A Little Desert Apartment

Galentine's Day Gifts

2019-01-22T18:10:00.001-07:00

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of HERSHEY® for SheSpeaks. All opinions are 100% mine.

With Christmas and New Year's behind us, we have another fun holiday ahead -Valentine's Day. However, there is another sub-Valentine's Day holiday and it's Galentine's Day. Galentine's Day is the perfect way to tell your OTHER soul mate how much you adore your friendship.

This adorable Galentine's Day gift will certainly bring a smile to any bestie's face.

Friendships mean the world to me. Personally, I have never been the kind of person to have a large number of acquaintances but rather a small number of friends that I hold very near and dear to my heart. These friends of mine come a variety of areas of my life- childhood, family, work, school, and neighbors. Each and every one of them is a gem and I love each one for the joy they bring to me.

Slow Cooker Coca Cola BBQ Meatballs

2018-12-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

This post has been sponsored by SheSpeaks, Inc. and The Coca-Cola Company. All thoughts and opinions are my own

Have I told you all how crazy the past few weeks have been? On October 13th, my daughter fell on her weak side (her left arm that has no movement) and I took her to the ER once I saw how bruised and swollen it was. It was broken. OMG. Heart attack. She had to have surgery within the next few days. Once her surgeon opened up her arm- the distal (lower) end of her humerus (upper arm bone) was shattered just above the elbow. He had to clean out the shattered pieces, put in plates and screws and she had to stay overnight in the hospital.
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Easy Holiday Hosting Tips

2018-11-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

This post has been sponsored by SheSpeaks, Inc. and The Coca-Cola Company. All thoughts and opinions are my own

It has arrived! What is IT? Holiday season!

From here until New Year's Day, it is nonstop and wild. It can be stressful but with planning and finding ways to make life a little easier- it doesn't have to be stressful.

With Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year's right around the corner there will be tons of potlucks at work, work parties, hosting dinners, attending dinners, and more happening. Will you be hosting any holiday gatherings? Here are some tips to make hosting a tad bit easier!

Cordcutting with Chromecast

2018-10-15T14:54:00.001-07:00

This post is sponsored by Chromecast via Best Buy

Like many Americans, I cut the cord to cable years ago. The cost of cable was getting absolutely ridiculous and frankly, I was paying too much just to access only a couple of channles we even watched. It didn't make sense. Thankfully, many providers started offering a la carte streaming along with our favorites- Netflix and Hulu.

There is one key that every cordcutter must have- the best streaming device.

There are many great devices out there. I really, really like using our Google Chromecast to work hand in hand with our devices. It's fabulous- you can even stream from your phone to your TV.
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Kids: Then & Now

2018-10-08T19:46:00.000-07:00

This post is sponsored by the Center for Parent and Teen Communication. All opinions and thoughts are my own

THEN

Your laughter that when from the top of your head to the curling of your toes.
Your love of warm hugs and sweet kisses.
Playing the same nursery rhymes over and over.
Your little stuffed dog that you can't go to sleep without.

NOW

Your laughter when you're with your friends brings me joy (and the fact that you still laugh so hard your toes curl and you have tears running down your face).
When you turn to me with a huge smile and say "Thank you, Mom!".
You playing the same songs over and over while singing at the top of your lungs and winning medals in the Special Olympics.
You still have that same little stuffed dog on your bed.

Our babies are growing up and finding themselves. I love seeing her growth from a little bit to a joyful teenager. They're really not much different from their pre-k years, right? Just a different journey!

This video gave me all the feels.

This article from Dr Ginsberg is such a wonderful reminder that our teens are finding out who they are and to embrace this next step in the parenting journey. The Center for Parent and Teen Communication is a new and oh so valuable resource for parents who are navigating the teen years. The teen years can be challenging and rewarding (all in one!). Dr Ginsberg, the director, is a wealth of information- read more here.

What are your favorite childhood memories of your teen?
What kind of amazing things is your teen doing?

Jason's Deli Kids Night!

2018-09-27T10:20:00.001-07:00

Family Friendly Take Out and Delivery Dining Programs.

We offer boxed lunches or catering trays that are sure to please at any of your sports events. We have a menu built around the needs of our community that offers boxed meals, a sandwich tray, potato bar, salads or hot pastas to accommodate groups as small We make your job easier with online ordering and on-time delivery you can count on - even on short notice. New items are constantly being created to expand our menu for all tastes and special diets. And setting up your meal for convenience and everyone's enjoyment is included with our delivery service.

Whether you need to feed five people or 5,000, the experienced team at Jason's Deli can deliver. Our commitment to variety, value and quality ingredients means you can feel good about choosing Jason's Deli. And your guests will feel good, too.as eight or as many as 100,000 at very competitive prices. All this with Community in mind.

Children ages 1-12 can be Kid Cash recipients. Kid Cash is valid only at participating Jason's Deli restaurants and good for dine-in meals only.
We have very large dining rooms that can accommodate groups of all sizes. Bring in your team or group and join us for lunch or dinner. When you are dining in, don't forget about the free ice cream.

Kids Eat Free at Jason's deli - Kids Eat Free- Tuesday nights 4:00pm - until close at all Valley locations September thru December 2018 Four Metro Phoenix Locations:
Chandler - 7230 W Ray Rd - 480-705-9266/
Scottsdale - 10605 N Scottsdale - 480-443-3811/
Gilbert - 1065 E Baseline Rd - 480-813-1358/
Phoenix - 10217 N Metro Pkwy W - 602-870-8611/
https://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=75&bid=13781&dealid=3679 .@usfg

2018 Back to School Must-Haves!

2018-08-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

2018 school year is upon us (or almost for some of you who haven't started yet) and I am excited to share some amazing Back to School Must-Haves for this new school year to get kids off to an amazing start!

This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx.com

Who else LOVES back to school shopping? I love it nearly as much as I love shopping for Christmas. There's just something about fresh school supplies and clothes that just made me happy as a kid and now, as a mom!

This school year will be a fabulous and exciting year and even more so with the following amazing Back to School Must-Haves to get the 2018 school year off to the right start.

Kids Eyewear

Em has been wearing glasses for a long time due to her traumatic brain injury and now that she is older, she has been spending more time in front of computer/tablet screens at school and at home. Zenni Optical's UV + Blue Blockers protect eyes against harmful light- whether one needs glasses or not. These frames are undeniably cute and their prices are incredibly affordable! (Y'all know how expensive glasses are). I plan to order another back up pair for Em since she has lost glasses in the past AND order some UV+ Blue Bockers for myself with all the time I spend in front of computers- I need these, too!

Visit Zenni Optical and grab a pair or two (they have a ton of cute styles!)

New Clothes from OshKosh B'Gosh

Kids love fun and cute pieces. The option to mix and match patterns and colors take personal style to another level. OshKosh B'Gosh always has such cute pieces that are funky, fun, and allow personalities to shine through with personal styles.

These OshKosh Girls Clothes are absolutely adorable- the tunic with breton stripes and fun details on the back looks adorable with casual navy blue pants and a sparkling purse. Girls just wanna have fun!

Head over to OSHKOSH.COM and save 20% off purchase of $40+ (in store code: 038222 or online

code OKBG3549)

Valid through September 30, 2018 Exclusions Apply

Snip-Its

Em loves when I style her hair and is usually willing to let me try something new with it. Snip-Its is a high-quality kids hair care products line that is salon-quality and just for kids! The Mousse Styling Spray is a non-aerosol styling spray that really gives Em's hair oomph and style.

These are bomb.com!

Learn more and order at snipits.com

Sprout Organic Snacks

Growing kids need snacks that give them the fuel they need to keep going between meals. Sprout has delicious snacks that are also organic! Sprout is an innovative plant-powered protein snack that is perfect for kids (and let's be real- adults will love them, too!)

Curlz: This white cheddar cheese snack made with organic chickpeas and lentils will have you singing with happiness. You won't miss your other cheese puffs!

Crispy Chews: O. M. G. These crispy yummies are made with whole grain rice, fruit, and veggies. Perfect for any lunch box!

Where to buy:

Curlz: https://amzn.to/2LljdwB

Crispy Chews: https://amzn.to/2LIsHlb

School Supplies

School supplies are my happy jam and BLOT school supplies are no exception! These products are BOMB!

With a line up of products that will make any office supply collector happy- BLOT's line up includes (click each bold, underlined title to purchase):

Ombre Pastel Gel Pens: The ombre colors blend and change as you go use the ink (you can see what colors the gel will change to as the ink goes down!)

Mini Gel Pens: perfect for kids' hands and even better that the gel ink is quick drying and available in a wide range of vibrant colors.

Signature Retractable Ballpoint Pens: Durable pens that can be clipped to notebooks!

BLOT Mini Highlighters: Felt chisel tip highlights in bold, vivid transparent colors

Signature Mechanical Pencils with Lead Refill and Eraser: pencils, a refill lead tube, and eraser

Westcott scissors are a MUST- they are the world's favorite scissors (for a good reason!). I've been using the heavy scissors for a long time and they're still going strong!

They come with a lifetime warranty.

Westcott's CarboTitanium 8" Straight Scissors: Unique ergonomic over mold handle
Westcott Titanium Bonded Non-Stick 8 inch straight scissors: Combine Titanium with a unique Non-Stick coating that is permanently bonded to the blades so that blades stay sharper longer and resist adhesives from tapes and glues.
Westcott Titanium Bonded 8-inch straight scissors: Lightweight, contoured, ergonomic soft grip handle design

Order yours here

What are your must-haves for the new school year?

Which of these will you be adding to your list?

How to Beat the Summer Heat in Phoenix (and that time I touched Archie Bradley's Beard)

2018-06-04T11:32:00.000-07:00

Let me be that person right now- it's hot in Phoenix right now.

HOT.

I have lived in Phoenix for 21 years after having grown up in the Midwest humidity. It's a "dry heat" but an oven is also a dry heat.... just sayin'.

There are a few things to survive the heat (because, let's be real- I am overweight, in my 40s and it's just energy draining). This has been sponsored by BODYARMOR but my geeking out and sharing my honesty is all mine :)

1- Fry's ClickList.

Since I have discovered Fry's ClickList, my life has never been the same. I have a child with disabilities and it's just more convenient to set up a ClickList pickup. Order online, schedule your location and pickup time. Drive up to your Fry's ClickList parking spot, call and let them know you are there and they load up your car and done. DONE.

I have been using ClickList for a year now. I will pick out recipes to make, add what I need to my ClickList order and then I am set. I don't forget anything, I don't get distracted by what I don't need, and I have my meal plan ready to go. This has been a money-saving lifesaver. Oh and a total sanity saver. Working full time as a single mom- I am tired and I just don't want to grocery shop. I am a total evangelist of ClickList. The employees are always AMAZING and so helpful!

My daughter is having surgery next week and I know I will need groceries and it will how I am going to get grocery shopping done!

Let me also tell you that surprises can happen at Fry's that you won't expect. I am a HUGE Diamondbacks fan (I love baseball! I played shortstop and relief catcher for several years. It's my favorite sport to play) and the Diamondbacks had a really cool event at Fry's.

Archie Bradley delivered my ClickList groceries! Archie Freaking Bradley. The pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Two things I will tell you right off the bat- he's a really cool and super funny guy and his beard is 1000% epic.

He was there for a meet and greet with fans. He was there representing the Diamondbacks and BodyArmor sports drinks. It was so much fun to have him load my car and other customers' cars with groceries. He also generously gave customers 6 packs of BodyArmor sports drink! It was so cool to see so many people get out and take pictures and get to see our star pitcher!

In case you were wondering, I totally touched his beard.

It was luscious.

Don't mind my goofy, cheesiness but who wouldn't with FOUR TICKETS TO SEE THE DIAMONDBACKS!!!

2. Ultimate Hydration.

Living in the desert- dehydration can happen fast.

Also, my daughter takes an epilepsy medication that can increase the risk of dehydration, so I am always looking for the best drinks that she can use that don't come with any weird sweeteners or high sugar counts.

I have seen the BodyArmor sports drinks around but I did not try them until Archie Bradley and Fry's brought them to my car. I did get to chat with the BodyArmor representatives about the drink and I am impressed. They're flavored naturally and the drinks contain high amounts of magnesium and potassium. They also have coconut water and sweetened with cane sugar.

First thought- yum! Orange Mango tastes amazing. I was actually surprised at how fruity it is (which makes sense since the flavor is natural) and it's not overly sweet like a lot of sports drinks are. It was hot the day I went to Fry's and could feel my body start to feel drained from the heat. I finished a bottle and I really started feeling hydrated.

I am sold on BodyArmor sports drinks.

I bought a couple more 6-packs at Fry's (locate them at your local Kroger banner store) to help boost our hydration. I am also working to lose this last 70 pounds, so I need all the better for me options I can get.

This won't be the last time you hear about BodyArmor (or the Diamondbacks, Archie's Beard, or ClickList) from me!

3. Indoor/early AM/Late Night activities

We do a lot of indoor activities. Phoenix metro area has a LOT of inside events to survive the summer hibernation period. We do a lot of indoor gyms- (i.e., trampoline parks), bowling, movies and also- night time movies (drive-ins rock!), early morning walks, etc. It's all about staying away from the hottest parts of the day.

Also, sunshades for your car are a must- reflective are best. A steering wheel cover is another must. AC is vital. TRUST ME.

Have you ever met a professional athlete?

Are you a Diamondbacks fan?

How do YOU survive the heat?

SUPER Easy Superhero Donuts

2018-05-28T17:33:00.001-07:00

These SUPER easy superhero donuts are.... well, super EASY to make and perfect to take on the go!

This post has been sponsored by Ziploc®

Where do you find inspiration each day? I find ideas everywhere- whether it's from reading a magazine, my Facebook feed, chatting with friends or even from products. Today's post is inspired by these Avengers: Infinity War Ziploc® Sandwich bags.

Seriously.
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Easy Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings Recipe

2018-03-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

This Easy Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings Recipe and shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #VivaLaMorena #CollectiveBias

It's here- FOOTBALL SEASON!!! Of course, the big game is right around the corner and the big game requires big eats for football parties. After all, what is a tailgating or homegating party without food? Lots and lots of food. Of course, the spread MUST have wings. You can't have football without wings!

Of course, add these honey chipotle chicken wings to shake up the rotation. They're sweet, they're smoky, a little spicy and a whole lotta delish.

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Spring is in the air (Okay, ALMOST HERE!)

2018-03-13T18:05:00.005-07:00

Invite Spring Into Your Home with Mrs. Meyer’s FREE Seasonal Scents

As soon as March rolls around, I start getting super excited! I know that summer is close but not yet here. The beautiful winter and spring seasons here in Arizona are to DIE for!

This post contains affiliate links

I can’t wait for that first beautiful spring weekend when I can invite friends and family over for dinner on the patio.

Save on LG TwinWash Washers and Dryers!

2018-02-19T08:54:00.000-07:00

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

Are you in the market for a washer and dryer set? LG's TwinWash is absolutely incredible!
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Sundae Rice Krispie Treats

2018-02-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Rice Krispie Treats are a right of passage and who doesn't feel a wave of nostalgia when it comes to these delicious treats? These Sundae Rice Krispie Treats are fun and perfect for ANY party!

I love, love, LOVE rice krispie treats!
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Galentine’s Celebration Ideas (+Free Mrs Meyers Body Products)

2018-02-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

Galentine’s Celebration with Grove Collaborative

I am a Grove Influencer and this post contains affiliate links

What is Galentine’s day? It’s a day for celebrating the amazing women in your life — starting with yourself!

12 Strong Movie Giveaway

2018-01-17T07:38:00.001-07:00

With the movie, 12 Strong, opening in theaters on January 19, 2018- I am really excited about this giveaway for the book, 12 Strong and 2 Fandango Gift Cards to see the movie!

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Warner Bros. Pictures. I received information to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation

Mexican Corn & Green Chile Dip

2018-01-12T07:29:00.003-07:00

This Mexican Corn and Green Chile dip is a mix of simple ingredients with powerful flavors. Perfect to create these Mexican Corn & Green Chile Bites for game day snacks!

This shopper has been compensated by SheSpeaks, Inc., The Coca-Cola Company and Mondelez International group. All opinions are mine alone

Have you ever eaten Mexican corn? I am talking about elotes that you get from a street vendor. When I first heard about them I thought WHY?! But after that first taste, I screamed. Dude. Grilled corn with mayo, crema, chile, lime, cotija cheese and that first bite will transform you and take you somewhere heavenly.
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New Year’s Resolution: A Healthier Home

2018-01-09T03:00:00.000-07:00

Do you make New Year's resolutions?

Every January, I used to write out a list of resolutions that I’d forget or abandon altogether by February.

What’s worked for me instead? Creating tiny habits that lead to big changes.

Spicy Korean Chicken Brown Rice Bowls

2018-01-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Foster Farms®

2018 is all about maximum flavor and using better ingredients. This recipe for Spicy Korean Chicken Brown Rice Bowls meets both with using organic, free range Foster Farms® Chicken and gochujang

What kind of goals or resolutions have you set for 2018?

Mine is to improve my health: Mental health, financial health, and my physical health. I originally thought about the typical one I have which is to lose weight but honestly, I just think focusing on making better food choices is more important. I think the little changes create a big impact and greater success in reaching goals!

2017 In Review: Five Most Popular Recipes for 2017

2017-12-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Here we are, folks! 2017 is almost over and 2018 is knocking on the door.

New Year, New... whatever but I am REALLY excited because this is the first time posting a "Best of" post for this little blog here.

I wanted to do a larger one but honestly, I kind of slacked in 2017. For 2017, I am sharing the FIVE most popular recipes for 2017. As I said already, I have slacked off this year but there's a good reason for it and I am rejuvenated and ready to tackle whatever the future holds.
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Beautiful and Inexpensive Decor

2017-12-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

Home decor is NOT my forte but I desperately want it to be.

One of my 2018 goals is to have my apartment NOT look so haphazard and un-cute. My biggest problem is that I LOVE everything.

Chabby Chic? Love it.
Parisian Minimalism? LOOOOVE IT.
Eclectice and colorful? Swoon.
Asian? Oh I adore it all.

So, I need to narrow it down and do each room little by little. I also don't want to spend a lot. That's why I have been stalking estate sales, yard sales, thrift stores and discount websites.

Here are some adorable and chic finds that are beautiful and inexpensive for home decor!

Which ones are your favorites?

I have posted my affiliate links.

Top 10 Fun Game Ideas for Kids This Christmas

2017-12-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

*This Amazon Top 10 Fun Game Ideas For Kids This Christmas contains affiliate links and courtesy products*

**Updated for 2017**

Growing up in a large family, my parents couldn't really afford to buy us a lot of gifts but the one thing that was traditional was a family gift that we opened on Christmas Eve and every time, it was a new board game! We would play the new game for hours on end and it was always so much fun. It is one of my happier memories- playing Monopoly for days on end, laughing, fighting, Mom's homemade hot cocoa and eating.
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Chorizo Sausage Gravy over Diced Potatoes (ad)

2017-12-13T06:58:00.001-07:00

Chorizo Sausage Gravy with diced potatoes is the breakfast you have been waiting for your entire life. Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration. Or not...

I love a good, hearty breakfast. My all-time favorite is biscuits and gravy. Anytime I go to a new breakfast restaurant, I always order their biscuits and gravy with diced potatoes. This is me judging the entire menu- if these three aren't amazing, I won't return.
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Holiday Gift Guide: Gift Ideas for Kids that Delight and Inspire

2017-12-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Holiday Gift Guide: Gift Ideas for Kids that Delight and Inspire

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx and the brands featured below.

Gift buying can be stressful! I want the gifts to be meaningful and something that is not only fun but useful in many ways! These gift ideas will delight and inspire kids! From STEM to giving back, these are all gifts that will go a very long ways and will be used throughout the year!
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Hot Cocoa Memories & Hot Cocoa Cookies

2017-12-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the first time you tried hot cocoa?

This post about hot cocoa cookies has been sponsored by Stephen's Gourmet Cocoa as a member of Mom It Forward Influencer Network.

That magical first taste when marshmallows hit your lips and then the hot cocoa taste hits your tongue is such a special moment. The richness of it all just made a kid feel like a million bucks. ESPECIALLY after playing in the cold for hours.
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The Best EVER Carrot Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

2017-12-04T08:55:00.001-07:00

The Best EVER Carrot Cake Mix Cookies Recipe

What are y'all watching on Netflix these days? Man, there are SO many good shows on there but lately, I have been watching some spooky stuff. I just finished Slasher (don't watch it if you can't stand old school gore). Season two had me weak. It was crazy. I just started "The Mist" which is a TV Series based off of the Stephen King book. SO much better than the movie but holy crap. It's pretty dark.
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