I am in no way a health expert, and if you have followed my blog for a while you know, I have lost weight, gained weight, and lost it again and gained it again. One thing I have learned for sure is health is not just a number on a scale, it is also not just a diet, health is a lifestyle.  Healthy living is a journey and no matter where you are on your journey I hope these tips help you and encourage you to be mindful of your health and what you can do to improve it. 

Do not be discouraged when you see other people who have adopted toxic-free living, they live without using plastics, and chemicals.  Some garden and have fresh chicken eggs, they have either grown up that way or have learned over many years to incorporate this "clean" "healthy" way of living.  I encourage you to just start, pick one area you can improve on. If that is eating better, then do that.  If it is buying better cleaning products then do that.  I completely understand how healthy living can seem overwhelming, especially when to be honest, it is so convenient and cheap to live an unhealthy lifestyle. 

One thing the past two years have done for me, is, improve my focus on my overall health.  I have been made more aware that there are so many things that are beyond my control.  But you know what is in my control, "ME". I can work on being healthier, little by little every day.  

I have focused on doing everything I can do to have a stronger immune system, taking vitamins, getting sunlight (vitamin D), eating whole foods.  Even while eating a keto lifestyle it is easy to get caught up still eating processed and packaged keto food if you don't watch it, because of convenience and eating on the run.  It is so essential that we eat whole foods.  

Also, there are so many ways to eat healthier, find what works for you.  If Keto has not worked for you, try something else, Paleo, Vegan, Plant-Based, Gluten-Free, we are all different and different things work for us.  I know many people where Nutrisystem or Weight Watchers worked for them, others eating a Mediterranean diet worked for them.  Find what works for you! No matter the eating plan you choose, one thing is for sure, cut out sugar and processed foods, which is a common thread across all healthy eating plans, we must eliminate sugar and processed foods.  

Here are some simple everyday tips that I have been implementing, these are easy things that everyone can do, for a healthier YOU!

Drink more water! I know you've heard this before, but it really is so necessary.  Once you make a habit of this you will crave water.  One thing that helps me is having my six water bottles on the kitchen counter.  You could also get one of those refillable jugs.  Whatever works for you.  This one thing will also help you move more.  Another benefit to drinking more water is when you drink a lot of water, you have to go to the bathroom a lot, so it forces you to step away from the computer and move throughout the day. I love drinking water and have no problem drinking water.  If it is a struggle for you, try adding lemon or fruit to your water.  Try finding the cutest tumbler, just find what will help inspire you to drink more water. 

Stretch! This is one thing I have always hated, even from high school and before, I hated stretching and trying to touch my toes, but how I wish I would have stretched more all my life.  Now kind of like the water, it is therapeutic, and I need my daily stretch time. This is something so simple but makes a significant impact on our overall health.  Unfortunately, I had to learn this the hard way, by hurting my back to then NEED to stretch daily.  Please take the time to stretch even before going on a walk. You may think that you are "just walking" not going to the gym, it is still necessary to stretch.  Do it periodically throughout the day, at the very least in the morning, and at night before bed.  You'll sleep better and wake up feeling better, with fewer aches and pains.  You can find stretching videos on YouTube, I have a video from going to physical therapy that helped me and I still refer to often.

Move your body! I know it would be fabulous to go to the gym daily and have a workout routine, but don't limit yourself to that if you can't wrap your mind around going to the gym daily.  You do not need a gym membership to move your body.  Just go on a walk, and again start with a walk around the corner and increase as you go.  Many parks nowadays have exercise equipment where you use your own body weight, an excellent workout that is completely FREE.  Here is an older blog post where I share the benefits of walking. 

Sitting is the new smoking! I have come across so many articles on this topic and I completely agree.  Dr. James Levine, from the Mayo Clinic, was credited with calling sitting the new smoking, but there are also so many other Dr's discussing this topic as well. I have had back issues, bulging disc issues, sciatica issues and I think it is related to sitting.  All of my jobs, except my first job, require a lot of sitting.  My first job as a teenager I worked at a Taco Restaurant and did a ton of walking and standing, but after that, the rest of my jobs involve a computer and a ton of sitting at a desk. It is so important that we move our bodies.  I see a HUGE difference in my back pain when I am walking daily compared to when I get out of my routine.  One note though is it's not just going on a morning walk or your morning workout, sitting for long periods of time affects our body negatively.  A sedentary life is linked to disease and a shortened life span.  I have to set a timer on my phone, to remind me to get up and walk even around my house, because it is so easy to get started on a blog post, or project on the computer that before I know it three hours have gone by and I have been sitting, not good for our bodies. If you have a desk job or are often sedentary, set a timer to remind you to get up and move.

Eat whole foods! I try to eat a Keto lifestyle, but more of a low-carb, if you want to call it, I have not been super strict or a clean eater.  Recently I have realized this is something I need to work on.  I need to eat more whole foods.  I get it, we all love convenient eating, grab and go, heat in the microwave or air fryer, but for long-term health, whole foods are what is needed.  Also just because something is low in carbs, does not necessarily mean it is good for you.  Read the packaging, look at the ingredients, pay attention to what you are eating. Stick to whole foods, fruits, and veggies, get back to the basics. 

Vitamins! Even as we eat and consume whole foods, I find it hard to believe we are able to get in all the needed vitamins and nutrients. Embrace vitamins, make it part of your daily routine.  I do not sell these and none of these are affiliate links, but I love the Liquid Vitamins Daily Complete by Pure Trim.  I have been taking these for over a year now and I immediately saw a difference in my fingernails and hair.  This liquid vitamin has over 243 vitamins, it tastes good and I like it better than swallowing pills, I also read how liquid vitamins can be absorbed better.  I also love to take a daily Vitamin D, Fish Oil, Turmeric, great to decrease inflammation, and I take these Bone Strength Vitamins and Magnesium Vitamins. 

Sleep! Quality sleep is so essential.  When we are not sleeping well enough for our body, it then affects other areas of our body and mental health.   Try and go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.  I know when I keep to my routine and schedule, I sleep better.  I understand things come up and sometimes you have to adjust, be sure though not to go long periods of time, with your sleep schedule constantly changing.  Dark curtains are a big help for my sleep and a quality mattress and pillow are the other two things that I know make a big difference in my sleep patterns. 

Garbage in, garbage out! We have all heard this statement and it is so true for our whole person.  I can totally tell the difference in my body, in my sleep, in mental clarity, so many other areas as well.  When I put garbage in, I feel like garbage and I am not just talking food.  Food is a big one, but also what we listen to, what we watch, what we put our attention on.  It is so easy to get caught up on social media, news, what is going on in our world all around us and a lot of times let's be honest it's garbage, it's depressing, situations and circumstances in our world can seem hopeless.  Listen to encouraging and inspirational podcasts, audiobooks, church services online.  Listen to things that encourage and uplift you.  

Spirt, Soul, and Body! I said it at the beginning but it is so true, health is not just a number on a scale.  Is your mind healthy? Are your relationships healthy? Is your soul healthy? Just like we feed our body, we also have to feed our Spirit and Soul.  Bible Reading, Prayer Time, Quiet Time Meditating, reading inspirational books are all things that help feed your Spirit and Soul.  While there is plenty of garbage on the internet there are also some really great things to help encourage and inspire you.  You can find affirmations, daily devotionals, and just about anything on YouTube, and it is FREE! If you are looking for any suggestions feel free to DM me or e-mail me and I am happy to some ideas.  

Homeopathy, this is something that is new to me.  My sister-in-law shared some homeopathic remedies with me when I hurt my back and they actually helped.  My brother-in-law had hurt his back before I did and she shared some pellets that worked for him. She also shared a website so that I could read about it and look into it.  I encourage you to research it for yourself and at least give it a try.  I have had good experiences with the remedies I have tried. This is the website that I have searched on JoetteCalabrese, there are others but start with this one and you'll find more.  Also for those looking to try homeopathic remedies, I started with the brand Boiron which you can easily find and order from Amazon.  On the Boiron website, they even have a remedy finder, based on your symptoms. 

I know I said ten tips, but here is a bonus, Chiropractic Care! I go weekly and have seen a major improvement, not just in my back, but in my posture and minor aches and pains.  I also think it helps reduce stress and helps me sleep better.  I see so many people who just live life with pain daily. Maybe it is not your back, but I hear people complain of hip pain, neck pain, leg pains.  Chiropractic care may be just what you need.  Again, before you knock it, try it. One thing, though just like most, is consistent care, you need to go at least monthly, and depending on your situation maybe even weekly.  If you are in the Sacramento area, I highly recommend Landin-Labinger Chiropractor as well as The Joint in Roseville, I have had a great experience with both Dr. Jeff at Landin-Labinger and Dr. Nick at The Joint.  It is kind of like car maintenance but maintenance for your body, don't wait until something goes out, just go consistently for alignment and adjustments and you could very well prevent having a major issue in the future. 

There are so many things in this world that we have no control over, but one thing we do have control over is ourselves.  Just start being more mindful of your health, and not just the number on the scale, but your overall health.  Pick one area and work on it consistently, once that becomes part of you, a regular habit, pick another area to improve on.  We only get one life, one body, I know I have not always valued my body and health. I heard a statement one time "health is wealth", it sure is true.  We often take our body for granted, until something is not working properly and then realize just how important certain aspects of our body can be.  Take care of your body, do what you can today for a healthier you!  If you fall off the wagon, get back on, don't quit!

10 Everyday Tips for a Healthier YOU

I am in no way a health expert, and if you have followed my blog for a while you know, I have lost weight, gained weight, and lost it again and gained it again. One thing I have learned for sure is health is not just a number on a scale, it is also not just a diet, health is a lifestyle.  Healthy living is a journey and no matter where you are on your journey I hope these tips help you and encourage you to be mindful of your health and what you can do to improve it. 

Do not be discouraged when you see other people who have adopted toxic-free living, they live without using plastics, and chemicals.  Some garden and have fresh chicken eggs, they have either grown up that way or have learned over many years to incorporate this "clean" "healthy" way of living.  I encourage you to just start, pick one area you can improve on. If that is eating better, then do that.  If it is buying better cleaning products then do that.  I completely understand how healthy living can seem overwhelming, especially when to be honest, it is so convenient and cheap to live an unhealthy lifestyle. 

One thing the past two years have done for me, is, improve my focus on my overall health.  I have been made more aware that there are so many things that are beyond my control.  But you know what is in my control, "ME". I can work on being healthier, little by little every day.  

I have focused on doing everything I can do to have a stronger immune system, taking vitamins, getting sunlight (vitamin D), eating whole foods.  Even while eating a keto lifestyle it is easy to get caught up still eating processed and packaged keto food if you don't watch it, because of convenience and eating on the run.  It is so essential that we eat whole foods.  

Also, there are so many ways to eat healthier, find what works for you.  If Keto has not worked for you, try something else, Paleo, Vegan, Plant-Based, Gluten-Free, we are all different and different things work for us.  I know many people where Nutrisystem or Weight Watchers worked for them, others eating a Mediterranean diet worked for them.  Find what works for you! No matter the eating plan you choose, one thing is for sure, cut out sugar and processed foods, which is a common thread across all healthy eating plans, we must eliminate sugar and processed foods.  

Here are some simple everyday tips that I have been implementing, these are easy things that everyone can do, for a healthier YOU!

Drink more water! I know you've heard this before, but it really is so necessary.  Once you make a habit of this you will crave water.  One thing that helps me is having my six water bottles on the kitchen counter.  You could also get one of those refillable jugs.  Whatever works for you.  This one thing will also help you move more.  Another benefit to drinking more water is when you drink a lot of water, you have to go to the bathroom a lot, so it forces you to step away from the computer and move throughout the day. I love drinking water and have no problem drinking water.  If it is a struggle for you, try adding lemon or fruit to your water.  Try finding the cutest tumbler, just find what will help inspire you to drink more water. 

Stretch! This is one thing I have always hated, even from high school and before, I hated stretching and trying to touch my toes, but how I wish I would have stretched more all my life.  Now kind of like the water, it is therapeutic, and I need my daily stretch time. This is something so simple but makes a significant impact on our overall health.  Unfortunately, I had to learn this the hard way, by hurting my back to then NEED to stretch daily.  Please take the time to stretch even before going on a walk. You may think that you are "just walking" not going to the gym, it is still necessary to stretch.  Do it periodically throughout the day, at the very least in the morning, and at night before bed.  You'll sleep better and wake up feeling better, with fewer aches and pains.  You can find stretching videos on YouTube, I have a video from going to physical therapy that helped me and I still refer to often.

Move your body! I know it would be fabulous to go to the gym daily and have a workout routine, but don't limit yourself to that if you can't wrap your mind around going to the gym daily.  You do not need a gym membership to move your body.  Just go on a walk, and again start with a walk around the corner and increase as you go.  Many parks nowadays have exercise equipment where you use your own body weight, an excellent workout that is completely FREE.  Here is an older blog post where I share the benefits of walking. 

Sitting is the new smoking! I have come across so many articles on this topic and I completely agree.  Dr. James Levine, from the Mayo Clinic, was credited with calling sitting the new smoking, but there are also so many other Dr's discussing this topic as well. I have had back issues, bulging disc issues, sciatica issues and I think it is related to sitting.  All of my jobs, except my first job, require a lot of sitting.  My first job as a teenager I worked at a Taco Restaurant and did a ton of walking and standing, but after that, the rest of my jobs involve a computer and a ton of sitting at a desk. It is so important that we move our bodies.  I see a HUGE difference in my back pain when I am walking daily compared to when I get out of my routine.  One note though is it's not just going on a morning walk or your morning workout, sitting for long periods of time affects our body negatively.  A sedentary life is linked to disease and a shortened life span.  I have to set a timer on my phone, to remind me to get up and walk even around my house, because it is so easy to get started on a blog post, or project on the computer that before I know it three hours have gone by and I have been sitting, not good for our bodies. If you have a desk job or are often sedentary, set a timer to remind you to get up and move.

Eat whole foods! I try to eat a Keto lifestyle, but more of a low-carb, if you want to call it, I have not been super strict or a clean eater.  Recently I have realized this is something I need to work on.  I need to eat more whole foods.  I get it, we all love convenient eating, grab and go, heat in the microwave or air fryer, but for long-term health, whole foods are what is needed.  Also just because something is low in carbs, does not necessarily mean it is good for you.  Read the packaging, look at the ingredients, pay attention to what you are eating. Stick to whole foods, fruits, and veggies, get back to the basics. 

Vitamins! Even as we eat and consume whole foods, I find it hard to believe we are able to get in all the needed vitamins and nutrients. Embrace vitamins, make it part of your daily routine.  I do not sell these and none of these are affiliate links, but I love the Liquid Vitamins Daily Complete by Pure Trim.  I have been taking these for over a year now and I immediately saw a difference in my fingernails and hair.  This liquid vitamin has over 243 vitamins, it tastes good and I like it better than swallowing pills, I also read how liquid vitamins can be absorbed better.  I also love to take a daily Vitamin D, Fish Oil, Turmeric, great to decrease inflammation, and I take these Bone Strength Vitamins and Magnesium Vitamins. 

Sleep! Quality sleep is so essential.  When we are not sleeping well enough for our body, it then affects other areas of our body and mental health.   Try and go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.  I know when I keep to my routine and schedule, I sleep better.  I understand things come up and sometimes you have to adjust, be sure though not to go long periods of time, with your sleep schedule constantly changing.  Dark curtains are a big help for my sleep and a quality mattress and pillow are the other two things that I know make a big difference in my sleep patterns. 

Garbage in, garbage out! We have all heard this statement and it is so true for our whole person.  I can totally tell the difference in my body, in my sleep, in mental clarity, so many other areas as well.  When I put garbage in, I feel like garbage and I am not just talking food.  Food is a big one, but also what we listen to, what we watch, what we put our attention on.  It is so easy to get caught up on social media, news, what is going on in our world all around us and a lot of times let's be honest it's garbage, it's depressing, situations and circumstances in our world can seem hopeless.  Listen to encouraging and inspirational podcasts, audiobooks, church services online.  Listen to things that encourage and uplift you.  

Spirt, Soul, and Body! I said it at the beginning but it is so true, health is not just a number on a scale.  Is your mind healthy? Are your relationships healthy? Is your soul healthy? Just like we feed our body, we also have to feed our Spirit and Soul.  Bible Reading, Prayer Time, Quiet Time Meditating, reading inspirational books are all things that help feed your Spirit and Soul.  While there is plenty of garbage on the internet there are also some really great things to help encourage and inspire you.  You can find affirmations, daily devotionals, and just about anything on YouTube, and it is FREE! If you are looking for any suggestions feel free to DM me or e-mail me and I am happy to some ideas.  

Homeopathy, this is something that is new to me.  My sister-in-law shared some homeopathic remedies with me when I hurt my back and they actually helped.  My brother-in-law had hurt his back before I did and she shared some pellets that worked for him. She also shared a website so that I could read about it and look into it.  I encourage you to research it for yourself and at least give it a try.  I have had good experiences with the remedies I have tried. This is the website that I have searched on JoetteCalabrese, there are others but start with this one and you'll find more.  Also for those looking to try homeopathic remedies, I started with the brand Boiron which you can easily find and order from Amazon.  On the Boiron website, they even have a remedy finder, based on your symptoms. 

I know I said ten tips, but here is a bonus, Chiropractic Care! I go weekly and have seen a major improvement, not just in my back, but in my posture and minor aches and pains.  I also think it helps reduce stress and helps me sleep better.  I see so many people who just live life with pain daily. Maybe it is not your back, but I hear people complain of hip pain, neck pain, leg pains.  Chiropractic care may be just what you need.  Again, before you knock it, try it. One thing, though just like most, is consistent care, you need to go at least monthly, and depending on your situation maybe even weekly.  If you are in the Sacramento area, I highly recommend Landin-Labinger Chiropractor as well as The Joint in Roseville, I have had a great experience with both Dr. Jeff at Landin-Labinger and Dr. Nick at The Joint.  It is kind of like car maintenance but maintenance for your body, don't wait until something goes out, just go consistently for alignment and adjustments and you could very well prevent having a major issue in the future. 

There are so many things in this world that we have no control over, but one thing we do have control over is ourselves.  Just start being more mindful of your health, and not just the number on the scale, but your overall health.  Pick one area and work on it consistently, once that becomes part of you, a regular habit, pick another area to improve on.  We only get one life, one body, I know I have not always valued my body and health. I heard a statement one time "health is wealth", it sure is true.  We often take our body for granted, until something is not working properly and then realize just how important certain aspects of our body can be.  Take care of your body, do what you can today for a healthier you!  If you fall off the wagon, get back on, don't quit!

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If you have not already seen this on social media, I am here to tell you about it.  Right now if you text HI to 78887 you will receive daily encouraging posts from Starbucks.  They send encouraging posts for about 3-4 days and then they send you FREE stars for a FREE Starbucks drink as well as stars to share with a friend.  

So grab your phone and text HI to 78887 and get your FREE drinks! You are welcome!

I don't always get to post on my blog deals I find quickly, so be sure to follow me over on TikTok and Instagram, where I mostly share deals and great finds the fastest. 

@blogaboutitall #freestarbucks #starbucks #coffee #starbuckscoffee #starbuckscoffeehacks #starbuckshacks #blogaboutitall ♬ Before I Knew It - Mason Ramsey

FREE Starbucks

If you have not already seen this on social media, I am here to tell you about it.  Right now if you text HI to 78887 you will receive daily encouraging posts from Starbucks.  They send encouraging posts for about 3-4 days and then they send you FREE stars for a FREE Starbucks drink as well as stars to share with a friend.  

So grab your phone and text HI to 78887 and get your FREE drinks! You are welcome!

I don't always get to post on my blog deals I find quickly, so be sure to follow me over on TikTok and Instagram, where I mostly share deals and great finds the fastest. 

@blogaboutitall #freestarbucks #starbucks #coffee #starbuckscoffee #starbuckscoffeehacks #starbuckshacks #blogaboutitall ♬ Before I Knew It - Mason Ramsey
Read more »

Our family recently stayed at Great Wolf Lodge in Manteca, CA, there were 19 people in our group!  We had family visiting from Canada for Christmas, so we planned a few days at Great Wolf Lodge.  

This is not a sponsored post in any way, we paid and booked our own rooms. We did get a group discount since we booked a room block with 5 or more rooms.  I will say Great Wolf Lodge is a little on the pricier side, especially if you go during Christmas or any holiday. But if you keep your eye out for deals they do happen!  Here is a YouTube video from our visit to the Grand Opening, it will show you a peek in the rooms. 

I tell people if you can get a room between $199 to $250 a night, I consider that a deal. Especially when you take into consideration for our family to go to our local swim park for the day only can be $250+ so to be able to enjoy the swim park for two-days, and spend the night it really is totally worth it.  Two-days of swim park enjoyment because you are able to enjoy both the day you check-in, before check-in time and the day you check out, stay until closing, well after check out time.

Great Wolf Lodge is an excellent option for families with all age groups because there are plenty of group activities to enjoy together and everyone can head to their room when they need a nap or break. 

Here are some things to know if you are planning a trip to Great Wolf. Our family has now been to this newer location a few times this year.  We attended the grand opening and have stayed a few times since they opened. 

1. Check-In Early - Although the official check-in time is 3 PM, you can check-in as early as 1 PM and enjoy the water park while you wait for your hotel room to be available.  You might also be surprised and your room may be available early.  The line to check-in will be much shorter earlier in the day.  When we arrived and checked in at 1 PM, the line was not bad at all.  Some of our group checked in after 3 PM and they waited hours in line to check-in.  

2. Wolf ears are FREE!  You can pick up your Wolf ears at check-in or in the gift shop. Most of the time they tell you this upon checking in, but if no one mentions it just ask about your free Wolf ears. 

3.  You can bring your own food.  This is a huge money-saving tip.  Each room has a mini-fridge and microwaves are available on each floor near the vending machines.  At this particular Great Wolf, Costco is right next door, you can literally walk there.  While you cannot bring food into the swim area, there is plenty of seating near the activities or you can take it to your room.  With our large crew, we used the tables in the general area.  One day we did Costco pizzas, another day we did salads, fruits, chips and salsa, a rotisserie chicken, this is a big way to save money.  There are restaurants and some great poolside nachos, we've had the delicious burgers from Buckets here on site as well, but if you are on a budget or trying to save money, you can always find other restaurants nearby. 

4. Plan to swim the day you leave. You can enjoy the swim park on the day you check out, feel free to stay until closing time.  Check-out time is typically 11 AM but the swim park is open until 8 PM. In the swim park area, there are lockers and showers. A great way to make it easier is to have a small bag or backpack with a change of clothes so everyone can change out of their swimsuits when ready to go. 

5. Wristband Room Keys - a really cool part of Great Wolf is the wristbands are also a room key and a way to charge purchases to your room.  If you have older children be sure to request that their wristband is also a room key and a way to purchase items if you wish.  

6. Don't bring swim towels! Leave your swim towels at home. You can check out swim towels in the swim park area for FREE! Just be sure to check them back in so you are not charged for them. You scan your wristband when you check out towels and scan when you return. I love that this is one less thing to pack and one less thing to wash when you arrive home. 

7. Do not overpack. Seriously think of a stay at Great Wolf-like glamping.  Other than your swim clothes and pajamas, you do not really need much.  We pretty much stayed in our swim clothes all day, other than the evening hours.

8. Bring a swim cover. Definitely worth bringing a swim cover to walk around the hotel lobby area, during character meet and greets, or while grabbing lunch at one of the restaurants. Makes it easy to not feel underdressed while dining or indoors. 

9. Bring board games and cards.  This is especially essential if you are with a group and another money-saving tip.  While there are other activities such as mini-golf, bowling, and the ropes course, for an additional fee.  Board games and cards are FREE fun! We brought two of our favorites Phase 10 and Uno.  We brought a few board games for the younger kiddos too. 

10. Life jackets are free. Another item you can leave at home if you have little ones.  There are plenty of life jackets available for you to use in the Great Wolf Water park area.

11. No sunscreen is needed.  If you are visiting during the winter months, leave your sunscreen at home, because you will be indoors. 

12. Bring a pool bag or backpack.  I liked this for a few reasons, the obvious to hold some of our items, especially on check out day, like a change of clothes.  The other reason is everyone has the same towels on their chairs, so having a distinct bag or backpack your kids are familiar with is an easy way for them to find where you are seated. I would save our spot and then text our group the photo of where we were seated.

13. Bring sandals and also closed-toe shoes. Sandals are the easiest way to walk around the swim park and to and from your room.  But if you plan on doing the climbing ropes course closed-toe shoes are required, so be sure to bring those along as well. 

14. Dunkin Donuts need I say more. You definitely want the early riser to get there early because the line can get long. Someone from our room would go down at opening and bring the Donuts back to the room and go back to bed. This way we avoided waiting in the long line. The donuts are very affordable and all the same price, the same price for a glazed as Boston Crème filled donuts. 


15. Magic Quest Wand Game. Our boys shared one wand and it worked fine, the younger two are the ones who mostly used it.  It was a great "activity" for my little guy who was not going to do the ropes course.  It was also something to do in the evening hours when the swim park is closed and early morning hours before the swim park opens. You can re-use the wands on future stays, you pay a small activation game fee, but it is nice that you can use them again. 

16. Seating & Cabanas. There are a lot of chairs in the swim park area, if you are visiting during a busier time, be sure to save seats when the swim park opens as it gets busier as the day goes on with new guests checking in. We visited during Christmas break and I was happy at least one person from our group was always down at the swim park at opening. There are very nice Cabana rentals and if you budget and plan those would be a nice treat. During the Christmas season, they were decorated, this photo is from another time we visited.

17. Enjoy the FREE activities. Take a photo of the schedule of FREE activities when you check in they have a list at the counter and some displays in the lobby or download the App. Throughout the day they have free craft activities, character meet and greet times as well as morning yoga and nightly dance parties. During the Christmas season, they had "snow" falling in the lobby aka bubbles and when we visited during the Halloween season, they had Trick or Treating stations for the kids to get free candy. We love these fun, festive activities. 


18. Use the App to Check-out. You can conveniently use the App to check out, no need to wait in line to go to the counter. We received e-mails and texts which made it easier to fill out the pre-screening items they ask as well as we received a text asking us if we were out of our room, all very helpful. I will add be sure to check the website often for updates, when we visited you did not need a Covid-19 Negative test or a Vaccination card, but that has changed at least here in California, so check and ask before your stay. I am so happy we visited before this change. 

I hope these tips help you plan your future stay at Great Wolf Lodge, we stayed at the new Manteca, California location which just opened June 2021, you can read about the Grand opening here. You can watch some of the fun we had on our TikTok. See the snow fun here. See morning yoga here. Watch the nightly dance party here. If you have any other questions, feel free to DM me on Instagram or Facebook, I am always happy to help if I can.

15+ Things to Know Before You Visit Great Wolf Lodge

Our family recently stayed at Great Wolf Lodge in Manteca, CA, there were 19 people in our group!  We had family visiting from Canada for Christmas, so we planned a few days at Great Wolf Lodge.  

This is not a sponsored post in any way, we paid and booked our own rooms. We did get a group discount since we booked a room block with 5 or more rooms.  I will say Great Wolf Lodge is a little on the pricier side, especially if you go during Christmas or any holiday. But if you keep your eye out for deals they do happen!  Here is a YouTube video from our visit to the Grand Opening, it will show you a peek in the rooms. 

I tell people if you can get a room between $199 to $250 a night, I consider that a deal. Especially when you take into consideration for our family to go to our local swim park for the day only can be $250+ so to be able to enjoy the swim park for two-days, and spend the night it really is totally worth it.  Two-days of swim park enjoyment because you are able to enjoy both the day you check-in, before check-in time and the day you check out, stay until closing, well after check out time.

Great Wolf Lodge is an excellent option for families with all age groups because there are plenty of group activities to enjoy together and everyone can head to their room when they need a nap or break. 

Here are some things to know if you are planning a trip to Great Wolf. Our family has now been to this newer location a few times this year.  We attended the grand opening and have stayed a few times since they opened. 

1. Check-In Early - Although the official check-in time is 3 PM, you can check-in as early as 1 PM and enjoy the water park while you wait for your hotel room to be available.  You might also be surprised and your room may be available early.  The line to check-in will be much shorter earlier in the day.  When we arrived and checked in at 1 PM, the line was not bad at all.  Some of our group checked in after 3 PM and they waited hours in line to check-in.  

2. Wolf ears are FREE!  You can pick up your Wolf ears at check-in or in the gift shop. Most of the time they tell you this upon checking in, but if no one mentions it just ask about your free Wolf ears. 

3.  You can bring your own food.  This is a huge money-saving tip.  Each room has a mini-fridge and microwaves are available on each floor near the vending machines.  At this particular Great Wolf, Costco is right next door, you can literally walk there.  While you cannot bring food into the swim area, there is plenty of seating near the activities or you can take it to your room.  With our large crew, we used the tables in the general area.  One day we did Costco pizzas, another day we did salads, fruits, chips and salsa, a rotisserie chicken, this is a big way to save money.  There are restaurants and some great poolside nachos, we've had the delicious burgers from Buckets here on site as well, but if you are on a budget or trying to save money, you can always find other restaurants nearby. 

4. Plan to swim the day you leave. You can enjoy the swim park on the day you check out, feel free to stay until closing time.  Check-out time is typically 11 AM but the swim park is open until 8 PM. In the swim park area, there are lockers and showers. A great way to make it easier is to have a small bag or backpack with a change of clothes so everyone can change out of their swimsuits when ready to go. 

5. Wristband Room Keys - a really cool part of Great Wolf is the wristbands are also a room key and a way to charge purchases to your room.  If you have older children be sure to request that their wristband is also a room key and a way to purchase items if you wish.  

6. Don't bring swim towels! Leave your swim towels at home. You can check out swim towels in the swim park area for FREE! Just be sure to check them back in so you are not charged for them. You scan your wristband when you check out towels and scan when you return. I love that this is one less thing to pack and one less thing to wash when you arrive home. 

7. Do not overpack. Seriously think of a stay at Great Wolf-like glamping.  Other than your swim clothes and pajamas, you do not really need much.  We pretty much stayed in our swim clothes all day, other than the evening hours.

8. Bring a swim cover. Definitely worth bringing a swim cover to walk around the hotel lobby area, during character meet and greets, or while grabbing lunch at one of the restaurants. Makes it easy to not feel underdressed while dining or indoors. 

9. Bring board games and cards.  This is especially essential if you are with a group and another money-saving tip.  While there are other activities such as mini-golf, bowling, and the ropes course, for an additional fee.  Board games and cards are FREE fun! We brought two of our favorites Phase 10 and Uno.  We brought a few board games for the younger kiddos too. 

10. Life jackets are free. Another item you can leave at home if you have little ones.  There are plenty of life jackets available for you to use in the Great Wolf Water park area.

11. No sunscreen is needed.  If you are visiting during the winter months, leave your sunscreen at home, because you will be indoors. 

12. Bring a pool bag or backpack.  I liked this for a few reasons, the obvious to hold some of our items, especially on check out day, like a change of clothes.  The other reason is everyone has the same towels on their chairs, so having a distinct bag or backpack your kids are familiar with is an easy way for them to find where you are seated. I would save our spot and then text our group the photo of where we were seated.

13. Bring sandals and also closed-toe shoes. Sandals are the easiest way to walk around the swim park and to and from your room.  But if you plan on doing the climbing ropes course closed-toe shoes are required, so be sure to bring those along as well. 

14. Dunkin Donuts need I say more. You definitely want the early riser to get there early because the line can get long. Someone from our room would go down at opening and bring the Donuts back to the room and go back to bed. This way we avoided waiting in the long line. The donuts are very affordable and all the same price, the same price for a glazed as Boston Crème filled donuts. 


15. Magic Quest Wand Game. Our boys shared one wand and it worked fine, the younger two are the ones who mostly used it.  It was a great "activity" for my little guy who was not going to do the ropes course.  It was also something to do in the evening hours when the swim park is closed and early morning hours before the swim park opens. You can re-use the wands on future stays, you pay a small activation game fee, but it is nice that you can use them again. 

16. Seating & Cabanas. There are a lot of chairs in the swim park area, if you are visiting during a busier time, be sure to save seats when the swim park opens as it gets busier as the day goes on with new guests checking in. We visited during Christmas break and I was happy at least one person from our group was always down at the swim park at opening. There are very nice Cabana rentals and if you budget and plan those would be a nice treat. During the Christmas season, they were decorated, this photo is from another time we visited.

17. Enjoy the FREE activities. Take a photo of the schedule of FREE activities when you check in they have a list at the counter and some displays in the lobby or download the App. Throughout the day they have free craft activities, character meet and greet times as well as morning yoga and nightly dance parties. During the Christmas season, they had "snow" falling in the lobby aka bubbles and when we visited during the Halloween season, they had Trick or Treating stations for the kids to get free candy. We love these fun, festive activities. 


18. Use the App to Check-out. You can conveniently use the App to check out, no need to wait in line to go to the counter. We received e-mails and texts which made it easier to fill out the pre-screening items they ask as well as we received a text asking us if we were out of our room, all very helpful. I will add be sure to check the website often for updates, when we visited you did not need a Covid-19 Negative test or a Vaccination card, but that has changed at least here in California, so check and ask before your stay. I am so happy we visited before this change. 

I hope these tips help you plan your future stay at Great Wolf Lodge, we stayed at the new Manteca, California location which just opened June 2021, you can read about the Grand opening here. You can watch some of the fun we had on our TikTok. See the snow fun here. See morning yoga here. Watch the nightly dance party here. If you have any other questions, feel free to DM me on Instagram or Facebook, I am always happy to help if I can.

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Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows.  Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.

Disney on Ice is skating back into Sacramento and Stockton this February, want to SAVE on tickets? Use Discount Code FROZEN (20% off select seats). Disney on Ice is on our FAVORITE shows, they always bring that Disney Magic that makes our heart and face smile. 

Courage leads the way for Disney’s most adventurous heroes when Disney On Ice presents Dream Big skates back into Sacramento & Stockton next February playing Stockton Arena from February 3-6 followed by Golden 1 Center from February 17-21, 2022.  Dream Big features favorite Disney friends such as Mickey, Minnie, Miguel, Moana, Elsa, Belle, Genie, and more highlighting all the magic and adventure of Disney’s tales through world-class figure skating. Audiences will be transported to exciting worlds where heroes of every kind seek to fulfill their dreams at a live experience, families will never forget!

Join the fearless Moana and the greatest demigod that ever lived, Maui, on an action-packed voyage to restore the stolen heart of Te Fiti. Explore the Land of the Dead as Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco brings the festivities of Día de los Muertos to the ice. Get tangled up in Rapunzel’s hair-raising quest to see the floating lights. Travel to the kingdom of Arendelle with Anna, Elsa and Olaf in a dramatic retelling of the sisterly love that saved a kingdom. And discover the strength, bravery and kindness that inspired generation after generation with Jasmine, Ariel, Aurora, Belle and Cinderella.

While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is continuing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all federal, state and local guidelines.  Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found here.  Please monitor the venue websites at Stockton Arena and Golden 1 Center  for health and safety policies, including face covering and entry requirements, which are subject to change.

STOCKTON

WHEN: Thursday, February 3rd 7:00 PM, Friday, February 4th 7:00 PM, Saturday, February 5th 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM and Sunday, February 6th 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

WHERE: Stockton Arena – 248 W. Fremont Ave., Stockton, CA 95203

TICKETS: Family-friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or visit the venue box office during regular hours *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. 

SACRAMENTO

WHEN: Thursday, February 17th 7:00 PM, Friday, February 18th 7:00 PM, Saturday, February 19th 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM, Sunday, February 20th 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM and Monday, February 21st 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM

WHERE: Golden 1 Center – 500 David J. Stern Walk, Sacramento, CA 95814

TICKETS: Family-friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or visit the venue box office during regular hours *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. 

MERCH PRE-ORDER:  Guests looking to purchase Disney On Ice souvenirs will find the process easier than ever thanks to a new contactless shopping experience with touch-free payment and digital purchasing options.  Guests can pre-order items prior to arriving at the venue.  Once ordered, guests can pick up their purchases at a convenient, contactless pickup station during the show.  Additional information can be found here.

Disney On Ice is celebrating it’s 40th Anniversary of bringing joy to families around the world, check out this magical 40 Years video. Follow Disney On Ice social media channels: Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce

About Feld Entertainment: Feld Entertainment® is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Disney Live!, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Sesame Street Live!, DreamWorks Trolls The Experience and Jurassic World Live Tour. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.

Disney on Ice Dream Big Sacramento Golden 1 Center

Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows.  Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.

Disney on Ice is skating back into Sacramento and Stockton this February, want to SAVE on tickets? Use Discount Code FROZEN (20% off select seats). Disney on Ice is on our FAVORITE shows, they always bring that Disney Magic that makes our heart and face smile. 

Courage leads the way for Disney’s most adventurous heroes when Disney On Ice presents Dream Big skates back into Sacramento & Stockton next February playing Stockton Arena from February 3-6 followed by Golden 1 Center from February 17-21, 2022.  Dream Big features favorite Disney friends such as Mickey, Minnie, Miguel, Moana, Elsa, Belle, Genie, and more highlighting all the magic and adventure of Disney’s tales through world-class figure skating. Audiences will be transported to exciting worlds where heroes of every kind seek to fulfill their dreams at a live experience, families will never forget!

Join the fearless Moana and the greatest demigod that ever lived, Maui, on an action-packed voyage to restore the stolen heart of Te Fiti. Explore the Land of the Dead as Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco brings the festivities of Día de los Muertos to the ice. Get tangled up in Rapunzel’s hair-raising quest to see the floating lights. Travel to the kingdom of Arendelle with Anna, Elsa and Olaf in a dramatic retelling of the sisterly love that saved a kingdom. And discover the strength, bravery and kindness that inspired generation after generation with Jasmine, Ariel, Aurora, Belle and Cinderella.

While delivering the same magical experiences guests expect from Disney On Ice, Feld Entertainment is continuing Guest Wellness Enhancements to help keep families safe at its live events. Feld Entertainment is working closely with venue partners to establish and follow COVID-19 health and safety standards in accordance with all federal, state and local guidelines.  Full details on Feld Entertainment Guest Wellness Enhancements can be found here.  Please monitor the venue websites at Stockton Arena and Golden 1 Center  for health and safety policies, including face covering and entry requirements, which are subject to change.

STOCKTON

WHEN: Thursday, February 3rd 7:00 PM, Friday, February 4th 7:00 PM, Saturday, February 5th 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM and Sunday, February 6th 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM

WHERE: Stockton Arena – 248 W. Fremont Ave., Stockton, CA 95203

TICKETS: Family-friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or visit the venue box office during regular hours *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. 

SACRAMENTO

WHEN: Thursday, February 17th 7:00 PM, Friday, February 18th 7:00 PM, Saturday, February 19th 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM, Sunday, February 20th 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM and Monday, February 21st 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM

WHERE: Golden 1 Center – 500 David J. Stern Walk, Sacramento, CA 95814

TICKETS: Family-friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or visit the venue box office during regular hours *Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand. 

MERCH PRE-ORDER:  Guests looking to purchase Disney On Ice souvenirs will find the process easier than ever thanks to a new contactless shopping experience with touch-free payment and digital purchasing options.  Guests can pre-order items prior to arriving at the venue.  Once ordered, guests can pick up their purchases at a convenient, contactless pickup station during the show.  Additional information can be found here.

Disney On Ice is celebrating it’s 40th Anniversary of bringing joy to families around the world, check out this magical 40 Years video. Follow Disney On Ice social media channels: Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Subscribe to the Disney On Ice YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/DisneyOnIce

About Feld Entertainment: Feld Entertainment® is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Disney Live!, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Sesame Street Live!, DreamWorks Trolls The Experience and Jurassic World Live Tour. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.

Read more »

I love Chicken and Shrimp Pad Thai, but when trying to eat low-carb or Keto, because of the sugar and noodles you can't enjoy Pad Thai or can you? Yes, yes you can! A low carb version Pad Thai.

This was absolutely delicious and will definitely be added to my monthly rotation of meals.  I would eat it weekly if I could.  I am not sure I want to eat the Healthy Noodle weekly, it is delicious, it is not about that, it is just I am trying to listen to my friend Ash over at KetoCryers and try to eat with cleaner ingredients.  Follow KetoCryers for Keto, Positivity, and Wellness Inspiration.  

While the Healthy Noodle is a great low-carb option, it is not Keto. Listen whenever you can eat clean, eat whole foods, but in my opinion, to do this long-term as a lifestyle I personally need some of my favorite dishes and desserts, re-made, and often a low-carb version works, even though it may not be clean or considered whole foods.  So while I agree, you shouldn't eat packaged anything every single day, sometimes it is what it is and it is better than eating the sugar-filled one.  I know for myself this is a journey, I've lost weight, I've gained the weight back, I am still on my journey of a healthy lifestyle.  I just like many of you, would eat all the junk if I could, it is cheaper, it is more convenient to eat chips, cookies, and ice cream, but the junk is not going to help me in my goals of living long and living strong.  

Choosing berries as a treat over packed low-carb cookies of course in better and cleaner.  Choosing Zoodles over any packaged, processed noodle substitute is going to be cleaner obviously.  You could totally make this recipe with Zucchini Zoodles, and it would still taste yummy.  With the Healthy Noodle, though it looks more like real Pad Thai, we also eat with our eyes, so grateful for this low-carb option. 


I searched for a recipe and came across one by Low Carb Love, which I love all her low-carb recipes. I decided I would give it a try.  I adapted it a little to use what I had on hand.  For example, she uses bell pepper and no carrots and celery, but that is what I had on hand.  She did not use onion, I like to use onion in everything.  I used less Molasses and less sweetener than her recipe, and I thought mine tasted fine with less.  I used both chicken and shrimp because I like a lot of meat. You could leave one out or even leave both out if you wish. 

Don't be overwhelmed by the list of ingredients, this really is such a simple dish to make and a quick one.  You can enjoy a delicious Chicken or Shrimp Pad Thai dinner in about 15 minutes.  

Ingredients:

Healthy Noodle - 2 Pouches for 4 people

Chicken or Shrimp 

2 Tablespoons - Rice Vinegar

1 Tablespoon - Soy Sauce

2 Tablespoons - Fish Sauce

1 1/2 Tablespoons - Coconut Aminos

1/2 Teaspoon Molasses

2-Tablespoons-Creamy Peanut Butter (sugar-free or lowest carb count possible)

2-Tablespoons Xylitol or Erythritol or Low Carb Sweetener of Your Choice

2-eggs

1/2 Small White Onion

3 Cloves - Minced Garlic (2 cloves to add with carrots and celery, 1 clove to cook with shrimp)

Red Pepper Flakes (to taste)

Celery (2-3 stalks diced)

Carrots (1/2 cup sliced)

1 Cup of Bean Sprouts

Garnish

Cilantro (this is a must in my opinion, makes the dish)

Green Onion (optional)

Peanuts (optional)

Lime

Instructions:

1. Prepare all your ingredients because this recipe goes fast.

Dice your onion, celery, carrots, you can use bell pepper, use what you have. In a bowl whisk the two eggs.  Strain and rinse the noodle pouches have ready to go.  

2. Prepare your sauce in a glass bowl. Combine all the ingredients.

3. Cook Shrimp in a tablespoon of olive oil, avocado oil, or what you have on hand, I added 1 clove of minced garlic with the shrimp as it cooked.  Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan, set aside.

4. In the same pan, sauté your onions, celery, carrots.  Don't over sauté, you want them to have a little crunch to them.  Make a well in the middle. Add in your eggs to scramble.  Mix together.

5. Add in a cup of bean sprouts, mix.

6. Add back in your cooked shrimp or chicken.

7. Add in the prepared sauce.

8. Add in Healthy Noodle, don't over mix, just heat slightly.  

9. Plate and top with green onion, cilantro, peanuts and a squeeze of lime.

The cilantro really pulls together this dish, I wanted to taste it right away and so I tasted it and while it tasted delicious when I added the cilantro, that made such a HUGE difference and really pulled the dish together giving it that authentic Pad Thai goodness. 










Some things I learned:

We grilled a chicken breast, I wanted to do both chicken and shrimp in our Pad Thai to make it meaty.  Next time I will pre-cut the chicken like I do when I make fajitas and cook the chicken stovetop, fajita style.  The grilled chicken worked and wasn't a big issue, but it really did not slice and look like the chicken would in a normal Chicken Pad Thai dish.  

The Healthy Noodle cannot be over stirred, it will begin to break apart, for the best looking and for the noodle to keep its length, I would plate the Healthy Noodle on a plate, and then just pour all the ingredients over the noodles next time.  

Authentic Pad Thai is made with brown sugar so adding the molasses makes up for that, the molasses and sweetener are the brown sugar, so you technically could use a low carb brown sugar if you have that on hand instead of going out to purchase molasses.  I think you could also skip this part and it would still fill your Pad Thai cravings.  

Low-Carb Pad Thai Recipe

I love Chicken and Shrimp Pad Thai, but when trying to eat low-carb or Keto, because of the sugar and noodles you can't enjoy Pad Thai or can you? Yes, yes you can! A low carb version Pad Thai.

This was absolutely delicious and will definitely be added to my monthly rotation of meals.  I would eat it weekly if I could.  I am not sure I want to eat the Healthy Noodle weekly, it is delicious, it is not about that, it is just I am trying to listen to my friend Ash over at KetoCryers and try to eat with cleaner ingredients.  Follow KetoCryers for Keto, Positivity, and Wellness Inspiration.  

While the Healthy Noodle is a great low-carb option, it is not Keto. Listen whenever you can eat clean, eat whole foods, but in my opinion, to do this long-term as a lifestyle I personally need some of my favorite dishes and desserts, re-made, and often a low-carb version works, even though it may not be clean or considered whole foods.  So while I agree, you shouldn't eat packaged anything every single day, sometimes it is what it is and it is better than eating the sugar-filled one.  I know for myself this is a journey, I've lost weight, I've gained the weight back, I am still on my journey of a healthy lifestyle.  I just like many of you, would eat all the junk if I could, it is cheaper, it is more convenient to eat chips, cookies, and ice cream, but the junk is not going to help me in my goals of living long and living strong.  

Choosing berries as a treat over packed low-carb cookies of course in better and cleaner.  Choosing Zoodles over any packaged, processed noodle substitute is going to be cleaner obviously.  You could totally make this recipe with Zucchini Zoodles, and it would still taste yummy.  With the Healthy Noodle, though it looks more like real Pad Thai, we also eat with our eyes, so grateful for this low-carb option. 


I searched for a recipe and came across one by Low Carb Love, which I love all her low-carb recipes. I decided I would give it a try.  I adapted it a little to use what I had on hand.  For example, she uses bell pepper and no carrots and celery, but that is what I had on hand.  She did not use onion, I like to use onion in everything.  I used less Molasses and less sweetener than her recipe, and I thought mine tasted fine with less.  I used both chicken and shrimp because I like a lot of meat. You could leave one out or even leave both out if you wish. 

Don't be overwhelmed by the list of ingredients, this really is such a simple dish to make and a quick one.  You can enjoy a delicious Chicken or Shrimp Pad Thai dinner in about 15 minutes.  

Ingredients:

Healthy Noodle - 2 Pouches for 4 people

Chicken or Shrimp 

2 Tablespoons - Rice Vinegar

1 Tablespoon - Soy Sauce

2 Tablespoons - Fish Sauce

1 1/2 Tablespoons - Coconut Aminos

1/2 Teaspoon Molasses

2-Tablespoons-Creamy Peanut Butter (sugar-free or lowest carb count possible)

2-Tablespoons Xylitol or Erythritol or Low Carb Sweetener of Your Choice

2-eggs

1/2 Small White Onion

3 Cloves - Minced Garlic (2 cloves to add with carrots and celery, 1 clove to cook with shrimp)

Red Pepper Flakes (to taste)

Celery (2-3 stalks diced)

Carrots (1/2 cup sliced)

1 Cup of Bean Sprouts

Garnish

Cilantro (this is a must in my opinion, makes the dish)

Green Onion (optional)

Peanuts (optional)

Lime

Instructions:

1. Prepare all your ingredients because this recipe goes fast.

Dice your onion, celery, carrots, you can use bell pepper, use what you have. In a bowl whisk the two eggs.  Strain and rinse the noodle pouches have ready to go.  

2. Prepare your sauce in a glass bowl. Combine all the ingredients.

3. Cook Shrimp in a tablespoon of olive oil, avocado oil, or what you have on hand, I added 1 clove of minced garlic with the shrimp as it cooked.  Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan, set aside.

4. In the same pan, sauté your onions, celery, carrots.  Don't over sauté, you want them to have a little crunch to them.  Make a well in the middle. Add in your eggs to scramble.  Mix together.

5. Add in a cup of bean sprouts, mix.

6. Add back in your cooked shrimp or chicken.

7. Add in the prepared sauce.

8. Add in Healthy Noodle, don't over mix, just heat slightly.  

9. Plate and top with green onion, cilantro, peanuts and a squeeze of lime.

The cilantro really pulls together this dish, I wanted to taste it right away and so I tasted it and while it tasted delicious when I added the cilantro, that made such a HUGE difference and really pulled the dish together giving it that authentic Pad Thai goodness. 










Some things I learned:

We grilled a chicken breast, I wanted to do both chicken and shrimp in our Pad Thai to make it meaty.  Next time I will pre-cut the chicken like I do when I make fajitas and cook the chicken stovetop, fajita style.  The grilled chicken worked and wasn't a big issue, but it really did not slice and look like the chicken would in a normal Chicken Pad Thai dish.  

The Healthy Noodle cannot be over stirred, it will begin to break apart, for the best looking and for the noodle to keep its length, I would plate the Healthy Noodle on a plate, and then just pour all the ingredients over the noodles next time.  

Authentic Pad Thai is made with brown sugar so adding the molasses makes up for that, the molasses and sweetener are the brown sugar, so you technically could use a low carb brown sugar if you have that on hand instead of going out to purchase molasses.  I think you could also skip this part and it would still fill your Pad Thai cravings.  

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Have you seen the "Healthy Noodle" at Costco?  Healthy Noodle is also sold elsewhere.  To find where you can buy Healthy Noodle click here. I first saw it at Costco and saw that it was a great low-carb option.  Health noodle is gluten-free, fat-free, sugar-free, cholesterol-free, and dairy-free.  A great Keto and Vegan option!

I tried these noodles first in a Chicken Noodle soup recipe and I thought it worked perfectly for that.  The second thing I couldn't wait to cook and try was a Keto Pad Thai recipe.  Thai food is one of my favorites and something I miss when I am eating the Keto way.  

The Healthy Noodle worked perfectly for us as a noodle substitute.  We have tried Palmini Noodles and of course, Zucchini Zoodles, which I love both of those as well.  We've used spaghetti squash, which is also delicious.  But if I would have to rate noodles, well since we tried Palmini noodles, it has been quite a while since we have used spaghetti squash.  So this is our rating when it comes to substituting noodle options. I will also add that it depends on the dish, so next to my rating I'm adding my favorite dishes that we make with them. I think each one has its place, except Spaghetti Squash, now that we have these top three, I don't know that I will use a Spaghetti Squash again. 

1. Healthy Noodle (Pad Thai, Chicken Noodle Soup)

2. Palmini Noodle (Meaty Spaghetti)

3. Zucchini Noodles (Spaghetti, and Zucchini strips for Lasagna is my fav)

4. Spaghetti Squash (Meaty Spaghetti)

One of the best things about the Healthy Noodle is it's done in 30-seconds.  You don't have to cook it.  It is sold in pouches, you strain and then rinse and serve.  You can serve hot or cold.  We poured them in our Chicken Noodle Soup which was made in the Instant Pot, as the very last step.  Same with the Keto Pad Thai recipe we made, the last step was adding the noodles.  

They actually taste the best if you eat them right away and don't let them sit too long in heat in my opinion.  They have a great texture when eating quickly.  Not too mushy, not slimy, not any bite as in Palmini Noodles.  Since there is no bite in the Healthy Noodle, I think they go perfectly for soup, Pad Thai and next I want to try them in a Shrimp Alfredo recipe.  I think they would be perfect for those.  If you have a heartier sauce like a meaty spaghetti sauce, I would go with the Palmini Noodles.  One thing I have looked for in the stores is the Palmini Noodle strip style, for Lasagna, I have not found it near us.  

We found these at Costco for $14.99 a box in the refrigerated section, and there are six pouches in a box.  Each pouch is a serving size for two.  I share videos of these on my TikTok, check them out below. 

This is a perfect noodle for people with Diabetes, Celiac Disease, and any type of Weight Loss diet, especially Keto diet! 

This post is NOT sponsored, in any way, we purchased the Healthy Noodle ourselves and receive no kickback as a result of sharing here, no affiliate links on this post.  We love sharing great finds with you, they are not all sponsored posts. Just thought I'd add that, whenever I have a sponsored post, you will see [AD] or some kind of disclosure. I also only share products and events that I truly do enjoy, I have turned down plenty of sponsored opportunities if it is not something that we actually recommend. Thank you for your support on our blog and on social media.  We truly do appreciate every like, comment, and share!
@blogaboutitall #Costco #HealthyNoodle #keto #lowcarb #sugarfree #fatfree #glutenfree #dairyfree #ketonoodles #lowcarbnoodles #ketofinds #costcofinds #healthynoodles #blogaboutitall ♬ We Don't Talk About Bruno - Carolina Gaitán - La Gaita & Mauro Castillo & Adassa & Rhenzy Feliz & Diane Guerrero & Stephanie Beatriz & Encanto - Cast
@blogaboutitall #ChickenNoodleSoup #instantpot #instantpotrecipes #instantpotdinners #instantpotchickennoodlesoup #KetoChickenNoodleSoup #healthynoodle #healthynoodles #lowcarbchickennoodlesoup #dinner #easydinner #blogaboutitall ♬ The Family Madrigal - Stephanie Beatriz & Olga Merediz & Encanto - Cast

Healthy Noodle Review

Have you seen the "Healthy Noodle" at Costco?  Healthy Noodle is also sold elsewhere.  To find where you can buy Healthy Noodle click here. I first saw it at Costco and saw that it was a great low-carb option.  Health noodle is gluten-free, fat-free, sugar-free, cholesterol-free, and dairy-free.  A great Keto and Vegan option!

I tried these noodles first in a Chicken Noodle soup recipe and I thought it worked perfectly for that.  The second thing I couldn't wait to cook and try was a Keto Pad Thai recipe.  Thai food is one of my favorites and something I miss when I am eating the Keto way.  

The Healthy Noodle worked perfectly for us as a noodle substitute.  We have tried Palmini Noodles and of course, Zucchini Zoodles, which I love both of those as well.  We've used spaghetti squash, which is also delicious.  But if I would have to rate noodles, well since we tried Palmini noodles, it has been quite a while since we have used spaghetti squash.  So this is our rating when it comes to substituting noodle options. I will also add that it depends on the dish, so next to my rating I'm adding my favorite dishes that we make with them. I think each one has its place, except Spaghetti Squash, now that we have these top three, I don't know that I will use a Spaghetti Squash again. 

1. Healthy Noodle (Pad Thai, Chicken Noodle Soup)

2. Palmini Noodle (Meaty Spaghetti)

3. Zucchini Noodles (Spaghetti, and Zucchini strips for Lasagna is my fav)

4. Spaghetti Squash (Meaty Spaghetti)

One of the best things about the Healthy Noodle is it's done in 30-seconds.  You don't have to cook it.  It is sold in pouches, you strain and then rinse and serve.  You can serve hot or cold.  We poured them in our Chicken Noodle Soup which was made in the Instant Pot, as the very last step.  Same with the Keto Pad Thai recipe we made, the last step was adding the noodles.  

They actually taste the best if you eat them right away and don't let them sit too long in heat in my opinion.  They have a great texture when eating quickly.  Not too mushy, not slimy, not any bite as in Palmini Noodles.  Since there is no bite in the Healthy Noodle, I think they go perfectly for soup, Pad Thai and next I want to try them in a Shrimp Alfredo recipe.  I think they would be perfect for those.  If you have a heartier sauce like a meaty spaghetti sauce, I would go with the Palmini Noodles.  One thing I have looked for in the stores is the Palmini Noodle strip style, for Lasagna, I have not found it near us.  

We found these at Costco for $14.99 a box in the refrigerated section, and there are six pouches in a box.  Each pouch is a serving size for two.  I share videos of these on my TikTok, check them out below. 

This is a perfect noodle for people with Diabetes, Celiac Disease, and any type of Weight Loss diet, especially Keto diet! 

This post is NOT sponsored, in any way, we purchased the Healthy Noodle ourselves and receive no kickback as a result of sharing here, no affiliate links on this post.  We love sharing great finds with you, they are not all sponsored posts. Just thought I'd add that, whenever I have a sponsored post, you will see [AD] or some kind of disclosure. I also only share products and events that I truly do enjoy, I have turned down plenty of sponsored opportunities if it is not something that we actually recommend. Thank you for your support on our blog and on social media.  We truly do appreciate every like, comment, and share!
@blogaboutitall #Costco #HealthyNoodle #keto #lowcarb #sugarfree #fatfree #glutenfree #dairyfree #ketonoodles #lowcarbnoodles #ketofinds #costcofinds #healthynoodles #blogaboutitall ♬ We Don't Talk About Bruno - Carolina Gaitán - La Gaita & Mauro Castillo & Adassa & Rhenzy Feliz & Diane Guerrero & Stephanie Beatriz & Encanto - Cast
@blogaboutitall #ChickenNoodleSoup #instantpot #instantpotrecipes #instantpotdinners #instantpotchickennoodlesoup #KetoChickenNoodleSoup #healthynoodle #healthynoodles #lowcarbchickennoodlesoup #dinner #easydinner #blogaboutitall ♬ The Family Madrigal - Stephanie Beatriz & Olga Merediz & Encanto - Cast
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