Simple St Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt!
My kids love St Patrick’s day but with it landing on a Sunday this year there’s not the fun of going to school in all your green! So I thought this year we’ll do a little something more than I usually do. I’ve put together this simple yet fun scavenger hunt for the kids. They’ll follow the clues and at the end of the hunt they’ll find their pot of gold with some fun simple “green” items. Here’s the clues you can print and use too!
Clue #1 Keeping food cold is important you see, this is the place where milk just may be
Clue #2 Keys open doors to our home in our town. They also turn “something” so we can get all around
Clue #3 My shoes stay on my feet the whole day through, “someone else’s shoes” is where you will find the next clue
Clue #4 “Knock, Knock” is the sound that comes from this place! It means someone’s here & you’ll see a new face!
Clue #5 Here we gather together to enjoy a few meals, go under this place & I just might hear you squeal
Clue #6 If our clothes get dirty here is where they’ll go, find the next clue & the last treasure you’ll know!
At the end for their treasure I’ll put a box of lucky charms, gold chocolate coins, maybe some green jello and the ingredients to make a fun treat! Now lets hope they remember to wear their green or I’ll be out with my pinchers!
Shamrock Lime Punch Recipe
It’s the month of green and leprechauns. My kids always look forward to St. Patrick’s Day and I honestly don’t know why. I’m not one to go all out for this holiday, I make it super simple. One thing I do like to do is have a few fun, different things we do that day. We eat Lucky Charms in the morning and then have some time of treat. I was looking at this yummy punch and new the kids would love it. It’s simple and the perfect St. Patty’s Day surprise.
Shamrock Lime Punch Recipe
(Recipe & Picture by The Crafted Sparrow)
Ingredients:
- 7up or Sprite
- Lime Kool-Aid mix
- Lime sherbet
- 20 oz. Can Pineapple Chuncks (We will use the Pineapple juice)
Directions:
- Get a pitcher and make your Kool-Aid mix according to directions on the package. You can use only 1/2 sugar instead of 1 cup.
- Add the juice from the 20 oz Can of Pineapple Chunks (you can save the chunks for smoothies another day).
- Grab a drinking glass and put in two scoops of lime sherbet, fill the glass 1/3 way full of the Kool-Aid mixture.
- Fill the rest of your cup with lemon-lime soda.
- You can add more lime sherbet if needed.
- Add a straw and a wedge of lime and you’re done!
5 Tips to Know Before You Visit Sand Dunes- Fun Winter/Spring Destination
If you are getting antsy for a vacation during these dreary winter months, you’ll want to check out sand dunes. We recently got back from the Imperial Sand Dunes in California and it was an absolute blast. It’s the perfect time of year to go, not super crowded and the temperatures was perfect. If you’ve never been to sand dunes before, it’s definitely different than most vacation spots. There are some tips and tricks that you’ll want to know before hand. Check these out!
- Check the weather forecast before you go. The days leading up to our trip we constantly checked the weather. The wind is what you want to be looking at. If you have wind higher than 10 mph then it could not be fun. Remember, that fine sand will be blowing in your face. The best temperature is around 70 degrees, that’s why the winter/spring is a great time to travel to sand dunes.
- Be ready for the sun and possible wind. The weather can change drastically, bringing in some high heat. You’ll want to be prepared with all of the sun essentials- sunscreen, lip balm, wear hats, sun glasses and long sleeve and pants. Also be sure to bring dust masks! We wear these a lot when we are even at the campground.
- Follow the signs and rules at your sand dune destination. At Imperial you must follow a few rules like have flags on your sand vehicles, time restrictions of riding and age requirements. Do a little research before you go to your destination so you know what you need.
- Ride with other people. When you are out riding in the sand dunes it’s always nice to go with another vehicle. That way if you get stuck, you have someone to pull you out!
- Bring fun items like sleds and sand toys. Yes, you can actually sled down the sand hills. It’s amazing. Be aware, walking in the sand is super tiring. So you’ll want to bring your water on your trips to the sand. You can also bring some sun umbrellas so you can sit out on the sand too.
Fun & Creative Things You Can Do at the Beach!
I’m so excited for summer and the warmer weather! We have a couple trips planned to the beach that we’re all looking forward too! I’m sure we won’t have any problem making memories and having fun but I’ve come up with some fun unique things to do in the sand that maybe you haven’t thought of! Check them out!
- Have a sand sculpture competition – you could put mom and dad on opposite teams and get busy making your best sculpture!
- Write messages in the sand – from your names to shapes and drawings you can do so much with simple a stick.
- Sand Volcanoes – using the chemical reaction of baking soda and vinegar you can make a sand volcano. Build your volcano with a bottle as your core. Then fill your bottle with baking soda (you can add sand to the bottom of your bottle if it’s a larger bottle, then it doesn’t take as much baking soda) then add the vinegar and watch it erupt.
- People watch – this reminds me of the scene in Date Night where they’re at the restaurant and watching people as they make up their conversation and life story.
- Make a relay race – this can include everyone from adults down to kids. Use cups to fill up a sand whole or a bucket you have.
- Create a scavenger hunt – come up with some items everyone has to look for. Then use those items and make sand art with them.
- Color Sand – there’s a couple different ways I saw you can do this. First you’ll just need zip lock bags and food coloring. Add your sand to the bag and a few drop of your food coloring. Zip the bag up and shake it up until the sand starts to change color. Second, take some sidewalk chalk and grate it up (using a food grater) then mix in your sand until it’s all colored. Both these way sound fun and something we’re going to try.
- Play Pictionary or Tic Tac Toe – These are simple games you can play right in the sand. You could come up with some pictures to draw while you’re there or create your list before you go.
- Target Shooting – dig a whole, make a circle or put a stick into the ground and use it as a target. Make it a game and see whole can hit the target first. (Just make sure you’re smart in which way you’ll be throwing your items, don’t want to hit anyone.)
Spring Skiing Safety & Money Saving Tips
Can you guys believe it’s almost March? It’s one week away and that also means spring is just around the corner. If you live in an area like me, then Spring can bring so many different weather patterns. We get nice sunny days as well as snowy cold days. March is one of my favorite times to ski. Why? Because the days are longer which means you can get more sun and the temperatures are usually more pleasant. If you’re like me and enjoy some spring skiing, be sure to check these safety tips as well as money saving tips as you hit the slopes.
Spring Skiing Safety Tips
- Lather on the sun screen, especially your face, including your nose, cheeks and ears. With the sun out more, you will most likely get a sun burn. Also, be sure to bring lip balm! This is seriously a lifesaver.
- Watch weather conditions before you head to the mountains. Be aware of avalanche warnings and read all new signs and warnings at your resort. With changing conditions, trails may need to be maintained or even closed.
- Ski in layers. During the spring the days can start super chilly, get really warm, then end super chilly again. Be ready for all conditions with many layers that you can shed or add on throughout the day.
- Be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day. If it’s warmer out, you’re body is getting warmer which needs to be hydrated frequently. Take short breaks throughout the day and get some rest, shade, re-apply the sunscreen and drink water.
Spring Skiing Money Saving Tips
- Ski resorts during late March, April and May have highly discounted logging and ticket prices. This would be a great time to take the whole family skiing at better prices.
- Watch for lift ticket “specials” for each day of the week. I know a few resorts that do date night deals, family night deals, kids ski free days. Check websites before you go and notice these spring months will have cheaper prices. Be sure to search for coupons at your local resort as well. A little research will go a long way.
- Watch for clearance items on skiing equipment. You can grab them now for spring skiing and to be used for next year.
- Pack your own food. This is a good way to save money all year round. When we go skiing we pack our own sandwiches and snacks. Even though our sandwiches aren’t gourmet, they taste SO good when you are right off the slopes and starving. So bring your own food and drinks and save a lot of money.
- Check out the package deals if you are considering staying overnights. These packages will include lift tickets as well as lodging and even entertainment at some resorts. This way you won’t be buying everything individually.
- Check your resort for “free” events, entertainment and classes. During the spring, many resorts will offer free “extras” just to get more people to their resort. This is a great time to take advantage of these freebies.
Anniversary Date Night Ideas That Will Keep You On Budget!
It’s a celebrate that comes around every year and one I look forward to. Each year we try to take the time to celebrate what keeps us together, our love for each other. This year I wanted to share some of the ideas we’ve done in the past and what we’re planning on doing this year to celebrate.
Re-enact your first date – this was fun for us as we meet up in downtown Salt Lake. I make a scavenger hunt out of the events that happened that day with little messages in a bottle.
Memory Book – I found this over at the Dating Divas and we had so much fun putting it together! It’s a cute way to document all of life’s crazy adventures in a scrapbook, journal time capsule. They have other adorable ideas you can purchase and put together as well for your anniversary. Or if money is tight, put together your own adventure book with pictures from the past and places you’d still like to go.
At Home Staycation – Last year things were tight on money and when we thought we were going to be able to go out of town we ended up having to stay home, but we still had a great time. We sent the kids away to grandma’s house and explored our own town. We found new homes to walk through and dream about then hit up a new restaurant. Afterwards we headed home with some treats and a Redbox movie. The next morning we went out for breakfast and took a hike close by. It was a great little staycation we both enjoyed.
Fondue Night – we have kids and when they were younger we sometimes had to celebrate at home due to schedules and budget. So we had our own little fondue night after we put the kids down for bed. First we got the chocolate melted and chopped up our dipping items. Then we enjoyed while chatting at the table.
Slide Show – I’m excited to put this together this year! We’re celebrate 11 years in March so we have tons of memories to look back on. I’ve put together years’ worth of pictures, videos and music on a slide show for us to watch after we get massages. It’s a fun way to make it a little more personalized while cuddled up on the bed.
Super Easy & Yummy Chicken Fajita Soup
It’s that time of year when all I want is warm comfort food. I could eat soup and rolls every day of the week if only my kids would appreciate that too. I’ve tried a lot of soups this winter and found a few of my favorites. Some are super tasty, some are unique and some are downright simple. This one lasts in the last category. This is a crock pot recipe with items you most likely have in your pantry already. It’s definitely a winner.
Chicken Fajita Soup
Picture & Recipe by the Recipe Critic
Ingredients
-
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried cilantro
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- diced tomatoes
- green onions
- cilantro
- lettuce
- diced avocado
- tortilla strips- you can either buy them at the store or make your own!
Directions
- Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray. Add chicken to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a medium sized mixing bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, salsa, corn, black beans, water, cumin, and cilantro. Pour over the top of chicken.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Remove the chicken and shred with two forks. Place back into the slow cooker and add shredded cheese. Continue cooking until cheese has melted about 15 minutes. Serve with your favorite toppings.
**Tip- I LOAD the toppings on, this is what makes the soup. So don’t go stingy on the avocado, cheese and tortillas strips. They are so yummy in this soup. Also, this serves 4-5 people. If you have a larger family, I would double the recipe.
5 Fun Things To Do With the Kids at Home During Spring Break!
Can you believe it’s almost spring? That means spring break is just around the corner and while I’m excited for the change of pace, I know if I’m not prepared and have some ideas we’ll all go crazy! So I’ve thrown together 5 things we’ll be doing over spring break this year.
Backyard Camping – I’m hoping for some warmer weather in which we can pull out the tent and set it up in the backyard. We’ll grill up some food and even roast marshmallows all while having fun in our how backyard.
Bedroom Makeover – my girls’ room has needed a little bit of a face lift so we’re going to tackle their room and make it fun together. From coming up with ideas of things to hang up, to cleaning out the closet, it will be perfect for when school starts back up.
Read a thon – while spring break is just that, a break, I still want my kids keeping up on the things they’ve learned so we’ll be hosting a read a ton! We might invite neighbors over but we’ll have lots of treats and goodies they can enjoy while throwing their pillow on the floor and diving into a good book.
Craft/Baking – we love to craft and are always on Pinterest looking for fun ideas! So we’ll be making time to craft and create something new in the kitchen out of their kids cookbook! And, if the weather is looking good we might create something fun in the garden like getting our fairy gardens put together.
Playdate – these keep me sane. Playdates aren’t just for kids, sometimes I just need the break too and it’s nice to sit down and chat with my mommy friends. We’ll usually make lunch together for all the kids and then clean up and chat about everything while the kids run around and play.
Valentine’s Day Classroom Party Tips
Have you received notification from your kiddos about their Valentine’s Day party? I’m sure you have! My kids are SO excited to exchange Valentine’s and to have a party in school. This year I am one of the lucky moms that get to help with the party. We’ve decided to do 4 rotations which helps with the organization and makes it a little less chaotic. Check these out.
Valentine’s Day Craft Rotation.
There are SO many different crafts that you could do with your kids. Depending on the age group you have will determine what craft you want to do. Here are a couple of suggestions. Younger kids make this super cute headband or for older kids you could have them make these cute VDay candy robots.
Valentine’s Treat Rotation
A Valentine’s Day party would not be complete without a traditional sugar cookie decorating. Bring pre-made heart shaped cookies and let the kids frost and decorate, then enjoy their yummy treat. If you need to do Gluten Free treats, then you could also make some of these super cute Rice Krispie treats as well.
Valentine’s Games Rotation (2 games= 2 rotations)
We are going to do Valentine’s Bingo and Valentine’s Headbanz. These games are easy enough for the kids to quickly understand, yet fun enough to last the full rotation. They are also very doable and won’t take too much time to prepare.
Pass out Valentine’s to classmates.
At the end of the party the kids will be passing out their Valentine’s to each of their classmates. If you don’t have yours yet, be sure to check out Amazon and Walmart for all of their super cute options. You could also check out your local grocery stores for some great prices too. You should see them in your weekly ad this week.
Valentine’s Dates on a Dime!
Valentine’s Day is just a week away and if you don’t have plans for the day I have just what you need! From celebrating with your honey to spending some time with your kids here are some of my favorite ways to spend Valentine’s Day on a dime.
With the Kids
- One of our favorites (and easiest) is the loves heart shaped pizza! You can make your own from scratch or purchase one from Papa Murphy’s.
- Pancakes with secret messages is our family tradition. We’ll dye some of the pancake mix pink and put it in a bottle (similar to ketchup bottles). Then while the pancake is cooking on the one side we’ll write a message on the other, then flip it. We’ll also make pink milk (you can get strawberry milk mix or simply dye your milk pink) to drink with our pancakes.
- A simple heart attack can go a long way! It’d be a fun surprise for the kids to wake up Valentine’s morning to compliments and messages of how much you love them.
- The kids are bound to love a fun scavenger hunt with a cute surprise at the end! Make it dessert after dinner or love letters to each of them but I’m sure they’ll love it.
Couples Ideas
- When you don’t have money for a hotel mix is up and sleep in the living room! We’ve even dragged our mattress down there so we can still get a good night sleep.
- Is your person working on Valentine’s Day? Surprise them at work with flowers or a lunch date. You could even heart attach their car while you’re there.
- Another fun idea, play some truth or dare with your loved one. Come up with some fun ideas of your own and put them in a couple bowls, one labeled truth, and another dare and start playing.
- Treat nights are a fun way to spend a date night at home. One of us will put the kids to bed while the other runs out to get a yummy treat, just for mom and dad!
- At home spa date is a great option if you can’t afford a real spa date this year. Get your bubble bath going and relax with some soothing sounds and candles. Or get even more into it and give each other massages to unwind.
- Scroll down memory lane by looking through old photos and videos. You can go way back to when you were born and share those memories with each other or make it all about the two of you and when you first came together.
- Get in the kitchen together and create something yummy together. Make it dinner or even dessert but cooking together in the kitchen is a great way to each other’s heart.
Money Saving Tips for Your Super Bowl Party
Are you ready for the big day? It’s like a food Christmas to me. I’ve heard Superbowl Saturday is one of the biggest food shopping days of the year. If you’re like me, you’ll be out shopping for those yummy foods tomorrow to get ready for the Sunday game. Here are a few ways to save money & time on your last minute food purchases.
If you have a Kroger affiliated store near you, be sure to check out the coupons they have available. I’ve seen some great ones for little smokies, crackers, soda, chicken wings, pizza and so much more. Be sure to check out their ad and then download the coupons to save you a TON of money.
A great way to save you time is to use the FREE pickup available from Walmart and Kroger stores. You can get the same deals and use the coupons as in store, but you don’t have to wonder around for hours. Reserve your time slot now and start shopping!
Be sure to look at the ad to your local store before you go. That will help you make a list of food that’s already on sale. There are a ton of different foods from steaks, avocados, chips and salsa that you’ll want to grab at stock up prices.
10 Tips to Help You Save Money on Fast Food
Let’s get real, there are many nights that life is crazy and a nice sit down dinner just isn’t going to happen. It’s super nice to be able to go to a drive-thru and have dinner ready in a matter of minutes. With this convenience comes expense. Fast food can add up if you’re not careful. I’ve found some super easy ways to save money and I really do save a TON each time I’m buying fast food. Here are 10 ways you can save money too.
- Watch your mail for coupons and mailers. Coupons for fast food are everywhere. I’m sure you’ve seen those come in your mail or even your email. These coupons can save you a TON just buy tearing them out and using them. Take those coupons and put them in your cars or purse. That way you have them on hand for those last minute dinners.
- Use Apps and Reward Programs. This is super simple and can save you a lot of money. In today’s tech filled world, almost every fast food restaurant will have an App. Simply download your favorite fast food’s app, check out their coupons and rewards program right there on the app. A lot of apps will have free items as rewards which is so worth the download. Be sure to check the app before you go and see what offers are available to help you save the most money.
- Take advantage of Kids Eat Free days. If you have kids you know how expensive it can get to eat out. It would be super cheap if you go on a kids eat free day.
- Know the deals of the day. If you have a favorite place you usually go, be sure you know what deals they have going on each day. That way you can plan ahead and go when you would be eating the deal of the day items.
- Look at the whole menu and know what items can save you money. When you are ordering, look at the menu and see if they have dollar items or cheaper items that you can get more of and still be satisfied. I’ve noticed if you buy a few $1.00 items per person, it’s a lot cheaper than buying just one $6 item per person.
- Order water. I know, I know, this is pretty hard and maybe not what you want to hear, but it’s a simple way to save money. By ordering water you don’t pay that insane amount for a tiny soft drink. Just think, most grocery stores have 2-liter sodas on sale for $1.00. However, when you go out to dinner you will be paying $2 or more for a soft drink for ONE person. Instead of paying that amount, just take your food home and grab that 2-liter soda and share with the family. Soft drink purchases add up way fast, this is a great way to save money.
- Don’t buy side items or share your sides with others instead of ordering one per person. I don’t know what it is about fast food, but I always think I need french fries with my hamburger or chips with my sandwich. Instead of buying one side per person, just buy a couple and share them with your family. If you really want to save money, or if you’re watching your food intake, try not to eat the sides. You can buy the main entree and most likely be satisfied. Again, if you are taking your food home, then grab sides that you already have at home. Most likely you have fruits, veggies or chips that you can add to your meal. You can save a lot by not buying those side items, or by sharing them with others.
- Avoid buying kids meals. I RARELY buy kids meals for my kiddos. They just know they won’t be getting one. First, they are overpriced. Second, the toys are usually junk and provide a few minutes of joy, then those toys are lost somewhere in my car seats. Lastly, did I mention they are overpriced?? Seriously, look on the dollar menus or grab a bigger bundle of those nuggets and share them with the kids. Skip or share your sides and then order water. Super simple and definitely cheaper.
- Skip the desserts and treats. It’s super tempting when you see everyone with an ice cream cone to join in and buy one yourself. However, that is an easy way to save some money. That’s an added expense that you can do on occasion, but not every time you go out to dinner.
- Check your receipts for surveys. Have you noticed that a lot of restaurants have quick surveys at the bottom of your receipts? I do this all of the time. Sometimes these offers will be a free entree or a bogo offer. It’s an easy way to grab a freebie the next time you are at that restaurant.
How do you save money eating out? Comment below and let us know!
How to Find Popular Workout Clothing for Cheap
This year I have a goal to workout more. I finally have some time that I can get out of the house and have some alone time at either the gym or group fitness classes. Now that I’m back in the fitness crowd, I’ve noticed all of the cute workout clothing. I’ve looked at a lot of different stores and noticed that you can get those super cute tanks or leggings or shoes for half of the price, if you know where to look. Most of these clothing items have that same popular look, without the high price.
The stores that I shop regularly for workout clothing are Old Navy, Joe’s New Balance Outlet, Amazon, Costco and Kohl’s. Weird, right? These stores will always have a deal of the day or coupons that you can use to make prices more affordable. For example, Joe’s New Balance Outlet will have an item on sale as their deal of the day. This is when you can find those expensive running shoes for 50% off or that cute running jacket for 40% off. Old Navy has crazy good prices on workout clothing. I’ve bought a few of their tanks for only $7.50 each and they work so great. If you like to look at reviews, then be sure to shop Amazon. I love searching for whatever I need and looking at the highest rated items. I’ve bought shorts, and tanks from there all because of the good reviews and have been so happy with them. Costco and Kohl’s may surprise you with the popular brands like Nike and Adidas at great prices.
When shopping these stores, be sure to check out their clearance workout clothing first. You might find what you are looking for in the clearance section. January is a great time to stock up on workout gear and clearance is in full swing. So start shopping now for workout clothing and you’ll see most are on sale.
If you are looking for those cute workout clothing items, try to be open to new brands. I know that Lululemon has some super cute leggings, but for $128, I kindly pass. I can find similar ones at Old Navy for around $20. Even though it doesn’t have the logo, I can buy more with my money. I’ve found that these stores that I mentioned above have really great quality items as well. You don’t always need to pay a ton for good quality. Try a new brand and see what you think. A lot of stores offer free returns with your purchase.
Hopefully these tips will help you find some new workout clothing at some great low prices.
4 Healthy Breakfast Smoothie Recipes
It’s January which means we have new resolutions to eat healthy. Breakfast is always the hardest for me. I love the waffles, pancakes, donuts and juices. One easy way to eat healthier at breakfast is to have a healthy breakfast smoothie. It’s easy and can be an on the go breakfast option as well. Here are 5 recipes that are the perfect breakfast choice.
- Blueberry Pie Smoothie by Buildyourbite.com
- Oatmeal Berry Breakfast Smoothie by northsouthblonde.com
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie by Like Mother Like Daughter
- Peach Carrot Smoothie by Primavara Kitchen
You could buy the ingredients and have one every day of the week. You might just get your family hooked too. Enjoy!
5 Tips to Help You Lose Weight in 2019
Let’s face it, every year losing weight is usually high on my resolution list. There are so many diets, exercise programs and supplements claiming you will lose weight in a matter of months or even days. However, I’ve found a few tips that help me lose some of that weight by not going to the extreme. These are tips that are pretty simple to do if you stay focused and really have the desire to lose some stubborn weight.
- Introduce more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts into your diet. This can be as simple as adding a fruit or veggie to your lunch, eating some nuts as a snack instead of potato chips, buying whole grains. I love making smoothies or having parfaits loaded with fruits and veggies. It’s a yummy way to get those in your diet.
- Eat when you are sitting down, not when you are multi-tasking. This may sound funny, but have you noticed when you are running errands, or running around your house you will grab the easiest and usually not very healthy food choice? If you take the time to sit and eat your meals you will be more aware of what you are putting in your body and how many times you do it. If you unconsciously eat, it will add up and add on the calories.
- Don’t eat late at night. Ideally you’ll want to take out sugar and sweets, but it’s hard. If you really like a little treat, try to eat it earlier in the day and after a meal. That way you will more likely be full and wont’ eat as much. If you are hungry, you’ll be eating a lot more of that ice cream, pie or cake. Try to just take a little bit and be done. At nights try to eat a food high in protein which will help you stay full longer and help you feel good in the mornings.
- Eat a nutritious breakfast. I’ve always wondered why this was so important. Then one morning, I found myself not having the time for breakfast. I got back home and just started snacking on everything I saw. It was terrible, I was so hungry and for the rest of the afternoon just snacked on everything I could. No wonder a good breakfast is important.
- Choose to be active. You have choices every day. Do you choose the stairs? Do you choose the closest parking spot? Do you choose to sit for most of the day? Do you take walks or join and exercise program? Start changing your choices to be more active. It’s always good to burn off calories and it’s good for your emotional state as well. Find a new exercise program that your city or near by gym is offering. Call up a friend and go on walks.