Sea To Sky Gondola- Squamish, B.C.

Momma Told Me: Reach for new heights.

Did you hear that? I just took a long, deep breath. Something I haven't had much time to do around here lately! With the holidays in full swing, it's hard to remember just a month ago I was on a ship sailing to Alaska, not a care in the world! I took over 2k photos on that trip, and I'm just now having a moment to sit down and look through some of them!

In a way, it's nice to decompress and get back into everyday life, then have the photos to fall back on as a mini reminder and escape. Just looking at my images take me back to the emotions, sights, and smells of still very fresh and vivid vacation memories. It's almost as though I'm getting to enjoy a piece of my vacation again!

And that's part of the fun in having a blog and being able to share my vacation photos and experiences with all of you! While I wasn't compensated in any way for any portion of my trip, I still find it completely valuable, and valid, to share the places we went, and the things we did, should any of you ever consider a cruise to Alaska or West Coast Canada!

If you've never cruised before then you likely don't know that there are all sorts of 'add-ons' you can tack on to your trip for the days in port- these are called 'excursions,' and can range from $29 per person to over $1000, depending on what's involved. For example, for $459 a person we could take a 30 minute helicopter ride over the Alaskan coast glaciers, touch down, and actually walk on them! While we didn't do anything quite that extravagant this go, but we did do an excursion in every port- and boy were they worth the money. Definitely a great way to see the port towns, and experience a slice of life, when you're cruising through for the first time!

The great thing about excursions is that they include transportation to and from your port- and, if booked through the cruise line, you can actually get assurance that the boat will wait for you should something happen to hold up you or your party. For most of our excursions, however, we booked outside the cruise liner, as the rates were much more competitive. For our first Canada trip we booked through LandSea Tours, an itinerary that included a lift admission to the newly opened Sea To Sky Gondola in Squamish, Canada.

Open year round, the Sea To Sky Gondola is a breath-taking 10 minute ride to 885m above sea level, at it's topmost summit. While some may consider it similar to a ski lift, it truly is unlike anything I've ever experienced, suspended in this 8 passenger car from a single wire, as astoundingly sharp angles. And the panoramic view truly makes the experience more and more captivating each ride.

Not only could we see Howe Sound and several Fjords, but the process of rising up through the clouds revealed more and more layers of the gorgeous natural landscape each minute! Because we were traveling at the end of the season, the weather at the summit was a bit ominous. The photos I snapped of our car 2 minute from the summit dock are a bit unnerving. Visibility was lacking, and I felt as though I was about to step out of 'The Mist' into a strange new world!

In a sense, I was right- we actually passed through a thick layer of dismal crowd cover to reveal yet another perspective of this gorgeous landscape. One would think we had visited on multiple days, or ridden several times to get the variety of shots we did- but they were all taken on one single ascension!

At the top of the summit you are given an equally panoramic viewpoint from a lodge and lookout deck that truly jets out into nothing. We were told on clear viability days visitors could see miles out in all directions to locate 4 glaciers, and several prominent landmarks. It's here where I should note that, at the top of the summer, there are many trails visitors can follow winding through the mountain, across a few passes on suspension bridges, and even in a 360 degree path around the summit.

The weather really did change quite quick on us, once we got to the top, but that was fine with me- that meant the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge was fairly barren and unoccupied. Spanning 368 feet, thousands of feet above ground at it's highest point, the suspension bridge is new and beautifully engineered. If you're looking for something fun to do, walk at a steady pace just 5 feet directly behind someone- they'll feel the sway! The bridge is illuminated at night, for a sight I can only imagine to be breath-taking.

Our trip back down was a bit more cloudy, but still one to remember, none-the-less. The lodge had offered a small cafeteria style menu, where we shared some native poutine (fries slathered in gravy and cheese curds,) and our visit left us with plenty of time to check out the gift shop below. For those traveling with children there is even an adorable cottage style playhouse out back.

While someone who skiis might find this to be a little bla-zay, I think the distance of travel, in the Gondola, and the scenic setting itself is truly worth the $30 day pass, especially if you are traveling early in the season and plan on hiking. I'd definitely pack a picnic style lunch from the cafeteria and wander off to find my own piece of heaven! In all, the Sea To Sky Gondola and summit is something I hope to return to again someday- and definitely worth the memories! Have you ever been on a similar gondola ride or suspension bridge?

What Daughter Says: Explore the world from all possible angles when on vacation!

The Most Natural Thing About Our Dog Is Her Diet #MixItUp

This post is sponsored by Instinct® and the BlogPaws Professional Pet Blogger Network. I am being compensated for helping spread the word about Instinct® Raw Boost® Mixers but our Blog only shares information we feel is relevant to our readers. Instinct is not responsible for the content of this article.

Momma Told Me: Normal is a setting on the dryer.


Every mother likes to think her child is one-of-a-kind, unique, and very special. So it will come as no surprise when I remind you, once again, of how unique Nora is. I knew, from the very minute we saw her, immediately that she was not your everyday run of the mill house dog. We drove 8 hours up the coast and 8 hours back to bring home that tiny 2 pound ball of fluff and she immediately began developing a personality all of her own. At 4.5lbs soaking wet, and 3 years old, she is the strangest, most lovable, dog I've ever known. From her obsession with water to her never-ending energy and the way in which she greets every human as though they are the most exciting part of her day, to the full spins and flips she does when it's time to 'get dressed.'

Yes, there is nothing ordinary about my fur child. Some would even say there is little natural about her. She was bred from a 2.5lb Maltese male and a 5lb Yorkie female; quite the strange pairing, no? She weighs next to nothing but spans over a foot from snout to tail and exerts enough energy and enthusiasm to make 100lb dogs hide behind their owners. I guess you could say she's the crazy eyed, wild haired child with two different colored socks in the checkout line at the department store singing rock music at the top of her lungs.

And Nora LOVES her onesies. Yes, my dogher has a problem. She quite literally pouts and refuses to play or eat when she is left 'naked' this time of the year. One could say she feels 'ashamed' and 'naked' without them. I used to be one of those 'judging' mothers when I saw a dog walk by in clothing, but here we are one of 'those' pet parents. It started out of practicality, really. A small skinny dog in need of some extra warmth in the Winter. Now we actually ask her what she prefers to wear, and she spins in circles until we put it on. Thankfully I can pass a decent harness off as 'clothes' in public most of the time-.

So, as you can imagine, when we go out in public with a small fluffy dog wearing a cutesy onesie we turn a lot of heads. A trip to our local PetSmart is No exception. Nora's not the only one so excited she quite literally vibrates with anticipation- the staff flock to us like she's a movie star. Jay says they do that with all the dogs who pass through, but I'm a bit prejudice. Just look at that face, no?

As extraordinary as Nora, and her lifestyle, is we like to keep one thing quite natural. Her diet. You may recall, over the past few months, we've been moving her towards a more protein rich ancestral inspired diet. Her veterinarian suggested we increase Nora's protein intake as part of a solution for her tendency to over hydrate herself. So, when we came across Nature's Variety® Instinct® Raw Boost Mixers I was immediately intrigued by the idea of a raw protein based food we could add to her everyday dry food servings.

I'll be honest, I had no idea what to expect from Instinct® Raw Boost Mixers, but the concept of introducing raw food into Nora's diet was intriguing, so I decided to pick up a few sample sized packs. There are 4 Instinct® Raw Boost Mixers flavors for dogs; chicken, beef, turkey and lamb, and 2 varieties for cats (chicken and rabbit.) Since I wasn't quite sure which flavor would suit Nora best, and what to expect, I picked up a few of the sample pouches for just $1.99 each. PetSmart even had a coupon available to try a larger bag!

While we were there we shopped for a few gifts for her sister, Truffles the Cat, and picked out a brand new food bowl. Hot Pink is SO Nora's color- and we were in need of a new dish for a little 'fast eating' solution I've been planning. Nora is notorious for inhaling her food so I planned to introduce a new bowl and feeding system with the delicious new Instinct® Raw Boost Mixers additions. She was so excited by the whole event she could hardly wait to check out and get home. Of course we didn't escape without the cashier insisting she hold Nora as she rung up our goods- like I said, she's a rock star there. Sometimes I worry it will so to her head!

The trip home was considerably less eventful. Nora did ask if she could open her new toys, or have a snack, several times. I had to use 'Mom' voice a few times, but she soon settled in with only a few pouting glances from her father's lap. I know you're just as curious as I am about this new 'raw' mixer for pet food, so I promise to share all of the details and what I learn very soon. I gate to say it though, but it seems the dog might be eating better than the humans these days! Have you ever heard about raw foods formulated for pets? Would you consider serving them?


What Daughter Says: So my Dogher isn't the most natural canine- inside her ancestral diet craves a protein rich diet with raw ingredients. We want her to still be springing around in those onesies 10 years from now, after all!

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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Nature's Variety. The opinions and text are all mine.

Savory Mini Cheese Balls + Buffalo Chicken Mac Last Minute #CookingUpHolidays Solutions

Sponsored post by Lunchbox.

Momma Told Me: I don't need an elf, I just need my secret ingredient.

I don't know about you but as we enter the final countdown to the holidays I find myself more and more overwhelmed with all of the last minute plans and invites. Most of my own holiday entertaining obligations have passed, but I still need to put dinner on the table every night, and bring a gift or treat to give the hostess when going out. Momma always had a recipe book of simple recipes, no more than 5 or 6 ingredients, she could whip up when schedules got hectic. She even had a few pantry staples, such as KRAFT Mac N' Cheese dinners she kept stocked for such occasions.

There's a lot of pressure, perhaps mostly pressure I put on myself, to prepare a unique and 'wow' worthy meal or appetizer when guests or family are involved. But it's simply impossible to juggle it all- so I take short cuts with quality ingredients and trusted name brand staples. Products like deliciously creamy and smooth KRAFT Philadelphia cream cheese have saved my hiney on more than one last minute occasion.

I've also learned a few kitchen hacks from my own mother, and close friends- shortcuts and hacks not only save time, but also make cleanup a breeze. Just take one of my favorite tips, straight from a professional chef- Sprinkle a little coarse salt on your chopping block before dicing herbs to hold everything in place and prevent things from flying. Coarse salt and a lemon also make for a great disinfectant and stain remover on most wooden cutting blocks when used as a scrub.

Believe it or not, until recently, I'd never made a cheese ball before- One of the season's most popular entertaining dishes and staples. The idea of having a cantaloupe sized ball of cheese seemed a bit daunting, and the presentation was always so classy, I was a bit intimidated. Then I discovered the KRAFT recipe hub on Walmart.com, and the simply delicious Savory Mini Cheese Balls recipe.

In about 20 minutes you can whip up several varieties of sweet and savory mini cheese balls perfect for entertaining with KRAFT Philadelphia cream cheese and chopped PLANTERS pecans. Start by chopping your fresh herbs and spices using the kitchen hack mentioned above, then combine your flavors in 3 different coatings, Cranberry Pecan, Sesame Poppy Seed and Garlic, and Rosemary Thyme Parsley.

Portion your KRAFT Philadelphia cream cheese in even cubes, or use a scoop if using Philadelphia spread, and manipulate each portion into a ball. Roll each ball in one of the topping mixtures. Don't worry if your initial cheese ball isn't perfectly round, it will naturally even in shape once the outer layer is applied.

I like to make these Savory Mini Cheese balls about 2" in diameter- or around the size of a golf ball- though you can easily get fancy and make them smaller to serve your guest mini cheese ball samplers!

These Savory Mini Cheese balls are the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and savory- perfect for using as a spread on a variety of fruits, vegetables, and crackers. Best of all you can pull a few out at a time to serve your guests so the reserve stays nice and fresh in the fridge, a luxury larger cheese balls can't accommodate. And, the increased surface area, per portion really help maximize flavor on each bite!

Of course simple meal solutions are just as important this week- with holiday schedules and last minute wrapping taking up so much time one might be tempted to order food in. The KRAFT recipe hub also has you covered there with the classic flavor of KRAFT Macaroni and Cheese Deluxe Dinner in this delicious Buffalo Chicken Mac recipe. You only need 5 ingredients; KRAFT Deluxe Macaroni and Cheese Dinner, Buffalo Wing Sauce, KRAFT Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Chopped Green Onions, and Cooked Shredded Chicken.

Begin by preparing your KRAFT Deluxe Macaroni and Cheese Dinner as instructed on the package. This only requires a pot and boiling water, as the creamy cheese flavor is includes in an easy squeeze packet inside.

Next, toss your shredded chicken in the buffalo wing sauce. Heat level is entirely up to you, though I usually go with Mild, and increase the quantity of sauce the recipe calls for, if I desire a more intense flavor. Fold the chicken mixture into the prepared mac and place in a greased casserole dish. Top generously with your favorite KRAFT Shredded Cheese.

After baking in the oven for just 8 minutes, to melt the top layer of cheese and warm the dish, you'll have a delicious crave-worthy dinner for the family. Serve alongside a hearty fresh salad topped with your favorite KRAFT salad dressing and you will have prepared dinner in no time! Be careful not to over bake the casserole- While you may be tempted to go for those golden/browned peaks, the cheese will dry out if left in for too long. (My tip to you.)

This Buffalo Chicken Mac recipe would also be great to serve at any game day gathering with some scoop-able tortilla chips or homemade sourdough bread. While we're not big on blue cheese, some crumbles could be added for an even richer flavor!

No matter how far you are into your holiday schedule and planning you're sure to need a little last minute recipe in the kitchen at some point. Be sure to visit the KRAFT Walmart recipe hub for some amazing original recipes featuring your favorite KRAFT products. I know I'll be making a few more this week. It's hard to say no to simple, time saving, recipes with great flavor! IF you visit now, you can even print up to $13 in KRAFT coupons! Now, tell me, what's one of your go to, simple, last minute seasonal recipes?

What Daughter Says: Discover simple recipes with your favorite KRAFT brand products to help make the season more flavorful.

Brown Sugar Ham Steak Recipe + The Nexium 24HR Resolution

This post has been sponsored in part by the Smiley 360 Blogger network on behalf of #Nexium24HR. All photos contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2016.

Momma Told Me: Who's going to save you from your holiday self?

Every year, somewhere around the first week of November we all begin to transform. It may be subtle at first, and some may have considerably more self control than others, but all of undergo the 'tempting' of holiday mentality. From the urge to over-indulge while shopping at the mall, to the desire to grab an extra slice of pie because 'it's a special event.' We find reasons to tip the scales ever so slightly here and there. A little indulgence is good for the soul, or at least that's what I say- but Momma always warned to be mindful of my 'holiday self.'

Your holiday self is the side of you that makes you even more willing to put an extra dollar in the tip jar, go out of your way to stop by a Toys For Tots collection bin, or invite a co-worker into your home for a warm meal. It is also the side of you that whispers 'It's only once a year' or 'We'll get back on track in Janaury, make a fresh start' as your eyes are continually widened and nostrils flared over the sights and smells of deliciously decadent holiday fare. As a blogger, and people pleaser, the holidays are a playground for me in the kitchen. In December I made 16 dozen cookies, a total of 7 unique recipes, 7 pounds of seasoned or candied bacon for pot lucks, 3 holiday hams, 1 turkey, 4 types of truffles, home-style chili, 5 different cheese balls, and so much more. I wish I could say all of that went out the door to family and friends, but the chef and her lead taster (Jay) did their fair share of consumption.

All of this over-consumption, and the exhaustion of running around indoors and out hit me pretty well, smack daub, 2 days before Christmas with the worst flu I have ever endured. To be honest, I am still enduring the aftermath. And, as miserable as having the flu during the holidays can be, there is something perhaps even more disruptive- heartburn. Nobody wants to be enjoying their favorite seasonal foods when heartburn hits. And, if you think we are out of the season of flare ups and indigestion, I'll remind you that we are barreling towards the big Game Day, and football season is very much in full swing. Hot wings, nachos, jalepenos, and cheese curls will be gracing out tables and living room in the upcoming weeks.

Luckily, Jay is protected by the comfort of #Nexium24HR for frequent heartburn. Him and his stomach of steel took on all I had to offer over the holidays, and all of the many 'home cooked' delights the residents at his work dropped off. I dare say he let his holiday self run free. And, truth be told, there was little stopping him. The convenience of taking such a tiny pill, once a day, for 24 hour relief and protection from heartburn, without a prescription is an immense help. And, without the chalky residue and unsavory flavorings of other heartburn treatments, Jay's palette was clear and ready to enjoy every last holiday flavor. You can grab a special coupon for $6 off Nexium 24HR here.

Of course, the 'holidays' aren't over yet- and, with me being sick and bed bound for most of the past week, I was getting fairly creative with leftovers and simple meals Jay could help prepare himself. To 'celebrate' New Year's we made a Brown Sugar Ham Steak with pineapple and dijon mustard. It not only smells heavenly while heating but, since the ham steak is already cooked from the store, this makes for an affordable and easy meal for 2 (or more, just double the ham steaks!) If you are a fan of glazed ham, you simply must try it out! While out meal heated we gathered around the family table and played a game of Apples To Apples while streaming our favorite tunes of 2015 on a Bluetooth speaker. It wasn't exactly the way we'd planned to celebrate, but you've got to make the best with what life throws you, right?

Of course that Brown Sugar Ham Steak has a few 'trigger' ingredients such as the acid in pineapple juice, and the spice of the mustard. There was a time when a mundane dish like this could send Jay to bed early in a grumpy mood with heartburn and a handful of chalky calcium pills. I can't say enough about how much more enjoyable Nexium 24HR has made 'the little things' like a delicious snack or game day meal once again. Best of all, you can buy Nexium 24HR over the counter at most major retailers such as CV, Walgreens, and Walmart. Learn more about Nexium 24HR, and where to buy it, here. Like Nexium 24HR on Facebook for more seasonal facts and fun advice.

I've, personally, got a lot of exciting things planned for Momma Told Me in 2016- and I'm hoping this flu won't set me back too far. At least I know my 'lead taster' is ready to go! This year I'll be bringing back a few favorite regular series to the blog, such as Bucket List Tuesday, What I'm Streaming, and What I'm Gaming as well as introducing regular 'themed' recipe posts and more pet content. We'll even be going 'way back' and redoing some of our very first crafts and recipes! I'm very excited to share this all with you over the next year! Now, tell me, what types of foods tempt you so much you can never turn them down? Is there a favorite recipe you simply always have to indulge in when it's around?

What Daughter Says: The holidays may feel like they're over but your holiday self will surely stick around through game day celebrations and containers of seasonal leftovers. Protect yourself with Nexium 24HR.

Brown Sugar Ham Steak

***Click here for printable brown sugar ham steak recipe.