Modernistic Mama

Igloo's Stowe 9 Can Mini City Cooler: the perfect lunch cooler!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 15 May 2013 22:31:00 +0000

I am loving this Stowe 9 Can Mini City insulated Cooler by Igloo® that can keep your food either cold or warm. The stylish yet not overdone cooler includes a front zipper pocket, a side mesh water bottle holder. The top of the cooler both zips up and has velcro. Not only that but the lining is leak resistant, and easy as 1-2-3- to clean.

Igloo has always been a trusting brand, and a favorite of ours when it comes to having a cooler! I am absolutely loving the girly yet sporty color combination, and I take this cooler everyday to work with me. Mini coolers are a must have for anyone who wants to have their food with them on the go, especially when you want to eat healthy -- carrying a cooler around with your prepared lunch makes it a lot more likely that you'll do so. I always cook my lunch the morning or day before work, so this cooler comes in handy. It's small, but big enough to fit lunch& snacks for both myself and my son.

Igloo's Stowe Mini City cooler is not only great for on the go lunch at work, but perfect for bike riding {hello bike riding month!}, trips to the zoo, beach, etc. This is definitely a handy cooler to have with you wherever you are off to on the go! I can promise you won't be disappointed with this cooler, packing your lunch has never been so easy. Overall the product is great, your food will be safe, and you aren't losing any fashion points!

Love the looks of this cooler? Snag one for yourself, or as a present for a friend. It's currently on sale at Target for $14 here.

Note** I did win this cooler from Igloo's Twitter giveaway, but no review was asked or required. I received no compensation for writing this post. I enjoyed the product so much I decided to talk about it!

Strawberry picking: fun, and great way to support the locals.

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Tue, 07 May 2013 02:56:00 +0000

It's that time of year again -- the local farms have opened for strawberry picking. This is one my favorite times of year, and one of the best things about spring. We always make plans every year to go strawberry picking, just a tradition of ours that we love to do. The weather has been less than perfect lately, but with a bit of a warm up today with the sun shining, it was absolutely the perfect day to go strawberry picking.

At only $1.80 a pound we got better-tasting, sweeter, and more fresh strawberries than the ones available at the grocery store. Not to mention we like to support the locals& their businesses. Brody really had a blast picking the strawberries and being the one to carry his bucket around. He proudly chose some delicious looking strawberries. Though it took him a few times to understand that you can't squeeze them otherwise you create a bit of a sticky mess!

Overall it was a beautiful day, and great way to see his face light up with joy! This is only our first trip of strawberry picking this year, we are going to definitely go back and get more. Between Brody, Paul, and myself we've already eaten most of the strawberries we bought. We are definitely huge fans of strawberries!

Win $300 in prizes with Mediterranean Snacks® Snack & Snap contest!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 03 May 2013 13:27:00 +0000

The folks at Mediterranean Snacks® want fans to show them how they are Living Snactive™ by snapping a photo of yourself enjoying your favorite Mediterranean Snacks product. The photo must include YOU to be considered. If you haven't tried their snacks yet we highly recommend it! They are healthy, and delicious -- our family personally loves their baked lentil chips.

Once you snap your photo {example above} upload it to Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, or Facebook and you will be automatically entered for a chance to win over $300 in prizes. You can post one, or multiple entries{via the different social media sites} to enter to win.

Requirements for entering: You must use the hashtag #LiveSnactive™, include the name of the store (or event) and location (city,state) of where you purchased/received the snacks, and lastly tag the company in your posts. Click here for more information about the contest.

Twitter: @Medsnax Pinterest: @Medsnacks FaceBook: @MediterraneanSnacks Instagram: @Medsnax

Review: Rubbermaid Reveal Spray Mop

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 03 May 2013 13:11:00 +0000

Before we bought this Rubbermaid Reveal Spray mop, I HATED mopping and felt like it was a never ending job. This Reveal Spray mop which is safe on all floor types including hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile picks up dirt fast with it's re-usable microfiber cleaning pads. Not only that, it uses a refillable bottle which allows you to use your cleaning solution of choice.

The best part is that it features a spray trigger which allows you to dispense as much cleaning solution as needed. A lot less of a mess and hassle versus a traditional mop - and one of the best spray mops I've seen on the market. This mop definitely gets the job done and fast, and leaves a great sparkling look to the floor.

We mop often as our kitchen floors are constantly getting dirty {that's what happens when you have a toddler and two dogs}, and it does a fantastic job. Despite the size and less flexibility compared to a traditional mop, it still manages to get those hard to reach places. We bought an extra pad to come with it, one to use for our kitchen and one for the living room floors.

What's great about the reusable/washable microfiber pads is that they are good to be washed up 100 times. So you are not only saving money not having to buy more pads but better for the environment that you are not constantly throwing out one-time use pads.

DIY car made out of cardboard!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Thu, 02 May 2013 04:53:00 +0000

We've been having our share of rainy days these past couple weeks, and hopefully with May being here we will be seeing warmer weather soon. But if not, there's always our fun Batman car to make out of cardboard. The day that we made this Brody wasn't feeling well but boy did he enjoy helping me make this and for a few days after we made it -- he didn't even want to get out of it.

I simply cut the top flaps off {minus one}, then cut into the sides to make two doors, and made the wheels out of the cardboard as well. For the window in the car we just cut out a square out of one of the flaps! To color the cardboard we simply used crayons and chalk {the yellow is chalk}. Other than that we used a little ducktape to keep the window up.

Such a simple thing to do with not much materials needed. We used a big box from a shipment that we got in from Amazon. Makes for a great way to re-use the boxes!

In 3 short months, Brody will be 2!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Thu, 02 May 2013 04:25:00 +0000

It seems surreal that almost 2 years ago, Brody was born and our lives changed forever {for the good, of course}. He is definitely a huge blessing, and the best thing that has ever happened to our family. The first year really went by fast, and so did the second. I really love seeing how he gets smarter, more personality, and to see him talking so much -- but at the same time it makes me sad to see our baby boy grow up so quickly.

We are so proud of him! And with Mother's Day coming up, I feel so thankful to have such a wonderful blessing in our life and to be able to be his mother. He is one special little boy -- that's for sure. The fact that they grow and change so much really makes you stop and feel the need to appreciate every little moment. Enjoy every memory made, every cuddle, because they grow so big so fast. We love you, Brody!

Review: Crayola's Color Wonder Fingerpaint!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 22:32:00 +0000

For Brody's second Easter, one of the things he got in his Easter basket from his MiMi {my mother} was an awesome Crayola Color Wonder Fingerpaint set! It came with 5 colors, and 12 color wonder pieces of paper. This is every mom with a toddler's dream finger paint, because it leaves virtually no mess.

The recommended age is 3+, but our son is 2 in 4 months and really enjoys this product. It has the feel of paint but without the mess on his fingers and all over the house. It works out well because he actually doesn't his hands to get too messy. Something he is at time picky about.

This is a perfect activity to do with the kiddos when it is calm down time, or you want to avoid a huge mess. Finger paint regularly is super messy {which is fun, and I encourage that play} but sometimes it is nice to tone it down a notch. Crayola's color wonder fingerpaint allows you to do just that.

We love this fingerpaint, it is mom & dad approved! We will definitely be buying more once we run out. There is no other fingerpaint that compares and allows you to be so creative without a huge mess.

Healthy & delicious Avocado egg breakfast!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:15:00 +0000

Avocados have become a recent obsession of mine, and with that said here is a really simple but delicious and filling breakfast idea. All you need is 1 egg, 1 avocado, and a piece of toast.

I use Nature's Own 100% Whole Wheat bread, toast it & while my egg is cooking I spread it with as much avocado as I can fit on one piece. I top it with a delicious egg, and enjoy! Not to mention the toast is only 50 calories, so there is no calorie overload in this breakfast.

Ingredients:
1 egg
1 avocado
1 piece of toast

Review: Roku 3 --- fun for the whole family!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 01:50:00 +0000

Technology just seems to get more and more amazing each day, and the latest gadget that our family is loving would have to be the Roku 3. I've seen the Roku in stores before, but things just have been so busy that I never did buy it. Recently, they gave away a few Roku 3 players via their Twitter page -- and luckily I was picked as a winner. I didn't know much about the Roku, but I am so glad that I learned more about it and got the chance to own one. The 5 ounce, compact player is an amazing product that could very well replace cable TV!

The Roku 3 features over 750 channels including music, channels for kids, Disney, Netflix, and tons of other channels to enjoy. They literally have an app or channel for everyone in the family. Our 19 month old Brody, is pictured below, is enjoying his favorite show {Yo Gabba Gabba} via the Netflix app on the Roku 3. We have the Roku 3 setup in our bedroom, where it was most convenient for us. While we do have Verizon FiOS which we love and are not trying to replace, this is definitely watched more on some days. We are not huge television watchers, but the Roku 3 is a lot more than a place to just watch TV and movies. Honestly since we've put the Roku in our bedroom we have been turning it on more than actual cable.

Roku 3 has tons of great free channels, but to get full experience and usage of the channels there are quite a few channels that are worth purchasing. I'd highly recommend Netflix, but if not there are a lot of free movies offered.

My favorite feature would have to be the headphones in the remote! It is great to watch shows or movies or even listen to music at night when everyone is asleep, or even during Brody's nap where I would hate for the loud sound of tv to disturb him sleeping. Brody loves the headphones too, and has a fascination with laying down with them in his ears.

Some of the Roku 3's key features include:

750+ entertainment channels
Built-in wireless (Wi-Fi b/g/n compatible
New on-screen experience with one-stop search**
Plays 720p HD video
Instant replay control on remote
Plays 1080p HD video
Remote with headphone jack (includes earbuds)
Motion control for games (Angry Birds Space included)
Dual-band wireless, Ethernet port & USB port***

Overall, I highly recommend the Roku 3 which provides something everyone in the family can enjoy. The Roku 3 has impeccable quality, speed, and is well worth the money that you are spending. I am very impressed, and glad to have the Roku 3 as part of our family.

Easy & delicious snack: chickpeas!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 01:28:00 +0000

Chickpeas are one of my favorite things to make as a snack. Last summer I fell in love with them, and Brody likes to eat them as well. I soaked the chickpeas overnight, then drained them. Other than the chickpeas, you only need about 5 ingredients to season them. I used black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, olive oil, and salt. There are no exact measurements that I used just season to your choice of taste.

After you season them, line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray with canola/vegetable oil to keep from sticking & pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees. Lay them on a single layer {as much as possible}, cook for about 30-40 minutes or until crisp.

Chickpeas are delicious on their own, or they are great to add to a salad; especially Caesar if I do say so myself.

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 05:00:00 +0000

I love pictures of them together. I find it funny that Paul is giving a happy face and peace sign, and Brody looks all tough and far from wanting to smile.

Happy Wednesday!

4 favorite snacks under 100 calories!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 04:22:00 +0000

Snacking is normal, and needed but can also be dangerous if you're wanting to maintain your weight, or lose weight. Here are four of my personal favorite snacks, all of which are under 100 calories!

The first snack pictured above would be Dannon's Light&Fit yogurt. There are 18 flavors available {strawberry & banana being my personal favorite}, and each yogurt cup is only 80 calories. I've been hooked on this yogurt since Brody was born 18 months ago! It was one of the first foods that I got to eat.

2. Hard boiled eggs - This is a quick snack that is full of protein, and the type of snack that you can cook then throw it in the fridge to save for later. A boiled egg has approximately 78 calories! Love this snack for after a workout, too.

3. 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal - Yet another easy, and quite instant snack that is not only delicious but easy to make. I like to add fresh fruit to my cooked oatmeal - it adds a bit of flavor and sweetness. For a 1/2 cup of cooked oatmeal you'll find about 73 calories!

4. Frozen grapes - This a great snack especially if you are having a sweet tooth, but don't want to go overboard. Take about 10 frozen grapes {I recommended freezing them for at least 2 hours} and sprinkle them with two teaspoons of sugar. For only 67 calories, this is a great snack idea under 100 calories!

DIY: Snow in a box!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Sat, 26 Jan 2013 13:58:00 +0000

Yesterday we got a few inches of snow, and it was pure excitement! Our area doesn't usually see snow but when we do, even a few inches is enough to be happy about. This is Brody's second snow but last year he was a baby when it happened so I am quite sure that he doesn't remember it. We took him into the snow for a little bit, he loved it and didn't want to come back in. However, it is very cold out so I decided to fill up a little toy bin of his with snow and bring it indoors, and lay it on top of a blanket of his.

The snow didn't melt, and actually got hard enough to make little snowmen. We did switch the snow out after about 15 minutes or so once it got too hard. He really enjoyed this activity, and was extremely concentrated on digging the snow out of the green bin into the heart shaped bowl. Paul and I put his dinosaur gloves on, a pair of socks and he went nuts. He was so concentrated and into the fun that he wouldn't even answer to his name [which he always does, especially when his daddy is calling him :)].

This is such a fun activity for both kids young and old, when it is snowing outside but too cold to play in out in the snow. It is just as fun, if not more because the kids won't be freezing their little tushes off as they enjoy the play. The clean-up wasn't bad at all, all it took was a dump of the snow outside ;).

Yo Gabba Gabba Live ticket giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 22:22:00 +0000

One lucky Lady and the Blog reader is going to win tickets to see the adorable crew of Yo Gabba Gabba Live at the place of their choice. What young kid would be delighted by such a great experience? The award-winning television show brings the silly and fun live to the stage.

Click here to enter; good luck!

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 05:00:00 +0000

A picture of little man at the beach with us about a week ago. :) We can't wait for Summer!

Frozen heart treats for Valentine's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Image via http://www.decorada.co.nz

Is this beyond awesome or what? I found this on Pinterest, and thought it looked like a fun treat for the kids. Perfect for Valentine's day coming up too! The main instructions I found were to freeze in a 9"x13" pan and then using a cookie cutter cut your shapes out. After doing some research I found a little more detail on how to create this adorable treat.

Here are the directions:

Line your pan with two sheets of plastic wrap.
Lay one piece horizontally and the other vertically so that the edges overhang the sides of the pan.
Allow the ice cream to soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Spoon it into the pan and use a rubber spatula to spread it.
Then lay a piece of plastic wrap on the ice cream and using your finger tips, smooth it out.
Cover with aluminum foil and freeze for 3 or more hours until the ice cream is firm.
Once the ice cream is frozen solid, line a cookie sheet with waxed paper.
Fill a bowl with hot water.
Cover your counter-top or a flat surface w/ aluminium foil.
Remove the ice cream from the pan, and onto your aluminium foil surface.
Dip your heart shaped cookie cutter into hot water, drying with a paper towel and press it into the ice cream. Immediately set the heart shaped cut-outs on the lined cookie sheet and place it in the freezer, until ready to serve.

This is such a fabulous idea! I am definitely giving it a try, the girls I nanny for along with Brody will really enjoy this. I will share pictures of my success or fail -- when I do decide to do it.

UPS My Choice: free & easy to use.

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Sat, 19 Jan 2013 05:56:00 +0000

If you haven't joined UPS My Choice yet, what are you waiting for? I've been a member for over a year, and have to say this is best package delivery service out there AND it is free to use. With UPS My Choice you can sign up to receive text, voice or email alerts one day before your package is scheduled to be delivered.

With that feature you can re-route, reschedule, or authorize a shipment release -- all with the click of a mouse. These features are great for making sure your package is delivered where you want it to be, or on a day then you know you will be home. I receive email alerts when I am expecting a package, and it is really convenient to know when to expect a package. Even when companies don't directly notify you of the shipment, UPS My Choice automatically does it for you -- this way you will never miss a package, and you'll have confirmation.

The basic features are completely free! Click here to sign up for your account.

Roxy launches "Outdoor Fitness" line, and I'm in love.

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Sat, 19 Jan 2013 04:50:00 +0000

I've been a huge fan of the Roxy brand since I was a kid {thanks mom for dressing me in awesome clothes}, and they've recently came out with their Outdoor Fitness line which has made me love them even more. The line features vibrant workout and fitness gear/clothes, which is sure to make any girl love the outdoors. Being outdoors can get hot, sticky, dirty, but Roxy's got you covered with their new fitness clothing.

Late Drop In Boardshorts $52

Cut back tank $44

The outdoor fitness line features tanks, shoes, swim suits, and more. If you're an outdoors girl, or love to exercise then Roxy's fitness line would be a great addition to your closet! Exercise is important for your well-being and health, but feeling/looking good while doing so is also a great thing. Their new outdoor fitness line allows you to look good while doing so.

Fitted Shorts $44

Power Up Yoga Mat $46

Two of my personal favorite items from Roxy's new outdoor fitness line would have to be their fitted shorts and yoga mat. Last summer I went stand-up paddle boarding for the first time and fell in love, this spring/summer I just can't wait to go again -- such a great workout, relaxing, and great feeling of being outdoors. What would make it even better? Roxy's fitted shorts are perfect for the workout, and even great for the yoga stand-up paddle boarding I plan on trying. Then there's the yoga mat which would be a great mat to bring for comfort when it comes to outdoor yoga exercise days as the weather gets nicer! Best part? It also comes with a carrying case, so you don't have to worry about where to put it.

Roxy's entire outdoor fitness line is any active girl's dream, click here to check out the entire fitness line. If you're interested in the line, don't forget to check out their pin it to win it giveaway going on. One grand prize winner will receive $1000 towards their Roxy Outdoor Fitness adventure, as well as a prize pack worth $1000.

If you were to win, what would be the first thing you'd buy?

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 05:01:00 +0000

I love how Brody is trying to eat the orangutan! This was a recent visit at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk.

My new favorite chocolate treat: Brookside Dark Chocolate Acai with Blueberry

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Sun, 13 Jan 2013 02:49:00 +0000

Holy chocolate goodness Batman! Today I received a full sized sample of Brookside's new Dark Chocolate Acai with Blueberry treats. I am pretty much in love! These blueberry bites are just the right amount of chocolate and fruit goodness blended together. I am a huge lover of both fruit and chocolate, and the way the two taste together is just heaven in your mouth. They were so good, that I just had to share them.

Is it bad that half the bag is gone already? Paul, and Brody both were loving my new snack! Brody would do an excited dance when I would give him more. This is definitely my new favorite treat for dessert, or those days where I am really craving chocolate. They also come in Dark Chocolate Pomegrante, and Dark Chocolate Goji flavors. I have yet to try them -- but if this bag is any indication of how delicious the other flavors are, I cannot wait to try them.

You can currently purchase a 2lb bag of these on sale on Amazon for $17, here. I advise buying two bags, so you can hide one for yourself -- especially if any other chocolate lovers are in your house!

Disclosure * I was given a free product or sample because I'm a Klout influencer. I am under no obligation to receive the sample or talk about this company. i get no additional benefits for talking about the product or company.

Wordless Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 05:02:00 +0000

i.miss.warm.weather.

Printable: Fresh Beat Band coloring pack!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 03:24:00 +0000

For all the families who have kids that are fans of color & the Fresh Beat Band, here are free pages to download and print for your child from Nick Jr.

These are great for boring days where it is too cold to go outside, or the kiddos aren't feeling well!

A look back at 2012!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 20:01:00 +0000

As we only have a few days left of 2012, I took a little time to reflect back on what a year it has been :).

We bought and moved into our first house! After living in our apartment for 2 years, this was an awesome move and probably the best decision we ever made. We went from a tiny little place to a house with a decent sized yard :).

Brody took his first steps and learned how to walk. This was one of THE most exciting moments of the year!

We started our first garden together in the backyard. This was an awesome investment and cannot wait to do it again in 2013.

Brody turned 1! What an amazing time it has been to watch him grow, learn, and experience life.

We got a new pet, a turtle named Edward. He is now completely spoiled!

Brody celebrated his 2nd Christmas and absolutely loved it!

There have been so many fun memories, here are some more random pictures from our adventures and great times we had in 2012:

New Years Eve dress ideas under $50!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 20:54:00 +0000

Red Mini Dress w/ Sequin Strap $12

Karen Sequin Dress $29

New Years Eve is a huge celebration, the start of a new year and what better way to enjoy that night than by wearing a dress that you'll feel gorgeous in? If you haven't already gotten your outfit, here is a list of 5 gorgeous dresses under $50 to make you sparkle! Sequin is a huge favorite for New Years Eve because it brings so much sparkle and glam into a dress -- perfect for an end of the year party.

Sequin Tube Dress $32

Lace Dress $34

Belted Maxi Dress $35

Recipe: Simple pork tenderloin & gravy crock pot recipe!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 23:05:00 +0000

Ingredients:

Pork Tenderloin

3-4 large carrots

1 large onion

3-4 large potatoes

Salt & Pepper

Garlic Powder

2-3 Tablespoons Bacon Fat

1 cup Beef Broth

Water

First step is season the pork tenderloin with a generous amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Next melt the bacon fat in a pan at high heat, add 1 cup beef broth, and then add pork tenderloin, and remove once browned. While the tenderloin is being prepped, I went ahead and cut the potatoes, onions, and carrots -- set them aside.

After the meat is browned, add it to the crock pot! Save the juices by returning the pan to high heat. Once it beings to slightly boil, add 1 cup of water and stir. Take the juices from the pan {with all the delicious flavor!} and add it to your crock pot. Next you'll want to add your onions all around the pork to provide flavor and room to cook.

After adding your onions, top with carrots and potatoes. Next you'll want to add enough water to where the water almost comes to the top of the veggies. Season the veggies with a generous amount of salt and pepper. Add the lid, and cook on high for 4 hours {if you are wanting it to cook for the day, you can cook it on low for 6-7 hours}. After about 2-2 1/2 hours of cooking, I moved the veggies around to the bottom of the crock pot to insure that they were fully cooked.

I'm warning you now, this smells absolutely delicious while cooking, I couldn't wait to eat it.

If you want to make gravy: once your meat & veggies are cooked, I removed the veggies and pork from the crock pot and sat them aside. Scoop out as much juice as possible {I took a few cups} and pour it into a pot. Then I took 2 tablespoons of flour and mixed it into a cold bowl of water {to avoid lumpy gravy}. Bring the juices to almost a boil, then slowly whisk in the flour mix.

Add a dash of salt & pepper for taste, and bring to a boil. Once you reaching boiling point, allow it to boil 3-4 minutes {stir frequently} so that you can allow the gravy to thicken up a bit.

Last step is to pour the gravy over your deliciously cooked meal & emjoy! This was a great meal for the entire family, and we enjoyed the rest of the leftovers for lunch the next day.