Tiffany Merritt - Stuff Parents Need

Free Diapers and Being Part of a Movement at the Seventh Generation Twitter Party!

November 11, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · Leave a Comment

I participated in this program on behalf of Seventh Generation and The Motherhood. All opinions are my own, as always.

Can we talk about something really important for a few minutes? Can we talk about the over-abundance of toxic chemicals in our homes and our world, and just how confusing it is to navigate what is safe and what might not be? This is an issue that concerns me, and also really confuses me. Just when I think I’ve got a handle on things, a new study will come out that gives new information and leaves me scratching my head. Healthy Child, Healthy World and Seventh Generation totally gets this, and they are starting a movement to help us all figure things out.

Some of the statistics are really alarming. Did you know the following, for example:

There are more than 80,000 chemicals registered for use in the U.S. Comprehensive pre-market safety testing of these chemicals is not required under any federal law.
The primary U.S. law that regulates chemicals in every day products hasn’t been updated in more than 35 years.
In the European Union (EU), 1,328 chemicals have been banned for use in personal care products. In the U.S., only 11 chemicals have been banned or restricted by the FDA.
Scientific evidence continues to point to the chemicals we are exposed to in our daily lives as causing or contributing to the rise in childhood behavioral disorders and diseases.
Cancer is now the leading cause of child-related death in the U.S., exceeded only by injury.

Parents Joining Forces

Trust me, I know that all the information out there is scary and confusing. I certainly have moments where I just want to plug up my ears and pretend I don’t know anything about this stuff. In the short run, that certainly would be the easier route to take! But I’ve also learned that by joining forces with the right educators and with other parents, developing a clear understanding of the problems AND a clear strategy for how to solve them is very doable. There is strength in numbers, and in knowledge!

Seventh Generation Twitter Party

Will you join me this Thursday, November 14th, at 1pm ET for a Twitter party with Seventh Generation? We’re going to talk about all-natural baby product options. Additionally, you’ll learn about an awesome opportunity called the Healthy Baby Home Party. This is something you can apply to host, and it gives moms and dads a really neat way to engage and educate your family and friends on topics like creating a healthy environment for the next generation. When you host a Healthy Baby Home Party, you also receive all sorts of fun samples and helpful information to distribute to your guests! Very fun!

Free Diapers and Wipes!

I think I mentioned the free diapers, right? Yeah, there are going to be 5 lucky winners at the Twitter party, each of whom will win a month’s supply of Seventh Generation diapers and wipes! Woo hoo! All you have to do is be a U.S. participant at the party and correctly answer the Twitter party trivia questions. Winners will be randomly selected from everyone who provides the right answer. And if you have never tried Seventh Generation diapers, I’d like to personally recommend them. They work fantastic and they are totally free of bleach and other nasty chemicals. AND…you can find them at Target stores all over the nation! 🙂

How to Join Us

Follow the hashtag #HealthyBabyHome and also follow the hosts (@TheMotherhood25, @CooperMunroe, @EmilyMcKhann). See you on Twitter this Thursday at 1pm ET!

Somersaults: An Awesome Sunflower Seed Snack

November 11, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · 1 Comment

Thanks to Somersaults for providing complimentary packages for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, as always.

Tim has a new favorite snack in the house, and it is also one of my top choices! In fact, even Darah loves to munch on these yummy sunflower seed snacks called Somersaults. Just check out her demonstration of love for the product below!

I first showcased Somersaults back in 2011, and since that time, we have purchased these delicious snacks quite a few times. They have also recently released the Cinnamon Crunch flavor, and it is most definitely my favorite! It’s a great choice for folks like me with a sweet tooth because it tastes great and only has 7g of sugar! It also has half the fat and more protein than a serving of almonds, making it an excellent choice for a healthy snack.

Somersaults can now be found in Target stores (woo hoo!) so the next time you are there, be sure to check them out. You will love them, I’m sure! Definitely check out the store locator to find your nearest retailer, and also be sure to follow Somersaults on Facebook for updates and promotions!

“In a Fix” With Stitch Fix Boxes 4 and 5

November 10, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · 22 Comments

It’s time for another Stitch Fix review! They seem to be a reader favorite, and they are a personal favorite, as well. If you’ve missed my other reviews of this clothing subscription service, check out Stitch Fix review 1 (where you’ll also learn exactly how Stitch Fix works), Stitch Fix review 2 and Stitch Fix review 3.

Stitch Fix #4….the Fix that Never Was

About six weeks ago I logged into Stitch Fix to place an order for my fourth box. I was really shocked to see that the wait time for a fix was almost 7 weeks long. Yikes! I was hoping to get a box of clothes that would be appropriate for the cruise I would be going on November 1st. So I sent customer service an email and politely begged them to help a girl out. They were totally sweet and agreed, stating that my box would arrive on October 25th.

On October 26th I got the email that my box was on the way. I was a little bummed because I thought it would be arriving on the 25th and now it would be cutting it close in terms of the timing, but beggars can’t really be choosers, right?

So when I still hadn’t received my box 2 days before vacation time, I checked the FedEx shipping information, and all FedEx had was package shipping information. They didn’t show any record of actually receiving the box. Yikes! So I emailed Stitch Fix, and after 24 hours and having heard nothing, I went to their Facebook site and put out an SOS. That worked, and I got in touch with someone and explained that I was leaving the next day for a week-long vacation, that I had been planning on using the clothes as some of my wardrobe for the week, and that if it arrived while I was gone I wouldn’t be able to return it within the 3 day window. Basically, it was a hot mess.

Stitch Fix determined that the package was lost and offered to send me another package the week I returned. I agreed, but asked for different clothing since I wouldn’t be needing clothes meant for 90 degree weather anymore. I also asked for them to refund the $20 styling fee for box #4 since I never even got to see the clothes. They agreed to do so, although I am frustrated that I can’t find any record of that happening in my account information (Stitch Fix doesn’t seem to show a record of previous orders for you to review, which is something I wish they would change).

Stitch Fix #5

When I got home late in the evening on the 7th, my fix was already at my house. This made me panic a little bit because of the 3 day window. I knew I wouldn’t be able to try stuff on and snap photos Friday, which meant it absolutely had to be done Saturday. I was a bit more rushed than I wanted to be, and I was surprised to get the package that early since I told them I wouldn’t be home until the 8th. But whatever…getting a box of clothes is always fun, so why rain on the parade?!

My Least Favorite Box

Alas, my string of bad luck with Stitch Fix wasn’t over, yet. This was by far my least favorite fix. The packaging seemed a bit sloppy, as the cards that come with styling suggestions weren’t even attached to the clothing. Perhaps since it was a “re-do” box they were just in a terrible hurry? I also had a stylist I had never used before and I just don’t think she had a good read on my style preferences.

Here’s what I got:

The color of the Leighton Twist-Front Sheer Blouse from Kut From the Kloth was very pretty, and the price was right, but I was swimming in this top. It is meant to be drapey, but it felt like I was wearing a sack. No good! Also, it was far too similar in style to the green top that was in fix #2 and that I already purchased. Seemed like a mistake on the part of the stylist to send me something so similar to something I’ve already received.

This is the Kensie Olivina Slub Knit Long Sleeve Sweater. And it came with a hole in the sleeve. 🙁 So even if I had liked it, I would have returned it. This also tells me that this is the type of garment that will very easily get ruined, which means it isn’t practical for me.

Also? I totally don’t like it! It reads as a bit too “sporty” for my taste…I don’t care for the sporty look at all. This was just a huge miss, all around.

Let me give my stylist credit where it is due: the style of this coat is in line with my tastes. I like the drapey, flowy, romantic look of it. But alas, the fit was weird! I totally didn’t like how it looked with the belt, so I left it off altogether. And the sleeves were rather snug. In this picture, I’m in a sleeveless tank, so it fit. But if I had on a sweater or basically anything with sleeves, it would have been uncomfortably tight. Also, since it is wool, it is itchy, so wearing it with sleeveless stuff is never going to happen. And finally, it just isn’t something I need. About a month ago I picked up a gorgeous Bebe black coat at Unclaimed Baggage for just $10 (they were have a special coat sale the day I went). So a $98 jacket that would serve the same purpose just isn’t going to happen.

This is the Zouk Ronda Dot Print Sleeveless Dress, and not to be overly negative, but I might as well just be honest…I pretty much hate everything about it. It is polka dot that is venturing into animal print, and I detest animal prints. It is too big in the chest (which is a problem I never ever experienced, so I can’t imagine who this dress actually fits well!), and I would never have a reason to wear it since I don’t work in an office setting, and this dress just screams, “wear me in a cubicle, please!”.

And finally we get to the piece that I actually kept. This is the 41Hawthorn Aleah Heathered V-Neck Dolman Top. And honestly, I didn’t love it. I liked it ok. And I didn’t want to lose my $20 styling fee credit. The color is nice and on trend. And the bat-wing style is in right now, even though it is a trend I’m not too excited about. But Tim said he liked it an I was feeling so sad about returning the whole thing, so I just went for it. I will say that it is a very cozy and comfy top, and I’m glad to have something so casual that looks nice in my closet. But if it had been in a box with better selections, it likely wouldn’t have made the cut.

Why I’ll Order Stitch Fix #6

Whew! I’m a little worn out from all that complaining! I bet you are, too. And you’re probably really surprised to hear that my Stitch Fix dud isn’t going to stop me from ordering Fix #6 (I actually have it scheduled already…second week of January!). I’m not giving up because I’ve personally experienced what a fantastic job the stylists at Stitch Fix can do, and I have reaped the benefits of not having to look for fun new clothes for myself (I just don’t have time and I’d rather poke my eyes out with a fork than take my girls to the mall. Totally serious).

Here’s my assessment of what went wrong here: Stitch Fix has skyrocketed in popularity, and the demand for fixes is greater than the supply of stylists who work there. As a result, they are backlogged and probably overworked right now. And when you are exhausted, you don’t do your best work! My fix got thrown into the mix at the last minute, and all the stylist had to go on was my previous info, which she probably didn’t have enough time to properly review, and she knew that I DIDN’T want summer stuff anymore. So she just threw together what she could as fast as she could (this is my assumption…I don’t know if this is how it actually went down).

I trust that by January, Stitch Fix will have adjusted to the growth and hired more great stylists so that everyone isn’t over worked and can put together killer fixes. I still dream of the day when I get the perfect fix and keep all 5 pieces. I want that 25% discount that you get when you order the whole thing! 🙂

So yes, even though this go around was rough, I would still absolutely recommend that you try out Stitch Fix. I’ll be back for more, and I’ll be sure to tell you all about!

I Just Ordered a TON of Free Stuff (Free for You, Too!)

November 9, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · 29 Comments

Well friends, after mulling it over for months and months, I finally caved and placed an order for a free trial from Honest.com.

You have likely heard of the Honest Company, which is the eco-friendly products company started by Jessica Alba that has all sorts of fantastic products for baby and for the home. They have been offering free trials of products for a long while, and all you have to pay is $5.95 shipping. I’ve almost placed an order from them countless times, but just never pulled the trigger.

Want to know why I finally did it? Because I learned something EXTRA fun about those free trials. They offer 3 different types of trials (diapers and wipes trial, home essentials trial, and health & wellness trial), and here’s the thing: YOU CAN ORDER ALL THREE TRIALS FOR FREE FOR JUST $5.95 TOTAL!!! That’s what I’m talking about! 🙂 All you have to do is click on all 3 options. It is seriously just that easy! But I never thought to try it until today for some reason.

I’m ~~cheap~~ thrifty, but for $5.95, even I know that is a smokin’ hot deal. And really, the company and their products fall in line with my values, and people rave about how great they are, so I’m likely going to find some stuff that I’ll want to order again.

The Catch

There’s always a catch, right? This one isn’t too bad, as long as you stay on top of it. You have 7 days from the time your trial products arrive to decide if you want to enroll in their monthly subscription service. If you take no action, you will be automatically enrolled once those 7 days pass. Now in my case, since I ordered all 3 bundles, if I don’t cancel within those 7 days I will be billed $155. I’ll also get a 1 month supply of all 3 bundles sent my way. But if I do cancel, then I’m not out any money other than the $5.95 I already paid. And of course, the free trials are mine to keep either way. Nothing to ship back!

My Strategy

I have my calendar marked for 5 days from today to log into my account and cancel one or more of my subscriptions. It’s entirely possible that I will be nuts about some of the products and want to order more, but I can tell you now that I can’t afford to get all 3! Honest.com also reports that they will remind you several times about your subscription options so that you don’t feel like you were “tricked” into subscribing.

So what are you waiting for? The deal has been around for a while, but I’m not sure if the ability to order all 3 free trials is new. It was new to me, that’s for sure!

Would you like to hear my thoughts on the products after I’ve tried them out for a while? Then check out my honest assessment post where I have linked to honest.com review posts I have written about specific products I have purchased there. I also give you tips on how to make sure you don’t overpay for them!

LeapFrog App Toys for Budding Writers and Photographers

November 9, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · Leave a Comment

This post is part of a sponsored campaign with LeapFrog and MomSelect. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Does your child love to pretend s/he is at work doing the job that you do? Any time Darah tells me that she is blogging, or “doing my work” on the computer, or taking pictures for Stuff Parents Need, I pretty much die from the joy of it. I’m sure that blogging won’t even exist anymore by the time she is old enough to pursue a career, but I’m excited to play a role in helping her see all the amazing possibilities for combining work and life, passion and purpose. This blog is an extension of those ideals for me, and I hope that Darah gets to have a career that is just as fulfilling, if not more!

LeapFrog recently sent us some App Toys that have been helping Darah a great deal as she practices being a writer and a photographer (both skills being necessary to be a blogger!). It is not uncommon for her to sit down for 30-45 minutes and work on the Learn to Write with Mr. Pencil™ Stylus & Writing App. She is currently working on reading and writing in her preschool class, and this app gives her extra practice in a way that is very fun!

The game takes you through several different parts of a town (the fire station, the public fountain, etc.) and you have different exercises to complete in order to unlock different elements in each section, and to unlock additional sections of the game. I will say that the board can be a little bit overly sensitive, and on occasion, Darah will use her finger instead of the pencil in order to successfully complete the section. But whether she is tracing or writing, the skill development is happening. I’m truly amazed at how long she will sit and do these lessons. It definitely shows me that LeapFrog has successfully made learning fun! I should also point out that this is priced at an extremely reasonable $14.99 (and it is currently on sale for just $11.99!).

The other great new app toy from LeapFrog that Darah has been enjoying is the Creativity Camera Protective Case & App. This is a dream come true for all the parents out there who cringe every time their child asks if they can play with their iPhone. We have protective cases on ours, but even so, I definitely get nervous when my kids play with the phone. This toy is so cool, though, because it uses your phone as a component of the toy, though it is completely enclosed and protected while in use. Essentially, your phone gets turned into a super fun camera for the kids!

In addition to being able to snap photos, the app also provides fun games where you can snap photos of adorable little bugs. It also has very basic editing software so that you can add cool graphics or change the overall look of the photos you take. Darah enjoyed playing with it and truthfully, so did I! 🙂 This product is priced at $19.99, which makes it a fantastic gift option for any child ages 3-6 on your list!

If you have an iPhone or an iPod touch, you can download the apps that go with these toys (they are FREE!) and let the fun begin! While they aren’t 100% perfect (sometimes they seem a bit too sensitive, and sometimes not sensitive enough) I would still very highly recommend them. Once you learn the quirks of the program, you will be able to navigate through them with ease. My 4-year-old plays with these apps almost every day, and they hold her attention for a long time. And while she is playing, I know she is developing very important skills. The price is great, the quality is high, and the learning is abundant.

Outdoor Activities for Kids: Have a Book Picnic!

November 9, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · 3 Comments

Here in the South, fall is an awesome time to be outside. Usually, the weather isn’t cold enough to scare you back inside, but is crisp and delightful (and totally mosquito-free, FINALLY!). My girls always want to play outside, but this time of year, they get precious little resistance from mom on that issue. Beautiful days like these make me want to linger and play just a little bit more.

Have a Book Picnic

Darah recently asked to have a picnic in the middle of the day, and I knew she wasn’t so much interested in the food aspect of a picnic as much as she just wanted to lay a blanket down outside. So I suggested that our food for this picnic be books, and that the way to eat a book is to read and enjoy it (unless you are a goat, in which case actually eating the book is much more satisfying).

We recently were sent some really awesome books to check out, and I’d definitely recommend having a stack of new books for your kids to enjoy at a picnic like this. You can pick up some great reads at your local library or find some real treasures at your local independent bookstore, a used bookstore, or even Amazon, which frequently has really good buys on books.

Here are some of our favorite reads!

Lily and Trooper All Year Round

This beautifully illustrated books takes you on the daily outdoor and indoor adventures of Lily and her canine best friend, Trooper, throughout all 4 seasons. A great pick for anyone who has an adventurous spirit, a love for being outside, and who loves to play with animals!

Eat Up, Little Donkey

This one was an instant favorite of Layah’s because it is about a little donkey who has a rather strong will….something she can relate to!

Friends

This book shows the emotional interactions between friends. Darah really loved acting them out, which was interesting because some of them were rather nuanced and she had to really think about what they meant. Here she is playing out her favorite: laughing!

The book picnic was a huge success. We stayed outside for over an hour, going back and forth seamlessly between reading, playing with each other, and doing independent exploring in the yard. It was a gorgeous day, and our time outside was well-spent. We all came back inside tired and happy. And I resolved to do this whole book picnic thing more often. Gathering up awesome books is much easier than putting together a spread of outdoor-friendly food, after all! 😉

What’s In My Makeup Bag?

November 8, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · 2 Comments

I always love reading the “what’s in my makeup bag?” posts when other bloggers write them. So I thought I’d pay it forward by sharing with you all the products I’m currently using.

Once I put everything together, I was very pleasantly surprised by how many of the products can be found at drugstores. It just goes to show that not everything has to be expensive to be great! So let’s break it down, shall we? Affiliate links included, and as always, I only promote what I like!

1. Beautyblender makeup sponge. This came very highly recommended to me by my blogging friend Kayla. So I decided to splurge on it and give it a try. It definitely provides a smooth, even coverage, and I like how I can use the tip of it for applying concealer instead of using my fingers, which is what I have been doing for years. Truth, though? I think my sponges from Merle Norman work almost as well!

2. Mary Kay Signature Concealer. This is one of only two concealers that I have ever found that will decently cover the dark circles under my eyes. I’m not a big Mary Kay fan, but I’m pretty darn loyal to this product. I think they may have changed the packaging to black since the last time I purchased this (I usually buy two tubes at once!). If you were wondering, the other product that I think works well is Olay Total Effects Dark Circles Minimizing Brush.

3. Advanced Mineral Makeup. This is the most expensive item I’m showcasing. But I’m of the opinion that foundation is the makeup area worthy of the splurge. This stuff provides fantastic coverage that looks natural. I love it!

4. Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder. I picked this up at a drugstore on a whim when I was out of powder. I like to set my foundation with a loose powder, and this one was inexpensive, and had been around since the 1920s. I figured if it was still being made, it must have gotten something right! I think it does a great job of setting my look, and I’d recommend it!

5. Mark Blush. Unfortunately, this blush is so old that I can’t even find it online (and now you know…yes, I keep some of my makeup way past its recommended expiration date!). What I like about it is the fact that the center part of the blush has a darker color. When I sweep my blush brush over the entire thing, and then apply it to my face, it gives a really great and naturally flushed look. Love it! I think this product from L’Oreal has the same intentions, but I have never tried it, myself.

6. NARS Blush, Orgasm. This has got to be the most popular blush color made in the last 15 years. It is said to be a universally flattering color. I read an article that mentioned it several years ago, and decided to give it a try. I would have never purchased a blush that looks so orange on my own! But the color is very pretty, indeed!

7. Bare Escentuals Flawless Application Face Brush. I used to be EXTREMELY loyal to Bare Minerals products, and I wouldn’t hesitate for a second to recommend them. The only reason I stopped using them (for now) is because I just have too much fun trying out different makeup products to lock down my options for too long! I also think their brushes are outstanding, and love using this one for my blush application. I’ll also sometimes use it for my loose powder application.

8. e.l.f. Eyeliner. I’m willing to change my mind on this if a brand proves me wrong, but I am currently of the opinion that cheap eyeliner is the way to go! Splurge on other areas besides this one. I like e.l.f. eyeliners perfectly fine. I don’t have glowing things to say about them, but they get the job done. Two of my pencils even have a bit of shimmer in them, and that is a fun way to look a little more festive and dressy without dousing yourself with glitter and trying to look like the teenager that you aren’t.

9. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss, Nude Lustre. This is my go-to gloss for everyday wear. Pinky/neutral, goes with pretty much everything. Doesn’t stay on forever, but I have yet to find a gloss that does!

10. Sally Hansen Sculpt & Shape Lip Color, Rococo. A little goes a long way with this power red. Red lipstick really is an accessory in its own right, and sometimes, it makes a much more powerful statement than a chunky necklace or an armful of bracelets. Love this one!

11. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss, Shine City. This is a great layering gloss. Put it on top of any matte lipstick for instant shimmer and sheen. Or wear alone. It looks great that way, too!

12. Bare Minerals Smoky Eye brush. Sorry, friends. I couldn’t find this one online! One end of the brush is shaped like a V to help with applying shadow in the outer corner of your eye, and the other side is used for editing…sweeping away the areas where you went a little too far with the look. Very useful; bummed that I can’t find it for you!

13. EcoTools eyeshadow brushes. These are the main ones I use, but I also have a few others I will use from time to time. I think these brushes are terrific and they are VERY reasonably priced! I’ve been using mine for a few years now, and they are still going strong.

14. Julep eyelash curler. I like the look of this eyelash curler and the fact that it takes up much less space than a more traditional curler would. I think it came free with one of my monthly subscriptions, so I’m not even sure if you can buy this one. I don’t think that you necessarily have to have this one, but I do think that you should get in the habit of curling your eyelashes if you aren’t currently doing so. It makes a huge difference!

15. Revlon Lash Potion Mascara. I’m currently using this for the first time, and I will absolutely buy it again. It lifts, separates and makes my lashes seem bigger. So basically, it is a push-up bra for your eyelashes! 🙂 Also, pretty package, no?

16. L’Oreal Paris HiP Metallic Duos, Sculpted. This is the shadow I take with me any time I travel. It has KILLER staying power, and looks absolutely beautiful on. I am planning on purchasing more in the HIP line after my current shadow love has dwindled sufficiently. Speaking of which…

17. e.l.f. 100 Piece Eyeshadow Palette. I think I snagged this for $10 or less during a holiday promotion, and I have been using it pretty faithfully ever since. My lid tore off about 6 months ago, so in that sense, I got what I paid for. But the colors are SO much fun to experiment with; I’m trying colors I never thought I could, and am finding fun ways to wear them that aren’t extreme. This palette is so much fun, and I think it is a total steal, even for $25. And if you use an eyeshadow primer (this one is my favorite) then the colors will last for quite a long time!

So there you have it! Now you know what I’m currently using for my makeup routine! Any products on the list that you also love, or that you’d love to try? Or do you have a go-to makeup product that you’d love to share? Do tell!

Thanksgiving Recipe I’ll Be Making: Gorgeous Roasted Veggies!

November 7, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · Leave a Comment

Special thanks to Reynolds for sponsoring this Thanksgiving recipe content through the Reynold Real Moms program. Parchment Paper is a total game changer, y’all!

Today I’m excited to be sharing with you the main vegetable dish I will be serving to my family on Thanksgiving Day. It is absolutely gorgeous, is loved by every member of my family (even my 4-year-old who could live on peanut butter!), and is likely going to be the easiest recipe on the table because it is so flexible. Check it out and see if you might want to try it for your family feast, or even for the next time you have company over!

Harvest Bounty Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

various in-season vegetables of your choice (great options include most varieties of squash, zucchini, sweet potatoes, new potatoes, miniature onions, brussels sprouts, eggplant, carrots, radishes)
salt and pepper, to taste
other seasoning of choice (we use Italian seasoning)
extra virgin olive oil
Reynolds Parchment Paper

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Tear a sheet of Reynolds Parchment Paper to fit a baking pan with raised edges. If your sheet is too large and hangs over the edges, just grab a pair of scissors and cut it to size. Depending on the number of guests you are serving, you may need more than one pan for roasting.

Scrub your vegetables and slice as needed for optimal roasting (you will see in my example that I cut squash into bite-size pieces, cut brussels sprouts in half, and left the miniature onions and carrots whole).

In a large bowl, add roughly 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, pepper, and selected seasoning. Mix well to combine. Then add the vegetables to the bowl and toss well to ensure they are all coated with oil.

When the oven is ready, place your oiled and seasoned veggies on your parchment paper, and spread them out so that they aren’t piled on top of each other. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and flip over the vegetables. Return to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.

thanksgiving recipes: harvest bounty roasted veggies

Serve immediately! The vegetables will slide right off the parchment paper with no sticking, and the cleanup will consist of simply tossing the parchment paper. One less thing to clean on a very busy day is something we all can be thankful for!

What are you thinking about serving for your veggies this Thanksgiving???

Wilderness at the Smokies: Fabulous Hotel With 3 Water Parks!

November 6, 2013 · by Tiffany Merritt · 3 Comments

As part of our recent excursion to the Pigeon Forge area, we were provided lodging at the Wilderness at the Smokies, otherwise known as one of my new favorite places on earth.

The accommodations for the rooms are generous and definitely have families in mind! We were in a bunk suite. Check out how it was set up!

This particular room could comfortably accommodate up to 7 people. It features a full size bathroom, a sink and vanity, two queen beds, a twin bunk bed (SO fun for kids!), and a pull-out couch. We didn’t use the couch, but we did request a pack and play for Layah, and they accommodated that request, no problem! The queen beds are separated by a half wall, which gives a little more privacy than a standard hotel room. Tim and I often find ourselves stuck in the bathroom after our girls go to sleep in most hotel rooms, but with this set up, we could be on our computers and the light wasn’t disturbing the kids while they went to sleep. Let me tell you, I REALLY enjoyed not hanging out in the bathroom! 🙂 Our room also had a kitchen area with a second sink, microwave and an empty fridge (no mini-bar…THANK YOU!) and a breakfast nook, as well as a balcony, which was fun to use for extra play space and general relaxation.

The room itself was nice enough to make it a place I would recommend staying with a family, but my friends, that is NOT what makes this hotel so exceptional.

They happen to have 3 water parks on site. One of them is indoors and is a comfortable 84 degrees all year. It was right down the hall and down a few floors from our room!

For my 4-year-old, I don’t think she would have been any happier if we had gone to Hawaii, honestly. She was on cloud nine, and spent most of her time battling the waves at the edge of the wave pool! I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in one of the chairs that they had right at the edge of the water. I let the waves coming in roll over my feet. Darah played nearby. It was very relaxing! The roof of this facility even allows for UV rays to penetrate through. I personally was not thrilled to learn this, but if you like to tan, this is a place where you can do so, even in January!

The indoor water park also featured a few really fun tube rides, two large kid-friendly areas, and a wave rider simulator that was extremely popular. The park wasn’t packed when we were there, but the line for that attraction was still quite long! There is also a grill on site for quick eats (pizza, chicken tenders) and there is a bar so you can treat yourself to a cold one if you like. Towels are available on site for hotel guests to use so you don’t need to bring your own. And I just can’t emphasize enough how awesome it is to walk down the hall to go to a water park! Admission into the park is included for all guests, and that’s part of what makes staying at the Wilderness at the Smokies an excellent value.

We also had a great time enjoying the indoor attractions at Wilderness at the Smokies.

The Adventure Forest, located just off the water park, has bowling, a very large high ropes course, rock climbing, arcade games, and a fantastic climbing area for kids. We also played a round of indoor golf (set to black lights, which made it really fun for the kids!) and a James Bond-esque laser maze. We had all day passes and the indoor park wasn’t at all crowded when we visited, so we got to play whatever we wanted over and over again! I think the all day or the all stay passes are the way to go if you have kids who like to play quite a bit. You can plop down and bowl for a few hours if you want! And there’s an indoor food area right there so you can even have lunch on site. We grabbed a sub from the shop and it was quite tasty!

Basically, there is no shortage of fun things to do on site at Wilderness at the Smokies. I think for the price you pay to stay there, families will experience a tremendous value (the room we stayed in has an off-season price of $169/night, which includes some free area attraction tickets and 4 water park passes for your whole stay!). This hotel is 2 1/2 hours from our home, and I can tell you without hesitation that we will be headed back. What a great option for shooing away the winter blues!

Have you ever stayed at Wilderness at the Smokies? Ever been to a year-round water park? Where did you go? If you’d like to see our other adventures, check out my review of the Titanic Attraction and the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.