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Target: Spend $100 get a $20 Target GiftCard on baby care

January 21, 2024 By carry Leave a Comment

If you love Online Shopping as much as we do, make sure you come over and join our “Online Deals – Check them out” Group on Facebook HERE, Where we share some of our favorite deals we find!


Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our links. You can view MCC’s Full Disclosure Policy HERE.

Spend $100 get a $20 Target GiftCard on baby care
In-store or Online

Shop HERE on Target.com
Offer expires 1/27/2024

Reminder: If you use your Target REDcard you will receive an additional 5% off your order

Terms & conditions: $20 Target GiftCard when you spend $100 or more on select baby care items. Not valid on previous orders. Redemption limit one gift card per guest transaction. Offer excludes items sold & shipped by Target Plus™ Partners and clearance items. Your promotional gift card will automatically be applied to your Target account after your qualifying items ship or are picked up at a Target store. Promotional eGiftCards and Mobile GiftCards are non-refundable. When a free Target GiftCard is offered with a qualifying item, you’ll be charged the amount of the qualifying item reduced by a Target discount equal to the amount of the gift card, and you’ll be charged a separate amount for the value of the gift card. If you want to return the item you purchased to a Target Store or by mail you will be refunded the amount of the qualifying item reduced by the amount of the Target GiftCard. Pricing, promotions and availability may vary by location and on Target.com. Offer expires 1/27/2024 at 11:59pm PST.
Offer ID: 748538742


Not a Target REDcard Holder? You can become one now with just a few simple steps! It is convenient and you can connect it right to your debit card.

Apply for the Target REDcard and receive 5% OFF Today and Everyday, FREE Shipping on Target Online and +EXTRA DAYS for Returns.

Keep Reading…

Filed Under: Diaper Deals, Family Savings, Featured, Online Deals, Target

EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Additional Discount on ALL these Sales on Zulily!

November 24, 2021 By carry Leave a Comment

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Additional 10% off ALL these active sales on Zulily!

Additional 10% off will be applied to all sales listed below! Discount will show in your shopping cart. To get the discount to apply you MUST click through my links first, and often affiliate bonus discount will not apply if you are using their app, shop through your browser. 

 

$7.99 Black Friday Weekend

ZOOGS: Toddler to Big Kids $7.19 After additional 10% off bonus in cart – Designing their pairs with kids in mind, ZOOGS is committed to keeping little feet dry and comfy — because rain shouldn’t hinder playtime.

Deal of the Day: 101-Piece Set by PicassoTiles $31.47 (Reg. $129.99) After additional 10% off bonus in cart 

Black Friday Saving on Step2 Items + additional 10% off bonus in cart AND Get $20 off your order total when you purchase $100 worth of items from this event (before taxes and shipping). Offer applies to US orders only.

OXO Innovative Housewares + additional 10% off bonus in cart – Free shipping applies once the order minimum of $30 is reached. Free shipping applies to items in this event only. Standard shipping fees apply to items you may order from other events. Free shipping applies to US orders only.

50% off Limited-Time Deal

KidKraft’s Modern Luxury Dollhouse ONLY $58.49 (Reg. $129.99) Spark their imaginative playtime using this luxury style dollhouse. It features various rooms and floors for dolls and toys to enjoy. Its sliding elevator and outdoor patio adds chic appeal.

Family Finds by MUK LUKS

Family Finds by MUK LUKS – Since the debut of their famous Slipper Sox, MUK LUKS has been legendary in the comfort footwear industry. Discover their supremely wearable, artfully designed footwear, accessories and more..

Can Ship Out Quickly

Nice Savings on Barbie – Introduce your little one to the lady in pink we all know and love. This delightful Barbie collection reminds us all why it’s so much fun to be a kid.

These Kids’ Crafts Are to DIY For – Little ones love to get creative. Make sure your kiddo has plenty of projects to work on with these craft kits that encourage outside-the-box thinking.

Kurt Adler: Holiday Decor

Savings on Lounge Pants & Joggers

Cold-Weather Jackets & Accessories

Merry Christmas PJs: Up to Big Kids

Babies & Little Ones Jammies, Slippers & More

Let’s Get Merry: Textiles up to 65% off

 

Filed Under: Family Savings, Featured, Online Deals, Uncategorized

Have you tried Mike’s Popcorn? If not, you are MISSING OUT!

November 13, 2021 By carry Leave a Comment

Have you tried Mike’s Popcorn?
If not, you are MISSING OUT!

Read below for a offer to try Mike’s Popcorn for 50% Off! Valid thru Saturday 11/20

I was recently approached by a fellow Wisconsin Company, Mike’s Popcorn based out of Menasha, Wisconsin about sharing their products. Even though I only live about 30 minutes away, I will be honest, I was not familiar with them. This is surprising since my husband and son are POPCORN ADDICTS! I immediately contacted my husband’s best friend who was born and raised around there, and his response when I asked him if he ever heard of it, was, “OMG yes, I grew up on it, they had a small popcorn stand where they actually popped it fresh daily. The best popcorn you will ever eat!” From there I knew, I had to give it a try before agreeing to do a special offer to all my followers. I take pride in only promoting the best products and sales and have built a 10 year old loyal following this way.

Imagine my surprise when I thought I was just being sent a few samples and then received this box filled with so many different flavors! There was way to much for just myself and my husband to try, so I called in back up, my nieces (also popcorn connoisseurs).  Ashley and Mandy spent their summers off of school at our house and daily when their Uncle got home from work, would have “Popcorn Time” as we liked to call it. For Mandy, the youngest, it was more one piece for her and one piece for Jax our German Shepard which was her BUDDY from the time she was months old.

We managed to pin down a night that would work for us all (both girls are in college and Ashley in her final year of Nursing school) so this was no easy task. Nothing brings family together like some yummy popcorn and laughs!

I have to tell you, my husband’s best friend was right, their popcorn DID NOT DISAPPOINT! We started with the cheese. Save the caramel for dessert right?!? Ashley said it best when she said “It is addictive”. It really is that good! Not an over powering processed flavor, just a nice pleasant cheese taste with a hint of butter and salt. Even better, I did not end up with SUPER cheesy orange fingers!

My husband next opened the butter. He says he is more a “butter popcorn man” but I don’t know about that, because he ate at least five BIG handfuls of the cheese and kept going back for more! He absolutely LOVED the butter and did not want to share. He said you can, “Definitely tell it is a Wisconsin made product!”

NOW, time for the Caramel and the Carameliscious. First we tried the Caramel. WOW! Real Sugar, Butter, Vanilla… I am IN HEAVEN. A light coat, not overly sweet, just perfect. But now my interest is piqued, how does the Carameliscious taste? Let me tell you, I am usually NOT a huge fan of overly sweet, but I COULD NOT STOP eating it. More coating, more crunch, and more sweetness! Maybe I do like sweet more than I realized. Amazing & Delicious — we ate BOTH BAGS!

We were all a bit hesitant to try the Cheese & Caramel but SO GLAD we did! Salty and Sweet, pure delight. I want to say this one was my favorite, but I have to admit I am still day dreaming about getting my hands on more of the Carameliscious! So I will call it a tie!

If you like keeping it more simple and are not one for butter, cheese or caramel, give the classic white popcorn a try. A favorite for over 40 years and made with three simple ingredients, POPCORN, COCONUT OIL, SALT! That is it, yet so yummy!

Give Mike’s popcorn a try, you definitely will not regret it!

Exclusive 50% Offer
Sunday 11/14 thru Saturday 11/20

 

Tip! READ first before your purchase: DO NOT do “calculate shipping” on the first page! Your total must be $50 or above BEFORE taxes, I added a small white popcorn bag to achieve this. I ordered the 3.5 lb. tin, added that first and the promo code. Then went and shopped more. ONCE YOU ADD more items you must click the update order button to get the free shipping option to come up so you can click it! YOU CHOOSE which method of shipping you want, they do not set these prices, each carrier will once you put your address in. MAKE SURE before you check out, you have chosen free shipping, the delivery charges from Fed Ex, etc. are INSANELY HIGH! I must emphasize again, DO NOT CHOOSE “calculate shipping” on the first page, or will automatically apply overnight through fed ex, YOU MUST choose your shipping on final page!

From November 14-20, 2021, exclusive for my followers, you can score 50% off any of their Popcorn Tins found HERE or their 4 Count Value Bag Sampler found HERE when you use promo code HOLIDAY2021. The code is limited to 1 item per order, per customer. This is a pretty great deal seeing as their 3.5 gallon tins are typically between $46-$58. For the tins, you can choose any of their gourmet flavors to fill your tin. Please note the cheese, caramel or any of the mixes for the tins are the full coat gourmet popcorn.

Even better, Free Shipping on orders over $50.00!

2 & 3.5 Gallon Custom Popcorn Tins 
Price: $37.50 to $58.00 – Use Promo Code: HOLIDAY2021
Final Price: $18.75 to $29.00

4 Pack Value Bag Sampler – 15 oz Cheese, 25 oz Cheese & Caramel Mix, 14 oz White and 14 oz Butter
Price: $22.00 – Use Promo Code: HOLIDAY2021
Final Price: $11.00

I personally grabbed the two flavor 3.5 Gallon Tin! Most bang for my buck.

Filed Under: Coupons, Family Savings, Featured, Newest Coupons, Uncategorized

Additional 15% off ALL these Sales! (Discount will show in cart off lowest price)

November 6, 2021 By carry Leave a Comment

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Additional 15% off ALL these active sales on Zulily!

Additional 15% will be applied to all sales listed below! Discount will show in your shopping cart.

P.S. VERY IMPORTANT, READ before you start shopping! ONCE you order one item, the remainder of your orders on Zulily are FREE for the rest of the day.  If you want two items, order 1, then go back and put a second order in for the second item, you will pay less in shipping, and also get free shipping SITEWIDE.

New Today

Deal of the Day: Snuggle Up In a Hooded Throw ONLY $14.27 after additional bonus 15% off in cart – Don’t you love snuggling up on the couch in a soft, plush throw? Take it up a notch with an oh-so-cozy attached hood.

TOMS: Women Up to 55% off – TOMS gives one-third of their profits in support of grassroots good, like organizations at the heart of communities, doing great work on the ground.

Wonderful Wide-Calf Boots

Wonderful Wide-Calf Boots – If the shoe fits… you know what to do! Enjoy standout style and everlasting comfort in these wonderfully roomy boots.

Valid thru Wednesday, November 10th

Swing Car Ride-Ons by Joybay $29.74 after additional bonus – Joybay knows how to positively channel kids’ enthusiasm into active play. Turn sweet liveliness into forward momentum with their splendid Swing Car.

This Week’s Toy Steals Up to 65% off + Additional 15% off lowest price in cart! Check off all those wishes the kids listed in one swipe with these toy deals that wow.

4 PC Quilts 29.99 & under, all sizes & styles! Snuggle in — bedtime just got so much cozier. Not to mention the sweet dreams from all the cash you saved. It’s a win-win!

Top-Selling Home Organization – The littlest bit of clutter makes any room look messy. Tidy up your home with top-selling essentials that offer space-saving organization.

Holly-Jolly Holiday Textiles Up to 60% off – When Santa comes down the chimney, make sure he sees your home’s holiday spirit from the bath mats down to the bedding.

Fantastic Steals on Ankle Boots! All styles $14.44 – The right ankle boots can make an outfit. Find pairs right here that complete the look for every occasion. With deals this fab, you might even do a little happy dance!

Bogs: Toddler to Women Up to 60% off – Bogs puts feet first. For this American brand, comfort isn’t an option — it’s a requirement. Discover weatherproof footwear for all of your outdoor adventures.

YETI® & Brumate

YETI® & Brumate Sale + Additional 15% off lowest price in cart! YETI® designs insulated tumblers and water bottles that are built tough for long use. Shop them here with another great brand. Note: Free shipping applies once the order minimum of $50 is reached. Free shipping applies to items in this event only. Standard shipping fees apply to items you may order from other events. Free shipping applies to US orders only.

Santa’s Workshop Up to 50% off + Additional 15% off lowest price in cart! Everyone at the North Pole is working around the clock to make sure everything fun is headed your way.

Warm With Flannel & Fleece Sheets Up to 65% off + Additional 15% off lowest price in cart! Good news — the temperature may be dropping, but so are our prices! Stay warm by bundling up with fleece and flannel sheets.

Beauty Tools Under the Tree Up to 70% off – Got a fashionista on your list? Fill their makeup bag with holiday cheer by stashing these beauty tools under the tree.

GlōGirl Cosmetics™ Sale – GlōGirl Cosmetics™ strives to celebrate and empower the diverse beauty of women and represent inclusive beauty globally. This is the new age of beauty, where the possibilities are limitless.

Affiliate Exclusive Early Access: Earth Elements for elevated foot comfort – Earth goes beyond simple comfort. Water-based nontoxic adhesives, vegetable-tanned leather and glue-free shoe boxes are a testament to their dedication to sustainability.

Your Home Has Real Character Sale – A full home is a happy home. Brighten your space with familiar faces by adding character décor, mugs and more finds your family will love.

Snowy Camping: Kids' Apparel

Ready for the Snow to Fly, Toddler to Big Kids – The flakes are falling, adventure and new looks are calling! Get your kiddos seriously snuggled up using toasty, trend-forward finds.

KINGART™ Up to 50% off – No matter your medium, KINGART™ can bring your next masterpiece to life with their professional-quality supplies for artists of all levels.

Happy Doll-idays Sale! – Here’s to a season full of festive fun and playful pals. Wrap up a special BFF with all the doll-iday accessories and furniture to match.

Footwear Wish List: Kids

Footwear Wish List: Kids Starting at $9.99 – What kid wants shoes for Christmas? When the pairs are this cool, the answer is: every kid!

Coziest Holiday Throws – You can’t beat the gift of coziness, and your whole circle will be raving about the supreme snuggle-fest they just unwrapped.

Hotel Essentials 4-Pack Gusseted Pillow Sets – Plush new pillows just can’t be beat, especially when they come in sets! Snag this four-pack today while we’ve got them for a steal.

Urban Republic: Baby to Women Up to 85% off – Urban Republic is dedicated to comfort. Check out their line of fashionable outerwear that keeps explorers of all ages cozy without sacrificing style.

Shipping & Handling Fees:

Domestic shipping & handling starts at $5.95 and will go up depending on how many items you order.
Shipping Tip: Since they offer FREE Shipping for the remainder of the day after your first order, if have you more than one item you are planning on purchasing, I recommend checking out with your first item, then doing a second order for the remainder of your purchases.

What is Zulily? Keep Reading…

Filed Under: Family Savings, Featured, Online Deals, Uncategorized

Sam’s Club Members: 2 Boxes ONLY $21.82! 896 ct. Box of Pampers Expressions Baby Wipes Fresh Bloom Scent

July 20, 2021 By carry Leave a Comment

If you love Online Shopping as much as we do, make sure you come over and join our “Online Deals – Check them out” Group on Facebook HERE, Where we share some of our favorite deals we find!


Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our links. You can view MCC’s Full Disclosure Policy HERE.

896 ct. Box of Pampers Expressions
Baby Wipes Fresh Bloom Scent

2 Boxes ONLY $21.82 after $10.00 Instant Savings
Valid thru August 8th, 2021

Sam’s Club Members Shop HERE

Instant Savings is subject to availability, valid dates, and a limit of 2 items per member. Additional purchases may be made at full retail price, unless otherwise restricted

  • 16 packs with 56 baby wipes each (896 wipes total)
  • Fragrant Fresh Bloom scent
  • One-wipe dispensing pop-top
  • Designer print packs

Filed Under: Diaper Deals, Family Savings, Featured, Online Deals

Paper Plate Yard Memory

April 21, 2020 By Leah Leave a Comment

Paper Plate Yard Memory

Pin HERE for later!

Now that the weather seems to be cooperating better, we are outside all we can.  In the never ending battle to keep kids entertained and busy, we gave this yard game a try.

Needing NOTHING special to make the game pieces, this is ideal for throwing together in just a few minutes.  All you need are some paper plates and the ‘matching’ pair images.

For the game piece matches use anything you can imagine.  I chose to print off Disney Characters in pairs, cut out and then Elmer’s glue them down to the front/top side of the plates.  We ended up with 46 plates or 23 images to match.  No set number is needed, this was just what I somehow randomly printed off!

If you do not have a printer, go right in and draw your own images right onto the plates!  There are so many ideas you can do!  Think shapes, colors, letters, animals, cars, etc.!

After the game pieces are made, step outside and lay them out.  Make rows and columns and start turning over.  Everyone takes a turn finding matches!

Did the plates blow away?

  • No, they held pretty firm to the grass, but I used heaver Dixie Brand plates because that is what I have.  I think if there was a heavy wind or big gust, it would scatter!  I think cheaper plates would work well for this too, as long as you were fairly sheltered from wind or it was a calm day.

Were the kids interested?

  • Yes, very much so.  Using the Disney characters kept them very interested, but it was something different and highly interactive. We did several rounds before putting it away for another day.  Both kids asked to set it up the second day.

Where to Play?

  • This worked outside in our lawn perfectly, but also would be fun to take camping, at a hotel or Air B&B, Birthday Party, or spread out in your living room on a rainy day!

Ideas for plate matches:

  • Fruits & Veggies
  • Upper and Lower Case Letters
  • Shapes
  • Colors
  • Numbers
  • Animals

 

Filed Under: Family Savings, Featured, This & That

Moon Foam – 2 Household Ingredients, HOURS of fun

April 9, 2020 By Leah Leave a Comment

 

Moon Foam – 2 Household Ingredients, HOURS of fun

Okay, we are ALL well past the “I AM BORED” stage of the current events.  We have built blanket forts, watched WAY to much Disney+ and Netflix, built every puzzle in the house, played games, done orbeez, read stories, played outside, constructed legos, Found Waldo, drawn and colored, and the list can go on and on.

Looking to mix up the play on a cool rainy day, I stumbled on this idea.  Using 2 common products, mix up a batch of the most amazing, soft, moldable play dough you have ever used!

In 2 minutes we mixed up a batch and gave the kids an hour of free play while I got dinner made!  This dough is more soft and almost taffy like than store bought dough, but it really was fun and had different texture that was very enticing.

Nolan found a few bigger plastic trucks and rolled though it making tire tracks and even some ‘boulders’ and lifted them to a dump truck.  Carlie was content rolling and flattening out pieces and cutting out ‘cookies’.

PLUS, using the conditioner made for a lovely smell and soft moisturized hands!

📍 Pin HERE for Later!

What you need:

  • 1 c. Corn Starch
  • 1/2 c. inexpensive hair conditioner
  • food coloring if desired

In a large mixing bowl combine the first 2 ingredients with a stiff spatula.  If the dough is a little too sticky, add a bit more starch.  I added about 1 additional TBSP to get a nice moldable consistency.  Once totally combined, add a few drops of food coloring and knead together with your hands.

Note: If playing on a wood table, I would recommend a cookie sheet to keep from sticking into the table cracks and crevices.  This was not messy, but slightly more tacky than regular play dough!

Filed Under: Featured, Fun for the Family, This & That, Uncategorized

Pasta Easter Egg Craft

March 21, 2020 By Leah Leave a Comment

If you love Online Shopping as much as we do, make sure you come over and join our “Online Deals – Check them out” Group on Facebook HERE, Where we share some of our favorite deals we find!


Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our links. You can view MCC’s Full Disclosure Policy HERE.

Are your kids cooped up and looking for something to do? Don’t worry, we are right there with you, too!  In an effort to find things to keep minds busy and avoid more screen time (we already are doing extensive e learning), I found this SIMPLE idea to make Decorated Paper Easter Eggs.

Using items you probably already have, turn the kids loose with some construction paper and glue! Talk about colors, shapes, sizes, textures, and encourage them to cut their eggs and sort the pasta.  There are endless ways to incorporate learning opportunities with this one!

What you need

  • Ziplock Baggies
  • Pasta in Different Shapes
  • Food Coloring
    I prefer gel colors because less is needed to get deep, true colors, but ANY will work! One brand I like are THESE.
  • Rubbing Alcohol or Vinegar
  • Construction Paper or Card Stock
  • Glue
  • Scissors

To color pasta

  1. Put a small portion of pasta into a ziplock bag (about 1/3 c.) Add a few drops of rubbing alcohol to the bag and a few drops of food coloring.  You don’t need much alcohol to spread the color around.  Just enough to make it slightly fluid.  I would say about 1/2 tsp.
  2. Seal the bag up tight and shake it around.  Once pasta has taken on the color, pour it out onto a sheet of newspaper or parchment paper.
  3. Repeat for each additional color – be sure to space dyed pasta on the paper so they don’t run together until dry.
  4. After a few hours you can shake the paper around to turn the pasta to make sure it gets evenly dry.
  5. Allow to dry overnight.  The rubbing alcohol will evaporate and leaves the pasta a rich color and still completely dry and hard.
  6. If pieces stick together, gently roll with dry fingers and they break loose.
  7. Vinegar would also work in place of the alcohol, but will not evaporate as quickly.
  8. We used penne, bowties, stars, broken spaghetti, and a short cut tube pasta I had.

Make the eggs

  • Using construction paper or card stock, cut out an egg shape.
  • Paste the pasta onto the egg in any pattern you like.  Be sure to talk about the shapes and patterns as you work.  Encourage your crafters to be creative and spot the patterns whether a shape or color!
  • Note, we used q-tips to apply the glue to the paper and then placed the pasta on top.  Putting the glue on the pasta proved (1) hard to manipulate (2) made the color start to bleed.
  • OVERALL, this was nearly mess free.  If the pasta got too much glue, it did bleed a little but putting the glue to the paper first seemed to keep this under control.

 

Mess Free Easter Egg Coloring!

Easter Egg Pops

 

Filed Under: Around the House, Featured, Fun for the Family, This & That, Uncategorized Tagged With: Craft, Easter, Easter Eggs, Kids Crafts, Preschool Crafts

Quick and Easy Meals on a Budget

March 16, 2020 By carry Leave a Comment

Quick and Easy Meals on a Budget

Written By: Annette Dahlke Schladweiler

First, start by making a list of your family’s favorite meals.  These are the ones you should always have on hand, because sometimes life happens and you just need to know you can grab the quick and easy throw together meal that no one will fuss over (unless you have a toddler, because we know their taste buds change daily, LOL).  If you can afford, and have the resources, to store bulk meat, consider buying a portion of a hog or a quarter or half beef; this not only supports your local meat shop and butcher, but also local farmers who are just trying to keep THEIR families fed as well. We buy bulk when we can, and then separate chicken breasts and freeze individually (if I find a fresh pack on sale, otherwise we use the bags of IQF).

Our Favorite SIMPLE Meals

  1. Macaroni and Cheese with a can of tuna tossed in, or cheapo kid hot dogs either on the side or chopped and put in.  Warm up some veggies and you have a complete meal.
  2. Eggs and toast, french toast, or an egg bake – we have chickens, enough said. Currently no one in our neighborhood is lacking eggs, especially us. I think we have 6 dozen in our fridge, which is why we eat so many. But really, eggs are a fairly cheap protein option.  Many people don’t realize, they are also freezable if you scramble them first, so when i get too overwhelmed we scramble and put them in 2 and 6 egg portion bags to freeze, those sizes are perfect for baking or making a meal. They last approximately 4-6 months.
  3. Spaghetti. A pound of burger, can of tomato sauce, can of tomato paste, and seasonings.  Boil the noodles, warm up veggies and supper is served. This can also be made ahead and layered into a pan so that anyone who can cook a pizza can warm it up for when you get home.
  4. Chicken Alfredo. My recipe. Two smallish chicken breasts, chopped and cooked. Add 8 oz cream cheese, roughly ⅔ cup sour cream, about ½ cup white cooking wine and enough chicken broth to get it to the consistency you like. Sometimes we add in precooked mushrooms or broccoli, depending on our mood. Serve over Alfredo or penne noodles.
  5. Stroganoff. Ground burger, can of cream of mushroom soup, a little water or broth, and serve over egg noodles. And of course, veggies.
  6. Tacos. We love tacos. We also love enchiladas, either beef and rice or chicken and rice. Add a side of corn and black beans and you’re set!  Make a little extra meat and sprinkle the meat over tortilla chips for a fun nacho lunch the next day. (I made simple enchiladas – meat, cooked rice and a little cheese in tortilla, roll up and put in pan. Cover with a mixture made with a can of cream of chicken soup, half cup of sour cream and about half the soup can of milk. Sprinkle on a little cheese and bake for 20 minutes.)
  7. Wraps and Sandwiches – we always have hard salami, ham or turkey, and pepperoni for lunch meats, PB&J, along with bread and soft tortilla shells.  Make a sandwich or wrap and grab a jar of fruit. Easy lunch. We do this 2-4 times a week.  NOTE For wraps, put a thin layer of cream cheese, sprinkle on shredded cheese and put 2-3 pieces of lunch meat. I have one kid that prefers pepperjack, so she skips the shredded cheese and just uses a piece of “her” cheese to go on her pepperoni and pepperjack wrap. And those little pickles with cream cheese wrapped in ham can be recreated as a wrap with cream cheese, ham and sandwich slicer pickles (just put between paper towels to get liquid off first.
  8. Use French Bread – grab french bread when it’s clearanced if you can. We cut, butter, season, and flash freeze for garlic bread.  We also use french bread to make pizza – cut the bread in half lengthwise and hollow out, leaving at least a half inch of bread still in the loaf halves. Brown a pound of burger – for taco pizza add regular seasoning, for cheeseburger pizza add an 8 oz can of tomato sauce (sometimes we add bacon too). Put the burger into the two hollowed out halves of bread and sprinkle on cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted. Add a quick side salad or veggie.

Fix and Forget it Meals

  1. Crock Pot Chicken – throw a full chicken in the crock pot and season however you’d like.  Use the leftovers to make soup and freeze, either in a large family batch, or smaller portions for lunch.
  2. Simple Pulled Pork – throw a pack of pork ends in the crock pot. You’ll probably want to drain off SOME liquid, but not all or it gets too dry (my husband learned this the hard way LOL).  Put on a bun and serve with french fries, or over bread with mashed potatoes.
  3. Meatballs – this is not a super cheap meal option unless you find a good sale, so we make our own.  A 3 pound tube of ground beef made into meatballs will last a long time. If you thaw meat, you CAN cook it and refreeze (but you shouldn’t just refreeze). Mix the meat mixture like for meatloaf, roll into 1” balls and bake at 350 degrees for roughly 25 minutes.  Let cool, bag and freeze. We put foil on the cookie sheets, one time scraping burger bits off was enough to learn my lesson. You can reheat in crockpot or on the stove top.
  4. Soups – homemade soups are THE BEST and all cream soups start with essentially the same base.  Here it is by ratio so you can more or less based on your needs (we do one of these per person).
  • Cream Soup Base – in sauce pan put 1 Tbsp butter, melt. If you want more flavor use a little bacon grease to replace the butter. Add 1 Tbsp flour and whisk together (it will get thick, fast. Slowly add 1 cup broth (I use mostly chicken because of food allergies in the family), then one cup milk.  For potato soup, precook your potatoes and add to cream base. For cheddar broccoli add chopped broccoli (blend up) and few handfuls cheddar cheese. For tomato soup, omit the chicken stock and replace with tomato sauce.
  • Make a big batch of chili, or white chicken chili (use the leftovers from the crockpot chicken) to come home to. YUM!

Make Ahead Meals

Anyone who can make a pizza, can put these in the oven so they’re ready to eat. 

  1. Tater Tot Hotdish
  2. Buffalo Chicken Bake
  3. Tuna Hotdish
  4. Oven Baked Potatoes – chunk potatoes and put in baking dish, cover with foil and cook like you would as potato packets on the grill, only in the oven! Usually 425 degrees for 45-60 minutes is about right.

My Go-To Sides

Quick and easy sides that kids can make themselves or for you to whip up when you get home are wonderful. These are some of our favorites…

  • Lunch – carrot sticks, celery sticks, fresh or canned fruit.
  • Supper – Potato (so many ways to make – chunk, cover and bake in oven; baked; mashed to name a  few), Rice, Couscous, Quinoa, and we almost always have a frozen veggie along with potato.

Good for You Snacks – yogurt, fruit (buy on sale in season), string cheese (not individually packed), a few crackers, cottage cheese, parfait, hard boiled egg, homemade cookies, rice krispie or corn flake bars, homemade granola bars, a box of raisins

Final note.  Portion control is a huge part of all this.  Learning what the serving size recommendations are for each age group and start with about that or a little less.  They can always ask for more. Also, sit down and talk about the day or events that are happening. This is a two fold win – they are learning to discuss and take turns, and it also forces them to slow down while eating. It takes roughly twenty minutes to start feeling full, so those who eat slower also tend to eat less because they are better able to read the bodies’ signals.

My background is child care, stay-at-home mom while my husband worked seasonally, and now homeschooling mom working full time as the only income.  Budgeting and having a base of food has been a necessity for most of my adult life. We feed a family of 5 three meals a day for roughly $50-60 a month, it can be done, it just takes some planning.  I will add that with my child care background and having to follow the food program, as well as having a child who was anemic at one year who was unable to tolerate iron supplements, I am a stickler for making sure that we meet daily requirements most days for food groups.  I encourage my kids (and numerous other children I have cared for over the years) to try new things by letting them participate in choosing and making their meals.

 

Filed Under: Family Savings, Miscellaneous, Money Saving Tips, Recipes, Uncategorized

What’s in my Fridge – How I Stock and Organize my Refrigerator

June 13, 2019 By Leah Leave a Comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on our links. You can view MCC’s Full Disclosure Policy HERE.

Hi, my name is Leah and I am an OVERPLANNER!  One of those I need to know what is happening tomorrow, yesterday types. Yup, that is me! While these traits are annoying A LOT of the time, I have found that planning, list making, and over thinking has made me a pretty organized person who is prepared for most things at anytime!

One thing I have become VERY obedient about is keeping a well stocked pantry, freezer and refrigerator.  This allows me freedom to make a nice variety of meals, pack kid’s lunches quickly, and almost always have ingredients on hand to whip up a favorite dessert without a last minute grocery run.

Since I have 2 young kids, plus babysit, you will notice my fridge runs more ‘family friendly’ but I think these tips and ideas will inspire you to get the most out of your budget and more bang out of every day ingredients!

📍 Pin HERE for later!

Let’s explore what I consider fridge MUST haves and why I always keep these on hand.

Milk – a gallon or two always on hand. When grabbing it at the store ALWAYS look for the furthest expiration date.  This is an easy habit to start when shopping the refrigerated section.  Nothing is worse than getting home and realize your milk only has 2 days left before the best buy date when you can get a gallon with a date 10 days or 2 weeks out!

Eggs – 2 or 3 dozen at all times.  A breakfast must have and with 4 kids each morning a dozen doesn’t last long!  Plus I am an avid baker and seem to go through them quite quickly. Eggs have a super long shelf life so don’t be afraid to stock up on a good sale.  Hard boiled eggs can become deviled eggs for any potluck in minutes. Read how to cook them in the Pressure Cooker HERE!

Heavy Cream – I always have at least a pint on hand.  It is a staple for adding to sauces, soups, and gravy for an extra thick, rich base.   Using leftovers for soups is a BIG part of my meal planning.  Adding a few tablespoons of cream to a basic soup puts it over the top and seems like hours were spent making it.  Not only for savory dishes, heavy cream makes THE BEST frosting and glazes.  Add to powdered sugar and you have a pourable glaze for cookies and cinnamon rolls.  Check out this iced lemon cookie recipe for inspiration!

Butter/Margarine – Always REAL stick butter for baking, gravies, and sauces.  I keep at least one pound in the fridge. Find it on sale, grab extra and store in the deep freezer for up to 6 months!  I keep spreadable margarine for toast and sandwiches.  I don’t use it often, but it is nice for quick grilled cheese or spreading on toast.

Sour Cream – a MUST for tacos, stroganoff, baked potatoes and many other recipes including baked goods.  It too has a LONG expiration date, so don’t be afraid to buy a few when it is on sale!  Try this taco breakfast casserole for a change up at your next brunch!

Cream Cheese – Load up on this when it is on sale – the expiration dates go out for MONTHS!  I use this for buffalo chicken dip, cheesecake, frosting, smeared on bagels, and of course Pickle/Ham Rolls.  Learn how to make Micki’s family cheesecake recipe HERE (you will never believe how she makes the crust!)

Pita bread &/or Soft Tortillas – mini pizzas, quesadillas, chicken or tuna salad wraps and tacos are always an option when these are kept stocked.  Plus, quarter the pita bread, brush with olive oil, season with salt and bake until crisp for a warm fresh cracker for dipping in humus, pizza dip, olive salad and MORE!

Beef & Chicken Base – I buy these in larger tubs at Sam’s Club or GFS, however, you can find it at any grocery store in the soup/broth aisle.  NEVER be without broth again when you keep these these bullion style flavorings.  Make soups, gravies, sauces and more anytime.  These French Onion Meatballs use Beef Broth and will become a FAVORITE dinner option!

Cheese – I am from the Midwest so you KNOW it is practically it’s own food group in our house!  I like to have several blocks of cheese for snacking or grating.  Cheddar and co-jack are my mainstays.  However, mozzarella and provolone are staples too!  I keep a bag of shredded cheese stocked also.  Generally a 4 cheese blend for tacos, pizza, quesadillas, etc.  American cheese slices are a must with kids.  Grilled cheese sandwiches are a go to lunch or late night dinner!  Find some AMAZING grilled cheese tips HERE!

Fresh Fruit – Apples, Oranges and Lemons are ALWAYS in my fridge.  Typically some berries and grapes (or anything seasonally available and on sale) are chilling, too.  I keep a washable plastic basket at kid level full of fruit.  The kids can help themselves and are easily drawn to it when it is at their level.  Lemons are handy for adding freshness to many meals and is a must have for lots of baked goods (like this Lemon Poppyseed Bread).

Kid’s Drawer – One drawer is designated with kid friendly, grab & go items.  Whether it is a snack on the run, packing lunches, or a fast breakfast, these keep the kids happy and able to self serve!  Cheese sticks, yogurt cups, beef sticks, baby carrots, Gogurts and Danimals.  My yogurt stash is rotated heavily with whatever is on sale or has coupons (find printable coupons HERE).  I always keep a quart of plain or vanilla yogurt for smoothies or fruit parfaits, too.

A few more items that are mandatory

    • Dressings – Ranch, Western, Italian (great for making pasta salads!!)
    • Mayo, Ketchup, Mustard, Worcestershire Sauce, Jelly, Pickles
    • Cooked chicken that I prep once a week – dinner is ready in snap without having to thaw and prep a protein
    • Lunchables or Protein snack packs (not an everyday item, but lunch on the run or for fun picnics)
    • Juice boxes and Gatorade
    • Canned Biscuits or Crescents – Lots of meal options with these on hand. Crescent chicken is a fav.
    • Refrigerated Cookie Dough – I bake from scratch most of the time, but occasionally its nice to just toss some in the oven for a quick treat!
    • Sliced cheese & lunch meat for sandwiches and wraps
    • Lettuce or bagged salad
    • Prewashed veggies like broccoli and carrots.  I roast them often for a side dish and use the left overs for soups or stir fry.

Now will all these ideas work for your family? NO, but hopefully you can find some inspiration for better meal planning or stretching your budget.

Do I keep my fridge this organized? YES!  It has taken me a long time to get a good system into place.  Don’t try and take it all on at once.  Focus on one area and slowly get your own method down and stick with what works.

Keeping drawers and bins organized and sorted is necessary to know what is on hand.  I got these Y-Weave ones from Target HERE.  As an additional note, I clean out leftovers and bins once a week.  Every Sunday I purge or freeze any leftovers from the previous week and check expiration dates.  Never let leftovers build up and consume the space.  Don’t be afraid to freeze leftovers for a use later.  Cooked proteins like chicken or ground beef freeze great and make meal prep later so simple!  Chili, spaghetti, and even Sloppy Joes freeze and reheat better than the original meal!  Items you may not think to freeze include mashed potatoes (great for soups later) and shredded cheese.  Don’t let these items waste away in your refrigerator.

I also find keeping my leftovers in clear containers helps me use them.  I never have the ‘mystery’ container everyone is afraid to open!  Plus, if they are stored at the front, in plain sight, it is easy to use them up whether reheated or as as leftover makeover!

If you are struggling with meal prep always look to re-purpose at least one meal a week.  For example chili on Sunday becomes chili dogs or loaded baked potatoes later in the week.  One prep, two meals!  With a good fridge inventory, you will have shredded cheese and sour cream on hand for either one of these meals.

Filed Under: Family Savings, Featured, Recipes

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