Hi guys! Just wanted to let you know that Amber over at Skin MD is generously offering a discount code for 20% off purchases made at www.skinmdnatural.com to Adventures in All Things Food readers. Just enter FOOD (case sensitive) at check-out.
Now you have another great reason to try out Skin MD Natural! You won't regret it.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Soups On! Roasted Beef, Barley & Mushroom Goodness
Just hearing that fall is upon us has me all excited for soup. Okay, I like soup year 'round, but something about fall and winter really cause me to crave some hearty soups. The one thing I don't care for are all the additives, preservatives and unpronounceable items listed on the back of soup cans. So I try to stay away from pre-made soup. The great thing is soup is so easy... inexpensive ... and fun!
Today I wanted to begin my soup journey with a roasted soup. I just love how roasting brings out the flavor of food.
Okay, yes. I said soup. I promise... it will be soup in the end.
Now, that is a perfect cold day soup.
Today I wanted to begin my soup journey with a roasted soup. I just love how roasting brings out the flavor of food.
Okay, yes. I said soup. I promise... it will be soup in the end.
You Will Need:
1 lb Sirloin Steak - cut into uniform cubes
1 lb button or crimini mushrooms - halved or quartered depending on size
2 shallots - rough chop
1/2 c. barley
2 c. beef broth
3 c. chicken stock
Just heat up your oven to 400 degrees... Toss steak cubes, mushrooms and shallots in olive oil. Then season and put them in the oven for 30- 45 minutes. Let them brown, but don't let them burn. See, isn't that easy?
Okay, now a soup-y-er part... Take your 2 cups of beef broth and bring your barley to a simmer. This will simmer for the same 30 minutes or so. You want it to still have a bit of a bite to it.
Then throw them all in the pot together and let the juices meld, er... simmer for another 5 - 10 minutes.
And that is it! Ta-da! I decided that roasting the veggies for the soup freed up a large chunk of my time. I loved it. And even better? It was amazingly delicious. It had a hearty and rich flavor that I loved. Next time I think I twill make a double batch so I can freeze half.
Now, that is a perfect cold day soup.
Great Giveaway on Other Blogs!
There is a fabulous giveaway right now for two fabulous products over at My Little Cupcake Blog:
She is giving away Not ONE but TWO!!! Two lucky winners will get a Bakerella's Book and My Little Cupcake's "Cupcake POP Mold"!!!
So cute! If you haven't seen Bakerella's new book... please hop on over to Amazon for a peek and instructional clip of her basic cupcake pop. I am dying to try out this recipe for my kiddos. Yeah, they can't have chocolate, but with low-pro cake mix and almond bark to coat... they can have a low-pro treat. I can't wait! Enter this great giveaway HERE. This giveaway ends 10/3.
And Honk Your Horns!
There is a Train-tastic giveaway going on over at Simply Being Mommy.
Next month you will be able to buy your little Chugger their own trains so they can play right along with the show. What if I told you that you could enter to win a Chuggington Prize Pack with a Launch & Go Roundhouse, track, and die cast trains? Excited yet? If you have a son like mine (think super fan) then you won't want to miss this. Head over to her blog to enter. This giveaway ends 10/12 and the toys will be available 10/5. ...Toys R Us is accepting pre-orders now, too!
And for another chance...
mine Head over to 3 Garnets 2 Sapphires for another chance to win a train set for your little Chugger.
There are so many great new additions coming out for this die cast set... have you seen the Fix & Go Repair Shed? Check out all the first release toys at Chuggington Toys. Her giveaway will end 10/11.
She is giving away Not ONE but TWO!!! Two lucky winners will get a Bakerella's Book and My Little Cupcake's "Cupcake POP Mold"!!!
So cute! If you haven't seen Bakerella's new book... please hop on over to Amazon for a peek and instructional clip of her basic cupcake pop. I am dying to try out this recipe for my kiddos. Yeah, they can't have chocolate, but with low-pro cake mix and almond bark to coat... they can have a low-pro treat. I can't wait! Enter this great giveaway HERE. This giveaway ends 10/3.
And Honk Your Horns!
There is a Train-tastic giveaway going on over at Simply Being Mommy.
Next month you will be able to buy your little Chugger their own trains so they can play right along with the show. What if I told you that you could enter to win a Chuggington Prize Pack with a Launch & Go Roundhouse, track, and die cast trains? Excited yet? If you have a son like mine (think super fan) then you won't want to miss this. Head over to her blog to enter. This giveaway ends 10/12 and the toys will be available 10/5. ...Toys R Us is accepting pre-orders now, too!
And for another chance...
mine Head over to 3 Garnets 2 Sapphires for another chance to win a train set for your little Chugger.
Review - Skin MD Natural Can Help
If you have looked around on my blog here, you will know that I am a busy Mama. Changing diapers for two little ones, all that cooking and baking, gardening and life in general ... well, it requires a lot of hand washing! I enjoy being clean and hygienic, but I could really do without the dry skin that comes with it. I was sent a sample of Skin MD Natural to try out and I have really put it to the test!
I have always enjoyed lotion, but do not enjoy greasy or heavy lotions. Skin MD Natural did a great job of going on easily and then keeping my hands moisturized throughout the day. I only applied twice a day, and not after every hand washing as I had before. It was soaked up right away leaving me more time to get back to the rest of my life.
Another great tidbit is this moisturizer is fragrance free, paraben free and hypoallergenic. That is very important in this household. We went fragrance free a few years ago for allergies and any strong smell can set my DH off. I am happy to say, he never noticed I was wearing it. He did notice my softer hands. Win, win!
If Summer wasn't bad enough, Winter will be even harder on my skin. I am excited to be able to protect it with Skin MD Natural. I love the fact that it is made in the US. In this economy I love finding good products that also help to employ people in our country. This Winter, my hands won't be the only part of my body soaking up this great stuff! I plan on using it on my knees, elbows and feet. All the places that get dry and chapped in the winter wind.
Would I recommend this product? Absolutely! I plan to buy more once my bottle runs out. I am sold.
So, if you want a bottle of your own, and who wouldn't? ... just head over to www.skinmdnatural.com to order, or use their store locator to find a location that sells Skin MD Natural near you. I can find it at my local Walgreens or Bi-Mart, what about you?
*Disclaimer - I was sent a sample product to test in order to write an honest review. No other compensation was received.
I have always enjoyed lotion, but do not enjoy greasy or heavy lotions. Skin MD Natural did a great job of going on easily and then keeping my hands moisturized throughout the day. I only applied twice a day, and not after every hand washing as I had before. It was soaked up right away leaving me more time to get back to the rest of my life.
Another great tidbit is this moisturizer is fragrance free, paraben free and hypoallergenic. That is very important in this household. We went fragrance free a few years ago for allergies and any strong smell can set my DH off. I am happy to say, he never noticed I was wearing it. He did notice my softer hands. Win, win!
If Summer wasn't bad enough, Winter will be even harder on my skin. I am excited to be able to protect it with Skin MD Natural. I love the fact that it is made in the US. In this economy I love finding good products that also help to employ people in our country. This Winter, my hands won't be the only part of my body soaking up this great stuff! I plan on using it on my knees, elbows and feet. All the places that get dry and chapped in the winter wind.
Would I recommend this product? Absolutely! I plan to buy more once my bottle runs out. I am sold.
So, if you want a bottle of your own, and who wouldn't? ... just head over to www.skinmdnatural.com to order, or use their store locator to find a location that sells Skin MD Natural near you. I can find it at my local Walgreens or Bi-Mart, what about you?
*Disclaimer - I was sent a sample product to test in order to write an honest review. No other compensation was received.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Holiday Survey from Lands' End
Winners will be selected at random and will be notified on or around the week of October 25, 2010.
*Disclaimer - This information was sent out by MomSelect & Lands' End. I received another entry in the drawing in exchange for blogging about this opportunity. No other compensation was received.
Toddler Tuesdays - Independence!
Welcome to Toddler Tuesday! Since I now have two toddlers in the house (gasp!) I think it is doubly important to celebrate the true toddler spirit of, "I can do it!".
The road to independence is paved with a bit of frosting...
A few snack friendly finger foods...
And a bunch of mac n' cheese (PKU friendly of course from Cambrooke foods!)
Yay for independence! Doesn't it look delicious.... and fun?
If you want to share your own Toddler Tuesday post, be sure to link up at Minnesota Mamas Must Haves!
The road to independence is paved with a bit of frosting...
And a bunch of mac n' cheese (PKU friendly of course from Cambrooke foods!)
If you want to share your own Toddler Tuesday post, be sure to link up at Minnesota Mamas Must Haves!
Leftovers? How about Spring Rolls...
Leftovers are inevitable... or, they are in this house. Luckily I have a DH who would eat just about anything I put in front of him. But still, some days I want something... well, more exciting!
Armed with some left over rotisserie chicken, spring roll wrappers, rice noodles and assorted veggies and condiments, I went to work to make two different wraps for us.
The rice noodles are so simple and fast to prepare! Just let them soak in hot water for 10 minutes. Then grab another bowl of hot water and dip your rice paper wrappers. Don't let them sit. They will soften up very quickly and you don't want them to tear or just disintegrate. Then lay it out on a dry plate (dry between rolls as the water will keep making the wrap softer.) and assemble your fillings.
For my first wrap I used the chicken pieces, avocado slices, olives, cherry tomatoes, a bit of noodles and a little Paul Newman's Asian Ginger salad dressing. They were yummy!
The other wrap had the chicken, avocado, olives, noodles, sour cream and a dollop of Cafe Yum Sauce. The sauce is a flavorful dressing for our rice and bean bowls. Next time I might even throw in a few black beans to make it a true rice and bean wrap!
Wrap them tightly and as the wrap dries it will shrink to hold in your filling. Since I put sauce inside the wraps I didn't add a dipping sauce since I had already added the sauce to my filling. It was a simple and non-conventional lunch that I will be trying again. These would be fun to pack for a picnic. I think my wrapping skills need to be honed!
Enjoy!
So, what would you like in your wrap?
Armed with some left over rotisserie chicken, spring roll wrappers, rice noodles and assorted veggies and condiments, I went to work to make two different wraps for us.
For my first wrap I used the chicken pieces, avocado slices, olives, cherry tomatoes, a bit of noodles and a little Paul Newman's Asian Ginger salad dressing. They were yummy!
The other wrap had the chicken, avocado, olives, noodles, sour cream and a dollop of Cafe Yum Sauce. The sauce is a flavorful dressing for our rice and bean bowls. Next time I might even throw in a few black beans to make it a true rice and bean wrap!
Wrap them tightly and as the wrap dries it will shrink to hold in your filling. Since I put sauce inside the wraps I didn't add a dipping sauce since I had already added the sauce to my filling. It was a simple and non-conventional lunch that I will be trying again. These would be fun to pack for a picnic. I think my wrapping skills need to be honed!
Enjoy!
So, what would you like in your wrap?
Monday, September 27, 2010
Fall into a few Blog Events...
Get Ready to Party! Rachel from Second Time Around
and Natalie from The Adventures of Paul & Natalie
are celebrating their Birthdays in October. So from October 3rd to October 29th, you can enter to win lots of great prizes! Go check out either of their blogs now to get extra entries into the giveaway!
and Natalie from The Adventures of Paul & Natalie
are celebrating their Birthdays in October. So from October 3rd to October 29th, you can enter to win lots of great prizes! Go check out either of their blogs now to get extra entries into the giveaway!
Twitter Party Alert! Oregon Chai (9/28)
Have you heard about the Twitter party tomorrow? Do you remember the fabulous review and giveaway that Oregon Chai sponsored here a while back? I was treated to a great Me Time prize and was able to share with 2 lucky reader.
You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to win Oregon Chai products galore or even the $100 Me Time Supreme prize! The Twitter Party is this Tuesday (tomorrow!) September 28, from 7 to 8 p.m. Central Time. You don’t need to RSVP to this party. Simply follow @OregonChai and @PeggyHall and use hashtag #Chaifor10 to join and win. There will be a plethora of tea necessities and samples of the famous Original Chai Tea Latte as well as the $100 Me Time Supreme prize. Be sure to invite friends to the big bash... More people means more fun!
Here’s a sample tweet in case you’d like to share the great news on Twitter:
"Win the gift of Me Time from @OregonChai and get wellness tips from @PeggyHall. Use #Chaifor10 on 9/28 from 7-8 p.m. CT to win! #freestuff"
You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to win Oregon Chai products galore or even the $100 Me Time Supreme prize! The Twitter Party is this Tuesday (tomorrow!) September 28, from 7 to 8 p.m. Central Time. You don’t need to RSVP to this party. Simply follow @OregonChai and @PeggyHall and use hashtag #Chaifor10 to join and win. There will be a plethora of tea necessities and samples of the famous Original Chai Tea Latte as well as the $100 Me Time Supreme prize. Be sure to invite friends to the big bash... More people means more fun!
Here’s a sample tweet in case you’d like to share the great news on Twitter:
"Win the gift of Me Time from @OregonChai and get wellness tips from @PeggyHall. Use #Chaifor10 on 9/28 from 7-8 p.m. CT to win! #freestuff"
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Aloha Friday - #32
Aloha Everyone! In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that they take it easy and look forward to the weekend.Friday used to be my friend, but today it signals the end of another week... that went by too quickly! But, I survived the week, so to celebrate! Let's sit back, relax and enjoy a little blog hop. No heavy mental lifting today... just one simple little question...What is Your Favorite Fall Dessert?
I think fall foods are my favorites! Apple cider gives desserts a lovely sweet and flavorful twist, spices make my taste buds dance, and squash?... well, pumpkin is my weakness, and sweet potatoes take me to my happy place.. A favorite dessert would have to be either pumpkin pie or pumpkin bars. When I lived in Japan I went crazy for a particular sweet potato confection. This fall I hope to get close to that recipe. Don't worry! I promise to share it. Fall should bring a whole bunch of new and great recipes here, so stay-tuned.If you are looking for more Aloha Friday fun, go to An Island Life and check out the other posts on the Linky. Have a great weekend!
Chrismas Predictions - Courtesy of Toys "R" Us
Have you seen the Toys "R" Us hot holiday toy predicitons for 2010? The list is up, you can find it on the Toys "R" Us website, but I am not very impressed. With 62 items on the list... I think it is leaving out a few things that are on my kids' lists.
So, there are only a few classic favorites...Nerf, Lego, Leapfrog & Playmobile are always great brands to gift from. But, I really have to question the Mattel Sing-A-Ma-Jigs. Is it me, or do the mouths remind anyone else of cheap 80's hair scrunchies hot glued on? Can anyone explain to me why these are so great? We really don't need any more battery requiring dolls/stuffed animals in the house.
I am excited to see games make the list because I think games are great for family time. I am most excited about the new Lego line of board games. Not sure which one I want yet, but Harry Potter tops the list. Then there is Cuponk! Looks an awful lot like a child's version of Beer Pong. I am not sure that is what I want my child working on this Christmas.
The Pillow Pets? These formerly As Seen on TV pillow/stuffed animal are darling, and we own two ourselves, but are these really a must have for Christmas? I think they would be fun to receive, but not really an engaging toy to play with under the tree. My kids each have one and love to nap with them, but I don't see these as being the toys that every child will be wanting.
I do think that Toys "R" Us missed a few important items... On our list are the die cast Chuggington characters and track. These are traintastic and perfect for the little chugger in your life. I am so exited to get these for my son. You can pre-oder them now, and they are available 10/10. And what about the new Sesame Street Wii games & controllers for toddlers? I predict this will be flying off the shelves this season. These will be available 10/19 and at $40 each, it seems like a good investment in family game night to me. I don't want to count out Zhu Zhu Pets this holiday season either. With the Wild Bunch & Kung Zhu added to the family this year, there are toys for everyone. I was not a huge fan of these at first, but my kids love them!
Okay, I am sure there are other great items I missed. I would love to hear what everyone thinks of the Toys "R" Us' Hot Holiday Toy List. What do your kids want this year?
So, there are only a few classic favorites...Nerf, Lego, Leapfrog & Playmobile are always great brands to gift from. But, I really have to question the Mattel Sing-A-Ma-Jigs. Is it me, or do the mouths remind anyone else of cheap 80's hair scrunchies hot glued on? Can anyone explain to me why these are so great? We really don't need any more battery requiring dolls/stuffed animals in the house.
I am excited to see games make the list because I think games are great for family time. I am most excited about the new Lego line of board games. Not sure which one I want yet, but Harry Potter tops the list. Then there is Cuponk! Looks an awful lot like a child's version of Beer Pong. I am not sure that is what I want my child working on this Christmas.
The Pillow Pets? These formerly As Seen on TV pillow/stuffed animal are darling, and we own two ourselves, but are these really a must have for Christmas? I think they would be fun to receive, but not really an engaging toy to play with under the tree. My kids each have one and love to nap with them, but I don't see these as being the toys that every child will be wanting.
I do think that Toys "R" Us missed a few important items... On our list are the die cast Chuggington characters and track. These are traintastic and perfect for the little chugger in your life. I am so exited to get these for my son. You can pre-oder them now, and they are available 10/10. And what about the new Sesame Street Wii games & controllers for toddlers? I predict this will be flying off the shelves this season. These will be available 10/19 and at $40 each, it seems like a good investment in family game night to me. I don't want to count out Zhu Zhu Pets this holiday season either. With the Wild Bunch & Kung Zhu added to the family this year, there are toys for everyone. I was not a huge fan of these at first, but my kids love them!
Okay, I am sure there are other great items I missed. I would love to hear what everyone thinks of the Toys "R" Us' Hot Holiday Toy List. What do your kids want this year?
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
A Farewell to Summer...
...and a reminder why, though a whole year away, Summer is great and we will miss it dearly. Today we are looking forward to fall... the colors, spices and smells of the harvest season.
This Summer, my son deepened his love of swimming and thanks to Puddle Jumpers, he was able to explore movement on his own.
This Summer baby girl learned to walk... and then she took off! So much to do, explore and learn about. This Summer was the beginning of her independence.
This season we went to camp and my son tried many new foods. Maybe his favorite was cotton candy goodness. Can you blame him?
Thank you Summer! Thanks for all the great memories, sunshine and deep sleep at night. We can't wait till you re-emerge next year.
Ragú® To The Rescue?
I don't know about you, but I don't have enough hours in the day to complete everything on my list. From laundry, to playing with the kids, cleaning and then shopping & my blog, well... it doesn't always leave enough time for me to put together the meal of my dreams! Add to that a rather picky toddler and some days I feel like pulling my hair out. According to a recent "Feed our Kids Well" survey conducted by Ragú®, half of moms say that during the back-to-school season they have less time to prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals for their kids. Fear not, Mom; Help is on the way!
To help make sure your kids get the veggies they need (and the meals they love) Ragú® Old World Style® Traditional Sauce now has 2 servings of veggies in every half cup! Available soon in major retailers nationwide, the healthy, great tasting Ragú® Old World Style® Traditional pasta sauce that is already a kitchen staple has a new, naturally thicker recipe.
I don't know about you guys, but my kids will always eat spaghetti! That is one meal I know will have even my toddler asking for seconds.
Healthy, delicious and now with a naturally thicker taste the whole family will love, Ragú® Old World Style® Traditional Sauce is a perfect component to pulling together quick and tasty meals during this busy time. And Ragú® wants you to be among the first to try out their great new recipe! To be one of the first to taste Ragú® with 2 servings of veggies in every half-cup visit them on facebook.com/ragusauce for more details.
Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a Ragú® prize package in exchange for this post. No monetary exchange took place.
I don't know about you guys, but my kids will always eat spaghetti! That is one meal I know will have even my toddler asking for seconds.
Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a Ragú® prize package in exchange for this post. No monetary exchange took place.
Hellmann's® virtual Sandwich Swap 'n' Share
The kids are back in school... you are now responsible for backpacks, car-pooling, homework and ...packing lunches! So, you are probably familiar with Hellmann's and Best Foods Mayo, right? Even when you try to squeeze in time to pack lunches to keep your little mind's at their peak, you also need to think of healthy lunch ideas your kids will want to eat. Well, Hellmann's® and Best Foods® Mayonnaise are putting the fun back into lunch this September with their virtual Sandwich Swap 'n' Share program.
Celebrity chef Bobby Flay and actress/mom Lori Loughlin are teaming up with Hellmann's® to help re-launch Hellmann's® virtual Sandwich Swap 'n' Share on the Facebook® application (Facebook.com/Hellmanns). This virtual version of the beloved school lunch ritual of swapping sandwiches will benefit Share Our Strength®, the leading non-profit organization ending childhood hunger in America.
Celebrity chef Bobby Flay and actress/mom Lori Loughlin are teaming up with Hellmann's® to help re-launch Hellmann's® virtual Sandwich Swap 'n' Share on the Facebook® application (Facebook.com/Hellmanns). This virtual version of the beloved school lunch ritual of swapping sandwiches will benefit Share Our Strength®, the leading non-profit organization ending childhood hunger in America.
When you visit Hellmann's® Page on Facebook®, they'll have the opportunity to create a sandwich on the application and, for every sandwich built, Hellmann's® will make a donation to Share Our Strength®. What's more, when they share a sandwich with a friend, an additional donation will be made as part of Hellmann's® $75,000 commitment to support Share Our Strength®.
What will you make? It is so easy and for a great cause. I made a "Warm Loving Goodness" sammy with foccacia, grilled chicken, monterey jack cheese, roasted peppers & Hellmann's mayo & honey mustard. I did make me a little hungry building it! Go ahead. It is even calorie free! :)
*Disclaimer- For this blog post I was entered for a chance to win a gift as part of the Hellmann's® program.
What will you make? It is so easy and for a great cause. I made a "Warm Loving Goodness" sammy with foccacia, grilled chicken, monterey jack cheese, roasted peppers & Hellmann's mayo & honey mustard. I did make me a little hungry building it! Go ahead. It is even calorie free! :)
*Disclaimer- For this blog post I was entered for a chance to win a gift as part of the Hellmann's® program.
Marlo Thomas is going Digital?
Do you know Marlo Thomas as the face of St. Jude Hospitals? Well, I remember her as the creator of "Free To Be You and Me" from my childhood. She is so many things... an actress, author, philanthropist and now a digital force!
Join Marlo at the just-launched http://www.marlothomas.com MarloThomas.com in partnership with AOL -- a new site where Marlo will connect with and inspire women, sharing a laugh, and, most importantly, building a community of support so we can all keep dreaming and achieving!
And she wants to hear from you and tell your story - with video series such as Hero Next Door. Marlo will find and profile amazing women - just like you. Watch the first feature - about Lu Picard of Torrington, Conn. - and then tell Marlo about a fabulous woman you know. Nominate a Hero now by emailing heroes@marlothomas.com!
In addition to launching MarloThomas.com, Marlo's now on social media, too. Follow her Twitter account at @Marlo_Thomas and become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/MarloThomas.
Her active, personal participation on social platforms and her new site provides a great opportunity for two-way communication between Marlo and the community of people she has inspired over the years.
What can you expect from Marlo on MarloThomas.com, Twitter and Facebook?
· original content - stories, posts, videos, and photos
· great conversations, laughs and inspiration
· observations on popular culture and news
· entertaining clips of "Free to Be You and Me" and "That Girl"
· galleries of celebrity images
· family photos
· ...and a lot more
You can also subscribe to Marlo on YouTube at youtube.com/marlothomas to see new videos each week from Marlo where she will give advice, inspiration, laughs, and more.
When asked why she's going digital, Marlo says the answer is easy. "I want to step out from behind the one-way mirror of television and have a real conversation with women," says Marlo. "I haven't stopped dreaming; you shouldn't either! It's your turn: What should we talk about together?"
This digital effort coincides with the upcoming release of Marlo's newest book, "http://marlothomas.aol.com/2010/08/27/growing-up-laughing/ " Growing Up Laughing (available Sept. 28).
*Disclaimer - I was entered for a chance to win a Gift Card. No other compensation was received.
Join Marlo at the just-launched http://www.marlothomas.com MarloThomas.com in partnership with AOL -- a new site where Marlo will connect with and inspire women, sharing a laugh, and, most importantly, building a community of support so we can all keep dreaming and achieving!
And she wants to hear from you and tell your story - with video series such as Hero Next Door. Marlo will find and profile amazing women - just like you. Watch the first feature - about Lu Picard of Torrington, Conn. - and then tell Marlo about a fabulous woman you know. Nominate a Hero now by emailing heroes@marlothomas.com
In addition to launching MarloThomas.com, Marlo's now on social media, too. Follow her Twitter account at @Marlo_Thomas
Her active, personal participation on social platforms and her new site provides a great opportunity for two-way communication between Marlo and the community of people she has inspired over the years.
What can you expect from Marlo on MarloThomas.com, Twitter and Facebook?
· original content - stories, posts, videos, and photos
· great conversations, laughs and inspiration
· observations on popular culture and news
· entertaining clips of "Free to Be You and Me" and "That Girl"
· galleries of celebrity images
· family photos
· ...and a lot more
You can also subscribe to Marlo on YouTube at youtube.com/marlothomas to see new videos each week from Marlo where she will give advice, inspiration, laughs, and more.
When asked why she's going digital, Marlo says the answer is easy. "I want to step out from behind the one-way mirror of television and have a real conversation with women," says Marlo. "I haven't stopped dreaming; you shouldn't either! It's your turn: What should we talk about together?"
This digital effort coincides with the upcoming release of Marlo's newest book, "http://marlothomas.aol.com/
*Disclaimer - I was entered for a chance to win a Gift Card. No other compensation was received.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Wordless Wednesday - Farm Delivery with Daddy
TinkerBell is Here! Various Giveaways on Other Blogs
Today, September 21st, you can buy a copy of the new Disney movie - TinkerBell and The Great Fairy Rescue on DVD. Do your kids love TinkerBell? I was surprised to find out that my son does. When I showed him a clip of the movie, he was so excited. I guess I can't blame him. I love Tink, too!
There is a lot of great excitement surrounding the release date. Today if you head over to ParentsConnect.com they are having giveaways for not only copies of the movie and fairy wings, but all sorts of good things your little fairy in training might want or need. There are several ways to enter, chat it up and participate. Check out all the fun today!
Then for some great giveaways going on other blogs start with
She is giving 2 lucky readers Fairy prize packs containing the new movie, fairy wings, and other great goodies! You can enter her giveaway on the BabeeLove.com blog and the giveaway will end 9/24 at midnight PST.
I think fairies are an important part of a child's childhood. They represent the magic and excitement in the great big world around them. With all these contests they are asking you the question, What would your child do if they met a fairy? My son said he would say, "Hi", and they would be friends. He has also said they would dance together and that he would chase them. He is 3, so all the best intentions... I promise.
You can have another chance to win a great TinkerBell prize pack at Notimemommy's blog. Her prize pack also includes the new movie and my favorite, a Tink picnic blanket, among other things. This giveaway will also end on 9/24. Enter this on notimemommy.com
If that wasn't enough... head over to
Where there are 3 chances to win. One grand prize winner and 2 runner ups will all enjoy the new movie plus other goodies. Sound good? Head over to My Organized Chaos for you chance. This giveaway will also be ending on 9/24.
And for one last... but not least... chance to win a copy of this adorable looking movie... head over to:
For a great prize pack, again including the movie, fairy wings, and some other great stuff. Enter at Feisty Frugal and Fabulous before 9/24 for your chance to win. You won't be sorry!
Did I say last one? Nah, I just found another one to add... Head over to
She has a giveaway so two different winners can each win the new movie and a fairy prize pack. Go to Keeper of the Cheerios to find out how to enter. This giveaway ends 9/30.
There is a lot of great excitement surrounding the release date. Today if you head over to ParentsConnect.com they are having giveaways for not only copies of the movie and fairy wings, but all sorts of good things your little fairy in training might want or need. There are several ways to enter, chat it up and participate. Check out all the fun today!
Then for some great giveaways going on other blogs start with
She is giving 2 lucky readers Fairy prize packs containing the new movie, fairy wings, and other great goodies! You can enter her giveaway on the BabeeLove.com blog and the giveaway will end 9/24 at midnight PST.
I think fairies are an important part of a child's childhood. They represent the magic and excitement in the great big world around them. With all these contests they are asking you the question, What would your child do if they met a fairy? My son said he would say, "Hi", and they would be friends. He has also said they would dance together and that he would chase them. He is 3, so all the best intentions... I promise.
You can have another chance to win a great TinkerBell prize pack at Notimemommy's blog. Her prize pack also includes the new movie and my favorite, a Tink picnic blanket, among other things. This giveaway will also end on 9/24. Enter this on notimemommy.com
If that wasn't enough... head over to
Where there are 3 chances to win. One grand prize winner and 2 runner ups will all enjoy the new movie plus other goodies. Sound good? Head over to My Organized Chaos for you chance. This giveaway will also be ending on 9/24.
And for one last... but not least... chance to win a copy of this adorable looking movie... head over to:
For a great prize pack, again including the movie, fairy wings, and some other great stuff. Enter at Feisty Frugal and Fabulous before 9/24 for your chance to win. You won't be sorry!
Did I say last one? Nah, I just found another one to add... Head over to
She has a giveaway so two different winners can each win the new movie and a fairy prize pack. Go to Keeper of the Cheerios to find out how to enter. This giveaway ends 9/30.
A Mommy's Time Out - Brownie Crumbs, and a Few Deep Breaths
Yesterday we started on a project I was dying to do... but, today I must suffer the consequences. I am currently parenting 2 small kids in one room and I think my head might just explode. Not figuratively... no, as my temples throb and my temper starts up... my head might just *pop*.
We finally broke down to buy a carpet cleaner from my new favorite store (and finally local!) Costco. The kids had spilled their "milk" one too many times on the carpet and it wasn't helping the overall look of the room. Their special medical formula does amazing things to keep their brains growing and healthy, but leaves nasty sticky messes that wreak of rotten potatoes. Yum. Last night we moved everything from the living room and my DH spent a good 1/2 hour slowly cleaning. It looks fabulous! I can't wait till it dries... but, for now we are stuck.
It is hard on the kiddos. It was raining earlier and so playing outside in the gooey mud was not really an option. I don't blame the kids for being tired of our confined space. I just couldn't take another scream filled (theirs, not just mine) minute of playing referee. So, in one crazed moment I scooped up all their toys and put them in the playroom upstairs. I told my son it was time for Mommy to have a time-out and down the stairs I went. I am pretty sure from his blank expression that this surprised him.
I feel much better. I just needed a little air. I needed a moment. I had a chance to finish the last few drops of my coffee and eat the last few brownie crumbs from the pan. The carpet isn't dry yet, but I might just be ready to go back and play with my kids. But not just yet. There is no crying... just soft conspiratorial whispers. I think they are just fine. Sometimes Mommy just needs a time-out. So I wonder, does anyone else ever need a moment?
We finally broke down to buy a carpet cleaner from my new favorite store (and finally local!) Costco. The kids had spilled their "milk" one too many times on the carpet and it wasn't helping the overall look of the room. Their special medical formula does amazing things to keep their brains growing and healthy, but leaves nasty sticky messes that wreak of rotten potatoes. Yum. Last night we moved everything from the living room and my DH spent a good 1/2 hour slowly cleaning. It looks fabulous! I can't wait till it dries... but, for now we are stuck.
It is hard on the kiddos. It was raining earlier and so playing outside in the gooey mud was not really an option. I don't blame the kids for being tired of our confined space. I just couldn't take another scream filled (theirs, not just mine) minute of playing referee. So, in one crazed moment I scooped up all their toys and put them in the playroom upstairs. I told my son it was time for Mommy to have a time-out and down the stairs I went. I am pretty sure from his blank expression that this surprised him.
I feel much better. I just needed a little air. I needed a moment. I had a chance to finish the last few drops of my coffee and eat the last few brownie crumbs from the pan. The carpet isn't dry yet, but I might just be ready to go back and play with my kids. But not just yet. There is no crying... just soft conspiratorial whispers. I think they are just fine. Sometimes Mommy just needs a time-out. So I wonder, does anyone else ever need a moment?
Monday, September 20, 2010
High Fructose Corn Syrup - Some Answers
It is no secret that I have been on a mission to cut high fructose corn syrup out of my family's diet. So, when I told me DH that I had been invited and was going to attend an online discussion regarding the high profile high fructose corn syrup, he said, "Huh?"
I have always believed it is important to educate myself about things I don't completely understand, but I was starting out with an unfavorable view. So I went ahead and kept tabs on the discussion. Unfortunately I didn't get the chance to attend myself due to an out of town appointment, but I did submit questions and read through the information presented by John White Ph.D. and James M. Rippe M.D. Professor of Biomedical Sciences and other noted speakers. They were presenting:
The first part started out with Dr. White, a nutritional biochemist with an expertise in caloric sweeteners and 30 years experience. He pinpointed the change of public opinion towards high fructose corn syrup as starting in 2004 with an article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by Barry Popkin. He put forth a hypothesis that hfc was uniquely responsible for obesity. Many have took this to be researched fact. In 2010, Popkin published a new article in the Wall Street Journal countering his earlier hypothesis. He now says table sugar and high fructose corn syrup actually have the same effect on obesity.
There are many misconceptions out there, but some of the facts presented in this talk were that High Fructose Corn Syrup is half fructose and half glucose. That is the same composition as table sugars, or sucrose.
High Fructose Corn Syrup is in fact just corn sugar, and they are currently working to change the name. It never replaced glucose in our diet since glucose actually has the highest glycemic index and is not good for some medical conditions such as diabetes.
The Fructose/Glucose ratio of 42/55, found in high fructose corn syrup, is naturally occurring in many of the foods we eat from almonds to strawberries. High Fructose Corn Syrup has 4 calories per gram, the same as other sweeteners.
High Fructose Corn Syrup is not always used as just a sweetener in foods. In a flavored yogurt it is also used as a stabilizer.. It is also used in foods to promote browning, increase moisture, build structure, increase texture and adjust freezing points.
Corn syrup, that I often use in my baking, is sometimes confused with High Fructose Corn Syrup. Corn Syrup is used as a thickener or to make canned fruits shiny & more appealing. It is another type of sugar, but all glucose.
The bottom line from the talk was there is nothing unique in High Fructose Corn Syrup that causes health problems. When hfcs is not on a label, there will be other sweeteners listed to serve the same purposes. Since sugars are so widely used now in foods, I was curious about the word "moderation". I keep hearing "...when used in moderation High Fructose Corn Syrup can be part of a healthy diet" So, what does this mean? The Institute of Medicine says 25% or less of all calories should come from added sugars (hfc being just one type), but moderation has not been clearly defined.
So, what did I take away? Well, I feel like a have a better idea of what High Fructose Corn Syrup really is. This was a great chance to demystify the demonized additive. Am I a big fan? Well, no. I still believe that controlling and moderating any sugar in my family's food is important. I will still continue to make many of our own foods the way we like it with less added sugars overall. I look forward to the food industry listening to Moms and cutting back on all agricultural sugars.
If you are looking for more information:
http://www.sweetsurprise.com.
@Sweetfacts
I would like to thank both the Corn Refiners Association and Resourceful Mommy for putting together the panel and taking the time to answer our questions.
**Disclaimer - The information shared was provided by the Corn Refiners Association. I have been compensated for writing this blog post. All opinions are my own.
I have always believed it is important to educate myself about things I don't completely understand, but I was starting out with an unfavorable view. So I went ahead and kept tabs on the discussion. Unfortunately I didn't get the chance to attend myself due to an out of town appointment, but I did submit questions and read through the information presented by John White Ph.D. and James M. Rippe M.D. Professor of Biomedical Sciences and other noted speakers. They were presenting:
The role of sugars in foods… Why are they added and how do I moderate them?
Sponsored and presented by: Corn Refiners AssociationThe first part started out with Dr. White, a nutritional biochemist with an expertise in caloric sweeteners and 30 years experience. He pinpointed the change of public opinion towards high fructose corn syrup as starting in 2004 with an article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by Barry Popkin. He put forth a hypothesis that hfc was uniquely responsible for obesity. Many have took this to be researched fact. In 2010, Popkin published a new article in the Wall Street Journal countering his earlier hypothesis. He now says table sugar and high fructose corn syrup actually have the same effect on obesity.
There are many misconceptions out there, but some of the facts presented in this talk were that High Fructose Corn Syrup is half fructose and half glucose. That is the same composition as table sugars, or sucrose.
High Fructose Corn Syrup is in fact just corn sugar, and they are currently working to change the name. It never replaced glucose in our diet since glucose actually has the highest glycemic index and is not good for some medical conditions such as diabetes.
The Fructose/Glucose ratio of 42/55, found in high fructose corn syrup, is naturally occurring in many of the foods we eat from almonds to strawberries. High Fructose Corn Syrup has 4 calories per gram, the same as other sweeteners.
High Fructose Corn Syrup is not always used as just a sweetener in foods. In a flavored yogurt it is also used as a stabilizer.. It is also used in foods to promote browning, increase moisture, build structure, increase texture and adjust freezing points.
Corn syrup, that I often use in my baking, is sometimes confused with High Fructose Corn Syrup. Corn Syrup is used as a thickener or to make canned fruits shiny & more appealing. It is another type of sugar, but all glucose.
The bottom line from the talk was there is nothing unique in High Fructose Corn Syrup that causes health problems. When hfcs is not on a label, there will be other sweeteners listed to serve the same purposes. Since sugars are so widely used now in foods, I was curious about the word "moderation". I keep hearing "...when used in moderation High Fructose Corn Syrup can be part of a healthy diet" So, what does this mean? The Institute of Medicine says 25% or less of all calories should come from added sugars (hfc being just one type), but moderation has not been clearly defined.
So, what did I take away? Well, I feel like a have a better idea of what High Fructose Corn Syrup really is. This was a great chance to demystify the demonized additive. Am I a big fan? Well, no. I still believe that controlling and moderating any sugar in my family's food is important. I will still continue to make many of our own foods the way we like it with less added sugars overall. I look forward to the food industry listening to Moms and cutting back on all agricultural sugars.
If you are looking for more information:
http://www.sweetsurprise.com.
@Sweetfacts
I would like to thank both the Corn Refiners Association and Resourceful Mommy for putting together the panel and taking the time to answer our questions.
**Disclaimer - The information shared was provided by the Corn Refiners Association. I have been compensated for writing this blog post. All opinions are my own.
Milestone Accomplished! 1 Year & Counting
Back before my son was born I knew that I would nurse him. My biggest concern was how I would make that work with my job. Originally I was supposed to return after maternity leave, so I invested in a great Medela Pump. I guess fate had other plans for me, and I stayed home permanently for a variety of reasons. At 10 1/2 months due to various questions about my son's diet management and slow weight gain, I weaned him. It is embarrassing to admit how hard it was for me. He cried for just a few days but those were the most physically and emotionally painful for me. I had always hoped that he would self wean and it would be a natural progression we were both comfortable with. Forcing a child to wean was not my idea of natural. I know, I know... I made it 6 months. But, you see, I had hoped to nurse my son for at least a year.
My daughter's first birthday came and went and with all the other accomplishments and moments surrounding that big day, I almost forgot that I had hit my milestone. We nursed for a year! Yippee! I am happy to say she is healthy, happy and we are still sharing our special bond.
So how long do I plan to nurse? Well, I don't really have an agenda. If she decided that she wasn't interested in nursing anymore I would be sad, but I would know I had done all I could to start her out right. I feel like I am entering uncharted territory. She is mainly night nursing now. Once before bedtime, and then she usually comes in to bed with me early in the morning. I don't mind letting her nurse at will till we wake up. My days are free now from nursing bras and mid day stops to find nursing lounges while we are out. I have a feeling our nursing days are coming to an end.
Overall it is bittersweet. I did what I set out to do, and that year just flew by! But, as she cuts more teeth and the world of food opens up to her I know she doesn't need to nurse anymore. I just hope to never forget these last days in the "nursing chair" all snuggled up together as I listen to her breathing and stroke her hair. It is a beautiful bond with my children that I am just not ready to give up yet.
My daughter's first birthday came and went and with all the other accomplishments and moments surrounding that big day, I almost forgot that I had hit my milestone. We nursed for a year! Yippee! I am happy to say she is healthy, happy and we are still sharing our special bond.
So how long do I plan to nurse? Well, I don't really have an agenda. If she decided that she wasn't interested in nursing anymore I would be sad, but I would know I had done all I could to start her out right. I feel like I am entering uncharted territory. She is mainly night nursing now. Once before bedtime, and then she usually comes in to bed with me early in the morning. I don't mind letting her nurse at will till we wake up. My days are free now from nursing bras and mid day stops to find nursing lounges while we are out. I have a feeling our nursing days are coming to an end.
Overall it is bittersweet. I did what I set out to do, and that year just flew by! But, as she cuts more teeth and the world of food opens up to her I know she doesn't need to nurse anymore. I just hope to never forget these last days in the "nursing chair" all snuggled up together as I listen to her breathing and stroke her hair. It is a beautiful bond with my children that I am just not ready to give up yet.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Thomas' Zip, Zoom & Logging Adventure
My son is a huge Thomas train-iac! So, when I saw the Thomas & Friends™ TrackMaster™ Zip, Zoom & Logging Adventure being given away on Our Ordinary Life, I knew I had to do my best to win one for him.
My son could spend hours playing with his trains. Currently he has 3 trains, Thomas himself, James & Harvey along with some basic track. This new set has all the most thrilling scenes from the new Thomas & Friends Misty Island Rescue movie. The set includes a zip-line bridge to the saw mill as well as a log splitter so Thomas can be loaded up for another load. So cool!
Do you have a little conductor who would enjoy this set? Head over to Our Ordinary Life and enter before 9/30. Be sure to check out her other giveaways while you are there. Good luck!
My son could spend hours playing with his trains. Currently he has 3 trains, Thomas himself, James & Harvey along with some basic track. This new set has all the most thrilling scenes from the new Thomas & Friends Misty Island Rescue movie. The set includes a zip-line bridge to the saw mill as well as a log splitter so Thomas can be loaded up for another load. So cool!
Do you have a little conductor who would enjoy this set? Head over to Our Ordinary Life and enter before 9/30. Be sure to check out her other giveaways while you are there. Good luck!
Manners - Old Fashioned in a Digital Age?
I remember my parents worked hard to instill good manners in my when I was little. Things like "don't talk with your mouth full", or "use please and thank you" were simple rules I was to live by. And what about the golden rule? Did you ever hear, "Do unto others as they would have them do unto you"? Today I had an experience that has me wondering how this applies to our current tech age.
As we waited in the check-out line the woman ahead of us was busily talking on her cell phone. She continued with her discussion during the transaction much to the irritation of the cashier trying to help her. She went through the line and failed to tell the cashier about the items under her cart and even when she was stopped, she didn't put her phone down. We have double conveyors at this particular store, so to bag my items I had to ask her to move. She was too busy on her phone to notice anyone around her. Now, I am assuming the call was not important because of a) the length of call b) all the smiling and laughter c) the fact that eventually she ended the call with "Oh, I should bag my groceries now". So, does this seem kinda rude to anyone else?
If you are wondering if she was young, she was older than me (I am in my 30s!). If you think teenagers are the only ones oblivious to their surroundings while engrossed in technology, you would be wrong. I rarely hear people complain about the middle age set being rude with their cell phones or PDAs, but I am sure we have all experienced the "loud talker" in mid conversation, or people busy on their cell and not driving responsibly. Of course movie theaters and doctors' offices alike have to remind patrons to turn off their phones out of respect for others. So where are the manners?
I assume this technology is too new for there to be a set standard of social guidelines or manners. Cell phones have only been widely used since I was in college. My parents never had to talk to me about the implications of "sexting" or when it is appropriate or not to use a cell phone in public. Since it bothered me so much today, now I am thinking about what I want to teach my children. Call me old fashioned, but I want to instill some manners in my kiddos.
I am curious. Have any of you talked to your children about technology and manners? What do you expect of others around you using their PDAs or computers?
As we waited in the check-out line the woman ahead of us was busily talking on her cell phone. She continued with her discussion during the transaction much to the irritation of the cashier trying to help her. She went through the line and failed to tell the cashier about the items under her cart and even when she was stopped, she didn't put her phone down. We have double conveyors at this particular store, so to bag my items I had to ask her to move. She was too busy on her phone to notice anyone around her. Now, I am assuming the call was not important because of a) the length of call b) all the smiling and laughter c) the fact that eventually she ended the call with "Oh, I should bag my groceries now". So, does this seem kinda rude to anyone else?
If you are wondering if she was young, she was older than me (I am in my 30s!). If you think teenagers are the only ones oblivious to their surroundings while engrossed in technology, you would be wrong. I rarely hear people complain about the middle age set being rude with their cell phones or PDAs, but I am sure we have all experienced the "loud talker" in mid conversation, or people busy on their cell and not driving responsibly. Of course movie theaters and doctors' offices alike have to remind patrons to turn off their phones out of respect for others. So where are the manners?
I assume this technology is too new for there to be a set standard of social guidelines or manners. Cell phones have only been widely used since I was in college. My parents never had to talk to me about the implications of "sexting" or when it is appropriate or not to use a cell phone in public. Since it bothered me so much today, now I am thinking about what I want to teach my children. Call me old fashioned, but I want to instill some manners in my kiddos.
I am curious. Have any of you talked to your children about technology and manners? What do you expect of others around you using their PDAs or computers?
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Aloha Friday - #31
Aloha Everyone! In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that they take it easy and look forward to the weekend.Friday used to be my friend, but today it signals the end of another week... that went by too quickly! But, I survived the week, so to celebrate! Let's sit back, relax and enjoy a little blog hop. No heavy mental lifting today... just one simple little question...Have you ever been that person?
So if you read my last blog post you will know that I became one of those Moms yesterday. I was the one with the screaming/crying child that everyone was looking at. (staring at?) My son got himself stuck in the play structure (envision a giant habit trail for hamsters) at McDonalds. After at least a half an hour an employee retrieved my son. We were the star attraction for a busy kids' room at the fast food restaurant. It was rather embarrassing... and humbling. I will not be judging any other moms anytime soon!Has this kind of thing happened to you? It doesn't have to involve kiddos, but they sure do put parents in awkward situations. I would love to hear other stories of shame.
If you are looking for more Aloha Friday fun, go to An Island Life and check out the other posts on the Linky. Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
I Was That Mom...
Have you ever been that Mom? The Mom who's children are causing all the trouble? Oh, yeah... today I was that Mom. I was having a hard time not wanting to sink through the floor or laugh at the crazy situation.
We had to run into town during lunch, so we stopped in a McDonalds. Usually we go to the drive-thru and eat during the ride. Today my DH decided to mix things up (was this our first mistake?) and eat in the restaurant. This location has one of the huge old-school play structures. I think it is the only one like it in town. My son has asked to go in before, but I always try to distract him. I am a bit of a germaphobe and am not a fan of that place!
Today I decided to let him go in. What was I thinking? He rushed off and within 5 minutes he was upset and asking me to help him get out. He was whining and yelling loudly. Of course it was also busy in the kids' play area. My DH & I took turns trying to coax him out. It was kinda funny and pitiful all at the same time. Another little girl a year older than him tried to coax him out. My son threw a tantrum and screamed for her to go away. Finally a McDonald's worker crawled in and retrieved my son. Oh, my son was fine by the way. He said it was fun. The whole ordeal took almost an hour.
I could have sunk through the floor. We were entertainment for the lunch crowd. I guess every parent has moments like this. So, have you? I would love to commiserate with some other Moms right about now. Have you ever had a child get stuck in a play structure?
We had to run into town during lunch, so we stopped in a McDonalds. Usually we go to the drive-thru and eat during the ride. Today my DH decided to mix things up (was this our first mistake?) and eat in the restaurant. This location has one of the huge old-school play structures. I think it is the only one like it in town. My son has asked to go in before, but I always try to distract him. I am a bit of a germaphobe and am not a fan of that place!
Today I decided to let him go in. What was I thinking? He rushed off and within 5 minutes he was upset and asking me to help him get out. He was whining and yelling loudly. Of course it was also busy in the kids' play area. My DH & I took turns trying to coax him out. It was kinda funny and pitiful all at the same time. Another little girl a year older than him tried to coax him out. My son threw a tantrum and screamed for her to go away. Finally a McDonald's worker crawled in and retrieved my son. Oh, my son was fine by the way. He said it was fun. The whole ordeal took almost an hour.
I could have sunk through the floor. We were entertainment for the lunch crowd. I guess every parent has moments like this. So, have you? I would love to commiserate with some other Moms right about now. Have you ever had a child get stuck in a play structure?
Gardening Surplus - Drying Tomatoes
We are up to our ears in cherry & grape tomatoes out in the garden. The nights are getting colder and our summer garden will be wrapping up for the season, but I still have a mountain of juicy, sweet, red tomatoes. What to do?
Well, after filling up the colander we had to get creative with our containers. Thank goodness my son is so helpful.
So, we are working on canning the larger tomatoes, but with the little cherry and grape varieties I like to dry them. It is a cheaper alternative to the sun dried tomatoes in the supermarket. I just cut them in half, or quarters if they are really large. I place them cut side down on the tray and let the dehydrator do it's thing!
It takes about 12 hours to dry them and then I seal them up in food saver bags. I store them in our freezer flat so they don't take up much room.
When I want to use them, usually tossed in a pasta, I either soak them in warm chicken stock or olive oil. They soften up nicely and have an intensified sweet taste. It is so good and easy, I recommend giving it a try.
So, what do you do with your extra tomatoes?
Well, after filling up the colander we had to get creative with our containers. Thank goodness my son is so helpful.
So, we are working on canning the larger tomatoes, but with the little cherry and grape varieties I like to dry them. It is a cheaper alternative to the sun dried tomatoes in the supermarket. I just cut them in half, or quarters if they are really large. I place them cut side down on the tray and let the dehydrator do it's thing!
It takes about 12 hours to dry them and then I seal them up in food saver bags. I store them in our freezer flat so they don't take up much room.
When I want to use them, usually tossed in a pasta, I either soak them in warm chicken stock or olive oil. They soften up nicely and have an intensified sweet taste. It is so good and easy, I recommend giving it a try.
So, what do you do with your extra tomatoes?
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Wordless Wednesday - Spider Boy
Before camp my DH wanted to see if my son would like to try climbing...
He liked the idea...
He looked so small against the wall...
With a bit of help he scurried up the wall like a little spider. Itsy Bitsy would be proud! Thanks for indulging me in a not so wordless wednesday.
Today is Loose - A - Paloosa!
Weight Watchers is participating in their third Lose for Good campaign, where members, online subscribers and charitable organizations can work together to help fight world hunger. And it is so easy to get involved! September 5 through October 23 as members lose weight, Weight Watchers will donate up to 1 million dollars to Share Our Strength and Action Against Hunger.
But, if you do not fall into any of the categories above, never fear. You can still get involved with the one day only social media campaign today, September 14, 2010. Here is how:
Everytime “Lose For Good” is mentioned on Facebook, blogs, Twitter, and check-ins via foursquare, Weight Watchers will donate $1 – up to $60,000 – as part of the Lose For Good donation. Click here for full details. www.weightwathcers.com/loseforgood
You can also join in on twitter by using the hashtag #loseforgood
sinSo, what are you waiting for? Now that I have blogged I am off to spread the word via twitter and facebook.
*Disclaimer - I received no products or compensation for this post. I am just passing on this event to my readers.
Caution: Hard Hats Required
I had the bright idea to try a little construction project with the kids. Now, I don't usually put things together myself. I would normally open the box, take a peak and "oo and ah" at all the peices before asking my DH to put it all together for me. Since I really couldn't wait, I decided to go ahead and try it myself.
My son was so excited! He insisted in bringing downstairs all his play tools and as I worked at fitting pieces together, he worked on double checking my work and making some "adjustments".This particular project was the Multi-Story Dollhouse from Melissa & Doug. They ran a fabulous sale on amazon.com and we decided to use some of our daughter's birthday money to invest in her first "home".
It turned out to be a great project for the three of us. My daughter supervised and even grabbed a couple of tools herself.
Of course when my DH came home from lunch he quickly took over and finished it up. I would like to thank Melissa & Doug for making a dollhouse easy enough for even a tool novice like me to assemble.
I love the fact that both of my children are excited to play with the dollhouse. Though, I think assembly might have been the most fun we have had with it so far. We are always excited for another building project.
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