Watch Me

This one is for my daughter - it's been her "mantra" for years when everyone in "authority" said she couldn't do something ........ and they said they told her that so she wouldn't be "disappointed" later in life.

As the new school year begins (or just began in some cases) I think this one is VERY appropriate.

So all of you out there (yes even the kids) who are told they should do something else, for all those that have that self doubt that is holding them back - THIS says it all.

WATCH ME!

and then go and DO it!

Zucchini, Carrot, Onion Quiche

Do you have an overabundance of Zucchini in your garden this year?  If you do, or if you are a zucchini lover and want to find another way to showcase this vegetable here is a great way to use part of this years bounty.

Serves 10 appetizers or 10 entrées
Preparation Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients:
2 cups cooked rice
Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup shredded Mexican four-cheese blend
3 large egg whites
1 medium yellow onion, peeled and halved
1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
1 medium zucchini, grated
1 cup chicken broth
1 large egg
1 cup skim milk

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a 9" pie pan with cooking spray and set aside. 

In a Prep Essentials™ Mix-N-Stor® Plus Pitcher, mix together the rice, 2 tablespoons of the cheese and 1 egg white. Press mixture over the bottom and sides of the pan. Bake uncovered, 5 minutes. 

Remove from oven and cool while preparing filling. 

Using the Chef Series™ Pro Chef's Knife, chop onion and set aside. Place carrot and zucchini in Chef Series™ 2 Qt. / 2L Covered Nonstick Saucepan with chicken broth and onion. Cook uncovered over medium heat for 15 minutes. 

Increase heat to medium high and cook, stirring until all liquid is evaporated and vegetables are almost glazed. Transfer to a small 6-Cup/ 1.4L Wonderlier® Bowl and place in freezer to cool for 5-10 minutes. 

Place remaining egg whites, and egg in Quick Shake® Container and blend with milk. Fold into the cooled vegetables and remaining cheese. Pour mixture into the rice shell and bake uncovered until the filling is puffed and set (about 30-35 minutes). Remove and cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size: 1/10 Recipe, Servings per recipe: 10, Calories 110, Calories from fat 40, Total fat 4.5g, Saturated fat 2g, Trans fat 0g, Cholesterol 30mg, Sodium 210mg, Total Carbohydrate 13g, Dietary fiber 1g, Sugar 2g, Protein 6g 

Ooey Gooey Chocolate Brownie

I've pinned this but I want to make sure that everyone can 1) see it and 2) be able to make it if it is removed from the Tupperware Recipe area to make room for new recipes - yes it is that good.

Serves 24
Preparation Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:
3/4 cup fat-free sweetened condensed milk, divided
1/4 cup butter, melted and cooled
1/4 cup milk
18.25 oz. pkg. devils food cake mix
1 large egg white, lightly beaten
Cooking spray
7-oz. jar marshmallow creme
1/2 cup peanut butter chips
Hot fudge sauce

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. 

Combine 1/4 cup condensed milk, butter, milk, cake mix and egg white (batter will be stiff) in Prep Essentials™ Mix-N-Stor® Plus Pitcher. 

Spray bottom of 13" x 9 baking pan with cooking spray. Could use the Ultra Pro Lasagna pan.

Press two-thirds of batter into prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. 

Combine 1/2 cup condensed milk and marshmallow crème in a bowl and stir in peanut butter chips. 

With Saucy Silicone Spatula, spread mixture evenly over brownie layer. Carefully drop remaining batter by spoonfuls over marshmallow mixture. 

Bake for 30 minutes. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack.

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size: 1 Brownie, Servings per recipe: 24, Calories 260, Calories from fat 80, Total fat 8g, Saturated fat 5g, Trans fat 0g, Cholesterol 20mg, Sodium 280mg, Total Carbohydrate 42g, Dietary fiber 1g, Sugar 28g, Protein 4g

E³ Tip:
Serve brownie with a dollop of hot fudge sauce. Source: Tupperware

Problem Solving made EASY

Sometimes we get ourselves into a bit of a "pickle" and we keep thinking that we can "fix it" if we could just have the time to figure it out.

Well here's how we can figure it out!

Sometimes we just need to step back and think DIFFERENTLY

Chocolate Triffle - YUMMMM

ok some days you just NEED NEED NEED some chocolate and this is a perfect way to have your "cake" and "eat" it too so to speak.  I know I'm thinking this is a perfect way to get my chocolate fix.  How about you?

Serves 16
Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:
1 (18.25 oz.) box chocolate cake mix
Eggs, oil, and water according to cake mix
1 (2.8 oz.) pkg. chocolate mousse; milk according to package 
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup toffee bits

Directions:
Place eggs, water, and oil in Quick Chef with paddle attachment. Add cake mix and blend until well mixed. Spray 8 ¼-Cup/ 2L Heat 'N Serve™ Oval or the Tupperwave Stack Cooker 3 qt Casserole bottom Container with cooking spray. Pour cake batter into container, if using Stack Cooker use cone in center. Microwave on high power 8-10 minutes until cake is slightly moist on top and toothpick tests clean when inserted into cake. Cool on a wire rack 5-10 minutes and turn out onto a rack and cool completely.

While cake is cooling, clean Quick Chef. Place milk and mousse mix in Quick Chef with paddle attachment; blend until whipped and light in color. Remove mousse to a small 6-Cup/ 1.4L Wonderlier® Bowl. Place whipping cream in Prep Essentials™ Mix-N-Stor® Plus Pitcher and whip until cream forms stiff peaks. Do not over-whip. Remove 1 cup of the cream for top of trifle and set aside. Reserve 2 tablespoons of toffee bits for top of trifle garnish. Cut cake into cubes and place on bottom of Ice Prism™ Large Bowl. Cover with a layer of prepared cream and sprinkle toffee bits over cream. Continue to layer cake cubes, cream, and toffee bits, ending with final cake layer. Top with reserved cream and toffee bits. Cover with seal and chill well before serving. 

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 1/16 Recipe, Servings per recipe: 16, Calories 400, Calories from fat 240, Total fat 27g, Saturated fat 10g, Trans fat 0g, Cholesterol 75mg, Sodium 380mg, Total Carbohydrate 37g, Dietary fiber 1g, Sugar 25g, Protein 5g

As always, you can pick up these Tupperware pieces and so much more by visiting my Tupperware Site  or you can click on the party link at the top right sidebar of this page.

Fireman's Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies

OMG OMG OMG Jenn made these again last night with just a minor "addition" to the original recipe found on allrecipes.com.  She added a little cinnamon to the batter that gave it a wonderful "warm and earthy" flavor that just upped the I want value of these cookies.  Now the question is - can I get her to leave some home when she goes back to school on Wednesday.  I really can't believe its time for the semester to begin again but alas it is.  Her roommates are going to be enjoying these when they come back (she's such a good roommate)  If you are looking for a good cookie recipe ... this is it!  I mean chocolate chips, toffee are perfect together ... add a nice mug of coffee and you are ready to close out the world and say good night!

I know they don't look any different than any other of the thousands of chocolate chip cookies but perhaps it is the toffee but they really are so much different in taste - and then when she added the cinnamon - it was a POP of flavor that just hit the spot

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 
•  1 teaspoon salt 
•  1 1/8 teaspoons baking soda 
•  1 cup butter, softened 
•  1/2 cup white sugar 
•  1/2 cup packed brown sugar 
•  1 tablespoon vanilla extract 
•  2 eggs 
•  12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips 
•  6 (1.4 ounce) bars chocolate covered English toffee, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a medium bowl combine the flour, salt and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars. Mix until smooth. Add the vanilla and the eggs and beat well. Gradually add the flour mixture until well combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and chopped candy bars. Mix until combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Immediately remove the cookies from the sheet and let them cool on racks.

Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

I saw this recipe the other day on Sheri Johnson's Facebook Page and thought this just sounded so AWESOME. Then I thought this would be perfect for my new Ultra Pro casserole pieces from Tupperware (comes out for the public with the Fall/Holiday catalog in a few weeks).

I did make a few changes based on what I had at home and the Ultra Pro cooking benefits - but it was really pretty amazing!   Remember I shared the new Tupperware product last week here.

Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast (used 3 boneless breasts)
8 potatoes (used 4 large)
1/3 cup Olive Oil
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 TBS fresh Ground Pepper
1 TBS Paprika
2 TBS Garlic Powder
6 TBS Hot Sauce (used 1TBS Buffalo Sauce)
{Toppings}
2 cups Shredded Cheese (used Mexican blend)
1 cup crumbled Bacon (prepare ahead or while potatoes cook)
1 cup diced Green Onion (omitted but probably would have been awesome)

Instructions

Preheat oven 500F (in Ultra Pro I did 375F)

In a large bowl (I used a medium Thatsa Bowl) mix Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Paprika, Garlic Powder & Hot Sauce.  Next time I will only use 1/2 TBS of Hot Sauce or Buffalo Sauce (was a little "spicy")
Cube the potatoes & add to the bowl
Coat a 9x13 dish with cooking spray.  (I used an Ultra Pro casserole dish without spraying)

Add potatoes, allow for excess sauce in the bowl for the chicken
Bake the potatoes for 45 minutes, stir every 15 minutes.  (I put in microwave with cover for 15 minutes - next time will just do 10 minutes).

Cube the chicken & add it to the bowl with the left over sauce.
Mix together cheese, bacon & green onion in a small separate bowl
Once potatoes are done, add the uncooked marinated chicken (I mixed in with the potatoes)
Then layer the toppings over the chicken
Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked (yes put Ultra Pro into oven with cover for 15 minutes, I then uncovered it and cooked for 5 minutes more, but my chicken started out semi-frozen)

I served mine with a bit of Greek Yogurt on top - like you would put sour cream on top of a loaded baked potato, even though it wasn't called for in the original recipe ........ it really was AWESOME and I will be making this one again!

Chicken Family Style

Made in the Microwave!  Yes the Microwave and YOU can make it too.  If you had this wonderous Tupperware Product - Stack Cooker or Ultra Pro Casserole - you could make this for Sunday Dinner without any trouble whatsoever!

Ingredients 
4 lb./1.8 kg whole chicken, cut in 8 pieces
1 1/2 tbsp. Simple Indulgence Cilantro Mojo Seasoning Blend
2 tsp. paprika

Serves 6 

Season chicken on all sides with seasoning blend and paprika. 
Place legs in TupperWave® Stack Cooker 3-Qt./3 L Casserole at 3- and 9-o'clock positions with tapered ends pointing to center. 
Place wings at 12- and 6-o'clock positions, with wingtips facing middle. 
Place breasts on top at center, facing 12- and 6-o'clock, covering most of legs and wings. 
Tuck thighs in at 9- and 3-o'clock, covering ends of legs. 

Cover and microwave on high 18 minutes, or until internal temperature near the bone in the thigh and breasts reaches 165°F/75°C or until juices run clear. 

Allow to rest, covered, 5 minutes.

I LOVE my Tupperwave - I use it for all kinds of things from Breakfast for more than one, Dinner, Side dishes (Love making Rice ... NO MESS) and Dessert. I'm going to try some of the recipes I've used (like this one) in the new Ultra Pro too!

As always, you can check out these and so much more on my Tupperware Site.

Do you deserve me at my best?

Oh I saw this one the other day and after I stopped laughing because it is soooo me,  and I just love Betty Boop - almost as much as I love Maxine (but that's another story). I knew I had to share.

I know there are many more of us out there that need to proclaim just how worth it they are!

I really love some of the Shut Up I'm Still Talking Facebook Page posts.
I think we should all stop on over and show them our support and love!

So how about you?  

Do you dare to share?

Obviously I did.

It's Hello Kitty Time!

I was looking at the online items (some are exclusive to online sale, some can be purchased at a live party) and realized that it is a Hello Kitty Explosion for school!

For just about a week, you can still get this super cute Hello Kitty Lunch Kit.  It really is perfect for maybe a kindergarten or first/second grade student who loves Hello Kitty.  But remember its ONLY available until the Summer Catalog closes on August 30th.

Then we have two really cute tumbler and sandwich keepers that are ONLY available as an ONLINE EXCLUSIVE - and you never know when these will sell out.  The purple (on the left) is Hello Kitty Rainbow and the pink )below on the right) is Retro Hello Kitty - but as you can see they are really really cute.

And then with the Fall/Holiday Catalog release (available now - yes you can order from the Summer Catalog at the same time) is the brand new Hello Kitty Lunch Kit

This one just looks so "chic" for the "I think I am a member of the "fashionista"  crowd" - I could see this being used for more than just lunch as the bag is "convertible" between a backpack or a messenger bag!   Oh yes this could be THE thing for those Hello Kitty lovers.  Now I wish they had this a year or so ago when my niece was so into Hello Kitty --- I couldn't find Hello Kitty anywhere!



Check these out on my Tupperware Site and let me know if I can help you with these or anything else there.

We really do have so many wonderful things there for the lunch bunch - and its not just for the younger crowd.  We have all kinds of great ideas for little boys and girls, older boys and girls, men and women that I bet would make back to school or back to work lunch prep so much easier!

And if you are going to place an order before August 31st ... check out the 5 day lunch pieces in great colors!  You can get 5 sandwich keepers or 5 snack cups or 5 tumblers at a great price that you could add to any of the lunch kits or use in whatever you use for your lunches.  No more plastic bags that leads to crushed/mushed/uneaten sandwiches and snacks with these great sets!

Want Cash for Christmas Shopping?

Here is an easy way to get Cash for the upcoming Holiday Season (Christmas / Hanukkah or whatever you celebrate - we celebrate Christmas).

Do you have to do some work?  Yes, but doesn't everything worthwhile require a little work?

Is it fun?  Absolutely!  It's a Party Every Time!

You get to meet some of the most Interesting People!

AND with just a 

Small Investment, it can lead to Big Pay Day for you!

If you are interested in being your own boss,
If you are a Tupperholic like me,
If you are looking for some Holiday Cash or Gifts

THIS could be perfect for you!

The above is based on doing "average" parties, which run about $400 ... some are less, but some are much much more ... I've heard of parties that were $1,000.00!  Check out some of the great products we have for the upcoming Fall/Holiday Catalog/Season on my Tupperware Site.

Yes Tupperware does cost more than those "supermarket" brands ... but with our limited lifetime guarantee and our quality products - they just don't hold a candle to ours!  But of course that is my opinion.

Message me and I can help you get started or answer your questions on how to get started or even why you would want to.  It could just cost you $30 (plus shipping/tax on the $99 price) AND you could be in line for some AWESOME gifts along the way.  If nothing else, you could feed your own "habit" and those of your friends and family.

Talk to me about what is an absolutely fun and profitable way to spend a few hours a week!

Discontinued items from Tupperware Don't miss out on these!

I know I've shown you a "list" before but here is a pretty nice visual of what is no longer available with the Fall/Holiday Catalog .......... so if you wanted one (or more) of these, you need to pick them up before midnight August 30th!

Now some may come back for the Summer 2014 but there is NO GUARANTEE - I just don't want you to be disappointed ... so hurry on over to my Tupperware Site (or click on my current online party link on top right of sidebar) so you can get what you are looking for.

To enlarge the picture for a better bigger "view" if you hit the control key and the plus key ..... you can enlarge the view as much as you want (I just learned that today so .... ) or message me and I will help you if I can

Kindness is NEVER wasted

Sometimes I think we need to be reminded

You just never know who needs that little smile or a pat on the back or just a hello to make the day better.

Remember this the next time you want to lash out at someone who is getting on your nerves - even if it is your last one - that they could be having a day that is even worse than yours and they NEED someone to just show them one little scrap of kindness ....... one day it could be you.

And remember the story that made its way around the net a while back - the one that was a speech given by the Valedictorian of a High School about the day he cleaned out his locker so his mom wouldn't have to because he was going to end it all .... YOU could be the very person that turns a life around with that act of kindness you show today.

Lobster Tomato & Sweet Corn Salad

I've pinned this one -

but it would be an AWESOME way to celebrate Summer 

so I'm sharing it here too

Serves 8
Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels (3 ears)
4 cups lobster meat, chopped
2 cups tomatoes, seeded and diced
12 oz. Arugula
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Garlic Vinaigrette
2 tbsp. Simple Indulgence™ Simply Garlic (I'd sub their Italian Seasoning)
2 tbsp. mayonnaise
1 tbsp. mustard
4 tbsp. butter, melted
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
Bring water to a boil in a Chef Series™ 2 QT. / 2 L Covered Nonstick Saucepan. Add the corn and cook until just tender, about 2 minutes. Drain in Double Colander and run under cold water to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry. Remove kernels from cob. Using a Saucy Silicone Spatula, gently combine the corn, lobster, and tomatoes in a bowl. In the Quick Shake® Container, combine all ingredients for the vinaigrette, except for the olive oil. Drizzle in olive oil and shake until thickened. Just before serving, season the salad with salt and pepper and toss lightly with the vinaigrette. Arrange the arugula in the center of a large platter and top with the lobster salad. Garnish with the parsley.

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size: 1/8 Recipe, Servings per recipe: 8, Calories 330, Calories from fat 210, Total fat 24g, Saturated fat 6g, Trans fat 0g, Cholesterol 70mg, Sodium 420mg, Total Carbohydrate 13g, Dietary fiber 3g, Sugar 3g, Protein 18g

E³ Tip:
Corn is a glucose-free vegetable and is the staple food of millions. Source: "Super Foods, Nutrient-dense foods to protect your health" by Michael van Straten & Barbara Griggs

As always, you can get the Tupperware products from my Tupperware Site

Tupperware's Product of the Future ... is NOW

If you remember back in May I told you that there was a wonderful new product coming out that was Tupperware's Product of the Future.  I got the sample this product about 3 months ago and I have to say it is a dream.  You can use it in the microwave, which is wonderful but how about also being able to put this very same product in the oven.  YES in the oven!

Now I did think that it would be a year before we were even ready for market ... but 

 at Tupperware the Future is in Fall/Holiday Catalog.

Introducing Tupperware's 

Product of the Future  

UltraPro Ovenware!

• Easy-to-handle, lightweight material can be used in temperatures up to 482° F/250° C and as low as -13° F/-25° C.
• Save time and energy by cooking and reheating in the microwave or conventional oven.
• Store food in the refrigerator or freezer.
• All pieces of UltraPro Ovenware can stack to form larger containers with levels for cooking multiple dishes at the same time. For example, cook or reheat two side dishes, a side dish and a main course, or a main course and dessert.
• UltraPro Ovenware fits easily in most microwave ovens.
• Container’s non-stick qualities promote healthy cooking as no extra butter or oil is needed.
• When used together either in the oven or the microwave, the rounded shape of the container and the domed cover improves cooking and heat distribution. The cover also helps prevent splatters.
• Modern design and color are perfect for serving food at the table - any table.
• Save clean-up time by using one dish to store, prepare and serve. Pieces clean easily.
• It’s fridge, freezer, microwave, oven and dishwasher safe while being gorgeous on the table.

Here's some details to show just how great these pieces are.

Care: 

• Dishwasher safe (great deal). 
• Soak in hot, soapy water immediately after use. 
• Avoid abrasive cleaning materials. 
• Choose non-metallic utensils for mixing in or serving from the ovenware.

Sizes/Details 

• 2.1-Qt./2 L Casserole Pan
• 3.7-Qt./3.5 L Casserole Pan
• 3¼-cup/800 mL Cover (fits both Casserole Pans)
• 3.5-Qt./3.3 L Lasagna Pan with Cover
• 6-Qt./5.7 L Roasting Pan with Cover
• 5-cup/1.2 L Cover (fits both Lasagna Pan and Roasting Pan)
• 1.75-Qt./1.8 L Loaf Pan

Limited Lifetime Warranty (as with all Tupperware Products) against defects in the material or workmanship under normal or household non-commercial use. 

Warranty coverage does not include breakage due to dropping (but its light so dropping isn't an issue, unless you are really klutzy :) but if you are careful and don't drop it ...)

I'm letting you know now so that you can start planning for the Fall / Holiday Catalog.  You really WANT these new products.  Tandem cooking is wonderful for those nights when you want something good and filling for dinner but don't have a lot of time.

Here is a wonderful entree (Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole) that I made last week in the 3.7 QT casserole.  I did the potatoes in the microwave then added the chicken, cheese and bacon and finished in the oven - and it was all done in less than 40 minutes.  Recipe to be posted later this week.

Power Prep Premium System

I am really excited to show you one of the 

BRAND new Products available 

NOW from Tupperware!

It is BRAND NEW in the Fall / Holiday Catalog

If you are into making your own creamy dressings or mayonnaise (so its not full of preservatives) or making your baby food (again so there are no preservatives or extra salt that so many store bought have),

THIS is the machine for you.  

The Power Prep Premium System!

You can Blend, Mix, Emulsify and Chop

Now you may say, Kath, what are you talking about "NEW" product, that little piece on the bottom right looks just like my Chop 'N Prep.  And I would tell you that 1) you know your Tupperware! (and why aren't you a consultant with/for me?) and 2) this new product uses the power of the Chop 'N Prep for little things and then takes it to the next level.

Because Tupperware wants everyone to be included in this great new product, they also offer an "accessory kit" that will take your Chop 'N Prep to this new level and make it a Power Prep Premium System.

I haven't tried it yet (yes it is that new as I've just received it), its on the list of things to do this week, but you can use this machine to make all kinds of things ... including mix up a cake that you can then bake in your Stack Cooker or the new Ultra Pro Loaf Pan or mix up a Flan.  I think this is going to be the "ultimate" kitchen tool!  Between this Power Prep Premium System and the Quick Chef Pro you will be a "cooking diva" and everyone will want to know how you did it.  Or may even wonder if you didn't win a Chef for your kitchen!

If you want to check this out, or see the new Fall / Holiday Catalog (which you can start purchasing from now as well as the Summer Catalog that you can still purchase from until the end of the month) go to my Tupperware Site.

You can place your order there or you can email me and I will get back to you.  And if you would like to have this system for free or at a discount, talk to me about doing a party - I can make a book party work - and then your friends can work with you and you with them to get everything Tupperware that you all want!  It will be a win-win for everyone!!!

Peanut Butter Granola Bites

As it is soon time to be coming up with wonderful things to put into your child's lunch box - whether for snacks or as part of lunch itself - here is one that is quick and easy and no bake!
That can be "changed up" using different fruits or cereals, even the peanut butter could be changed out for another kind of nut butter!  Your child will love you for it.

Ingredients

1/2 cup peanut butter
4 tbsp. butter
4 tbsp. honey
1 cup rice cereal
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup dried cherries or cranberries

Makes 10 bites

In a pitcher, combine honey, peanut butter and butter.
Microwave on high power one minute or until melted; stir until smooth.
Pour over cereal, oats and cranberries.

Using an Ice Cream Scoop, shape mixture into balls and place on a baking sheet.
Refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes.

Place a bite in a Snack Cup and store in refrigerator, up to one week.
Bet they don't last a week either!

Remember if you want to use Tupperware products to make or store these great bites, you can always pick them up on my Tupperware Site

The Sweet Summer #Giveaway Hop

Welcome to the

Sweet Summer Giveaway Hop

hosted by

Planet Weidknecht

and

Passport to Frugal

From August 17-31, you can visit all the participating blogs listed below and enter to win their wonderful prizes to top off your summer in a sweet way. Each blog is offering a giveaway prize of at least $25.00 and you might be lucky enough to win them all!

My prize was one of this year's most wanted Tupperware Hostess Gifts.

EVERYONE was trying to get a qualifying party because it was so complete!

The Sun 'N Fun 19 Piece Picnic Set

You could win the complete Picnic Set Up worth almost $300!

Now you can end Summer with a nice picnic on the beach

and then get ready to Kick off the Fall Tailgating Season!

Once you have entered my giveaway using the Rafflecopter form below, I hope you will hop around and visit all the other wonderful bloggers to see what they have to offer.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I know this is going to be loads of fun - 

we have somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 bloggers involved in this hop.

It's a Diamond (Candle) Kind of Day

I have to say I was really excited when I received an offer to review one of the new Diamond Candles AND to do a giveaway.  It has been a few years since I ordered one (it was a Christmas present for my daughter) and I had seen a few posts on Facebook talking about NEW scents.  I knew we had really enjoyed the one she had received and thought it would be great to try them again.

 My first problem was deciding which candle I wanted to try.  They have some great "summer" scents but we just fell in love with the sound of the Hawaiian Coconut.

I mean it just called out to summer and pina coladas.  And it did not disappoint!  Just popping off the glass top you were surrounded by that wonderful coconut smell but not so overpowering that you were bowled over.









One of the things I remembered from the 1st time we got one of these was that they took a long time to burn but the scent continued on.  So many candles smell good when they are first lit, but soon the scent is gone.  Not so with Diamond Candles - the scent lasts a VERY LONG time.  But I guess because they are a slow burning candle, they wanted to find a way to make that wonderful scent continue so you want to light the candle every day.

So my second problem was waiting for that ring packet to make its appearance.

As you can see in the first picture, in the upper right, there is a little gold packet peeking out ... and this is after a good hour to a hour and a half of burning (and yes it was still smelling like a pina colada).

FINALLY ............

See my gold packet at the top right ... all I could think of was - its almost time, its almost time.  It really was a slow burner and this was just a tease because my packet was much lower in the candle than it appeared ..... but we were patient (ok not really) until we got our prize!

It did seem like it was going to take forever before I got the "second" surprise, but then there it was.  Almost like those old Cracker Jack boxes ... when will you get your prize??





As you can see it is much bigger than it appeared as it was burning down.  But with a little perseverance and "help" my ring was finally free.  And although it wasn't the $5,000.00 or $1,000.00 ring, I think it does look pretty nice. 

The purple stone is a very rich purple, that doesn't get its true justice in this picture.  So whether its worth $10.00 or $100.00 it still is something that is nice to wear when you are looking for something to add color to your day.

So tell me, do you know what that flower is that my candle was "hiding next to" when I came home?  Hint it's "tropical" too and shown in one picture above.  Leave me a comment if you know what it is or think you do .



Wouldn't you love to have one of these for yourself? 
Diamond Candle has generously provided the above candle for my review AND another candle for one of the Inspiration CAN be found EVERYWHERE readers (winner's choice).  Check out Diamond Candle's website and leave me a comment below telling me which one you would like to try if you are the winner.   Don't worry you can change your mind if you win - I know it is a difficult decision.

Enter using the very simple/easy Rafflecopter below.  Share this with your friends/family/acquaintances so that we can have a HUGE turnout so we can do this type of giveaway with each new season - wouldn't that be great?  I know I would LOVE IT.  

Tupperware mid August Brochure Options

Just wanted to share some of the awesome things you can get from Tupperware now through September 13th!

I really LOVE the Impressions Bowls and to get, not the usual 3 but 5 and then the chip 'N dip for FREE!  Oh how you could be ready for all those football games to come ...  And check out those petite dessert dishes.  If you are watching your portions - these are AWESOME and come with a lid!  They stack really nice in the fridge so you can make a "big" dessert and do your portioning.  When you want your dessert - it will be ready, and looking pretty, without the threat of over-indulging.

You can check these and so much more on my Tupperware Site  including some great "steals" through August 30th,  to make Lunchtime during School time (or work day) a breeze.

As always, if you have any questions, just message me and I will help in any way I can.

Tupperware Stock Up NOW

I post this just so that if there were things you were wanting to get, but waiting figuring you would see what was in the Fall / Holiday Catalog before placing your order for everything - you could be disappointed.  I'm posting because I just got the list - which I am assuming at this point is "gospel" since the Fall/Holiday Catalog will be coming out sooner than we think (weeks not months)!

These are the things that will NOT show up in the upcoming catalog and will be discontinued in the US/CANADA market.  Some are permanent discontinues and some are right now called "Seasonal Discontinues" but you know that is never a "definite" to return type product.

Wonderlier® Small Bowl Set
Forget Me Not® Set            
Stuffables® Mini Set            
Rectangular Cake Taker      
Prep Essentials® Cold Cut Keeper
Fruit and Veggie Keepers Set
Microfiber Window and Mirror Cleaning Cloth Set
Green Living Shopping Bag
Mickey Mouse Ice Tups® Set
Hamburger Press and Keepers Set
Tupperware® Impressions Butter Dish Purchase-with-purchase offer
Hello Kitty® Lunch Solution Set (redesigned)
SpongeBob SquarePants™ Lunch Set
SpongeBob SquarePants™ On-The-Go Tumbler
Winnie the Pooh Large Bell Tumblers
Winnie the Pooh Feeding Set
Winnie the Pooh Big Wonders® Bowls
Chef Series Cookware 6-Pc. Starter Set
Chef Series 8"/20 cm Fry Pan
Chef Series 6-Qt./5.7 L Dutch Oven
Tupperware® Can Opener Color change
TupperWave® Stack Cooker Starter Set
TupperWave® Stack Cooker Complete System
Vent 'N Serve® 7-Pc. Set (Color changed)
Vent 'N Serve® Small Round Set (Color changed)
Vent 'N Serve® Soup Mug (Color changed)
Vent 'N Serve® 2-Pc. Medium Set (Color changed)
Vent 'N Serve® Large Shallow
Vent 'N Serve® Large Deep (Color changed)
CrystalWave® Divided Dishes
Smooth Chopper
Pie Press/Empanada Makers
Prep Essentials® Mix-N-Stor® Plus Pitcher
Summer Eco Tumblers
Tupperware Essentials Tumblers
Tupperware Essentials Luncheon Plates
Divided Dish Feeding Set
FlatOut!® 2-Pc. Set
Grilling Prep Set with FREE Chophouse Selections Recipe Booklet
Modular Mates® 8-Pc. Starter Set with FREE Oval 5 and PourAll Seal
Tupperware Essentials Serving Collection with FREE Tupperware Chic Dining® Champagne Flutes
Round Pick-A-Deli® Mini Container
Small Hourglass Salt and Pepper Shakers
Sun ’N Fun 8-Pc. Picnic Set Host
Sun ’N Fun 19-Pc. Complete Set Host

Is it possible that some of these will come back next summer (like the Grilling Prep Set or the Rectangular Cake Taker (that also carries 18 cupcakes)?  Perhaps but if you want these I wouldn't wait or you could be VERY disappointed.  You can check these out on my Tupperware Site or message me and I will try to help you as much as humanly possible.  Remember there is always a party going on so you can either search on my site for one or click on the link on the top right sidebar of this blog.

I know I will be checking out the Cold Cut Keeper - since it works well as a bacon keeper (and bacon is BIG in this household).  And those FlatOuts are FABULOUS in your tote for a "doggie bag" that works much better than those Styrofoam containers (no leaks).

Greek Salad anyone?

I saw this the other day while "wandering" around pinterest looking for some recipes and stumbled upon some Tupperware recipes ... here's one that will work great just about any time of year and would be great for work lunches to share.

Ingredients
10 oz./285 g romaine salad greens
1 cucumber
1 tomato
1 cup black olives
2 green onions
1/2 cup Greek dressing
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Pita Crisps Salad Topping
4 pieces pita bread, quartered
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
Serves 4

Add cucumber, tomato, black olives and green onions to the base of Quick Chef™ Pro System. Turn handle to coarsely chop. Combine the salad greens, cucumber, tomato, olives and green onion. Toss with 1/2 cup dressing. Top with the cheese and, if you choose, warm pita crisps (see below).

Pita Crisps Salad Topping
Preheat oven to 350° F/175° C.
Place the pita on a baking sheet. Drizzle the bread with olive oil. Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt and pepper. Place in the oven for 10 minutes, or until the pita is crisp. Along with cheese, top salad with pita crisps.

The Quick Chef Pro System can be seen and purchased through my Tupperware Site as well as many other wonderful things.  You could take this salad to work in the Healthy Salad Set or in one of our wonderful Lunch Kits.  

the Coveted Tupperware Citrus Peeler

I saw this the other day and thought ... NOW I know for sure why EVERYONE needs to book a party with me or order from me so I can get them one of these coveted Tupperware pieces.

So here it is... a list of 25 things you can use the coveted Tupperware Citrus Peeler for!
I'm sure there are even more things that should be on this list, so e-mail me if you have something to add.

 1. Removing skin from Citrus
 2. Staple Remover
 3. Letter Opener
 4. Removing Can Labels
 5. Cleaning the Rim of Tupperware Seals
 6. Cuticle Pusher
 7. Smoothing Out Grout
 8. Turning Flathead Screws
 9. Removing Skin from Avocado
10. Removing Muffins from Muffin Pans
11. Use as a Hook to Dip Pretzels
12. Drink Stir Stick
13. Finger Splint When Camping
14. Shoe Horn
15. Butter Knife
16. Lawn Aerator (this is only practical with a small patch of cat grass)
17. Fish Hook Remover
18. Separate a Hard Boiled Egg from its Shell
19. Cake Tester
20. Plastic Bag Opener
21. Potato Eye Remover
22. Opening a CD or DVD
23. Removing Wax from Furniture
24. Separating Cheese Slices
25. Crochet Hook

Oh and It's also handy for cutting cakes in a plastic container.

So do you have one of these iconic Tupperware pieces?  Do you want one?

Talk to me about doing a book party and all those that place an order through me will get one from me (sent to you, the hostess).  If you are the hostess, not only will you get your own citrus peeler, I will give you a surprise gift from me as well as any hostess gifts/bonuses your party earns.

Talk to me about how we can get this piece in your hands ASAP.

Healthy Lunches for Kids (and Adults too)

Are you dreading Back to School because you have to make a school lunch every day?  Are you still on Lunch Box burn out from the last school year?  I have to tell you when I saw this on the Betty Crocker Website, I thought this would be PERFECT for everyone who is gearing up for Back to School.  Healthy Lunches for Kids is someplace where I think most, if not all kids, will find something interesting to try, as well as the Adults who have to take lunches with them every day.  If nothing else, it will get your own "creative" juices flowing with the current lunch box season on its way.

I know when I was getting my kids ready for school I dreaded coming up with things for lunch.  We ended up picking the same things week after week until I didn't want to even think about lunches and I'm pretty sure my kids didn't really want them either.

I think the current Tupperware Lunch box items (I know a shameless plug) on sale till August 30th would be great for these recipes.  And they are color coordinated!


Just the Sandwich Keeper Set and the Snack Cup Set alone are a steal ... but add everything else in and you are set for the week!

And mom's if you wanted to send salad to school (if your kids are like my son and actually ask for salads) or you wanted to take some with you to work along with a sandwich - check out this idea ...  The forget me not set is great.  Take the square and put your side salad in the bottom and your salad dressing in the Classic Midgets and you have a sandwich and salad without everything getting soggy and I bet they would all fit in your lunch kit (or look at one of ours)!


I just love how I find all kinds of things that will keep me in Tupperware forever!  You can pick up these and so much more on my Tupperware Site or by joining my Current Party.

Check out the Healthy Lunch at Betty Crocker and see if you don't agree that these items from Tupperware and these recipe ideas won't make your Back to School Lunch prep a breeze.

Compassionate and Kind

this is one of those awwwww moments when you get to slip in some witty saying or insight into the conversation with your kids

Or maybe into some adults too!

Pretty nice for a Sunday morning right?

Prepared Meals from the Kitchen of Cooking Light Magazine

I hope you know that I love to cook, all kinds of meals and foods, whether its on the stove, in the over, on the grill or in the microwave (yes I was converted to cooking in the microwave).  But like anyone, I am always looking for some thing new, quick but good tasting for when we just don't have the time to actually cook.  In my case that is usually during tax season, but for mother's of young kids it could be during baseball or football season or soccer and lacrosse seasons.   Or maybe its dance lessons or recitals or pretty much anything involving kids!  I don't know if you have seen these yet, but you really should be looking for them.

I happened to stumble on these at one of the warehouse chains and thought I would try them.  There are quite a few different types of meals available, but I picked two that I thought my family would really enjoy try when I put it on the plate.

The first one we tried was the Sliced Turkey Breast Meal.  It did require the use of the oven, but it really wasn't something that you had to "watch over".  It was pretty much put in preheated 375 degree oven for just 30 minutes and serve.

The next one we tried was the Seared Sliced Beef Sirloin.  This was cooked the same way as the Turkey.  Put into a baking dish covered with foil in the preheated 375 oven for 30 minutes.

For both I made a starch (one rice the other noodles) and gravy - since in my house if they sit down to dinner, there really needs to be gravy.  I tell them I could serve them a car bumper and they would eat it if it had gravy!

Anyway, both of my picky eaters enjoyed these.  I knew we had a winner when they only put the gravy on the rice or noodles and not the meat!  AND they actually ate everything and went back to look for more!

I will definitely be looking for these again (directions do say if you freeze them to defrost in refrigerator before heating) for times when I want a good meal but don't have hours to cook it.

Some of the other meals I see that they have are Heirloom Tomato and Spinach Ravioli, Chicken Parmesan, Chipotle Pork Roast, and a variety of soups plus more!  I think you could definitely find some meals that your family would like when you don't want to or can't cook a sit down meal.

I know I will be looking for others to try.


 Just make sure that you read the ingredients (no its not because there are lots of unknown things on the list) if you or anyone in your family have food allergies.  The beef notes that it contained soy, but since we luckily don't have any problems with food allergies, I didn't even think to check until I started writing here.