Published on Sunday, November 20, 2011 by caryn
Instead of jet-setting and relaxing with my husband's family, this year we'll be busy prepping and cooking a majority of my own family's Thanksgiving meal. I've been browsing the internet for recipes, tips, how-to guides, and more so that we're prepared for the endeavor.
Have you checked out the recipes, and decorating/entertaining tips on Vons' Holiday Inspirations... Read More »
Published on Saturday, November 19, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="attachment_28302" align="aligncenter" width="614" caption="Photo Credit: Bring It On: The Musical"][/caption]
Drawing inspiration from the film by the same title, Bring It On: The Musical combines comedy, gravity-defying choreography, and a compelling story about the thrilling world of competitive cheerleading.
After premiering in Atlant... Read More »
Published on Friday, November 18, 2011 by caryn
It's not uncommon to put off going to the dentist for cleanings and preventive care when there doesn't seem to be an urgent concern. However, inattention to oral care, over time, can lead to subsequent health problems. And since a person's teeth and smile are integral to their appearance and self-esteem, it's vital that those preventive dental screenings not be negl... Read More »
Published on Thursday, November 17, 2011 by caryn
[caption id="" align="alignright" width="216" caption="Photo Credit: Ashley Tisdale"][/caption]
Do you text? Do you text more than you talk? Sometimes, it's so much more convenient to send a quick text to my husband asking him to pick up a few things from the grocery store or to let him know I'm out late with the kids. Last month, I had an opportunity to talk... Read More »
Published on Thursday, November 17, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Jennifer R and Mary T. Congrats and Happy Thanksgiving!
With Thanksgiving just one week away, our family has already started planning the menu. Traditionally, we've spent the holiday with my in-laws, but this year, we're staying close to home. Rather than one household cooking the entire meal, as i... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 by caryn
For as long as I've been purchasing appliances, I've made it a point to invest in those that are Energy Star rated. What this means is that those products "meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and US Department of Energy" and save consumers money while protecting the environment. Beyond the Energy Star rating, I also look for appliances that will la... Read More »
Published on Monday, November 14, 2011 by caryn
Because I grew up eating foods that were prepared with little to no salt (thanks to my father's incredible cooking), I learned to substitute spices in place of sodium to create flavor. During those early years when my husband and I were newly married, he often stated that my cooking was a bit bland without the addition of salt. With a little experimentation and comp... Read More »
Published on Monday, November 14, 2011 by caryn
It seems like overnight, my children are outgrowing their clothes and shoes. I'm constantly cleaning out their drawers to ensure they're not wearing clothes that don't fit or are not fit to be worn in public. I shop for my kids regularly, both in stores and online. And while I'm not picky when it comes to brand names, I do prefer to purchase outfits from well-k... Read More »
Published on Sunday, November 13, 2011 by caryn
Like many in my age group, I grew up watching The Muppets. Last week when I saw the film for the first time, it brought back childhood memories of watching the show with my father. Most who grew up with The Muppets would admit that what's endearing and enduring about them is their optimistic outlook on the world. We're just 10 days until the Thanksgiving opening... Read More »
Published on Saturday, November 12, 2011 by caryn
Growing up, it was just the three of us. My extended family is spread out across the US so our holidays weren't always traditional. Some years we traveled, but mostly we stayed home, relaxed, and spent quality time together. I don't remember when we started the tradition, but going to see a newly release film on Christmas Day became something we all looked forward t... Read More »
Published on Friday, November 11, 2011 by caryn
Last night, I met with a group of bloggers to discuss some of the trends we'll see this holiday shopping season. We agreed that tech gifts are definitely going to be topping shopping lists, much like they do each year. Since smartphones are increasingly becoming popular, Energizer introduced the Inductive Charger, which utilizes Qi technology to charge a smartphone wi... Read More »
Published on Friday, November 11, 2011 by caryn
Not only is it the most important meal of the day, it's my favorite meal of the day. Perhaps it's because breakfast is the meal where I see the most diversity. Frittatas, scones, muffins, waffles, granola, fruit...Yum!
Up until a few years ago, I didn't know much about gluten intolerance and Celiac disease. Now I can list 10 or more people I know personally w... Read More »
Published on Friday, November 11, 2011 by caryn
My husband thinks it's a bit strange that I get excited about deals, sales, clearance racks, coupon codes, and the like. I like to think I'm a relatively smart, savvy shopper, striving to find the best prices without sacrificing style, preference, or quality. I don't blog a lot about deals per se, but when I encounter one that I find valuable, I strive to share it.
B... Read More »
Published on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 by caryn
Of late, we've been talking about the topic of child hunger in America. It actually seems appropriate, particularly around this time of year when the holidays are very much focused on food. Come learn about how prevalent the issue is right here in our communities, what organizations like ConAgra Foods, Feeding America, and Schools Fight Hunger are doing to make a ... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 by caryn
I can't believe that we're nearing the end of the year. We're entering one of my favorite seasons, although this year is going to be quite different. I'm proud of how much I've experimented with foods this year...both at home and at restaurants across the country.
If I'm home during the day (a rarity), I am not stressed about making dinner. I do find myself strugg... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 by caryn
I'm one of many who spent a few not-so-glamorous years in braces. I remember the awkward, painful process involved with wires, head gear, rubber bands, and tightening. And on that glorious day when I finally achieved a metal-free mouth, I was informed that I'd have to wear a retainer for the rest of my life to keep my teeth straight. It's been many, many years s... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 by caryn
You might remember that I just posted about how important it is to keep an eye on your favorite stores since some of the best sales happen before Black Friday. Lands' End, one of our favorite retailers for children's clothing, outerwear, and accessories is having their Family + Friends sale. Starting November 10th, you'll save 25% on items site-wide (including Lan... Read More »
Published on Tuesday, November 8, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Jennifer Marie and Janice Cooper. Congrats!
For the past few months, I along with a team of bloggers have partnered to raise awareness about the growing problem of child hunger in our country. One in five American children do not know where their next meal will come from, and living in a country with... Read More »
Published on Monday, November 7, 2011 by caryn
Just when I think that the number of ways chocolate can be enjoyed has been exhausted, The Hershey Company goes and proves me wrong! : ) One of the company's newer product lines is their bite-sized versions of your favorites packed in a crunchy candy shell. Pieces launched in 2009 with Almond Joy, Special Dark, and York and they're about to introduce a new variety...... Read More »
Published on Monday, November 7, 2011 by caryn
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is JoAnn F. Congrats!
One of the things I miss about my younger, single years are girls nights out. Inevitably, those GNO's included late nights talking and watching chick flicks. I absolutely adore "girlie" movies and have an entire list of must see's on my Netflix queue including Monte Carlo!
I don't ... Read More »