Mixing bowl w/ Lid - Pampered Chef

This is probably my very favorite thing to have for baking days! Its a high quality perfect sized glass mixing bowl, that has measurements on the side, a lid that attaches which comes in handy, and a handle which is nice too! I've used it numerous times for making cookies at others' houses - At home, I toss in the dry ingredients, sit the eggs in that, and put any other ingredients in ziplocs sitting beside those, making it easy to have all I need in one thing, and I can easily take it on the go! :) $15 for years of use!! (I had purchased my own when I moved out of my parents years ago, after using my mom's for years! :)

http://www.pamperedchef.com/our_products/catalog/product.jsp?productId=211&categoryCode=KW

If you need a Pampered Chef rep, let me know and I'll connect you with one!

Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons - Crate & Barrel

We got these as a Wedding gift, and I LOVE them! They're chunky and fun to use, durable, and look nice too! I keep them off the ring so I can easily grab the particular ones I need. Baking is definitely more enjoyable when you have nice things to bake with - if you bake a lot, its worth investing in some good tools! These are $9.95 at Crate and Barrel.
http://www.crateandbarrel.com/kitchen-and-food/measure-mix-bake/set-of-4-stainless-steel-measuring-spoons/s668672

Wearever Airbake Cookie Sheets

I definitely used to get frustrated with cookies that seemed to not be quite done on top, but practically burnt on the bottom, using the normal thin cookie sheets. Then I found and tried airbake (wearever brand) cookie sheets, and the difference is huge! They never burn on the bottom, the insulation makes such a difference, and they cook evenly! I think I got mine at Bed Bath & Beyond, years ago, but look anywhere, or just google Airbake cookie sheets or Wearever Airbake cookie sheets! :)

Reynolds Foil Cupcake Liners

There is something about these, I just won't make any cupcakes or muffins without them now!! :) I mean, obviously using baking cups in general helps make cupcake/muffin tin clean up MUCH easier, but the FOIL ones I really believe help keep more moisture in, and help prevent burning; they add just a little more insulation which makes a big difference! Try 'em out and see what you think! :)

Parchment Paper - Whole Foods

As it is the season of baking, I thought I'd list some of my favorite baking products and tips!
I love using parchment paper for baking cookies, I really think it makes a difference, and it makes it easier for transferring cookies, and easy clean up! You can even just carefully pick up the parchment paper sheet with baked cookies on it, and sit it on the cooling rack for quickest removal from actual cookie sheet. Any kind of parchment paper will do, but I do like this (above) kind I've found at Whole Foods.

Tip: I cover just about any pan, with parchment paper or foil, when baking anything, even chicken fingers, chicken breasts, or fries! It makes it SO much easier to just pull up the sheet of foil and throw away the mess, and save the hassle of having to scrape the pan! Spray or wipe oil on foil to keep things from sticking tho!

Edamame (soybeans)

Some of you may have never heard of this, seen it at sushi restaurants, or heard the name but haven't been sure what exactly it is. I would definitely say that when I moved here (northern VA) I was introduced to it, and now see it everywhere... Edamame (soybeans) are a great source of protein, easy snack, side dish, or addition to any salad, pasta dish, etc. You can buy them in the pods or just the beans (shelled) - look in the freezer section of vegetables. I usually get them at Trader Joe's. Its fun to get them in the pods - you boil them in water, drain, rinse, and drain again, salt if desired, and eat. Pop the pod in your mouth and pull each bean out, but discard the pod (they are not to eat). Or if you buy just the beans, after cooking, they're easy to put in snack size containers and take for an easy healthy on the go snack! There's something about them that's addictive and satisfying! Enjoy!

The Fairy Jobmother - Lifetime

This is a new show that started on Lifetime this fall, and I think its a great time for it, after the economic downturn a couple years ago, and how that continually affects so so many, its nice to see something that helps motivate people and helps them brush up their interview skills and realize what hope they can have. Some of these couples on the show have been out of work for years, and she gives them a reality check and the support they need to press on and (hopefully) get a job and a fresh start! Interesting to watch! Show is on Lifetime Thursdays at 11pm et/pt.

Great 'Dollar Tree' Finds!

So I've noticed lately, that despite the fancy and expensive shops that are in the area I live in (Northern Virginia, right outside of DC), there actually are some of the best 'Dollar Trees' I've been to, with awesome products and great finds! Of course you have to look around, and see what's in stock at the time, but I've found some great name brand products and save a lot buying them there vs. Target or the grocery store. I found these above rubbermaid plastic containers in three different sizes, and other things that are name brand as well: elmers glue sticks, scotch tape, marvel kids boo-boo ice pack, reynolds cut rite waxed paper, lots of different candies (hershey kisses, dots, sixlets, andes mints, and a bunch of others), swiss miss hot cocoa w/ marshmallows... And then there's always the things that are not name brand but that it doesn't really matter - seasonal paper plates and cups, seasonal home decor, tissue paper (lots of colors), gift bags, candles, candle holders, bud vases, fun kid toys, kids art supplies and project stuff, educational/teacher stuff, kitchen gadgets and utensils, plastic organizing bins & baskets, etc etc. I know lots of people already know this, but if you haven't found a good 'Dollar Tree' yet, keep looking - usually the bigger, newer ones are the best!

Red pears

I don't really like green pears, but there's something about red pears that is so different and appealing. They're available during the fall usually (they are currently, try Safeway), and when ripe they are very soft and juicy and have a thin skin. They're easy for older babies too - the 11 month old I nanny likes to eat them in slices - they're so soft they can be easily eaten and and she loves them. I buy these weekly and enjoy them as long as they're in season! :)

Babybel light cheese

These are the perfect little quick grab and go protein snack! I love especially eating them with pretzel thins, or something crunchy! They're a nice mild cheese that's easily likeable, even the kids I nanny love them. Not sure if thats half because of the fun of unpackaging them :) (they're in a red wax that you peel off with a strip in the middle, and plastic over that.) I usually get them at Safeway and Trader Joe's.

Smucker's Natural Chunky Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is not my fave, so the fact that I found one I really like is a good sign! :) I love that this kind is natural and doesn't have any sugar or high fructose corn syrup, its only peanuts and a bit of salt! And I love the thicker nutty texture and bits of peanuts in the chunky kind! (It also comes in creamy). After having this I can never go back to ordinary peanut butter, and why do that anyway? :) This is great to dip apple slices in, too! An easy healthy satisfying snack.

Ghiradelli Peppermint Bark

This is definitely one of my favorite things of the Christmas season every year!! I do not consider myself a much of a peppermint fan, but if its peppermint done well (peppermint mocha creamer, starbucks peppermint mochas, celestial seasonings peppermint tea) than I'm in! :) And I'm not much of a white chocolate fan either, but this is the perfect blend of tiny peppermint pieces in white chocolate, with this yummy milk chocolate layer underneath, and they're in these thin small squares that are a perfect little irresistible treat, they're SO good!! They also come in bigger chocolate bar sizes, great for gift giving... Look for any of these at grocery stores, bed bath & beyond, TJ Maxx, K Mart, etc.

Chopped - Food Network

My husband and I love this show. When I first heard about it or saw previews, I was like whatever, but after we started watching it, its definitely addictive, and a must have, on our DVR list of shows to record. Its also nice its a fresh bunch of four chefs each show, which keeps it new and limits the drama that can come with an ongoing program where its the same chefs each week. And who knows, with the weird baskets of food they're given, maybe it'll help you be more creative in the kitchen!

Butter Lettuce

I have never been a salad fan, but in recent years, especially since I started dating my now husband (who makes a killer salad), I definitely like salads better. And after discovering fresh butter lettuce, yum, salads are so much better! They have soft 'buttery' leaves, not coarse or dandelion-y :). And buying them in the small individual heads, can be around 80-90 cents each, which is great! Beats that bagged stuff by far! Fresh and cheaper! Definitely keep an eye out for it and give it a try! *Salad tip: For my salads at home, I like to add to the lettuce: cucumber, red pepper or tomato, shredded mozzarella cheese, corn (cooked and chilled - yum!), and ranch or italian. Adding a variety of things, anything you want, really adds to the fun of the salad! Think of it like an ice cream sundae, but... vegetables! haha.

Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread

I grew up with this around, having grandparents and a dad that have a love for european food, and having lived in France with my family for a couple years as a teen. Its this creamy yummy blend of chocolate and hazelnut, that is great on french bread, toast, croissants... And makes having chocolate for breakfast more acceptable! ha.

Perfect Kid Outing Treat - Chick-fil-A ice dream + a little something extra

I know that Chick-fil-A isn't all over the country, so this one just replies to those of you who have one locally. I have found this to be a fun kid outing: Their ice cream ("ice dream") kid size cups are like 80 cents each, and with the kids I nanny, before we leave the house to head there, we pack all sorts of sprinkles, or m&m's, mini candy bars, etc, and once we get there, order, get settled, the kids get to decorate their own sundae! They love it, its super affordable, and a fun little special thing to do. Plus the kid serving is a great size for them, its not overboard. Sometimes its smart to get an order of fries just to balance out the sweetness and cold (or 'brain freeze'!) and they love the waffle fries. Remember that Chick-fil-A cooks everything in peanut oil, so if your kids have nut allergies, you may want to avoid their cooked food or food entirely. Happy Outings!!

Great Counter top organizer - Target Bread basket :)

So when we were decorating our apartment during the summer, and trying to get things organized, I was looking for a good counter top organizer or basket for the products we use a lot, just to keep them handy but not cluttery. Not finding anything that was quite right, I finally got creative and, in the kitchen section at Target, saw that the "bread baskets" were the perfect long narrow size to not take up too much counter space, and got one, and its been perfect! Nice little handy tip! :)

Punchbowl 'evites' - http://www.punchbowl.com/

Ok so this is brand new to me, but the other day my boss introduced this alternative to Evites, to me, and I am very excited about it! They are more personal & special I think, and have a fun selection of designs, you can personally pick out all the details, even the envelope lining and postage stamp, and as guests view the invitation, it visually opens itself out of the envelope just like if you were holding it in your hand. Its free (or for "plus" designs you can get a free trial, and then I suppose there may be a small fee, but haven't found it yet. :) The other things I like about it is its much much easier to use than evite, its not frustrating or hard to figure out, and goes step by step, keeping it simple! I signed up, and have created an invitation on there just for fun, and can't wait to use it for events. Sign up and try it out for your next event!! :) http://www.punchbowl.com/

Starbucks Earl Grey Tea Latte

Ok, so when I've recommended this drink to friends, its either you love it or you hate it, I guess. I love tea, coffee, and lattes, and this is for sure my very favorite hot drink, yum, its so good!!! The creamy-ness of a latte with the hot tea & a touch of sweetness is something that never gets old for me. And heading into winter, now is a great time to try one! :) p.s. if you like earl grey tea by itself that's a good sign you'll like this. ha.

Nalgene Travel Bottles - Container Store

I love having travel bottles that I know really will not leak, and are small enough to save space for carry-on liquids, I can put any of my favorite products in them, and they're reasonably priced. Container Store has an awesome travel aisle, with a ton of different bottles to choose from, and the Nalgene ones I've gotten from there are great!! Definitely check it out!

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

If anyone has a skin condition, I almost always go straight to either coconut oil, or cetaphil! :) Cetaphil is an awesome moisturizer, its a rich cream that really does its job, and is great to help relieve dry skin, eczema, great for massaging hands or back, I even use it as a nightly face moisturizer. The tub lasts long time, and sometimes goes on sale at Target. I've also found it at Costco in a bit bigger jar, for I think about the Target sale price. They also sell this in 3 oz. tubes - great for traveling!! But I have trouble finding the tubes- have only found them at Walmart so far. Definitely try this unscented gentle moisturizer for your whole family's needs!

Yankee SoHo Living Candles - Marshalls

You know when you find a great product, for an awesome price, and its just gratifying? I find these big (14.5 oz) two-wick candles at Marshalls, for $3 or $4 each!! It is such a bargain, and they smell great and look nice, and last long! Keep your eye out! :)

Gmail email

If you don't have gmail as your primary email account, I really encourage you to try it! I know a lot of people have it now, but there are still some I'm surprised that don't have it. I know its a switch to have to transfer to a new email account, and getting used to it takes a bit of adjustment time, but the perks are way worth it, I love it!

Some of the perks: the layout is easy to use and makes sense, simplifies; it auto saves your emails every minute as you type them, so no more lost emails; you can search your emails by typing in a keyword- saves time and super handy; it saves your emails in a "pile" so that your emails back and forth with someone are all compiled; you can "label things"; can create categories to file emails in; can mark things as "spam" so whenever you receive new junk emails from the same company, it goes directly into the spam folder instead; it has a calendar connected you can use and also share with others who have gmail (Ian and I have one we use, so we can both write things on it and try to stay organized!) Oh, and gchat and video gchat, which is super easy and convenient and free, definitely a big perk!

mail.google.com

Nestle Peppermint Mocha Creamer

You know those little things that only come around during the holidays, and its part of what gets you excited about the season? haha ok well this Peppermint Mocha Creamer is definitely one of those things for me! It is so good, I am not a regular coffee drinker, but during this season I definitely drink more, just to enjoy this creamer! Yum!!

Lydia Jane Photography

So the photographer we were SO blessed to have found for our wedding, did an amazing job and I just love her style! She was great to work with, was awesome on the wedding day, working with all the friends and family, had a great attitude and a smile on her face, and took gorgeous pictures! We were very pleased!
lydiajane.com

Income Property - HGTV

So my hubby and I watch a lot of HGTV and Food Network, and one of the shows we love is Income Property, hosted by Scott McGillivray. Its awesome to see how he turns crappy basements and rental places into gorgeous, sleek, durable income properties, and ups the value of the house, it gets the owners more rent and supposedly better tenants. Even though the show doesn't apply to us, we don't have an income property and don't plan to, its still neat to watch! And no matter what stress goes on, what problems they run into, the host has this calm demeanor, so its relaxing, and not stressful to watch.

My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss

As a nanny, I definitely have favorite children's books, and this is one of my very favorites. It puts emotions into colors so kids can begin to learn how to express their feelings (instead of just screaming or crying :) ha). Here are a couple excerpts:
"Some days of course, feel sort of brown. Then I feel slow and low, low down."
"But when my days are happy pink, its great to jump and just not think."
 It is a colorful, calm book to read. They have it in a baby board book as well.

Mac & Cheese - Trader Joe's

I know everyone has a favorite mac & cheese, but from the first time I had this one, it wins, hands down as THE best mac & cheese in my book! Its in the freezer section in Trader Joe's, is conveniently microwaveable, and is so creamy and cheesy and amazing. Quick comfort food!

Clorox Green Works natural all-purpose cleaner

I love having a cleaner I can safely use on everything, that works well, smells nice and light (I can't stand those strong offensive cleaners) and I will buy it again and again. Plus its a good price. Definitely a good buy! Also invest in some cleaning cloths you can launder and re-use over and over! They clean better than paper towels and save money and... trees! :)

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Volume Mascara

I feel like I have tried way too many mascaras, and most all of them flake or make my lashes look weird. The one that outshines all the rest, for me, is always Maybelline (yes I love lots of their makeup, its affordable and satisfactory!) Define-A-Lash Volume Mascara. It doesn't flake, it goes on well, and I am always happy with it. At Christmas time sometimes Target will package them in twos for a special price, so I stock up a bit then too. :) After reading that waterproof mascara can be drying to the lashes, I now buy regular, not waterproof, and just only buy waterproof if I need it (wedding day, summer time, etc.)

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation

This is by far my favorite foundation! I have used it for years and love it! I use a foundation sponge (the little ones that come in packs of two at target) to apply it - it goes on and blends in smoothly, looks natural, and has a nice light feel. A little goes a long way too, and its very affordable, and they come out with coupons for it which is nice. If you're wanting to try a new foundation, definitely give this one a try!! :)

Doubletree Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ever stayed at a Doubletree Hotel? We did a night on our honeymoon, and they give you these amazing huge thick chocolate chip cookies when you check in! They are so good, I have been trying to track them down ever since! :) I found out you can order them online, and they also have "copycat" recipes - not sure if they're close to the real thing, but good idea!

Cookies to order online: http://www.christiecookies.com/StoreFront/IAFDispatcher

At home recipe: http://www.foodgeeks.com/recipes/18302

The Unbreakable Eyebrow Brush

For a long time, I've had an eyebrow/lash brush in my makeup kit, but I've had to replace it time and time again, because I drop my bag or something, and it breaks. There's something about the cheap plastic that has no durability. I figured maybe invest in one that costs more, but the one I kept seeing that was more looked to be the same type of hard plastic. So my solution - a little kids (new :) toothbrush is a durable plastic, with bristles that are nicely softer than eyebrow brushes, and it works great! I spent $2 on one like the above picture, and it'll last way longer than my previous several! ha. Call me crazy, but I'm just a fan of practical and good prices!

Nana's Apple Cake Mix - Tastefully Simple

This is seriously one of the best desserts I've ever had! (And I generally don't personally qualify anything as "dessert" unless it contains chocolate ;) It is so yummy I almost ate the whole pan in a day!! haha. Its easy too, just add chopped apples & eggs, and bake! Enjoy! (My friend said its great if you add 1/4 cup cinnamon chips, that's also really good!)
http://www.tastefullysimple.com/shopourproducts/allproducts/nanasapplecakemix157108.aspx
If you need a Tastefully Simple consultant, I can refer one.

Misto Olive Oil Sprayer - Bed, Bath & Beyond

This has been one of my favorite little purchases from our wedding gift cards! I love the idea of Pam spray but we prefer to cook with Olive oil as much as possible, so this is perfect! You fill it half full with any oil you'd like, and when ready to mist, pump it first and spray. Its great!! I've also seen them at TJ Maxx/Marshalls type stores. If you buy at Bed Bath & Beyond, remember to use one of their 20% off coupons! (one coupon can be used per item, and even though they list an expiration date, they never actually expire, and if you forget to use a coupon, bring receipt back with the coupon and they'll give you the difference!)

TLC Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars - Target or Giant

If you have a candy bar craving, but are trying to stay healthy, or if you're hungry and want a little something sweet, these are great! 

Glass Prep Bowls w/ lids - Pampered Chef

I love these small glass prep bowls! They're a great alternative to plastic containers, and last way longer too, and are safe. They come with lids that easily attach - unlike lots of other glass and lid sets. They come in 1-cup size (shown), and 2-cup size. The 2-cup size is great for leftovers and can be safely reheated in the glass. The 1-cup size is perfect for baby food and small amounts of leftovers. And yes, you could use them as prep bowls, which is their original intent, but they have many uses! :) Enjoy!
1-cup size set of 6: http://www.pamperedchef.com/our_products/catalog/product.jsp?productId=9792&categoryCode=KW
2-cup size set of 2: http://www.pamperedchef.com/our_products/catalog/product.jsp?productId=27468&categoryCode=KW
If you need a Pampered Chef consultant, I can connect you with one.

7/28/11 I have noticed that the lids have been shrinking and no longer stay on the containers, they work their way off. I contacted Pampered Chef about it and they gave me a run around and were no help, then they forwarded me to a managers voicemail who never returned my call. I would not buy these again. Until they make better lids!!!

Kiss My Face Creamy Cleanser & Toner - Whole Foods or Online

I love Kiss My Face Creamy Cleanser, and spray Toner! They smell light but great, are great for sensitive skin, a little goes a long way so they last a while! And my skin has been much better using these products, than using other kinds. I usually buy them at Whole Foods, or you can order online.

Whole Potent & Pure KMF skincare line: http://www.kissmyfacewebstore.com/products/beauty-face-care/potent-and-pure
Cleanser: http://www.kissmyfacewebstore.com/detail/KMF+1200401
Toner: http://www.kissmyfacewebstore.com/detail/KMF+1205300

Coconut Oil - Whole Foods or Online

Coconut oil has a ton of health benefits and uses, it is definitely a good thing to keep on hand! You can cook with it, eat it, moisturize with it, help clear up diaper rashes, skin conditions; its naturally antibacterial, and a natural anti-fungal (can cure yeast infections). It can get liquidy when warm or hot, or will firm up when placed in the refrigerator or freezer even for a few minutes. Check out the following links!
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
http://ezinearticles.com/?Naturally-Cure-a-Yeast-Infection-With-Coconut-Oil&id=2628768
http://www.coconutdiet.com/skin_health.htm

Tri-color Pasta Recipe

 

This is something I made up, and has been a recurring meal that we love and is easy to toss together! I make a box of tri-color rotini pasta, and while the water's heating up and all, I dice up a red bell pepper and throw in a grill pan with some olive oil, cooking till tender. I also heat up some corn (in a steamer or grill pan). And make pesto sauce in a little pot (I get those little packets when they're on sale). Dice up chunks of fresh mozzarella and sit aside. Once pasta is drained, return to pan on low, add a bunch of fresh spinach, pour hot pesto sauce over that (it'll wilt the spinach, just stir it around), and toss in the bell pepper, corn, and mozz cheese, mixing around and topping with grated parmesan cheese. It makes 4 big sized servings, or 8 "side dish" servings. Sometimes we eat it beside rotisserie chicken, but honestly its good and filling all by itself!

Julie & Julia Movie

If you've never seen this movie, it is a great one! Definitely worth a watch, and one of those rare movies that's unique, cute, and a breath of fresh air.

Kettle Corn - Trader Joe's

The perfect sweet and salty snack, and at a great price! I've also seen it in a "light" version in mini snack bags.

Oxi Clean Laundry Stain Remover

This stuff is great, definitely my favorite laundry stain remover. The only thing I've seen it not remove are stains from neosporin or vaseline - which many stain removers can't help. Here's the hint for removing these greasy 'unremovable stains': spray with WD-40, then follow with dish soap (rub it in) and throw in laundry. Works like magic. Sometimes for minor greasy stains just the dish soap step will work. :) Also check out Oxi Clean powder, and carpet cleaner!

Spaghetti Squash

If you've never had a spaghetti squash, now is a great time to try them, since its fall and they're in grocery stores all over! They are easy to prepare and healthy and, I'm already a squash lover, but spaghetti squash is definitely one of my favorites!
How to prepare: Rinse squash, cut in half, and with spoon hallow out seeds (like you would a halloween pumpkin :), turn flat side facing down on a baking sheet (I cover mine with foil to make for easy clean up!) and bake in a preheated oven at 375 for 30-40 minutes - check them and see how soft they are - the softer the better, so if in doubt put it back in for a bit - when its done, from the outside when you push with your finger it'll be mushy, and when poked with a fork the 'spaghetti strands' will easily flake out. Using a fork remove all of the spaghetti squash (may have to let squash cool a bit, it'll be hot!), and add butter and salt and pepper - it is super easy and so delicious! Enjoy!! If you have leftovers, just reheat in a pot on the stove, stirring a few times. For baby food, it can be pureed with formula or breastmilk - it doesn't get completely "pureed" - it'll still have some texture, so is ideal for older babies, not a first food. ha.

Apple Carrot Sauce Crushers - Trader Joe's

These are great for fruit-on-the-go, with no sugar added. I love them, and they're fun for kids, a great way to sneak in more veggies! They also make great 'teething toys' for babies (don't knock it till you try it :) - don't ask me why but they entertain teething babies for hours! ha. They also come in plain applesauce. They can be stored in refrigerator, or at room temp, which is handy!