Monday, December 31, 2018

Happy Homemaker Monday {12/31/2018}

Hi Lovelies!

Good afternoon everyone! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. It's the last day of 2018 and I can say that I am ready to start 2019 off with a bang. 2018 was such a difficult year for us, we are ready for a fresh new start. The hubby and I have a few small project and 1 big project that we cannot wait to tackle in the new year!

Anyway, let's get started with this post, shall we?


The weather. It's in the 50 today, but tomorrow that all changes! It will be cold tomorrow with a chance of snow by the end of the week.

Right now I am... sitting at the dining room table typing this post. 

Thinking.  Still thinking about how I need to to update my planners and do some research on meal planners and writing a cookbook.

On my reading pile. Right now I am reading Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult (just started) and then it's on to Two by Two by Nicholas Sparks at the end of the month

On my tv. I'm watching some shows on Netflix and my Roku app and Amazon Prime and Hulu.

On the menu this week:

Monday-Pizza and breadsticks
Tuesday- Black eyed peas, fried potatoes, cornbread
Wednesday- Tacos
Thursday- Mexican cornbread
Friday- Pizza, bread sticks, salad
Saturday- Mississippi chicken, rice, and veggies
Sunday- Bean and cornbread with fried potatoes

On my to do list:

Laundry
Kitchen
Write and schedule blogs for the next two weeks (by end of the this week)
Update planners and bullet journal
Tidy bedrooms
Clean bathrooms
Vacuum all rooms

Looking around the house: The house is a mess. Every room needs to be tidied and the clothes are piling up in the laundry basket.

Bible verse, devotional, or quote:








Saturday, December 29, 2018

Currently {12/29/2018}

 Time and place: 4:47pm  and I am in the dining room, typing up this post.
 
Eating: Chocolate chip cookies.

Drinking: A big glass of water (always)


Watching: Cleaning videos, planner videos, and bullet journal videos.

Reading: Two By Two by Nicholas Sparks






Loving: that 2019 is just a few days a way.

Working: I just started designing a meal planner. I cannot wait to see how it turns out! I'm so excited for this new project. I am also working on blog posts for January and working on some goals for the new year.

I am also planning on working on some smaller projects as well. 

Listening: to PBS kids

Buying: groceries and other neccessitites

Planning: I have most of my posts planned for January already. I just have to write and schedule them. I am working on setting up some deadlines for my meal planner. I am also working with my husband on designing a new website. I am also working on some planner inserts. This should keep me busy for a while!

Wondering: can I pull it off? How will I pull it off?

Feeling: tired, but happy, always.

What are you currently up to?


Christmas Craziness and an Update

It's been quite a while since my last post. With all of the craziness that surrounds Christmas, the class parties, class trips, and shopping, it's been pretty busy around here. Not to mention that we were all sick the week before Christmas which made checking things off my to do list even harder. Everyone is finally healthy!

We had a great Christmas! The girls were given every thing they asked for and we spent Christmas morning with a very special family. I have to say that this was hands down the best Christmas we have had in quite some time.

Now that Christmas is over ( the tree is coming down tomorrow), I can now concentrate on setting up my planner and bullet journal, writing down and finalizing my 2019 goals (post coming soon), updating my blog, revamping my routines, setting up a reading schedule (if I don't I may never read),  and setting up a more realistic blogging schedule.

With that being said, I still need to update my blog planner and plan out my posts for January. What are some topics you would like to see me tackle in the new year? Please leave comments below. I look foward to reading them.

Have a great day and I will catch ya tomorrow!



Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Short Break

Hi Lovelies!

The past few days have been hectic and filled with taking care of a sick 3 year old. She is feeling better today. So, the point of this post, was that I had taken a short break to take care of my little. I will be back tonight with a post all about what to clean when there has been an illness in your house.



The rest of this week's posts will be all about how to set up a morning and evening routine. So, please stay tuned, these posts will be fun as well as informative.

See ya real soon!!

Saturday, December 15, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #15- 5 Things To Do Before The End of The Year

It’s hard to believe that we are days away from a new year. I am for sure the type of person who get’s excited for a new year. Not for the parties but for the new start. Who doesn’t love a new start? One of my favorite things to do is make a list of things to get done before a new year starts. Today I am sharing 5 things to do before the end of the year to ensure your 2019 is a great one!


5 Things To Do Before The End Of The Year



Get Organized: For some reason I get on rampages around this time of year to organize all the things. Lately it’s been the closets. They have reached crazy levels of disorganization. I feel like if my house is organized when the year starts I am much more likely to keep it that way. Also a great time to declutter and donate!
Find A Planner/Calendar That Works: I use a Classic Happy Planner. I love it. I have used one the last several years and I also use Google Calendar. Either paper or digital, find an organizer that works for YOU!
Find A Health Plan For You: I feel like this is the time that a lot of people start a new diet or health plan. I'm thinking about trying Weight Watchers again. I love how the program is set up and it's very easy to follow. 
Set Your Intentions: This could be resolutions, goals, intentions, whatever you prefer to call them. I like to make yearly goals and monthly goals to keep track of. I also like to make intentions. 
Find Your Word Of The Year: A lot of people do this. I never have but one think I want to do in this next week or so is figure out what my word for 2019 will be! Have you done this before?
Is there anything you would add to this list?

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #12- Christmas Crunch Popcorn

Hi and welcome to Day #12 of Blogmas!!! Today's post is all about Christmas popcorn. 






 Christmas Crunch Popcorn 

Ingredients

1/2 cup popping popcorn kernels, or 2 bags tender white popcorn
1 (12 oz) bag Vanilla Candy Melts (such as Wilton Candy Melts)
1 1/3 cups broken pretzel pieces
1 (12 oz) bag green and red Milk Chocolate or Mint M&Ms Red, green and white Sprinkles.

Directions

Pop popcorn in a popcorn popper into a large bowl (or alternately in the microwave if using microwave bags of popcorn) according to manufactures directions. Remove any unpopped popcorn kernels. Toss in broken pretzel pieces and M&Ms.

Melt Vanilla Candy Melts in a microwave safe bowl on 50% power in 30 second intervals, stirring after each interval until melted and smooth. Drizzle half of melted chips over popcorn mixture, then stir, tossing gently a few times with a rubber spatula. Then drizzle remaining half of melted chips over popcorn, and gently stir mixture until evenly coated (don't over stir though or your sprinkles wont stick if the white chips begin to set and harden).
Pour mixture into a single layer onto wax paper. Sprinkle entire mixture evenly with sprinkles (as many as you'd like) before vanilla chips set. Allow to cool and harden, then gently break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Note: I was able to fill 8 - 9 1/2"x 4" party treat bags about 2/3 full with this recipe, just to let you know so you have an idea for gift giving.











Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #11- Interesting Facts About Christmas

Welcome to Day #11 of Blogmas! After a quick search on the interwebs, I found some interesting facts that you may or may not know about Christmas. 






1. The Germans made the first artifical Christmas tree out of dyed goose feathers .

2.  Each year more than 3 billion Christmas cards are sent in the US alone.

3.  All the gifts in the Twelve Days of Christmas would equal 364 gifts.

4.  In AD 350, Pope Julius1, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birthday of Christ.

5.  Christmas trees have been sold in the US since 1850.

6.  Christmas trees usually grow for about 15 years before they are sold.

7.  Alabama was the first state in the United States to officially recognize Christmas in 1836.

8.  Christmas wasn't declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870.

9.  Oklahoma was the last U.S. state to to declare Christmas a legal holiday in 1907.

10. During the Christmas season, nearly 28 million sets of Legos are sold every second.

Monday, December 10, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #10- Favorite Christmas Recipe

Hi Lovelies!

Welcome to Blogmas Day #10! Today's post is all about a favorite family Christmas recipe. This is an easy one for me!  Our all time favorite Christmas recipe is a Nutella cheesecake that I make every year.


Ingredients


Crust

2 cups (264g) Oreo crumbs (leave filling in Oreos)
4 tbsp (56g) butter, melted
Filling
24 oz (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup (104g) sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups (470g) Nutella
3 tbsp (21g) cocoa powder
8 oz Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream)
Nutella Ganache
1/2 cup (157g) Nutella
1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
6 Ferrero Rocher, chopped



Instructions


1. Combine Oreo crumbs with melted butter.


2. Press crumbs into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9 inch springform pan. Set in refrigerator to firm.

3. Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, Nutella and cocoa powder together in a large bowl until smooth and well combined.

4. Gently stir in the Cool Whip (or homemade whipped cream).

5. Pour filling into crust and smooth the top.

6. Refrigerate for about 4-6 hours or until firm.

7. Remove cheesecake from springform pan and place on cake plate.

8. To make the ganache, place the nutella into a medium bowl. Bring the cream to a boil in the microwave, then pour over the nutella. Whisk until smooth.

9. Let the ganache to cool slightly and thicken before pouring over cheesecake.

10. Sprinkle chopped Ferrero Rocher over the top of the cheesecake.

11. Refrigerate until serving.

Love you to the moon and back!!!

Sunday, December 9, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day 9- Holiday Baking

Hello Lovelies!

Welcome to day #9 of Blogmas! Today's post is all about Holiday baking, the tried and true recipes that you make every year and the ones you want to try. I always make the same cookies every year, chocolate chip, sugar, and peanut butter. This year I want to make something different, something that I have never made before... this is where the internet comes in real handy.

I did a quick search and found a few recipes that I would like to try.

Chocolate Cherry Snowballs



Snickers Chocolate Cookie Cups


Russian Tea Cakes


What are some of your favorite Christmas cookie recipes?

Saturday, December 8, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #8- Pot Simmer Recipes

Hi Lovelies!

Welcome to Day #8 of Blogmas! Today's post is all about pot simmer recipes. Let's be honest, this is a foreign concept to me because I had never heard of them before until now. From what I understand, you begin by bringing water to a boil  and then adding your favorite ingredients and letting is simmer all day. As the water simmers away, you add more water. This not only leaves a pleasant fragrence throughout your house and also puts some moisture in the air.

So here are a few recipes that I have found and that I would like to try:

Recipe #1
Cinnamon sticks
Apple peels
Orange rinds
Whole cloves


Recipe #2
Apple juice
Cinnamon sticks
Whole cloves

Recipe #3
Vanilla (a few drops)
Orange peels

Recipe #4 – Christmas Potpourri Simmering Pot
3 sprigs evergreen or handful pine needles
2 cinnamon sticks
2 TBS whole cloves
2 bay leaves
2 pieces orange rind
2 pieces lemon rind

What is your favorite recipe?

Friday, December 7, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #7- Christmas Traditions

Hello again Lovelies!

Welcome to Day #7 of Blogmas! Today's post is all about memories from past Christmases. The only happy memories that I have from my childhood center around Christmas. Growing up, we had two Christmas celebrations, one on Christmas eve and then on Christmas day. The Christmas eve celebration was always my favorite because we celebrated with German traditions. I loved the food (bratwurst and spetzula, and strawberry cake) , the presents, and just being with my Grandparents. We always went to midnight mass afterwards. It has always been my favorite way to celebrate Christmas.


Spetzula


Strawberry Cake


What are some of your memories from past Christmases?

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #6- Christmas Play List

Hello Lovelies!

Here I am on day #6 of Blogmas 2016. Today's post has to do with your Christmas playlist. Now, we don't listen to Christmas music every day, we do listen to one christmas song over and over and over throughout the month of December. It also happens to be my 6 year old's favorite song:

Feliz Navidad



Another one is Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer


What's on your Christmas playlist?

Monday, December 3, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #3- My Christmas Wish List

 Hi Lovlies!

Welcome to Day #3 of Blogmas! Today's post is all about my Christmas wish list. I have wanted the items on this list for a couple of years now, and I would be happy if I find at least on these items under the Christmas tree on Christmas morning.

So here is my......

 Christmas Wish List:

Instant pot- fully functional electric pressure cooker





The Outsider by Stephen King







Fitbit Flex activity tracker




Hamilton Beach bread machine

So, what's on your wish list?

That's it for today's post! I hope everyone had a wonderful Monday and I hope you have an even better Tuesday.

Love you to the moon and back!!






Sunday, December 2, 2018

Blogmas 2018- Day #2- My Favorite Christmas Movies

Hi and welcome to Day #2 of Blogmas! Today's post is all about some of my favorite Christmas movies.You know those movies that you have to watch every year, without fail, or those that best represent the season for you.

Here's my list!

1. Christmas Vacation:

As the holidays approach, Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) wants to have a perfect family Christmas, so he pesters his wife, Ellen (Beverly D'Angelo), and children, as he tries to make sure everything is in line, including the tree and house decorations. However, things go awry quickly. His hick cousin, Eddie (Randy Quaid), and his family show up unplanned and start living in their camper on the Griswold property. Even worse, Clark's employers renege on the holiday bonus he needs.



2. Home Alone: 

When bratty 8-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) acts out the night before a family trip to Paris, his mother (Catherine O'Hara) makes him sleep in the attic. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without Kevin, he awakens to an empty house and assumes his wish to have no family has come true. But his excitement sours when he realizes that two con men (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) plan to rob the McCallister residence, and that he alone must protect the family home.


3. Elf:

Buddy (Will Ferrell) was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa's elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn't fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father. As it happens, this is Walter Hobbs (James Caan), a cynical businessman. After a DNA test proves this, Walter reluctantly attempts to start a relationship with the childlike Buddy with increasingly chaotic results.


4. The Holiday:

 Dumped and depressed, English rose Iris agrees to swap homes with similarly unlucky in love Californian Amanda for a much-needed break. Iris finds herself in a palatial Hollywood mansion while Amanda navigates the lanes of a picture-perfect English village. Soon enough, both lovelorn ladies bump into local lads perfect for a romantic pick-me-up.



5. The Family Stone:

Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney) wants to bring his girlfriend, Meredith Morton (Sarah Jessica Parker), to meet his bohemian Connecticut family at Christmas. Straitlaced Meredith, feeling she needs backup, asks her sister Julie (Claire Danes) to come along. Hoping to win the approval of her boyfriend's parents Sybil (Diane Keaton) and Kelly (Craig T. Nelson) and the rest of the family, instead Meredith succeeds only in highlighting her uptight personality and making Everett doubt his intentions.





Now, this doesn't make up my entire list, but these are the movies that I have watch every single year.

What's on your must watch movie list?



Saturday, December 1, 2018

Welcome to Blogmas 2018

Hello Lovelies!

So…It’s December 1st…WHAT!! Where did it even come from? I still feel like I am in the mindset of Halloween. The past couple of months have literally flown by. I have been focusing so much on my daughter's school activities as starting a new business with my husband. And then I blink and here it is…TIME FOR BLOGMAS.



Blogmas is kind of self-explanatory. However, I will explain it for those who do not know what it is and what it involves. Blogmas is an event which happens from December 1st until the 25th, although, it may last until the new year. Blogmas involves bloggers posting every day until Christmas. You can post whatever you like. It can be Christmassy or it can just be things that you are interested in. I like to think of Blogmas as a present for all those readers out there who get something to read every day… kind of like an advent calendar. There is also Vlogmas which is the YouTube version that requires a video or vlog every day.

I have decided that a new blog post will go live every day at 9pm to give me plenty of time to write up my posts without them being rushed. I am going to try very hard to ensure that I successfully complete Blogmas. I did finally complete Blogtober this year... so we will see how Blogmas goes.  Please let me know if you get the chance to read some. This year my Blogmas posts will include some Chrismassy content as well, mommy and lifestyle content.

Once again, welcome to Blogmas 2018!!!

Monday, November 26, 2018

Happy Homemaker Monday {11/26/2018}

Hi Lovelies!

Good afternoon everyone! I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We visited our local museum and explored the dinosaur exhibit and played in the general store. The girls had a blast and want to go back real soon.

The weather. Clod and windy today, but starting tomorrow we are supposed to be in the 60s for the rest of the week.

Right now I am... sitting at the dining room table typing this post. 

Thinking.  Still thinking about how I need to to update my planners and do some research on meal planners and writing a cookbook.

On my reading pile. Right now I am reading On the Street Where You Live by Mary Higgins Clark (just started) and then it's on to Two by Two by Nicholas Sparks at the end of the month

On my tv. I'm watching some shows on Netflix and my Roku app and Amazon Prime and Hulu.

On the menu this week:

Monday-Spaghetti and veggies
Tuesday- Beans and cornbread
Wednesday- Mississippi chicken, rice, and veggies
Thursday- Tacos, rice, chips and salsa
Friday- Pizza, bread sticks, salad
Saturday- Beans, fried potatoes, corn muffins
Sunday- Mexican cornbread, salad

On my to do list:

Laundry
Kitchen
Write and schedule blogs for the next two weeks (by end of the this week)
Update planners and bullet journal


Looking around the house: The house is a mess. Every room needs to be tidied and the clothes are piling up in the laundry basket.

Bible verse, devotional, or quote:








Saturday, November 24, 2018

4 Ways to Take Care of Yourself During the Winter Months

I feel like during the holidays we can run ourselves ragged. It’s so easy to forget to take care of you while you’re busy trying to find the perfect gifts, go to all the family parties, and do all the things. Today I am sharing 4 ways to take care of yourself this holiday season so you don’t feel like you need a vacation come January!

4 Ways to Take Care of Yourself During the Winter Months



Take Care Of Your Hair: With all the parties and events, you can really damage your hair this time of year. Plus colder weather can make your scalp dry and flakey! Especially if you’re one of the 50 percent of people who have issues with dry, itchy scalp and dandruff, which can get worse when the temperatures drop. I recommend using a tea tree and peppermint-infused product from Head & Shoulders that will ensure the only flakes on your shoulders this winter are snow.
  
Take Care Of Your Mentality:  I  am a big fan of yoga. This is a great ways to take care of your mentality so the holiday stress doesn’t get to you! It’s one of the most stressful times of year.

Take Care Of Your Sleep: It can be so easy to want to do ALL THE THINGS. Sometimes you have to say no to something and get the extra few hours of sleep. Otherwise you will make yourself sick and you may not be able to do any of the fun stuff you want!

Take Care Of Your Body: While it can be easy to want to indulge in all the cookies, pastries, drinks, etc. remember to take care of your body with moderation. Everything in moderation. Also, this is not the time of year to skip the gym. Make sure to give yourself time to get some workouts in, even a 2 mile walk around your neighborhood. It will make detoxing after the holidays SO much easier!

Currently {11/24/2018}

 Time and place: 3:27pm  and I am in the dining room, typing up this post.
 
Eating: Goldfish crackers ( I know these are not healthy, but there wasn't anything else to eat.)


Drinking: A big glass of water (always)


Watching: Cleaning videos, planner videos, and bullet journal videos.

Reading: Two By Two by Nicholas Sparks






Loving: the holidays have officially started.

Working: I just started designing a meal planner. I cannot wait to see how it turns out! I'm so excited for this new project. I am also working on a weekly planner insert that I am excited about and I am working on some stickers for my bullet journal.

I am also planning on working on some smaller projects as well. 

Listening: to the girls playing in the playroom

Buying: Christmas presents

Planning: I have most of my posts planned forDecember already. I just have to write and schedule them. I am working on setting up some deadlines for my meal planner. I am also working with my husband on designing a new website. I am also working on some planner inserts. This should keep me busy for a while!

Wondering: can I pull it off? How will I pull it off?

Feeling: tired, but happy, always.

What are you currently up to?


Thursday, November 22, 2018

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

20 Interesting Facts about Thanksgiving

Did you know that turkey wasn't even served at the first Thanksgiving — and that the Pilgrims didn’t use forks because they weren’t invented yet? Impress your kids (and the in-laws!) with these crazy, yet true, fun facts about Thanksgiving!




On the fourth Thursday in November, families across the U.S. gather to feast on turkey, watch football and gear up for Christmas by looking for Santa during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, but did you ever wonder why these Thanksgiving traditions started?


  • The first Thanksgiving was held in the autumn of 1621 and included 50 Pilgrims and 90 Wampanoag Indians and lasted three days. Many historians believe that only five women were present at that first Thanksgiving, as many women settlers didn't survive that difficult first year in the U.S.
  • Thanksgiving didn't become a national holiday until over 200 years later! Sarah Josepha Hale, the woman who actually wrote the classic song “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” convinced President Lincoln in 1863 to make Thanksgiving a national holiday, after writing letters for 17 years campaigning for this to happen.
  • No turkey on the menu at the first Thanksgiving: Historians say that no turkey was served at the first Thanksgiving! What was on the menu? Deer or venison, ducks, geese, oysters, lobster, eel and fish. They probably ate pumpkins, but no pumpkin pies. They also didn't eat mashed potatoes or cranberry relish, but they probably ate cranberries. And no, Turduckens (a turkey stuffed with a duck stuffed with a chicken) were nowhere to be found during that first Thanksgiving.
  • No forks at the first Thanksgiving!The first Thanksgiving was eaten with spoons and knives — but no forks! That's right, forks weren't even introduced to the Pilgrims until 10 years later and weren't a popular utensil until the 18th century.
  • Thanksgiving is the reason for TV dinners! In 1953, Swanson had so much extra turkey (260 tons) that a salesman told them they should package it onto aluminum trays with other sides like sweet potatoes — and the first TV dinner was born!
  • Thanksgiving was almost a fast — not a feast! The early settlers gave thanks by praying and abstaining from food, which is what they planned on doing to celebrate their first harvest, that is, until the Wampanoag Indians joined them and (lucky for us!) turned their fast into a three-day feast!
  • Presidential pardon of a turkeyEach year, the president of the U.S pardons a turkey and spares it from being eaten for Thanksgiving dinner. The first turkey pardon ceremony started with President Truman in 1947. President Obama pardoned a 45-pound turkey named Courage, who has flown to Disneyland and served as Grand Marshal of the park's Thanksgiving Day parade!
  • Why is Thanksgiving the fourth Thursday in November? President Abe Lincoln said Thanksgiving would be the fourth Thursday in November, but in 1939 President Roosevelt moved it up a week hoping it would help the shopping season during the Depression era. It never caught on and it was changed back two years later.
  • The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924 with 400 employees marching from Convent Ave to 145th street in New York City. No large balloons were at this parade, as it featured only live animals from Central Park Zoo.


  • Turkey isn't responsible for drowsiness or the dreaded "food coma." So what is? Scientists say that extra glass of wine, the high-calorie meal or relaxing after a busy work schedule is what makes you drowsy!
  • How did the tradition of watching football on Thanksgiving start? The NFL started the Thanksgiving Classic games in 1920 and since then the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have hosted games on Turkey Day. In 2006, a third game was added with different teams hosting.


  • Wild turkeys can run 20 miles per hour when they are scared, but domesticated turkeys that are bred are heavier and can't run quite that fast.

Monday, November 19, 2018

Thanksgiving Like a Gilmore Girl

hanksgiving is just days away, which means it’s time to re-watch that Gilmore Girls episode, “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” to get us into the spirit of things. This episode has it all: Rory/Jess/Dean drama, Kirk gets a cat, Luke trying not to show how much the Gilmore gals mean to him, Jackson deep frying a turkey, drunk Sookie, Lane’s first kiss with, Paris being Paris, and a nice kerfuffle between Lorelai and her parents. In honor of the holiday and my love of all things Gilmore, I’ve created a guide on how you, too, can celebrate Thanksgiving just like a Gilmore Girl. Let us give thanks and begin:

Volunteer At A Soup Kitchen
Invoke your inner Paris Geller and make your way to your local soup kitchen or homeless shelter and volunteer to help out. If you don’t have enough time to stay and cook or serve food, you could also take up a collection of canned goods and drop them off, or make a donation so others can purchase a Thanksgiving meal. Sure, Paris is technically looking to volunteer so it looks good on her college applications, but she does admit she also does it for “the good of mankind,” and at this time of year, we’d like to give her the benefit of the doubt.

Try To Hit Up More Than One Thanksgiving Dinner
The Gilmores are a popular duo in Stars Hollow. So much so that they end up booking themselves for a total of FOUR Thanksgiving dinners: The Kims, Sookie and Jackson’s, Luke’s, and the elder Gilmores. While that may sound like a pain to some, I think it sounds awesome. For one, you get to socialize with tons of friends and family, many of whom you might not see often enough. For another, if there is a dinner or two in there involving people who might cause some drama in your life (such as Lorelai’s hesitation at having Thanksgiving dinner with her parents), it won’t be so bad because you won’t have to spend more than an hour or so there. Less time means less chance of it ending up in a not-so-friendly food fight. Plus, think of all the different types of food you’ll get to eat! More than likely at least 2 different kinds of stuffing and 4 different kinds of pie.

…But Make Sure To Leave Room For Each One
Having 2 to 4 dinners back to back might be a bit difficult on the body, so the Gilmores have a few tips for y’all on this front. For one, skip the rolls. Rolls are completely unnecessary filler food that you only need to eat if the green bean casserole isn’t done cooking or if someone knocked over the cranberry sauce. Also, consider bringing a few Tums on hand for the possibility of your turkey turning on you. Then again, if your eating skills are on par with Lorelai Gilmore, you could probably skip that and just go in there with a positive, can-eat attitude. You can do it!

Make A Few Bucks Working A Little On The Holiday
Pull a Dean and rake in extra cash. Most places give at least time and a half for your troubles. Extra money for holiday gifts is never a bad thing.

Bring Flowers To All Your Hosts
Bringing the host a gift is always a nice gesture. Plus adding some gorgeous, seasonal flowers to the occasion will only add to the festive ambiance. And if your host is anything like Luke, consider also buying them a small vase to put them in.

Plus Some Cranberry Sauce
Because there can never be too much. The Gilmore Girls prefer theirs canned, but personally, I’m a big fan of making my own. It’s the easiest thing to make for Thanksgiving. Try out this recipe and see for yourself.

…Add Some Chocolate Turkeys, To Boot!
Unless of course they’re Mrs. Kim. Might not be too late to order these sweet treats from Godiva!

Avoid Your Exes
Because the last thing you need is any awkward encounters that might ruin your appetite. Feel free to let friends or family (or your own personal Lorelai) run interference if need be.

Open Yourself Up To Trying New Foods
Mrs. Kim, being a vegetarian, serves Tofurkey at her dinner. Being a vegetarian myself, it’s always nice when non-veg folk try out some of my personal favorites. I’ll probably be opting for a Field Roast for myself this year. But if you end up needing to dispose of foods you end up not liking, stuffing them inside some extra napkins so as to avoid insulting the chef might work.

Wear A Fabulous Autumn Coat
If it’s cold enough where you are, that is. These ladies always look sharp.

Decorate Like Sookie
Between her beautiful cornucopias, the turkey table runners, and the floral wreaths, who wouldn’t want to enjoy Thanksgiving at her house? If you’ll be the one hosting the party, we suggest you go all out.

No go out there and get your Gilmore on this Thanksgiving!

Sunday, November 18, 2018

50 Self Care Ideas

Self care has always been a topic on the internet. I think it's important to take care of yourself and reward yourself for just getting through the day or even the week. So, today I am sharing 50 self care ideas!

50 Self Care Ideas



  • Take a bath
  • Do a face mask
  • Go for a walk
  • Try a new workout class
  • Treat yourself to a yummy holiday drink
  • Go shopping
  • Or at least go try on clothes that make you feel great
  • See a movie alone
  • Binge a TV show
  • If you live near it, go to the beach
  • If you live near it, go hiking
  • Check out a local museum
  • Bake some cookies
  • Rearrange your furniture 
  • Buy some flowers
  • Journal
  • Clean out your closet
  • Organize drawers
  • Clean up your house
  • Listen to a good playlist
  • Make a new playlist
  • Go on a solo trip
  • Make a grateful list
  • Say NO more
  • Take a nap and catch up on sleep
  • Take up a new hobby
  • Color
  • Binge a podcast
  • Go 24 hours without social media
  • Take a personal day off work
  • Try a new skincare regimen
  • Mute people on Instagram/Twitter who make you feel bad about yourself
  • Get a massage/facial
  • Go to bed at 8PM every night for a week
  • Sleep in
  • Use an acupressure mat
  • Have a staycation weekend in a hotel alone
  • Try a new wine
  • Go to your place of worship
  • Pay it forward
  • Go find the perfect lipstick/lipgloss
  • Have dinner delivered from your favorite place
  • Dance around your living room to your favorite songs
  • Get dressed up and sit at a bar and order a fun drink
  • Stretch/foam roll
  • Have a picnic alone and read
  • Reconnect with an old friend
  • Go to a meetup group/bible study etc
  • Play with puppies/kittens/your favorite animal
  • Adopt a pet
What is something you do for self-care? What would you add to this list of 50 self-care ideas?

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Three Favorites- Laundry Room Edition

Hi Lovelies!

I thought tonight I would show you three of my favorite laundry makeovers courtesy of Pinterest. I have been wanting to makeover my laundry room for quite some time now. Now, I know none of these ideas will work with my current laundry room, but I just love them so much that I thought I would share them with you.

Hey, a girl can dream, right?

Laundry room makeover #1:






This one is just so beautiful. If I had this laundry room I wouldn't mind working on laundry at all.

Laundry room makeover #2:




I love the layout of this one. Oh, and the colors are just so beautiful.

Laundry room makeover #3:


I love the little island in the middle of the room. The perfect place to fold all of those pesky clothes that just seem to multiply.

What would your dream laundry room look like?

Monday, November 12, 2018

Happy Chicken Soup for the Soul Day!

Date When Celebrated : Always November 12



Chicken Soup for the Soul Day is today. It's a celebration about you.

According to the creators of the book series of the same name, Chicken Soup for the Soul Day was created as ".... a celebration of who you are, where you've been, where you're going, and who you will be thankful to when you get there!"
We suggest you take this day as a celebration of the value and healing of chicken soup, especially mom's chicken soul. Chicken soup has long been seen as remedial for colds, flus, and just about anything that ails you. You can't find that healing in a can. You can only find it in mom's homemade chicken soup.

Have a happy Chicken Soup for the Soul Day.

Sunday, November 11, 2018

Sunday Supper- Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice – This deliciously creamy chicken and rice is one of the easiest one pot meals you will ever make!  Juicy chicken and rice are cooked together in a buttery broth then mixed up with cream and parmesan cheese for a luscious 30 minute one pan dinner!

Chicken and rice is something that is very nostalgic for me.  I always looked forward to a big cheesy casserole pan full of gooey chicken and rice goodness. 

 Tips for Making Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice:
  • You will want to use a large (12 inch) skillet that has a lid for this recipe.  If you don’t have a skillet like that you can find one that I love down below the printable recipe card (affiliate link) or you can also use a good sized pot or dutch oven with a lid.
  • Melting your butter is your first step.  After that, go ahead and add the onion and let them cook for 2-3 minutes before adding your garlic.  Garlic only takes 30 seconds to 1 minute to cook, and you don’t want to add it too soon or it will burn and taste bitter.
  • Use long grain rice for this recipe, not minute/instant rice.  If you use quick cooking rice, it will cook too quickly and become mushy.  Any long grain rice will work!
  • Most of the cooking time for this one pot chicken and rice is completely hands off.  You will have about 15-20 minutes for the rice and chicken to simmer.  I love to take that time to chop up a quick green salad to have on the side!


Enjoy!

 Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients
  • 1.5 Pounds Chicken Breasts, Cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 4 Tablespoons Butter
  • 1 Large onion, Diced
  • 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced (3 Teaspoons)
  • 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 Teaspoon Salt
  • 2 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth
  • 1 Cup long grain white rice
  • 1/2 Cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Parsley for serving, Optional
Instructions
  1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until beginning to soften.
  2. Add the diced chicken to the pan along with the Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt.
  3. Cook and stir for 5 minutes until chicken is golden on all sides.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for one more minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Add the chicken broth and rice to the pan and stir.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium low.
  7. Cover with a lid and simmer for 17-20 minutes, until rice is completely tender.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan.  Serve immediately topped with parsley if desired.

Thursday, November 8, 2018

18 Interesting Facts about Mickey Mouse

Did you know that Mickey Mouse will turn 90 years old on Nov. 18? Yes, everyone’s favorite cartoon character has been bringing smiles and joy to kids and adults alike for almost nine decades. You’ve grown up with the famous mouse and you’ve probably been to one of the Disney parks in your lifetime, but even if you’re a Walt Disney World or Disneyland regular and a devoted fan of Mickey and the gang, we bet there are still some fun facts you didn’t know about Mickey Mouse and his creator Walt Disney:

18 Interesting Facts about Mickey Mouse 




 

1. Mickey Mouse was inspired by the pet mouse Disney had as a child.

 2. Mickey was originally going to be named Mortimer!


3. Every U.S. president has posed with Mickey Mouse, save Lyndon Johnson.

4. Speaking of presidents, Mickey Mouse is the most popular write-in candidate at the voting booth.

 

5. Mickey Mouse was the first cartoon character to ever speak. And what were his first words? “Hot dogs!”

6. There are hidden Mickeys all over Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Spotting them is part of the fun of going to the theme parks.

 7. Mickey wears white gloves so that you can see his hands (otherwise they would blend in against his body, especially in the early days with cruder animation technology).

8. Walt Disney said that Minnie and Mickey Mouse are indeed married, although they keep it private and they do not share a home.

9. Mickey Rooney claims that he was the inspiration for Mickey Mouse’s name.

10. The first two Mickey Mouse movies cost $2,500 to make.

11. Mickey Mouse was the first cartoon character to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

12. In the 1970s, Mickey released a disco album which went double platinum.

13. Walt Disney originally held the patent for Technicolor, meaning that Disney was the only animator who could make cartoons in color.

 

14. Mickey Mouse is said to be more recognizable around the globe than Santa Claus.

15. Mickey Mouse only has four fingers! Walt Disney felt that five fingers resembled a “bunch of bananas.”

16. Walt Disney himself voiced Mickey Mouse for many years.

17. Looking for a job? If you want to be the Mickey Mouse mascot at Disneyland, the theme park requires all actors to be between 4′ 8″ to 5′ 2″.

 18. All Mickey Mouse mascots have to practice the “Mickey” signature so that it looks uniform regardless of who is inside the costume. This is no easy feat, especially with those big white gloves on!