Sunday, January 31, 2016

Easy Stuffed Apple Croissant!


I sat so cozy in my best set of pajamas,  under a fuzzy throw blanket, my feet up, in the reclining position of my favorite sofa.  The smell of my over creamed coffee lurking in the air from the nearby end table.  I scrolled through the social media channels as I often do in the  morning upon waking.  I was happy it was Sunday and I was getting to relax.  My children all migrated from their bedrooms,  each one took a seat on the couch across the room.  I could feel the eyes staring upon me.  We exchanged "good Mornings" and then I quickly looked back down trying to avoid the dreaded statement that was about to escape from their precious lips.  It was all too late and I knew it!  I had made eye contact, and before I could blink there it was!  "We are hungry!"  "What are we going to have for breakfast?"

On the weekends I try and cook my children something warm and fresh,  because honestly school is just too dang early and we pretty much eat cold over processed sugar cube cereal every day of the week.  I use the weekend to up my mom game, so this morning here is what I came up with.

My children named them the "Yummy Fillers".  I knew I had some croissant dough sitting in the fridge from what I thought was going to be a fabulous dinner wreath, but we ended up having $5.00 pizza instead.  I opened my refrigerator and peeked around for what other ingredients I could add to my croissant dough.

Ingredients used:

  • (1) roll of Pillsbury Croissant dough
  • (1) large apple
  • (4) oz cream cheese
  • (3) TBSP butter
  • (1/4) C brown sugar
  • (1)TBSP Cinnamon
  • (1) egg white

Preparation:

  1. Core and add apple to a food processor 
  2. add chopped apple to small saucepan, with butter, cream cheese, brown sugar and Cinnamon.
  3. simmer on low, (stirring constantly) until butter and cream cheese are melted.
  4. let mixture cool
  5. separate the croissant dough into individual croissants
  6. add about a table spoon of filling onto each croissant and fold.
  7. brush with egg white, and sprinkle top with cinnamon and a pinch of white sugar.
  8. place on parchment paper lined cookie sheet and bake @ 375 for 10 minutes!

 Let cool a couple minutes and enjoy!!


Thursday, January 28, 2016

Kid Friendly Salad :)

I don't know what it is, but I can't put any type of vegetable in front of my kids and expect them to eat it unless it's a carrot stick!  I am constantly trying to find ways to get their veggies in them, and I was pleasantly surprised the other night when I looked around the table at dinner and all three of them finished their salads!!  Wait, What did I just say?  Yes you heard it correctly, ALL three of my kids ate vegetables without one complaint or scrunched up nose!  Yay me!!  So if you too have children refusing to eat their vegetables, I encourage you to give this salad a try!


Now the trick is to not call it "Salad", but rather fruit salad!!  By calling it fruit salad, the thought of vegetables leave their head and they are all about the fruit!  I totally just sang a song in my office, "it's all about the fruit, bout the fruit, no veggies!"  Hehehe :)  

Here is all I put inside this "fruit" salad...

  • Romain lettuce
  • organic baby spinach
  • fresh diced strawberries
  • fresh dices pears
  • Hemp Seeds
That is it!  The cool thing is, this would also make a great lunch if you are dieting!  We ate it all up, no dressing required because the fruit is so sweet!  The hemp seeds add a nice nutty flavor and some added protein!  

Have a wonderful day!

Monday, January 25, 2016

The Absolute BEST Mac N Cheese You Will Ever Eat!!



I saw someone talking about using Gnocchi for their mac n cheese and I was immediately intrigued!  To be honest I had only used gnocchi one other time in my life and was not really sure what to do with it.  Needless to say, I was not impressed!  I had a package of Parmesan gnocchi in my freezer from working with Three Bridges a while back.  I decided to give Gnocchi mac n cheese a try!



  • First I boiled one 12 oz. package of Parmesan Gnocchi for 3 minutes and added to a greased casserole dish.  I added three small home grown jalapenos!  ( If you leave Jalapenos on the bush for a longer period of time they turn red, I tend to leave some on because I like the pop of color!)
  • Next in a small sauce pan I added 4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup whole milk, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 Tsp minced garlic, dry basil, Himalayan sea salt, and pepper to taste.  Simmer until cream cheese is melted (stirring constantly)  I poured this on top of the Gnocchi and then topped with sliced mesquite turkey from the deli.

  • I then added grated cheese on top of that

  • Sprinkled some Parmesan bread crumbs on top and placed in a preheated 350 degree oven until cheese was bubbly.  approximately 8 minutes.


  • The top has some crisp to it due to the bread crumbs, the inside was the creamiest, most fluffy, delicious Mac n Cheese I have ever tasted!!
I served inside a Parmesan cheese bowl, which I highly recommend!!!






Enjoy!!!

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz package Gnocchi
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1/4 c. milk
  • Minced garlic
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • dry basil
  • salt
  • pepper
  • jalapenos (however many depending on your heat preference)
  • sliced turkey (Bacon would also be great!)
  • 1 C. shredded cheese 
  • bread crumbs 



Sunday, January 24, 2016

Friday, January 22, 2016

Southwestern Chicken & Quinoa Wrap!!!


My family loves the southwestern Chicken burrito!  I was on a mission to try and make a healthier version, so here you have it!  The Chicken and Quinoa Wrap!!

Things You Need:

  • Roasted Chicken ( I used a rotisserie chicken I purchased from our super market deli)
  • Quinoa
  • Can of black beans
  • Can of corn
  • Cheese
  • Lettuce (I used romaine)
Spices:

  • Cumin
  • Garlic salt
  • paprika
  • black pepper
  • red chili pepper


Preparing:


  • cook quinoa according to package directions.
  • add cumin, Garlic salt, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of red chili pepper to your quinoa while cooking.
  • shred roasted chicken
  • add drained black beans, corn, and chicken to a saucepan and simmer until warm.
  • break off a piece if lettuce, add your chicken mixture, quinoa, and shredded cheese on top, then roll into a wrap!
....and that's a rap!  (pun intended)

Thursday, January 21, 2016

Feel Like Hiding In a Cave? Try This Instead!



Sometimes life comes at us with a curve ball.  Sometimes things happen that are just not as we had planned or hoped them to be.  What are we left to do?  I know recently I myself have had some of life's struggles were I just can't seem to find the answers.  I have been sulking in my own pity, crying myself a river, and ready to just pack a bag, run away, and go in hiding for a month or two.  Do you ever feel like running away from life?  Instead of running away, just go for a run!!  If you are not into running, it can most definitely be a walk!  Physical exercise benefits the brain on multiple levels from molecular to behavioral.  Just 20 minutes of Physical exercise increases your heart rate which pumps oxygen to the brain, leads to releasing hormones, all while providing a nourishing environment for the growth of brain cells!

From the behavioral standpoint Running has a antidepressant like effect with a significant drop in stress hormones.  

Today I was having a rough morning, I have been signed up to do a 5K virtual run through Race for a cure that I had kept putting off.  This particular race was a race to help fight cancer through cancer research.  Having lost both of my parents to cancer, this race really touched close to home for me.  So this morning I mapped a route and off I went!  At the end of my run, my head felt clearer, my heart a little less heavy, and I was stoked to have earned a metal all while raising money for cancer research!

So if you are down, feel like hiding in a cave, or just need to clear your head, get out and get your heart rate up.  I promise you will feel better!  I always need a little motivation, but  I LOVE the way I feel afterwards!  Virtual races are a great way to keep yourself motivated on getting out there!  Good for your heart and brain in so many ways!  

Here is my latest:




Thursday, January 14, 2016

Grown-Up Smores!! No Campfire Needed!!

As my family gets ready for yet another adventure in this big wide world of ours, I need to come prepared!  This time our adventure will include our toy box trailer, some sleeping bags, our side by side off road vehicle, our ice chest, and some hot dogs!   If you haven't guessed yet, we will be camping!  The first thing my kids ask when we plan a camping trip is, "will we have smores?"  UMMM, of course!!  As much as I despise those sticky little dangerous messy burnt fire balls, you can't go camping without having smores!  Smores are a lot of work while camping especially when you have several children, so I want to share with you a "mommy smore" recipe that really gets you in the spirit of this crazy production line you are about to be a part of.  The "mommy or grown up smore" is a cocktail that I must warn you are very delicious, very fattening, very addicting, and very dangerous!!  Not a flaming marshmallow fireball dangerous, but so good you may just have one too many dangerous!!  Don't say I didn't warn you!


Here is what you do:

  • Dribble chocolate syrup down the side of a cocktail glass (sometimes I add caramel syrup too!)

  • Add some cubed Ice

  • Add one shot of Marshmallow Vodka

  • Add one shot of Baily's Irish Creme

  • Add One shot of Caramel Vodka

  • Add 1/2 to One shot of caramel coffee creamer

  • For a garnish dip marshmallows in chocolate syrup and roll in crushed graham crackers!

Enjoy :)

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Guide to Disneyland Park 2016!!


The Disneyland Park was officially unveiled on July 17th, 1955 by Walter Elias Disney himself.  As Walt Disney welcomed his first guest into the park he told them:

"To all who come to this place; welcome.  Disneyland is your land.  Here age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future.  Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world."

Now as Disneyland celebrates it's sixty year anniversary, the park seems to be just getting started, and is still as magical as it was on opening day!!  As part of the 60th anniversary the park has debuted it's 'Paint the Night Parade'.  The parade lasts about 19 minutes and features innovative floats, catchy music, dancers, and all your favorite characters!

Not only is it a new year, but lots of new magic is coming to the park in 2016!  There will be some attraction closures in addition to the Star Wars land, a new 'frozen' show, and ongoing 60th anniversary celebrations!

While Disneyland is a joyous adventure, no adventure shall go un-planned!  Disneyland is no exception.  It is recommended you have a plan in place while visiting the park to fully maximize your time there.  The time you invest in planning can really pay off in experiencing more of the parks attractions.

There is a simple way for you to plan your upcoming trip to Disneyland and have all your questions answered before you go.  Independent guide books has up to date information, from where to eat, to a list of rides, ride closures, and special events!  Independent guide books are available in digital and print versions through Amazon. The Independent guide books are updated through out the year and only printed on demand to keep you up to date on all the latest information!


I received the Independent Guide To Disneyland 2016 in the printed version and I absolutely love it!  I love that there is an up to date calendar of special events coming up this year as well as the best times of the year to visit!  My children love the pictures throughout the book and are already fixing to pack their luggage!  I think this book is great for so many reasons and I highly recommend you check them out before you plan your next trip to the happiest place on earth!

Enjoy :)



*Disclosure~ Independent Guide Books provided me a printed copy of their book in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions expressed here are my own :)  psst.  I love this book!!!


Monday, January 11, 2016

KIDS FREE!! The Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace :)


 My family is always on the look out for fun adventures here in Arizona.  I am thrilled to be attending the Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival and Artisan Marketplace!  I have never been, and can't wait for the experience!   The Arizona Renaissance Festival is held annually and is said to be fun for the whole family!  This Medieval amusement park has a 12- stage theater, a 30 acre circus, and an arts and craft!  If that doesn't sound exciting enough, how about a jousting tournament and feast!?  All of this rolled up into one non-stop, day long family adventure!!


I have a special for you all!!  Kids Free!!  Readers of Buckeye Moms Meet can receive One Free child ticket per coupon with One full price Adult ticket purchased at the festival gate!  Coupon is valid at the 2016 Festival Box office only.  NOT VALID in conjunction with a FRYS discount ticket or any other discounted offer.  Not for re-sale.  One coupon per person.  Distribution on Festival property prohibited.  Photocopies not permitted.  VALID FEBRUARY 20, 2016 THROUGH MARCH 27, 2016

GRAB YOUR COUPON HERE!

Come on out and enjoy the day with the family!


See you there!!!  :)












Sunday, January 10, 2016

Park opens in Buckeye, Arizona!! Skyline Regional Park is awaiting your next adventure!!


My family and I moved to Buckeye during the great migration of 2004.  We chose Buckeye because it was a small country town west of the hustle and bustle of the big city.  We liked the small town feel of Buckeye, and apparently so did so many others!  Since we moved here the town as grown leaps and bounds.  We used to enjoy riding our side by side off road vehicle around in the open desert, where there is now housing developments.  slowly but surely Buckeye has been filling up any open space with homes and strip malls, and families a plenty.  Most people who have moved here often state that there is just "not enough for families to do out here".  I would have to agree.  This is why I am so excited The town of Buckeye and The City and Bureau land management came to an agreement to use 8,675 acres of land in the southern White Tank Mountains as a regional park and preserve.

I will admit we had some good times up in those hills trail riding our side by side through the ravines and up the small sand dune while overlooking the phoenix skyline.  There was however a problem with the landscape being used as a dumping ground and was littered with spent bullet casings.  I know some of the town locals, teenagers, and folks who liked to off road up in the mountains may be disappointed to hear it is now a park and preserve.  We had mixed feelings so decided to go check it out on opening day to see what all the buzz was about.

Skyline regional park is about two miles north of interstate 10, exit Watson Road.  The Park is free to enter and has two separate parking areas the first one you come to has a couple picnic Ramadas and a small hike up to an overlook.  Next you will come to a much larger parking area, with a camping loop with  seven good sized spots.  Camp spots have a 50 foot parking pad, two tent spots, a picnic table, cooking grill, and fire ring.  Camping is $20 per night for Buckeye locals and $30 for non residents.  You must be 18 years old to make a reservation.  You can reserve your overnight camping spot or Ramada at skylineregionalpark.com  At this area there is a restroom facility, several picnic Ramadas and some trail heads.


Next to the restrooms there is all the information you need as to the different trails, their difficulty, and if they are best for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.  My husband and I were distracted by the beautiful walking bridge they had built and passed by the trail information without looking it over.  We walked over the bridge and saw a trail marker that read 1.06 miles.  We thought, "oh that isn't bad, lets check it out!"  we took off walking only to find out the 1.06 miles just brought you to another trail.  We ended up walking a little over 2 miles.  The trail said it was moderate difficulty and I would have to agree!  The uphill was a bit tough, but doable.  We did see someone attempting this hike with a stroller and they had to turn around.  After we got back and saw the maps by the restroom facility we noticed there are some smaller easy hikes that are only about .22 miles which might be a better bet with the wee ones!


The park really was beautiful!  I am happy to say we now have something to do with the family in Buckeye that is not going to break the bank.  The city cleaned up the area nicely and I am excited to spend a great amount of time here.  The park nestled up in the hills has a beautiful view of the city skyline, hence the name.  My husband left from our home this morning to try out some of the trails on his mountain bike.  I will share is findings here on buckeyemomsmeet!


In conclusion, sometimes people get used to the way things were and wish things were left well alone.  People like their freedom to do what they want, whether it be shooting their guns, having bon fires, or simply off roading.  This park may have some folks upset, feeling their freedoms have been taken away.  I like my freedoms, I used to enjoy this area for off roading.  I can say, I didn't always feel safe.  Although there was fun to be had, the land was a huge eye sore.  Sometimes Freedom comes with a cost.  Not all folks are respectful of Mother nature and the bounty of peace she offers.  I LOVE this new park and the opportunities it has brought all the families in Buckeye and surrounding areas to get out, get some fresh air, and exercise.  Buckeye has provided us a nice place to have a picnic with our families while looking out at all the beauty this valley has to offer.  Well done Buckeye...Well done!!

Saturday, January 9, 2016

The most comfortable bra ever!!!

I recently wrote to you guys that I was not going to put anything on BuckeyeMomsmeet that I do not LOVE or believe in.  I stand by my word as I share with you this awesome deal.

I am the lady who walks in the house and the first thing I do is remove my bra.  I hate wearing them.  They are uncomfortable, restrictive, and just down right annoying!  I was raised however to be modest and keep all my lady parts covered, so outside of the house you will not find me without a bra holding me hostage.

About a year ago I was introduced to the Coobie Bra.  I ordered a couple in black and a beautiful violet.  I have got to say I have been extremely happy with this company from the get go!  These are the most comfortable bras on the market!  I often wake up in the morning still wearing my bra because I simply forgot I was wearing one!  They are that comfortable!!


I am not writing this post as a ploy to just try and get you to spend money on this company, I am writing this post to let you know if you are looking for a bra that supports and doesn't annoy the crap out of you I have a special offer to share!

Coobie seamless bras are ultra comfortable like I said, they are versatile without sacrificing style.  They are affordable, stylish, seamless, and comfortably fits sizes 32A- 36D!  They are available in 10+ styles and over 50 colors and patterns.  There is also full size that fits 38-42D!


Right now thanks to  US family guide and coobie bras I am able to bring BuckeyeMomsMeet readers a special offer!  You can save 30% on any order of coobie seamless bras or Violet head bands at www.shopcoobie.com and www.violetloveheadbands.com

Use Promo code USFG30

I have not had the chance to try out the violet head bands just yet, but will be ordering one and I will give you an update here at BuckeyeMomsMeet and let you know how I liked it!


Update!!!



US Family Guide and ShopCoobie.com sent me a coobie bra in the most beautiful violet color as well as a Violet Headband!  I love the way they both fit and always get compliments on the headband when ever I wear it!  The coobie seamless bra does not disappoint and Is my go to bra every morning!  I highly recommend you check out these bras if you have not done so already!!  You will never want to wear another brand of bra again after the style and comfort of Coobie seamless bras.


Sunday, January 3, 2016

Top Baking Soda uses, tips, and tricks!!


Baking Soda, The unexpected secret to a cleaner fresher home for less.  For over 165 years Baking soda has been a pure, natural and inexpensive staple in homes everywhere.  Baking soda can be used in countless ways to care for you and your household all for about One dollar!!


Here are a few great tips on how to put that little orange box to use!


Hair Cleanser:

Sprinkle a small amount (quarter size) of  Baking Soda into the palm of your hand along with your favorite shampoo.  Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly.  The baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind.  Your hair will be cleaner and more manageable!  No more spending an arm and a leg on over priced clarifying shampoos!!

Laundry Booster:

Give your laundry a boost by adding one cup of  baking soda to your laundry to make your detergent work harder for you and your family!  A better balance of pH in the wash helps to get clothes cleaner, fresher, and brighter!  Arm and Hammer now offers a 13.5 lb. resealable bag which gives you an easy additive to use in your wash :)

Musty Laundry Odors:

Do you ever get busy like me and forget to put your clean clothes in the dryer in time and they get that musty scent?  That scent is horrible and hard to get out of your clothes!  Get your clothes and towels clothesline fresh by adding 1/2 c baking soda to their rinse cycle!

Do you have a funky fridge or freezer?

Place the orange box inside your fridge or freezer to absorb any funky odors that can spoil the flavor of your fresh food!  Change the box out every 30 days to keep your foods tasting fresher longer!

Clean pots and pans:

Eliminate the burden of scrubbing pots and pans!  Baking soda penetrates and helps lift baked on foods.  Shake a generous amount of baking soda on your pan add dish soap and hot water.  Let sit for 15 minutes and wash as usual.

Now for some fun!!  Arm and Hammer Water Colors :)

Here is what you'll need:
2 Tbsp baking soda
2 Tbsp flour
2 Tbsp sugar
1 packet Kool-aid drink mix (unsweetened)
2 tsp water

Mix together and paint with them right away!  

*Do not eat or drink water colors!  Children should only use under adult supervision!



I hope you found these tips helpful!  Find more information on the many uses of  baking soda at ArmandHammer.com

Disclosure: I was provided product in exchange for a review.  However all opinions expressed here are my own...