The BEST Way to Make Homemade Bubbles

This year we've spent a ton of time at home, like many people. That means we've been trying to find ways to keep our little wild child occupied... and that involves lots of time spent outdoors, chasing bubbles through our backyard and sometimes even having competitions to see who can make the biggest bubbles.

We used to be the type to buy bubbles from the store...then we experimented and started making our own. Want to make your own...? Here's how:

7 Delicious and Unique Summertime Lemonade Recipes

It's officially July and that means the heat of summer is real, at almost 30 weeks pregnant I can tell you right now - it's friggin' hot, all day long.

While I love a good beach day and spending time by the pool, those luxuries sadly aren't part of my daily life lately. One thing that I have been partaking in to try and cool off is a nice big glass of lemonade. From berry and vanilla infused lemonade to a mojito-ish mint lemonade, I've found a variety of different ways to make one of my favorite drinks and luckily, these refreshing beverages have been helping me stay cool.

Are you looking for a few new ways to mix up some lemonade? Here's 7 different, delicious recipes to inspire you, because when life gives you hot, hot heat and lemons - you make homemade lemonade, right?

1. Watermelon Raspberry Lemonade - If you're all about summertime, you'll be all about this lemonade blend from Gourmande in the Kitchen! Made with some of the best classic summertime flavors, this coconut water based lemonade is so refreshing it's a recipe inspired by perfection.

2. Vanilla Berry Lemonade - This heavenly smooth lemonade from Baked Bree is a great mixture of everything I love as of lately. Vanillas and berries combine perfectly with lemonade making for sweet and not-so-tart lemonade, the best way to still enjoy summer while embracing sweets!

3. Blueberry Lemonade - This super simple recipe from Damn Delicious is, well, damn delicious! It's easy to make and so flavorful, the perfect combination.

4. Mint Lemonade - This recipe satisfies my sinful craving for mojitos without involving any adult beverages. It's the perfect mixture of mint and lemonade and so refreshing on a hot summer day, if you're a non-drinker like myself this summer but you're craving something that reminds you of your favorite adult beverages, I highly recommend this recipe from Martha Stewart.

5. Carrot Lemonade - This funky blend from Better Homes & Gardens is the perfect way to sneak some veggies into your diet and still feel refreshed. Packed full of Vitamin A and bright, brilliant orange shade, this lemonade is the perfect way to celebrate a sunny day this summer!

6. Lavender Lemonade - This violet lemonade from Eat Yourself Skinny is not only beautiful and delicious, it also is said to help ease anxiety! Made with lavender as an ingredient, you're bound to be relaxed while sipping on an ice cold glass of this concoction!

7. Fresh Peach Lemonade - If you're looking for a unique twist on lemonade then you'll love this peachy recipe from Taste of Home. It's sweet and a delicious southern twist, perfect for sipping while watching fireworks with your family.

So tell me, which lemonade recipe will you be trying first?

Stay Mosquito-Free Ths Summer with Orkin on Your Side!

This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency on behalf of Orkin; however, all thoughts and  opinions are my own.

As a mama to be, I'm hyper aware of mentions of pregnancy on the news and when I heard about the Zika virus I pretty much had a panic attack on the spot. It's not that I travel to Mexico often or even plan on visiting any time soon, it's just the fact that we live in a pretty culturally diverse area with a beach that attracts people from all over the world... It's hard not to worry that one of the millions of tourists that visit my beautiful beachy hometown will be carrying the virus and all it takes is one bite from one mosquito and my baby and I are in danger.

Unfortunately, in Florida, your own backyard can be an excellent mosquito breeding ground - all they need is one bottle cap worth of standing water and babies are on their way! Instead of being able to focus on our summer plans, all I could think about was avoiding these pesky little creatures by all means possible. With the Zika virus and the West Nile virus making headlines, it's hard not to stress about mosquitoes.

Instead of spending all summer indoors worrying, hubby and I decided we needed to be proactive and take the mosquito problem head on. While we can't walk around annihilating every little blood sucker in our area we can keep them out of our yard and that's where Orkin comes into the picture. They've got mosquito control down to a science!

We've been getting Pest Control treatments for our house monthly since we moved in last May and we've never even seen a bug in our house. So when our lovely Orkin guy mentioned that they also offer a mosquito treatment for outdoors, we knew it was something we wanted to have done to protect our precious little babe, myself, and my husband as well.

With award-winning training and advanced technology, our Orkin Man was able to look for conditions that invite mosquitoes, tackled all the current issues we had that were breeding current infestations, and stopped the life cycle of these little nuisances to help reduce the number of them in my yard. With more than 160 hours of training (in just his first year), I have confidence in my Orkin guy and know that my property is protected from these pests because of his skills - now mosquitoes don't stand a chance!

I'm happy to say after these treatments I'm confident that our summer can be full of backyard fun without the worry! We're so confident, in fact, that we're actually planning on hosting our baby shower in our backyard in July and BBQ-ing with some of our other friends in just a week or two! It's nice to be at ease in our own backyard and I'm super thankful that Orkin was able to help protect my family. 

Are you wanting to do everything you can to protect your family and those around you that are expecting from the Zika virus? Find out how Orkin's treatments are the best Zika virus precaution and why you should treat your house today - it's totally worth it! Plus, check out this infographic for tips and tricks on how to deal with mosquito bites when they happen AND how to keep those pesky mosquitoes away!

Host the Perfect Brunch & a Simple Breakfast Potato Bowl Recipe!

We've been blessed with warmer temperatures and sunny weather almost everyday in Florida as of late, so it's pretty safe to say I've got brunch on my mind. It probably comes as no surprise that I took the time to host an adorable and delicious brunch recently and I'll tell you right now, the items I served did not disappoint!

From delicious delights like donuts and fresh fruit to mason jars full of Milo's Cafe Style Tea, my brunch guests were treated like royalty and I wouldn't have it any other way!

If you're thinking about hosting a brunch soon, I don't mean to toot my own horn but this spread is the perfect way to impress your guests and serve up something that everyone will love.

So what do you need to make your brunch as spectacular as this? It's actually pretty easy to prep for a party like this.

I grabbed a fruit tray, the ingredients for my delicious breakfast potato bowls, fresh flowers, and Milo's Cafe Style Sweet Tea and Green Citrus Tea at Walmart!

Wondering where you can snag this new, fresh-brewed tea in your store? You'll find bottles of this super affordable, organic tea in the refrigerated juice & dairy section, because of it being all-natural it must stay chilled! It actually comes in light versions too, for those of you watching your figure! The light versions are made with the perfect blend of organic cane sugar and stevia, to give you the same great taste without all the calories!

While I was on my way home, I also grabbed a few donuts and pastries at a local shop to add to the spread... because you can't host a brunch without having some super sweet goodness on the table!

Once I was home, I set the table with bright springy colors, added the flowers into a pitcher, filled a drink bucket with ice for the tea, filled each mason jar with the home-made tasting Milo's Cafe Style Sweet Tea & Citrus Green Tea and got everything else together for the brunch-tastic occasion!

As I mentioned above, I made some delicious breakfast potato bowls to serve during brunch... and boy, were they a hit! You can find my recipe below and beware, paired with Milo's Cafe Style tea, you are in for one of the most delicious brunch meals of your life!

Breakfast Potato Bowls

Ingredients:
8 medium russet potatoes

1/4 cup chopped sweet pepper
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 tbsp olive oil
6 eggs
1 tbsp milk
6 slices of bacon, cooked thoroughly and chopped somewhat finely
1/2 cup cheddar jack cheese
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tsp garlic
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper


You'll begin making these beauties by preheating the oven to 475 degrees.

Next you'll want to microwave all of the potatoes for approximately 9 minutes, then flip them and microwave for about 7 more minutes. Take the potatoes out of the microwave and let cool.

While you're waiting for the potatoes to chill, saute the chopped sweet pepper in a medium sized skillet. Once the peppers have softened some, add in the chopped onion and olive oil and allow the mixture to simmer until the onions are becoming clearish.

The next step in the recipe is to beat all of the eggs and the milk together. You'll want to add in the bacon and then pour the mixture into the pepper and onion scramble.

Now that the potatoes are likely cooler, cut each one in half and scoop out most of the inside, setting it aside in a large mixing bowl.

In the mixing bowl, add in the cheddar jack cheese and whipping cream, stirring vigorously. Pop this mixture in the microwave for just about 20 seconds or so and continue onto the next step.

Put skins face down on the pan and lightly add olive oil to each one.

Now in a small dish combine the garlic, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper and dust this mixture over the lightly oiled potato skins and bake approximately 8 minutes or so.

Take these beauties out of the oven and we're almost done!

To complete the recipe, add some of the potato mixture you removed and made earlier, top this with the egg scramble mixture and sprinkle with a nice amount of cheese over the top.

Place these back into the oven for around 4 minutes and serve!

Now that I've shared my brunch and all the deliciousness that went along with it, I'd love to know what you enjoy most while you're brunching? How will you celebrate summer with a glass of Milo's Cafe Style Tea in your hand? Leave a comment below and tell me all about it!

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Milo’s Tea, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #TastetheMilosDifference  http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

Summer Pregnancy Must-Haves

As I've mentioned recently, I'm pretty excited to be expecting in September... but this week, as some warm weather rolled in, it dawned on me that I'm going to be pregnant all summer long. Here in Florida, that means I'll be surviving heat waves by spending time floating on the waves in the Gulf.

Since I plan on spending a lot of time outdoors this summer, I'm already putting together a little extra bag of must-haves to keep in the car, so I can take my essentials along on our adventures. Today we spent a little time at the beach, next week we'll be out on the kayak, and all summer long we'll be going on adventures... I'm not letting pregnancy get in the way of having fun and exploring, I'm just learning ways to accommodate my growing little baby bump I'm starting to grow.

Today I want to share a few quick ways that any woman can combat the summer heat while rocking a bump and I'm so excited to have partnered with Dove to share all the fun with you! Hopefully all the other mama's that will be in their third trimester this summer can find some cool calmness in these simple tips to keep comfortable!

1. We'll go ahead and start with one of the most important parts of nurturing your baby - your nutrition! I'm all about grabbing a couple of healthy snacks to combat morning (more like ALL DAY) sickness. I'm also all about having a stash of water bottles no matter where I am, staying hydrated is my highest priority now that it's warming up out and it'll remain that way!

2. Next on my list of must-haves this summer is Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant, it's the latest beauty trend (you don't want to be the last to try) and it's definitely the only way I'm going to smell and look pretty after a long day in the sun. Why do I love Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant so much? It goes on instantly dry, meaning it leaves absolutely no visible residue.

While it isn't visible, it's providing a full 48 hours of odor and wetness protection, along with Dove 1 in 4 moisturizers for softer, smoother underarms! I find comfort in knowing I'll be able to stay cool and dry with Dove Dry Spray this summer, no matter what adventure I'm on! Plus, I'll smell amazing with the soothing chamomile scent or the original clean scent, to name a few!

3. My next tip may be obvious, but I feel like I must share... Wear as little clothing as you feel comfortable wearing in public. I'm not suggesting you turn into a nudist, start rocking daisy dukes, or throw modesty out the window, but if you feel confident rocking your bikini while spending time on the beach, then go right ahead - just don't forget the sunscreen! Along the same lines, choose clothing that breathes... a flowing sundress would be the perfect way to "suit up" for a night out with your other half.

4. My last little tip is going to be the easiest one to follow, keep things simple. Less make up, more relaxation; choose a pony tail holder with some sass over primping and curling your hair every morning. Instead of working out hard, spend some time paddling around on a kayak or doing a little yoga on the beach. While you and I, both, still want to feel beautiful while rocking a baby bump, let the glow of pregnancy help with that and embrace your natural beauty!

So tell me, what tips do you have for this first time mama-to-be to battle the summer heat? Plus, I can't wait to hear what you think of Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant when you #TryDry for the first time! Go to Dove.com/trydry to learn more!

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #instantlytrending #DovePartner #TryDry http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

Fourth of July Firecracker Popcorn

Fourth of July is such a fun holiday, full of so much happiness and all kinds of colorful fireworks in celebration of our country... 'Merica! I'm so excited to watch all of the fireworks shows around town and make some memories this year!

I'm also really excited because I've been getting creative in the kitchen in celebration of the holiday and I have some awesome recipes to share. Today I'm sharing the most simple recipe and it's so incredibly delicious, you should make a batch right this second.

This salty and sugar coated treat is the perfect way to treat yourself while watching the fireworks and you can throw it together right before they start.

All you'll need to make this simple recipe:
popcorn
1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
red and blue sugar
(or just normal cane sugar lightly coated in food coloring)

Start by making the popcorn in the microwave, remove and place in a bowl. You'll want to add the unsalted butter and sprinkle a decent amount of both red and blue sugar all over the popcorn and toss!

I added in some "firecrackers" to add some extra pizazz to my Firecracker Popcorn! I think this simple dish will make the perfect appetizer and addition to my 4th of July table spread. I hope you all have a very happy and safe Independence Day and that you enjoy your Firecracker Popcorn!

Delicious Frozen Cereal Pops Recipe + Finding the 7th Minion!

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #The7thMinion #CollectiveBias

Having cereal in the morning has to be one of my favorite breakfast options, especially whenever I know I have a busy day planned. With summer here, I wanted to have a little bit more fun with cereal than normal milk & a bowl so I decided to make cereal and pudding pops with all of my favorite childhood cereals.

I was so excited to see that all my favorites had Minions inside as a special surprise and that I had the chance to score the 7th Minion which is only available at Walmart.

When I got home I opened each and every box of cereal, I immediately started searching for the minions! I know my nieces and nephews will love these little guys and after watching the preview for the movie coming out in July, I'm pretty excited about them as well!

I was also excited about the simple concept of finding a prize in a cereal box, it's one of the memories of my childhood I cherish the most. Digging into the box of cereal, searching for the super awesome toy, and getting to play with it during breakfast and show it off to my friends... it's just kind of part of childhood every kid should experience! Now that I've found 4 of the 7 minions, it looks like I'll be buying a few more boxes of cereal when my niece comes in town so that she can help me find them all!

I can't wait until I have her help finding the minions, but for now I'm going to share my delicious pudding pop recipe! These tasty, summertime desserts are the perfect treat on a hot summer day and with so many delicious cereals you can make a variety of delicious combinations!

I only made four different combinations for my pudding pops this time, but next time I think I'll include different flavors of pudding and even more cereal varieties! These are so easy to make, I may even buy another pop maker and surprise my friends and family with a batch of their very own on the 4th of July!

Ingredients:

Mini Trix
Cocoa Puffs
Cinnamon Toast Crunch
Lucky Charms
Pudding (I chose vanilla)

Almond Milk
Hazelnut Spread

1. These are seriously the easiest desserts you will ever make. All you need to do is place 2 cups of almond milk and pudding powder mix into a mixing bowl, whisk for 2 minutes and pour into a pitcher.

2. From the pitcher pour into a Pop maker. Once the mixture is in the Pop maker, you'll want to begin adding cereal (of your choice) to each popsicle. I used the stick that the pop will be placed on to stir the mixture of pudding and cereal and make the combinations blend a little better. I also added in some hazelnut spread to my Cocoa Puffs and Cinnamon Toast Crunch Pops, which I highly recommend doing.

3. Place these pops in the freezer and allow them to freeze to desired consistency. Remove from freezer and serve!

Enjoy!

These cereal and pudding pops are seriously so amazing. I was pleasantly surprised at how amazing the Lucky Charms pop turned out, I wasn't sure about marshmallows in a popsicle but the taste was outstanding!

The Trix Mini pops are a really adorable way to make a popsicle colorful and they taste delicious! I think I'll be serving a batch of these to my bestie for her birthday soon!

The Cinnamon Toast Crunch and hazelnut spread pop was out of this world, so amazing. I loved the combination of flavors and the vanilla pudding really set off all the flavors, making for an incredibly rich and tasty dessert!

Last but not least, the Cocoa Puffs and hazelnut spread pop! This double chocolate with a vanilla base popsicle is a delicious and unexpected treat that packs the perfect amount of both flavors!

With so many fun flavor combinations, I know I'll be making more popsicle varieties in the near future. Which of your favorite cereals would you like to make into a popsicle? Be sure to choose a box that has a minion inside, these little guys are great helpers!