Just Another Manic Momday

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

2012-02-12T14:35:00.001-06:00

I hope you are all having a wonderful pre-Valentine's Day weekend. I know I am so happy to just relax.

I had a little extra time Sunday while Jack napped, and decided to make a Valentine's Day treat. I am not kidding you when I tell you these are so easy and so delicious that ANYONE can make them.

Your will win your loved ones over with these cookies (that is if you don't eat them all!). They are made with Red Velvet boxed cake mix, and can be cut using a heart cookie cutter. I like my crinkles a little more puffy, so I left them the way they are.

Thank you so much to Two Peas and Their Pod for the amazing recipe. Now go make some...and share the love.

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Yield: 2 dozen heart shaped cookies

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

ingredients:

1 box red velvet cake mix (I used Duncan Hines)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 cup canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Powdered sugar, for rolling the cookies
Heart shaped cookie cutter, optional

directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix and flour. Whisk until clumps disappear. In the bowl of a stand mixer, mix together cake mix, flour, eggs, oil and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Take about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and form into a ball. Roll the ball in powdered sugar until fully coated. Place cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, or until edges are set and cookies begin to crack.

3. Let cookies sit on baking sheet for 2 minutes. If desired, cut cookies into heart shapes, using a heart shaped cookie cutter. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack and cool completely.

Check out other Valentine's Day related goodies over at Dear Lillie's Valentine Link Party!

It's friday, so fill it!

2012-02-10T14:41:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday!!

1. I started my blog because I wanted to share my domestic endeavors and inspirations - especially party planning which I've always loved.

2. One thing I love seeing on other blogs are great easy recipes and mom stories I can relate to.

3. Something I love about blogging Is to know I am not alone. It's nice to know there are so many other people out there doing, and going through the same thing.

4. A favorite blog post of mine is probably I don't really have one, but probably some of my stories about Jack growing up. IT will be nice to look back and remember how I felt then.

5. Something my friends in real life know about me that I've never before mentioned on my blog is nothing I would put on here ; )

6. My new favorite blogs to read are there are so many. I am really into the food blogs now.

7. Some things I tend to avoid doing on my blog are telling to many stories no one wants to read.

Have a great weekend!

wordless wednesday...an early Valentine

2012-02-08T14:19:00.003-06:00

Oh look at this early Valentine I received.

How sweet, and yes Adam, I will be your Valentine.

Have a great Wednesday!

I Luv My Baby giveaway winner..

2012-02-07T07:20:00.004-06:00

Another day, another winner. This time I have the winner of the ruffle butt onesie to announce.

Congrats to #12 Diana! Email me at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com to claim your prize!

Have a happy day!

The food fight.

2012-02-06T20:51:00.003-06:00

Food. Who knew that something I LOVE would end in a fight between Jack and me. It all started out so perfect. Jack ate anything and everything, Jack's belly was full, Jack (and mommy & daddy) was happy. What more could I ask for?

Oh the good old days. Dinner now consists of loud cries, bribes for bites and anything but a nice family dinner. What went wrong? What happened to my little angel so happy and eager to eat (and please) his mama?

Jack's diet now consists of noodles, fruit and bread...and those are only if we're lucky. "I want nuffin mama", is what we hear regularly at dinner time.

I think the terrible two's have begun.

General Mills Giveaway Winner!

2012-02-06T20:08:00.002-06:00

I hope you are all having a great Monday! I had another busy but fun weekend! I want to announce the winner of the General Mills and MyBlogSpark giveaway.

The winner is #24 Christina!!!

Congrats! Just email me at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com

Last chance at low entry giveaway!

2012-02-06T20:04:00.002-06:00

This is your last chance to enter to win the cutest ruffle butt onesie from "I Luv My Baby".

You can enter HERE.

More filling...

2012-02-03T09:16:00.000-06:00

1. If money wasn't an issue, the first thing I'd cross of my life list is Going on a safari in South Africa. That is one thing I have always wanted to do. Hopefully one day I will .

2. Hot sauce on popcorn is something I like that other people think is weird.

3. Three things I am looking forward to this month are Super Bowl Sunday ( I love all the food!) , having a three day weekend for President's Day and Valentine's Day .

4. My favorite song to sing in the shower is I don't sing in the shower, but if I did, it would probably be something country .

5. If I found out that the production of Dorito's was ending this month, I'd go out and buy as much as I could tomorrow.

6. One thing I'll never grow tired of is spending time with Jack. Pretty soon he won't want to hang out with me anymore .

join me and other "fill in the blankers" at the little things we do, and have a great friday!

New Sponsor and a Giveaway!

2012-02-02T21:26:00.000-06:00

One of my new sponsors is one of the cutest online baby and children's boutiques, I Luv My Baby. They offer baby, childrens', and maternity clothing, organic clothing, personalized clothing, personalized accessories, bedding, furniture, diaper bags, eco-friendly products, and so much more!

The best part is one of my readers will get one of my favorite items from I Luv My Baby ...the Baby Ruffle Butt Onesie, just in time for Valentine's Day!

This cute little glitter heart onesie would look perfect alone, or under a cute jean skirt for the perfect outfit...I love the ruffles!

Check out everything I Luv My Baby has to offer and enter to win this great giveaway!

Good luck and have a great Friday!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Last chance!

2012-02-02T07:57:00.001-06:00

Just a little reminder, only 2 days left to enter to win a cereal prize pack from MyBlogSpark and General Mills ! You can enter HERE!

a few of my favorite things...valentine's edition

2012-01-31T21:31:00.004-06:00

With Valentine's Day only 14 days away, (I can't believe it's February!!)I thought I would share with you all a few of my handmade, favorite things from etsy. Etsy has everything. I swear, everything. These, are just 9 of my favorite things.

From top left:

Miss Brittany's Organic Fun Dough

Chocolate Lips by Nicole's Treats

Dad keychain by Keefer Style Creations

Dog Bow Tie (Charlie Heart's Diesel)

Lola and Cash's Heart Earrings

Silhouette Plate's by Aedrial Original

Personalized Cufflinks by Block Party Press

Knotwork Shop's Coffee Cozy

Golden Heart Ring by Toosis

check me out....

2012-01-31T07:25:00.000-06:00

Beth Anne at The Heir to Blair is one of my favorite bloggers and moms. She has a great writing style, an ADORABLE son, Harrison, and I love that she says it like it is. She is also so kind as to host a giveaway for The Smitten Image on her blog.

So head on over there, enter to win a print of your choice, and check out the rest of her posts if you haven't already. You can enter HERE.

Have a great Tuesday!

Salted Brown Butter Crispy Treats

2012-01-29T10:41:00.003-06:00

This is one of those recipes that is a hit anywhere, and have people begging for the recipe (and more). The browned butter and salt give it that extra little something that the original recipe was missing.

Try them, and I promise you won't be disappointed. Thank you again to my all time favorite food blog The Smitten Kitchen.

Salted Brown Butter Crispy Treats

Makes 16 2-inch squares or 32 1- x 2-inch small bars

4 ounces (1/4 pound or 1 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for the pan
1 10-ounce bag marshmallows
Heaping 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (about half a 12-ounce box)

Butter (or coat with non-stick spray) an 8-inch square cake pan with 2-inch sides.

In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. It will melt, then foam, then turn clear golden and finally start to turn brown and smell nutty. Stir frequently, scraping up any bits from the bottom as you do.

As soon as the butter takes on a nutty color, turn the heat off and stir in the marshmallows. The residual heat from the melted butter should be enough to melt them, but if it is not, turn it back on low until the marshmallows are smooth.

Remove the pot from the stove and stir in the salt and cereal together. Quickly spread into prepared pan.

Let cool, cut into squares and enjoy.

Salted Brown Butter Crispy Treats

2012-01-29T07:35:00.000-06:00

Try them, and I promise you won't be disappointed. Thank you again to my all time favorite food blog The Smitten Kitchen.

Salted Brown Butter Crispy Treats
Makes 16 2-inch squares or 32 1- x 2-inch small bars

4 ounces (1/4 pound or 1 stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for the pan
1 10-ounce bag marshmallows
Heaping 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
6 cups Rice Krispies cereal (about half a 12-ounce box)
Butter (or coat with non-stick spray) an 8-inch square cake pan with 2-inch sides.

In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. It will melt, then foam, then turn clear golden and finally start to turn brown and smell nutty. Stir frequently, scraping up any bits from the bottom as you do.

As soon as the butter takes on a nutty color, turn the heat off and stir in the marshmallows. The residual heat from the melted butter should be enough to melt them, but if it is not, turn it back on low until the marshmallows are smooth.

Remove the pot from the stove and stir in the salt and cereal together. Quickly spread into prepared pan.

Let cool, cut into squares and enjoy.

MyBlogSpark and General Mills Giveway!

2012-01-28T05:55:00.000-06:00

Ringing in the New Year often means new eating habits. We know whole grain is important to you, and the Dietary Guidelines recommend choosing products with a whole grain listed as the first ingredient. Now every cereal with the white check has more whole grain than any other single ingredient with the same great taste. You will see “whole grain” as a part of the first ingredient on the ingredient list, indicating that whole grain is the first and most prevalent ingredient.
According to Dr. Travis Stork, emergency room physician and host of “The Doctors,” identifying whole grain products can be challenging. Shoppers can look for nutritional cues on the front of the box, but they need to read the ingredient list to know if they are getting enough whole grain. Ingredient lists detail ingredients in order of prevalence, and if the words “whole grain” are followed by a grain like wheat or oats, it means the food contains more whole grain than any other single ingredient. Here’s how to determine if your cereals have whole grain as a first ingredient: 
With all the health messages facing grocery store shoppers, it can be confusing to translate what appears on food labels into nutritional needs, and hard to determine which foods have a meaningful amount of whole grain. Dr. Stork has some additional recommendations to help you include whole grain easily into your diet. They include:
Start Early! The Dietary Guidelines recommend people get at least 48 grams of whole grain in their daily diets. Get a jump-start on the day’s nutrition by incorporating whole grain into your morning routine. For instance, when choosing cereal make sure whole grain is listed as the first ingredient. One easy choice is cereal with the white check, which have more whole grain than any other single ingredient. 
Make Simple Swaps. Choose whole grain versions of the foods you love. Great options include whole wheat pasta and whole wheat bread or even whole grain crackers. Also, try different types of whole grain. Use brown rice instead of white rice as a side dish at dinner or popcorn, which is a whole grain, for a snack. 
Don’t Judge a Food by Its Cover. The front of food packages provide good nutritional cues, but don’t forget to read the ingredients and check the nutrition label and side labels for additional health information. Cereals with the white check even include the amount of whole grain per serving on packaging.

For more Information:
on the importance of whole grain and a chance to enter the “Fast Lane for Whole Grain” sweepstakes, visit www.WholeGrainNation.com

I was so happy when General Mills and MyBlogSpark sent me a cereal pack to try.  It included Total, Honey Nut Cheerios, Lucky Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Regular Cheerios.  I have always LOVED Lucky Charms and Jack loves the Cheerios...my husbands favorite is the Cinnamon Toast Crunch.  We will have enough cereal to last us a while around here!

{{{win it}}}
One lucky reader will win a General Mills Prize pack that includes 5 boxes of General Mills cereal with the white check!! Be sure to enter below.

Disclosure:  The prize pack, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A new winner!

2012-01-27T07:36:00.000-06:00

So the first winner of the Tropicana giveaway never responded, which means a new winner!!!

You snooze, you loose!

The new winner is #7 Kelly H!

Kelly send me an email at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com

Congrats!

Fill in the blanks....

2012-01-27T06:13:00.003-06:00

1. My favorite place i've ever traveled to is England and Ireland. I would move to either one tomorrow if I could .

2. South Africa is somewhere I'd love to go someday.

3. I pass the time on a plane (or bus, or car ride or train) by reading .

4. My three must-haves when I travel are my phone , lip gloss and snacks

5. My favorite travel companion is my husband (and now Jack) .

6. The craziest thing that ever happened to me while traveling is Nothing too crazy has ever happened .

7.  The most exotic food I've ever tried while traveling is    Haggis (sheep's heart/liver/lungs) .

8.  If I could live anywhere else, I'd live in    England, Ireland, or Italy. I have this dream to move to another country  .

9.  I have been to    10
states in the U.S.

New shop items!

2012-01-25T06:13:00.002-06:00

So my shop is starting to shape up. I even had a few sales over the weekend! I wanted to share my new "Barnyard" prints with you. You can check them out here, and tell everyone you know!

Have a great day!

Wordless(ish) Wednesday..say cheese!

2012-01-24T20:54:00.000-06:00

I think Jack is taking over with the picture taking since I have been so busy lately....

I hope your "hump day" is going well. If you also participate in Wordless Wed, post your link below!

hello Monday...and a working mom meal.

2012-01-23T05:06:00.000-06:00

During my browsing on pinterest, I was looking for an easy tasty shrimp meal. I found these:

picture via favorite family recipes

This recipe via favorite family recipes blog, is amazing, and pretty healthy. The best part? It took like 15 minutes to make. I just added some Lipton Spanish Rice and it was a meal.

I added tomatoes, since tomatoes make everything taste better, but it's up to your tastes! I love all tacos, but these are a winner, and a perfect weekday meal.
Shrimp Tacos

Coleslaw:

4 cups shredded green cabbage

3 Tbsp Lime Juice

1 1/2 Tbsp dried oregano

-Toss and season with salt.

Cilantro dressing:

1/2 cup mayo

1/2 avocado

1/2 cup cilantro

3 Tbsp lime juice

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

-Mix thoroughly in a blender adding a little water if needed.

Shrimp:

1 pound shrimp

pinch of sugar

1 Tbsp vegetable oil

-Peel shrimp, pat it dry, season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Heat oil over high heat and add shrimp. Cook until shrimp are curled and pink.

Layer the sauce, shrimp, and cabbage in a warm corn tortilla. Top with cotija (or feta) cheese, and chopped tomatoes.

Have a great Monday, and a good week!

Trop50 wants you to have a Spa day...giveaway!

2012-01-22T20:33:00.002-06:00

Earlier this month I brought you a Tropicana Trop50 giveaway of a $50 Spa Week Giftcard. Well thanks to the generous Tropicana, you have a chance to win one more!! You have no idea how amazing a facial, massage or mani/pedi sound right now...especially in this freezing, snowy weather!

Tropicana Trop50 reminds me of warm summer mornings, and walks on the beach! While I love Winter, i could use a day or two of warm beach weather. The warm weather would also help me keep up my resolution to work out more! Walks, bike rides, swimming...they are not the same in the gym. Tropicana Trop50 is perfect for keeping up that resolution with only 50 calories for one serving!! Perfect for breakfast or after a great workout!

Have you had a chance to try Tropicana Trop50? If you go to Tropicana’s Facebook page and share your New Years resolution, you will receive a $1.00 off coupon along with 50 cent off coupons for 50 of your friends. Super Simple Also, while you are there be sure to enter to win $1000 from Tropicana Trop50 (there will be 4 winners!)

{{{win it}}}

One of my readers will win a $50 spa finder gift card courtesy of Tropicana!

Enter below in the rafflecopter box, and good luck!
I was given a sample of Trop50, and the prize is provided by Trop50.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tropicana Winner

2012-01-22T20:21:00.001-06:00

We have a winner!

The winner of the Tropicana $50 spa week gift card is......

#23 Aubrey!!!
Congrats! Email me at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com to claim your prize!

$50 Spa Gift Card ending soon!

2012-01-19T20:29:00.002-06:00

Everyone needs to relax a little more...so why not enter for your chance to win a $50 spa gift certificate!
Just click here!

Love fashion? Then check this out.

2012-01-19T08:42:00.000-06:00

I LOVE clothes shopping. LOVE it. I love sales, I love online shopping, I love going to the mall, and I love dressing up for work; basically I love anything that has to do with fashion.

So I wanted to tell you about this new site Stylitics.

What is it you ask? Well I'll tell you!

Like fashion? Care about what you wear? Stylitics is a fun and useful virtual closet and outfit builder. Add what you’re wearing (it takes 15 seconds per outfit) and you’ll get a personalized outfit history, a view into your own style trends, and much more.

The best part – everything you do in the platform earns you points, which you can redeem for amazing rewards like gift cards, VIP discounts, and access to private events like fashion shows!

I just started checking this site out, but I love it already! Right now it's invitation only, but if you enter invitation code "Momday" when you sign up you'll have access before anyone else!

So check it out and let me know what you think! In the mean time, check out these facts about jeans.

Wordless(ish) Wednesday..snow

2012-01-18T20:12:00.002-06:00

I am sorry I have been late on Wordless(ish) Wednesday lately. ..work is kicking my butt. Actually life is kicking my butt too, but that's another story. We FINALLY had our first snow fall last week. I love snow, and have been waiting for it. While we only got 4 inches or so, it was still fun.

Lenny had a blast. I think he's really a snow dog.

Jack also had a blast....and he got to wear his new light up Cars boots...

Now we are just praying for more snow....

Have a great Wednesday and share your Wordless(ish) Wednesday posts in the comments section, I love seeing them!

Winner!

2012-01-18T11:32:00.000-06:00

So I have a winner for the Smitten Image shop giveaway.

#7 Jessica, you are the lucky gal!

Just email me me at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com with the image you would like!

Thank you all for entering!

Terrific Tropicana and a $50 giveaway!

2012-01-13T10:08:00.002-06:00

Since it’s a new year, it makes sense that one of my very first giveaway for 2012 centers around New Year’s resolutions! Tropicana’s Trop50 True Resolutions wants to help you stay on track and feel great in the New Year, so they are giving one lucky Contest Corner reader a $50 SpaWeek Gift Card to pamper themselves with. Read on for your chance to enter!
Tropicana Trop50 is a juice that offers reduced sugar and calories – something that a lot of people have on their minds right now, since the most common New Year goals tend to focus on health and fitness. Trop50 True Resolutions is a campaign that focuses on the “Real reasons” behind New Year’s resolutions. If you click here to visit their campaign page on Facebook, you’ll be able to share the motivation behind your New Year’s resolutions to receive a coupon good for $1 off Trop50, as well as an entry into their $1000 gift card sweepstakes.

Recently, Trop50 sent me a coupon for a free product coupon for Trop50 so that I would be able to try out the juice and share my thoughts with you. I decided on the Trop50 Lemonade, which come from 50%-- “Tropicana and ’50 percent’ less sugar and calories”. This juice comes in a large bottle and has a nice, tart lemonade taste – you would never know it had less then 50% of anything! Trop50 Lemonade is a perfect way to quench your thirst!

So is healthy eating your New Year’s resolution? Or do you have a different goal centering around your life, family, career? Mine is definitely to eat healthier, and workout more. I am a carb ADDICT, and I need to breka the addiction! I'm also going to do my best to reduce stress where I can and take care of myself. I’ll be keeping you posted on how it goes for me over the next few weeks and share more fun info from Trop50 True Resolutions, as well as offer you a few more exciting gift card giveaways – so stay tuned!

{{{win it}}}

Tropicana is being to generous by giving one lucky reader a $50 Spa and Wellness e-Gift Card from SpaWeek! These gift cards are valid at over 4,500 spas across North America and can be redeemed for local spa services in your area – my idea of perfect stress relief! Click here to visit SpaWeek for more details and to locate a participating spa near you. You can enter below in the Rafflecopter box....Good luck!

Disclaimer: I received a sample from Tropicana, but the opinions are all mine. Spa-Week gift card providied from Tropicana

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fill it Friday!

2012-01-12T20:42:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday! We finally got our first snow.....I am SOOOO happy!

I hope you have great Friday and please join us in filling in the blanks!

1. The last thing I ate was M&M Blondies. The recipe is here .

2. The last song I listened to was "I like how it feels" by Enrique Iglesias. Jack knows every word. .

3. Using the letters in my name I can spell Amy. Not many words. Am, My, May, Ay Ma, ya, Yam. .

4. If I had to dress in one color for the rest of my life I would pick Camel. I don't know why, but I am crazy for camel. .

5. If you were to look in my bag right now you'd find I don't really carry a purse. But in my work bag you would find papers to grade, gum, mouthwash, pens, and lipgloss .

6. When I finish filling in the blanks I'm going to watch Jersey Shore (I know, I know ) .

7. My all time favorite song to dance to is Daft Punk "one more time". It never gets old.

Show the "LOVE" and sponsor (or swap with) me!

2012-01-12T15:06:00.000-06:00

Yes, I'm doing a call out for February sponsors. I'm sure you know, but advertising is one of the best ways to promote your blog/site/shop. What's even better is you can see your pretty little ad every time you visit my blog!! What's even better, is this month, I am looking for shops/blogs that would like to swap buttons, contact me for info!

In case you were wondering, here is a little bit about my blog....

By the numbers:

Monthly Pageviews: 10,000-15,000+

Google Friend Connect: 623

{Public- 521 | Private- 102}

Twitter: 209

Facebook : 160+ { and growing!}

I have 2 large ads left for February for only $10 per month and 4 small ads left for $5 per month.

For more information click the ad/pr button at the top of the page.

Interested? Contact me at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com

The absence of Wordless Wednesday...life taking over

2012-01-10T20:50:00.000-06:00

So I wanted to post a picture of Jack or Lenny or us, or ANYTHING for Wordless Wednesday this week. I grabbed my camera, hooked it up to the computer and there was nothing. Nothing because I have not taken one picture in the past week.

Life is taking over. Life is taking me over. It's always been there but recently I feel like I have NO TIME. No time for anything really. I work, come home, make dinner, put Jack to bed,clean up, work out (sometimes), blog or do work and then get to bed. I wake up and repeat.
On the weekends, it's groceries, working out, seeing parents, or friends and just being exhausted.

There are so many things I want to do. I want to blog more. I want to take more (and better ) photographs. I want to cook better meals. I want to work out more.

How do all of you other working moms do it? How do you do it all? How do you not let life "take over"?

Hopefully next Wednesday I will have a picture, and no words to go along with it.

I hope you are having a great week. Relax a little.

I am a shop owner, and a giveaway!

2012-01-09T21:47:00.003-06:00

I have never mentioned this before. But I have always wanted to start a shop on Etsy. So after two years of blogging, I decided it was time. This is my shop:

{{{win it}}}}

Of course, how could I open a shop and not give something to my wonderful readers!?!?

So to celebrate my 2 year blogging anniversary which was on January 6th, and my new shop, I am offering one of my fabulous readers a print of their choice!

Thank you to EVERY SINGLE ONE of you for reading my blog. Whether you have read one time or 200 times, I thank you. Without you I would not still be here. Your comments keep me going on those days I want to give this blog up...so please, keep the comments up.

Here's to 20 more years of blogging (I hope not!) and good luck!

**P.S. to celebrate the opening, my readers can get 25% off their order. Enter code JAMM2 at checkout.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

have a son? then read this...

2012-01-08T15:50:00.000-06:00

I cry a lot. Songs, commercials, movies, you name it, I am a sap. So when I found this post over at Team Studer, of course I cried. The post titled "25 rules for Mothers of Sons", is perfect for any one that has a little (or big) guy in their life.

For example Rule # 25
25. Be home base
You are home to him. When he learns to walk, he will wobble a few feet away from you and then come back, then wobble away a little farther and then come back. When he tries something new, he will look for your proud smile. When he learns to read, he will repeat the same book to you twenty times in a row, because you're the only one who will listen that many times. When he plays his sport, he will search for your face in the stands. When he is sick, he will call you. When he really messes up, he will call you. When he is grown and strong and tough and big and he feels like crying, he will come to you; because a man can cry in front of his mother without feeling self-conscious. Even when he grows up and has a new woman in his life and gets a new home, you are still his mother; home base, the ever constant, like the sun. Know that in your heart and everything else will fall into place.
They are things we should all remember as we raise these little guys to be amazing, caring big guys.

I hope you check it out, and I hope you are having a great weekend.

winners....

2012-01-08T15:43:00.000-06:00

I have a winner to announce for my No Name Meat giveaway. The competition was fierce, with 4 entries, but the winner is ....

#2 Adelita!

Congrats! Shoot me an email at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com

fill it free time

2012-01-05T20:32:00.000-06:00

This weeks theme is "free time". That's the thing I dream about most days...I forgot what it feels like.

Let's do it!

1. One of my favorite things to do when I have free time is watch Days of our Lives or Kathy and Hoda. Two silly things, I hardly get to do, that just make me so happy .

2. When I have free time I tend to ...what's free time? .

3. If I had an entire day completely to myself I would sleep until 9, have a mocha at Starbucks and have a day of pampering...facial, mani/pedi. I would also love to work out and read a good book.

4. I would prefer to spend my free time (alone or with others...) Most of the time I would say others (family), but sometimes it's oh so nice to be alone .

5. Most of my free time happens never. Actually when I have had summers or breaks from teaching my only free time would be when Jack naps. I have to say, it was nice.

6. The best thing about free time is that it's mine .

7. The next time I have free time I should probably get caught up on work or wash the floors but instead, I'll probably pinterest things and shop .

Love free time? Then join us this and every week at the little things we do, for wonderful fill in the blank friday.

Wordless(ish) Wednesday...Christmas a bit late

2012-01-04T20:40:00.000-06:00

I am just now getting over a two week long sinus infection. It was pure awful. Because of this I have been neglecting this little blog of mine a bit. But another one of my resolutions is to post more often.

Here is one of my favorite pictures of Jack from Christmas. At the last minute he told me he wanted a "soft Nemo". So of course, Santa delivered. Jack was happy.

2012!

2012-01-02T20:38:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a great end to 2011, and a great start to 2012.

I am back to work tomorrow (booooo!) and so sad about leaving Jack. Half way to Summer Break I guess!

So I took a look back at last years resolutions:

1. Lose 10 pounds/workout more (lost 5, but did not work out more!)

2. Move into a bigger house by 2012 (not yet.)

3. Become more organized (I am a bit more organized)

Not too bad and actually my resolutions for this year are pretty much the same:

1. Move into a bigger house (keep your fingers crossed!)

2. Save more money.

3. Lose 5 more pounds

4. Work on some DIY projects I have bookmarked

5. Become even more organized!

What are you New Years Resolutions?

For some great organization tips, Tater Tots & Jello has some great ideas and resources for kicking it into gear! Have a great week and a great start to your New Year!

4. Get out more.

it's not 2012 yet......cinnamon brown butter breakfast puffs

2011-12-31T06:21:00.000-06:00

Why not enjoy one more delicious donuty, muffiny, treat before you start that resolution to get in shape or lose a few pounds? This is the perfect breakfast treat for that. I saw this recipe pop up Wednesday night on Smitten Kitchen's blog and made these Thursday morning.

Again, my pictures don't do these justice. The best part of them? They are rolled in browned butter. Browned butter is like heaven.

Enough of my talking. If you make these, you won't be disappointed.

Cinnamon Brown Butter Breakfast Puffs
(recipe from Smitten Kitchen)

If you don’t wish to use buttermilk, you can replace it with regular milk and nix the baking soda (keeping the baking powder). I like to get the toppings ready first because they take so little time to bake, you don’t want to be scrambling to have something to dip them in.

Yield: 9 to 12 standard muffin-size puffs or 30-ish miniature ones.

Coating
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter

Puffs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup (5 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus extra for greasing muffin cups
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter 12 standard size or 30 miniature muffin cups, or line cups with paper liners.

Prepare coatings: In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat and continue to cook it, stirring frequently, until brown bits form on the bottom and it smells nutty and heavenly. Immediately remove from heat and set aside. In a small bowl, combine 2/3 cup sugar and cinnamon. Set aside as well.

Prepare puffs: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and nutmeg together in a medium bowl and set aside. In the large bowl of an electric mixer, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla and beat until combined. Mix in 1/3 of flour mixture, followed by 1/2 of buttermilk, repeating again and finishing with the flour mixture. Mix only until combined.

Spoon into prepared muffin cups, filling only 3/4 of the way. (I filled mine higher and they ended up spilling over a bit and doming less than they are capable of.) Bake standard sized muffins for 20 to 25 minutes and miniature muffins for 12 to 14 minutes. When finished, muffins will feel springy to the touch and a tester inserted into the center will come out clean. Transfer them in their pan to a wire rack.

As soon as you feel you’re able to pick one up, take your first puff and roll the top and upper edges in the browned butter. Don’t be afraid to pick up the browned butter solids at the bottom of the saucepan; they’re the dreamiest part. Let any excess butter drip off for a second before gently rolling the butter-soaked cake top in cinnamon-sugar. I find if you roll too firmly, or have too much wet/not absorbed butter on top, the sugar can clump off, which is heartbreaking. Transfer puff to wire rack to set and repeat with remaining puffs. Eat warm.

For an even more indulgent, doughnut-like puff: Make an extra two tablespoons of the browned butter and roll the whole puff in it and the cinnamon sugar.

Do ahead: Puffs are best within hours after they are baked. They can be made it advance and stored in a freezer bag until needed, too. Simply spread them out on a baking tray and reheat them until warm in the oven.

Fill it...a little late.

2011-12-30T21:10:00.000-06:00

Sorry this is a bit late, we were at the Aquarium all day!

1. New Years is a great way to start over. This is my time to organize, and have a fresh start .

2. One of my New Year's resolutions will be to organize my life, and to lose a few pounds! (I guess that was two).

3. A New Year's resolution I've made in the past was to to get out more. I like staying in and since having Jack it's hard to get out! I did better at it this year, but I still could improve .

4. The most time consuming resolution I ever made was I can't think of one .

5. This year I will be spending New Year's Eve at a friend's party!

6. If I could wish one thing for my new year it would be to be a better wife and parent everyday .

7. 2012 is going to be a great year....I am hoping for a lot of changes .

Hope you have a great New Years!

No Name Meat review and giveaway....

2011-12-29T13:57:00.000-06:00

If you are a regular reader, you know that I am always looking for simple, no fuss, great tasting meals to make on those working nights. Well along came No Name Meats......

Over thirty-five years ago, in a small neighborhood butcher shop, a local butcher began selling delicious, hand-cut steaks. These steaks cooked up tender and juicy and, as rumor had it, tasted incredible. Word began to spread. When his customers asked the butcher what these steaks were called, he simply replied, “They don’t have a name.” Soon, people were coming from miles around to get the steaks with “No Name,” and a legend was born.

One of my favorite stores to do my grocery shopping is Jewel. Every time I shop there I see No Name products in the meat freezer section, but I have never tried them. Recently my husband and I had the opportunity to try two products from the No Name brand: No Name Steaks – Petite Cut and and No Name Superb & Simple – Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts.

We have not had the Steaks, but we make the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast last night. They were delicious and went well with broccoli cheddar rice and a salad. For $6.99 we were able to get two Parmesan Crusted Chicken breasts which were so easy to heat and serve. I will definitely will be buying these again; especially for those days I come home form work and am not in the mood to cook.

No Name meats make great go to meals when I have no idea what to make for dinner. Check out the No Name Steaks website and take a look at everything they have to offer, like meatballs, burgers, salmon, ribs, and pulled pork! I for sure want to try the pulled pork sometime.

You can find No Name Meat products at stores near you by using their store locator. Connect with No Name Premium Meats and Seafood on Facebook.

{{{win it}}}

One of my lucky readers will win a No Name Meat Prize Pack including a coupon for a free No Name Steak and No Name Chicken and a $5 off any product coupon.

Note: I received a coupon for free product of my own to review in exchange for my honest opinions. All opinions are my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MIA and a winner!

2011-12-28T21:03:00.000-06:00

Sorry I have been a bit MIA. I have been busy spending time with a sick family this break. Pneumonia, strep throat and a sinus infection. I don't think it could get any more sick than that.
I will post my Christmas pics a bit later, but I have a winner to announce.

The winner of Shabby Apple jewelry is.......#25 Kim. Kim an email has been sent, please respond to claim your prize!

I hope you are all much happier and healthier, and enjoyed your holiday!

Merry Christmas.

2011-12-24T23:20:00.000-06:00

I hope you all have a VERY Merry Christmas.

Enjoy the holiday and the rest of the weekend with you families.

Fill in the blanks...Christmas edition.

2011-12-22T21:25:00.000-06:00

1. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is doing good deeds for others .

2. The thing I love most about Christmas is spending time with friends and family and relaxing. Christmas break is always my favorite time of year!

3. The holiday season is a time for being thankful for all you have and enjoying family .

4. My favorite thing to eat at the holidays is Christmas Cookies.....I can't get enough!

5. I will be spending Christmas with my family and my in-laws.

6. Tis better to (give or receive?) give. Although I stress out about finding the perfect gift. I love giving...but receiving is not so bad .

7. I'm dreaming of a relaxing, fun and white Christmas.

I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!

Amy

Shabby Apple Giveaway!

2011-12-20T18:37:00.001-06:00

Shabby Apple is one of those shops that I just can't get enough of. I love EVERY SINGLE THING in there. Ever since I found their shop, I find myself browsing almost daily!

If I had an unlimited supply of money, I would probably buy every single thing in there. Until then, I love looking at their beautiful dresses, skirts, jewelry. These are just some of my favorites:

Side Saddle Dress

Jardin Dress

Sequoia Dress

Aren't they all beautiful? Of course I can't disappoint my readers, so Shabby Apple is going to give one of my readers their choice of the following pieces of jewelry:

Poker Face Alice Bracelet

The White Rabbit's Time Keeper

looking glass necklace

Every single one of these are beautiful, and if you can't tell part of the Alice in Wonderland theme. I hope you all check out Shabby apple, and I know you will find the perfect outfit for your New Years parties! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I'm here.

2011-12-19T13:45:00.000-06:00

I am sorry I have not posted in a while. I am taking a few days to get myself together before Christmas. AND I'm off for two weeks! Which means I will be busy with Jack.

I'll be posting later this week, I hope your week before Christmas is going smoother than mine!

Fill in the Blank Friday...

2011-12-15T20:49:00.000-06:00

1. My most favorite "little thing" is I love my drive to work. I listen to my music, I listen to the news and I drink my coffee .

2. I give anything to go on a trip to Europe .

3. I can't believe that another year has gone by and the holiday's are here. Time is moving too fast .

4. The one thing I'd like to achieve today is addressing all my Christmas cards, and wrapping some gifts .

5. The last thing I want to do today is workout. It's one of those days .

6. If I were writing my own blank today, it would say: If I were a holiday song I would be.......... .

7. My favorite candle scent is ..there are so many, but I love Toasted Marshmallow from Bath and Body works. .

Have a great weekend. I am off for two week!!!!! What are your plans this weekend?

Join me and fill in your own blanks here.

The easiest holiday snack you will ever make....

2011-12-14T07:34:00.000-06:00

I used to love making these complex meals and desserts that took hours to prepare, cook and serve. It made me feel like I was a wife; you know, like a real one.

Things changed, and now I'm all about recipes being easy and quick. This is holiday fav is at the top of my easy and quick list, and I am pretty sure it will bring you right up to the top of Santa's nice list.

This is perfect for all of those holiday parties you have to go to, and even makes cute little gifts for co-workers or friends!

I don't know the name of this recipe, so I will call them "Holiday Pretzels with Chocolate"

All you need is the following:

Waffle shaped pretzels
Hershey Kisses (I used peppermint and chocolate)
M&M's

1. Heat the oven to 170F. Set a number of bite-size, waffle-shaped pretzels (one for each treat) in a single layer on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, then top each pretzel with an unwrapped Hershey's Kiss or Hershey's Hug.
2. Bake for 4 to 6 minutes (the white chocolate will melt more quickly), until the chocolates feel soft when touched with a wooden spoon. Remove the cookie sheet from the oven and quickly press an M&M's candy into the center of each Kiss.
3. Allow the treats to cool for a few minutes, then place them in the refrigerator to set, about 10 minutes. Place handfuls of the candies in clear plastic bags and tie on colorful ribbons.

I would love to hear from you about your favorite holiday snacks! I am always looking for new ideas!

New Winners.....

2011-12-13T09:21:00.000-06:00

Hope you all are having a great week!

So 3 of my winners never contacted me, which means, I have 3 new winners to announce!

Charm Design: #4 Celeste

Scentsy: #30 Kelly H

Back Porch Shoppe: #7 Kim K

Congrats! Please contact me at justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com to claim your prize within 24 hours!

Have a great Tuesday...the Christmas countdown is on!!!!

Working Mom Meals....Skirt Steak Salad

2011-12-12T08:51:00.001-06:00

So I am not a food photographer...I'm okay with that. What I can do is follow a recipe and make a pretty good meal. That's what I did this weekend, thanks to my favorite foodie blog Smitten Kitchen.

My husband swears this tastes like something you would get at a fancy steak restaurant, and I think I agree. The skirt steak, blue cheese, and dressing go perfectly together and the it takes no time to prepare.

In fact, I think skirt steak is my new best friend.

Do yourself a favor, and try this recipe. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Skirt Steak with Arugula and Blue Cheese

Serves 4

*1 pound skirt steak, trimmed of excess fat if necessary, halved crosswise, at room temperature
*1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
*1 pint (2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
*1/2 cup (about 4 ounces) crumbled blue cheese
*1/2 pound baby arugula
*Vinaigrette (below)
*3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion, for garnish

Pat steak dry and season on both sides 1/2 teaspoon salt and many grinds of black pepper.

In a cast-iron skillet: Heat skillet on medium-high to high and add olive oil. When oil begins to shimmer, place steak in skillet and do not move it for 5 minutes. Turn it once, and cook for another 3 minutes for medium-rare. You may need to cook your steak halves separately, depending on the size of your pan.

On a grill: Prepare grill for direct-heat cooking over hot charcoal or high heat for gas. Oil grill rack, then grill steak, covered only if using a gas grill, turning once, 4 to 6 minutes total for medium-rare.

Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest, loosely covered with foil, for five minutes. Arrange arugula on a large platter. Thinly slice steak on the diagonal, across the grain. Arrange over arugula, then toss halved cherry tomatoes and blue cheese over platter. Add vinaigrette to taste, then sprinkle with red onion. Serve with additional vinaigrette on the side.

Steakhouse Mustard Vinaigrette
1 tablespoon coarse Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon honey
1/3 cup olive oil

Whisk ingredients. Season with salt and pepper and adjust ingredients to taste (usually more Dijon and vinegar for me).

Santa Claus is coming to town.......with some winners!

2011-12-11T08:24:00.000-06:00

That's right, the time has come. I have 12 lucky winners to announce.

Please email me within 24 hours to

{{{justanothermomdayblog@gmail.com}}}

Thank you again to everyone who entered. I appreciate and every single one of you and hope you continue to read. Also thank you the fab shops who participated, please be sure to check them all out if you haven't yet.

Day 1: Artwark Acorn Necklace ......#23 Christyn McK

Charm Design Clutch........ #25 Chrissy B

Day 2: Fancy Prints 8 x 10 .........#53 Lauren C

From the Red Kitchen........#10 Ann

Day 3: Kindy Garden print......#39 Jacklyn J

Day 4: Scentsy $15 credit.....#112 Sara F.

Day 5: O.C. Styles blingz or card holder.......#23 Jessica J

Day 6: Back Porch Shoppe ornament.....#30 Tabitha

Ring Around the Rosies shop credit........#24 Shanda

Day 7: Say your Piece ornament........#44 Courtenay W.

Day 8: Beau and Stella necklace....#5 Connie

Day 9: Disco Belly Tee......#14 Brittney M

Day 10: My Belle Boutique credit.......#22 Nichole

Day 11: Pumpkin and Butterfly.....#15 Stacey B

Day 12: Kranky Krab.....#22 Kate B

Fill in the blanks Friday!

2011-12-09T07:47:00.000-06:00

1. Love is what it all comes down to .

2. Being in love feels like a nice cozy blanket .

3. My favorite quote about love is We were given: Two hands to hold. Two legs to walk. Two eyes to see. Two ears to listen. But why only one heart? Because the other was given to someone else. For us to find ." Author Unknown .

4. The most important thing in a relationship is loyalty .

5. A "deal breaker" for me in a relationship is giving up .

6. The way I show love in my relationships is the little everyday things .

7. I love my family .

Have a great Friday!!!

Leaving me already???

2011-12-08T06:29:00.000-06:00

I need to toughen up. I have always been a bit of a "softy"; crying at Hallmark commercials, love songs, and sobbing every time I watch the movie "Cars". But now I am realizing just how difficult it is to watch your child grow up and become independent.

Yes I want him to be his own person. I want him grow to be a friendly, well adjusted, independent, successful man. But I am learning quickly just how heartbreaking the process can be.

Sunday we went to the zoo. They have zoo lights there, and it's something we do every year. ( I even got engaged outside of zoo lights). After walking around and seeing the lights we took Jack to the train ride. Of course Jack had to go on it. I asked the man if I could ride with him, and he said "Nope, kids only". There was no way Jack would go on that thing without me, he always wants me to ride with him or go with him places. So I told Jack he had to ride alone and he replied "I go by myself, Mama". My husband and I both knew the minute that train moved he would be screaming like a little baby. But I walked him up to the yellow car, sat him down, gave him his George doll and watched.

He hugged Georgie tight, and off the train went. As the train went around the curve his head turned to make sure we were not too far away, but there was not one tear, cry, not even a frown! As the train came back around we waved to him all while he had the biggest smile on his face. That's how it went for the whole ride.

Did I have a smile on my face? Of course not, I was crying like a baby. Pathetic, maybe. But as my husband said, this was a big step for him. His first time not "needing" Mommy. Yes I was happy, especially when he got off and said "I ride train by myself!". But it did hurt just a bit in my heart seeing him grow a little more independent.

I can only imagine how I will be when he goes off to school.

Wordless(ish) Wednesday Giveaway Edition

2011-12-07T05:39:00.000-06:00

With the ending of my 12 days of Christmas Giveaway, I wanted to give everyone one last look at all the great shops and great giveaways that joined me this year. You still have a few days to enter, just click on the link under each picture, and have a great Wednesday!

Day 1:

Artwark Acorn Necklace

Charm Design Clutch of your choice!

Day 2:

From the Red Kitchen Holiday Button Set!

{{{and}}}

Fancy Prints 8 x 10 of your choice!

Day 3:

Kindy Garden Initial Print of your choice!

Day 4:

Scentsy $15 Shop credit

Day 5:

O.C. Styles Java Blingz or Card Holder!

Day 6:

The Back Porch Shoppe Ornament of your choice!

{{{and}}}

Ring Around the Rosies $15 shop credit!

Day 7:

Say Your Piece ornament of your choice!

Day 8:

Beau & Stella hammered initial necklace

Day 9:

Disco Belly "Lil Sprout" Maternity Tee

Day 10:

My Belle Boutique $15 shop credit!

Day 11:

Kranky Krab $20 Shop Credit!

Day 12:

Pumpkin & Butterfly 8 x 10 of your choice!

12 Days of Christmas Day 12: Pumpkin and Butterfly

2011-12-06T08:55:00.000-06:00

I can't believe we are here already. Day 12. I hope you have liked all the wonderful shops I have shown you all here and I hope you all got some ideas or gifts for the people on your list!

My final shop to feature is Pumpkin and Butterfly.

Rose is a Mom and Interior Designer/Artist and all of her prints are inspired by kids. She can make prints in custom colors and has so many cute designs!

{{{win it}}}

Day 12 of the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway is an 8 x 10 print of your choice!

Be sure to check out all Pumpkin and Butterfly has to offer!

12 Days of Christmas Day 11: Kranky Krab

2011-12-05T07:58:00.000-06:00

I love all the art on Etsy for little kids. There are so many cute and inexpensive ways to add the final touches to their bedroom, bathroom or playroom! Tracy at Kranky Krab has one of those shops. She has so many different options, you will find the perfect piece for anyone on your list. These are just a few of my favs:

All of her children's art is first illustrated by hand before being scanned and finished by computer. Her prints are made using the highest quality archival inks and the finest acid free museum grade paper available.

{{{win in}}}

Day 11 of my 12 Day of Christmas is a $20 credit to Kranky Krab!

Good luck, and what will you choose!!??

12 Days of Christmas Day 10: My Belle Boutique

2011-12-04T08:45:00.000-06:00

Today's giveaway is one of my favorite shops, and another shop that participated last year! Kayla at My Belle Boutique makes hand stamped jewelery, and handmade accessories. These are just of few of my favorites:

She seriously has something for everyone on your list. Be sure to check her shop out!

{{{win it}}}

Day 10 of the 12 Days of Christmas is.......

..... a $15 credit to My Belle Boutique!

And right now you can get 10% off your order with code 2011DEC10. Enjoy your Sunday!!!