How much is included in a mommy makeover?

 

 How much is included in a mommy makeover? Everyone knows about the changes that can happen to a woman’s body during pregnancy – and some of them can be difficult to bounce back from after the baby is delivered. Because of these changes, some women seek plastic surgery procedures collectively known as the “mommy makeover” to help them reconnect with their previous self-image. From a tummy tuck to a mommy makeover, a mommy makeover can include quite a few procedures. It really depends on which changes the woman wants to see in herself, as well as her suitability as a candidate for the surgeries. After discussing their expectations and goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon, most women end up getting liposuction, breast enhancement, and a tummy tuck. That being said, there are a few other procedures that may be included as part of the mommy makeover. Curious to know more? Find out below

Liposuction

 This procedure removes excess fat from “problem areas”, such as the arms, thighs, back, and abdomen. Rather than removing large volumes of fat (which is what some people think is possible with fat removal via liposuction), the procedure focuses on sculpting the body. Fat does get removed, but since specific areas are targeted, a smoothing and slimming effect can be achieved even without large-scale fat removal.

 The recovery time for liposuction will vary based on the extent of the procedure. At the very least, you can expect to be out of commission for a few weeks; long-term recovery can take 3 to 6 months.

Breast enhancement

 Pregnancy is known for changing the shape of the breasts due to hormonal fluctuations or weight gain, but the changes don’t stop after delivery. Breastfeeding can further contribute to the breasts developing a stretched or sagging appearance, whether they end up growing or shrinking along the way. It’s easy to see why some form of breast enhancement would ​be a part of the mommy makeover since this is one of the more significant physical changes that happen as a result of pregnancy.

In general, it includes a breast lift at minimum; it could also include a breast reduction or augmentation, depending on the woman’s goals for her appearance. Since changes to breast shape or size are often caused by weight gain, most plastic surgeons will advise prospective clients to hold off on the procedure until they’ve achieved any weight loss goals. After all, it wouldn’t make sense to surgically alter the size of the breasts when they’re going to be changing anyway as a result of weight loss. Recovery time will vary according to the extent of the procedure, but a basic breast lift usually takes about 6 weeks to recover from. 

Tummy tuck

 A tummy tuck is potentially the most invasive part of the mommy makeover, but that isn’t a surprise; after all, one of the most noticeable physical changes caused by pregnancy is the stretching of the abdominal muscles and skin. In addition to the baby itself, pregnancy-related weight gain often stretches out the abdominal skin as well, resulting in sagging or stretch marks post-delivery.

 The tummy tuck procedure targets excess fat and skin on the abdomen, and can also include repairs to separated muscles in the abdominal wall. The appearance of stretch marks is reduced, and the general effect is to tighten and tone the lower half of the torso. Just like with the other procedures, it’s important to wait on getting a tummy tuck until your body has more or less stopped changing after delivery and breastfeeding. Recovery time varies drastically with this procedure (depending on how much excess skin was removed), but on average it takes about 2 months to recover.

Varicose vein removal

 Not all pregnant women will develop varicose veins, but they’re still fairly common. Since they can significantly change how the legs appear, they may be targeted as part of a mommy makeover. They’re usually blue, red, or purple clusters of veins, and they sometimes create bumps on the surface of the skin. This is one of the least invasive procedures you could get as part of a mommy makeover and requires almost no recovery time.

Thigh lift

 Similar to a tummy tuck, a thigh lift aims to reduce excess fat and skin post-pregnancy. The procedure usually involves a certain amount of liposuction anyways, but some patients decide to combine it with additional fat removal for enhanced contouring. Recovery will take about 6 weeks, with an additional 4 to 6 months before the swelling disappears completely. 

Labiaplasty

 If we’re talking about plastic surgeries that help restore a woman’s appearance after pregnancy, we have to mention the labiaplasty. This procedure targets the labia minora, which are often altered in shape and appearance after pregnancy. Excess tissue is surgically removed, and some re-shaping is sometimes done as well. For a more comprehensive result, the labiaplasty is sometimes combined with a vaginoplasty. 

 Unlike the plastic surgery procedures mentioned above, a labiaplasty can actually be instrumental in relieving physical discomfort for some women, as they may experience chafing and irritation due to the shape of their labia minora. The procedure can also be key in restoring self-esteem and confidence for women who feel alienated from their post-pregnancy bodies. A labiaplasty has an average recovery time of 6 weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure.

Who could be a candidate for a mommy makeover?

 For one thing, you need to be healthy enough to safely undergo five or six hours of surgery, plus the recovery afterward. Your plastic surgeon will also check for the physical changes that a mommy makeover is supposed to address – drooping breasts, loose skin on the abdomen, excess fat around the abdomen or hips, etc. 

 It’s also important to have realistic expectations for the results and to be able to take plenty of time away from work, family obligations, and life in general for a healthy recovery. With reasonable expectations, a reliable plastic surgeon, and a solid recovery plan, you should be able to get the best possible results from a mommy makeover. 

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TELEFORA Mothers Day Campaign Proves Motherhood is The Role Of A lifetime ~ #RoleOfALifetime #LoveOutLoud

Being a mom is the role of a lifetime. Teleflora gave moms time in the spotlight and a surprise with words from their supporting cast: their family.  Grab the tissues as your emotions will love this ad.

Sponsored post with Teleflora

  Sometimes the best, most important role you could have is one you’ve been starring in for years. That’s what Teleflora®, the world’s leading floral delivery service, is showcasing in its latest ode to Mom just in time for Mother’s Day. Teleflora has created another awesome ad for Mother's day and “ Role of a Lifetime ” has three working actress moms receive an emotional surprise when they audition for a Teleflora commercial, which is actually a filmed social experiment. 

 In the commercial, Teleflora hosts a casting call for the role of Lilly, a mom struggling to make ends meet. Teleflora has the best commercials. Those who made it to the callbacks were asked to read a letter, which is met with teary eyes as they soon realize it’s not a script, but an authentic letter written to them from their child. The spot captures the moment when the actresses realize that they are not auditioning for the part but have been living this role of a lifetime.

Pass the tissues, please

 The moms who were auditioning for the commercial could not hold back the tears as they read real letters, written by their children. The moms were overjoyed and speechless, when their, now adult children, expressed their love to mom with a letter showing the impact mom had on their life as a child. The adult children want to let mom know that she did a great job raising them. These kids wanted to say thank you to their mom.

“Moms rarely give themselves the credit they deserve and often doubt they’re doing a good job. This Mother’s Day, Teleflora wanted to authentically capture the impact moms have on their children and remind her of how magnificent she is,” said Danielle Mason, vice president of marketing, Teleflora. “Our social experiment achieved what we wish for all moms for their sons and daughters to genuinely recognize and celebrate the priceless role mom has played in shaping their lives.”

You have to watch the commercial, make sure to grab the tissues 

Watch the three unique stories of motherhood in the commercial:

• Kristin and her son Jeffrey’s story is one of redemption. Kristin moved to Hollywood to teach her children to follow their dreams but found that her career kept her away from her children more than she’d like. Though she’s reconnected with her kids and helped Jeffrey recover from difficult circumstances, Kristin still carries a single parent’s guilt.

• Ellen and her daughter Zoe’s story is one of inspiration. When Ellen lost the use of her legs after an accident as a teenager, she never thought she’d be a mother. But after facing down her own mortality, she became one and in the process, also became an educator, author, scuba diver, bungee jumper, model, and lifelong source of pride for her daughter.

• Starla and her son Jalen’s story is one of admiration. Starla’s career frequently left her with little time for her children. Burning the candle at both ends, she worried that she didn’t give them enough of herself. But in Starla, Jalen saw the most patient and compassionate woman he’s ever known. Starla’s impact on Jalen’s life, and on the lives of their family, friends, and neighbors, is something he cherishes to this day.

 If you are a mom, you know all about raising kids and how it is a tough job. Kids rarely tell you that you are doing a good job. Motherhood is a thankless job with long hours. Taking care of your children is a lifetime job. We moms want what is best for our kids, even after they become adults. We don't do it for awards or praises, we do it all for love. 

Role of a Lifetime — A Mother's Day Story

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkagJ_eYcwA

 Say I love you mom with the best floral arrangements and the best flower vases

 My favorite place to purchase flowers for my mom and myself is Teleflora. Teleflora has the best flower arrangements and the best customer service. If you are looking for fresh flowers and personal touches, Teleflora is the best place for flowers for mom. From the unique beautiful vases to delivery people who take the time to say hello, I only trust my flower bouquet to Teleflora. 

 I get flowers delivered to my home several times a year and I love that the person delivering my flowers, takes the time to ask me how my day is going and to give flower care tips. My favorite part of using Teleflora for flower deliveries is selecting the vase that holds the flowers. I love using the flower vases for other things after the flowers are gone. 

 Teleflora has a wide selection of flowers for Mother's Day, so I am sure that you will find flowers that mom will love. Whether mom lives far away or nearby, mom will love the surprise of fresh flowers from Teleflora. So tell mom that she did an awesome job of raising you and say " I love you mom" with the most beautiful flowers. Spoil mom with local flowers delivered right to her door.

Check out all the Mother's Day Flowers here ~ https://www.teleflora.com

About Teleflora

Say everything and share your Love Out Loud™ with the gift of Teleflora ®  flowers. All flower arrangements are made by hand and delivered by hand by your local florist. With more than 10,000 member florists in North America alone, Teleflora offers the kind of personal touches, artistry, and expertise you expect from a trusted neighborhood florist, even if that neighborhood is across the country. No prepackaged flowers in nondescript boxes dropped on your doorstep, Teleflora’s network of professional florists creates artistic arrangements personally delivered in a vase, often on the same day. Teleflora makes every day an occasion with a two-in-one gift that includes a multipurpose keepsake container for long-lasting enjoyment. For more, visit www.teleflora.com

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Make sure to tag your own #LoveOutLoud moment

Your Loved One Got Wrongfully Injured? Here's How To Help Them

 Did your loved one recently suffer from a wrongful injury? If you have a loved one who has been injured in an accident that was not their fault, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. You are not alone. Many people find themselves in this situation every year, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. In this article, we will provide some tips on how to support your loved ones and help them through this difficult time. Let's get started.

Help Them Seek Medical Attention

 The first step is to ensure that your loved one receives the medical attention they need. If their injuries are serious, they will likely need to be hospitalized and may require surgery. Even if their injuries are not life-threatening, it is still important to seek medical help as soon as possible. In some cases, injuries can worsen over time if they are not properly treated.

 Besides this, seeking medical attention helps to document the injuries sustained. The doctor will provide a report that can be used as evidence in a personal injury claim. As always insisted by medical malpractice lawyers, this is important because, to receive compensation for their injuries, your loved one will need to prove that the accident was not their fault and that they suffered damages. Ensure that everything is well documented from the start.

Gather Evidence of Malpractice

 If you believe that someone else's negligence caused your loved one's injuries, it is important to begin gathering evidence as soon as possible. This may include taking pictures of the accident scene, collecting witness statements, and obtaining a copy of the police report.

 You should also save any bills or receipts related to the accident, as you will need these to prove the financial damages your loved one has suffered. This may include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. If you have any questions about what evidence to collect, you should speak to a personal injury lawyer. They will be able to advise you on what is needed to build a strong case.

Ensure They Have The Necessary Documentation

 The next step is to make sure your loved one has all the necessary documentation for their case. This includes any medical records, police reports, and eyewitness accounts. It is important to have as much documentation as possible, as this will give your loved one the best chance of receiving compensation for their injuries.

 If you are unsure what documentation is needed, you can speak to a personal injury lawyer. They will be able to advise you on what needs to be gathered. In some cases, they may even be able to help you obtain the necessary documentation. Handle these documents with care and ensure that they are stored safely. If possible, create copies of everything so that you have a backup.

Get in Touch with a Personal Injury Attorney

 The next step is to get in touch with a personal injury attorney who can help your loved one navigate the legal process and ensure that they receive the compensation they deserve. If you are unsure where to find an attorney, you can ask your loved one's doctor for a recommendation or look for one online. It is important to find an attorney who has experience handling cases like yours and who you feel comfortable working with.

 Your loved one's attorney will handle all of the legal paperwork and negotiations on their behalf, so you can focus on supporting your loved one through their recovery. Lawyers have the knowledge, skills, and experience to get you the best possible outcome in your case. Some work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case, so there is no risk of seeking their help.

Handle Their Finances and Insurance Claims

 Sometimes, a wrongful injury can leave your loved one unable to work and earn an income. If this is the case, you may need to help them handle their finances and insurance claims. This can be a lot of work, but it is important to make sure that all of their bills are paid on time and have the money they need to support themselves.

 You should also contact their insurance company to file a claim. In many cases, the insurance company will try to lowball the settlement or deny the claim altogether. If this happens, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you appeal the decision and get the compensation your loved one deserves.

Provide Emotional Support

 It is important to provide your loved one with emotional support during this difficult time. They may be feeling scared, angry, and frustrated, and it is important to be there for them. Let them know that you love them and are there for them. If they need help with everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning, offer to pitch in.

 If you struggle to cope with the situation, you should reach out for help. Many resources are available to families of injured people, so do not be afraid to ask for help. For instance, you can contact a support group or counselor to talk about what you are going through.

Follow Up With Their Claims

 Once your loved one has been released from the hospital, you should follow up with their insurance company and attorney to ensure their claims are still being processed. The insurance company may try to stall or deny the claim in some cases. If this happens, you should contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you appeal the decision and get the compensation your loved one deserves.

 Keep in mind that the insurance company is not on your side, and their goal is to minimize the amount of money they have to payout. Do not let them take advantage of you or your loved one. Fight for what you deserve and make sure your loved one gets the compensation they need to cover their medical bills and other expenses.

 If your loved one has been wrongfully injured, it is important to take action to help them. First, gather all necessary documentation and contact a personal injury attorney. Your lawyer will handle the legal process and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Additionally, you may need to help your loved ones manage their finances and insurance claims. Finally, provide emotional support and follow up with their claims to ensure they are being properly processed. With your help, your loved one can get through this difficult time.

Creative And Powerful Supplements For Optimal Health

 There are many different supplements on the market that can help improve your overall health. While some people might be skeptical about supplements, they can be a great way to fill in any nutritional gaps in your diet and ensure that you're getting all the nutrients you need. Some of the most powerful supplements on the market include probiotics, omega-3s, and plant-based protein powders. Let's discover supplements you should start consuming today.

Weight-Loss Supplements

 If you're looking to shed a few pounds, certain supplements can help. One of the most popular weight-loss supplements is green tea extract. Green tea contains catechins, which are powerful antioxidants that have been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat loss. The best supplement for weight loss you can utilize in your diet is PhenQ because of its ability to burn stored fat. Another great supplement for weight loss is Garcinia Cambogia. This tropical fruit contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which has been shown to block the enzyme that helps your body store fat. If you're looking to lose weight, these supplements can be a great addition to your diet and exercise routine. Also, don't forget that getting enough protein is essential for weight loss, so be sure to include a quality protein powder in your diet as well.

Bone and Joint Health Supplements

 If you're struggling with bone or joint pain, several supplements can help. One of the most popular supplements for bone and joint health is collagen. Collagen is a type of protein that helps keep your bones strong and healthy. It also promotes the growth of new cells and repairs damaged tissue. Another great supplement for bone and joint health is glucosamine. Glucosamine is a natural compound that helps rebuild cartilage and reduce inflammation. If you're looking for a way to improve your bone and joint health, these supplements can be a great addition to your diet.

Digestive Health Supplements

 If you're struggling with digestive issues, several supplements can help. One of the most popular digestive health supplements is probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria that help improve gut health and promote regularity. They can also help reduce the risk of diarrhea and other digestive issues. Another great supplement for digestive health is fiber. Fiber helps add bulk to your stool and promotes regularity. If you're looking for a way to improve your digestive health, these supplements can be a great addition to your diet. Additionally, be sure to stay hydrated and consume plenty of water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

Cardiovascular Health Supplements

 If you're looking to improve your cardiovascular health, several supplements can help. One of the most popular cardiovascular health supplements is fish oil. Fish oil is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Another great supplement for cardiovascular health is CoQ10. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps improve blood flow and reduce oxidative stress on the heart. If you're looking for a way to improve your cardiovascular health, these supplements can be a great addition to your diet.

Brain Health Supplements

 If you're looking to improve your brain health, several supplements can help. One of the most popular brain health supplements is omega-3 fish oil. Omega-3s have been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Another great supplement for brain health is Bacopa monnieri. Bacopa monnieri is a type of herb that has been shown to improve memory and reduce anxiety. If you're looking for a way to improve your brain health, these supplements can be a great addition to your diet. Additionally, be sure to get plenty of sleep and exercise regularly to keep your brain healthy.

Muscle-Building Supplements

 If you're looking to build muscle, several supplements can help. One of the most popular muscle-building supplements is protein powder. Protein powder is a great way to get the necessary nutrients your body needs to build muscle. Another great supplement for muscle growth is creatine. Creatine is a type of amino acid that helps improve energy production and increase muscle mass. If you're looking for a way to build muscle, these supplements can be a great addition to your diet and exercise routine. For example, try adding a scoop of protein powder to your post-workout shake or taking creatine before your workout.

As you can see, many different supplements can help you achieve optimal health. Be sure to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine which supplements are right for you. Remember, supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet and lifestyle, but they can be a great addition to your wellness routine. 

Celebrating Mother's Day At Home Ideas

 Mothers' Day is an important day of the year. It is a day to celebrate mom. So make this day for mom the best. From the moment mom wakes up all the way to bedtime, I have some great ideas for celebrating Mother's Day at home.

 If you were to ask mom what she wants for Mother's Day, she probably would say "a day of rest." This is especially true of moms with young kids. So this year, celebrate mom with a relaxing day at home. Having been a mom for 32 years and raising 5 kids means that I have celebrated plenty of Mother's Days. Of all the ways that my family has celebrated the day of mom, the ones that I like best are the ones that are simple and at home.

 I know that my husband and kids want to celebrate Mom's Day with lavish gifts and fancy dinners at restaurants but I just want a day that I don't have to leave the house. I want to sleep in and I don't want to clean. So I have a list of great ideas for celebrating Mother's Day at home that will make mom happy. So many of these ideas are for the dads but can really be used by anyone.

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Breakfast in bed ~ Start mom's day off by letting her sleep in. Then surprise mom with a simple breakfast in bed. So don't get all fancy in the kitchen with a big breakfast that involves making a mess in the kitchen. We moms can't enjoy our breakfast, knowing that there is a messy kitchen waiting for us to clean. So unless you can clean the kitchen to mom's standards, make that breakfast in bed simple. 

 Wake mom up with a fresh cup of coffee, some bagels, muffins, or fresh-baked sourdough bread Other simple breakfast ideas are oatmeal, cereal, or frozen breakfast sandwiches that can be made in the microwave. 

Clean the house ~ While mom is enjoying her breakfast in bed, have the kids help you clean the house. Moms like clean houses. Have the kids clean their bedrooms and help you with laundry. Make sure to mop the floor and run the robot vacuum. If all you can do is clean the living room, then do just that. That way mom can have a clean place to relax.

Take the kids to the park ~ Give mom some quiet time and take the kids to the park. 

A spa day at home ~ Fill a basket up with some items that mom can use in the bathtub. So while you are at the park with the kids, mom can relax with a long soak in the tub. Make a gift basket of spa products like bath bombs. Check out this Mother's Day gift guide for ideas.

Make homemade bread ~ Mom will love some freshly baked bread. The smell of bread baking in the oven will be a treat for mom. The best way to bake bread for mom is without making a mess. So give mom the gift of a sourdough bread subscription. Baking homemade bread at home is super easy with a Wildgrain sourdough bread box. 

Save $30 off your first Wildgrain box with coupon code MOMKNOWSBEST30

Make a delicious Italian meal ~ Give mom the day off from cooking and make a delicious Italian pasta meal. Pasta is an easy meal to cook and does not take a lot of time. The secret to a delicious Italian meal is using premium pasta sauces. So don't skimp on the best ingredients for your Mother's Day meal for mom.

 Start the meal with a mixed green salad that is topped with a homemade citrus vinaigrette. Then serve mom's favorite pasta with a Marinara Sauce from Botticelli. Add some balsamic roasted vegetables and a loaf of fresh-baked sourdough bread. Don't forget to serve dessert. For some meal inspiration and Italian meal recipes ideas, head to https://botticellifoods.com/ 

 I attended a fancy dinner that was sponsored by Botticelli Foods, last month when I was at Expo West. The dinner was amazing and delicious. From the authentic Italian pasta sauces to an amazing balsamic glaze, I left the dinner wanting to recreate all the dishes that I tasted. You can find out more about this fancy dinner and the Botticelli products here.  

Surprise mom with new dishes ~ While you are planning a fancy dinner for mom, make sure to beautify the table with some fancy tableware. A gift of new dishes would delight mom when you present them with your delicious meal. Stone+Lain offers high-quality tableware that’s also highly affordable. Stone+Lain believes that a formal or casual table moment should be priceless, not pricey.  

 From dreamy marbled designs to sleek minimalist motifs, Stone+Lain appeals to all personal preferences with a vast array of unique and eye-catching settings. Many of their dinnerware collections are microwave and dishwasher-safe. You can also purchase the table settings on Amazon. Check out my full review of the dishes here. 

Help mom start a garden ~  If mom loves to garden, then this day would be perfect for helping mom start her garden.  Whether mom loves growing fresh vegetables or pretty flowers, she would love some help with the planting. Give mom a gift that she can use in her garden. These garden-inspired gift picks will bring a smile to her face.

Help mom bake a pie ~ Does mom like to bake? A great gift idea suggestion would be giving mom a new ceramic pie dish and all the ingredients that she needs to bake a delicious blueberry crisp. Let mom enjoy the baking and then step in to clean the kitchen once she is done baking.

I hope that I inspired you with some ideas on how to celebrate Mother's Day at home. Skip the expensive crowded restaurants and instead spend time with mom at home.

How To Craft An Authentic Italian Meal With Botticelli

 Passed down through four generations, Botticelli has everything you need to craft an authentic Italian meal at home

 I think my favorite part of being an influencer is tasting delicious food. I just love checking out new products and healthy foods are high on the list. So I was excited to attend an event last month that was all about natural health products. Expo West was an event that had a huge expo hall and plenty of healthy food to enjoy. 

 One of the healthy food brands that I met at Expo West was a company that produces Italian food products. Botticelli has everything you need to craft an authentic Italian meal at home. I was invited to a fancy Italian dinner that was outside of the event. The press meal was originally supposed to be at the Chuck Norris Estate but due to wind, it was moved to a lovely home in Anaheim Hills. I was glad that I received an invite to a dinner to learn about Botticelli Italian products.

Learning about Botticelli one bite at a time

What better way to learn about a company's product than through a meal that was prepared with their products. When I arrived at the press dinner location, I was greeted with an amazing table that looked like it belong in a magazine. I was also greeted by the host of the Botticelli Italian meal, who said to me "if there is anything you need just ask."

 I am glad that she made me feel comfortable upon arriving at her home. I felt comfortable in requesting information about what was being served for dinner and if any of the food items contained any dairy products since I had a dairy allergy. The host excused herself to talk with the chef who was preparing the meal. The chef then came out to talk with me about my dairy allergy and how he could prepare many of the meal items without dairy products. I was happy to know that I would be enjoying most of the items on the menu and did not have to only eat plain pasta with marinara sauce. 

Mingling with other influencers

 While the food was being prepared, I had a great time talking to the other influencers and press folks, who were seated at my table. If it was not a cold windy night, we would have talked around the pool. While we were enjoying drinks, someone from Botticelli made a toast and introduced us to their company. This person went over the menu to tell us about the Italian products that were featured in the meal that was about to be served. From a delicious-sounding balsamic glaze to an Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil with several exciting pasta sauces, I was ready to enjoy an authentic Italian meal.

What Real Italian Really Means To Botticelli

Family-owned and operated since 2002, our roots run deep in Italy. Going back four generations to the island of Sicily, our ancestors were local farmers and grocers dedicated to the art of Italian food. Over the years, we have remained devoted to sourcing all of our ingredients completely from Italy so you and your family can enjoy the same authentic Italian quality and flavor from the comfort of your home.

 The meal started with a fancy charcuterie platter that was filled with assorted olives, vegetables, and cheese. I enjoyed the olives and veggies. Then I was served the most delicious salad. Made with arugula, prosciutto, caramelized onions, and candied walnuts with a dressing made with Balsamic Vinegar Glaze and Extra Virgin Olive oil. 

The Balsamic Vinegar Glaze is brand new to the Botticelli Family and it was so delicious! This sweet and tangy glaze is made with the premium balsamic vinegar of Modena, Italy, and has a rich taste that adds a perfect touch to meat, salad, and even desserts like ice cream.

 The next entree of the dinner was a fusili pasta that was topped with a Botticelli's Roasted Garlic Pasta Sauce and this pasta dish was amazing. The pasta sauce was thick and had a great flavor. The entree that followed the pasta dish was seared salmon that was topped with the same sweet balsamic glaze that was on the delicious salad. The plate also contained the most tender asparagus. 

While I was not able to enjoy the next entree of the meal, the folks at my table said it was delicious. The chicken parm was topped with Botticelli's Alla Vodka Sauce and this is a sauce that I know my husband will enjoy. The dessert was Botticelli biscotti and espresso. I passed on the biscotti cookies as most bakery products contain butter and it was too late for coffee. 

A full belly and fond memories

 I enjoy the authentic Italian meal made with Botticelli Italian food products. It was a night of delicious food and great conversation. I left the event wanting to recreate this meal for my family. I was glad that Botticelli sent me a huge box filled with many products from their product line. 

  My husband was home when the box of pasta sauces and other goodies arrived at our home. The box was filled with an assortment of pasta sauces, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian Antipasto, and that sweet delicious balsamic glaze. My husband was anxious for me to take pictures as he wanted to cook a delicious Italian meal. 

 I let my husband select one pasta sauce and the rest were put aside for my photos. My husband selected the Rossa Alfredo Sauce and served it over some cooked pasta. I was not able to eat my husband's creation as alfredo sauce has dairy ingredients in it but my boys thoroughly enjoyed this creamy pasta sauce.

The Perfect Italian Meal Starts With Fresh-Baked Sourdough Bread

 As I was planning the meal that I was going to create with the Botticelli items, I remembered that I still had a loaf of Wildgrain Sourdough bread in my freezer. I knew that this homemade bread would taste so delicious with my Italian meal. All I needed was some pasta, arugula, caramelized onions, and candied walnuts. 

Order your first box of Wildgrain sourdough bread now! ~ Take $30 OFF Your First Wildgrain Box with code MOMKNOWSBEST30 

~ coupon expires 8/31/2022

 I was excited to make an authentic Italian meal with the Botticelli products and I had a hard time choosing which pasta sauce to use first. The Roasted Garlic won my taste buds. The rest of the pasta sauces would be used for other meals. 

 Head over to Botticelli's website to discover all the amazing authentic Italian products and find out where can purchase them. If you are looking for amazing flavor, then these are the perfect sauces, oils, vinegar, and glazes for all your meals. 

12 Mother's Day Breakfast In Bed Ideas ~ Stone + Lain

 Moms love breakfast in bed on Mother's Day. Discover a collection of breakfast recipes and tips for creating the best breakfast in bed experience for mom.

 The best Mother's Day gift for mom and the most expected present on Mother's Day is breakfast in bed. Moms love the gift of sleeping in and waking up to breakfast in bed. Enjoying the bed all to herself and waking up to a delicious breakfast and a cup of hot coffee is pure pleasure for mom. Breakfast in bed is also an affordable gift option that kids can do with the help of dad. 

Breakfast in bed doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. With just a few simple recipes and decorative touches, you can make mom feel loved and pampered.

When planning breakfast in bed for mom, the most important part of the gift is a clean kitchen. Nothing ruins mom's breakfast in bed, then a messy kitchen and a sink filled with dirty dishes. So select a breakfast recipe for cooking level and one that does not create a huge mess in the kitchen. If all you are able to cook without making a mess, is toast, then stick with that. If you are a more experienced cook, then make the chocolate pancakes for mom.

 I remember when my kids were younger and my daughter was around 12. My daughter wanted to make a special breakfast in bed for me, along with a new recipe that she had never made before. My daughter didn't plan cleanup time for my special breakfast, being we had church that morning. After I enjoyed my delicious breakfast in bed, I was greeted by a messy kitchen. From then on all my future mom's day breakfast in bed with a bagel and cream cheese. 

Make mom's breakfast in bed special with the presentation

 Presentation is an easy way to elevate your breakfast from ordinary to extraordinary. A fancy tray, a small vase of flowers, and a cloth napkin will provide an elegant showcase for the simplest breakfast. Serving breakfast on the best dinnerware will make mom smile. The Brighton Porcelain Dinnerware Set by Stone Lain is a perfect choice for almost any meal. From breakfast to a fancy Italian dinner, this porcelain tableware set is perfect for formal and casual meals. 

The marble swirls give the dishes a modern look and feel. This set includes large round dinner plates, classy round salad plates, deep round bowls and rounded 12 oz. mugs. These home essentials are expertly crafted and artfully designed. 100% dishwasher and microwave safe for easy cleaning and durability. 

 Stone+Lain knows about making a table beautiful and enhancing every culinary experience, one plate, one bowl, and one dish at a time. More than just dishware, Stone+Lain craft experiences out of porcelain, china, and stone. Their plates and bowls come in a variety of colors, designs, and sizes as they are all about offering high-quality tableware that’s also highly affordable. Stone+Lain believes that a formal or casual table moment should be priceless, not pricey. From dreamy marbled designs to sleek minimalist motifs, Stone+Lain appeals to all personal preferences with a vast array of unique and eye-catching settings. Porcelain, stoneware, bone china...they are the destination for tableware. 

 Stone +Lane has a huge variety of dish sets to select from. I love that their prices are so affordable. I had a hard time selecting the plates that I wanted for my table. The selection of patterns and colors made me want more than one set of new dishes. So I had to narrow things down. The dishes that I was purchasing were going to be used for everyday meals. So I needed plates and bowls that could be used in the microwave and in the dishwasher. I also wanted durable dinnerware. 

 The Brighton Porcelain Dinnerware Set caught my attention with the gray marble swirls. I just loved the plates had a modern edge to them. The dinner plates were the perfect size for supper and the smaller salad plates would be great for lunches and after-school snacks. I could replace all my worn-out plastic bowls with the soup bowls, now that the kids are older. As for the coffee mugs, these would be great for my late-night cups of tea.

My favorite recipes for a Mother's Day breakfast

Now that I have given you a great resource for new dishes for mom, here are some recipe ideas for mom's special breakfast in bed. From simple quick bread to fancy healthy waffles with even a breakfast cookie recipe, I am sure that you will find a recipe that mom will love.

Click here for ideas for Celebrating Mother's Day At Home 

+ Dairy-Free Vegan Chocolate Protein Pancakes

+ 4-Ingredient Mocha Coconut Breakfast Cookies 

+ Breakfast Granola Bars 

+ Lemon Blueberry Bread 

+ Chocolate Zucchini Protein Bread 

+ Beet Waffles 

+ Dairy Free Salted Caramel Cold Brew Coffee Latte 

+ Vegan Scrambled Eggs 

+ No-Knead Dairy-Free Jalapeno Cheese Artisan Bread 

+ Dairy Free Homemade Doughnuts Made In The Air Fryer

+ Two Ingredient Everything Spice Bagel Recipe In The Air Fryer

+ Dairy Free Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Coffee Latte

 So now that you have plenty of ideas for what to serve mom for breakfast. Gather your best dishes, some pretty flowers, and have the kids make mom a special card. You are now ready to make this day special for mom.

Reducing My Plastic Waste With ATTITUDE

 Plastic pollution can create big problems for human and ecosystem health. Everyday actions, however, can lessen the problem. 

 The Earth Day 2022 Theme is Invest In Our Planet. Earth Day is a day when people come together to do good things for the earth. For some people, Earth Day is a day when they clean up trash. For others, Earth Day is about planting a tree, and for others, it can be about teaching others to invest in the earth. Earth Day is about doing something that focuses on protecting the planet we live on. 

While Earth Day focuses on just one day, we need to invest in our earth every day. We need to make changes in life every day, doing simple things that will help the earth. If we all make one or more changes in our daily activities, we can make a difference. These small changes can add up to big changes. Sometimes the small changes that we make in our lives can make a huge difference in the lives of those around us. I like to think of making changes as the power of one. While I can't do big things to make the earth a better place to live, I can influence those around me.

ABOUT EARTH DAY LIVE™

 Originating from the first virtual celebration of Earth Day, EARTHDAY.ORG’s Earth Day Live event series explores Earth’s urgent environmental issues and examines a variety of approaches to protect our shared home. Topics include climate restoration, regenerative agriculture, environment and social justice, supply chain resilience, plastic pollution, resource scarcity, food security, the green economy, biodiversity restoration, and universal climate literacy. Panelists range from public and private sector leaders to activists, scientists, influencers, and beyond. The series has reached hundreds of thousands of viewers on several streaming platforms.

My Earth Day Mission ~ Reducing My Plastic Waste

For Earth Day this year, my mission is to reduce my plastic waste. Plastic waste is a huge problem. The plastic that we use and toss is creating plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is not good for the earth or for our health. While I am not going to go into the details of the harm of plastic pollution, I am going to tell you about new ways that I am reducing plastic waste in my life.

Plastic pollution can create big problems for human and ecosystem health. Everyday actions, however, can lessen the problem. 

 I am going beyond the 3 R's ~ Reduce - Reuse - Recycle and introducing 3 new R's into my vocabulary. The 3 new R's are Remove - Refuse - Rally. These new words are helping me make changes in my life to reduce the amount of plastic that not only comes into my house but also the plastic that goes out of my house. I learned about the new R words on Earthday.org and I am excited to share with you one of the ways that I am reducing plastic in my bathroom.

REDUCE ~ REUSE ~ RECYCLE ~ REMOVE ~ REFUSE ~ RALLY

 I decided to swap out my beauty products with zero-plastic beauty products from ATTITUDE. So I put away my plastic bottles of shampoo and conditioner, my body wash that is in a plastic bottle, my plastic container of deodorant, and my plastic lotion jar. I then committed to using plastic-free products in my daily beauty routine. I was up for the challenge to eliminate the plastic in my bathroom beauty products. 

 ATTITUDE’s leaves barsTM collection features zero-plastic solid beauty bars for your daily skin and hair care routines. Everything is crafted to offer maximum results with minimal ingredients, enriched with super leaves extracts, and packaged in luxuriously designed compostable cardboard boxes. These naturally-scented products with indulgent fragrances will quickly become your go-to for your clean wellness regimen, resulting in glowing skin and lustrous hair. The minimalistic size is a space saver and perfect for travel. The collection includes lip balm, natural deodorant, shampoo & conditioner bars, hand soap, and body butter!

 I like that ATTITUDE makes beauty products that are packaged without plastic. ATTITUDE has designed compostable cardboard boxes and containers that are filled with natural beauty products to get you cleaned from head to toe. The zero-plastic containers can also be tossed into my compost pile. I love that these skincare products are made with minimal ingredients and are naturally scented. So they are good for both the planet and my health!

 The ATTITUDE’s leaves bars products cleaned and performed just like the other products that I was using for my hair and skincare routine. The shampoo bar from ATTITUDE had great lather and made my hair so soft. The first time that I washed my hair with the shampoo bar, I thought that I had accidentally grabbed the conditioner bar. I loved that the conditioner bar gave me plenty of product for my hair with just a couple rubs into my hand. I have been using the hair care bars from ATTITUDE for several weeks and the bars still look new. So I see these bars lasting for a long time.

 The deodorant and body butter plastic-free products were also simple to use. I just loved the way that these containers felt in my hand. They also looked great on my bathroom vanity. The body butter had a nice clean scent and was so creamy. The shea butter left my skin so soft. I liked how smoothly the deodorant went onto my armpits and it keep me fresh smelling all day.

 Changing my normal beauty products to plastic-free ones was a great choice that I will continue to follow after Earth Day. This simple swap will keep more plastic out of my recycle bin. Swapping out 5 plastic bottles a month will equal 60 fewer plastic bottles a year that need to be recycled. 

Check out some ways that you can apply the 6 R's in your life

Information from https://www.earthday.org/

Reduce ~ Reduce your own plastic waste. Start by using this plastic calculator to track how much you use — then you can take steps to reduce your use and waste.

Reuse ~ Always choose quality and durability over convenience. Single-use bags, cups, and other products usually cost you more in the long term — and definitely cost our planet.

Recycle ~ Find the plastics you no longer need and dispose of them properly. If you can, replace them with long-lasting options.

Remove ~ Pick up trash in your neighborhood and when visiting parks and beaches. Check local safety guidelines first, and always use gloves!

Refuse ~ This one’s simple: Just make a habit of saying “No straw, please,” and “I brought my own cup, thanks.” It’s a small step, but an easy way to see what you can live without.

Rally ~ Does your city or state have bans on single-use plastics? Send a letter or call your local elected leaders, urging them to ban plastic bags and other single-use plastic items.