I Confess...

I almost always buy boneless skinless meats when I go grocery shopping. I'm not much of a meat eater (I was a vegetarian pretty much the first 21 years of my life), but I keep meat on the menu to make my husband happy. I man, I eat meat, he says. (LOL)

This morning when we were taking advantage of the bottled water deal at Albertsons (we keep some on hand in case they mess up our water again), they had a great deal on chicken. $3 and change for a pretty big whole chicken. DH looked at me and roped me in. Alright, it's packaged chicken, how hard can it be?

Except... you have to clean the inside. And cut out the neck. And there were still pieces of the feathers on the skin! *faints*

My face when I opened that packaging a few minutes ago, I'm sure, was totally priceless. And thank heavens for google, so I could figure out how in the heck to remove that neck!

I had a pet chicken when I was a kid, and I dream of having chickens in my yard for fresh eggs when we move. This is just too close to eating the pets for me!

All I have to say is: he better enjoy that chicken!

(I know, some of you are totally laughing at me.)

DVD Review: Hotel For Dogs

I recently had the chance to review the movie Hotel For Dogs.

I'll start off by warning you that if you have any sensitive kids, you may want to skip this movie. Me, as adult? I cried practically the whole movie. (Thank goodness we didn't go see this in the theater! I don't want to scare others with my blubbering!)

The storyline is that sister and brother, Andi and Bruce, aren't allowed to have any animals in their less than stellar foster home. They have a stray dog that they call Friday, and sneak around trying to take care of the little guy. Finally, they find an abandoned hotel that they decide to use as a shelter, and start off taking in lots of stray dogs... coming up with some ingenious ideas to take care of them while trying to stay under the radar of adults and the pound.

There are a couple of (more crude) moments as well as a few bad words that I think could have been left out of the movie. But the dinner on the conveyor belt for the dogs? Totally genius! (There's moments I think that would be a grand idea here when I am trying to feed all our pets dinner!)

There are dogs of all sizes, and they are totally adorable. If you have a dog obsessed kid, they are going to love it. And you might end up hearing that they want a dog (or two!) after this movie. (Also, be warned, the shelter in the movie is not no-kill, and you may have to explain that to your kids afterwards.)

It's rated PG, and came out this past Tuesday the 28th on DVD and Blu-Ray. I'd personally say it's for the 5 and up crowd, but it depends on your family. And have the tissue ready, just in case.

How could you not want to love this face? :)

Joolwe Winner!

And the winner of the Joolwe Sterling Silver and CZ Skull Pendant is:

deedleweedle said...
I like the Sterling Silver Bold X&O 17 inch Necklace. I'd love the skull necklace for my oldest daughter's birthday.

Congratulations! Please get back to me in the next 48 hours with your mailing address so I can pass this along to the folks over at Joolwe!

Wordless Wednesday - True Love

Mother's Day Shopping Feature: Things Remembered

I remember when I was a teen hanging out at the mall, always drooling over all the pretty things at Things Remembered. I had a whole list of things I wanted to get one day.

I haven't been into Things Remembered in years, but when I saw their new Charm Story line, I ooohed and ahhhed. There are over 50 different silver-plated engravable charms that you can add to your choice of a charm bracelet or charm necklace. There are charms for Mom and Grandma, as well cause related, and yes pet moms - there's several for you too!


There's lots of other great gift ideas - check out the Crystal Mom Frame too!

This post is part of my Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Yesterday's News Deal At Fred Meyer

Yesterday's News cat litter is on sale this week at Fred Meyer for $4.99. Combine it with either the $3 off or the $2 off coupons I told you about earlier, and it's a great deal at either $1.99 or $2.99 for a 13.2 lb package!

Preparedness Tuesday: Back To The Swine Flu

It's Preparedness Tuesday - each Tuesday I post one thing you can do to help prepare you and your family for everyday disasters - be it job loss, bad weather (between being stuck in the middle of hurricane season, and the coming colder winter we're predicted), or even that ugly recession they keep talking about (blech!)

I'm going to rant here. I'm someone who believes in preparedness, but I think there's a little bit of insanity coming out:

I keep seeing folks saying let's close our borders and quarantine the ill in order to deal with the "swine flu". (It's not even really swine flu. This is a hybrid of 3 different flu's) Let me address both:

Closing our borders? Tee hee. Seriously, folks. This is AIRBORNE. Alright, no one in and out of the country. Tourists are stranded here. Those on vacation in other areas are stranded in that country. The flu in 1918-1919 went on for 18 months before it started to die out. 18 months. Those with husbands, children on the other side? Think about that. Our military families stranded where they have been stationed.

Again, anything that has been coughed on, touched? Then that shouldn't be let in either. Say goodbye to cargo. Supermarkets wouldn't be restocked. If it's not grown and made here in the US - that includes packaging - how is it going to get in? The boat doesn't float itself or load and unload itself.

See what I am saying?

To go to the quarantine:

Let me just use 2.5 words: World War II

Who's going to work the hospitals? The hospitals will be closed off - is everyone going to go back to giving birth at home? How about open heart surgeries? If you don't use the hospitals for the quarantines, then you walk dangerously close to camps. People that are ill should STAY HOME. You are better off taking care of yourself at home with this.

We went out today, and I was in the bathroom at WalMart. 2 out of 3 people in there did not wash their hands. Not looking good, is it? Common sense is long gone. Wash your hands, sneeze or cough into your shirt.

And I just want to add: It's estimated 36,000 people die in the US each year due to the flu. Why on earth is everyone freaking out now?

OK, rant off. :) I've already posted a few steps to help prepare yourself to try to help keep your family healthy from this new virus. Here's a few extra thoughts:

*I mentioned taking your shoes off at the door. Take it one step further by changing when you come home, immediately putting the clothes into the washer if you can. If not, use disposable gloves when loading your laundry into the washer.

*When grocery shopping, try to use self checkout. You'll cut down on one or two other people handling your groceries. Remember to use hand sanitizer after touching the screen.

*Carry a messenger style handbag instead of a regular purse so you can wear it all the time instead of placing it down on tables, chairs, or especially, in the bathroom or on a table at a restaurant. One of the worst places you can put your purse down is actually on the shopping cart seat. Diaper leaks, anyone? (This will probably make you want to never put your groceries on that part again)

*Try not to use the restroom at all in public. With the amount of people who don't wash their hands, the public restrooms can be a serious hazard.

*Don't touch doors or surfaces with your hands. Push the bottom of the door with your feet, or use your elbow.

For more random preparedness thoughts from my blog, click here.

Please Bear With Me

for a few days while I deal with my Jerry Springer show a few issues in my family (the three of us are fine!). I'm going to *try* posting like normal, but I'm probably going to be slower. Hopefully this blows over and fixes itself quickly!

(dratted Murphy's Law!)

Thrift Store Tuesday

Welcome to another week of resale shopping and thrifting!

My question this week: What's your dream find?

Mine is a stack of vintage (well, not really vintage, but the style hasn't been sold in over 10 years) of Lip Service and other related brands of long dresses, hopefully marked at $4.99 or less. ;)

We had a lousy week thrifting. At our Goodwill, we found out there's a new color tag for the "good stuff" as they call it, that doesn't go on sale. Say hello to an entire area of nothing special jeans and shirts starting at $9.99. I hope I don't sound bitter, but they price things so high, things sit there and it's hard to move the clothes on the rack to see them. Trying to go through the kitchen stuff is a nightmare. I keep reading that many thrift stores in the country are bare, but that's not the case here - thanks to the prices, I'm sure. Why would most people pay $9.99 for a used shirt, when you can buy them on sale brand new for the same price, or less?

Did you have a better week and found something good?

Printable Yesterday's News Coupon

You can print a coupon to save $3 off your next purchase of Yesterday's News Cat Litter. Simply fill out your email address and you'll be able to print the Bricks' coupon.

You can also print two $2 off coupons through coupons.com.

Giveaway In Honor of Fred Meyer's Design A Bag Contest!

Now through May 15, Kroger (which also includes Fred Meyer for us West Coast folks) is inviting customers to visit www.fredmeyer.com/green to enter the Kroger Reusable Shopping Bag Contest. The contest gives Fred Meyer and the Kroger company customers the chance to design their own reusable grocery bag with FredMeyer.com's easy-to-use design tool.

Upon submitting their entry, designers will receive a confirmation email allowing them view their final design and send to family and friends for votes. An expert judging panel will rank the top bag designs, with special consideration given to those designs that have the most votes.

Great prizes will be awarded to the top 10 bag designs, with one lucky designer winning a $1,000 Kroger gift card and the chance for their bag design to be sold in stores. Judges will also select four finalists who will receive $250 Kroger gift cards and five runners-up who will receive $100 Kroger gift cards. (all of which are good at Fred Meyer!)

Check out last year's winner:



I think I can design better. I mean, who doesn't want a black and zebra print shopping bag with pink skulls? ;) You can even enter photos - isn't that cool?

So, who's with me and wants to win that $1,000 gift card? I would have field day at Fred Meyer, that's for sure! I'd be pulling out all my cookbooks and making recipes with the more pricier ingredients. Ooooh - and baking sweets with lots of chocolate chips and dried fruits (since I still have that big bag of flour that I'm working on, as my returning readers know)

Win it! The wonderful folks at Kroger are letting me give away a $25 gift card to two lucky readers valid at almost all of the Kroger company's stores, including Fred Meyer! To enter: Check out the www.fredmeyer.com/green site and vote for a design, then come back and tell us what you'll use the gift card on if you win. I'll give you a second entry for creating your own bag, and coming back here and posting your design number so others can vote for you!

As always, my subscribers and blog followers get an extra entry! And if you blog about this giveaway with a link to my website, you can get another entry. Good luck!

My giveaway ends May 8th (remember, you have until May 15th to enter the contest on the website) at 11:59 PM PST.

I'm editing this to mention since I've gotten a few emails & comments: the gift card is NOT just valid at Kroger. It's also valid at their other family stores, including Fred Meyer, Dillons, QFC, Ralph's, Frys, etc. To see a full list of the stores owned by Kroger, visit here.

Menu Planning Monday

I'm a little late posting this, so I'll just plead that I am not feeling too hot at the moment (a change of asthma meds is not working for me) I didn't stick too well to my menu plan last week, so hopefully I do better this week - the Mexican Lasagna is a hold over from last week.

Monday: DH is grilling out

Tuesday: DH is grilling out again (thank goodness for the timing of his two days off!)

Wednesday: recipe of the week - look for the post!

Thursday: Hamburger Helper & homemade corn bread

Friday: pizza night

Saturday: Mexican Lasagna (will post the recipe with pictures this weekend)

Sunday: roast, grilled potatoes, salad


Check out Organizing Junkie for other great Menu Plans!

Recipe: Rosemary Pop Overs

This recipe was on the back of the paper around my new Pop Over pan ($5.48 on clearance at Target) so I figured I would share it. In case you haven't noticed, I'm lousy at following recipe directions - so if you run out and buy the same pan and see the original recipe, you'll probably notice things different. ;)

1 1/2 cups milk
2 large garlic cloves, cut in half
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter, melted
3 tablespoons finely shredded Parmesan cheese, divided in half

Heat milk until hot. Remove from heat and add rosemary and garlic. Let sit at room temperature 20 minutes before removing garlic. (Note: I used Knorr's powdered garlic cubes as they last a lot longer in my home than fresh. I don't use garlic that often. I therefore left the garlic in the milk, obviously since it's a little bit hard to get powder out of liquid. ;)



Preheat over to 450 degrees. Grease pop over pan (or muffin pan - that works too!) well.

In a large bowl mix eggs, milk, flour, salt, butter and 2 tablespoons of the cheese. Mix until smooth, then fill pan cups 2/3rds of the way full.




Bake 15 minutes, reduce heat to 325 degrees. Continue baking 25-30 minutes until very golden brown. Caution: Do NOT open oven until finished baking. I repeat: do NOT open oven until finished baking.


Sprinkle tops with remaining cheese and serve immediately. I am not responsible if you eat half the pop overs before they get to the table for dinner. ;)

The Mac N Cheese Challenge Round Five

Apparently I forgot to post this final round of the Mac N Cheese challenge. Oops! Even worse, when I went to write this, the photos were no where to be found on my laptop and I've already deleted them from my camera. Yikes! So can we all use our imagination in this round? LOL

box of mac n cheese
1/2 bag of frozen broccoli, thawed

Prepare the mac n cheese as directed on the package.

While the macaroni is boiling, run the broccoli either in the blender or a food processor to get it into small pieces.

Use 1/4 cup of milk extra, and after draining the macaroni and mixing the cheese powder and milk in, add the broccoli. Serve with cornbread biscuits ($0.40 pouch at Fred Meyer) and a small salad ($0.89 at Fred Meyer)

It was alright - I'm not going to say it was my favorite of the challenge. You can substitute the broccoli with cheese sauce as well since it's usually the same price range on sale as the full bag (just less in it) - there's less broccoli in it, but the cheese is always yummy. ;)

Now I hereby pass the challenge onto you! I challenge you to create a meal with a box of macaroni and cheese!

Looking Back

DH was watching Transformers earlier and even though I've seen it many times myself, there is one part that always stands out to me.

50 years when you look back on your life, do you want to say you had the guts to get in the car?

50 years later from today will you look back on your life and say, WOW! I did a lot, I took advantage of every opportunity that came my way? I took a chance, and look what happened! I did what everyone else was afraid to do!

Will you?

Review: Caress Evenly Gorgeous

Caress is introducing their new Caress Skinwear Collection:

The Look: Radiant
Caress Glowing Touch is enriched with shea cream and gentle skin brighteners, leaving skin moisturized, radiant and gorgeously glowing.

The Look: Silky
Caress Daily Silk is formulated with triple silkening moisturizers, enriched with white peach and a blend of silk blossom, leaving skin irresistibly silky.

The “Latest” Look: Even Tone
Caress Evenly Gorgeous, with burnt brown sugar and karite butter, gently exfoliates and lusciously moisturizes to reveal smooth, even toned skin.

The Caress Skinwear Collection also includes the following looks:
· For an Exotic look: Caress Brazilian and Moroccan Exotic Oil Infusions Body Washes
· For a Luxurious look: Caress Cashmere Luxury Silkening Body Wash
· For a Renewed look: Caress Tahitian Renewal Exfoliating Body Wash and Beauty Bar
· For a Pampered look: Caress Berry Indulging Body Wash

As a Momma who finds her beauty routine hurried a lot of the time, finding a product that kills two birds with one stone is always a good thing! So when I heard that Caress's new Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Wash helped give you gorgeous skin straight out of the shower, I was excited to get the chance to try it - I about tackled the UPS delivery person for that box! LOL


With the scent of Burnt Brown Sugar and Karite Butter, it smells pretty good! (I caught DH even trying it out! LOL!) It's supposed to gently exfoliate and moisturize to reveal smooth and even toned skin. Believe me when I say, I need all the moisturizing help I can get! My skin felt great when I got out of the shower, and the scent lingers perfectly. I'd like to give the Daily Silk a try next to decide which one is perfect for the summer months for me. (Well, about as summery as we get over here in the Pacific NW)

Don't forget to check out www.caressyourstyle.com for lots of fun stuff, including:

- Skin revealing fashion & beauty tips (from Carson Kressley)
- A chance to share your own beauty/fashion secrets to win great prizes:
- Weekly chance to win $100 gift card
- Chance to win a trip to NYC for shopping spree and VIP access to fashion event, and a private consultation with Carson
- Design and dress up your own stylish 'virtual you' to send to friends and post to your Facebook profile, MySpace


I would LOVE to win that trip! The virtual you is fun to play with too. You can also request a free sample when you enter to win so you can try out Caress Evenly Gorgeous too!

Swine Flu?

The whole henny-penny-the-sky-is-falling story with the swine flu? I've raised my eyebrows, but I'm not running around in a total panic - and neither should you. Yes, we should take it seriously (especially if you live in an area where there was a confirmed case) but if you take a few steps to take care of you and your family, I really don't feel you have anything to be worried about. Hit up my Preparedness Tuesdays series for more detailed information on situations like this.

*Wash your hand thoroughly after using the restroom, and when you come inside. Don't handle any food items until you have washed your hands!

*Carry hand sanitizer in your purse or pocket and use this after touching items that have come in contact with others, such as shopping carts.

*Always cough or sneeze into your shoulder or the inside of your elbow, not your hands.

*Disinfect items in your home that are touched frequently, such as door knobs, light switches, and remote controls.

*Take your shoes off at the door so you don't track in germs.

And if you're really worried:

*Don't go out shopping if you don't have to. This is where keeping a two week supply of food (and toilet paper!) on hand is helpful.

*WalMart and most pharmacies carry a 10 pack of medical grade face masks that will cover your mouth and nose. I believe WalMart's price is around $3. Wear one if you are going into an area that you might come in contact with germs, remembering to change it and throw them away every few hours or if it's too wet with saliva/perspiration. You can also purchase Latex gloves so you don't come in contact with germs. (We all know some people pretty much never wash their hands - ick!)

*Eat properly, with a well balanced diet. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and flush your system out with the proper amount of water.

Mother's Day Shopping Feature: Sand Dune Books

Sand Dune Books has hardcover, spiral-bound books that contains 35 - 45 fun-to-ask and fun-to-answer questions. You'll get the journal back with handwritten responses, making it a heirloom gift! There are lots of choices, including Mom, of course, but Grandma, daughter, even sister and family reunion! You can have it shipped directly to the recipient, making it a great long distance gift for those you don't see on a regular basis.

The great folks over at Sand Dune Books are offering a savings code for my readers to order their Relationship Keepsake Journals for Mother's Day! Simply enter promo code PSYCHO to save 10% on your order of two or more journals! This code is good through May 2nd, 2009.

This post is part of my Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Giveaway Winners!

Winning is in the air with the help of Random.org! :)

The winner of the By The Book: How To Take Care of MY Kids giveaway is:

Courtney said...
Seriously, we really need the section on the remote control (s). We have, like, 10 of them and my poor mother is terrified of being left to her own devices (no pun intended). Great giveaway!

And the winner of the Dole Stock Up Your Pantry $25 worth of coupons is:

Angie Marion said...
Shrimp Curry with Pineapple ginger Rice sounds scrumptious!

Congratulations! I need to hear from you within 48 hours so I can send your information onto the sponsors, otherwise I will have to pick a new winner.

Feeling lucky? Don't forget to enter my other giveaways running right now!

Fred Meyer Deals 4/26 - 5/2 2009

I really don't know what Fred Meyer is thinking, but this is like week four of them wasting the entire back page of the ad with useless filler - this week, it's trying to get you to sign up for their credit card. I hope this is the last week of this, because I don't know about you folks, but I want to know what's on sale before I go into the store. FM needs to take a clue from Albertsons' ads and showcase either sale items or every day items. Make us WANT to come into their store! (end of rant, sorry for the hijack to those who don't care! lol)

See the entire circular online here or here's the food & home highlights with coupon matches if available:

*Country Style Pork Ribs $1.59 lb (family pack)
*Jumbo Artichokes 2/$3
*Rotisserie Chicken $5.99 (deli)
*Private Selection Ice Cream Pints $0.99
*Healthy Choice or Marie Callender's Dinners $1.88 ($1 off 2 Healthy Choice here
*FM Frozen Vegetables 32 oz 3/$5
*Kellogg's Eggo Waffles 3/$5 ($1 off 2 MC)
*Tyson Frozen PreCooked Chicken $4.99 ($1 off MC)
*Jose Ole Taquitos 2/$7
*Tostitos Chips 2/$4
*Rosarita Refried Beans 10/$10
*Kellogg's Nutri-grain or Special K Bars $2.18
*Tillamook Shredded Cheese 2/$4
*Pace Picante or Salsa 2/$4 ($1 off Salsa MC)
*Coke or Dasani 12pks 2/$10
*FMV Hot Dog or Hamburger Buns $0.39 (first 2) GREAT DEAL ALERT!
*Yoplait Yogurt 8pk $3.88
*Dawn Dishwashing Detergent BOGOF
*Softsoap Body Wash or Liquid Hand Soap $1.99 after in store MC
*Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick Antiperspirant or Deodorant $0.99 after in store MC
*Garnier Fructis Hair Care $2.99
*Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color $6.49 ($4 off MC)
*Centrum Ultra Vitamins $9.99 ($1 off MC)
*Zyrtec 30 ct $15.99 ($2 off printable here, $4 off MC)
*Aquafresh White Trays $27.99 after in store MC)
*Playtex Tampons $5.99 after in store MC
*Colgate Total Toothpaste or Max Fresh Toothbrush $1.49 after in store MC
*Kroger Omeprazole 42 ct $19.99
*Health Valley Canned Soup of Chili 10/$10 w/ in store coupon GREAT DEAL ALERT!
*Garden of Eatin' Tortilla Chips 2/$4
*Amy's Kitchen Enchiladas or Tamales 2/$6
*Arrowhead Mills Cereal 2/$6
*Imagine Foods Rice or Soy Dream 2/$6
*Maranatha Nut Butters Save 25%
*American Health Supplements Save 30%
*Designer Whey or The Biggest Loser Protein Powder $11.99
*Large Avocados 4/$5
*Mangoes 5/$5
*White or Yellow Corn 2/$1
*Organic Lemons 2/$1
*Organic Celery or Romaine Hearts 2/$4
*Anjou Pears $0.98 lb
*Roma Tomatoes $1.28 lb
*Private Selection Angus Beef Top Sirloin $5.99 lb
*Private Selection Angus Beef Rib Eye Steak $7.99 lb
*Private Selection Angus Beef New York Steak $7.99 lb
*Private Selection Angus Beef T-Bone Steak $7.49 lb
*Private Selection Angus Beef Tenderloin $9.98 lb
*Private Selection Angus Ground Beef $2.99 lb
*Beef Loin New York Steaks $5.99 lb (family pack)
*Pork Loin Sirloin Chops or Roast $2.99 lb (family pack)
*Fresh Extra Lean Ground Beef $3.49 lb (flavor seal packs)
*Fresh Boneless Skinless Fryer Breasts $2.48 lb (family pack)
*Beef Chuck Pot Roast USDA Select $2.88 lb
*Wild Alaskan Whole Sockeye Salmon $3.99 lb
*Jumbo E-Z Peel White Shrimp $4.99 lb
*Wild Brazilian Grouper Fillet $6.99 lb
*Wild King Salmon Fillet $9.99 lb
*Italian Bread 2/$3 (bakery)
*Fried Chicken 8 pc $6.99
*Private Selection Lattice Top Half pie $3.99 (bakery)
*Hershey's Packaged candy 2/$5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
*Nature's Bounty Vitamins or Osteo Bi-Flex Products BOGOF w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
*FM 1/2 Gallon Milk or Orange Juice 10/$10 w/ in ad coupon (limit 10)
*General Mills Cereals 4/$6 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4) (varied MCs out there!)
*Darigold Butter or Private Selection Dz Eggs 2/$3 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
*Country Oven, Vita Bee bread OR FM Peanut Butter or Preserves 4/$5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 8)
*Pillsbury Cake Mix $0.69 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
*Bar S Meat Hot Dogs $0.88 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)
*Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs 3lb $5.99 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
*M&Ms/Mars Standard Candy Bars 3/$1 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)

All Home clearance is 40% the lowest marked price!

Don't forget to use your reward coupons - you should have already received them! If you have not received them yet, be sure to contact Fred Meyer!

Unfamiliar with Fred Meyer's coupon policy? They allow you stack a Fred Meyer store coupon (FM coupons as I call them) with a manufacturer's coupon. They do not price match to any other store's sale prices, and they won't take other store's sale coupons. You can however use a manufacturer's coupons on any sale or clearance items, but they usually won't allow any overage if the coupon is more than the sale price (sometimes it slips through the cracks, but don't expect it every time). Our local Washington stores do not double any coupons. They do accept the printed internet coupons if they have a barcode (like bricks coupons or from Smart Source or coupons.com if you are unfamiliar with them) so if you are having problems with a clerk not wanting to accept your coupon and you are sure it's legit coupon, please ask to have a manager come on over to verify it.

For more sites listing other stores sales ads and coupon match ups, please visit BeCentsAble - home of the original Grocery Gathering!

Aloha Friday

I'm remembering to participate in Aloha Friday again this week, hosted by An Island Life! ;)

What's your favorite food?

I think my returning readers know my answer: cheese! :)

I've Got A DATE!

I just bought us two VIP tickets to the Mayhem Festival over here in Auburn in July! I know, 99.9% of those reading this, the festival isn't up their alley. But with all the concerts DH and I have been to, neither of us have ever seen Slayer live, so we are both totally excited! (Plus, we haven't been to a concert together in almost a year now, so I'm doubly excited! lol)

Anyone else going, even in a different city?

Mother's Day Shopping Feature & Giveaway: EdenFantasys

Alright, here's your official heads up that this post has links that are not safe for work. None of the photos, descriptions, etc are naughty because I am a good girl ;) but don't click the links at work (well, unless you work for yourself! lol) or when the kidlets are watching on your lap. Now for those of you I haven't scared away again... (LOL)





The absolutely fabulous folks over at Eden Fantasys have some wonderful adult gifts for us Moms. There are lots of items our hsubands/significant others can get us to celebrate Mother's Day!

For the pregnant Mama in your life, they have Blooming Belly Balm to soothe your stretched to the max tight, itchy skin on your tummy.


They also have Breast Balm to soothe your stretched and sore boobs!


How about some fun shimmery body lotion from Crazy Girl?


And what Mom doesn't want to be treated like a princess? This Princess Bubble Bath from Angelic Aromas sounds like the perfect indulgence to me!


Win it! Eden Fantasys is giving one you lucky Mommas this awesome Aromatherapy Indulgence gift set. Don't they just totally rock for doing this?! I feel so lucky getting to give you guys something awesome from Eden Fantasys twice!


To enter, head over to Eden Fantasys, and take a look at everything. They have lots of other items besides sex toys, promise! They have lingerie, games, massage oils, etc too! Tell us what you'd like to get from your significant other (or, if you're not involved right now, tell us what you'd like from your fantasy perfect signifcant other! lol) for Mother's Day!

For extra entries:
Subscribe to my feed or follow my blog
Digg, stumble, kirsty, or tweet about this giveaway (leave your username/link as I do check)
Blog about this giveaway

Contest ends May 1st at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry :( PLEASE leave your email or remember to check back/read the feed, as you have 48 hours to get back to me if you win, or Random picks someone else! This giveaway will NOT be subjected to Prizey!

This post is part of my Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Thrifty Thursday - Impulses

This week's Thrifty Thursday post is a quick tip.

When purchasing non-essential items, take 24 hours to reflect before buying, (This doesn't apply to thrift store/resale purchases since I know those items go FAST) especially on bigger ticket items such as a new television or even new shoes. Take the time and think whether this is just an impulse purchase, or as great of a deal as you thought it was. If you're shopping online, read the reviews, and walk away for a while. If you see the item in a brick and mortar store, go home, look up the item on the internet, and see if it's the best possible price. Check to see if there's any complaints about the item - is it really worth the price?

If 24 hours later, your answer is YES! You have got to have it, by all means - go get it! But if after 24 hours you've decided you don't need yet another small kitchen appliance, you'll have saved a bit of money and some room on your kitchen counters or in your closet.

Mother's Day Shopping Feature: Lo-Lo Paper Treats

Lo-Lo Paper Treats, a Mom created business, is an online stationary boutique where you can create personalized stationery gift sets that include address stamps, notepads, greeting cards and more.


There are over 80 modern designs to choose from, including my favorite below:


If you don't see a design that suits you or the Mom in your life, Lo-Lo Paper Treats will work with you to create a logo that's just perfect! Not only is this a great gift idea for Mother's Day, but it would make a great newlywed or housewarming gift!

This post is part of my Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Review: Leg Huggers

Leg Huggers are adorable little leg warmers made for little girls to crawl, dance, and play in! (sorry, moms of boys!)

Leg Huggers are made with eco-friendly, sustainable, chemical and pesticide free bamboo fiber. They are UV protective for summer months as well as breathable, wicking away any moisture. They are even odor resistant, biodegradable, and antibacterial!

They are incredibly soft and comfortable, and easily stretch for chubby legs or to grow with your little girl from baby to potty training toddler and beyond - these would even fit me as arm warmers since they are 13" long! They are perfect for crawling on hard floors, and great in place of stuffy tights in warmer weather like what we just had here in WA - these can easily be worn with sandals!

Another plus? They don't seem to snag easily, either.

Leg Huggers are machine washable and can be dried in the dryer, though I will admit I line dried ours (my returning readers probably know the washer and dryer in our home is as old as the house, and I don't trust it on delicates - plus, it's better for the environment!) We tried the cute Bows Fantasia design.


If you are a member of Facebook, head on over to Leg Hugger's Fan page and enter to win a pair of Leg Huggers! Leg Huggers are also participating in the Free Hugs Movement - to learn more, visit the page!

Take advantage of their Leap Into Spring special! Purchase two pairs of adorable Leg Huggers for just $17.99. Use promo code springLH at checkout.

Printable Starbucks Ice Cream Coupon

Fill out your information to print a coupon to receive $1.00 off your purchase of new Starbucks Ice Cream.

Mother's Day Shopping Feature: Promom Couture

With Spring here and Summer just around the corner, a lot of us Moms live in t-shirts. Promom Couture has some of the best t-shirts to give to Mom for Mother's Day, and they've even been featured on Oprah - how cool is that?

Promom Couture's tag line says The tshirts that celebrate motherhood, and I think you'll agree!

How about this Rock N Rule Mom t-shirt in pink? The design is also available in blue if pink isn't Mom's thing!


Or this fun black t-shirt, Grateful Mom?


Promom Couture also has tank tops, and some of the designs are available in long sleeves as well!

This post is part of my Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Possible Marie Callender's Deals at Fred Meyer!

I just got an email from one of my wonderful readers (thank you!) letting me know that all the Marie Callender's frozen dinners and pies were on sale for $1.88 at the Fred Meyer's in Nampa, Idaho!

If you're heading out to your local FM, you may want to swing down the frozen aisles and check it out, since this is a really good price for Marie Callender meals! I'm going to try to check it out this afternoon at our local FM and see if it's the same price out here in Kitsap County.

Update: It is the same price here in Kitsap County, so I am going to guess it's all of FM's locations. The bottom of the tag says the deal expires 5/16, but FM has been known to change it from the dates at the bottom of the tag, so I'd grab some now if this 50% off deal is up your alley!

Wordless Wednesday - Calm Waters

Sinupret For Kids Giveaway Winners!

Here are the five winners of the Sinupret for Kids gift packs:

Gina said...
Since you can't use cough syrups anymore (not that they ever worked with my son), I have tried sitting the snotty-nosed sickies in the bathroom with the shower running for some steam, honey to slow down coughs, and tried to get them to sip chicken broth (they wouldn't). Sigh.

Candie said...
I am a subscriber. Thanks

Jenndiggy said...
A teaspoon of local honey a day (forever) really helps control allergies. (Not sure why, but it works) just don't use it with really young children who are too young for honey, or course.

andrea v said...
I wipe everything down with clorox wipes. I give my son Sambucol and multi vitamen for my daughter. It may cut down on a few colds but they both are in daycare and still bring colds home.

judybrittle said...
I'm a follower.

Congratulations every one! Please get back to me within 48 hours with your mailing address!

And every one, thanks so much for the great tips!

Random Tuesday Thoughts

I ordered a couple of tops from an online store last week because it's been entirely too long since I bought some for ME. They arrived this morning, I opened the box, and had the snicker of my life. One of the tops has a built in bra so that the chest area is molded to fit you. Sexy, sí? Only if your boobs are actually that big. Seriously, you can fit two of my boobs in one side of the shirt, those cups are so big. And of all things, since it was a clearance item, you guessed it - sales are final. DH asked if I had bought it as ammo to get a bigger boob job. LOL

Or let's talk Entrecard. There's a couple of you that are probably sick of me asking to advertise on your blog, but you're the only ones who will let me! I get turned down more than I get approved. *sniff sniff* A lot of the blogs I ask are mommy/review blogs or cooking blogs - I think I'm kind of relevant? Does my blog name frighten that many people?

DH has today and tomorrow off, so I may have to go hide in the bedroom to blog. Sigh!

I need to mop. I don't want to mop. I want a maid.

I must have a black thumb. Not one of my seedlings have grown this year. :(

DH finished the last of my caffeine last night after I went to bed. Me - caffeine = extra lazy.

One of our cats took off Sunday. I was upset, but we have had issues with this cat since we took her in. Major issues. To the point where we'd get her a new home, but no one wants a cat with issues. So I said fine, let her go. (She's chipped) By the following night, when she figured out there were no big bowls of canned food out in the real world, she was back at the door, yowling at the top of her lungs to come back inside, just like I figured she would. It made me wonder if this is how I will handle our daughter if she decides to run away one day. She'll be five, screaming she wants a new family - and I'll be helping her to pack her pile of toys, watching her walk across the yard to Grandma's house. She'll be back the following night. LOL!

Thrift Store Tuesday

Welcome to another week of resale shopping and thrifting!

My question this week: How often do you shop at thrift stores or resale/consignment shops?

We try to go once a week since it's a source of entertainment for us. We alternate which thrifts we hit up too for variety.

Here's my find of the week. It's a brand new cake pan set. Remember seeing these advertised on TV? I was all excited since it was the half off tag, and I bought it for $2.49 plus tax! I figure even if it doesn't actually end up making a checker board pattern (this is me and my lousy baking we're talking here!), I still get three really nice cake pans out of it. ;)


So what did you find lately? Inquiring minds want to know! ;)

Handmade Mother's Day Gift Ideas

If you're on the hunt for the perfect Mother's Day Gift, don't forget to check out Etsy!

Look at this stunning pink and cream locket made by MStevensonDesigns. It's just perfect to add several meaningful photos in:


How about a custom stamped Name Charm Bracelet from Moppets Closets? You can add up to four different discs personalized with your kids or grandkids names!


If you're in search of a hand printed Mother's Day card to send to your mother, look at this brightly colored gocco one from Iconocraft:


This adorable little My Sweet Peas necklace from Hazelnut Cottage is sure to be a hit too with the Mom in your life:


This post is part of my Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Women's Day Contests

I just got an email reminding me of all the really great contests Woman's Day is running right now. I know some of you love to enter lots of contests and actually have a sweeping routine and win a lot! (If you click this link, I found it takes you to not only all the Woman's Day contests, but Elle's and Point Click Home's too so you don't have to go from site to site to enter! A shortcut, whoo hoo!)

You know, I've entered on and off over the years and never won. *sniff sniff* Granted, I'm not good at remembering to enter every day. I'm lucky to get one or two entries in each contest on the ones I want to win. How about you? Have you ever won anything from a Woman's Day contest? Tell me so I can be totally jealous of you! ;)

I'm thinking the Tahoe Creamery contest they have running through May 9th sounds like a prize I want on my doorstep right now with this warmer weather! ;) I'm off to enter! (anything to procrastinate on chores today!)

Be Big In Your Community!

I think this is an awesome campaign, so I wanted to pass this along to you in hopes that maybe one of you might participate, and maybe win the grant!

Scholastic Inc. has launched “The Be Big in Your Community Contest” in support of CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG® and the BE BIG™ initiative. The contest calls upon kids, parents, teachers, and community leaders to submit their BIG ideas for creating positive change in their communities by demonstrating Clifford’s Big Ideas; Share, Play Fair, Have Respect, Work Together, Be Responsible, Be A Good Friend, Help Others, Be Truthful, Be Kind and Believe In Yourself. The BE BIG Fund will help bring the winning BIG idea to life by awarding one (1) Grand Prize $25,000 community grant and ten (10) runner-up $2,500 community grants to implement the winning BIG ideas via HandsOn Network local affiliate organizations. Submit your idea at www.scholastic.com/cliffordbebig and remember....IT ONLY TAKES A LITTLE TO BE BIG!

In addition, PBS KIDS® will air episodes during National Volunteer Week that highlight the following BIG ideas* :


Monday April 20th

Magic in the Air: Big Idea: Be Responsible
Everyone Loves Clifford: Big Idea: Be Kind


Tuesday, April 21st

Who Me, Jealous? Big Ideas: Believe in Yourself; Be Responsible
A Bunny In A Haystack: Big Idea: Be Responsible


Wednesday, April 22nd

Doggie Garden: Big Ideas: Help Others; Work Together
Captain Bridwell’s Treasure: Big Idea: Be Truthful


Thursday, April 23rd

Clifford's Carnival: Big Ideas: Work together; Be Responsible
Clifford's Doggy Reunion: Big Ideas: Have Respect; Be a Good Friend


Friday, April 24

Who Me, Jealous? Big Ideas: Believe in Yourself; Be Responsible
A Bunny In A Haystack: Big Idea: Be Responsible

You have until June 26th, 2009 to enter. Good luck if you and your kids choose to participate! If you've never been on Scholastic's site before, they even learning games that you and your kids can play together. It's a fun site! (and who doesn't love Clifford?)

Menu Planning Monday

It's the last week of my Mac N Cheese challenge! If you're here looking for menu ideas, why not search my recipe posts?

Monday: Last night of the challenge!

Tuesday: out to dinner (yay!)

Wednesday: recipe of the week - look for the post!

Thursday: Alfredo Chicken pasta, garlic bread, salad

Friday: pizza night

Saturday: Mexican Lasagna (will post the recipe with pictures this weekend)

Sunday: All In One Pork Chop Bake


Check out Organizing Junkie for other great Menu Plans!

Review & Giveaway: Romano's Macaroni Grill Creamy Basil Parmesan Chicken & Pasta

Thanks to My Blog Spark, a box with Romano's Macaroni Grill in Creamy Basil Parmesan Chicken & Pasta appeared on my doorstep. Quick and easy? Cheaper than going out for a nice Italian dinner? Oh, you're on!


Romano's Macaroni Grill Restaurant Favorites help you create restaurant inspired classic Italian dinners easily at home in around 20 minutes. Besides a little bit of milk or water and olive oil, the only thing you need to add is 1 pound of chicken to each dish.

Here's what was included in the Creamy Basil Parmesan Chicken & Pasta kit:



It was fairly easy to make, and hassle free. The only thing I want to point out is that on the box it says it's 5 servings - if you have teenage boys or a husband like mine, it's closer to 3-4 servings. Make sure you have a salad and garlic bread to go along with it! We really did enjoy it though:


Doesn't it look good?

There are four different Romano's Macaroni Grill Restaurant Favorites dinner kits including Garlic & Herb Chicken Penne, Creamy Basil Parmesan Chicken & Pasta, Chicken Alfredo with Linguine and Chicken Marsala with Linguine. If you'd like to try it yourself, you can print a coupon to save $1 off your next purchase!

Win it! I get to give away three wonderful gift baskets to help you create Italian goodness with the help of Romano's Macaroni Grill Restaurant Favorites. You'll receive what you see in the picture below (contents may vary in colors etc)


So to enter: Tell me how often you eat dinner together as a family, and which variety of Romano's Macaroni Grill Restaurant Favorites you'd like to try first. Make sure you include your email in your comment or it's visible in your profile - while I do submit winners to Prizey, and you can check back here of course - if you win, don't you want to get your prize? :)

For extra entries:
Subscribe to my feed or follow my blog
Digg, Kirtsy, stumble, tweet this with a review/link (leave your username, I do check)
Blog about this giveaway with a link

Contest ends April 30th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry :(