The Mom Jen, Author at Jen is on a Journey - Page 31 of 322

Ready Pac Salads and Snax #readypac #wevegotyourback

September 9, 2016 by The Mom Jen 88 Comments

My second most stressful time of the day after figuring out what’s for dinner is figuring out what’s for lunch! Our routines are finally back to our normal now that the kids are back to school, but finding easy to prepare and healthy and delicious lunches will forever be a challenge. This includes making sure my husband and I are making smart choices on our lunch breaks. It’s been about 4 years now that my husband has had a job change and is commuting over an hour each day. Early mornings aren’t his forte and that includes packing himself a lunch. Luckily we were encouraged to try Ready Pac pre-packaged salads and snacks recently and let me tell you, they are really convenient! With so many great choices of greens, healthy ingredients, and flavors of dressings we’re even encouraging our kids to try more items that they’ve balked at in the past!

We were sent a generous pack of Ready Pac Bistro on-the-go salads, ElevAte superfood salads and some snacks. It was overwhelming, but these were just only a handful of the over 30 different selections to choose from! The very next morning we were on a mission to begin trying them! My husband packed his lunch with a chicken caesar bowl and I tried out the kickin BBQ style bowl. My husband is generally at his desk all day and often just likes to drive out and park somewhere with a view for lunch to get out of the office or is on the road between inspections and site meetings. That means he’s often eating in the truck. No problem because these pre-packaged meals can be taken and eaten anywhere! All the toppings to the salad are in their own compartment with dressing and once removed you have a generously sized bowl and plastic fork to get started. I put the sectioned plastic compartment over the bowl, gave a quick toss and you’re ready to eat!

We were both texting each other giving the play by play that afternoon mentioning that the portion size was great for lunch, pretty filling but we both wanted more dressing! That’s normal for us regularly though, we like our salads doused. The chicken was tasty and plentiful as were all the accompaniments. I loved the added crunch of the tortilla chips with mine and I was thrilled to see it was only 240 calories with 9 grams of protein!

The kids have been taking the Ready Snax in their lunch and snack bags and also grab them to go in the car since we’re non-stop after school until dinner time. The ElevAte kale caesar was something entirely new to me. I wasn’t sure I’d like kale fresh (I do enjoy it in a smoothie) and it included antibiotic-free chicken, quinoa, beluga lentils, pepitas, cranberries, and hemp seeds with a Caesar vinaigrette. I loved the seeds, lentils, and of course the chicken, plus the dressing was tangy. I’ve got to get used to the texture of kale but that will come soon enough. 14 grams of protein were packed in the ElevAte salad and it’s an excellent source of antioxidant vitamins A & C, impressive! I didn’t get a photo quick enough but another Bistro favorite of ours was the Cranberry Walnut with the crispy pita chips, the dressing was SO yummy! I cannot wait to find the Caprese Bistro bowl as well as the chopped Asian chicken style!

SWEEPSTAKES

Ready Pac Foods is offering customers a chance to win BIG this Back to School season with up to $3000 in prizes including Amazon and grocery store gift cards! Now until September 18, visit http://readypac-2377914.hs-sites.com/weve-got-your-back-back-to-school-sweepstakes for your chance to win!

To find a local retailer carrying Ready Pac Foods, visit http://www.readypac.com/ and check the locator tab.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Product and giveaway has been sponsored by Ready Pac, all opinions are our own.

Play Chess Like the Queen Of Katwe #QueenOfKatweEvent #QueenOfKatwe

September 8, 2016 by The Mom Jen 10 Comments

As a parent of three children, I’ve seen them explore hobbies and passions, I’ve seen them succeed and fail. No matter what, they need encouragement, support, and love and often a little spark to encourage taking risks. Now take that concept and apply it to living in a third world country. QUEEN OF KATWE is an inspiring true story of a young girl named Phiona, who sold corn on the streets of Uganda and then had her life altered when she is introduced to the game of chess. Confidence, determination along with the support of her family leads Phiona on a journey as she pursues her new found dream of becoming an international chess champion. It’s a story of overcoming the odds and finding your inner Queen.

Does this sound like the kind of movie you want to see, not only am I excited to see the QUEEN OF KATWE movie, I’m honored to be invited to the movie’s Hollywood premiere!

In celebration of attending the Red Carpet Premiere of QUEEN OF KATWE later this month, I have teamed up with several of the #QueenOfKatweEvent bloggers to bring you NOT ONE BUT TWO amazing chances to win a this gorgeous Jarilo chess board along with a copy of QUEEN OF KATWE. Entering is simple and easy, just follow the steps in the giveaway tool below, however once you are done entering my giveaway, head over to The Michigan Mom and enter the second giveaway. See I told you it was easy! Good luck.

Queen of Katwe Giveaway 2

Rules of the Giveaway: Winners are subject to verification of eligibility. You must be at least 18 years of age to enter, a U.S. Resident and provide a physical mailing address for the prize (P.O. Boxes will not be accepted). The giveaway starts at 12:00 am CST on September 9th, 2016, and will be end at 11:59 pm on September 16th, 2016. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond. Failure to respond will result in forfeiture of prize and a new winner will be selected.

Now that you have entered, please be sure to follow the hashtag #QueenOfKatweEvent to learn more about this amazing movie and to follow the journey of the 25 #QueenOfKatweEvent Bloggers who will be attending the Red Carpet Premiere.

Visit the QUEEN OF KATWE website

Like QUEEN OF KATWE on Facebook

Follow QUEEN OF KATWE on Twitter

Get your own copy of QUEEN OF KATWE

QUEEN OF KATWE opens in SELECT theaters on September 23rd and everywhere on September 30th.

Explore the Whitney Peak Hotel in Reno, Nevada

September 2, 2016 by The Mom Jen 5 Comments

I have many fond memories about visiting Reno, Nevada. I’ve been going since I was little as my parents loved the gaming scene and I loved casino arcades. I especially remember getting to hang out at Circus Circus’ famous arcade with live shows and the thrill of winning huge stuffed prizes! Something else I remember, though not as fondly, is the amount of smoke in the air and having all my clothes absorb the smell. Since then I’ve returned again and again and just a few months ago and was so excited for the chance to stay at Reno’s ONLY non-gaming, non-smoking, luxury, boutique-style, full service hotel! Whitney Peak Hotel has made a huge presence in Reno and their amenities (all minus the smoky smell) will make you want to book a room in an instant!

LOBBY

I don’t know about you, but my first impression of a hotel is it’s lobby. Whitney Peak Hotel’s does not disappoint, I mean take a look for yourself! The furniture and decor was something out of a magazine, not to mention that my first scent that crossed my nose was lavender. It almost makes you forget you are in the heart of downtown Reno, the iconic arch that declares it’s the Biggest Little City in the World is just outside the door!The front desk is adorned by boulders and a huge cutaway from a tree trunk. The staff is so friendly, making eye contact and greeting each person walking through the doors and we were warmed by the hospitality right away.

ROOMS

First of all the hotel offers security starting in the lobby elevator. You can only get to your personal floor with your key card. Enter the elevator, scan your card and you can only push the button for your floor. I’m starting to see this more in resorts and I appreciate that there is only registered guests roaming the floors in the hotel. Decor didn’t stop in the lobby for sure, the areas near the elevators and in the halls are conversation pieces for sure. The wire lights and pattern carpets catch your eye and the huge murals of ski resorts and mountain runs from the area and beyond are so cool. We’ve skied and my husband has mountain biked on these mountains so it just made them that more special! Also, a filtered water and ice machine is available on all levels, cups are available at the front desk, and water bottles are available to purchase in your room.

Yes, the rooms! They’re beautifully decorated with wood and art by IShootReno.com of the local area and are very spacious. We had a Club Level King overlooking nearby casinos like the Silver Legacy and the mountains in the distance. Refrigerator, Keurig, in-room dining, wi-fi, television, robes, umbrellas, pretty much everything you need in a room and more. The bathroom has the built in shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the shower along with a rainfall shower head and neat rockabilia art.

CLUB LEVEL

If you’re able, absolutely book your room on the Club Level. Extra comfort, bonus amenities are available on the two Club Level floors (15 and 16) and at the Club Level Lounge. Mountain views and personalized service awaits, it’s like a personal hotel within a hotel. Exclusive amenities include complimentary breakfast, light snacks, evening hors d’oeuvres, beverages (both alcoholic and non-) and sweets. Between my husband and I we felt like kids in a candy store entering the Club Lounge. Two huge rooms with televisions, computer stations, couches, and these amazing bird nest swings that were so comfortable! There are games for kids too, so don’t be afraid to bring the family and have them enjoy these added perks. Let me tell you that the food is nothing to scoff at. It’s not the traditional continental breakfast or cheese and crackers for happy hour, this is gourmet and super delicious! Tea and coffee, fruit-enhanced water and snacks are available most of the day. I mean, my husband could not get enough of the Jolly Ranchers and sour balls, while I coveted the banana chips and Hershey Kisses! Appetizers like Gazpacho shooters, bread pudding, gourmet chicken fingers, and bread and fondue were some of the selections served with a large variety of craft beers and red and white wines. We were in town for a wedding and almost showed up late due to our indulging in the hotel’s fine spread.Breakfast included muffins, granola, cereal, oatmeal, fruit, and also hot dishes like Denver Scramble. Club Level Suites are pretty spectacular as well, I was taken to one to check it out.You’re truly spoiled as a Club Level guest at the Whitney Peak Hotel!

BASECAMP

As you may have noticed, there is an outdoor adventure theme running through the hotel. You may have also noticed something really unique about one side of the hotel on the outside. Well, at 164 feet, the Whitney Peak Hotel offers the world’s largest outdoor climbing wall!Beginners to experts can pay to journey up the side of the hotel overlooking Virginia Street with the guidance of trained experts. “BaseCamp staff sets up the rope and will belay the participant, which enables the participant to climb an advanced wall without the specific Mulit-Pitch knowledge normally required. Includes the Day Pass and Gear rental.” I had to pass on this opportunity, but can you imagine the thrill?!Birthday parties, team building, and climbing classes are also held within the 2nd floor Boulders along with a kid’s area. This area is open to guests and the public along with a fitness center with cardiovascular equipment and free weights. Showers, lockers, and changing rooms are available as well.

DINING

As I mentioned, the Club Level offers breakfast and appetizers, but for a dining experience, Roundabout Grill is just on the other side of the Lobby. Just like the rest of the hotel, the decor is stunning to look at and those nesting swings are also available to enjoy while you wait for your table. The restaurant offers locally grown fresh produce and other locally-sourced products and led by chef Colin Smith. There is also a full bar to enjoy.

CARGO

You truly don’t have to leave the hotel at all if you’re in Reno for the weekend. “Cargo is an on-site live concert venue that features award-winning artists, nationally and internationally touring rock bands, and local talent within the indie rock, pop and alternative fusion genres. The 1,000-capacity, street-level venue showcases the very best in musical talent on a dynamic stage with unobstructed sightlines and state-of-the-art audio, video and lighting that will bring every show to life. Cargo also has a full-service bar featuring domestic and craft beers, as well as locally inspired cocktails.”

I love that the line up is right in the elevator so you’ve always got it in the back of your mind. Entry is on the street side, but in the hallway on the hotel side of the venue there are a series of photos of performers who’ve graced the stage.

EVENT SPACE

When I visited the space was not yet opened, but I got a tour of this awesome area. Featuring eleven meeting rooms including the 5,125 square foot Whitney Peak Ballroom, over 20,000 square feet of event space and two outdoor balconies overlooking the Reno Arch, the hotel can host groups up to 400 guests as well as social gatherings for up to 550. The decor is exciting featuring hand-painted popart by Scotty Roller gives the venue a rock-and-roll vibe, and the chandeliers and comfortable seating add sparkle and glam.I can’t convince you enough to visit Whitney Peak Hotel, I’m already planning our next trip out. One of my best friend’s lives in the area and combined with a visit to see her, Whitney Peak is going to be our go-to hotel from now on. For more information and to book a room, visit http://www.whitneypeakhotel.com

We were treated generously for our stay, all opinions are 100% our own.

Filling the Gap with Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® Gummies #NatureMadeAtTarget #IC ad:

August 29, 2016 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

This post was sponsored by Nature Made® as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.

My three children have staggered their school start dates over the past few weeks and now that they are back into the routine, we need to continue with our healthy habits in and out of school. First and foremost is our daily nutrition. While I have two of three kids with choosier food needs, I offer and cook meals that span the food groups and hope for the best. I cannot force vegetables on my kids but I do trust that they can get high-quality vitamins and supplements from Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® multivitamins to fill some gaps on a daily basis.

I have to admit, that I was a picky eater growing up. My mom tells the story to the kids very often so they don’t feel bad saying no to certain things on the dinner plate. It’s a real struggle when foods that are known to be good for you just don’t taste that great all the time. It was over time and maturity that I was able to try new foods willingly and I know my kids will get there soon enough. In the mean time, I go shopping to Target weekly and am happy to know they carry the Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® labels so I know I can always find what I need. Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® Mulitivitamin is what we chose from the wide variety of options in their product line that includes fiber supplements, vitamin c and d3, and fish oil, and vitamin d3 to name a few. When you have kids whose essential daily nutritional support may be lacking, try these easy-to-choose gummies, their fruit flavors (orange, cherry, and mixed berry) are tasty. I must applaud the person who invented gummy vitamins, they really appeal to children and it’s not the same experience as the struggle to swallow a huge tablet! A suggested dose for our 10-year old is one gummy daily, and for the 15 and 17 year old it’s one gummy two times a day. This dose offers †12 essential nutrients for age-specific nutritional support, including vitamins A, C, D and E, B vitamins, and minerals like iodine and zinc.

My oldest daughter just moved into a college dorm and is on her own eating at the dining commons. I’ve visited during orientation, I’m fully aware of the variety of healthy food offered, very similar to what I would provide and home and then some. Here’s what she’s eating so far, not a vegetable in sight…yet.

You’d be right to guess that I did indeed send Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® gummies with her to college. With her daily schedule, her daily dance work out, and life in general, we are committed to making sure she sticks with a health routine that includes that daily multivitamin.

Health is not an option, health is a priority. I’m sticking with Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® because they use natural sources for color –no synthetic dyes, do not use preservatives or yeast, and those that are sensitive will be happy to know they are gluten free!

Continue your school year with healthy habits at the top of the list and check out Nature Made® KIDS FIRST® gummies!

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Pete’s Dragon Movie Review #petesdragon

August 15, 2016 by The Mom Jen 2 Comments

When I was a kid, I was in love with the older version of “Pete’s Dragon” that starred a beloved animated Elliott, who captured everyone’s heart with his goofy little sounds and sweet face. I can remember riding my bike down to the theater on our military base to watch it for $1 with all my friends during summer break. Back then a giant animated dragon in the midst of real people was fabulous technology. But now…

Disney has amazed me once again with its ability to bring something to life that I never thought I would see. I went into this 2016 version of Pete’s Dragon knowing that I would see a dragon, but I never realized they would bring so many of the beloved qualities of the original Elliott to life! His eyes, his mannerisms, and even his goofy sounds. Every part of what makes this dragon special is still there, multiplied by about a thousand. And suddenly I was a kid again.

Today’s Pete’s Dragon has a new tale with new characters that are wonderfully played by incredible actors. Bryce Dallas Howard plays Grace, the loving mother figure that is much needed in sweet Pete’s life. Pete has been living in the woods for quite some time after a tragic loss that he wouldn’t have overcome without Elliott. Pete is played by Oakes Fegley, who captured the character of a lone child beautifully. Acting as Grace’s father, Meacham, is the one and only Robert Redford. He’s the only person in the small town that has seen the friendly giant Elliott, though nobody actually believes him.

Without giving anything away, I can say that there are many moments where you either laugh or cry or shake your fist at the screen in frustration. There are good guys, there are bad guys, and then there’s Elliott. He is gentle and fun and the perfect best friend. I wanted nothing more than to be a kid again — to climb on the back of this sweet soul and fly away into the clouds. Could anything be better?

Take the family and see this movie. You’ll feel light-hearted and happy by the end, and your children will be where you were about 30 years ago — in love with a dragon named Elliott.

meredith Merrie is a writer for the Jen is on a Journey and you can also find her at her blog, Sleepless Mornings: Merrie is the mother of two beautiful children, newly married, a scrapbooker, a baker, and always fun to be around!

Movie passes were offered in exchange for honest review, all opinions my own.