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Lactation Energy Bites

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Lactation Energy Bites are the go to recipe for breastfeeding moms.  They are no bake cookie balls that are easy to make, just 6 ingredients, super flavorful and beneficial. These no bake lactation bites can be made Top 8 Allergy Friendly and vegan if needed. 

  lactation energy bites
My own breastfeeding journey, had plenty of ups and downs.  There’s lots of things that may have you questioning your supply. Before you continue reading, if you are a new mom or here because you think you have low supply, I encourage you to read 50+ Breastfeeding Myths Busted.

Watch how to make lactation energy bites:

Almost a year and a half into my first breastfeeding dyad, I heard about lactation cookies.  It seemed like ever since I first heard about them, I learned about so many other different types of lactation products– like bread, smoothies, and even energy bites.  I wish I would have known about these when we were early on in our nursing relationship and I was constantly looking for something to pop in my mouth.  I first learned about these from the Breast is Best Facebook page.  They are my go to recipe for myself and other new moms!

lactation energy bites recipe

Funny story about the first time I made lactation energy bites

The funniest story happened the first time I ever made these no bake lactation bites . Andrew came home and I was still working on dinner.  He was hungry and opened the fridge and saw the bites and popped one in his mouth.  He then asked what they were and I simply said “Lactation Energy Bites”.  His face was priceless and he ran to the trash can.  “Why didn’t you tell me your milk was in them?”, he shouted! I couldn’t stop laughing as I tried to tell him there wasn’t breast milk in them. Lactation energy bites are supposed to HELP with milk production. It was hysterical.

easy lactation bites recipe

What ingredients do you need for a lactation energy bites recipe?

These no bake lactation bites are seriously one of the easiest recipes you will ever make in your entire life.  You just need six total ingredients for this super easy lactation bites recipe. The ingredients that you need to make this recipe are:

  • old fashioned oats
  • chocolate chips
  • creamy peanut butter
  • ground flaxseed
  • raw honey
  • vanilla

Those are the only ingredients you need to make this delicious lactation energy bites recipe!

How can I make these lactation energy bites recipe Top 8 Allergy friendly?

Sometimes moms have their own food allergies, and other times, breastfeeding causes moms to have to do some sort of elimination diet.  Luckily, we can help with those allergies too!  In order to make these lactation energy bites Top 8 Allergy free, you are going to want to make a few changes.

First, ensure that the old fashioned oats that you are using are gluten free.  While oats themselves are gluten free, sometimes companies list cross contamination with gluten on their labels.  Make sure that you have a safe oat brand.

Next, pick a chocolate chip like Enjoy life in your recipe. Enjoy life chips are soy and dairy free (and all other Top 8+ allergens).

Lastly, swap the creamy peanut butter for sunbutter. It acts the same and it will taste different than our original recipe was written, but it will ensure that these lactation energy bites recipe is Top 8 Allergen friendly.

Of course, if you only have one of these allergies, you can always make the swap that you need.

Can I make these lactation energy bites recipe vegan?

Of course, you can make these vegan no bake lactation bites!  In order to do that you’ll again want to pick a chocolate chip like Enjoy Life in the recipe to ensure there’s no dairy in your chocolate.  Next, you can switch out the honey for the same amount of agave. With those two simple swaps, you will make these vegan lactation bites!

How do you make these lactation energy bites?

Once you have the ingredients that you are going to use to make these lactation energy bites, you need to grab a large bowl. Simply add all the ingredients into the bowl and combine really well.

Next, form into balls and place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Finally, put them into the fridge to set up (about 2-3 hours) and then grab and go! That’s it! Told you, easy peasy!

easy lactation recipes

Can you freeze these lactation energy bites?

You absolutely can freeze these no bake lactation bites. In order to do so, make the recipe according to the instructions. Once you have the balls made, place them on a wax lined baking sheet instead of parchment paper.  Place in the freezer for 2 hours.  Once the time is up, you can place the balls into an air tighter container or ziploc bag. Leave in the fridge for as long as you need them (up to 3 months).  Remove desired amount from freezer and allow to thaw before consuming.

Do you have to be lactating to eat these no bake lactation bites?

I get these question often and the answer is 100% no. In fact, my children and even Andrew (now that he knows my breastmilk isn’t in them) enjoys them every time that I make them.  There’s no ingredients in these that isn’t safe for anyone.  It’s just that the ingredients combined together, just happen to be great for lactating mothers.

One important note though, children under 1 shouldn’t consumer honey for risk of botulism.  If you have a child under one that you would like to give these to, please follow the directions above for making these vegan.

What are other lactation recipes that are good for milk production?

You may be looking for other lactation boosting recipes in addition to these lactation energy bites.  Our favorite recipes are:

You may also be interested in these other lactation boosting recipes!

4.41 from 5 votes
Print
Lactation Energy Bites
Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

Lactation Energy Bites are the go to recipe for breastfeeding moms.  They are no bake cookie balls that are easy to make, minimal ingredients, but still flavorful and beneficial.

Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: lactation bites, lactation recipes
Servings: 36 1in bites
Calories: 121 kcal
Author: Larisha Campbell
Ingredients
Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, add all ingredients.
  2. Stir until very well combined

  3. Using a small cookie dough scoop or your hands, roll into 1" balls.

  4. Place on baking sheet.
  5. Place in fridge and let sit for 2-3 hours.
  6. Store in air tight container in the fridge.
  7. Eat as desired.
Recipe Notes

*Crunchy peanut butter will not hold these together well.

*Add an additional 1/4-1/2 cup of flaxseed if you really need an extra boost of milk production.

*Please see notes in post if you need to make these Top 8 Allergy Friendly or vegan.

Nutrition Facts
Lactation Energy Bites
Amount Per Serving (1 bite)
Calories 121 Calories from Fat 54
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 6g 9%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Sodium 37mg 2%
Potassium 93mg 3%
Total Carbohydrates 14g 5%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Sugars 9g
Protein 3g 6%
Vitamin A 0.2%
Vitamin C 0.1%
Calcium 2%
Iron 3.4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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how to make lactation energy bites

You might also like our Chocolate PB Banana Lactation Smoothie

lactation milkshake recipe

or our Peanut Butter Apple Pie Lactation Smoothie.

lactation boosting smoothie

This lactation energy bites recipe was only published on 3/18/2014. Then updated on 2/23/2018 and again on 2/20/2019.

We’ve updated the pictures in this post. Original pictures below.

no bake lactation energy bites

no bake lactation energy cookies

how to make lactation energy bites

 

 

Beefless Vegan Stew

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This vegan stew recipe will blow you away. Super hearty and filling and perfect for any cold day.  Even the biggest carnivore will love this chickpea vegan beef stew recipe! This recipe is Top 8 Allergen Friendly, including gluten free. 

When we first went vegan/plant based, there was a lot of confusion.  What in the world did we eat?  For many people considering a plant based eating lifestyle, that is used to eating mainstream “traditional” meals, the thought alone is daunting. Many people assume that people who live a lifestyle like this just eat platefuls of broccoli and bowls of strawberries. While that may sometimes be true, the truth of the matter is that people who eat vegan or plant based eat a lot of traditional meals with small dietary changes.  Take this beefless vegan stew for example.  It’s just as hearty and filling as any traditional beef stew recipes; however, it’s just made without the beef. Even carnivores will love this vegan hearty soup recipe.

What ingredients do you need to make this beefless vegan stew?

When making this chickpea stew recipe, you are going to 15 ingredients for it to all come together.  Many of these ingredients are vegetables in this beefless vegan stew recipe. The ingredients that you need are:

  • Chickpeas
  • Carrots
  • Yellow Onion
  • Garlic
  • Celery
  • Potatoes
  • Corn
  • Peas
  • Crushed Tomatoes
  • Tomato Paste
  • Rosemary
  • Bay Leaves
  • Coconut Aminos (Can sub soy sauce or tamari)
  • Liquid Smoke
  • Vegetable Stock
  • Salt and Pepper

These are the ingredients that will make you the perfect bowl of hearty beefless vegan stew.

How do you make beefless vegan stew?

In order to make this chickpea stew recipe, you will start by chopping up all our your vegetables. Once your vegetables are chopped, add all the ingredients into a crockpot except for the peas and corn. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.  15 minutes before serving, stir in your corn and peas.  Remove bay leaves and then serve.

After you are finished, store any remaining beefless vegan stew in an air tight container. It will last in the fridge 5-7 days.

Can I make this beefless vegan stew not in a crockpot?

Maybe you don’t have a crockpot or you want to make this beefless stew recipe in a shorter amount of time.  While we highly recommend slow cooking to allow the flavors to really develop and come together, there’s no reason you can’t make this recipe on the stove.  Start by reducing the amount of liquid by 1 cup. In a large pot or dutch oven, place all the ingredients together and cook for 30-45 minutes on low.  Your potatoes and carrots should be fork tender.  If you have more time, you can continue to let it cook on low for more time.

What other recipes pair well with this beefless vegan stew?

While this vegan stew recipe is perfectly delicious all on it’s on, some people love having sandwiches or other sides with their soup. Here’s some delicious sides that we think would pair nicely with this beefless vegan stew recipe.

0 from 0 votes
Print
Beefless Vegan Stew
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
8 hrs
Total Time
8 hrs 10 mins
 

This vegan stew recipe will blow you away. Super hearty and filling and perfect for any cold day.  Even the biggest carnivore will love this chickpea vegan beef stew recipe! This recipe is Top 8 Allergen Friendly, including gluten free. 

Course: Lunch, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Keyword: crockpot, soup, vegan
Servings: 16 servings
Calories: 339 kcal
Author: Larisha Campbell
Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained (or 2 cups cooked chickpeas)
  • 28oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 quart low sodium vegetable stock
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 5 small potatoes, cubed
  • 4 large carrots, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 sticks celery, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp coconut aminos (can sub tamari or soy sauce)
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1 can corn, drained
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions

  1. Chop all your vegetables. 

  2. Add all the ingredients, except the corn and peas to a crockpot. 

  3. Stir to combine. 

  4. Cook for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot (*See instructions in post for cooking on stove).

  5. 15 minutes prior to serving, add in the corn and peas and stir to combine. 

  6. Turn off heat and discard the bay leaves. 

  7. Serve. 

  8. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for 5-7 days in fridge. 

Recipe Notes

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates. 

Nutrition Facts
Beefless Vegan Stew
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 339 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 3g 5%
Sodium 1314mg 55%
Potassium 2571mg 73%
Total Carbohydrates 74g 25%
Dietary Fiber 18g 72%
Sugars 36g
Protein 16g 32%
Vitamin A 97.7%
Vitamin C 97.3%
Calcium 28.9%
Iron 65.9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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They’re Not Really Your Friends

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This post, They’re not really your friends, is about the misconception of the social media era. It discusses the issues that arise when people believe social media follows equals friendship.   

Friend (noun): a person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection  (Family and romantic partners are usually excluded from this definition)

I remember a few years after Andrew (my fiancé) and I started dating, I was talking about “a friend.” He stopped me and said, “who are we talking about?” “Oh, my friend X,”. He looked at me and said, “why do you call everyone your friend? You don’t really know that person, y’all barely talk.

It’s easier sometimes to just call people your friends. Sometimes it also makes you feel good about yourself if you don’t have many close friends. Everyone wants to be the “popular” person, but very few are. I was well into my adulthood when I realized that I was never going to be one of those girls. I wasn’t one in middle or high school. And college was a bust too. I never got into one crowd and I sort of blew with the wind. It took me a long time to realize that there’s nothing wrong with that. And to be honest, it’s something I still have to work on.

Everyone wants to have friends. Everyone wants to be the even “sort of” popular person. Social media has pushed us even more to be on the up and up, in the know and keeping up with what everyone is doing. Have you watched the last shows, got your kids the latest clothes and best believe you should be sporting the latest tech gadgets – no longer if but how many Alexas do you own?

It’s so easy to get sucked into the desire to be everyone’s friends and call everyone your friend.

Unfortunately, They’re not really your friends.

“If someone doesn’t have your phone number, they aren’t really your friend”.

That seems like a simple enough  explanation right? We aren’t in middle school anymore. We aren’t writing KIT on a piece of paper and waiting around the phone for our friend to call us on our parents house line (or beep us or call our first cellphone but only after 7pm).

Everyone has a cellphone. Instantly, we can communicate with the entire world around us 24 hours a day. How can you say you are truly friends with someone if you don’t have a reliable source of communication with them?

It’s something I heard in one of the many groups I’m in on Facebook a few months ago. I can’t remember the group or the person that said it but the sentiment has stayed with me.

Facebook goes down (more regularly lately than in the past it seems). If it stayed down forever how many of those “friends” would you still talk to? How many of them are you trying to keep up with that could care or less if they ever spoke to you again if it never came back up? What is the number of times you realized that you were no longer “friends” with someone that you had previously  spent a good portion of time conversing with, sharing laughs and likeminded conversations.

Unfortunately, They’re not really your friends. None of them.

Even though I’ve had numerous reminders of this throughout the last few years, sometimes things need to happen to you for you to really realize it. A few years ago, a friend got off Facebook and said, “No one will check on your if you get off social media.” I laughed and brushed it off. I’ve taken a day off here and a weekend off there, but recently was offline for almost a week due to illness.

Want to know how many friends I had checking up on me? Two. That’s not to say I only have two friends, but sometimes it takes a moment like that to realize that the subtle messages you’ve been receiving are really true. You can have 17 million Instagram followers and 5000 Facebook friends, but what does that mean at the end of the day? Does it even matter if you don’t have a true form of actual communication with them?

Unfortunately, They’re not really your friends.

So who is?

You know who truly matters at the end of the day. Your family. The people that hug you tight and laugh with you, are there when you cry, and continue to check on you. While Facebook or Instagram may be an outlet or a way to escape for a few minutes, I encourage you, starting today, to put down the phone and actually spend more time with the people right there in front of you.

Take your kids for a walk. Go to dinner with a friend. Play a board game with your significant other. Strike up a conversation with the person at the gym who doesn’t have their phone out. You may be missing real connection with real people because your worries about people in a box, connected through data points, who would never check on you if you never logged in again.

Unfortunately, they’re not really your friends.

Kids Need to Set Goals Too

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Everyone needs motivation and the ability to see themselves setting and achieving goals.  No matter the age of the person, the benefits are great of setting goals. But most especially, kids need to set goals too.

Kids dream.  All the time they are constantly dreaming about things to do, places to go, how to drive you crazy for the day.  No matter what, they are always thinking of things. It’s one of the reasons why (as annoying as it can be sometimes) they consistently talk or have a hard time falling asleep.  They are learning so much everyday that it’s hard not to dream, imagine, and think of all those things. As soon as you start taking them on trips or opening their mind to new things, their minds will begin to wander. It’s beautiful really. Seeing them grow and development in that way. It’s such a joy when they randomly ask to go somewhere, eat something, or learn something new. And it’s all because of seeds that are being constantly planted in their head.

It’s for that very reason that all kid’s should have goals.

It’s easy for us as adults to have dreams and they simply remain dreams. And to be quite honest, there’s nothing wrong with having dreams that remain simply that. It gives you something to ponder and wonder and those things are always great to have.  However, as the quote goes, “your dreams are only your dreams until you write them down. …then, they are goals.”

Every year, we make goals.  Some people call them resolutions, but for many, we call them goals. Everyone wants something that is attainable and within reach, but goals give you something to strive for. Obviously some goals are smaller, while others are much bigger.  No matter your goals though, they are important.  And just like we have goals, we need our kids to set goals too.

Kids need to set goals too. 

From an earlier age, kids need to be setting their goals. By doing this, we are helping them learn that they should create a plan to achieve the things that they want to happen and how to act upon them.  It gives them something to look forward too and also teaches them so much more.

Goals help kid’s learn to focus on a task. Additionally, they trigger positive behaviors. They help to motivate and inspire them to achieve something. And probably one of the absolutely most important goals is that it builds characters.  Setting goals gives kids the ability to practice self-mastery or self-discipline.  When they set a goal, and then achieve it they are building themselves up for something greater.  They are able to see themselves as a person who can actually achieve something and ohhh how important it is for anyone, no matter their age, is see that they are able to achieve what they set out to do.

How do I have kids set goals?

The great news is that this isn’t some hard task that is going to take up a ton of your time. Especially if your child(ren) are under the age of 10, then this activity should take no more than 5-10 minutes. Once your child starting becoming a tween, and absolutely a teenager, this should be something that is well thought out and does take a little more time to do. However, I still wouldn’t expect it to take longer than 30-60 minutes.

Typically as adults we try to set goals in a series of categories.  Usually they are about finances, family, fitness and/or health, self-improvement and fun. However, for younger kids the use of categories isn’t important. Although, they would be great for older kids.

For younger kids, the best way to get them to start learning and exploring more about setting goals is to simply ask them “what would you like to do this year”. Let them guide the answers and come up with as many or as little as they want to. Try your best not to guide them into answers; however, if you see they are having a hard time, then you can give them tips about ideas – such as places they would like to go or travel too, something they would like to learn. Feel free to ask them to get more specific. For example, our oldest daughter wants to ensure she’s reading by the end of the year. I asked her how many books she thinks we should read and she gave me a number. Clarifying or expanding on an answer is great.

What age should I start having my kids set goals?

Three. You won’t get much of a response typically. But even just a few things to start them on their journey of setting and achieving goals is so important. As your child(ren) gets older, they will start thinking of more things (sometimes a little crazy depending on the age). Use the earlier years to really build a foundation and focus on the things that they truly want to accomplish over the next year.

This is our 3 Year Old’s Goal List: 

And this is our 6 Year Old’s Goal List: 

This is just a guide in helping your kids to set their own goals and learning how to achieve them.  No matter what, just remember that kids need to set goals too. 

Keeping Safe Online – Kaspersky Lab

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Kaspersky Lab. All opinions are 100% mine.

It was the late 90s before I had a computer in my own home growing up. It wasn’t until I was roughly 10 years old. We had a huge desktop computer that took up half of the desk. There was only one computer that was available for the entire house and of course it was dial-up. I vividly have nightmares about my mother picking up the phone to use it, only to kick me off of the internet. Back then, all you worried about was a virus protection program for your desktop and beyond that you didn’t worry about much.

Time’s have changed. 

It’s not uncommon in many homes today for every member of the family to have a computer or other smart device.  Not only that, but we are sharing a lot more information across the internet than we ever did before.  We pay our bills online, submit tax documents, and complete medical forms.  There is a lot more at risk in today’s world than every before.  This is all information that we would never get into the wrong hands. What we want to is keep all this information safe in the easiest way possible.

Insert: Kaspersky Lab

Not only do we want to make sure that our information is safe and protected, but we want to make sure that the future of our children’s internet security is safe and protected.  Kaspersky Lab has been in the cybersecurity space for more than 20 years and currently protects more than 400 million users every day. Kaspersky Lab software is currently available for use with:

  • PCs
  • Macs
  • Android Tablets
  • Android Phones
  • iPhones and iPads

It’s the perfect internet security solution for homes and small businesses.

Kaspersky Lab Products Available for Use

Some of the Kaspersky Lab Products that are available for use are:

  • Kaspersky Total Security
  • Kaspersky Security Cloud
  • and Kaspersky Small Office Security

Kaspersky Total Security 

One of the best features of Kaspersky Lab software is that the Total Security package is available for use across multiple devices.  In fact, you can get up to 5 devices covered for just $49.99 a year. It builds in extra privacy protection when it comes to storing passwords and important documents. It also protects your photos that you store digitally, your money when checking your banking or shopping online, and most importantly, your children. Kaspersky Total Security combines Anti-Virus protection with Internet security for a total package that protects everything that you and your family are doing online. It’s the best bang for your buck.

Kaspersky Security Cloud

The newest Kaspersky lab software is their security cloud software. It sends you security alerts while you are online. The Kaspersky Security cloud also works to weed out weak passwords and will generate stronger ones for you automatically. It also checks your accounts for any data leaks and makes sure to notify you of any issues.  The software also works to protect your home wifi from anyone trying to use the network without permission. The best option for new users is the Family plan that protects up to 20 devices for just $112.49 for the year.

Kaspersky Small Office Security

Finally, the Kaspersky Small Office Security. This product provides protection to your business from online attacks, financial fraud, ransomware and data loss. With more and more people starting businesses from home, it’s more important than ever to make sure that your business data, ideas, and proprietary information.

There are multiple levels for small office security software that range from 5 to 50 users, 1 to 5 fileservers, and 5 to 50 password managers. Everything that your small business needs for protection and ease of use is available with Kaspersky lab software.

Time have changed and it’s more important that ever to make sure your home, your data, and your kids are as safe as possible in this digital day and age. As you can see, no matter what your needs are for internet security, Kaspersky Lab has the products that are perfect for you, your family, and your small business.

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Christmas Gifts Your Kids Are Guaranteed To Play With

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While this post about Christmas Gifts Your Kids Are Guaranteed To Play With is satirical in nature, the truth is these are really things your kids would play with longer than anything you are likely to buy them. 

Trying to decide what gifts to get our kids for the holidays is such a toss up. Do we get them things that we think they want, they need, they asked for? Which one or combination of ones is the best choice? That seems to be a question that every single parent asks every single year.  You would think by now that we’ve figured it out. Wrong.

Do We Give Gifts We Think They Want?

The first option, gifts we THINK they want. In someways this option is in a way us reliving out our own childhood. Gifts that maybe we didn’t get because it cost our parents too much or our parents didn’t like the idea. Now that we are in control of the gift giving sometimes that comes into play a little. At least I know here is does.

Sure there’s the whole, I know what they will play with or I know they’ve been asking for XYZ for a few months now. But I think there’s definitely a small part of every parent that wants to (and sometimes does) get a gift that they themselves wished for when they were little in hopes that it really is a magical thing for their own kid. And partly because WE want to play with it and see how it is. 

Do We Give Gifts They Need?

The next option, things we KNOW they need, aren’t things that they actually want. Look, I know….budget. You are trying to optimize the number of presents they have to open while not spending a $100 on every box that they have to unwrap. However, opening up a huge pack of socks and/or underwear isn’t their idea of a good time. Neither is a new toothbrush or body wash in their stocking.

Yes, it sure does help our spending later in the year. But truly, this is an idea that we likely just need to toss to the wind.

Do We Give Gifts They Ask For?

And then there’s the gifts that they ask for themselves. Now, if you’ve been a parent for more than 3 minutes, then you know sometimes kids make demands that are unreasonable. Why no, love child of mine, you cannot have the motorized Lamborghini, Barbie’s Superdeduper Ultimate Deluxe dreamhouse, the biggest set of legos known to man, and all of the bikes and helmets you see in the store. Their asks are typically completely unreasonable. Though one year my oldest did ask for a vacuum and used it for 23 minutes before never touching it again another day in her life.

So what gifts do we actually get them?

Don’t worry. I have figured out the answer and it’s going to be the best set of gifts you have ever bought. I mean these are Christmas gifts your kids are guaranteed to play with for more than 2 minutes before moving onto something else. Now, before we get into the list let me preface this with my suggestion that these gifts are in the 1-8ish year old age range. I’d venture to say that some of these could be used for an older crowd also but it totally depends on the nature of your child(ren).

These gift ideas that I’m going to share with you will have you way under budget- like seriously way under budget. You can actually get that new [insert thing you’ve been wanting] and not even feel guilty about it because you’re so under budget. Also, you will actually now have more time alone to finish that plate of hot food that you never get to enjoy.  So you’re welcome.

Now, without further ado… Christmas Gifts Your Kids Are Guaranteed To Play With

  • Cardboard boxes

    • It’s the ultimate toy. Nothing else is really needed.  Grab a bunch of different sizes and let them have at it.

  • Toilet paper rolls

    • My kid’s actually fight over who gets the toilet paper or paper towel rolls when they are empty.

  • Laundry baskets

    • It’s rodeo heaven around here in a laundry basket.  How fast can you go? Hide underneath it. Make it into a crib.  Endless possibilities.

  • Empty plastic bottles

    • They will stuff things inside, empty it, and repeat for hours.

  • Sealable sandwich bags

    • See above.

  • Empty plastic or reusable bags

    • They swear they are going places and will use it as a purse, luggage, or storage container. Just let them have at it.

  • Clothes hangers

    • If you really want to see a kid’s imagination at work, hand them some hangers. It’s hilarious.

  • Unusable cellphone

    • They want to mimic you. It’s better if it can at least light up and allow them to move around a screen, but even if it doesn’t and is truly unusable, they will still play with it.

  • Pots and pots

    • It’s the oldest household item used by a kid.  If you dare, hand them a wooden spoon along with it.

  • Bag of beans or dry pasta

    • Paired with a plastic bottle and they will play for hours.

  • Sticks from outside

    • Have to be careful with these, but they do last forever in the fun zone.

  • Maxi Pads and Tampons

    • I am amazed at how long a kid will play with these.

  • Old High Heel Shoes 

    • Girl or boy doesn’t matter, they think it’s hilarious to try to walk in them.

  • Potatoes

    • They will turn it in a baby or a host of a million other things, but the point is they will play forever.

  • Pinecones

    • I think they are prickly but kids seem to love doing things with pinecones.

  • Roll of tape or bottle of glue

    • This is the height of kid fun.

  • Plastic Cups

    • I’ve seen some pretty crazy things happen with a few plastic cups and lots of fun. Give it a try.

  • Towels or Blankets

    • Forts, forts, forts. No other commentary needed.

  • Spoons or Whisks

    • Just another one of the weird household things kids will play with forever.

  • Tissue Box

    • Pull tissues out. Put them back in. Repeat. Wipe something up, make it a doll blanket, use the box for some random craft. Lots of fun to a kid.

  • Leaves

    • One day my kids brought in a pile of leaves and played with them for over an hour. My mind was blown.

  • Plastic Containers and Large Bowls

    • There’s a reason that they won’t leave your drawer of “Tupperware” alone, it’s amazing to them. They will stack, restack, and sort for endless amounts of time.

So which idea do you think you little one(s) would like the best? Happy shopping!

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Festive Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Wreath

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This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Wreath is the perfect brunch or breakfast meal for the holidays! The perfect brunch show stopper! You will wow everyone with this easy cinnamon roll centerpiece. 

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Warm, soft dough, layered with a caramel apple sauce is the most amazingly special cinnamon roll recipe we’ve made to date.  The kids gobbled up this cinnamon roll wreath (naturally) and begged for more.

When you top the caramel apple cinnamon roll wreath with a homemade caramel apple icing, you’re in for an out of this world experience.  We topped our caramel apple cinnamon roll wreath with cranberries, dried blueberries, nuts and powdered sugar too.

The inspiration for this new holiday tradition

Every year, on Christmas morning, my mom would pop open a can of cinnamon rolls and pop them into the oven. We all knew that she would get the middle one and then the rest were up for grabs.  I remember begging to lick the icing container of any last remnants that remained inside. It was pure bliss as a child.

Now, that my girls are older, I love making them cinnamon rolls too.  It’s actually an amazingly fun thing to make with them. We have them on special occasions or just because, but it’s always awhile in between. Their giddy laughter warms my heart when I tell them what we are making. They jump up and down, dance, and run around with excitement. They too love to lick the bowl of icing when I’m done pouring it on. Can you blame them?

For the holidays though, I wanted to do something extra special.  We decided we were going to make a wreath out of our cinnamon roll dough. We may have done a few more practices runs at this one….strictly for testing purposes only. *wink wink* 

This is now one of our family traditions and the girls absolutely love it. So do we.

What ingredients do you need to make a caramel apple cinnamon roll wreath?

A cinnamon roll wreath can be made very similarly to a regular cinnamon roll recipe; however, the difference in this recipe comes in when you add the caramel apple part. For the cinnamon roll wreath, the ingredients that you need are:

  • flour
  • sugar
  • salt
  • instant yeast
  • unsalted butter
  • water
  • whole milk
  • eggs

Those ingredients will make the dough of this caramel apple cinnamon roll wreath. The next part is the caramel apple filling and for that, the ingredients that you will need are:

  • apple cider
  • brown sugar
  • maple syrup
  • heavy cream
  • unsalted butter
  • vanilla
  • salt
  • nutmeg
  • apple pie spice

If you want to make a cinnamon roll wreath with the caramel apple filling, but just a traditional cinnamon roll wreath, you would just need cinnamon and brown sugar.  We’ll explain below.

Lastly, there’s a delicious caramel apple icing that we add to the top of this. For the icing, you’ll need:

  • apple cider
  • cream cheese
  • powdered sugar
  • apple pie spice

How do you make a caramel apple cinnamon roll wreath?

In a bowl, you’ll start to make the dough. Add in the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. You’ll add water and milk to a bowl of warmed, melted butter and pour that into the flour mixture.  Next, add in the eggs.  Then, knead with your hands until the dough is no longer sticky. Let it rise for just 15 minutes.

While the bread is rising, make the filling by combining the apple cider, brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, unsalted butter, vanilla, salt, nutmeg, and some of the apple pie spice into a sauce pot. Let that cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, barely touching it. You are essentially making caramel sauce at this point and it’s best not to touch it. Remove, let cool.

Roll your risen dough out into a rectangle.  It should be about 30X20 in shape. Spread the cooled caramel apple sauce across the dough. Spread the remaining pie spice across the top. Roll up the dough into a log.

Essentially at this point you could turn them into cinnamon rolls by just cutting into even slices.

To make the cinnamon roll wreath, you’re going to make sure the seam side is down and slice lengthwise. Then, place the two pieces side by side with the filling side up. Starting at the top, fold one piece of dough over the other and braid the two strands until you reach the end. Pinching the ends together. Place on a greased baking sheet and form a circle. Cover and place in a warm preheated, but turned off oven. After 35 minutes, turn the oven on and cook for roughly 35 minutes.

Make the caramel apple icing while your cinnamon roll wreath cooks. Pour on top when you remove and let cool for a few.  Serves 16.

Can I make these into caramel apple cinnamon rolls instead of the a cinnamon roll wreath?

Absolutely! Whether you don’t feel like taking the extra steps or maybe a little intimidated by making a cinnamon roll wreath (seriously don’t be), there may be reason for you wanting just regular caramel apple cinnamon rolls instead.

You will make the recipe as directed until you end up with a rolled up log.  Instead of slicing the cinnamon roll log down the center, you will just cut into slices. You should be able to get 18 rolls out of the log that you roll.

Then you will proceed with the recipe as directed, but only bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-28 minutes. It’s super easy!

What other recipes could I serve for a holiday or Christmas brunch?

Obviously this recipe, makes for an absolutely amazing holiday brunch or breakfast centerpiece. It’s gorgeous, tastes amazing, and will completely wow people. However, you need more than this to serve! Other brunch or breakfast holiday recipe ideas are:

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Print
Festive Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Wreath
Prep Time
1 hr 5 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Total Time
1 hr 45 mins
 
This Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Wreath is the perfect brunch or breakfast meal for the holidays! The perfect brunch show stopper! You will wow everyone with this easy cinnamon roll centerpiece. 
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Keyword: breakfast recipes, brunch, cinnamon rolls, holiday breakfast, holiday brunch, recipes
Servings: 16 slices
Calories: 400 kcal
Author: Larisha Campbell
Ingredients
For Cinnamon Roll Wreath
  • 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup + 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 packages instant yeast
  • 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
For caramel apple filling
  • 1/2 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • pinch nutmeg
  • 3/4 tsp apple pie spice + 1/4 tsp apple pie spice divided
For caramel apple icing
  • 2 cups apple cider reduced to 1/2 cup
  • 6 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp apple pie spice
Optional Toppings
  • Chopped pecan
  • chopped almonds
  • cranberries
  • dried blueberries
  • powdered sugar
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees.
  2. Grease a 14x16 pan with coconut oil and set aside,
  3. In a large bowl, add flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  4. Whisk to combine well.
  5. Set aside.
  6. In a small microwavable bowl, melt butter (about 30 seconds).
  7. Add in water and milk to butter bowl and heat for an additional 30 seconds.
  8. Carefully mix together so heated through.
  9. Pour the butter mixture into the flour mixture.
  10. Add the eggs and knead with hand until the dough is no longer sticky (do not overknead)

  11. Place in a bowl and cover with a tea towel for 20 minutes to rise. Make filling while dough rises. 

Make the Filling

  1. Add all the filling ingredients, reserving the additional 1/4 tsp apple pie spice for later, to a medium saucepan.

  2. Heat over medium for 10 minutes, only stirring 2-3 times max. This will bubble up a bit but that's fine.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Finish the Cinnamon Roll Wreath
  1. After dough has risen for 20 minutes, roll it out into the shape of a rectangle. This should be roughly 30x20 in size. Ensure that you don't have more dough in the middle than you do at the ends or your wreath will not be even.
  2. Spread the cooled caramel apple filling evenly across the rolled out dough. Work quickly so the filling doesn't harden.
  3. Evenly spread the remaining 1/4 tsp apple pie spice on top of the filling.
  4. Working from the longest side, tightly roll dough up. It's important that you get it as tight as possible.
  5. With the seam side down, cut the cinnamon roll in half length wise.
  6. Carefully place the two pieces side by side and place the right side over the left side.
  7. Continue to braid the two strands until you reach the end.

  8. Then carefully move the roll onto your greased baking sheet and form a circle, shaped like a wreath. 

  9. Cover lightly with aluminum foil.

  10. Turn the oven OFF and place the covered wreath into the oven for 35 minutes to let rise. 

  11. After the 35 minutes is up, turn the oven back ON to 375 degrees and remove the foil.
  12. Bake the caramel apple cinnamon roll wreath for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is cooked all the way through. Note: if your oven brown faster and you notice golden brown around 25 minutes, place the foil back on top.
Caramel Apple Icing
  1. Add 2 cups of apple cider to a medium saucepan over medium high heat. Reduce down to 1/2 cup liquid. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar.
  3. Add in apple pie spice and reduced cider and blend until combined well.
  4. Place in fridge until ready for cinnamon roll wreath.
  5. Remove cinnamon roll wreath. If some of the filling has pooled into the middle, use a spoon and drizzle across the top of the wreath. Let cool.
  6. Top with caramel apple icing and optional toppings.

  7. Serves & Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates.  Nutritional labels to not include optional toppings, but does include icing.

Nutrition Facts
Festive Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll Wreath
Amount Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories 400 Calories from Fat 117
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 13g 20%
Saturated Fat 7g 35%
Cholesterol 60mg 20%
Sodium 313mg 13%
Potassium 150mg 4%
Total Carbohydrates 64g 21%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Sugars 29g
Protein 6g 12%
Vitamin A 9.8%
Vitamin C 0.5%
Calcium 5.6%
Iron 12.7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

This was truly one of our most favorite things that we have made on our site before and we hope that you truly enjoy it as much as we have. Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

Some items that may help you make this recipe:

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This post was originally published on 12/20/2017 and has since been updated.

A Co-Sleeping, Breastfeeding Holiday Tune

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Everyone is in super holiday overdrive at this point in the year.  No matter what holiday you celebrate, you are either exhausted from already celebrating or exhausted from the preparations of celebrating. While we, as breastfeeding mothers, often use our little ones as a way to excuse ourselves from the holiday festivities when we feel like we’ve had a little too much of drunk Aunt Sammie’s chatter, nothing quite makes you more exhausted after the holidays than a middle of the night gym-nurse-tics session.

Worried about being around unsupportive family for the holidays?  Check out our post about “How to Respond when Someone Asks are you STILL breastfeeding?“

When this little gem came across my eyes in one of my breastfeeding support groups on Facebook, I knew immediately that I had to reach out and ask permission if we could share it.  Every breastfeeding mom on the planet will giggle to this one! We can all relate to the crazy antics that we have to put up with when nursing our little kiddos.

Of course, this is meant to be humorous.

Thanks again to Arielle for letting us share this Co-Sleeping, Breastfeeding Holiday Tune!  We hope you enjoyyyy!!! Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas from us!

co sleeping breastfeeding holiday jam

We hope you enjoyed this little jam!  Arielle stated that she found the inspiration for writing the song during a 2am nursing session with her little one. She surely made us giggle with this co-sleeping, breastfeeding tune and we’re hoping to hear more from her in the future.  I really don’t know that I can ever sing Jingle Bells the same again!

Happy Holidays everyone!

If you like this post, please share it with other and in your favorite breastfeeding hangout spots on the internet.

Are you looking for parenting tips? Check out some of our best posts! 

Get our winter car seat travel tips! 

Check out 25 Tips for Working Moms who want to Breastfeed

Get tips for beating the “booby” traps. 50+ Breastfeeding myths put to rest!

This post was originally published on 12/19/15. It has since been updated.

Santa HQ – A Family Experience

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Santa HQ is a fun and exciting immersive experience for the whole family to visit Santa Claus. Located at 15 malls throughout the US. Learn more by reading our experience.

Disclosure:  This Santa HQ post is sponsored by HGTV. Thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

A few years ago, I didn’t even know if we were going to do Santa. Each year, I still question it in the back of my mind. I feel wrong to lie to them. However, the moments and memories that we’ve created around Santa have been completely worth it.  Both girls eyes light up, their little voices glee with happiness, and their laughter brings everyone so much joy. I know in those moments that it’s so worth it.

For the last 4 years, we have been going to Santa HQ over at our local mall. The mall, located in Deptford, NJ, teamed up with HGTV to bring locals “Santa HQ“. It’s a super fun and exciting holiday experience that the whole family will enjoy in addition to the traditional visit with Santa Claus. *Bonus: Santa in Deptford has a real beard 😉

What is Santa HQ?

As soon as you walk into Santa HQ you are immersed in all things Christmas holidays. You have to absorb everything and be careful not to miss anything, but HGTV has worked really hard to pack in as much of the holiday spirit as they can in this experience. The first thing that happens is you get checked in (it’s better to have reservations). Then you have four stations:

  • Naughty or Nice Meter
  • Santa’s Workshop
  • Santa’s Observatory
  • Finally, Santa’s Sleigh (this is where the big guy is sitting)

Honestly, it’s just such a fun and unique way to enjoy Santa.  I know growing up as a kid, I loved going to see Santa. However, I never wanted to stand in the mall lines.  The Santa HQ experience not only is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit, but it’s also great for breaking up the line so parents aren’t waiting for an exorbitant amount of time. The elves (staff) and Santa are amazing with the kids and it’s truly just so great.

Can I just walk in to Santa HQ or are reservations a must?

You can absolutely just walk in to Santa HQ. However, reservations to Santa HQ are preferred. Trust me, you want a reservation. Especially if the only time you can go is on a weekend, it can get quite crowded.  After all, Santa HQ is completely free.  You only pay if you want to purchase pictures.  So, it can fill up pretty quickly. Reservations are easily made at Santa HQ.

Also, you can even pre-pay for your photo package. Santa HQ is currently at 15 shopping locations in California, New Jersey, Chicago, NYC, DC, and more. See if there’s a location near here by visiting the Santa HQ site.

The Santa HQ Experience 

After you check in with the concierge, you’ll head to meet your first elf. You’ll stand on the Naughty or Nice O’Meter and see if you’ve been naughty or nice (hint: it’s always nice!). The kids name will pop up onto the top of the list that shows they’ve been nice!

Next, they are invited to sit down at a holiday photo set-up at “The North Pole”. The elf taking the pictures stages your family to take some pretty adorably amazing photos at the North Pole before they head off to their next adventure.

Next, families are invited to visit Santa’s workshop. This year, each kid gets to make their own Elf ID card. They put their face inside a little oval and then you have the option to mail yourself the ID Card right from Santa’s workshop.  It’s fun to do this because of the end of the experience they get a set of Elf ID cards in the activity workbook from Santa HQ. Our girls loved having their own to go along with the “real ones” as they called them.  There’s also a Magic Mirror that they can play with.

Last year, they did an Elfie Selfie movie station where you get a shot at being your own Elf Star! So if you went last year, definitely know that they changed things up this year.

Next, families head for a fun adventure to the Elf-Ray Vision Station where children use tablets to project elves working, Santa’s sleigh and more.

Finally, it’s time to see the big jolly guy and families end the experience with the traditional Santa Claus photo-op.

Here’s some photos from last year.  We love that it’s the same Santa Claus, so they can have a similar memory!

Holiday Giving with Santa HQ 

Also, when heading over to Santa HQ consider bringing a toy to donate.  Visitors at Santa HQ, in conjunction with HGTV’s Help Through Holiday Giving Drive, are encouraged to donate a new, unwrapped toy. Toys go to benefit local organizations like Toys for Tots, Salvation Army Angel Tree, Forgotten Angel Tree and more. However, this is not required.

Check Out Even More By Watching the Video Below:

No Pictures Needed

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Have we become so engrained with photos and social media that we can no longer just enjoy intimate moments that should be shared in our own minds? No pictures needed is a plea to put down the phones and just enjoy life. 

No Pictures Needed, but Picture This: 

Today, in between making a recipe for work and prepping for dinner, I stopped and looked out the window.  The cool fall wind blowing through the screened window. The rustling of color changing leaves falling down. And the giggles of two sisters struggling to pull each other in a wagon over rough terrain. Each bump and turn tumbling the belly and making for joyous memories and bonding moments.

Rewind.

I remember growing up and physically looking through a box of photos or physical photo albums.  My mom didn’t have thousands of photos of me, but the ones she did have all told a story. I remember hearing “a picture means 1,000 words” and it stuck with me all these years. There are truly photos that could mean 1,000 words and then some. Photos that when you hold or see you can become overwhelmed with emotion or vividly remember a whole story behind this one photo.

Somewhere between the days that I grew and today, we’ve lost the translation. We’ve become so photo obsessed that we have lost the story telling behind many photos.  Our children are growing up without photo albums or even just physical pictures. I, myself, am guilty of rarely printing photos out.

But our biggest fault.

Our biggest fault is that we have become so ingrained that we must “do it for the ‘gram” that one of our biggest faults is not being able to be present in the moment. Everything that we do or our kids do must be captured. “hold on, let me grab my camera”, “wait, do that again”, “say that again”, “freeze, don’t move, smile”. Every day dozens of photos being captured.

And it’s hurting our ability to just be present, soak up the memories, and just enjoy them for what they are. Moments that are special for just us. Moments that not everyone needs to see. These little moments that are supposed to be intimate and enjoyable without having the world’s eyes on them at all times.

Live in the moment.

When I saw my girls playing out my window today in between recipes for work and dinner, I immediately wanted to pic up my phone. I wanted to show everyone how much fun my girls were having. As I stared out the window, I immediately put my phone back down. A few things crossed my mind:

  • If I stopped to focus solely on taking the picture, then I would no longer be able to focus on the moment that my girls were having together. Laughing, playing, and just being sisters. I wouldn’t have been able to flashback to a time that my own sister and I played outside without a care in the world together.
  • If I stopped to take a picture, I would have likely interrupted their moment.  Whether I went outside to get a closer picture, thus drawing their attention to me. Or I asked them, as I do thousands of times, to repeat whatever they just did so I could get the perfect moment capture.

Instead, I decided to put down the phone and just take the moment in for myself. To let them be little and have fun for themselves.  No pictures needed so that they could simply be themselves and make memories without the world having to see what they were doing today.

And sure, in a way, our children are lucky to live in this time. They will have so many moments to look back on and recall through photos the memories they’ve made.  But photos can’t always make up for the feelings that those memories make deep down inside about how someone or something or some place makes you feel. And because of that…no pictures needed.

No pictures needed is a call to action for parents and caregivers to put down their phones and cameras and just take in the moments. As we approach the holiday season, let’s focus on making the memories and letting the memories just be for us and not so much for everyone else around us. 

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