The Dirty Dozen 2018: When to Buy Organic
Are you one of those people that believes whole heartedly in only shopping for organic foods? Or do you think the whole idea is total ridiculousness and wouldn't dream of spending more money just to get an 'organic' label? Personally, I find myself right in the middle. I like the idea of eating and especially feeding my children the cleanest, purest, pesticide and growth hormone free foods available, but sometimes I'm not sure the so-called benefits outweigh the ultra steep organic costs at the grocery store. I mean, sometimes it feels like a huge rip off, doesn't it?
Who is with me? If considering whether to buy organic or non-organic produce is a constant question you are asking yourself at the grocery store, get excited because this post is for you! For over a decade now, every year The Environmental Working Group has put out a Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce. The guide ranks pesticide contamination of 48 popular fruits and vegetables, based on more than 35,200 samples of produce tested by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration. The best part is they lay it out so simply for the average consumer and come up with two basic lists. The Dirty Dozen features the top 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest loads of detectible pesticides, while The Clean Fifteen highlights those produce items with the very least amount of pesticides.
Here are the rankings for 2018.....
Knowledge is power! When it comes to making the best choices for your family at the grocery store, this guide is your best friend! If you want to make your money count the very most, and give your family the healthiest produce possible, make sure you are investing in organic fruits and vegetables from the dirty dozen list. There is actually a MAJOR difference here between organic and non-organic here, you guys!! When it comes to produce from the clean fifteen list, the difference between organic and non-organic is pretty minimal. Happy shopping!
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Gourmet S'mores
We are headed out on our first family camping trip this weekend! Instead of focusing my energies on packing up the most crucial necessities, (tent, sleeping bags, lantern, etc), I'm focusing on the really important stuff: food! I'm sitting here planning out all of the fancy s'mores I want to make over the fire! If you want to take your s'more game up a notch (or two, or three) this summer, then check out these simpe, yet delicious recipes! I can't wait to try all of them!
Caramel drizzled S'mores
Peanut butter cookies, filled with bittersweet chocolate, marshmallow, and caramel sauce
via sunset
Roasted Berries S'mores
Roasted strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries (in the oven or dutch oven), with chocolate and marshmallow between waffle cookies
via shared appetite
Nutella S'mores
Nutella, and a roasted marshmallow between two tennis biscuits
via Simply Delicious Food
Rice Krispies Treat S'mores
This is your basic S'more with chocolate and marshmallow, but replace the graham crackers with rice krispie treats!
via Shared Appetite
Chocolate Chip Cookie S'mores
This is your basica s'more with chocolate and marshmallow, but replace the graham crackers with your favorite homemade chocolate chip cookie.
via ask anna moseley
Chocolate Peanut Butter S'mores
1 Tablespoon peanut butter and a marshmallow sandwiched between two chocolate wafer cookies
via Sunset
Girl Scout Somoa Cookie S'mores
Caramel, toasted coconut, and a roasted marshmallow between two graham crackers.
via Shared Appetite
Elvis S'mores
Get ready! Banana, bacon, peanut butter, chocolate, and roasted marshmallow between graham crackers. Wowza!
via Smart Fun DIY
Good news! You don't have to go camping in order to make tasty s'mores all summer long! Check out RC Willey's great selection of firepits and you can make them right in your own backyard whenever you feel like it!
What is your favorite kind of creative s'more to make??
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Ninja Blender Recipes
There are endless things you can do with your Ninja Blender! Sometimes I look at my blender and feel like there isn’t anything I can make in it other than smoothies, but that’s not the case at all. If you’ve got a Ninja Blender, or are thinking of getting one soon, I’ve listed some Ninja Blender recipes you might want to give a try.
Ninja Blender Recipes
Frozen Hot Chocolate via Test Kitchen Tuesday
Chunky Blender Salsa via Number 2 Pencil
Cherry Limeade via Ninja Kitchen
Strawberry Snow via Ninja Kitchen
Chunky Monkey via Test Kitchen Tuesday
Carrot Ginger Soup via Test Kitchen Tuesday
What are some of your favorite Ninja Blender recipes? Share with us and don't forget to check out all the small kitchen appliances available at RC Willey.
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Rock Gardens
If you have a space in your yard that nothing will grow, why not consider putting in a rock garden? Not only will a rock garden cover up an empty eyesore in your yard, it is also a way to conserve water and be a form of xeriscaping. Depending on what kind of rock garden you’ve seen, you may either love or hate the idea. There are, admittedly, some unattractive piles of rocks that have been called a rock garden. On the other hand, though, there are some beautiful rock gardens that could almost be considered a piece of art! Keep reading for ideas on how to make a rock garden and pictures for inspiration.
Rock Gardens
via HGTV
Whatever rocks you include in your rock garden, whether you’ve found them or are purchasing them from the store, make sure you include a variety of sizes. If all your rocks are the same size and general shape, you’ll end up with a boring, uninspired rock pile.
via Homesthetics
Map out your rock garden before you get started. You’ll want to think through what kind of plants will be included and plan out where you will be planting them. Draw out what you want it to look like and which stones, especially the larger ones, will go where. You’ll save yourself time - and your back - by putting a little effort in beforehand.
via Guiding Home
If you’re going to use plants in your rock garden you need to make sure they will thrive. Succulents and cacti are classic rock garden plants, but any drought tolerant plant will work.
via Garden Answers
Rocks come in a variety of colors, as well as sizes. Once you’ve decided on what color scheme is right for your yard, stick with it. This includes the plants and flowers you’ll be planting as well.
Would you consider putting a rock garden in your yard?
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Road Trip Essentials
I’d be willing to guess that at least some of you are going to be hitting the road for a summer road trip. Before you crank up the music and pull out of your driveway, you’ll want to make sure you have some basic road trip essentials packed in your car. With a little preparation, you’ll be both safe and entertained on your way to your final destination!
Road Trip Essentials
CELL PHONE CAR CHARGER
You’ll want to make sure your phone is fully charged so you can use GPS, listen to audiobooks and podcasts, and be able to make calls in case of an emergency. Portable chargers like this are a good option as well if you’re planning on camping or spending time away from your car!
CELL PHONE MOUNT
Prop that phone up so you can easily glance at directions and see what’s going on without taking your eyes off the road for too long.
FIRST AID KIT
Include the basics, as well as any personal medications you may need.
CASH
Store it somewhere other than your wallet just in case.
COOLER AND SNACKS
Stock your cooler full of snacks, including plenty of water! You’ll save money and keep everyone happy with their favorite treats at the same time.
CAR ENTERTAINMENT
Travel games, portable DVD players, iPads stocked with movies, and downloaded audiobooks will help the time fly by.
GARBAGE BAGS
Make sure you have a garbage bag handy or you’ll find yourself going crazy in a pile of wrappers and mess not too long into your road trip.
CAR EMERGENCY KIT
Include a flashlight, blanket, spare tire, and jumper cables to help in case you run into any problems.
What do you make sure you pack when you go on a road trip? Share your road trip essentials below!
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Trend Alert: Lagom
A couple years ago the hot "it" term was hygge, from Denmark, and now it's lagom, from Sweden. Lagom is the Swedish philosophy of life meaning, "just the right amount", or "just what is needed". This trend is a nod to consuming less, living within your means, and embracing a simpler, slower life.
"Lagom describes a whole approach to life and focuses on moderation and creating the perfect balance between not too much and not too little across everything from work/life balance to financial well-being. While not specifically an interior or lifestyle trend as such, the idea of lagom is being readily adopted in interiors across the country with people ditching clutter, fuss and embellishment in favour of a simpler, more curated style." - via Houseology.com
Here are a few ways to incorporate lagom into your home design:
1. De-clutter
Go through your things, and get rid of anything you don't absolutely love or isn't essential. Lagom invites you to curate your home, art, and accessories until only the very best things are left. Be thoughtful and careful throughout the process, and don't be afraid to let go of "stuff" that doesn't play a crucial part in your life. In order to live with 'just the right amount' most of us will have lots of things to donate or throw away!
via lonny
2. Quality over Quantity
In the same vein, lagom isn't about accumulating or consuming lots and lots of things, but it's the idea that quality is valued over quantity. We don't need nearly the amount of "stuff" most of us have in our homes. Instead of buying a handful of cheap accessories or pieces of artwork for your home, save up and buy one accessory or painting that brings you joy, and that will stand the test of time. Remember, less is more.
via essential home
3. Bring in Nature
Lagom is all about appreciating and bringing nature inside. Decorate with succulents, indoor trees, and fresh flowers to help things feel fresh and clean.
via Gratio Cafe Blog
4. Embrace Simple Color Palettes
If lots of bright, bold colors are your thing, Lagom might not necessarily be an idea you want to adopt fully. Lagom opts for the use of neutral colors, and toned down simple color palettes to keep things minimalistic and pleasant on the eye.
via ribbons and stars
And if you want to learn more about Lagom, check out this book!
via amazon
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Family Reunion Games
Not only is summer the time for swimming, lounging, and snow cone shacks, it’s also the time to gather together for family reunions! Family reunions can be a great time to build relationships and create memories, but they can also feel a little long or boring for the younger members of the family. Help everyone have a good time at your next family reunion by playing some of these family reunion games.
Family Reunion Games
via A Beautiful Mess
Create a game of giant Jenga! Find the instructions to make this game here.
Get to know your family a little better and learn about each other by play Family Reunion Jeopardy.
With a large space and a large group, this Popcorn Race would be an easy activity for everyone.
via The Chic Site
Satisfy not just your family's competitive side, but also their hunger with this Donut Race!
On a hot day, you'll be able to cool off with these water balloon pinatas.
Do you have any fun family reunion games you've played? Let us know!
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Hardwood Floors vs. Laminate Floors
Knowing the difference between hardwood floors and laminate floors will help you be able to a smart decision when it comes to replacing the floors in your home. There are definitely pros and cons for each flooring type, so having some information before you start shopping around will ensure you end up with a flooring choice that will work in your home for years.
Hardwood Floors vs. Laminate Floors
Cost
When it comes to home improvement, things always come down to cost. What can you afford and where is your money best placed? Hardwood floors are a classic choice that will greatly improve your home’s value, so if you can afford the initial cost of hardwood floors it will pay off in the long run. However, hardwood floors do cost more money than laminate floors. There are plenty of affordable laminate options, but you’ll be able to tell the quality in the flooring depending on how much you spend.
Another cost-saving aspect of laminate flooring is that it is much easier to install this flooring on your own. Click here to find out how to install laminate floors and save some money! Hardwood floors are significantly more difficult to install and if you are at all unsure should be professionally installed.
Look
The look of hardwood floors is a classic, timeless look. Like I said before, hardwood floors increase the value of your home and are a selling point on homes. There are many different types of wood, stain colors, and plank widths to choose from to make your home unique.
Laminate floors were, in the past, known for looking cheap. Nowadays there are plenty of budget laminate floors available, but there are also some high-quality flooring types that look a lot like real wood. When it comes to laminate flooring, what you pay will determine how close your floors will look to real hardwood.
Durability
Both hardwood floors and laminate floors are pretty durable, but hardwood floors last much longer than laminate. Laminate flooring will last about 10 years while hardwood can last for years and years. Even though hardwood floors scratch and gouge easier than laminate you can sand down and restain the floors whenever you need to repair significant damages. Laminate floors are hardy and scratch resistant, but if one of the planks is damaged you will need to replace the entire plank.
When it comes to being water resistant, neither laminate or hardwood floors are especially great. Laminate floors are better than hardwood though, so if you’re wanting to put new flooring in high spill/leak areas such as bathrooms or kitchens, laminate floors would be a better option.
All in all, laminate floors and hardwood floors are both great options for your home. Look at how you’ll be using the space, how long you’re planning on staying in your home, and what your overall budget is, and you’ll end up with floors that will work perfectly!
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Homemade Oven Cleaner
Homemade Oven Cleaner
Unless you’ve been lucky enough to never have anything spill over while cooking, chances are you’ve had to clean out your oven once or twice. If you’re like me, you dread running the self-clean function on your oven because it leaves your house hot and smelly - without even really solving the problem. Self-clean settings crank up the heat of your oven until anything inside it burns up and shrivels away. Theoretically. There’s a better way! With a few supplies you most likely already have on hand, you’ll be able to naturally clean your oven and leave it spotless! Or at least cleaner than it was before, which is all I really ask for when it comes to my oven. Check out THIS VIDEO from Kitchn to see an easy and safe way to clean your oven.
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6 Ways to Make Grocery Shopping Easier
Some people genuinely love grocery shopping, but I am not one of those people. In fact, I loathe it! I get a pit in my stomach when I open the fridge and realize that it's time to go buy more food. I've realized over time though, that part of the reason I hate grocery shopping, is due to the fact that I haven't been very smart about it. So, today I am sharing 6 effective ways to make grocery shopping SO much easier...
1. Meal Plan
Before you go to the store, the most important thing you need to do is plan out your meals for the next few days, or preferably week! To be honest, I hate doing this, only second to grocery shopping itself! But when I don't meal plan I always end up wandering around the grocery store and buying random things, only to need about twenty more ingredients throughout the week when I finally figure out what I'm making for dinner. Do yourself a favor, and make a plan, and things will go much smoother. Here is a free printable below to help:
via she saved
2. Make a detailed shopping list
This printable below takes making a shopping list to a whole new, easier level! Everything is organized into aisles and departments. Isn't this genius? If you stick to a list like this, you won't be running around the store in circles, and instead, you'll only have to go down every aisle just once!
via family maven
3. Leave kids home, if possible
Trust me, I get it. Your children might be little angels in normal situations, but I'm convinced that every child turns into a monster at the grocery store (if you haven't witnessed this as a parent yet, just wait. Your time will too come.) Crazy children trying to jump out of the cart and begging for treats they know I'll never buy them at the grocery store is my jam! I've done it a hundred times, and if there is ever a way for me to NOT take them to the store with me, I'm all over it. If you can go shopping while your kids are at school, drop them off for a friend to watch, or wait until late at night or early on a Saturday morning when your souse is home and you can easily leave your kids home, do it! If I'm alone at the grocery store, it takes about 90% of the usual stressfulness away.
4. Eat before you shop
The worst idea ever (besides taking children with you to the store) is to go grocery shopping when you're hungry. When I do this, I end up buying things that I don't even normally eat, or like for that matter, because I get a little delusional and just start tossing things on display in my cart. That, or I'll end up eating half a can of Pringles before I even get to my car. If nothing else, keep a snack in your purse that you can munch on while shopping to help you think clearly about your purchases.
5. Stick to your list.
Again, this is much easier to do if you aren't hungry. You're on a mission, and that is to only buy items WRITTEN DOWN ON YOUR LIST! This is so hard, but if you go determined, you can accomplish anything.
6. ORDER YOUR GROCERIES!!!!!
This is by far my best piece of advice. If you're like me, and you'd rather scrub toilets than go grocery shopping any day of the week, consider yourself blessed to live in 2018 and sign up for a grocery delivery service. I paid $150 for free delivery for a year through Instacart (there are lots of companies that do this, Instacart just happens to be the one that services my area) and I can honestly say it has changed my life. It takes me five minutes to order my groceries on my phone, and they are gauranteed to be at my house in less than two hours! And the grocery delivery person even brings all of my bags inside and sets them right on my kitchen counter! If that isn't magic, I don't know what is! I've only been doing it for a couple of months, but it has been worth every penny. Plus, I've saved tons of money because ordering my groceries means I don't impulse buy at the store!
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