Archives for April 2021

Meal Plan Monday: April 19th-25th

April 19, 2021 Leave a Comment

Welcome to Meal Plan Monday! If you’re new around here, each Monday I curate a full week of recipes, complete with grocery lists if you need them, to make your life a little easier!

If you haven’t yet, head on over and read this post! eMeals has changed our lives and I would love nothing more than to share it with your family, too. I am so much less stressed trying to figure out what to make and we eat much better food!

Okay, let’s get to it! Super excited for some delicious food this week!

Monday: Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

Sour cream and onion chips are some of my personal favorite, so this just sounds good to me! It’s a great low carb option to follow up a weekend of family ‘fun” eating.

Tuesday: Oven-Roasted Tomato Pasta with Zesty Italian Salad

A 30 minute meal that only has 3 steps? Okay, I see you! Tuesdays are hectic around here, so I love to keep it easy on those days!

Wednesday: Cheesy French Dip Burgers with Steak Fries

French dips are one of my favorite sandwiches to get at a restaurant, and this just sounds so good! We are having some friends to dinner Wednesday and I think this will be a crowd-pleaser.

I will say, making frozen fries in the Ninja Foodi is far superior to baking them! Get that perfect restaurant crisp, without the oil and fat of deep frying! Grab one here if you don’t already have one. Worth every penny!

Thursday: Extra Guac Chicken Tacos

We are trying out a few recipes from HungryRoot this month and these just sound so fabulous! They are truly a “one-click grocery trip” service and even send your ingredients prepped and ready to go! Major win! If you have never tried them, you can get 30% off of your first order + a FREE gift in every box for life using this link!

Friday: Hasselback Pepperoni Chicken with Green Beans and Garlic Bread

This sounds like a fun twist on Friday night Pizza night, and keeps things lower carb! I am swapping out the frozen green beans for fresh, because we love them that way! Just toss with olive oil and sea salt and roast on a pan at 425 degrees for 20 minutes. Crispy and delicious!

Saturday: Skillet Salsa Pork Chops with Shredded Southwest Brussels Sprouts

A two-step main course? Yeah! Mama likes! We try to spend some family time with the girls on Saturdays, so I try to keep meal time simple.

The Walmart Great Value fresh pico is my favorite salsa, so I am using that! And I am trying so hard to teach myself to love Brussel sprouts. These look absolutely delicious and flavorful!

Sunday: Sun-Dried Tomato-Chicken Caprese Pasta

Okay but like, eMeals read my mind this week when putting together the meal plan offerings. All of my favorite things! Caprese is my favorite flavor combination. I could eat fresh mozzarella cheese all day long. This dish is a great way to wrap up a yum week! As a 25 minute meal, it is a great easy Sunday option!

I hope this makes your life a little easier this week, mama! It’s my honor to provide you A full week of recipes each Monday. I am all for things that save time so that we can focus more on what matters. If you try one of these, let us know in the comments!

Easy Bakery Style Chocolate Buttercream

April 17, 2021 Leave a Comment

Let’s be friends! Connect with me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest!

You guys asked after seeing this in my Instagram story, and I am here to deliver! It has taken me years to perfect, but this easy bakery style chocolate buttercream icing will knock the socks off of anyone eating your cakes! It looks complex, but comes together in minutes and tastes so rich and creamy! If you try it, make sure you tag me on social media (@kisses.and.caffeine)!

There is something so satisfying about icing going smoothly onto a cake! This one is perfect to leave textured to smooth with a cake scraper!

Look at how beautifully smooth it spreads on! That is a baker’s dream! Tip: Chill your cake in the freezer overnight before decorating. Icing will set up better on a cold cake. When you are smoothing it with your cake scraper and spatula, run the metal under hot water first. Since the cake is cold, it will immediately set back up, giving you that crazy smooth finish!

I absolutely love a good, rich chocolate iced cake! And that topper set? How cute! Grab it HERE. I hope you fall in love with my bakery style chocolate buttercream. It is a favorite around here, for sure, especially with peanut butter filling!

If you love to bake, especially with your kids, you have got to try FoodStirs! Better for you ingredients, fun kits and they even have Keto approved dessert! Spend $30 or more on kits or mixes, and receive 1 FREE Cinnamon Swirl Mug Cake (4 pack) right now. Yum!

Bakery Style Chocolate Buttercream

Servings: 10-12
Time: 10 mins
Difficulty: easy
Print

Ingredients:

3 sticks of unsalted butter, softened
4 cups confectioners sugar
3/4 cup of cocoa powder
5 TBSP heavy whipping cream
3 tsp vanilla extract
pinch of fine salt

Directions:

In the bowl of a stand mixer, whip your butter with a whisk attachment until light and fluffy.
Turn the mixer off and add the cocoa powder, salt and half of the sugar.
Mix on low to incorporate, pausing to scrape the sides of your bowl as needed.
Add the rest of the powdered sugar and mix on low just until incorporated.
Add the whipping cream a tablespoon at a time, pausing to scrape the sides as needed.
Once all ingredients are incorporated, turn the mixer to high and whip for 3-5 minutes. Your icing should be light and fluffy! (Note: if your icing seems too firm, you can thin it a bit more by adding another TBSP of whipping cream).

Get the Organic Rainbow Surprise Mini Spill Cake!

Love this? Check out my Peanut Butter Buttercream, too!

Taco ’bout a Llama [Cookies]

April 16, 2021 Leave a Comment

Oh my word, are these not the cutest little llama sugar cookies?! A friend of mine was doing a Taco themed first birthday party for her daughter last month and commissioned these little babies.

Llamas are all the rage right now, and can you blame them? Legitimately so stinkin’ cute! If you haven’t yet, go check out the adorable llama birthday cake I did last month for another friend (with some great party ideas, as well!) HERE!

We definitely can’t sell the taco cookies short, either! So realistic, but taste so sweet!

If you want to make the best no-spread sugar cookies that hold their shape when you bake them, follow my recipe here! For the perfect royal icing, check the recipe here!

If you’re planning a fiesta any time soon, you should totally give these little guys a try!

While we are talking trying things, my newest obsession is FoodStirs! As a baker, I have always balked at “mixes,” but these are so good, you guys! And they are better for you! The kits are so fun to do with the kids, and I don’t have to feel bad about what I am putting into their little bodies.

Go to this link to receive 1 FREE Cinnamon Swirl Mug Cake (4 pack) when you spend $30 or more on kits or mixes!

Shop the KETO Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix Today!

A Stay-At-Home Mom’s Guide to Making Real Money Online

April 14, 2021 Leave a Comment

Maybe you are looking for a way to generate some side income. Maybe you were laid off. Or maybe you are looking to quit your job and stay home with your kids or travel. Whatever your reason may be, this post is for you!

When I graduated college, I took a job in corporate America that was definitely not my dream job. It paid the bills and that was what we needed at the time. I always felt this tension, though, that I was not made for a sea of cubicles in a call center. Through a journey of several years, that tension grew.

And then one day, the Lord in His wisdom for my life, allowed my position to be eliminated. What followed was a season of anxiety, but also of learning to trust. It forced me to think outside of the box in terms of providing income for my family.

After the birth of our daughter Addilyn, I knew that going back into corporate America was just not something that I wanted to do…like ever. I had panic attacks about having to put my kids in daycare and miss out on the moments with them. I decided then and there that I would make this work, no matter what it took. I am here to share with you some of the best ways that I have found to make money online- or at the very least to work for yourself- so that you can live the life you want and be home with your children.

And let me add, mama, if you are totally fulfilled and satisfied in your career, there is zero shame in that! I know so many that just need that break from their kids, or are passionate about what they do, and that is okay! God has given us each gifts and talents to be used where we are!

If you identify with me, or just want to make some money on the side (hey- you don’t have to be a mom to do that!), read on!

Surveys

There are so many great sites that allow you to earn a little bit of side income online by taking surveys! Swagbucks is one of my favorites! It is free to sign up. You simply create your account and then take surveys and watch videos to earn gift cards to your favorite retailers! Use those gift cards at places like Walmart, Amazon or Target for groceries, or splurge and choose fun cards like Starbucks!

Another great service is Inbox Dollars! Like the other services, you can take surveys, watch videos, read emails and play games to earn real cash. The really cool thing though about Inbox Dollars is that you also gain access to exclusive coupons and can even earn cash back for your online purchases! Since I do 95% of my shopping online, this adds up! Go here to get a free $5 signup bonus!

ySense is another great survey service! You can try new products, download apps and more. You can even earn more by referring your friends!

Zap Surveys is also another really great way to make an extra $50-100 a month! You can scan products in stores and take quick and easy surveys to earn real money. They are not crazy long, either. Sign up here to make your first $6.25!

Set up an Etsy Shop

If you have a crafty side, setting up an Etsy shop can be an amazing way to make money from home! Reach millions of customers, make your craft while your kids play or nap, and you can even schedule for the post office to pick up your packages in most cities! So you literally never have to leave the house. What a time to be alive!

Maybe you aren’t crafty, but you have a teachable skill! There are people making good money on Etsy selling downloadable videos and tutorials, coaching sessions and more! The sky is the limit!

Sell on Jane

If you have something fun and unique to offer, Jane is another amazing marketplace! You offer your products at a discount on retail, but it can be a great way to build a customer base and get your name out there! I love to shop Jane, too!

Sell on Amazon

Creating an Amazon store can seem a bit daunting, but it is another great way to reach millions of customers on a very well-loved platform! Head over to this page to learn more about what that looks like!

Direct Sales

Okay, hear me out. I know this is a super polarizing topic. You either love and believe in the industry (which I do), or it makes your skin crawl. There is seldom an in-between. You can read my post about how not to be “icky” here.

Either way, I have been in direct sales for over a decade, off and on. I have done really well with companies (incentive trips, paid off debt, made life-long friends) and I have had other experiences totally flop and cause me pain (Agnes & Dora, anyone?). The most important part is to find a product and company that you really believe in and can sell from experience and service. Here are a few of the best ones that I have experience with, either by selling myself or having a lot of experience with the product. It is not for everyone, but if you find the right fit, there is good money to be made!

Brands I love:

Also- no matter which company you go with, Post My Party will be your best friend! It is such an easy “set and forget” system for running virtual parties, which frees you up to do what is most important- engaging and interacting with your customers! As a busy mom, I absolutely love this service so much. Sign up Here! It is worth every penny!

Search FlexJobs

FlexJobs is an awesome marketplace for flexible, remote jobs from major companies like Apple, United Healthcare, Dell, Williams Sonoma and more! You can use code Save30 to save 30% on the premium subscription, too! This is a game-changer for people who want the freedom to work, and dress, however they want! Check It out for yourself!

Shop for InstaCart

Not necessarily a “from home” job, but perfect for someone that needs something flexible (hello, moms!). With no set hours or days, you can shop as much or as little as you want, anytime you want. It is what you make it! Sign up here to get started!

Shop for Shipt

Similar to InstaCart, you can earn up to $22/hour shopping for Shipt! It’s easy to get started, with a simple application and interview process and then you are on your way! Be your own boss and work the hours and the way you want!

Get on VRBO

If extra space is something you have, getting on VRBO can be a great way to earn some income from home! Whether its a basement apartment, guest house or spare room, inviting guests to stay with you can range from side cash to full-time income! Get started here for more info!

Start a Blog

Okay, this one is loaded, and totally deserves it’s own post, which I am working on! Blogging is not quick money by any means. It takes time and hard work to build up. But if you really want it and are consistent, success will come! Here are a few of the basics to get you started.

Decide on a niche, or theme, that you are passionate about. You decide how specialized you want to get. Make sure that your writing brings value to your readers if you want to find a following.
If you want to earn income blogging, you will need to be self-hosted. SiteGround is a great service for that, and truly a one-stop-shop. I used them to start Kisses + Caffeine and am still a loyal customer to this day! Their customer service is top-notch, which is really helpful for a novice blogger. Click here to get started.

If you don’t use Siteground, you can purchase a domain through Domain.com or HostGator too!
Once you are hosted, you will need to set up your WordPress. Creative Market has fully downloadable themes which make it super easy! An aesthetically pleasing, professional looking blog can make or break your success. And unless you are a graphic designer, you will definitely want to browse Creative Market (graphics and more, too!). It is far cheaper than paying a designer to build your site, and the folks at SiteGround will even help you troubleshoot!
Canva is another great resource for bloggers! The interface is easy to use and you can create stunning graphics in minutes! They have tons of templates for social media posts and Pinterest Graphics as well.
Now, the most important thing. You absolutely must get Tailwind if you want to be successful with blogging! Tailwind is how my first pins went viral, and has upped my Pinterest traffic to over 1 million views a month. It is the juggernaut of blogging and makes it stupid easy!

Earn Cash with ShareASale

Affiliate marketing can be a very powerful tool, especially if you are a blogger. Once your blog is set up, you need to apply over at ShareASale and create paying content! This is also great if you are an influencer or have a large Instagram following!

If you start a small home-based business (or hey, even a big one!), ShareASale can be a great resource for you, too! Find affiliate partners to grow your brand for you, and only pay when it works!

Use ibotta Religiously!

If you don’t know about ibotta, you are seriously missing out! Go to this link and download it right now! You earn cash back at your favorite grocery stores and online shops, and it is basically self-automated! You just get the app or browser extension and you are set!

Whatever your reason for wanting (or needing) to make money from home is, I hope that this helps you to accomplish your goals! Try one or two things, or try them all! The little things can add up and help make your dreams a reality.

How to Not Be “Icky” in Direct Sales

April 13, 2021 Leave a Comment

Yes, I shamelessly represent Pampered Chef (isn’t that knife set gorgeous?!). Yes, I have been in the Direct sales industry off and on for the last decade of my life. Yes, I have tried quite a few companies before I found the right fit. I chose this company because I absolutely love to be in the kitchen, creating food for the people that I love. I believe in what they stand for. I believe in their product. I believe in making life easier for my friends and followers, especially when it comes to meal time. But I do understand why the direct sales industry can feel so icky to so many. A few things you will never hear me say:
⠀⠀
”I’ve been challenged to sell…” Sales from a place of heart should never be about selling. I want you to purchase my product because it will genuinely make your life better. My winning a challenge or earning a reward is simply a happy byproduct of a place of service. Personally, when I read these posts I am instantly turned off. So I completely understand why someone not in the industry would be even more so.
⠀⠀
”Help me earn my [car, trip, bonus].” You should never feel pressured to spend your hard earned money so that I can achieve a challenge or prize. Again, a place of service is how I want to build my business. Any successes are just cake . My goals matter to me, but they are not your burden to bear.

”Do me a favor and buy XYZ.” Again, if my sales are coming from pressure and not service, they won’t be sustainable long term.
At the risk of stepping on a few toes, if you regularly use phrases like that and notice your friends list decreasing or people outright ignoring you, I challenge you to reevaluate. Always put the heart and needs of your customer before yourself. Don’t be icky!

If you’re still here, thanks for coming to my #tedtalk.

I highly recommend this book if you are a believer!

Meal Plan Monday: April 12th-18th

April 12, 2021 Leave a Comment

Here I am with this week’s curated meal plan! I mixed in a couple of non-eMeals recipes this week to use up some ingredients that I had in our pantry/freezer, but don’t you worry! They are no less delicious!

If you’re new to Meal Plan Monday around here, you can view past plans here! You also will want to go read this post! It will change your life.

Alright, let’s get to it! Scroll on and click the pink links for your recipes!

Monday: Slow-Cooker Grillades with Cheddar Cauli-Grits

Yep! You got that right. This was on last week’s list! Due to a few free-style dinner choices last week, I had the stuff and needed to use it! So this one was a carry over. Still think it sounds amazing!

Tuesday: Smothered-and-Covered Salisbury Steaks with Roasted Broccoli Florets

Cheesy smothered steak? Yes! This is an awesome low-carb meal, too!

Wednesday: Spinach Artichoke Pizza

I am making this delicious Spinach Artichoke Pizza from Cooking Classy this week! The one sub I am making is using pre-made cauliflower crusts to lower the carb! I am a sucker for anything spinach artichoke and I just thought this looked too good not to try!

Thursday: Easy Stuffed Shells with Quick Caesar Salad

Another carry-over from last week! Our store ran out of the shells, so I had to move it over to this week. Yum!

Friday: Cheddar Barbecue Chicken with Charred Corn Salad

I am learning to love salad as a side dish! It took me a while to adjust to this way of eating, but now I am loving experimenting with salads! This charred corn sounds delicious, and who doesn’t love Barbecue and cheese??

Saturday: Cheesy Stroganoff Tortellini with Onion-Roasted Broccoli

I have a friend that I referred to eMeals who tried this recipe last week and raved over it. I just knew we had to try it this week! Creamy and cheesy are an easy sell for this family!

Sunday: Breakfast for Dinner

We haven’t done this in quite a while. Probably since I discovered eMeals! But it’s an old family favorite, so it’s on the books! Biscuits, sausage and cheesy eggs with Orange Juice! You can’t go wrong with breakfast!

I hope that helps you plan your week, friends! Check out the archives below if you need some more inspo!

We love using Instacart or Walmart Grocery to do a grocery pickup! They fully incorporate with eMeals to make shopping a cinch! Before I check out, I just open the app by itself and add any essentials we need (hello, coffee!) and then send it right over for myself or my hubby to grab! Major game-changer for a busy mom!