Snacktastic Saturday: Zucchini Bread

I love planting zucchini in the garden every year. That means an endless supply of zucchini bread! I know to some people, that just doesn't sound very good at all. But they obviously haven't tried my recipe. Even the hubs gets excited for the first loaf of the summer!

How To:

•2C. sugar

•1C. canola oil

•3 eggs

•2C. shredded zucchini

•3tsp. vanilla

•1tsp. salt

•1tsp. baking soda

•1/4tsp. baking powder

•1tsp. ground cloves

•3C. flour

- In a large bowl, mix together sugar, canola oil & eggs.

- Stir in shredded zucchini.

- Mix in remaining ingredients thoroughly.

 - Grease & flour a loaf pan, pour zucchini mixture & bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for at least one hour.

- Check with a toothpick to make sure no crumbs are sticking. Adjust cooking times accordingly depending on the size of your pan.

- Let cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before removing from pan. Allow loaf to finish cooling on wire rack. 

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 31

It's the final day of the 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes!

Enter here for your chance to win a Gas Grill ($880 value)!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Fun Friday: Ribbon & Paint

I got this little wooden plaque to paint Hayden's name on & some ribbon to hang it. But the simplicity of it all isn't suiting my tastes anymore. I think it may require some brown polka dots to contrast the ribbon. Actually, after Hayden & her new found love of big hair barrettes (bigger than what can easily fit in her little dish we keep them in), I may have to turn it into a barrette holder instead. 

To be continued...

Woolzies Dryer Balls

It happened. Less than two hours before we had to leave for soccer, it happened. "Mom, you forgot to wash my game socks!" Oh no! I did. I completely forgot. Usually I would suggest to my 7 year old to just grab a different pair of socks. Too bad they were having pictures taken before the game. But then I became hopeful, remembering the package of Woolzies I had just received the day before since they say they can reduce drying time by at least 25%. I threw a load of lights in the washer & hoped for the best. Of course the best would be that Paige wouldn't be wearing damp socks that would have surely made her cleats smell wretched. But much to my relief & astonishment, my load of whites was completely dry with about 5 minutes to spare before we had to rush out the door!

So what are Woolzies? Just what they sound like of course, wool. 100% Pure new Zealand Wool Dryer Balls if you'd like to get technical. We've all heard the trick of tossing in a few tennis balls (or other plastic/rubber dryer balls) into the dryer to cut back on dryer time right? Well, it's the same concept...but better. I'm always leery of the other methods, afraid they could ruin my clothes or lessen the life of my dryer. But Woolzies are light & all natural, not to mention they don't sound like an elephant stampede when you have the dryer on.

Don't worry if you have a wool allergy either. Since they don't shred, your clothing won't come out with little bits of wool all over them. Although pilling will occur in their 1,000 load lifetime, it actually aids in the process.

I've been using Woolzies for a while now & I've noticed quite a difference! Even though I usually make my fabric softener to cut back on harsh chemicals & cost, it's just sitting there not being used since there's no need to use any with Woolzies. But the main thing, is cutting back on dryer time. There's been plenty of days this summer when it looked like it might have rained, which meant I wasn't going to take my chances at hanging up clothes outside. So it's been really nice staying on top of the laundry (I can be bad about switching loads over come afternoon time).

Connect with Woolzies on facebook & twitter!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 30

Calling all gamers!

 

Enter here for your chance to win!

 

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Think It Thursday: Dealing with High Blood Pressure

My blood pressure went sky high during my last pregnancy. Unfortunately, it decided it was going to stick around a lot longer. And I had a plethora of unknown problems from it. The main one being Edema, which I diagnosed myself (& I was right) when my wedding rings got stuck on my finger. First time I had managed to get them both on in nearly two years & they had to be cut off with a Dremel in the ER. I also found out I was a "walking stroke waiting to happen" from the ER doc. That's a lovely thing to hear when you're 31!

One of my not so good readings.

Nowadays I take meds to control my blood pressure. With a bit of an added water pill to help with the Edema (which I can definitely tell it's working!). But I don't want to have to take them forever. Luckily for me, I love all the foods that are supposed to naturally lower blood pressure (asparagus, cinnamon, garlic & apples to name a few). But I've recently take up yoga too. Pure beginner of course, but if it helps to lower stress, it has to help with blood pressure too. Don't you think?

Wine Wear: The Perfect Gift for Wine Lover's

It seems like just about every adult I buy gifts for, loves wine. So you know a bottle of wine makes a great gift when you really have no clue what else to get them. Of course if you're like me, you can't just give them the bottle, you have to "wrap" it.

Introducing Wine Wear, a great way to gift a bottle of wine & include a card...in one! 

With a design for just about every occasion & holiday, it's easy to find the perfect Wine Bottle Wear that fits your needs. Better yet, they retail for just $3.49! So go ahead & get the more expensive bottle of wine (like I did). 

And while you're at it, check out the "Live Laugh Love" Wine Bottle Wear. All proceeds of this design are donated to a cancer charity. I know I'll be getting a few of those! And quite a few other designs too actually. After all, it's a lot more fun shopping for one of these than a wine bag, tissue paper & a card. Not to mention you can dress up the wine bottle in a matter of seconds! Just take the Wine Bottle Wear out of the package, write your greeting, expand it & slide it over the bottle neck. Easy Peasy!

I know, I know! You want to know where you can get yours, right? Well you can head on over to Wine Wear & place your order (all major credit cards & PayPal accepted), or check out your local Walgreens. You can also check out their Wine Glass Wear & Wine Fashion Wear while you're there.

And while you're at it, head on over to their facebook page & let them know your favorite design. (I love the Christmas Sweater!) 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 29

Check out what Purex has to offer today!

Enter here for your chance to win today's prize!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Work It Wednesday: DIY Dry Shampoo

Let's face it, being a busy SAHM, there's just some things that get put on the back burner every now & then. Washing your hair is one of them. Especially if you're like me with long hair that can take forever to dry. I usually have good intentions of getting to it later, but sometimes that just doesn't work out like I planned. Good thing I have a simple solution!

Yes, baking soda & cornstarch. Simple as that. 

How To:

•1/4C. cornstarch

•1Tbsp. baking soda

•1Tbsp. baby powder, optional (for lighter colored hair)

•1Tbsp. cocoa powder, optional (for darker colored hair)

-Combine all ingredients in a small container (one you can shake from preferred, but not necessary) & shake to combine.

-To use, shake about 1 Tbsp. into the palm of your hand & rub on together in your hands. Work into hair where it needs shampooed, tousling to get to the roots. Comb in.

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 28

Enter here for your chance to win this amazing home theater system!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Tasty Tuesday: Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Everyone needs a good potato recipe don't you think? One that everyone raves about & asks you for the recipe. Well that's what this is right here folks! So I won't waste any time telling you how much my friends & family rave about my Garlic Roasted Potatoes. I'll just tell you how to make them yourself. But don't worry, they're super simple!

How To: 

•nonstick cooking spray

•potatoes, diced

•onion, finely diced

•garlic, minced

•olive oil

•sea salt

•black pepper

•margarine

•garlic salt

•seasoned salt

-Spray a glass baking dish with cooking spray.

-Place desired amount of potatoes, onion & garlic in dish & drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt & black pepper.

-Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 50-80 minutes, occasionally stirring potatoes, until done.

-Remove from oven & add desired amount of margarine, garlic salt & seasoned salt; stir to combine.

 

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 27

For the kids! 

 

Enter here for your chance to win a Wooden Swing Set! 

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Messy Monday: DIY Carpet Deodorizer

With three small kids it doesn't take much  for my carpets to smell a bit...funky. And it should come as no surprise that although I do love the scents of store bought carpet deodorizers, I'm not a fan of using them. To me they never seem like they thoroughly sweep up. And I swear (this is where the hubs gives me that crazy look because he knows what I'm going to say next), I can feel it on my feet! It just feels...different.

•1/2C. baking soda

•1/2C. Borax

•1Tbsp. cinnamon or other ground spice (can also use 25-30 drops essential oil)

-Mix all ingredients together in a container you an easily shake from.

-Sprinkle onto carpet & allow to sit for 15 minutes before sweeping.

 

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 26

Are you a fan of the movies?

Enter here for your chance to win!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Simple Sunday: Nostalgia

Bet you don't know what these are. 

Well, they're quite nostalgic for me. They're newspaper log rollers. My grandpa used to have one when I was growing up & I loved going down to the basement with him to make newspaper logs for their furnace. I'm not sure what ever happened to the one he had, but my eyes lit up when I saw these beauties at a yard sale my friends dad was having. I had to have them. Hubs looked at me like I was crazy & my friends dad looked at me quite impressed that I knew what they were. 

The memories...

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 25

Get the family ready!

Enter here for your chance to win! 

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Snacktastic Saturday: Honey Sesame Bananas

Ever want a little something that's packed with flavor, but still healthy? Then you're in luck! Well, if you have bananas, honey(or agave nectar) & some sesame seeds you are. OK, so the sesame seeds aren't a necessity. But to me they are, because they remind me of the Sesame Fried Bananas I used to eat at the Chinese restaurant I worked at when I was a teenager.

I know it doesn't look very appealing, but oh my goodness is it delicious! Of course I didn't take the time to carefully flip each banana, one at a time, to get a good caramelized coating. I waited till it was time to flip, then I just starting flipping whatever I could fit on my spatula. As soon as the smell of caramelized banana goodness hit me, I had zero patience. 

How To:

•bananas

•honey or agave nectar

•sesame seeds (optional)

-Slice bananas & place in heated skillet.

-Cook until they start to caramelize & then flip to caramelize the other side.

-Just before removing from pan, add in desired amount of honey & sesame seeds. Stir lightly.

-Resist the temptation to dig in right away & let your bananas cool a bit before devouring. 

 -Enjoy!

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 24

Feel like a kid again! OK, or enter for your own kids.

Hop on over here to enter for your chance to win!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Fun Friday: Pumpkin Patch Sign

Now that my pumpkin patch has run rampant, I decided it was time to give it a sign.

My post still needs stained, but here it is. Pretty simple. The hubs put it together for me out of some wood scraps we had. Of course he made it much bigger than I had asked. But that's OK, because when my pumpkins get gargantuan (given some of the larger ones take off & not just the Jack Be Littles) you'll still be able to see it.

I decided to add some orange splatter to it all. For the simple fact that I had kids climbing all over me to see what I was doing when I was painting the pumpkins. Covering the whole sign in orange splatter was a great cover-up to the few specks that accidentally made an appearance, don't cha think?

 

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 23

Here's one for all of you crafters!

Enter here for your chance to win a Sewing Machine & Fabric of your Choice ($250 value).

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Think It Thursday: Balancing School Schedules

Tonight I had a mandatory meeting at the school, going over everything for Damien to start Pre-K. He'll be in the afternoon class starting next Wednesday. The afternoon part may sound a bit odd to some people, but I managed to get him into the county Pre-K at the local elementary school.

Soon I'll be balancing what will seem like a million different things. At least at first. We already have the bus schedule for the elementary school & soccer practice two nights a week. Soon we'll add Pre-K drop-off & pick up to the mix, but only until the bus schedule kicks in (one of the advantages of a county Pre-K & an awesome school district). Then the school decided to have an early out day almost every month (for teacher workshops without the need of subs). While this effects the elementary, it will not effect the Pre-K classes. But then there's the days that there is no Pre-K for the same reason, but the elementary students are still in school. 

See, there's going to have to be some changes in schedules that I wasn't anticipating. For starters, Hayden (the little diva), will need her nap time adjusted accordingly so that there's no hitches on any day that someone gets out early. 

I just hope I don't get my school calendars mixed up (or lost). But until then, Damien gets to enjoy a little bit more of summer before his Pre-K starts. Even though I'm pretty sure he can't wait. After all, he's packed his "lunch" for school next week about 10 times in the past two days alone. Note to self: buy more juice boxes since his packed lunches always seem to have empty juice boxes in them. 

Damien, enjoying the last few days of summer break!

 

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 22

Enter here for your chance to win today's prize, $250 worth of Baby Necessities!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise

Work It Wednesday: Benefits of a Plank

Of course I had to go over to Instagram to get a great plank picture. From none other than Brittnae Giesau, who highly recommended them to me a while back. Her picture alone highlights the areas that benefit from such a seemingly simple exercise. But to do it properly, you have to have your body aligned (see how Brittnae's is?) which can take a bit of practice. But practice or not, it's well worth it! 

Here's some more great benefits from doing a plank exercise...

•Flexibility - When doing a plank, you're getting a great stretch in. Particularly around the shoulder region, hamstrings & even your feet!

•Aesthetics - Planks activate the core muscles that help stabilize your hips & spine. Which in turn helps to improve your posture.

•Mental State - A plank can help stretch muscles that commonly contribute to stress & tension. Other brain calming benefits may include suppressing anxiety & helping symptoms of depression.

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 21

Drum roll please...

Don't forget to enter here for your chance at today's prize of an

 Outdoor Fireplace!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise.

Tasty Tuesday: Crockpot White Chicken Chili

Between this cooler weather & an abundance of red peppers from my garden, I've been wanting some White Chicken Chili lately. I don't make this near as often as I should, but I usually don't make it in August at all. So in that case, thank you Mother Nature.

How To:

•3 cans Cannellini beans, rinsed & drained

•2C. shredded chicken 

•1 med. onion, chopped

•2 med. red peppers, chopped

•1 small can diced green chilies

•3 cloves minced garlic

•4C. water

•4 chicken bouillon cubes

•2tsp. ground cumin

•1tsp. oregano

•1tsp. salt

•1tsp. black pepper

- Combine all ingredients in a crockpot & stir thoroughly to combine.

- Cook on LOW 8-10 hrs, or HIGH 4-5 hrs.

Serve With:

(optional)

cheese quesadillas, homemade tortillas, or tortilla chips

Load It Up:

(optional)

shredded cheese, diced onions (red, white or green), sour cream, diced tomatoes, diced peppers or hot sauce

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 20

For all of you foodie lovers out there...

Enter here for today's chance to win!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise.

Messy Monday: How to Clean a Shower Curtain Liner

There's a few things around the house that are just a bit awkward to clean. Good thing they don't need done very often, but they do need done. One of them being the shower curtain liner. Now I know a few people who will simply pitch them & buy new, but I'm not a fan of throwing my money away. I'm also not a fan of attempting to scrub one clean with yucky cleaners in the tub. Talk about a big wet mess! 

How To:

•4 large towels

•1/2C. laundry detergent (I use my DIY Laundry Detergent. I could have actually used a bit less since you only use 2Tbsp. for a heavily soiled load of laundry, but I had quite a bit of build-up.)

•1/2C. baking soda

•1C. vinegar

- Set washing machine to a warm setting & fill. (A medium load setting should be good enough, it was for mine.)

- Add towels, laundry detergent, baking soda & shower curtain liner.

- Run washing machine on a delicate cycle.

- When the rinse cycle starts, add 1C. vinegar. (No fabric softener)

-  Hang to dry (preferably outside).

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 19

For all the techies out there! 

 

Enter here for your chance to win!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise.

Simple Sunday: Growing Pumpkins

These cooler days & nights have me anticipating fall! So of course I had to check out my pumpkin patch today. I planted it a bit late, but they're growing!

Purex Insiders: 31 Days of Fun Sweepstakes - Day 18

Do you have a furbaby?

 

Enter here for your chance to win!

*Disclaimer: I am a Purex Insider and this post is on behalf of Purex. I will be entered into a drawing for this post but have received no compensation otherwise.