Summer Survival Sweepstakes by Jamba Juice

I entered this contest and I thought you might like to as well. As it would be so much fun to visit Jamica As I have never been there. Have you? Or would you like to go?

                                                                        Good Luck!!!!




Glenda, Charlie and David Cates

SummerFest at Gaylord Texan would be fun for Charlie!!

Do you have a child in your home who loves to cook? Then I think you should check out this discount. As I know Charlie would love it. He has taken cooking classes in the past and misses being able to. So even David and I are thinking of checking into it. As it would be something fun for Charlie to do before school starts back.

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates

Cutter All Family Insect Repellent

Cutter All Family Insect Repellent is something we have been using this Summer in place of the products we usually use to see if it would work as well. Which I must tell you it does. Plus it does not have a strong scent like some of the other products we have used in the past.

I like that it is not greasy and how easy it is to rub in. David likes the fact that it comes in a plastic bottle instead of a can as he says it takes up less room in our bags. Plus it is easier to dispose of. Charlie says the bottle is easier for him to hold and spray than the usual can is.

Knowing it repels Mosquitoes that can carry the West Nile virus is wonderful because both Charlie and David live outside and this relieves some of the worry I have. Plus I like knowing this as Charlie loves playing in water and it can draw Mosquitoes.

All in all we loved Cutter All Family Insect Repellent and it is something we will be keeping in our medicine cabinet because no matter what time of the year we will be able to use it and be safe from pesky bugs.

Have you used Cutter All Family Insect Repellent? If not would you? Or why wouldn't you?

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Crystal Light, Fruit Punch

With my working hard to lose weight I have been looking for new items to drink. So as a Kool Aid lover knowing how much sugar it takes to make a picture I have been trying to stay away from it. Although they do have a Sugar Free variety and it is is good. I ended up tired of it. 

So when I was in Walmart the other day I started to look around for something new to drink and I thought of Crystal Light. So as I looked at all the different flavors I found the Fruit Punch. Knowing how much Charlie and I love Fruit Punch I decided to purchase it. Boy am I ever glad I did as it taste so good. The flavor is crisp and there is just the right amount of fruit taste. I like knowing there is no sugar inside it. It makes the perfect drink for a hot Texas Summer day. 

David and Charlie liked it as much as I did. They both said they like the Fruit taste of the Fruit Punch. Plus they love knowing it has no Sugar inside it. Knowing there is no fat is awesome as well. Plus even Charlie can make this without making a mess which is terrific as I can work and always know we will have something to drink. 

Stay Light

Water has never tasted so decadent. With a medley of delectable flavors, Crystal Light puts a bold spin on “diet drinks” and introduces you to a lighter way to live. Create a delicious refreshment with our mixes - whether you and your 4-inch heels are turning sidewalks into catwalks or you’re meeting the ladies for an after-work gossip session. So let that hair down, put on that mini skirt and enjoy low calorie, zero guilt Crystal Light.

Fruit Punch

Monday might be a quiet Iced Tea kind of day. But Friday could bring on a kick-your-heels-up Fruit Punch mood. No matter how you want to Stay Light, there is a Crystal Light Classic sugar-free flavor to satisfy your thirst.

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Summer Airplane Travel with Infant Made Easy With FlyeBaby

Hammock-Style Infant Plane Seat Comforts Baby While Offering Hands-Free Convenience

Thinking about planning your summer family vacation? Weighing the options of a stay-cation versus getting on an airplane with your infant?  The daunting thought of a crying, restless baby, and angry plane neighbors can surely tip the scale in favor of a boring stay-cation. Have no fear... FlyeBaby offers easy, safe, hands-free travel with baby this summer!

FlyeBaby is the winner of the 2013 Product of the Year Award by Baby Maternity Magazine, winner of Mom’s Choice Awards, and was named onZulily.com’s 2014 Best Sellers list.  

The FlyeBaby is a one-of-a-kind infant airplane seat designed for face-to-face interaction between you and your baby during cruise portion of the flight. (NOT for use during taxi, take-off, landing or turbulence).

FlyeBaby simply attaches around your waist and to the seat in front of you, creating a comfortable hammock-style seat that safely supports your child. FlyeBaby’s color-coded straps make it easy to set up. Its convenient hands-free design allows you to easily tend to your child while he/she relaxes or sleeps peacefully through the flight. FlyeBaby features a 5-point restraint harness keeping baby safe and comfortable.

Upon leaving the aircraft, FlyeBaby folds up quickly and conveniently into an included carry bag,  and attaches to most chairs easily, instantly converting them into a high chair. A perfect item for on-the-go parents!

FlyeBaby is $49.95 and available for purchase at amazon.com;scsdirectinc.com and specialty retailers across the country.

*FlyeBaby was designed with FAA consultation and is not approved for airplane use during taxi, take-off, landing or turbulence and should never be used in place of a car seat.

 

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Chocolate Spice Cake Recipe

I have always loved Chocolate Spice cake like my school used to make. Or we can get at Furs when we go out to eat. But since we do not do that too often I thought I would try and make my own for David's Birthday next week.

So since I am making it I thought you might also enjoy the recipe. If you have ever made it how did it turn out? Would you fix it again or is there something else you would rather have?

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 20 min. Bake: 40 min. + cooling

MAKES: 16 servings

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1-1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons brewed coffee, room temperature, divided
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons baking cocoa,divided
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1-1/2 cups raisins
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1-1/3 cups confectioners' sugar

• Directions

  1. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until well blended. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in applesauce and 1/2 cup coffee. Combine the flour, 1/4 cup baking cocoa, cinnamon, baking soda, allspice, salt and cloves; gradually beat into creamed mixture until blended. Fold in raisins and walnuts.
  2. Pour into a 10-in. fluted tube pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the confectioners' sugar and remaining baking cocoa and coffee; drizzle over cake. Yield: 16 servings.
  Originally published as Raisin-Nut Chocolate Cake in Healthy Cooking April/May 2010, p50

 Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Fat Daddy's has redone there "PATIO" making it the place to be!!

On July 3rd I was able to attend a complimentary event with DFW Bloggers. Along with my husband at Fat Daddy's in Mansfield. As part of there newly renovated patio and the "Back to Black Star Spangled Hammered Tour"!!

Did you know Fat Daddy's in Mansfield has recently renovated there Patio? 

So a group of Bloggers was invited out to check out the Patio and I was included. I was so excited as I needed a day out and so did David. 

   

Once we arrived we walked in and was Blown away with the decor and them having a Car up on display as well as one hanging from the Roof. So after looking at them for a few minutes we went on to our table. Which was right in the middle of the room so we could see everything. 

 I wanted to get out on the newly renovated  patio as I love being able to sit outside when we eat. As it reminds me of people being in Paris. So David and I walked out and I was blown away by both the bar and the fireplace. As I could see cuddling up in front of it on a cold winter night.

So David and I walked around and I was amazed by the size of the TV they had up. Later I found out they was 80 inches. Could you imagine having this in your home? David, says he could and then asked me for one. But between you and me this is not something he will get anytime soon.

As we walked around I pointed out the doors to David as they was garage doors and so cool looking. David asked me what I thought of the Beams and they was totally gorgeous. I would have liked taking them home. 

As we walked around I noticed all the fans they had up which was 18 of them.  So no matter where you sit at you would not get hot as a fan would be close by.  I told David I was going to sit down a bit as my leg was hurting so I found a very pretty red couch and I just sat and watched the people come and go. 

I liked knowing they had a Outside Stage as it would be nice to bring a group of friends and just hang out there with them. David and I was told by the waitress they host a Harley Davidson night and he wants to come back out for it with his friends. Which would be nice as David never does anything like that.

As we looked at the cards on the table I saw they host a Poker night and David loves playing Poker so I told him he should come out and play one night. Once he learned it was Sanctioned and the winner could go to Vegas he was all for joining in. 

As we walked around inside we found a Dance Floor,  not that David or I dance but it might entice us to take lessons as it would be something new. Which we could do as a Couple. As we need to do more things without Charlie as one day he will not want to go with us. So now, is the time to make new hobbies. Plus it would allow us to bring back the "ROMANCE" which we need. 

As I walked around the more I feel in love with the Patio and hosting a Birthday Party for David here as he turns 50 in just a couple weeks. So I know his friends would love it here as the food is "YUMMY". They could ride there bikes and sit out on the Patio and just chill. Or go inside and listen to the Music because with the Summer Music lineup I know I could find a concert everyone would enjoy. 

If we came at 6 and had dinner Charlie could come with us. Then Charlie and I could leave at 9:30 as it is 21 and over after that. Which would allow David to stay and hang out with the guys. With a full bar I would just have to make sure they have a Designated Driver as I am sure the guys would find all kinds of drinks to try out  while they played Pool. 

Throughout the Night we was given a tour and there is a room that you can book for parties and so I am going to talk to David's work and see if they would like to book it this year for the Christmas Party. As the place we booked it at last year no one liked as it was not what we expected. 

My downfall was I found out they had different desserts. So I had to try out the Brownie Sundae and it was so good. You must try it if you come to Fat Daddy's. David tried out the Raspberry Cheesecake and he liked it as well. He said my sister would have loved it as well as it had Dark Chocolate on it and she loves that. The gentleman next to me ordered a Peach Cobbler and it also looked really good and he says it was great. 



If you are in Dallas or Fort Worth this is the perfect place to get away for a evening of fun food and entertainment. Or  if you know of someone visiting Texas I would suggest you bring them out for a Concert or some time out on the Patio for a nice drink and some yummy food!!


Full Disclosure: Our food and entertainment was provided as guests of Fat Daddy’s.  All opinions and photos are 100% my own.


Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Charlie loves Despicable Me and the Minions

But if I must confess I do as well. David likes knowing there is one called Dave. I just like the purple one and also the one in the Hawaiian outfit. I just think there should be a girl. But Charlie and David do not think so. As for Charlie he loves all of them and every movie that is out about them.

He has curtains in his room with them on it. Plus stickers. Then last night while walking around Targets we ended up in the school supply aisle and David and Charlie found a note book and also a Crayon Bag. I found a lunch kit and back pack. So know we know which items Charlie wants for school. Shopping will be easier and faster.

Next is school clothes and I bet you half of them have Minions on them as well. If not I am going to be totally surprised. As we can not walk into any store without him stopping at the Shirts to see if there is new Minion T Shirts.

Charlie is also counting down to his Birthday and has already picked out the Minion cake and cupcakes he wants for his Birthday. Plus I have found some Minions I want to get him for his Birthday. Including the Fart Gun.

All three of us are counting down to when the Movie comes out and we have already decided we will have to purchase it on DVD without even seeing it. As I know Charlie will want to add it to his collection. As he has the other two movies and watches them over and over and over.

So today I would like to share with you a fun Craft I found on The Latest Musings which is called How To Make Minion Puppets as I know Charlie would love them. Plus we can make them for the Goody Bags I will be handing out at his Birthday party.
How-to-make-minion-stick-puppets

If you like this then Please check out Erika's Blog The Latest Musings 
 You will find so many fun and unique stories on her site.

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Camerons All Purpose Open Fire Grill

Everyone knows yesterday was "FATHERS DAY" and that most men like to grill. So for David this year for "Fathers Day" I wanted to get him something new and unusual. So as I looked for something I did not find anything I liked. Until I received a email and it mentioned  Camerons All Purpose Open Fire Grill. As David will cook out every day no matter what type of weather we are having.

So today I would like to share with you my thoughts on Camerons All Purpose Open Grill                   and David's reaction to it. But before I do I would like to let you know I was sent                           Camerons All Purpose Open Grill for the review.

On Saturday we went shopping for groceries for "Fathers Day". As we walked though the store David mentioned he would like to a Steak and to have it cooked on the grill. But that we was out of gas for the grill so that was out. But I told him to get the Steak and see if he could use his moms grill which he was not crazy about.

Or I could take him out to get a steak but he did not want to go out to eat. So he ended up purchasing some Pork Chops and when he went to pay for them. I called his mom and asked if she was going to the store and if so if she would purchase the Steak for me. Which she did,

So on "Fathers Day" we got up and Charlie gave David his gifts which was a shirt and a card. Then we left to go swimming. Once we returned David said I am hungry so I went and got him his present from me. It was the Steak. Once he opened it David asked me how he was supposed to cook it. I said there is a stove in there you can use.

Or if you would run out to the grill and check and see if there is any gas we can cook it on there. So he thought I had filled up the tank, Which I didn't do. But once he walked up to the grill he saw a bag of Kingsford Charcoal and Camerons All Purpose Open Fire Grill and Charlies tents and the items to make Smores so they could camp out in the yard.

David was so surprised. David  just could not quit asking me where I had gotten the grill from. So I brought him inside and showed David the website.  Once on it he found several other items he would like to have,



So he got the Steak ready to cook and low and behold it started to rain. So we was not able to use the grill which upset David so next weekend we are going to plan another Cook Out and Sleep Out and I hope the Weather does not mess with us as we both want to use the grill so badly!!

In the meantime I have somethings I want to share with you that I like about it. One is it comes with a carrying case so I can take it anywhere with us. Which means when we Camp out we will have a way to cook,

Plus it has a non stick cooking surface. Which I like as it means anything we cook will not stick. So I can make Fish for Davids mom as she loves fish. Plus I can cook veg eatables on it. I like how it holds up to 6 lbs as this is enough food for several people.

It is small enough that when traveling it will not take up much space in the car. Plus it is easy to clean. It is reusable which is nice. I also like knowing it comes with a 1 year warranty. This way if something happens to it they will fix it. But I bet it will last and the only thing that will happen is that we wear it out. As we will use it so much!!

Look what I stuck on top of the Box!! It is my box to make "Stuffed Hamburgers" because as soon as David gets his Steak done. The next item I would like for him to make is Stuffed Hamburgers for Debbie and I. As I love love love Hamburgers and this grill will make out of the world burgers for Debbie and I!!! 

YOUR GRILL THIS SUMMER

Burgers and dogs are the standard grill items for embracing the start of summer and celebrating Dad’s infamous barbequing skills.  Why not give your Dad something he reallyneeds: a better way to BBQ! Give him the new grill items he needs to cook a delicious, flavorful, wood-infused meal that would be the envy of any Food Network celebrity chef!

A 2013 study conducted by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) shows that 80 percent of all U.S. households own a grill or smoker. If you’re part of this category, it’s time for dad to hone his grilling and smoking skills with Camerons Portable Camping Grill, Open-Fire Pit Grill, Stovetop Smoker and smoking accessories!

Smoked foods are becoming an increasing trend for barbequing in 2015.  Our products are perfect to keep your Dad barbequing with pride over his deliciously grilled and smoked foods this Father’s Day!

We are GRILLING YOU for your “Best Advice From Dad!”

Visit www.cameronsproducts.com/contest and share your best advice from dad to win a Camerons Summer Grilling package. *Contest runs until June 22, 2015”

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates

Melt Ice Cream

With Summer here I am on the lookout for new places to take Charlie and I am bound and determined to do something new each weekend. So since we all love Ice Cream the other day when I was going through my emails I found out about a new Ice Cream store in Fort Worth.



The store is called Melt and I can not wait to take both Charlie and David as they love Ice Cream. Now before you say anything I know Ice Cream is not on my diet and I do not have to get anything. But if I do one scoop would not be bad because the rest of the month I would not have any dessert.

So have you heard of Melts? Have you been? If not would you go?

954 W. Rosedale Street, Fort Worth, TX 76104 CLICK HERE FOR DRIVING DIRECTIONS

Networking | Neighborhood Updates | Drinks Melt Ice Creams is the brainchild of Fairmount resident and photographer Kari Crowe-Seher.  If you haven't made a visit to her cheery little yellow ice cream heaven you've been missing out on the some of the most flavorful and well crafted cold treats in all of North Texas.  MELT is a craft ice cream shop that makes American classic ice cream using fresh and seasonal fruit for made-from-scratch sauces and compotes. Translation: They don't run a mill, rotely cut cookies or line up to assemble anything they sell. Instead, Kari and her team push the envelope of creativity to produce unique, creamy concoctions like no other, anywhere.  Listen to their commitment to process: MELT partners with local businesses to use quality ingredients that are created with passion. Our regular menu consists of six flavors that rotate monthly, with a special offering on most Saturdays. We make caramel from scratch and hand-stretch our peppermint. We use organic herbs like basil and rosemary to make better-tasting natural ice cream. We toast nuts to bring out their aroma. We boil down balsamic with fresh berries for a tangy flavor. Melt exists to serve happy ice cream, one scoop at a time. We believe treats can change your day and your day can change the world.  So we invite you to meet Kari and the entire Melt team as you enjoy a root beer or beer float from Melt Ice Creams!     PARKING   Please make sure to park in the FREE Alston Avenue parking garage located just South of Melt Ice Creams at 1201 Alston Avenue.

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates 

Fair Park is somewhere I would like to go.

As it is not somewhere I have ever been. But I know there is a lot to do that my family would enjoy. As I drove by it one day. So when I found out they had this Aquarium designed for kids I knew before the end of Summer we would have to go. So know it is just convincing David and Charlie to come with me. But if I show Charlie the website and that they have fish I know he will want to go. So in the meantime I thought I would share this picture with you I found.



Have you been to Fair Park? If so what do you like to do when there? If not why haven't you gone? Now that you know about the Aquarium would this make you more likely or less likely to go?

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates

Scooter's Coffee invites you to join and celebrate 30-days of Summer this June!!

Scooter's Coffee invites you to join us and celebrate 30-days of Summer this June! 

Each week we will be featuring four new flavors of our best summer drinks and pastries. Try one, or even better, try them all. We double-dog dare you to.

Summer is far from over! Mark your calendars for June 28th - 30th for our Happy Hour Bash! At any Scooter's Coffee location receive 1/2 off any iced coffee, fruit n' ice, blender or pastry from 4p - 6p at any location!

url to direct to for facebook https://www.facebook.com/ScootersCoffee 

url to direct to for Instagram https://instagram.com/scooterscoffee/ 

url to direct to for twitter https://twitter.com/scooterscoffee

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates

Try Batiste for the days you do not have time to wash your hair.

Today I would like to share another product I found through Tomoson which is Batiste Dry Shampoo  and was sent for a review. Before I begin  the review though I would like to let you know I was sent one can of Batiste  but the thoughts in the review are all mine and mine alone.

My step daughter Leslie is in High School ROTC and she is always having to go out and do camp outs and things. Being a teenager she hates when her hair is a mess and so I thought it would be fun to try out Batiste  and if it worked to purchase some for her as school starts soon.

Once my can of Batiste arrived I showed it to her and my Niece as they where both going to the Water Park that day and asked to take it and share it with there friends. So I knew Leslie and Alex liked it.

I called Leslie  that night to see how Batiste  worked and neither Leslie or Alex   could stop RAVING  about Batiste  and asked me to send them the link to the website as they and there friends wanted to purchase some so they would have it when they went back to school.

I asked them if they had saved any for me to try and they did which was nice as I also saw for myself how well it worked. I even had both David and Charlie use some and they agreed it would be nice to have on hand.

I liked that Batiste  did not make my hair greasy or that it did not weigh it down. The smell was nice but not too overpowering.

 I think it would make a nice gift for a Teenager or a Bride who is going on her Honeymoon to the Beach or the Ocean.

I would even use Batiste on  small children as it did not bother Charlie and it helped when we where out and about and his hair ended up all sweaty.

I know if my mother and sister knew about it they also would order some and try it out as they travel a lot.

I was sent Batiste Dry Shampoo in Floral and Flirty Blush. I was afraid the scent would be overpowering but it was not. In face once it was in my hair I could barely smell it so someone who is sensitive to fragrances could still use this. I liked knowing it is made with Rich Starch instead of Cornstarch as Cornstarch will weigh your hair down.

Another thing I like is that if you color  your hair they have items that will help with the 

Touch Ups.  So this is something else I can not wait to try out.

Plus my family  wants  to check out some of the different fragrances and I know to watch the site as they come out with new ones all the time.

 Batiste offers y  a wide variety of items and I can not wait to try them out. If you would like to as well you can see them at: http://www.neotericcosmetics.com/batiste/products.html

They also offer a newsletter and I signed up and I hope you will as well.

If you are looking for a way to make some extra cash you should check out there affiliate program as I may.

They even have items for a Diabetic and since my mother and brother n law both are I will be looking into these items as I would like to order them some for Christmas.

If you have not heard of Batiste I hope you take the time to check it out as I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I did.

Product Description

Summers are full of events, outdoor activities and long weekends. Batiste is a quick and convenient way to give your hair the boost it needs! Batiste banishes oily roots and revitalizes greasy, dull & lifeless hair between washes, without water. Most dry shampoos are made with corn starch - but not Batiste! It's made with rice starch, which is lighter on your hair so it won't weigh it down or leave a heavy residue! It can also be used to add volume to fine hair. Give Batiste a try when you're running late, camping, or just because you want to!

 http://www.neotericcosmetics.com/batiste/products.html

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlphaHydrox 
Twitter: @alphahydrox

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

 Glenda, Charlie and David

Firmoo Eyeglass Giveaway

Firmoo Eye Glass Company is sponsoring a giveaway for my readers!!

Free Eyeglasses, Free Sunglasses, Free Safety Glasses (Goggles)

Firmoo offers glasses free for you and your families to test a pair of 

Firmoo products for "free" by paying shipping only!

Our Aim - Vision & Fashion the Frugal Way

• Vision - An ideal pair of prescription glasses as a half medical tool to correct vision should be made up of a quality frame and lenses with accurate prescription. We promise all our eyeglasses frames are of high quality. Besides, all eyewear provided by us goes through strict inspection by our experienced opticians before shipping to ensure the accuracy of lens prescription. That's why we keep the lowest return and exchange rate among all online optical stores worldwide.
• Fashion - We offer classic and fashion glasses frames for you to choose from. All of these frames which are quite popular in the world are elaborately picked by our staff from thousands of frames in the market.
• Frugal way - Our prescription eyeglasses are inexpensive even though with high quality, therefore, everyone can afford it.

▲Pin This Photo To Pinterest▲

 Firmoo Eyeglass Giveaway Rules;

1. Only those who comment on our giveaway, on this post, telling us which pair you'd like to win can be regarded as a valid contestant! Visit Firmoo  to find a pair you would like to win and write your comment on which pair you would choose and who they would be for.

2. Follow all tasks in Rafflecopter to be eligible as a true contestant in this giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway