Xo Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix Review

I love baking. Probably because i love anything sweet. I can usually bake anything, but for some reason i havent attempted to tackle cookies, i always buy premade cookie dough.

On one of my many grocery pickups, walmart gave me a sample of xo chocolate chip cookie mix. I had never heard of this brand before, but to be fair i am not up to date with gluten free lines. Yes thats right, gluten free. I personally dont have a gluten intolerance, but i can sympathise with those who do. My bestfriend in highschool had to eat gluten free, i even heard about the aftermath when she indulged.

I have tried a few gluten free products, and i was amazed by the taste. You couldn't even tell the difference. I was anxious to see how this baking mix tasted. My boyfriend is the perfect taste tester, because he is picky with his food. It is one thing for me to like it, but if he enjoyed it, i knew it was a hit.

The mix itself was easy. I added eggs, vanilla and butter. The mix came in a clear bag, all i had to do was combine all the ingredients. I did notice that the mix was a lot wetter then traditional cookie dough. It threw me off, but i went with it.

I baked 2 batches of cookies, and made slight differences. The first batch the balls i formed wernt perfect, and i cooked then for the minimum amount of time. The second batch i did perfect balls, and baked them for a little longer.

The results

My boyfriend and i were split on our thoughts. Curtis loved the cookies, he couldn't even tell that they were gluten free, and he preferred the second batch. I did not care for the taste at all, but i think it is because i found it had to much vanilla in it. I also preferred the first batch.

Here is the best part, we gave the cookies to 2 people who didnt know they were gluten free, and they loved them. They said it tasted delicious, and didnt know it was gluten free.

This product is expensive, retailing for $8.97 at my local Walmart. If gluten free products are a must in your lifestyle, then I would highly reccomend this. It tastes exactly like chocolate chip cookies,and no one will be able to tell the difference.

Great Value glass and Surface Cleaner Review

Cleaning is a drag. Im not going to sugar coat it. Especially after having Kayden, i cant seem to ever stop cleaning. Counters need to be wiped down, toys need to be picked up, dishes need to be washed etc. It is never ending!

I go through cleaning supplies quickly, i dont know what it is, but if it has a nozzle, i am heavy handed. I needed a new glass cleaner a few months ago, and i decided to go with a store brand. As you all know, walmart is one if my go to stores, so i decided to try their glass and surface cleaner.

The bottle states that it is biodegradable, fragrance free, and its 99% naturally derived.

I was shocked that i liked that this product was fragrance free. I usually like a mild scent when i clean, i always associate a clean house with it smelling good. I primarily used the cleaner in two places,the bathroom and kitchen.

It does clean up messes and spills, the only downside, it doesn't do the greatest job of cleaning things stuck on the counter. Food splatters, when im mixing and cooking, and i dont wipe down my counters until after im done cooking. I did find i had to really scrub to get it off the counter and stove. I usually use pine sol, and it came off much easier with it.

I also have mixed feelings about it as a window cleaner. Initially when i used it i loved it. There was no streaking and my Windows looked clean. But when the sun was shinning through our window, you could see streaks.

If you remember an earlier post, i wrote about my cleaning schedule. I deep clean every room once a week, but do the kitchen daily. I feel this cleaner would be good for regular day to day cleaning, where you just need to wipe things down. But i think for my regular cleaning i will stick to pine sol.

Canadiana Coat Review. Hit or Miss?

It is that time of year again. Christmas lights are going up, comfort food is cooking in the kitchen, and winter coats are being worn.

As difficult as it is bundling up a toddler, everything is just better during this time of year. For the past year i have been on the hunt for the perfect winter coat. I had my last coat for about 5 years and after I had Kayden it became to small for me. Then last year the zippers on the pockets stopped working. I couldn't stall any longer, it was time for a new coat.

For the past year i have had my eye on a Canadiana coat, that walmart makes. Yes thats right, by Walmart. I dont care what anyone says, walmart is amazing, and their clothing quality has gotten a lot better. It was $99.99 and last year i waited for it to go on sale, but it never did. I spent a year researching it, and I was convinced it was the one for me.

On my birthday my parents gave me some money, and I knew I had to buy my coat then. It usually gets cold in October, but this year the weather has been all over the place. I wanted to make sure i had my coat in time for the cold weather. I thought I was early, but I was wrong. I was lucky to find my size( medium), i took the last one. And the coat was so great, Curtis bought one as well.

My Review

I had a chance to wear the coat for about a month now, daily. I am in love. I bought a medium, which allows me to wear bulky sweaters underneath, which is perfect for when the snow falls. I got a parka coat, so I love the way it covers my bum, and part of my legs, keeping me extra warm. And when i say it keeps me warm, thats an understatement. I am extra warm, sometimes when i am wearing it inside i start sweating! I have never felt cold wearing the coat, and we have already had one cold alert.

I have had expensive, designer coats before, and this coat keeps me as warm, if not better. And my boyfriend said, it looked a lot better. It has way to many pockets, so storage is not an issue. My favorite part of the coat, has to be the hood. I always had hoods falling off my head, but this one is so snug. The only time i had an issue was when it was windy, which is expected. It also has reflective gear on the arms, so vehicles can see you at night. I live in the city, so this was an amazing selling point for me. There are always cars, regardless of what time i go outside, for them to be able to see me a little bit better is better for everyone.

Initially I thought $99.99 was to expensive, but I think it is a great deal. It is as comfy as a designer coat, and it keeps me warmer. Here in Canada, you cant escape the cold. With curtis working long hours, it is usually me and Kayden at home. As if last year Kayden loves the snow, and he will spend as much time outside as he can get. I noticed last year that a warm coat is a must. I didnt like feeling cold, or rushing kayden during our walk. This coat allows me to do it all. Buddy also loves the cold weather, and it doesn't bother me one bit anymore.

The coat runs for about $50 less then other stores, and is just as stylish.

I would reccomend this coat to everyone, and it deserves a 10/10. Curtis loves designer clothing. He saw a Tommy Hilfiger coat, and he said it does not compare. If you are looking for something affordable, for everyday use, and a coat that will keep you warm, then you should check it out.

Sunshine Blogger Award

Im back with another blogger award nomination. A sunshine blogger award from the amazing Becca. I was nominated back on October, but as usual, life got in the way. Better late then never, right?

Her website is

https://myselfandjake.wordpress.com

And her twitter is @RebeccaWbu_94

1. Name 3 life goals you want to achieve

The first one would be to be successful. I dont mean to make a million dollars. I want to make some sort of impact in the world. That's part of why i started to blog, i want to touch and reach others and hopefully be able to help them.

The second is, i want to live life. A lot of people don't know that pay child support (30% of our income). That is a huge chunk. We have cut back on groceries, celebrations and moving ahead in life. We have sacraficed a lot for an amount that is not based on our current income, but rather double. I cant wait to be able to give our child everything he deserves and be able to celebrate life and actually save.

My last goal is to have a happy and healthy family.

2. One thing or person that makes you laugh

This is easy. Curtis. He is my partner in life and one of the best things about us, is how much he makes me laugh. During our hardest times, curtis always put a smile on my face.

3. If you could go back in time to when and why?

I always say, life was so easy when i was a kid. So i would say when i was about 5 years old. Life was the best. My bestfriend lived on ny street and we would spend hours together. We played outside all day and did everything together, trick or treating, played sports etc. I never worried about anything, and best of all i had no responsibilities.

4. Name one celeb you fancy?

Safarree from love and hip hop.

5. 3 words to describe yourself

Funny. Caring. Smart

6. What's your worst habit?

Over thinking things. Thats all i do. I over think the budget, household, events etc. Regardless of how much i plan for things, i still continue to stress and overthink every aspect. I am constantly making lists and the worst part, i think of every worst possible outcome, which ends up stressing me more.

7. Whats the most emberassing thing that has ever happened to you?

I am going to tell you the first thing that came in my head. When i was working, prior to kayden being born, i use to wake up at 4:30am. I had to leave the house around 6am to catch the bus (we didn't have a car at the time). Since curtis started work around 7ish, he didnt wake up till much later. I was use to getting up/going to bed by myself.  One morning i decided to turn on the bedroom light and ask curtis if my white skirt was see through. Through his grumbles, he said no. I proceded to leave the house, talk to people in the building, walk down the street, get on a bus, walk to work, all to find out that my skirt is see through. Everyone could see my bright florescent pink thong. I was mortified. Looking back i shouldve just taken off my panties, instead i spent the whole day trying to keep my shirt over my butt.

8. If you had a superpower what would it be?

Reading peoples minds.

9. What is your favorite tv show?

This is us. I have never cried watching a show, but this show brings out all my emotions. It pulls on every heartstring, and all the stories are relatable. Regardless of who you are, there is one character on this is us that you can identify with.

10. Morning person or evening person?

Morning. Dont ask why, but i am. I can always get up in the morning, i have never had an issue with it. But when it comes to the evening, im a log. Im always tired, i dont want to do anything but be in bed.

11. What actress/actor would you choose to play you in a film and why?

Hands down Demi Lovato. It has nothing to do with the idea that we look the same. Its her personality. Shes sassy, hardworking and extremely funny. She has gone through a lot in her life (as we all know), and after watching her documentary i fell in love with her more. I really got a chance to learn about her, and see her in her natural element.

The Essential Guide to a Stress free Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is here! Well American thanksgiving is. I live in canada, so technically my thanksgiving is in october. I didnt grow up celebrating it, so when i met curtis, i didnt care that he wanted to celebrate it in November. For those of you who dont know, curtis was born in raised in America.

We have been together for 5 years. So i thought i would give all of you a breakdown of the day along with tips and tricks. And you can definetly apply these to any big dinner party or holiday.

I will start off with football. This is curtis's favorite thing about thanksgiving. He loves football, especially because the Dallas cowboys are playing. He sits in front of the TV with his beer and watches. This year we are having 2 guests over, which is perfect for us, since our table only sits 4.

I had my menu planned in October. I had appetizers, main and deasert planned. I also bought my turkey in october since i knew i would get a good deal on it.

On the menu this year is:

Appetizers

Antipasto platter

Bread

Dipping sauce for bread

Mini cheeseburger bites

Cherry tomatoes stuffed with goat cheese

Main

Turkey

Macaroni and cheese

Cornbread stuffing

Cornbread

Gravy

Collard greens

Dessert

Banana pudding

Cookies

Ice cream

Coffee

Over the past few weeks i have slowly gathered the ingredients and extra supplies i needed to make thanksgiving complete.

Since we are inviting curtis's bosses, we will be eating later. One boss took the day off and the other has to work. Since he will be getting off around 6ish dinner will most likely be at 7:30. I want an hour in between courses, because there is nothing that drives me up the wall more then eating food back to back with no gap.

I plan on putting the turkey in around 4pm (with curtis's help). Then during the last 30 minutes i will put the dressing around the bird. A little tip, i bought a cooking bag that you can get from any grocery store. This is fullproof, it cooks fast and keeps the turkey juicy. While the turkey is cooking i am going to make collard greens. When the turkey is done i will put the mac n cheese and cornbread in the oven.

I plan to do prep work before any of our guests come over so i can spend even less time in the kitchen. I want to cut up the vegetables for the cornbread stuffing, cook the pasta noodles and grate the cheese.

I know you all are wondering why? Why is she so crazy about this? Well first of all this is a major holiday in the states, even bigger then christmas dinner. And last year i didnt get to enjoy it. I spent the whole time in the kitchen, our guests ate dinner, then had to leave before dessert. Essentially i didnt get to sit down or interact with them. I felt left out. Who wants to put in all that work and not be able to enjoy themselves?

I bought a black tablecloth, which i think will be a lifesaver. I will use it for all 3 courses (as long as it doesn't get dirty). I am hoping at the end of the night i won't have to clean off the table mulitple times, and i can throw it in the wash. Easy cleanup. I am also going to use the dishes i already own. We have square black plates (i bought an extra one) so its going to be a black theme. I have small pumpkins i am going to use as decorations as well. Even though in canada everyone is in the mood for Christmas, i am going to try to keep it as fall-ish as i can.

My tip: if your dollar stores are anything like mine, you can find amazing buys. I found some serving platters, that are the same quality as any big box store, for a third of the price. I also picked up some napkins for appetizers and a basket for the bread. My greatest find, were the cutest straws. They have cute little sayings.

For appetizers and dessert i am making some if the items. The key is to mix it up. It allows you to relax a little bit, and the guests get a mixture of homemade and premade. I know some people like to do everything, but you need to cut yourself some slack.

Heres a glance at my thanksgiving week:

Sunday

I am going to take out my turkey from the freezer and put it in the fridge. My turkey is 15 pounds, so this gives it plenty of time to thaw out.

Wednesday

I was going to make pies, but our guests request was banana pudding, that is all they wanted. I personally dont mind, since it means less work for me. But if i was baking, i would make all my pies wednesday night.

Christmas tree will also go up today! As i said in canada, after mid october we have no holidays. Since November people have been slowly putting up their decorations. This also gives me a chance to see if i need anything else for my tree.

I will also be picking up any items that i didn't have time to buy, or items that i need fresh. As well as any alcohol.

Thursday

I am going to put the turkey in the oven about 3-4 hours before i want it done.

I will also be doing my prep work 2 hours before my guests come. Cutting up vegetables and boiling my pasta.

1 hour before i will start to get ready and take the dog out.

When they are on their way over i will plate my appetizers.

I hope my tips will be able to help you on this special day, or any future dinner.

4 companies that will send you free stuff/money

I know I am not the only one who loves freebies. There is nothing better then receiving full size products, and reviewing them. There are lots of companies who claim to do this, but I have found a few companies who actually hold up their end of the bargain.

BzzAgent

This company is available to residents in North America and the UK. They are one of the easiest companies to use. You create a login and they give you quizes to do. These quizzes allow them to get to know you. They ask you about your household and your lifestyle. You will frequently have to repeat these surveys, but it allows them to keep up to date with you.

Campaigns are hard to come by, but when you get them, it will make up for the time you didn't. So far, this year I have had 2 campaigns, one for Walmart and another for Febreeze.

Bzz Agent will send you an email (if you qualify) with all the details, and if you are interested, then you accept.

In between campaigns, they have fun twitter, instagram and pinterest activities for you to do as well.

You receive a score out if 10, which is determined based on your activity level. The more up to date with the surveys you are, and the more social media activities you participate in, the higher your score will be. Once you get a campaign, they rate your reviews, which can also increase your score. Your score determines how quickly you will get campaign invites.

E-Rewards

This website allows you to express your opinions through surveys. They claim to be the largest global invitation only, survey company. Every survey is a different length of time, and they pay you according to the time it takes. The longer the survey, the higher the payout is.

The only downside is you don't get a paycheck. You use the "money" to redeem giftcards. There are many categories to choose from, but I have only redeemed it for a food gift card. There are plenty of other options to choose from such as, clothing stores, air miles, movies etc.

I find if you look out for the emails, and out effort into it, it is easy to rack up money to redeem.

SurveyLion

I recently joined this website, and I will start by saying all the reviews online are true.

I get invites to surveys weekly, but there have been many that I didn't qualify for. It is hard to get chosen, but when you do the payoff is amazing. I have gitten paid about $4 per survey on average and they pay you via cheque. They available to canadian residents 16+

Samplesource

This company is my favorite. They send out sample boxes quarterly, and you get a variety of items. They send you an email a few weeks before samples go live. They ask you questions based on the samples they have to offer. Then they give you a list of samples for you to choose from based on your answers. You can pick the ones you want to try. They send you another email when your box ships. They say you should receive it within 4-6 weeks, but i always get it within the week.

The reason samplesource is my favorite, is based on a few reasons. They usually send you full size items along with a lot of coupons. Regardless of what your interests are, they have something for you. Every once in awhile i get a surprise in my mailbix from them. They send some samples complimentary.

All samplesource asks from you, is to fill out a survey about the samples they have sent you. You will get an email 4-6 weeks after you have received your box.

Samplesource is available to Canadian and American reaidents.

I hope you all check out some of thess sites. I will say, once i started putting in more effort towards my survey invites, i really started to see a payoff. The great thing about all of these companies, is they want YOUR opinion. To be able to help shape products for free is amazing. 

Kayden's first activity - Hit or Miss?

Hey guys,

In september we enrolled Kayden into his first activity. I know what you are thinking.... But he is 3 years old? Yes i know. Timing is everything.

Kayden has always been shy but over the past 6 months he has really started to come out of his shell and was interacting with other children more. I always see parents complaining about spending money and their kid didnt participate. I didnt want that to happen. I wanted kayden to figure out what he enjoyed before enrolling him.

The activity we enrolled Kayden in, is for 2-4 year olds. Every class they get free play and circle time. Circle time is done twice, at the beginning and at the end. They sing a hello song, a goodbye song and always do an activity as a group.

We have been to 5 classes so far, and I have mixed thoughts on it. Kayden loves the activity, and looks forward to it every week. I thought there would be more kids thst he could bounce off of. Kids that could learn from him and vice versa. Most of the kids dont interact, which makes it hard for kids to work on their social skills. The gym is big so it isn't often that there is more then one kid at an activity. When it does happen, it is only for a minute or two. Social interraction isn't promoted.

Kayden has learned a lot about sharing, since he cant just take a toy he likes, and has followed tasks through the first time.  It is nice to get some insight as to how he would do in school. He follows instructions great and follows the crowd. He has even warmed up to singing the songs, and his favorite thing is the 'sleeping bunnies' song and the parachute games.

Curtis and i thought about pulling him out if the class. It is a 1 hour class and atleast 45 minutes is free play, not much structure. We decided not to because i believed this was a good introductory class for him. It got him use to playing with a big group of kids, and having to listen/follow directions from another adult.

The best part.... It tires him out. It is such a great morning activity that he almost falls asleep in the car on the way home. With fall here, we do not spend a lot of time outside, so burning off Kayden's extra energy has been a challenge.

Going forward we going to put Kayden in more structured activites.