For our young family of four, traveling is at the top of our list when it comes to family activities. Although we cannot fly all over the world in search of famous pyramids and the like, we can take “mini vacations”, traveling no more than 5-6 hours from home and we can do it on a budget!

The biggest expense for our little family is hotel accommodations, but we’ve figured out a few ways to pay less and get more! Here’s 3 quick tips on how you can book hotels and resorts on a budget, while spending quality time with your family and offering experiences that are sure to last a lifetime.

Travel Off Season – this tip can really save you quite a bit of money on hotel and resort stays. For instance, we booked our yearly 10-day vacation one week before spring break and we saved about 40% on our hotel stay! That’s a significant savings, especially if you are going on an extended vacation. Apply this same idea to a family cruise and you can get a cabin for next to nothing!

Put your computer skills to the test – All of our travel starts with my laptop. Often times, we don’t exactly “plan” our trip, but we rather stumble upon an amazing deals through discount travel sites, or flash sale sites that offer discounts up to 80%. Depending on the site, I also search for net voucher codes that extend our savings.

Call Ahead of Time – before you book your reservation, a quick call to the hotel/resort may save you money. Make sure to check your “discount” price against their current prices to ensure that you are receiving a deal, and also ask if they have special pricing or packages that may save you even more. If you top off your phone call with a bit of honey, you can sometimes get the hotel/resort to offer a room upgrade for not much more if they have the room available. The key is to “ask”, because if you don’t ask, then you’ll never know!

In the past ten years, shopping has certainly morphed in ways that we would have never predicted fifty years ago! I remember having access to my first computer as a young teenager, thinking how amazing it was that I could chat online with people in other countries. At that time, I never would have dreamed that we would not only be shopping online years later, but that shopping online would become a way of life for many, including myself. I got my Venetian Blinds from an online retailer, too.

I’m all about supporting local businesses and there are many in our hometown that I do support, however when you have so many families on tight budgets, turning to online shopping can save you thousands upon thousands of dollars each year. When it comes down to the bottom line, many families have to ensure that there is a roof over their head, and food at the table – online shopping can help families keep that consistency. I’m sure that many of you can relate.

The biggest concern for so many with online shopping over the years has been the safety of online payment services. However, after many years of trial and error, the online shopping industry has a number of different forms of security in place to ensure that making a credit card online payment is not only quick and painless, but that the consumer is protected.

The online shopping industry will only grow in the coming years, and its time for many businesses to change their strategies, and integrate into the new way that consumers consume goods. I can tell you that I will continue to shop online when it betters the life of our family, and the life of my children.  How about you?

Do you do the majority of your shopping online or do you still visit the B&M stores?

When my kids began their “schooling career” we were hopeful for the future. We researched every preschool in town in an attempt to provide them with the best start possible, and found just that in a local Montessori school in our hometown. Pricey? Yes. Would I have done it any differently? Not a chance!

Montessori provided them with a love for school that I’m grateful for, and often days I’m in awe of how eager they are to learn new things, make new friends, and thrive in many areas. Looking back, I certainly had no such love for school and I thank my lucky stars each and every day that they do not feel the same.

However, with class sizes rising here in California (average classroom is size is now 30-40 students per class), we have seen our second grader backslide this year in certain subjects, and we began to contemplate whether a public school education was really suitable for her, or her younger sister.

The idea of Homeschooling suddenly rang a bell for the first time.

Truth be told, homeschooling wasn’t exactly an idea that was even on the radar. With my husband just finishing up his BA and contemplating whether or not to pursue his Ph.D. in Psychology and work at a place like PCH Treatment, or rather pursue a MFT and work for himself, we were certainly at a crossroads with not just schooling, but the entire structure of our life as a whole. I had planned to stay home with the girls until they were a bit older, but I also work from home and to make homeschooling work, I would have to fore-go my personal plans and focus and the girls education.

As you can imagine, the importance of their education was at the top of the list, and we have decided to move forward with homeschooling both girls next year. While my husband has yet to pick a certain path, I’m certain that he will make the decision that’s best for him, and our family.

The decision was such a big one, but I feel that we are making the best decision on their part. I know that the one-on-one attention that they will receive for the next few years will be priceless in the end – although I must admit that we are rather overwhelmed with the different homeschooling approaches and curricula. I suppose we’ll save that discussion for another day!

Are you currently homeschooling? Are you considering homeschooling? Weigh in! Tell us your thoughts and experiences!

The Sperry was originally created for the boating crowd. While the Sperry Topsiders are still a great shoe to use while sailing, they have gained popularity with a larger audience. The shoes used to be available in a classic white. Now there are a variety of styles and colors to choose from. Whether the shoe is used for a purpose, or just for fashion like the Darlington Penny Loafer Pumps, there is a style available for everyone.

The Sperry Topsider was created because of the slippery surface of a boat. The Topsider was created to provide traction on the wet areas of the boat. The grooves cut into the sole made it easy to walk on the deck of the boat. Today the Sperry Topsiders are still used by boaters.

They are also a very popular trend in fashion so you can easily find deals on Sperry Topsiders. This branching out has led to the Darlington Penny Loafer Pumps. The shoe has the classic look of a boating shoe while being available in cordovan and cognac. The other twist on the classic design is the 3-1/2” inch rubber heel. This eye catching blend of loafers and pumps is made using either suede or leather.

Whether one is sailing or staying on dry land, Sperry Topsiders are a trusted name in the shoe industry. The Darlington Penny Loafer Pumps are only one example of the brands shift to fashion forward designs.

Sponsored.

If you have yet to take part in a Relay for Life event, then I hope that this year you’ll find your way to an event in your hometown. These events help the American Cancer Society help others get well, stay well, find cures and fight cancer head on!

What is Relay for Life?
“Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.

At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length. Relayers do not have to walk all night, but each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event.”

Ready to Get Involved?
Visit Relayforlife.org and find a local event near you. You’ll be given the option to sign-up to fundraise, walk as a survivor, care giver, team captain or team member. You can also sign-up to volunteer at a Relay for Life event and contribute by setting up, cleaning up, assisting during the survivor dinner, etc. If you are not yet ready to jump in head first, you can still participate by donating to an individual, a team, or even the event itself.

There’s a number of ways for you to get involved and take a stand against cancer! Head over to Relayforlife.org now and help the American Cancer Society with their continuing efforts.

This post is sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Truly, there’s nothing much better than baked pasta. With sauce intertwined throughout every noodle and melted cheesy goodness on top, who can resist baked pasta recipes? This comfort food soothes the soul and warms the heart—something most foods can only dream of doing. Customize your pasta dish by adding more of your favorite ingredients and make it the ultimate comfort meal. From cheesy classics like baked ziti to new twists like Enchilada Pasta Bake, the following six baked pasta recipes are family-friendly, crowd-pleasing and kid-approved dishes.

 

Creamy Baked Ziti

If you’re a total cheese lover, this baked ziti is right up your alley. The cream cheese and sour cream provide extra creaminess, setting it apart from ordinary baked ziti recipes. Perfect for a potluck dinner or a weeknight when you need something quick and easy.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

4 cups ziti pasta, uncooked

1 jar (26 oz.) marinara sauce

1 can (14-1/2 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained

6 oz. (3/4 of 8-oz. pkg.) cream cheese, cubed

3/4 cup sour cream

1 pkg. (8 oz.) shredded mozzarella cheese

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

 

Directions

Heat oven to 375ºF.

Cook pasta in large saucepan as directed on package, omitting salt. Remove from pan; drain. Meanwhile, add marinara sauce, tomatoes and cream cheese to same pan; cook on medium heat 5 minutes or until cream cheese is melted and mixture is well blended, stirring frequently. Return pasta to pan; mix well.

Layer half the pasta mixture in 13×9-inch baking dish; cover with layers of sour cream, 1 cup mozzarella and remaining pasta mixture. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake 20 minutes or until heated through.

 

 

Cheesy & Beefy Tomato Corkscrew Pasta Bake

When you have an undeniable craving for baked pasta, this is one of those baked pasta recipes that always delivers and never disappoints. You don’t have to be a kid to love Velveeta cheese—you can be a kid at heart! Garlic, oregano and red pepper flakes really give this dish a boost of flavor.

Servings: 10

Ingredients

1 pkg. (16 oz.) cavatappi

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1 onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

3/4 lb. lean ground beef

1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes

1 cup marinara sauce

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 tsp. dried oregano leaves

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

8 oz. Velveeta, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

 

Directions

Heat oven to 350ºF.

Cook pasta as directed on package.

Heat oil in large skillet. Add onions, peppers and garlic; saute until soft, about 5 minutes. Add beef and brown it. Add diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, 2 Tbsp. Parmesan and seasonings. Simmer 10 minutes; combine with pasta.

Spoon half the pasta mixture into greased 3-qt. casserole dish; cover with half the Velveeta. Repeat layers. Bake, covered, 15 minutes. Remove cover; stir. Bake 5 to 10 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.

 

 

Enchilada Pasta Bake

Looking for a new and unique baked pasta recipe? This dish puts a flavorful spin on traditional pasta meals. Completely filling and oh-so-delicious, Enchilada Pasta Bake can feed a crowd (just be sure to make enough for second helpings!).

Servings: 8

Ingredients

4-1/2 cups medium pasta shells, uncooked

2 tsp. oil

1 yellow onion, chopped

1 red pepper, chopped

1 pkg. (1.25 oz.) taco seasoning mix

1 can (14.5 oz.) no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained

2 cups deli chicken breast

1 can (15 oz.) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed

3 green onions, thinly sliced, divided

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided

1 pkg. (8 oz.) Mexican-style shredded cheese

 

Directions

Heat oven to 375°F.

Cook pasta as directed on package, omitting salt. Meanwhile, heat oil in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add yellow onions and peppers; cook 3 to 5 minutes or until crisp-tender, stirring frequently. Stir in seasoning mix and tomatoes; cook and stir 3 minutes. Add chicken, beans and half each of the green onions and cilantro; mix well. Remove from heat.

Drain pasta. Add to chicken mixture; mix lightly. Pour into 13×9-inch baking dish; top with cheese.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until pasta mixture is heated through and cheese is melted. Sprinkle with remaining green onions and cilantro.

 

 

Creamy Chicken and Pasta Bake

Good things come to those who bake this baked pasta dish. If you have a difficult time convincing your children that broccoli is yummy, this recipe might just do the trick. Plus, Neufchatel cheese is the reduced-fat version of cream cheese, so you get a much lower-calorie version of baked pasta.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups multigrain rotini pasta, uncooked

3 cups small broccoli florets

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

1/2 cup fat-free reduced-sodium chicken broth

2 oz. (1/4 of 8-oz. pkg.) Philadelphia Neufchatel Cheese, cubed

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese

 

Directions

Heat oven to 375ºF.

Cook pasta in large saucepan as directed on package, omitting salt and adding broccoli to the boiling water for the last 3 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 3 minutes or until no longer pink, stirring frequently. Stir in broth; simmer 3 minutes or until chicken is done. Add Neufchatel; cook and stir on low heat 1 minute or until melted. Stir in 1/2 cup mozzarella.

Drain pasta and broccoli. Add to chicken mixture; mix lightly. Spoon into 8-inch square baking dish; cover.

Bake 15 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses. Bake, uncovered, 3 minutes or until melted. Let stand 5 minutes.

 

 

Vegetable Pasta Bake

Who needs meat when you can pair pasta with delicious veggies? If you are a veggie lover, you will surely love this vegetarian dish. Fill up on the good stuff so you can take pleasure in the “bad” stuff (think: dessert) later!

Servings: 6

Ingredients

3 cups rotini pasta, cooked, drained

1 jar (24 oz.) spaghetti sauce

1 bag (16 oz.) frozen vegetable blend, thawed

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 pkg. (8 oz.) shredded mozzarella cheese

 

Directions

Heat oven to 375°F.

Combine pasta, sauce, vegetables and 2 Tbsp. Parmesan.

Spoon into 13×9-inch baking dish; top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.

Bake 20 minutes or until heated through.

 

 

Chicken and Penne Pasta Bake

The best of the baked pasta recipes was intentionally saved for last! This chicken pasta dish is a real crowd-pleaser—great if you’re hosting a dinner party. The Italian Parmesan cheese breadcrumbs provide added seasoning and the spinach and chicken make it nutritious and satisfying. Simple to make and delicious to eat—it’s a winner!

Servings: 6

Ingredients

2-3/4 cups penne pasta (12 oz.), uncooked

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces

1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce

2 cups loosely packed baby spinach leaves

1 pkg. (6 oz.) Fresh Take Italian Parmesan Recipe Cheese Breadcrumb Mix, mixed together

 

Directions

Heat oven to 400ºF.

Cook pasta as directed on package, omitting salt. Meanwhile, heat oil in large ovenproof skillet on medium heat. Add chicken; cook and stir 5 to 6 minutes or until evenly browned. Stir in marinara sauce.

Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup cooking water. Add to ingredients in skillet; mix lightly. Stir in spinach; top with cheese mixture.

Bake 20 minutes or until heated through.

Sponsored Content.

I’ve been asked many times over the years how to make money from home. Truth be told I didn’t set out to work from home, I just happened to stumble into it. I began blogging in the summer of 2008, in an attempt to connect with other mothers and deal seekers. Being a SAHM had plenty of rewarding moments, but I longed to connect with adults and talk about politics, business, the latest fashion and anything else for that matter.

I needed an outlet and blogging provided that.

It wasn’t until the summer of 2009 that I realized I could be a WAHM and provide a side income for my family, while remaining at home to raise my two girls. I found myself continually stumbling in the right direction and as I continued to write, our readership grew and the prospect of working from home became a reality.

I cannot speak for any other WAHM positions, other than blogging. But to get started is really quite simple. When one thinks of starting a “business”, I’m sure you have ideas of multiple computers set up in an in-home office, while a company that offers business ethernet services, maintains the flow of information to your future employees – and someday I hope that may just be the case. But it’s much more like one person, in front of a computer, spewing ideas that you hope someone may like. From there you just hope that through word of mouth others may find you and enjoy what you have to say, regardless of the topic.

The idea is just to start writing. Write about being a mom. Write about deals you’ve found. Write about your love for Star Wars, or stilettos, or wine! The more you share and open yourself up, the more you will find yourself succeeding. From there you can seek out possible money making prospects using your blog or website via advertising or simply sharing deals and coupons that you come across.

I can tell you that it will not be easy, and it will be very time consuming. Working from home is not for everyone, and although staying at home may sound like a great idea at the moment, there are many days that I long to be out in the world talking about paper clip brands and the latest letterhead!

Valentine’s Day is less than two weeks away, and that means it’s time to start thinking about what to get that special someone in your life! I know that I’m always at a loss when it comes to Valentine’s Day, as I never can quite figure out what is “too little” or “too much” – if there is such a thing!

I often default to either ProFlowers or Shari’s Berries, two sites that offer the perfect gifts for just about any occasion, and include beautiful floral arrangements, plants, and yummy treats that are sure to please any gender. Take this amazing gift for example: it includes 12 gourmet dipped strawberries + one dozen long stemmed roses!

How can you go wrong with a beautiful sentiment like this! The best part? You can score 20% off with the special DM reader link below and it will be delivered to your sweetie on the date and time you set!

HOT Deal just for DM Readers!
Proflowers is offering DM readers 20% off when you shop their Valentine’s Deals! You can also find a number of additional deals on ProFlowers Facebook page. If that wasn’t awesome enough, you can also get 20% off at Shari’s Berries – a site that offers delicious alternatives to flowers.

Win It!
One Lucky DM reader will WIN a $50 ProFlowers Gift Certificate! The gift certificate is not onl y valid at ProFlowers, but it’s also valid at Shari’s Berries – a yummy site that offers scrumptious gifts that would be perfect for the “guy” in your life!

How to enter: Simply leave a comment telling me how you’ll be spending your $50 ProFlowers gift certificate should you win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Before I gave birth to my first daughter, I had silky, full head of hair that I was rather proud of. I’ve always had very straight hair, and was really able to do just about any hairstyle I desired.

Then, I became a mom.

Now, I’m not quite sure exactly how hair loss and motherhood coincide, but for the past 7 years, I have watched my full head of hair, turn into a flat, thin head of hair and I am shocked at how much hair leaves my head on a daily basis.

I know that hair loss is typical right after childbirth, and even up to 6 months postpartum…but, 7 years later? You should see my bathroom floor when I’m finished blow-drying my hair.  I often get embarrassed when we stay overnight with a friend, and I have to take the time when I’m done getting ready to clean up all of the hair in their bathroom.

So, I recently turned my sites to an online search on solution for hair loss in women and I actually found a number of reasons for hair loss in women, however I honed in on one in particular:

Telogen Effluvium – a scalp disorder characterized by thinning/shedding of hair resulting from the early entry of hairs into the telogen phase.

Telogen Effluvium can be caused by a number of factors, such as eating disorders, childbirth, and anemia to name a few, however I happened to hone in on one cause that rang a bell with me: stress. I’ve been a ball of stress for at least half of my life, and honestly it’s not intentional, I’m just a worrier by default.

Sigh… I guess I better take up meditation. Have you experienced prolonged hair loss after childbirth?