The California State Fair is one of our favorite annual traditions, we have taken our boys every year to the State Fair for as long as I can remember, since they were babies.  We understand for the safety of all, we must forego this years State Fair, this entire year has had so many changes and is ever changing.  

We sure will miss the shows, rides, and of course the delicious State Fair food.  Last year the Food Festival Pass was a huge hit.  We did not make it through their drive through food experience they offered this year.  I must say I sure am impressed at how so many have adapted and pivoted with the times we are in.  
One of our favorite shows is the Youth Mariachi Competition, we also love the Silent Disco, and the Jack in the Box Freestyle Motocross show.  
After receiving the press release below I am definitely intrigued to how this digital experience will be.  I wanted to pass on the information to you all, so you can take part in this years Digital Festival.  I would love to hear about your Digital Experience, feel free to tag me on social media @BlogAboutItAll.

(SACRAMENTO, CA) - Cal Expo announced today plans to host a new and innovative Digital Festival to give Californians a Fair experience from the comfort and safety of their own homes. While the health and safety concerns associated with the outbreak of COVID-19 precludes the possibility of hosting an in-person State Fair, Cal Expo is excited to present an array of unique online activities for Californians to enjoy.

“For thousands of Californians, the State Fair is more than just an event,” explained Margaret Mohr, Deputy General Manager of Business Development & Marketing. “It is a tradition and integral part of the fabric of our communities and an economic provider for hundreds of businesses, both large and small.”

By hosting a first of its kind Digital Festival, Cal Expo hopes to give Californians a chance to interact with each other through the California State Fair Twitch Channel, download a 2020 Fair poster for posterity, enjoy the ever popular Silent Disco online and keep the tradition of  concerts, games, and competitions while providing an economic benefit to the businesses in our community."

“Everyone at Cal Expo is deeply saddened that we had to cancel a tradition enjoyed annually by hundreds of thousands of Californians,” added Mohr. “Yet at a time when millions of Californians are unable to enjoy their favorite summer activities, we believe that it is our responsibility to give the members of our community a platform to come together in a way that brings the fun and excitement of the State Fair to the safety of our homes.”

In compliance with orders issued by the governor, hosting a Digital Festival will allow Californians to share their favorite fair memories, listen to music from performers at the State Fair on Twitch, attend virtual tours of local wineries, olive oil ranches and breweries, and much more.

The Digital Festival starts this week, as Cal Expo staff and partners in normal conditions would have been preparing for Opening Day this Friday. For more information about the events visit calexpostatefair.com/digital-festival or @castatefair on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

About the California State Fair
The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State's future.

Cal Expo to Continue the Tradition of the Annual CA State Fair with a Digital Festival


The California State Fair is one of our favorite annual traditions, we have taken our boys every year to the State Fair for as long as I can remember, since they were babies.  We understand for the safety of all, we must forego this years State Fair, this entire year has had so many changes and is ever changing.  

We sure will miss the shows, rides, and of course the delicious State Fair food.  Last year the Food Festival Pass was a huge hit.  We did not make it through their drive through food experience they offered this year.  I must say I sure am impressed at how so many have adapted and pivoted with the times we are in.  
One of our favorite shows is the Youth Mariachi Competition, we also love the Silent Disco, and the Jack in the Box Freestyle Motocross show.  
After receiving the press release below I am definitely intrigued to how this digital experience will be.  I wanted to pass on the information to you all, so you can take part in this years Digital Festival.  I would love to hear about your Digital Experience, feel free to tag me on social media @BlogAboutItAll.

(SACRAMENTO, CA) - Cal Expo announced today plans to host a new and innovative Digital Festival to give Californians a Fair experience from the comfort and safety of their own homes. While the health and safety concerns associated with the outbreak of COVID-19 precludes the possibility of hosting an in-person State Fair, Cal Expo is excited to present an array of unique online activities for Californians to enjoy.

“For thousands of Californians, the State Fair is more than just an event,” explained Margaret Mohr, Deputy General Manager of Business Development & Marketing. “It is a tradition and integral part of the fabric of our communities and an economic provider for hundreds of businesses, both large and small.”

By hosting a first of its kind Digital Festival, Cal Expo hopes to give Californians a chance to interact with each other through the California State Fair Twitch Channel, download a 2020 Fair poster for posterity, enjoy the ever popular Silent Disco online and keep the tradition of  concerts, games, and competitions while providing an economic benefit to the businesses in our community."

“Everyone at Cal Expo is deeply saddened that we had to cancel a tradition enjoyed annually by hundreds of thousands of Californians,” added Mohr. “Yet at a time when millions of Californians are unable to enjoy their favorite summer activities, we believe that it is our responsibility to give the members of our community a platform to come together in a way that brings the fun and excitement of the State Fair to the safety of our homes.”

In compliance with orders issued by the governor, hosting a Digital Festival will allow Californians to share their favorite fair memories, listen to music from performers at the State Fair on Twitch, attend virtual tours of local wineries, olive oil ranches and breweries, and much more.

The Digital Festival starts this week, as Cal Expo staff and partners in normal conditions would have been preparing for Opening Day this Friday. For more information about the events visit calexpostatefair.com/digital-festival or @castatefair on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

About the California State Fair
The California State Fair is an international award-winning fair, receiving top honors at the International Association of Fairs and Expositions out of more than 1,100 fairs world-wide. The California State Fair is dedicated as a place to celebrate the best the state has to offer in agriculture, technology, and the diversity of its people, traditions, and trends that shape the Golden State's future.
For nearly 100 years Russell Stover has been crafting delicious chocolate in small batches.  Fan's have been asking them to create  the same Russell Stover chocolates they loved but in a sugar free form and guess what THEY DID!  Made with All Natural Stevia allows you all the flavor without the sugar.
New in the baking aisle you can find Russell Stover Sugar Free Semi-Sweet and Dark Chocolate Baking Chips made with Stevia Extract!  Chocolate has a way of delighting my heart, and since starting to eat Keto I have had to refrain from my love of chocolate.  I was absolutely thrilled to learn of this Sugar Free option made with Stevia!  The Russell Stover Sugar Free options have brought me great satisfaction on those days when I need a little sweetness.  
Not only do they have Sugar Free Baking Chips, they also have Sugar Free Chocolate candies.  These are perfect when I am craving something sweet.  The Russell Stover Chocolate Miniatures comes with Dark Chocolates, French Mint Chocolates, Mini Chocolates and my favorite Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles. I tried another variety bag "Assorted Caramels" that had Creamy Caramels in Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Caramels, and Caramel Crispies.  Yum!  The perfect treat to satisfy my sweet tooth.  

I am also thrilled that I swapped out regular chocolate chips for these Russell Stover Sugar Free Baking Chips in baking my boys favorite Chocolate Chips Cookies and my kiddos did not even notice the difference.  

These mouthwatering chocolate chip cookies turned out delectable, warm, chewy and with perfect chocolaty goodness.  My kiddos loved the way they turned out too, we even used the cookies to make home made ice cream sandwiches.  


Some tips I love using baking chocolate chip cookies, melt the butter before mixing the ingredients.  Add some ground oats, my kids are not a fan of oatmeal cookies, yet they will eat these if I grind up the oats first.  Last but definitely not least, always chill the dough before baking, makes a huge difference!  Have you heard "good things come to those that wait", quote I find that to be definitely true when it comes to baking.  Takes patience, to have these scrumptious treats.  I love taking the opportunity to remind my children about patience while we wait to bake up our goodies. 
Since its introduction in 1923, Russell Stover has been honoring the craft of fine chocolate making.  With the sugar free chocolate candies, you can indulge in the delicious and delightful chocolate that you know and love without the sugar.  Russell Stover Guarantees the quality and freshness of every Russell Stover product.  If you are not fully satisfied for any reason, they ask you to save the unused portion with its packaging and to contact them at https://www.russellstover.com/contact-us.
Disclosure: I was gifted these for review, in exchange for my time and efforts in reporting my opinion within this blog.  Although I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine. 
I am extremely grateful when you support my social shares with likes and comments and use my Discount referral codes.  Your support enables me to receive these benefits.  I love sharing great products with you.

Thank you for reading if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends.  

NEW Russell Stover Sugar Free Baking Chips

For nearly 100 years Russell Stover has been crafting delicious chocolate in small batches.  Fan's have been asking them to create  the same Russell Stover chocolates they loved but in a sugar free form and guess what THEY DID!  Made with All Natural Stevia allows you all the flavor without the sugar.
New in the baking aisle you can find Russell Stover Sugar Free Semi-Sweet and Dark Chocolate Baking Chips made with Stevia Extract!  Chocolate has a way of delighting my heart, and since starting to eat Keto I have had to refrain from my love of chocolate.  I was absolutely thrilled to learn of this Sugar Free option made with Stevia!  The Russell Stover Sugar Free options have brought me great satisfaction on those days when I need a little sweetness.  
Not only do they have Sugar Free Baking Chips, they also have Sugar Free Chocolate candies.  These are perfect when I am craving something sweet.  The Russell Stover Chocolate Miniatures comes with Dark Chocolates, French Mint Chocolates, Mini Chocolates and my favorite Dark Chocolate Raspberry Truffles. I tried another variety bag "Assorted Caramels" that had Creamy Caramels in Chocolate, Dark Chocolate Caramels, and Caramel Crispies.  Yum!  The perfect treat to satisfy my sweet tooth.  

I am also thrilled that I swapped out regular chocolate chips for these Russell Stover Sugar Free Baking Chips in baking my boys favorite Chocolate Chips Cookies and my kiddos did not even notice the difference.  

These mouthwatering chocolate chip cookies turned out delectable, warm, chewy and with perfect chocolaty goodness.  My kiddos loved the way they turned out too, we even used the cookies to make home made ice cream sandwiches.  


Some tips I love using baking chocolate chip cookies, melt the butter before mixing the ingredients.  Add some ground oats, my kids are not a fan of oatmeal cookies, yet they will eat these if I grind up the oats first.  Last but definitely not least, always chill the dough before baking, makes a huge difference!  Have you heard "good things come to those that wait", quote I find that to be definitely true when it comes to baking.  Takes patience, to have these scrumptious treats.  I love taking the opportunity to remind my children about patience while we wait to bake up our goodies. 
Since its introduction in 1923, Russell Stover has been honoring the craft of fine chocolate making.  With the sugar free chocolate candies, you can indulge in the delicious and delightful chocolate that you know and love without the sugar.  Russell Stover Guarantees the quality and freshness of every Russell Stover product.  If you are not fully satisfied for any reason, they ask you to save the unused portion with its packaging and to contact them at https://www.russellstover.com/contact-us.
Disclosure: I was gifted these for review, in exchange for my time and efforts in reporting my opinion within this blog.  Although I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine. 
I am extremely grateful when you support my social shares with likes and comments and use my Discount referral codes.  Your support enables me to receive these benefits.  I love sharing great products with you.

Thank you for reading if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends.  
Looking for something different for the entire family to enjoy? It’s here! An online concert right from the comfort of your couch.  Friday, July 17th 6:30 pm.
Adrienne Bankert from ABC Good Morning America will be your host for an evening of delightful entertainment — Sacramento style.  You will experience local Sacramento performers, entertaining us with their talent for a good cause.
The concert is FREE to enjoy, we invite you to donate and make a generous contribution to Sacramento Helping Hands Foundation, all proceeds will be benefiting the new NICU at Mercy San Juan Medical Center right here in Sacramento.  

Sacramento Helping Hands will be streaming this event:
https://www.facebook.com/sachelpinghandsfoundation
https://www.sachelpinghands.org/
Dignity Health Mercy San Juan Medical Center has broken ground on a $35 million Neonatal Intensive Care Unit expansion project.  All four of my babies were born at Mercy San Juan Hospital.  Thankfully we did not have need of the NICU, my heart goes out to those mothers and families who often spend months making many visits between home and the hospital to see and care for their preemie. This new NICU is a need in our community.
The new unit will grow from its current size of roughly 1,200 square feet to nearly 18,000 square feet when the project is completed in the summer of 2020.  This new NICU will have state of the art equipment and parents will be able to have a private room with their NICU baby.  Being able to room with your preemie baby and have a place to shower and refresh while you are already mentally and emotionally strained is priceless and an extreme need in our community.  We appreciate your support and contributions in making a difference in our community.  
COST: FREE
Register for a Reminder Email and Link to View the show here https://bit.ly/307rfh9.
Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.

Showtime 916 | Sacramento Arts Showcase Online Concert

Looking for something different for the entire family to enjoy? It’s here! An online concert right from the comfort of your couch.  Friday, July 17th 6:30 pm.
Adrienne Bankert from ABC Good Morning America will be your host for an evening of delightful entertainment — Sacramento style.  You will experience local Sacramento performers, entertaining us with their talent for a good cause.
The concert is FREE to enjoy, we invite you to donate and make a generous contribution to Sacramento Helping Hands Foundation, all proceeds will be benefiting the new NICU at Mercy San Juan Medical Center right here in Sacramento.  

Sacramento Helping Hands will be streaming this event:
https://www.facebook.com/sachelpinghandsfoundation
https://www.sachelpinghands.org/
Dignity Health Mercy San Juan Medical Center has broken ground on a $35 million Neonatal Intensive Care Unit expansion project.  All four of my babies were born at Mercy San Juan Hospital.  Thankfully we did not have need of the NICU, my heart goes out to those mothers and families who often spend months making many visits between home and the hospital to see and care for their preemie. This new NICU is a need in our community.
The new unit will grow from its current size of roughly 1,200 square feet to nearly 18,000 square feet when the project is completed in the summer of 2020.  This new NICU will have state of the art equipment and parents will be able to have a private room with their NICU baby.  Being able to room with your preemie baby and have a place to shower and refresh while you are already mentally and emotionally strained is priceless and an extreme need in our community.  We appreciate your support and contributions in making a difference in our community.  
COST: FREE
Register for a Reminder Email and Link to View the show here https://bit.ly/307rfh9.
Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.
Two of my kiddos just finished school this past week and now we enter Summer break yay!  As excited as I am for summer, it is my favorite time of year, I can see I have a little apprehension about this summer, considering the Covid-19 situation the entire world has been navigating through. 

Usually I work up a summer to do list and summer bucket list, because I know having a family summer game plan helps your family make the most of your summer!  On this blog post you can download a free summer bucket list to personalize with your family and free summer daily to do list printable.  

For years, we have had season passes to Raging Waters our local swim park and many years we have had season passes to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.  We typically participate in the "Kids Bowl Free" summer program, we typically attend $1 Summer Movie Program, which we probably won't have this year.  I don't do a complete hour by hour schedule I usually do a daily schedule for example.  Monday home day, Tuesday park/movie day, Wednesday swim day, Thursday bowling/library day, Friday swim day.  Having some sort of schedule at least gives us an idea of what we have planned for the week. We usually schedule a camping trip, lake days, and a couple of nearby road trips during summer break as well.  
There are many benefits to having some kind of summer schedule, it eliminates the never ending questions from the kids "what are we doing today?"  It gives the kids something to look forward to, they each have their favorite day for some it's swim day, for another it's meeting friends at the park day.  A game plan helps ensure that we actually do something, the days seem to go by faster and faster, and it is very easy to let the days, and then weeks go by filled with nothing.  Summer break really does go by too quick.   It is important to have a game plan in place because many families across the country are in the same boat, so if you want to order a backyard pool for example many are sold out or have an estimated ship date for August, yeah that is too late.  Even puzzles that we have ordered have taken a much longer time to get to us.  So now is the time to plan out your summer and order whatever summer fun things you need.  
While I can foresee this summer will be different, I still think it is extremely important to have a summer game plan or even more important.  I know as a parent you probably are already feeling a little drained, and you probably do not want to think about scheduling out summer.  I get it!  We are going into summer and have been cooking all the meals, we are entering summer and have already had to think up of ideas and activities to keep little ones occupied these past months.  Many parents are juggling working from home, many have other hardships that they are experiencing, it feels a little daunting.  On top of all that we have to deal with the still many unknowns.  I understand I have had those "fend for yourself" days, we've had cereal for dinner days and go ahead and play on that tablet because mom is done days.  We really don't know what back to school will look like, many do not know when they will go back into the office and not be telecommuting.    

Typically there is this built up anticipation from the kids to "be home" for summer break, they look forward to Lego building, backyard trampoline fun and spending time at home, but since we have already been home for the last two months, I don't sense that same anticipation and excitement from them in this season.  They are excited to be done with "distance learning" and the book work, but I don't see the same excitement that I typically see from them about summer.  

I don't think your summer has to be elaborate to be fun, with a little planning and including the kids in that planning I think summer can still be fun, a good old fashioned summer, just like we had growing up.  Schedule a brainstorming session with the family maybe at your next dinner around the table. Build your own Summer Bucket List, and again I get it, we have already camped in the living room, made s'mores, done chalk art, did canvas painting and sometimes with kids they will say we already did that.  Encourage your kids with the importance of planning and preparation, how you want to have the supplies to accomplish the things they want to do.  Maybe it's something bigger like a DIY project, redecorating their room, maybe it's making sure you have t-shirts and paint to do a tie dye project.  

So rather than give you a free printable of an already made Summer Bucket List, there are a ton of those out there, I am giving you a BLANK one.  If you have their input and it's what they want to do I think you'll have greater success at scratching off those Summer Bucket List Ideas.  
One thing I am certain of is we only have a limited amount of summers with our kiddos, so I intend on making the most of them.  I might have to remind myself everyday through summer break to savor the simple things and not pull my hair out, that is okay.  I love this song by Dillon Chase about 18 Summers.  I plan on playing it when I have one of those "I am done" moments.  

I also want to encourage you to schedule in some education stuff, I know, I know, everyone is done with school so am I.  My kiddos love their screen time as much as all the other kids, but I do plan on having them read daily, play some educational games, I also have some workbooks that I will have them do before screen time.  Even if it is coloring, I want them to do something before they get on their electronic devices.  My boys love these Sticker Puzzle Books, that we found on Amazon here is a link to Sticker Extremely Cute Animals. We have a family puzzle we are working on and even now what I have been doing, is everyone has to for example complete 5 pieces before screen time, sometimes I set a timer, everyone has to work on the puzzle together for 10 minutes before they hop on tablets.  

One of my game plans is to try and have them do crafts, games, activities, cleaning their room, and backyard play up until lunch.  I am going to try and keep screen time play for the afternoons when it is too hot to play in the backyard and once they have completed certain things.  Here is a FREE Printable I made for our family!  Summer Daily To Do List
Here are some older summer blog posts I've shared:

How to Keep Kids Cool and Hydrated During Summer


Homemade S'more Ice Cream

8 Tips for a Stress Free Summer 

Free and Cheap Things to Do This Summer

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.

Family Summer Game Plan

Two of my kiddos just finished school this past week and now we enter Summer break yay!  As excited as I am for summer, it is my favorite time of year, I can see I have a little apprehension about this summer, considering the Covid-19 situation the entire world has been navigating through. 

Usually I work up a summer to do list and summer bucket list, because I know having a family summer game plan helps your family make the most of your summer!  On this blog post you can download a free summer bucket list to personalize with your family and free summer daily to do list printable.  

For years, we have had season passes to Raging Waters our local swim park and many years we have had season passes to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.  We typically participate in the "Kids Bowl Free" summer program, we typically attend $1 Summer Movie Program, which we probably won't have this year.  I don't do a complete hour by hour schedule I usually do a daily schedule for example.  Monday home day, Tuesday park/movie day, Wednesday swim day, Thursday bowling/library day, Friday swim day.  Having some sort of schedule at least gives us an idea of what we have planned for the week. We usually schedule a camping trip, lake days, and a couple of nearby road trips during summer break as well.  
There are many benefits to having some kind of summer schedule, it eliminates the never ending questions from the kids "what are we doing today?"  It gives the kids something to look forward to, they each have their favorite day for some it's swim day, for another it's meeting friends at the park day.  A game plan helps ensure that we actually do something, the days seem to go by faster and faster, and it is very easy to let the days, and then weeks go by filled with nothing.  Summer break really does go by too quick.   It is important to have a game plan in place because many families across the country are in the same boat, so if you want to order a backyard pool for example many are sold out or have an estimated ship date for August, yeah that is too late.  Even puzzles that we have ordered have taken a much longer time to get to us.  So now is the time to plan out your summer and order whatever summer fun things you need.  
While I can foresee this summer will be different, I still think it is extremely important to have a summer game plan or even more important.  I know as a parent you probably are already feeling a little drained, and you probably do not want to think about scheduling out summer.  I get it!  We are going into summer and have been cooking all the meals, we are entering summer and have already had to think up of ideas and activities to keep little ones occupied these past months.  Many parents are juggling working from home, many have other hardships that they are experiencing, it feels a little daunting.  On top of all that we have to deal with the still many unknowns.  I understand I have had those "fend for yourself" days, we've had cereal for dinner days and go ahead and play on that tablet because mom is done days.  We really don't know what back to school will look like, many do not know when they will go back into the office and not be telecommuting.    

Typically there is this built up anticipation from the kids to "be home" for summer break, they look forward to Lego building, backyard trampoline fun and spending time at home, but since we have already been home for the last two months, I don't sense that same anticipation and excitement from them in this season.  They are excited to be done with "distance learning" and the book work, but I don't see the same excitement that I typically see from them about summer.  

I don't think your summer has to be elaborate to be fun, with a little planning and including the kids in that planning I think summer can still be fun, a good old fashioned summer, just like we had growing up.  Schedule a brainstorming session with the family maybe at your next dinner around the table. Build your own Summer Bucket List, and again I get it, we have already camped in the living room, made s'mores, done chalk art, did canvas painting and sometimes with kids they will say we already did that.  Encourage your kids with the importance of planning and preparation, how you want to have the supplies to accomplish the things they want to do.  Maybe it's something bigger like a DIY project, redecorating their room, maybe it's making sure you have t-shirts and paint to do a tie dye project.  

So rather than give you a free printable of an already made Summer Bucket List, there are a ton of those out there, I am giving you a BLANK one.  If you have their input and it's what they want to do I think you'll have greater success at scratching off those Summer Bucket List Ideas.  
One thing I am certain of is we only have a limited amount of summers with our kiddos, so I intend on making the most of them.  I might have to remind myself everyday through summer break to savor the simple things and not pull my hair out, that is okay.  I love this song by Dillon Chase about 18 Summers.  I plan on playing it when I have one of those "I am done" moments.  

I also want to encourage you to schedule in some education stuff, I know, I know, everyone is done with school so am I.  My kiddos love their screen time as much as all the other kids, but I do plan on having them read daily, play some educational games, I also have some workbooks that I will have them do before screen time.  Even if it is coloring, I want them to do something before they get on their electronic devices.  My boys love these Sticker Puzzle Books, that we found on Amazon here is a link to Sticker Extremely Cute Animals. We have a family puzzle we are working on and even now what I have been doing, is everyone has to for example complete 5 pieces before screen time, sometimes I set a timer, everyone has to work on the puzzle together for 10 minutes before they hop on tablets.  

One of my game plans is to try and have them do crafts, games, activities, cleaning their room, and backyard play up until lunch.  I am going to try and keep screen time play for the afternoons when it is too hot to play in the backyard and once they have completed certain things.  Here is a FREE Printable I made for our family!  Summer Daily To Do List
Here are some older summer blog posts I've shared:

How to Keep Kids Cool and Hydrated During Summer


Homemade S'more Ice Cream

8 Tips for a Stress Free Summer 

Free and Cheap Things to Do This Summer

Thank you for reading if you've enjoyed the content you've read above please share with your friends.

One of my favorite menu items at the Cheesecake Factory is the Cajun Chicken Littles which is regularly served with mashed potatoes and fresh corn succotash.  This plate is easily shareable, that is often what my husband and I opt for, we share so we can save room for Cheesecake.  

When we want to eat a little lower in carbs, we ask for double the succotash and skip the mashed potatoes.  While corn is higher in carbs and not on our regular Keto eating plan, we are not strict Keto and do indulge in corn once in awhile.  

I had some bell peppers and zucchini at home so I thought I would make a copycat version of this delicious veggie medley.  This is an easy and delicious side dish to make.  It is so bright and colorful and feels like you are eating the rainbow.

What you need:
Red Onion
Zucchini
Red Bell Pepper
Orange Bell Pepper
Yellow Bell Pepper
Corn 
Garlic Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Butter to saute

Dice the red onion, zucchini, and bell peppers.  I cooked two ears of corn in my Instant Pot while I was dicing all the other ingredients.  Corn on the cob cooks up fast in the Instant Pot with only two minutes of cooking time.  I did a fast release and then used my Pampered Chef Corn Cutter, which I Iove by the way.  I bought this corn cutter years ago while attending my sister-in-laws Pampered Chef party and it is still one of my favorite kitchen tools.  

I first saute the red onion in butter on the stove top just a bit, next added in all the diced veggies except the corn.  Since the corn was precooked, I just added the corn last when I was ready to serve.  

If I had a jalapeno on hand I would of added a diced jalapeno I think that would add a nice spice.  We served this along side steak and it was so yummy!  

During the summer months corn, bell peppers and zucchini are easily available and on sale, which make for a budget friendly, crowd pleasing side dish.  

I hope you will try this bright, beautiful and simple side dish, add it to your menu it sure won't disappoint!

Thank you for reading happy grilling, if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.

Copycat Cheesecake Factory Corn Succotash

One of my favorite menu items at the Cheesecake Factory is the Cajun Chicken Littles which is regularly served with mashed potatoes and fresh corn succotash.  This plate is easily shareable, that is often what my husband and I opt for, we share so we can save room for Cheesecake.  

When we want to eat a little lower in carbs, we ask for double the succotash and skip the mashed potatoes.  While corn is higher in carbs and not on our regular Keto eating plan, we are not strict Keto and do indulge in corn once in awhile.  

I had some bell peppers and zucchini at home so I thought I would make a copycat version of this delicious veggie medley.  This is an easy and delicious side dish to make.  It is so bright and colorful and feels like you are eating the rainbow.

What you need:
Red Onion
Zucchini
Red Bell Pepper
Orange Bell Pepper
Yellow Bell Pepper
Corn 
Garlic Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Butter to saute

Dice the red onion, zucchini, and bell peppers.  I cooked two ears of corn in my Instant Pot while I was dicing all the other ingredients.  Corn on the cob cooks up fast in the Instant Pot with only two minutes of cooking time.  I did a fast release and then used my Pampered Chef Corn Cutter, which I Iove by the way.  I bought this corn cutter years ago while attending my sister-in-laws Pampered Chef party and it is still one of my favorite kitchen tools.  

I first saute the red onion in butter on the stove top just a bit, next added in all the diced veggies except the corn.  Since the corn was precooked, I just added the corn last when I was ready to serve.  

If I had a jalapeno on hand I would of added a diced jalapeno I think that would add a nice spice.  We served this along side steak and it was so yummy!  

During the summer months corn, bell peppers and zucchini are easily available and on sale, which make for a budget friendly, crowd pleasing side dish.  

I hope you will try this bright, beautiful and simple side dish, add it to your menu it sure won't disappoint!

Thank you for reading happy grilling, if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.

May is National Barbeque Month, we love grilling it all, chicken, pork, beef, seafood, veggies and even fruits! BBQ makes for an easy dinner everyone enjoys.    With Memorial Day right around the corner I thought I would share about a new BBQ Rub we recently tried and some links to Patriotic posts I've shared before, hopefully to help get you excited and in the mood for grilling.  

I was discussing with a friend how it doesn't feel like it is almost summer, we usually attend our local annual Memorial Day Parade and then barbeque at home after with friends and family.   While we will not have an annual parade this year due to social distancing, we can still make it festive, fun and celebratory, gathering around a delicious BBQ Meal and adding patriotic red, white and blue touches at home.
I love using red, white and blue colors to brighten up our platters, desserts and even drinks.  Not only is it fun and festive there are some great RED summer fruits that happen to be some of my favorites, like watermelon, cherries, and strawberries, yum!   Added bonus these fruits make for a healthy dessert.   

We love grilling season, the warmer weather and enjoying our dinner meal outside is a nice change.  Another reason I love barbequing, it is very simple. Meats and veggies with your favorite spices and rub, on the grill it goes, no heating up the kitchen with the stove or oven.  I also love grilling because it is easy to grill up a variety of meats and there is something grilled that everyone in our family enjoys, so even with picky eaters there is no complaints when BBQ is on the menu.  
My husband and I love trying new flavors, we were recently gifted delicious seasonings and rubs from "A Cajun Life".  I love the Mesquite BBQ Rub, just the right amount of smoky flavor and spice to make your dish taste Cajun! It's perfect on all types of meats, roast vegetables, pulled pork or shrimp. They have a chicken rub which is flavorful and delicious, seafood rub and more.  Need some grilling inspiration check out their Instagram at @ACajunLife.


We loved using the All Purpose Cajun Seasoning on our shrimp and apple sausage skewers, they came out perfectly flavored.  All the the rubs are flavorful and not salty, they have NO MSG, which I appreciate.  Firing up the grill definitely has me looking forward to grilling all summer long!

Here are some other Patriotic themed posts I have previously shared I hope you'll enjoy a festive Memorial Day Weekend.  These Patriotic ideas also work for 4th of July too!

DIY Patriotic Shirts
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2017/05/diy-patriotic-t-shirts.html
Patriotic Party Menu Post
(Red, White & Blue Drink, Red White and Blue Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, Patriotic Oreos, and more)
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2018/05/patriotic-party-menu.html
Patriotic Jello Cups
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2017/05/patriotic-jello-cups.html

Six Summer Entertaining Tips
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2018/05/6-summer-entertaining-tips.html
Thank you for reading happy grilling, if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.


Grilling Season-May National BBQ Month

May is National Barbeque Month, we love grilling it all, chicken, pork, beef, seafood, veggies and even fruits! BBQ makes for an easy dinner everyone enjoys.    With Memorial Day right around the corner I thought I would share about a new BBQ Rub we recently tried and some links to Patriotic posts I've shared before, hopefully to help get you excited and in the mood for grilling.  

I was discussing with a friend how it doesn't feel like it is almost summer, we usually attend our local annual Memorial Day Parade and then barbeque at home after with friends and family.   While we will not have an annual parade this year due to social distancing, we can still make it festive, fun and celebratory, gathering around a delicious BBQ Meal and adding patriotic red, white and blue touches at home.
I love using red, white and blue colors to brighten up our platters, desserts and even drinks.  Not only is it fun and festive there are some great RED summer fruits that happen to be some of my favorites, like watermelon, cherries, and strawberries, yum!   Added bonus these fruits make for a healthy dessert.   

We love grilling season, the warmer weather and enjoying our dinner meal outside is a nice change.  Another reason I love barbequing, it is very simple. Meats and veggies with your favorite spices and rub, on the grill it goes, no heating up the kitchen with the stove or oven.  I also love grilling because it is easy to grill up a variety of meats and there is something grilled that everyone in our family enjoys, so even with picky eaters there is no complaints when BBQ is on the menu.  
My husband and I love trying new flavors, we were recently gifted delicious seasonings and rubs from "A Cajun Life".  I love the Mesquite BBQ Rub, just the right amount of smoky flavor and spice to make your dish taste Cajun! It's perfect on all types of meats, roast vegetables, pulled pork or shrimp. They have a chicken rub which is flavorful and delicious, seafood rub and more.  Need some grilling inspiration check out their Instagram at @ACajunLife.


We loved using the All Purpose Cajun Seasoning on our shrimp and apple sausage skewers, they came out perfectly flavored.  All the the rubs are flavorful and not salty, they have NO MSG, which I appreciate.  Firing up the grill definitely has me looking forward to grilling all summer long!

Here are some other Patriotic themed posts I have previously shared I hope you'll enjoy a festive Memorial Day Weekend.  These Patriotic ideas also work for 4th of July too!

DIY Patriotic Shirts
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2017/05/diy-patriotic-t-shirts.html
Patriotic Party Menu Post
(Red, White & Blue Drink, Red White and Blue Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, Patriotic Oreos, and more)
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2018/05/patriotic-party-menu.html
Patriotic Jello Cups
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2017/05/patriotic-jello-cups.html

Six Summer Entertaining Tips
http://theblogaboutitall.blogspot.com/2018/05/6-summer-entertaining-tips.html
Thank you for reading happy grilling, if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends. www.BlogAboutItAll.com.


Did you know know May is National Egg Month?  Here at our house we love eggs!  We enjoy eating eggs for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Breakfast burritos are definitely a breakfast go to around here, they are perfect with my homemade salsa.  

We also love omelettes, fried eggs, migas, egg bake casserole, and especially since I have been eating Keto, eggs are pretty much added into the daily menu in some way.
What are migas did someone wonder?  I call them a Tex-Mex breakfast because my mom is from Texas and we grew up eating migas.  Basically you fry up strips, or torn pieces of corn tortilla in some oil, set them aside, make your eggs scrambled how you like them, my kiddos love plain scrambled eggs and cheese with the fried corn tortillas added and folded back in the scrambled eggs.  I like to add more filling (diced onion, tomato, cilantro, before Keto I'd add in some fried diced potatoes).  YUM!!  You add in the fried corn tortillas while the eggs are still coming together, the eggs coat and surround the crunchy pieces of fried corn tortilla, migas are so yummy and make for a filling breakfast.  

You can add hard boiled eggs to salads, a fried egg on top of hamburgers, deviled eggs make the perfect healthy mid-day snack to help curb your appetite.  I recently made hard hard boiled eggs in my Instant Pot, you can find out how here: https://bit.ly/2VQNvef.

Here is the recipe for an Easy Breakfast Egg Bake, this is an older blog post that I hope to update with better photos soon, but nonetheless this egg bake is perfect for brunch or to make ahead and enjoy all week long.  Click here for recipe: https://bit.ly/2KTjJiB.

A few years ago for National Scrambled Eggs Day for Dinner I shared some easy egg recipes on Good Day Sacramento (Feta Cheese Egg Boats and Mason Jar Omelettes).  You can find those recipes here: https://bit.ly/2VRKdHS.

Eggs are a great way to change up the weekly dinner menu!  Do you have a favorite egg recipe?  I would love to try it, you can e-mail me at theblogaboutitall@gmail.com.
I love using Nest Fresh eggs and having them delivered right to my house using Amazon Fresh!  I also often pick them up at my local Save Mart Supermarket.  NestFresh was the first egg to become Non-GMO Project Verified. NestFresh also employs a national network of regional farms to produce and supply farm fresh eggs in a local and sustainable system. You can enjoy your scrambled eggs knowing that your ingredients are of the best quality.  Using NestFresh eggs means knowing freshness is always ensured and the chickens are well nourished and roam cage-free to their pleasure – NestFresh believes healthy chickens lead to healthy eggs.  You can find a ton of delicious egg recipes at NestFresh.com and on their Social Media. 

My boys get so excited when they see eggs on the menu for dinner, and I love it too, because they are easy to cook up, no matter how you enjoy them.  

Thank you for reading, if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends.  I appreciate you sharing on social media.  You can find this post to share on my social channels here below.  BlogAboutItAll.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/blogaboutitall
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/blogaboutitall/
Twitter https://twitter.com/blogaboutitall
Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/blogaboutitall/


May is National Egg Month

Did you know know May is National Egg Month?  Here at our house we love eggs!  We enjoy eating eggs for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Breakfast burritos are definitely a breakfast go to around here, they are perfect with my homemade salsa.  

We also love omelettes, fried eggs, migas, egg bake casserole, and especially since I have been eating Keto, eggs are pretty much added into the daily menu in some way.
What are migas did someone wonder?  I call them a Tex-Mex breakfast because my mom is from Texas and we grew up eating migas.  Basically you fry up strips, or torn pieces of corn tortilla in some oil, set them aside, make your eggs scrambled how you like them, my kiddos love plain scrambled eggs and cheese with the fried corn tortillas added and folded back in the scrambled eggs.  I like to add more filling (diced onion, tomato, cilantro, before Keto I'd add in some fried diced potatoes).  YUM!!  You add in the fried corn tortillas while the eggs are still coming together, the eggs coat and surround the crunchy pieces of fried corn tortilla, migas are so yummy and make for a filling breakfast.  

You can add hard boiled eggs to salads, a fried egg on top of hamburgers, deviled eggs make the perfect healthy mid-day snack to help curb your appetite.  I recently made hard hard boiled eggs in my Instant Pot, you can find out how here: https://bit.ly/2VQNvef.

Here is the recipe for an Easy Breakfast Egg Bake, this is an older blog post that I hope to update with better photos soon, but nonetheless this egg bake is perfect for brunch or to make ahead and enjoy all week long.  Click here for recipe: https://bit.ly/2KTjJiB.

A few years ago for National Scrambled Eggs Day for Dinner I shared some easy egg recipes on Good Day Sacramento (Feta Cheese Egg Boats and Mason Jar Omelettes).  You can find those recipes here: https://bit.ly/2VRKdHS.

Eggs are a great way to change up the weekly dinner menu!  Do you have a favorite egg recipe?  I would love to try it, you can e-mail me at theblogaboutitall@gmail.com.
I love using Nest Fresh eggs and having them delivered right to my house using Amazon Fresh!  I also often pick them up at my local Save Mart Supermarket.  NestFresh was the first egg to become Non-GMO Project Verified. NestFresh also employs a national network of regional farms to produce and supply farm fresh eggs in a local and sustainable system. You can enjoy your scrambled eggs knowing that your ingredients are of the best quality.  Using NestFresh eggs means knowing freshness is always ensured and the chickens are well nourished and roam cage-free to their pleasure – NestFresh believes healthy chickens lead to healthy eggs.  You can find a ton of delicious egg recipes at NestFresh.com and on their Social Media. 

My boys get so excited when they see eggs on the menu for dinner, and I love it too, because they are easy to cook up, no matter how you enjoy them.  

Thank you for reading, if you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends.  I appreciate you sharing on social media.  You can find this post to share on my social channels here below.  BlogAboutItAll.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/blogaboutitall
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/blogaboutitall/
Twitter https://twitter.com/blogaboutitall
Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/blogaboutitall/


This year Mother's Day will be different...with many people still on shelter in place orders and practicing social distancing, there will be no celebrating out at restaurants, or getting a manicure/pedicure with mom.  

While I love a great gift be that my favorite cosmetics, a personalized phone case, a new purse, wall art and home decor, I think some of these good old classic "home gift ideas" would bless any mom.  

One thing I sure am going to miss this Mother's Day are the homemade Mother's Day gifts the kids make at school, I love a great handprint gift, I may just have the kids create one at home.  

Here are ten at home gift ideas to gift mom this Mother's Day.
1. Breakfast in bed, this is a classic idea.  Although I personally do not want to eat breakfast in bed, I would rather sleep in a little later and enjoy breakfast/brunch around the table.  If the mom in your life loves breakfast in bed this would be a great gift.  Since mom's most of the time are making breakfast I am sure she will enjoy having breakfast specially made for her.  You could create a waffle bar or pancake station, have her favorite toppings out.  An Oatmeal Bar would be fun too!  You could also set up diner style, make a menu print out and have her place her order.  You could do this the night before like on a cruise and have her breakfast request placed on the door. 
2. Clean the House. Especially right now with everyone at home, the house and kitchen seem to constantly need to be cleaned.  Let mom take the weekend off and have everyone else handle the cleaning.  Tackle a specific thing mom has been meaning to clean or organize and do it for her.  

3. Start a Garden.  One year my husband and boys did this for my Mother's Day gift, they went and bought the soil, and planted all sorts of veggies and goodies.  This is a great gift idea!
4. Spa Day at home.  Make mom a foot bath with warm water and Epsom Salt.  You could do manicures and pedicures at home.  Set up soothing music and a dark room, and give mom time to relax.
5. Movie Night for mom.  When is the last time mom picked the movie or show?  Let mom pick the show and bring out her favorite snacks and treats.
6. Write a letter.  Take the time to write a thoughtful letter or card thanking mom for who she is in your life.  I know over the years, my boys have written letters and notes of appreciation and I have saved them, they are precious to me.  
7. Cook her favorite meals.  Why stop at just breakfast in bed, make mom's favorite meals all day long.  Food is definitely one of my love languages.  

8. Record a video sharing all the things you are looking forward to doing with mom once this is over.  Where will you go together?  What stores do you want to stroll with her?  What restaurant, coffee shop, or ice cream parlor do you want to take her to?

9. Wash and clean out her car.  I have a car wash membership, but the vacuums are not in service since they are practicing social distancing.  I love when my boys clean out and vacuum my car, this is a a huge gift to me.  
10. A Personalized Kit.  If your mom loves baking, then put together a baking gift basket, if she is a coffee lover, include her coffee favorites.  If you have a Keto eating mom, put together Keto friendly snacks and treats.  
I hope these ideas help you celebrate Mothers Day this year at home while still practicing social distancing.  The important thing is to let mom know how much she is loved and appreciated.  It really is true, "it is the thought that counts", Mother's Day gifts do not have to be elaborate, as long as they are thoughtful.  Fill the refrigerator and pantry with her favorite treats, make a cupboard shelf for mom only and have things especially for her.  Download some family pictures and create a slideshow for you all to watch together, create a playlist of mom's favorite tunes.  I happened to accidentally open my Mother's Day gift, my husband ordered a new lens for my camera, since I usually open the mail and packages, I opened it, ooops.  Thank you honey, I love my new lens! 

If you are local here to Sacramento check out my friend AshleyNewell.Me a blog post with great Mother's Day Gift Ideas that also support local Sacramento businesses.  

Thank you for reading, feel free to e-mail this post link to your husband, lol.  If you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends.  I appreciate you sharing on social media.  
You can find this post to share on my social channels here below.
BlogAboutItAll.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/blogaboutitall

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/blogaboutitall/

Twitter https://twitter.com/blogaboutitall

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/blogaboutitall/

Mom's Special Day ... 10 Gift Ideas to Celebrate Mom at Home

This year Mother's Day will be different...with many people still on shelter in place orders and practicing social distancing, there will be no celebrating out at restaurants, or getting a manicure/pedicure with mom.  

While I love a great gift be that my favorite cosmetics, a personalized phone case, a new purse, wall art and home decor, I think some of these good old classic "home gift ideas" would bless any mom.  

One thing I sure am going to miss this Mother's Day are the homemade Mother's Day gifts the kids make at school, I love a great handprint gift, I may just have the kids create one at home.  

Here are ten at home gift ideas to gift mom this Mother's Day.
1. Breakfast in bed, this is a classic idea.  Although I personally do not want to eat breakfast in bed, I would rather sleep in a little later and enjoy breakfast/brunch around the table.  If the mom in your life loves breakfast in bed this would be a great gift.  Since mom's most of the time are making breakfast I am sure she will enjoy having breakfast specially made for her.  You could create a waffle bar or pancake station, have her favorite toppings out.  An Oatmeal Bar would be fun too!  You could also set up diner style, make a menu print out and have her place her order.  You could do this the night before like on a cruise and have her breakfast request placed on the door. 
2. Clean the House. Especially right now with everyone at home, the house and kitchen seem to constantly need to be cleaned.  Let mom take the weekend off and have everyone else handle the cleaning.  Tackle a specific thing mom has been meaning to clean or organize and do it for her.  

3. Start a Garden.  One year my husband and boys did this for my Mother's Day gift, they went and bought the soil, and planted all sorts of veggies and goodies.  This is a great gift idea!
4. Spa Day at home.  Make mom a foot bath with warm water and Epsom Salt.  You could do manicures and pedicures at home.  Set up soothing music and a dark room, and give mom time to relax.
5. Movie Night for mom.  When is the last time mom picked the movie or show?  Let mom pick the show and bring out her favorite snacks and treats.
6. Write a letter.  Take the time to write a thoughtful letter or card thanking mom for who she is in your life.  I know over the years, my boys have written letters and notes of appreciation and I have saved them, they are precious to me.  
7. Cook her favorite meals.  Why stop at just breakfast in bed, make mom's favorite meals all day long.  Food is definitely one of my love languages.  

8. Record a video sharing all the things you are looking forward to doing with mom once this is over.  Where will you go together?  What stores do you want to stroll with her?  What restaurant, coffee shop, or ice cream parlor do you want to take her to?

9. Wash and clean out her car.  I have a car wash membership, but the vacuums are not in service since they are practicing social distancing.  I love when my boys clean out and vacuum my car, this is a a huge gift to me.  
10. A Personalized Kit.  If your mom loves baking, then put together a baking gift basket, if she is a coffee lover, include her coffee favorites.  If you have a Keto eating mom, put together Keto friendly snacks and treats.  
I hope these ideas help you celebrate Mothers Day this year at home while still practicing social distancing.  The important thing is to let mom know how much she is loved and appreciated.  It really is true, "it is the thought that counts", Mother's Day gifts do not have to be elaborate, as long as they are thoughtful.  Fill the refrigerator and pantry with her favorite treats, make a cupboard shelf for mom only and have things especially for her.  Download some family pictures and create a slideshow for you all to watch together, create a playlist of mom's favorite tunes.  I happened to accidentally open my Mother's Day gift, my husband ordered a new lens for my camera, since I usually open the mail and packages, I opened it, ooops.  Thank you honey, I love my new lens! 

If you are local here to Sacramento check out my friend AshleyNewell.Me a blog post with great Mother's Day Gift Ideas that also support local Sacramento businesses.  

Thank you for reading, feel free to e-mail this post link to your husband, lol.  If you’ve enjoyed the content you’ve read above please share with your friends.  I appreciate you sharing on social media.  
You can find this post to share on my social channels here below.
BlogAboutItAll.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/blogaboutitall

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/blogaboutitall/

Twitter https://twitter.com/blogaboutitall

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/blogaboutitall/

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