13 Ways To Use Garlic: Health and Food Uses

gardening, garlic uses,

 

I harvest around 30 cloves of garlic in the spring from my fall planting.  I’ve been growing my own garlic for about 3 years now, and I love it.  It tastes so much better than the garlic purchased from the local grocery store.  It’s more flavorful, and you get to choose what you grow.  Last year I planted Georgia Fire and Red Toch.  The Georgia Fire is hot and great for making salsa.   Red Toch is great eaten raw or in cooked dishes.  Both do well in cold climates.  I live in Zone 6B, which has a short growing season.  Unfortunately, we experience very cold winters so , we must make everyday count during the growing season.

 

Image-Home-Grown-Garlic

 

 

Here are 13 ways to use garlic, and some of favorites:

Pesto – Toss pasta with garlic pesto or use it on toasted bread.  Either way using Genovese basil will give the pesto the flavor needed for delicious Italian dishes.  So, add pesto to your ways to use garlic list.

Garlic Butter – Also, butter like garlic is one of my loves when it comes to food and cooking.   So, it should come as no surprise that I make garlic butter.  I use it on bread, potatoes and as a dip for my crab legs.  However you decide to use it, use plenty of garlic when  you make it.

Garlic Knots –  Pair Garlic Knots with a salad, Baked Ziti, Lasagna, Spaghetti and many other dishes.

Roasted –  Furthermore, roasted garlic can added to your ways to use garlic list too.  Roasted garlic can be used in mashed potatoes, to make hummus, or as a spread on bread.  There are other uses, but these are a few of my favorites.

Stir Fry –  I love chicken and garlic stir fry.  When I’m preparing my chicken, I add lots of chopped garlic.

 

 


 

 

Use in Pickles – I use garlic gloves in my homemade dill pickle recipes.  You can a jar of refrigerator dills when you just can’t wait to indulge or can a few jars to eat over the winter.

Mashed Potatoes –  I love creamy mashed potatoes.  They go with beef, chicken, turkey and pork.  I make my mashed potatoes several ways, but adding chopped/pureed garlic is my favorite.  So, add garlic mashed potatoes to your list of ways to use garlic.

Chimichurri Sauce – I love a good chimichurri sauce over steak or other beef dishes.  You can also use chimichurri sauce as a dip for meats.

Hummus –  My grandson is a fan of hummus with celery.  Unfortunately, his vegetable palate is limited.

Salsa – There’s nothing better than fresh salsa with loads of garlic.  Check out my fresh salsa recipe here.

 

 

benefits of growing garlic

 

Tomato Sauce –  What’s tomato sauce without garlic.  Not to brag, but my homemade tomato sauce is delicious and kid approved.  Get the recipe here.

Source of Iron –  For many years I had an iron deficiency, which lead to me being anemic.  As a result, I included leafy greens and garlic into my diet.  I struggle to include with the leafy greens at times, but my love for garlic has never wavered.

Heart Healthy –  High blood pressure, hardening of the arteries, and high cholesterol runs in my family.  Unfortunately, I have high blood pressure.  As  a result, ways to use garlic has been added to my list of health regimes.  It helps to keep my blood pressure in a normal range.  I use it chopped in salads as well as cooked dishes and I eat tons of it.

 

So, we hope that you add a few of my suggestions to your list of ways to use garlic!  Use a fresh lemon to remove the smell of garlic from your hands.  Mouth wash, milk and or a good brushing will remove the garlic smell from your mouth

 

 

Best Vegetable Plants for Fall Gardens

Today, I’m sharing backyard vegetable garden tips on the best fall vegetable plants. There are plants that grow better in the fall than in the summer.  Furthermore, there are plants that should be planted in the fall so they can harvested in the spring or early summer. Planning is important when it comes to your backyard garden. 

 

 

fall gardens

 

 

Best fall vegetables plants:

 

Garlic – I plant garlic in the fall for harvest in early summer.  The garlic bulbs are huge and the garlic is flavorful.  I use garlic to make homemade tomato sauce in the fall.  I usually have a few cloves left to use through the winter.  These garlic plants are just about ready to be harvested.  They were planted in the fall for summer harvest.

 

backyard gareden fall vegetables

 

Brussel Sprouts – Brussel Sprouts are called little cabbages in my house.  They are loved by my granddaughter, my daughter and me.   Brussel Sprouts are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin K.  Vitamin K helps to prevent blood clotting and bone health.  I love my Brussel Sprouts either sautéed with garlic and butter or roasted with olive oil and garlic.

Turnips – Personally, I’ve never eaten a turnip.  My grandfather used to grow them when I was growing up, but for the life of me I can’t remember anyone eating them.  He bartered, so turnips may have been one of his bargaining chips, lol.  My mother said that you prepare them by peeling and than boiling them as you would potatoes until tender.  Season as desired.

Collard Greens – My son-in-law is from the south, so Collard Greens are big in my house.  My daughter fixes the best greens ever.  I saw a pot disappear at a family gathering in 15 minutes.  It was truly incredible.  She doubles the amount of greens that she fixes now for large dinners.  In my opinion, collard greens become more flavorful after the frost hits them.  As a result, fall is a great time to plant collards, turnip and mustard greens.  Furthermore, they are high in Vitamin A.  This makes them great for the hair and skin.

Green Onions – I love green onions in my beef and broccoli recipe.  They give a dish an extra kick, and great flavor.

Radishes –  I love adding radishes to vegetable trays.  I think home grown radishes are a little spicier and have better flavor.  They are great with dip, and in salads.  Also, radishes have great water content.  They are great for hydration.

Peas –   Peas like cooler weather.  So a fall planting is perfect.  My grandchildren love shelling them, but not eating them.  I freeze them for soup.  Both of my grandchildren love soup, but the peas get left in the bowls.  Personally, I love them.  They’re always a winner in the garden.

Green Beans – I plant both bush and pole green beans.  I prefer bush beans because I can harvest them at once, while pole beans produce throughout the season.  Green beans are expected at family gatherings.  I freeze them so I can use them for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years dinners.

 


 

Carrots –  Planting carrots is a good project to do with the kids.  You can plant the regular orange or go bold and plant bold colored carrots.  You can freeze them for soup or casseroles over the winter.

Broccoli –  Next, my granddaughter loves broccoli.  My grandson not so much.  She loves broccoli steamed with a little butter and seasonings.  It’s my go to when I have my grandchildren.  No matter, the broccoli will be devoured.  You can also freeze fresh broccoli.  So, add broccoli to your list of best vegetable plants for fall gardens.

Cauliflower –  I love cauliflower raw.  I eat it with dip or in a salad.  However, a friend of mine fixes it with a cheese sauce.  I love that too.

Cabbage Another vegetable to add to your list of best vegetable plants for fall gardens is cabbage.  My granddaughter loves it.  Simmer a head of cabbage with a little bacon or a ham bone.  Peel and quarter Yukon Gold potatoes and add to them to the pot.   Simmer until tender.  If you love slaw and sour kraut, add cabbage to your backyard garden.  It definitely goes on my list of best vegetable plants for fall gardens.

Kale –  I love kale with apple cider vinegar.  Cook Kale the same way you cook collard greens.  They are in the same family as the cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower.

So, here are my suggestions for best fall vegetable plants for fall gardens.  Plant according to the packet to direct sow or get a head start and start seedlings under grow lights about 6 weeks before planting outside.

 

 

 

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #188

 

Welcome to Week 188 of Sunday’s Best. This is the last week of our Back to School theme. So we’re looking for all things relating to school. Lunch ideas, crafts, safety tips, lunch box notes, teacher’s gift ideas etc. So blow the dust off those old posts that you might have that will help get the kids ready to go back to school.

Additionally, we also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.

Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.  Next week we will be starting our Leaves Are Falling theme.  

So, each week your hosts will select their favorite post. The posts will be featured the following week. Also, an image from your post will be used on our linkup the following week along with a link back to your blog. As a result, be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!

The post with the most clicks will be the Reader’s Choice post(s). We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. The Post With the Most Clicks will be selected. Additionally, a post for our Monthly Themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

Contact rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts if you are interested in co-hosting.

 

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

 

 

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Korean Chicken Wings from Harassed Mom 

 

 

chicken recipes

 

Kim selected 5 Necessities for an Organized Kitchen from Clearissa Coward

 

Kitchen Organization

 

 

Brittany selected 25 Easy Healthy Dinners Perfect for Back to School from Good Food and Family Fun 

back to school lunch ideas


The Post with the Most Clicks

 

Monthly Crock Pot Freezer Meals  from Mama of Many Blessings  

 

monthly meal planning

 

 

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – We’re Heading Back to School

 

Back to School Chalkboard  from A Sprinkle of Joy  

 

chalkboard ideas


and

 

22 Easy Kindergarten Lunch Ideas  from Eat Drink and Save Money

 

kindergarten lunch ideas

 

and

 

15 Back to School Lunchbox Snacks  from Queen Bee Baker 

 

lunch ideas for school

 

Last, congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again. We could select your post next week! Finally, while you’re here take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media.

 


Four Ways to Look and Feel Your Best Every Day

 

how to reduce stress

Since two million years ago when our ancestors were born in Ethiopia’s Ledi River Valley, people have experienced stress.  Over the years, it has been determined from our ancestors that the number one way to look and feel better is to relieve the stress.  Unfortunately, many people do this by self-medicating either with alcohol, street drugs or pharmaceuticals.  But, there are other ways to relieve stress that won’t damage the body.  For example, raising your self-esteemed will make your body function more efficiently and naturally.  Here are 4 simple tips for that will help you feel your best everyday:

 

 1. Work Out 

 Our first tip on how to reduce stress is to exercise vigorously for an extended period.  Good things happen to your body when your exercise.  Your brain produces endorphins – hormones that are analgesics, which relieves stress.  Additionally, the oxygenated blood from your workout brightens your skin.  Furthermore, it lowers cortisol levels which makes your skin more elastic .  It also helps to reduce wrinkles and gives you better muscle tone and reduces fat.  A good workout is the best bang for your buck commitment. 


2. Smile Every Day 

Our second tip on how to reduce stress is to smile.  As Mother Theresa once said: “Peace begins with a smile.”  There is research data that supports the theory that even if you’re in a bad mood, if you force a smile it can actually make you feel happier.  It only takes a brief smile to experience this benefit.  One expert, Dr. Javod K. Gol, at Precision Dentistry in Columbia, MD, states: “Your smile is the very first thing that people notice about you. A bright and confident smile makes a great first impression and naturally makes you more attractive personally and professionally.” 

Psychologists say that a person who is smiling seems more friendly.  Thus more trustworthy than a person who is frowning.  There are also psychological studies which support the concept that the habitual act of smiling helps the mind move into more positive thinking patterns.  All you have to do is remember that we all live in a world of endless possibilities – so why not smile about it?

 

3.  Protect Yourself  From the Sun 

Another tip on how to reduce stress and have healthy skin is to protect yourself from the sun.   Although that suntan may seem like it makes you more sexy and attractive, it’s also drying your skin.  Too much sun makes it less elastic and, therefore, more susceptible to wrinkling.  You should make sunscreen application a daily habit. It is especially important to protect your skin during the summer months.  The sun is high and more intense for longer periods of time during the summer.  I

It’s also a good idea to cover up as much of your body from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet radiation during 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  Rays are the most powerful during that timeframe.  Being cautious also protects you from the hazards of melanoma, a form of skin cancer.  Melanoma occurs when pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, mutate and become cancerous.

 

4. Get the Proper Amount of  Sleep 

Our last tip on how to reduce stress is sleep.  The best way to de-stress and feel better is to make sure you get a good night’s sleep.  Not only does sleep help you manage anxiety, it also enhances your mood.  Additionally, it strengthens your immune system, increases energy levels, improves memory and expands cognitive functioning.  If you’re injured, sleep periods are when the body produces hormones, which helps it repair and heal itself.   As a result, sleep is an important component of recovery.  Also, you produce more white blood cells while you sleep.  White blood cells help strengthen your immune system.  So, sleep provides fundamental needs for your body.  Most importantly,  make sure you get plenty of it.

 

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #187

 

Welcome to Week 187 of Sunday’s Best. We’re continuing our Back to School theme. So we’re looking for all things relating to school. Lunch ideas, crafts, safety tips, lunch box notes, teacher’s gift ideas etc. So blow the dust off those old posts that you might have that will help get the kids ready to go back to school.

Additionally, we also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.

Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

So, each week your hosts will select their favorite post. The posts will be featured the following week. Also, an image from your post will be used on our linkup the following week along with a link back to your blog. As a result, be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!

The post with the most clicks will be the Reader’s Choice post(s). We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. The Post With the Most Clicks will be selected. Additionally, a post for our Monthly Themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

Contact rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts if you are interested in co-hosting.

 

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

 

 

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected DIY Sliding Barn Door Cabinet  from Anika’s DIY Life

 

DIY Storage Projects

 

 

Kim selected All About Succulents: Decorating from Mandatory Mooch  

 

gardening ideas

 

Brittany selected Vanilla Wafer Smores from Dizzy, Busy and Hungry

 

Smores Recipes

 


The Post with the Most Clicks

 

4 Tips for Utilizing Small Garden Space from The Dedicated House  

 

 

Gardening Tips

 

 

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – We’re Heading Back to School  

 

Fun and Healthy Lunch Ideas for Kids  from Five Spot Green Living 

 

lunch ideas for kids

 


and

 

Easiest School Lunch – DIY Uncrustables from Simply Well Balanced

 

 

school lunch ideas

and

 

Selecting a Student Planner  from Domestic Deadline

 

Student Organization

 

 

 

Last, congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again. We could select your post next week! Finally, while you’re here take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media.

 


Sunday’s Best Linkup – #186

 

Welcome to Week 186 of Sunday’s Best. We’re starting our Back to School theme.  So we’re looking for all things relating to school.  Lunch ideas, crafts, safety tips, lunch box notes, teacher’s gift ideas etc.  So blow the dust off those old posts that you might have that will help get the kids ready to go back to school.

Additionally, we also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.

Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

So, each week your hosts will select their favorite post. The posts will be featured the following week. Also, an image from your post will be used on our linkup the following week along with a link back to your blog. As a result, be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!

The post with the most clicks will be the Reader’s Choice post(s). We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. The Post With the Most Clicks will be selected. Additionally, a post for our Monthly Themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

Contact rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts if you are interested in co-hosting.

 

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

 

 

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Summer Rum Berry Punch  from The Mad Mommy

 

cocktail recipes

 


Kim selected Mid-Century Glam Living Room Reveal
from Style Safari  

 

decorating ideas

Brittany selected Choosing a Gray Wood Stain from The Handyman’s Daughter

decor idea

 


The Post with the Most Clicks

 

Farmhouse Vignette  from Penny’s Vintage Home  

 

farmhouse decor

and

 

Safe and Healthy Cruising Tips from Watercress Words 

 

Cruise Tips

 

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Let’s Make a Splash

 

How to Stay Cool and Enjoy the Summer from Mama of Many Blessings

 

Summer Activities


and

 

22 Things to Do in Myrtle Beach from Mother 2 Mother

things to do in Myrtle Beach

 

and 

 

Packing for a Beach Vacation from Eat Drink and Save Money

 

summer packing tips

 

 

Last, congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again. We could select your post next week! Finally, while you’re here take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media.

 


How to Find More Time for You

how to find time for you

You take care of the kids, strive to be a supportive wife,  and manage the household.  Additionally, you maintain a job outside the home.  Finding time for yourself is difficult.  You care about your family, and would most certainly do anything for them.  However, you realize that you’re sacrificing your own well-being to take care of everyone and everything.  You’re wondering how to find more time for you.  You’re craving time to yourself.  You know that a little downtime for self-care, self-exploration, and self-gratification is imperative to your health.

What Happens When You’re All About Family

It may seem admirable to be all-consuming of your family’s needs and desires, but eventually it will weigh on you. When you continue to extend yourself, you could start to resent the very people you love.  You may feel that you’ve given up who you are.  Furthermore, you may feel that you’ve given up your joy for life in exchange for their happiness.   Your family is always happy, always has what they need, and they can rely on you to get it all done.  But, at what cost?  How do you find more time for you?

It’s imperative that you not ignore the signs that everything is taking it.  Some women become so overwhelmed that they end up abusing alcohol or sink into depression. This can put you and your family at risk.  It’s possible that you could end up in legal trouble for drinking and driving.  Furthermore, your substance abuse could turn into a full-blown addiction.  Unfortunately, it can have lasting effects on your loved ones.  If you’ve been feeling helpless, sad for long periods of time, moody, engaging in reckless behavior, or abusing substances, there is help in southern California.  If you’re not in the southern California area, there is help in other regions across America too.

How to Find Time for Yourself

Now you know that consuming every moment with your family can be detrimental to your health, you need to do something about it. The problem most women have is finding time in their day to make room for things they enjoy.  How to find more time for you they wonder.  We have a few solutions on how to find more time for you:

  • Start with a few minutes – Making schedule changes immediately may prove difficult, so start slow. Try to find a way to squeeze five to ten minutes out of your day for yourself. Whether you get up earlier in the morning or set aside time during your lunch break, just make sure that during that time you’re doing something for yourself. Read your favorite blog, write a poem, go for a walk, eat a healthy snack, listen to your favorite song, etc.

  • Pencil it in – Are you good with keeping appointments? If so, you should start penciling in your downtime. Treat it like a doctor’s appointment that you can’t miss. When you’re scheduling your week, add in a few hours to yourself. Make sure you have something interesting planned.  Most importantly, don’t try to get out of keeping an appointment “to do nothing”.   If you don’t have something fun planned, you may start to think about all the things you could be using that time for.

  • Accountability Partners – If you’re not going to stick to your guns and make more time for yourself, ask someone who cares about you to hold you accountable. This could be your spouse or your best friend. Let them know that you want to start spending time doing things for yourself. Express your interests and then have them to check in on you. If you haven’t been accomplishing your goals, they can express the importance and even offer a solution like watching the kids for you.

Women were built with superpowers.  As a result, sometimes we forget that we’re human.  So, you must learn how to find time for you.  As much as you love your family, you have to have just as much love and commitment for yourself.  It’s imperative to find ways to simply focus on yourself. Whether it’s a few minutes each day, a scheduled day each week, or with the help of an accountability partner.  Eventually, loving yourself will become second nature once again.

8 Household Items to Use as Packing Hacks

Today, I’m sharing travel tips and travel packing hacks that you can find in your home.  Are you an unorganized travel packer?  Do you wish you had taken items to help with wet items or things that could spill on your return trip?   If so, you will find our travel packing hacks useful.  They’re inexpensive, but great travel accessories.  

 

 

 

packing hacks

Here a few travel packing hacks that you have in your home:

 

Grocery Bags – The first item that I recommend using in your packing hacks is plastic grocery bags. They are great for storing a wet loofah and shower gel on the morning that you will be returning from vacation or your business trip.

Also, they’re also perfect for swim wear that you may have used the night before or housing your shoes.   Grocery bags are great to hold sand for your umbrella or tent on the beach too.

Hand Towels – Next, hand towels are great for packing curling and/or flat irons.  I have had to use one or the other before heading to the airport for my return trip.  Wrapping a warm iron in the towel and placing it in my bag rids me of dealing with a hot/warm iron worries.

Gallon Freezer Baggies – Another household item to use in your packing hacks is gallon freezer baggies.  I pack my body lotion, makeup brushes, laundry detergent and other toiletries in baggies. They are perfect for capturing spills and keeping things organized.

Sandwich Bags – So, who says sandwich bags are just for sandwiches.  They’re great for packing bracelets, necklaces, rings, earrings etc.

Jewelry Boxes – I save my jewelry boxes to store my earrings when I travel.  I love the ones that have the cotton piece in them.  They hold my earrings perfectly.

Newspaper – Additionally, I recommend using newspaper as one of your packing hacks.  I use newspaper or the paper from my hand bags to stuff my hats.  It’s a perfect way to keep your hat from getting crushed during the journey.

Bubble Wrap – I love burning candles or using a diffuser.  I use bubble wrap to keep my candle and diffuser from breaking on the journey.  It’s also great to wrap breakables that I purchase on my trip.

Kitchen Size Garbage Bag –  Last, kitchen size garbage bags are perfect for storing dirty laundry.  When I travel, I try to wash my laundry before I return.  However, I do have dirty laundry from the night before I return.  I keep empty baggies, grocery bags and kitchen size garbage bags in the bottom of my bags or luggage.

So, make sure you have a stash of packing hacks on hand.  You’ll be a frugal, professional packer in no time.  You may also like:  9 Items You Should Have in Your Travel Carry On.

 

 

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #185

 

Sunday's Best Linkup

 

Welcome to Week 185 of Sunday’s Best. We’re continuing our Lets Make a Splash theme. So we’re looking for all things beach or pool relatable. Recipes, crafts, games, gift ideas, vacation destination ideas, tablescapes and more. So blow the dust off those old posts that you might have that will help us cool off.

Additionally, we also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.

Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

So, each week your hosts will select their favorite post. The posts will be featured the following week. Also, an image from your post will be used on our linkup the following week along with a link back to your blog. As a result, be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!

The post with the most clicks will be the Reader’s Choice post(s). We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. The Post With the Most Clicks will be selected. Additionally, a post for our Monthly Themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

Contact rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts if you are interested in co-hosting.

 

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

 

 

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Upcycled Step Ladder from The Apple Street Cottage  

 

step ladder upcycle

 


Kim selected Easy Old Fashioned Cucumber Salad 
from Strength and Sunshine 

 

summer salads

 


Brittany selected DIY Desk Organizer for Kids from Anika’s DIY Life

 

Desk Organizers for Kids


The Post with the Most Clicks

 

Frozen Raspberry Peach Bellini  from Delightful E Made  

 

frozen cocktails

 

and

 

 

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Let’s Make a Splash

 

DIY Coastal Mantel  from Across the Blvd.

 

Beach decor ideas

 

 

and

 

Turn Your Sand into Art  from Life of 2 Snow Birds 

 

beach art

 

Last, congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again. We could select your post next week! Finally, while you’re here take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media.

 

 


22 Family Friendly Things to Do in Myrtle Beach

It’s Myrtle Beach time! We visit Myrtle Beach annually, and we always enjoy our visit. The beach is clean, ocean warm and it’s a nice place to collect shells for crafts at home. So, it’s now on my list of favorite travel destinations.  It’s also a great place for family fun and adventure. So, today I’m sharing my list of Things to Do in Myrtle Beach when you want some time away from the beach:

 

things to do in Myrtle Beach

 

Second Avenue Pier – Great place to relax and fish.  Also, have lunch or dinner while you’re there and enjoy a few cocktails to end the day.

Splashes Ocean Front Water Park –  You want to cool off, but you don’t want to go to the beach?  Add Splashes Ocean Front Water Park to your list of things to do in Myrtle Beach.   It’s the only ocean front water park!  If you like things slow, it offers a lazy river.  If you like things fast, it offers speed slides.  Also, littles can cool off in the kiddie area.

Hollywood Wax Museum –  Next, stop and enjoy the day with Robert Downey, Jr., Robert DeNiro and Julia Roberts.  Not your cup of tea, check out Salma Hayek and Nicole Kidman.  You can also find Beyonce Knowles, Lady Gaga and Pink. Whatever you do add this activity to your list of things to do in Myrtle Beach.

The Track – If Go Carts and Bumper Cars are your thing, you will love The Track.  Additionally, there is an area for smaller children that includes rides and a carousel.  You can bring a bottle of water or purchase refreshments on the premises.

Wheels of Yesterday –  Cars from the 50’s and 60’s are still items.  You can see 50+ cars from yesterday at this museum.  There’s unique cars like the limited 1963 Corvette Split Window Stingray Corvette.  The cars showcased are from the private collection of Paul and Carol Cummings.  They have over 100 cars in their collection, so they rotate them every 6 months or so.

 

things to do in Myrtle Beach

Photo of Wonder Works in Pigeon Forge, TN

 

 

Wonder Works – I initially discovered Wonder Works in Pigeon Forge, TN.  I was casually driving along and came across this upside down house.  Out of curiosity, I stopped so we could check it out.  It’s a great adventure for the kids, especially if they like science.  I was delighted to see that they had one in Myrtle Beach.  My grandson loves science.  They have a Natural Disaster area as well as Space area.  Additionally, they have a Laser Tag arena and Rope Challenges.  There’s something for everything.

Black River Outdoors – If you’re an outdoors man and love kayaking,  Black River Outdoors is the place to be.  The offer Cypress Swamp Tours, Salt Marsh Tours and Beach Salt Tours.  They also offer a Birding Tour at Huntington Beach State Park.  It is one of the best birding sites on the East Coast.

Extreme Laser Tag –  My grandson and his dad, my son-in-law, are huge Laser Tag fans.  Extreme Laser Tag offers all day passes.  Also, they offer air hockey, shooting games, dance machines, and more.  Parents can even hand out in our lounge area and enjoy free WiFi!

 

 


 

 

Express Water Sports – Parasailing, scuba diving, banana boats, what’s your pleasure?  They also offer sunset cruises, July 4th Firework cruises and more.

Oceanfront Helicopter Rides –  Take a helicopter ride over the beach, boardwalk or check out million dollar properties.  They have several tours to choose from.

New Life Ranch and Petting Zoo – If your kids love horse back riding and petting animals, check out the New Life Ranch.

 

 

 

fireworks displays

 

 

Fireworks Display – Additionally, fireworks displays can be seen in many locations throughout Myrtle Beach.  They had a great display each night at 10:00 pm on the beach where we stayed.

Luau and Fire Show –  If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out the Luau and Fire Show.  A Samoan family performs ethnic dances and Samoan fire knife performances.  A buffet dinner is included in the price.

Historic Georgetown – Furthermore, if you want to get away from the sand for a day check out historic Georgetown.   It’s a quaint coastal town between Myrtle Beach and Charleston, SC.   Georgetown, SC is the 3rd old town in South Carolina.  Additionally, Georgetown is known for it’s waterfront shopping, dining and historical tours.

I Love Sugar–  Another adventure to add to your list of things to do in Myrtle Beach is I Love Sugar.  It’s heaven for those with a sweet tooth. Mike and Ike are my granddaughter’s favorite and my grandson is a Jelly Bean fanatic.  Both just happened to available at I Love Sugar.  Be sure to add these sweet treats to your list.

Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor – Have a taste for ice cream, but want something other than Sweet Frog?  Check out Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor.  Vintage décor with hand dipped ice cream.

Alligator Adventure –  Next, if you like wildlife, Alligator Adventure is a great place to take the kids.  You can find alligators, Kookaburras, and Hyenas to name a few.  Nice activity if you don’t want to spend the entire day at the zoo.

 


 

 

Myrtle Beach Safari – If you have animal lovers, check out the Beach Safari at night.  There’s cheetahs, elephants, tigers and more.

Botanical Gardens –  One of my favorite places to visit.  The Brookgreen Gardens has the largest collection of American sculptures in the country.  Beautiful photo opportunity.

Dolphin Watch –  Furthermore, check out this 90 minute Dolphin Watch cruise.  It guarantees a fun cruise where you will see dolphins jumping and surfing up close.  Great photo opportunities.

Hannah’s Mirror Maze –  Also, the goal of Hannah’s Mirror Maze is to help Princess Hannah of Savannah.  She is  trapped inside a maze of mirrors.  So, King Oscar and Queen Emmy need your help to rescue their daughter before time runs out.  Great family activity.

Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs – Finally, counting calories is not recommended when you visit Nathan’s.  Their hotdogs are the best.  But, they also offer Bacon Cheese Fries, Philly Steaks, Pretzel Dogs and more.

So, Myrtle Beach has become one of my favorite places to visit with my grandchildren.  We never seem to have enough time to do everything on our list.  As result, we just keep returning and we keep finding more things to do.  Be sure to put a few of our recommendations on your list of things to do in Myrtle Beach.