Top 5 Healthier Alternatives

“This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group™ and Dr. Pepper Snapple Group but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #TENways  http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV”

Spring is here. Summer is right around the corner. And all of us are trying to figure out how to drop the extra weight that we gained over the course of the longest winter ever. It also seems like a common theme this time of year---bikini season preparation as some people like to call it. 

Everyone is looking toward dieting. Everyone is trying out all the different work out regimens out there. And changes are being made all around.

People often ask me what diet I am on and what things I like to do for exercise and it's hard for me to answer them exactly. I don't do anything strict. I don't like to restrict myself from things that I normally love, but I am always looking for changes to be made and to be made in a positive way. Changes that do not just last for a month or two, but are those that we can stick to permanently. For the most part. I say for the most part because there is just no way for us to be perfect in our diets all the time. There are factors to consider. For instance, when we are invited to be dinner guests at another person's home. Will I tell my friends that I will not eat their meatballs because she made them out of beef instead of what we normally do, turkey? The answer is no. The same goes for our decision to eat mainly organic, limit our sweets, and have a diet high in fruits and vegetables.

There are always splurges, and for us that is okay. 

At home, I have cravings as well and I like to make the healthier choice when it comes to those cravings.

Here is a list of my 5 favorite options to making healthier changes:

1. TEN Beverages. When I am craving a soda, I like to go for the one that gives me the full taste without the full calories. I don't want to miss out on the delicious taste, and at the same time, I don't want to drink all my calories away with a regular pop. This is where the TEN beverages come in, and my favorite of the four being 7up. I purchased mine at Walmart, and they currently have a great deal going on that ends 4/17. 

Get this coupon for 0.50 off of two 2 liter bottles or 2 four pack cans of 7UP TEN, A&W TEN, Canada Dry TEN, RC TEN or Sunkist TEN soda. Even better, share it with your friends and that coupon becomes $1.50 off! Offer available while supplies last.

2. Fruit Ice Cream. When I am craving ice cream, especially during the hot summer days, I am craving something cold and sweet. The thing that I have found that helps satisfy that craving is by making my own ice cream out of fruit. It's as simple as blending any fruit you prefer {one flavor or a mix of flavors}, putting them in popsicle mold and placing them in the freezer. My kids love it and cannot tell the difference!

3.  Granola+Yogurt+Fruit. At night is when I have found to have the biggest sweet tooth. I want something sweet and crunchy, and my favorite go-to snack has turned into something my entire family asks for. Daily. I make my own granola, I had a little bit of vanilla yogurt, and then I top it with whatever fruit I have available in the fridge. I even throw in a couple chocolate chips just to satisfy that chocolate craving. 

4. Salads for lunch. I have found that by substituting a meal with a salad {lunch or dinner}, that I have more energy and I just feel better overall. Now, to be honest with you, I used to be that person that always hated salads. I never understood why anyone just wanted to eat leaves for a meal, and most of all, it never filled me up! I figured it out---I was doing it all wrong. I was not putting the right ingredients on. Now, I fill my salad with slices of ham, almonds and walnuts, tomatoes and peppers, and clementines and strawberries. It is the perfect mix of food and I never complain of being hungry after eating a single bowl. 
 

5. Turkey instead of beef. We made the switch about 5 years ago and we have never looked back. I truthfully cannot tell the difference, and I actually prefer the turkey taste over the beef. We use turkey for our meatballs, our tacos, our chili, burgers, and so forth. There is no special trick to it, you simply just eliminate the beef and use ground turkey instead. And it is so much healthier for you!

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There you have it, my simple 5 healthier alternatives that I think are easy, do-able, and most importantly, delicious.

All this food talk not only made me hungry, but thirsty as well. I'm going to go pour myself a glass of 7UP TEN, and make myself a yogurt granola fruit parfait with a side of ice cream as well.

Now just get me a beach and an umbrella and I'm set. 

Want more information on the different TEN beverages? Visit the links below:

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The Kentucky Derby Essentials: A List of a Man's GO-TO Needs

 “This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Scandinavian Tobacco Group Lane, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #CuberoLuxury http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV”

When Andrew and I started dating, there were new and exciting {and sometimes i things that we would introduce to one another.

I showed him what it was like to live in a big city and go to the grocery store without fearing you would run into every person from school.
He showed me what it was like to live in a small town and know every detail about Mary, Bob, and Sue.

I showed him what it was like to come from a different country and try to understand the weird Russian culture that surrounded us.
He showed me what it was like to be born in the United States and actually understand the common phrases that I still struggle with catching on to this day.

I showed him the world of risk taking in Euchre.
He showed me what it was like to risk take in horse betting. 

He opened my eyes to the famous Kentucky Derby.

I attended my first Kentucky Derby when I started dating Andrew. I remembered reading about it, I remembered seeing it on television, and I surely remembered my brother who happens to be in love with horse racing talk about it quite frequently. But had I imagined ever actually going? Not in my wildest dreams.

The best memories have been made during that famous first weekend in May. And since having children, and my in-laws moving out of state, there have been less opportunities of me being able to go. However, because Andrew's entire family goes {and tons of friends}, he definitely does not miss out on this yearly tradition.

And who's to blame him?

Because we will miss him terribly in a few weeks when he goes, and because I want him well taken care of, I made him a small little survival kit of items that can easily all fit into his pockets. All of the items mentioned below could easily be applied to any event for a significant other.

Wedding gift idea. A night out essentials guide. Birthday night items on the go.

ANDREW'S SURVIVAL GUIDE:

All products may be purchased at Walmart

1. Cubero Cigars. I bought mine at Walmart and these will be perfect for him to take on the day of the race. Small, compact, and made with premium tobacco and a natural wrapper. One thing that is essential for all the men at the Derby is cigars. Cubero is one high quality tobacco brands within the cigar industry. The brand was developed by Lane Limited and comes in aromatic and flavorable qualities.

2. Toothpaste with compact toothbrush & Gum.  Fresh breath. This is perfect to slip in the pocket and not having to worry of it taking up a lot of space. Another thing I contemplated on getting instead is the little wisk brushes that come with toothpaste already on them. Those are a great alternative as well.

3. A snack. Because every man needs a full belly.

4. Deoderant. Hot weather and lots of cheering= sweaty husband.

5. Sunglasses. Protect his eyes, and not to mention watch his horse run to the finish line.

6. Money. You have to spend money to make money.

7. Lucky penny. Lastly, this is important to go with number 6. Must have his lucky charm with him at all times.

So there you have it, the go-to survival guide 101.

Everything you could possibly need that fits perfectly in a man's pocket.

The PERFECT Accessory

With a glimpse of warm weather ahead, a little bit of sunshine peeking through my window, and the days becoming closer and closer to summer, there is no doubt that I am drooling over a whole new wardrobe. A wardrobe full of shorts, dresses, and flip flops. And sun kissed skin, pool trips, and bright colored toe nails.

One thing that I especially love about summer is that there is so much to do. We literally live out of bags and are on the go from June to August. From the kids' activities to road trips, pool trips, park dates, and sleepovers at the grandparents' house---Who so happen to have a pool, and free babysitting service. And I don't have a single complaint about that. It's what I live for, and being out is so much better than being stuck in.

However, I do have to be prepared. A lot of times, I find myself making sure that everything is checked off on the kids' needs list and forget the things on my own. I'm lucky if I even remember to bring a change of underwear and clothes to sleep in when I stay downtown with my husband. Better yet, shoes for the next day.

There once was a time when I walked out of the hotel room in cheetah pajama pants and 5 inch stilettos. True statement.

Of course, there are other things that sometimes just don't make the cut simply because of space. One of those things being a razor.  Although I may not shave as often as I should, there's a high liklihood that no one would ever even notice---seeing as how I am around two people under the age of 4 every day, all day. However, when it comes to date nights, smooth legs is a must for me.

I've never quite figured out how to pack my razor {as I'm usually just throwing things in at the last minute} without cutting my finger open when I reached in it a few hours later.  But the great thing is that I no longer have to think about it. The problem was solved when I received my Venus Snap razor that not only has a mini handle and comes with a cute compact case to carry it in, but it's instant smoothness and my latest {and greatest} accessory. With its pivoting heads hugging your curves, and its smooth glide of moisture, it definitely leaves a lasting impression.

Going to the gym? Throw the Venus Snap in your gym bag. Going to the beach? In the beach bag along with the sunscreen. Having a night out? Slip it in your pocket book and you're set.

Honestly? It's so compact I could just throw it in back pocket of my jeans.

So--warm weather, summer dresses, short shorts, and beachwear, I'm ready for you. No more hiding in the house, and a lot more of us out in public doing what we love most.

And after today, a pair of smooth legs to show off.

I'm ready.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Three things I'm loving. #Masterlockprotects

 

Three things I'm loving:

I love American Idol.

I love Fridays.

And  I love when companies work towards a great cause. I love even more when they utilize social media to do so. And I especially love it when they get other people involved in the cause.

Matsterlock right now has a great promotion going on through February 28th where they are asking consumers to tweet what they most care about and want to protect. By doing so, and using the hashtag #MasterLockProtects, they will be entered for a chance to win one of 28 prizes. That's not where it stops though. For every tweet that MasterLock receives, they will donate $1 {up to 10,000} to American Red Cross, in addition to their initial $10,000 donation.

For more details about this promotion, please visit this website.

I was also offered the opportunity to review a product made by Masterlock, the 5422D Key Portable Safe. You're probably thinking what in the world would I need this for? I said the same thing actually. That's when I called my husband and as soon as I said the words "Masterlock" he immediately answered "yes." Before I even finished.

He's a product junky. And you really don't have to give him much reason to lock things up.

We decided to use this lock to store important credit cards that our daughter has taken to thinking that belong to her. We lock it up, we know where it is, and they are safe and sound away from sneaky little toddler hands.

Now, please please go tweet those little birds away! Remember, hashtag #MasterLockProtects!

Easy, on-the-go solution to a delicious breakfast option!

"This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group and Jimmy Dean, but all opinions are my own. #pmedia #RedboxBreakfast http://cmp.ly/3/8vNxcO. "

Sundays are my favorite day of the week. I don't know what it is about that day, but it's always the one day of the week where I feel great, my house looks great, my family feels great, and most importantly, I eat great. As in, I eat a really really really good breakfast. Breakfast is, after all, the most important meal of the day, and I have to say that my husband spoils us rotten. We don't skimp when it comes to breakfasts and we love to have a variety for all to pick from. Who am I kidding here, there is not much picking as there is just devouring everything. From pancakes to bacon, toast, omelettes, and waffles. Throw in a glass of orange juice and a side of fruit and we have all food groups covered. Maple syrup with cinnamon and whipped cream is the obvious dessert here.

Lately though, I have noticed that when we go to the early service at Church {we're talking 9 am here}, then we are always making a quick breakfast on the go. Which is okay, as we definitely don't need a production each and every time, but I definitely feel like it's becoming the same old boring---greab a cereal bar, a banana, and maybe a bowl of cereal if you're lucky and go. I miss my eggs. I miss my bacon. I just miss the feeling of the Sunday meal that I so look forward to having every week.

So, I needed a solution.

I told Andrew that there was an easy fix to all this and I was going to figure it out.

Therefore, this past Sunday, I explained to Andrew that I would be in charge of breakfast that day. He usually insists, but for whatever reason, did not try to argue this one---this wonderful idea that I had in mind. Probably because it meant that he could sleep in a little while longer. I made sure that we were stocked in the fruit department, and picked up a box of Jimmy Dean breakfast bowls at Walmart after work that morning.

I came home to a quiet house and sleeping babies, so decided to pop the breakfast bowl into the microwave, cut up the fruit, filled the cups, and set the table. By the time I got the kids out of bed {including the husband}, the house already smelled like someone had been cooking all morning, and all eyes got real big upon seeing what was on their plates. I don't think anyone even spoke during the meal {which took approximately 2 minutes to scarf down}, and there certainly was not a crumb of food left.

"Oh honey, that was so good!" Andrew said.

"You should be in charge of Sunday breakfast more often," he went on.

I nodded my head and smiled.

"Where did you come up with the recipe, or did you just throw it all together," he asked.

I thought about that one for a moment. Should I tell him the secret? Should I spoil the fun? Should I explain that I'm not miss domestic breakfast maker after all? There was a brief hesitation. But of course I couldn't give all my super powers away. So I told him that he wouldn't be finding out today, however, I'd wake up extra early the next day so he would have a yummy breakfast to take with him to work.

All options available at Walmart 

You would think that I told him that I was buying him the new XBOX {which he wants by the way}. And from that look on his face? There's definitely no way I'll ever tell him that the secret to a quick, easy, and most definitely delicious breakfast that happened to come in a box. They're called Jimmy Dean Breakfast Meat Lovers Bowl. 

Next time, I'm cooking the sandwiches.  And next time I have a big family affair? You better believe I'll save myself all the dishes, all the time, and all the energy and turn to what I like to call now my old faithful.

Quick. Easy. On-the-go solution.

Problem solved.

Follow along with Jimmy Dean Here:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Us women--- we tend to forget about ourselves and our needs and wants.

Do you ever think about things that you used to do prior to children versus what you do now, post children? I don't think about it too often, as there is not much of my past that I miss or wish I could have again---if not nothing. However, sometimes when I'm rushing around to get a pair of socks on one kid and a shirt over the other while they run away from me giggling, I think about the things that I miss out doing for myself. Wouldn't you agree that moms tend to think about themselves last and that we sacrifice our needs or wants for those that we love?

I would say that is pretty darn accurate.

We spend so much of our time worrying about the children and worrying about getting to places on time, that we eliminate things that seem to just not matter.

Did you know that women won't use lotion daily because it takes too long to apply and absorb? I thought this was very interesting because my initial response was---"That's silly, that takes two seconds!" And then I had to back up and ask myself when was the last time I actually lotioned {not a word, I know} myself from head to to toe. Crickets. The answer is--forever.

Have you ever did a full body lotion right after the shower and then realized that you had to put on your skinny jeans in about two seconds? That is always a fun pleasant surprise.

So what is the solution for those that just don't have the time to wait?
Vaseline® Spray & Go Moisturizer.

This is a continuous spray lotion that moisturizes and absorbs in seconds, and after putting it to the test, I have to admit that seconds is definitely the best way to describe it. It's almost as though you just spent the time to put lotion on your body and then use a towel instantly after to dry off. Except here, you actually get to feel that moisturized look without feeling greasy! They even have a great feature where the dispenser is 360 degrees and allows you to be rest assured that all areas are covered, and applied evenly.

I have to imagine that Vaseline® knew what they were doing when they created this moisturizer. A bunch of women got together and all came to the conclusion that we do not take care of ourselves as often as we should do to time constraints.

Not a problem any longer my friends. Not at all.

When you're at the store, be sure to grab a bottle for yourself and use this coupon for extra savings--- $2 off coupon, and if you share with a friend on Facebook, get an additional $2 off coupon! 

This sponsored post was written while participating in my partnership with Vaseline and One2One Network, but as always, all opinions are my.

The 5 minute or less bathroom routine! A mom's best friend.

"This shop is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group and Rubbermaid and Cottonelle  but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #CtnlCareRoutine http://cmp.ly/3/8vNxcO "

They tell you a lot of things when you are pregnant.

Be prepared to fall in love over and over again.

Be prepared for little to no sleep.

Be prepared to be awed by every little thing this human being does. 

Be prepared for messes that you never experienced before.

Be prepared to experience pure joy, happiness, and excitement each and every day. 

Be prepared to not shower, brush your teeth, or put on appropriate matching clothing until way past noon.

Just, be prepared because it is unlike anything you have ever experienced or done in your life.

And although not everything holds true for everyone out there, the one thing that is ultimately fact across the board is that motherhood is in fact unlike anything out there. And there is truly nothing to fully prepare you for all that it entails.

The thing that amazes me the most is how prior to children, or any life experience that we find challenging, we always say things like "Wow, I don't know how she does it!" Or, "There's no way I could do it." We see these challenges that others go through and cannot possibly imagine where they find the time or better yet energy to not only take care of the children but always make time for the other things that require our attention.

Like? Cleaning.

I have never been a big fan of cleaning. For me, I love the end result: a fresh, good smelling, clean home. But the process? Not so much.

I hate knowing that I spend so much time cleaning something that will ultimately get dirty again, in what may seem like less than 24 hours. If not sooner. I hate knowing that I could be investing that time into something more beneficial. Thinking to myself, how does cleaning possibly make the world go round. But no matter how many questions I ask myself, or no matter which way I want to work around this dilemma, I still find myself having to deal with the inevitable.

The key for me though is now finding how to make my cleaning routines quicker and more enjoyable, starting with the place that I usually dread the most--the bathroom. Then again, who actually enjoys scrubbing toilets and bathtubs? Don't answer that.

Here is my quick 5 minute or less routine and essentials.

THE ROUTINE

THE ESSENTIALS

I did forget to mention that the phone also plays a key role in cleaning, as it the owner of the pandora station that blasts country music while I clean. The kids are usually dancing in the background.... and trying to help.

BEFORE/AFTER

Left: Post bath craziness Right: 5 minutes later

As you can see, there is no rocket science to it. The thing for me is finding products that are reliable and that I enjoy. Cottonelle Cleaning Cloths are one of those products that is not only simple to use, but also one that fits in with my decor and easily accessible when I need it. And in between my "official" clean ups, I can tidy up the little messes that are made by the children that have this way of destroying a place in 1.5 seconds. Not to mention, the husband as well.

If you have a Wal-Mart in your area, be sure to buy two of my products there---the Cottonelle Clean Care toilet paper and the cleaning cloths. They are right by one another, but you can always ask {like I did}, if you get lost! There is also a great offer going on now if you purchase both products during the month of February---receive $5 Vudu credit [think HD movies to rent!} by following these simple steps:

1. Take a picture of receipt showing you purchased both items.
2. Text or email picture to clean@drvsusa.com
3. You will receive a text {or email} back with promo code for $5 movie credit.
4. Get more info by visiting: www.drvsusa.com/cottonellemovies

Now that I have the art of cleaning a bathroom down... let's see if I can figure out a way to clean the kitchen in 5 minutes or less......

All suggestions are welcome!