tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66844384896849004522024-03-18T18:13:53.036-07:00Momma Told MeA retrospective lifestyle blog taking Momma's words and applying them to the modern family.Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.comBlogger969125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-5023545561069307092021-02-21T13:45:00.000-08:002021-02-21T23:30:34.676-08:00Sweet And Salty Margarita Cookies Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3nxEua4poA4/VsogWp25L-I/AAAAAAAA7eQ/wlH0S4yOQq4/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BM.jpg"><img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3nxEua4poA4/VsogWp25L-I/AAAAAAAA7eQ/wlH0S4yOQq4/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BM.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">One tequila, two tequila, floor.</span></span></span></b><br />
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I'm not a drinker. Ask anyone who knows me and they will tell you that I'm the designated driver at any function, entirely by choice. I have nothing, personally, against spirits- I'll have a glass of wine with dinner maybe every other month and I will sip on a drink at a party or event to be social. I'm not a snob- I was just raised with an appreciation of what it means to be the 'sober one' among a crowd of friends and family partaking in libations. It's hilarious. Especially in my family.<br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ltch7MbHi7k/VsogmcT-WwI/AAAAAAAA7eU/EdUe8sv7Ajg/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BA2.jpg" title="" /></div>
You see, my mom's family has always had some group at odds with the other- and the best way to mediate large family functions was with the lubrication of fine liquors- especially margaritas. Tequila runs deep in my family, my 92 year old granny drinks a hearty 'hair on your chest' margarita every day. She'll drink the men in our family under the table. At 7 or 8 I began asking my mother for 'margaritas' during these social occasions and she'd pour me a glass of sweet and sour over ice with a salted rim and a lime wedge. I loved it so much, without the tequila, that I began ordering my 'margaritas' this way when I turned 21. Entirely alcohol free. Sadly, when you're at a bar this doesn't change the cost much, but it was a way for me to feel social while enjoying a comforting drink without the impact of tequila.<br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xwflmZCVfpo/Vsohp34JhPI/AAAAAAAA7es/QDk7hsTwKvg/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BB2.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k45pj2-Qxsk/VsohpRqRaaI/AAAAAAAA7eo/x7s2eLuMQ0o/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BC.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--3JXpE2Es-E/VsohpQStKvI/AAAAAAAA7ek/74hYX_iLETM/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BD.jpg" title="" /></div>
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So, you're probably wondering, have I EVER had a real margarita. Well, the answer is yes. In my family I don't think you can be of legal drinking age and have not. In fact, the second, and last, hangover I've ever had was celebrating my 21st birthday a year belated with my mother and step dad in my childhood best friend's home. His family was out for the weekend and my mother (who was best friends with his mother) was crashing there while in town. <br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gsnPumz-NCo/VsoiGEAGheI/AAAAAAAA7e0/myURI24EEr0/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BG.jpg" title="" /></div>
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I am pretty sure the 'margarita' I drank was straight tequila with a few slices of lime. By the time I realized it was time to put down the glass my step father had so kindly made for me, my mother was trying to explain the finer arts of pole dancing (which to my knowledge she has never done in her live) while a Michael Bolton DVD played in the background. What followed the next morning was as equally scarring and enough of a hangover to convince me that I should NEVER drink more than I felt comfortable with again. 9 years later I still enjoy my 'Virgin' Margarita at every family gathering, much to puzzled looks from my relatives. <i>"Are you sure you don't want the tequila????"</i><br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lCn4c8yY6z0/VsoiP7k_OYI/AAAAAAAA7fE/o4QBGsHGLuY/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BJ3.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B48bozQuzU8/VsoiQyrAv7I/AAAAAAAA7fI/PZNgVOmjFmg/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BJ.jpg"><img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B48bozQuzU8/VsoiQyrAv7I/AAAAAAAA7fI/PZNgVOmjFmg/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BJ.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C9QEChGTxYs/VsoiRLoJjpI/AAAAAAAA7fM/OJxI6G31KWw/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BO.jpg" title="" /></div>
So, as we celebrate National Margarita Day this February 22nd it may seem odd that I would choose to celebrate a day dedicated to a festive libation. But the truth is the essence of margaritas bring back some amazingly fond memories of wonderful family gatherings. Great food, laughter gathered around the fire pit at night, whispered bets on how many more margaritas granny will drink before she casually wanders into the spare room for a nap. And then there are those nights sitting on the couch with my mother licking the salt off a Pocahontas cup sipping my sweet and sour mix over ice. This drink holds so many warm feelings for me (and it's clearly not in the tequila) that I feel it deserves celebrating. So today I'm sharing a cookie recipe that captures those warm feelings and those beloved flavors.<br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4CCyi8RBPfU/Vsoip75ZFOI/AAAAAAAA7fY/MvarTL1uETI/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BN.jpg" title="" /></div>
These Margarita Cookies are made shortbread style, but the dough is considerably more forgiving than traditional shortbread. When you roll this dough it should be soft and pliable but not sticky to touch. You don't need to freeze it, or over chill it- they will cook well without 'melting' or crumbling (when cutting) after just a few hours in the fridge. The secret, though, is in the coarse sugar and salt rub that bakes into the sides to add an extra textural element and surprise burst of flavor when eating.<br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ssU_-Jp1DDU/Vsoidt68Y1I/AAAAAAAA7fU/SHHk-1ObOYw/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BN3.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CajcYOK-Eu8/VsoidYu9WWI/AAAAAAAA7fQ/g2cAogLzJgo/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BP.jpg" title="" /></div>
I want to note here there is NO alcohol in the cookies themselves. This recipe can be made entirely with no tequila- Which is great because I feel margaritas should be enjoyed by everyone, even those who don't drink! The tequila is actually suggested to be used in the sugar drizzle/glaze, but can be just as well omitted. People always seem to get this big kick out of recipes with liquor in them, so I like to make a 50/50 batch, half with tequila and half without. These cookies are certainly sweet, salty, soft, and crunchy- more than enough to shine on their own! <span style="color: #990000;"><b><i>Now, tell me, are you a margarita fan? Do you like to order 'virgin' drinks like me?</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What Daughter Says:<span style="color: #e06666;"> Margaritas are a mentality, not a drink!</span></b></span></span><br />
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<img alt="These sweet and salty Margarita Cookies can be made with a Tequila Glaze or Lime Glaze, depending on your style. Either way they're full of sweet and salty textures that are sure to send your tastebuds on a wild ride!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RZHQQQP7nTs/VsoivGnIedI/AAAAAAAA7fg/1xArv4PckPE/s1600/Margarita%2BCookies%2BL.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Sweet and Salty Margarita Cookies</span></b></span></div>
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<b><i>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/sweet-and-salty-margarita-cookies?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow">Margarita Cookies</a> recipe</i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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2 C Flour</div>
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1/4 TSP Finely Ground Salt</div>
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1 1/2 Sticks Salted Butter, Softened</div>
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1 C Granulated Sugar</div>
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1 Large Egg</div>
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1 TBS Finely Grated Lime Peel</div>
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1 TSP Orange Extract</div>
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5-6 Drops Lime Green Food Color (Optional)</div>
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1/2 C Turbinado Sugar</div>
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1/2 TSP Pink Himalayan Salt (Or Other Coarse Salt)</div>
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1 1/4 C Powdered Sugar</div>
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1 TBS Water</div>
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1 TBS Tequila OR 1 TBS Fresh Squeeze Lime Juice</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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1. Combine flour and 1/4 TSP Salt in medium bowl and set aside. Beat butter and granulated sugar in large bowl with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add egg, lime peel, orange extract and food coloring (if desired.) Mix well. Slowly introduce and beat in flour on low speed until all is incorporated.</div>
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2. Divide dough in half and roll each portion into logs approximately 9" long and 1 1/2" wide. Wrap in wax paper and set in a baking dish in a bed of rice (to maintain round shape.) Refrigerate 2 hours or until fairly firm.</div>
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3. Preheat oven to 350F. Remove dough from fridge and roll each log in Turbinado Sugar and Himalayan Salt mixture. Cut dough into 1/4" thick slices and place on parchment lined baking sheet. Bake 12-15 minutes, or until outer edges begin to brown.</div>
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4. Remove from oven and place directly on cooling racks to avoid over-baking. Combine glaze ingredients (tequila may be substituted for lime juice) in a small bowl until even and smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and sprinkle a pinch of sugar/salt as desired. Glaze will set quickly. Serve and enjoy!</div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-52931611099947362652019-12-06T18:13:00.000-08:002019-12-07T17:39:01.037-08:00Spiced Rum Cinnamon Rolls Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wirslfiJ4Lo/VprlLqyeE-I/AAAAAAAA7Gc/UQ_vyhwCuoE/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BTa.jpg" title="" /></div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">Temptation takes many forms.</span></span></b></span><br />
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As colorful and crazy as I get, my closest friends will tell you I'm also the square peg at a party. I simply find it more entertaining to watch others 'indulge' than to partake in the libations. I'll have A drink at maybe 4 or 5 social events throughout the year, and even then I find myself thinking the calories would have been more enjoyed as an extra round of appetizers or a second dessert. So, rounding out this week's 'Day of' celebration is National Hot Buttered Rum Day, yet another national fun day that seems slightly late and off season.<br />
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qzfm7ESV-YI/Vprl2k1NZCI/AAAAAAAA7Go/SSmFTsrAkOc/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BA.jpg" title="" /></div>
For those who have never heard of hot buttered rum before, this delightful beverage dates back to early colonial days when the export of molasses from Jamaica became increasingly popular. In the 1650's New England residents began adding distilled rum to hot beverages such as toddies and nogs, resulting in the creation of festive libations like eggnog and hot buttered rum. Hot Buttered Rum, in particular, was especially popular in the Winter months for it's warming 'kick' the rich and hearty blend of buttered rum batter, nutmeg, cinnamon, and dark rum provides. You can make a poor man's version of drink at home by combining 2 cups water, 1/4 C unsalted butter, 1/4 C dark brown sugar, 1 TSP ground cinnamon, 1/2 TSP ground nutmeg, 1/4 TSP ground cloves, a pinch of salt and 3/4 C dark rum over medium heat for 10 minutes.<br />
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Today's Hot Buttered Rum recipe features many of the same ingredients in both the dough and filling, though it can be made without the rum, substituting rum flavoring or extract, if desired. Confession time- I've only tried a Hot Buttered Rum drink once- but it was a flavor, and textural experience that has stuck with me. It reminded me of fresh cinnamon rolls on a Saturday morning- so these Spiced Rum Cinnamon Rolls are truly the perfect work around to enjoying this national holiday without the guilt this Sunday.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TvAx27QAH2Y/VprmQyyL8yI/AAAAAAAA7HI/2TPrgafb-L8/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BE.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TvAx27QAH2Y/VprmQyyL8yI/AAAAAAAA7HI/2TPrgafb-L8/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BE.jpg" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q52l7FOoh7Y/VprmRGqqRmI/AAAAAAAA7HQ/a4MYzczWm44/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BE2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q52l7FOoh7Y/VprmRGqqRmI/AAAAAAAA7HQ/a4MYzczWm44/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BE2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iGIGJzHMBbg/VprmRd8dU4I/AAAAAAAA7HU/WwROfAv0VX4/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BK.jpg" title="" /></div>
I'd never made cinnamon rolls from scratch before- It's usually something I do on a whim by popping open a blue Pillsbury can and peeling pre-made rolls apart before tossing them on a baking sheet. But let me tell you- there is no comparison for homemade, flaky, all the frosting you desire, gooey, sticky, cinnamon rolls. And these rolls have just the right 'extra' kick of rich nutmeg and clove flavor with a generous rum essence to delight everyone from the lightweights to boozy friends. Just keep in mind, if you choose to go the rum route for flavoring (and the spiced rum route IS a delicious route) the icing has rum in it too, which will not be baked off, as it is added after the baking process.<br />
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ESbpPL6TLSk/VprmhCkaJVI/AAAAAAAA7Hs/4jEzEdEjbfQ/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BO.jpg" title="" /></div>
Of course it was ever so hard not to sing 'hot cross buns' or 'A pirate's life for me' as I was whipping these bad boys up. Maybe it was the Kraken Black Spiced Rum watching over me, or the delicious aromas wafting up from the work bench. Cinnamon rolls are really one of the baking skill staples- and this no rise dough is easy to make and bake. Just pack your rolls loosely so they can expand into each other and you will avoid any doughy spots near the center of your batch. Of course, if you like your rolls extra sticky and a little doughy you can certainly bake them just a touch less- there's no egg, and they will reheat perfectly in the microwave!<br />
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QTidYxNItbo/VprmwtvgNeI/AAAAAAAA7II/wfNxegFjW80/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BP.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WOacyxX4kfg/Vprmw5q0haI/AAAAAAAA7IE/kvL2YXlb4Wg/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BQ.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u-WjfXhbPt8/VprmwyPFysI/AAAAAAAA7IA/7SeVvn_K0eg/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BU.jpg" title="" /></div>
The spiced icing for these cinnamon rolls reminded me of a peppered gravy, thick and sticky. I found the recipe yielded more than enough to pour over the bath in pan, and even offer as a dip when served individually. If you're making these in advance be sure to frost them before refrigerating as they will help maintain moisture and keep them fresh and fluffy when re-heating.<br />
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UATD145o09Y/Vprm8fwxJ7I/AAAAAAAA7Ic/sT7pW3SIZZU/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BV.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ys5J1qg0DXE/Vprm8aimChI/AAAAAAAA7IY/lfXys6a3-gs/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BX.jpg" title="" /></div>
So I won't exactly be enjoying a Hot Buttered Rum drink for the holiday this Sunday- but I will be enjoying one of these delicious spiced rum rolls with a tall cup of my favorite coffee. I already brought a batch to the alley this past Thursday, served in quarters with serving toothpicks, and they disappeared so fast I actually had complaints for not bringing more! Not convinced Hot Buttered Rum Day warrants it's own celebration? Just argue you're celebrating our nation's history and toss out a few facts about the colonial spice trade. One bite in, anyone will forget why they were arguing. After all, who doesn't love a fresh cinnamon roll?<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">While some may be sipping this delicious beverage, I'll be quite content celebrating with a fork full of a different temptation- sugar!</span></span></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpVst0mOeww/Vpr3zHq5-eI/AAAAAAAA7I4/75z4a9nh2t4/s1600/sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bpVst0mOeww/Vpr3zHq5-eI/AAAAAAAA7I4/75z4a9nh2t4/s1600/sig.png" /></a></div>
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<img alt="Hot Buttered Rum Cinnamon Rolls- AKA Spiced Rum Rolls, Use a dark spiced rum or substitute with rum flavoring and extract. National #HotButteredRumDay is January 17" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3MeBGyAi2og/VprnCqVW-qI/AAAAAAAA7Io/vl4clfkZen0/s1600/Hot%2BRum%2BBuns%2BT.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Spiced Rum Cinnamon Rolls</span></b></span></div>
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<i><b>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/hot-buttered-rum-cinnamon-rolls?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spiced Rum Cinnamon Rolls</a> recipe.</b></i></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></span></div>
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<i><b>Rolls-</b></i></div>
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3 C All Purpose Flour</div>
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3 TBS Granulated Sugar</div>
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1 TBS Dark Brown Sugar</div>
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1/4 TSP Nutmeg </div>
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1 TSP Baking Powder</div>
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1/2 TSP Baking Soda</div>
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1/2 TSP Salt</div>
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1 Cup Buttermilk</div>
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1 TBS Imitation Rum Extract OR 2 TBS Spiced Rum</div>
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3 TBS Melted Butter (I use MELT Cinnamon Butter)</div>
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<b><i>Filling-</i></b></div>
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3/4 C Packed Dark Brown Sugar</div>
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2 TBS Granulated Sugar</div>
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1 1/2 TSP Ground Cinnamon</div>
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1/2 TSP Ground Nutmeg</div>
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1/4 TSP Ground Cloves</div>
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Pinch of Salt</div>
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2 TBS Unsalted Butter, Melted</div>
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<b><i>Icing-</i></b></div>
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2 TBS Cream Cheese (Room Temperature)</div>
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2 TBS Buttermilk</div>
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3/4 C Confectioner's Sugar</div>
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1/4 TSP Ground Nutmeg</div>
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1 TBS Butter (I use MELT Cinnamon Butter,) Room Temperature</div>
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1 TSP Imitation Rum Extract OR Spiced Rum to Flavor</div>
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3-4 TBS Unsalted or MELT Cinnamon Butter for Brushing On Rolls</div>
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<b><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></span></b></div>
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<i><b>Preheat Oven to 425F </b></i></div>
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<i><b>Grease and flour a 9" cake or pie pan. </b></i></div>
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1. Prepare the filling first by combining all dry ingredients in a bowl and adding the melted butter. combine thoroughly with a fork. Mixture should be wet like gritty sand. Cover and set aside.</div>
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2. In a medium bowl combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Add buttermilk, rum flavoring, 3 TBS of butter and stir until well combined. </div>
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3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth. The dough should be soft, sticky, and elastic. Add flour as needed to help reduce stick and make the dough more pliable- do not over introduce flour or the dough will become stiff and hard to work with.</div>
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4. Flatten the dough into a rectangle and roll to about 8" x 12". The dough should be 1/4" to 1/2" thick. Pour the remaining melted butter on and spread with a basting brush. Pour the cinnamon filling over the dough and spread it firmly. Pack the filling down into the dough's surface leaving a 1/4" border clear around the edges.</div>
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5. Beginning on the long side of the dough, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pay special attention to any areas where the dough has gone sticky and will try to stick to the rolling surface. Pinch the seam closed and lay the log seam side down. Cut into 8 even portions, placing each roll section into the prepared pan, side by side until all are snugly within the pan together. Gently press down on the top and brush the tops with some of the reserved butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.</div>
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6. Prepare the icing while the rolls cool immediately after removing them from the oven. In a medium bowl beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the nutmeg and sugar, combine well. Add the buttermilk and whisk until smooth. Add the rum flavoring to taste, adding more confectioner's sugar as needed to reach desired consistency. </div>
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7. Pour icing over cinnamon rolls and serve warm.</div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com188tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-11124753972128956632019-12-04T12:51:00.000-08:002019-12-07T17:38:14.266-08:00Vegan Paleo Mock Snickers Bars Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="These Vegan Paleo Mock Snickers Bars are low sugar and simply indulgent with their raw cacao base!" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKKka_2Y4v4/VOzgE_KHM0I/AAAAAAAA2AI/VZo2_b3aS2k/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BBSM.png" title="" /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">When you get bored, challenge yourself.</span></b></span></span><br />
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While you certainly see a fair range of indulgent, not so good for you, treats and recipes cross your screen on this blog, I have found that anyone truly can cook scrumptious food. As Paula Deen infers adding a pat of butter to any recipe will surely make it instantly more delicious. And, while out <a href="http://www.mommatoldmeblog.com/2015/02/circus-animal-cookie-truffles.html">Circus Animal Cookie Truffles</a> have gotten decent traffic on Pinterest, I shudder every time I see or create a recipe that is merely mashing 2 or 3 already delicious ingredients together. Do you drizzle hot fudge on ice cream and call it a recipe? Yes, even I have my limits.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gM0gwoB4HvE/VOzRrdaztbI/AAAAAAAA1-8/a8HLVsxQ3KI/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BIngredients%2BA.png"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gM0gwoB4HvE/VOzRrdaztbI/AAAAAAAA1-8/a8HLVsxQ3KI/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BIngredients%2BA.png" /></a></div>
While making indulgent treats is satisfying, and I surely will continue to play with simple recipes that wow the eyes and tickle the taste buds in unexpected ways, I've recently found myself a little bored in the kitchen. I've also recently re-joined a local gym. Before you start congratulating me, I'll be the first to admit getting heart healthy is a multi-part journey and daily workouts will only go as far as overall health and core attainment. I'm not quite ready to turn in my frozen yogurt spoon, but these two ripples in my life have made me more aware of the dietary needs of others around me.<br />
<img alt="Pit Medjool Dates by creating a vertical cut with a lightly oiled paring knife." border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtriOQdq7ZU/VOzRzKFRLqI/AAAAAAAA1_E/C4X8sNxgE4o/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BDates%2BB.png" title="" />Every Thursday I bake something to share here on the blog, and bring it into the bowling alley for our mixed adult bowling league. Our teams are comprised of men and women, young and old, from all walks of life. As delicious as my sweet treats are, not everyone can enjoy them. We have several diabetics I try to accommodate with recipe variations, and now a team that is taking on a month long Paleo challenge. Couple this with our close friend who is celebrating a year as a Vegan and you have the perfect storm of recipe challenges. So I set out to create a No Sugar Added Paleo Vegan Friendly dessert recipe.<br />
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<img alt="Pitting Medjool Dates" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RJ5lq1UPbuE/VOzR3s7ThyI/AAAAAAAA1_M/TazQzGC7DYc/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BDates%2BA.png" title="" /><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R-mPtZ1ITBk/VOzR3hwaC7I/AAAAAAAA1_Q/-gp6Z8epAl8/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BCacao.png" /></div>
The more I researched the more I learned that several of the key ingredients in cooking for each need overlapped- the exception being Honey, which is considered an animal byproduct to most modern Vegans. For those unfamiliar with Paleo, which is actually a way of living more than a literal 'weight loss' style diet, the terms are fairly flexible to the person committing to it.<br />
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At it's core Paleo individuals do not consume processed or artificial foods and attempt to eat ingredients that would closely mimic that of a caveman's. This means a diet rich in protein and nutrient dense core ingredients like grass few beef, wild caught seafood and vegetables. Most Paleo followers will avoid sugar, gluten, and generally anything with 'artificial' in the ingredients list. While it can be fairly complex, depending on the person, consider it close to an Organic, low sugar, gluten free diet that tends to lean towards raw or minimally handled ingredients.<br />
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<img alt="These Vegan Paleo Mock Snickers Bars are low sugar and simply indulgent with their raw cacao base!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7fbYjT3ArI/VOzR9L9rU0I/AAAAAAAA1_c/eBkSZS2zJTg/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BLayers.png" title="" /></div>
Many low sugar recipes and Paleo recipes will substitute several typical ingredients with coconut- which can tend to be an allergen for some. If you are suing coconut oil, butter, or flour in a recipe always make the recipients aware when serving. While most coconut allergies deal more directly with the pulp of the plant, raw oils can cause mild allergic reactions and should always be disclosed. If you are cooking low sugar and sweetening with a recipe that calls for honey, but would like a Vegan substitute, in most cases Maple Syrup will be a great alternative. There is also a Vegan apple <a href="http://beefreehonee.com/" rel="nofollow">plant based honey</a>, which is entirely bee free, called Honee, sold online and in many organic or Whole Foods stores.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GRs9yFR3lGo/VOzTXylJ5fI/AAAAAAAA1_o/VhXUsBpN-hQ/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BDate%2BCaramel.png"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GRs9yFR3lGo/VOzTXylJ5fI/AAAAAAAA1_o/VhXUsBpN-hQ/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BDate%2BCaramel.png" /></a></div>
Acquiring the ingredients to cook just one of these categories (Vegan, Paleo, Sugar Free) will often cost a fair penny. The good news is that you can acquire nearly any ingredient necessary at Whole Foods, or a similar store, and in portions that will easily stretch through multiple recipes. If you're looking to begin cooking, or dabbling with, these categories, consider each shopping trip an investment. Chances are your spice rack wasn't built overnight, and neither will this arsenal of cooking tools.<br />
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These Vegan Paleo Mock Snickers Bars contain no added sweetener (aside from the natural Honee plant based sugars) and a dash of Agave syrup may be added to any layer if you desire a slightly sweeter end result. My bowling mates rarely ever question what I've made each week and these bites/bars disappeared quickly! Several people were floored to hear just how 'good for you' this dessert was, and a few even asked for the recipe. So, if you're in the fence, I'd say it's definitely a recipe worth trying. Not only are these the perfect treat (a little goes a long way to satisfy) but they can be frozen for enjoyment later as well! <span style="color: #990000;"><b><i>Do you have, or know anyone with, any special dietary restrictions you struggle to cook for?</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: #990000;"><b>What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">This year I'm going to challenge myself in all aspects of my life, not because I need to, but because I want to!</span><i><br /></i></b></span><br />
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<img alt="These Vegan Paleo Mock Snickers Bars are low sugar and simply indulgent with their raw cacao base!" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kSapubxWGCY/VOzTlb_Sy-I/AAAAAAAA1_4/8pk3zkzI338/s1600/Vegan%2BPaleo%2BSnickers%2BASM.png" title="" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Vegan Paleo Mock Snickers Bars</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>*** Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/vegan-paleo-mock-snickers-bars?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow">Mock Snickers Bars</a> recipe.</b></i></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
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<i><b>Chocolate Layer-</b></i></div>
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1/4 C Coconut Oil, Melted</div>
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1/2 C Raw Cacao Powder</div>
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2 TBS <a href="http://beefreehonee.com/" rel="nofollow">Honee</a> (Plant Based Honey Substitute) Or Maple Syrup</div>
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1 TSP Maca Powder (Supplement, May Be Omitted)</div>
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2 TBS Raw Cacao Butter</div>
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1 TBS Agave Syrup (Optional)</div>
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<b><i>Nougat Layer-</i></b></div>
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1/2 C Smooth, Raw, Cashew Butter</div>
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1/4 C Coconut Butter (Not Oil)</div>
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2 TBS <a href="http://beefreehonee.com/" rel="nofollow">Honee</a> (Plant Based Honey Substitute) or Maple Syrup</div>
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1/2 TSP Pure Vanilla Extract</div>
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<i><b>Caramel Layer-</b></i></div>
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1 C Pitted Medjool Dates (You will likely have to pit them yourself)</div>
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1/4 C Smooth Roasted Cashew Butter</div>
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2 TBS Coconut Oil, Melted</div>
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2 TBS Lukewarm Water</div>
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Dash of Pink Himilayan Salt</div>
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<i><b>Topping-</b></i></div>
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1/4 C Roasted Salted Cashew Nuts</div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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1. Place Cacao Butter and Coconut Oil in double boiler and allow to melt thoroughly, whisking occasionaly. When melted whisk in Honee/Maple Syrup, Cacao Powder, and Maca. Pour mixture into a lined 9 x 9 baking dish. Allow to set in fridge for 45 MINS- 1 HOUR.</div>
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2. Place all raw cashew butter and coconut butter in a double boiler and allow to melt completely. When melted whisk in Honee/Maple Syrup and Vanilla Extract. Remove from double boiler and let sit in cold water bath for 5 minutes, continue to stir often. Ensure that the chocolate layer has set entirely and pour Nougat layer over chocolate layer. Return to fridge immediately for 1-2 hours or 45 minutes in the freezer.</div>
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3. Blend pitted Medjool Dates, Salt, and Cashew Butter to a smooth paste in the food processor. This will likely take some patience and some scraping. Add melted coconut oil and blend to combine. Add lukewarm water to help loosen ingredients and ease blending. Your mixture should be a thick spreadable paste and NOT a pourable consistency. </div>
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4. Once nougat layer has set in fridge or freezer spread Date caramel layer atop. Sprinkle with crumbled cashews and chill for 2-3 hours before serving. Cut into bars or bites an serve cold or room temperature. These may be frozen in an air tight bag for up to 3 months and thawed.</div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-23667011881556051052019-12-01T09:59:00.000-08:002019-12-07T17:38:41.105-08:005 Incredibly Easy Ways To Be Proactive About Your Health This Year<b><i> </i></b><i>This post was sponsored by Metamucil as part of an Influencer Activation and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.</i><br />
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<b><i><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rew8Fs8fus0/XElt5iFjWPI/AAAAAAACGsY/qZFYsV55cqkNi973VaXMOku77cjxKK8GACLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BA%2B%25283a%2529a.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="760" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rew8Fs8fus0/XElt5iFjWPI/AAAAAAACGsY/qZFYsV55cqkNi973VaXMOku77cjxKK8GACLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BA%2B%25283a%2529a.jpg" /></a></i></b></div>
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<i><b>Not long ago I turned 30.</b></i><br />
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It was like any other birthday. Honestly, as much of a fuss as most of
my friends have made when turning the 'big 3-0' it's really quite
un-extraordinary. I'm a pretty firm believer that age is but a number to
chronicle the passing of time, rather than mark the loss of it. And
while it's true, as we progress on this crazy journey called life, there
are legal and physical landmarks often associated with various
milestones, one is only as young (or old) as they are in spirit and in
heart.<br />
<br />
This all being said our bodies are the vessel in which we progress
through life, and more than any number on a birthday card, it's how we
choose to take care of it through <a href="http://www.walmarthealthsupport.com/" rel="nofollow">proactive health</a> which ultimately weighs the largest on how
much living we'll get out of it. <br />
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<a href="http://www.walmarthealthsupport.com/" rel="nofollow"><b><i><img border="0" data-original-height="1103" data-original-width="760" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-crUKyB2ipxE/XElp3vD8zuI/AAAAAAACGsA/HBxmwjitvTIqjV-yNs7vyOYnZViHkpOrACLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BC4.jpg" /></i></b></a></div>
So, back to me and my birthday, there I was feeling no less or more
extraordinary than the day before, having recently turned 30. I'd
visited my personal physician for an annual checkup and he'd shared a
few criticisms of his own. <i>Side note: Am I the only one who feels as though they've let their doctor down when they get less than ideal feedback???? But I digress- I could go into the nitty gritty but it really comes down to this:</i><br />
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One's health is and always well be a complex and constantly changing
picture painted by a number of factors. Some we can impact, while others
we can only anticipate, and others we simply can't avoid. There is no
magical formula, no paint by number, to perfect health.<br />
<br />
When I asked my personal doctor what his best advice was for me, knowing
I had some <a href="http://www.walmarthealthsupport.com/" rel="nofollow">personal health</a> hurdles to begin trying to overcome, his
response was simple,<br />
<br />
<b><i>"The same thing I tell every patient. Make time."</i></b><br />
<br />
Time, of course, for one's health. Whether it's researching new recipes
that are lower in sodium/sugars/fats, researching one's family tree for
hereditary dispositions, logging the amount of water drank in a day, or
scheduling an annual checkup. So many people, myself included, express
that their crazy lifestyles don't allow much time to really stop an care
for themselves. But there are a few simple things one can do to help
maintain balance within their hectic life.<b><i> </i></b><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRKynj6w384/XElpVA5haYI/AAAAAAACGr0/_-nA2KuwXWY4HfdQHvuXK4A3CU_FYb8lgCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BDog.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRKynj6w384/XElpVA5haYI/AAAAAAACGr0/_-nA2KuwXWY4HfdQHvuXK4A3CU_FYb8lgCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BDog.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>1. Change the view.</b></span><br />
</i></b><br />
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</div>
<br />
Before you start yelling at me telling me how it's negative 50 degrees
and you can't even see past the snow drifts at your window, hear me out.
I know we can't all live in Southern California where 50F is a frigid
Winter's day.<br />
<br />
Studies have proven that natural light is how our bodies most signal the
beginning of a new day, and help get our systems primed to tackle the
tasks of the day ahead. An excellent start to the day means all of your body's systems are jump started and primed in peak condition. So, whether you quite literally dine on your
front porch for breakfast, or merely open up the blinds by the kitchen
nook- take a moment to let a little natural sunlight re-invigorate you.<br />
<br />
This time of the year the sun rises quite early, as well as the rest of the Earth's natural creatures.<br />
<br />
While you may not have sunny skies up above changes are there are other
signs of a new day- including audible ones such as birds and wildlife
outside your window. Take a moment to take a deep breath and stop and
listen for these natural cues of a fresh day's beginning.<br />
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<img alt="www.WalmartHealthSupport.com" border="0" data-original-height="1123" data-original-width="760" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SnvQoeTzuXk/XElq3r4f4uI/AAAAAAACGsM/HOHH1rmgTCowXMvTBtwtyI3l_IErAQVEwCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BD3.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>2. Go With Your Gut.</b></span><br />
</i></b><br />
If you've ever heard the age old adage "You are what you eat"- it's not 'age old' advice for nothing. You most certainly are a reflection of not just what you put into your body physically, but inhale, spray on, and so much more.<br />
<br />
Sometimes we can't, or don't, always make the best of choices when it comes to the 'into' part and the most frequent excuse is that we don't have the time. Being proactive about your health with some simple daily supplements and choices really curbs time spent on recovery or correction down the line, and can take just a few minutes a day with some supportive products from Walmart.<br />
<br />
That's precisely why I always have an orange tub of <a href="http://www.walmarthealthsupport.com/" rel="nofollow">Metamucil Premium Blend</a> powder on my kitchen counter, right next to my coffee brewer. Having it out, and at the ready reminds me to keep up with my regular maintenance and helps avoid any excuses.<br />
<br />
Made with 100% natural psyllium fiber, and available in sugar free varieties (with no artificial sweeteners or colors), Metamucil helps trap and remove the 'sludge' in my digestive track so I can not only enjoy a fuller feeling between meals, but also a lighter feeling day in and out. When you digest more efficiently your entire body benefits by the absorption of all the GOOD things you put in it and quicker processing of the things which aren't so good.<br />
<br />
I typically drink a glass of Metamucil every other day- but find their Cinnamon Thins extra convenient to take my proactive gut maintenance on the go when traveling- they're pretty delicious too!<br />
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<b><i><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83A_i2Q-9JQ/XElpDXR6p9I/AAAAAAACGrg/CagBwU755oIWlIK3l3GImwxWfpBdUh53QCLcBGAs/s1600/Glucerna%2BLotion%2BBSMa.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1175" data-original-width="738" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83A_i2Q-9JQ/XElpDXR6p9I/AAAAAAACGrg/CagBwU755oIWlIK3l3GImwxWfpBdUh53QCLcBGAs/s1600/Glucerna%2BLotion%2BBSMa.jpg" /></a></i></b></div>
<br />
<b><i> </i></b><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>3. <i>Nurture your Skin</i>.</b></span><br />
<br />
And speaking of that which you put ON your body- Skincare is a huge concern year-round, but especially tough during the winter. Staying hydrated is one of the
most important things one can do during the winter months- not only will great hydration
help the body naturally purify, it will improve the appearance and
health of your skin. Having a regular, and seasonal, skincare regimen will not only foster beautiful,
hydrated, skin, but also reminds us to be on the lookout for any
changes or skin-related symptoms that may be developing as an impact of age, stress and environmental factors. Try this recipe for our 3 Ingredient Nourishing Lotion
to help pamper and nourish winter skin:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>3 Ingredient Nourishing Lotion</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 TBS Heavy Cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 Ripe Avocado</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 TBS Honey</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree into a smooth
cream. Apply directly to dry or rough spots and leave on for at least an
hour. Rinse with warm water.</b></i></div>
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<b><i><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jy7SfoeXuc/XElo92Cu19I/AAAAAAACGrc/20xT8gGQTKoZh_eZbOJx4HDHHpja4dn4QCLcBGAs/s1600/MEta%2BHoney%2BA2a.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="760" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jy7SfoeXuc/XElo92Cu19I/AAAAAAACGrc/20xT8gGQTKoZh_eZbOJx4HDHHpja4dn4QCLcBGAs/s1600/MEta%2BHoney%2BA2a.jpg" /></a></i></b></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>4. <i>Honey Infused Garlic.</i></b></span><i><b>- </b></i><br />
<br />
My next proactive support secret is
for the immune system, and one that many busy individuals have been relying on for centuries. For
those with an aversion to garlic, marinating these 4 calorie cloves in
organic honey can prove a delicious alternative that packs a powerful
punch. Both honey and raw garlic provide sulfuric compounds and
antioxidants. I keep a small mason jar of crushed or diced garlic cloves
in clover honey for a variety of recipes, and even straight
consumption.<br />
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<b><i><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1EvdS2U7EdU/XElopKOGUOI/AAAAAAACGrI/hXB5qNeKglEgyZK5Tw4WUoQAoEHddFbxgCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2Bchick%2BA3a.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1032" data-original-width="760" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1EvdS2U7EdU/XElopKOGUOI/AAAAAAACGrI/hXB5qNeKglEgyZK5Tw4WUoQAoEHddFbxgCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2Bchick%2BA3a.jpg" /></a></i></b></div>
<b><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>5.<i> Oven-Roasted Orange Chicken With Fennel.</i></b></span><i>- </i></b><i> </i><br />
<br />
You've
probably already figured out how we were going to round this out. Honey Garlic makes for the most delicious, and sunny,
Vitamin-C packed Oven-Roasted Chicken with Fennel. Not only does this
meal smell delicious through preparation and cooking, it looks
gorgeously ready to plate straight from the oven. Why not have a few
friends over to unwind and bask in the genius of your chef skills
(anyone can make this recipe, I promise)- having a strong social support system is, you guessed it, also good for the mind and body! <i><b>Catch the complete recipe at the bottom of this post.</b></i><br />
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It stands to reason the biggest bang for your proactive health will
be the integrating of all of these tips, and more, into your lifestyle. Busy
lives often mean little time to focus on ourselves but it's important
that we make the time not just when our body is telling us it needs attention! Naturally the best steps you can take to support yourself any time of the year are the ones that fit easiest into your lifestyle, to ensure you will continue to do them! I <a href="http://www.walmarthealthsupport.com/" rel="nofollow">shop at Walmart</a> for my on-hand proactive health support aids, such as <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MetamucilBrand/" rel="nofollow">Metamucil</a>, and of course I get all my fresh oranges, honey, garlic, and more there too!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #990000;"><i><b>I've shared some of my favorite tips to keep up with a busy lifestyle, how do you support immune health? </b></i></span><span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #e06666;"></span></span></b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2jLegBTRynw/VNhCq3DZW_I/AAAAAAAA1yg/OAIZuut2dlw/s1600/sig.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2jLegBTRynw/VNhCq3DZW_I/AAAAAAAA1yg/OAIZuut2dlw/s1600/sig.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Oven-Roasted Orange Chicken With Fennel- High in antioxidants and Vitamin C- Serve over our Green Tea Rice recipe! #24HourEsterC #ad" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOV19b02PgM/VNgxDouF9KI/AAAAAAAA1yQ/J1ADDLglwuM/s1600/%2324HourEsterC%2B%23Ad%2BS2A.png" title="" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Oven Roasted Orange Chicken And Fennel</span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/oven-roastes-orange-chicken-and-fennel?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow">Orange Chicken and Fennel</a> recipe.</i></b></div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="more"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4 TBS Extra Virgin Olive Oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 Diced Cloves Honey Garlic</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4 TBS Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 Oranges, Sliced Horizontally (1/4" Slices)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 TBS Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Tablespoons Grain Mustard (Such as German or Stone Ground)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 TBS Brown Sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 TSP Salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 1/2 TSP Freshly Ground Black Pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut to 1/2lb Sections)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Medium Fennel Bulbs, Rinsed And Cut Into 6ths</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 TBS Fresh Chopped Thyme Leaves</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. Combine Olive Oil, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice, Mustard, Brown Sugar, Salt and Pepper in a medium bowl.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. Rinse and pat dry chicken and place in a large gallon sized bag. Add
fennel wedges, orange slices, thyme, and fennel. Pour marinade over and
seal bag tightly, gently massaging to combine and coat all ingredients.
Refrigerate 3-4 hours or overnight.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3. Preheat oven to 475F.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4. Place the chicken in the center of a 9 x 13" casserole dish.
Distribute fennel wedges and orange slices evenly around chicken. You
may add some halved baby red potatoes for bulk- but I prefer to serve
this with my <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/green-tea-rice?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow">Green Tea Rice</a>. Pour the marinade juices over the chicken and fennel/slices.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
5. Place in the oven, uncovered and roast 40-45 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
6. Remove from oven and transfer chicken, fennel, and orange slices to a serving dish. Cover with foil to keep warm.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
7. Pour cooking juices into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over
medium-high heat until reduced to 1/2 cup. Pour over the chicken and
serve over a bed of potatoes or green tea rice.</div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-14989158719933351922019-09-30T17:32:00.000-07:002019-10-16T14:52:42.777-07:00Game Day Tailgating Tips With Jersey Mike's CateringThis post is sponsored by Jersey Mike's but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.<br />
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You know what makes that fine line of a difference between a good host
and an amazing host this Game Day season? It's not allowing the other
team's jersey under your roof, or even hand folding buffalo wontons to
look like miniature helmets.<br />
<br />
I'll let you in on a little secret Momma
taught me; give them what they want. Game day may be a rough, tough,
drag down and all out fight for superiority and dominance, but you can
still be the hostess with the most without having to feel like you just
ran 40 yards to get to the touchdown zone.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VbqCdK29x0/XZKf8GMGpcI/AAAAAAACVMY/C6xhVjKiKsw_kwcL85lW0vuuXYfwqE3XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_174330-01%2B%2528780x1040%2529.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="780" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VbqCdK29x0/XZKf8GMGpcI/AAAAAAACVMY/C6xhVjKiKsw_kwcL85lW0vuuXYfwqE3XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_174330-01%2B%2528780x1040%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
More often than not, in Southern California, we find an excuse to
tailgate at any event involving a stadium, or even arena, but few incite such enthusiasm as
American football. And, let's face it, the older we get the less time we
have to pack up the truck bed and travel on site to support our teams
in person. But just because you have a growing family doesn't mean you
have to stop rooting for the home team or your Alma-mater. Whether you're tailgating in a parking lot, grabbing a quick picnic bite and watching the team on your smartphone, or hosting a full on party in your own backyard I have a few tips to make Game Day a simple success.<br />
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<b></b></div>
<b>Serve them what they want!</b><br />
<br />
The tailgating scene is littered with greasy foods that require special handling, lugging around grills and heavy cooking utensils. The parking lot is sure to be full of plenty of the same thing- so be sure to keep the whole crew fueled and smiling with deliciously fresh <a href="https://ooh.li/e29210d" rel="nofollow">Jersey Mike's</a> subs.<br />
<b> </b><br />
Jersey Mike's catering menu is a complete game changer, pun intended, when it comes to game day celebration traditions. Order through their convenient mobile app, online, or by phone to have your crew's order ready for pickup on the way to the stadium, or even delivered to office or home addresses.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-ijwxzuKmg/XZKfzwsZIqI/AAAAAAACVMM/ONBZ--VQTK0eguHGw54IQuwDEjNp1IhtACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_180356-01%2B%2528780x1040%2529.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="780" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-ijwxzuKmg/XZKfzwsZIqI/AAAAAAACVMM/ONBZ--VQTK0eguHGw54IQuwDEjNp1IhtACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_180356-01%2B%2528780x1040%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
Choose from a wide menu of Jersey Mike's signature cold subs, delicious bagged chips, fresh baked cookies and brownies, and even salads.<br />
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<b></b></div>
<b>Never turn a friendly face away from your team celebration!</b><br />
<br />
Whether you're simply packing up the family for a day at the stadium, or throwing a full on team rally Jersey Mike's has you covered with catering options such as Subs By The Box (serving 10) or subs by the bag. We love the Jersey Mike's Subs By The Box option for it's versatility of mini sub selection that helps your guests grab a refreshing bite in between a Cornhole toss or Flag Football match.<br />
<br />
With the option to add on bottled beverages you won't need to stop at the big box store for extras, your entire grub game is on point and ready for kickoff. You can even add a little extra touchdown to a plate of fresh cookies or brownies- just add them to your Jersey Mike's catering order!<br />
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<b>Stay Organized! </b></div>
<br />
You don't have to have the fanciest parking spot in the lot to have an amazing game day experience. A simple picnic blanket and a few chairs with a cooler and J<a href="https://ooh.li/e29210d" rel="nofollow">ersey Mike's</a> will hit all the essentials. A great game day event only needs to include: Team Spirit, Great People, and Great Food. Make sure your crew is sporting team colors and gear, always welcome a fellow game day fan (yes, regardless of who they are cheering for) and keep those bellies full in between cheers.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Nobody wants to spend the time right before the game scrambling to clean and get packed, so stick to the essentials when planning a successful tailgate;</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Team Gear</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cold Weather Clothing</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Pop Up Trash Bin/Oversized Trash Bag</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Lawn Chairs/Trunk Pillows</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cornhole/Football/Frisbee</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Jersey Mike's Catering</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ-rPHsf_50/XZKfjN7IQHI/AAAAAAACVL8/iBLvilgYD70HGqVm6oY0A6Ch5zUcmAaSACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_181801-01%2B%2528780x1040%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="780" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ-rPHsf_50/XZKfjN7IQHI/AAAAAAACVL8/iBLvilgYD70HGqVm6oY0A6Ch5zUcmAaSACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_181801-01%2B%2528780x1040%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
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These days a giant television is not needed to tune in the the pre-game broadcast; with modern smartphones you can often stream all of your game day media direct to your tailgate!</div>
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One thing we do find ourselves in need of as the festivities progress is a little organization in the drinks department. How many times have you been at a party or tailgate with a hundred identical red cups, soda bottles, or cans? I've come up with a simple little project anyone can do in just 10 minutes to keep their Game Day Tailgate organized.</div>
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<i><b>Simply download and print the following <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CGDtYmzCXGoQJAWdYffUp8lbMiOSlrPY/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow">Game Day Foam Finger Drink Marker template</a>.</b></i></div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CGDtYmzCXGoQJAWdYffUp8lbMiOSlrPY/view?usp=sharing" rel="nofollow"><img alt="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CGDtYmzCXGoQJAWdYffUp8lbMiOSlrPY/view?usp=sharing" border="0" data-original-height="988" data-original-width="790" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R-h8NJWXzWo/XZKcHYF7M7I/AAAAAAACVKc/qqeF-w697q0vvUThMy98EslGBuYEeSrZACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/foam%2Bfingers%2Bprintable.jpg" /></a></div>
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Cut out each pair of color matched foam fingers.</div>
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Lay each pair on top of one another (blank backs touching) and place a strip of clear packing tape on each side to effectively 'seal' them.</div>
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Cut along the outside, leaving a 2mm border of clear tape edge.</div>
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<img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="527" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VcfoXytW1vU/XZKcWkT2pLI/AAAAAAACVKg/hFNC2BIr-Zc7RnNQZntcdanrIcUXDJF7wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Jersey%2BPIN%2BStrip.png" title="Simple Foam Finger Game Day DIY Drink Markers" /></div>
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Glue (we use glue dot stickers) each foam hand to a miniature suction cup, OR cut a little half moon notch in the very top and bottom of each hand to reveal a hollow you can slide your straw directly through!</div>
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These Game Day Foam Finger Drink markers pop right onto our <a href="https://ooh.li/e29210d" rel="nofollow">Jersey Mike's catering</a> bottled beverages, or slide right over our drink cups so we can easily keep track of who's sipping what in all of the hustle and bustle of game day tailgating.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KMotmqxRugk/XZKdaBs0wXI/AAAAAAACVLc/RNMu1lQX7TEyPZdRjhpp9s2Mmza6KpKbACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_181831-01%2B%2528860x645%2529.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="860" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KMotmqxRugk/XZKdaBs0wXI/AAAAAAACVLc/RNMu1lQX7TEyPZdRjhpp9s2Mmza6KpKbACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/20190916_181831-01%2B%2528860x645%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Lastly, have fun!</b><br />
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Tailgating is much more than great food and colorful clothes- you'll
want some killer activities for your guests to participate in. Consider
planning a tag football scrimmage at the end of the block, some old
fashioned drink pong or darts, or even a soda chugging (or Speed Sub Sandwich Eating)
contest!<br />
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It doesn't have to be fancy, just something that engages those around you and gets the game day spirit going- after all, socializing and having a great time is really what a tailgate is all about!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTc2E7D8RJY/XZKeVu2RycI/AAAAAAACVLw/wNLnOblCJFYquTvfQuSLttrVYBhbencvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/sig.png"><img border="0" data-original-height="76" data-original-width="141" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTc2E7D8RJY/XZKeVu2RycI/AAAAAAACVLw/wNLnOblCJFYquTvfQuSLttrVYBhbencvQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/sig.png" /></a></div>
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<br />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com88tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-40226371985770610892019-09-18T14:43:00.000-07:002019-09-30T18:02:48.051-07:00Rich And Moist #Vegan OREO Cake Recipe<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Please Note: Some OREO products may be
exposed to milk cross-contamination in the production process. 100
Calorie OREO Thin Crisps and other varieties are listed on PETA's
approved '<a href="http://www.peta.org/living/food/accidentally-vegan/" target="_blank">accidentally vegan</a>'
list. While OREO cookies are commonly considered appropriate for Vegans, your
personal diet and beliefs may require closer scrutiny when choosing
which OREO product to include in your recipes. The following content is <b>not </b>sponsored. Enjoy!</span><br />
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<img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPJxnqjTC1A/VpQkMl88U-I/AAAAAAAA7Bc/6TjrV4GvjlM/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BAa.jpg" title="" /></div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">The absence of something doesn't always take away from the overall experience.</span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
As you know, last year, I began exploring a variety of alternate food
styles and playing with various recipes that meet restrictive diets. Not
because I, personally, was ready to scratch these things off my everyday
diet, but because I find the creativity involved with recipe
development and unique substitutions makes for a more pure eating
experience overall. Have you ever noticed the fewer ingredients in a
recipe the more each individual ingredient and flavor stands out? When
we're forced to scrutinize what goes into our food we naturally develop a
stronger appreciation for the profiles and flavors being created.<br />
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<img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvWX1MjICa4/VpQkQbmKZxI/AAAAAAAA7Bk/0xbyXW-DfFo/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BG.jpg" title="" /></div>
Vegan and Paleo were high on my list of experimentation last year-
while, for me, Paleo has proved the toughest transition, Vegan can feel
much like 'normal' eating. Naturally, the bigger concern with observing
Vegan diets is the respect to those who call themselves Vegan. My very
first recipe involved honey, and I quickly learned to substitute honey
with maple or agave- as bees are living creatures involved in the
creation of honey, and it is not deemed a Vegan product. While we could
go deeper into the culture and beliefs behind the Vegan lifestyle I'd
much rather open your eyes through this delicious recipe. My Vegan OREO cake was, without a doubt, the most popular recipe I shared among family and friends in 2015. It was also my personal choice for my own birthday cake.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wADy3bHNpQ/VpQkbE3ei6I/AAAAAAAA7Bs/g-nekmSZups/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BH.jpg" /></div>
Maybe you have or haven't heard a certain sandwich cookie brand is
'Vegan.' Well, truth be told, only a few OREO varieties make the
official PETA accepted 'Accidentally Vegan' list. While all Vegans I
know offline consume OREO cookies regularly, the maker of OREO cookies lists the
majority of their products not suitable for strict Vegan consumption due
to the potential of cross contamination with milk. Consider this
similar to a person with a nut allergy eating fruit leather produced on a
manufacturer's line that has handled peanuts. While, in theory, OREO cookies
are designed to be Vegan, chocolate dipped varieties and such do contain
milk ingredients that may come in contact with other OREO products.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JJNZNgZE5sE/VpQkjv04mtI/AAAAAAAA7B8/OoeUFatOiro/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BI.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JJNZNgZE5sE/VpQkjv04mtI/AAAAAAAA7B8/OoeUFatOiro/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BI.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0VCkgetF54/VpQkjT8rbxI/AAAAAAAA7B4/ONgh84cM8fQ/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BJ.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0VCkgetF54/VpQkjT8rbxI/AAAAAAAA7B4/ONgh84cM8fQ/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BJ.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fP0xo_XQ2q0/VpQkjN9TY-I/AAAAAAAA7B0/WUVIDK_Xqv4/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BK2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fP0xo_XQ2q0/VpQkjN9TY-I/AAAAAAAA7B0/WUVIDK_Xqv4/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BK2.jpg" /></a></div>
With that in mind this recipe can be made entirely without the OREO cookie garnish- or garnished with one of the approved PETA OREO varieties if you are looking for a strict Vegan experience. The cake and frosting components are completely animal byproduct free and mimic many of the ingredients and processes involved in making traditional OREO cookies.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BT0Nw7vHh6A/VpQkvTVdGpI/AAAAAAAA7CM/F-EqXZ5R0MQ/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BN.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BT0Nw7vHh6A/VpQkvTVdGpI/AAAAAAAA7CM/F-EqXZ5R0MQ/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BN.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yT641yMuaEM/VpQkvgwCV6I/AAAAAAAA7CQ/JsxkMOfi5Qw/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BO2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yT641yMuaEM/VpQkvgwCV6I/AAAAAAAA7CQ/JsxkMOfi5Qw/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BO2.jpg" /></a></div>
This cake is sure to appeal to traditional diets just as much as it does those who are Vegan because of it's unique textures and flavors which mirror the OREO cookie experience. The cake itself is very dense with an almost malty dark cocoa flavor and reminds me of a soft OREO cheesecake crust, or even cake-like brownie. The frosting spreads like OREO filling and has the flavor of such, but slightly fluffier, with a melt-in-your-mouth effect that pairs perfectly with the dense cake.<br />
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<img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVDv5IoHCqg/VpQk4oyDFlI/AAAAAAAA7Cc/EWDdoZ_zjZM/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BP2.jpg" title="" /></div>
The Vegan OREO Cake is not overly rich- I find I can enjoy a decent sized slice without feeling weighed down or guilty. The sweet component is there, but really, it just begs for a tall glass of, erm, coconut milk? While I've made this cake a few times now I wouldn't suggest transitioning it into cupcake form as I feel the smaller portions of batter might tend to dry out or overcook easily if not highly monitored.I find a 2 layer 6" pan cake is perfect for a celebration of 5-6 people.<br />
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<img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EPQPJzIJcpE/VpQlD3M6u2I/AAAAAAAA7Ck/fJUvATbfaAQ/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BT.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-61B_nLgXcPo/VpQlFz_MEEI/AAAAAAAA7Cw/682N6hz0bCw/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BD.jpg"><img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-61B_nLgXcPo/VpQlFz_MEEI/AAAAAAAA7Cw/682N6hz0bCw/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BD.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
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<img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SStC_vAZ9mg/VpQlFn1Ez0I/AAAAAAAA7Cs/TLlzuD9QDeA/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BF.jpg" title="" /></div>
As we move into 2016 I find myself more and more fascinated by Vegan concepts that mimic classic and favorite foods. I've been dabbling with a Samoa cookie recipe that promises to be better than the actual thing (Girl Scout Cookies) by the time I'm done tweaking it. As we move through the year I hope to become more adventurous and play with Vegan entrees and savory foods. They do so intimidate me- for now, I'm content keeping a fridge full of black bean patties and tofu nuggets. <span style="color: #990000;"><b><i>Have you tried a Vegan recipe that surprised you? If so what was it? If not, what recipe would you be interested in trying in a Vegan format?</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">Vegan has a bad rap among carnivores- but it's really a matter of cleaner eating. You'd be surprised what you can discover if you open your mind and palette.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKdF071ickA/VpQqchVhF8I/AAAAAAAA7DQ/ddm6hoRDcFE/s1600/sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKdF071ickA/VpQqchVhF8I/AAAAAAAA7DQ/ddm6hoRDcFE/s1600/sig.png" /></a></div>
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<img alt="Vegan OREO Cake Recipe- Experience the classic cookie in cake form, no cookies needed." border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_QfWP3rspOM/VpQlf58kysI/AAAAAAAA7C8/1h0ixxuJUvY/s1600/Vegan%2BOREO%2BCc.jpg" title="" /></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Vegan OREO Cake</b></span></span></div>
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<i><b>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/vegan-oreo-cake?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vegan OREO Cake</a> recipe</b></i><br />
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<i><b>+++I wanted to note, as indicated in the post above I authored this recipe as a new Vegan baker. This was a few years back, now, and I have since made the recipe several more times. As with traditional baking, Vegan baking is a sensitive art and the ingredients you use will impact the colors/flavors/etc of your final result. I do not give exact brands because naming brands in posts shows brand loyalty I am unfortunately penalized for when I go to partner with brands I use on a paid basis in the future. If you have questions about specifics or working, or brands, please feel free to email me! </b></i></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></b></span></div>
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2 C Coconut Milk (from carton, not canned)</div>
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2 tsp White Vinegar</div>
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1 1/2 C Coconut Palm Sugar</div>
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2/3 C Vegetable Oil</div>
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2 TSP Organic Vanilla Extract</div>
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2 C All Purpose Flour</div>
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2/3 C Dark Cocoa Powder</div>
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2 TSP Instant Coffee Powder</div>
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1 1/2 tsp Baking Soda</div>
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1 tsp Baking Powder</div>
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Pinch of Salt</div>
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<i><b>Frosting:</b></i></div>
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1/2 C Vegetable or Coconut Shortening (Coconut pref)</div>
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1/2 C Vegan Butter (I use Miyoko's)</div>
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2 C Powdered Sugar</div>
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1 1/2 TSP Vanilla Extract</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span></b></span></div>
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<i><b>Preheat Oven to 350F</b></i><br />
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<i><b>****Note: The cake made and photographed for this post was made in 2 6" pans, please refer to step #4 for more information on pan sizing. </b></i></div>
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1. In the bowl of a stand mixer with a whisk attachment beat the sugar, vanilla extract, vinegar, coconut milk and oil until fluffy (about 2 MINS.) *** Per
questions this is coconut milk as in from a carton, not a can. The
mixture will 'fluff' as in thicken and be more airy compared to the
starting texture. It will not 'fluff' like a non vegan egg based batter.
If you have beaten it for a minute-2 minutes and it seems noticeably
denser in volume (more airy) then you are good to go.</div>
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2. In another bowl sift together flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. </div>
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3. Add the cocoa/flour mixture to the wet ingredients in 3 alternating batches. Beat for 30 SECS after each addition, scraping down sides as needed. Don't overbeat.</div>
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4.
Spray and flour your cake pans. ***NOTE: I used much smaller mini cake
pans to make thicker layers and an individual sized cake, as seen in the
photos. This recipe yields 2 thick layer 6" pans, OR 3 thin layer 6"
pans- OR 1 thick 9" cake pan layer. If you want 2 9" layers you will
want to double this recipe to get thick layers as in the main photo.
Pour the batter evenly between the your
pans. For 9" pans bake for 40 MINS at 350F, or until a toothpick
inserted into the
center comes out clean. For 6" pans bake for 30 MINS, or until a
toothpick inserted comes out clean.</div>
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5. Allow cakes to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove from pan and allow to cool on a rack until entirely cooled. Prepare frosting while cake layers cool.</div>
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6. Place room temperature butter and shortening in the bowl of a stand mixture with a whisk attachment. Beat until fluffy, about 1 MIN.</div>
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7. Add the powdered sugar in batches, 1/4 C at a time, beating and scraping between as needed for an even mixture. Once all of the ingredients are introduced beat until soft and fluffy. The frosting will still have some 'grit' to it, like OREO filling and you may wish to refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes prior to frosting your cake/s. Frost your cooled cake layers with a generous layer of frosting between. Garnish with crumbled OREO cookies if desired. ****My frosting is always snow white- I have found that the type of butter substitute and your choice of shortening/coconut oil you use can greatly impact the tint of the frosting. I personally use coconut oil and ellyndales coconut infusion OR Myoko's European Style. Keep in mind, since this frosting relies on powdered sugar to thicken it it is sweet- much like the gritty filling of an OREO cookie. Some of the powdered sugar may be substituted for arrowroot starch- but that is a more advanced Vegan baking formulation, and as I clearly explained in my post I am still playing with ingredients when it comes to baking for Vegans.</div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-85553190982103682202019-09-08T10:48:00.000-07:002019-09-30T18:03:09.328-07:005 Personal Hacks to Boost Immunity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGiMOR7ZfrY/XFiIKv4tm7I/AAAAAAACGxU/KRq2h4F96iYf1jEW39jb5XFRhc_TqfWeACLcBGAs/s1600/Dreamfit%2BG4.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="760" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGiMOR7ZfrY/XFiIKv4tm7I/AAAAAAACGxU/KRq2h4F96iYf1jEW39jb5XFRhc_TqfWeACLcBGAs/s1600/Dreamfit%2BG4.jpg" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.295; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">When you’re under a lot of stress, it can easily take a toll on your immune system. And, really, who isn’t these days? </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Even positive events like buying a new home among </span><a href="http://redfin.ca/bc/greater-vancouver-regional-district/vancouver" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: blue; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Vancouver real estate</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> or getting married causes stress levels to rise. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">The strength of your immune system is key to your survival, and a higher quality of life. in order to keep the body and </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">mind functioning at their best, free from illness and disease, it needs to be running strong. These personal hacks can </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">help boost your immunity to support your good health and well-being.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L8XGnWlHgSI/XFiH8Yc4OqI/AAAAAAACGxQ/Xus_IdSM3vwJ6x5rWoRLjL-kOZ7797VJgCLcBGAs/s1600/Chia%2BSmoothie.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="980" data-original-width="700" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L8XGnWlHgSI/XFiH8Yc4OqI/AAAAAAACGxQ/Xus_IdSM3vwJ6x5rWoRLjL-kOZ7797VJgCLcBGAs/s1600/Chia%2BSmoothie.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Take Probiotics</span></span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Taking probiotics has become increasingly popular over the last decade or so, thanks to extensive research </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">on the powerful benefits that are linked to good bacteria. Probiotics, or “good” bacteria, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #060c0c; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">live in the stomach </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #060c0c; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">and intestines. They exist naturally in the body, but they also come from the foods you eat, including some </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #060c0c; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">dairy products like yogurt, and they’re available in supplement form too. They’re not only essential for </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">the </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">proper functioning of the digestive system and bone health, but these beneficial microorganisms are believed </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">to support the immune system too. While bad bacteria can make you ill, these good bacteria keep you well </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">by offering multiple immune-boosting benefits.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">The </span><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24045086" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport </span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">that showed New Zealand athletes came down with about </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">40% fewer gastrointestinal infections and colds when taking a probiotic as compared to those who were </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">given a placebo.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2YelM66iVA/XFiGwlBLQPI/AAAAAAACGw4/T5nMacQwWdAtp2t70tsDG5vp4HUB82czgCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BDog.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="720" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2YelM66iVA/XFiGwlBLQPI/AAAAAAACGw4/T5nMacQwWdAtp2t70tsDG5vp4HUB82czgCLcBGAs/s1600/Meta%2BDog.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Spend Time in the Sun</span></span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">If your body lacks vitamin D, your immune system is unlikely to function as it should. The sunshine vitamin, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">as it’s often referred to, is an important immune enhancer. As it can be difficult to get enough vitamin D from </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">foods, be sure to spend some time in the sun. Many experts say the ideal range for vitamin D is between </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">1,000 and 2,000 IU daily, which equals to about 20 to 30 minutes in the sun without sunscreen three times a </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">week. For those living in northern climates without a lot of sun, taking a vitamin D supplement is a good way </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">to go to ensure you meet your body’s needs.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Indulge in Vitamin C-Filled Citrus Fruits</span></span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, limes and grapefruits, are loaded with vitamin C which helps to increase the production of white</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> blood cells to fight off infection. As the body is unable to produce or store vitamin C, it’s important to consume plenty of citrus to </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">ensure your immune system functions at its best.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Eat More Mushrooms</span></span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Mushrooms are considered one of Earth’s greatest immune enhancers, thanks to their high levels of vitamin C, B vitamins, fiber, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">protein, calcium and other minerals. Reishi, Maitake and Shiitake mushrooms are particularly notable as they also contain a high </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">level of an impressive compound known as beta-glucans, remarkable for their ability to boost the immune system. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Get Your Zzzs</span></span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Getting enough sleep every night is a must as the body requires rest to recharge the immune system. When you don’t get enough, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">not only will your immunity suffer, but it can result in all kinds of other health issues weight gain and depression to heart disease. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Aim to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. If you’re struggling to do so, try turning off all your electronics an hour before bedtime, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">performing gentle stretches or sipping chamomile tea instead of staring at a screen. </span></div>
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<br />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-69189889299738178402019-08-15T20:11:00.006-07:002019-08-15T20:11:56.588-07:00Function Versus Style: A Pet Owner's Eternal Struggle Featuring La-Z Boy Pet BedsThis post is sponsored by La-Z Boy but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.<br />
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<i><b>Much like with children, having pets in the home presents a unique decor challenge.</b></i><br />
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It's a constant struggle between practicality and aesthetic. Sure, your new companion will bring it's own unique decor immediately in the form of glitter (fur,) window panes laced with wet nose prints, and inevitably paw prints across the floor, sofa (especially if you have leather or suede!) and your heart.<br />
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In the beginning you'll probably want to buy 'only the best,' filling your home, car, backyard, and credit card with the fanciest of modern pet products. But as time goes on you'll quickly learn that there really are only 2 things that matter at the top of any <a href="https://ooh.li/174bc6a" rel="nofollow">pet product</a> checklist:<br />
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<li><b>Is it easy to clean?</b></li>
<li><b>Does my pet like it?</b></li>
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Because, let's be real, if it's not easy to clean it's not going to last very long in your home, and if your pet doesn't like it all you've done is shell out your hard earned cash for a very expensive piece of decor. Decor, mind you, that you're not even guaranteed to want to look at, as some pet products can be truly heinous on the eyes. <br />
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If you have a dog, or two, or three in your family then you know the never-ending quest for the perfect dog bed. There are so many on the market in so many shapes, sizes, materials, and brands. You've probably been in the pet aisle when something flashy, or plush catches your eye and make an instant decision to treat your pup to a new bed. But what was that decision based on? Style? Fabric? Price?<br />
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Humans spend approximately 1/4-1/3 of their lives in bed, and the average dog spends a whopping 12-14 hours a day sleeping (senior pets and low energy breeds may spend as much as 20!) You wouldn't drive past a mattress store and decide to buy one on the spur of the moment, so why choose your dog's bed that way?<br />
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In fact, how your dog sleeps says a lot about who they are as a dog, and what type of bed they will sleep best on- just like how you prefer your bed to be extra firm and have a fan on it in the middle of Winter while your other half needs to sleep on a cloud covered in 4 layers of blankets. It makes sense, right?<br />
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La-Z Boy has created an entire range of thoughtfully designed, aesthetically pleasing <a href="https://ooh.li/174bc6a" rel="nofollow">pet beds</a> with this very concept in mind. Much like their signature furniture, comfort is the number 1 focus of each bed's design, with a nod to functionality (ease of wear and clean) and the bonus of stylish pet friendly fabrics that match some of their most popular pieces. At last a dog bed made to work WITH your home's aesthetic, not against it!<br />
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There are several types of sleepers, when it comes to dogs, and you should definitely wander on over to the Petmate La-Z Boy Pet Beds page to learn all about them and what type of sleeper your dog is. I'll share a little about our pups so you can see what I mean-<br />
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<li>Nora is a cross between a Sprawler and a Flying Dog. Flying Dogs will often lay on their beds in a formation known as the 'sploot' with their front legs directly under their chin, and their back legs spread flat beneath them. They tend to be playful and active, and are usually ready for anything immediately upon waking up. Sprawlers are extremely self confident and will typically leave their belly exposed, often shifting many times, and even kicking in their sleep.</li>
<li>Gidget is a Donut, one of the most common types of sleepers. Sleeping in a curled, rounded, position not only helps preserve warmth, but instills a sense of security while sleeping. These dogs tend to be protective and reserved.</li>
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The La-Z Boy Jacquered Rosie Lounger style bed has the most beautiful Cobalt blue jacquered upholstery and caters to both sleep styles. With a 2 compartment build, the very bottom of the lounger is stuffed with a memory foam blend, while the top features La-Z-Boy's Comfort Select™ fiber fill, a human grade premium fiber with
never-flat properties to provide superior loft and support for your dog. Dogs who sleep in the Donut thrive on nearly any type of bed, but especially those with pocket or walls they can cuddle against to preserve heat. Dogs in the Sprawl position do best often on pillows, cushions, and loungers.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In the past we have gotten each of the girls their own dog bed- which was quite absurd when it came to 2.3lb Gidget, who is dwarfed by even the smallest of beds. Gidget is also a very social dog, who wants to be near something living at all times- where as Nora is the 'old maid' who likes space to spread out. For us this La-Z Boy lounger pet bed was the perfect compromise. Both pups have ample space to spread out, or curl up in Gidget's case, and we don't have to constantly move pet beds all over and around the couch.<br /><br />
When we first introduced the La-Z Boy <a href="https://ooh.li/174bc6a" rel="nofollow">Jacquered Rosie Lounger</a> to the girls it was so plush Gidget felt she was on her very own sofa, and Nora immediately took to the comfort and settled in. But, as sisters are, the peace only lasted for so long as bossy little Gidget declared the lounger more of a wrestling ring, and began trying to take on Nora. But, at the end of the day, everyone found their comfy place and both snooze happily all day long. Check out the video at the bottom of our post!<br />
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Each style of <a href="https://ooh.li/174bc6a" rel="nofollow">La-Z Boy pet beds</a> is thoughtfully designed in fabric and function, this particular style does have a side zipper to allow the memory foam base to easily come out for hand wash surface cleaning. Gidget was a bit upset I was dismantling her new bed in exploration but I promise, it quickly went back together in one piece.<br />
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At the end of the day it's a dog's world, and I just live in it. I try to be a thoughtful dog parent and choose tasteful toys, collars, leashes, and accessories that match my personal aesthetic- but if the dog refuses to use those items, who is really winning? Thankfully with the new collection of La-Z Boy Pet Beds we can all reclaim a little bit of our decor aesthetic back, all while giving our pups a great, healthy, sleep!<br />
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<i><b>Don't forget to scroll down to check out Nora and Gidget exploring their new <a href="https://ooh.li/174bc6a" rel="nofollow">La-Z Boy bed</a>!</b></i></div>
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<br />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-4663622616730445262019-05-07T01:12:00.001-07:002019-05-07T01:13:33.939-07:005 Tips To Fuel Your Small Breed Dog/sThis post is sponsored by Wellness CORE but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.<br />
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<i><b>As an animal care provider I handle many shapes, sizes, ages and species throughout the week.</b></i><br />
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It has truly given me an appreciation for all of the many factors that contribute to what makes each and every pet I come across so very unique. And when it comes to dogs every wet nose, puppy slurp, and toe bean (yes, that's the official term) is as distinctly one of a kind as the pup that owns them.<br />
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Naturally, that is what makes annual vet check-ups so very important. Just like no human from any one background, hair color, shape, or size is identical to another of similar build every pup requires it's own unique map to a long, happy, life lived. However, when it comes to breed size, there are definitely some generic tips you can take to heart to help ensure your pups are living their happiest life, no matter their, erm, short-comings.<br />
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In no particular order, here are my favorite tips to help fuel <a href="https://ooh.li/dbafa0d" rel="nofollow">small breed dogs</a>, in particular...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>#1: Let Them Slurp</b></span><br />
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If you have a small breed dog then you know that size does not limit personality. If anything small dogs are known for having larger than life personalities that define them far beyond their height and stature.<br />
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Whether your dog is justifiable timid and slow to trust, the life of the party at the end of the leash borking (yes, borking) on 2 paws, or the bossy bitch at the dog park talking smack through the chain link fence at the 'big dog side.' small breed dogs have consistently clear and defined personalities.<br />
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One thing is for certain, though, you are their favorite human- unless you have a food motivated dog- then the bringer of food is Person #1, and you are Person #2- but hey, #2 ain't so shabby, so don't feel bad. No matter the persona your small pup embodies it's important to know that you are their sun (or their moon, depending on where you are in the food galaxy) and any and all affections they so honorably bestow upon you should be greeted as though it were a treasured gift. After all, it kinds is, isn't it?<br />
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It may sound like common sense (great! then you do this already,) but your pup needs time to show you love and affection just as much as you feel you need to take time out to reciprocate with pets and love to them. This might just be a few seconds snuggled up against you, a moment where you take your hands off the laptop/coffee mug/smartphone for just 2 extra minutes, or that magical word "kisses" and an invitation for some sloppy kisses.<br />
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Whatever your dog's love language is use it often- this just may be one of the biggest fuels you can provide for a longer, happier life!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. I Am My Own Dog</b></span><br />
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I often here people joke that those who parent small breed dogs 'collect' them like crazy cat ladies collect cats. Just like potato chips, you can't have 'just one.'<br />
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If you've fallen into this pattern of tiny paws and itty snouts it can be easy to get a little laxed and let certain behaviors slide in the name of 'fairness' or even your own convenience.<br />
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Whether it's easiest to do 'the same' for every pup, or simply something you feel is right because that's the only 'fair' wait to do it- think again.<br />
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Going back to how each pup is their own unique, wonderful, ball of wonder and magic- each dog should always have the consideration of an individual. Sure, you CAN buy 1 large dog bowl and let all the small breed dogs graze on the same food throughout the day- but is that what's really best? Even brothers and sisters from the same litter, raised in the same household, can have different nutrition needs as they age. And if that isn't reason alone your pup will certainly appreciate seeing your recognize them as a unique individual with their own feeding station, and <a href="https://ooh.li/243c225" rel="nofollow">food consideration</a>. You don't like the same exact things as your siblings, do you?<br />
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In our home Nora wouldn't get a single bite if Gidget had her say, so we are always sure to separate feeding areas to ensure that Nora gets every bite of her carefully selected food and nutrition. And Gidget, who metabolizes better than Nora, and can handle a higher fat content in her food for her high energy levels throughout the day, needs a little extra protein then mature Nora.<br />
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Taking time out to re-evaluate your small breed dog's needs on a 1-by-1 basis, at least once a year, while working with a vet for proper nutrition means you can get the most from meal time.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. Protein Is At The CORE Of My Dog's Diet</span></b><br />
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While every dog is different, and your dog's diet should always be guided by a licensed veterinarian, many believe that small breed dogs can thrive on quality, natural, animal proteins. But finding a grain-free, protein-rich, natural pet food that also caters towards the tiny mouths of small breed dogs has traditionally been frustrating.<br />
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Many of my clients feed their pets Wellness® CORE® <a href="https://ooh.li/dbafa0d" rel="nofollow">RawRev</a>, a kibble+ dry food with 100% freeze dried meat, for a flavorful and protein packed meal that helps fuel breeds of every size. Until now, however, I haven't been able to share this range with my own pups, because the formulations weren't made for dogs their size.<br />
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However, Wellness® CORE® Small Breed is here at last and packed full of all sorts of flavorful treats from wet shreds and broth pouches to Wellness® CORE® Small Breed RawRev and Wellness® CORE® Petite Treats for a comprehensive selection to delight every small breed dog's unique palette and needs. Find <a href="https://ooh.li/243c225" rel="nofollow">Wellness CORE Small Breed</a> at a store near you today!<br />
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Both of our girls are loving Wellness® CORE® Small Breed High Protein Kibble + 100% RAW Turkey- it's a safe and easy way to integrate RAW feeding into their diets at home and on the go. We transitioned this new blend into their old Wellness dog food over the course of a week and bowls are being licked clean. We even get a little happy dance at meal time!<br />
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Gidget, at 2.3lbs, benefits from a small portion of 'wet' feeding each day and enjoys the <a href="https://ooh.li/dbafa0d" rel="nofollow">Wellness® CORE® Grain Free Mini Meals</a>- especially the shredded varieties with generous chunks of meat you can see. <br />
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<i><b>***PRO TIP: </b>Make your own 'slow feeder' by sizing up your small breed dog's bowl to a 'large' bowl and adding small washable dog toys at the bottom. Cheap rubber based dog dogs are easy to wash in the dishwasher and soak, and help create a barrier for your pup to navigate at feeding time, for slower eating and better digestion!</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. Fuel Their Brain</b></span><br />
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Treating your pups is a wonderful time to bond, and a necessary part of any Small Breed to Human Slave relationship. However, where it is mandatory in the rules that treats are given often and amply, there is not regulation on how they must be presented- so I say, make them work for it!<br />
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These days there are many wonderful treat dispensers, robot treat launchers, and homemade puzzles you can provide to help exercise your pups brain, and senses, at treat time.<br />
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We, especially, have been enjoying watching Gidget 'forrage' for her <a href="https://ooh.li/dbafa0d" rel="nofollow">Wellness® CORE® Petite Treats</a> in a homemade "Snuffle Mat." You can find various kits online for plastic mat bases- but these Snuffle Mats really can be made at home with any felt strips of your choice tied to a variety of creative bases. The main idea is to tie the treats to, and hide them deep within, the flaps and folds of these mats.<br />
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You can make an event of it and present the filled mat to your pup, or slyly hide 1 or 2 in the mat when you pass by throughout the day. The Snuffle Mat is always a hot spot in our household!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Just Because I'm Small Doesn't Mean I Don't Need To Work Out</b></span><br />
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Naturally your dog's age, health, joints, etc- determine the amount of exercise and play they can safely do every day. The important part is to know what your small breed dog is capable of and encouraging them to do it!<br />
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It can be quite easy to have a lap dog, or two, or three snuggled at every corner of the couch or arm chair for hours on end- but the truth is that your and your pups should be motivating each other!<br />
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Just because they are SMALL does not mean their don't need to get their heart pumping, and stretch those tiny legs!<br />
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Take several time outs during the day, if even for 5 minutes, to stop and get their zoomies on with some silly fun beyond a trip to the backyard or a walk for potty.<br />
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Keep in mind your dog's size physical limitation and their environment, such as temperature, joint sensitivities, heights, and always provide plenty of fresh water before/during/after playtime, but PLAY often. You're not only fueling your pup's day, but enriching yours as well!<br />
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So there you have it, 5 of my favorite tips for fueling Small Breed Dogs for their furriest and fiercest life. Just like parenting or raising any other living thing, learning to raise and care for a small breed dog is a constantly evolving experience. There's no such thing as perfect, but remember, you're pretty darn close in your dog's eyes (unless, again, you aren't the bringer of food, then remember you're still pretty darn close.)<br />
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<br />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-40100675831943479142019-02-08T14:24:00.002-08:002019-02-08T14:24:54.828-08:007 Organic Grocery Items You Didn't Know You Could Buy At WalmartThis post is sponsored by Horizon but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.<br />
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<i><b>Being a modern consumer can be complicated.</b></i><br />
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When I was a child the only time my mother bought groceries at a store other than the one closest to our house was if there was an amazing sale that matched up with a coupon in her wallet. Shopping for a family was much simpler a generation ago simply because consumers did not have easy access to the buyer's education and resources we have today. There was no internet for concerned mothers to network on, no pages of searches demanding transparency from brands, or subcultures of foodies sharing their passion for greener eating.<br />
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As a result I've been quite overwhelmed with trying to juggle my modern family's budget, and my millennial schedule, with shopping fro ethical and wholesome ingredients. For a while I was building multiple grocery lists, by store, for a single week at a time!<br />
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If you know the stress I am referring to all to well then you might be thrilled to learn about a little life hack I've recently picked up on my regular shopping trips to Walmart. We have both a Walmart Supercenter and Walmart Neighborhood Market in my hometown, so I am constantly grabbing grocery needs while picking up prescriptions, a new jacket for the upcoming rain, or the latest video game accessory.<br />
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I am at Walmart at least twice, if not three times a week on average, but I never realized just how many of my organic grocery needs I could buy there as well. Finding my organic "treasures" while on my everyday Walmart shopping trip not only saves me money, but precious time as well. Just take at look at some of these everyday <a href="https://ooh.li/7bedb02" rel="nofollow">Organic grocery finds</a> we found on our most recent trip:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Organic Pre-Packaged Vegetables and Fruit</b></span><br />
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Generally speaking shopping organic will always be at a slightly higher 'premium' cost than shopping 'non organic' equivalent, when it comes to fresh produce. Two ways to help offset this potential budget increase is by shopping at Walmart, and choosing pre-packaged, or 'ready-to'eat' options when available. This helps save you valuable prep time, and everyone knows time is money.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Ready-To-Eat Snacks And Salads</b></span><br />
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Our local Walmarts have a great selection of Organic single serving snacks and entree salads in the fresh produce department. Salads such as this Chicken Cesar are certified organic and ready to eat on the go so you can feel good about your eating choices any time of the day.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Organic Pressed Juices, Kombucha, And More!</b></span><br />
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A lot of the time I am way too busy through the late morning and mid-day to stop to eat a full meal, but often I find my stomach rumbling an my energy crashing around 1PM. Having a delicious, fortified, and well balanced organic fruit or vegetable juice based drink on hand can really stop me from getting cranky and sluggish. You'll find a variety or Organic bottled beverages in the cold case directly next to the packaged salads and fruits at your local Walmart. There are even some options with probiotics and protein for unique dietary needs!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. Fresh Fruit And Vegetables</b></span><br />
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This is probably the first grocery category that comes to your mind when I mention Organic groceries. I'll be honest, fresh Organic fruits and vegetables were some of the first things I started adding to my grocery list when I began buying Organic for our family. You'll find shelf talkers, liners, loud labels, and signs calling out fresh organic finds like these raspberries in the produce department at Walmart. I love feeling good about eating these delicious treats right out of the package or straight from my shopping bag upon unpacking at home.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Organic Milk.</b></span><br />
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Milk has been a staple at my dinner table since I was a little girl, and continues to be a weekly buy for my fridge. During the average week I use Organic milk for smoothies, creamy sauce recipes, cereal, homemade ice cream, and so much more. My preferred brand of <a href="https://ooh.li/3983b72" rel="nofollow">Organic milk</a> is Horizon, and my local Walmart has an entire cold case dedicated to the many varieties of it. Just look for the red cartons!<br />
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Horizon cows are certified <a href="https://ooh.li/cceba16" rel="nofollow">organic grassfed</a> and spend time in lush pastures where they can graze free- yes even the cows eat organic, and as a result their milk is always GMO free. They're a brand I've been following for years now as they have been advocating, along with others, for clear and tough organic
standards that go beyond what is currently required by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA). For me, Horizon is a brand I can feel good about buying for my family.<br />
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You'll find Horizon's Organic <a href="https://ooh.li/7bedb02" rel="nofollow">Grassfed Milk</a> in whole and 2% Half Gallons with an impressive expiration date for Organic milk and a clean taste we swear we notice. Horizon Organic Grassfed milk is definitely my preferred 'drinking' milk, and what I use in all my dairy based recipes for wholesome flavor I can feel good about.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">6. Shelf Stable Staples.</span></b><br />
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A lot of new-to-Organic shoppers may feel they can only find shelf stable Organics at specialty grocers, or in small designated aisle spaces in big box superstores. At Walmart you'll find many Organic companion choices right next to your everyday staples. Many times I'll even find an Organic option in my favorite brand- other times I'll choose the Walmart Great Value Organic equivalent and save myself quite a bit off big brand Organic pricing. Some of my favorite everyday Organic shelf stable staples include peanut butter, honey, salsa, and more!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7. Baked Goods.</b></span><br />
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When I recently discovered Select Seeds Great Value Organic Bread while hunting for some ingredients for a classic PB&J, I was thrilled to complete my sandwich needs with all <a href="https://ooh.li/cceba16" rel="nofollow">Organic</a> ingredients! Who knew you could buy Organic bread right at Walmart? <br />
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Shopping Walmart for Organic groceries is always an exciting treasure hunt as more and more Organic items are being added every week. When I come across an Organic option in my favorite brands I get excited to slash another thing off my shopping list. When I discover something new I hadn't previously been able to buy Organic outside of a pricey specialty store I do a little dance right there in aisle. It has never been easier to shop Organic and feel good about wholesome grocery choices thanks to Walmart. If you've been thinking about buying Organic, or are a seasoned and dedicated Organic pro, check out your local Walmart today for amazing grocery options like <a href="https://ooh.li/b1c4161" rel="nofollow">Horizon Grassfed Organic</a>.<br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-75991078962049260322019-01-15T23:36:00.000-08:002019-06-08T21:43:30.400-07:00White Cheddar Bacon Hasselback Potatoes Recipe + New Dinner Hacks<br />
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<img alt="#LeaveBlandBehind with delicious recipe free cooking thanks to NEW McCormick Seasoning Blends- Try these White Cheddar Bacon Hasselback Potatoes tonight! #AD" border="0" data-original-height="1078" data-original-width="760" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jb1smalySHw/WgKikPh7WDI/AAAAAAABCuM/S_6DqUKd89Qr9kDWA4C9k3fVyUWjs_qTACLcBGAs/s1600/McCormick%2BV.jpg" title="" /></div>
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Have you ever noticed some of the best family recipes are passed down by mouth, without any real written directions or ingredients at all? Every family has at least one. You know, the recipe that only those lucky enough to have spent time in Nana's kitchen with Nana preparing can really replicate.<br />
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Their composition may be so deeply shrouded in mystery on the pretense of a secret ingredient, or a lively tale that dates beyond family written records- But you and I know the recipe will never be written down, or found on a card, or in a book simply because it's true success is not based on fine measurements or elaborate steps; rather a secret family cooking trick, or that one ingredient substitute you'd never think to try. Recipes that can easily be made with what one has on hand, and through pinches and handfuls of measurements.<br />
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Yes, the amazing cooking can be recipe-free and impressively flavorful when you know the right hacks to make a little magic happen.<br />
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Of course every magician needs a few powerful tools in their bag of tricks- which is precisely where NEW McCormick Pasta Seasoning Blends come in to play. Available in White Cheddar Mac n' Cheese, Sundried Tomato Basil, and Parmesan Alfredo these bold and flavorful seasons go beyond your typical spice rack hacks to bring delicious sauces to life (just add milk and butter) or to season up any freestyle dish with simply a few shakes. They're made without artificial flavors or colors and are easily located with the traditional cooking spices at your local Walmart.<br />
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One of my personal favorite 'recipe free' dishes, and family favorite, are Hasselback Potatoes. It's a dish that looks quite impressive, but can easily be pulled off with minimal ingredients and simple knife trick. I used to rely on a multi-step seasoning process for my potatoes but recently simplified my recipe even further by swapping out all other spices and seasonings in this recipe for McCormick White Cheddar Mac n' Cheese Pasta Seasoning.With it's bold aged cheddar flavor I don't need to fuss with anything else- I can dig right into preparing this delicious dish. Simply gather your favorite block of cheddar cheese, green onions, baking potatoes, a stick of butter, and some bacon.<br />
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We usually have pre-cooked bacon on hand at all times- but this is a recipe I especially like making a fresh batch for. You can customize your flavor and textures here by choosing the type of bacon your family most prefers- I typically go with a Hickory Center/Thick Cut. Half your bacon and place it in a single layer on a foil lined sheet and bake just until it begins to crisp at 350F. Then carefully remove your bacon and gently blot between double layered paper towels.<br />
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Next, crumble your bacon over a medium sized bowl and sprinkle about 2 tsp McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning (or really as much as you'd prefer) onto your bacon crumbles. Toss the crumbles in the seasoning until each piece has a light white coat, and set aside.<br />
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Prepare your green onions by dicing the greens, while you let your oven preheat to a new temperature of 450F. If you prefer a slightly different palette feel free to substitute the green onions with finer, more delicate, chives.<br />
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Wash and pat dry your potatoes with a paper towel or clean cloth. Inspect your spuds for any wayward eyes, and remove as necessary.<br />
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Beginning with one potato, on a cutting board, cut a thin, lengthwise, slice off of the bottom of each potato so as to
create a flat surface for each to rest on. Next comes yet another genius cooking hack- one intended to make you look like a culinary artist without any special tools or skills.<br />
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Place 2 wooden utensils on
opposite sides of a potato, on a cutting board. At a slight diagonal
angle cut 20-24 slits into the potato, stopping when the knife hits the
spoons. Repeat with remaining potatoes.<br />
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Place prepared potatoes on a microwave safe dish and microwave on
HIGH for 12-14 minutes, or until potatoes are near tender. Remove from
microwave and place on lightly greased, foil lined, pan.<br />
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Combine
remaining McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning and melted butter and
brush over the top of each potato, paying special attention to allow the
mixture to permeate the cut seams. Bake potatoes for 15 MINS, or until
tender. Remove from oven.<br />
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Your potatoes should be well cooked, and the McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning will have made a wonderful cheese like crust along the skin of your potatoes' ridges. Each slice should now easily peel apart, though the potato itself will maintain enough structure to still be handled.<br />
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Carefully insert bacon pieces alternatively with cheese slices. Be
careful, the potatoes will be hot! Use a fork as needed to gently pry
apart the potato slices. Sprinkle with McCormick White Cheddar Pasta
Seasoning if desired and top with green onions. Return potatoes to the oven (broiler or top rack) for 2-3 minutes, or
until topping has melted and begins to lightly brown. Remove from heat,
cut in half, and serve.<br />
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Potatoes are a classic sidekick for many meals, and bacon-cheese covered potatoes rarely get better than this- Each slice not only oozes cheesy-bacon flavor but this beautiful dish is a sight to behold and is full of complex cheesy flavor thanks the addition of McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning. I especially love that I was able to cut any added salt out of this recipe, without a single complaint on flavor. We'll definitely be exploring the NEW McCormick Pasta Seasoning Blends even further- I've got a mind to try some homemade Parmesan Alfredo burger patties this weekend!<br />
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It's not always easy to find time for recipe books and precision cooking- why not try stepping outside your comfort zone with a little freestyle cooking thanks to the big flavor power of NEW McCormick Seasoning Blends? <span style="color: #990000;"><i><b>Do you have a family recipe that is passed down only by mouth, and learning?</b></i></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">White Cheddar Bacon Hasselback Potatoes</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/white-cheddar-bacon-hasselback-potatoes?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow">White Cheddar Bacon Hasselback Potatoes</a> recipe</i></div>
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<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>4 Medium Baking Potatoes</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>2-3 TBS + 2 tsp</i><i> <a href="http://cbi.as/a0wiv" rel="nofollow">McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning</a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>8-10 Slices Thick Cut Bacon</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>4 oz Cheddar Cheese (Block), Cut Into Thin Slices and Halved</i></div>
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<i>4 TBS Melted Butter </i></div>
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<i>2 Green Onions, Diced</i></div>
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<b>Preheat the Oven to 350F</b></div>
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1. Cut your bacon slices in half, width wise and place in a single layer on a foil lined cookie sheet. Cook bacon for 8-10 minutes at 350F, just until bacon begins to crisp, but is still pliable. Carefully remove from sheet by lifting each slice with a fork and arrange on 2 layers of paper towels. Lightly place 2 additional sheets of paper towels on top and gently blot excess grease. Crumble cooled bacon slices and toss in 2 tsp of McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning. Set aside.<br />
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<b>Preheat Oven to 450F</b></div>
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2.Cut a thin, lengthwise, slice off of the bottom of each potato so as to create a flat surface for each to rest on. Place 2 wooden utensils on opposite sides of a potato, on a cutting board. At a slight diagonal angle cut 20-24 slits into the potato, stopping when the knife hits the spoons. Repeat with remaining potatoes.<br />
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3. Place prepared potatoes on a microwave safe dish and microwave on HIGH for 12-14 minutes, or until potatoes are near tender. Remove from microwave and place on lightly greased, foil lined, pan. Combine remaining McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning and melted butter and brush over the top of each potato, paying special attention to allow the mixture to permeate the cut seams. Bake potatoes for 15 MINS, or until tender. Remove from oven.<br />
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4. Carefully insert bacon pieces alternatively with cheese slices. Be careful, the potatoes will be hot! Use a fork as needed to gently pry apart the potato slices. Sprinkle with McCormick White Cheddar Pasta Seasoning if desired and top with green onions.<br />
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5. Return potatoes to the oven (broiler or top rack) for 2-3 minutes, or until topping has melted and begins to lightly brown. Remove from heat, cut in half, and serve.Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-75845488817678768572019-01-03T14:16:00.000-08:002019-01-07T12:58:44.310-08:00How To Update Your Cat's Furniture (Successfully)Truffles received product from Smiling Paws Pets for her consideration in the aiding of this article; regardless, all content, opinions, and photos contained below remain genuine to that of the cat and writer.<br />
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<i><b>Anyone who's ever been owned by a cat knows that sharing a space with a feline can be a real challenge.</b></i><br />
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As humans we're limited to the space we can claim, and therefor out furnishings are generally limited to floor space. Cats, however, understand the only limit to where they can lounge, is where they will fit. (And, even then, there are some times where this rule goes out the window.)<br />
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If your brand new laptop is warm and smooth, it's the perfect napping spot- even better if the hard drive is humming with gentle vibrations and the keyboard is exposed offering a memory-foam like experience. If that cake carrier you just pulled out for your baking project is open and in jumping height, score- brand new cat bed. And when you've just spend several hours carefully organizing your holiday figurines for seasonal display on the mantle- it's suddenly the best view in the house.<br />
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You can't blame indoor cats, really- your home is the extent of their universe and it's only natural to want to scale and explore it as much as possible over time. And, it's not like you bothered learning to speak cat, so don't expect them to understand the finer points of English instructions such as "I just spend $2k on this new computer, please don't sit on it," or "It's hard to sleep when you're giving yourself an oral bath 4 inches from my face at night."<br />
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Yes, living in a cat's world can seem complicated at times but there are ways you can slowly begin to regain some of their space as your own again. Start by selectively integrating a few key pieces of pet furniture into inconspicuous places around their home. Since most felines are quite picky convertible furniture such as the <a href="https://smilingpawspets.com/collections/pet-beds/products/cat-bed-and-cube" rel="nofollow">2-In-1 Cat Cube and Bed</a> from Smiling Paws Pets is the perfect secret weapon to lure your cat away from their favorite hiding spot in your laundry basket/suitcase/kitchen cupboard.<br />
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When I first saw the 2-In-1 Cat Cube and Bed I thought, 'Genius! A soft warm, box! May cat is going to love this!' and promptly unpacked it and presented it to Truffles.<br />
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As a special thanks Truffles promptly returned the gesture by ignoring it entirely for several days. Well, not quite ignore it- she actually spent a fair amount of time lounging in the sun, on the floor and couch around the Cat Cube, perhaps purely to taunt me.<br />
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Whatever the reason, I decided the bed had been in 'her' territory long enough to be unassuming and have gathered some of her environment's natural scent. Taking advantage of the smart '2-In'1' feature of this unique bed I pulled the plush inner pillow out, smashed the top into the bottom and 'Viola!' instant open air car bed. I quickly tossed the pillow in the middle of the bed, and scurried away before the cat was any wiser.<br />
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<b><i>Jackpot! </i></b><br />
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The very next time I walked past my living room the 2-In-1 Cat Cube from <a href="https://smilingpawspets.com/" rel="nofollow">Smiling Paws Pets</a> had been definitely claimed by my feline housemate. In fact, Truffles seemed so content with her new property discovery that she refused to move for any of the traditional 'cat calls' such as rustling bags, the refrigerator opening, or a window being opened.<br />
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Needless to say I was ecstatic the stylish denim pet bed was at last fulfilling it's intended purpose as cat furniture rather than simply decor. Thanks to it's sturdy material this bed is entirely machine washable, and the luxury sherpa pillow offers a warm and comfortable napping experience that surely is steps above my laptop keyboard.<br />
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I wanted to convert the bed back into a cube, because I was certain Truffles would enjoy 'cube mode' even more than traditional bed mode- but left the bed as it was for several days to accumulate more of that 'cat ownership scent' that would help it seem less foreign once converted. I did, however, decide once I flipped the bed back into a cube again I would pull the sherpa pillow out to allow our 9lb cat more room to comfortably stretch and 'nest' inside.<br />
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Acclimating a cat to new furniture is a process that should be done over several days, if not weeks- remember that a cat's world is relatively small and any change can seem quite big. Cats, by nature, are curious but not necessarily quick to trust. And the less fuss you express over a change the quicker they will be able to accept it on their own, as something that is normal.<br />
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While you wait for your cat to acclimate to their new bed you might want to upgrade your home decor with a stylish DIY such as our <a href="http://www.mommatoldmeblog.com/2016/02/cat-scratcher.html" rel="nofollow">Cat Scratcher Vase</a> tutorial. Integrating cat friendly features into existing home decor is a great way to compromise a pro-feline environment with human design flair.<br />
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I wish I could say the exact moment things turned in Truffles mind- but in all honesty how I discovered she'd 'claimed' the cube as her own was on accident. In fact I spent a good portion of time tearing up the house looking for her before thinking to look in the pet bed I'd actually bought FOR her. As they say, the rest is history, folks.<br />
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Truffles loves her 2-In-1 Cat Cube And Bed from Smiling Paws Pets so much she wakes up every morning and migrates from the foot of my bed directly to the cube. Aside from a few hours of sun bathing in the afternoon, and some loud conversations with the local birds at sunset, she spends the majority of her day curled up content in the cube.<br />
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More recently I managed to sneak the sherpa 'pillow' into the bottom, and she seems to have found the upgrade quite agreeable.<br />
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<i><b>Balancing style while sharing a home with a cat can seem tricky.</b></i><br />
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No matter how awesome the furniture is you buy for your cat there will always be those days where your arm, while typing- or the empty fruit bowl on the dining table just seems more logical. Shop stylish and smart multi-purpose pet innovations online with <a href="https://smilingpawspets.com/" rel="nofollow">Smiling Paws Pets</a> (they have stuff for dogs, too!) and give your cat plenty of time to decide they brought their new favorite bed/toy/accessory into the home, not you. For more smart pet innovations for your home follow Smiling Paws Pets on <a href="http://instagram.com/smilingpawspets" rel="nofollow">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/smilingpawspets" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a>- look for their new Litter Trapper Mat to be back in stock soon!<br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-56680513876060632982019-01-01T19:03:00.000-08:002019-01-02T20:03:59.394-08:00National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day- Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcake Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yxPjVr-Wd2w/VoiBHoyKQJI/AAAAAAAA68w/gwmyib9qhsw/s1600/choc%2Bcovered%2Bcherry%2Bday.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yxPjVr-Wd2w/VoiBHoyKQJI/AAAAAAAA68w/gwmyib9qhsw/s1600/choc%2Bcovered%2Bcherry%2Bday.jpg" /></a><img alt="Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes- A Decadent Moist Devil's Food Cake infused with Tart Cherry Juice, topped with a Creamy Tart Cherry Buttercream Frosting, and Drizzled with a Rich Chocolate Ganache." border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j6sMXWlVmEQ/VoiBH417dsI/AAAAAAAA680/_C3lSwH6D7o/s1600/Choc%2BCovered%2BCherry%2BCupcakes%2BQ2.jpg" title="" /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">You never know what's in store.</span></b></span></span><br />
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Today is the first day in weeks where I've taken a deep breath and felt entirely myself. After weeks of fighting this season's flu, and a few tumultuous days of work and social affairs, I've emerged to that 'New Year's shine' everyone is so buzzing about. I'll admit, I have not been myself these past few weeks; and that did make the holidays rough- but here I am fresh and once again invigorated for all that lies ahead. In fact, we're kicking off 2016 with our first installment of a new blog series covering entirely random, picked at whim, 'National Day of Celebration' posts. Every week in 2016 you can tune into Momma Told Me for a unique recipe or project celebrating something completely arbitrary based on a little known National holiday.<br />
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While I so very much wanted to make some Wookiee Cream Puffs for National Science Fiction Day and National Cream Puff Day (January 2, 2016) I only just recovered in time for today's post. It's my hope, as we move through the year, that I will get the scheduling in order enough to share these fun recipes and crafts with you days, if not a week, in advance of the holiday so that you can follow along and celebrate too. I'm a little late to the celebration this week- but these Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes will taste just as good any other day of the year as well.</div>
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I thought National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day (January 3rd, 2016) was a great fit for this week's feature because they are often associated with seasonal gifting. That is, you see them emerge on shelves early November for the holiday season, and find them appearing in heart shaped boxes come February. Now, there is some debate over what qualifies as a Chocolate Covered Cherry- most argue that cherries simply dipped in chocolate so not count, but we won't fault you for celebrating that if you wish. <br />
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Yes, the 'real' chocolate covered cherries are actually a liquor style confection that is actually quite impressive to make. The technique for making such a candy with the perfectly liquid center, and sweet Maraschino core is actually rather frustrating- Believe me, I'll show you some time, I promise. The first Chocolate Covered Cherries, however, were introduced to the modern world in 1929 by Cella's Confections in New York. And the original recipe is still very much alive and in production 85 years later, surprisingly by Tootsie Roll.<br />
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When it comes to chocolate covered cherries, themselves, you either love them or hate them. I, personally don't care for liquid, or cream, center chocolates and find the Maraschino cherries featured inside this confection are too syrup sweet for my tastes. But the combination of chocolate and cherry? A classic winner without a doubt. Black Cherry Chip ice cream remains one of my all time favorite 31 Flavors varieties. There's something about the tart bite of real cherry juice that plays up the bittersweet notes of cacao that I find intoxicating.<br />
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So, I offer you this Chocolate Covered Cherry cupcake recipe, which reminds me of my Cherry Cola Cupcake recipe- but has an entirely different flavor and sophistication. The secret's in the real Organic tart cherry juice, reduced down to a syrup for a heavenly buttercream frosting that's every bit as surprising as the center of a real chocolate covered cherry. Of course, we added some cherry to the cupcakes as well- but it didn't quite draw out as much beautiful color as I'd liked. In the interest of cutting back on artificial colors, we kept this recipe au-natural.<br />
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If a decadent dark chocolate devil's food cherry infused cupcake topped with a mountain of tart cherry buttercream frosting isn't enough we've added a cherry on top (quite literally) with a simple semi-sweet ganache and stemmed Maraschino cherry. I'd made this recipe prior with a liquor sponge style base- but find this alcohol free variation is just as moist and actually draws the cherry flavor out more than the original. <br />
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Does the world really need a Chocolate Covered Cherry day? No- but all of those boxes of cordial cherries sitting on holiday clearance shelves might argue yes. For now, I'm content enjoying the celebration with a foil wrapped and some chocolate crumbs. This would be a wonderful Valentine's recipe *hint, hint* but really, it's just a deliciously fun way to dress up a classic devil's food cake. You can even use the boxed cake mix as a base- I'm not telling!<span style="color: #990000;"><i><b> Now dish- Do you like chocolate covered cherries or are you more of a chocolate dipped cherry fan?</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What Daughter Says:<span style="color: #e06666;"> Life may be like a box of chocolates, but these cupcakes never disappoint!</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes</b></span></span></div>
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<i><b>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/chocolate-covered-cherry-cupcakes?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chocolate Covered Cherry Cupcakes</a> recipe.</b></i></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></span><br />
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1 Box Devil's Food Cake Mix</div>
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1/2 C Dark Cocoa Powder</div>
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3 Eggs, OR 3/4 C Greek Yogurt</div>
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2 TSP Vanilla Extract</div>
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1 C Light Sour Cream</div>
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3/4 C Vegetable Oil</div>
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2/3 C Organic Tart Cherry Juice</div>
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<b>Cherry Buttercream Frosting</b></div>
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1 C Organic Tart Cherry Juice</div>
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3 Sticks Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter, Softened</div>
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3 C Confectioner's Cugar</div>
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1 1/2 TBS Meringue Powder (OR Egg White Substitute)</div>
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1/2 TSP Vanilla</div>
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3 TBS Milk (Or Milk Alternative, I Use Coconut Almond Milk)</div>
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<b>Ganache</b></div>
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5 OZ Bittersweet Chocolate (Chopped or In Small Morsels)</div>
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6 OZ Heavy Whipping Cream</div>
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Maraschino Cherries</div>
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Red Sparkling Sugar </div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Directions:</b></span></span></div>
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<b><i>Prepare Buttercream 1 Day In Advance </i></b></div>
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1. Pour 1 C Cherry Juice in a medium saucepan and heat over medium-high heat until reduced to 1/3 C (about 12015 MINS.) Allow to cool to room temperature.<br />
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2. Beat softened butter ans cooled cherry syrup in the bowl of a stand mixer, with paddle attachment to combine. In a separate bowl combine Meringue powder and confectioner's sugar. Add gradually to the bowl of the mixer, on low speed, until incorporated. Add the vanilla, and a portion of milk to help moisten the buttercream mixture. Whip on Medium speed for 4-5 minutes, adding the remainder of milk as necessary, until a smooth and creamy buttercream texture is achieved. Refrigerate Overnight.<br />
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3. Preheat Oven to 350F. Line 2 cupcake pans with 24 liners.<br />
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4. In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment combine the cake ingredients on low speed. Once combined, mix for 3 minutes on medium. Portion the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tins, about 3/4 full. Bake for 14-16 MINS at 350F, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Allow to cool in pan for 2 MINS before transferring to a wire rack to cool.<br />
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5. While cupcakes bake prepare your ganache by heating cream in a small saucepan just until simmering. Pour hot cream over chocolate chunks/chips in a heat safe bowl and cover. Set aside for 5 MINS. Uncover and mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.<br />
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6. Place both the cherry buttercream and ganache in separate piping bags. Pipe cooled cupcakes with cherry buttercream and drizzle with ganache. Sprinkle red sparkling sugar as desired and top with a stemmed Marschino cherry.Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-50973000646131894952018-12-19T09:37:00.000-08:002018-12-29T09:06:06.970-08:00No Bake Caramel Apple Cracker Bites Seasonal Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">It came from the microwave.</span></b></span></span><br />
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Momma didn't care much for the decorating aspect of the holidays, when I was a child- She was much more content whipping up some seasonal treat in the kitchen while my father silently cursed over the assembly of our artificial tree to the background tune of Mannheim Steamroller. Yes, they're the things my childhood holiday memories are made of. One year, Momma found herself low on energy and time, and decided to bring back a simple snack her own family had enjoyed, growing up. Most commonly known ad 'holiday bark,' or 'Christmas Crack,' a plate full of Saltine crackers covered in caramel chunks and chocolate chip cookies, melted, made for the perfect tradition. It was something so simple and delicious, Momma made it on demand every year after.<br />
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The crispy crunch of the cracker covered in gooey caramel, topped with smooth melted chocolate has stuck with me my entire adult life. I'm a sucker for the contrast of salty and sweet- and who doesn't love simple holiday snacking solutions? So, in homage, I devised these similar Caramel Apple Cracker Bites with just a touch of modern styling and food sophistication. While some of my guests call them 'cookies' they really rely on ready-made ingredients, so I have a hard time taking credit for their amazing texture and flavor.<br />
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Start with some round butter crackers and your favorite caramel sauce. I typically use a salted caramel jarred sundae sauce- just make sure you've either chilled your sauce, or are beginning with a thick/slow flow sauce that will not just run off your cracker. Drizzle or scoop a heaping teaspoon of caramel onto one side of your cracker 'sandwich,' place a pretzel stick in the caramel, sticking out, as your 'stem' and top with the other cracker half.<br />
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You'll want to chill your cracker apple creations a bit before dipping them, as the hot, or even warm, dipping chocolate will make the caramel want to run. I place my tray in the freezer for about 40 minutes, prior to dipping. Choose a chocolate dipping base that is sufficiently cut/thinned with coconut oil or shortening, but not too thin, to allow for quick and even coating. If possible remove your meting chocolate from the heat source before dipping.<br />
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Dip chilled cracker 'apples' with a quick 'flip' style roll in the melting chocolate. Here I've used Caramel Apple flavored Wilton chocolate baking melts, but you can also use any white chocolate tinted green. Once they are dipped, place them on a piece of parchment, on a cookie sheet, and immediately return them to the fridge or freezer. Be careful not to freeze the caramel, you simply want it chilled in a solid state for consumption!<br />
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When I first served these my guests were expecting dipped OREO cookies- since I'd made seasonal bats and pumpkins from OREOs a few weeks prior. They were certainly surprised to pick up this lighter treat with an addictive, crispy crunch. They were an instant hit with the perfect balance of salt, caramel, and chocolate. We specially love that they aren't overly sweet, and won't 'weigh' one down when grazing through a holiday spread! <span style="color: #990000;"><b><i>Have you ever served crackers in a sweet recipe such as this?</i></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">There's no doubt, home cooked is best-not everything can take hours to make, though!</span></span></b></span><br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-78806408093444546842018-12-16T21:00:00.000-08:002018-12-29T09:08:21.831-08:00Kicking Holiday Heartburn + Split Pea Soup From Scratch Recipe<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me:<span style="color: #e06666;"> Taste the season to be jolly.</span></b></span></span><br />
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<i><b>Don't judge- but for me, the holidays are all about food.</b></i><br />
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From January through October I exercise impressive self control when it comes to my at home, and even social eating. Don't get me wrong, I still love food during the rest of the year, but it's November and December I specifically reserve my splurging for. There are simply too many events, and seasonal specialties, I just can't turn down. And I may be shoveling every delicious homemade thing in sight onto my plate, or into my mouth, but that doesn't mean I'm not cultivating priceless memories at the same time. Because it wouldn't be the holidays without the seasonal flavors, and those flavors wouldn't tickle my tummy, and delight my inner child without all of the warm memories associated with them.<br />
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For example, ginger cookies remind me of the time I ate too many, gave myself a horrible tummy ache, and wound up with my head in my grandma's lap- her gently comforting caress of my hair, one Christmas Eve. The smell of molasses reminds me of the time my Uncle tried to smoke our holiday ham and we nearly wound up with the fire department at our Thanksgiving table. And coriander reminds me of that mysterious potato salad that would always wind up on my plate, whether I wanted it or not. Yes, food is one of the big reason's we get together- and it's the cornerstone of so many amazing memories and traditions. But for people like Jay, holiday cuisine can be a cruel mistress.<br />
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When we first met there was a slew of things Jay wouldn't eat- it not only dictated his food choices, but where we would go to eat for events such as dates. And, while there are many foods you may think of as triggers for heartburn, the ingredients and dishes which most greatly impact a frequent heartburn sufferer is as unique as the individual them-self. For example, Momma used to tell me to drink milk whenever heartburn would flair- but fatty foods such as milk and cheese actually increase Jay's discomfort, as they slow digestion and result in increased intestinal pressure. <br />
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When our first holiday season came around Jay began to make a fuss about sitting out family events- You can imagine the thoughts going through my head, I was certain it was all about me, and him not wanting to be around my family. As it turns out I was wrong. (Don't let him read that.) It soon came out that he didn't want to feel uncomfortable around all of the trigger foods he would inevitably want to eat. Frequent heartburn can truly sideline someone- and the holidays are no time to be feeling left out!<br />
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What's one of my biggest holiday indulgences? The holiday honey baked ham- you know the one- that sweet pork meat candy glazed with a golden sugar coating so aromatic you wish you could spritz your tree in it. (No, just me?)<br />
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Our family is big on the holiday ham tradition- we always make sure to order triple what we need to feed our guests and we still end up with minimal leftovers and a giant ham bone.Of course no matter how slick the family 'carver' thinks they are, there's still plenty of delicious ham flavor left on that bone, so I traditionally make a rustic split pea soup. It's kind of a holiday tradition.<br />
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Start by taking the bulk of the leftover meat off your ham bone with a paring knife. Reserve this meat, and any scraps/leftovers, diced, for the finishing touches at the end of your soup's creation.<br />
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Place a thick pad of butter in the bottom of an 8 quart pot and simmer
your onion, celery, and carrots until they begin to turn soft, opaque,
and slightly golden. Add some minced garlic and dried marjoram spice to
really highlight the ham flavor you're about to introduce.<br />
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Add your ham hock/bone and the diced/trimmed ham to the pot and stir over medium heat just until sufficiently combined.<br />
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Next add your split peas and water, bringing the mixture to a simmer before lowering the heat and putting on a lid.<br />
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Your soup won't look like much at this point, more of a vegetable stew, really, but shortly after adding the water savory aromas will begin to fill your kitchen thanks to the ham hock and marjoram.<br />
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You can't really over-cook your soup, aside from perhaps baking it to the bottom of your pot due to lack of stirring, so feel free to let it simmer until the ham is virtually melting off the bone.<br />
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Once your bone is clean, fish your hocks/bones from the soup carefully and smooth the mixture in a food processor a couple of cups at a time- I like to maintain a little texture, so I reserve 1-2 cups of the thicker soup as it is. Once processed, pour your blended coup back into the pot with the last of your reserved ham, and simmer for 5 minutes.<br />
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Serve this delicious rustic homemade split pea soup with a variety of toppings to garnish. Some of our family favorites include sour cream, bacon crumbles, bell peppers, cheddar cheese and fresh chives. Split pea soup, and all of the 'fixings' used to be a big trigger for Jay's frequent heartburn but Nexium® 24HR Capsules have changed the way his stomach greets seasonal cuisine. <br />
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Okay, now that his Holiday Heartburn Face is gone, he might be enjoying those holiday refreshments a little too much. Jay said this was his 'I'm drinking something I'm not supposed too, but I'm not going to pay for it later' face. <br />
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But in all serious-ness, I was trying to capture a nice holiday photo for our holiday cards, and the excitement of eggnog apparently got the better of both of them. Like father, like dog? I'm okay with it though, I'd much rather have a heartburn free partner in crime to eat my way through the holidays with than a scrunchy faced grinch! <i><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Do you have a traditional holiday dish you look forward to each year?</b></span></i><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">Don't sideline yourself this holiday season.</span></span></b></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rustic Split Pea Soup</span></span></b></div>
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<i><b>***Click here for the printable Rustic Split Pea Soup recipe.</b></i></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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1/4 Stick Salted Butter</div>
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1 Large Yellow Onion, Diced</div>
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5-6 Stalks Chopped Celery</div>
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1 C Chopped, Peeled, Carrots</div>
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1 1/2 C Green Split Peas </div>
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1 1/2 LBS Pork Hocks- Or Leftover Ham Bone</div>
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1 C Diced Ham </div>
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2 TBS Minced Garlic </div>
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2 TSP Dried Leaf Marjoram</div>
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8 C Water</div>
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Ground Pepper, To Taste</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery and carrots and saute until the onions begin to turn opaque and vegetables have started to soften. (Approximately 8 MINS) Add garlic, pork/ham bone and majoram- stir 1 minute.</div>
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2. Add peas and water and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low, bring to a simmer and partially cover the pot. Allow to cook until ham is falling off the bone and peas are tender and falling apart. (Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes)- Stir often.</div>
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3. Remove hocks/ham bone, paying careful attention to ensure no small pieces of bone have fallen to the bottom of the pot. Puree 5 cups of the soup in a blender and return to the pot. Dice any remaining ham/pork and add to the pot of soup, cooking for 5 minutes on Medium heat. Pepper to taste.</div>
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5. Serve with an array of garnish/toppings such as bacon crumbles, finely shredded cheese, sour cream, diced peppers, chives, onions, ham, and more.</div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-24199981335287920262018-11-13T16:43:00.000-08:002018-11-14T16:45:52.212-08:00Inside-Out S'mores Bars Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me:<span style="color: #e06666;"> Think outside the box.</span></b></span></span><br />
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This isn't a particularly pretty post- in fact, it was never really intended to be it's own blog post. I'd quite intended to mess around with a GIF or PIN strip some day- thus the lack of gooey-messy foodie shots, or excessive styling. The lighting isn't even great- it was an overcast day and half of my condo was moved into the new house, so I was really just 'working with what I had'. But, to be honest, these were actually requested by someone in my league to be posted, so here I am sitting down to type up one of the most basic, simple, recipes that has ever crossed my little space on the web.<br />
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Growing up Momma loved 'boxed' recipe hacks- if there was any way she could save time while adding her own touch or twist to make something magical, she'd find it. Making 'boxed' recipe hacks are often not only time saving, but also quite affordable. Which makes them my go-to when I have to feed a large number of people (say, an entire bowling league) with only a few hours notice. After all, I am the 'dessert' lady, and blood sugar levels drop to dangerous numbers when I don't bring in the weekly fix for my bowlers!<br />
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This Inside-Out S'mores Bars recipe is so simple it doesn't require a narrated post- but the photos are still pretty to look at, right? I used to agonize over what brand or variety of boxed this or that I would choose when shopping for boxed recipes I'd found on Pinterest. The truth is most are pretty forgiving and you should always go with your personal tastes when picking 'the box.' For example, I love the triple fudge brownie variation of brownie mix from a certain big name baker brand- so that's what I use here. However, you may prefer a more malty milk chocolate flavor to compliment the s'mores theme, or perhaps something even more wild, such as a blondie mix. You really can't go wrong.<br />
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There are a few variations of this concept, and I completely endorse the variation where you layer chocolate bars atop your marshmallow layer before smothering it with the second half of your brownie batter- but, on this day, I needed a slightly less messy concept considering people would be putting their chocolatey hands in heavy balls at high velocities just after consumption. My personal 'twist' to this idea is double graham crackers- but that's always been my favorite part of the s'mores experience!<br />
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You may be tempted to pull these out of the pan and start devouring them on the spot- Take my advice, let them cool thoroughly, especially if going the chocolate bar route. Not only will pretty much any cutting utensil instinctively want to stick to every inch of marshmallow, but the entire bar itself will crumble at the graham layer if you dive right in too soon. Don't worry, they're still be gooey and indulgent when cooled.<br />
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So just a little further down you'll find the 'official' recipe- if the photos aren't instruction enough. Pretty much anyone can make these, and they go from box to belly in less than an hour (cool time included). Give them a try the next time you need to be a potluck/classroom mom/unexpected dinner guests hero.<span style="color: #990000;"><i><b> Now tell me a little bit about how you like to 'dress up' or incorporate boxed mixes into your cooking routine!</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">Sometimes delicious doesn't have to be fancy- boxed mix hacks make it as easy as 1-2-3.</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Inside-Out S'mores Bars </span></b></span></div>
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<i><b>***Click here for printable Inside-Out Smores Bars Recipe</b></i></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span><br />
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1 Box Brownie Mix (Prepared/Mixed To Directions On Box)</div>
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Approximately 2 Sleeves Graham Cracker Sheets</div>
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2 C Mini Marshmallows</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<i><b>Preheat oven to 350F</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Spray a 9 x 13" baking dish</b></i></div>
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1. Prepare boxed brownie mix to liquid form, according to instruction on box. If a choice is given for chewy or 'moist' prepare that way.</div>
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2. Pour half the prepared batter into your baking dish and allow to level.Top with a layer of graham cracker sheets, laying gently on top of the brownie mixture as to not put excess pressure- or the brownie mix will envelope the entire graham layer when baking.</div>
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3. Top graham crackers with a generous layer of mini marshmallows and drizzle/pour remaining half of brownie batter atop. Bake for 25 minutes, or until set. Allow to cool completely before cutting or you might end up with a crumbled gooey mess! </div>
Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-87413237230977671772018-11-06T02:28:00.000-08:002018-11-06T02:33:38.509-08:005 Ways To Spoil Your Pet On A Budget- D.I.Y Foldable Raised Feeding StationThis shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its
advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #dothe99 #99obsessed
#CollectiveBias<br />
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<i><b>There's no arguing that pets are family.</b></i><br />
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And every pet parent agonizes over how to give their pet the very best while still managing a budget. It's not uncommon to struggle with the desire to treat and spoil alongside the practicality of everyday needs and necessities. It's the main reason I find myself spending more and more money on my pets each year than on new clothing or accessories for me.<br />
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Which is why you won't be surprised to hear me say I enjoy shopping for my pets at my local <a href="http://cbi.as/a2mxi" rel="nofollow">99 Cents Only Store</a>. In fact, my local 99 not only has an entire aisle dedicated for pet supplies covering rodents and birds to cats and dogs, but a brand new exclusive dog food, too!<br />
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<i><b>Choosing the right food for your pet can be an overwhelming task.</b></i><br />
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Modern pet food ranges from $.56 per serving all the way up to $8.20 per serving for an average 35lb dog. Many pet parents with healthy dogs find advertising and labels overwhelming. The want to feed one's dog a premium, high quality, food is evident but how to tackle this with label shaming and budgets is not always apparent.<br />
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For those hoping to feed their dogs something better than just 'ordinary,' the 99 has teamed up to offer an exclusive dog food comparable to "super premium" formulas sold across the county. Available in 2 varieties, Pet Inc. dry dog food features U.S. Farm Raised Beef or Chicken as the #1 Ingredient and is made with wholesome grains and veggies, and absolutely no artificial flavors or preservatives. Both of Pet Inc's formulas meet nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages, including growth of large sized dogs (70lbs or more as an adult.)<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "open sans" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><br />
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We immediately spotted this new find at the end of the pet supply aisle at our local 99 and was surprised to see these bags priced at half the price of major competitor national brands! We also learned these formulas removed extra fillers (meat-by-products) and simplified the recipes with peas, carrots, beet pulp, brown rice and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to help promote a shiny coat. <a href="http://cbi.as/a2mxi" rel="nofollow">Pet Inc. Super Premium</a> Dog food is currently available exclusively at your local 99 in both Beef and Brown Rice and Chicken and Vegetable recipes. <i><b>You don't have to compromise quality for price when you choose quality dog food based on labels and facts, rather than brand names and store loyalty. </b></i>(That's TIP #1 folks!)<br />
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Of course one of the main reasons we love shopping at <a href="http://cbi.as/a2mxi" rel="nofollow">the 99</a> so much is for the everyday treasure hunt that is guaranteed when we walk through the doors. The pet aisle at our local 99 has been growing all year and I never know what I'll find when I take a stroll down it. On my way to stock up on some fresh fruit and produce for the week's meal plan I spotted these Disney dog toys in the most adorable characters from <i>Finding Nemo</i> and <i>Big Hero 6</i>. You know I grabbed a few extras to leave behind as gifts for my dog walking clients!<br />
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Just look at our haul from this week's trip to the 99! We scored tough nylon super chewer rope toys, doggy waste bags, a travel water system, Super Premium Pet Inc. dry dog food, Disney licensed dog toys, dog sweaters and tutus, and more at a fraction of the cost we would've paid at other stores! We even nabbed a few extra items in the everyday household departments we planned on converting into some cool pet gear!<br />
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<i><b>How to best store one's dog food is a never ending quest.</b></i><br />
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When you have small or medium sized dogs it isn't always practical to serve straight from the bag as food will go stale long before it is all consumed. And if you have curious felines underfoot a rolled up bag is never proper security for anything edible.<br />
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We found this extra large cereal storage snap container near the disposable party and tableware at our local 99. A quick trip down the office and craft supplies aisle for some colored duct tape and stickers and we were well on our way to some fancy dog gear.<br />
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I wrapped two strips of colored duct tape around the middle of the food storage container then used some pre-cut alphabet stickers to decorate the front with Nora's name. Next I added a little sparkle and class with some crystal stickers I also nabbed for just a dollar near all of the school and art supplies. In less than 5 minutes, and less than $5 I had a securely sealing dog food container perfect for the kitchen counter (or our dog food station.) <br />
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I was even able to score some strips of velcro in the electronics and auto aisle at the 99- I used this to fasten the food scoop to the side, out of the way and off the ground. Nora didn't seem too impressed, but that might be because she was confused why her new giant food bowl had a securely snapping lid on top!<br />
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<i><b>For my 3rd tip- a D.I.Y. raised feeding station</b></i>, I was immediately inspired by a treasure hunt find in the housewares section of <a href="http://cbi.as/a2mxi" rel="nofollow">my local 99</a>. There were half a dozen different prints of the most adorable, and heavy duty, acrylic serving trays. Right below them on the shelf were rows of folding step stools. It didn't take a genius to see what needed to happen, and at under $10 this project was sure to be a real money saver compared to department store feeding stations retailing at triple and quadruple the price!<br />
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Using a power drill, over a piece of scrap wood on a sturdy work bench, we drilled two even holes straight through the acrylic tray AND step stool. Drilling the holes at the same time ensured they would later line up. As both items were made from a heavy duty plastic we made sure to support the back side with a scrap wood board to prevent any splitting or cracking.<br />
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We drilled our holes to match 2 pre-determined bolts. Like many we have a junk drawer with odd bits and ends, and simply chose the hardware we had on hand for this project. You can, however, often find starter tool kits and supplies in the auto/electronics aisle at your local 99. The key to this particular project is being able to screw a fastener on the underside to secure your tray to your foot stool base- the size of the bolts is not really crucial, so long as the nuts thread tightly onto them.<br />
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Because we used a folding foot stool, and wanted the tray to be able to function in this 'folding' manner for cleaning and storage we only put our bolts on one half of the stool/tray. We didn't feel any extra hardware was needed and felt confident that these two bolts were more than enough to keep the tray functioning and in tact through extended use.<br />
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All this being said- our local 99 had 2 sizes (heights) for these strong foldable foot stools and we went with the shortest. The short stool would be best suited for a Small or Medium breed dog, where as the large/tall stool would be perfect for a Labrador or other large breed dog. We made ours as a gift for a friend in an upcoming holiday gift exchange- but I was a bit curious to see if this sort of feeding solution would keep little 2lb Gidget from 'surfing' her sister Nora's food. You'll have to keep reading to scroll on and see how that experiment went...<br />
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All in all having a comfortable feeding experience is key to top notch spoiling. Many pet parents don't realize that dogs often strain to eat food placed directly on the floor. This straining can lead to poor digestion and even mild choking events, or speed-eating. Having a raised feeding station can not only improve your dog's digestive health, posture, and overall contentment at feeding time, but also serve to help contain messes and keep small hands and other animals our of their food.<br />
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<i><b>Speaking of speed-eating.....TIP #4 involves creating your own Slow Feeder solution.</b></i><br />
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If you have a dog that tends to gulp down their food before you can put the food canister away then you probably have noticed an upset tummy, or even choking events, from time to time. Watching a dog wolf down their food as though they live on the street can be alarming for pet owners. It not only often indicates food is not being properly chewed but also means your dog is at risk for intake of increased air into the digestive system leading to discomfort and other unpleasantries. <img alt="D.I.Y Foldable, Raised, Pet Feeding Station- #DoThe99 #99Obsessed #AD" border="0" data-original-height="1038" data-original-width="760" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pBEsj91264s/W-Fay1igfRI/AAAAAAAB808/tNtagR1fcXcRgDwV3XTyuLrGzSSAp5hCwCLcBGAs/s1600/99%2BPet%2BJ6.jpg" title="" /><br />
You can invest in several specially designed bowls and feeders intended to help slow your dog's consumption down. Many of these are merely bowls with divets and valleys cut into the bowl itself to make it harder for your dog to fit it's snout into the bowl and gulp large quantities of food at once.<br />
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We tried many when we first brought Nora home and none really seemed to work.<br />
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One day I was at the 99 and spotted some spikey chew toys of various shapes and sizes and decided to give making my own slow feeder a go. I bought a bowl about twice the size of her typical bowl and placed 3 toys of varying sizes inside, then poured her scoop of food in and gave it a good jostle. Sure enough the toys proved just enough of an obstacle to slow down Nora's consumption without preventing her from ultimately finishing her entire meal. Best of all the dog toys could be soaked in warm water and easily cleaned regularly without any fancy cleaning tools.<br />
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<i><b>Of course in a multi-dog home not all feeding obstacles can be tackled.</b></i><br />
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Some dogs are just too darn smart for their own good. Remember that feeding station we made for a medium sized dog as a gift? Nora rests at eye level when standing, and Gidget can walk entirely underneath it. Guess who figured out there was 'easy access' Pet Inc Super Premium food in the bowl during our photo shoot?</div>
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Yup, with a little bit of whining, and walking in circles, Gidget figured out how to tippy toe her way into a free meal. You just can't keep her out of anything!</div>
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<i><b>My last tip to spoil your pup is with a new bed.</b></i><br />
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After all of that healthy, and yummy, digestion your pup will be ready for a nice long nap.<br />
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<a href="http://cbi.as/a2mxi" rel="nofollow">99 Cents Only Stores</a> are full of great everyday pet supplies just like this comfy plush dog beg, with an easily washable cover, and enough room to fit both our girls. They also have plenty of fleece blankets for your pup to snuggle under as the weather turns!<br />
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We paid half what would would've paid for the same quality pet bed anywhere else- and we had our pick of styles and colors, too!<br />
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Pet beds seem to be one of those things we are always investing in. We can never have enough of them throughout the house- and I prefer not to invest too much money in them because they are prone to get dirty or even soiled during the life of your pet. We used to haul pet beds back and forth to 'grandpaw's' house, but now can afford to buy a few especially for him to keep there, thanks to the deals at our local 99.<br />
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<i><b>Keeping your pet happy and healthy is a never-ending struggle.</b></i><br />
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For me, I'd probably sooner feed my dogs than myself if it ever came down to it. Thankfully, the 99 has many options to not only keep pets fed and comfy, but properly spoiled every day of the year too! Keep an eye out for the exclusive Super Premium Pet Inc. dog food the next time you shop the 99 and give the label a good review. You just might be surprised what you'll find at the 99! Find a 99 Cents Only Store near you with this <a href="http://cbi.as/a2mxi" rel="nofollow">store finder</a>.</div>
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<i><b>Tell me, aisde from vet expenses, what do you find yourself spending the most money on for your pets?</b></i></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pufQnQR2_0Y/W-FrP50dkFI/AAAAAAAB81k/ZIdNy5wmNvMljd2_XtMltuJLYpwAIVnfgCLcBGAs/s1600/sig.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="76" data-original-width="141" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pufQnQR2_0Y/W-FrP50dkFI/AAAAAAAB81k/ZIdNy5wmNvMljd2_XtMltuJLYpwAIVnfgCLcBGAs/s1600/sig.png" /></a></div>
<img alt="D.I.Y Foldable, Raised, Pet Feeding Station- #DoThe99 #99Obsessed #AD" border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="760" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EJz9tDFg-kc/W-Fa4PZhBJI/AAAAAAAB81A/jHaeT8-uLpEMnJY8aAfFuB77FPhNsvQagCLcBGAs/s1600/99%2BPet%2BJ.jpg" title="" />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com303tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-83923429934551850142018-10-17T09:11:00.000-07:002018-10-18T11:57:41.964-07:00Last Minute Halloween Costume Makeup- Barfing Rainbows Tutorial<i>This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #</i><i>HallowCleanFaceOff</i><i> #CollectiveBias</i><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">Everything's coming up rainbows.</span></b></span></span><br />
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<i><b>It's not secret I love color.</b></i><br />
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I also love to turn heads and last year's <a href="http://www.mommatoldmeblog.com/2014/10/neutrogena-pop-art-makeup-tutorial.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pop Art Makeup</a> tutorial did plenty of that both on and offline. Unfortunately, this year, I've been scrambling to keep up with the rapidly approaching holidays. I have so many awesome recipes and PIN-worthy content in the works, on top of my weekly commitment with the day care, that I haven't had time to plan my own Halloween look. Sound like you? Don't fret, I've got us both covered with a simple, tongue in cheek, Halloween makeup idea inspired by one of this year's most <strike>annoying</strike> colorful trends, the barfing rainbow.<br />
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If you've somehow managed to sail through the majority of 2015 without the knowledge of this pop culture term, then I apologize for ruining the streak. The 'barfing rainbow,' is actually a photo enhancing filter built into a recent update on a major real-time photo chatting application (I shall leave unnamed.) Now, there have been some gorgeous renditions of this look; but we are focused on the convenience and simplicity of painting a free flowing rainbow falling from one's mouth. It's a costume you can throw together in minutes wearing your everyday clothes and with a little bit of exaggeration.<br />
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No matter how simple your Halloween costume makeup look is, you'll always want to start with a good foundation. I use Neutrogena® 's Healthy Skin Primer to help even my skin tone and act as a protective SPF barrier for all day looks. It absorbs quickly on the skin's surface and leaves a fresh, light, complexion that is best suited for this 'natural' full face base application. Feel free to add an additional layer of concealer, if desired, leaving the chin area barren. Or, simply complete a full face application, and remove the makeup from your chin with a Neutrogena® <a href="http://cbi.as/wbap" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Makeup Remover</a> Cleansing Towelette.<br />
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Next take a very bright pink blush and daub two generous heaps of product across each cheek, using a wide brush to work the color in. Make sure to drag the color high up your cheekbones and feel free to go overboard for an even more dramatic and 'cartoon' effect. For the main makeup you will want at least primary tubes of water based Yellow, Red, and Blue paint, as well as a white tube to help blend and softer colors to your desired palette. There are many versions of 'barfing rainbow, but all of them have at least Red, Orange, Yellow, Blue, Green, and Purple in them. The one I've chosen to replicate has an additional 'teal' band.<br />
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Using a flat brush about 1/2" wide, apply your yellow layer first, drawing a line down your bottom lip, and across your chin and next to your collarbone. You can actually take the lines further for a more dramatic 'every angle' effect, and even only a shirt collar for additional dramatic impact. Working around your yellow layer (which should be close to the center of your mouth/chin, repeat the process with each of the other colors- top lip down to collar.<br />
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If the paint begins to clump in a particular place simply wipe off your brush and gently daub the extra paint. <a href="http://www.neutrogena.com/home.do" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Neutrogena® </a> Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes work great for cleaning costume makeup off brushes, and even removing 'mistakes' during the painting process. Don't over-stress the consistency of the lines, this is intended to be a 'barfing' rainbow, after all, and should be 'free flowing' in movement.<br />
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Many of the photos floating around from this app feature exaggerated features, such as 'doll eyes' and 'fake lipstick,' or 'sparkles' on the rainbow, itself. If you'd like to have a little extra fun go ahead and apply some false lashes and brightening white shimmer/shadow to your upper and lower eyelids. I also decided to paint my upper lip a nice hot pink to contrast the flowing rainbow- just be sure to wipe any 'color' that may have daubed off onto your upper lip before putting the lipstick on. Those wipes sure do come in handy, don't they?<br />
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While you may be in a hurry to get to that party and show off your fiercely witty Halloween makeup, you're going to want to make sure you've stocked up on Neutrogena® Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes from Walmart. Not every ghoul and goblin will have been as smart as you with the quick makeup and affordable costume. Full face applications for vampires and such can be a real beast to get off at the end of the night. Be a good friend and pass a tub of Neutrogena® Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes. You can even tell them they're clinically proven to remove 99.3% of your most stubborn makeup, even waterproof mascara. I, personally, don't leave home without them.<br />
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Of course, then you're dealing with particularly stubborn, or cheap costume, makeup removing and 'undoing' makeup are two different things. Some paints can stain especially fair complexions, such as mine, so this year I'm fighting back with the power of Neutrogena® Makeup Remover <a href="http://cbi.as/wbap" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cleansing Towelettes</a> and Neutrogena® Ultra Light <a href="http://cbi.as/wbb9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cleansing Oil</a>. Once I've wiped my face down I simply apply 3-4 pumps of Ulta-Light Cleansing Oil to my dry hands, and smooth it all over my face. Next, I massage it into especially tough areas where color has set in, and activate it with a splash of water. Just a quick rinse, and I'm back to my non-rainbow-barfing self!<br />
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As fun as it is to barf rainbows, I can't be seen as my 'alter ego' all the time- having efficient makeup removal with even a single Neutrogena® Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelette is true time saver. Just look at all that makeup I got off with one towelette! Best of all, there's 24 more in the package for me to use on non rainbow barfing days!<span style="color: #990000;"><i><b> How do you remove costume or stubborn makeup?</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #990000;"><b>What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">I may go by the 'living rainbow' but I don't always want to look like my skin is trying to become one. Efficient makeup removal is a must for the upcoming holiday!</span></b></span></span><br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-58297971259581784412018-10-15T12:56:00.003-07:002018-10-17T01:11:09.407-07:00Designer Sunglasses For Every Set Of Eyes From SmartBuyGlasses.comI received a product for consideration from SmartBuyGlasses.com, regardless all opinions and images contained herein are original and genuine.<br />
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<a href="https://www.smartbuyglasses.com/designer-sunglasses/Tom-Ford/" rel="nofollow"><img alt="https://www.smartbuyglasses.com/designer-sunglasses/Tom-Ford/" border="0" data-original-height="974" data-original-width="760" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GZf-anFmLP0/W8TvHmOFRaI/AAAAAAAB688/EJWX_7UzzRAj1zBT62sgTcp_KMqN6O79QCLcBGAs/s1600/Sunglasses%2BA2.jpg" /></a></div>
<i><b>If anything has changed dramatically in fashion, for the better, over the
past 20 years, it has been eye-wear. </b></i><br />
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Around age 6 I was saddled with my
first pair of prescription frames, and so began a love/hate affair I
would carry through the rest of my childhood and adult life. "Make sure
you pick the ones you want to wear <i>every</i> day," Momma urged, as I
peered back at myself from that round vanity mirror next to the cash
register. Not only did the process of picking a pair of glasses feel
very, well, clinical, my options in the early nineties were quite
underwhelming. Most glasses were designed for function, and that meant
extra large lenses and ugly wire frames that could withstand a child
sitting on them.<br />
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Ironically, by the time I was old enough to wear prescription contact
lenses I no longer desired to have my face free and unobstructed, but
framed in a more expressive manner. Wearing glasses had become as much a
part of my definition as the language I spoke or the way I style my
hair. Prescription eye-wear had become a little more affordable and
fashion savvy, but online ordering wasn't quite convenient, or
trustworthy.
Through the years sites such as <a href="http://smartbuyglasses.com/" rel="nofollow">SmartBuyGlasses.com</a> have worked to bring
value and style to the world of prescription optics, and made it
possible for me to build a wardrobe of glasses, even between
prescriptions.<br />
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As I age, and my eyes settle, I find I'm more often looking for quality glasses to add to my wardrobe- though one big optical accessory has long remained elusive to me, sunglasses.<br />
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In the past I'd only wear sunglasses when I was already wearing contacts, or keep an 'emergency' pair of old <a href="https://www.smartbuyglasses.com/designer-sunglasses/Versace/Versace-VE4338-52436G-363378.html" rel="nofollow">prescription sunglasses</a> in the glove compartment of the car. Time and again I'd go on holiday with friends and family and gush over the designer sunnies casually looped on their heads at beaches and resorts.<br />
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Then I discovered SmartBuyGlasses.com's amazing catalog of current and trendy designer label sunglasses. Sunglasses I could truly customize with my prescription to look identical to the designer's lenses (in tint and treatment) or fully customize with transitions lenses and more. I won't lie, the idea of having a pair of Dolce & Gabanna, <a href="https://www.smartbuyglasses.com/designer-sunglasses/Tom-Ford/" rel="nofollow">Tom Ford</a> or Dior frames I can wear indoors and outdoors really extends the value of buying designer eyewear for me. Even better Smart Buy offers a 24-month warranty against all manufacturer's defects on sunglasses and eyeglasses without exception. They even offer 100 day returns and free shipping!<br />
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As a result I am now the proud owner of my very first pair of sunglasses I absolutely LOVE. Just check out these gorgeous <a href="https://www.smartbuyglasses.com/designer-sunglasses/Versace/Versace-VE4338-52436G-363378.html" rel="nofollow">VERSACE VE4338</a> frames on my face in my very own prescription. No longer will I be squinting hopelessly in those vacation photos or forced to cover my face in shame pool-side. Smart Buy did an amazing job with my custom lenses and matching them to the designer's vision; the original frame lenses were also includes along with my VERSACE case, authentication information and cleaning cloth. I couldn't be more thrilled with this new addition to my wardrobe!<br />
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<br />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-35878817599361123012018-10-09T13:18:00.001-07:002018-10-16T13:09:17.673-07:00If you see it, you can stream it, with Chromecast at Best BuyThis post was created in part with information provided through a collaboration with the Best Buy Influencer Network, regardless all opinions are my own.<br />
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<b>Raise your hand if your family loves streaming media.</b><br />
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<i>Raise your hand again if you struggle with finding a way for the family to stream together.</i><br />
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We've all been there- Bobby has a cool clip of 2 cats arguing on a fence post, but the living room YouTube is logged into Dad's account, Susy has a Fortnite clip she wants to share but Mom can't look away from the stove to watch a 6" screen, Grandma and Grandpa want to share photos from their recent trip to Ireland and the phone is being passed around like it's still a stack of 4"x6" photographs, and your neighbors brought over their playlist for your Block Party but they're not signed into your Pandora.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>With all this shareable technology, since when did it become so difficult to share?</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://bby.me/8mht4" rel="nofollow">Chromecast</a>, at Best Buy, offers entertainment at your fingertips; upgrade your family's entertainment system for a fraction of the cost when you add Chromecast technology to your TV. Simply plug Chromecast into the HDMI port of your television then stream direct from your phone to your TV. It's as easy as that. In fact any device with the Chromecast app in your home can instantly stream it's content directly to your television, so nobody gets left out ever again.<br />
<br />
Stream shows direct from your streaming subscription services, browse recipe tutorials on YouTube, share photos with loved ones, stream live TV, music, and more. See it. Stream it.<br />
<br />
(Web-based services and content require high-speed Internet service. Some services may require a subscription.)<br />
<br />
Learn more about Chromecast, and pick up yours today at a <a href="http://bby.me/8mht4" rel="nofollow">Best Buy</a> near you.<br />
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<br />Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-68376912812334489652018-10-07T19:15:00.000-07:002018-10-18T11:59:20.791-07:00Lions And Tigers, And Toddlers, Oh, My! - Little Tikes® Cozy Coupe® Wagon Halloween Transformation<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">It's a wagon, not a chariot.</span></b></span></span><br />
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As the holidays approach I feel myself getting more and more nostalgic for the rituals involving family and friends. This time of year is marked by sites, smells, and activities that make memories. While I count down the days until Thanksgiving week, when I can finally return to Oregon to visit my mother, sister, and adorable nieces and nephews once again, the miracle of modern technology has also allowed me to keep tabs on those I love through a virtual eye. Born in August, this is Nathan's first 'real' Halloween and his mother's excitement for family traditions is contagious.<br />
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When I was a young girl Momma would take me to the local 'Pick Your Own Farm,' where we could browse thousands of pumpkins over several acres for just the perfect one. My absolute favorite part of the evening was crawling into the red wagons with our pumpkins and watching my father pull me through the fields. Living in Southern California, one has to partake in activities like this to best get in the mindset of the holiday season- the word 'season' hardly exists! Luckily, we live on the coast surrounded by farmland and this time of year the sides of the road are covered in Orange blankets of fresh pumpkins- no need to travel to the farm. However, there are still some of us young enough at heart, to make the trek out of town for the promise of a hay ride and old fashioned corn maze.<br />
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This year Nathan has wheels much cooler than the old farmhouse Radio Flyer, he'll be rolling down the block, and through the pumpkin patch in a chariot all his own thanks to Little Tikes®! I bet you didn't know that the Little Tikes® Cozy Coupe® Wagon can seat 2 toddlers, complete with cup holders, and will hold up to 250lbs in weight! It's the perfect thing to bring along to the Pumpkin Patch or Tree Lot this holiday season. The extra long handle even tucks underneath for storage and transport.<br />
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And let's not forget how convenient it is to have a comfortable ride for your toddlers while Trick-Or-Treating! This year Nathan will be rolling around in style as an adorable <a href="http://www.wholesalehalloweencostumes.com/kids-costumes/baby-toddler-costumes/animals" rel="nofollow">lion</a> thanks to a quick Cozy Coupe® Wagon transformation we did with a little PVC pipe and cardboard. Didn't Savannah do an amazing job dressing this wagon up for Halloween? In fact, there are many ways to dress up a Cozy Coupe® Wagon for Halloween from princess carriage to Mickey Mouse car- you'll find hundreds of creative ideas on <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=cozy%20coupe%20transformation&term_meta[]=cozy|typed&term_meta[]=coupe|typed&term_meta[]=transformation|typed" rel="nofollow">Pinterest</a>!<br />
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While we know the <a href="http://www.littletikes.com/" rel="nofollow">Little Tikes®</a> Cozy Coupe® Wagon will grow with Nathan, we were a bit aware of the shallow sides along the seating area. While the seated back (in the front seat) is fairly raised, the back seat might not be suitable for younger toddlers. Nathan sits on the floor for now; which is perfectly okay as he doesn't mind not having to share! We would simply like to remind all parents and guardians to always supervise children in the Cozy Coupe® Wagon, and never let siblings pull children around un-attended.<br />
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But back to our Little Cowardly Lion- Living in Oregon for the holidays, Nathan's family is sure to have a lot of walking to do for their Trick-Or-Treating, and plenty of access to beautiful terrain for walking. The 'circus' transformation is lightweight and easy to tear down/put back up, making the transition between play time and utility a piece of cake. Even more important, Nathan is all smiles whenever he has the chance to be escorted around in his shiny new red wagon! <br />
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Whether you're a parent looking for convenience, or something that really stands out- (those first few years really are the only ones we truly get to have a say in the costume department, right?) transforming your Little Tikes® <a href="http://www.littletikes.com/riding/wagons/icat/ridingwagons/cozy-couper-wagon-/invt/635786" rel="nofollow">Cozy Coupe® wagon</a> is simple, fun, and a genius idea for Halloween festivities. At the very least, you can haul the dog and the candy around while the littles run up and ring doorbells. And, if your kids prefer self propelled transportation, the classic Little Tikes® <a href="http://www.littletikes.com/foot-to-floor/cozy-coupe/invt/612060" rel="nofollow">Cozy Coupe®</a> makes a wonderful costume accessory as well. Of course, it'll be pretty hard to bet Nathan the Lion and his traveling circus! <span style="color: #990000;"><i><b>Have you ever dressed up a wagon or stroller for Halloween?</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">A wagon can be a chariot, and so much more with a little imagination!</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> Don't Forget To Pin It! </b></span></div>
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-24496669635696908222018-10-03T15:07:00.000-07:002018-10-03T15:07:03.278-07:00The "Special Guest" App Connects Modern Consumers With Live Entertainment While Empowering ArtistsThis content was compensated, regardless all thoughts contained below are authentic and honest.<br />
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<i><b>In a day and age where you can order just about anything at your fingertips from your smartphone device why is it that booking entertainment for an upcoming event still seems a mysterious feat reserved for professional event planners?</b></i><br />
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Furthermore, where are all these amazingly talented people we binge on these reality competition shows week in and out and why do they tell stories of fighting to pay their bills despite their clear jaw-dropping talent?<br />
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In an industry where success seems measured by awards shows and notoriety we can all clearly agree there is no shortage of entertainment talent out there to be discovered and enjoyed. So why aren't they getting paid to do what they love?<br />
<br />
Noted celebrity, actor, and comedian Damon Wayans, Jr and <a href="https://specialguestapp.com/" rel="nofollow">Special Guest</a> app co-founder Kris Jones had the very same question in mind when they stood before the electric cast of Apple TV's "<i>Planet of The Apps</i>" to pitch their unique entertainment and talent booking application. Put most simply, in his own words, here's what Damon had to say when asked about the inspiration behind the app's concept:<br />
<br />
---------<i>"I do a lot of stand-up comedy. I travel around the US entertaining
people and when I’m not doing that I’m home in LA refining my material. I
do a lot of open mics. Open mics are where people who entertain for a
living go to practice their material. It’s not just stand-up comedians.
There are poets and there are musicians and what have you.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>One time I
was at this open mic, sitting there waiting my turn. Two comedians go up
ahead of me; very funny guys, never heard of them before and they kill
it. Then this young lady goes up, she’s a freckle-faced, young, redhead
who goes up there with an acoustic guitar. She starts singing her own
material and she blows me away.</i><br />
<br />
<i><b>Everybody in there was like, “Wow, why
isn’t this girl famous already?” </b></i><br />
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<i>I had goose bumps and I thought to
myself that it sucks that so many people who are entertainers will never
get the opportunity to be paid for the thing that they love doing the
most. They ultimately have to set aside their dreams and get a regular
job and it’s because of the way that the entertainment industry is set
up.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I have representation; I have a manager; I have agents. A lot of
people don’t have that. So I wanted to make a platform for entertainers
to make it easier for them to get gigs. One of my good friends put me
in contact with Kris Jones and we just hit it off. I pitched him the
idea, he loved it, and we just made it real" </i><br />
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The end result of Damon Wayans, Jr.'s appearance on "<i>Planet of The Apps</i>" was an astonishing $1.5 million raised in
venture capital led by Lightspeed Venture Partners with participation
from notable celebrities, including Kevin Hart (Jumanji; Central
Intelligence), Marlon Wayans (Marlon on NBC; Naked on Netflix), Damon
Wayans Sr (Lethal Weapon on Fox; In Living Color), and Jake Johnson (New
Girl), as well as numerous technology pioneers, including Jack Chou
(former head of product at Pinterest), Jimmy Lim (lead product team at
Airbnb), and Jeroen Seghers (founder of Zugo; cofounder of Sourcepoint
Technologies).<br />
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<b><i>More importantly the following successful launch of the Special Guest application, currently exclusive to the App Store; entirely free to download for all users, talent and consumers alike. </i></b><br />
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<a href="https://specialguestapp.com/" rel="nofollow">Special Guest</a> initially launched with an open database for Los Angeles area talent to join and list through the app's interactive and easy to navigate marketplace. You'll find skilled talent from DJs and comedians to bands, solo artists, and even videographers with easy to digest profile pages, talent samples, and honest booking reviews. <br />
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Imagine a world of live entertainment and talent at your very fingertips- and the potential to have real life talent at your venue, party, home, bar or more in a matter of a few simple taps. View hourly rates up front, search by type of talent, location, rating and more- Land established up-and comers or discover your own hidden gem in an entirely fresh industry newcomer.<br />
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As Wayans emphasized when sharing the inspiration behind the Special Guest app:<br />
<br />
“A lot of entertainers and musicians do a lot of stuff for free, and
they just wait for their big break-This is a great way
to make money and take care of yourself. We have a lot of former
‘American Idol’ talent on our app already.”<br />
<br />
As someone who has been raised and lived in the Los Angeles area for the majority of her life, many friends and family have arrived here to follow their dreams only to become quickly discouraged by the grueling chore of fighting to be simply seen. How wonderful is it that they can be represented through the Special Guest app and control the potential for their talent to truly shine through gigs of any size; getting paid to hone the craft they really love?<br />
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Most importantly, to artists considering using the app, unlike agents and managers, Special Guest does not take any part of their hourly/booking fee. Artists set their rates and they get all of
what they charge. The application generates it's profits from simple service charges worked into the booker's total charge, that is to say the client pays the app for the service and the artist nets 100% of their rates as profit. This is
the game changer: to democratize the experience of live entertainment
and the way that talented people get paid. You do not have to have an
agent to get booked.<br />
<br />
You'll find the <a href="https://specialguestapp.com/" rel="nofollow">Special Guest</a> app available for download currently on the app store, and can book, or list yourself as an artist, directly through the website today. <br />
<br />
<b><i>Of course, most importantly, for consumers such as myself, I can browse local artists and entertainment knowing I am supporting a passion while finding everything from the freshest to biggest local talent in my area. It's a win/win.</i></b><br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-59365058412982761952018-10-01T21:09:00.000-07:002018-10-02T16:51:45.766-07:00Unicorn Dogs, Mummy Pups + Witches, Oh My! 5 Budget Friendly Pet Costume IdeasThis shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its
advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #dothe99 #99obsessed
#CollectiveBias <br />
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Over the years we've kept no secret that we are incredibly into celebrating, especially decorating for, the holidays. However, Jay and I don't have any human kids running afoot. Instead, we usually cater to neices and nephews, and the neighborhood kids, or big kids at heart.<br />
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When we first moved into our home we would go all out with the decorations, with the intent to be home on Halloween night to help scare up some fun for visitors. Now, as we grow older, we tend to search out events, and even parties, near us in the weeks leading up to a major holiday. After all, life's too short to celebrate just 1 day a year- so we try to extend our celebrations all month long. No holiday is an exception, especially with Halloween. And with that mentality, while saving for our dream home, we tend to celebrate <a href="http://cbi.as/a2fue" rel="nofollow">Halloween on a budget</a>.<br />
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Of course those of you who have followed us through the years also know that budget does NOT mean boring. In fact, when we stretch our buck at 99 Cents Only Stores we can even include our fur children in on the festivities. This year I have 2 pet costume contests, and one Halloween dog brunch in the park on my calendar and that means I need at least 3 easy but affordable pet costume ideas for Gidget and Nora.<br />
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Naturally I shop my local 99 year-round for amazing savings on everyday brands and products from paper plates and shampoo to fresh produce for the weekend BBQ. While you'll find household goods and grocery essentials at the 99 every day, you'll also find a few featured seasonal aisles with some amazing buys on just about everything you need to celebrate the next big holiday or season.<br />
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Right now our local 99 has Fall/Harvest finds and an entire aisle chocked full of everything from Halloween party tableware and home/yard decorations, to even costumes, masks, and more! It is hands down my favorite place to decorate for any season as I can buy 5+ decorations easily for the cost of what I'd pay for one at the local big box store. In fact, budgeting my holiday spending at the 99 not only gives me MORE room for inspiration and creativity, but allows me to participate in, and host, more Halloween celebrations, myself! Use the <a href="http://cbi.as/a2fue" rel="nofollow">store locator</a> here to find a location near you.<br />
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One of my favorite things about shopping the 99 is the freedom to be creative on a budget. Many homemade costumes can quickly add up in time or money when you consider time spent running around to gather materials, or paying full price on materials you only need 1 or 2 of for your project.<br />
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A perfect example is Pet Costume Idea #1, Bean Bag Toy Hang Tags- Simple in theory, but the poster board or card stock I suggest using for them can run you $3+ at the average big buy or office supply store. I can buy a giant poster board sheet in a rainbow of colors from my local 99 for just 99 cents only! I can also fond the paint, markers, pet collar, glue stick, fishing wire, and even hot glue gun I need ALL at my local 99 for just 99 cents each!<br />
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Making Bean Bag Toy Hang Tags for each of our 3 pets was covered under the cost of that one smart buy, since the posterboards and supplies I needed all worked for multiple uses- I could've easily made 20 of these costumes with the supplies I had on hand! In fact, I've even saved the leftovers for us to continue this costume tradition should we add a furry friend to the family in the coming years.<br />
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Costume #1 is as easy as outlining the hang tag heart shape on a folded piece of red poster-board, then cutting it out and tracing it onto your white poster-board. Use a glue stick to adhere the white posterboard cutouts to the inside and back of your hang 'tag' then use your markers and a pen to illustrate your tag accordingly. <br />
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Choosing how you attach your handmade Bean Bag Hang Tags to your pets will depend on the size of your pets, and consequently the size of your tags. We chose a bigger bold look for Nora as the look is comical and tongue-in-cheek for her. Gidget, weighing just under 2lbs had a handmade tag made to scale of a real hang tag, since she is just about as big as a bean bag toy herself!<br />
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Where I attached Nora and Truffles' tags to an actual collar, I wanted Gidget's to be more dainty and natural, as though it were peeking out of her fur. I hot glued the seam of the tag to some fishing wire and made a 'necklace' of sorts that easily slipped on and off over her head.<br />
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This is the official look we will be wearing at our first Halloween pet costume contest this year- it took my about an hour and half to make all 3; and that's primarily because I spent way too much time with the lettering and barcodes on the larger 2. I especially love this costume idea because it's very lightweight and easy for any pet to wear, no matter their tolerance for clothes.<br />
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My next inspiration came from a well aligned holiday that our local 99 also has a ton of decorations for, Dia De Los Muertos. Sugar skull imagery in the form of costumes, headbands, masks, and statuettes lines the shelves of near 1/3 of an aisle at my 99. Living in Southern California, culturally, Dia De Los Muertos is a very big deal in my hometown and there are even a few festivals, parties, and special events in the county for one to attend to learn more or observe the holiday.<br />
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The traditional imagery most associate with Dia De Los Muertos are sugar skull treats and traditionally wooden face masks with colorful skeleton-like features known as "Calavera." There were over 20 different Calavera style face masks to choose from at my 99, and an array of bright colored flowers, ornate shawls, and colorful Calavera covered jewelry. It was easy to piece together a one-of-a kind full costume for a human in that theme, and I immediately knew I wanted to create a "Dog and Human" themed costume set.<br />
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When Jay spotted a Cat face Calavera mask at the 99 he immediately volunteered to wear it while carrying Nora in a similarly themed outfit for an upcoming Dia De Los Muertos event. While there wasn't a specific costume for pets many of the items made for humans could be safely and easily adapted. We found several options for 'tie' ribbon chokers and bracelets we could loosely fasten over Nor'a neck to create a bib of color and macabre. We also found a child's skirt that perfectly matched the color theme.<br />
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<b>When choosing to create a clothing based costume for your pet always consider some key safety pointers:</b><br />
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<li>Keep in mind things that will be tied around the neck should have ample room to slide on and off, as they must be able to easily snap free or slide off if caught on an object. </li>
<li>Never use any part of costumes as a harness or collar for the purpose of securing your pet- only approved pet collars and harnesses should be used as such.</li>
<li>When using a skirt intended for a human or child on your dog the skirt should be split down the middle and altered so that the underside of your dog is free from fabric when walking.</li>
<li>If your pet experiences anxiety of any kind while wearing any portion of their costume, take it off. A chuckle or photo is not worth your pet's stress.</li>
<li>Never cover your pet's snout with a mask/hat/helmet. Masks should only be worn for photos or brief moments of 'reveal' and never while your pet is wandering even a well secured home or space on their own.</li>
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Last Halloween was Gidget's first Halloween with us. She was a pretty quiet puppy who loved people but was still a bit new to her surroundings. As a result we didn't got out or celebrate the holiday much. Instead we took a few cute family photos with some of our decor and props from the 99. She still fits in that cauldron candy pail today!<br />
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When October began to roll around this year I remembered all of the awesome tattered clothes and gauzy drape materials I'd found at my 99 last year. I immediately knew I wanted to spend a dollar on a white 'Creepy Cloth' to transform Nora into a living Mummy Dog for one of our upcoming events. I started by wrapping the full width of the cloth around her torso, loosely, once, then cut each non wrapped end into 3 even segments (still attached to the primary mid-section piece.) I then loosely wrapped the 'strips' here and there, tucking any lose ends under itself for a very loose fasten. The end result was full movement range for Nora and one cute Mummy pup!<br />
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Our 99 also has costumes designed just for pets. The selection varies every year, and inventory is constantly changing throughout the season as the 99 gets more and new stock in. This year we found many <a href="http://cbi.as/a2fue" rel="nofollow">pet costumes</a> styles including, a witch, devil, cop, convict, and sheriff. I noticed there seemed to be 'pairs' (cop and robber, devil and witch) so you could effectively theme 2 pets if you wanted. These costumes are just .99 at my local 99 and essentially consist of a cape and head-piece, making them easy to size for dogs from chihuahua to Labrador. And, because they are so affordable, you can use 1 per event and toss them out without worry if they get dirty or torn in wear and play. <br />
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I was a bit skeptical about a '1 size fits most' pet costume, but I'll admit I was thoroughly impressed with the value for my buck. Our Devil dog costume did actually size down to fit 2lb Gidget- I trimmed a little of length off the sides of the cape for safety purposes, as well as some of the length on the tie strings. Even the little horn headpiece tied securely under her tiny head and seemed to cause her no fuss.<br />
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Nora's outfit, the witch, we designed the same, with a 2 tie cape, and a tie on hat. The hat was pretty detailed with a felt design, but between her hair and the flop of the hat seemed a bit big on her. In all, these costumes went on in minutes, could easily be adjusted for you pet's size, and the cape materials is even weather resistant for a sprinkle or two while trick-or-treating.<br />
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Of course, with a classic costume theme like this and, with having only spend a whopping $1 on each of the costumes, I had a few extra bucks to spend on some photo props and decorations for the front porch. For $1 I snagged a heavy duty skull candy bowl, a 4 pack of mini cauldrons to put dog treats in for our canine trick-or-treaters, and a creepy looking pumpkin Nora didn't seem too impressed with. I made the mini broom out of some crafting supplies I found in the office and craft supply aisle.<br />
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Of course it wouldn't be Halloween Two-Thousand and Something if we didn't have a twist on something unicorn in our costume lineup. So, while our entire yard is already decked out in webs, ghosts, and skeleton characters I simply HAD to make a unicorn no-cut pumpkin for our front stoop this year. When I spotted all the rainbow floral headbands near the Dia De Los Muertos costume gear at the 99 I knew I wanted to make a rainbow 'mane' out of fake flowers. I bought 2 headbands, removed all of the flowers, then carefully hot glued them back on in color groupings. I then painted my pumpkin white, drew some eyelashes on with permanent marker and hot glued the mane onto the pumpkin. Viola! And all supplies (even the hot glue gun) were found at my 99!<br />
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I'll admit turning the girls into unciorns (unidogs?) was more an a photo necessity than a costume concept. I just couldn't pass up the most gorgeous rainbow tulle skirts for just $.99 with all the costume supplies at the 99. Not to far away were some strap on foam unicorn horns, so it kinda just fell together. The horns were meant for humans, so I cut them down to size then hot glues the elastic chin straps back on the abbreviated horns to make them fit our girls. I cut the skirts and pushed the tulle in towards a clump in the center to make sure there was no material under the girls while they walked, and hot glued the loose elastic ends back together. Poof, instant dog unicorn costume for just $2 at the 99. Heck, the whole family could dress up like this for $2 a head!<br />
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It's pretty obvious there's something for every style this Halloween when you shop the 99, so don't feel like you have to leave the pets out of all the costume fun because pet costumes are hard to find or expensive. Budgeting pet costumes at the 99 is not only practical (pets grow out of and destroy costumes so quick!) but fun. Why not let your pet have a different costume for every event this holiday, or take a stroll down the runway at that local pet costume competition? Be sure to stop by your <a href="http://cbi.as/a2fue" rel="nofollow">local 99</a> often during this month to see what's new and get in on all the exciting fun! <span style="color: #990000;"><b>Which of our pet costume ideas do you love the most? </b></span><br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-37831458390690807052018-09-26T16:27:00.000-07:002018-10-16T13:12:58.138-07:00Unicorn Apple Donuts + 4 Other Quick & Healthy Snack Time Solutions With #RCDairyThis post is sponsored by Real California Milk but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.<br />
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I love my <a href="https://ooh.li/330a708" rel="nofollow">dairy</a>. But, in a world of alternatives, and mass selection, so many of my favorite dairy products come in so many options. A cheese loving gal can really feel a bit overwhelmed browsing the cold case at her local grocer!<br />
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And, with so many brands, dairy products, flavors, and varieties, it can be tough to know which dairy products should make it in the cart. For me, the answer is simple- I look for the products with the <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">Real California Milk Seal</a>. As someone raised in, and currently a resident of, California I not only look for the seal to ensure my dairy foods are coming from a sustainable and local source, but take pride in knowing that 99% of California dairies are family owned. <br />
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You can spot the seal on many of your favorite dairy products from cottage cheese and cream cheese to liquid milk, drinkable yogurt, ice cream, and so much more. Check out the Real California Milk Seal locator <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">here</a>, or visit some of my preferred local retailers such as Sprouts, Smart & Final, or Vons. When you spot the seal on a product you know you can take pride in your selection knowing California dairy is a healthy source of protein, and California milk is a healthy, tasty, way to get essential vitamins and minerals.<br />
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If, like me, you truly love having quality dairy products as a part of your daily diet, but simply don't know what ingredient to start with, or how to find the time to incorporate it into your day- then look no further than this post. I'm about to share with you several delicious, simple, ways to incorporate several types of dairy into your everyday healthy snacking routine. Once you've loaded your cart with some of the very best products featuring the <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">Real California Milk Seal</a>, you truly can't go wrong.<br />
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Let's start with a simple 3 ingredient Peanut Butter Apple Dip- You know
what they say about an apple a day, so why not pair it with some
delicious <a href="https://ooh.li/330a708" rel="nofollow">Greek Yogurt</a> featuring the Real California Milk Seal? This dip
is fluffy, creamy, and the perfect balance of tangy and sweet to curb
those afternoon hunger pangs. Best of all you can make a single serving,
or make an entire jar ahead of time, so snack time is always a breeze.
Dip some fresh cut apple slices, or any other fruit your heart desires!<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Apple Dip</b></span></span></div>
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<i>(Single Serving) </i></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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1 TBS Greek (or Lowfat Vanilla) <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">Real California Yogurt</a></div>
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1/2 TBS Honey</div>
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1 TBS Peanut Butter</div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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Combine all well in a small bowl with a spoon. Recipe may be made in larger quantity and stored in a well sealed container, in the fridge, for up to 1 week.<br />
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While you have your yogurt out why not prepare a snack you can enjoy direct from the freezer at any time. Frozen yogurt may be so 2017, but we're shaking things up with an entirely different kind of frozen yogurt- the literal kind. Did you know you can slather your favorite thick yogurt over fresh skewered fruit and with just an hour in the freezer have instant fro-yo berry bliss?<br />
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While the East Coast may be busting out the chunky sweaters and PSLs we're still living it up Summer style here in SoCal. In fact, Southern California is known for it's seemingly never-ending Summer season, and that means temperatures are often still in the 90s this time of the year (especially inland.) But we don't let the October heat rain on our parade, we chill out in style with simple snacking solutions just like these Frozen Yogurt Berries. After all, isn't everything better on a stick?<br />
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To prepare your very own delicious frozen yogurt berries you simple need to wash and dry a cup of your favorite berries. Locally blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are still in season at our nearby pick-your-own farm. Deciding on a yogurt could be tough, with all the flavor options out there- we chose a nice thick <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">Vanilla Greek</a> with the Real California Milk Seal. Thanks to the thick Greek Yogurt texture I was able to spoon the yogurt over our skewed berries and get a nice thick costing that stuck. I placed our skewers on a parchment paper lined plate and tossed them in the freezer for an hour. Viola! Sweet, refreshing, Yogurt Covered Berries (an a stick!)<br />
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Of course the Fall and Winter holidays will in fact come, whether the complimentary weather does or does not. That means plenty of parties, potlucks, and home entertaining. Help keep a hungry crowd snacking happy with this simple Cucumber Sandwich finger food spread featuring your favorite Real California Milk Seal <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">cheese varieties</a>. <br />
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This one's pretty self explanatory, and our family's favorite way to enjoy some dairy while watching a big game. Using a potato peeler alternate peeling vertical lines along the edge of your cucumber, then cut it horizontally into 1/4" slices. Add your favorite deli cuts, cheese squares, and even baby tomatoes if so inspired. There simply is no way to do a meat, cheese, and veggie plate wrong when you have great cheese in the house.<br />
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If you're the sort of snacker that prefers to get your protein and nutrients while sipping on the go, then a delicious, green, smoothie is perfect for you. Our favorite PBK Smoothie is full of rich textures and flavors that trick your mind into thinking it's enjoying a shake or dessert, rather than energy packed snack time solution.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #990000;">PBK Oat Smoothie</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Makes 2 Servings</i></b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>***Click here for printable <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mommatoldmeblog/pbk-oat-smoothie?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" rel="nofollow">PBK Oat Smoothie</a> recipe</i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"><b>Ingredients:</b></span></div>
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1 C Ice</div>
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1/2 C Peanut Butter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 C Instant or Rolled Oats</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3/4 C Greek or Low Fat Real CaliforniaYogurt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Banana, Sliced</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 C Kale </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 TBS Chia Seeds</div>
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<b><span style="color: #e06666;">Directions:</span></b></div>
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Add all items in a blender and blend on pulse until well combined. Garnish with banana medallions and a sprinkle of chia seeds.<br />
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And, for those with little ones at home, or simply true kids at heart, my final simple and healthy snack offering features more seasonal Fall apples, and one of my favorite types of dairy, cream cheese. You'll fool even the pickiest of eaters on first glance with these gorgeous slices apple rings and their 'faux' <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">cream cheese</a> frosting. Simply portion your cream cheese into 3 bowls and add a drop or two of food coloring to each. I find pink/red, blue, and purple blend beautifully to make some magical unicorn like hues. While you can find many flavors of cream cheese featuring the Real California Milk Seal, I rather enjoy original cream cheese. Of course a drop of organic vanilla extract will add an extra touchy of delicious whimsy too.</div>
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Since I decided to decorate my faux donuts with sanding sugar in a variety of rainbow hues I did not add any other sugar or flavoring to my cream cheese or apple slices. My horns were made of slivered almonds, and the eyelashes were actually shark shaped confetti sprinkles- but you really can get as creative as you want with these. While these can be prepared ahead an refrigerated to serve later in the day, sanding sugar, as opposed to sprinkles, will tend to bleed, and make the spread crack a little over time. As a result these look best when prepared and eaten immediately. If you are struggling to get the <a href="https://ooh.li/ee3e1ff" rel="nofollow">cream cheese</a> to adhere to your apple slices be sure to pat the slices with a dry paper towel prior to spreading for a nice clean, dry, surface.<br />
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Jay is pretty vocal that apples are not his preferred fruit, but even he wolfed several of these Unicorn Apple Donuts down without prompt. Apple donuts, in general a fun idea any time of the year- consider trying these with a touch of pumpkin spice sprinkled atop! And, thanks to the many types of apples, you can enjoy your simple snack as naturally sweet, or sour, as you like it.<br />
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Of course, sometimes you don't need any preparation at all to enjoy your favorite dairy foods as a snack. There are many ways to enjoy snacking with delicious dairy bearing the Real California Milk Seal, but the first step is to check the store locator and find some products near you. You just might be surprised that some of your favorite ways to enjoy dairy already feature the <a href="https://ooh.li/330a708" rel="nofollow">Real California Milk Seal</a>.<span style="color: #990000;"> </span><b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: #990000;">Now, tell me, what is your favorite healthy snacking option?</span></span></b><br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6684438489684900452.post-1236882283019449602018-09-24T13:12:00.000-07:002018-09-26T22:51:51.670-07:00D.I.Y. Minions Wreath Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="D.I.Y. Minions Wreath for Under $10 In 15 Minutes!" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n7uHuAxvd3k/ViFQpm80FgI/AAAAAAAA5Hg/kbyPccPaCYg/s1600/Minion%2BWreath%2BQ2a.jpg" title="" /></div>
<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Momma Told Me: <span style="color: #e06666;">Be a little different.</span></b></span></span><span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span><br />
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It's no secret we're a little 'off color' here at Momma Told Me- while we appreciate tradition, there are some things we prefer to break free and stand out from the crowd on. Unique seasonal door decor is one of them. Yes, we're talking wreaths. For year I have wanted to make my own Fall wreath, but lacked the patience, or budget, for the more elaborate 'professional' style D.I.Y. wreath. Don't get me wrong, Martha Stewart is great for most people- but when I sit down to create something I'm going to display in (or on) my home, I want it to be immediately obvious that is' home made. A lot of the gorgeous wreath tutorials out there cost just as much as the store bought one's to make, and look slick enough to be store bought when done. My friends, you will not find a Minion wreath in any store, and it is crazy easy to make.<br />
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Start with a medium foam ring from your typical craft store. This will be the bulk of your materials cost, as these can run $6-$8- but I'll let you in on a little secret. If you head online to Micheals/JoAnns/Hobby Lobby you can often print a coupon to save 40-50% on a single item and knock that price to just a few dollars. The second most expensive supply, the boas, are about $3-$4 a piece- you'll need 2. Again, bring the hubby, or the kids and use multiple coupons in your trip (it's usually 1 per person.) The rest of the supplies you likely have hanging around; a hot glue gun, some ribbon (for hanging,) black acrylic paint, a paper plate, a paint brush (I use disposable foam brushes) and some newspapers to cover your work space.<br />
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Are you ready? It just might have taken you longer to gather your supplies and protect your work space than to assemble this wreath, because this bad boy goes together with no skill level and faster than I can say 'banana' 3 times. Start by taking the end of one boa and hot gluing it to the back of your wreath foam ring. Next, loosely wrap the boa around the foam ring so that the feathers cover the ring, but there is enough give to move the boa to the side as needed for the later steps. Tack the loose end of the boa onto the foam ring and repeat with the 2nd boa, end to end.<br />
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You should have what looks like the beginnings of a fabulous Carnivale hat, or at least a wreath that resembles an abstract Tweety Bird. Go ahead and shake it back and forth like a 3rd crader fascinated by the movement of the feathers (I won't judge,) it's impossible not to feel happy when playing with feathers!<br />
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Next, grab your paper plate and cut the ridged rim off of the inner circle. Take your foam paint brush and dip it in your black paint. Place it in the center of your round (flat) plate piece so that the tip and wooden end are vertical- give it one smooth spin while applying pressure. If you want to be less fancy- "Take a paint brush and paint a black circle in the center of your round plate cut out." Cut 5-6" strips from the ridged plate rim and paint those black as well. Allow you pieces to dry, or pull out the blow dryer if you're impatient (like me.)<br />
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If you want to get a little fancy pants you can add some detailing to the eye. Using your black paint go ahead and draw a black rim along the outside of your round (flat) eye and make one of the border's edges a little thicker to indicate the traditional Minions goggle frame. Take a daub of white paint/white paint pen/white out and draw a little circle of reflective light in the iris of your eye. Glue your dried black painted plate strips to the inner eye circle evenly.<br />
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Attach your goggles/eye to the wreath by gently separating the wrapped boa and gluing the paper plate portion directly to the foam ring. Repeat on the opposite end and even out the feather distribution to hide your handy work. Next, loop a few inches of ribbon and glue it to the top (back) portion of your wreath- paying attention to glue directly to the foam ring again, or the ribbon will not adhere.<br />
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Congratulations- you've just made a Minion! Wouldn't these be cute in purple as well for the 'monster' minions from the Despicable Me 2 movie? How about doing this with 2 small foam tubes and chaining them all together to make Bobe, Stuart, and Kevin? The possibilities are endless and the work is truly minimal; just my type of D.I.Y. craft. And you better believe the compliments from delivery workers, neighbors, and friends are plenty! Best of all, this is a fun wreath for the Halloween season that isn't spooky or scary at all! <span style="color: #990000;"><i><b>What type of seasonal decorations do you like to make?</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>What Daughter Says: <span style="color: #e06666;">Fall leaves, ribbons, and acorns are nice, but this wreath truly makes me smile every time I come home!</span></b></span></span><br />
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Momma Told Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17784219442040902127noreply@blogger.com27