Healthy After School Snacks & Savings

With my boys putting in a full day at preschool an important daily ritual for us after is providing them with a healthy after school snack before dinner to replenish them. They are always so thankful and excited for their treat that it makes me feel like the best mom ever for doing such a simple task. Even better when I can sneak in extra nutrients or protein into their diet too. Win-win.

We just stocked up on Gerber Lil’ Beanies at our local Publix because they are currently 2/$4 and you can score an additional 75 cents off with this Ibotta offer. Gerber's new baked snack can be found in the baby aisle and is made with the goodness of navy beans and is naturally flavored.

Being twins my boys are on the smaller side too, so I struggle trying to get them to eat more protein. Which is why I love that Lil Beanies has 2 grams of protein per serving. Also, the boys think it's "chips" when obviously it's better for them than potato chips.

 

Another after school healthy snack that we go for is String Cheese or Cheddar Cheese sticks. Right now, there is also an Ibotta rebate for Sargento Cheese Sticks, so go ahead and stock up on both and save even more!

Don't forget to download your $0.75 off coupon.

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Tips For Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

When we lived in New England we would go apple picking every fall, but now that we are in Florida we attend Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom as our new autumn family tradition.

When it's 90 degrees out it's hard to feel the change of seasons amidst palm trees instead of falling leaves. However, thanks to the decorations and activities at Walt Disney World we are able to get in the harvest spirit.

The Halloween-themed event held late August - November 1 on select nights from 7:00 p.m. to Midnight. However, you can enter as early as 4 p.m.

Unlike at Disney Land, Mickey's Not So Scary Party at WDW requires a separate ticket purchased outside of general admission or annual passes. Starting at $67 per child and $74 per adult (plus tax) per event ticket. Reservations are strongly recommended ahead of time especially for dates closer to Halloween.

Tips For Attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World

Save Money

Save $10 on your tickets compared to the day-of purchase price when you buy at least a day in advance! Day-of prices start at $85 per adult and $80 per child (ages 3-9), plus tax. You can purchase online too.

Get Dressed Up But ... 

Last year, I wore a Snow White costume, which made for great photos, but this time we all wore Disney Halloween-themed t-shirts, ears and other accessories instead. This allowed for added Halloween flair, while still being comfortable or hot.

Before you arrive dressed up for the occasion though, do read the official costume guidelines at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for children and adults.

Know Before You Go - Consult the Schedule & Map

Besides trick-or-treating and the short queues to rides, there is a LOT to do and only one night to do it all in, so consult the schedule. You'll receive a special MNSSHP brochure when you enter the park. This also indicates all the treat stations, showtimes and exclusive food and drink locations.

Last year, we missed a lot of activities, because we were on the other side of the park. This time we were determined to see Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade and Happy HalloWishes Fireworks (watch my live stream here) and knowing the official showtimes helped us plan accordingly and get a spot ahead of time. You'll also receive a schedule and party map when you enter. So, do consult it before setting off for the rides and treats.

TIP: You don't have to watch the Halloween parade just from Main Street or by the castle. In fact, you can see it sooner and first by Adventureland and near Liberty Square before it makes its way past the castle and ends at the entrance to Main Street, U.S.A. The map for the party indicates the parade route, but people tend to all congregate at the center of the park.

Also, the parade runs twice, if you can wait for the one after the fireworks, it's definitely less crowded.

Must Ride Rides

New in 2018, certain attractions have added Halloween Fun! Discover a fresh spin on the Mad Tea Party, featuring new lighting and effects. On Pirates of the Caribbean, join live pirates in their search for "Gunpowder Pete.” And on Space Mountain, hurtle through deep space with a new spooky soundtrack.

Personally, I also love visiting The Haunted Mansion, which is always ghoulishly fun, but during the party, it's lit up ultra spooky with a smoky mist outside too.

Eat Dinner Before You Arrive 

I know it might be early to eat, but not all of the restaurants are open during Mickey's Not So Scary party and the ones that are, have longer than usual lines. Plus, as soon as you enter you're given candy and you're going to want to eat that anyway, so my tip would be to eat a savory dinner ahead of time and get down to partying as soon as you enter. Save room for sweet treats and exclusive desserts though.

Try Specialty Treats 

The party map also lists specialty treats available during the party. In Tomorrowland be sure and order the Candy Corn Milkshake at Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies. I also loved the gooey Minnie Witch Brownies at Casey's Corner on Main Street. There are a lot more delicious snacks too, just consult the Dining flap of the map.

Pose for Photos Later

At the start of Main Street there is a pumpkin display and perfect photo spot, but the lines at the beginning of the party are quite long and it can be blocked off at times due to the parade or cast members guiding non-party guests towards the exit. However, after fireworks, the line is always less.

Also, guests can receive special Halloween-themed Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Select PhotoPass locations include bewitching Polter-Guests that will magically materialize in your photos! Hex-clusive Disney PhotoPass Op locations include the Main Entrance, Main Street, Haunted Mansion and U.S.A. Liberty Square.

We had the added surprise of ghosts joining our family photo.

Also, special Disney Character appearances are made during the party included rarely seen villians and beloved favorites wearing costumes and dressed for Halloween.

Grab Official Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Merchandise

Each year, new t-shirt designs and pins are available to commemorate Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. Also, annual passholders can purchase extra MNSSHP exclusives like a special pin (2017 it's a Hades' themed one) and a t-shirt. We like going to the Big Circus store by Dumbo since it has everything in one place and is usually less crowded. 

+ 8 MORE Tips For Attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party With Toddlers & Kids 

Have Fun! 

Tips for Mickey's Very Merry CHRISTMAS with Toddlers: 

 

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BRAVO! Introduces New 2-Course Dinner Menu at Mercato

Even before we moved down to Naples full-time we would dine at BRAVO! Cucina Italiana! in the Mercato when we would come to visit. Their outdoor dining and happy hour menu (weekdays from 3:30-6:30 in the bar) is especially inviting.

Following BRAVO!’s hugely successful new menu debut this summer, the restaurant is now introducing a 2-Course Dinner Menu starting at $12.99 and showcasing a selection of five entrées paired with one of three salads, now through Friday, Sept. 30, 2016.

The 2-Course Dinner Menu features dishes from fresh, cut-from-the-sheet pasta to premium quality meats, chicken and seafood with three always-fresh, high-quality Italian salads. Following are the dishes offered on the 2-Course Dinner Menu:

Salads (Choice of one)

• BRAVO! Chopped Salad with chopped greens, cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes, olives, Feta cheese and red wine vinaigrette 
• Insalata Della Casa with chopped greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, bacon, crispy pasta and Parmesan dressing (I ordered this one and it was really light, fresh and tasty. In fact, I ate more than i had expected to)
• Antipasti Salad with romaine, sopressata, Provolone, peperoncini, red onion, black olives, marinated red peppers, basil, oregano and red wine vinaigrette

Entree: Baked Chicken Parm with Rigatoni

Entrées (Choice of one)

Grilled Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Goat Cheese

• Pizza BRAVO!: Bursting with Italian flavors, Pizza BRAVO! is topped with spicy sopressata and peperoncinis, smooth mozzarella/provolone, crushed red pepper and parmesan, and finished with fresh basil and a drizzle of lemon aioli. 
• Baked Chicken Parmesan: An Italian classic with BRAVO!'S delicious hand-breaded chicken covered in Pomodoro and mozzarella/provolone cheeses and baked to perfection. Served on top of a bed of fresh herb linguine. (I substituted linguine with rigatoni pasta instead)
• Linguine Carbonara: A classic pasta dish made with fresh linguine, Alfredo, garlic, Applewood smoked bacon, fresh peas and a creamy white wine and parmesan sauce. Garnished with fresh black pepper. 
• Grilled Chicken with Sun Dried Tomato Goat Cheese: Herb-marinated chicken breast, topped with a sun dried tomato goat cheese garnished with lemon butter sauce, pesto bread crumbs and fresh basil. Served with delicious mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned haricot vert. 
• Shrimp Scampi Pasta: BRAVO!’s fresh capellini with an abundance of sautéed shrimp, garlic, diced tomatoes, dash of lemon juice in white wine sauce topped with pesto breadcrumbs and a garlic crostini. 

If you're up for it, also order the Crispy Shrimp Napoli appetizer. It was juicy and great for sharing. The creamy red sauce with tomatoes was so yummy we kept dipping our bread in it even after we ate all the shrimp. I would come back just for this dish alone!

Crispy Shrimp Napoli app

Also, while I already knew I liked their meals, I was surprised at how amazing their desserts were too since it was our first time ordering them. Go for the Dessert Trio which has three individual petite desserts including Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee, Cannoli Crumble and Warm Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie for $9.99. We sadly couldn't finish it all. The creme Brulee was rich and superb and I don't even like Brulee normally. Raphael though loved the Peanut Butter mousee. 

Overall: Bravo! We will be back and now not just for happy hour thanks to affordable promotions like these.  

Disclaimer: Our dinner was hosted by Bravo, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. I only share what I truly like. 

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Chuze is Giving away $100 in Groceries

Chuze shopping list 

About the Chuze app

I've eagerly blogged before about an amazing new app called Chuze, a powerful shopping list app that matches coupons to the items on your list, changing the way you shop for groceries. Over 400 coupons have been added too! I just saved on Febreeze WetJet refill pads that I was planning on buying anyway.

It also organizes your shopping list by aisle tailored to a grocery store near you.

Bonus, it's FREE and available for iOS and Android phones.

Chuze $100 Giveaway

Right now, Chuze is giving away a $100 Visa gift card to put to your grocery list. They always have games and cash giveaways every week on the Chuze Facebook page too.

Chuze $100 Grocery Giveaway

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3 Simple Tips to Improve Your Home's Air Quality

Did you know indoor air can be 5x more polluted than outdoor air, even in the most polluted cities?! You can improve your home’s air quality by removing harmful toxins with these three simple tricks and tips.

Add Indoor Houseplants

Branch out your home decor with actual branches of the plant variety that is. Plants remove toxins from air – up to 87% of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) every 24 hours, according to NASA research.

"VOCs are something a lot of us don’t tend to think much about, but the more energy-efficient our buildings become, the more they’re trapped," says Costa Farms horticulturist Justin Hancock

Also, a study by the University of Agriculture in Norway found that indoor plants can also help fight colds.

Fortunately, you can add oxygen and ‘fresh air’ to your home with Exotic Angel houseplant varieties, which make the best indoor and office plants, ideal for sprucing up your space because of their hardy nature and varying lighting needs. Houseplants are also a great way to change the look of your home seasonally, especially if you treat containers and pots as accessories.

I recently redecorated the windowsill in my kitchen, converting a red polka dot teapot that I already had into a planter for a succulent. I think it's darling, no?

Succelents double as trendy decor and natural air purifiers

I then found matching polka dot pots and planted a Jade plant, Croton and Dracaena all delivered to my door from Costa Farms exotic indoor houseplants.

TIP: Two of the best easy-care, low-maintenance plants for anyone just starting out with plants are snake plant and ZZ plant says Hancock. He adds, "I sometimes joke that you have to try to kill this houseplant duo with total neglect or consistently over water them."

Change Your Air Filters

Typically, your air conditioner's air filters should be changed every 3 months depending on your home, climate, and situation – yet the average is over 6 months – and that’s for people who remember to change them at all! This means you are wasting energy, losing money on HVAC repairs and energy bills, and families are breathing unclean air. Also, regular filter changes save 5-10% on energy bills.

Changing your filters removes allergens, pet dander, and bacteria from the air keeping
your home clean and your family healthy. Filters clean best when they are new and do a
progressively worse job as they get dirty. This is especially important here in Florida where we run our AC units constantly.

Yet, I'll admit I have been guilty of not changing our filters nearly enough and it has caused a disagreement or two between me and my husband, seriously, lol. Fortunately, I've since discovered Filter Easy to keep us on track and never forget again.

FilterEasy is a convenient subscription service that delivers your filters right to your door when they need to be changed - so you will never forget again or have to bother going to the store and picking them up again either and delaying the change time further. Simply select your exact filter sizes and preferred filter grade (they have lots of sizes available). Schedule the your frequency and they will automatically arrive at your door in time for changing. I expected the convenience to be expensive, but shipping is free and the filters cost the same as my local hardware store, so I'm never going back.

TIP: Get Your First Filter FREE

Get Free $20 to spend on FilterEasy.com, so that's like getting one air filter for FREE, plus free shipping (although, shipping is always free), and you can cancel anytime. No membership fees. No commitment. Nothing to lose, but your dirty old filters. ;)

Buy A Himalayan Salt Lamp & Charcoal Bag

When the 200-million-year-old crystallized salt is heated by the small bulb inside, it releases negative ions which are known to neutralize pollutants in the air. Probably the most well-known benefit – and why the majority of people use them – is due to their incredible power to remove dust, pollen, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants from the air.

How? They attract water molecules from the surrounding environment then absorb those molecules – as well as any foreign particles they may be carrying – into the salt crystal. As the lamp warms up from the heat produced by the light bulb inside, that same water then evaporates back into the air and the trapped particles of dust, pollen, smoke, etc remain locked in the salt.

Real Himalayan salt lamps are hand chiseled solid blocks of ancient crystal salts. They have a beautiful pink color, often pinkish orange, due to the high concentration of minerals.

Fragrance Free, chemical free and non-toxic, the natural moso bamboo charcoal bag effectively absorbs odors, allergens and harmful pollutants too. It also prevents mold, mildew and bacteria from forming by absorbing excess moisture. Best of all, you can reuse it for up to two years, to rejuvenate just place the bags outside in the sun once a month for about an hour. Covers 90 square feet. We put ours in the closet that houses our AC unit. I just added two more bags to my holiday wish list. Who knew I'd actually want coal for Christmas? lol. 

After two years as an air purifier, the Moso Bag will make a wonderful addition to your garden too. Simply sprinkle the bamboo charcoal into the soil, where it helps plants absorb moisture and nutrients. This completes its life cycle as a product that comes from the earth and ultimately gives back to the earth. Love it!

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