<![CDATA[Bubby and Bean ::: Living Creatively]]>

<![CDATA[Bubby and Bean ::: Living Creatively]]> Follow Bubby and Bean ::: Living Creatively, filter it, and define how you want to receive the news (via Email, RSS, Telegram, WhatsApp etc.) https://follow.it/BubbyAndBean2 Sun, 27 Nov 2022 14:31:09 +0200 <![CDATA[Our 2022 Family Holiday Cards]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6JbkBmnNI0aMb1naedg1wr

I don't want to jinx anything, but 2022 has been a whole lot better than 2020 and 2021. I mean, that's not saying much, but still. It's just seemed, I don't know, calmer? There's still a lot of room for improvement (come on 2023), but I'm feeling the peace and love right now - and that's the message I want to spread when sending out holiday cards this year.

If you've been reading here for a while, you know how much I love sending holiday cards. In fact, I have never gotten rid of a single holiday card I've received. True story. I have a huge bag of them in my basement dating back 30+ years. Am I just a hoarder? Will I ever do anything with them? Who knows.The point is that I have a special (possibly irrational, but that's okay) place in my heart for holiday cards.

While we're on the subject of holiday cards and special places in my heart, eight years ago, I came across and fell in love with a card company called Postable. I've had a massive crush on them every since. Not only do they offer a huge variety of really cool, stylish, fun designs, they also have a special way to make my (and you) life way easier. (Pssst. I have a pretty major discount for you, from Postable, at the bottom of this post.)

Before I get into the details about what sets Postable apart, I wanted to make sure to let you know that this isn't a paid review. It's a trade. The give me the best cards ever and I share my thoughts about them with all of you, but I would buy and send their cards regardless. I love the quality and selection of their cards, the fact that they're fully customizable, and that they are 100% post-consumer recycled and/or tree-free 100% (envelopes too). But the best part about Postable, in my opinion, is what makes them really unique. They offer a very user friendly way to design cards, then print the cards, then stuff the envelopes, then address them, then stamp them, and finally, mail them all for you. All of it. I don't know about you but I'm pretty freaking stressed during the holiday season and this is a pretty huge thing to be able to cross off the list.

As I've said before, the people at Postable are genuinely nice humans too. And generous. In fact, they're giving you 20% off your entire order with code BEAN22. Head over to their site right now and you'll be amazed. (No really, you will!) Happy holiday card season!

This post is in collaboration with Postable.

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 08 Nov 2022 14:14:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6JbkBmnNI0aMb1naedg1wr <![CDATA[Simple Fall Planter]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4ovZsHXd76pZVjH6qdYdAk

I just wanted to share an idea for a very simple but beautiful fall planter. I have a large pot in my front yard that I fill each spring for the summer. This year I went for wild flowers, and it was looking pretty rough by September. I grabbed a small white mum, two types of ornamental cabbage, some small white pumpkins, and a medium white pumpkin, and in about ten minutes, had a fresh autumn planter.

I'm not an expert gardener by any means, but it's fun to update planters with the seasons. Your local nursery/greenhouse is a great place to go for seasonal refresh plants, and they're usually willing to help with design suggestions if you bring in a photo!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Mon, 24 Oct 2022 13:24:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4ovZsHXd76pZVjH6qdYdAk <![CDATA[Autumn Rosemary Crescent Rolls]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X73NG5SEzoqTClmFkX7M1Jw

You may remember me sharing a version of this recipe before, years ago. It's really not even a recipe - more of a way to elevate ready-to-bake crescents. It's a favorite side dish for us during the holiday season, but we've been eating them a lot this fall. It really is the perfect fall food - warm, comforting, and delicious with autumn soups.

Autumn Rosemary Crescent Rolls

INGREDIENTS
8 refrigerated crescent rolls (1 can)
1/8 cup butter

2-3 teaspoons dried rosemary
5 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt butter either in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in garlic powder. Open the can of crescent rolls, unroll dough, and separate into 8 triangles. Brush melted butter and garlic powder mixture onto the top of each triangle, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Flip each triangle so the buttered side is down, and roll into crescent shape (so that buttered side is on the outside). Place each crescent onto a baking sheet, and top with another sprinkling of parmesan and a few pieces of rosemary. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

We especially love these with a hearty vegetable soup. They're great with chili too!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 12 Oct 2022 13:48:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X73NG5SEzoqTClmFkX7M1Jw <![CDATA[Classic Halloween Costumes: Over 50 Ideas]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6O9Y9g6LK9RClmFkX7M1Jw

It's that time of year again where I share my favorite classic Halloween costume ideas! I absolutely love simple, classic Halloween costumes, and have been sharing this list here for years, but each time I have new additions and updates. This is our biggest list so far!

When my kids were little, they were all about dressing up at black cats and pumpkins and witches. These days they usually opt for trendy characters instead. This year though, my daughter chose to be a devil and my son is dressing as a baseball player and Jack Skellington - all of which make my classic costumes loving heart happy!

The past two years we also did family costumes (Addams Family, as seen above, and The Wizard of Oz the year before). This year we decided to take a break from the stress involved with all of that and each do our own thing, but I'll always be a sucker for a family costume too.

Scroll down for our most recent list of 50 timeless costume ideas.

Classic Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids

Classic Halloween Costume Ideas

1950s themed
1960s themed
Alien
Angel
Ballerina
Bat
Baseball/Football/Basketball Player
Bear
Black Cat
Bumblebee
Butterfly
Cheerleader
Circus themed
Classic Disney Characters
Classic 'Scary' Film/TV Characters (Addams Family, The Muensters, etc.)
Classic Star Wars Characters
Clown
Devil
Dinosaur
Doctor or Nurse
Dog
Dracula
Dragon
Fairy
Frankenstein
Genie
Ghost
Gypsy
Hippie
Ladybug
Lion
Mermaid
Mime
Monkey
Monster
Mouse
Mummy
Pirate
Princess or Prince
Pumpkin
Robber/Jailbird
Robot
Shark
Scarecrow
Skeleton
Superhero
Vampire
Western themed
Witch
Wizard of Oz themed
Woodland Animal themed

As always, if you have other ideas to add to this list, please share!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST // BLOGLOVIN'

]]> Tue, 04 Oct 2022 13:45:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6O9Y9g6LK9RClmFkX7M1Jw <![CDATA[6 Ways to Encourage Hands-On Play With Kids]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6xxynzDHWyGV1cWWor9YPv

My kids are at ages now (6 and 8) where they're busy with school, activities, and play with friends instead of mom and dad. (The picture above is one of my favorites, but it's from back from E was only 3. So tiny!) When they were home more, learning through hands on play was an all day affair. Now I'm discovering that we need to be intentional and set aside time for it. Here are some of the ways I do that.

1. Take a step back. I'm going to start with this one because even as my kids get older, I still naturally feel a pull to be involved in everything they do. While I think it's important to play with them, I also remind myself when I need to take a step and let them use their imaginations without any parent intervention. It's amazing what they can do when they're fully in charge of play.

2. Give them moldable objects. Slime may have ruined my sofa (long, painful story), but the truth is it's great for great hands on, sensory based activity. Play dough and kinetic sand are as well.

3. Give them building blocks. Whether wooden blocks or LEGOs, building blocks are incredible for encouraging kids to be creative, and they're great for tuning fine motor skills as well. Both my kids love playing with them, and have since they were toddlers.

4. Give them art and craft supplies. I literally pile a table with a random selection of art and crafts supplies, and they both just go to town. Making art or building a craft is an easy and incredibly effective way for kids to learn with their hands. My son make something - from books out of printer paper to instruments out of mac and cheese boxes - every single day, and the older it gets, the more intricate they get. It's fascinating to watch

5. Send them outside. I'm not an expert, but in my opinion, there is no better way to learn from hands on play then by just going outside. Riding a bike or scooter, playing backyard baseball, running barefoot in the grass, playing in the leaves, drawing with sidewalk chalk... It's all hands on and it all encourages learning.

6. Make sensory bins. Even my 8 year old still loves these! I love these! The possibilities are endless too. We've filled them with everything from dry beans to autumn leaves to cereal and more. Sensory bins are especially great for toddlers, and can be the perfect introduction to hands on learning.

I hope these tips are helpful. I'll share more soon!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 27 Sep 2022 13:20:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6xxynzDHWyGV1cWWor9YPv <![CDATA[Plant-Based Salsa Soup]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6rifHY88huNSlmFkX7M1Jw

This is an updated version of a super easy, super delicious late summer/early fall soup I've shared here before. We made it this past weekend and it was a hit with the whole family. It doesn't take long, uses staple ingredients you probably have on hand, and is completely plant-based!

Plant-Based Salsa Soup

serves 4

INGREDIENTS
4 cups salsa
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 can black beans
2 cups corn kernels
1 clove garlic, minced
2-3 limes
cumin
chili powder
black pepper
sea salt
1 avocado, cubed
scallions or cilantro, chopped

In a pot or large saucepan sauté garlic in a coconut or olive oil for 1 minute. Add salsa, black beans, corn, and 1 cup of vegetable broth, and heat over medium heat. Add remainder of veggie broth as needed. Squeeze in the juice of of the limes. Add chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and sea salt to taste. Once fully heated, serve immediately in soup bowls. Top each bowl of soup with cubed avocado and chopped scallions.

My husband like to eat this cold as well. It's also great with crushed tortilla or corn chips on top!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 21 Sep 2022 13:40:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6rifHY88huNSlmFkX7M1Jw <![CDATA[Autumn Giveaway! Win a $200 Gaia Conceptions Gift Card]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X7E4BISCj2csZVjH6qdYdAk

I may cling to summer with the tips of my fingernails, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't love getting a few new pieces of really great fall clothing as the seasons change. You guys know how much I love our long time partner and friend Gaia Conceptions' gorgeous, sustainable clothing, and I'm very excited to team up with them again to give you one of you a $200 gift card to grab some new fall pieces for yourself! (Scroll down to enter!)

Gaia Conceptions offers a wide variety of genuinely beautiful eco-friendly clothing and accessory items, all designed and made by hand in the USA. Ordering their clothing is a truly customized experience - you choose color, fabric, and size. They're genuinely one of my all time favorite clothing brands.

$200 to Gaia Conceptions Eco-Friendly Clothing

Use the form below, and/or do the easy entry on on Instagram right here. There are several options for extra entries as well.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway will run through the end of this Saturday September 17, 2022. It is open to Bubby and Bean readers worldwide. All entries from the Rafflecopter form above and Instagram will be combined. A winner will be randomly chosen and announced here by end of day the following Monday.

Thank you to our friends at Gaia Conceptions for giving the Bubby and Bean family another chance to own some of their stunning apparel!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 14 Sep 2022 14:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X7E4BISCj2csZVjH6qdYdAk <![CDATA[Almond Butter Oatmeal]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X5Fc5ag4-7WR8b1naedg1wr

This super simple, semi-homemade oatmeal is perfect for busy mornings when you want something that will keep you full until lunch. It's healthy too, and my kids love it!

Almond Butter Oatmeal
Serves 4

INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons almond butter
3 cups water
1 cup quick Irish oatmeal
2-3 tablespoons real maple syrup
2 teaspoons cinnamon
sliced bananas and strawberries to top

To prepare oatmeal, follow instructions on oatmeal packaging. (For quick Irish oatmeal, which is what we prefer, bring 4 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of oats, and simmer for 5-7 minutes.) When oatmeal is cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of almond butter. (Trader Joe's Raw Almond Butter is our favorite.) Add 2-3 tablespoons of real maple syrup and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. Pour into bowls, and top each bowl with drizzled almond butter, drizzled maple syrup, banana and strawberry slices, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

My daughter even likes this for dinner. Enjoy!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST]]> Wed, 31 Aug 2022 13:44:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X5Fc5ag4-7WR8b1naedg1wr <![CDATA[5 Tips for Organizing Your Fridge]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6arhZIEsMMbKCY3L745TL_

I'm just going to start this off by saying that I am not an organized person by nature. It took me until my 40s to even gain the smallest motivation to be more organized, and it's still a struggle. My fridge does not, by any means, look like this at all times. But it does feel good to occasionally give it a refresh like this. If you can relate, here are some tips that work for me!

For reference, here is what my refrigerator usually looks like:

1. Remove everything from your fridge. (I know, but just do it.)
Take it all out. Set everything on tables and counters. Then wipe down all of the surfaces inside your fridge and evaluate the situation. Throw out expired items. Maybe even make a grocery list of what you need.

2. Organize food and drinks by type.
I put all the product in a group, the condiments in a group, the leftovers in a group, the drinks in a group, etc. This will be useful when putting things back inside. Trust me.

3. Transfer items to containers.

I recommend investing in a good set of stackable containers with airtight seals. This really makes all the difference in terms of best utilizing space. I have been using Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers. I like them because they're stain and odor proof and I can wash them in the dishwasher. But any stackable container system will work.

4. Place items back in fridge - by type.I do the best I can to (mostly) arrange items by type. For example, I put all of the produce items on one side of the fridge. I put all of the cheese and meat in one drawer. If I'm feeling extra motivated I might even arrange condiments by type. It might seem overboard, but it really does make things much easier when we're preparing meals. It looks better too.

5. Put most used items at eye level.This is sort of a life hack I learned that honestly works better for the pantry, but it's good for the fridge too. I also try to put produce low so my kids are more inclined to grab the healthy stuff. (Can't say it actually works, but hey, I'm trying.)

I hope these tips are helpful for my fellow organization challenged humans. Now let's see how long it lasts...

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 24 Aug 2022 13:30:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6arhZIEsMMbKCY3L745TL_ <![CDATA[Back to School Survey for Kids]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X74iGEFI5wv1Mb1naedg1wr

You may remember back in May when I shared a fun survey I give my kids at the end of each school year as a way to see how their interests and favorites change over time. I give them a similar survey at the start of each year as well. They went back to school last week (yes, I know - so early!), so I thought I'd share the questions here again. Try this with your kids. I promise you'll love to see how much their answers change over time, especially if they're young kids.

1. What is your name?
2. What grade are you in?
3. How old are you?
4. What is your favorite color?
5. What was your favorite thing to do at school?
6. What is your favorite activity outside of school?
7. What do you want to be when you grow up?
8. What is your favorite food?
9. How old is your mom?
10. What is her job?
11. What is mom's favorite food?
12. How old is your dad?
13. What is his job?
14. What is dad's favorite food?
15. What do mom and dad like to do?
16. If you have siblings, what are their names?
17. How old are your siblings?
18. What is/are your sibling(s) favorite food?
19. What is your favorite toy?
20. Where do you live?
21. What is your favorite thing to do?
22. What is your favorite place you've ever been?
23. Who is your best friend?
24. What is your favorite animal?
25. If you could have anything you wished for, what would it be?

(Chalkboard signs we used for our photos were purchased here.)

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 16 Aug 2022 13:42:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X74iGEFI5wv1Mb1naedg1wr <![CDATA[Vegetarian Oven Nachos]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4E4p72gRSxTcb1naedg1wr

You guys know how much I love tacos, but believe it or not, I like nachos even better. And I have the most divine oven nacho recipe to share. They're vegetarian, but you won't miss the meat at all. They're full of yummy black beans, cheese, and spices, and topped with tangy salsa, spicy jalapeños, and avocado.

Serves 2-4

INGREDIENTS

1/2 bag tortilla chips

1 can black beans

5 cups shredded cheese

3/4 tsp chili powder

1/4 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1-1/2 cups thick salsa

1 fresh jalapeño, sliced

1/2 avocado, cubed

lime

Preheat over to 400 degrees. Drain and rinse black beans. In a bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Add a single layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Spread beans evenly on tortilla chips. Cover with cheese. Sprinkle with spice mixture. Bake for 5 to 6 minutes, until cheese is melted. Top with CHI-CHI's® Thick & Chunky Salsa, avocado, and jalapeño slices. Squeeze on a little lime. Serve immediately.

These oven nachos make for a delicious snack, or even a meal. Enjoy!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 03 Aug 2022 13:46:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4E4p72gRSxTcb1naedg1wr <![CDATA[Easy Black Bean Burrito Bowls]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6LTlQYnrvQ4ZVjH6qdYdAk

Black Bean, Avocado, and Rice Burrito Bowls

These black bean burrito bowls are such a great summertime meal! We love using the cherry tomatoes from our garden and eating them on the patio. And if you make the rice in advance, they only take a few minutes to prepare.

Serves 2-4

INGREDIENTS
3-4 cups warm cooked rice (any variety)
1 can black beans, drained
1 avocado
1 cup cherry tomatoes
handful baby greens
salsa (we like salsa verde)
salt to taste

half a lime
cilantro (optional)
hot sauce (optional)

In a small sauce pan, heat black beans over medium heat. While beans are heating, slice cherry tomatoes and the avocado. In individual bowls, add rice, beans, avocado slices, tomato, and greens. Top with salsa, lime juice, and salt. Add cilantro and/or hot sauce if desired.

My daughter also loves hers rolled up into a burrito. So good!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 27 Jul 2022 13:05:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X6LTlQYnrvQ4ZVjH6qdYdAk <![CDATA[Our Iceland Trip]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4v1ByiTcWBqOzdsCmHakzH

I will admit that as Instagram (find us there) and TikTok (yep, I'm now there too) take over (or more accurately, have been taking over, for years) blogs, I only rarely share pieces of my personal life here anymore. The blog these days seems to be more of a place for me to share recipes or home projects or other content that will be of use to others, rather than glimpses into my experiences.

That said, I felt compelled to share some images from our trip to Iceland. This was way back in March, and since we've been on other trips (Disney, Clearwater Beach, various road trips), but Iceland was just so unique. The band my husband works for played there, and it was delayed two years because of the pandemic, which ultimately made it even more special. It was also the longest my husband and I have ever been away together without our kids. I missed them a lot, but it was so good for all of us.

We didn't get to see or do much outside of Reykjavik. It rained almost the entire time and we didn't have a personal vehicle to explore. But I still felt satisfied. The city is really incredible - full of color, progressive, safe, and easy to navigate. I liked everything I ate and drink and saw. We also got to go to the Blue Lagoon, which was magical and a bucket list adventure.

I'd love to make it back and explore the country more, hopefully in the summertime.

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 19 Jul 2022 14:07:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4v1ByiTcWBqOzdsCmHakzH <![CDATA[Fourth of July Sweet Chips and Salsa]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X7Xw8blkDgl9l1cWWor9YPv

I know I share this exact same recipe every Fourth of July, but it's just too fun not to share. If you've had it before, here's a refresher. If you haven't, give it a try! It's so easy and always a big hit for Independence Day celebrations.

Fourth of July Sweet Chips and Salsa
Serves 6-8

INGREDIENTS
1 jar pineapple, mango, or any fruit salsa
1-1/2 cups blueberries

1-1/2 cups strawberries, sliced
3/4 cup white sweet corn
1 bag white corn tortilla chips
2 limes
2-3 T sugar
2 T cinnamon

Combine the salsa, blueberries, sliced strawberries, and white corn in a medium bowl and stir until well blended. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Pour chips into a large serving bowl (or gallon food storage bag), and squeeze lime juice on chips. Mix well until evenly coated, then sprinkle chips with cinnamon and sugar and mix again.

Red, White, and Blue Sweet Salsa + Chips

This recipe is so quick and simple but still (sort of) homemade. I hope you love it as much as we do.

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Mon, 27 Jun 2022 13:54:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X7Xw8blkDgl9l1cWWor9YPv <![CDATA[4 Refreshing Summertime Cocktails]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4XFHzI2mtWjCejEQ2Mq9rY

Orange Pineapple Summer Cocktail Spritzers

We've had record high temperatures here this week, and while I try to never complain about weather that isn't cold (I more than make up for any complaints all winter long), it's been pretty brutal. This kind of weather sure does make cold, refreshing cocktails even more delicious though. Here are a few recipes for my favorite summertime drinks. (Click on images or links below it for the full recipes.)

PINEAPPLE ORANGE VODKA SPRITZERS

FRESH LEMONADE MIMOSAS

MANGO PROSECCO COCKTAILS

LEMON LIME VODKA SPRITZERS

Happy summer cocktail season!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Thu, 16 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4XFHzI2mtWjCejEQ2Mq9rY <![CDATA[Flower Cupcakes]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X41zWaQ_iJrTyejEQ2Mq9rY

I admittedly don't do a lot of baking in the summer, but every once in a while if there's a gathering or holiday, I will whip something up. We love to make these fun fruit flower topped cupcakes for summer events. for 4th of July, we top them with just the red and blue berries and they're instantly festive.

Flower Cupcakes

makes 12

INGREDIENTS

1-1/4 cup Bob's Red Mill Organic All-Purpose Flour

1/2 tsp salt

1-1/4 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup softened butter

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup half and half

fruit for decorating

Preheat oven to 350 and line a cupcake pan with liners. Whisk the flour, salt, and baking soda in medium bowl. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar for a few minutes until well blended, then add the eggs and vanilla. Mix in dry mixture a little at a time along with the half and half, then fill each cupcake liner to about 2/3. Bake for 20-23 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Transfer to a cooling rack, and when fully cooled, top with your favorite frosting (DM me if you need a good frosting recipe!), and then decorate with fruit to make flowers on the top.

These are great for a rainy summer day treat too. Enjoy!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 07 Jun 2022 14:20:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X41zWaQ_iJrTyejEQ2Mq9rY <![CDATA[Fun Last Day of School Questionnaire for Kids]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X7JvpEy9uS8pqCY3L745TL_

Fun Last Day of School Questionnaire for Young Kids

It's mind blowing how much young kids change from school year to school year, which is why I started giving my little ones surveys at the end of each year to see how their interests and favorites have evolved. I'm sharing the questions I ask them below, in case your might want to do the same for your kids.

1. What is your name?
2. What grade are you in?
3. How old are you?
4. What is your favorite color?
5. What was your favorite thing to do at school?
6. What is your favorite activity outside of school?
7. What do you want to be when you grow up?
8. What is your favorite food?
9. How old is your mommy?
10. What is her job?
11. What is mommy's favorite food?
12. How old is your daddy?
13. What is his job?
14. What is daddy's favorite food?
15. What do mommy and daddy like to do?
16. If you have brothers or sisters, what are their names?
17. How old is your brother(s) (and/or sisters)?
18. What is your brother(s) (and/or sisters) favorite food?
19. What is your favorite toy?
20. Where do you live?
21. What is your favorite thing to do?
22. What is your favorite place you've ever been?
23. Who is your best friend?
24. What is your favorite animal?
25. If you could have anything you wished for, what would it be?

Happy summer break! (Chalkboard signs we used for our photos were purchased here.)

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Thu, 26 May 2022 14:00:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X7JvpEy9uS8pqCY3L745TL_ <![CDATA[5 Tips To Prepare for Patio Season]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4K_tWIO8Mwy5s0ohxaO6Yr

Patio season is my favorite season! I love the act of cleaning and planting to get ours ready for summertime. Here are five tips for getting your patio prepared.

1. Deep clean the foundation.

Most patio spaces, ours included, look pretty rough after a long winter. The very first thing I do is sweep as much dirt as possible off of the patio itself then use an eco-friendly multi-purpose cleaner and scrub brush to deep clean.

2. Wash cushions.

We store our patio cushions and pillows in an outdoor storage box, but they're still pretty dingy when I pull them out in the spring. I remove any covers and wash them in the washing machine, and for the fabrics that can't be washed, I wipe down with a damp cloth.

6 Tips For Getting Your Patio Summer-Ready

3. Plant

This is my favorite part! I love planting flowers, herbs and veggies in planters through the patio. It brings everything to life!

4. Clean furniture.

First I hose off the patio furniture, then I use a cloth and multi-purpose cleaner to wipe down anything that was missed.

5. Make it cozy.

Once everything is clean, I put down rugs and add accent pillows so it feels like an indoor space, outdoors!

I hope you enjoy your outdoor space this summer as much as I know I will. I would live out there if I could!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 17 May 2022 13:56:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4K_tWIO8Mwy5s0ohxaO6Yr <![CDATA[Black Bean and Bacon Breakfast Burritos]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4npEM7tIcf8V1cWWor9YPv

If you follow me on Instagram, you might have noticed a recent post where I shared my family's favorite

"breakfast meal" that they'll eat any time of day. They affectionally named it the 5B: Black Bean and Bacon Breakfast Burritos. Yes, I am a vegetarian, and I share almost exclusively vegetarian recipes, but my husband and kids love their meat, and this is one meat-based meal I enjoy making for them. It's also very easy to leave out the bacon or substitute plant-based bacon. (Side note: When making this, I usually use Coleman Natural uncured bacon because it's sourced from family farms that raise their animals humanely without any antibiotics, and contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.) This is an easy meal to make too (you guys know I don't do complicated when it comes to the kitchen), and they love it for dinner even more than for breakfast.

5B Burritos

serves 6

INGREDIENTS

1 12 oz package (we like Coleman Natural Uncured Hickory Smoked Bacon)

6 tortillas

6 eggs
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 avocado, cubed

taco seasoning
1/3 cup cojita cheese

Cook bacon according to package instructions. Meanwhile, beat eggs in a medium bowl, and scramble in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in black beans and taco seasoning to taste, until beans are warm. Warm a tortilla, and add egg/bean mixture, bacon (add whole or break into smaller pieces), and avocado. Roll into burrito and top with cojita cheese.

Does your family have a favorite anytime breakfast meal?

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Wed, 11 May 2022 13:58:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X4npEM7tIcf8V1cWWor9YPv <![CDATA[Strong Mothers, Strong Daughters]]> https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X67lM2HUpJIGezdsCmHakzH

Mother's Day is this Sunday, and in honor of it, I wanted to share these photos along with some thoughts. I recently did a campaign where I was able to choose words to personalize the back of matching jerseys for my daughter and myself. Immediately, I thought of the word "strong."

As a parent, I feel that it is my job to empower my kids. And while it is absolutely necessary for me to equally empower both my son and daughter, I do believe it's necessary for my daughter especially to understand that she, as a girl, is equally as strong as boys. So every single day, I tell her that she is courageous, powerful, kind, smart, and STRONG. And you know what? I tell her that I am all of these things too. That's because it is up to me to set an example for her and instill a sense of confidence that inspires her to do her best and know that she is powerful and capable. I make more than my fair share of mistakes as a parent, but with Mother's Day approaching, I've been thinking about the fact that I am proud of the fact that I make this a priority.

While we're on the topic of Mother's Day, I want to reiterate something I've said here and on my social media accounts many times, and that is that motherhood has many definition. "Mother" does not only mean a woman who births or adopts a child. Biological females with children are absolutely moms, but so are those who have stepchildren, pets who are also their kids, babies in spirit, babies to whom they've had to say goodbye, friends or other humans they nurture, dads who are also moms, and so many more. The traditional definition of Mother's Day can cause people to feel excluded, and I always want to make sure that when I bring it up in talking about myself, that those of you reading this feel included too. (And for those of you who have lost your moms or mother figures, I'm holding you in my heart.)

Here's to strong mamas (and other nurturers!) and strong daughters. Happy Mother's Day!

ALSO FIND US HERE: INSTAGRAM // FACEBOOK // TWITTER // PINTEREST

]]> Tue, 03 May 2022 14:20:00 +0200 https://api.follow.it/track-rss-story-click/v3/vfDJYigB9X67lM2HUpJIGezdsCmHakzH