posts in
friday top five
Friday Top Five | The Lunchbox Edit
07 September 2018
We have found ourselves at the end of our first three weeks of school, three weeks for us because Charlotte started all-day preschool a week before Ava started first grade. It's been an adjustment for us with our daily schedule, I haven't quite hit my stride yet and still feel a bit discombobulated at times but the girls are loving school and seem to but be having great experiences so far-- which makes it all worth it.
I started them out with items that I thought would work for their lunch boxes but quickly realized that a few of our things weren't doing the job. Our ice packs were too large and didn't fit nicely in the boxes. Our water bottles kept leaking and and so did our compartment inserts. So, after doing a more in-depth search online [amazon, I mean what can't you find and prime these days...] I found a few products that I really like and have been working nicely for us.
1.| Bentgo Box - The lid fits nice and tight! So, Charlotte's favorite ranch dip doesn't get mixed up with any other foods.
2.| Reusable Water Bottle Set with Fridge Tray Organizer - These are wonderful, they come in a set of five with a fridge organizing tray. They are affordable so I won' t be crying if they leave them behind. They're not 'all day' insulated but I just toss in a few ice cubes.
3.| Thin Ice Packs - These are nice and thin and fit between the bentgo box on both side while still being able to zipper the lunch box.
4.| kids RXbar - Ok, so this in't an accessory BUT they are the kids new favorite protein bar. I love the adult RXbars but I could totally eat the PB&J kids one and have no complains.
5.| Insulated Thermos - Ava wants to start taking tomato soup and mac and cheese so I picked up this small thermos for her to be able to do just that. I pour hot water and let it sit for about 10 minutes before I fill it with the hot food that she wants.
Happy lunch packing, friends!
Friday Top Five | Chalk Activities
08 June 2018
Now that the weather is perfect for outdoor playtime I love being able to scoot them outside during Naomi's afternoon nap. Our new place gives me lots to explore, trees to climb and spots to dig dirt but another thing they really love to do outside is; play with chalk. And Charlotte's favorite part is when I get the hose out to wash it off-- she loves to, and I quote 'watch the colors dance and run'. Childhood can be pretty amazing. We recently stocked up on some different colors of chalk and other fun things to make their outdoor drawing sessions more creative.
Here's a list of our top five chalk items!
Friday Top Five | My Current Crushes
12 January 2018
It's been awhile since I shared a handful of my favorite things!
So, here they are- my current crushes!
1.| Orzo Taco Skillet
You can find the recipe here!
It was a huge hit with my picky eaters and it makes enough to feed a crowd on Taco Tuesday or save for leftovers! I subbed beef bone broth for the chicken broth and I used green siracha for the hot sauce. It was just as yummy. Vegetable broth would work well also if you don't have chicken or beef.
2.| 1-2-3 Magic
We've been struggling over the past few months with sassy attitudes, teasing, sibling rivalry and a mess of yuck. The current strategies that we had in place just weren't cutting it anymore. Our pediatrician recommended this at our 5 years well check when I expressed my frustrations with the sibling 'stuff' that I just couldn't understand. Well, I finally broke down [read: through my hands in the air] and ordered this book! I'm halfway through it and it's MAGIC!
3.| Herban Essentials
Herban Essentials essential oil towelettes are made with the highest quality pure essential oil, which not only makes them smell amazing but makes them naturally antibacterial and antiseptic as well. The most common use of the towelettes is to clean hands and kill germs, but there are millions of ways to use these wonderful wipes.
Herban Essentials Mini Orange Towelettes - Tuck in your car air conditioner vents for happy rides; wipe down seats and tray tables when flying
Herban Essentials Mini Lavender Towelettes - Rub over skin to repel bugs and relieve itching due to previous bites & place in dryer for last minute of cycle to infuse clothes and linens with lavender aroma
Herban Essentials Mini Lemon Towelettes -Wipe phones, computer keyboards etc., in office or at home to prevent the spread of germs
4.| Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee, Cocoa & Honey with Cream
This can be hard to find in the stores but leave it to amazon prime to sell these 11 oz glass bottles of goodness in a case of 6!! YES!
5.| Meal Planner: Track And Plan Your Meals Weekly
And it's slim enough to fit into your bag! Each weekly spread contains a lined space for every day of the week, as well as a box for breakfast ideas and lunch ideas! Additionally, there is a large area to write down your grocery list for the week! Plan out your week, save time and money, and eat right.
So, here they are- my current crushes!
1.| Orzo Taco Skillet
You can find the recipe here!
It was a huge hit with my picky eaters and it makes enough to feed a crowd on Taco Tuesday or save for leftovers! I subbed beef bone broth for the chicken broth and I used green siracha for the hot sauce. It was just as yummy. Vegetable broth would work well also if you don't have chicken or beef.
2.| 1-2-3 Magic
We've been struggling over the past few months with sassy attitudes, teasing, sibling rivalry and a mess of yuck. The current strategies that we had in place just weren't cutting it anymore. Our pediatrician recommended this at our 5 years well check when I expressed my frustrations with the sibling 'stuff' that I just couldn't understand. Well, I finally broke down [read: through my hands in the air] and ordered this book! I'm halfway through it and it's MAGIC!
3.| Herban Essentials
Herban Essentials essential oil towelettes are made with the highest quality pure essential oil, which not only makes them smell amazing but makes them naturally antibacterial and antiseptic as well. The most common use of the towelettes is to clean hands and kill germs, but there are millions of ways to use these wonderful wipes.
Herban Essentials Mini Orange Towelettes - Tuck in your car air conditioner vents for happy rides; wipe down seats and tray tables when flying
Herban Essentials Mini Lavender Towelettes - Rub over skin to repel bugs and relieve itching due to previous bites & place in dryer for last minute of cycle to infuse clothes and linens with lavender aroma
Herban Essentials Mini Lemon Towelettes -Wipe phones, computer keyboards etc., in office or at home to prevent the spread of germs
4.| Starbucks Cold Brew Coffee, Cocoa & Honey with Cream
This can be hard to find in the stores but leave it to amazon prime to sell these 11 oz glass bottles of goodness in a case of 6!! YES!
5.| Meal Planner: Track And Plan Your Meals Weekly
And it's slim enough to fit into your bag! Each weekly spread contains a lined space for every day of the week, as well as a box for breakfast ideas and lunch ideas! Additionally, there is a large area to write down your grocery list for the week! Plan out your week, save time and money, and eat right.
Friday Top Five | Top Five Moments of 2017
29 December 2017
Hello Friends!
As we step into 2018 - I want to take a quick moment to reflect on 2017 and some of our favorite moments and memories!
1.| Naomi's Birth
We started out 2017 on a high note. 25 days into the New Year we welcomed our third beautiful baby girl. She made her fast and furious arrival into this world right on the heels of another family memeber passing and we all felt the true circle of life first hand. Little Naomi Jane has been keeping us busy all year long and having a third child has really put us through the paces but we are so grateful for her and her sweet soul.
2.| Swim Lesssons
This summer we put Ava and Charlotte in swim lessons and it was the best experience for the both of them. Charlotte who doesn't like to leave my side and prefers to 'hide behind my skirt' really came out of her shell and was even going off of the diving board by the end of the two weeks. And Ava, she jumped levels half way through the course and she really proved to herself that she could accomplish new and exciting things. Thankfully Naomi was at the perfect age to sit in the stroller and sleep- next year I'll probably be chasing a toddler around the pool. ha!
3.| Kindergarten
I know, I know - most moms are sad that when their childern start school but it really has been the best thing for us, we are all getting what we need. Ava is getting the social interaction that she craves, she's flourshing beautifully in school and I'm getting a slight break in the mornings. It's been a win, win for all involved.
4.| Our Chicago Road Trip
I did something this year that I never thought I would do, I road tripped 12 hours with 3 kids- without my husband. A sweet family member tagged along to help me with handing out snacks, bottle making, and rest stop breaks. But, we did it, start to finish a total of 24 hours in the car with 3 kids (ages 5 and under). I felt like superwoman!
5.| Christmas
This was our first christmas as a family of five and it was pretty magical. Last year all we could dream about was what it would be like when Naomi finally joined us and it was way more fun than I expected it to be. There was a moment when they were all switched into their matching pajamas and sitting on a chair together to get their picture taken and I turned around and looked at my husband and said, "Well, there they are- the three little humans that we created." It was just a beautiful and humbling moment. These three precious lives that we get to care for and lead through this life, it's the most precious gift.
I hope everyone has a Happy New Year!
2018 has never looked so bright!
Friday Top Five | Cold & Virus
15 December 2017
I used to get so upset when the girls would catch a cold- I always felt like I was doing something wrong...I mean how could they, I arm them with daily vitamins, a healthy diet, probiotics, oily foot massages, detox baths, and I have diffusers running in multiple rooms. And while we don't get sick often it would still irritate me when a virus would sneak through my carefully constructed tall defensive fences. But, I finally came to the realization (see: read an article) stating that studies show, "A child exposed to colds and viruses earlier in life will develop a stronger immune system and is less likely to become sick in his or her later years". Here is the article.
So, I now try hard to release the mom guilt- I mean it's not like I place them in a bubble even though some days it would make life easier. I just do my best and hope for the best! Here is a list of our favorite remedies to try and lessen symptoms and/or get over a cold or virus quicker.
1.| Elderberry Syrup -
You can find my favorite recipe here!
It's so simple to make and a great addition to your daily health routine.
2.| Oils
Diffusing oils in an ultrasonic diffuser combines the advantages of a humidifier, air purifier, atomizer, and aromatherapy diffuser into one by breaking a mixture of essential oils and water into millions of microparticles and dispersing them into the air. You can also reap the healing benefits of essential oils by diffusing them into the air. These are the three diffusers used in our home currently, Diffuser #1 Diffuser #2 Diffuser #3
3.| Over-the-Counter Remedies
Sometimes you just need medicine and I try to be super careful about what I put into their bodies. I think it's important for the body to heal itself as much as possible. That being said- yes, we use antibiotics when needed, trust me.
Sometimes you just need medicine and I try to be super careful about what I put into their bodies. I think it's important for the body to heal itself as much as possible. That being said- yes, we use antibiotics when needed, trust me.
4.| Detox Soak
My tips and tricks found here.
5.| Homemade Gatorade Recipe
Ingredients:
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups of water (filtered or purified)
2 tbsp raw honey or maple syrup
1/8 tsp Himalayan Pink salt or Celtic sea salt
Instructions:
Put all ingredients in a blender and blend well.
Store in Mason jars or reusable glass cap bottles.
*this post may contain affiliate links*
Friday Top Five | Velvet
10 November 2017
Happy Friday friends!
I am loving all of the velvet and corduroy that has come back for this season, also the colors! The colors are so good this season. Here are a few things that I'm {crush}ed on when it comes to velvet.
1.| Shoes
Girls - Velvet Sparkle Chelsea Boots
Women - Velvet Sneakers
2.| Dresses
Girls - Crushed Velvet Cutout Dress [on sale]
Women - Strappy Back Dress
3.| Tops
Girls - Freshman Peplum Tee [on sale]
Women - Peplum Top with Sleeves
[use code: thehessgirls10 for 20% off]
4.| Lounge
Chill Leggings [on sale]
5.| Home
[use code HERO for 15% off]
[use code VETSDAY and QUICK15]
[THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS]
Friday Top Five | Smoothies
03 November 2017
1.| Raspberry Kefir Smoothie
3⁄4 cup Raspberry Kefir
1⁄2 cup strawberries
1⁄2 frozen banana
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp flaxseeds
ice as desired
Blend & Enjoy!
2.| Banana Mango Avacado
1 banana, frozen
1 cup mango chunks
1 cup spinach
½ medium avocado
1 cup of milk
Splash of vanilla extract
Few drops of stevia extract or another sweetener (optional)
Blend & Enjoy!
3.| Cinnamon Roll
1 cup milk
1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
1 Tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (or 2-3 drops of Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil)
1 frozen banana
Blend & Enjoy!
4.| Wild Orange Strawberry Trim Shake
1 scoop vanilla cream trim shake
3⁄4 cup milk
1⁄2 cup strawberries
1⁄2 frozen banana
1 drop Wild Orange Essential Oil
Blend & Enjoy!
{Copy Cat}
5.| Tropical Smoothie Café 'Blimey Limey'
2 tbsp lime juice
2 Tbsp orange juice
¼ c. strawberries, fresh or frozen
¼ c. pineapples, fresh or frozen
¼ to ½ c. water, to preference.
Blend & Enjoy!
Top 5 Favorite Peach Recipes
11 August 2017
Happy Friday Friends!
There's nothing like the taste of fresh peaches, and truth be told I'm not a canned peach person so I literally wait all year long for these sweet babies to come into season! This summer I've been trying to make a more conscious effort to preserve foods for the winter months and I anxiously await a time when the girls can help out with the peeling and chopping because, it's a lot of work! Two weeks ago when I saw a local stand put out their sign for PEACHES I immediately stopped and picked up a box of Red Haven's, then while Aaron was in the Midwest last week he brought home a box of Colorado peaches. I'm not sure on the exact variety of these but they are more yellow in color and have an amazing flavor!
Next, it was time to figure out what to do with all of those delicious peaches. First, I sliced up a ton and froze them in bags for smoothies. Then I decided to try out peach jam for the first time. I had really great success with my strawberry jam this year that I decided to give it a go. Now, I'm not a fan of the flavor of peach jam alone (maybe that has something to do with not liking the taste of canned peaches) so I decided on a Blackberry-Peach freezer jam! I literally just pulled out a loaf of Dutch Oven bread, slathered on the jam and it was like summer and heaven in my mouth all at once.
Next, I decided to really go outside of my comfort zone and try my hand at making a Zesty Peach Barbecue Sauce. It is super zesty but the taste will remind me of summer all winter long! I currently have mozzarella stuffed meatballs in the crock pot covered with this stuff, I can't wait to try it. Then I tried out a recommended recipe from a sweet friend for Peach Melba Popsicles...holy moly, they are amazing! Also, for dinner one evening this week I made my first Dutch Baby also known as a german pancake. It's made in a cast iron skillet (I love cooking in cast iron). When it was time to serve it I drizzled mine with maple syrup and dusted it with powdered sugar while the rest of my family topped it with vanilla ice cream.
Then, after having plenty of bags of sliced peaches I chose to whip up some peach puree (I also do this with my watermelon during the summer). I just blend sliced peaches in a blender until smooth, they are naturally a watery (word?) fruit so you should be able to get them to blend on their own juices, if you need to add something you can add a tad of water or OJ. Once blended fill ice cube trays and freeze, after their frozen pop them into a freezer bag and store them until you want to add it to a recipe or cocktail!
1.|| Blackberry Peach Jam - recipe from: Yesterday on Tuesday
2.|| Zesty Peach Barbecue Sauce - recipe from: Ball-Fresh Perserving
(you will need to blend some of the peaches down, I used my immersion blender to break down the chunks)
3.|| Peach Melba Popsicles - recipe from: Smitten Kitten
( I used these popsicles molds)
4.|| Fresh Peach Dutch Baby - recipe from: Macheesmo
5.|| Peach Butter - recipe from: The View from Great Island
Have a wonderful weekend.
xo - Tiffany
National Watermelon Day
01 August 2017
I'm a sucker for a good national holiday, especially when it involves one of my favorite foods.
Tomorrow, August 3rd is National Watermelon Day! Like, I seriously love watermelon, l-o-v-eee it! It's by far my favorite summer flavor. So naturally, I rounded up a bunch of watermelon products and tested out a few recipes to share with you!
1.) Ceramic Watermelon Planter - This handpainted stoneware planter would be the perfect accent to your patio decor and it simply screams summer!
2.) Watermelon Door Mat - Another perfect addition to our outdoor living space.
3.) Watermelon Slice Bottle Stopper - I'm a sucker for a cute wine bottle stopper
4.) Watermelon Cocktail Napkin Set - I love the brand Meri Meri for party supplies and these napkins are great for your watermelon themed bash!
5.) 2016 Cocomero Rosé - This wine has notes of a peach ring, strawberry, watermelon, it pairs well with poultry, salad, bbq. Which is perfect for summer! Try Winc and get $20 off of your first order.
6.) Watermelon Mint Iced Tea - Is there anything more refreshing than iced tea on a hot summer day? How about watermelon mint flavored iced tea?
7.) Watermelon Feta Salad - A friend turned me on to this recipe and it was been a staple for me, I could sit and eat this for hours it's that amazing. I'm not a huge fan of feta but in this combination, the flavors compliment each other so well!
8.) Watermelon Crush - Orange Crush, you're on the bench for the summer. Watermelon crush, suit up! Try this for a twist on an old classic.
What are some of your favorite watermelon products or recipes?
xo - Tiffany
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons