How to Inflate a Balloon: Science Project

October 3, 2012 by

My son is absolutely obsessed with science experiences as of late. He is constantly asking how things work and loves to see the outcome of our little projects. He’s definitely turning into a little scientist and I couldn’t be more proud.

With his newfound love of science, I am getting more and more excited for the upcoming Frankenweenie movie. After hearing the amazing experience my friend, Mariah from Formula Mom, had in Hollywood getting a behind-the-scenes look at the movie, I am looking forward to taking my son to see this movie.

In celebration of the scientist behind the movie, we decided to do a little Frankenweenie experiment of our own and learned how a balloon can inflate with the help of science. To find out how we conducted our experiment, and our findings, read on!

How to Inflate A Balloon with Science!

What You’ll Need:

  • Vinegar
  • Baking Soda
  • Plastic Bottle
  • Balloon

What you do: 

1. Fill the plastic bottle with vinegar. About four tablespoons will do but sometimes little scientists like to use more…

2. Next up we need to add a few teaspoons of baking soda into the balloon.

2a. Definitely let your scientist test out the balloon first to make sure there are no holes and that the balloon inflates properly with air.

2b. If you need help getting the baking soda into the balloon, use your fingers to stretch out the opening of the balloon while your scientist pours in the baking soda.

3. Place the opening of the balloon over the top of the water bottle filled with vinegar.

4. Once the balloon is securely on top of the bottle it’s time to pick the balloon up and dump the baking soda in the bottle.

4a. Make sure you get all of the baking soda out and watch what happens in the bottle. See the reaction?

5. Watch the balloon fill up and expand!

This experiment was an absolute blast to do and so simple. My son loved feeling the difference between a balloon he had blown up with air as opposed the the balloon that filled up with the vinegar/baking soda mixture. He let me know that the balloon filled with air seemed softer than the balloon filled with the gas from the vinegar/water.

The gas created is actually carbon dioxide. For older kids this is a great way to teach about chemical reactions and the reason why when both of these mix together they form carbon dioxide. Happy experimenting!

Does your child love to experiment?

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Pumpkin Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting {Dessert Recipe}

September 26, 2012 by

As I mentioned before, I’m a bit obsessed with pumpkin. And as soon as I got a whiff of coolness in the air I got to baking. I’ve been craving these cupcakes since the first time I made them a few years ago and with a few minor tweaks I think I’ve perfected my recipe.

These were delicious! And even better when left in the fridge overnight and eaten for breakfast the next morning with a hot cup of coffee 😉 But if you can’t wait that long to savor the goodness just make sure to allow the cupcakes enough time to cool before frosting them. You won’t be disappointed!

Pumpkin Cupcakes With Maple–Cream Cheese Frosting

Cupcakes

  • 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup firmly packed dark-brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups cake flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin

Frosting

  • Two (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

 Preheat the oven to 350° (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with 18 liners.

Cupcakes:
Pour the milk into a measuring cup and add vanilla.

In a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugars on medium speed until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and pepper into a medium bowl.

Add the eggs one at a time to the mixer, scraping down the sides after each addition. Alternate adding the flour and milk mixtures, beginning and ending with the flour. Beat in the pumpkin until smooth. Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, about 3/4 of the way up. Bake the cupcakes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 20 to 25 minutes. Cool the cupcakes on racks completely.

Frosting:
In a stand mixer beat all the ingredients on medium until fluffy but firm. Frost the cupcakes using either a spatula or a pastry bag w/ a large tip. Refrigerate the cupcakes for 30 minutes to set up frosting.

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Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars {Dessert Recipe}

September 20, 2012 by

When Fall comes there is one thing I am most excited about. The return of canned pumpkin on the shelves! I start out small. Buying maybe 4 cans of pumpkin on my first spotting. Then I get a bit crazy. I need to stock up for the rest of the year. How can I not have 10 or so cans of pumpkin in my pantry by mid-October? And what do I use these cans and cans of pumpkin for? Healthier recipes!

Pumpkin is a great ingredient in baking, cooking and no-bake recipes such as this one. It’s simple and easy to use and best of all… it’s super tasty and healthy! Now I’ve already been making my pumpkin waffles, pumpkin muffins and even a pumpkin oatmeal shake. But I hadn’t yet tried anything with pumpkin and cheesecake before. So this past weekend I decided to try out a no-bake recipe for pumpkin cheesecake bars. And they were delicious.

If you have a can of pumpkin lying around you have to try it!

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

  • 1 package (8 oz.) neufchatel cheese, softened*
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin
  • 1/3 cup agave nectar (or 1/2 cup sugar)
  • 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 tub (8 oz.) Cool Whip Free whipped topping, thawed, divided
  • 1 package graham crackers (about 24), crushed
  • 4 tablespoons light butter, melted

Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with plastic wrap. Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the crumbs resemble moist sand. Push crumb mixture into dish with your fingers evenly to create a level crust on the bottom. Make sure to get the crumbs into the corners of the dish as well.

Beat cream cheese, pumpkin, agave and pumpkin pie spice with electric mixer on low speed for one minute. Increase speed to medium and mix for another 3 minutes or until no lumps are visible. Gently stir in 2-1/2 cups of the whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate remaining whipped topping for later use.

Spoon cream cheese mixture into crust and refrigerate 3 hours or overnight. Serve topped with remaining whipped topping. Store leftover cheesecake in refrigerator.

*How to Soften Cream Cheese
Place completely unwrapped package of cream cheese in microwavable bowl. Microwave on HIGH 10 to 15 seconds or until slightly softened. If you cannot find neufchatel cheese in your grocery store just go for the reduced fat cream cheese. Same thing, different name.

Serves 16 | 5 WW+ Points

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Low-Fat Turkey Chili with Beans {4 WW pp+}

September 16, 2012 by

Turkey Chili with Beans

One thing that has become very apparent these past two weeks is that it is, in fact, football season again. My tv is once again taken over and Sunday afternoons and Monday nights are filled with the sound of yelling and cheering.

I have to be honest though, I’m not really that into football. But I am into football food! The excuse to invite people over to sit around and eat appetizers and yummy bbq is just too enticing. And one of my favorite go to recipes to make is a delicious turkey chili with beans.

Not only is it quick and easy, it can simmer in the slow cooker all day and be used as needed for munching. Plus it’s versatile. We put chili on just about everything. Hot dogs, nachos, fries, etc. It makes just about anything better. And it’s low fat! That’s right. This recipe is filled with low fat turkey chili, tons of veggies, and spices and seasonings to create a flavor you will love. [Read more…]

Filed Under: In the Kitchen, Recipes, Soups & Salads, Uncategorized, Weight Watchers Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Overnight French Toast with Pecan Praline Topping {Breakfast Recipe}

September 13, 2012 by

I love having people over. I enjoy being forced into cleaning my home and making yummy food for my guests to enjoy.

I recently hosted a My Favorite Things party and similar to my first My Favorite Things party, I included a menu that highlighted my favorite eats. Since I hosted this event in the morning I served my favorite overnight french toast. It’s simple and easy to make the night before and tastes amazing after a whole night of soaking the flavors in.

Plus it’s topped with an out-of-this-world pecan praline mixture before it’s baked. Heaven! [Read more…]

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Zoom, Zoom, Zoom! We’re Off with the Joovy Zoom 360

September 8, 2012 by

Ever since I found out I was pregnant with my first child I’ve wanted a quality jogging stroller. Before finding out I was pregnant, I started running with a group of co-workers. I would run about 12 miles a week, up to 6 miles each run, in an effort to lose weight and stay in shape. When I found out I was pregnant I stopped running as much and eventually stopped all together.

I assumed that if I got a jogging stroller I’d be able to pick right back up and start running again. But life got in the way, I didn’t purchase a jogging stroller, and the strollers I borrowed from neighbors and family just didn’t make the cut.

So here it is,4 years later, and I finally have my jogging stroller, the Joovy Zoom 360. And boy was it worth the wait!!

As soon as it arrived in the mail, I opened it and had it assembled in less than 15 minutes. Then my daughter and I started playing with it. We’ve had a lot of fun testing it out!

What I love about this jogger is that I didn’t have to purchase any optional accessories.

What the Joovy Zoom Includes:
  • Parent Organizer – Includes a neoprene parent organizer that holds 2 cups and has a zippered storage container.
  • Rain/Wind Cover
  • Wheel Pump
  • 5 Point Harness
  • Reflective
  • Safety Tether
  • Shock absorbing suspension

That means that the Joovy Zoom 360 is not only very affordable at $269.99, you also don’t have to purchase a lot of accessories after you purchase the stroller. They all come with it!

Weather Coverage 
The first thing I noticed about the Joovy Zoom after assembling it is the large canopy. None of my previous strollers have the coverage that this stroller does. Not only does it completely shade my daughter and son when they’re in full sun, it’s also adjustable to fit perfectly with any situation.

The Zoom also comes with a rain cover that easily covers your child from the weather and keeps them nice and dry as you enjoy your workout. That means no excuses!

Easy Fold & Compact Storage
The Zoom is also very easy to fold. With the simple push and lift of two items, the Zoom folds compactly and securely together with the help of a latch. The Zoom fits perfectly in the trunk of my small compact car and our family station wagon.

The Zoom is also very light weight. It’s very easy to lift up into the trunk of my car and to carry from one place to another when storing it.

 

Swivel Wheel

This stroller is built for running, walking, and everything in between.

For serious runners, the front wheel has an option to lock the swivel wheel in a straight position. It’s lightweight, steers easily with one hand, and includes a safety strap to wear while exercising. While walking around and more casual jogs, I’m able to unlock the straight wheel and use the swivel wheel for even easier mobility.

The Ride

As I’m running, I don’t want to struggle with steering a stroller. The Zoom simply glides where I push it. I steer with one hand and hardly feel any resistance when I’m on the go. I can run at my own pace, change up speeds, and switch from one terrain to another without affecting the performance of the stroller.

When my daughter falls asleep on on walks and runs I can easily adjust the seat by pulling on the straps in the back. There isn’t just one or two positions, I can recline the seat back as far as I’d like until I reach the fully reclined position. This is perfect for when I know my daughter is sleepy but she refuses to lay back when the seat is in the reclined position. I just recline it a bit so she doesn’t even realize she’s reclined a bit. Then 5 minutes into our jog, she’s passed out!

 

Optional Infant Car Seat Adapter

Joovy offers 3 optional car seat adapters for the Zoom 360:

  • Graco
  • Peg Perego
  • Chicco

And the cost of these adapters are very affordable! The fact that this is the only optional accessory you’ll need to buy is amazing.

Her baby fits perfectly in the snack/cup holder

If you’re looking for a stroller that will not only create a comfortable ride for your child as you exercise, but also act as your go to stroller for any occasion, the Joovy Zoom 360 is for you! We take ours everywhere! From the beach to the zoo to the amusement park, I’ve found the perfect stroller in the Joovy Zoom. And I have no excuses when it comes to exercising!

Since my Joovy Zoom arrived in the mail I’ve used it 5 out of 7 days in the week. And I now run 3 days a week! I know that this stroller will be key in keeping me on track and making my way towards my goal weight.

Disclaimer: I received a Joovy Zoom 360 for review purposes only. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

 

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Lighter Sesame Chicken {Dinner Recipe}

September 7, 2012 by

Since I’m back on track and counting points, I’ve been reverting back to old favorites! Favorite recipes that is. I absolutely love how simple and delicious this meal is. I can make it under 30 minutes and the longest part is waiting for the rice to finish cooking.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy take out meal without the cost of take out, try your hand at this delicious lighter sesame chicken! Feel free to play around with the flavors a bit as well. Add a little orange zest, or maybe some flaked red pepper. This dish is so versatile and can be changed up to fit any flavor profile.

Lighter Sesame Chicken

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • Coarse salt and ground pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 scallions, thinly sliced

In a small bowl, combine honey, sesame seeds, soy sauce, and garlic; set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and cornstarch. Add chicken and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add half the chicken; cook, turning occasionally, until golden and opaque throughout, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Repeat with remaining tablespoon oil and chicken. Return all the chicken to skillet; add reserved sauce and scallions, and toss to coat.

Serve sesame chicken with broccoli and rice.

Serves 4 | 6 WW points

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Healthy Ranch Yogurt Dip {Snack Recipe}

August 28, 2012 by
Yogurt Ranch Dip

My family is absolutely obsessed with ranch dressing. If the kids have veggies, they want to dip them in ranch. So I’ve tried to change up the way we make ranch and have ditched the sour cream!

Now sour cream isn’t bad. I love the stuff. But by swapping out sour cream with greek yogurt I not only am cutting calories but I’m increasing protein! All in all I’m very excited about the swap and the kids can’t seem to tell the difference.

And Greek yogurt can be subbed for more than just sour cream. I also swap it out for mayo in some recipes.

Yogurt Ranch Dip ingredients

Ranch Yogurt Dip
  • 1 cup greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons ranch mix (see below for ranch mix)

Mix ingredients together until well combined. Let sit in the fridge overnight. Serve with your favorite veggies or chips.

 
Ranch Dip Mix
  • 2 tablespoons dried parsley
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme

Combine ingredients and store in an air-tight container for up to 3 months. Feel free to double or triple and use as needed.

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Keeping Kids Healthy with Great Snack Options {Back to School Special}

August 27, 2012 by

Keeping Kids Healthy with Great Snack Options

Now that the kids are going back to school and the craziness of summer is coming to an end, it’s time to start talking healthy snack options!

One of my main concerns with my kids is the fact that they want to snack all.day.long. So I’ve tried my best to offer a variety of foods to not only keep them open minded about what they eat, but also keep them aware of the colors they eat and trying to make sure they get to every color of the rainbow!

If they’re going to snack, they’re going to snack the right way.  [Read more…]

Filed Under: In the Kitchen, Recipes, Snacks, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , , ,

“Roasted” Whole Chicken {Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe}

August 21, 2012 by

With the heat of the summer upon us the last thing I want to do in the afternoon is prepare for dinner. I don’t want to go anywhere near a stove or oven and have been quite bad about forgoing a traditional meal for one my husband can pick up on the way home more than once.

Since I am over being lazy about my health I decided to cook a whole chicken in the crock pot this week so that I could not only enjoy delicious, slow roasted goodness, but also have leftover chicken for meals later on in the week (as well including a great topping for salads for lunch)!

Not only is this chicken super easy to make, it’s tasty as well! And can be made in 3-4 hours. So if you forget to set the slow cooker in the morning and are home in the afternoon, there’s still hope for dinner!

“Roasted” Whole Chicken in the Slow Cooker
  • 1 whole chicken
  • 2 teaspoons red curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon sage
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne (red) pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 onion
  • 2 garlic cloves, whole

Chop up the onion and place 3/4 of the onion on the bottom of your slow cooker. Set 1/4 aside.

Remove all giblets and neck from chicken (set aside if you want to use it to make chicken stock afterwards). Pat chicken dry.

Combine all herbs and spices in a bowl. Rub spice mixture onto skin of chicken making sure to get every inch covered.

Stuff chicken cavity (you know… were the giblets were?) with onion you set aside and garlic cloves. Place chicken breast side up on top of onions in slow cooker.

Set slow cooker on low and let cook 3-4 hours or until tender.

What do you do with leftover chicken?

 

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