamburger Helper/Stouffer's Lasagna kind of cook. Well this Betty Crocker Recipe is seriously right up my alley. Yes it uses a box mix (the HORROR!) but it gives it a new twist. PLUS, it is great for the Holiday, you could change the colors for any other Holiday (pastel colors for Easter, Red/ Pink for Valentine's, Red/ Green for Christmas) but also it isn't scary. And I have a munchkin who is a little sensitive so finding recipes that went with Halloween, were easy to make, AND weren't scary was a hard task. And cream cheese makes everything yummier.

What You Need:
4oz each cream cheese, softened (from 8 oz package)
1 egg
3 tablespoons sugar
4 drops red food color
4 drops yellow food color
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
1 box (1 lb 2.4 oz) Betty Crocker® Original Supreme Premium brownie mix
Water, vegetable oil and egg called for on brownie mix box

What You Do:
1 - Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Grease bottom only of 9-inch square pan with shortening or cooking spray. In small bowl, beat filling ingredients with electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Set aside.

2 - Make brownie batter as directed on box. Spread 3/4 of brownie batter in pan. Spoon filling by tablespoonfuls evenly onto brownie batter. Spoon remaining brownie batter over filling. For marbled design, pull knife through batter and filling in wide curves; turn pan and repeat, if desired.

3 - Bake 40 to 44 minutes or until toothpick inserted 1 inch from side of pan comes out almost clean. Cool completely at room temperature, about 1 1/2 hours. Refrigerate at least 1 hour until chilled. For brownies, cut with plastic knife into 4 rows by 4 rows. Store covered in refrigerator.

This recipe can be found HERE along with many other good ones plus other money saving coupons (and you all know how much I love coupons). :)

Chris Mann (The Voice) - New Album! - Review

I received complimentary products to provide this post. All opinions are my own. Although I have an intense passion for music, I don't usually express it on my blog. I was in choir for seven years. So I love music with strong vocals. I was given the opportunity to review this album before it hits store, and being a music lover I jumped at the opportunity to participate.

I have honestly never heard of Chris Mann. Is that terrible? Have I been living under a rock? He was a contestant on The voice and what is so cool about that is, you can hear Christina Aguilera on "Blower's Daughter". "Blowers Daughter" is off Chris' new album, Roads, available in stores and online October 31st. Which you will be able to buy on iTunes and Amazon.

First of all, I would just like to say, I think Chris Mann is adorable. Just look at him. *SWOON* Anyways, what makes me bat my eyes at him even more is his sweet, sultry voice. But look at me gushy. I'm acting like I'm in high school or something. I really love listening to his music. And when I say love, I mean he is now a regular music in my playlist. You can now officially call me a Mann Fan!

So my question to my readers is, could you imagine how being on this show changed his life? He was just a contestant and whether he won or not, he signed a record deal. How amazing is that?

****Disclosure: This is a review post from One2One Network. I was provided with a copy of the album and I am eligible for a prize drawing. All opinions stated are my own. To view my full disclosure, please go HERE. Thanks!****

Housewife Bootcamp

Sunday, October 28, 2012

I have really been letting the housework slide lately. I did scrub the kitchen from top to bottom (except for the floors) earlier this week. I always need to clean up toys, do laundry, and clear off the kitchen table. There's yard work that always need to be done.

I use to do a post called Housewife Bootcamp but the blogger I got the idea from, no longer blogs and I can't get in touch with. But I want to continue this. I think every week I should include Housewife things that will improve my house, myself, and my sanity, as I think I'm going to go crazy with all this clutter everywhere.

This week's To Do:
1. Laundry.
If I don't put it on here, it won't get done. Plus my daughter decided to take off her diaper this morning and got poop everywhere. It was awesome waking up to the horrendous smell of feces. So I'm still backed up from that, no pun intended.

2. Cook at least three home cooked meals, one none boxed.
I am a Stouffer's lasagna, Hamburger Helper kind of chef. I get it cheap after coupons and I'm tired after watching two almost two-years-olds all day. I have a crock pot and a George Forman. Real home cooked meals can be done. I actually did this already this week! (I made this post last Sunday but never posted it.)

3. Clean off the table and keep it clear all week.
Bills, bills, bills. I clutter the table with mail mostly. My goal in order to accomplish this task is to find a good place to keep my mail. Starting FREEbie Friday's haul isn't going to help. I need to work on organization.

4. Make up the beds everyday.
I am terrible at making up the beds but I love crawling into a made up bed. Do I make up the bed before I crawl in? No. We have to shuffle the covers around though. And that's obnoxious when you are tired at the end of the day.

5. Put on make-up everyday.
I want to look nice not only for myself but for my hubby. I may not be going anywhere but I think he would enjoy it. I am also going to start vlogging more and I want to look nice for y'all. :)

So what are some things you are going to start improving this week? Working out more? Dusting? Trying a fancy Pinterest worthy recipe? Planning more activities for the kiddos? Could be anything! If people want to start making their own posts like this, then I will make a linky. What do you think? Let me know!

Weekly Totals - Kroger 10/26

Friday, October 26, 2012

Hubby and I did go to Kroger earlier this week (Sunday) but I didn't record that trip and have since lost the receipt. It was uneventful although I did get free Crest toothpaste. By the way, NEVER pay for toothpaste. I don't care if it is $0.10. Why pay for something that you can get for FREE? :)

This trip my friend took me and we took the girl's to the Fall Festival at Hubby's store and got FREE candy and had a LOT of fun. :)

I did the Huggies and Green Mountain catalina deals that I have been talking about all week over on my Facebook page. So here's how the deal went down:

Huggies/Pull-Ups/Goodnights catalina - Buy $20 in products get $5 off your next shopping order catalina
Bought:
Huggies size 4 BOX on sale $18.99
- $1.50/1 direct email from Huggies coupon
Huggies wipes $1.99
- $1/1 Huggies wipes from Oct All You Magazine
Total before coupons: $20.98
After coupons and catalina: $13.48
Other coupons you can use to make your own catalina scenario (let me know how they turn out! :]):
$2/1 package of GoodNites Underware
$2/1 Huggies Little Movers Slip-On Diapers
$1/1 Pull-Ups Flushable Wipes$2/1 Pull-Ups Training Pants Jumbo size or larger $1/1 Pull-Ups Night time Training Pants or Share on social networks and get $2/1
PLUS this deal is even sweeter because I bought a box with $5 in coupons inside! :D

****UPDATE 10/31: This deal is STILL AVAILABLE and just got EVEN SWEETER with the NEW Coupons.com Coupons $3/1 Huggies Snug & Dry Jumbo Pack or Larger!!!! (if you don't see it try zip code 30303. Print NOW this coupon will NOT last long!

Green Mountain Fair Trade Coffee Catalina -
Buy 2 12 ct K-cups get $2 off next shopping order catalina PLUS free gift code
Bought:
2 Green Mountain 12ct K-Cups Breakfast Blend @ $7.79 (Not what they were priced on Sunday so this deal was a BUST but I still thought it was good because it was cheaper than the others and we needed coffee)
- 2 $1/1 from sample packs from bzz campaign (HERE's a $1/1 Facebook IP or HERE's one for the Natural) Total after coupons and catalina: $11.58 or $5.79 or $0.48 per k-cup
(BTW my FREE gift was a $0.50/1 coupon.... :/.... I can get a $1/1 right on their Facebook page!)

Total Spent: $32.06
Total Percentage Saved after catalinas: 58% so NOT BAD! :D

So how did you do? At the bottom of this post is a place for you to show your own brag worthy purchases! If you don’t have a blog or vlog, feel free to leave a comment on this post letting me know how you did shopping this week!

Fair Trading

As most of you know I am a proud member of Bzz Agent and recently I was fortunate enough to be invited to review Green Mountain Fair Trade coffee.

First of all the coffee is a little strong but a GREAT pick-me-up. And I am excited that right now you can score an awesome deal at Kroger on Green Mountain Fair Trade coffee 12 ct K-cups!
Here's the deal:
Green Mountain Coffee 12 ct K-cups $6.49
Catalina Deal: Buy 2, Get a $2 off your next shopping order catalina
Buy 2 and Use 2 $1/1 IP Facebook coupons found HERE or $1/1 for Natural found HERE
Total after coupon & catalina: $8.98 or $4.49 each OR $0.37 PER K-CUP!

PLUS Score a FREE gift! Just enter the code you get at checkout HERE. Some people have reported getting a $10 Kroger gift card!

The reason why Green Mountain has changed to Green Mountain Fair Trading, is because they are simply that. Fair Traders. Now let's take a moment to think about what that means:

Definition of Fair Trading according to First Fair Trade Town, USA:

"Fair Trade is a tool for reducing poverty in developing nations. It's a form of trade that builds equitable and long-term partnerships between producers in developing regions of the world and consumers in the north. Fair Trade guarantees many things including the following.

Producers receive a minimum set price for their goods, financial and technical support, healthy and safe working conditions, economic development of their communities, and educational opportunities for their children.

Consumers receive excellent products plus the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are actively addressing poverty, preserving the environment, and promoting an end to child labor.

The planet receives a chance at health and healing since Fair Trade actively promotes sustainable farming techniques, biodiversity, and bird and animal habitat preservation."

Grace Potter and Michael Franti are helping spread the word about how important Fair Trade is through source trips and right now if you visit Green Mountain's Facebook Page, you can get an idea of what they are doing by watching LIVE-STREAMING of their concerts.

Now that you know a little more about Fair Trading, what are your thoughts? Are you going to make an effort to buy products that are produced through Fair Trading? Do you want companies to have to prove their Fair Trading status on their labels? Please share you thoughts on the topic.

Weekly Weigh-In: #10

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Yes, apparently it has been 10 weeks since I started to share my commitment to lose weight publicly. Of course you know, I was into it at first but I have only been really dedicated for the past month and a half. But in that time I have now lost a total of 15.7 pounds! That means since last week I have lost 4.7 pounds.

And you might be thinking to yourself, "She has to be lying, that is too much in a week". But see it's not. And the reason is, I was that much overweight before. I am around 10 pounds away from my pre-baby weight and I was over-weight before. So I still have a LONG way to go.

It's crazy how different your body is after having a baby I was thinking it was all fat and maybe the reason my body is different is also because of the weight change but I think it's a mixture of both.

I was hoping to have a picture of me wearing my wedding bands or something cute to show you. But, alas, I still can't fit into them. Hopefully soon. Thank you for following me on journey thus far, however inconsistent I have been telling you. :)

15 REAL Tips for the First Time Mom

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

I know a few people who are pregnant with their first little ones and I know I wish someone told me what to really expect. The books give you an guidelines that seem like rules and can make you feel inadequate. And people tend to give you unwarranted advice at the worst possible moment (like when your baby is screaming their adorable little head off). So take this as you will. Read and ignore it, or love it and share it. Your choice. This is meant to be a little informative, a little funny, but mostly just make you smile.

- 1 -
Labor and Delivery
You will forget the pain. DO YOUR KEGELS. Pushing is NOT like taking a poop. If you do poop while delivery, it is no big deal. You are so into the moment you won't even notice. TAKE A SHOWER as soon as you can afterwards. You won't feel like moving but it will feel amazing. And whether you have a c-section or vaginal or natural birth you are in no way more or less of a mom. You brought a HUMAN into this world. And THAT is amazing anyway it happened.

- 2 -
COFFEE!
Do you drink coffee? You better get a taste for it NOW. And stock up while your at it. You have to be able to function all day at work after a baby screams you awake every two hours the night before. I suggest Donut House coffee and International Delight French Vanilla Creamer.

- 3 -
Read and inform yourself.
Don't Google anything. And remember books and parenting websites are great resource references but they are just guidelines, not rules. With feeding/sleeping schedules, milestones, etc. Every child is different and something that works for one family, won't necessarily work for another.

15 Real Tips for the First Time Mom - Sleep When the Baby Sleeps

- 4 -
Sleep when the baby sleeps.
No seriously... if the baby is napping right now, GO TAKE A NAP. And sometimes sleeping in the carseat/swing/bouncy chair isn't a bad option; it's the ONLY option.

- 5 -
Let people do things for you.
You don't have to be super mom starting off. Take care of yourself before you take care of the house. Someone may offer to help out with the housework but no one will offer to come over and brush your teeth.

- 6 -
Breastfeeding.
Watch the baby and not the clock. The clock will drive you insane. Pee before you sit down to nurse. Even if you don't think you need to. Because you will once you can't get up. It will hurt like *heck* the first two weeks...at least. That's okay. Power through because you can do this.

- 7 -
You cannot spoil a baby
with too much holding, nursing, cuddling, kissing, carrying, soothing, etc.
It's impossible.

- 8 -
Go with your gut.
Your critics may seem to be disguised as your best friend (or mother or in-law or...) but really they are your worst enemy. You are the mom. You know what is best. PERIOD.

- 9 -
Involve your Hubby as much as possible.
And trust him to know what's good for the baby too. You are a TEAM in this! And if you seem too overbearing when he is helping out, not only will it make it where he doesn't want to help out but it will hurt his pride too. Don't say a WORD about how he does stuff. Just encourage him and thank him!

- 10 -
Be open to feedback from well intentioned people.
And I'm not talking about Grandma saying to put cereal in a bottle. I mean like if someone tells you your chest clip is too low or not to put the car seat on a carriage, don't get so defensive that you might have screwed up that you refuse to hear the logic.

- 11 -
Go with the flow.
And try not to plan ahead too much. If you have an outing and plan for your baby to sleep on the way because it's a long drive, they will be wide eyed and bushy tailed the entire ride and then throw a fit as soon as you get there. And that's okay if they sleep through an event. Everyone loves a sleeping baby. Schedules suck but routines are your friend.

- 12 -
Learn to laugh.
When its four am and your child projectile poops onto the wall, laugh. Laugh because it's funny. Laugh because you're tired. Laugh because it feels so much better than crying, and remember that this stage will be over before you know it, and you'll miss it.

- 13 -
Take tons of pictures
and back them up in MULTIPLE locations. Always have an extra charger/extra batteries for your phone/camera. Something awesome will happen and your battery will be dead. Record that newborn cry, you may think I'm crazy now, but I promise - you will miss it. Make time write things down (even 5 minutes will do) because in your lack-of-sleep induced stupor by the time you feel like you have the time to write things down you will forget the details of things that mattered most.

- 14 -
You are going to make mistakes.
Fortunately that little baby isn't going to know unless you repeatedly tell them and they will still think you're the best mom ever.

15 Tips for the First Time Mom - Kids just want your time

15 Tips for the First Time Mom - Kids just want your time

- 15 -
Last but certainly not least,
When your baby grows up, they won't remember how many toys you bought for them, or whether your house was always tidy - they WILL remember whether you played with them or not. Time. Kids just want your time. So let the housework slide and have a tickle fight.

Remember first time mommies, these aren't rules, each baby is different and each parent raises them differently, as long as you love them and try your best, you are doing great.

And for you experienced mommies, what is some advice you would give to a first time mom?

Publix Trip - 10/19 - 88% Savings!

Friday, October 19, 2012

Seriously how strange is this weeks haul? It's such a random mixture. A few things you must know:

1. We had plans to go out to eat with my in-laws so my husband took me to Publix.
2. It wasn't our normal Publix and they don't take Target as a competitor.
3. I had a $5/$40 Publix coupon that expired TODAY and I couldn't let it go to waste.
4. I thought we would be going before we ate, so I didn't bring any coupons for refrigerated items.

With all that said, I am planning to go again before this sale ends.

So here is what I got:
1 Mott's for Tots 64 oz Apple Juice @ BOGO $3.15
- $1/1 coupon found in box of Pampers
= $0.58

3 Peter Pan Peanut Butter @ BOGO $3.29
= $4.94 or $1.65 each

4 Advil Pain Relievers 50 ct. $4.99
- 2 $5/2 Publix Green Advantage Flyer
- 4 $2/1 peelie coupons on box (this store is NOT very couponed :])
= $1.96 or $0.49 each (I really needed these regardless if the peelie was on them)

8 Campbell's Great for cooking soups @ 10/$10
- 2 $2/4 Best Meals Happen at Home Publix email
- 2 $1/4 IP from Spaghetti-Os Facebook page (Here's a $0.40/3 Campbell's Condensed "Great for Cooking" soups)
= $2 or $0.25 each

4 Ragu sauces (these things are HUGE) @ BOGO $3.39
- 2 $1.50/2 Best Meals Happen at Home Publix email
= $3.78 or $0.95 each!

2 Beechnut stage 4 Fruities $0.99
- 2 $1/1 ANY Beechnut Stage 4 product IPs (reset)
= FREE

Subtotal: $43.24
- $5/$40 Publix coupon (mailed)

Order Total before taxes: $8.24

With Taxes: $10.19

Total Percentage Saved: 88%!!! :D

So how did you do? At the bottom of this post is a place for you to show your own brag worthy purchases! If you don’t have a blog or vlog, feel free to leave a comment on this post letting me know how you did shopping this week!

Have you heard about Vitacost?

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

This post contains referral links.

How about getting stuff for free? Sounds good, right?

Vitacost is an amazing site where if you sign up HERE (Yes, this is my referral link. The only way to get the credit is to sign up through a referral link. :]), you can get a $10 CREDIT that you can use to get FREE products. From Earthbest, Ella's Kitchen, Burt's Bees.

BUT they are now offering P&G products!

Right now you can get a FREE Charmin 4-pk. Double Rolls or Tide Pods 18 count, just Pay $4.99 Shipping! How cool is that!?

Here's how the deal works:
Deal Scenario #1:
Buy 2 Charmin 4-pk. Double Rolls $4.99 each
Total = $9.98
Use the $10 credit you get for signing up HERE
Final cost FREE + $4.99 shipping!
*These are currently selling on Amazon.com for $7.93 per package!

Deal Scenario #2:
Buy 1 Tide Pods 18ct $8.50
Buy 1 Small Filler item to equal $10
Use the $10 credit you get for signing up HERE
Final cost as low as FREE + $4.99 shipping!
*These are currently selling for $10.86 on Amazon.com.

Plus, don’t forget to add 2 FREE samples to your cart (included with every order)! FREE is good!

Weekly Weigh-In: Week #3...or is it 5? maybe 6?

I kind of fell off this band wagon. Yes, I stopped blogging about it but that doesn't mean I fell off the weight loss journey band wagon!

I have actually lost 11 pounds according to WiiFit (BTW I hate that it 'groans' when I step on it, like I'm hurting it or something). Tomorrow I have an appointment at the doctor's so we will see how much I have lost according to their scales.

We went to the Georgia National Fair on Saturday. I wanted to ride this ride with my daughter. I had trouble getting in and getting Sweet Pea in too was no piece of cake. I seriously just wanted to cry. And although my mother-in-law says she can see a difference, this made me feel discouraged because there were many rides I couldn't ride because of my weight.

But I'm on the right path and I have to try and remember that. I have totally changed my eating habits. I don't eat after 7 p.m., I don't snack on salty or sugary foods like I use to, and I have cut my portion sizes by more than half. I aim to work out 45 minutes, 5 times a week. To be more realistic it has been like 30 minutes, 3 times a week. But that's more than I was doing before. And that is on top of housework. Which by the way, working out has given me more energy to do housework. Who would have thought?

Still not comfortable with any pictures but I do feel comfortable enough to leave a weight loss ticker on my blog, and that's something right? :)

Created by MyFitnessPal - Free Weight Loss Tools

*This is a ticker for my small goal. Will keep updating until I reach my big goal. :)*

Kellogg's Family Rewards: 1,120 More FREE Points!! :D

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

This post contains affiliate links.

Kellogg's Family Rewards is a great site full of awesome rewards like high value coupons, gift cards, and other great prizes. All you do is enter codes from your favorite Kellogg's products, just look for specialty marked boxes.
- Purchase the KFR-participating products that you love. Easily collect points on those purchases using our three ways. Then redeem your points for awesome rewards.

- Our rewards catalog is filled with items you'll love - from gifts cards to coupons to sweepstakes - and so much more! Plus, we add new rewards all the time.

- A valid email address is your key to bonus offers, free points, special offers, money-saving coupons, great-tasting recipes and so much more!

Click the banner above to join and then enter the codes below so you are already on your way!

And they send out FREE Unique codes constantly, so keep checking your email!

*New Codes*
GETYOURGOLDENEGG – 1000 points
EASTEREGGHUNTWIN – 50 points
GETEASTERGOODIES – 50 points
SPRINGONTHECOLOR – 20 points

Other Codes to Try:

ILOVESOCIALMEDIA - 50 points
SPECIALK5BONUS4U - 50 Points
HOLLYJOLLYCOSTCO - 50 Points
EARNSWEETREWARDS - 50 points
GRAINSDAIRYFRUIT - 20 points
KELLOGGSFREEBOOK - 50 points
KFRSHARETHANKS20 - 20 Points
EARNGREATREWARDS - 20 points
GETKELLOGGPOINTS - 20 points
GIFTOFMUSICBONUS - 20 points
HOWITWORKS20PNTS - 20 points
HEALTHYRETURNS20 - 20 points
GREATSTARTSBONUS - 20 points
Also if you "like" their Facebook fan page you can get a free 100 point code. Get your code here: http://on.fb.me/19NTcb8

The Kellogg's Family Rewards coupons are regular Red Plum coupons. They send you an unique link but you can still print two per link! :)

Also if you notice any codes have expired, please let me know so I can update. Thanks!

Pinteresting Menu Monday

Monday, October 15, 2012

I am not a great cook. I like to cook as long as someone else cleans and I don't have to help and the food turns out amazing.

Currently, I have only tried ONE pinterest recipe. And it was okay but didn't look as good as the picture and of course wasn't as amazing they said it would be.

But I am trying to make this attempt at being a better housewife. We actually eat at home a lot. And although my couponing make easy fast meals cheap and they are very easy to make, I want to venture out and try new things.

So for my first rendition of on the menu (I'm going to make an assertive effort to make this a weekly list), I am will be focusing on the season. That's right these recipes are all about fall. I have only listed three because let's be realistic, my husband works some nights, I am not Betty Crocker, and I'm also a little lazy lady who likes to call take out.

Feel free below to add your recipes on pinterest that you would like me to attempt to try next week. Who knows, maybe yours will be featured!

22 months old...and 2 days

Sunday, October 14, 2012

A little late on this entry. And no it didn't slip my mind, I had no time on Tuesday. :/

But as of Tuesday, October 9, my daughter turned 22 months old. I can't believe how fast time has flown by. Not including going through her clothes to officially move her up two sizes, she is growing in more ways than one. She can recognize about half the alphabet including say their sounds. She knows almost all of her body parts. She is stubborn and bullheaded and independent and snugly and sweet. She is this awesome little toddler package all rolled up into one.

She runs and dances and doesn't have a picky bone in her body.

*****EDIT:*****

When I originally started this post, it was Thursday. :/ Knowing this fact just makes me feel more terrible.

I know every parent says this, but my child is seriously amazing. She is this little sweet ball of energy. She plays and laughs all the time. She helps me with the laundry and the dishes. She gets to be more of a handful but more fun everyday.

Taken 10/12. Being silly with Mommy's new iPad.

This picture was taken Saturday at the Perry Fair. 10/13. She was feeding a goat.

The main reason for this continually late post? I was having too much fun with my daughter. She will only be this age once and although I want to write down the memories, the blog can fall by the wayside as long as we are having fun.

Weekly Totals: Publix 10/12 68% Savings

I'm playing catch up today. My friend and I planned to go out to eat then to Publix and then back to my house to watch a movie with the little ones. We didn't watch the movie but still a lot of fun was had by all. The girls never want to stay in the carts anymore. So they were terrorizing the store. But they are allowed since they are almost 2, right? I did get to do the P&G Bakeware rebate as well. Saved a total of $146.89. :)

Anyways, Saturday I went to the North Georgia State Fair with my in-laws. SO MUCH FUN! Hubby couldn't go which I am REALLY bummed about. We were gone all day. Then last night I stayed up to late trying to play catch up on house work.

We met Junior & Willie from Swamp People. Too cool, right? :)

Here is a link-up. I will get a FULL break down with coupons of my shopping trip for y'all. But right now just add your brag post or comment on how you did this week and I will get you updated as soon I get a chance to breathe. :)

*****EDIT:*****

So Here is the break down. Remember you have until Wednesday to get most of these deals. :) Note: My Publix accepts Target, Kroger, and Ingles as competitors. They double coupons and do half price bogo. They also accept money off coupons with boho coupons as long as the coupon doesn't say cannot combine offers per their coupon policy. Target and Kroger are also this way.

First Transaction:

12 Weight Watchers Entrees @ 10/$5
- $5/12 (manu mailed from Kroger) - Here's a $4/10 IP and $3/10 IP
- 2 B5G1 Publix Coupon from Yellow Ad Flyer (exp 10/12/12)
- 2 $2/4 Target IP
= $11 or $0.92 each

8 Totino's Pizza @ 10/$10
- 2 B3G1 FREE Publix IP from Best Meals Happen at Home email
- 2 $1/4 IP (NLA?)
- 2 $1/3 Make Your Home Italian Tonight Publix in store coupon or IP (exp 10/13/12)
= $2 or $0.25 each

2 Stouffer's Family Size Entrees @ $3.99
- 2 $1.50/1 IP
= $4.98 or $2.49 each

2 Cascadian Farm Frozen Veggies @ $2.49 (reg price)
- $2/2 Publix IP from Best Meals Happen at home email
- 2 $0.85/1 IPs (or Here's a $0.75/1)
= $1.28 or $0.64

Publix Whole Milk @ $2.99

3 Pillsbury Artisan Pizza Crust @ $1.99
- $2/3 Make Your Home Italian Tonight Publix in store coupon or IP (exp 10/13/12)
- 3 $1.25/1 IPs
= $0.22 or $0.07 each

2 Bailey's coffee creamers @ 2/$3
- 2 $0.55/1 IPs
- 2 $1/1 Yellow Advantage Flyer Publix Coupon (exp 10/12/12)
= -$0.10 or $05 MM each!

3 Fresh Express Salad Blends @ 2/$3.99
= $5.98

Publix Shredded Cheese @ $4.99

2 Dannon Light & Fit Yogurt @ BOGO $2.19
- 2 $1/1 IPs (NLA?)
= $0.19 or $0.10 each

Publix Grade A Large Eggs 12 ct @ $1.77

- $5/$30 Publix Coupon (Mailed from my Mom)

Total before taxes = $28.06
Total Savings = $68.97

Second Transaction:

Glad Trash Bags @ $5.99

4 Robitussin @ 5.69 (reg price)
- 2 $5/2 Green Advantage Flyer Publix Coupon (exp 10/31/12)
- 4 $3/1 Robitussin from 10/7 RP (Here's a $1/1)
= $0.76 or $0.19 each

4 Emergen-C 10 ct packets @ $3.99 (reg price) - My Hubby swears by these
- 2 $5/2 Green Advantage Flyer Publix Coupon (exp 10/31/12)
= $5.96 or $1.49 each

Gerber Graduates Yogurt Melts @ 2/$5
- $1/1 IP (found cleaning off my desk and expires 10/14!)
= $1.50

2 Wishbone Salad Dressings @ BOGO $2.65
- 2 $1/1 Publix IPs from Best Meals Happen at Home email
= $0.65 or $0.33 each

8 Beechnut Stage 2 glass jars @ 10/$4
- $1.50/8 Beechnut Publix Baby Club Coupon
- 2 $1/3 IPs
= -$0.30 or almost $0.04 MM each!

Publix Hand Sanitizer @ $0.99
- FREE Publix Baby Club Coupon

8 Chapstick @ $0.99 (reg price)
- 4 $1/2 Publix Green Advantage Flyer
- 4 $1/2 10/7 RP (Here's a $0.55/1 to make them $0.10 MoneyMakers wyb two!)
= FREE ($0.08 MM)

Angel Soft Bath Tissue @ $5.49
- $0.25/1 IP (doubled)
= $4.99 ($0.17 a roll!)

Qualified for P&G Bake Ware Rebate:
(I seriously needed all this makeup because I lost my make up bag some where between my vacation and home.)
Bounce Fabric Softener Sheets @ $2.79 (reg price)
- $0.50/1 (doubled) Bounce from 9/30 P&G
= $1.79

Covergirl Concealer @ $4.29 (reg price)
Covergirl Eyeliner @ $5.49 (reg price)
- 2 $1/1 Green Advantage Flyer Publix Coupon (exp 10/31/12)
- $3/2 Covergirl from 9/30 P&G
= $4.78

Downy Fabric Softener @ $4.49 (reg price)
- $1/1 Downy from 9/30 P&G
= $3.49

2 Cascade Action Pacs @ 4.99
- 2 $1/1 Cascade from 9/30 P&G
= $7.98

2 Covergirl Eye Shadow @ $2.99 (reg price)
- 2 $1/1 Covergirl Green Advantage Flyer (exp 10/31/12)
- $3/2 Covergirl from 9/30 P&G
= $0.98

Covergirl Thick Mascara @ $4.99 (reg price)
Covergirl Powder @ $4.79 (reg price)
- 2 $1/1 Covergirl Green Advantage Flyer (exp 10/31/12)
- $3/3 Covergirl from 9/30 P&G
= $4.78 (Total for P&G rebate: $42.80)

- $5/$30 Publix Coupon Mailed from my Mom

Total before Taxes = $39.77
Total Saved = $77.92

Total Spent of both orders before taxes = $67.83
- with Taxes = $76.68
Total of both orders Savings = $146.89

Total Percentage Saved = 68% (66% after taxes)

Creamy Arroz con Pollo: A Quick and Cozy Family Dinner Win

Sunday, October 7, 2012

If you're anything like me, weeknights can be a wild ride, especially after school pickup, homework wrangling, and the never-ending laundry pile. Most nights I’m just aiming for “nutritious and done,” but every now and then, I surprise myself by wanting to actually cook. Not microwave, not assemble, really cook something warm and comforting.

That’s exactly what happened recently when I peeked into my pantry and freezer expecting to throw together a quick, uninspired dinner. But instead, I ended up making something so delicious and so simple that I had to share it: Creamy Arroz con Pollo.

This dish is everything I love in a weeknight meal: comforting, flavorful, one-pan, and full of ingredients I already had on hand. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in veggies and protein, and the kids actually ate it (that’s the real test, isn’t it?).

Whether you’re a busy working parent, a stay-at-home multitasker, or somewhere in between, this is a meal you can get on the table with minimal stress and maximum satisfaction.

House Party - Battle of the Sexes

Friday, October 5, 2012

Wednesday, I received my Battle of the Sexes House Party pack. I was so super excited to get invited to host this party because I seriously thought it would be so much fun.

Now, I have applied to multiple other parties but this was the first one I got accepted to.

I was going to host this party at my friend's house. It is actually her birthday and I was given permission to bring the game and such a long.

UNfortunately, Hubby has to work now Saturday night so no car, means no night out. Which means I have no idea what I am going to do about hosting this game.

The game looks really fun and all the drinks on the drink list they provided sound super yummy.

If you are interested in hosting a party of your own, go HERE and sign up. Maybe you will have better luck getting people to come. If you host stuff all the time, then you probably will. I always go to others houses but usually plan entertainment, bring food/drinks, etc. So I'm kind of disappointed. I was really hoping to get on invited to host the Sabra House Party but with no one coming to this one, the chances are low.

O well. Still a neat site and it was still amazing of Spin Master Games to give me the opportunity to host. Maybe Hubby and I will play all by our lonesome after he gets home from work.

So have you ever throw a party and been disappointment with the outcome of the number of guests?

Vacation Update: Conclusion

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Okay and here is an update on the rest of our trip. I know I said I was going to post daily ones but I was exhausted at the end of each day. So I took a vacation from my blog. Ha!

The sun setting on our vacation.

Wednesday night we went to Wild Wings and then shopping around Pier Park. The guys took the little ones to ride the rides and Sweet Pea had to ride the merry-go-round twice. And then we went to Marble Slab and got some very yummy ice cream.

After eating Wild Wings, in their matching dresses from Carter's.

Thursday morning we left the girls with my FIL and Hubby while the ladies went to K-Mart to pick up a few things. I ended up buying a really cute bathing suit for only $7. And I know it's the end of the season and hopefully it will be too big by next year but I couldn't resist. I just love the way I feel in it and that is rare for me.

Then we came back and went out to the beach for a bit but after lunch I went out and left Sweet Pea with Daddy while I had some very much needed quality time with the sand, ocean air, and just me.

Thursday night we went to eat at Pineapple Willy's with just me, Sweet Pea, and the Hubby. And then after that we went and played putt putt because Hubby just HAD to go. It was very cute and quite amusing. Sweet Pea didn't really play (thank goodness she was free :]) but it was so cute. She just held on to her ball and club the entire time. And then when we had to put her ball up, she was NOT a happy camper.

Little Cousin and Hubby

After everyone got home with her balloon hat

Friday we spent all day at the beach (except nap time) and that night we went to Margaritaville. They had a lady on stilts making animal balloon hats and such. Then a Jimmy Buffet song came on and the lights turned bright. I was really nervous because there were cannons on the wall and I forgot what they did last year. But we just found the lost shaker of salt. We were then suppose to go walk out on the Pier but Hubby started getting a migraine so we left early. He has never had one before but we are pretty sure that's what it was. He is fine now though.

And then Saturday was the LONG trip home. It's so good to be home. And everything is back to normal. I still have some unpacking to do but that part is no big deal. The driving with an almost 22 month old was not fun. We didn't leave until 9 so she hardly slept but she was a good sport about it.

Finally home and so glad I did a deep clean before we left and had a washer/dryer at the condo. It's hard to try and get back into our daily routine but I'm getting there.

So did anyone else do anything fun while the kiddos were out of school for Fall Break? Or any fun vacations over the summer? Share them! I would love some ideas for next year. ;)

New Month, New Coupons!

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

And some HIGH value ones at that! Here a few ones I see, I have built you direct links, so just click and print! Hurry too because these are pretty good coupons and won't last long.

$1.50/2 Skintimate Shave Gels or Cremes and $1.50/2 Edge Shave Gels - We usually only get the $0.55/1, so for us that only get doubling up to $0.50, this is an AWESOME coupon.

$0.50/1 any flavor/variety Muir Glen product - Cheap to FREE items at Publix and Kroger after doubling. :)

$1 off Jif Hazelnut Spread - FREE at Wal-Mart

$0.55/1 Cottonelle 9 pack Bathroom Tissue - If this is your brand, then snag this coupon because they are rare. And we LOVE this type in our house.

$3/2 any packages of Starbucks Coffee - Great scenario at Publix

$.75/3 Pillsbury Toaster Strudel - use with the $1/2 Target coupon at Publix next week and they will be $0.42 each if Target is a competitor.

$1 off Gerber yogurt melts snack - Use at Wal-Mart to get them for $1.48 or Publix for $1.50, either way that is a great price!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

I would just like to take a moment to share something personal.

I was in a car accident in June as most of you probably already know. With the accident leaving me car-less, it also left me with a decent sized bruise by my right armpit on my breast. A knot was left and I don't know if it was there before or not. Looking for the symptoms of breast cancer it made me worry and worry and worry. Odds are in my favor since I breastfed and have no previous history of breast cancer in my family.

I have an appointment set up for a mammogram. I am a little nervous because I have been looking up the symptoms and I have more than one. But since I also just recently ended my breastfeeding journey in March and I read that it can take as long for everything to be back to normal. My doctors also don't seem too concerned. I do not want anyone to worry.

But although I don't know the outcome yet, I am so glad the accident happened. But with this I wish I had kept up with my self breast exams.

I will keep you all posted if you are interested on my outcome. But I have high hopes. And please, for my family and personal friends who read this, don't worry. I am just trying to inform and I'm sure everything will be okay and that it is indeed a knot from the accident. Please ladies check yourself. Please keep up to date with your mammograms and your GYN visits so they can check you as well. I have linked some great resources on this blog entry. Please take a minute to check them out and please share with friends.

Please stay safe and remember, men can get breast cancer too.

Enjoy Your Pregnancy

Monday, October 1, 2012

Funny, scrolling Pinterest, I see all these pregnancy announcement pictures, baby bump through the months, or sex reveal pictures. And other creative ways to announce different things of your pregnancy. I kind of feel like the joy of my pregnancy was robbed from me. Some things were unavoidable and out of anyone's control, some things could have been handled differently. My grandmother passed away, I got into a car accident, my father passed away, my identity was stolen, and my step-mother brought on all this stress over the life insurance money. I didn't have time to think of cute ways to remember my pregnancy, stress was all I had time to think about. I did create this blog. And I am so glad I did. It is the only thing I have to remember that special time. You are only pregnant with your first child once. You are only pregnant for your first time once. I feel like I was robbed.

So my advice? Enjoy it. I know first hand that life completely gets in the way. And it sucks. But try your best to take those pictures, write down those memories, even if they are embarrassing.

Don't take it for granted. Not everyone is as lucky as you. I feel so blessed that I was able to conceive so quickly. I feel truly blessed that we were able to conceive at all. Although women in my family tend to be very fertile, I had my doubts.

I feel like I am rambling and being very serious for 12 a.m. And maybe that is just the mood I am in today and based on the weird day I had.

Feel free to share your ways that you enjoyed your pregnancy. I promise not to get too jealous. ;)