The Holidays are Here & Don’t Forget to Enjoy a Little ME Time!

“This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Weave Made Media®, PEOPLE® Magazine, and The Hershey Company®, but all my opinions are my own. #weavemade #HolidayMeTimeMags Full disclosure

I can’t believe it’s already the week of Thanksgiving!!!  It’s crazy how fast this year has flown by.  My parents are coming to visit this week and I’m so excited.  I haven’t seen them in about 6 months, so I’m anxiously awaiting their arrival.  Mom and I plan on cooking Thanksgiving dinner at my house this year.  It’s just going to be a small, family get together with lots of relaxing and lounging around.

I love to start the morning off watching the Thanksgiving parade and read a People magazine or two.  My Mom usually brings me all her old People magazines to read when she visits 🙂

I could just lay on the sofa with my magazine and a chocolate bar for hours.  That’s my definition of Heaven!  Ha ha!

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After all the holiday cooking Mom and I usually chill out by reading our People magazines and enjoying some CHOCOLATE while the guys watch a football game.

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I know everyone is headed to the grocery store this week for last minute Thanksgiving items.  Save $1.00 with purchase of ONE (1) PEOPLE® or Sunset® magazine and ONE (1) REESE’S®, HERSHEY’S® or other selected King Size bar (2.1 to 5.0 oz.)

DOWNLOAD YOUR COUPON HERE

The digital coupon is available through the Safeway Just4U online portal 11/21/14 – 12/19/14 (while supplies last) You have to register for Just4U to get access to the digital coupon.  I shopped at my local Tom Thumb.

This is going to be a great week to reconnect with family, EAT, and relax!  I can’t wait for the Christmas rush to begin…and as I do I’m also going to remember to enjoy the little things.  This is the season for joy and fellowship!

Amongst all the hustle and bustle don’t forget to take out a little “ME” time along the way!

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How are you enjoying some“ME time” this holiday season?

I’ll be checking out the latest issue of People with the sexiest men alive…oh yeah girls….go get your “eye” candy, then go get some chocolate candy to indulge yourself.

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CaringBridge: Caring Since 1997

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for CaringBridge. I received product a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

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I know a lot of you have heard of CaringBridge before, and if you haven’t then I’d love to share more with you!  I’ve had several friends and family members use CaringBridge and it’s a wonderful site.

CaringBridge offers protected websites for connecting people when it matters most. A nonprofit supported by people just like you, CaringBridge serves more than 500,000 people each day.

Maintaining hope and resolve during a health journey can be a daily struggle. CaringBridge provides the opportunity for a much deeper, more intimate level of communication, connecting people through the healing power of words.  CaringBridge connects those who are ill or need prayers with friends and family and you can also follow updates on their status.  This is an easy way for those who need to stay in touch during their GREATEST times of need.

CaringBridge was launched in 1997 so people–for any reason or length of time–could start a free website, remain connected to their family and friends and receive support when they need it most. As a nonprofit and early form of social media, CaringBridge has been instrumental for millions in navigating an emotional journey.

Starting a personal website through CaringBridge can help when people need to share important information quickly. As a lifeline to the outside world, CaringBridge can make all the difference when facing the loneliness of a hospital stay, enduring a long recovery at home or coordinating day-to-day, hands-on help. A CaringBridge website simplifies communicating with loved ones; messages of love, support and encouragement come flooding in, allowing the focus to be on healing.

I love being a part of something positive and encouraging…especially when people need it most.  That’s exactly what CaringBridge is all about.

Support OUR VETERAN HEROES™ BAND-AID® Brand #RunWithGlory

“I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for BAND-AID® Brand. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.”

I’ve talked about our military experience before here on the blog.  When Terence and I first got married we were in the Air Force for a little over 5 years.  Those were probably some of the most trying years of our lives.  Not only were we newlyweds, but the month after we got married September 11th happened.  Our lives were forever changed.

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I love supporting brands that support our military.  It’s a way I can show our troops we care.  BAND-AID® Brand recently launched OUR VETERAN HEROES™ BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages, featuring patriotic and military-inspired designs.  Being a part of the military comes with sacrifices and stressful situations, but builds positive relationships and pride.  Some of the best, life-long friends we’ve ever made have been the ones we made while in the military.  Those years taught us a lot and we grew closer through good times and bad.

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Connor is always getting boo boos.  He’s a 4-year-old and constantly jumping and running around.  A BAND-AID is like a badge of honor…even if he doesn’t need one, it makes him feel better. It’s funny how the little things can make such a difference.   BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages are a staple in American households and have been involved in the U.S. Armed Forces since WWII when they provided first-aid products – but they understand that the needs of veteran communities go beyond just first aid. 

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BAND-AID® Brand has partnered with Team Red, White & Blue to help enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their communities through physical and social activities.

BAND-AID® Brand is donating 5% of the sale price of each box sold to Team Red, White & Blue, available at Walmart, Target, Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid.

BAND-AID® Brand is the presenting sponsor of the Team Red, White & Blue Old Glory Coast to Coast Relay.  Now through November 9, runners will carry an American flag 3,800 miles across the country to raise awareness and funds in support of veteran communities in America.  This is a great cause.  If you happen to be in any of the above stores this week remember to pick up a package of these special BAND-AIDS® to help support our veterans.

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BAND-AID® Brand will further support Team Red, White & Blue during the Relay by donating $1.00 for each consumer message encouraging Relay runners and thanking veterans, up to $25,000.

Visit HERE and share your encouraging messages or use #RunWithGlory on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.  It’s such an easy and simple action you can do in less than 5 minutes to help support this cause.  Check out the video below and remember we wouldn’t be FREE without those who served and the so many who gave their lives so that we can live freely.

Win With CRYSTAL LIGHT and Miranda Lambert #CrystalLightWM

“I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Mom Central for CRYSTAL LIGHT. I received a gift card to purchase CRYSTAL LIGHT products to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation.”

CRYSTAL LIGHT and Miranda Lambert are partnering to launch the Platinum Points Program to reward CRYSTAL LIGHT customers with fun Miranda Lambert gear.

The Platinum Points Program coincides with Miranda Lambert’s Platinum Tour Presented by CRYSTAL LIGHT.

Using the CRYSTAL LIGHT Platinum Points Program is easy! Purchase participating CRYSTAL LIGHT products at Walmart, snap a photo of your receipt with your Smartphone, and choose from a variety of Miranda Lambert rewards.

Here are a few of the fun things you can get below with your reward points:

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I headed to Walmart, where they offer a variety of CRYSTAL LIGHT products at great prices and purchased a couple of the CRYSTAL LIGHT liquid bottles.  These are so great because you can just pop them in your bag and run.  I bought the Strawberry Lemonade and Mango Passionfruit.  Both are delish!

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How to Sign Up for the CRYSTAL LIGHT and Miranda Lambert Platinum Points Program:

You can sign up to start earning reward points here using your email address or Facebook account.  Purchase participating CRYSTAL LIGHT products at Walmart and keep your receipt!!!

  • Go to earnplatinumpoints.com in your mobile browser and log in

  • Click “Snap,” choose “Walmart,” and then click “Select/Take Photo”

  • Snap a clear photo of your receipt and click “Upload This Photo”

  • Redeem points for Miranda Lambert rewards

I’m a big fan of Miranda Lambert & I’m so excited about this program.  By signing up for Platinum Points, purchasing CRYSTAL LIGHT at Walmart, and scanning your receipts you’ll earn points to claim Miranda Lambert gear including an exclusive song download, t-shirts, and mugs. Platinum Program members can enter the Promo Code “mirandaic” to instantly get 30 free points. Members will also receive 10 points for each friend they refer who signs up.

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It’s so easy to do!  Here’s my receipt.  I just copied it into my rewards account and I’m on my way to collecting points for fun Miranda Lambert gear!

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CRYSTAL LIGHT and Miranda Lambert both promote a healthy lifestyle, making them a perfect team.  Have you SEEN Miranda Lambert lately?  She’s looking hot!  I try to drink a lot of water while I’m at work during the day.  Sometimes I get tired of drinking just plain water!  CRYSTAL LIGHT is the perfect way for me to add some flavor to my water without the extra calories.

Here’s a fun little recipe for you: The “Randarita,” a cocktail inspired by Miranda Lambert (find it here: crystallight.com)

So, what are you waiting for sign up now!

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Use Promo Code “mirandaic” for 30 free Platinum Points upon signing up.

Bacon Corn Casserole #GoAllNatural #WeaveMade and #ad

This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Weave Made Media® and Smithfield, but all my opinions are my own. #weavemade #GoAllNatural http://my-disclosur.es/RgFrEH

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This weekend was crazy y’all!  I feel like I was running around all over the place trying to get stuff done.  Saturday we had a busy day running errands and then Sunday my brother-in-law and I were outside all day at an event promoting our photography.  It was hotter than heck outside!

But you know what???  Today is the LAST day of summer and fall has me craving some comfort food!  Can I get an amen?  So I headed to Tom Thumb to buy some things and picked up a package of Smithfield All Natural Bacon

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Smithfield All Natural Pork products make the perfect addition to show off a favorite recipe or create a new one!  With school, work, and everything else going on in our week the last thing I want to think about is “What’s for dinner?”  It’s too expensive to eat out every night and I’m always looking for ways to save on my grocery bill. 

used a coupon for $1 off Smithfield All Natural Pork Products available through Safeway Just4U online portal (while supplies last). You have to register for Just4U to get access to the coupon, but I promise it’s worth it and you’ll save money on tons of items in the store.

Here’s my recipe for Bacon Corn Casserole:

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Full Recipe and Directions:

2 bags of steam fresh corn (cook ahead in microwave)

1 package Jiffy corn muffin mix

1 cup sour cream

1 stick butter, melted

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix together all ingredients and pour into a greased 9 by 9-inch casserole dish.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Top with Smithfield’s Bacon. (Here’s a tip: I cut my bacon in half and it cooks quicker!)

The bacon adds a salty flavor to the sweetness of the corn casserole.

It’s sooooo YUMMY!

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For more information and recipes follow along on the Smithfield website and Facebook.

A Visit with Family & Friends #DunkinAtHome

I participated in an Ambassador Program on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Dunkin’ Donuts. I received product samples to facilitate my In-Home party as well as a promotional item to thank me for participating.

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My sister and our good friend Stephanie came to visit from Arkansas this weekend.  We had a great time visiting, watching movies, and dining.  I wanted to do something special for breakfast Saturday morning because they didn’t get in until after midnight and I knew they were tired.

So, I got up early and drove to Dunkin Donuts to get some breakfast and we had a little party 🙂

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My sister and I LOVE our coffee!  I had plenty of coffee to offer our guests.  We all tried out the new Dunkin’ Donuts Bakery Series® coffee that morning.

There are SO many flavors to choose from:


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With flavors like Caramel Coffee Cake, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Glazed Donut, Jelly Donut, Old Fashioned Donut, and Cinnamon Coffee Roll how can you go wrong?   I’ve tried the Caramel Coffee Cake and it was delicious!  I also tried the Cinnamon Coffee Roll and it’s one of my favorites too.


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The makers of Dunkin’ Donuts® bagged coffee are on a roll, introducing NEW Cinnamon
Coffee Roll Flavored Coffee, the latest addition to the Dunkin’ Donuts Bakery Series® line

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The Bakery Series has a great variety of flavors. There was something there anyone would love to drink.  It’s the perfect blend of coffee with a hint of pastry goodness mixed in!

The Dunkin’ Donuts Bakery Series® is available wherever you buy groceries.

Also, don’t forget that National Coffee Day is coming up on September 29th!

Check out Hungry Girls’ blog for some yummy iced coffee recipes to celebrate & this video for Dunkin’ Donuts Chocolate Cinnamon Coffee Malt recipe.

Chocolate Cinnamon Coffee Malt

Entire recipe: 100 calories, 4g fat, 52mg sodium, 15.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 10g sugars, 2g protein

Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 5 minutes or less
Chill: 1 hour

Ingredients:
1 1/2 tbsp. malted milk powder
2 tsp. mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
1 packet no-calorie sweetener
1/8 tsp. cinnamon
6 oz. fresh-brewed Dunkin’ Donuts® Cinnamon Coffee Roll coffee

Directions:
In a microwave-safe mug, combine malted milk powder, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sweetener, and cinnamon.

Add 1 oz. (2 tbsp.) hot water, and microwave for 1 minute, or until chips have melted. Mix vigorously until uniform.

Add coffee, stir well, and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.

Stir well, transfer to a tall glass filled with crushed ice, and enjoy!

MAKES 1 SERVING

We had such a great time visiting and enjoying our Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee.
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We even let the boys join in too 🙂
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Digging For Dino Bones: Cool Whip Back to School #AddCoolWhip #CollectiveBias

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone.

Connor officially starts Pre-K on Monday.  Of course he’s been going to “summer camp school” all summer.  But his official start date back to pre-school is Monday.  He’s been learning about dinosaurs for the past month in his class.  He’s just crazy about dinosaurs and fossils and dinosaur bones!  He’s been asking tons of questions and loves learning their names and all about them.

I thought it would be fun to make a snack using dinosaurs.  I headed to Walmart and bought some Cool Whip (for the snowy peaks) and some Jell-O mix to fossilize the dinosaur bones.

I made a big bowl of Jell-O and hid dinosaur bones inside for a quick and easy snack.  Then I topped it off with snowy peaks of Cool Whip.

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 Snowy peaks

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 Making footprints

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 You can also use Jell-O Pudding mix.  I prefer chocolate because it looks like mud and put some cookie crumbles on top for dirt.  Then do your dino dig that way!

Right now you can save $1.00 when you buy ONE tub of Cool Whip Topping and any TWO boxes of Jell-O Pudding Mix. *While Supplies Last*

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I used two packages of Strawberry Jell-O and a large tub of Cool Whip.  I buried a few dinosaur bones and let the Jell-O harden.  Then topped with the Cool Whip.  It was super easy and Connor LOVED it!

You can kind of see the fossils below buried in the Jell-O.

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Digging for Dino bones 🙂

He was so excited each time he found a dinosaur hidden in there!

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 It also makes a yummy treat!  What’s better than Strawberries and whipped cream???

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Summer’s almost over!  So head to Walmart and save some money while making a fun snack for your kiddos.