1/17/2022 Weekly Meal Plan

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I did absolutely no meal prep over the weekend. The big kid has Covid-19, and little sister spent the week at home also, as she is in close contact and needed to quarantine. I’m vaxxed and boosted (and I tested negative on Tuesday), so I’ve been going to work and the usual. BUT- Every winter, after Christmas without fail I lose my voice. It’s been an “annual tradition” (honestly one I could live without) for at least…15 years. No other symptoms- just no voice. Or I sound like I’ve been a lifelong smoker.

Taking care of sick and bored kids is not fun, and it takes up every waking hour.

Luckily, we are back on the CSA train- We need some fresh produce in our lives and I hate carrying more groceries upstairs!

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal. They email a preview of what will be in the boxes over the weekend, so I can start thinking about what I’d like to make.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. Lately the big kid has been digging protein shakes in the morning. This is his favorite kind. 

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: This week we’ll start enjoying some Dream Dinners, and I’ll be posting pics and deets all over my social media!

  • Monday: Roasted Veggies, Soup and Grilled Cheese sandwiches
  • Tuesday: Nug night- I’ve got 3 different types, krinkle fries, apple slices & orange wedges
  • Wednesday: Tortellini and Vegetable Medley Soup, Garlic Bread
  • Thursday:   Quesadillas, roasted corn salsa, beans & rice
  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday:  Leftovers
  • Sunday:  Wings, Salad, cheesy mashed potatoes

Please stay safe you guys!

1/13/2022 Friday Freebies and Deals

Sorry this has been so late today.

The big kid tested positive for ‘Rona, and so I’ve been dealing with a sick kiddo (he mostly has a headache and is “soooo bored” that he’s taking naps a lot), plus little sister had to quarantine because of close contact (she and I both tested negative on Tuesday). And I’m rocking my annual sore throat that culminates in losing my voice for a week.  Other than that… We are doing great!

I’m going to try and include links to free local events as well. Please remember to follow all local public health guidelines. In California, that means wearing masks inside businesses and public spaces.

I’m working on new birthday freebies for 2022 as well. If you know of any, please drop me an email!

Freebies

Free Fire Ant Temporary Tattoo
Free Maddy’s Sweet Shop Shortbread Snaps
Free Soapbox Vitamin Complex Shampoo
Free Makebreak: Silver and Snow Paint Pour Art at Michael’s
Free CVS Health Baby Wipes
Free Wildlife Services Tick Remover
Free Just Crack An Egg Omelet Rounds at Walmart
Free Lane Bryant Gift Card Giveaway
Free At-Home COVID Test (Anthem Insurance holders only)
Free Veggiecraft Farms Veggie Pasta
Free Beauty Services at Aveda
Free OUI Juicy Couture Play Eau de Parfum Set
Free Sample of Hermes Paris Fragrance
Free SOS Hydration Kids Electrolyte Drink Mix at Walmart
Free Candle & Diffuser + $75 eGift Code
Free Emerald Ash Borer Temporary Tattoo
Free Sample of Enemeez Mini or Enemeez Plus Samples
Free Racecar Track Sets
Free NotCo Plant-Based Milk Alternative
Free Sample of Yes Life CBD Oil & Hemp CBD Pain Relief Cream
Free Coca-Cola with Coffee at Walmart
Free I Am Still Serving Decal
Free Mexican Fruit Fly Temporary Tattoo
Free Bestway Slide ‘n Glide Party Kit
Free Defend the Flock Magnet
Free Spotted Lantern Fly Stickers
Free Vital Proteins Collagen Peptide at Select Stores
Free Soapbox Vitamin Complex Conditioner
Free Hallmark Card Every Month
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Smart Battery Powered Toothbrush
Free Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Temporary Tattoo
Free Origins Original Skin Matte Moisturizer
Free Lintbells YuMOVE Joint Health Supplement for Dogs

Deals:

Dani Leopard Clutch ONLY $14.99 Shipped (Reg $29.99)
Pocket Collared Coat ONLY $14.97 (Reg $55)
Kate Spade Bailey Shoulder Bag ONLY $89 (Reg $359)
Divatex Quick Dry Hand Towel ONLY $2.93 (Reg $10)
Bella Pro Series 4.2-qt Analog Air Fryer ONLY $29.99 (Reg $60)
Hunter Women’s Tall Boots ONLY $79.97 (Reg $150)
Little Tikes Whale Teeter Totter ONLY $25 (Reg $75)
Champion Boys Basketball Shorts ONLY $9.59 (Reg $24)
Lancôme Eye Makeup Remover ONLY $16 (Reg $32)
Spider-Man Hat And Wallet ONLY $8.30 (Reg. $20)
Lenovo Smart Clock 2 ONLY $49.99 (Reg $70)
Philips Sonicare One Rechargeable Toothbrush $23.95 (Reg. $40)
Victoria’s Secret Classic Backpack ONLY $12.99 (Reg $30)
MUK LUKS Women’s Sarina Boots ONLY $27.99 (Reg. $60)
Ulta Love Your Skin Event: 50% Off Lancome, Murad and More
NuWave 15.5-Qt Air Fryer Oven $110 + $25 Kohl’s Cash
Chatties Fuchsia Glitter Clog for Girls ONLY $7.99 (Reg $20)
Brother P-Touch PT-M95 Label Maker ONLY $24.99 (Reg. $50)

Cents of Style: COZY Weekly Deal- 1/10/22- Shackets & Outerwear an Extra 20% Off!

Outerwear** This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Shacket? That’s a jacket+shirt! More than a shirt, but not as heavy as a jacket.  This week, Cents of Style is offering the coziest Shackets, sherpa, and lightweight jackets that are cozy, comfy, and will keep the winter chill away. There are 14 styles and they come in various sizes through xs-3xl.

You’ll save an Extra 20% Off Lowest Marked Price Starting AT $16 with coupon code: OUTERLAYER at checkout. This sale only goes through 1/17/2022, so get on this deal!

Favorite Tops

1/10/22 Weekly Meal Plan

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I spent some time yesterday cooking. I made broccoli rice casserole (recipe later this week), soup, brownies, and mac n’ cheese.  I also prepped the last of the veggies. I’ve got grown-up lunches covered for the week, and some of our sides for the week too.

Last week was busy and while we didn’t stick to our meal plan, we came pretty close… and that’s ok. I always have extra food on hand to make quick/easy meals for nights when.. stuff goes sideways.  Canned soup, stuff for grilled cheese, quesadillas, beans and rice, frozen entrees, leftovers.

We are back on the CSA train- We need some fresh produce in our lives and I hate carrying more groceries upstairs!

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. The Ancient Grain bagels from Einstein Bros. are the current family favorite. I pick them up on Mondays when a dozen is only $7. I slice them and freeze them to keep them from going bad too quickly.

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: This week we don’t have a lot planned after school/work, so I should be able to get some yummy dinners on the tables.

  • Monday: Nuggets (both chicken and veggie), fresh fruit, noodles, cheese, and crackers
  • Tuesday: Oven Roasted chicken, roasted veg, Salad
  • Wednesday: Brocolli rice casserole, salad, garlic bread
  • Thursday:  Soup, Grilled Cheese, fruit
  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday:  Leftovers
  • Sunday: Baked pasta/veg casserole

Please stay safe you guys!

1/7/2022 Friday Freebies and Deals!

It’s the first Friday of 2022, and there are some awesome free freebies and deals this week.

I’m going to try and include links to free local events as well. Please remember to follow all local public health guidelines. In California, that means wearing masks inside businesses and public spaces.

I’m working on new birthday freebies for 2022 as well. If you know of any, please drop me an email!

Freebies:

Free Covergirl Clean Fresh Brow Gel
Free 2022 Fashionphile Calendar
Free Seaworld Teacher Card
Claim $12 in the Welch’s Juice Class Action Settlement
Free Genexa Kids Cough & Chest Congestion
Text for $10 Off at Lane Bryant = Free Item
JCPenney Portraits – Free 8×10 for Military Families
Free Sample of WowButter Creamy Peanut Free Toasted Soy Spread
Free 2022 Defend the Flock Chicken Calendar
Focus Group Needs New Members – Pays with Visa Debit Cards
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Milwaukee Die-Cut Decal
Free Field + Farmer Dressing & Dips Coupon
Free $5 Amazon Gift Card
Checkout 51 – Free Winter Wellness Essentials Sample Box
Free Sample of La Roche-Posay Toleriane Moisturizer
Free Heineken 0.0 Sample Pack
Free Protein2O Drink Mix Sample Pack
Free 2022 Paint the Park Calendar
Free 2-Year Subscription to Garden & Gun Magazine
Free Facial Serum + $75 eGift Code
How I Scored a $266 Breast Pump & Accessories for FREE
Free Celltrient Cellular Health Supplement Packets
Free 2022 Enginetech Wall Calendar
Free Wild Planet Wild Tuna Pasta Salad
Free Cool Beans Frozen Wrap
Free Jfoodo Miso Chatterbox Kit
Free Stomp Rocket Toy
Free Large Fries at McDonald’s
Free Charmin Mega Roll Extender
Free Celltrient Cellular Health Supplement Packets
Free American Spirit Butt Pouches & Gift
Free NHL Center Ice Channels Preview – Last Day
Free Michael’s Craft Events
Free Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Bites for Dogs
Free Olly Sleep Gummy Vitamins at Select Stores
Free Books, Journals, Stickers & More

Deals:

dreamGEAR Starter Kit for Nintendo Switch ONLY $39.99 (Reg $100)
Kate Spade Darcy Small Bucket ONLY $99 (Reg $359)
Luminarc 4-Piece Glassware Sets ONLY $3.99 (Reg $25)
Today Only: 30% Off Your Online Order at Old Navy
TCL 50-Inch Roku Smart TV ONLY $298 (Reg $450)
Nine West Ivani Combat Boots ONLY $35.99 (Reg $90)
Old Navy: EXTRA 40% OFF Clearance
Women’s and Men’s Zebra Crocs ONLY $20 (Reg $55)
MUK LUKS Carey Boots ONLY $27.99 (Reg. $65)
Men’s Jogger Sleep Pants ONLY $9.60 (Reg $30)
Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Sandal Slide ONLY $19.97 (Reg $40)
Ralph Lauren Pillows ONLY $8.99 (reg $25)
Witty Cold-Weather Boots ONLY $19.99 (Reg $50)
Bella 2-Slice Extra-Wide Toaster ONLY $14.99 (Reg $30)

Cents Of Style: Oversized COZY Sweater Perfection 50% OFF This Week!

Sweater

** This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

This week, Cents of Style is starting the year off with a cozy, cuddly sale. 4 of their sweater styles are on sale for 50% off their original price (starting at $19.99)! 3 of the 4 styles come in sizes up to 3xl, however since they are oversized, they may fit a size-ish larger. Take this into consideration when ordering. I don’t care for a really oversized sweater, so I’d order a size down.

Remember to use coupon code: WARMVIBES at checkout. This deal goes through 1/11/22 at midnight.

 

January 2022: New Healthy Freebies From Social Nature!

 If you are into Organic/Natural/Healthy products, then Social Nature is right up your alley. Sign up and apply to sample products that you are interested in. I get probably 1-2 products to sample each month. And most of the time it’s full-size products, not just a tiny sample.

Social Nature has rounded up products that are available to try at a local grocery store or mass merchandiser near you.  Apply to Try the products that interest you to see if you’re a match here.

Here are some of the new sampling opportunities:


And one of the things I love about Social Nature is that they don’t leave our friends with food allergies out.

There are sampling offers for Gluten-free, nut-free, meat-free foods frequently.

Canadian Friends- You are in luck, there are sampling opportunities for you too! So if you love trying new products, check out Social Nature!

 

 

 

New PinchMe Samples Drop 1/18/2022

Sample Tuesday is Coming 1/18/2022- Mark your calendars, set an alarm on your phone!

Don’t have any idea what I am talking about? PinchMe! Join PINCHme and receive free samples that you can provide feedback on.

PinchMe is awesome! Once you are signed up, they will email you reminders when new samples are about to drop, and remind you when it’s time to leave feedback.

Answer a series of questions about your household and shopping habits in the Member Profile. PinchMe learns what you like and offer samples just for you.

Once you’ve had a chance to try the samples, complete a short feedback survey to tell PinchMe what you think of the samples.

I get PinchMe samples every month. Here is what arrived at the end of June for the June 2021 boxes. The One Bar was really good.

What are you waiting for? Sign up here and get on the free sample bandwagon! I’ve gotten all kinds of awesome sample/trial size items, as well as full-sized items to try out from PinchMe!

1/3/2022 Weekly Meal Plan!

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpgI did a big year-end fridge/freezer/pantry cleanout (did you know White Claw expires?) last week and we were in need of a lot of groceries.

I had a big shopping week, including a trip to Costco to pick up some staples, and of course… a rotisserie chicken.

We finished up the week yesterday consuming leftovers. And I prepared a pot of chicken stock to make chicken soup today.

We are back on the CSA train- We need some fresh produce in our lives and I hate carrying more groceries upstairs!

Veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $25. Seriously. It’s a deal.

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. The Ancient Grain bagels from Einstein Bros. are the current family favorite. I pick them up on Mondays when a dozen is only $7. I slice them and freeze them to keep them from going bad too quickly.

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.

Dinner: I’ve got some tasty (and quick) meals planned for this week! It’s going to be cold this next week, so Soup will be on the menu a few times. I’ll make big batches and freeze the extra.

Please stay safe you guys!

TikTok “Side Hustles” Tested (so you don’t have to).

This post has been like 6 months in the making. It really took me that long to try a majority of these “easy side hustles” as so many are advertised on TikTok.

Disclaimer: Most of these are fairly easy, however, they do take time, and many of them have high payouts, so it will take time to earn enough to cash out. If you wanted to make a go of it and work through several of these sites, you could make good money. But keep in mind there are a lot of people doing the same thing, so there may not be a lot of tasks or potential jobs/freelance opportunities in your area. Also, these are all independent contractor positions, meaning if you earn over $600 per site, you will have to pay taxes on earnings (I’m not a tax guru, consult yours with specific questions).

Some other suggestions that TikToker’s had to earn money:

  • Manage a Bird.com fleet (Those are the electric scooters- they are only available in limited areas)
  • Sell with Amazon FBA
  • Flipping stuff (buying at a low price at thrift stores, garage sales, even FB marketplace) and selling it online for a profit.
  • Selling books from Dollar Tree/thrift stores (Scan UPC through Amazon app to see if the books have a good selling price).
  • Make Coloring books, journals, worksheet books in Canva and upload them to Amazon to sell. This one takes a while to do.
  • Upload free art from Canva to sites like redbubble or other print-on-demand sites where you can earn money when people buy items with images you’ve uploaded (journals are pretty popular recommendations).
  • Make educational worksheets, family binder sheets, or organizational worksheets and sell them via Etsy as PDF’s.

Bottom Line- I tried about 10 of these, and I didn’t make tons of money (less than $100 over 6 months all told). A lot of these sites have received a large influx of new users and they don’t have tasks/jobs that I was interested in/had time for. I made worksheets and had them on my Etsy store, but after three months and not selling any, I took them down (It was costing me money to have them listed). I have a part-time day job and some gigs/side hustles that I already do, so I don’t think I’ll be adding in any of these in the near future.

My 2022 plan is to work the gigs I already do and look for some new endeavors over the summer to make money, and of course, if I come upon anything new and cool, I’ll definitely share it with you.