Easy Peasy Sonic Strawberry Shake Dip

Aug 082018

This Sonic Strawberry Shake Dip is the best thing you'll eat all summer. It's so easy to make and super yummy. Impress your friends with this great recipe!

For years and years and years we’d see Sonic commercials here in Boston, but there were no Sonic’s to be found. And then one finally opened in Massachusetts – Only it was all the way up in Peabody, which is about an hour from where I live. It was kind of a bummer, but I did manage to make it up there a couple of times. But then a couple of years ago one finally opened near me, in Somerset and now there is one in Stoughton, too, so now I can have Sonic whenever I want since I can get to one in about 20 minutes. YAY.

One day recently I was at Walmart and came across Sonic Pudding and I was like woah….I knew I needed to get some and make something awesome out of it. Cue this ah-mazing Sonic Strawberry Shake Dip. It’s so easy to make and it’s super yummy.

Sonic Strawberry Shake Dip

This Sonic Strawberry Shake Dip is the best thing you'll eat all summer. It's so easy to make and super yummy. Impress your friends with this great recipe!

Free Historic Sites to Visit in Boston

Aug 072018

Here are just three (of many) historically-based sites to visit in Boston. Put on your most comfortable pair of walking shoes and check them out today!

Boston is a fun and interesting place to visit, there’s no doubt about it! This is especially true for history buffs. If you’re in search of free historic sites to visit in the city, you have tons of options to choose from. Here are a few to consider.

Boston Freedom Trail

The Boston Freedom Trail is the red brick walking trail that takes visitors to several themed sites across the city, important during the American Revolution.

Follow the trail to get a look at some of Boston’s most famous spots. This includes Paul Revere’s house, the site of the Boston Massacre, Granary Burial Ground and the Old North Church from which revolutionaries used those infamous lanterns to signal that the British were coming.

There are several (daily) 90-minute walking tours, which take you along the trail. Knowledgeable guides provide information about each site. Or, if you prefer to walk the trail at your own pace, audio players are available from the Freedom Trail Foundation. The players feature stories and information that you don’t get on the guided tour. Continue reading »

The Summer is Already Half Over – Don’t Miss Out on Going to Water Country This Year!

Aug 062018

The Summer is Already Half Over, don't Miss Out on Going to Water Country in Portsmouth, NH this summer. It's New England's favorite water park!

Here in New England, summer is way too short and my family really tries to make the most of the nice weather we do get. One thing we do every single year is head up to Portsmouth, NH to Water Country. There are several water parks in New England, but Water Country is by far our favorite.

For over 30 years, Water Country has been the go-to destination for family fun in southern New Hampshire. Water Country features family-friendly rides and attractions like Big Ollie, Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror, and the lazy river. They have more slides, pools and attractions than any other water park in the area and there is definitely something for everyone there. A day at the water park is just that, a full day!

The Summer is Already Half Over, don't Miss Out on Going to Water Country in Portsmouth, NH this summer. It's New England's favorite water park!

My family had a blast spending the day at Water Country this past weekend and I wanted to share a few tips with you for your trip: Continue reading »

Loaded Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Aug 012018

Try your homemade chicken salad on a lettuce wrap next time. It's good!

I have been on a chicken salad kick lately. I used to love it when I was a kid and for some reason I got away from it for a while. But I am back on it now and I have been making tons of it lately. I usually eat it on bread, but I got this idea make lettuce wraps out of them recently and they came out awesome. Like, seriously awesome. I have eaten these Loaded Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps every day for a week straight. They are really easy to make and I love that I can make and serve them fairly quickly. If you like chicken salad, give these loaded chicken salad lettuce wraps a try.

Try your homemade chicken salad on a lettuce wrap next time. It's good!

Loaded Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

25 Things to do in Hartford, CT

Jul 312018

Here are 25 things to do in Hartford, Connecticut. Hartford, CT offers such a wide range of history and art for everyone to enjoy.

The home of the Mark Twain House & Museum and capital of Connecticut, Hartford is a city that brings much entertainment and sights to see. This is the place to go to view some historical locations, artistic talents and enjoy the views of the city. Today I’m featuring 25 things to do in Hartford, CT so that you can plan your next Connecticut visit properly.

Here are 25 things to do in Hartford, Connecticut. Hartford, CT offers such a wide range of history and art for everyone to enjoy. Continue reading »

Yummy Banana Split Bites

Jul 302018

These Banana Split Bites are delicious and totally Drool-worthy!

You know, sometimes a mama just wants a treat. I work hard and sometimes I want to reward myself for all that hard work with a little sweet treat. Of course, I am a good mom, so when I make sweets – I make enough to share. Well, sometimes. Anyhow, I made these absolutely ah-mazing Banana Split Bites recently and trust me when I tell you that they were a huge hit.

If you know me, you know that I love my desserts. But once in a blue moon I only want a little bit which is why I had the idea to make smaller portions of one of my favorites – a banana split. Wait, did I just say that? A little bit of a dessert? That’s crazy talk. I could down 6 of these in one sitting without batting an eye. But when I made these, I shared. I swear.

Banana Split Bites

Exploring Maine

Jul 252018

There is a lot to see and do in the state of Maine. From Stephen King's house to lighthouses to lots of wildlife! Here are a few ideas for your next trip!

I love to travel. Unfortunately, my budget does not allow for expensive, elaborate getaways, so I have to be creative and frugal. I try to pick places that I can drive to and that I can do inexpensively. I recently returned from a week in Maine and had more fun than I ever imagined I would there. My son was on vacation with his father, so my best friend and I went on a girl’s road trip. We didn’t spend much, doing mostly free things, and I figured I would share with all of you.

We stayed in Bangor, as it was central to most of the things we wanted to do. No trip to Bangor is complete without a trip to Stephen King’s house. I’ve been a fan of his writing all my life, and his house is exactly what you would expect. Continue reading »

Summer Fun at Edaville Family Theme Park

Jul 232018

Growing up, my siblings and I waited all year long until my parents finally said we were going to “Edaville” to see the Christmas lights. It was one of highlights of my childhood and I have so many happy memories of going there year after year with my family. These days it’s known as Edaville Family Theme Park and I am so thankful that I have the chance to take my own kids there so they can have the same wonderful memories of Edaville as I do.

A visit to Edaville Family Theme Park is a fun way to spend the day with your family. Admission includes Thomas Land, Dino Land, all rides & attractions.

But why is it called Edaville? Ellis D. Atwood used his initials (E.D.A) to name the theme park back when it first opened. He started this railroad by purchasing most of the surviving equipment from Maine’s once expansive network of two-foot gauge rail’s and had them trucked south to Carver, Massachusetts – and it is now known as Edaville Railroad. Continue reading »

Poop Emoji Rice Krispie Treats

Jul 182018

Obsessed with the poop emoji? If your hand is raised, these Poop Emoji Rice Krispie Treats are a fun & easy snack idea for you to whip up for the kids. It’s summer vacation and if your kids are anything like mine, they are asking for a snack every five seconds. Like literally…my two eat constantly.

All. Day. Long!

I am always looking for easy snacks to make for them. Since my boys (and most other boys I know) are obsessed with poop – and the poop emoji, I made some Poop Emoji Rice Krispie Treats recently and they were a big hit!

Poop Emoji Rice Krispie Treats

Obsessed with the poop emoji? If your hand is raised, these Poop Emoji Rice Krispie Treats are a fun & easy snack idea for you to whip up for the kids.

Planning My Perfect Boston Staycation with TripAdvisor

Jul 172018

Did you know you can book experiences directly through TripAdvisor. I was able to book my perfect Boston Staycation on their site & you can, too!

I almost hate to jinx things, but I am just going to say it. We’ve been having some killer weather here in Boston this summer. It’s been so hot here (the way I like it) and knock on wood, we’ve had very little rain. Last year I feel like it rained for 80% of the month of July, so this nice sunny weather we’ve been having is so nice. With all the gorgeous weather, I decided that I wanted to plan a Boston staycation for my family. Sometimes it’s so fun to play tourist in your own city! I headed over to TripAdvisor because I needed help narrowing down what we should do. There is a lot to do in Boston, but since my boys aren’t always enthusiastic about doing things as they used to be (darn tweens/teens), I had to be sure to choose adventures that would keep everyone happy and entertained.

Did you know you can book experiences directly through TripAdvisor. I was able to book my perfect Boston Staycation on their site & you can, too!

Did you know that you can book activities and experiences directly through TripAdvisor? It’s super convenient to be able to look through all the things they offer to do in the city you’re traveling to, read reviews while you’re there AND book whatever catches your eye – all in one spot. You are going to TripAdvisor to look at the reviews anyways, so why not just book your experiences while you are there on their site. Trust me, it makes life so much easier! Continue reading »

Eat Your Heart Out at Boston Burger Company

Jul 162018

If you live in the Boston area, chances are you’ve heard of the Boston Burger Company. The BBC is well known in the area for their over-the-top burgers, gourmet fries, craft beers and their Freak Frappes. Yes, that says Freak Frappes. They also have apps, sandwiches, and salads, but it is named the Boston BURGER Company, so I think it’s pretty much against the law not to order a burger if you go there to eat. Just sayin’. They serve burgers with names such as porkasaurus, the kitchen sink and the hot mess…I mean, how can you not try one?

If you are in Boston, a visit to the Boston Burger Company is a MUST. Gourmet burgers, Freak Frappes & leveled up fries make this restaurant 1 of the best!

Christian and I had the chance to stop in to the Boston Burger Company for dinner a few weeks ago and because we are both super smart, we started with dessert. I wanted a Freak Frappe in the worst way and I was afraid if I didn’t order my frappe first, I wouldn’t have room for it at the end of my meal. Continue reading »

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs with Homemade Pizza Sauce

Jul 092018

These pepperoni pizza bombs with homemade pizza sauce are a quick and easy snack that you can whip up in minutes. This fun recipe is sure to be a big hit with your family!

We’re right smack dab in the middle of summer vacation and other than “I’m bored”, the only other thing my kids are programmed to say is “I’m hungry”. They have a meal, tell me they’re full and then they are hungry again 10 minutes later. This mysterious hunger only seems to happen when they are out on school breaks, too. Weird, huh? Anyways, since my boys are literally always hungry, I make them a lot (and I do mean a lot) of snacks when they are home. These Pepperoni Pizza Bombs are a favorite in my house.

Pepperoni Pizza Bombs with Homemade Pizza Sauce

These pepperoni pizza bombs with homemade pizza sauce are a quick and easy snack that you can whip up in minutes. This fun recipe is sure to be a big hit with your family!

25 Family Friendly Things to do in Martha’s Vineyard

Jul 032018

There are so many can’t miss things to do in Martha’s Vineyard. This beautiful island location is in Massachusetts just south of Cape Cod and can only access Martha’s Vineyard by boat or air. It features Gothic cottages as well as several ferry ports, depending on which end of the island you venture to. Today I am sharing 25 things to do in Martha’s Vineyard to assist you in planning your vacation itinerary.

There are so many can’t miss things to do in Martha’s Vineyard, a beautiful island in Massachusetts just south of Cape Cod. Here are 25 things to do in Martha’s Vineyard to assist you in planning your vacation to Martha's Vineyard. Continue reading »

Old Fashioned Potato Salad

Jul 022018

Old Fashioned Potato Salad is always a hit at summer cookouts. Just like the recipe that mom used to make, it's not only easy to make, it's delicious.

Whenever I host a cookout, I always make some Old Fashioned Potato Salad to serve to my guests. It’s just like the potato salad that my mom used to make. Potato salad is a summer staple around our house and often times I will double the batch so that I am guaranteed to have some leftover.

Old Fashioned Potato Salad

Old Fashioned Potato Salad is always a hit at summer cookouts. Just like the recipe that mom used to make, it's not only easy to make, it's delicious.

Most Haunted Places in New England

Jun 282018

Here are four of the supposedly most haunted locations in New England. There's no reason to wait until Halloween to visit them. The ghosts are waiting.

If you believe in ghosts, chances are you love exploring haunted places. What follows is a short list of the most haunted places in New England. The question is this. Are you brave enough to go exploring?

The Kennebunk Inn (Kennebunk, Maine)

Originally built as a private residence, the Kennebunk Inn opened as a tavern in 1928. It is said to be haunted by Silas Perkins as well as various other apparitions. Perkins, the inn’s former auditor and watchmen, loves to play pranks on guests and employees alike. Most especially in room number 17.

Snedeker Demon House (Southington, Connecticut)

This funeral home turned private residence is the home that inspired the book (and movie) “The Haunting in Connecticut.” It’s where Ed and Lorrain Warren, both paranormal investigators, assisted the Snedeker family of ridding their ghosts in 1986. Continue reading »

Patriotic Vanilla Frozen Pudding Pops

Jun 202018

Every year on July 4th, my family hosts a big cookout. We’re proud Americans and we love to celebrate the birthday our country. I love making festive foods and desserts for my cookout, but sometimes I just want something quick and easy. Especially for when the kids start ~~nagging~~ asking about when the food is going to be ready. These Patriotic Vanilla Frozen Pudding Pops are probably the easiest dessert treat I’ve ever made. Of course you can make them with homemade pudding in small disposable cups, but I’m lazy, so I took the easy way out.

Patriotic Vanilla Frozen Pudding Pops

Lawn Care Tips for Summer

Jun 192018

With warmer weather comes more time spent outdoors for yard work. Getting your garden and flower beds prepped and even tackling your lawn. If you are looking for some lawn care tips to get your grass looking amazing check out these tips!

8 Lawn Care Tips For Summer

Early Summer Feeding
In the early summer, I recommend getting a feed for your lawn. This will give it nutrients and really help it grow better through the summer evenly. By feeding your lawn with a fertilizer it can help your grass spread and thicken up, kill out weeds and more.
Then every 8 weeks you can do another summer feeding on your lawn to keep giving it nutrients. This is very helpful if you live in a really hot area. There are many brands out there you can find to buy.

Mowing
Depending on the type of grass you have will depend on how high to set your mower blades. I suggest looking up your grass type online and see what mower blade setting is recommended. If you are unsure set your blades to a little bit taller setting. Allowing your mower blades to be set a little higher will let the grass develop deeper and stronger roots. You will mow more often but you will have a nicer looking yard. Continue reading »

Stunning Personalized Jewelry from Centime

Jun 182018

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love anything that’s personalized with my kids names on it. Anything. I have all sorts of things with the boy’s names on them already – baby blankets, Christmas ornaments, plaques and a ton more that I can’t even think of right now. I just love it when something is not only beautiful, but has special meaning to it, too.

One thing has always been missing, though. A really nice piece of “mom” jewelry. You know what I’m talking about, the kind with your kids names engraved in it. I’ve been looking for that perfect piece of “mom” jewelry for years, but never really found anything that I thought would hold up to the high standards I had in my mind. Until recently.

Get your beautiful and affordable "mom" jewelry at Centime! Ordering is easy and their vast selection of pieces and options will win you over.

I came across a website called Centime and I immediately fell in love. Centime is a small company started by two moms who totally get it when it comes to “mom” jewelry. Like me, they didn’t want a generic piece of jewelry that you can get just about anywhere – they wanted high quality hand crafted jewelry, so they decided to start making it themselves. And that’s how Centime was born. Continue reading »

Tips and Tricks for a Day at the Beach

Jun 132018

Beach hacks

Nothing beats a day at the beach, the cool clear water, the sun shining down, hearing the waves roll in! Spending the day at a beach is the perfect way to enjoy a nice summer day. Below are some tips and tricks for a day at the beach, to make your life a little more simple.

Make your beach day trip unforgettable, and have fun creating those amazing memories that will last a lifetime!

Best Beach Day Hacks

Leave In Conditioner: The sun and salt water can cause a lot of damage to your hair, especially if you color it. To help prevent it, apply a leave in conditioner that has a UV protectant. Do this the morning of before you head to the beach.

Baby Oil on Legs: If you have freshly shaved, slather on baby oil on your legs. Fresh salt water can sting pretty good on fresh legs. I also suggest shaving with baby oil, use it like you would shaving cream.

Mesh Laundry Bag: Pack up all your items like kid toys, towels and such in the mesh laundry bag. Will help reduce trips to the car! Then at the end of the day when your items are all sandy, just toss back in the bag and sit in the back of your trunk. It will help reduce how much sand gets in your car, and some will shake out as you carry it to the car. Continue reading »

25 Things to do in Nantucket

Jun 122018

There is so much history to be enjoyed in Nantucket and I sure hope you’ll think about planning a summer trip to Nantucket soon. To help you start planning your getaway, here are 25 Things to do in Nantucket!

Nantucket houses 10,000 people permanently but is a known getaway for many tourists looking to enjoy vacation with the family. Located about 16 miles from Cape Cod, this Massachusetts location brings much joy to anyone who ventures to Nantucket. Today I am sharing 25 things to do in Nantucket so that you are inspired to travel this summer and enjoy all that Nantucket has to offer.

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