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    Keeping Family Healthy with Herbs #MomsMeet

    February 8th, 2016

    With only one winter storm in our midst, I have been happy that our family has been pretty healthy for the most part. We have been trying to stay away from indoor playgrounds as MUCH as we can, since I believe those are breeding grounds for all kinds of germs.

    Snow pic

    That did not last too long.

    Moms get desperate you know? After days of being indoors using creative ways to keep your kids entertained all I want to do it go out and change the scenery which means…..

    Yes, an indoor playground. What are the consequences? 

    GaiaKids collageSneezes, drippy noses, coughs and more. I only do this to myself and our family but I should follow my own rules people. Well, despite that, it means I try to get my kids to ride their colds through so their immune systems can fight it off naturally, but in that, I try to aid them in their healing process by using natural remedies, like:

    • Herbal teas
    • lozenges
    • essential oils
    • Homeopathic meds
    • and healing foods

    Even though my kids are 3 and 4, I know there is really not much I can do for them, but I am glad that there are companies like Gaia Herbs who supply a line of herbal formulas JUST for children called GaiaKids®.

    Gaia Kids Supplements

    Formulated by pediatric naturopath, Dr. Mary Bove, this line consists of 10 alcohol-free herbal formulas that deliver herbal support with kid friendly tastes like GaiaKids® Bronchial Wellness for Kids which I received. It came at a perfect time because I was able to have my girls take it in order to for it to provide herbal support for their respiratory system and  to promote healthy mucous membranes.

    GaiaKids Logo

    The key is finding a natural support for my kids health. Nothing truly can HEAL or cure a child at such a young age but products like what GaiaKids provides help support the body and promotes a healthy immune system and in this instance of the Bronchial Wellness for Kids, it soothes the throat.

    GaiaKids Bronchial Wellness

    Something I learned about this company is that each product has an ID# that traces every herb in the product down to the source and quality testing, so I can rest assured that the product I am giving to my children is pure and safe. My product has the following ID# for you to check out:

    Meet Your Herbs

    What is an example of the herbs in this Bronchial Wellness for Kids?

    • Plantain has long been regarded as an important herb to support a healthy inflammatory response in the respiratory tract.
    • Helichrysums essential oil is one of the most potent sources of antioxidants and is used to soothe the occasional bronchial irritation.
    • Grindelia has long been used to support the respiratory system and assists in the normal production and elimination of mucous.

    Meet Your Herbs 1

    My girls definitely are very attune to horrible flavors when it comes to supplements and vitamins. They much prefer something to be tasty and easy to swallow than something that is pungent or hard to swallow. They totally liked the GaiaKids® Bronchial Wellness for Kids because the great taste comes from organic honey, lemon, and flavorful essential oils. It is recommended for kids ages 2 to 15 so we were really glad that it was a great fit for our family.

    Want a chance to try your own full-size bottle of this supplement? Fill out the FORM in the link provided and as supplies last a bottle will be mailed to you and a coupon as well.

    How do you keep your families healthy during the winter?

    Other Gaia Kids Products Gaia Kids liquid extracts, oils, salves, and tonics deliver the same potent herbs as their adult formulas in an alcohol-free concentrate formulated just for kids by Dr. Mary Bove, pediatric naturopath.

    For a full list of Gaia Kids® products, visit gaiaherbs.com

    GaiaKids Products

    Disclosure: I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agree to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of this product.

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    Elegant Tex-Mex Fare at Cantina Laredo

    February 5th, 2016

    Sorry I have been MIA for a few weeks but life has been busy after the new year. After we returned from Texas from seeing relatives it was important to reorganize our lives and start with our normal every day. I will be writing about what our family has been doing the last 3 weeks that includes a health jump-start and lifestyle.

    Steak tacos

    The last thing I forgot to share before the year were all the yummy eats our family had been enjoying. As we budget monthly, we really set aside to be able to dine out once a week and sometimes we alternate with new places to dine and other times we visit our go-to places.

    Birthday Dinner at Cantina Laredo

    One of the places that has become our new normal is Cantina Laredo. While it is a good 20-25 minutes away from us, I have visited for lunch on two occasions. I also introduced my husband to the restaurant and he was glad that they served tasty and tender fajitas which is his go-to meal at Tex-Mex places. 

    received_10156387935435171

    In December, I held a women’s Christmas party with some ladies from my church. Many had not heard of Cantina Laredo or that it was at the King of Prussia Mall but they were impressed with the flavors and dishes served. We proceeded to have a book exchange while eating our delectable desserts. 

    Cantina Laredo Super Bowl

    Truthfully, I think that Cantina keeps its patrons happy with seasonal menu items and sometimes offering new drinks or appetizers or even deals for special occasions, like Super Bowl season. They will be offering Combo Fajitas for $10 a person but only if you go online and sign up for their newsletter, you have to show them a picture of the special or go to their Facebook and see if they post the advertisement.

    Tamales at Cantina Laredo

    During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays they offered tamales to-go or for parties, so, since I know my husband likes tamales, I had him taste one on his birthday and he was smitten. He later order 2 dozen to freeze so we could have it on occasion when we had a tamale hankering.

    Tequila Tasting Dinner

    In addition to the amazing menu, there are special events held like the Tequila Dinner and Tasting I attended. I was able to taste Don Julio tequila in a variety of drinks using the 1942, Reposado and Blanco. While I had only had tequila in a margarita, I had never been to a tasting of this kind where I had a chance to taste different tequilas from the same brand in different cocktails. It was a foodie experience and one that everyone should try at one point.

    Don Julio Tequila

    We had a Don Julio representative talk about the tasting notes and how the tequila is made and how the company got started. It was pretty informative and amazing at the same time. I felt like I could enjoy the pineapple upside down shot we had at the end of our whole meal. The chefs at Cantina Laredo are impressive in my opinion, and I wish someday to go behind the scenes and see them work. 

    Don Julio Tequila Tasting

    I want to continue to give you a preview of what this event included which was in my opinion very much worth the cost per person. We started out with our appetizer and drink, then our main meal came with two choices for our protein with another cocktail, and then we had a surprising membrillo flan to finish with a shot. While we were still sober by the end of the meal, the restaurant offers Uber for those patrons not able to go home on their own, which makes for thoughtful business.

    This tequila tasting or flight can be done at any time and is available on the menu, so even if you know your loved one enjoys tequila, the King of Prussia location boasts more than 100 tequilas. My hubby had a chance to taste a REAL nice one and he ended up purchasing it for his birthday. Make it a night to remember folks!

    HEY GUYS or even wives!  You don’t have a place to take your loved one? Check out the Valentine’s Menu available February 12-14. It will not disappoint.

    Cantina Laredo Valentine's Day

    Cantina Laredo

    King of Prussia Mall

    690 W Dekalb Pike, Ste 2085
    King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
    Cantina Laredo on Facebook
    Disclosure: While we are now regular customers with Cantina Laredo, some events and meals are provided by the company. All opinions and photos are my own.

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    -Be Mine- Valentine’s Day Giveaway

    February 4th, 2016

    We are very excited to share with you an awesome sponsored by Mommy Scene and filled with lots of amazing natural products and fun stuff for families!

    Valentine's Day Giveaway - Mommy Scene

    Be Mine Gift Set

    Bun Maternity Classic Black Cozy Nursing Hoodie + Cozy Nursing Tee
    Wythe and Berry Organic Vegan Creams – Lavender & Chamomile + Lemon & Eucalyptus
    La Magie Nail Polish – 1 peel off pink polish + 2 pink wash offs + 1 color lock top coat
    Sudsy Dough Moldable Soap – 12 oz. fragrance of choice
    Pure Hazelwood necklaces, 1 adult size and 1 child size
    Jack N’ Jill Bunny Gift Kit
    Baby Bump Bundle – Lollacup Straw Sippy Cup
    GroVia Hybrid Trial Kit – 1 Hybrid Shell with Hook & Loop Closure + 1 No-Prep Cloth Soaker Pad + 3 Disposable BioSoakers
    Revelae Kids Discovery Box style of choice

    This giveaway is sponsored by Mommy Scene and is open to US entries. One winner will be chosen and displayed on the giveaway widget after the giveaway ends on Feb. 14th, 2016. Mommy Scene and participating blogs are not responsible for fulfilling brand-sponsored prizes. Prizes will be shipped directly from each brand.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

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    Party Clothes for Little Girls at Monsoon Kids

    January 25th, 2016

    Monsoon Kids is an international line of boutique clothing for babies, kids and even women. There are stores in the US like the one I visited at King of Prussia Mall. For unique clothing for your children, check them out online or inquire if there is one near you.

    Girls in Monsoon Kids Dresses-hero

    I never thought I would have three girls but here I am almost 37 years old with three girls under the age of 5. I think I might have told this story before but before I started having children, I really never thought I would have girls. Most of the families I used to babysit were mostly boys. I really thought it was training for the life as a mother of boys. Boy, was I wrong, because maybe I really did not know how it would be. 

    N wearing Monsoon KidsI have many mom friends who only have boys and we compare stories and it is quite different. There is always a reason why God gives us what he does and I am thankful. I am thankful that I have girls because it continues to encourage my femininity. Does that make sense? I used to not like pink or frilly colors but since having girls, pink and purple are such fun colors for me. Do you get what I am saying? My girls love wearing dresses and skirts and they love primping that I even desire it. Why would I dress them up and then look like a slob myself?

    Monsoon Kids matching dressesWhen I go shopping for myself, I only then turn to shopping for my girls because girls clothing are so precious and I seriously get distracted. When the holidays were here I had a chance to shop for my girls at Monsoon Kids at King of Prussia. They are cute boutique filled with clothes for babies, toddlers and kids. While they are widely known in the UK and around the world, Monsoon Kids is starting to make more of a presence with boutiques in malls around the US.

    Monsoon Kids King of Prussia Collage

    It was really really difficult shopping in Monsoon because they have SUCH beautiful dresses and even more so when the holiday season was around. I was able to find 2 matching dresses for my older daughters to wear to Christmas Eve service and then I purchased a gorgeous champagne colored dress with sequins for my 5-month old. I usually never splurge for my little ones but it was so worth seeing my girls matching and dresses so elegantly for the season. 

    Party Dresses and more at Monsoon Kids jpgI was actually really happy with my dresses because I did not think they really looked like holiday dresses but more like party or special occasion dresses which means I will be able to get the girls to wear them often. We had SO many people compliment the girls.

    Monsoon Kids Shoes

    I was able to purchase royal blue flats for my oldest daughter and matching accessories for all girls. I only wished I had a chance to primp myself up, seeing Monsoon also has a line for women.

    Girls Posing CollageI was pleased with the quality of the dresses and the service given at the store. After I purchased the dresses, they were all pressed on site and placed in plastic bags to keep them clean. I simply cannot get over how many dresses there were to choose from and how amazing their sales were during the holidays.

    If you’re daughter is having a special birthday party, this is the place to find a unique and beautiful dress. I am afraid that my daughter would have made me buy other dresses that looked like princesses if she had been shopping with me. Love it!

    If you get a chance and are in the Philly area, check out Monsoon Kids at KOP Mall on Instagram. They post sales quite often. Check them out! If not, check Monsoon Kids ONLINE!

    Disclosure: We received a stipend to shop at Monsoon Kids at KOP Mall. We loved our time there and are smitten. All opinions are my own.

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    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf + Giveaway #VeeteeDineIn

    January 21st, 2016

    I have joined a group of bloggers sharing recipes that are healthy and quick. Busy schedules do not mean take-out meals. Check out Veetee Rice USA as they introduce their ready-made rice in 2 minutes. Check out my recipe along with 6 other food bloggers.

    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf

    This post has been sponsored by Veetee Rice. All opinions, ideas, and recipes are my own.

    Is everyone enjoying their new year? I certainly am but it is certainly different from any year. This year we celebrated a late Christmas in January which made it an interesting holiday. Actually, I cannot believe we are already halfway past January! We have now officially unpacked, washed clothes, and put away our Christmas decorations. I guess it is safe to say that we are READY to get into our new year.

    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf 2

    With the new year comes the enthusiasm and inspiration to get fit. I was never a person to stick to resolutions but I think it is safe to say that a resolution can be done anytime when really needed. our family has been resolved to get many things in order like our finances. Another that has been a long time coming has been our diets. My husband and I definitely are a match made in heaven when it comes to eating. We both enjoy eating but it has come time to make better choices and embrace portions.

    One of the exciting things I am looking forward making are healthier meals on a consistent basis with minimal cheating. Mentally, I think we lie to ourselves when we say that healthy food is not tasty but it truly is. I have tried to share this with my husband and hopefully we can venture being resolved to change our eating habits.

    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf 3

    I have teamed up with Veetee Rice USA who provides a dine-in ready rice in 2 minutes that are GMO-free, with 8 varieties that are gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan friendly. It comes in a recyclable BPA-free plastic container with a see-through seal showing the kind of rice and is shelf stable for 12 months. It can be heated in a microwave or the rice can be stir-fried for 2 minutes.  Veetee Rice

    We are definitely rice consumers but I sometimes forget to cook my rice for my meals and end up waiting a full 45 minutes for my brown rice to be ready. Veetee Rice to the rescue folks! I have already used a variety of packages that the company has sent me. Here are the varieties I received. We have so much of it too!!

    6 plain rice flavors:

    • Whole Grain Brown Rice
    • Basmati and Wild Rice
    • Thai Jasmine Rice
    • Basmati Rice
    • Long Grain Rice
    • Whole Grain Rice and Quinoa

    6 flavored rice varieties:

    • Red Beans and Rice New Orleans Style
    • Chicken Flavored Rice
    • Golden Vegetable Rice
    • Thai Lime and Herb Rice
    • Pilaf Rice
    • Spanish Style Rice

    I have tried both methods to reheat the rice and I believe I like it better microwaved because the rice is not mushy but it you do a fried rice recipe, I bet it would be perfect. I look forward using different recipes to use this rice because our schedule is so busy now that the school season is in season. Quick meals are a must in my home with 3 kids under the age of 5. It is never a dull moment.

    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf 5Since I am always on the go or pressed for time, I created a quick vegetarian lunch option that can easily be consumed for dinner with a side salad. I am a big Mediterranean fan so anything with chickpeas and rice excites me so I made a savory dish that only require heating the rice in the microwave while I sautéed mushrooms, red onions and chickpeas to mix in with the rice. I split the meal with my husband and we were satisfied until dinner.

    What a great way to start the new year with healthier and lighter options to a new you. I am looking forward having Veetee Rice help me with this goal especially with this delicious rice dish. Try it! It takes less than 20 minutes to make.

    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf + Giveaway # VeeteeDineIn

    Prep Time: 5 minutes

    Cook Time: 12 minutes

    Total Time: 17 minutes

    Yield: 2 servings

    Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

    Quick Chickpea and Mushroom Rice Pilaf + Giveaway # VeeteeDineIn

    I am a mother of three girls under the age of 5. This is SUCH a quick meal and it is so filling. I also got my husband to enjoy it as well.

    Ingredients

    • 1 (9.9 ounce) container of Veetee Whole Grain Brown Rice & Quinoa
    • 1 can chickpeas, drained
    • 2 teaspoons olive oil
    • 1/2 red onion, diced
    • 3/4 cup mushrooms, roughly chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons dill
    • 1/2 teaspoon mineral salt
    • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
    • 2 Tablespoons parsley, chopped
    • balsamic vinegar

    Instructions

    1. Heat a non-stick on medium heat and add oil.
    2. Fry the red onions with the mushrooms for 5 minutes.
    3. Add the chickpeas, garlic, dill, and salt and cook for another 5 minutes.
    4. Meanwhile heat the rice in the microwave for 2 minutes and empty rice into a large glass bowl.
    5. Add the sun-dried tomatoes to the rice.
    6. Remove bean and mushroom mixture from stove top and add to the glass bowl with rice.
    7. Toss ingredients together and serve immediately.
    8. Sprinkle with parsley and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
    Schema/Recipe SEO Data Markup by Yummly Rich Recipes
    https://singerskitchen.com/2016/01/quick-chickpea-and-mushroom-rice-pilaf-veetee.html/

    Social Accounts:

    1. Website: http://www.veetee.com/en-us
    2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veeteeusa/?fref=ts
    3. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veeteerice/
    4. Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/veeteeusa/

     

     

    For more quick, easy and delicious recipes using Veetee Rice as well as additional chances to enter the giveaway (by leaving a comment on each one), visit:

    Chicken Fried Rice  by We’re Parents

    Lime Shrimp, Corn & Rice Skillet  by Real The Kitchen & Beyond

    Mediterranean Rice Pilaf  by Courtney’s Sweets

    Quick Chickpea & Mushroom Rice Pilaf  by Opera Singer In The Kitchen

    Chicken & Pepper Stir Fry  by NEPA Mom

    Mediterranean Rice Salad by The Farm Girl Gabs

     

    Available at Shoprite, Walmart, Wegmans Kroger and other food markets across the USA. http://www.veetee.com/en-us/where-to-buy

    GIVEAWAY ALERT

    Want a chance to try Veetee rice in your own kitchen?

    One lucky winner will receive ONE YEAR supply of Veetee Dine In Rice rice AND the winner will also have the opportunity to choose to donate the same amount of rice on their behalf to their local charity of choice.

    Not only is this an awesome giveaway but Veetee donated roughly 80,000 trays (about 160,000 servings) of shelf stable, microwaveable rice to the Community Food Bank of NJ, part of Feeding America during the holidays. http://www.feedingamerica.org/ You have to love a brands that finds ways to give back.

    Veetee Giveaway

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