October 22, 2010
So, call us a little lazy. We rinse our dishes so well that they often look fit to return to the cupboard. However, we do not usually rinse our tea glasses or coffee mugs as thoroughly. Months of staining liquids dripping into the dishwasher left the appliance looking filthy all the time. The door and basin of the dishwasher were simply not coming clean.
I began feeling embarrassed about the condition of my dishes and flatware as well. The clean dishes were coming out cloudy, chalky, and covered in a gritty film. I would never want a guest to feel like the dishes they were eating off of were dirty!
My mother-in-law was coming to town...what's a better incentive to get this taken care of?!
I began doing some light research online, and discovered many people talking about the wonders of cleaning your dishwasher with "tang" or "kool aid." I didn't have either of those powdered drinks on hand, but I had some powdered gatorade. What's the difference, right? So, I tried the powdered gatorade on the "pots and pans" cycle. It sounded like a freight train was wooshing through my house, woke the baby, and didn't remove the stains. Awesome.
On a quick trip to Target, I decided to try and find some Tang and give it a try. Apparently, Target doesn't carry Tang. Who knew? My last option was to try kool-aid. I had nothing to lose, so I purchased two packets - tropical punch and lemonade. The more I thought about it, the more nervous I became about the tropical punch variety - who wants a pink dishwasher?! Not me! So I went with the lemonade variety, again on the pots and pans cycle. Again, lots of noise and no stain removal.
Now I'm pissed. Don't MAKE ME get on my hands and knees with a toothbrush! I was talking with my mother-in-law about my dishwashing woes. She said that she happened to have the same problem and recommended a very inexpensive solution. Lemi Shine. This product is carried at Wal-Mart and other grocery stores for around $3.50. Lemi Shine is a dishwasher cleaner and can be used in every wash, or on a regular basis for the removal of hard water and other mineral build-up that make your dishwasher dirty looking, and nasty acting.
I tried Lemi Shine, using the "4-8 hour soak" they recommend, and my dishwasher looks like new! My dishes are coming clean and there is no film.
A few things you might want to know:
1. I was ready to toss the dishwasher and get new if this didn't work, so I spent around $10 on a more expensive POWDER detergent, the Lemi Shine and a bottle of Jet Dry. Less expensive than new, I figure!
2. I learned in my research that liquid dishwashing detergent contains bleach that can weaken the seals of your dishwasher, shortening it's life. It also contains a material that makes it congeal - this material tends to make your dishes filmier looking.
Give Lemi Shine a try - you would spend $3.50 on nearly anything else without batting an eye, right?!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Eat up, y'all!
Monday, September 27, 2010
With a growing nuclear AND extended family, the decision was made that our kitchen table was no longer big enough. With an 11'x11' space to work with, our options were somewhat limited.
We knew that we normally only have two adults and a baby seated at our table, but we occasionally have the whole crew of 7 gathered 'round. I determined that a round table with a leave that extended to an oval would be the best solution for our space. However, round tables have the propencity to look a bit country-kitchen-like, and that is not my taste, nor would that style look good in our home.
I am a huge fan of World Market and have been for some time. We have a coffee table, entertainment storage center, desk, occasional table and night stands from World Market, to name a few furniture items. Their furniture is of the highest quality, attractive style, and is reasonably priced to boot!
Because I am a member of their online email distribution list, I received an email about a blow-out dining furniture sale. I had looked at many of their dining room tables in the past, but decided to take another look. Low and behold, they had the most AMAZING round dining tables that have a removable extention, making them an oval! Holy smokes, where do I sign?!
Upon shopping in the store, I learned that several styles are available in-store, but a wider selection is offered online. I had two choices...1. purchase online and pay shipping, then the merchandise will arrive at my home in about a week. 2. Purchase in-store and the merchandise can be picked up in the store between 5-14 days later. They cannot give an exact delivery date, but there is no shipping cost. By ordering in-store under their "customize your world" program, you pay 10% at the time of ordering and pick-up when the truck arrives with your merchandise, paying the remainder of the bill.
I LOVE the idea of saving on the shipping, which made a great deal even more affordable. I could not be more excited to have my new table and chairs in my home!
At the register, the sales associate asked if I was a member of the World Market Explorer program. I told him that I did not know, but I was a member of their email club. He explained that this is an additional rewards program, and signed me up. I have already received an e-mail coupon for 10% off my next in-store purchase. What's not to love?!
C'mon over and eat anytime you like!
With a growing nuclear AND extended family, the decision was made that our kitchen table was no longer big enough. With an 11'x11' space to work with, our options were somewhat limited.
We knew that we normally only have two adults and a baby seated at our table, but we occasionally have the whole crew of 7 gathered 'round. I determined that a round table with a leave that extended to an oval would be the best solution for our space. However, round tables have the propencity to look a bit country-kitchen-like, and that is not my taste, nor would that style look good in our home.
I am a huge fan of World Market and have been for some time. We have a coffee table, entertainment storage center, desk, occasional table and night stands from World Market, to name a few furniture items. Their furniture is of the highest quality, attractive style, and is reasonably priced to boot!
Because I am a member of their online email distribution list, I received an email about a blow-out dining furniture sale. I had looked at many of their dining room tables in the past, but decided to take another look. Low and behold, they had the most AMAZING round dining tables that have a removable extention, making them an oval! Holy smokes, where do I sign?!
Upon shopping in the store, I learned that several styles are available in-store, but a wider selection is offered online. I had two choices...1. purchase online and pay shipping, then the merchandise will arrive at my home in about a week. 2. Purchase in-store and the merchandise can be picked up in the store between 5-14 days later. They cannot give an exact delivery date, but there is no shipping cost. By ordering in-store under their "customize your world" program, you pay 10% at the time of ordering and pick-up when the truck arrives with your merchandise, paying the remainder of the bill.
I LOVE the idea of saving on the shipping, which made a great deal even more affordable. I could not be more excited to have my new table and chairs in my home!
At the register, the sales associate asked if I was a member of the World Market Explorer program. I told him that I did not know, but I was a member of their email club. He explained that this is an additional rewards program, and signed me up. I have already received an e-mail coupon for 10% off my next in-store purchase. What's not to love?!
C'mon over and eat anytime you like!
Monday, September 13, 2010
Lather, rinse, repeat.
Monday, September 13, 2010
So, I've officially converted.
While shopping at Wal-Mart several weeks back, a representative from WISK was in the laundry detergent aisle. She offered me a $3.00 off coupon on any Wisk laundry item. I usually spend very little on my laundry detergent because I go through the stuff like it is water. However, I was going to spend around $3 (after my coupon) for a bottle of 64-load Wisk detergent. Why not?!
I brought it home and put it away until I finished my giant jug from Big Lots. Don't get me wrong, my former laundry detergent was fine. It cleaned my clothing, had a mild smell, was very inexpensive and lasted for weeks.
However, after using my Wisk laundry detergent for several days, I immediately noticed why Wisk lovers LOVE their detergent. My laundry room, garage and hallway were all filled with a wonderfully clean smell. I put on a pair of yoga pants that were freshly laundered, and smelled the clean, perfumey smell ALL DAY! My closet smells great and even clothing that needs to be washed AGAIN smells good! I cannot get enough of it!
By carefully monitoring coupons and store advertisements, I'll be able to monitor my laundry expenses. However, because I spend carefully on every thing I purchase for our home, I will allow myself to spend a bit extra on an item that I truly love. My husband loves Heinz ketchup (and refuses to use any other brand!) and I love Wisk laundry detergent!
So, I've officially converted.
While shopping at Wal-Mart several weeks back, a representative from WISK was in the laundry detergent aisle. She offered me a $3.00 off coupon on any Wisk laundry item. I usually spend very little on my laundry detergent because I go through the stuff like it is water. However, I was going to spend around $3 (after my coupon) for a bottle of 64-load Wisk detergent. Why not?!
I brought it home and put it away until I finished my giant jug from Big Lots. Don't get me wrong, my former laundry detergent was fine. It cleaned my clothing, had a mild smell, was very inexpensive and lasted for weeks.
However, after using my Wisk laundry detergent for several days, I immediately noticed why Wisk lovers LOVE their detergent. My laundry room, garage and hallway were all filled with a wonderfully clean smell. I put on a pair of yoga pants that were freshly laundered, and smelled the clean, perfumey smell ALL DAY! My closet smells great and even clothing that needs to be washed AGAIN smells good! I cannot get enough of it!
By carefully monitoring coupons and store advertisements, I'll be able to monitor my laundry expenses. However, because I spend carefully on every thing I purchase for our home, I will allow myself to spend a bit extra on an item that I truly love. My husband loves Heinz ketchup (and refuses to use any other brand!) and I love Wisk laundry detergent!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Are you ready?!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
So, although we are all still meltin' like a snowcone in Phoenix, stores are already busting out the corduroy and sweats.
This could stress you out, as you look down in your tank top and flip flops, or it could make you jump for joy! This can only mean ONE THING:
All of the summer clothing is ON CLEARANCE! My favorite word...
If you've ever read the book Marley and Me (quite possibly the funniest book on the planet), you know that John's wife decided to purchase Marley because "the little guy is on clearance". So, I know I'm not the only one who LOVES clearance!
If you can stomach the thought of storing clothing for a whole season before you wear it or put it on your child, now is a great time to purchase next spring/summer's clothing. Things that you'd never imagine purchasing because they're too expensive for your child to drip popsicle on are now at LEAST 50% off. Score!
Be on the look-out for clothing that is unbelievably inexpensive for the whole family.
Having said all of this, don't buy everything up and leave nothing for me!
So, although we are all still meltin' like a snowcone in Phoenix, stores are already busting out the corduroy and sweats.
This could stress you out, as you look down in your tank top and flip flops, or it could make you jump for joy! This can only mean ONE THING:
All of the summer clothing is ON CLEARANCE! My favorite word...
If you've ever read the book Marley and Me (quite possibly the funniest book on the planet), you know that John's wife decided to purchase Marley because "the little guy is on clearance". So, I know I'm not the only one who LOVES clearance!
If you can stomach the thought of storing clothing for a whole season before you wear it or put it on your child, now is a great time to purchase next spring/summer's clothing. Things that you'd never imagine purchasing because they're too expensive for your child to drip popsicle on are now at LEAST 50% off. Score!
Be on the look-out for clothing that is unbelievably inexpensive for the whole family.
Having said all of this, don't buy everything up and leave nothing for me!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Play Dough!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
So, I'm quickly running out of fun things to do with Emily as the temperatures reach over 105 degrees every single day! It is too hot to play outside, the baby pool is boiling, and she is SO OVER ME!
I decided to try a homemade play dough recipe that I found online. This recipe is edible (although EXTREMELY salty and not very tasty) so if your toddler or pre-schooler finds it appetizing, it will not hurt them.
When we first started playing, she was a little confused but fascinated by the things I could do with this giant green ball of goo, but she eventually got in on the action. We used a fork, a straw, and a cookie cutter to make fun shapes and impressions. We even took an impression of our baby doll's face!
If you are interested in trying homemade play dough, here's the recipe:
1.5 cups flour
3/4 cups salt
3 tsp. cream of tartar
1.5 tbsp. oil
1.5 cups water
~mix all ingredients in a large saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat until the goo starts to pull away from the edges and form a ball.
~kneed the ball (or help your child kneed) for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a play dough-like consistancy.
We added green food coloring, but if you don't have any on hand, no biggie. This recipe also makes PLENTY for two children.
I have a friend who recommended peanut butter play dough so that your child may have a snack when they're finished playing. Her recipe is:
1 part peanut butter
1 part honey
1 part powdered milk
Save your play dough in a ziplock bag to keep it fresh!
These are both fun, quick, easy and inexpensive recipes, and your child will feel very accomplished at helping you "cook!" Enjoy!
So, I'm quickly running out of fun things to do with Emily as the temperatures reach over 105 degrees every single day! It is too hot to play outside, the baby pool is boiling, and she is SO OVER ME!
I decided to try a homemade play dough recipe that I found online. This recipe is edible (although EXTREMELY salty and not very tasty) so if your toddler or pre-schooler finds it appetizing, it will not hurt them.
When we first started playing, she was a little confused but fascinated by the things I could do with this giant green ball of goo, but she eventually got in on the action. We used a fork, a straw, and a cookie cutter to make fun shapes and impressions. We even took an impression of our baby doll's face!
If you are interested in trying homemade play dough, here's the recipe:
1.5 cups flour
3/4 cups salt
3 tsp. cream of tartar
1.5 tbsp. oil
1.5 cups water
~mix all ingredients in a large saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat until the goo starts to pull away from the edges and form a ball.
~kneed the ball (or help your child kneed) for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a play dough-like consistancy.
We added green food coloring, but if you don't have any on hand, no biggie. This recipe also makes PLENTY for two children.
I have a friend who recommended peanut butter play dough so that your child may have a snack when they're finished playing. Her recipe is:
1 part peanut butter
1 part honey
1 part powdered milk
Save your play dough in a ziplock bag to keep it fresh!
These are both fun, quick, easy and inexpensive recipes, and your child will feel very accomplished at helping you "cook!" Enjoy!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Store Closing!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Because I am on the busty side of things, I'm always looking for modest clothing that I'm not constantly tugging on. I was recommended to a web-store called Shade Clothing. Shade Clothing also has storefronts, but there are none in Texas. They are based out of Utah, and they specialize in modest clothing for women.
Unfortunately, Shade Clothing is closing its doors and website. The most amazing tank tops and swimsuit I have EVER owned are from Shade Clothing. OH NO!
I received an email notification from Shade Clothing about their closures, and they are selling all merchandise for up to 75% off. So, I had no choice but to do a little online shopping today. Their swimsuits are still around $30 each piece, which isn't "inexpensive" in my opinion. I will continue to check back to see if their prices continue to drop.
I am in love with my Shade Clothing swimsuit for one particular reason. It is a tankini, and the top has a tie neck AND a tie in the back. This way, if the tie at your neck is giving you a serious una-boob and your bust is pouring over the top, you simply tighten the back tie and your problem is solved. I feel confident FOR THE FIRST TIME that I'm not going to accidentally give someone an unwanted show!
Today, I purchased two maternity tops for future use, and a blouse for use right now! I spent $30 total, and $7 for shipping. Each item that I purchased was $10 or under. Especially for maternity clothing, this is a super duper score!
Shade Clothing also has bottoms, casual shirts, dresses and accessories for sale.
My favorite tank tops are excellent because they have a higher neck line and no shelf bra because those NEVER fit properly!
I am very sad to see Shade Clothing go, but I am prepared to jump on any deal they offer!
Because I am on the busty side of things, I'm always looking for modest clothing that I'm not constantly tugging on. I was recommended to a web-store called Shade Clothing. Shade Clothing also has storefronts, but there are none in Texas. They are based out of Utah, and they specialize in modest clothing for women.
Unfortunately, Shade Clothing is closing its doors and website. The most amazing tank tops and swimsuit I have EVER owned are from Shade Clothing. OH NO!
I received an email notification from Shade Clothing about their closures, and they are selling all merchandise for up to 75% off. So, I had no choice but to do a little online shopping today. Their swimsuits are still around $30 each piece, which isn't "inexpensive" in my opinion. I will continue to check back to see if their prices continue to drop.
I am in love with my Shade Clothing swimsuit for one particular reason. It is a tankini, and the top has a tie neck AND a tie in the back. This way, if the tie at your neck is giving you a serious una-boob and your bust is pouring over the top, you simply tighten the back tie and your problem is solved. I feel confident FOR THE FIRST TIME that I'm not going to accidentally give someone an unwanted show!
Today, I purchased two maternity tops for future use, and a blouse for use right now! I spent $30 total, and $7 for shipping. Each item that I purchased was $10 or under. Especially for maternity clothing, this is a super duper score!
Shade Clothing also has bottoms, casual shirts, dresses and accessories for sale.
My favorite tank tops are excellent because they have a higher neck line and no shelf bra because those NEVER fit properly!
I am very sad to see Shade Clothing go, but I am prepared to jump on any deal they offer!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Good Eats!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Because of a brief visit from my mother-in-law, and a month of celebrations for my birthday, I've been eating out more frequently lately! I have noticed that several casual dining restaurants are offering incentives and e-mail sign-ups for specials and coupons.
On a random Thursday, we happened to be dining at the Chili's Bar & Grill in Allen, Texas. We noticed two older women standing just inside the door, handing small postcards to people exiting the restaurant. I didn't think too much of it, except that I'd probably get a hard sell for Mary Kay or something similar. Once we left, the friendly women handed us postcards as well. If you take a moment to fill out a brief online survey, Chili's will send you a $20 gift card. $20 gift cards for both adults in the home = $40 free to Chili's. HELLO!? Am I on Candid Camera!?
Chili's also had a small notepad for email sign-ups on each table. Everyone at our table signed up for specials and coupons through email. I'm looking forward to using my giftcard and watching for freebies via email!
Jason's Deli was kind enough to send me a $5 gift card via email for my birthday. I'll take $5 off, for sure!
I have also been a member of Texas Land & Cattle's email distribution list for a few years now. Each year on your birthday, they send you a different "gift." This year, I received a free appetizer if I will stop by within a month of my birthday.
Having said all of this, keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to sign up and receive freebies at restaurants that you and your family frequent.
Eat up!
Because of a brief visit from my mother-in-law, and a month of celebrations for my birthday, I've been eating out more frequently lately! I have noticed that several casual dining restaurants are offering incentives and e-mail sign-ups for specials and coupons.
On a random Thursday, we happened to be dining at the Chili's Bar & Grill in Allen, Texas. We noticed two older women standing just inside the door, handing small postcards to people exiting the restaurant. I didn't think too much of it, except that I'd probably get a hard sell for Mary Kay or something similar. Once we left, the friendly women handed us postcards as well. If you take a moment to fill out a brief online survey, Chili's will send you a $20 gift card. $20 gift cards for both adults in the home = $40 free to Chili's. HELLO!? Am I on Candid Camera!?
Chili's also had a small notepad for email sign-ups on each table. Everyone at our table signed up for specials and coupons through email. I'm looking forward to using my giftcard and watching for freebies via email!
Jason's Deli was kind enough to send me a $5 gift card via email for my birthday. I'll take $5 off, for sure!
I have also been a member of Texas Land & Cattle's email distribution list for a few years now. Each year on your birthday, they send you a different "gift." This year, I received a free appetizer if I will stop by within a month of my birthday.
Having said all of this, keep your eyes peeled for opportunities to sign up and receive freebies at restaurants that you and your family frequent.
Eat up!
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