Make Your Grocery Shopping Simple With #ClickList From Kroger

If you conducted a survey of 100 moms and asked them if they like grocery shopping, I'm sure 90 out of 100 would say no. Although I'd fall into the 10% category, I certainly can understand why many people don't want to do it.

• If you have to take kids with you, it can be a challenge to get done quickly. 
• You have very limited time to look around.
• You avoid crowds like the plague.
• Overbuying. It's easy to grab impulse items when they are staring you in the face.

Well, the Kroger Family of stores has changed the game completely to make you enjoy your grocery shopping experience. Their new ClickList shopping option is made for busy people like you. All you need is a Kroger account and either your computer or tablet to order your groceries with ClickList. We have a brand new Kroger Marketplace close to my home that offers grocery pick-up. I simply logged into my Kroger account and my most regularly purchased items popped up first. This made it easy to add those items first.

When I glanced over to my right, I saw my order appear and was able to track how much I was spending. Makes me laugh at myself when I think about how I try to make tally marks on the edges of my grocery list when in the actual store to track my spending. I also noticed that my service fee was waived, possibly because this was the first time I used ClickList. The site says that they offer more than 40,000 items and they weren't lying! I found every single thing I was looking for and then some.

I had to take into consideration when I added things like meat and produce that the weight is not going to be exact. I was impressed that when I typed in Roma tomatoes, the page pulled up all products in that category. Whether it's fresh, frozen, canned or boxed, it will appear on the screen. Once my list was completely done, I proceeded to finalize my order by adding my desired pick-up time. I soon after received a confirmation email with my estimated total. My store is currently offering same-day pick-up as long as they get a minimum of 4 hours notice. Not bad to me, because I would have expected to need to order 24 hours in advance.

When it came time to pick up my order, I drove through the Kroger parking lot over to the loading area for ClickList customers. The sign instructed you to call the number listed. My call was answered very quickly and I was told it would be about 5 minutes for someone to come out to my car.

I waited maybe 2 minutes and just like that, the attendant came out with a cart and stood beside my driver window. She was extremely courteous and explained my order to me. She notified that I did not need to have my Kroger card scanned because it was already attached to my account when I used ClickList. She also advised me that a couple items I had on my list had to be substituted because they were out of stock. For instance, I ordered one dozen Eggland's Best brown cage-free eggs for $3.99 that they were out of, and it was substituted with the Organic Eggland's Best brown eggs that were $5.39 and honored the price of the original eggs I ordered. The same happened with my Simply Lemonade in the large size on sale for $3.00. They were sold out and gave me two of the regular sized ones ($2.39 each) at no extra cost. I was very pleased to know that they do this.

Next step was paying for my order (they only accept credit or debit cards) and then getting my items loaded. It's as easy as swipe and sign. I offered to help the attendant, but she insisted that this is part of the service and I didn't even have to get out of my car. It was also mentioned via email that tipping is not necessary. I have to say, even if I paid the $4.95 service fee, it would have totally been worth it! The service was outstanding and the overall experience was user-friendly and seamless.

When I unloaded my groceries at home, I was pleased with the obvious attention that went into packing my items carefully. All cold items, frozen, and produce were grouped together and none of the bags were over-packed. All of my items were fresh and of the highest quality that I expect from Kroger. I was pleased that I did not overspend from the temptation of impulse items. I always spend an extra $20-$40 every time I shop! I never thought the day would come that I would be ordering my groceries online. I think I annoyed my husband for days after about how much I loved the service. This is totally the way to go when I have to make a large grocery order. The future has arrived, and I am totally here for it.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Kroger. The opinions and text are all mine.

7 Ways to Have a Happy "No-Screen" Holiday with Your Family

For the modern family, it's not unusual for family members to spend a majority of time physically together, although staring at their phone, tablet, computer or TV screen — the "parallel play" of technology. This holiday season is an opportunity to overhaul your family's technological habits and truly enjoy family time together. The following no-screen family activities can pull your family away from their gadgets, and instead create special memories and happy moments this holiday season.

Indoor Snowball Fight
A blanket of fresh-fallen snow creates a magical winter wonderland for building a snowman or snuggling up inside with hot cocoa near the fireplace. Are you without snow but looking to get into the spirit of the season? Create your own gentle blizzard indoors by crafting glittery paper snowflakes to string and hang. Spread artificial fake snow along the floors and start a snowball fight with indoor stuffed snowballs — like right out of "A Christmas Story."

Family Cookie Car
Spread holiday cheer to those in need, starting right in your kitchen. Baking with your kids is a sweet holiday tradition that creates memories for a lifetime. And Christmas cookies are a heartwarming way to give back. Your family can bake cookies and turn your car into a mobile cookie delivery vehicle for delivering gift-wrapped cookies to the community with joy.

Name That Christmas Carol
Put a fun "Name That Tune" twist on Christmas caroling and sing holiday tunes as a family. Split into two teams in which one caroler from one team hums a Christmas carol. The first person between both teams who correctly guesses the song earns a point for their team.

Holidays for Heroes
Check out your local Red Cross office to see how your family can participate in the Red Cross Holidays for Heroes program. This program encourages Americans to "Give Something That Means Something" during this holiday season. Participating in a variety of activities can help recognize and thank military members, veterans and their families.

Polar Express Adventure Night
"All aboard!" Bring the classic storybook to life at home with a "Polar Express" party for your kids and their friends. Ask all guests to wear their pajamas and hand them a golden ticket once they arrive. Then you (or another adult) can play conductor and invite the kids to hop aboard the (imaginary) Polar Express. As the movie soundtrack plays, hand out hot hot! hot! hot chocolate and cookies. During the train ride, read the story aloud and give the kids each a Santa's sleigh bell ornament as a party favor.

Holiday Journaling
This time of year is full of joy, happiness and love — which is why this special season is a great opportunity for your family to start a holiday journal. Throughout the month of December, set aside a few days a week for journaling based on a themed prompt such as:

• What does gratitude mean to you?
• What are you thankful for?
• What's your favorite holiday tradition and memory?
• What would you do if you were "Home Alone" on Christmas?
• If you were one of Santa's elves, what would a typical workday be like for you?

DIY Ugly Sweater Holiday Party
The ugly sweater party has moved from holiday trend into annual tradition. Host a kid-friendly party for young family friends centered around creating your own ugly sweater using materials like festive felt cutouts, jingle bells, garland and gift wrapping bows. For food, drink and dessert, go potluck style. Then unleash your Christmas creativity and get silly while munching on bites and sweet treats.

Need more holiday fun inspiration?

• Go on a festive doggy outing. Get your pup's photo with Santa and go shopping for stocking stuffers.
• Teach the lesson of giving and benevolence by helping your kids donate brand-new and old toys.
• Make holiday treats for your child's classroom and teacher

The Kid Files- When Your Child Has An Old Soul

Do you have a kid with an old soul? My son thinks and speaks like a 50 year old man most days. I guess when you're the youngest in a house full of adults, this is to be expected. The other day he was in his room with the door closed most of the way, and I knocked and asked him what he was doing. He told me he was playing with his toys. That seems like normal kid behavior, right? Well I noticed he had his radio on and a Zig Ziglar CD was playing. I said, "Did you feel like listening to Zig?". He responds, "Yes, I really needed some motivation". I was just like OH. I mean what do you even say?

This morning I was getting his breakfast cooked and he tells me that I need to eat too. I told him I wasn't quite hungry yet and he said, "It doesn't matter, you still need to eat now". I was also told that I had no excuse. Ugh, he's annoying 😅 Seriously, there's never a dull day around here. William always has something wise to say. I tell him almost daily that you're 8. Not 38, 48, or 58. Just eight. His favorite description of himself is that he is a 'professional man'. I fully blame his dad for that.

It's not unusual for him to walk up to me and put both hands on my cheeks and tell me, "Always believe in yourself". The funny thing is he does it at the time I really need it. It's like his spirit is in line with other people's feelings. He is a very special child. The bad part is when he loses his mind and has to be disciplined. I have to muster up all of my strength to be serious and not laugh. He asks for you to explain or elaborate when you are yelling telling him to cut out his foolishness.

As I am typing this post, he just yelled out from his room that his hand is itchy and he will be getting some money. You know what that means if you are old school. HA! William is a good trash talker. He will try to out talk anyone. He loves winning at everything. Don't watch sports with him. He gets super animated and yells at the TV. Also playing UNO with him is a trip. I don't know how he stays beating all of us and his celebrations are ridiculous. When he wins he says things like, "boom shakka-lakka, I am the champion!" and then does the whole superman shirt ripping thing and a victory dance.

Then there's the whole third child thing he has going on. This kid likes to ask about taking vacations and what resort we will stay at. He's very particular too. I think I can take the blame for that one. 😀 There are times where he attends gatherings with us, and any adult who comes in contact with him is usually blown away with William's words and mannerisms. Everyone agrees that he is most certainly not your average kid in any way.

William is an absolute joy and I couldn't imagine my days without having him around (even if it is 24/7 because of home school). Does your child have an old soul? I'm sure we aren't the only ones with an old man-child!

7 Crucial Tips to Help You Pass Your Drive Test

Driving tests makes many people anxious and nervous even after many hours of practice and professional training. Some fail their test because of fear while others fail because of lack of preparation. However, there are some things every prospective driver should know before they take their test to improve their chances of succeeding. Here are seven crucial tips that will help you pass your driving test.

1. Prepare for the Test
Proper preparation and practice lead to outstanding results in any test and professional training is not enough to pass a driving test. You’ll need many hours of private practice as well. Drive different cars where possible and use different routes during your private practice.

The routes you choose should include those near your driving school where you are likely to take the test. You should also consider taking a mock test beforehand to make sure that everything is on point before you take your exam. Companies like Toptests offer mock tests online that can prepare you for a variety of situations. You can find more information about Toptests and their services at www.toptests.co.uk.

2. Sit Comfortably and Relax
Ensure that you are comfortable before you turn on the ignition key. Adjust the driver's seat where necessary. If you have an opportunity to choose a car for the test, choose one that you have driven before during your practice sessions. Take deep breaths just before the test to help you relax. You will make a lot of mistakes if you drive while feeling anxious.

3. Ask Questions
Interact with your examiner during the test and ask questions if you do not understand the instructions. Do not make any assumptions about the instructions. Ask for help if the car develops any mechanical problems that are beyond your training. Minor issues may be part of the test but if you cannot fix the problem, you need to ask for help before it leads to an accident.

4. Focus on the Road
You may be tempted to check your examiner’s reaction and notes at every turn. Keep your eyes on the road and on the mirrors. Concentrate on what is happening on the road. Mistakes happen when you take your eyes off the road. Your examiner can tell when your focus shifts as well.

5. Have a Positive Mindset
Believe that the hours of practice and training will pay off. Visualise yourself passing the test and getting your driving license even before you take the test. See yourself driving confidently through the worst terrains. Focus your mind on the freedom you will get to drive your dream car after passing the test.

6. Prepare for Anything
Anything can happen on the day you are taking the test. For instance, it can snow or rain heavily on that day. Drive under different weather conditions during your practice sessions to prepare for such extreme weather conditions. Learn to drive on slippery roads and deal with sudden obstructions on the road.

7. Avoid Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes that new drivers make is failing to check the mirrors sufficiently. Use the side and rear mirrors properly. Do not speed or use the wrong lanes near roundabouts. Observe the traffic before changing lanes and when taking turns at junctions. These are all simple mistakes that can be easily avoided but could cost you some important points if you commit them on the road.

Passing any test requires proper preparation and a positive mindset. Even if you feel supremely confident, never underestimate your driving test and spend several hours every week driving through different routes to sharpen your driving skills.

4 Tips to Keeping Your Home Safe During Holiday Travel

Traveling for the holidays is something my family always looks forward to. There's no better way to close out the year than by hitting the road, singing holiday songs at the top of our lungs, spending time with family and friends, and eating delicious food.

But if you're anything like me, whenever you travel, a little voice in the back of your mind says, "Is my home safe? What if a fire breaks out? Could a pipe burst? Could a thief break in while I'm away?" So even though I love holiday travel, I'm never able to completely relax.

So I breathed a sigh of relief when I was contacted by Ooma—a leading internet home communications hub—with the opportunity to deliver 4 tips for keeping your home safe and secure when you're on the road this holiday. Before you lock your doors and hop in the car, make sure you follow these steps to ensure your home is safe.

#1- DON'T TURN YOUR THERMOSTAT OFF
Before leaving for an extended trip, it's important to lock in a safe temperature in your central heating system. If you live somewhere with cold winters, don't turn your thermostat off! To prevent your pipes from freezing, set the temperature lower than usual—ideally between 40 and 55 Fahrenheit. Live in a warmer climate? Leave the thermostat at about 69 Fahrenheit. Alternatively, you can completely avoid worry by controlling your thermostat remotely. Ooma detects when your thermostat is on "Away" mode and will automatically forward any home calls to your mobile device.

#2- SHUT OFF THE GAS AND UNPLUG ALL APPLIANCES
Always turn off gas-powered devices such as stoves, ovens, and fireplaces, and unplug all appliances. This can prevent any accidental fires and potentially hazardous carbon monoxide leaks into your home, as well as save energy. This is especially important if you have pets at home who can't defend themselves against unforeseen hazards. For an added layer of protection, be in the know—Ooma can warn you via text and direct you to call 911 when your Nest Protect smoke/carbon monoxide detector has been triggered.

#3: DON'T KEEP YOUR TRAVEL A SECRET
When leaving home for several days, tell someone you trust where you'll be in case of emergency, such as a fire, burglary, or carbon monoxide leak. Friends staying in town or a thoughtful neighbor could be options. They can keep an eye out for suspicious activity and notify you of any out-of-the-ordinary occurrences. Ooma allows you to be notified immediately when 911 is dialed and you can call them or call police to investigate.

#4: LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY TO MONITOR YOUR HOME
Thanks to technology, our homes are getting smarter and smarter. Did you know there are countless apps that can connect to systems in our homes—from central temperature to security systems, light bulbs to the Amazon Echo? The Ooma Telo seamlessly interacts with your favorite smart home products and services to make your home safer and more convenient than ever before. Whether it be increased levels of carbon monoxide or a home break-in, Ooma can be the first to alert you of any danger.
 

Thankfully in my many years of travel, we haven't had any major incidents occur while we were away. We make sure our neighbor's are aware that we will be out of town and they have an emergency key just in case.

You can learn more about Ooma's home monitoring system and buy an Ooma Telo at http://www.ooma.com.

Has an emergency ever happened at your home while you were away? Tell me about it in the comments below!