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Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

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Disclosure: These Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are part of a sponsored post on behalf of GOJO, the makers of PURELL ® Multi Surface Disinfectant. Thoughts and opinions are 100% my own.

Growing up, I used to always laugh at my mom. No matter how many times we asked her what she wanted for any holiday, her answer was always, “to just be happy and with her family.” “That’s not a gift,” I would always snap back. To her it was the only thing that she truly wanted. It took me a long time to realize why, but now that I’m a mom, I realize that being with the ones you love and being happy together with them is really the only thing that any of us need. I also always remember the joy she had when she
was gifted something that was homemade.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I love a gift being purchased off my actual ongoing wishlist; however, there’s something just warm and fuzzy that happens when you know someone took the time out to hand make you a gift. Knowing that someone labored over something brings so much joy to me.


For me, with close friends, I love making goodies for them.

Sometimes I take goodies to parties or luncheons. My favorite of all is taking a new mom delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies along with a delicious meal. While these cookies are good for everyone, they are especially great for their combination of oatmeal, flax seed, and peanut butter for a new mom who happens to be breastfeeding. But I also love wrapping up these Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies and making it part of a holiday present.

One thing I always make sure to do is to clean my kitchen down before I start making food for other people. I try to honestly keep my kitchen the cleanest place in our house because we are always having friends over and I want them to feel confident that the food they are getting from our house is safe and made in a clean environment.

Keeping it all WORRY-FREE!

I’m currently loving the NEW! PURELL® Multi Surface Disinfectant. Not only does it kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria in 30 seconds, but it is also formulated for food surfaces and is worry-free around pets and kids. Essentially, PURELL® Multi Surface Disinfectant uses alcohol to work like bleach would, but there’s no harsh chemicals or fumes that will irritate you. And you don’t have to worrying about rinsing afterwards. Easy peasy.

Once I make sure the kitchen is disinfected and clean and I’d be willing myself to eat off the counters, it’s time for cookie making. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are such a fun little homemade treat to gift to anyone. They are so simple to make with minimal ingredients.

Tip: The secret ingredient is always love.

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Author: Larisha Campbell
Ingredients
  • 2/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp flax seed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch salt
  • Pinch nutmeg
  • 1 cup  peanut butter 
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup pb chips
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. In a large bowl, add the oats, brown sugar flax seed, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Stir to combine.
  4. In the same bowl, stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and egg.
  5. Stir together until very well combined.
  6. Fold in the chocolate and peanut butter chips.
  7. Scoop out 1 tbsp balls onto a non-stick or parchment lined baking sheet.
  8. Cook for 7-8 minutes or until beginning to turn golden brown. Don't overcook.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool.
  10. Once cooled serve immediately or store in an air-tight container.

The BRAND NEW PURELL® Multi-Surface disinfectant is currently available online at Amazon.com, Jet.com and Walmart.com. In addition, it is available at select grocers including: Publix, H-E-B, Shoprite and Harris Teeter in January 2018. Go grab some today!

 

Breastfeeding Accessories to Gift Moms

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*Most* women love jewelry.  It’s true.  From the time we were little and playing dress up, we’ve been attracted to sparkly things that accessorize our outfits.  As we’ve gotten older, our jewelry has typically increased in value.  However, once we become moms, something changes for some of us. Some children grab more than other and due to the desire not to ruin our favorite pieces, we end up giving up jewelry all together. We’ll still wear our rings, but the necklaces, earrings, and fancy bracelets vanish for awhile.

Personally speaking, I know that my children were over two before I started trying to wear jewelry again. Even then, it’s a fine line walked to make sure that over-excited children don’t grab valuable pieces and tear them.

I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to sacrifice any longer.  Whether you are a mom reading this post and looking to buy yourself something, or you are a partner/grandparent/friend looking for something special for the nursing mom in your life, I’ve got you covered.  Our Breastfeeding Accessories to Gift Moms post will give you affordable, stylish options. Jewelry options that are safe for babies to chew on anytime.  The jewelry is also extremely durable, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking. All the pieces showcased in this post also have more than one use.  All the jewelry doubles as toys for your littles while out or at home. The shawl and scarves can be used indefinitely, even after your littles are bigger.

10 Breastfeeding Accessories to Gift Moms 

(scroll to the bottom for a bonus tip)


These are some of our favorite Amazon finds for breastfeeding accessories to gift moms, but we’ve got some even cooler news!  Right now, if you click on either of the Wee Likey bracelets (Number 1&2), you can save 40% off!  That mean’s you can get a 3 or 5 set of bracelets for just $14.99! And they double as toys when you are out and about! Use code: VIParent at checkout. 

Simple Last Minute Gift Idea

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last-minute-gift

Super hard to buy for friend.

Invited last minute for a party, need a hostess gift.

Extra guest unexpectedly just arrived at your house and you didn’t have a gift for them. 

You forgot someone that was supposed to be on your list. 

Someone went out of their way for you during the holidays and you just want to do something special for them.

No matter the reason, you are likely freaking out if you are reading this and it’s just days from Christmas or any other holiday you may celebrate. You need something for someone and you are lost. Don’t worry, I’m here to save you! This super simple gift won’t break your budget either. It’s a win/win for everyone.

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Materials

Directions

  • Take one sock and place bottle of cider or wine inside.
  • Take other sock and tie it around the neck of the bottle.
  • Place bath bombs inside the treat bag and tie bag.
  • Place festive sticker on bag.
  • Place bag through the tied sock.
  • Tie sock as tight as possible (Can also use ribbon to tie bag around sock).
  • Gift!

Watch us make it!

We personally make our bath bombs for a cheaper and more personal gifting experience, but if you are really short on time you can go to your favorite bath and beauty store or order them via Amazon (buying will definitely increase cost of the gift).

That’s it guys!  So super simple.  We love keeping extra socks and bottles on hand because you never know last minute! We hope you have a joyous and merry holiday season and get and give everything you desire!

Merry Christmas from our family to yours <3

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The Ultimate Gift Guide for Kid Chefs

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*Disclosure: All links in our Ultimate Gift Guide for Kid Chefs goes to Amazon. You shop like normal, but we receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting our family. Prices are as of publishing date and subject to change. We have not used all of products in our list. gift-guide-for-kid-chefs

Being in the kitchen not only brings us joy, but it makes our girls’ eyes sparkle with delight. Their series, The Seasoned Kids has been one of our absolutely favorite things we’ve done to date. So much so that our 4 year old has even asked for some cooking and our baking things on her wishlist. Add to that, our friends asking for recommendations for kid’s cooking products and we were bound to create the Ultimate Gift Guide for Kid Chefs.

There’s no toys, no products you can’t actually cook with, just real products, designed with kids in mind. Food brings families together, so check out these products and grab some for your kiddos this year to teach them invaluable life skills that will stay with their for the rest of their lives!

*Gift ideas in order by price high to low.613ljjobaml-_sl1500_

1- Guidecraft Learning Tower – Helps kids safely and easily stand at counter level to help in the kitchen. Made from wood, no assembly required, 3 heigh adjustments, and folds for storage. Price $109.99

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2- The Curious Chef 30-piece Caddy Collection – Dishwasher safe, BPA free products including rolling pin, pizza cutter, whisk, measuring cups, spoons, knife and more!  Price $69.99

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3- 11 piece Magic Bullet Blender Set – Chop, mix, blend, and more. Top shelf dishwasher safe. Includes Recipe Book. Price $31.49

 

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4 – Handstand Kid’s Stars and Planets Chef Kit – Includes Apron, Mitt, and Chef’s Hat. 100% Cotton and Machine Washable. Price $29.93

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5- Cuisinart Mini Food Processor. 21-ounce work bowl with 2 speeds. Some parts are dishwasher safe. Recipe book included. Price $29.71

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6- Handstand Kids Milk & Cookies Kid’s Apron with Matching 18″ Doll Apron Set. 100% Cotton and Machine Washable. Price $24.89. Matching Chefs hat and oven mitt also available for purchase.

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7- 37 piece Ultimate Baking Starter Set comes with all the tools, mixes, frosting, and decorations to make cupcakes. Some fun tools include no spill bowls with unique suction-lock to make for easy mixing and the easy Egg cracker to let kids crack eggs without a mess! Price $19.99

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8 – OXO 7-Piece Mini Measuring Beaker Set. Set includes 1-cup, 2/3 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/4 cup, 1/8 cup, 1 tbsp, and 1 tsp beakers. Top rack dishwasher safe. Price $19.99.

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9- The Curious Chef 17-piece Measure and Prep Kit is Dishwasher Safe and BPA Free and includes 6 piece measuring spoons and cups set, large poly spoon, a kitchen timer, 3 piece prep bowl, and more. Price $17.50

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10 – Zoku’s Ice Pop Molds. Classic Shape. Make 6 pops at a time. BPA Free. Dishwasher safe. Price $15.38. Additional shapes available for additional cost.

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11- Silicone Gorilla Grip Set of 2 Oven Mitts – Soft and Flexible set of oven mits with 100% cotton lining and 100% polyester fill. Resists heat up to 446 degrees. Made with 100% FDA Approved food safe silicone. Comes with a 10 year guarantee.  Comes in choice of red, blue, green, gray, or black. Price $14.99

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12- Green Toys Indoor Gardening Kit – comes with three pots, a tray holder, trowel, three soil discs, and three packs of organic seeds.Made from recycled milk containers.  Price $14.03

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13- Curious Chef Decorating Kit – Dishwasher Safe, easy to clean. Includes 6 different decorating tips to create designs on cookies, cakes, and more. Price $12.45. A different 9 piece set also available.

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14 – Scientific Explorer Tasty Science Kit – Learn about food science like why soda fizzes and why cakes rise. Set includes baking soda, citric acid, fruit flavorings, food coloring, sprinkles, vials, test tubes, and more. Price $11.46

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15 – Silicone Kitchen Baking Bundle. Kit contains 12 muffin pan, 12 cupcake holders, 2 molds, and more. Price $9.99

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16- Curious Chef 3 piece Nylon Knife Set includes 1 small, 1 medium, and 1 large nylon knife with serrated cutting edges and ergonomic handles.  Dishwasher safe and won’t cut your littles. Price $8.86

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17- 5-pack flexible plastic cutting boards. Each board is 15×11″ and come in Blue, Red, Yellow, Green, and White. Price $7.64

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18- Set of 24 Reusable Silicone Non-Stick Baking Cups. Comes in Fun assorted colors and perfect for baking cupcakes, breakfast cups, or lasagna cups. Can also be used as prep ramekins. Price $7.49

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19- 5-piece Measuring Spoon Set. Sizes include 1/4 tsp, 1/2 tsp, 1 tsp, 1/2 tbsp, and 1 tbsp. Dishwasher safe. Price $5.25

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20- 8-Tray Silicone Animal Mold – Use food ice cubes, chocolate, gummies, and more. The possibilities are endless. Dishwasher Safe. Price $3.00

We hope you enjoyed our Ultimate Gift Guide for Kid Chefs!  Did we forget something?  Let us know!

Make sure you our following our kid’s cooking show YouTube channel here.

ultimate-gift-guide-for-kid-chefs

 


DIY Essential Oil Hostess Gift Basket

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #StimulateTheSenses #CollectiveBias

diy-essential-oils-hostess-gift-basket

While we having been exploring our own semi-crunchy journey for a little over four years now, we know that many people in our family still think we are a bit on the hippie wagon. Yet and still, I’m always looking for ways to get our family and friends on a more natural journey of their own.  One of the ways I love to do this is by introducing them to essential oils.  They are so versatile and amazing that it’s no wonder that people typically fall in love with them after just a few uses.

With the holiday season officially here, we came up with this awesome DIY Essential Oil Hostess Gift Basket. This is a super simple idea for any parties that you are going too where you want to bring over a gift for the hostess or hosting family.  You could even just do one of the projects if you have a smaller budget.

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Inside our basket we included Nature’s Truth Essential Oils, a pair of fuzzy socks (who doesn’t love fuzzy socks!?), DIY Homemade Bath Bombs, DIY Homemade Room Spray, and DIY No-Sew Rice Heating Pack. Everyone always wants to make sure that their houses look and smell amazing for company, so we bust our butts cleaning every last detail and cooking food for 3x the amount of people we invited. While the get together goes off without a hitch and no one realized that you completely forgot to scrub an entire section of the baseboards in the kitchen, you melt into a puddle of exhaustion the second you close the door behind the last guest.  This type of exhaustion needs pampering and that’s exactly why this is the perfect hostess gift.

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Cinnamon Room Spray

**Directions: In a 4oz glass spray bottle, add the witch hazel and essential oils. Fill with water to top. Use as needed. Store in a cool area away from sunlight.

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No Sew Heating Pack

**Directions: In a bowl, add the essential oil to the rice. Using a funnel, add the rice to the sock. On the open end of the sock, quadruple knot the thread to seal the hole. Then tie in a bow or snip the excess thread. Repeat on the close end of the sock. Heat in microwave 30 seconds at a time until desired temperature achieved.

**Optional: If not adding the essential oil to the rice, include a note with the gift that explains to recipient to add 2-3 drops on the outside of the sock with every use. 

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DIY Lemon Bath Bombs

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**Directions: In one bowl, mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl with a whisk until very well combined.  In a separate bowl, mix together the wet ingredients. Slowly combine wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Note: if the mixture is foaming, you are adding too fast.  Keep whisking together until very well combined.  Using silicone baking molds, firmly pack mixture in each mold. Let air dry for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight.  Pop out and keep in an airtight container.

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Some other DIY projects you could think about making with Nature’s Truth Essential Oils to add to your hostess basket are: soaps, candles, dryer sheets, massage oil, and a mini diffuser.

You can find Nature’s Truth Essential Oils at Target.com

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Or inside the vitamin aisle at the following stores (essential oils available vary by store): , CVS, Walgreens, HEB, Meijer, Albertsons, ShopRite, Rite Aid, and Stop & Shop.

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10 Minute DIY Homemade Bath Salts Using Essential Oils

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*Disclosure: Affiliate links may be contained in this post. We receive a small commission for purchases and thank you for helping us continue to run our site.

My goal every year is to make more homemade DIY gifts for the holidays.  It never happens.  This year I told myself that I have to at least make one thing for one person that is homemade.  I know, personally, that I always love these gifts the most.  The fact that they are made with thought and love is so much more meaningful to me than anything else.  Okay, besides anything from my girl…and diamonds, I’d never turn down diamonds.  


I went to the store and got cute little mason jars for the gifts and knew I had everything else at home. I was on a tight deadline because I needed the gifts to be done for a party the next day.  I got home and started gathering ingredients to make an awesome sugar scrub I’ve made before and then it hit me…I barely had any coconut oil.  I mean seriously, in a “crunchy” household, this is a travesty in and of itself.  I had to quickly think of something else because traveling back to the store wasn’t an option.  That’s when I thought of bath salts.  (don’t think of media news stories right now…not those). 

The best part about this gift is that it took me less than 10 minutes to make and get into the containers.  Literally, it took me longer to cut and tie the ribbons than it did to make and seal the jars.

Ingredients: 
3 1/2 cups Epsom Salts
1/2 cup Sea Salt 
1/2 cup Baking Soda
Grated rind of two clementines (or one orange)
10 drops of Citrus Bliss essential oil 
Desired size Mason Jars (we used these)
Ribbon

Directions:
In a bowl, add the ingredients in the order above and mix until well combined. Fill each container with desired amount.  *The above amount filled four 8oz containers and one pint size jar. 

The smell of this is absolutely amazing.  Citrus Bliss is one of my favorite essential oils.  It’s a combination of Wild Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Bergamot, Tangerine, Clementine, and just a hint of Vanilla.  It helps to lift your mood, while reducing stress.  It’s the perfect combination after a long day and when a relaxing bath is what’s needed.

Enjoy for yourself or give as gifts!

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