I love hosting parties and having family and friends come over for dinner. This year, I had Thanksgiving at my house. It was my first Thanksgiving I've hosted. First time cooking a turkey! A few days before, I went to the nearest grocery store after work and bought the essentials - turkey, potatoes, green beans, drinks, gravy, pie, etc. It was packed! I had to wait to go down certain isles and was nervous Scotty would get run over. I was glad to be home and finished with Thanksgiving shopping, but I totally forgot the essential household items! Paper towels! Toilet paper! I did not want to go back to the store and deal with that mess. Luckily, Walmart has FREE 2 day shipping on essential items! It comes straight to your door! Also, the savings is unbeatable. Our Thanksgiving turned out wonderful. We are so thankful for family and friends. 
I also did not take many pictures. I was too busy cooking or hosting. I'm so glad the turkey turned out well! Here's proof ;) 

After family and friends left (total of 13 people), I had to clean. I was so glad I had Viva paper towels. They are strong and soft like cloth and got the job done. Since they are so absorbent, I didn't use as many paper towels as other brands. I love how thick Viva is. When Scotty was a baby, I'd make baby wipes with Viva paper towels - the only brand that was strong enough. 

With Walmarts free 2 day shipping, I also ordered Kleenex hand towels. With the weather changing and flu/cold season, I wanted to make sure our family was covered. Scotty has horrible allergies, and has been sneezing a lot lately. We both were a little under the weather this weekend. So glad we had no plans today and were able to rest and relax. 

While I was writing this post, Scotty was bear crawling down the hallway. slipped, and bumped her head. I immediately grabbed a Kleenex hand towel to wipe her tears. She wouldn't let go of the box. 

I can't wait to host my next dinner. Maybe Christmas? New Years? Luckily, I don't have to stress about shopping and will use Walmart's free 2 day shipping.

Thank you for stopping by!

Love,

​KQL

We love Goldfish crackers!! They are so tasty and a easy snack to pack for the on the go moms and dads. 

I did not know that Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers are always baked with 100% real cheddar cheese and no artificial flavors and preservatives. I also did not know that the Goldfish colors are sourced from plants.
Red: The red Goldfish crackers are colored using a mix of red beet juice concentrate and paprika extracted from sweet red peppers. Wholesome and colorful. You can’t beat that.
Green: The green Goldfish crackers color comes from watermelon & Huito juice concentrates mixed with extracted Turmeric. That’s Huito. Pronounced wee-toe. Colorful and fun to say!
Yellow: The yellow Goldfish crackers color comes from extracted Turmeric. A beautiful color that makes you think of warm sunshine on a perfect day.
Blue: Our subtle blue crackers come from Huito (derived from South American fruit) and Watermelon juice concentrates. These crackers have so much fun, they never get the blues.

The winning color will get its own limited edition bag at select retailers. Look for it in stores this spring!

With Scotty not in pre-school/daycare. I try and come up with creative ways to learn! Pepperidge farm Goldfish color crackers are perfect to use to learn math, colors, science, etc. It's  fun and innovative! We've used the crackers for math - mom has 9 Goldfish crackers, she ate all 9....how many are left? I'm kidding, but really, struggle not eating them while we use them for "school." 

I've recently told Scotty about the colors of the Goldfish crackers - how they come from plants. Now, we plan to start a garden and learn about photosynthesis. 

I'd love some other creative ideas on how I can use Pepperidge Farm Goldfish crackers to teach the kids! Let me know! 

Thank you for stopping by!

​Kristi Le

Any moms or dads out there that water down their child's juice because you think there is too much sugar or need more water to stay hydrated? I'm kind of a health freak with my kids. My five year old daughter has only had maybe a couple of sips of soda in her life and her almost ten year old brother has had soda a few times in his life. I'm definitely one of those moms that water down Scotty and Connors juice,  Luckily, I do not need to do that! Welch's has a delicious juice with coconut water! 

I love coconut water! When I first learned about coconut water, I was surprised at how good it tasted for having several good sources of nutrients. It also was a great source of hydration for me. So good, that I would bring it to my workouts/gym instead of water. I like the taste of it, but some people don't. For the people that don't like the taste of coconut water, but want the benefits - Welch's Juice with Coconut water is for you! 

Welch's Juice with Coconut water has a great taste and refreshing goodness! This new product has amazing benefits and has 30% less sugar - no added sweetener or sugar! Perfect for my growing children. I love how this juice has two servings of fruit in every 8 oz glass. Great for the health freak moms ;)!

I'm excited to say, I won't be watering down this juice. It makes me feel great that it has less sugar and good nutrients. Scotty joked and said she feels like we should be on the beach with this drink. I agree with her! I'd love to be sitting at the beach drinking the white grape mango - Welch's Juice with Coconut water, listening to the waves crashing the sand. Maybe next time! We'll just imagine we are there every time we drink Welch's juice. 

Have you tried Welch's 100% Juice with Coconut water? Let me know what you think! For location of product, click here

Thanks for stopping by!

Kristi Le.

It's been over a year since I've moved to Austin, Tx. I love it here! It's great. I miss the small town I'm from, but Austin is growing on me. One of my favorite things about Austin is how this city promotes a healthy active lifestyle....and also tacos.
When I first started my job as a Child & Parent advocate for victims/survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, the word self care came up in every training I went to. People would always ask what do you do to take care of yourself? Well, I like shooting guns, working out hardcore, and hanging out with my kids/family. I would get weird looks about the first two answers and suggestions on self care that was a lot more calmer and relaxing. My work offers yoga or meditation once a month. I thought I'd give yoga a try! 

I did not like it. I wish I did. It looks fun and poses look neat, but for some reason it's not relaxing for me. I also think I'm holding my breathe or not breathing correctly. Maybe with more practice and tries I'll enjoy it.

One thing I enjoy about yoga is how cute their clothes are. prAna yoga clothes are my favorite! They are so comfy and fashionable. The pictures above, I'm wearing their Deco Crop leggings (dragonfly) in a small (http://www.prana.com/deco-crop.html?colors=dragonfly). I tried to do a yoga pose called Kapotasana or King Pigeon pose, I thought I had it, but when I looked at the pictures it looked nothing like the pose. My prAna leggings were so comfortable and stretchy, they didn't bother me. I have other leggings that constrict my movement and/or are very uncomfortable. I for sure would't be able to do many poses with those leggings. I'll stick to my prAna leggings. 

One of my favorite things about prAna is how they give back. They are big supporters of showing love for our planet. The offer sustainable, recycled, fair trade certified and hemp items. They also give back to communities all over the world - one of them is connection underserved youth with the outdoors. 

​Another reason why I love their clothes is how versatile it is. Whether I'm trying out yoga, to grocery shopping with the kids, my leggings go well with my activities. prAna also has a great clothing line. I love my Daria Sweater Hoodie in muted truffle color (small) - http://www.prana.com/daria-sweater-hoodie.html?colors=mutedtruffle​. It's perfect for fall weather! Check out the sweater in the pictures below. 

Daria Sweater Hoodie from prAna (www.prAna.com)

For more information, check out www.prAna.com.

Promo code expires October 19, 2017

This summer has flown by! The kids have been getting spoiled at my mom's house while I'm at work. When they go back to school, they are going to have a hard time going to bed and waking up early. Connor said the worst part is not getting to play the iPad as much! I try to limit his screen time on the iPad, but my mom for some reason extends his time. He has even gotten his four year old sister to build a house and "join worlds" on Minecraft. I've tried to play that game, but it makes me dizzy and I can't get the hang of it. Although we don't see eye to eye, Lunchables Organic is something we can all agree on!

The kids love Lunchables. I'm glad to have found Lunchables Organic. Their favorite is the pizza with pepperoni! They love it and this mama loves how Lunchables Organic is USDA certified organic and free of artificial preservatives, flavors of colors.*

Lunchables Organic makes the perfect on the go lunch or snack! Scotty and I recently took the Lunchables Organic pizza with pepperoni on a kayaking trip. She wasn't the only one that wanted Lunchables. The ducks tried to grab a bite! Scotty wouldn't share, but enjoyed watching them attempt to eat her food.

Although Connor is not ready for summer to end, or as he says, not ready for his iPad screen time to end - he is excited for Lunchables  Organic to be packed in his lunchbox. It's an easy, very convenient lunch that we can all agree on.

For more information on Lunchables Organic, click here.

Lunchables Instagram
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Thank you for stopping by!

KQL

*See back panel of any Organic Lunchables item for ingredients used to preserve quality 

I did it! I graduated college with a bachelor of arts in Psychology in 2008. Crazy it’s been over 9 years!

In the middle of my third year in college, I found out I was pregnant. I was excited, but did not think I could finish my studies. I had severe morning sickness and could hardly get out of bed. It was so bad, that I had to go to the emergency room six times in the first few months of my pregnancy. My grades started to suffer and I wanted to give up, but I knew I couldn’t. I was going to bring a precious baby boy in the world and wanted to further my education for a brighter future.
​
My last year in college, was the best! My son was born in the middle of the first semester of my last year in college. I had complications after the birth of my son, but as soon as the doctor said I wasn’t bedridden, I attended my classes. The last semester of college, I took 18 credit hours. I had a full school schedule and a newborn baby. I studied hard and felt like I had a new purpose in life - to be an amazing mom, and a role model to my son. I had the best grades/gpa the last year of college. I walked across the stage in May 2008 with my son in the crowd, my parents, and sister cheering me on. It was a huge accomplishment and has helped me in my career today.

I currently work at a non-profit who assist people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. I work with the children and the survivors, as the Child and Parent Advocate. Before this career, I worked as a Forensic Interviewer and a Family Advocate at the Child Advocacy Center in the police department. I worked severe child abuse cases. My careers have been very rewarding and have helped many children and families overcome difficult situations. The children I’ve worked with have taught me so much. Their resilience and ability to find happiness through extremely tough circumstances have made me a better person and has forever touched my life. I truly am blessed by the people I meet at my work.

Getting a college degree has changed my life. Today, as a single mom of two beautiful children, I’m thankful for the financial growth due to my education; I’m thankful for landing my dream job because of furthering my education; and I’m proud to be a college graduate and be a role model to my children to further their education.

​Although getting my college degree was a struggle, it is worth it. Many have struggled, but have found success through taking steps to further their education. Check out these stories from Brightwood College of many struggles, but in the end success : https://weare.brightwood.edu/.

To find out more information about Brightwood College and how people have faced adversities but achieved their goal, click here to learn more.

Thanks for stopping by!

K. Le

We all know I'm a huge Ana White fan! Her plans are easy to read and the product is amazing. Almost everything I've built comes from her website. 

It's almost been a year since we've moved into our house! I still haven't finished unpacking boxes and decoration. I want to use the excuse, I've been busy, but it's really I've been holding it off aka lazy....BUT I've finally built my TV console! I'm excited about it! My living room and dining room are coming together! 

Plans: ​http://www.ana-white.com/2012/05/plans/rustic-x-console

This was easy to build, but I had trouble with the "x's" just like the coffee table. I need to practice cutting angles.
Also, safety is so important! I'm kind of a hypocrite for saying that. I don't wear protective gear for my eyes. I will for the next project! For this project, my drill bit for my kreg jig broke! I was in the middle of my pocket hole and it snapped off. Luckily all is safe! Crazy though!

I love how the console matches my coffee table!
​Coffee Table plans: Coffee Table
Dinging Room Table plans: Farmhouse Table and Benches

I love woodworking, It's a stress reliever, fun hobby, and my kids love to help. Scotty is a huge fan of woodworking and loves to help. 

Thanks for stopping by!

Love and memories,

​Kristi Le

I started the new year working out 4-5 times a week and eating extremely healthy. I was doing well, until a couple of months ago I slacked off. Well, summer is here and I still have my winder bod. Oh well! It's never too late to get back into healthy living! 

I started counting my macros again. What is counting macros? You add up how many grams of fat, protein, and carbs you ate that day. To help me, I use an app that tracks what I'm eating and breaks it down to how many carbs, fat, and protein I eat. I can easily hit my carbs and fat. No problem. It's the protein that is hard to reach. I drink a protein shake after my workouts - two scoops - and I still have a hard time hitting my daily protein intake. I recently heard about Lorissa's Kitchen Meat snacks. They have 11 grams of protein per serving. It's great! It's my on-the-go protein snack. Perfect to grab before working out!

The only problem is that when I take it to my workout class, I have to hide it. My kids love Lorissa's Kitchen protein snack! They go through a bag in minutes. I know to bulk order on their website or on Amazon.com.

(Photo by: Connor. My sweet son took this without me knowing! He loves Lorissa's Kitchen meat snacks! )

Other amazing facts about the protein snack is:
- 100% grass-fed beef
-Responsibly raised
-Antibotic free chicken and pork
-No added growth hormones
-No nitrites
-No added MSG
-No preservatives
-Gluten Free

It's great to hit my goal daily, while eating a delicious snack. It's great for the kids too! I can't decide on a favorite flavor yet - I like all them all! Connor likes the Korean Barbeque, and Scotty's favorite is the Sweet Chili.

This meat snack is also perfect for hiking or camping trips! My kids and I love to go on adventures and we've taken Lorissa's Kitchen with us! It's the perfect snack for hiking.

For more information on Lorissa's Kitchen products, go to www.lorissaskitchen.com

Thank you for stopping by!

Love,

​KQL

As we all know, nothing in life comes easy. We go through challenges daily, but these obstacles push us to our max. Sometimes we hit rock bottom, but then bloom to be the best self we've ever been. 

A few years ago, I was blindsided by a disturbing secret that affected my marriage. Fast forward a couple of years my ex's secret got worst and eventually broke our commitment. 2016 started out to be the worst time in my life. I was married to some one I did not know. I hit a low point in my life. Going through divorce was horrible. It brought out the worst in every one, but I knew it was the best for my kids and myself. 

I made a major decision and decided to move to Austin, TX to be closer to family. I didn't want to leave what I've known for the past 12 years. I loved the small town I say I'm from. I loved my job. I loved my friends. 

I packed up my car, drove off, and didn't look back. I'm blooming in Austin, TX. I love it here. The kids are flourishing. They continue to amaze me. They are so resilient. Although I still face obstacles daily, I feel as if I'm the best me and continue to grow into a better version of myself. 2017 has already been so wonderful. I'm finding myself, healing myself, loving myself, being passionate, building relationships, meeting new people, and making memories. I encourage you to take a leap of faith and follow your dreams. Know yourself and be the best version of you. 

I love the message Wente Vineyards puts out. "For the love of the Journey." This company is incredible. Filled with lavish history and rich heritage. Their journey started in 1883 and continues to flourish. Wente is 130 years strong, and 5 generations as the country's oldest continuously operated family-owned winery. A common thread that is weaved through from generation to generation is it's Love of the Journey. As they say, “We don’t make wine because we have to, we do it because we love to.”

What is your journey? What are your dreams, goals, and how with you accomplish them?

Thank you for stopping by!

​Kristi

I’m hooked! These are so good! I recently started counting my macros or macronutrient intake. I track every day how many grams of protein, carbohydrates, and fats I consume. I like to say I’m a health freak, but that isn’t really true. I can’t stay away from candy and cake. Not healthy. I do love fruits and vegetables, but sometimes I don’t eat enough vegetables. These Blueberry Oat Muffins from Garden Lites are made with fresh zucchini and carrots! The chocolate muffins are 33% vegetables! Crazy to think that it's made up of 1/3 veggies. Garden Lites provide a convenient, more enjoyable and easier way to eat your vegetables. It’s so nice to know I’m getting a good amount of veggies while eating a tasty treat! Since I can’t stay away from sweets, I eat these muffins for dessert. It’s the perfect balance of healthy and sweet – it makes the perfect dessert for me.

 I got my Garden Lites Muffins at HEB! You can find yours in the freezer section of  your nearest Publix, Stop & Shop, Giant, Shop-Rite, HEB, Kroger, or Costco. This is a hot item! The chocolate muffins were sold out at the HEB closest to my house. Luckily, There were a few boxes of the Blueberry Oat Muffins left. 

My kids are in love with the Blueberry Oat Muffins! This is an easy on the go snack/breakfast/side/etc. This single mama loves them because they have fresh zucchini and carrots! My kids have no clue they are getting a good amount of veggies! Made of clean and simple ingredients. Added bonus that they are gluten free and dairy free!

For more information about these yummy Garden Lites Muffins, click below.

I challege you to try these. Ask your child what they think the main ingredient is... veggies!!! 

Thank you for stopping by!

​Kristi Le