Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe For Fall

I have been finding all kinds of fall recipes that use pumpkin in them, mostly desserts that sound delicious. I came across this recipe for creamy pumpkin pasta. Must admit though, I have never thought about using pumpkin filling in pasta - maybe that's just me?

Anyway, I thought the recipe sounded perfect for fall, so I may just have to give it a try (though something tells me this one might not go over big with the kids. Maybe dinner for two with the hubby??)


Related post

3 Easy Apple Dessert Recipes For Fall

Woman's Day

Pasta With Pumpkin Sauce

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta of your choice
1 1/2 cup(s) broccoli florets
8 ounce(s) turkey breakfast sausage, casings removed (**I will be using veggie sausage instead**)
1 teaspoon(s) pumpkin pie spice
1 1/4 cup(s) non-fat half and half
1 cup(s) canned pure pumpkin
2 tablespoon(s) brown sugar, packed
1/4 teaspoon(s) salt
1 teaspoon(s) olive oil

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions, adding the broccoli to the pot during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and broccoli and return it to the pot.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 4 minutes. Drain off any fat.

Sprinkle the spice over the sausage and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

Stir in the half and half, canned pure pumpkin, sugar, and salt and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture simmer for 1 minute.

Add the pumpkin mixture to the pasta and broccoli and toss to combine.

I am so interested to try this because I just can't decide if it sounds good or not. I am a girl who loves her red pasta sauce, what can I say? Hopefully it will be delicious - either way, I will report back after our taste-test!!

Kids Books To Replace Happy Meal Toys

Starting next month, McDonald's says they will be replacing those 'coveted' happy meal toys with kids books. The big switch will only be for the first two weeks in November though, and is being done in conjunction with the literacy advocacy group, Reading is Fundamental.

Autumn Love: Baked Apple-Cranberry Dessert

Nothing says Autumn has finally arrived like baked apples bubbling in a casserole dessert in the oven. Add in some juicy good-for-you cranberries, and this recipe should be a perfect contender for one of the yummiest fall desserts ever.

This baked apple-cranberry dessert had my mouth watering before I even finished reading the directions.

I decided that the kids and I would try making this as soon as we got back from our library trip this afternoon - and I can't wait.

Seriously, I am sitting here imagining the awesome aromas that will fill my house as the apples and cranberries start to bake....oh my!

Plus, this looks like a pretty easy-peasy recipe - the kind I heart!

Baked Apple-Cranberry Dessert

Ingredients 

1. 5 medium-sized Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2 inch slices
2. 1 cup fresh whole cranberries
3. juice from 1/2 a lemon
4. 1/3 cup sugar
5. 1/2 cup flour 

Topping

6. 1/2 cup quick-cooking oatmeal
7. 3/4 cup brown sugar
8. 1/4 teaspoon salt
9. 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
10. 1 teaspoon cinnamon
11. 1/3 cup cold butter, cut into cubes 

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. In a large bowl toss together apple slices, cranberries, lemon juice and sugar. Pour into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.

3. Make topping. Mix flour, oats, sugar, salt and spices in a large bowl. Blend in butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers, until the mixture resembles small peas. Sprinkle over apples.

4. Bake for 30 minutes, or until apples are bubbling and topping is brown and crisp. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Halloween Buzz: Chris March Spooktacular Wigs At Target

Chris March from Project Runway is teaming up with Target (my all-time happy place to shop) this Halloween. He will be showcasing his Halloween wigs for adults - and from what I have seen, these are some pretty creations.

March's Spooktacular Wigs Collection features eight very large foam wigs, all priced $20 and under, that can easily turn any parent into an instant Halloween hit. There are eight wig styles you can choose from: Geisha, Greaser, Starlet, Witch, Medusa, Monster Bride, Mohawk and Afro.

These  foam wigs will make such easy-peasy Halloween costumes for tired moms and dads. Just put on your wig, and you are ready to go. Really, they look awesome, and I am pretty sure they will be lightweight and comfy enough to wear while out with the kiddos trick or treating.

Plus, for the parent that has the energy and wants to go all out this Halloween, these wigs make an excellent starting point for some outrageous costumes - just add face paint and the right fun clothing!

Look for Chris March's Halloween Wigs at Target and Target.com starting September 15 (and get a sneak preview here!)

Citrus Lane Delivers Fun Toddler Gifts To Your Front Door!

If I still had toddlers at home, I would be so intrigued by Citrus Lane. This is a company that delivers surprise packages to your front door every month. Inside are awesome kids products especially selected for your child.

Healthy Protein Tofu Popsicle Recipe (Vegan)

Vegan tofu popsicles make refreshing and healthy protein snacks for toddlers and preschoolers.

And I promise they taste much better than they sound.

Now, do I tell my kids they are actually eating something that is healthy for them? And that they are eating frozen tofu on a popsicle stick?


Nope. They enjoy the yummy healthy popsicles. And they are happy. All is good.


(There are just some things that do not need to be shared.)


You may also want to try these easy homemade frozen yogurt pops, They are refreshing and delicious, but they are not vegan😉

 Vegan Popsicles Recipe

Ingredients 

• 2/3 cup soft silken tofu
• 1 1/3 cups fresh orange juice
• 2 Tbs sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• popsicle sticks

Put all of the ingredients in a blender and puree until the sugar is dissolved. You can use paper cups for popsicle molds or any freezer pop molds you have handy.

Place popsicle molds in the freezer for about an hour.

Insert a wooden popsicle stick into each cup.

If the sticks do not stand straight up, take them back out and let the mix freeze for another 10-15 minutes, and then try again.

Once the popsicle sticks are in place, continue freezing the popsicles until they are completely frozen.

To loosen the mold, run the cup under cool water for a second or two.

Tales of a 4th Grade Mom

As of tomorrow, Thursday August 15, I will officially be the mom of a 4th grader. Again. I have been a 4th grade mom 4 times before. There is something about this grade that hits me hard - like a punch in my stomach. This grade - the 4th grade - signals big changes to me.

Happy Books Make For Happy Eats!

I have always noticed that when I read a happy fun type of book, I always feel better. I mean, I do enjoy a good who-done-it mystery (heart Agatha Christie so much!!) and even once in a while I will indulge in a real tearjerker

A Mom's Worst Nightmare: Believe First, Judge Later

A mom posted yesterday that her son was missing. She posted this message and her plea for help and support on a very well-know forum for women. My heart broke for her when I read her plea. This is every mom's worst nightmare. Then I started reading the responses from others.

Drink Your Spinach {In This Simple Spinach Pineapple Banana Smoothie Recipe!}

Everyone could use a little spinach in their diets {okay, maybe more than a little bit of spinach.} I don't know about you, but I have never liked the taste of spinach. But it is such a great source of vitamins and calcium, I must find ways to incorporate spinach in my diet. Sigh.

This healthy smoothie recipe uses spinach, pineapple, and banana. Thankfully for me, these other fruits help hide the spinach flavor (for those of us who are a bit squeamish about spinach.)

Banana - Spinach Smoothie Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup low-fat or non-fat milk (if you like Almond milk, you should use it because it will give this smoothie extra sweetness!)

1 1/2 cups baby spinach

1 banana, peeled

 3/4 pineapple - cut into very small pieces.

More Recipes You Might Like

5 Last Minute Thanksgiving Desserts That Scream Cute!

Directions

Pour milk into a blender and add spinach.

Blend for a few seconds.

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until smooth.

Drink and Enjoy!

Fleas and Coffee Don't Mix ( Really?}

I read an article recently on all natural products we can make at home and use instead of  buying chemical -laden products. Since we have two dogs and one princess cat, the coffee flea repellent caught my interest because we have two dogs and one princess cat.

Happy Fourth of July!

Hoping everyone enjoys fun, family and laughter today!


{and some cool fireworks ,too!}

New Family Member Coming Soon....

Our family is growing! Our new four-footed furry family member is on her way and should be arriving this Wednesday.

My boys are over the moon. My daughter is delighted. The husband is dubious.

Healthy Homemade Carrot Cake (And the Benefits of Eating Carrots!)

 Carrots have surprising health benefits, as well as some pretty nice beauty benefits for us too. And while there are many ways to include carrots as part of a healthy diet, one of tastiest is in a yummy healthier carrot cake recipe. (I am talking once in a while, of course.)

Photo: Diethood.com

One of my favorite healthy snacks to make for the family is a plate of baby carrots with Ranch dressing. 

Easy peasy and everyone loves it.

I have to confess though, that my favorite way to eat carrots is in a cake.  Carrot cake. Ah, my weakness.

Okay, so eating carrot cake may not be the healthiest way to eat carrots. The good news is that there are definitely ways to make carrot cake healthier. Like this healthy Homemade Carrot Cake made with almond flour from Diethood. 

But before you go get that recipe, check out these reminders of why carrots are an important part of a healthy diet.

Amazing Health Benefits of Eating Carrots 

Studies suggest that the alpha-carotene in carrots helps fight plaque build-up in arteries in the brain. Clear arteries mean blood flows cleaner, and stroke risk is reduced.

Women who eat at least five carrots a week are 68% less likely to suffer a stroke than women who eat carrots only once a month, according to the research.

{Yep, go ahead and grab a carrot from your refrigerator now. I'll wait.}

Carrots contain Vitamins A, B, C, and E. They are an excellent source of soluble fiber, and are low in calories and sodium. And the carotene in carrots helps lower the risk of heart disease.

These sweet crunchy veggies are good for your teeth and skin because the Vitamin A in carrots helps protect your skin and face from sun damage, including wrinkles, and dryness.

Carrots have also been shown to help fight lung, breast, and colon cancer.

And yes, carrots really are good for your eyes! 

So now you can find a healthy carrot cake recipe, like the one I mentioned above,  (because there really are ways to make this yummy dessert a little healthier) and feel less guilty eating it!

The Amazing Paper Cup and Watermelon Ice Pops

Small paper cups make perfect molds for deliciously easy frozen treats. All you really need are wooden Popsicle sticks, aluminum foil, small paper cups, and the yummy stuff to put in the cups.

Frozen mini yogurt pops and watermelon ice popsicles are two kid-approved recipes around our house that are especially welcome during the summer months.

To Make Watermelon Ice Pops, You Will Need:

2 1/2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
1/4 cup sugar, if desired for extra sweetness

Put watermelon and sugar in a blender or food processor. Mix until you get a fairly smooth consistency, Pour into paper cups. Cover tops of each cup with aluminum foil, sealing edges around the cup. Make a small slit in the foil and insert a wooden pop stick. Freeze until solid.

Remove foil, tear away the paper cup and enjoy!

To Make Mini Frozen Yogurt Pops You Will Need:

8 ounce paper cups
Yogurt and/or summer fruit like watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe
aluminum foil
wooden popsicle sticks

Divide the yogurt into paper cups. Get creative and add ingredients like sprinkles, chocolate chips, and small pieces of fruit. You could also layer different flavors of yogurt in the cup.

Cover the top of each cup with a piece of the aluminum foil- seal edges around the cup. Make a small slit in the foil and insert a wooden pop stick. Freeze at least 8 hours {and no more than 3 days.}

Remove foil and then tear the paper cup away from the Popsicle {my kids loved this part for some reason}

Enjoy!

Monopoly Millionaire - Family Fun Night Revived!

Monopoly Millionaire revived our family fun nights. For about $10, Friday night became one of our best game nights yet.

My son has been begging me to buy this latest version of the old classic board game. Last night, I conceded. Checking out the Target and Walmart websites, it turns out Walmart had the game on sale  for $9.84 while Target listed it at $18. 

Unfortunately Walmart is a lot farther away from our house than is Target {A. Lot. Farther.} And I was alot tired. Location won out over price, and off to Target we went. Once there, I checked to see if they did that best price-matching thing - turns out they do! 

The very nice customer service person confirmed Walmart at the game at a lower price, so they matched it!  Sweet {And I felt so proud of myself. The little things, you know?)

And so Friday fun night was on. Two bowls of popcorn, one large bowl of grapes, a platter of cheese and crackers, lots of laughter and smiles later, my daughter was proclaimed the victor {and a new millionaire!}

The Xbox stayed silent the whole night. 

The boys and their sister did.not.fight. Nope, not once. 

We stayed up late, laughed, told silly jokes and had a blast.

When the hubby and I were tucking our sleepy boys into bed, and our daughter said her good-nights, I whispered to him that was the best $10 I have spent in a very long time.

No video games, no cell phones, no Facebook, no iPad or iPods.

Well played, Monopoly Millionaire. Well played.

Recall Alert: Kolcraft Liberty Jeep Strollers { Certain Models Only}

Kolcraft has recalled certain models of the Liberty Jeep Strollers. The affected models are JL031, JL032, JL034, JL035 or JL036 manufactured between June 2010 and September 2011. The model number and date of manufacture are printed on a white tag on the rear upper center of each seat-back pad.

The reason for the recall according to the company is that the inner tube of the tire on the stroller can rupture causing the wheel rim to fracture, posing a risk of bodily injury and property damage.

The three-wheeled strollers being recalled were sold in different color fabric combinations with a metal black and silver frame including: green seat and canopy, a gray seat and canopy with a teal blue stripe across the center of the canopy, an orange seat and canopy with a tan stripe, tan seat and canopy with yellow stripe across the center top of the canopy, and tan seat and canopy with an orange canopy rim.

 “Jeep” is printed on the side of the stroller and on the front of the stroller tray. There is a plastic red toy steering wheel, ignition key and orange shift lever mounted on a yellow base attached to the stroller tray.

 If your stroller wheels have a gray triangle located on the rim at the valve stem then your stroller wheels are not included in this recall, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The strollers were sold at: Burlington Coat Factory, Sears and Toys R Us nationwide, online and at other mass market and independent juvenile specialty stores from June 2010 through June 2013 for between $150 and $180.

If you have one of these models, you should immediately stop using the product and contact the company to receive free replacement wheels. The recall warning adds that consumers should use a manual bicycle pump to inflate stroller tires to a maximum of 30 p.s.i. Do not use gas station air pumps to inflate stroller tires.

Call (800)-453-7673 Monday-Friday 8 AM to 5:00 PM EST to order a free repair kit, or visit www.kolcraft.com and click on 'Safety Notifications' {located on top right of the page} to learn more about this product recall.

See Complete CPSC Recall Notification Details.

Huggies MomInspired Grant Program

Huggies is searching for the next big 'thing' that will help make parents' lives easier. Through their Huggies®MomInspired® Grant Program, they will be awarding $15,000 grants up to 12 people to explore and grow their innovative product ideas.

Seriously, if you are one of those awesome creative parents that have had an 'Ah Ah' moment when an wonderful idea crossed your mind as you were diapering, wiping a runny nose, cuddling your child, helping your little one brush their teeth...etc.,  you. should. enter.

If you need inspiration or encouragement, check out the coolest 'mom-o-vations' Huggies has posted.

 {You know -  the kind of ideas that make you [gently] slap yourself and say, 'why didn't I think of that??'

By the way, this program is open to anyone who has an innovative baby or child care product or idea – it is not limited to only Moms or women. {yes, we are speaking to all you creative dads out there!}

All grant winners will receive business advice from Maria Bailey, author, radio and TV personality and founder of BSMMedia.com, as well as support from Kimberly-Clark.

About The How's, Who's and When's:

Who- Anyone with an original, innovative and viable new product idea to help make life easier for parents; must be 21 and older and reside in the United States

How- Log onto www.HuggiesMomInspired.com and submit application, including the idea and business plan.

When- Now through July 31, 2013

Why- For the chance to receive $15,000 and advice to help start or grow your business idea For more information about all the grant recipients and the program, visit HuggiesMomInspired.com. Grants will be awarded in fall 2013.

Good Luck!

Potato Stamp Craft For Toddlers and Preschoolers (and Big Kids Too)

Photo Courtesy of RockYourHomeschool.com

Looking for an easy and very cool 4th of July craft idea for kids? This holiday craft idea is perfect for toddlers, preschoolers and kids of all ages.

It is also a cheap craft that is fun and also makes a great way to decorate for summer parties as well!

And all you need is a potato and some paint, and you can have masterpieces like these from your kids.

Photo Courtesy of RockYourHomeschool.com

4th of July Craft For Toddlers: How To Make Potato Stamps Crafts for Kids 

First, cut a washed and dried potato in half.

Next, draw a star on one of the potato halves (on the fleshy side)

Cut away the surrounding potato (about 1/4" deep) until you have a star-shaped stamp that kids can hold onto.

Pour blue, white and red paints in bowls for kids to dip in their potato star stamp.

Then let the kids can get stamp happy and craft all kinds of fun DIY Fourth of July decorations like t-shirts, posters, napkins, and tablecloths. Kids will love stamping their own DIY 4th of July creations on paper plates, napkins, rocks and just about anything else you can provide them with!

You can get more step by step details for this project at Rock Your Homeschool.

Kids' Bathing Suits, Shorts, Rompers & More On Sale At Tea Collection

Tea Collection has some of the. cutest. kids' clothes around. Right now, Tea Collection is offering up to 50% off on all of their spring collections. These major sales only happen twice each year  - so if the lazy days of summer at your house need a jump start with new fun outfits for the kids, check out this sale.

A complimentary peek of the cute stuff on sale just for you!

Cute stuff. Up to 50% Off. Hurry.

'Make Your Heart Berry Happy' Milkshake {Yummy Recipe Ahead!}

In the mood for a yummy summertime milkshake recipe that is actually healthy for you? This shake is made with two different kinds of berries {you can always feel free to add more though!} which we know  are very good for your heart's health. Plus, this recipe calls for replacing ice cream with Greek yogurt which really boosts the health benefits.

The Good Stuff You'll Need To Make This Heart-Healthy Berry Milkshake

3/4 cup plain Greek Yogurt
3/4 cup milk
3/4 cup strawberries
1 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. honey (for sweetness)

 Directions

Get out your blender and blend away! Pour this yummy berry shake in a cold glass - enjoy!!

{P.S. This drink goes really well with a new summer mystery and/or while getting your legs ready for summer!}

Blurb: Create Personalized Books With Your Favorite Photographs

Aside from enjoying some quality reading time, I know I will be busy taking lots of pictures of the kids this summer - just like every year. This time around, I am super excited because I will be turning those sweet 'moments-in-time' memories into actual books that can be shared for years to come! If you have yet to try this - you really should! And Blurb will help you get started!

They are is giving all of us the opportunity to put our photographed memories into beautiful personally made books. I have a promo code for all of you to get 15% off your next purchase: BOOKSFORSUMMER. Use this code when you checkout to receive the discount. If you are planning a summer trip during June, you can still create a book at the end of the month, because the code doesn't expire until 6/30/13! You can even start your project now and come back in a few weeks after you have taken more photos to finish the project.

My sister-in-law gave me a book she created using photos from our family Christmas gathering last year, and I absolutely love it! All our pictures from the holiday are in one beautiful book which sits on the living room coffee table for all to enjoy. 

I honestly recommend preserving your family memories in a personalized book. My guess is that you will be hooked after you create your first one!

(P.S. these photo books make awesome presents for the holidays too!!)

Fun Summer Read: Wedding Day Murder

One of the perks of summer is getting to indulge in some lighthearted fun reading. I will be sitting by the pool much of the summer - hanging out with my boys, so a good book is a must for me.

Wanna see the latest book I am set to read next?  It's said to be a fun mystery with just a bit of romance. I am a  sucker for those 'Who Dun-It' books - so this one sounds exactly like my cup of tea when it comes to reading.

Yep. Cannot wait to get started either! School is over after this week for the boys - so I plan to have this book in hand, along with a giant bottle of sunscreen by the weekend. Did I mention that I will be proudly showing off my recently shaved legs - minus any signs of razor burn - at the pool?? 

Summertime Means Shorts, Shaving, and Razor Burn {EEK}

Okay. It. Is. Summer. Kids are bored after one day of summer vacation home, the scent of suntan lotion is wafting gently in the air, and one of my worst nightmares is upon me.

Shorts.

Now, don't get me wrong. I love shorts. I really do. Just not on me. However, I wear them. Yes. I. Do. I make the ultimate sacrifice because my family pressures me nonstop really wants to see my summer spirit expressed via my wardrobe.

Be careful what you ask for, I tell them. 

Of course, wearing shorts requires one shave their legs first. In my case, that means I get a heavy-duty razor that can handle my months long growth of leg hair which I have previously kept happily hidden under jeans.

Sorry...is this TMI??

Shaving my legs guarantees one thing. Razor burn.

What soothes razor burn? I am asking because I have not found anything that really helps.

Until now.

 I found this wonderful tip for easing the pain of razor burn in a magazine the other day, which made really excited!!

{It's the simple things that make me happy, don't ya know?}

So ladies, make note of this razor-burn relief tip because it is actually a good one -

Eye Drops And a Cotton Ball.

These two things will give us {After all, I cannot be not the only mom in town that suffers from 'short-wearing phobia - induced razor burn' - am I??} all much-needed relief from razor burn.

Put a few drops of eye drops on the cotton ball, then gently dab the affected area.

The key is that you must use eye drops with these specific ingredients:

**potassium chloride and tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride.**

Did you get all that?

Apparently Visine Advanced Relief Eye Drops meet the criteria.

So I am doing three things today.

1. Drinking Heavily   Shopping for eye drops.

2. Shaving my legs while drinking heavily keeping my newly purchased eye drops by my side.

3. Hiding my bathing suits. Every. Last. One.

Get Your Free Doughnut - Today is National Doughnut Day!

Today is National Doughnut Day! Who knew? I sure didn't until I came across an article about it while surfin' the web. Here are two places where you can get a doughnut for free today:

Krispy Kreme ( free doughnut without any purchase -yay! Only while they last though.)

Dunkin Donuts (free doughnut when you buy a beverage.)

In addition, Entenmann's will donate $1 to the Salvation Army for every person who "likes" the Entenmann's Facebook Page. (A nice way to celebrate the day without indulging in the extra sugar!)

For those of you who would rather celebrate this awesome national holiday by doing a little baking of your own at home, check out Modern Mom's Sneaky Chef's healthy homemade doughnut recipe. I think I will have to give this a try with my kids!

Enjoy, Indulge and Celebrate (and put the bathing suits back in the closet for another day.)

Crayola's Big Colorful Birthday Adventure {Enter To Win!}

To celebrate their 110th birthday, the 8 original crayons are throwing a birthday bash at the new fun-omenal Crayola Experience, the world's only interactive Crayola family attraction. Right now, they're out on a colorful adventure to spread the news, and you're invited to join the fun!

And Your Family Could Be Invited To The Party!!

Just FOLLOW the crayons on their adventure, LEARN more about each color and enter to WIN a trip for 4 to celebrate their birthday and the Grand Opening of the all new Crayola Experience this coming May, 2013!

Visit the Crayola Facebook page and click "enter now" for your chance to be first in line when the Crayola Experience reopens.

The winner will be among the first to experience the fun, along with a three-night, all-expenses paid stay!! The new Crayola Experience features four floors of new interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind attractions that will bring the magic of color and your child's creativity to life!

It's an experience your kids will never forget - and neither will you!


Disclosure:  All contest information and entry details have been provided by Crayola.

Winner - Eggland's Best Giveaway

We have a winner!

Here is your sequence:

135
155
 39
153
174

Congratulations to #135 - Angie B!

Please look for your confirmation email and respond asap!!

Eggland's Best Giveaway - Ingredients For An Eggs-Cellent Mother's Day Brunch!

It's a fact - all eggs are not created equal.  When compared to ordinary eggs, Eggland's Best eggs contain:

10 times more vitamin E
Double the amount of omega-3’s
Twice the amount of vitamin D
3 times more vitamin B12
25% less saturated fat
38% more lutein

Pretty amazing, don't you think?

Eggland's Best wants to help you cook up one 'eggs-cellent' Mother's Day's brunch while helping you feed your family a nutrition packed delicious meal. The Eggland’s Best website has tons of great recipes like the Breakfast Burrito and the Sunny Side Breakfast Pizza that are sure to get your mouth watering as you kick-off your menu planning. 

Plus, they are giving one Happy Healthy Families reader an Eggland’s Best gift pack!

The Eggland's Best gift pack includes:

(1) coupon for one free dozen Eggland’s Best eggs

·(1) ceramic mixing bowl

·(1) egg-shaped wooden cutting board

·(1) whisk

·(1) bowl scraper

·(1) ceramic mug

·(1) eco bag

How To Enter:

Take a peek at the wonderful mouth-watering recipes on the Eggland's Best website. Leave me a comment below letting me know which recipe is your favorite! {Mandatory entry}

You can receive extra entries by the following:

1. leave a comment about your Mother's Day plans this year (2 extra entries)
2. leave a comment letting me know what you are most looking forward to this Mother's Day (2 extra entries)
3. Follow HHF on Twitter (3 extra entries)
4. Subscribe to HHF (3 extra entries)
5. Like Eggland's Best on Facebook (3 extra entries)
6. Follow Eggland's Best on Twitter (3 extra entries)
7. Tweet this giveaway and leave the URL in your comment (4 extra entries)
8. Share this giveaway on Facebook (4 extra entries)
9. Follow HHF on Pinterest (4 extra entries)
10. Share this giveaway on Pinterest (4 extra entries)

Notes:

• Giveaway ends Tuesday April 16 @ 11:59 EST 
• Winner will be chosen Wednesday April 17 using random.org 
• Please include your email address in your comment. 
• Winner will be notified and must respond by Friday April 19 or new winner will be chosen. 

Disclosure: “The Eggland’s Best coupon, information, and two gift packs have been provided by Eggland’s Best.”

Honey Maid Introduces Made Co.

Honey Maid has been fueling the creativity of kids since 1925, and now they have decided to take it even further by creating an online initiative – Made Co. - a unique new online contest series in which kids ages 6-12 can win opportunities to have their ideas brought to life with the help of industry experts. 

At Made Co., kids not only get the opportunity to make things but they also get to learn and understand the process behind how things get made. And at its core, Made Co. encourages kids’ creativity and productivity in a fun and engaging way.

How It Works~

Through Made Co., Honey Maid will partner with several experts from a variety of industries including clothing designers, game and toy makers, among others. Along with Honey Maid, the industry experts will review idea submissions and select one grand prize winning idea per project to be professionally created, with the help of the winning applicant. One of the current projects on the site now includes a chance to win a trip to attend a writer’s workshop (for a winning child with her/her parent) with My Weird School book series author, Dan Gutman, at HarperCollins Publishers headquarters in New York City. The winner will work with Dan and HarperCollins to produce ten copies of the book that s/he has conceived.

We Gave Made Co. A Try!

My two boys, ages 6 and 8, decided to enter the cartoon contest. They collaborated on a cartoon about Phineas and Ferb. They did need my help along the way as creating the comic was a bit confusing at first. We soon got the hang of everything though, and they were able to work on their masterpiece without my help after a little experimenting.

My six year old definitely took the reins on this project, even drawing his own version of a robot. For doing this he earned extra bonus points! Very cool! I was tickled pink watching him plan the story, from beginning to end - including what characters would say, the background and locations, and the plot points. I was beyond impressed with his work and creativity (beaming mommy of a kindergartner here!!)

So What Did We Think?

We all loved doing this project! The boys had a great time working together, and in the end created a very cute cartoon. This was something we all worked on together and had a lot of fun doing.

As a mom, I so appreciated that this site encouraged my guys to think...really think....and plan and work out their ideas until those ideas became a real cartoon strip that my kids are now so proud of! They had to formulate how the plot would start, what happens along the way, and how it would end. Made Co, created a wonderful learning experience that got my kids' creative juices flowing and provided them with a lot of fun. Kudos to Honey Maid for creating this site!

My boys are very proud of themselves. They had fun even while debating over plot points and characters, and they are definitely excited to see what contests are coming up next!

For complete details and rules about Made Co. visit www.HoneyMaid.com/MadeCo. And don’t forget to visit www.Facebook.com/HoneyMaid to learn more about the entire range of Honey Maid products such as Honey Maid Grahamfuls, which can help can fuel your child’s creativity.

Disclosure: I received a gift card from Honey Maid to facilitate this review, All opinions expressed here are my own and those of my sons.

No Bake Mother's Day Dessert {psst..Cheesecake Is Involved!}

Came across this cute, easy and very cool No Bake Mother's Day dessert recipe in Woman's Day. As soon as I read the words, 'cheesecake,' I started drooling. When I saw the pictures of these desserts I decided I needed to share.

 I love the idea of serving these decadent treats in clear jars with lids - add a pretty ribbon and these jars of scrumptious cheesecake desserts would make perfect Mother's Day gifts to hand out to teachers, friends and anyone you have on your list. Plus, the basic recipe is easily adaptable so you can add chocolate, blueberries, lemon, etc...and create your own fabulous creation.

Make a few of these 'jarred desserts,' add some tea, mugs and a new book all stashed snugly in a basket, and I think you would have one very special handmade Mother's Day gift to give someone!

See the recipe and more pics here!

Need a Laugh Today? Watch This Video {Seriously. Watch. Now.}

This is the cutest - not to mention smartest - two year old thief I have ever seen! A mom posted this video of her son to YouTube Sunday, posting - "This is what our 2 yr old does at night. He picks the lock to his sister's room and takes her stuff...We caught it on video."


HYSTERICAL. {And, it made my ovaries twitch. Go figure.}

My Sweet Six Year Old Gone Picky {Eating, Of Course!}

He is still sweet as ever ... my six year old ... and I would never last a day without his sweet hugs and smiles, but oh my gosh have his recent eating habits driven me 'round the bend as they say!! The words 'picky eater' do not even describe fully my little guy these days.

Hopefully this is just another fun kid phase we are once again in the midst of going through, but until I see the light at the end of this particular tunnel, I am spending a good part of my time seeking out cool kid-friendly recipes that might tempt his taste buds.

'Cuz you know, if he had his way, he would eat pancakes all day.

And some days I almost give in and let him.

I came across this idea today - a layered salad - that looks so cute he may give it a bite or two. Maybe adding in some raisins (he does like raisins!!) between the layers will help. There are probably other little 'treats' I can sprinkle in as well that may encourage him to munch his way through the salad.

A simple idea really, and so often those turn out to be the best!

{from Parenting.com}

Layered Salad

What You'll Need: 

Salad mix of your choice - this recipe calls uses Watercress
Slaw mix
Shredded carrots
Cherry tomatoes
Quinoa, cooked
Strawberries
Salad dressing

What to Do:

Arrange layers of salad ingredients in small layers, using clear glass containers.
Top with strawberry and serve with an assortment of dressings.Slaw mix
Shredded carrots
Cherry tomatoes
Quinoa, cooked
Strawberries
Dressing of choice

{image: ziggityzoom.com}

3 Easter Crafts For Preschoolers That Are Easy {Peasy!}

Looking for easy Easter crafts for your kids? You're going to love these 3 sweet and simple craft ideas for toddlers and preschoolers.

Paper Plate Easter Wreath

DLTK.com

You need:

• Paper Plates (preferably white but any will do)
• Scissors (safety scissors for kids, of course)
• Glue (glue sticks are awesome)
• These cute bunny and egg templates from DLTK (just click and print them out!)

To start, you and/or the kids need to cut the center portion of the paper plate out - the outside of the plate is the wreath.

Next, go to DLTK's holiday page, and print out the bunnies and Easter egg templates provided. Once printed, these too will need to be cut. Or make your own!

Then all that needs to be done is to let the kids glue the bunnies and eggs around the plate -making the awesome wreath!!

Add some yarn on the back of the plate to hang it.

Easter Bunny Candy Holder 

MarthaStewart.com

You need:

• White envelope (probably 5x7 envelopes will work best)
• Pink construction paper or just extra paper around the house
• Crayons to color the bunny's eyes (or use more construction paper if you prefer!)
• Cotton ball for bunny's nose (or just color a nose if you like!)

Download free rabbit ear templates, then trace the bunny ears on the sealed side of the envelope.

Next, you or the kids will cut along the line through both layers of the envelope.

Turn the envelope over, and what used to be the side of the envelope now becomes the bottom of the envelope. This now becomes a perfect little bunny bag to put a few yummy treats inside.

Cut pink construction paper to make eyes and insides of ears, and glue them on the front of the envelope. Use colored pencil for mouth; glue on a pom-pom nose.

Sweet Handprint Easter Bunnies

You need:

All you will need for your kids to make this sweet Easter art is white paint, construction paper, and supplies around your house to decorate the bunny faces.

And of course, you need to have a great frame to show off your child's sweet Easter art!

Get the complete directions at Pinkie for Pink.

How To Make Homemade All Natural Easter Egg Dye

Before heading to the store to buy Easter egg dye kits this year, why not stay home and make homemade all-natural Easter egg dyes this year?

Simply gather up some fruits and veggies from your kitchen and get ready to decorate hard-boiled eggs that will be safe to eat after the hunt is over!!

How To Make Safe Homemade Easter Egg Dyes Using Fruits and Vegetables

Place whichever fruits or vegetables in a saucepan with about 2 cups of water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve or colander, reserving the liquid.

Add 1/4 cup of white vinegar and stir until combined.

Then go ahead and place the hard-boiled eggs in the dye. Remeber the longer the eggs sit in the liquid, the brighter their colors will be.

If you are using fruit to make egg dye, try using  blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, cherries and cranberries to make pretty shades of blues pinks and purples.

If you are using vegetables to make dye, use red cabbage, beets, yellow onion skins, and carrots to get blues, reds, orange and yellow.

How To Make Homemade Easter Egg Dye Using Spices

Place 4-5 Tbs. of spices and 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15 minutes.

Remove from the heat and strain through a fine-mesh sieve or colander, reserving the liquid.

Add 1/4 cup of white vinegar and stir until combined. Let the liquid cool to room temperature and dye your hard-boiled eggs. .

Coffee and other spices like ground turmeric and paprika can make wonderful brown earth tone colors for dying eggs.

How To Make Homemade Easter Egg Dyes Using Tea and Juice

Brew tea in 2 cups of water. Then add ¼ cup vinegar to your tea after it cools down. Now you have an easy-peasy safe Easter egg dye for kids to use.

Try using juices to make simple home-made egg dye too. 

Grape juice makes an awesome safe purple dye eggs - let the eggs soak in he liquid, dry and decorate!

Got Dandruff? Try Green Tea!

Who knew green tea could help fight dandruff ?

How To Use Green Tea To Stop Dandruff Itch 

First brew a cup of green tea (why not make it two cups of tea....drink one for your health and use one for your itchy scalp!!)

Valentine's Gift For Her: Noodle And Boo Heart-Shaped French Milled Soap

Looking for a last-minute Valentine's gift for her?  The Noodle and Boo All of My Heart French Milled Soap is heart-shaped and made with mild cleansers and gentle moisturizers that ensure healthy skin.

Absolute Best Flourless Chocolate Cake

I have been on a bit of a quest of late to find healthier dessert options.  You see, I heart everything chocolate. I am a certified chocoholic.

Treats like the chocolate-raspberry mini-turnovers I made for Mother's Day last year are my downfall.

I figure I could at least try to use healthier dessert recipes. Like this flourless chocolate cake recipe from RecipeTin Eats.

Picture Courtesy of RecipeTinEats.com


(Not a chocoholic? No worries. I have this flourless Carrot Cake here for you to try.)

Valentine's Day is the perfect holiday to try out this recipe. Since this cake is made with Almond flour and is a healthier version of regular chocolate cake, I won't feel so guilty eating it.

I  am bringing my son's third grade class donuts for Valentine's Day (29 decadent donuts.) And let's not forget my kindergartner. His class will be enjoying gooey red cupcakes that I will be buying making from boxes of mix scratch.

Then there are those candies. You know, the ones that the kids have to have to go along with their Valentine cards they pass out to their friends. ( Is it just me, by the way,  or does it seem that every year there is a competition of some kind at school where each kid will try to bring the biggest and the best-est candy to school to give to their classmates? It's like those little boxes of mini heart-shaped candy with the cute little 'be mine' sayings on them just do not cut it anymore.)

 And lest we forget, the big fancy red and pink heart-shaped boxes of chocolate candy boys want to give to their teachers. I will need to buy 3 of those boxes this year.

All that chocolaty goodness in my house. My will power will never last. And my thighs will pay the price. My only hope is to try this flourless and gluten free chocolate cake recipe and hope it satisfies my sweet tooth.

Somehow, I think it will.

And if that doesn't work, well, one of those heart-shaped boxes of candy for the teachers just might be missing a candy or two.

Sweet Valentine's Day Craft: Easy to Make Mittens

Looking for a sweet Valentine's Day craft that is that is easy to make yet adorable to give as a present to your kids this Valentine's? You can find the full tutorial for these easy to make mittens over at the ModCloth blog.

Pretty much all you really need is an old sweater in any color. And if you don't happen to have an old sweater laying around in the color you want for this project, you can always dye one in the color of your choosing,

If you do not have a sewing machine, no worries. The stitching on these mittens is pretty basic, hand stitching will work just fine.