#SpreadTheMagic With Ants On A Log, 3 Ways, + Peter Pan Simply Ground Peanut Butter

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #SpreadTheMagic #CollectiveBias

Momma Told Me: Spread the magic.

Peanut butter is a passion of mine.

I come from a long line of nutty peanut butter loving family members. My father, to this day, pulls a jar of peanut butter out of the pantry and dips pretty much everything in sight when he's craving a snack. But me? I'm picky about my peanut butter an pairings. While some like it smooth, and others like it crunchy, I love it just a little in between.

As a young girl peanut butter sandwiches were a treat. (I have a theory that this is most in part to the fact my father was our family's version of the 'Hamburglar' and keeping a full jar on hand was near impossible.) Momma would stash the peanut butter high, and behind less interesting pantry foods (such as pasta and canned peas) to help throw us off the scent. But one thing I always has a say in was the type of peanut butter we kept on hand. You see the right way to make a PB&J is by spreading smooth peanut butter on one slice of bread and crunchy on the other. It's the perfect texture.

So, when I stalked wandered past the jams, jellies, and peanut butter aisle on our recent trip to Walmart I knew I had to toss several jars of all new Peter Pan Simply Ground into the cart. This NEW peanut butter is ground to perfection for the perfect blend of smooth and crunch that is oh-s-satisfying. I'm not kidding here folks, I went back the next day to buy more jars of this heavenly stuff, and highly regard it as the best peanut butter on the shelf at Walmart. It's like Peter Pan's mad kitchen scientists designed a peanut butter range just for me, and I'm in love.

In fact, I was so inspired by NEW Peter Pan Simply Ground peanut butter I decided to bring it back, old school, with a little Ants On A Log Inspiration. You know I am all about simple solutions contrasted with modern interpretations, so today I'm sharing 2 new and exciting ways to share this new Simply Ground peanut butter texture with your friends, family, and coworkers. First up is my interpretation of Ants On A Log in Hors D'oeuvres with a Simply Ground smeared raisin loaf base, topped with celery gelee.

First, you're going to want to get a hold of some celery juice. Not already in the fridge? That's okay, you can make your own in the food processor in no time by blending filtered water and celery leaves. (If a smoother texture is desired feel free to strain the juice through a cheese cloth.) Combine the celery juice and sugar over low heat, just to melt sugar and combine.

Next, you will prepare your gelatin- I use 200 bloom sheets (as opposed to powder based gelatin) but traditional gelatin will do just as fine. I find that professional grade gelatin sheets tend to be a very convenient way to store a large quantity of gelatin concentrate in an easy to prepare method. Simply soak your gelatin sheets in cold water for 10 minutes until it 'blooms,' then boil with the correct amount of water for 4-5 minutes, until liquid and even in texture.

Next you will want to combine your celery leaf juice and gelatin base and pour it in a heat safe container. Retire the gelee straight to the fridge and allow it to set for 2 hours. Take this time to prepare a fresh raisin loaf, if making from scratch, or cube an existing loaf into bite sized portions.

Peter Pan's NEW Simply Ground peanut butter in Original or Honey Roast is the perfect peanut butter for this recipe because the texture helps to emulate the crunch of 'celery' without overwhelming the structure of the bread and the gelee. Spread heaping portions onto your raisin bread cubes- you're going to want a nice thick layer of delicious peanut butter in the center of this treat- just like with the real thing.

Now, if you're a bit antsy (see what I did there?) about trying a celery gelee, don't be. This recipe can be modified to include just the slightest celery leaf juice for a light aromatic essence. Of course, if you're a celery fan, you'll love the recipe as is! The gelee should have set nice and thin, and will quickly turn into a softer 'mousse' like texture after sitting at room temperature for a little.

While it may not be something everyone craves, these Ants On A Log hors d'oeuvres are the perfect re-imagining of a beloved childhood treat. Guests are sure to appreciate the unique rendition, and eve the hesitant will want to try this classy take on such a simple comfort food. Best of all- the real hero, the peanut butter will shine when sandwiches between the two textures.

If you're not quite so daring, but want to share the good feelings of enjoying a rustic snack-time favorite, why not make some Ants On A Log jars to leave in the work-place break-room, or drop of on a teacher's desk? Everyone has to power through the 3PM munchies and a lovingly packed mason jar of Peter Pan Simply Ground peanut butter, raisins, and celery are sure to put a smile on someone's face.

I love doing small things to help brighten the day of a stranger- leaving a snack in the community fridge not only dissuades break-room thieves, but also staves away the Hangry monsters in a pinch. It's as simple ad dropping two heaping spoonfuls of Simply Ground peanut butter (why not go with the lightly sweet Honey Roast) in the bottom of a mason jar. Next, stack some celery sticks along the outer edges and drop a small box of raisins in the middle.

Seal the jar with the standard lid and decorate with a scrap of fabric, some twine, and one of our pre-designed gift tags. Go ahead and grab the FREE printable. They're just the right size for your ordinary mason jar, and there are even a few blank tags for you to write your own unique messages on! While you're hear, PRINT the Ants On A Log Hors D'oeuvres recipe here!

However you decide to #SpreadTheMagic make sure you do it with the delicious new Peter Pan Simply Ground peanut butter. The peanut butter with the one of a kind smooth and lightly crunchy texture that goes good with anything. In fact, it's so good it has absolutely no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and never requires 'stirring' before spreading. You can grab both the Original and Honey Roast flavors at Walmart now and save $.50 on your first jar with this great printable coupon! For more fun, discover which peanut butter fits your personality with this fun quiz. Now, tell me, what's your favorite type of peanut butter, smooth, crunchy, or a little in between like Simply Ground?

What Daughter Says: Peanut butter is a comfort food for me- I'm always looking for new ways to share a little bit of comfort, magic, and smiles.

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Discover A New Way To Save On Mobile Service With Ting

This is a Fashionista Event and a promotional item was provided to me. Hosts for this event are Still Blonde after all these Years and ModlyChic

Momma Told Me: There's nothing fun about being an adult and having to pay bills.

We've had our current cellphone service provider for a few years now and, while we don't have a contract, there are many factors that make us feel like we are still 'tied down,' and in a committed relationship with our service provider. Let's face it, the idea of switching cellphone service is scary because it's so hard to envision the bottom line- that mystery amount that will hit your inbox every month. Many major providers make their plans sound affordable, simple, and straight forward but you and I know there are always taxes, hidden fees, and 'add-ons,' that somehow sneak in. Then, after a period of time we become complacent- it doesn't seem 'that bad' in comparison to a previous provider, so we stick it out. And how about the hassle of switching phones or porting numbers? No thank you!

What if I told you that there was a revolutionary new mobile service that bases it's pricing on your usage, and that the more you and your family use each month, the bigger the realized savings could be? I'm talking about Ting, a provider that bases it's rates on the quantity of services you use (number of text messages, number of minutes, amount of data,) not the amount they'll allow you to use. That's right, your bill will change monthly and flex as you use the service- but it's almost guaranteed to be lower than what you are paying now. Don't believe me? Type your most recent bills usage and costs into their Savings Calculator and get an estimate on how much you could save- I found that I could save up to $80 a year on my smartphone plan, alone (and more when bundled with family.)

While Ting may support a transfer of your current service plan for providers such as T-mobile, Sprint, and Verizon, they're currently looking specifically for ATT consumers to give them a try. In fact, if you or a friend have an AT&T plan currently, head on over and check the compatibility of your device with Ting service providers and receive a $5 Starbucks gift card, just for your time! (Limit one $5 Starbucks gift card per email address and per active AT&T device checked. Offer valid October 20-22, 2015) Head on over to Ting NOW to take part in this great offer for current AT&subscribers, and to learn more about making the switch.

Ting is mobile service simplified- there are no fancy plans, no complicated calculations and rates and no hidden fees. Pay only for what you use, period. If you use less this month, pay less, if you use more, talk, text, and surf with the confidence of knowing you won't see a shocking overage charge or ridiculous rate hike on the next bill. It's a mobile service that really makes sense for today's modern families, where flexibility, budgeting, and freedom are so essential. We're definitely looking into coverage and service for our current provider and talking about making the switch when Ting comes to our area. Learn more, check availability, and get a savings quote at Ting today- and don't forget to take advantage of that FREE Starbucks gift card offer if you're an AT&T subscriber!

What Daughter Says: Bills may never be fun, but they don't have to be complicated. 

How To Get The #ConfidenceUDeserve To Survive Shark Week (Hot Deal Inside!)

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ConfidenceUDeserve #CollectiveBias

Momma Told Me: This happens EVERY month.

I do believe the phrase is "I am woman, hear me ROAR!," right?

Woman have a great reputation for kicking butt and taking names all while handling everything life throws at them with sophistication and grace. They don't call them 'big girl panties,' for nothing- you've earned your title, and every day, even 'those' days are a reason to celebrate bring a woman!

Of course, we have a bad wrap for tackling that 'time of the month,' ladies- don't let Aunt Flow trample over your fabulous diamond encrusted kitten parade. We're tough, one of a kind, problem solving, act now ask questions later, human growing, sisterhood sharing, Charlie's Angels, aced that entrance exam, landed that new promotion, one-of-a-kind unique WOMEN! Don't let Aunt Flow trample all over your parade, take charge and party louder, longer, and harder with 5 simple tips to survive Shark Week!

Tip #1: Bake It Off- Everyone knows that chocolate and ice cream are favorite indulgences, but have you ever baked to entertain Aunt Flow? Not only can you have a say into just how many chocolate chips go into those cookies, or decide that 'Triple Chocolate' is one chocolate too few on your road to 'Quadruple Chocolate Chunk Brownies,' but the act of baking will help give you an immediate focus, with imminent reward that that will generate extra happy endorphins! Snack on your treats all week and continue to feel the accomplishment high! Not a baker? Try taking on a similar hobby style project and enjoy similar results.

Tip #2: Dance Off Pants Off- While you may feel like doing anything BUT exercising, studies show that physical activity can not only ease discomfort from cramps, but can also create those mood boosting endorphins. My favorite way to get up and get moving? A dance party? It's okay, you can dance in your sweats, a sun dress, or even your underwear- this party's at home, and it's all for you! Bonus points if you happen to have one of those fancy dancing video games to practice those smooth moves with! And, remember, we're fierce women who let nothing get in our way- U By Kotex has everything to keep you covered and Cha-Ch-Cha-ing straight through the week!

Tip #3: Lean On Me- We're not longer in high school. The days of whispers and giggles of your period are long gone. Today's women are modern, informed, and empowered. If you're having a rough day at work, feel a little off your game, or simply need someone to recite all of Noah's lines in your impromptu rendition of The Notebook, tap into your powerful network of fiercely real women! Men may have their 'bromances' but nothing beats the bond between strong women- only a woman knows what it's like to try and curl their hair while applying makeup, just how much of a miracle (it is that you didn't strangle your husband while giving) birth is, and what it's like to squat in a public bathroom while keeping your COACH fro touching the floor. Don't forget to utilize your sisters this week!

Tip #4: The Flow Never Bothered Me Anyway- If you're a period pro then you've already got Shark Week in the bag, but every woman knows that every period is different. Be prepared for those unexpected weeks with a simple survival kit. Nothing interrupts an awesome day of transforming and rocking the world quite like an unexpected slap from mother nature. Never be caught out of stock when it comes to your necessary supplies- who wants to send the troops on an incognito run to a co-worker's purse or that bathroom quarter machine? My period products are colorful, and awesome- I use U By Kotex, and their selection of pads, tampons, and even feminine wipes are always on hand for unexpected visits. Right now you can even stock up on U By Kotex products with a special deal at CVS!

Tip #5:  Fun. Funky. Fresh- Period are not a punishment. Periods are a badge of honor. A mark of a beautiful, strong, woman. Your period supplies should be just as strong, and vibrant, as you.  Rock Shark Week with powerful period protection contained in stylish, colorful, wrappers from the U By Kotex collection. Even better, save $2.00 right now on U By Kotex products when you stock up at CVS- so you're never caught off guard when Aunt Flow comes to town! Now, let's share a laugh- in the comments section share some of the funny ways you're heard that 'time of the month' referred too as (nicknames/phrases.)

What Daughter Says: Rock every day with the confidence and tenacity that is womanhood. You own it, girlfriend!

Having a period each month is one more obstacle we all must deal with. Right, ladies?

How do you balance a busy schedule with the mental, emotional and physical challenges your time of the month brings on? Personally, I figure why not start off by being confident and comfortable with U by Kotex products from CVS. Specifically designed for easy use. Giving you the #ConfidenceUDeserve.

When I'm at my local CVS, I can pick up extra items I need to get me through my period like pain relief medication, makeup, or my favorite; chocolate! The best part is that you can now save $2.00 on U by Kotex products at your local CVS store!

Household Budgeting With Benefits Using The American Express Serve Cash Back Prepaid Debit Card

I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for American Express Serve. I applied for the Serve Cash Back card to facilitate my review and received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Momma Told Me: Spend wisely!

Whether you're single, or married with another child on the way, budgeting is one thing we all struggle with. Some of us are better at setting boundaries and goals better than others but, at the end of the day, we all have to look at the bottom line. After all, it's not so much about how much money you have, or make- plenty of millionaires have gone bankrupt, it's about how you choose to spend (or not spend) it.

When I was a young girl Momma would send me off to school with an allowance ($2.50-$4 depending on whether I was bringing a snack from home or not.) I only bought school lunches once or twice a week, as Momma usually had one packed and school lunches were reserved for especially busy days. Once a month our elementary had 'pizza' Fridays- where, for a dollar extra, we could enjoy a large gooey slice of  'big brand' pizza with our lunch.

However, it was not guaranteed that I'd be given lunch money on that day- and Momma never gave me extra for that dollar. Our family had a strict lunch budget and I got what I got each month, regardless of the day or menu. So I learned to budget my lunch money. On days where I had a big lunch and wasn't particularly hungry by snack time, I'd save my quarters; forgoing a small reward now, for the promise of a bigger reward later, was important!

Today I'm an adult, managing my own household and budget- It's a lot more complicated to make a lunch budget when the choices are unlimited and the only one keeping me from eating out every day is myself! But I've been looking forward to the bigger reward- foregoing a meal out here and there on the promise I, one day soon, will get to cook and entertain in a home that is all my own, is a small price to pay. However, despite even the best, most restrained efforts, it can be hard to keep track of spending and the bottom line. I find, when I had a single bank account with all of my funds at unlimited access, money got spent much quicker and on things that weren't really needed (impulse buys.)

Over the past few months I've been funding and using the American Express Serve Cash Back Prepaid Debit card to help track and control my expendable (and household) spending. My paycheck goes straight into my primary bank account and my budget for the month goes into my American Express Serve Cash Back Card account. Not only do I get notification with spending and balance updates I know I will never go overdrawn, and can maintain my budget through simple reloads direct from my bank account (only when initiated by me) or FREE direct deposit.

The American Express Serve Cash Back Prepaid Debit card also offer multiple benefits only American Express cardholders can enjoy- from a range of discounts at everyday retailers (so I can save even more while budgeting to buy my first house,) and even an instant 1% cash back on all purchases! All of this can be enjoyed for the low monthly fee of just $5.95. In just my first week of using the American Express Serve Cash Back card I earned $2.61, for doing nothing more than my everyday grocery, gas, and utility shopping. No purchase is too small to earn cash back, either- From the $5.41 fast food charge ($.05 back) to the $107 water bill utility payment ($1.07 earned back,) I've used my prepaid debit account to pay and earn for pretty much all of my daily payments. Redeeming cash back earned is as easy as clicking a button- the amount earned will instantly be applied to my next purchase; and I can redeem at any time and amount!

I know that I will need to continue down the path of smart spending and meticulous budgeting as I prepare to shop for my first home- but having the American Express Serve Cash Back Prepaid Debit card and account on my side will certainly make the process easier, and more rewarding! Learn more about this unique account and prepaid debit card and sign up today on the official American Express Serve Cash Back Prepaid Debit Card homepage! What's one thing in your life you are saving up for right now, where an extra 1% cash back could help?


What Daughter Says: Spend smart, while earning cash back, with the American Express Serve Cash Back Prepaid Debit card.

Small Dog, Big Heart- What I've Learned From My Dog #PedigreeGives

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #PedigreeGives #CollectiveBias

Momma Told Me: Size means nothing.


It's no secret my childhood was filled with wayward animals. Momma would take in the sick animals from the street and the shelter and give them the only thing left for a human to give; a comfortable home and love. Pets never stayed long. Some might say that's harmful in the grander scheme of a childhood- it certainly did stand out to me. But the takeaway, for me, was that all animals deserved love and a home; not just the kittens and the specialty breeds.

At the same time, I've always been a sensible woman.

That's good because, without my senses and a strong amount of personal restraint, I could have easily become a Crazy Cat Lady. Instead, I was driven to find ways to love and help; even when I was renting a room in a stranger's home with no home to give a pet. That's how I learned about the volunteer opportunities at the county shelter. I highly encourage anyone who cannot open their home to an animal in need, yet feels compelled to connect and benefit from a bond with animals, to seek out a similar opportunity. Our local shelter requires a commitment of just 6 hours a month; scheduled on your own time, working with the types of animals you feel most comfortable.

Few people know that you can walk into a shelter and volunteer your time with no previous experience, and such little obligation. Yes, you will have to go through a mandatory orientation of basic procedures and safety- but it absolutely work it for the return you will feel from helping like-minded people and animals in need!

Worried you wouldn't be able to handle the environment?

I was antsy about being around animals that were primarily kept caged, it's not ideal for any animal to be housed at a shelter. However, I quickly realized that my job, as a volunteer, was primarily to interact with and engage the wayward animals. That's right, I spent most of my time taking the dog's out to the dog run for walks, offering a warm lap to a nervous cat, and holding kennel-mates while the kennel's were cleaned. Even better, my interactions with these animals provided direct insight into their unique personalities that later went on 'sell sheets' to help prospective families find the right pet!

Have a full home and cant quite dedicate the time to help out on site at a shelter? Most shelter's also survive solely on the material donations made by everyday citizens and generous pet companies. Some of the most needed supplies include, blankets, unwanted newspaper, old kennels, and leashes. I bet you didn't know you could take your unused newspapers and drop them off at the local shelter, did you? But even more importantly you can help a dog in need right now just by shopping for your own pet's favorite PEDIGREE® treats and food at Sam's Club in the month of October. Buy any PEDIGREE® product such as PEDIGREE® Adult Dry Dog Food (55lb bag,) PEDIGREE® DENTASTIX® dog treats, or PEDIGREE® Choice Cuts Dog Food at Sam's Club this October and PEDIGREE® will donate a bowl of food to a dog in need!

Since October is National Adopt A Shelter Dog Month, we always do something a little extra special (on top of our regular shelter visits) to help out. This year we continued our tradition of donating PEDIGREE® dog food by dropping off a 55lb PEDIGREE® Adult Dry Dog Food bag and PEDIGREE® Choice Cuts Wet Food multi-pack we'd picked up while re-stocking Nora's PEDIGREE® Small Breed Dry Dog Food. I'm especially excited to point out that our local county shelter is proudly displaying their 'No Kill' banner for a successful year without having to put a single animal down, due to over-crowding, in 2014. This is an immense goal realized for our county and the shelter and I couldn't be prouder.

Of course this wouldn't be a fair discussion without talking about the tiny dog that helps my heart to continue on growing, Nora. It may be hard to believe, but I was never a 'small dog' kind of girl. In fact, in college my boyfriend had the most lovable 62lb red pit bull and there was a time I couldn't imagine not falling asleep with him nestle between my legs. But this dog, people- let me tell you. I have yet to meet a person that was not shortly won over by the enthusiasm this dog carries for life itself.

When I was sitting down to write this post I contemplated how I would stage the photos, and what imagery I would use. It's no secret I take hundreds of photos of my fur-kids daily- and Nora is quite photogenic. But, with this month being all about adoption, and pets in need of homes, I was driven to look deeper into the individual that is my dog. Sure we've made dog furniture and shared D.I.Y. costumes and training tips, and we'll continue to- but these candid snapshots, they're Nora. Yes, these photos, they sum up my 4 and a half pound ball of fluff. Not only does she greet each and every day as a new, magical, opportunity, she NEVER stops smiling. It is physically impossible to look at this dog and maintain a bad mood- she is my leveler, folks.

And every morning and evening when I pick up her food dish her floppy ears perk up, her nubby tail wags, and she spins in circles until I finish scooping her PEDIGREE® and put the bowl down. Can you imagine how much richer our life would be if we could look at the world through her eyes for just one day? If we could take a single meal and turn it into an occasion worthy of flips and dancing? Yes, it's just that sentiment, and that tiny dog, which remind me just how grateful I am to have her n my life- and just how much every pet, and pet-to-be, truly has to give.

I could write a thousand more words reminding you how special Nora (and let's not forget Truffles) really is, but the truth is, if you've ever had a pet, you already know. Help give back to 'pets to be' this month when you purchase any PEDIGREE® product at Sam's Club, and keep the good vibes going when you upload a photo of the dog you love to Twitter with the hashtag #LaterShelter- PEDIGREE® will donate yet another bowl of food to a dog in need! I often joke that Nora is one of my 'co-workers,' since she appears so often here on the blog, and is constantly at my side. The truth is, I'm the one working for her. If I can learn to be just 1/10th as grateful, accepting, and brave in my life as she lives hers, then I will always remain in her debt. Does your dog, or a dog you've previously parented, have unique traits that make them stand out? If so, we'd love to hear all about what makes your canine friend special!

What Daughter Says: When it comes to pets, all shapes, sizes and breeds can move mountains in the world of a pet parent. Every pet deserves a home, and a fully belly.