7 Ways We Survive Road Trips With Littles

Summer Vacation. Road Trip season is upon us. We look forward to these trips for months, and then the inevitable comes into realization. We are going to be spending many hours in a car with our three kids to get to our destination.

Our kids, ages 6, 4, and 1, have traveled quite a bit in their short lives. We live 10 hours away from our families, so we are on the road multiple times a year to visit them, or to take different family vacations. Driving is cheaper, you can pack more, you have more flexible with time... But, it's much longer in a confined space with kids than an airplane ride.

My husband and I feel like with have road trips down to an art. Of course, there are ALWAYS hiccups along the way. Something will most likely go wrong. But, if you are prepared enough those hiccups won't seem like earthquakes in the moment.

Here are our 7 ways we survive (And enjoy) road trips with our kids:

1. DVD PLAYER, TABLETS & LOTS OF MOVIES!!!!

I'm not going to pretend I'm the anti-screen mom. When you are in a car with kids for more than a couple hours, a DVD player, a tablet, or something of that sort with lots of movies to watch is a must. Yes, I limit my kids' screen time at home. But, whatever keeps them occupied and quiet and happy in the car for long hours, is a must. So, seriously... bring out the portable DVD player, if you car doesn't have one built in, get the DVD's in a case and charge those tablets. Our car doesn't have a built in DVD player. We found a really cool holder than sits in between the front seats' head rests, so everyone can see the movie.

Also, with movies, you figure a normal movie lasts 1 1/2 to 2 hours long. Don't tell your littles that you will be there in 4 hours. Tell them, "You need to watch 2 movies and then we will be there." They will understand that much easier. Our kids understand 5-6 movies and then we will be at grandma and grandpas house!

2. SNACKS, DRINKS, & TOY BAG!!!!

All our kids are still in booster/car seats. So, their legs are still pretty short. We take advantage of this. There is extra storage space under those feet for the essentials. We drive an SUV. So, under one kids feet, we have the toy bag. This bag is filled with small toys, color books and snack sized zip lock of crayons, that they get to choose that they are allowed to play with. We have the rule that it can't make noise. So, dolls, action figures, animals, etc. Nothing noisy. Under the middle seat (Usually where our oldest who can work the DVD player and who we trust with the snacks sits), is the snack bag. I put everything into snack sized zip-lock bags so if there is  a spill, it's not a big one. We always bring cheese crackers, fruit snacks, bananas, mini muffins, and granola bars, Behind the middle seat (the oldest) we have a small, easy to open, cooler. This is filled with ice and drinks (Capri Suns, water bottles, a half gallon of milk, and drinks for mom and dad) This is also filled with perishable snack/meal food. Depending on how long we plan on driving for the day we may throw some sandwiches, cheese sticks, Lunchables, apple slices, or anything else to tide them over.

In the front seat with me (I usually ride passenger, while the hubby drives) I have multiple plastic grocery sacks in the car door holder. I fill this with all trash and whenever we stop, I toss it and pull out a new one. It keeps things clean and organized and the kids know just to pass the wrappers up to me when they are finished. Keeps everything running smooth.

I also carry in the center console or the glove box, GALLON SIZED ZIP LOCK BAGS! Essential! We sometimes have a kid that gets car sick. A gallon zip lock will most likely hold all the mess, and it zips shut and so nothing can get out and it keeps the smell down. I constantly carry 3-4 in the car no matter what, but I really stock up before a long road trip.

3. ORGANIZATION!!!!!

Some people like to "wing it" when it comes to road trips. When you have littles, winging it is the worst thing that you can do. We've done it, we failed, and now we over organize and our travels run much smoother. It's like night and day.

Be completely organized. No matter how you like to pack your bags, I personally put the boys clothes together, my daughter and I share a bag, and the hubby has his own bag (For clothing)... This is all because of the size of suit cases we own. Those always go into the back of the trunk, because we don't really need them until we arrive, and it conveniently props up the cooler.

 We then have an "Overnight bag" "Essentials Bag" and "Toiletry Bag" that sits at the front where its easily accessible.

The overnight bag is filled with a change of clothing and pj's for each person. You never know if and when you will need to stop for the night. Plans may change. You may have a flat tire or car trouble and you have to stay the night somewhere. Nothing feels better than not having to pull out every suit case to stay overnight somewhere and you just grab the overnight bag. This has happened to us before, and we didn't have the bag and it was a mess. We've done it when we had the bag and it made life so much easier.

The "essentials bag" holds diapers, wipes, pull-ups, extra blankies, binkies, extra sippy cups.... The "essentials". Even though I have that stuff in my purse up front, I never know when I will need a quick swap.

The "Toiletry Bag" kind of goes hand in hand with the "overnight bag". Grab and go. All our toiletries in one spot, no searching, everything at our fingertips.

I love using fun canvas bags. They are reusable, sturdy, and can be washed.  

4. HAVE A SET PLAN!!!!

Plans change, yes, but when you have a plan set, it makes things easier. Especially when you can tell your kids, "We have 2 more hours and then we are stopping for dinner! We are going to have pizza tonight at a fun restaurant called Mo's Pizza!" They know the plan, you know the plan, it's awesome. This is one reason I love having a smart phone. We can really know what time we will be in what town and then I can google restaurants in the area. I can even look up their menu's to see if it's what we like and read reviews. And, if all the kids are in a good mood we can semi choose a restaurant together.

We plan most things around meal time and sleep time. If we have to leave in the afternoon, we have a light lunch before heading out somewhere, we will most likely get a good 2-3 hours of napping kiddos and then it's a snack in the car and a couple movies before we stop for dinner.

If you kids are lousy road trippers, plan on leaving a couple hours before dinner time. Play a movie, stop for dinner, then they will fall asleep for the rest of the trip. We've done this before (Because of scheduling) and our kids slept most of our 8 hour trip. We got to our hotel at 12:30 AM, slipped them into bed (we had them in pj's before we left) and it went smooth.

Have realistic expectations for your kids. If you know they don't like the car, stop half way through the trip for the night. Don't get upset with them. Stay calm. You getting upset and yelling won't make the trip any better and everyone will be on edge, making the environment in the car uncomfortable.

Sometimes you just have to power through. You have 2 hours until you get to the hotel for the night, but the toddler is screaming? You gotta do what you gotta do. The driver drives and the co-pilot entertains. I've twisted my body in the strangest positions to hold my one year old's hand to keep her calm for an hour and a half. I was achy and my arm fell asleep, but I did what I needed to do to keep everyone comfortable and calm and keep the car environment peaceful.

5. POTTY TRAINING TOILET!!!!

You know the potty training toilets that sit on the floor? Invest in one and stick it in the back where you can grab it easily. We've had many side-of-the-road poops with the littles. They do their business, throw the business off to the side into the grass or bushes, rinse with bottled water, wipe with a baby wipe and use a gallon zip lock to hold the used wipe. This, obviously isn't for Interstate Freeway driving. You don't want to stop on the side of the freeway to do this. But, we've pulled off the off ramp, stopped on a county road, set them up in the back of the Explorer, let them do their business, clean them up and go. There is no searching for a gas station or rest stop, there is no uncomfortable going potty in a weird bathroom, there's no temptation of having to buy something at the place you stop. Seriously, we have used this potty so much. Some trips we don't use it at all, but when you need it, it's so worth it to have it right there and ready.

6. COMFORTS OF HOME

Our kids have neck pillows. These are AMAZING for road trips. They can nap without their heads turning down and causing them to be uncomfortable, they can sit them on their laps and use it as a table to color or eat on, they are great! We always bring a small lap blanket. Even if it sits at their feet the whole trip, it's still nice to have if they want to cuddle up with a blankie and take a nap. They always bring their fave stuffed animal also, Their "lovey's". A comfort to hold on to. If the kids are comfortable, you are comfortable, and the trip is easier.

7. DON'T ARGUE!!!

Last, but not least, don't argue. Know your jobs before the trip starts, have the GPS going, and keep conversations lighthearted. A long road trip isn't a time to get in a heated debate and argument over some stupid issue. Nothing makes a road trip worse than tension. I know my job and the hubby knows his. He drives and keeps track of time and where we are supposed to be and when. I keep track and entertain the kiddos. If he needs me to tell him where to turn, I do. No complaining or arguing. If I miss telling him where to turn, I apologize and help correct the error. If he messes up with something, he apologizes and we work together, calmly. Arguing will not make the trip quicker or smoother. Staying calm and knowing your job will. Suck up the pride, stay level headed and do what needs to be done.

We love to have deep conversations during trips. It's helps get through listening to Toy Story 3 again. But, if it gets heated or we disagree, we stop, pause, and move on to another subject. Our kids don't want to hear it, we don't want them to be uncomfortable listening to it, and we want to show our kids that mom and dad work together as a team and do things mature, calm, and level-headed.

There are so many other small things that we do to survive road trips, but I think those are the biggest ones. Road trips can be so much fun. Sight seeing, stopping to take a picture by a monument, finally arriving to the destination. The journey there doesn't have to be hell. It can go smooth. Just remember to stay SUPER organized, stay calm, and have a set plan!

Have any other tips!? I would love to hear them! Leave me a comment!!!
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Keeping Our Marriage Thriving While Raising Little Ones

My husband and I have these fun weekend afternoon conversations. Usually when our youngest is napping, so we have some quieter time together. Today, we really sat down and talked about how we are different (Obviously, man and woman) and how we think differently (Task oriented vs. Emotional Oriented) and how we can use these to our advantage rather than our disadvantage.

I think everyone's goal in marriage is to have one that is thriving. And, I think the hardest part to go in that direction is to really evaluate yourself and recognize your own downfalls and weaknesses as well as your strengths.

My husband is a task oriented person. He told me that if he didn't have a wife or children, he would probably be the man working 80+ hour weeks, going going going, working working working. He obviously is opposite of that with a wife and three kids, ages 6 and younger. He tends to get caught up in the task that needs to be done and forgets that I am an emotional oriented person.

I nurture. I stay home with our kids while he goes to work. I give my kids 100% of myself all day, every day. When he walks through the door after work, the first thing I want is from him is to notice me as an adult woman. My goal by the end of the day, when the kids are bathed and tucked into bed is for at least 20 minutes of (Non-Sexual) attention. Cuddling, holding me, asking about my day and REALLY LISTENING, playing with my hair, giving me undivided attention for 20 minutes.

We've realized that my husband sees tasks he does around the house when he gets home as attention to me. Which, I am very thankful that he does the dishes or helps bathe the kids or tucks them into bed. But, those tasks aren't what I seriously need to really connect with him and keep our marriage thriving. I need him. I need him to notice me. I need him to give me attention. I have given every ounce of my energy and attention to three kids all day I need someone to take care of me for a few minutes.

The tricky thing with men, and let's all be adults here, is that a man will think holding, cuddling, and attention will instantly lead to sex. Which, that is a possibility. But, don't think 3 minutes cuddles can turn into a butt grab and then we are off to the races. Wives want to be heard. Wives want to be wanted. Wives want the non-sexual cuddles and conversations. Obviously, if I am being heard, and being loved, and given the small amount of attention I desire on a daily basis, this will most likely play out in my husbands favor. I am more 'in the mood' if I am given that love and affection and attention daily. Where I am cuddled without the constant sex jokes, and really asked about how I feel on a subject, or really listening to what happened in my day.

I guess I'm kind of rambling with all this.

But, I guess it comes down to this....

1. Wives- Your husband is goal/task oriented (Most likely). Communicate with him and let him know your wants and needs. Don't be rude about it or start an argument, but sit down and really say "I just need 20 minutes a day for you to really pay attention to me, without the idea that it will be going any farther, and just listen and converse and identify with me." Communicate. Communicate. Communicate. Let him know that it's not going to be hours on end of talking, just a few minutes to know you are still number one in his life.

2. Husbands- Your wife is emotionally driven. She wants to be heard. She wants you to show her that she is still the number one girl in your life. That all the tasks you do during the day is for her and the kids. Listen to her. Hold her. Don't automatically  think it will lead to sex. But, know that if you cuddle her, show her you love her, and listen to her and make her feel wanted and loved.... You are more likely going to have a wife who is willing to give up some sleep for you and spend some good 'quality' time with you.

3. Keep talking. Identify your weaknesses in yourself and accept them. Don't argue about it. You are a team. Marriage with little ones is stressful and exhausting. The last thing you two need is to disagree on something more. Sit down and really communicate your needs and desires with one another and really work at satisfying those needs for your spouse.

Parenting will go much smoother when both parents are on the same page. Your kids will thrive when you are loving each other, showing affection to each other and really working as a team.

Marriage is work. Marriage is hard. Throw some kids in the mix and it's a blender without a lid. Know what your spouse needs and take care of it. Take the extra effort for them. If you are taking care of them 100% and they are taking care of you 100% then both are taken care of and you will have more energy to love on your babies!

10 Ways To Stay Sane As A Stay-At-Home Mom

I have 3 kids. I had them in a 4 year span. I currently have a 5 year old, a 4 year old and a 1 year old. I don't get much sleep, I don't have a lot of time to myself, but there are ways I try to stay sane and feel like a normal human being throughout the week, month, and year.

Yes, I know there are some days where things don't go as planned. My house is a mess, I'm a mess, the kids are a mess. But, majority of the time, I try to keep to this list and it has helped me SO MUCH!

I struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety with each child. These are things that helped me get through the dark times and kept me feeling human. I hope it helps you also.


1. GET READY FOR THE DAY
Even if you aren't going anywhere, you have no plans for the day, and you have no one coming by. Get ready for the day. Set your alarm, get up before the kids, shower, shave your legs, moisturize, put on your makeup, do your hair and get dressed just like you would be leaving to go to work or shopping. I dress just like I would be leaving the house. There is something about looking in the mirror at yourself with makeup on (Even if it's not much... I wear foundation, powder and mascara... Nothing much). But, it makes me feel human. Do your hair in the morning. You feel good if you feel like you look good. A big confidence booster right in the morning.

2. EXERCISE
Have a workout plan. Even if it's tough to do with kids. We have a walking park in our town and I've taken two kids on bikes and one kid in the stroller and did a two mile run. It was chaotic but I did it. If I'm not able to get out of the house that day, I have some DVD's that I have and I use them. I workout in the mornings and then will get ready for the day (shower, hair, makeup) after I get done. I thought my kids would hate getting outside in the early morning, but their attitudes seem better during the day also when we get out and exercise. A healthy body is a happy body.

3. EAT HEALTHY
I know the jokes are that stay-at-home moms eat chicken nuggets and gold fish all day. Which, I've had my fair share of chicken nuggets and gold fish. But, not on a regular basis. My kids will have that for lunches sometimes but I make sure I have tortillas and ingredients for a wrap or a salad. I make my kids these things too and I'm amazed at how much they enjoy wraps and salads just because they are exposed to it. Eating healthy will make you feel better. Drinking lots of water helps also. It boosts energy and helps you feel better. Eat healthy. Drink water. It will help so much!

4. MAKE THE BED
I saw this tip on different articles in the past and thought it was a joke. How would making your bed make you feel more sane and feel better during the day? Then, for a month I did it. And, I haven't stopped. I make the bed every morning. There is something about a clean slate when you walk into your room. Everything seems better. There is a calmness when bed is made. And, nothing feels better than climbing into a made bed at the end of the day. Am I right? Seriously, try it. It really does help.

5. DO A LOAD OF LAUNDRY EVERY DAY
After the kids are dressed, the hubby is off to work, and you are ready for the day, gather up all the dirty clothes around the house and throw them in the washer. Remember to move them to the dryer a while later and even if you don't get back to folding it that day, you at least have a load clean. Nothing is more frustrating than a huge pile of laundry waiting to be washed. It's so overwhelming. I've learned if I keep up with laundry, life is smoother. Plus, there is nothing worse than when someone needs a piece of clothing only to find out it's dirty. Do a load a day. Keep up with it. Fold it when possible, but at least get it washed and dried.

6. CLEAN THE KITCHEN AT NIGHT
I am exhausted by the end of the night. After 3 meals made, taking care of kids all day, and the bedtime routine, the last thing I want to do is dishes and cleaning the kitchen. I used to ignore the dishes until the next morning and I was always frustrated when I woke up the next morning with a sink of crusted over, dirty dishes in the sink. So, I push myself in the evening to do all the dishes, get them in the dishwasher or all washed in the sink and put away, counters wiped down, dinner table wiped down, floors swept and I can walk away and go to bed happy. I love waking up in the morning to start breakfast with a clean slate. It helps my sanity each day. So, power through and get that kitchen cleaned at night so you have a clean fresh area to work in the next day.

7. MAKE SURE TO GET 'ME TIME' EACH DAY
Even if it is 15 minutes scrolling through Facebook on your phone while the kids are eating a snack. Drop the to-do list and take some time for yourself. The crying and whining is draining. The constant need from each child is overwhelming at times. There are days I want to scream... or run away (Joking... but really... you know the feeling) Sometimes I get more 'me-time' the other times but I try to get at least 15 minutes each day where I am not helping someone or cleaning something. Do something for yourself.

8. HAVE AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOU EACH MONTH
If it is a hair appointment or a nail appointment, or a massage... Have that standing appointment each month. I get my hair cut every 4 weeks. I get it colored every 8 weeks. Do I NEED to do it that often? Probably not. But, I'm out of the house, away from the kids, talking to an adult for an hour. Plus, a little pampering goes a long way. I make sure at the end of my appointment to schedule another appointment for 4 weeks out. And, I look forward to it every month. It reminds me I'm not just a mom. I'm a woman. And I feel better about myself when I come home. Make that appointment each month. Pamper yourself. Get that massage. Get your nails done. Get your hair done. Do it for you. EVERY. MONTH.

9. PLAN A DATE NIGHT
This may sound backwards. Isn't the guy supposed to plan the dates? Yes. Maybe. But, it doesn't have to be that way. Call a babysitter, get it set up a week ahead and make some dinner reservations. Find a movie to go to. Find a fun event that is going on. Plan it. Sometimes planning it is the fun part. Get out with your fella for a few hours and remind yourselves why you are on this crazy rollercoaster called parenting together in the first place.... Because you LOVE EACH OTHER. Get out every other week or so. It doesn't have to be big or fancy. Go for a walk. Go for a drive. Sit by a pond and talk. No matter what it is, get out and spend some alone time with your husband.

10. PLAN A PROJECT... AND COMPLETE IT
This one sounds weird. But, seriously. There are things that I say I'm going to do and I never get them done. Paint the bedroom. Get my photos printed and in photo albums. Make a baby blanket for a friends baby shower. Things like that. I say I want to do them and most of the time I think I'm too busy and never get them finished... or even started. But, I figure if I can get one done each month I feel satisfied and accomplished. Do it when you have a little time here and there and if possible, get the kids involved. They might enjoy it also. But make a list of projects you want to get done and DO them.

This list has helped me a lot throughout my mommy years. There are times when I feel like I'm going crazy, or when everything is a mess and we have cereal for dinner. But, remember tomorrow is a new day. Try to get up the next day with a fresh mind and soul. Your kids love you and need you. They want the best mommy. So, remember to do some things for YOU to make sure you are a happier, healthier mommy for them.

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Saving Money:My Top 9 Ways to Save on Groceries

We are a family that is 100% behind saving money while buying groceries. This is one area that the budget can change depending on what you buy, how you buy, and when you buy. I had a list of ways I save money on groceries, but I also called out on Facebook for some ideas from you all. You all had some wonderful ideas, so they have also been added to the list! Thank you for your feedback.

From an earlier post, I talked about my monthly meal planning and I mentioned grocery shopping, but I thought I would go more in to detail of how I save on groceries. Our family is on a very strict, tight budget, so if I can save money anywhere, I do it. A few dollars here and there add up really quick.

So, here it is...

My Top 9 List of Saving Money on Groceries!

1. MEAL PLAN! MEAL PLAN! MEAL PLAN!!!!!
I can't say this enough. To go more in depth on my monthly meal planning, check out my other blog post. But seriously, you can save hundreds a month, thousands a year, by just making a meal plan for the month and sticking to it. There is never an excuse about having to order take-out or drive through because of poor planning. There is always a meal ready to go. Know your schedule, if on Wednesday's you have a meeting until 6, that is slow cooker night, or build your own sandwich night. Something quick, easy, and fills bellies. My number one is MEAL PLAN! Many of you on Facebook also mentioned meal planning. It is seriously the most vital way to save money on food!

Here is the link to the meal planning blog post:

http://thevillageformoms.blogspot.com/2016/08/monthly-meal-planning.html


2. BUDGET!
Don't go to the grocery store blind. Know exactly the amount of money you have to spend. Do NOT go over that budget. We have a very strict budget that is the same on the 1st and the 15th. I have my staple foods that I always get and I know how much (generally) those foods will cost. If my cart is getting full and I know I am creeping up to the budget, I will reevaluate what is in my cart. Is it all NEEDED items? Is there a name brand item I have in the cart that can be exchanged for an off-brand item? Stick to the budget. It is really really important. The longer you do it, the more you realize where you can save to get the biggest bang for your buck.

3. LISTS! PENS! CALCULATOR!
Yes, I'm THAT shopper. I never walk into the grocery store without a list in my hand, a pen in the other hand and my calculator sitting on the diaper bag. Usually my oldest (5 years old, learning to read) will hold the list and as we walk through the store we play a game with it. I say, "We have milk in the cart. M-I-L-K. Find that on the list and cross it off". It keeps him busy and he has an 'important' job. I write out a detailed list after I do my monthly meal plan (Check out the other post) and I stick to the list. Always. We cross off what we have in the cart, I check the price, write it down and keep a running tab of what we have spent. We live in California, so there is no sales tax on groceries. So, I don't have to factor that in. When we lived in Idaho, instead of trying to calculate sales tax while shopping, I rounded everything up to the nearest dollar. Even if the price was $1.30. I rounded it up to $2.00. Because, no matter what, you will end up under budget! So, take the time before shopping to write out a list, BRING THE LIST, cross things off of the list, keep track of the price amount and keep adding as you go. That's why I bring a calculator. I'm not great at quick math.

4. USE CASH!
To be honest, this one is hard for me. I've done it both ways. Cash and Debit Card. The easy thing about a debit card is if I go OVER budget the money is in the account anyway, it won't hurt much, right? Eh. Using cash MAKES ME stick to the budget. You only have so much cash in your wallet. That is all you can spend. It makes you REALLY think about what you are putting into that cart. So, before you head to the store, stop by your banks ATM, and get the exact amount of cash you were going to spend. Then, you will for sure have to stick to the budget. Thank you Cristan W. for this suggestion!

5. ONLY BUY WHAT YOU NEED!
This one can be tricky. Stores are there to sell you products, especially new and exciting products. Trust me, you don't NEED them. There is a reason those new items are in the middle of the walkway and you have to shimmy around them. The bright, bold colors are calling your name and all of a sudden, YES! I DO NEED THE NEW OREOS! No you don't. Keep to the list. Only buy what you need. There is a reason the name brand, expensive, sugary cereal is at kids' eye level. There is a reason the expensive crackers are in the walkway right in reach. Product placement. They want you to buy them. And, it's usually the very unhealthy, expensive, junk we shouldn't be eating anyway. When was the last time you saw strawberries or a head of lettuce in the aisle? Exactly. If you don't NEED it, and it's not on your list. DON'T BUY IT.

6. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR SPOUSE
My husband and I have a "budget meeting" every two weeks. (Another post for that subject later). I do the bill paying, budget making, meal planning in our house. However, I don't keep my husband in the dark. Usually a few days before pay day we sit down together and I explain our budget for the next two weeks. We sometimes adjust, if we can or need to, and we agree on the budget, the bills going out, and the meal plan. But, for groceries... We have a budget. We both know the budget. I will buy the groceries and after I get home and have a few minutes I will text him and tell him, "I spent $X.XX at the grocery store today. We have $X.XX  left in the budget for the next two weeks." or "We have NO grocery budget left. Don't spend anything." We communicate a lot through text this way. He will run to the store if we need something we forgot. He brings me the receipt or texts me the amount.
We have a dry erase board in our kitchen. I have been known to put a dollar amount at the top right corner of the board. No one else knows what it is, but it's our grocery budget. Communicate however you can. It's so important to be on the same page with your spouse. Less arguments and confusion the more you communicate.

7. DON'T SHOP HUNGRY!
Thank you Kayla C. for this important tip! Seriously! Don't shop hungry. Eat a nice big meal before you go shopping. You will be less tempted to buy all the junk that looks so tasty when you are starving and shopping. I've been known to grab a candy bar and a water at check out when I'm hungry while shopping. Well, there was a few dollars wasted that could have gone towards something way more important.

8. BUY OFF BRAND!
Yes, there are some things that don't compare Name Brand and Off Brand. But, for canned goods, milk, dairy, some breads, eggs, flour, sugar, seasonings, frozen veggies, etc. it's pretty much all the same. Remember that recall on frozen veggies a few months back? And, almost EVERY brand of frozen veggies were recalled? Because they were ALL the SAME? And came from the same farms? Yet, we will pay one package label $5 and another $2 for the exact same product. In the beginning, do a taste test. Grab an off brand can of tomato sauce with your others and compare it. Most likely it's comparable and you will spend 1/3 of the price for off brand products. Thank you Melanie S. for this tip!

9. BUY IN SEASON PRODUCE!
We love our fresh fruits and veggies in our house, like most people. Just be smart about it. Some fruits and veggies are SUPER expensive during certain times of the year because they are out of season and being shipped in from far away. Know you seasonal fruits and veggie lists and you will save hundreds of dollars throughout the year.

Here is a short list of some seasonal produce:

Fall:
Squash
Pear
Cherries
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Grapes
Huckleberries
Jalapenos
Limes
Mushrooms
Pineapple
Pumpkin
Sweet Potatoes

Winter:
Sweet Potatoes
Brussels Sprouts
Oranges
Dates
Grapefruit
Kale
Kiwi
Pear
Pomegranate

Spring:
Apricots
Artichokes
Asparagus
Broccoli
Collard Greens
Corn
Green Beans
Honeydew
Mango
Lime
Lettuce
Peas
Spinach
Strawberries

Summer:
Apricots
Cucumber
Beets
Cherries
Bell Peppers
Blackberries
Blueberries
Boysenberries
Lettuce
Cantaloupe
Grapes
Corn
Eggplant
Tomatoes
Green Beans
Grapes
Honeydew
Lima Beans
Okra
Plums
Radishes
Raspberries
Strawberries
Watermelon
Zucchini

All-Year
Applies
Avocados
Bananas
Cabbage
Carrots
Celery
Coconut
Olives
Onions
Potatoes

Obviously there are WAY more fruits and veggies to name, but these are kind of the main ones. To save even more money, if you have a spot for a garden, DO ONE! You will have fresh veggies and fruits in the summer and if you have a big enough garden, you could can some of those for winter, which saves a TON of money.

I hope this list helped you. Thank you all for your feedback on Facebook. Let me know your thoughts.

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HAPPY SAVING!!!!!

Monthly Meal Planning

Recently, I was asked about a calendar in my kitchen that has my meal plans for the month. I explained what I do and she suggested I write a post about how I plan meals for the month and about the other calendars around my house that keep my life running smoothly.

I am a stay-at-home mom. Most days, I can start planning and prepping a meal around 4:30 in the afternoon. This is obviously unrealistic for a mom who works outside the home. If you are a mom who works outside the home and would like to explain how you plan meals, I would love to hear from you!! I would love to get that perspective also! Just message me!!!

 I may be crazy, or a little weird about organization, but since this was a requested post, I will try not to be too insecure about posting it.

So, here I go.

How I plan meals for THE WHOLE MONTH. And, yes. It is possible and doable. And it makes life 10 times easier knowing what is going on the table in the evening and not scrambling around every night at 6  PM throwing something together, or spending $30 for take out. We have saved hundreds of dollars every month, which turns out to be thousands of dollars each year, by meal planning for the month.

For a little background.

I make sure each dinner consists of as many food groups as possible, for as cheap as possible.

Meat
Veggie
Starch (Potato, rice, or pasta)
Fruit
*I sometimes don't get the fruit on the table, depending on the season or the night. But, I make sure there is always a meat, starch, and veggie (Or 2... or 3)

So, this is what I do....


STEP ONE: MAKE A LIST OF ALL YOUR RECIPES
I have a document on my computer that has ALL the recipes I make for dinner. The list has grown throughout the years and I have gotten rid of some recipes that weren't favorites for my family. I usually try at least one NEW recipe each month. Facebook and Pinterest are great for this. But, I don't see the recipe and make it that night. It waits until the next month and I put it on the calendar.

Make sure you have the recipe written down in a handy place. I know some recipes by heart, but still pull out the recipe to double check, especially with little ones around, distracting me.

So, make a list of ALL your recipes you know how to make. If you aren't too interested in cooking and your list is short, no worries. It will grow over time. Try to get at least 14 meals so you can rotate them every 2 weeks.

A sample part of my list is:

Tacos
Mongolian Beef
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Spaghetti
Roast
Shepherds Pie
Shake N Bake Chicken
Meat Loaf
Etc.

It doesn't have to be complex. Just something to feed your family.
Then, each night add the sides. Potatoes (Even instant) work great. Get a good rice cooker and steam rice, cook up a pasta side. Steam some broccoli and green beans, or boil some corn.
Again, it doesn't have to be complicated. Something on the table to fill bellies and give nutrition.

STEP TWO: WRITE OUT RECIPES ON YOUR CALENDAR

I buy groceries every 2 weeks. If we run out of something, of course I run to the store and pick it up, but the bulk of my groceries are bought on the 1st and 15th of the month, when my husband gets paid. Because of this, I make sure the first 4-5 days after payday are recipes that require fresh ingredients, for example, Tacos. You need fresh lettuce and other ingredients. I'm not making a special trip to the store for those ingredients. We have tacos the first days after payday.

But, get those recipes written down. I always just write down the main dish and then find sides to match with it that night. You can get even more specific and pick sides also and write those down.

STEP THREE: MAKE YOUR GROCERY LIST
I have my calendar in hand and my recipes in hand. I go day by day and read each meal and read the recipe. I make sure I have the ingredients I need on my list, or check the pantry to make sure I have it on hand. If I need something specific, say Ranch Dressing, I buy 2 or 3. One for the recipe and one or  two for the pantry so I don't have to buy one for a while. I make my 2 week grocery list and make sure I have everything I need, or 90% of what I need for the next couple weeks. Then, there are no excuses. I have everything for the meal, so it should make it easy.

STEP FOUR: GROCERY SHOP
Sometimes this is the hard step. Especially with 3 little ones in tow. But, I force myself to do it. I try to make it a game with my kids and they learn basic items we need and know the brand I buy. They seem to enjoy it, for the most part. But, Grocery Shop! Take the hour or 2 it takes to get everything so it is all organized! It will pay off in the end!

STEP FIVE: STICK WITH IT!
Stick with the meal plan. It saves us hundreds of dollars a month, seriously. I was spending money some nights ordering take out because I didn't have some ingredients or I didn't have an idea for dinner. Now that I know what I'm making every day, it takes stress off of me. I know what I need to do and what time I need to start preparing it.

This seriously saves us a TON of money. It takes stress off of me. There are no questions about what is for dinner and it keeps life organized.

Make it fit your schedule. For example, I am away from the house until after 6 on Thursdays. This used to ALWAYS be take-out night. And, we were spending $30-50 every week because I wasn't planning well. I now put something in the slow cooker and make sure I have easy sides, like instant potatoes or rice and a steamable veggie.

I swear by this. It is something I stick with every single month.

Let me know your thoughts. I would love to hear from you.


If you Meal Plan and would like to share how you do it, Please message me and I will add your thoughts to the blog!!! I love to hear different ideas and learn different ways of doing things.

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Baby Led Weaning: My 6 Tips

I have been asked by many people about Baby Led Weaning.

For the “Dictionary” definition, Baby Led Weaning is this:
 an alternative method for introducing complementary foods to infants in which the infant feeds themselves hand-held foods instead of being spoon-fed by an adult. The BLW infant also shares family food and mealtimes and is offered milk (ideally breast milk) on demand until they self-wean.

“Weaning” can be confusing. When I thinking of weaning, I think of gradually getting your baby to stop nursing on the breast or bottle, and graduate to a cup. This type of “weaning” is different. It’s introduction to solid foods.
 For a little background, I have 3 children. My first was the stereotypical “Gerber” puree baby. We introduced ALL pureed foods for 3-5 days before introducing the next food. He had NO real solid food until close to his first birthday. We thought we were following “the rules”. The trouble with this, we have found out, is he is SO PICKY! He is our pickiest eater. He is not a fan of textures and doesn’t like any type of strong flavors.
 Our second child was born 19 months after our first, so we were way more relaxed and flexible with him. He was half and half. Half purees, half solid real food. He is much more adventurous with his food choices and is a very good eater.
Our third baby is 9 months old. At 6 months of age, we automatically introduced her to solid foods. We followed the Baby Led Weaning idea from day one. She is a very adventurous eater and we are always so amazed at how well she eats at such a young age, and the foods she will eat. All-in-all, I’ve done both purees and baby led weaning. I’m constantly asked about my experience with Baby Led Weaning. So, I thought I would put together a list of tips, if you are considering BLW. 

1. EASE IN

Start soft and mushy. I first start with easy to mush foods. I would test them in my mouth by pressing the food between my tongue and the roof of my mouth. If it mushed well, I fed it to her. My favorites to try first: Bananas, mashed potatoes, cooked carrots, canned pears, canned peaches, just to name a few. I then moved on to less mushy foods like: steamed broccoli and cauliflower, strawberries, blueberries, ground beef, soft breads, etc. At 9 months, my daughter is eating things like shredded chicken, cooked green beans, kidney beans, sliced olives, pastas, shredded cheese, pretty much anything and everything that is easy to eat with no teeth. Just remember to ease in. Watch them. As they get the hang of it, move on to more difficult to eat foods.

 2. Don’t Freak Out! Gagging Is Normal.

Like any parent, my first fear with baby led weaning was “My baby is going to choke!” However, you will be very surprised with your baby. They have a natural (And strong) gag reflex. They know when they are going to choke and take care of it by themselves. There are times I have had to pull food out of my daughters mouth because she shoved WAY too much food in there and gagged, and once I pulled her out of the high chair and helped her spit some food out, but 95% of the time she will gag, spit the food out, and take another bite. Gagging is normal. They will gag. It’s scary at first, but they know what they are doing. Always, always, always, keep a close eye on your baby at meal time. Don’t feed your baby foods on-the-go, and make sure they are sitting up straight and securely while eating. Baby Led Weaning is natural. There was no Gerber jarred foods hundreds of years ago, and all babies learned how to eat. So, don’t freak out! Your baby will gag, and it’s okay. Just always keep a very close eye on them the whole time they are eating.

 3. Bigger Is Better

 Most advice given for introducing foods is “Pea Sized” portions of food. I’ve learned, bigger is better. A 6-7 month old baby hasn’t mastered the thumb-finger grasp yet and can’t pick up the food. They fully palm an object to pick it up. Larger foods they can bite pieces off of seems to work better. For example, if you are going to introduce watermelon, cut a larger (1 inch by 3 inch) piece they can pick up and gnaw on. If it’s veggies like broccoli or a green bean, give them the whole piece of broccoli or green bean. The only foods I cut small are circular foods like sliced cooked carrots. I cut those in half because those do pose a big choking hazard.

4. Get Ready To Get Messy!

Baby Led Weaning is fun. But, it’s MESSY! They will get food places you didn’t know you could get food. During bath time, I found food behind my daughter’s ear. How does that even happen? BLW is messy. Make sure you have a good, easy to clean high chair, lots of bibs, or strip that baby down to a diaper. My daughter HATES bibs. We have finally given up on them. We would Velcro it on, she instantly pulled it off and threw it on the floor. I have learned to strip her down to a diaper before meal time and then wipe her down with a wet dish cloth afterward. With all the mess, it leads me to #5.

 5. Don’t Worry About How Much They Are Getting IN Their Tummy

Baby Led Weaning is a full experience for your baby. Seeing the real food (Not a puree), feeling the food, hearing the noises as they squish it between their fingers, smelling the food, and tasting the food. They will play with every piece, squish it, wipe it all over their tray, taste it, throw it, examine it, and hopefully at some point swallow some. Don’t fret if you feel like they aren’t getting enough food in their bellies. At the beginning, they are just learning and they are getting most of their nutrition from breastmilk and/or formula, so don’t worry about them fully getting nutrition from the food. Your baby will master eating quickly. You will be surprised how much they actually do eat.

 6. Have Fun With It

 Last but not least. Have fun with it. It is a new experience for your baby. Sit back and enjoy the new skill they are mastering. Don’t get too nervous with it. If you are uncomfortable with certain foods, don’t feed it to your baby. Remember, you are the parent, you get to choose what they put in their mouths, not anyone else. Don’t feel pressured by other people. Follow your instincts with feeding your baby. Enjoy Baby Led Weaning!

You are awesome!

 If you have any other tips, or have any questions or need advice, I would love to hear them!! Leave me a comment!

Correct Once, Praise 10 Times

Correct Once, Praise 10 Times

 Some of the best advice I was ever given was about discipline. The way we discipline in our house is, I think, much different than many people. We don’t believe in physical punishment. No spankings, no hand smacking, no grabbing roughly by the arm, no flicking, etc. My children have rarely been set in ‘time out’, and majority of the time I will sit with them and discuss why they were there and how to better handle the situation. We (usually) don’t yell. We follow more of a ‘Gentle Parenting’ approach to discipline. Discussing how to handle situations, practicing apologizing, practicing accepting apologies. Don’t get me wrong, I lose my temper and yell. What parent hasn’t? No one is perfect. However, no matter the way you discipline, or correct, your child, the best advice I was ever given about correction was: ‘For every correction, you must praise your child TEN TIMES.” Obviously, not all at once, but throughout the day, find at least ten ways to praise your child. Doesn’t sound too hard right? On a good day, praising my child is easy. “Good job picking up your toys.” “Thank you for being a good listener.” “You are amazing.” “Do you realize how much I love you?” But, there are those days where I have to correct my child 5 or 6 times. That means, I have to find 50-60 things to praise them for. Big or small. I find, sometimes, it is easier to find flaws and the not-so good in people, including our children, and it is harder to find the good and praiseworthy. I have followed this advice with my two oldest children and it is amazing to see the difference in them when praised on a daily basis. They are more confident. They are proud to show me accomplishments, they spend time talking with me more. On the flipside, they aren’t afraid to make mistakes. They come to me when they have done something wrong and explain themselves. When I praise my children ten times more than disciplining, I am able to find more wonderful qualities about them that I adore, daily. I enjoy my time with my family more. I see the strengths in my children, getting to know their personalities. Try it out. Tell me what you think, and the results. I’m a believer. ‘For every correction, praise ten times’