Simple Chicken or Beef Enchilada Recipe

I love Mexican food. It is definitely one of my top favorite things to eat. A few weeks back, I posted a picture on my IG of some enchiladas that I had made for dinner that night. I have had a few people ask me for the recipe, so I thought I would post it here for everyone. It is super simple, but so good. And I don't make my own enchilada sauce. I have before, but once I found Hatch enchilada sauce, I rarely make my own now.

SIMPLE CHICKEN OR BEEF ENCHILADAS
Serves 3 - 4

INGREDIENTS

1 pound chicken or gound beef
1 can Hatch red enchilada sauce
10 corn tortillas
1 large yellow onion
Cheddar Cheese
Garlic powder, pepper, salt (to taste)

Toppings: avocado, hot sauce, sour cream, etc.

DIRECTIONS

1. For chicken enchiladas, I bake my chicken at 400 for 20 minutes (or until cooked through). Then I let the chicken cool and I shred it. While the chicken is baking, I saute my onions with a little dash of olive oil. If I am making beef enchiladas, then I cook the ground beef and onions together. Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Make sure you thoroughly drain the fat.
2. Add back your chicken if that is your meat of choice. Then add in about 1/4 to 1/3 of the can of enchilada sauce. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. While everything is simmering, I grate my cheese and prep my toppings.
4. Using a wet paper towel, sandwich 3 tortillas inside and pop in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to soften the tortillas for easy rolling.
5. Add a little bit of the enchilada sauce to the bottom of your pan to prevent them the enchiladas from sticking. Take a tortilla and put your onion, meat, sauce mixture towards one side. Add in cheddar cheese and roll. Place the seam side down in your pan.
6. Make as many enchiladas as you can with the meat mixture. Top with the remaining enchilada sauce and extra cheddar cheese.

7. Cover your pan with aluminum foil and bake at 400 for 25 minutes.
8. Take off the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to get some color on your cheese.
9. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

As you can see, I chose ground beef enchiladas this time. I also made some Mexican rice to go with it. So good and perfect for leftovers.

Memorial Day Weekend

Another weekend in the books. We survived camping! We had a lot of fun, but we didn't get much sleep. The girls kept my parents up in their camper both nights, but we all still had a great time. But let's back it up to Friday.

The girls had their ice cream party at school, so I decided to waste gas and drive to south Reno (same as driving to south Carson) to return a couple items to Lucky and Loft and have some time to shop by myself and let me tell you, it was completely worth it. I didn't have to watch two little run around all the while trying to return clothes and look at others. I was able to go into stores I never get to go into and it was nice. I didn't buy much other than a dress that was on sale at Old Navy.

I drove back to down to pick up the girls and they were still having ice cream, so I chatted with another mom about where her daughter was going to daycare after the closure. It is just so sad that they are closing both locations and have put 74 families out. The girls mom told me she has to take her child to a town away from where she lives and works because there were no openings left. Ugh.

After I loaded up the girls, we met Rory at Trader Joes for some snacks, wine and essentials for the weekend ahead. Then we headed home without CFA because it was too early. Whomp whomp. I will have it this week!

After getting everything unloaded, I started packing the girls stuff for camping while Rory played with the girls outside. Then at 6 pm, I headed out to go have drinks with my friend Heather who is having brain surgery in a week. So scary, but she will rock this surgery.

We drank rose and then my friend from LA showed up and we hung out with him for a bit catching up. But my friend was very drunk (day drinking), so we sent him over to the pizza place to meet up with his friends again.

I had to pick up dinner for Rory and myself, so we headed over to the same pizza place (around the block) and I ordered pizza and wings to go and talked more with Heather while we waited.

That night, we had pizza, watched some shows and called it a night.

Saturday morning, we got ready and I finished packing before we headed out to breakfast. We got home, packed the truck up and headed out for our two hour drive. The girls slept most of the way and we were able to chat quietly in the front seat.

Once we got to the campsite, we gave the girls to my parents and sister and then we unloaded all of our stuff. Once that was done, it was time to settle in and hang out. We didn't do much the first day other than catch up with family and friends, play with the girls, attend my cousin's sons birthday party, have a huge potluck style dinner and relax. It was soooo nice.

That evening we put the girls to bed and it was a bit rough. We had to go back into the camper several times before they settled in. We sat at the campfire for a bit and then us girls went for some drinks together. So much fun!!!

Sunday morning we got up early, made coffee and had breakfast. We spent the morning playing and hanging out.

Having some cereal for breakfast (followed by bacon)

We put the girls down at noon and they slept really well. Avery got up first and we headed out for ice cream while my dad stayed with Sutton while she was still napping. Once she got up, we played a bunch more and broke out their water table. It was a huge hit!

My parents watched the girls while Rory and I went in a side by side Raptor for some sand hill fun. So fun, but so scary! Once we got back, we cleaned up and watched Home with the girls while others were playing lawn games. Then it was more water table fun and then showers for Rory and I since we were covered head to toe in dirt.

I got the girls cleaned up before we started making dinner. We had dinner and the girls were very tired, but managed to stay up until 8 pm. They crashed hard, but they woke up several times over the evening. We sat by the campfire and star watched that evening.

Monday morning we got up and relaxed. We started packing up to head home and left the campsite around noon. The girls slept part of the way home. Once we got home, it was bath time for the girls, laundry, showers for us adults, grocery shopping, and household chores. We did play in between everything. 

I made dinner that night and we caught up on Fargo and watched the Bachelorette.

How was your weekend?

I am linking up with Biana from B Loved Boston.

Friday Favorites

It's Friday and I couldn't be happier. We have a three day weekend ahead of us and plenty of sunshine to go around. This also starts the very busy summer season. From camping to vacations to lake trips, I can't wait for the summer ahead.

Let's get down to Friday Favorites.

ONE. I know this isn't exciting news for the people who don't live near me, but yesterday our first Chick-fil-A opened in my city! I am literally singing from the rooftops and hoping the next week or two goes by fast, so I can finally enjoy it in my TOWN. We have another one being built which is a saving grace so this one doesn't get too backed up.

But seriously, I only get to have it when I travel for work or head to California on a Friday or Saturday (for fun). But that is changing and I plan to enjoy it often.

It is funny because I am not a person who is big on fast food, but when it comes to Chick-fil-A, I throw that out the door and enjoy it. So good.

via

TWO. Does anyone else watch Pretty Little Liars? I know this is more of a younger generation show, but my sister got me into it when it started and I love it. Yes, it is my secret obsession. I am so into this show even though at times it is ridiculous.

Anyways, the show is on its last season and things have been heating up. Does anyone watch it? I need to discuss some things with people who do. And if you don't watch it, go watch it on Netflix. You're welcome.

THREE. So Emily suggested I look on Lilly Pulitzer for dresses to wear to the summery lake wedding I am going to in August and I found two that are soooo pretty. The prices aren't that pretty, but wow. What do you think of these beauties? Are they worth the $228 and $258 price tags?

 Lilly Pulitzer Bryce Tunic Dress

Lilly Pulitzer Tilly Midi Dress

FOUR. Today is the last full week of daycare for my girls at their current daycare. Cue the tears. We have been with them for two years and a month. I can't believe we won't see their sweet teachers daily, have them across the street or have the routine we have been so used to.

I have no idea how the girls will react when we don't go back there after next Wednesday. Plus they won't start a new daycare until August, so that will be another transition.

Some of their teachers have asked to follow me on Instagram and Facebook, so they can keep up with how the girls are doing. I love this because I can also show the girls how their teachers are doing.

Since it is one of the teacher's last days today, they are doing a homemade ice cream party. I was going to pick up the girls early, but I want them to enjoy this, so I am going to kill time by myself this afternoon. Maybe a Target run?

FIVE. I am sure you have seen the sales for this weekend. First there was Loft, now Nordstrom has 40% off, Gap has up to 50%, same with Old Navy and so many more. Ugh. This is hurting my wallet. Not to mention that my husband convinced me (ok nagged me) into getting my snowboard pass now because it would save us $100. It is May and the resort is closing this week and I am already paying for next seasons. Ugh. And I just paid a hefty amount to the University for my football season tickets.

Yes, I get that these are my choices, but I hate spending all the money when I just want to buy all the clothes and jewelry at these sales. Oh and I want a new tv as well. Priorities people.

I hope you all have a good weekend!

I am linking up with April, A Little Bit of Everything, Karli, Meet @ the Barre and Cup of Tea.

Some Confessions and Thoughts

It's time for some confessions and thoughts on Thursday. I feel like I haven't done one of these in a long time due to other schedule posts, but I am back with it today. So grab the button and join in below.

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CONFESSIONS

- I hate making decisions on health insurance. We have to make our decision to keep our current health insurance or change to the other by May 31st and it always gives me anxiety. I always worry what if something happens and we have the high deductible insurance? Or we pay a ton each month and then co-pays. Either way it costs a fortune and I hate making that decision.

- I still haven't watched the Bachelorette premier. I am usually super excited about it, but after Nick's last season, I haven't been that pumped. Don't get me wrong, I love Lindsay, but the first week is just awkward. Maybe I will skip it and read recaps and start next week.

- I saw a post from my twin mom group this week about her toddler getting 4 crowns put on and I about freaked. What if I am not brushing my kids teeth enough? Ugh. I hate brushing their teeth because they fight it so much. I guess I better be more diligent about it.


THOUGHTS

- I was working on the girls baby books Monday night and I can't believe how much they have changed. I was really far behind on their books as well. I only went up to 9 months. I have had pictures tucked away for their books and wrote blog updates on them, but Monday night, I sat down and caught up on most of it.

Speaking of that, there is a section where you put best selling novels, blockbusters, famous actors, best athletes and things that happened around their birthday. It was crazy to google all those things and see what was popular almost 2 1/2 years ago.

I hope to share their baby books sometime in the future.

- I am searching for a summery dress to wear to a wedding. The wedding isn't formal, but I still want to wear a dress. So I am looking for suggestions. I am always open to Rent the Runway, but I love buying a new dress too.

I am in love with this dress, but I feel it is too formal for the wedding I am going to at the lake.

dress

- I feel like I have been going to doctor appointment after doctor appointment. Basically trying to get them all in before I make my decision on the insurance I mentioned above. Ugh. But the good news is my eyes checked out, I don't need glasses and I am only farsighted in the very slightest. Plus I got the new imaging of your WHOLE eyeball and it is really cool. They can check for all sorts of aliments in your body just through your eyes. Everything looks good in that aspect. I am waiting on results from other doctors before I mention them here.

Campanelle Pasta with Pancetta, Peas and Asparagus Recipe

A few weeks ago, we were trying to figure out what to make for dinner and Rory said he wanted something with peas and pancetta. The only thing I thought of was carbonara, but dang, so much fatness to it. So I went to Pinterest to find something and I found the perfect Spring pasta dish. Plus the directions and measurements are vague in that you can improvise to suit your own needs. Perfect for us.

Campanelle Pasta with Pancetta, Peas and Asparagus
by: Foodiewife F.
adapted by me

WHAT YOU NEED:

3/4 box of campanelle
1/2 cup of white wine (choose your favorite so you can drink it later or during)
3/4 cup chicken stock
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 large shallot, sliced thin
1 - 2 TBL minced garlic
1 cup pancetta
1 cup frozen peas
8 asparagus stalks, cut into 1 inch pieces
Parmesan cheese

MAKE IT:

1. Cook your pasta according to the directions on the box. For the first time I made this, I used campanelle pasta and we LOVED it. This time I used farfalle since my store was running an amazing special on pasta. If you can find campanelle, use it.
2. When you have 2 minutes left until your pasta is done, add in your asparagus pieces and let them cook. Drain the pasta and asparagus together. Set aside.

3. In a large skillet, cook your pancetta on medium heat until your pancetta browns. About 3 to 5 minutes. Tip: Find the pre-chopped pancetta so you get the chunks of pancetta rather than small slices.

4. Push your pancetta to the side of the pan and add in the shallots right into the leftover oil. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes.

5. Add in your garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Do not let your garlic burn.
6. Add in your white wine and turn the heat up just a bit (about medium-high or slightly lower) and let the wine reduce for 3 to 4 minutes.

7. Add in your chicken stock and peas and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.
8. Turn your heat down to medium low and add in your heavy cream. Cook for a couple of minutes.
9. Add in the drained pasta and asparagus. Toss and add parmesan cheese to the top.

10. Enjoy!

Making use out of the leftover wine!

The best thing about this pasta is you can change up the ingredients. Add in sun dried tomatoes instead of asparagus, or add in squash, zucchini, English peas, etc. I love how versatile it is. Plus it felt light and tasted so good.

Weekending - Graduation and the Park

You know those weekends that fly by in an instant and you completely fail to take many photos? Well that was my weekend. I felt like I took so many more photos than I did which is preciously three. How did that happen? I guess I had a great weekend and made no time for photos.

So let's get down to my weekend.

Friday after work, we had time to burn until the girls were up from their naps, so we headed to Thai food for lunch which was really good. And then we still had time because the Thai place was on it that day, so we walked to a coffee shop and stopped at a cute little shop along the way to buy some cards for graduation and a birthday.

By the time that was all done and we walked back to the car, it was time to go get the girls. So we picked them up and headed to Target. At Target we bought all the things or it seemed like we bought the store. We went home, unloaded everything and then I went to the grocery store to pick up some things to make dinner. I also made a quick stop at a local bakery for a little dessert surprise. While I was doing that, the girls were helping Rory out in the backyard.

That evening we bathed the girls, played and I made dinner.

Recipe coming tomorrow.

We had dinner and then Rory took Walter for a walk while I got everything cleaned up. Once they were back, we put the last episode of Parenthood on and dined on cutie pies from Levi's Pies.

Levi's Pies Jumbleberry and Salted Caramel Apple

It was the perfect way to end the Parenthood series and can I just say how much I loved that show? Seriously, one of my favorite shows ever. I loved the ending. Everything came together and I cried a ton. Sooooo good.

Saturday morning we headed out to breakfast to Josef's where the girls pigged out on waffles, scones and even got us to get them a cookie for dessert. Then we headed to Costco to get things like pull ups, vodka (for moscow mules!), paper towels and some tomato plants. Then we headed over to the outlet mall to get the girls some new shoes. Side note: it is crazy how different sizes the girls can be from shoe to shoe. The ones they were growing out of were size 7, so we tried size 8 in Vans and they were crazy big. Then we got them 7 1/2 for a bit of room to grow in them because 7 were getting close to the end. But when we got home we realized their other pair of Vans were size 7 and they have a lot of room. 

We put the girls down for a nap or so we thought. They played in their beds for an hour which sucked since we needed them to go to sleep on time since we had a grad party to attend at 2. We knew we would be late, but we ended up being an hour and a half late since the girls didn't nap til late.

We congratulated the new college grad, had food, drinks and caught up with so many people. It was a really fun time. Plus the girls played with all of the kids when they were not dragging around their papa and grandma around. 

The cutest thing happened as we were leaving. The girls stopped twice to yell back at grandma to say, Bye grandma, lub you! 

We took the girls home, fed them dinner and played for a bit before calling it an evening for them. I took Walter out for a walk and it was the perfect temperature. Then we watched half an episode of Fargo before falling asleep.

Sunday we went to our favorite spot, Stonehouse for breakfast since you can sit outside in a garden. We had amazing food and then the craziness came. We tried to drop Rory's car off to get a car wash and wax, but the line was so long right after they opened. They told him no waxes that day, but they could detail it. Well the girls and I waited for him to go through the wash so we could all run errands while they detailed it. We ended up sitting there for a half hour and the girls were getting really cranky. Finally, Rory got in the car and we went to Home Depot and to get my car washed at a super fast place. I didn't want to deal with those lines. Plus the girls got to go through the car wash and they HATED it. Ha. But they loved the Oreo treats we got them while they vacuumed and cleaned my car.

We picked up Rory's car and headed to a new park and the girls went on the swings for a long time. They didn't want to do anything else. Crazy thing was there was 3 other sets of twins there at the time and I guess another set left just before we got there.

They kept wanting to go higher and higher.

It was getting hot and the girls had no sunscreen on so we cut it short and headed home for lunch and naps. Well naps went as well as they did the day before. They played for an hour in bed before falling asleep. But they slept for 2 hours. While they slept, I cleaned the bathrooms, kitchen floors and dusted. I also went grocery shopping and took Walter for a walk. 

Sutton got up first and helped Rory cut the rose bushes and then Avery got up and they played outside.

I did some more cleaning in the house and then I made the girls dinner. After dinner, it was bath time and then we played for a bit until I had to start making pizzas for Rory and I. Homemade pizzas are the best. We put the girls down for bed, had pizza and then watched some mindless tv for the evening. We were exhausted, but had a great weekend.

How was your weekend?

I am linking up with Biana from B Loved Boston.

Friday Favorites

It's Friday and what was supposed to be a long week for me due to my husband being out of town for work, turned out to be the opposite. Sure it was still a long week, but I didn't have to do it alone. Why you ask? Well since Avery got pretty sick Sunday night, Rory didn't want to go on his work trip while she was sick. She had a high fever, was very lethargic, cranky and had the nastiest cough.

The girls always seem to get sick when Rory has a work trip and he didn't feel comfortable leaving her, even though he knows I can handle it. Plus it was a blessing in disguise as he had things that HAD to be done at work this week. So now his trip is rescheduled to sometime in June.

Anyways, this week is done and I am so looking forward to the weekend. We have temperatures forecasted to be in the 80s and I can't wait to wear shorts and spend the weekend outdoors.

Onto my Friday Favorites.

ONE. I got an email this week saying Kendra Scott was having a sale on Rae and Rayne necklaces. I was intrigued even though I don't need a new necklace. But since I wear my magenta Rayne necklace ALL.THE.TIME I thought I would take a look just in case I wanted to get another color. Guess what? I did. This time I got the rose gold necklace with mother of pearl stone. I can't wait until it arrives. And I got it for $15 off and free shipping, so I call that a win. A late Mother's Day gift to myself.

Kendra Scott Rose Gold Mother of Pearl Rayne Necklace

TWO. This week while reading Caitlin's blog, Confessions of a Northern Belle, she did a post on simple mom outfits and she was wearing the cutest jean shorts. When I clicked the link to the shorts, they were from Old Navy. I also remember Jess (from The Newly) said she had Old Navy jean shorts too and now I really want these. But I NEVER know my pants/shorts size from Old Navy, so I am hoping they have these shorts in store this weekend. Has anyone else tried these?

Shorts

THREE. A few people have asked me for an update on the girls daycare situation and we have it figured out. I don't know what I would do without family because they really stepped up for us in our time of need.

But let me back up a bit. We had been looking for a new daycare for the girls since about January. Since the girls moved from the baby room to the toddler room, we knew that we couldn't really go visit them daily anymore and the need for us to be as close to them wasn't as high. So I searched online, went on yelp, looked at the county site for complaints about each daycare and probably did way too much searching. But I want a good place for my girls. 

We did a few walk throughs in February and ultimately decided on a place that is very focused on a learning curriculum. We put our deposit down and were told that we would be put on the wait list and if spots didn't open up by August 4th, then they could start August 7th with the school year in our county. So we knew they would be moving in August, but didn't think it would come so soon.

When we got noticed that the girls' daycare was closing, I called the daycare they were moving to, to see if they had two openings yet. Nope. No one leaves this daycare. Ha. So we panicked thinking we would have to put them in a daycare temporarily or a completely new one and cancel the other one.

But then we asked my mother-in-law if she wanted to watch the girls for two months since she was already thinking of watching them one day a week going forward. She was happy to watch them, but did have some days where she would be out of town. So then we got those dates and asked my dad if he could watch them when my MIL couldn't. He is soooo looking forward to watching them. I am sure he isn't looking forward to diapers, but we hope to have them out of them during the day by mid-June.

So that is why I am forever grateful for my family and how they have stepped up!!! The girls will be in amazing hands.

FOUR. So after my make up post last week, I decided that since I don't like any mascara enough and feel like my eyes don't pop, I needed to do something about it. Sure, I got a ton of mascara recommendations, but I don't have all the money in the world to test them out. I decided to get eyelash extensions again. I loved them for my wedding and again around the time the girls were born, but then life got in the way of my fills. Plus my lash girl had a baby and that limited her work for about two months.

Well Wednesday, I went in and got my extensions put back on. Now I know they aren't for everyone, but I LOVE them. I don't have to wear make up and my eyes still pop. They are perfect for summer and vacation days where I only want to wear a little tinted sunscreen on my face and some lip gloss.

Check out my before and after.

FIVE. I will be going out of town the first week of June, well most of it. And when I am around, I will be crazy busy at work (the one day I am here), so I wanted to put feelers out there for any guest posters. Interested? Comment below or email me!

SIX. We are going camping for Memorial Day and we were searching for new sleeping bags. Do you realize how expensive sleeping bags are? We like the "old school" style of the rectangular ones, but they are either dirt cheap and not very warm or they are crazy priced and come with a bunch of gadgets. And by gadgets I mean, inserts, blankets, extra pads, built in pillows, etc. Maybe if we were serious campers, I would go for it, but we only tent camp a couple times a year otherwise we are in cabins.

But we did bite the bullet and we got these ones. Anyone have experience with them? They get good reviews and are the middle ground in sleeping bags.

North Face

I am linking up with April, A Little Bit of Everything, Karli, Meet @ the Barre and Cup of Tea.

Guest Post - 10 Things You Should Do Before You Hit Publish

Today, I am changing it up a bit and having Cait from Cait's Cozy Corner guest posting for me today. Cait contacted me and asked if I was interested in letting her do a guest post on 10 Things You Should Do Before You Hit Publish.

I knew that I would love to read these items and I hope it helps my fellow blogging friends along the way. So Cait, take it away.

A good blogger should have a check list before they hit publish on a blog post. I have to admit, I have moments where I can be over my head, half asleep and after I hit publish on a post, realize that my content is all over the place. #BloggerFail. I thought, why not share some things I do before I hit publish so you can have a great checklist to reference.

1. Start With An Outline - There were moments when I first began blogging where I would just start writing. After a while, I would run out of points or gt what I wanted to write. Sometimes I would get bored all together. I’ve started to write simple outlines on the points I wanted to talk about on my blog post. It’s super simple- just write a few sentences that include some of the main points I want to talk about. It also ensure that I don’t miss out on crucial points that I may have later on. I also tend to write faster when I know what the key points are.

2. High Quality Content - Next, once your outline is finished, you can start to write your post. One of the key points I always look for is making sure that it’s high quality. What exactly do I mean by that? Let’s move on to step 3!

3. Think Of Keywords- I never realized the importance of keywords until I really started to get serious about blogging. They are essential to getting your blog noticed. Google Keyword Planner is a great way tool to help you pick targeted keywords that are relevant to your post.

4. Link To Older Posts/Articles- A great way to get Google to rank your post for targeted keywords is really just by telling Google what your post is about in your own blog. Link to other blog posts or articles using those targeted keywords I just talked about. These will come up when people are searching for those keywords and boom- your blog appears!

5. Attractive Title- Think of your headline as something that will attract readers. Don’t get discouraged- it can be tricky to think of a good blog post headline. Your main point is to generate a click so make sure that it’s specific enough to do just that. For example, I love writing “ Top 10 … “ and then a topic. That gains interest itself and the topic could be anything like “Top 10 Books To Read This Summer” or “ Top 10 Summer Tops Under $40”. Whatever your title- make sure it’s attention worthy.

6. To The Point- Although you do want a lot of great keywords and good content, you also don’t want your topic to be all over the place and writing redundant words. Make sure you go back to your post and relook at what you wrote. I try to make each point about a paragraph long to keep my readers engaged and not feel overwhelmed when looking at my post. Short and sweet am I right?

7. Images- Did you know horizontal images allows your blog and content to more shareable on Facebook on Twitter? I try to add these images on my blog post and I’ve already seen huge results! I actually just have a basic template and use it for the majority of all my posts. Two of my favorite tools to create them are using Canva and Picmonkey plus it’s FREE!

8. When To Use Vertical Images- If you’re not into Twitter or Facebook have you thought of Pinterest? The longer the better for Pinterest images! Make sure to use bright images to gain attention.

9. Add A Call To Action  - Of course this can all depend on your blog niche and how you interact with your audience, but have you thought of adding tweet boxes? Although certain hosts don’t support like this Blogger, adding a Tweet Box is a quick way of sharing quick ‘call to action’ blurbs that can be tweeted out quickly by just one click.

10. Double Check - Before you hit publish, make sure all of the tips and tricks are in your post. It can take a bit to see your blog take off, but staying consistent with all of these tips can pay off. For instance, Matt Anton can attest to the struggles of learning about what it means to hit publish on a post and ranking in a Google Search. A man who used to spend hours playing video games, now was finding a passion in website developing, learning everything  about SEO tips and how to make the most of the internet. He developed his own site, NJ SEO. They can help build a meaningful relationship with clients using social media. They also develop effective content strategies for forward thinking companies, bloggers alike.

Success stories don’t happen overnight but they do happen! Keep doing all you can to build your blog up by incorporating these 10 steps before hitting publish.

I know I didn't have a Confessions post or a Thoughts on Thursday post for you today, but I still have the link up below for those of you who did write one because I still want to read them! So please link up below and I will be back next Thursday with some confessions and thoughts.

Remembering the Little Things

With all of the crazy terrible twos action we have had in our house lately, it is nice to sit down and remember the little things. Those are the things that get us through each day and it can be something so small, but have such a meaningful impact on us.

Today I am linking up with Jenn, Jessica and Leslie for Remembering the Little Things.

- On Friday when I picked up the girls from daycare, I received two packages that had carnations attached to them. While I didn't open the packages, I did put the flowers in water and they are still going strong. On Mother's Day, I opened the packages to find a sign that said LOVE in cursive using their hand as the O and their feet as the V. They each made one for me and then there was another larger craft with flowers all over it. It was so sweet and they are proudly hanging in my office.

- Avery is a Daddy's girl through and through, but lately in the mornings after she has gotten dressed, she comes into my room to help me get dressed. She asks me each morning if I want to wear my boots and when I tell her no my black flats, she searches for those. She brings me my shoes and wants to sit next to me while getting ready. She also picks out my necklace each morning.

- Monday evening we were winding down for the evening, so Sutton asked if she could sit in my lap which I said of course. She proceeds to get in my lap and pulls the blanket over us so we could cuddle and watch some tv before their bedtime. Just the sweetest.

- On Friday when we were visiting my parents, my mom cut the girls bangs. It reminded me when I was a little girl and my mom cut my bangs.

- Since Avery was home sick on Monday, I took Sutton to daycare by herself. I wasn't sure how she would do without her sister there, but it didn't phase her at all. When I picked her up and we got into the car, she asked where Avery was. I told her we were going home to see her and daddy. We were greeted at the door by Rory and Avery and they girls squealed with joy at seeing each other. They played so hard that evening.

- Each evening after we put the girls to bed, they call us back in about 5 times to put their blankets back on them and tuck them in again. While it does get annoying to do it over and over again, it is so sweet that they don't want us to leave them and they want extra kisses in the evening.

- Every morning when we are leaving for work and daycare, the girls have to give Walter his treats. They all know the routine and look forward to it every morning. Then when it is time to go, they tell Walter, bye Wa-wa, see you later, wub you.

- My girls are learning the concept of time more and more. When they want to stay up longer, they tell me 5 minutes and hold up five fingers. Or sometimes it is one minute. But each night they always ask for more minutes.

- Counting with your toddlers and them being so happy that they know their numbers!

Mother's Day Weekend

I am just getting around to writing about my weekend since yesterday I wrote a post about spending $10 at Target. I mean how hard is it to spend $10 at Target? Not hard at all. I go and buy all of the things. What is hard is keeping it to around $10. But I digress.

Our weekend started off Friday afternoon. I got off just after noon and headed out to lunch with my parents and sister. We dined on some BBQ before I headed over to Ulta to pick up a few make up essentials. The make up post got me really excited about new products and I went out and bought a ton. Probably too many, but I want to try all the things. Ha.

After my Ulta stop, I went to my parents house to hang out while the girls were still napping at daycare. Once I knew they would be up, my mom and I headed over to pick the girls up and then grabbed iced coffees on the way home.

We hung out at my parents house for a few hours. The girls had snacks, playtime and kept my parents on their toes the whole time. We left just before 6 pm so we could get the girls dinner. We had a 40 minute drive and the girls were getting hungry even though they dined on many snacks. I made the girls dinner and picked up things around the house while they ate. Once they were done, we got in our pjs and snuggled until daddy got home from golf. He got home just in time to put them to bed for the evening.

He came baring salads for dinner and I opened a bottle of wine. We watched Parenthood and went to bed early.

Saturday morning we realized that in the middle of the night our internet went out and I tried to fix it all morning, but nothing was working. Boo. No Netflix that day. We got ready and went to our favorite muffin place for muffins and coffee. After a mini breakfast, we took the girls to the park to burn off some energy. We were only going to be there for 30 minutes, but ended up being there for an hour and a half.

Look at the joy on Sutton's face!

And the not so joyous toddler

After the park, we headed home to hang out while Rory mowed, edged and fixed the sprinklers. After feeding the girls lunch and putting them down for naps, I headed out to the grocery store and a few errands.

Just enjoying some snacks on the coffee table

I made a new recipe that night. I had to improvise on a Pinterest recipe I found and it turned out to be really good. I hope to post it in the next week or two when I make it again. So good and perfect for Spring/Summer.

We also bathed the girls Saturday night since we would be out Sunday evening, so we got everything ready for the week ahead Saturday evening. Rory had a work trip to go to on Monday, so we wanted to get everything ready for that as well.

The girls went to bed and we watched Fargo and called it a night.

Sunday morning I got to sleep in until 7:30 and I call that a huge win. I would have loved to sleep in longer, but it is harder when you can hear toddlers running around the house. They didn't get the memo that it was Mother's Day. They were still hyped up and made many messes for me to clean up.

Rory ran out to get us coffee while the girls terrorized the house. I took a long shower and then got ready for the day. The girls made an even bigger mess that I had to clean up before heading out to brunch with my in-laws. Rory made reservations for indoors since the weather was supposed to be crappy, but they sat us outside. It was windy and a bit chilly, but we made do and it gave the girls the chance to run around a bit more.

After brunch, we took the girls home for naps. While they napped, I headed out to have mimosa with my friend Stacey. So nice catching up with her for a few hours.

On my way home, I stopped at the store to grab a few things to make the Special K bars MacKensey posted back around Easter. I got home and Avery was very fussy, but I made the bars and Rory gave her a breathing treatment because her cold was acting up. Once I was done and Rory was done give Avery her treatment, we headed over to my sister's house for a Mother's Day BBQ. She and her boyfriend made tri-tip, roasted potatoes and green beans complete with wine and homemade beer. Sutton ate a ton and had a blast, but Avery's cold got the worse of her and she didn't want anything to do with anyone except Rory. She didn't even eat dinner and that is huge for Avery. 

I did manage some smiles out of Avery long enough to snap this photo.

After dinner we had the dessert bars and then headed out. It was a short visit with my sister, her boyfriend and my parents, but at least we all got to spend some time together on Mother's Day. 

Avery's sickness really ramped up and she had a high fever of 102 degrees. We gave her some vicks, lavender oil in her diffuser, propped her mattress up and hoped for the best. The girls woke up a lot Sunday night which caused Rory and I to have little sleep.

Rory ended up cancelling his work trip because the girls seem to get sick when he is gone and he feels guilty not being around and helping out when they are sick (and saving me from using ALL of my sick leave). I told him to still go on his trip, but he said it can wait until June. 

Rory stayed home with Avery on Monday and was able to get the AT&T guy to come over and fix our internet. We had our box replaced, new wiring and a whole bunch of other stuff done since our system was really old and basically fried. So now we can finish Parenthood. Only three episodes left.

How was your weekend?

While it wasn't the best Mother's Day I have had (I only have two others to compare it to), I am just grateful for the family that I do have and the love I received on Sunday.

$10 at Target

I am so excited to be co-hosting my first $10 at Target link up. You all know how much I love Target and I know how much you all love Target. It just runs in our mommy blood.

I go into Target with a set list every time and I always end up buying way more. Either I hit up the dollar spot and buy all the things or I hit up the shoes and decide I need a pair or three. I just can't help it. Oh and don't get me started on the Cat and Jack line for my girls. I love their clothes and shoes and want to buy it all everytime I am there. Just too cute.

But anyways, I was at Target a couple weeks ago and I was browsing around the framing area to hang a large coffee bag that we got on our honeymoon in Hawaii (yes it has been almost 4 years of having it and not hanging it), and I found a new summery candle that I had to have my hands on, Watermelon Twist.

It smells like 4th of July because we always have a huge plateful of watermelon. Plus it was on sale from $10 to $7.50.

From the home decor area, I went towards the candy aisle because I was searching for the large Andies Mints for my husband. He loves them so much and has got my daughters hooked on them. So bad. After I found the large Andies, I saw my favorite Airhead Bites in the family size and scooped those up. I got them for $2. Those babies came with me on my work trip to Las Vegas at the beginning of the month.

In total I spent:
$7.50 candle
$2.00 candy
$0.74 tax

Total: $10.24

Now it is your turn to share with us how you spent your $10 at Target.

Stephanie | www.wifemommyme.com
Beth | www.ourprettylittlegirls.com
Becky | www.bybmg.com
Tif | www.brightonabudget.com
Heather | www.myglitteryheart.com 
Ashley | http://www.ashleynewell.me
Emily | www.threeboysandagirlblog.blogspot.com​
Shani | www.sunshineandmunchkins.com
Sarah | www.foxysdomesticside.com
Johannah | http://johannahsirois.blogspot.com
Stephanie | www.thegiftygirl.com
Kristyn | www.everyonessleepingbutmom.com
Danielle | www.sparklesandlattes.blogspot.com
Jess | www.secretsofasahmom.blogspot.com
Christine | www.swordfightsandstarrynights.com

An InLinkz Link-up

Friday Favorites

I am so happy today is Friday. This week feels like it has taken forever. We don't have much on the agenda this weekend, but that is just the way I like it. We have several weekends coming up where we are out of town or really busy, so an easy weekend is welcoming.

ONE. I am finally getting around to reading Lauren Graham's Talking as Fast as I Can. We all know how much I LOVE Gilmore Girls and Parenthood (only 5 episodes left), so I don't know why it has taken me this long to read Graham's book. Have you read it?

TWO. This past weekend, I went shopping and I bought myself a lot of pretty little things. I was going into the trip thinking I needed sandals, work tops and maybe a purse if I found one cheap enough. Well I got everything but the sandals and I spent a lot more on the purse than I thought I would, but Kate Spade. Ha.

I can't find the Kate Spade bag online nor can I find anything from Loft that I bought. I bought a soft pair of beach draw string shorts, a tie up black tank top and a buttery soft pink top. From J Crew, I bought these three items.

 pineapple

 stripped tank

sweater

THREE. The terrible twos are no joke and I hear three isn't much better. I feel like we are barely surviving over here. I often wonder how one has more than one child after surviving the terrible twos. Either you have your kids so close together that you don't hit the toddler tantrums until after your second is born or it was so awful that you forget about it and still have another child.

Phew. We have been doing more timeouts than I can count. And I find myself thinking that I don't like my children right now. I love them something fiercely, but that doesn't mean I have to like them all the time. It hurts my mama heart to think that way, but this stage is rough.

I now understand all the memes with kids throwing fits. I also understand the Instagram posts with the wine glasses being filled to the brim.

Toddlers are hard.

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FOUR. Did you see my favorite make up products that I posted yesterday for this month's Girl Chat? If not, check it out here and see my favorites and some of my favorite bloggers favorites.

FIVE. Have any of you heard of microblading? It is a "procedure" where you cut the area in your eye brows to make them fuller, perfectly shaped and darker. My cousin has it and I am intrigued by it, but the thought of basically tattooing make up on me scares me.

I am linking up with April, A Little Bit of Everything, Karli, Meet @ the Barre and Cup of Tea.