It's that time again! Time for a brand new Instant Pot Crio Bru Flavor (Coconut Orange!), a solid chit chat, and a giveaway that will make your chocolate lovin' hearts sing.
Hey Friends! It's time for the March edition of TIDBITS TALK! So grab a drink and a warm blanket and pretend you just came into my water damaged, slightly demolished home for a nice, relaxing chat over the sound of industrial size fans. Doesn't that sound fun!?
Long story short, shirt got tangled in our front loading washer, broke open the door, water poured down the hall, and dripped through the ceiling. All in the middle of the night, no less. That was fun to wake up to. Anyways, that's a drag to talk about, so let's move right along.
February's TIDBITS Talk just might be my favorite post of all time. Your knowledge and opinions were positive, uplifting, and really helped me and so many others. So to recap, here's what we learned last month:
- Brooke told us about Betabrand pants that are basically yoga pants that make you look like you legit got dressed that morning and have somewhere very important to go (like my office 6 steps from my kitchen). Bless you Brooke! The black dress pants feel like a dream and I'm waiting for the jean pair to be back in stock!
- TONS of you had great opinions about kids and sports and I officially have no guilt about not forcing my kids to play a sport. I'm embracing piano, swimming, gymnastics, dirt biking and enjoying calm, non rushed dinners at home while I still can. You guys rock!
- A few of you ordered the StickTogether board and are loving it! Lyn bought one for her kid's school and I think that is the greatest idea ever. They should be in every classroom! Lacey told me of a similar craft called Diamond Dots and my kids are obsessed!
- Laurel and Katrina introduced me to the podcast Proof by America's Test Kitchen. I listened to the episode about how they make booger and dog food flavors of jelly beans for the game BeanBoozled and I about died laughing: “Yep, that's barf, no question . . . why am I still eating this?”
- Stephanie told me about the podcast Better Than Happy with Jody Moore, wow, so much knowledge there! What a gem!
- Stephanie also confessed to putting leftover sausage grease on her popcorn . . . and I felt embarrassed about loving I Can't Beleive it's not Butter Spray 😉
- There are many more Crio Bru lovers out there now which means the world is officially a happier place. The feedback I've received so far for this Golden Crio Bru recipe has been wonderful, I'm so excited you guys like it!
- Many of you are discovering the money saving benefit of Honey Money, it's awesome, right!?
And so much more! Seriously such a wealth of information in those comments!
Congratulations to our February Crio Bru winner Heidi, who ended up being my favorite High School math teacher. I always thought she was cool because 1) she was female and 2) she could command a classroom like a boss.
Now let's jump right into March!
IMPORTANT ITEMS OF BUSINESS TODAY
- I'll be answering one of your questions, “How do you get your kids to eat everything you cook?” Ha! They don't! More on that below
- Rediscovering your inner child
- The COOLEST room makeover I've ever seen
- Vacations!
- Kids and Lying and the GREATEST KID VIDEO OF ALL TIME
- Things I'm Lovin Lately – meat and mayo
- Crio Bru Flavor of the Month and a GIVEAWAY!
Let's do this!
HOW TO GET KIDS TO EAT
In a perfect world, my kids would cheer every time dinner hit the table . . . my world is so not perfect.
Before I had kids I was certain that kids were only picky because they were only offered “kid food.” Well, I'm here to say that I started my kids on curry, sauerkraut, and all kinds of veggies as early as I could, and the little stinkers still groan when dinner is not mac and cheese, grilled cheese, or cheese pizza.
I'm not here to say my way is the only right way, but it has worked well for me and my family for the most part.
Note: my methods come from the Ellyn Satter guidelines called “Division of Responsibility in Feeding” which in a nutshell says that it is the parent's job to choose the food, the time, and place. The child's job is to choose what they'll eat and how much. That is a very condensed version though!
I devoured Ellyn Satter's book Child of Mine and Maryann Jacobsen's book Fearless Feeding to learn this style of feeding and I find it to be truly life-changing. Check out Maryann's website sometime, it's a treasure trove of powerful information on the subject.
So what does dinner look like at my house? To avoid this answer from running on way too long, I'll try to answer this as quick and informatively as I can. If you have questions, let me know in the comments.
What I don't do:
- Bribe, threaten, or demand that they eat anything
- Label foods as good or bad for you
- Expect a clean plate
- Watch and comment on every bite they take
What I do:
- Let them have dessert with dinner. They pick a small treat like a chocolate or small cookie and can choose to eat it whenever they'd like to during dinner – crazy I know, if you care to know why, I can explain in the comments.
- Instead of calling food good or bad, I simply explain that there are thousands of different foods and for the best health, we eat a variety of all of them. Eat spinach for your eyes, eat tater tots for the joy of it 🙂
- Praise them for listening to their bellies. I want them to know they can trust their bodies to know when they're full instead of focusing on a clean plate. I'm surprised time and again how well children know what they need. I think as parents we worry about them being hungry, but from what I've witnessed, my kids know much better what they need than I do. If my kids say they aren't hungry at breakfast, I tell them to at least drink some water, and then let them go get ready. Kids are so intune with their body's needs and if they're allowed to listen to that, they'll be just fine. Most adults, including myself, don't have that kind of intuition anymore!
- If my kids complain loudly that, “I don't like this” I say, “well then don't eat it, but keep your opinion to yourself.” Nothing makes me madder than when one kid says, “gross” and suddenly no one else will even try it
- Have at least one thing on the table I know they feel comfortable with (fruit, bread, pickles, cottage cheese, etc), but what is on the table is what's for dinner, don't ask me for anything else. Also, the kitchen is closed for the night after dinner is cleaned up.
- Above all else, I focus more on the experience of dinner, rather than on the fact that they are eating or not. I firmly believe that my kids' palates will mature when they are ready to and no amount of pressuring will make that happen any sooner. My goal is to make eating meals together a happy memory where everyone feels relaxed and free to talk about their day. I feel like in the long run, that's what will create a healthy relationship with food
- After a particularly challenging night, I told my husband, “Picture how you'd feel at dinner if you had someone commenting on everything you ate, told you how much to eat, and told you something was good when you found it repulsive. Would you feel relaxed, happy, and willing to try something new?”
- One thing I've started recently is I ask my kids their opinion of the food so that I can be better at creating recipes for other families. One rule: you can't just say “yuck” or “yum”, tell me what you like and don't like. They've found this to be quite empowering and it's just about the best dinner time entertainment ever.
I could go on for hours about this topic, just be glad we aren't face to face right now or you'd be stuck with me for quite some time.
If you have your own methods that you swear by, please share!
REDISCOVERING THE INNER CHILD
Alright, enough of what I think, I'm throwing the mic to you now!
I believe this applies to everyone, but it's the mamas I'm thinking of most right now.
I recently had a talk with a good friend about what to do when you feel like your inner child is long gone. Without even realizing it, mine took a hike when I struggled to even breathe through the days of three very young children, one of whom never ever stopped crying. As a means of survival, my brain went into autopilot and I felt successful when everyone was fed and dressed appropriately for the day.
Well now I have school age kids that are the epitome of joy, laughter, and spontaneity, and I've decided that amidst being the responsible adult, I also want to be the first to jump into a muddy puddle . . . and actually like it. Can you relate? Am I crazy? Unrealistic?
I have a husband that has made a career out of playing and thank goodness I have him to whisk me away on a motorcycle so I can remember what it's like to live in the moment.
So tell me, oh wise ones: What do you do to bring that light-hearted playfulness back into your life? A “too grown up for her own good” mama wants to know. I'm dangerously close to being this person:
HOME MAKEOVER TO MAKE YOUR JAW DROP
Want to know what my sister Cami is doing to find her inner child? She is selling her house and living in a camper in my mom's driveway. Nothing like finding your inner child by using your mom's washing machine and sneaking food out of her fridge. Way to inspire us all sis! 😜
Actually, there is a lot more to this story. Many of you already know the scoop about Cami (the DIY pro over on the decor side of TIDBITS) moving into a trailer following their dreams, but I just have to brag about her for a second. Did you ever in your life think a camper could go from this to that?
I took a personal tour the other day and just about died. Cami has turned a blah, gross camper into something truly magnificent. The final TADA is near and I cannot wait to see it. Follow her journey, you'll be inspired, I guarantee it.
FAMILY VACATIONS
I once had a coworker tell me, “vacations are what you take with your spouse, trips are what you do with your kids.” Well since my goal is to wake the inner child, I'm going to think of family getaways as a vacation from responsibility and schedules and really embrace it this summer.
What are your favorite vacations you've ever taken with your children? My husband is a strong “no” in the crowded family fun park category, but I welcome all your ideas. My hubby can stay home and be “responsible” and “boring adult like” if need be. Haha, just kidding Brockstar.
THE WORST LIAR EVER
Have your kids ever asked you how you know when they are lying? Have them watch this video of my son telling the worst lie ever and they'll understand. This is my favorite kid video of all time!
THINGS I'M LOVING LATELY
I love this part! I take my job of trying random products and services very seriously, much to my husband's demise. I've found some good ones for you this month.
ButcherBox: Have you seen the annoying ads constantly on Facebook? I swore I'd never try anything just because I felt pressured to do so. Real mature, huh? So what made me try it? I love the fact that their meat is “humanely raised and free of antibiotics and hormones” but what really got me was that everyone kept telling me that Costco is the best place to buy meat and I don't live anywhere near a Costco. So, I thought, let's try ButcherBox. Yup, that was my thought process.
I have been so so thrilled with it! I'm not even a big meat eater, and I am in love! Aside from the Filet Mignon that I cooked in a skillet (dreamy!) and the Hamburgers I made on the grill (literally never had a burger that good) I've tested everything else in the pressure cooker. The dishes I've made that have stood out for me are the Chuck Roast, Apricot Pork Chops, and Lemon Herb Whole Chicken (which was tender and juicy despite the fact that I forgot to add liquid to my pot and almost ruined it – thank goodness for this Burnt Pot Trick).
The chicken breasts I didn't have as much luck with in this recipe for Sundried Tomato Chicken, they were really chewy, not sure what went wrong there. I haven't tried the famous bacon yet, my husband and I aren't huge bacon fans, but when I pull it out of the freezer and try it, I'll be sure and let you know.
If you want to try this service, right now is the perfect time. When you sign up for ButcherBox between now and March 31st, you'll receive 2 FREE pounds of ground beef in every shipment for life. This is a great value and the ground beef was honestly the best I've ever had. That's coming from a girl who has substituted with ground turkey for the past three years of her life, and now I'm wishing I had a freezer full of their ground beef.
Let me know if you try it! I'd love to hear what you think.
Disposable Cutting Boards: When it comes to prepping raw meat, I am a contamination prevention master. My paranoid mother side just can't accept that a good soapy scrub gets rid of all the bacteria that could harm my family, which is why so often I have the butchers at the store prep my meat. These disposable cutting boards are heaven sent! They withstand a lot of cutting and when I'm finished, it can go in the trash along with all my food poisoning worries. BEST PRODUCT OF THE YEAR!
Sir Kensington's Special Sauce: Most of you guys know I'm a hardcore Sir Kensington's fan (Best ketchup and mayo on the planet!), but I have to tell you about my new favorite product – the Special Sauce. I could scoop, dip, slather my way through half of a jar all the while forgetting that I just ate 2000 calories in sauce – so very worth it. Fries, burgers, roasted veggie bowls . . . I'll put it on them all!
CRIO BRU RECIPE OF THE MONTH – COCONUT ORANGE!!!
This Coconut Orange Crio Bru with orange scented whipped cream is the kind of drink you want to invite all your neighbors over to try. All those Crio Bru skeptics out there will be floored and begging you for more after one sip of this heavenly drink!
If you are new around here and wondering what in the world I'm talking about, Crio Bru is basically roasted and ground cocoa beans that can be brewed into a glorious, healthy chocolate drink. See this Golden Crio Bru post for even more details.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE COCONUT ORANGE CRIO BRU IN THE INSTANT POT
- You know the Christmas chocolate orange that comes out every holiday? It's reminiscent of those flavors, but fresh, dark, and bright all at the same time without any of the waxy, icky chocolate flavor contained in the Christmas orange.
- The orange scented cream is silky, smooth, and whipped just long enough to barely hold its shape so when it hits your hot Crio, it creates a lovely topping for each sip. Put the extras on your pancakes, wowza!
- It's the deep dark chocolate flavor I love of Crio Bru, with a background of brightness that will make you say, “Whoa, what was that lovely flavor that just lit up my palate?” I love those moments
HOW TO MAKE HEALTHY CRIO BRU IN THE INSTANT POT
- Gather your ingredients and zest 2 oranges
- Add everything to the pot
- Cook for 5 minutes
- Pour Crio Bru through a fine mesh strainer
- Whisk up the orange scented whipped cream
- Cozy up with a good book and sip your way to ultimate peace!
COCONUT WHIPPED CREAM
If you want to keep this drink dairy free but still want the amazing orange scented cream on top, make this Coconut Whipped Cream instead. It uses Canned Coconut Cream and is really, REALLY good. Save the extra for dipping strawberries, YUM!!!
MORE CRIO BRU FLAVORS TO TRY
Let me know what you think of the Coconut Orange Crio Bru! It received thumbs up all around with all my testers.
TOOLS/INGREDIENTS USED TO MAKE COCONUT ORANGE CRIO BRU
- Instant Pot
- Crio Bru on their website or on Amazon – Crio Bru Ghana is the flavor I usually buy
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- Lite Coconut Milk (this is a great buy!)
Instant Pot Coconut Orange Crio Bru
Instant Pot Crio Bru with a citrusy orange twist!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Pressure Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 14 oz can lite coconut milk (may substitute with 1 3/4 cup of coconut milk from the carton for a lighter version)
- 2 ¼ cup water
- Zest and juice of 2 medium size oranges
- 2 – 4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup Crio Bru grounds
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Orange Scented Whipped Cream – Optional but delicious
- 1 cup whipping cream
- 1 – 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Put all of the ingredients in the pressure cooker pot.
- Secure the lid and turn pressure release knob to a sealed position.
- Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes
- When cooking is complete, use a natural release for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure.
- Place a fine mesh sieve over a bowl and pour Crio Bru through the sieve to filter out the grounds. Be careful! The Crio Bru will be very hot.
- Serve immediately with Orange Scented Whipped Cream if desired.
- Store cooled leftovers in mason jars in the fridge. It tastes delicious cold or warmed up in the microwave for 1 – 2 minutes
Orange Scented Whipped Cream
- Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and use a hand mixer to beat until it reaches your desired thickness. I like mine a bit on the thin side.
Notes
- A fine mesh sieve is important here so you don’t end up with a gritty beverage
- This can be easily doubled and stored in the fridge. When you want a cup, simply microwave it for about 2 minutes
Celena says
I have to be honest, I have never heard of this drink before. If you love it, then I’m sure I will, too! You really are becoming my favorite Instant Pot recipe creator. I could never imagine half the stuff you come up with!
Marci says
Celena, that’s just about the best compliment I could ever have, thank you!
Brianne says
Oh my goodness.. that video is hilarious. Pretty sure I’ve caught one of my boys in the same predicament.. ha ha!! Cute! Also, in going to try the butcher box! I’ve tried the meals like hello fresh, home chef etc and have loved them but there isn’t a huge variety sometimes. Thack for the info. Also I’m always up for trying a new crio bru!!! Thanks
Marci says
Brianne, I’ve watched that video so many times and still giggle through it. You’ll love Butcher Box, I honestly didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. I guess I’ve never had good quality meat before! Let me know what you think of the orange crio, it’s a good one 🙂
Robin says
I’ve never even heard of Crio Bru. Can’t wait to try it! Thanks for the recipe and the recommendations on which product to try! Actually, I’ve loved every one of the recipes I’ve tried from your site. Thanks ever so much for the grand IP times!
Marci says
Robin, that is the best compliment ever, thank you! I’m a little obsessed with the Instant Pot, I’m glad you’re enjoying the food around here 🙂
Kellie says
Causing a fire made me laugh. You usually think it’s okay for them to use the microwave unsupervised. When my son was 8 he put a bagel in the microwave for 10 minutes!!!!!
It caught on fire. Luckily my husband was close by and was able to put it out. Hood microwave was ruined. The whole interior was black. Technician came out and said, no, this can’t be repaired 🙂
Marci says
Kellie, Oh no, that’s awful! My 6 year old asks about putting different objects in there (non food objects). I’m just waitin’ for the day that the curiosity gets him. Why would a microwave even allow for 10 minutes?! Sheesh!
Tara says
Why DOES it allow for 10 minutes?!? My parent’s old microwave had 4 buttons: 1 second, 10 second, 1 minute, and 10 minute. You would just push it the number of times to get the time you wanted (3 pushes= 3 minutes). Simple right? Well, my sister once made a microwave burrito and instead of 2 minutes, put it in for 20! She fell asleep waiting for it! Ha ha. It ruined my parent’s microwave and the house smelled like burnt beans for days. I never understood why the thing had a 10 minute button
Marci says
Tara, that had to smell awful!
Laurie Erlemeier says
Hi Marci,
I am a first time reader as well! I was enticed to your site by the Crio Bru recipe, so tempting!!! I have never thought of brewing a beverage in my Instapot! Such an innovative idea! I can’t wait to get some Crio Bru to try out your recipes!!!
Enjoy spring!
Laurie
Marci says
Laurie, I find I’m enticed by anything chocolate :). It’s wonderful, I love my Crio Bru!
Mary Dunn says
I am looking forward to trying the Crio-bru. I am having some trouble with coffee lately and need to switch to something less acid. I hope this will work. All of the recipes look great!
Marci says
Mary Dunn, I Think this will be your answer:). Thank you!
Kellie says
Love the comments and inner child idea. My kids are getting ready to leave the nest soon (17 & 19) , and I just blurted out to my husband last weekend that it’s time to “start living” more. It seems like we spend most of our time working and then not doing fun things on our time off.
I’d love to try the Crio bru. Your recipes look delicious. My husband is vegan so the coconut cream idea is a great idea I’ll try soon. I’m so bad about making vegan treats for him so I know he’d appreciate it.
My 17 yo daughter tells my 19 yo son she can always tell when he’s lying. I can too. I remind her all the time not to let him know what he does 😉
We had our ups and downs with food over the years. Now that the kids occasionally cook, they’re learning not to criticize as much about dinner and will try things they wouldn’t touch before.
Marci says
Kellie, Exactly! Work is my comfort zone, some days I feel like I have to force myself to play, that sounds crazy to write that out! Forced to play?!
I told my daughter that as well, I’d like to get through his teen years before he knows what his “lying quirks” are.
I’m excited for the days when my kids can man the kitchen without causing a fire or a disaster 😉
Barbara says
You have the best blog and most creative ideas for the instant pot. Your approach with your boys deserves a lot of merit. I have transferred some of your eating ideas to my daughter for her boys ages 2 and 6. The 2 year old eats any and everything and the 6 year old barely eats! I would love to try your recipes using crio Bru! They sound delicious!
Marci says
Barbara, you made me cry, I must be tired 🙂 That means a lot to hear that, thank you! I hope your daughter finds the tips useful. I know every kid is different, and this system allows for everyone to feel welcome at the table. I still have to adjust often, but the general guidelines help a lot. Crio Bru is amazing, I drink it daily 🙂
Tanya J Barnaby says
I love how “not guilty” your son looked!! I have a stubborn daughter that will go to her grave saying she did not do something, that clearly she did!! It can be very frustrating!! That coconut orange crio sounds amazing!! I’m going to have to try that. I’ve made tour beebo bites. I lived them!! My girls not as much because they were too wet. I’ll give the alterations a try & hopefully they will like them. Thank you for all your wonderful articles!
Marci says
Tanya, to this day he gets so frustrated that I know when he’s lying. “How do you know!!!” “Mommy powers” I say and he 100% believes it 🙂
My sister sometimes puts an extra 3-4 tablespoons of flour in her Beebo Bites, maybe try that? You’ll love the crio! Drop dead awesome with a side of beebo bites 😉
Rebecca says
I’ve placed/received my first order of Crio, I also ordered a French press (which I’ve used once so far andhave to say, they’ve always intrigued me!) but, planning on trying your recipe in a few days. Thought the video of your son was so cute.
Marci says
Rebecca, Yay! Try it in the Instant Pot, it’s so so so much better than the french press. I got rid of my french press years ago. And thank you, I think he’s pretty cute too 🙂
Wyn says
Here’s hoping that you can have some silly “inner child” fun with your kids from time to time! But I’ve found over time that the silliest times I’ve had have been with women friends, with no men or kids around. If you can take some “girl time” with your sis and/or a friend, take advantage of it. And your idea of going out to play with your hubby is terrific, that way hopefully you can get a little flashback to when you were “kids” together, before being adults took over, and it’ll be so good for you both!
Marci says
Wyn, my husband is the ultimate big kid, moto adventures with him are my saving grace! I like your suggestion, my sisters and I need to do more things together, It’s always a good time!
Wyn says
I really like the way you’re handling your kids’ eating, and if I had young ones I’d jump on the information you reference. I’m very thankful that I didn’t have many things I just couldn’t get down when I was a kid, and even more thankful that my parents weren’t from the “you’re going to sit over this cold, disgusting plate all evening” school. So many in my generation have horror stories about that. Mom didn’t cook “kid food” – I’m not sure there was such a thing in 195X. But all I had to do was try one taste of anything I wasn’t crazy about, and over time I came to like most things as my tastes matured. But no dinnertime trauma over food, thanks Mom and Dad!
Marci says
Wyn, That gives me hope in my theory. I want it to be a happy memory, not an uncomfortable one.
Julie says
I’m so impressed by your sister and her family! I’ve had some really big dreams, but they’ve literally just been dreams. They are so brave and inspirational for working so hard to make their dreams come true. What great role models for their kids! The RV looks fantastic, but it must be something else fitting 6 people in there!
By the way, I have an old inner lady… wish I could find my inner child too 😀 And Sir Kensington’s special sauce sounds amazing–I love their mayo, and I’m not even a mayo fan!
Marci says
Julie, It’s fun to watch her take it all one for sure! Very inspiring!
Darn that old lady in my brain! It’s nice to hear someone else admit it though, haha!
I agree, I didn’t eat mayo for years, then I discovered Sir Kensington’s and I find myself licking the spoon now
Michelle B says
So because of you I am now a huge fan of the Crio Bru! I tried the Golden and wasn’t a big fan…but boy do I love the basic recipe! I’m having a cup right now!!
Marci says
Michelle, yay! I love hearing that. Give the Coconut Orange one a try, it is heavenly!
Travis Posthumus says
Thank you for putting together all these great recipes. I appreciate the consistency of the instructions and all the alternate things to try. Your instructions are easy to understand and follow. I look forward to finding many more favorites.
Marci says
Thanks Travis!
Kristie says
I want my kids to learn what that full feeling is. I hate that we can’t as a society remember what that feels like so we over eat. I always ask if they are full. I have one who hates ketchup/tomatoes. But I have one who will go get a cucumber and eat that. So I’m trying hard not to be pushy or complain. About the only thing we get pushy on at our house is less screen time and more outside time. Thankfully so far the kids don’t push back. 😁
Marci says
Kristie, Yep, so far, my kids are more than happy to get outside and run themselves into the ground, I hope they stay like that, adventurous little souls that they are.
I think once a parent learns to trust their kids gut, it makes so much sense not to force them to clean their plate. I wish I was as good at listening to my body as my kids are, they are an example to me!
Maegan says
I am just reading the comments to know how to find my inner child. That is something I have been thinking about for awhile now. I did, however, let Levi turn the car radio full blast and rocked out to a song with him today and very much enjoyed that. I love it when I have experiences like that to show me that my inner child is still somewhere in there. Also, I am dying to win that crib bru package.
Marci says
Maegan, it’s been on my brain since my boys turned 2. Those years sucked a lot out of me! Yep, I see sparks of it now and again that give me hope. Something about a good Meghan Trainor song can bring out the wild side 🙂
Theresa Johnson says
First time reading your monthly blog. It is really good. Thanks for the light humor that you use in writing, you make it very accessible to people.
That video of your son, well, gold in a video. Just loved it.
All my kids are grown now but when they were old enough, if they didn’t like what I had made, they were welcome to make something else. It had to be with what I had and they had to clean up what they had used. My son became a very good cook because of this. He had texture isseues but I didnt realize how much it bothered him. I never forced them to eat anything either.
I so much like what you have to say, I will share it with the young moms I know.
Thanks
Marci says
Theresa, Thank you! That’s wonderful to hear! I agree, that video is gonna go to in our families history as one of the best ever. Your method is fascinating, that WOULD force them to learn cooking skills, I’m quite intrigued by this. Thank you for sharing my words, it means more to me than I think people realize.
Marlyne says
I don’t have any crio bru, but making hot cocoa in the instapot! Why have I not tried this before. Oh, and the orange flavor – Delish!!
Enjoyed the link to Cami’s site. Miss seeing her and her cute kids on Sundays. She has quite the adventure ahead of her. She is so talented making the trailer beautiful and comfortable for her family. Looking forwart to seeing the barn when it is finished.
I love poached eggs so that is my next project for this week
St. Patrick’s day corned beef was the best I have ever had. Thanks for the pressure cooker recipe. And thanks for sharing so many of your wonderful recipes with us.
Marci says
Marlyne, I have seen some hot chocolate recipes for the IP, but Crio Bru is where my heart lies! Cami is about to embark on one serious adventure, it’s so fun watching it go down! I’m glad you enjoyed the corned beef. I’ve had more comments than I expected on that one!
Linda says
I haven’t tried Sir Kensington yet, but I’m going to! My kids used to make so many faces at dinner and complain. I already didn’t like cooking so it was even more frustrating and hurtful to me. One day, I made spaghetti, something they hated, and didn’t invite them to eat dinner with us. They asked why I didn’t call them to dinner and I told them that since they hated spaghetti and wouldn’t eat it anyway, I would just let them not eat. They both started crying about not eating food they hated! No more complaints after that! They are older now and still don’t like spaghetti, but that’s okay. They never complain and often thank me for making them food.
Marci says
Linda, hahaha!!! I can imagine that happening at my table. My kids get so mad when I say, “If you don’t like it don’t eat it, but what’s on the table is what’s for dinner.” Tough love!
Marcia says
I can’t wait to try this. It looks and sounds so good
Marci says
Marcia, it’s dreamy!
Alyssa says
Tried Crio Bru for the first time – sold!!! This recipe is right up my alley 🙂
Marci says
Alyssa, Yes! I love hearing that!
Claire says
Venezuela Crio is my favorite!
Marci says
Claire, that’s in my top 3 for sure
Tawney says
I love Crio Bru and making it in my Instant Pot truly brings the flavors out so well. I am so excited to try this new recipe. Thank you for all your great recipes, tips and advise! I have been wanting to try Sir Kensington’s products for a while but this special sauce has convinced me to take the plunge. Thanks again!
Marci says
Tawney, The Instant Pot brings out twice the flavor in my opinion! I got rid of my French Press years ago. The special sauce is spectacular! Their ingredients are so wholesome too, I love it! I’m excited for you to try it 🙂
Jennifer Essad says
love anything I’ve tried from Sir Kensingtons – I’ve seen and read posts about an Instant Pot now with your recipe and this giveaway I’m thinking I better get one – Anytime I’ve used coconut milk in a recipe I’ve been pleased with the flavor. This is an amazing recipe that I’d like to try soon and the chocolate giveaway is beyond amazing
Marci says
Jennifer, Yep, I’m a Sir Kensington’s fan for life! Jump on the Instant Pot train for sure 🙂
Jamee says
I love the dinner time ideas! I have two picky eaters one of which is a professional complainer whiner and despiser of most all foods. Dinner never ends up pleaseant it happy! I’m trying some of these ideas! Thanks!!
Marci says
Jamee, You would love that Fearless Feeding book. It explains things so much better than I did. I would still describe my kids as picky, but they like coming to dinner, so I’m gonna call that a win! Let me know how it goes!
Laurel says
If you learn the secret of how to find your inner child, let me know. I’m still in the thick of crying babies, and you get a pat on the back, because everyone is fed, and alive, but not dressed, phase. 😬
Marci says
Laurel, I’m on the hunt :). If only I could figure out the art of being chipper and positive on 4 hours of sleep . . . And when I say dressed, I meant that somedays my boys stayed in PJs until 3 p.m. because I figured I’d wait until they were spit up on.
Krista says
I am intrigued by Crio Bru. Not being a coffee drinker, I usually drink water or tea, but enjoy the occasional chocolate. This could be just my thing. Maybe it’s time to try something new.
Marci says
Krista, Yes, this sounds perfect for you. I’m a Crio Bru, water, and tea only type of girl. Let me know if you try it!
Lillian says
I appreciated your discussion of how you handle dinner with your kids. My kids are grown — and when they were small they’d eat anything — but my 4-year-old grandson is the pickiest kid I’ve ever seen. He’d live on granola bars if he could (and pretty much does, but that’s another story!).
Marci says
Lillian, well then I need your secrets! It always surprises me that my kids aren’t more adventurous eaters considering the food I’ve been putting on their plates since they were little. At least granola bars are a whole grain, right 🙂
Lillian says
I don’t have any secrets, I swear! I just got incredibly lucky with my boys, in every way.
Donna says
Oh how I love Crio Bru. I was introduced to it about four years ago by my daughter.I drink two cups a day and it helps me with my chocolate cravings with much fewer calories and lots more nutrients. I can’t wait to try your new recipe with orange and coconut, although I will switch out the cream for coconut milk in a carton for fewer calories. I enjoy reading your blogs. They keep me updated with the latest fun trends, recipes and ideas to share with my family and 18 grandchildren!
Marci says
Donna, Your love for Crio Bru matches my own :). There really is just something remarkable about it. The carton coconut milk is perfectly acceptable and still very delicious. Thanks for following along for all my cooking adventures!
Sigrid Trombley says
Okay, so you don’t comment on what your kids are eating and not eating, but I guess you never had a sibling who took mustard sandwiches to school for lunch every day as a kid – no cheese, no ham salad, no lunch meat, no anything else, just mustard. When we were at our family doctor’s office, my mother thought she’d get a little support for a healthier lunch and said, “Dr. T, do you know what Mark takes to school every day for lunch? Mustard sandwiches! Instead of Dr. T. saying you need something on your sandwich besides mustard, Dr. T. said, “Good isn’t it Mark?” And so mustard sandwiches continued for many more months. I was embarrassed about my brother’s lunches as I thought the teachers would think we were too poor to eat anything else.
Guess the “mustard eater” survived as he became a fine, now retired dentist. To discourage his son from eating candy, he’d tell him that candy had “sugar bugs” that ate holes in teeth. Apparently it worked, at least for while, as one day when this child was at the home of a friend who was babysitting for him, he turned down cookies. The friend/babysitter offered my brother’s son and her daughter a treat of cookies and milk and he said, “No thanks I don’t want a cookie, I’ll just have some milk, please.”
Marci says
Sigrid, well my kids wouldn’t eat a mustard sandwich, but a ketchup sandwich would probably get a thumbs up, haha! Mustard sandwich, that’s hilarious and I can totally see my daughter thinking the same thing about her brother’s lunch. I might have to steal the sugar bug trick… How I wish my kids would love broccoli more than candy!
Nancy says
Hey Marci!
I soooo love your entries, food or otherwise! The part of this talk that stood out for me the most is the stuff about adults and play.
I honestly feel that one of the purposes in my life is to help adults remember how to play. I am 57 years old and fortunately have never forgotten! I will dance around fearlessly and with very silly steps, (and don’t even have to be drunk)!
I asked tons of questions that I never hear of anyone else ask, like “how come when you blow on your hand with your mouth wide-open the air is hot but when you blow with your lips pursed it is cool?”
I also like to play on my pogo stick, or create random contests with my husband that he always resists with “Now what Nancy”, And then ends up hysterically laughing afterwards.
I can go on but I think you get the picture. Thanks for reminding me to get that pogo stick out of my garage… It’s been a while.
Love, Nancy
PS I still have an awesome sticker collection!
Marci says
Oh Nancy, that was so wonderful to read. When you write your “Never Grow Up” course, I will be your first student. You truly embody the spirit of a curious child and I love it so much! I can do a whole 3 jumps on a pogo stick, sounds like that can be my first venture. My kids destroyed my childhood sticker collection a few years ago, but it was a pretty impressive one 🙂 Thank you so much for your comment!
Christine says
I love your recipes. I have no small children anymore, and may be older than most of your readers, but I find your recipes are easy and use ingredients I usually have on hand. My sisters and I all have instant pots and I have shared your site with all of them, and with my children who are learning to use their instant pots.
I have to admit that I don’t know what Crio Bru is, but it sounds enticing. I will definitely try the coconut whipped cream.
Thanks you for sharing all your ideas.
Marci says
Christine, thanks for sharing with your family, that means a lot to me and I love that you find my recipes relateable. Crio Bru is my comfort drink, I love it!
Vic says
Must try your recipe for Crio Bru….looks so good! Thanks for all the great ideas❤️
Marci says
Vic, It’s incredible, you’ll love this flavor!
Sally says
Coconut Orange Crio Bru??? Oh my yumminess! Making it today!! Pick me!!!
Marci says
Sally, let me know what you think!
Liz says
The Instant pot Coconut Orange Crio Bru sounds wonderful.
Marci says
Liz, it’s heaven 🙂
Beatrix says
Crio Bru has become a staple in my house. I’ve started mixing it with my espresso and reducing the milk. Great combo!! And I love the camper Reno. Reminds me a bit of a tiny home.
Ps. Would love to win the Crio Bru swag :-).
Marci says
Beatrix, I bet that is a killer combo! I need to figure out how to get that flavor without using coffee . . .
Beatrix says
Yeah .. what about coffee extract. There must be such a thing?
Marci says
Beatrix, I searched for it and it’s a thing, I’m very tempted to buy some and try it!
Sandy Hawley says
I have to to try this!! Love chocolate. Love your blog too. Thanks for doing it.
Marci says
Thank you Sandy! I’m quite in love with chocolate myself 🙂
Eva says
Love the you talk about praising about listening to you belly about how much to eat. My husband and are struggling since he is someone who would ask, can you eat just two bites more since our sons are very very thin. But since their doctor isn’t concerned I try to take all the pressure out of eating and just offer healthy options throughout the day.
Oh man, parenting is hard!!
Also, everyone loved the corned beef recipe you posted last week. I made it yesterday and my husbands family were raving about it and trying to invite themselves again for next st. Patty’s days..
love your recipes!
From a mom with two toddler boys 🙂
Marci says
Eva, It is hard! Especially with toddlers. People tell me, “just wait until the teenage years,” and I’m in complete denial that it could get any harder than twin toddlers. I’m excited you liked the corned beef! No need to make it just once a year anymore 🙂
Beth says
I enjoy reading your monthly post. I grew up in a large, middle class family in the 1960’s. One of the most mémorable vacations was travelling from Texas to California to visit my Uncles ranch. We stopped to hunt for rocks and picniced at various rest stops along the way. The visit with my Uncle was the best. Riding their horse named Red and swimming in the creek everyday and making friends with Roy the Ranch Hand, who always had chocolate candy for us made this vacation the best ever. I hope other kids have these kind of wonderful experiences. I love reading about your kids. The stories always make me smile. You sound like a great mom.
Marci says
Beth, that vacation speaks to my soul. It seems the only way I can let go of my to do list is to run far away from it. That just sounds so heavenly. I would love to take my kids on that kind of adventure. I’m a mom in progress 😉
Anita says
Hi Marci, thoroughly enjoyed your blog again this month! When our girls were little we had one picky eater…she didn’t like the texture of almost everything! We compromised by saying she had to eat one tiny bite for each year of her age. It may only be three peas when she was three, four kernels of corn at four, etc. By the time she got to her teens, she was so used to the rule that she never challenged it :). We also had another daughter like your son in the video. I definitely chuckled as he got more invested in his tale. How you didn’t melt at those eyes, I’ll never understand! Keep up the great blog! Your great grandmother friend.
Marci says
Anita, that’s a fantastic idea, and very original, I’ve never heard of it. I still giggle over that video even after watching it 100 times. Thank you my great grandmother friend 😉
Stephanie says
Yes! I’m so glad you included my “confession” of sausage grease on popcorn… don’t you mean “recommendation” 😂
I like your tips about meal time with kids. I have backed off a ton in the recent years with trying to remind myself that I’d rather raise picky palates than disordered eaters. Not that I have control over how they turn out (lesson learned from Jody Moore’s coaching 😉) but it helps me remember there are more important things than them eating what I put on the table (although I do share the rule that what’s in the table is the only option). I like your emphasis on listening to their bodies- praising them for that rather than shaming them for not eating what I dictate. Wow, what an important 180 degree shift!
Marci says
Stephanie, haha, yes, recommendation, of course. What crazy person would toss that liquid gold anyway :). I like your line, “I’d rather raise picky palates than disordered eaters.” That is genius and puts such a great light on things. Thank you!
elizabeth says
Wish I had your hints about food when my children were young. Nice thoughts to use with my grand children. Thank you. I have tried the chocolate chips—wonderful. I use hot crio bru in a mini bodum press with chips, works great.
Marci says
Elizabeth, I’m still living and learning, I don’t have it perfected yet! Thanks for the feedback on the chips, I knew they had to be good!
susan says
We were never able to afford Disney and never missed it. Our best trips were in our pop up camper and just going. We never drove more than 6 hours and some of the campgrounds we found were nothing special, but we always had an awesome time discovering local finds!
Marci says
Susan, that sounds like my family. I don’t have much interest in going to Disneyland, but the impromptu close-by vacations are my favorite memories.
Karen says
Sometimes, the greatest experiences can happen when least expected. We didn’t have a lot of money when my kids were growing up, but we did manage a few getaways–the best one I can recall is the time when my late mother and I took my five kids to a relative’s funeral in northern Wisconsin. On the way back, we stopped at the Wisconsin Dells for a bit of a respite and to reward the kids for being so good. Though it was in our home state, we acted as if we had never seen the place and enjoyed riding the Ducks, taking the Upper Dells Boat ride, going through Storybook gardens, Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum and a few other amusements. Perhaps it was releasing the stress from the funeral, perhaps it was the influence of grandma, but we had the most wonderful time. We ran around like my children, laughed until we cried and danced in the rain. We were there just two days, but it was the most memorable two days ever.
Marci says
Karen, I teared up through all of that. Those kinds of memories are so incredible. Our vacations are so simple, loading up the dirt bikes and seeing what mountains we can climb, and they are so near and dear to my heart. It’s so great to reminisce about the attack of the mosquitos, the moose we saw, and the pretty bouquets we’ve picked. Makes me excited for warmer weather!
Karen says
Goes to show you, that it isn’t the ’round the world cruises or Disney Vacations that mean the most to kids–it is the fact that they know they are loved and that their parents can have fun making memories with them! I still laugh about the time my younger brother got poison ivy on our camping trip and he had to wear my knee socks on his arms and legs so he wouldn’t scratch himself!
Heidi S says
Marci that video of your son!!! Priceless!!! When my boys were growing I was working full time as a nurse. Meals were our time to connect and find out what was happening in their lives. With both my husband and I working we came up with a family plan. Each of us chose a dinner meal for the week (4 meals) Each had to write the ingredient needs down on the shopping list ( of course as they were able). I would do the shopping. Then we each were responsible for making our meal. As the boys grew they became more adventurous and tried new things. They both became excellent cooks. We also had chat time. We took 3×5 cards and wrote talking topics down and would choose several at dinner time. We got to hear about what they thought having a meal with a famous person would be like, or who they most admired in life. The topics had no limit. Then I found these great little cards that had topics all printed on them for us and the conversations were great. These are precious memories. I hope that since both of my boys ( now married) are the primary cooks in their families will share some of these traditions with their children when they come along.
Ellie says
I always look forward to trying out your recipes in my Instant Pot.
Marci says
Thanks Ellie 🙂
Marci says
Heidi, it’s pretty hilarious isn’t it!? I enjoyed reading that so much! We’ve used the conversation starters before and those have been some of our most peaceful dinners. I love the idea of having each kid help plan a meal and I’m going to do my best at putting my controlling side aside, and let my kids do this. That is such a fantastic idea! Maybe I’ll start slow and have my oldest do it at first to save me some anxiety:). I absolutely love that your boys are the primary cooks, I would be so proud.
Jennifer says
Hi
This is the first time I’ve read your Tidbit Takks and I really enjoyed it. To be honest I wanted to win the the Crio Bri so that’s why I read it but I will read it again even if I don’t win!
When my kids were younger we did Disneyword. We are normally at Disneyland since we are in Arizona but we had a time share and decided to try it. The condo was the best! We saved money being able to make our own meals. We had room for everyone and so the kids didn’t go crazy in a small hotel room. All the Disneyworld parks were fun to!
I can’t believe the damage a washing machine can cause. I hope you back to normal soon.
Jen
Marci says
Thank you Jennifer! Love to hear that you’re going to be a regular around here 🙂 It sounds like you are a Disneyland pro, I need to hire you for tips and tricks for when I take the plunge 😉 Seriously, the washing machine made me cry, repairs are coming along!
Linda says
Glorious coconut, I am obsessed with it. Add dark chocolate? Heaven!
Marci says
Linda, Coconut, dark chocolate, orange – yes please!