Recipe

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As you all know. I love to travel. I especially love to travel solo. I’m often asked by people why, I travel solo, how I travel solo, Do I get bored? Today I’m sharing Three of my top reason why you should travel solo and why you should too.

3 Reasons Why You Should Travel Solo

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Have you ever booked a trip with your besties and it starts off with about 6-10 of you ladies and by the time the day of the trip comes it’s maybe 3? A lot of times people book group trips because they want to be around like-minded individuals while on vacation. I think that’s one of the most frustrating things about a group trip when you get a text message stating that “x” can no longer make it. Let’s not mention if you’re stuck with the bill of paying for the people who are no longer attending. Because no one had anything in writing. Honestly, I’m not saying to never make plans for a group trip. I’m just stating don’t cancel your plans because others are unable to make it. When you travel solo, you never have to worry about anyone canceling plans on you.

Itinerary 

Let’s face it. When you travel with others, you never have to worry about having someone to take your pictures. One of the downsides to this is not being able to visit all of those Instagram perfect locations because you’re accommodating everyone else needs. (which is only fear). However, this is your trip too and one of the downsides of group travel is that it’s not just about your needs. One of the best parts about solo travel is that you can do what you want when you want. Don’t feel like going on the guided tour. Fine! You can change up your itinerary to your little heart's content.

Time

It really gives you time to learn yourself. I know that might sound weird but you do. You learn how driven you are, patient, adventurous. You just learn so much about yourself. You have all the time in the world when you travel solo. If you feel like spending all day at the beach you can. You're on your own time and you can do what you want.

Have you tried traveling solo? 

Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe 

Recipe 

• 4 Cloves Garlic (Minced)
• 1/4 Soy Sauce
• 1/4 Cup Honey
• 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil 

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350
• Combine all ingredients and set aside
• Clean chicken and place chicken in a ziploc bag 
• Pour marinade into Ziploc bag, and marinate for two hours
• Place chicken on baking sheet and pour leftover marinade on top of the chicken. 
• Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, ( flip the chicken over every half hour)
• Once cooked, allow to cool to your desired temp and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!  

At times, I really get bored with food. I always love trying new and exciting recipes. Especially if they're healthy. So some reason I've been craving pancakes. If you follow me on Instagram. The night before I created this recipe I had pancakes for dinner. I know, random right. I guess all those times I told myself when I become an adult I'm going to have breakfast for dinner, I'm really keeping my word.  Ha! As you guys know. I love recipes that don't require a lot of measuring and ingredients and pretty much can be made on a whim. I love this recipe because it's all the above. I didn't even have to use oats flour. I just added the oats to the blender. Also, I did add a dash of cinnamon to this recipe. It's totally not required however, I wanted to play around with the recipe just a bit. I love how simple this recipe is and you can pretty much play around with it and add ingredients to your likings like protein powder, vanilla, and even fruit. This recipe is healthy, gluten-free and vegan.

Recipe (makes 4 pancakes) 

Ingredients

• 1/2 rolled oats
• 1 Peeled Banana (the riper the better) 
• 1/2 Dairy fee milk (I used So Delicious Coconut milk for this recipe)
• Dash Cinnamon (optional)
• Coconut oil spray 

Instructions
Place all ingredients into the blender except for the coconut oil spray. Combine all ingredients and set aside.
Turn your griddle or frying pan on medium-high. At this point, I added the coconut oil spray. Once I saw that the pan was hot. I added the batter (about 1/4 cup). Once I saw the bubbles, I checked to make sure that the pancake was ready to be flipped and proceeded to flip the pancake. At this point, I turned the heat to medium to allow the middle of the pancake to cook throughout. (this is optional) once it was cooked to my liking I repeated the process.

Have you tried three ingredient pancakes before? 

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I consider myself a seasoned traveler and I’m often asked what are my travel essentials. I think for some strange reason when you bring up the topic travel. Some may feel that you need every item in your local travel section in order to have a wonderful trip and that couldn’t be further from the truth. I always tell people to work with what you have and add on to the items as you go. You can even create an Amazon wishlist and send the list out to those that are always wondering what to give you as a gift. All of the items listed I own. Some of these may vary by the brand because I may have picked them up during my travels. However, these are items that I would buy all over again.

10 Travel Essentials

Waterproof lanyard (To house hotel room key money, and/ or phone)
If you read my post on my trip to the Atlantis Bahamas. These waterproof lanyards are a travel must-have. Especially if you plan to spend your trip in and/or by the water. I still haven’t upgraded my phone so it’s not waterproof. However, these come in handy as well if you want to carry your money and your room key.

Wipes (Surface/ hand) 
I highly suggest carrying wipes with you. I typically carry hand and surface wipes to wipe down the area in which I’m using. Trust me, it's a great way to ensure that you stay healthy while traveling.

Kick-Ass Immune
I purchased Kick-Ass Immune last year and If you follow me on Snapchat. I always mention this product. Unfortunately, for me, in the past, I would get a cold at the start of fall and sometime during the winter months. This year has been the first year in a very long time that I didn’t have a cold. This is a product that I will keep on hand because it works.

Tripod 
I purchased the Sirui 3T-35K Tripod with 3T-35 Ball Head & Case (Black) a couple of months ago for my Canon 80D for my travels. A lot of YouTubers use it for vlogging. I love how sturdy this tripod is. It’s perfect for heavier cameras/lens and would work wonders with phones as well.

Portable Charger 
You honestly have no idea what you’re missing out on until you purchased the Mophie XXL portable charger. I’m not sure why I didn’t purchase one sooner. It’s such a lifesaver. I have the largest one. However, this one would be just fine. With everyone having an electronic device it really does come in handy. I even brought this with me during my travels to London. I spent most of my days out and about and I never needed to stop and charge this portable charger. I would charge it at night and honestly. Just because it was part of my travel routine. I’m not sure how long it could go without charging it at all. However, I will say that I didn’t use a full bar during the day and my phone battery is horrible.

Travel Utensils
This may sound weird but I like to travel with my own utensils. They usually don’t take up too much space and it gives me the piece of mind that I need. This is perfect if you’re staying at an AirBandB or a hotel that doesn’t include a kitchen area.

Activated Charcoal 
I think I purchased this as a teeth whitener. I will say this is the best under $10 purchase that I spent in a long time. Activated Charcoal has so many amazing uses and is perfect for traveling. You can read all about the uses here. I typically don’t leave home without it when traveling.

Headphones 
I love the little earbuds. They come in handy. You can use the ones that come with your phone or some for the purpose of travel. It’s convenient for flights or when you need to talk over the phone and want to be hands-free.

Travel Wallet Belt
I found this travel belt wallet at my local Marshalls. As you guys are aware it’s pretty hit or miss with them. I love how lightweight this is and it’s like you don’t even have it on. It’s great to use during your travels or if you don’t feel like leaving your personals at your hotel.

Do you have any travel essentials?

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Typically, in my state, I’ve learned that most plants go in the ground around Memorial Day weekend. This year I’ve been trying to get my raised beds ready. I’ve also thought of actually expanding my garden wider and also adding two different locations. I have an area in the back of my home that doesn’t get too much light. However, it would be perfect for Swiss chard. I would love to add a couple of plants there. I also have the side of my home that gets the most sunlight. I’ve been living in our home for about ten years and I’m still learning the best garden location to plant my garden. When I originally started with my vegetable garden. I only did container gardening and I would pretty much leave all of the plants on my deck. Since my garden is growing. Plans are changing. Below I will be sharing what I plan on growing this year in my garden.

My 2018 Vegetable Garden Plans 

New

• Swisscard
• Spanish Peppers
• Green and Yellow Squash
• Pumpkin
• Garlic (plan on planting for next year)

Returning

• Tomatoes (Cherry, Big Boy) 
• Peppers
• Red and Green Peppers
• Basil
• Mint

I was reading the May issue of Better Home & Garden and I fell in love with an article they have in regard to a couple in California and their garden. They had an archway which I would love to build. This year I don’t plan on planting strawberries unless I find the plants for a really great price. I did not harvest a lot last year from my plant. Also, thanks to a Facebook group I’m a part of in my state. I found out about a local plant sale for vegetables and I have 48 plants. I know, I know. I plan on canning most of my harvest and of course giving it away to friends and family.

Do you have a vegetable or flower garden?

Its conference season and one of my favorite conferences Blogger’18 Creators Summit is fast approaching. As we all know. I've been blogging for almost seven years and as many of you may know attending blogger conferences can be really expensive. However, they really don’t have to be if you follow these simple tips.

How to Save on Blogger’18 Summit Essentials

Tickets

I know this may come to surprise about the tickets. However, many people wait until the last minute to purchase your ticket. I highly suggest purchasing early bird tickets and also signing up for their mailing list and Facebook group. They may have a surprise discount that is only offered to people on their newsletter or apart of their Facebook group.

Hotel
This year is the first year that I've attended BlogHer main conference and the conference is not at the same location. Now, this may actually work in your favor. Since this event is being held in New York. Hotels are plentiful. You can pretty much find a great hotel on every block. With that being said do your due diligence. Make sure to check the rate with the hotel that BlogHer has partnered with and also check the rate of nearby hotels. In the event that you miss out of the special rate don't panic. You would be surprised at how many other attendees will be staying at nearby hotels as well. Trust me, I last minute attended BlogHer Health and just missed out on the special hotel rate. I was able to find a fabulous hotel that was the same distance as the other hotel and I had an amazing stay. Also, you can save hundreds of dollars on your next stay at the Hilton, Agoda, Marriott, and Holiday Inn (just to name a few) by simply going through the TopCashBack site.

Roommates 
If you're open to the option of sharing rooms. Getting roommates is a great option. Out of the three BlogHer conferences/summits I've attended. I roomed for the first time at BlogHer'17. I honestly had a great experience. Again, make sure to do your due diligence. If you know that you're not the roommate type. Don't room with anyone. Also, you may have some blogger friends who are attending which will make the process even simpler. You can also put the word out that you're looking for a roomie with their blogger friends even if they don't plan on attending or already have a roomie. They may have a friend of a friend who's attending.

Parking
If you're like me, and you live within driving distance of BlogHer and you plan on driving. Research rates for parking prior to visiting. The hotel that BlogHer has the special rate with does have on-site parking for an additional fee. If you do plan on driving make sure that if you plan to stay at a different hotel that it all makes sense cost wise. For example, Staying at a hotel that's a cheaper hotel. However, you will pay more for parking in the long run and the parking is far from where you're staying at. Trust me, being able to get in my car after BlogHer Health and go and not have to worry about walking to the garage after the event was priceless. If you do plan on paying for parking. Make sure that you have a reservation. Due to parking garages having the tendency to fill up depending on the time/day.

Flights 
Book your flight in advance. At the very least book your flight six weeks in advance. Utilize Google Flights to get an area of how much your flight will possibly be. I'm stating possibly be due to the fact that flight prices literally change by the minute. I also go to the TopCashBack site to purchase my travel through Expedia. I always find that Expedia typically has the best rates from the airlines and I earn cash back with TopCashBack while doing so.

Clothes/ Electronics/MISC
With all that being said, let's not forget about all the above. Your attire, clothing, electronics, stationery, marketing material etc. Trust me, I know. From purchasing cute attire to getting that camera lens or microphone that you've always wanted or even buying new business cards. Yes, I know, it really starts to add up. One of the ways that I save that has saved me tons for my conferences is using TopCashBack. I've been using them for a couple of years now and love them. Not only do they have surprise email offers. They also have amazing cashback rates on everyday purchases. Why not buy the stuff on your Amazon wishlist and save at the same time?! Let's not forget your business cards with Vistaprint. Yes, TopCashBack has over 4,000 merchants. It's pretty much just like couponing without the hassle of clipping coupons. It's also a wonderful way to save throughout the year. You can use your cashback from TopCashBack to purchase future conference tickets.

The best part about it is that you can start saving today! I have an exclusive signup offer for my readers. Receive a $5 signup bonus when you earn $5 in cash back here.

Are you signed up with TopCashBack?

Learn more about TopCashBack HERE

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Things are ever so changing in the travel world. When I learn new tips. I love to share them with you guys. Today I'm sharing with you guys travel tips that are must-know for your next travel adventure. When traveling, it’s so easy to forget about the basics. However, knowing the basics will save you time and money.

4 Must-Know Travel Tips/Hacks 

Liquids

Try to keep all of your carry-on liquids in one area. I know this might sound weird. However, it makes it a lot easier in the event that your carry-on luggage has to be checked. If you’re checking a bag. I would suggest checking your liquids they're not immediately needed upon your arrival to your destination. I would also suggest checking your liquids in one area doubled bagged in the event that one of the liquid bottles break. You have that second level of protection.

Food

I think a huge misconception is that you're not allowed bringing food and snacks on your flight. Yes, some foods and snacks are not allowed. However, most items are. Make sure to check the TSA list of approved foods that you can bring on your flight. This is a time and money saver. Especially if you’re traveling with children. I try my best to always packs snacks. Chips, cookies, granola bars (okay, I’m not listing anything healthy. But you get the point.) I know for some it’s very hard to eat when you’re in route for your flight. That's when packing snacks come in handy. Especially once you reach your destination especially if you’re visiting another country.

Water Bottle 

I know this is common, and I’ve mentioned this in the past. Bring your own water bottle. You can fill your water bottle once you pass the security check. If you prefer to purchase bottled water. I would suggest making the purchase at the airport especially if you’re traveling to a new destination. Also, note if you have a transfer flight, some countries will not allow you to bring the water past security. For instance, during my last flight. I purchased water in Colombia. However, upon reaching Florida I had to throw the bottled water away even though it was purchased at the airport in Colombia. 

Boarding Pass

Where in the area where we can pretty much do anything off of our phones. Save the environment by using an app if the airlines you’re flying with has one. Some airlines also charge for printing boarding passes. Keep that in mind. I know some people like to keep the boarding passes as a keepsake. However, depending on your flight it might be convenient to screenshot your boarding pass. I actually prefer this method. Especially if your phone has the tendency to act wacky. If you have an iPhone. You can also save your boarding pass to your passport wallet on your phone. Not all airport accept electronic boarding passes. Especially if you're flying Spirit. Make sure to print your boarding pass in advance.

Do you have any travel tips/hacks? 

As a busy mom. I need efficient ways to prep food these days. I'm a chip/dip kind of girl. I could eat a good dip for breakfast lunch and dinner. Lately, I’ve been craving homemade salsa. Yes, I could have purchased the store bought salsa but it’s not the same and didn’t feel like stopping at the store. If I did, I probably would have ended making fresh chunky salsa which is my favorite. I didn’t feel like prepping too much and opted to try making salsa in my Vitamix blender. This is one of the reasons that this blender is one of my favorite investments. I barely had to do any chopping and less than 10 minutes I had a fresh salsa and it was so good. I love that this recipe makes about 3 good servings which were perfect for me. I opted to have this salsa with one of my favorite tortilla chips which is the 365 brand from Whole Foods. I also forgot to mention one of the best parts of this recipe it healthy for you and doesn't require any fresh tomatoes. I only used organic canned tomatoes that I purchased from Dollar Tree. This recipe is perfect to make on a whim or prep for advance for yourself or even guest. Below, I'm sharing how I made this yummy recipe.

Are you a fan of salsa? 

Recipe 

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Happy Monday! I hope everyone had a pretty amazing weekend and Happy Mother's Day to all of the moms out there. You ROCK! My weekend was pretty low key per usual. I did go out to dinner to celebrate Mother's Day with the Mister. We went to this super cute restaurant that opened a couple of years ago. The decor is totally my style. Super glam and Chic. The Mister loved the atmosphere as well and the food was yummy. Last week I also had the opportunity to purchase some items for my vegetable garden. I purchased 48 plants for $9.99. What a steal! (Or at least it is to me.) Can't wait to share my garden plans with you guys.  Anywho, today I'm sharing what's on the menu for this week. I'm hoping to make some teriyaki salmon on the grill. If not, I'll just make it on the stove top. Our weather has been pretty unpredictable. It was a little cold for my liking on Saturday and raining. Perfect cuddle weather though. So our menu is pretty much a lot of comfort food and items that I can make in the crockpot, or put on the grill.

How was your weekend?

I love sharing with you guys my plans each season. Though, some of those plans don’t go as scheduled sometimes. It’s nice to have a general list of stuff to look forward to and plan.
This is my second year creating a Spring Bucket List and I’m super excited about this. Our winter this year was pretty hectic.
For those who read my blog. You know that I am not a fan of snow from. Yes, I love what it does for the environment. However, having to drive through a blizzard is just not fun to me.
So I really look forward to the spring/summer months to really get out there and take in the beauties of the season.

Below I’m starting 6 Things on my Spring Bucket List

Vacation

I can’t be the only one who would love a vacation. Though, I’m trying to tackle my student loan debt. I’m excited about the possibility. I don’t have a destination in mind, however, it’s nice to dream.

Beach Trip

I know it’s a little too cold for my bold to go in the beach water. However, We have Hampton beach in New Hampshire and it’s just so gorgeous. I would love to make a family trip or date night out of it.

Spring Photo Shoot

I’ve had the same bio picture for a couple of years now and I’m so ready for an updated gorgeous photo of myself. I love the idea of changing my Bio photos at least once a year and would love to make this an annual routine.

Day Trip

One of my favorite places to visit for a day trip to New York. What I do love about living in Connecticut is the convenience of living so close to New York. I don’t have a day in mind or if I will take a solo, family or date trip. It would be nice to see a Broadway show and go out to eat.

Bake

I know this may sound weird. However, I’ve never baked a homemade carrot cake and carrot cake has to be one of my favorite cakes. It’s super moist and the frosting is divine. I would love to find a decadent healthy version.

Me Time

If you haven’t noticed this post so far has been all about me. I would love to take myself out to lunch and go on at the Rose garden or even visit the butterfly museum. You know, take some time and unplug. Smell the roses and enjoy a bite to eat.

What's on your spring bucket list?

I had the opportunity to attend Moms Meet WOW Bloggers NYC in New York. I was so excited to attend this event. You see, back in November, I attended the Moms Meet WOW Summit in Chicago. You can read all about it here. I had the most amazing time at this event. During the event, it was shared that they would possibly be hosting an event in New York for Bloggers in 2018. For those that follow my blog know that I get super excited when I hear about blogger events that are close to me.
Month's past and I received an invite to apply to attend. I was so happy and nervous at the same time hoping that I would have the opportunity to attend to connect with other like-minded individuals and brands. I received an email confirming that my invite was accepted. YAY!
If you know me, I try to make a vacation out of any visit to New York. I wasn't sure if I was going to stay the weekend on return home the same day. Last minute, I decided to commute home the same day.
That day I woke up summer early and headed to NYC. I was so excited. I love New York! I was able to find parking a block away from the venue. I parked my car and did some sightseeing. Though I love New York, I am still a newbie when it comes to finding destinations. I found the venue about an hour before the event, checked in and I decided to head to Time Square to do a little sightseeing.
I had the most amazing time at the event. I met so many amazing people and connected with so many awesome brands. It was truly an amazing experience! Moms Meet does such a phenomenal job of executing their events. From every detail of the event. It's truly an amazing experience. If you have a chance to attend any of the events. GO! You'll have an amazing time.

Moms Meet WOW Bloggers: NYC Recap

Chef Gerad Cooking Demo 

The Brands/Sponsors 

The Food

The product, information, and gift card have been provided by the makers of In The Raw® so that I could try the product and share my thoughts and information about Stevia In The Raw®. The opinions expressed in this post are my own and do not reflect the opinions of the makers of In The Raw® sweeteners.




The royal nuptials are fast approaching, what better way to celebrate this amazing event with friends than to eat like royals. Today I will be sharing one of my favorite beverages to make for this joys event. As you guys know I’m a tea lover. I drink tea all year around and I love trying new beverages that incorporate tea. I found this yummy recipe on 
Stevia In The Raw® website and I fell in love with the fact that this recipe allows me to drink like a royal without all of the added sugar. Plus, you can easily find all of the ingredients at your local store. You even have the option to make this beverage in advance or on a whim which I love or If you're still getting your Royal Wedding Viewing menu together. This recipe is perfect if you’re attending or hosting your very own viewing party. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s made with Stevia In The Raw®, which is an amazing sugar alternative.

Recipe

Earl Grey Spiked Tea | 4 SERVINGS

Ingredients

• 1 cup boiling water
• 2 Earl Grey Tea bags
• 6 ounces vodka
• 4 ounces fresh orange juice, strained
• 4 ounces fresh lemon juice, strained
• 2 packets of Stevia In The Raw® or 1 ½ tablespoons Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 4 orange slices
• 4 sprigs mint

Preparation

1. Add tea bags to boiling water and let steep 10 minutes. Remove and discard tea bags and let the tea cool completely.
2. Fill a pitcher with ice. Add tea, vodka, orange juice, lemon juice, Stevia In The Raw®, and vanilla and stir until stevia is dissolved.
3. Pour tea into ice-filled glasses and garnish with orange slices and mint.

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Looking for Additional Royal Wedding Recipes?! Try these yummy Stevia In The Raw® Recipes below:

• Lemon Ginger Teacake
• Banoffee Cake
• Cherry Almond Scone

• Stevia In The Raw® is a zero-calorie sweetener, perfect for any baking and cooking needs
• It contains an extract from the sweet leaves of the stevia plant
• Stevia In The Raw® is available in conveniently portioned 1g packets as well as a user-friendly bakers bag
• 1 packet of Stevia In The Raw® is as sweet as two teaspoons of sugar
• Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag measures cup for cup with sugar, so it can easily be used in any baking recipes to reduce sugar and calories with no conversion necessary
• Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag is formulated so that 1 cup has the same sweetness as 1 cup of Sugar
• When using Stevia In The Raw® Bakers Bag for baking recipes, it is recommended that the user replace about half of the sugar in order to achieve the proper browning, rising and caramelizing that only sugar can provide
• Up to 700 calories are saved for every cup of sugar that is replaced with Stevia In The Raw®

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