Simple & Southern Peach Iced Tea – Like Sonic

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

December 16, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Social Media

Simple Southern Peach Iced Tea Recipe on Frugal Coupon Living. An easy summer drink recipe with a few simple ingredients.

With the south comes some good southern sweet tea. This is a very simple recipe for Peach Sweet Tea using the syrup & juice from REAL Peaches.

Enjoy!

Simple & Southern Peach Iced Tea – Like Sonic!

Ingredients:

Peach Syrup:

1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
2-3 sliced fresh Peaches

Tea:

3 Tea Bags
6 cups Water

Directions:

Bring syrup ingredients to boil. Then reduce heat to medium.

Crush peach slices as you stir to dissolve sugar.

Turn off heat cover and let sit for 30 minutes.

Boil water and brew tea letting steep 5 minutes.

Remove tea bags and refrigerate.

Strain syrup through a fine strainer to remove fruit pieces.

Add syrup to tea and serve over ice.

Simple & Southern Peach Iced Tea – Like Sonic

★★★★★ 5 from 2 reviews

Author: Ashley at Frugal Coupon LIving

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
2–3 sliced fresh Peaches
3 Tea Bags
6 cups Water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bring syrup ingredients to boil. Then reduce heat to medium.
Crush peach slices as you stir to dissolve sugar.
Turn off heat cover and let sit for 30 minutes.
Boil water and brew tea letting steep 5 minutes.
Remove tea bags and refrigerate.
Strain syrup through a fine strainer to remove fruit pieces.
Add syrup to tea and serve over ice.

Recipe Card powered by

Tips for making the best southern peach sweet tea: Make sure you crush the peaches while stirring them in the pot and add the sugar while the syrup is hot. This helps the sugar dissolve well and creates a sweeter tea. Also, the secret ingredient is adding a pinch of baking soda while you’re brewing the black tea bags.

FAQ’s:

Why add the baking soda?

This secret ingredient actually helps reduce the bitter flavor (the tannens) from the tea bags, helping create a smoother, slightly less bitter end product.

What is Sonic sweet tea sweetened with?

They offer 2 options. A Sonic sweet tea that has a sugar syrup base, or a sugar free option that is sweetened with Splenda.

Is Sonic tea brewed?

Yes. Their teas, whether they are black tea or green tea, are brewed fresh daily.

How many tea bags do you use for a gallon of sweet tea?

That can depend on the quality of tea you’re using, how strong you want it, etc. The recommended amount varies but it is approximately eight to ten single cup tea bags or three to four family size tea bags.

How much sugar does Sonic put in their sweet tea?

A medium-sized sweet tea has about 45 grams of sugar.

What is the difference between sweet tea and sweetened tea?

There is not much difference. Sweet tea is typically brewed with sugar then has more sugar added to it, creating a slightly sweeter tea. Sweetened tea is usually just sweetened after it has been brewed and taken off the heat.

Also try this delicious Copycat Chick-fil-A Lemonade Recipe. Pin to Pinterest.

Have a drink on us. Enjoy this Easy Raspberry Tea. Pin to Pinterest.

Check out these Copycat Recipes!

Follow all Recipes on Frugal Coupon Living as well as FCLAsh on Pinterest.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Overnight Camping at Night Hacks

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

December 7, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Frugal Living, Hacks, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, Summer, Travel 5 Comments

Ready for the great outdoors? These Overnight Camping Hacks and Tips will keep you and the kids busy while you enjoy your camping trip! Save these creative camping activities, campfire games, and recipes to complete your list of things to do while camping at night!

Camping at Night Hacks, Activities, and More

Camping is such an adventure, and there’s nothing like camping at night to give you the full immersive experience of the great outdoors! The trouble comes when you’re trying to find a way to keep the kids occupied while spending the night at the campsite. These Camping at Night Hacks and Tips has all of the fun stuff to keep everyone busy while serving up some wisdom that will make camping easier. Keep an eye out for our list of Things To Do While Camping at Night – games, activities and traditions to start with the family on your next camp trip! These camping hacks and camping activities will be a winner among kids and adults alike!

What should you not forget when camping?

Even if you’re only camping for one night, there are a few key supplies that everyone needs when going overnight camping!

Tent and tent stakes
Sleeping bags
Pillows
Flashlights, headlamps, and/or a lantern
Water and water bottles
Camp-friendly food
Fire starter

Get our Free Camping Packing list so you pack all the right things.

What is the most comfortable way to sleep in a tent?

Simply having a sleeping bag will still feel like you’re sleeping on hard ground. If you’re looking for a more comfortable way to camp overnight, we recommend bringing a sleeping pad or cot of some sort to make your temporary bed a little cushier. These aren’t necessary, so don’t stress if you forget to take them along!

Before your camping vacation, take a look at these camping ideas including…

Camping Hacks and Tips (our original post, filled with camping tips and goodness!)
Easy Camping Recipes
Foil Packet Meals including our Campfire Hot Dogs and Cinnamon Rolls Baked in Oranges
Camping Packing List
RV Packing List

For a kids overnight or sleepaway camp, take a look at Summer Camp Hacks and Tips. For a girls weekend, enjoy these Glamping Ideas.

Overnight Camping Hacks

We took some of our beloved Camping Hacks and Tips and stepped it up with new Overnight Camping Tips and Ideas.

Keep your personal sleeping space clean. Your tent should be clean so you can get the best sleep possible, even when you’re camping! This shoe basket camping hack keeps all shoes out of the tent and the sleeping area free of mud and dirt. | Sunny Simple Life

Hitting the road in an RV? Save this RV Packing List from Frugal Coupon Living. This camping checklist resource will help you get organized before taking off.

Busy the kids with their very own Camping Journal and Logbook from Frugal Coupon Living. They can add to it each year and look back on all their memories!

Want to take a hike while camping? If you are looking for the best places to hike in the U.S., download our hiking trail bucket list and hiking journal too!

Prevent cool air from escaping the top of the cooler with a DIY cooler cover. Recycle an old foam sleeping pad or yoga mat and cut the foam mat the exact dimension of the cooler interior. This is a great hack for camping at night to keep your breakfast ingredients chilled! | Cabela’s

Bring solar lights to illuminate your campsite when you’re camping at night. Stake them around the campsite (especially near your tent stakes to prevent tripping) or mount in an inverted Terra Cotta pot. | Starling Travel

Don’t just bring water — freeze your water jugs before you go! Use them as your drinking water as they melt. This way you’ll have cold water all night (and morning) long. You can also illuminate water jugs with a head lamp with this creative Camping at Night Hack. | Instructables

This camping hack is a must for everyone. Prevent yourself and your family from tripping over tent stakes by marking them off with bright pool noodles. Can’t miss them! | Source

No pool noodles? Check out these LED light up ten stakes to prevent tripping over stakes in the night.

Safety first with this unique camping hack. Keep sharp knives safely tucked away in pieces of pool noodles. | Kid Friendly Things to Do

Taking an extended camping trip or staying near water? Start stockpiling your bread tags for this next camping at night hack. They make great clothespins for drying clothes or other items. | REI

I highly recommend water shoes when camping. However, it can be inevitable a pair of cloth sneakers gets soaked. Have extra newspapers. Pack some newspapers to line a table, help start a fire or speed up the drying process overnight. | According to Elle

This camping food hack is the best. Make your own on-the-go-traveling pantry. You’ll get easy access to all the essentials and can close the door to keep out critters at night! | Mountain Campingz

When it’s time for bed, turn a pool float into a mattress and cover with a sleeping bag, blanket and/or sheets. It’s like your own air mattress, but you don’t have to pack or pay for one! | Meg for It

Things To Do While Camping at Night

Get creative with these fun nighttime camping activities that go beyond the standard board game and ghost story.

You can partially prepare this camping arts and crafts idea at home. Write your kid’s name on white paper with Sharpie. Once you go camping, collect nature (leaves, sticks, twigs, etc) to create this adorable art, a nature name activity. | Mrs. Jones Creation Station

Pick up some glow in the dark paint and paint your walking sticks! It will help you see while you’re moving around at night. You can use a glow in the dark paint, glow in the dark spray or even glow in the dark tape. | Creek Line House

During the day, talk about constellations. Teach your kids about what a constellation is — a group of stars forming a recognizable pattern that is traditionally named after its apparent form or identified with a mythological figure. While it is light outside, make this camp craft, a Stellar Constellation Viewer for Kids. At night, stargaze around the campfire and talk about the constellations on your viewer that you also see in the night sky.

Everyone loves a classic s’more recipe. Once the sun goes down, put a twist on your average camping dessert with our Campfire Cones! Maybe less messy, definitely more fun!

Want to try something different? Make colored fire. How cool is this? Packages of colored fire crystals or pine cones are sold at most camping supply stores or online on Amazon. If you want to make your own, you can check out these DIY colored fire ingredients.

Don’t forget about telling stories around the campfire! Use a flashlight and your tent to make a shadow puppets show. This How to Make a Shadow Puppet tutorial is very helpful. | Fine Art America

Have camping activities planned for the kids. These are some of the Best Camping Games for Kids and include directions and a supply list. Most of the supplies you will already have on your trip!

13 Best Camping Games PDF

Outdoor Games at Night

Get ready for a strike with this glow in the dark bowling game using glow sticks and 2-liter water bottles. (As seen in our Summer Bucket List.) | Growing a Jeweled Rose

Have you ever heard of flashlight tag? This is one of the most fun camping activities, and it helps the kids get some energy out before it’s time for bed.

Flashlight Tag Directions: Similar to hide and seek. Everyone carries their own flashlight but only the person who is IT has their’s on. Instead of tagging with hands, you tag with light. Once you’ve been tagged, you turn on your flashlight, point it toward the sky and stand still. Another player can free you by crawling in between your legs (or tagging you). Once everyone is frozen IT wins and the game starts.

Before everyone hides, establish a perimeter (area you cannot go past.) This is especially important for campsites or unfamiliar areas.

We have plenty of other night games you can play outdoors! Print our night games for kids. This includes Glow Sardines, Flashlight Tag, Gloweyball, Ghost in the Graveyard, Firefly, Kick the Can in the Dark, and Night Statues.

Run your kid around the camp (ok, okay…walk) on this Camping Treasure Hunt. 20 Fun Camping Scavenger Hunt riddles to enjoy the outdoors!

Speaking of flashlights, don’t forget our free outdoor games printable. Our Flashlight Scavenger Hunt download (see more Scavenger Hunt Ideas.)

To get your free flashlight scavenger hunt printable, subscribe to our emails and look for a link and password in our inbox. The access code allows you to access and download all of our free printables, as well.

What didn’t I think of that?! Camping Hacks and Tips for the great outdoors. Pin to Pinterest.

Weather bad? Take a look at these Camping in the Rain Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Enjoy these Camping Recipes for dinner, snacks, breakfast and lunch. Pin to Pinterest.

Camping Hacks, Tips and Tricks

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

December 7, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Frugal Living, Hacks, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, Summer, Travel

Camping Hacks, Tips and Tricks on Frugal Coupon Living. Creative camping ideas to simplify your memorable family outdoor trip.

Camping Hacks, Tips and Tricks

Ah, the great outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a novice like me, everyone should know these great camping hacks, tips and tricks. Learn the best way to store eggs and other camping food hacks, find out how to keep that toilet paper dry, or create a DIY lantern out of a gallon jug (no cutting required!) You might love these tips for camping so much you’ll be using them at home, the beach, or even your next picnic. Enjoy all of these fun camping tips, and happy camping!

What’s fun about camping?

Even if you’re not a huge fan of the outdoors, you’ll still have fun camping! Camping is great for families because it requires teamwork. You’ll get a lot of quality time, make some great memories, and bring the whole family together. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids out of the house and give them a healthy dose of fresh air. These ideas for camping will make the whole event easier so your family can focus on having fun, not the bare necessities!

That are many things you can do when camping with the family. If looking for a list of ideas, make sure to include our Camping Games and our Camping Treasure Hunt. Both bring excitement to the campfire and create amazing memories and family traditions.

If you’re looking for great ideas for camping, make sure to check out our Overnight Camping Hacks and Tips!

Happy Camping!

Best Places to Hike in the U.S.

If you are looking for the best places to hike in the U.S., download our hiking trail bucket list and hiking journal.

Camping Survival Kit

Create your own DIY Camping Survival Kit from The Benson Street. It’s got all the necessities like hand sanitizer, duct tape, bandages, and more!

Camping Games for Kids

Keep the kids entertained with camping activities. Download these 13 Best Camping Games which include directions and a supply list (using items you likely already have!)

Camping Games for Kids Download PDF

DIY Camping Toilet

Make your own Camping Toilet with this tutorial from A Thrifty Mom. It’s not the most fun of our camping tips, but it’s definitely necessary! To me, this trick is genius. Don’t forget the plastic bags!

Rolled Camp Kitchen

Bring along all your kitchen needs in one tidy package with this Rolled Up Kitchen Guide from Today’s Creative Life. Hey, just because you’re roughing it outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t stay organized!

Camping Packing List and Meal Planner

Camping Packing List and Meal Planner Printables on Frugal Coupon Living is great for planning all your camping food hacks. Customize it to your family’s preferences!

Keep camping fun for the kids with their own Camping Journal and Logbook on Frugal Coupon Living. You can add onto this year by year!

Campfire Fire Bombs

DIY Campfire Bombs from Inspired by Family Mag will come in handy when you are ready to start the fire!

DIY Pinecone Fire Starters

You’ve got to try this Pinecone Campfire Starter Recipe from Today’s Creative Life. It’s a little more eco-friendly and a fun camping activity for the kids before you go.

Coffee Can Toilet Paper Storage

One of my favorite tips for camping: Store Toilet Paper in a Coffee Can from Life Hacker to keep it nice and dry. Genius!

Mesh Hanging Organizer Hack

In a small tent, it’s easy for things to get messy. Stay organized with this Mesh Hanging Organizer from Mama Momtourage. Such a great tip!

DIY Outdoor Candle Stakes

DIY Outdoor Candle Stakes from a Subtle Revelry is a great one of our ideas for camping. They’re like little tiki torches!

Water Jug Lantern

Forgot your lantern at home? No worries! Turn a Water Jug into a Lantern Instructables. So genius!

Hand Washing Station

We love camping tips that make sure everyone stays clean! How creative is this Hand Washing Station from Do It and How?

Frozen Water Jug Ice Hack

Instead of ice, use Frozen Water Jugs — once they melt, you’ll have cold water to drink! Idea from Camping Blogger. So smart!

DIY Snack Containers

Start saving your empty coffee creamer containers for this great camping food hack. Store your snacks in these DIY Snack Containers from Stockpiling Moms.

DIY Soap Pouch

Keep everyone clean with this DIY Soap Pouch from Whimsy Love!

DIY Plastic Bag Keeper

Looking for easy storage? Craft this DIY Plastic Bag Keeper from Curbly. This goes great with the camping toilet, and it’s super useful if you’re bringing a furry friend.

Duct Tape Hack

Looking for tips for camping that save space? Leave your bulky Duct Tape Roll at home and wrap what you’ll need around your flashlight instead. Idea from Happy Money Saver. Genius!

Camping Scavenger Hunt

Making camping fun for the kids with this Camping Scavenger Hunt from Creative Homemakers.

Tent Welcome Mat Hack

There’s little I hate more than a dirty floor, especially one you’re sleeping on! Bring a Welcome Mat to keep Dirt Out of the Tent from My Clever Nest and keep those tent floors clean.

Mason Jar Matches Hack

Store your Matches in a Mason Jar. Glue some sandpaper on top for a strike from Like to Love. This one will become one of your most reliable tips for camping!

Yoga Mat Cushion Hack

A Yoga Mat makes a great cushion for your sleeping bag from The 3 Day. Bring a thick one for maximum comfort!

Scrambled Eggs Hack

Keep the camping food hacks coming! Make Scrambled Eggs in an Old Coffee Creamer Container from Lifehacker. This is truly genius and will make breakfast for the whole family a breeze.

Cork Hack for Keys

If you’re camping near the water, place a Cork on Your Keys so they float to the top! Idea from Green Moxie. (This is also in our Beach Tips & Tricks!)

Ketchup Bottle Pancake Mix Hack

Repurpose an old Ketchup Bottle for Pancake Mix from Real Simple. It makes pouring pancakes so much easier, especially on the go. Reduce, reuse, recycle!

Camping Treasure Hunt

Run your kid around the camp (ok, okay…walk) on this Camping Treasure Hunt. 20 Fun Camping Scavenger Hunt riddles to enjoy the outdoors!

Storage Bin Tub Hack

Turn a regular old Storage Bin into a Toddler Tub from Living on Latte. I have seen this used at the beach too!

DIY Shower Lanyards

Make Individual Shower Lanyards from The Pop Up Princess. I could see this as a fun gift if a large group of friends are camping together. The lanyard all keeps the loofah out of the dirt and secures everything in one place!

Camping? Take a look at these Camping in the Rain Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Also check out these Camping Hot Dogs Recipe for the Campfire. Pin to Pinterest.

We think these Fritos Bagged Walking Tacos are delicious. Pin to Pinterest.

For dessert, enjoy these S’mores Campfire Cones. Pin to Pinterest.

Also enjoy these Camping Recipes Your Family Will Love. Pin to Pinterest.

We love these Foil Packet Meals for the Grill, Oven or Campfire. Pin to Pinterest.

Original publication April 16, 2017.

TYME Review | Save vs. Splurge

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

November 6, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Beauty, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Online Shopping, Pinterest, Social Media

TYME Review | Save vs. Splurge – Hair Irons, Curling Wands, Blow Dryers and other beauty products. To spend or not to spend, an honest review.

TYME Review – Save vs. Splurge

One of the biggest gifts my parents gave me was the knowledge of money. From the time I was little, they taught me it’s importance, how to save, and how to spend wisely. Years later, many jobs, many incomes and the establishing and growth of a family this instilled philosophy has not changed, in fact, it’s only deepened. Leaving my parent’s nest, I understood I needed to make money, save wisely and spend little. Through experience, however, I did learn the difference between quantity verses quality and cheap verses well-made.

One experience that taught me well was kids’ shoes. I learned that I can buy my girls plenty of pretty, cheap shoes. This gives them more shoes however I will get complaints from them about the shoes hurting their feet and in the end won’t wear them. I am left with a brand new pair of shoes that never gets worn and each pair ends up being a waste of money – those pairs add up, they add up to the cost of if I had just invested in a quality pair!

Another experience that gave me a wise lesson was my hair. I invested in cheap salon for a hair color and highlights. I was left with breakage and an awful hair color. Still behaving stupidly (yes, I can use that word on myself) I returned back to the same salon (because fixing their mistake was free.) This partially fixed the color but left me with dry, over processed hair – total waste of the original money I invested, not to mention the time! It took me a total of 8 hours plus travel time and in return gave me lost work revenue – never again!

TYME Iron Reviews

I have coarse hair. Not only is it thick, it is long and will hold moisture forever! In college, without a penny to my name, I would beg my girlfriends to iron my hair. This was with a clothing iron. I would lay my hair strand one at a time on the ironing board and they would get as close to my scalp as they could without burning me. This was a cheap solution and gave me the immediate fix I craved and an incredible straight hairstyle.

Using a clothing iron was “frugal” but gave my hair awful results. It was dry and I had breakage. I wasn’t using a heat protectant. I am not sure that I even knew what one was. As I got older, I invested in a cheaper hair iron but my hair was never as straight as with the clothing iron. As I got older and had more money, I bought my first expensive hair iron and I never went back. In my mid twenties I realized, I needed protective metal plates to keep my looking healthy and tamed. This was the first step is choosing quality over quantity and when investing a little bit more, left me with healthier hair and less maintenance (and cost) in the long run!

I was first introduced to TYME Iron Pro 2-in-1 Hair Curler and Straightener in my Facebook feed – has anyone else seen them. I was mesmerized by the video and how the model got curls with such ease – I had to try this product. When my TYME iron arrived it was in a pretty box. It was well sealed and I had the assurance that it was protected from it’s travel from the facility to my home. The TYME iron comes with a pretty sleeve for protection and my own travel. The iron is a beautiful metallic gold. I noticed it had an odd shape – sorta like a 90 degree angle at the edge of the plates. This is for creating precise curls. I also could feel it was well-made, a top quality.

One of my favorite things about the TYME Hair Iron is the one on one attention. When you get your iron, get a FREE, personalized tutorial via StyleTYME Tutorials. When you get your wand schedule a FREE 30 minute appointment. This video chat appointment can be over Skype, Google Hangout, or Facetime.

Most people find one session is enough, but if you need a refresher have a one on one daily, weekly, monthly, as often as you need. The photo above is after my first session! I chuckle at the photo above (now, not then) as I am/was 5 months pregnant and in the first few hours of a week long stomach flu – not a fun time. Having gotten to know the iron better, I realized I could have done a few things better. Worked slower (for frizz) and released the tension (had some kinks.)

I learned three steps along the way…

How to Use a TYME Iron

Follow these three TYME tutorial steps…

Guidelines (dark lines of the TYME) toward head.
Rev your wrist back (similar to starting a motorcycle.)
Bring the barrel forward.

Seriously, that’s it guys. Those are the steps for how to use the TYME iron and create beautiful beach waves for any hair type.

Immediately after my one-on-one with my virtual stylist, I also found the TYME YouTube videos very helpful. There is ab it of a learning curve. The videos include the creator is Jacynda Smith. She clearly knows her product!

I really liked this YouTube Video (because she sharers little tips with a first timer) but the one above I found most helpful for creating a perfect angle and amazing ringlets. These were some tips I took away my first time:

Tips from TYME Iron Pro Reviews

The titanium plates take 55 seconds to heat up.
Plug in and turn on the blue button. There is not heat pad, just make sure the blue power button is facing up. Your iron should lay on the curved, dark side.
There are not temperature settings. IN fact, there is one heat setting at 400 degrees.
It is preferred your hair is washed and clean. Dry hair with no product is best.
There is a correct way to hold your iron. Your forefingers should be on the side that says TYME and your thumb on the opposite side.
When using the TYME iron, follow the guidelines, the dark side of the tool should be at your head.
When curling your hair, I found starting at the back to the front best.
Do not grab in large chunks. Look for straight hairs and do a little strands at a time.
Separate into small vertical (not horizontal) sections.
It is important to squeeze light. Gripping hard causes crimping.
Work slow without much tension. If you squeeze lightly and move the gold plates slowly forward it will create less frizz.
For parts you miss, I find separating my hair into two groups, pulling the hair forward in front of my shoulder and using the wand on the straight pieces at the bottom works well. This gives you many layers of curls. Curls from the top to the bottom and curls just at the bottom.
Don’t’ forget to turn your blue light off to shut down! There is no automatic shutoff on the device.

Hair irons can be pricey. Take a look at this Save vs. Splurge Hair tool list. Notice how the TYME iron easily falls in two categories. Your purchase includes a bang for your buck – sorta like two birds and one stone.

TYME Straighter Knock-Off

Save vs Splurge: Hair Straightener

Remington Flat Iron $29.99

TYME Straightener and Titanium Hair Curling Iron $179.99

Save vs Splurge: Curling Iron

Conair Instant Heat Curling Iron $19.99

TYME Hair Curler and Titanium Hair Straightener $179.99

*Similar Product: Beachwaver

Save vs Splurge: The LANDOT Flat Iron TYME Iron Knock-Off

Recently, a very similar product as been released at a fraction of the price. The LANDOT Flat Iron for Hair Curling Irons Hair Straightener Twist 2-in-1. I have not tried it so I am interest to hear your thoughts. Read the review for thoughts from others.

Save vs Splurge: Hair Dryer

Revlon 1875W Infrared Hair Dryer $21.99

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Dryer $84.95

Is the TYME Iron Worth it? The TYME is it is a STRAIGHTENING IRON AND CURLING IRON IN ONE! This combo makes hair care easy and fun and also keeps away clutter!

Note: Items and prices on Amazon are subject to change. Prices reflected as of posting time on 11/6/21. At this moment you cannot find this in your favorite retail stores – TYME Iron Target and TYME Iron Walmart wands are not available yet!

TYME’s promise to you: Free StyleTYME Tutorials, 30-day return policy guarantee + one year warranty.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for my post. I was given a TYME iron for my review. All opinions are my own and should not be substituted for yours.

Take a look at these Easy Mom Hair Tutorials for Everyday. Pin to Pinterest.

Care Package Ideas – Themed Gifts by Mail

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

October 6, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media 2 Comments

Take a look at these fun gifts to send in the mail including monthly and seasonal themes as well has punny phrases! Care package ideas for military members, care takers, college students, friends, girls, boys, and more.

Do you want to send some happy mail to someone you love? Are you looking for care package ideas that are more than just random gifts in a box? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered 25+ care package ideas for nearly every occasion.

What are good things to put in a care package?

When putting together a care package, first consider the situation. Am I shopping for a holiday, a personal a way from home, someone sick, etc. Once you focus on the circumstance, ask yourself, what would I need in this situation? For example, are you creating a care package for a college student? Yes. They are away from home. What are some things they might be running out of? Is there an upcoming holiday in which I can help the decorate or be ready to celebrate. These things can all come together to create the best college care package.

Fun things to include in a care package

Holiday decorations
Candy
A blanket
Snacks
Something to ready
Fun trinkets
Gift card
Puzzle Books
Movie
Socks
Coloring Books
Water bottle
Thoughtful note

When creating a don’t feel like you have to splurge, though you can if you want to. A care package can be a small package with two or three items, or it can be an all-out party in a box type of package with everything on someone’s wish list. It’s up to you.

What should you not put in a care package?

Most package are sent via the USPS. It is important to focus on things that mailing services do not allow you to mail. Do not include knives or sharp instruments, liquids, powders, and odor-producing materials. Also make sure to ship quickly or include non perishable items. It is also wise to not include breakables, such as glass, as the a broken product could damage the contents of the entire package.

Care packages are a great way to show someone you care. Why don’t you take a look at this list of great ideas for some inspiration!

Who Do You Send Care Packages To?

While care packages are often sent to military and college students, there are so many ways to branch out to someone who may need a little cheering up from a friend, relative, or even a friendly stranger looking to brighten someone’s day.

Here are some people you may want to consider sending care packages to:

Military – All branches need a little extra love throughout the year, particularly on holidays that they’re spending away from family.
College Students – Send them at exam times or holidays when they can’t come home.
Caregivers – Taking care of others is hard work. Let them know you appreciate their sacrifice.
Nursing Home Residents – It would be especially nice to send a package to someone who doesn’t get mail or packages from family.
Family/Friends Who’ve Moved Away – This is self-explanatory. Let them know you miss them and are thinking of them!
Prisoners – You’ll need to check with the facility first to see which items are allowed in an inmate care package. When it comes to a care package for jail, you need to make sure you follow the guidelines strictly!
New Moms – It’s a wonderful and stressful time, so make sure the new mama has a few things to take care of herself. Most of the gifts she’s received lately will be for baby, after all.
Sick Friends or Family – If you know anyone who’s facing an extended stay in the hospital or recovery at home, a care package is a fantastic way to show you care.
Someone Who’s Grieving – Grief takes a lot out of a person. You may consider things like a book of prayers for those who are grieving, gift cards to restaurants, so they don’t have to cook for a while, etc.

Themed Care Packages

You’ll find care package ideas for college students, sick friends, caregivers, sick people, stressed out moms, and more. Basically, we have something here for everyone.

Care Package for Christmas

Target does it again! So does my friend Kristin. Look at this Christmas Care Package to a college student. Target sells the Prize Punch Advent Calendar Care Package which can easily be turned into a 12 Days of Christmas Care Package for anyone. So cute. Thanks for sharing Kristin!

Blue Care Package

First of all, you don’t need a special occasion to send a care package. Send one out of the blue! There’s even a theme for that—a box of all blue items. Oreos, Rice Krispie treats, Jolly Ranchers, Cool Ranch Doritos, and Extra peppermint gum are just a few examples of what you can include. | My Inspiration Corner

Care Package Idea for College

This Just Add Water care package from my friend Kristin is brilliant! Fill the box with items that only require water to make. Tea, mashed potatoes, cups of noodles, lemonade, and oatmeal are just a few terrific examples.

Birthday Care Package

Send a birthday care package when your loved one is far away. Just because you’re miles apart doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate like this collage care package party in a box! | Frugal Coupon Living

Birthday Care Package for Her

And here’s another option for a birthday party in a box. It includes candles, a tablecloth, plates, some party decor, and of course, a mug cake mix. | Almost Empty Nest

New Baby Care Package

How about a care package for new mom? This could be perfect for a baby shower you can’t attend. Add cute items including onesies, baby accessories, but also add practical things like baby wipes, butt paste and more! | Finding Mandee

Care Package for Sick Friend

Sending a cold and flu care package in the fall or winter is such a terrific idea! You don’t even have to wait until someone’s sick; having things like cough drops, acetaminophen, cough suppressants or expectorants, Lysol wipes, and tissue on hand is just plain smart. | The TipToe Fairy

Care Package for Best Friend

April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring a lot of smiles when sent in a care package like this one! It includes crocheted shower poufs, body wash, lotion, nail polish, and more. | Organized 31

Care Package for Chemo Patients

Chemo Care Basket from Pink Fortitude: Dealing with cancer is a difficult task, particularly when you throw chemo treatments into the mix. A chemo care basket (or care package) will go a long way in reminding a friend or family member that you’re thinking of her or him during this time. | Pink Fortitude

Care Package for Military

Don’t forget a military care package for our service members. Creative ideas from The Military Wife and Mom including One Day Closer, One Day Stronger. When I created a package for a military friend, I include things that were not commonly available where they lived. This truly included hitting the grocery store grabbing some beloved snacks and packages of candy.

Care Package for Female College Student

Send your daughter, friend, or girlfriend in college the perfect care package. You can’t go wrong with some candy, tampons or pads, lotion, razors, and more. You may want to also include perfume, lip balm, essential oils, and other “girly” things you know she’ll like. | Organized 31

Care Package for Boyfriend

And here’s another excellent care package for guys from Organized 31! It includes beef jerky, pumpkin seeds, outdoor toys, and study supplies, but add in whatever your favorite guy likes.

Care Package for Sick

Make a get well care package for someone’ who’s sick or just had surgery. Tissues, hand sanitizer, juice, and snacks are just a few of the things you could include to make them feel a little better. | Mod Podge Rocks

Care Package for New Car

Teens, college students, or anyone with a new car will so appreciate a car care package. You can include so many fun things here, like a travel mug, ArmorAll wipes, an air freshener, a mini first aid kit, and even some snacks (that won’t melt in a hot car) to grab on the go. | Sweet Parrish Place

Small Care Package for Friend

This fall care package for a friend is so cute! The tag reads, “Thank you for bee-ing such a great friend,” along with Burt’s Bees hand cream and lip balm. It’s simple but thoughtful. | About a Mom

Care Package for College Students

Midnight Munchies strike us all at sometimes, but this is especially true for college students staying up late to study for finals. (Or students who are up late and out with friends, let’s be honest.) From Cheese Nips to JIF on the Go to Monster Energy Drinks, it has everything a starving student needs. Add trail mix, granola bars, chocolate, pretzels and more. | Creative Art Room

Themed Care Package Idea

College care package ideas are a must. Go with a theme. Send a space-themed gift basket like this one from my friend Kristin to someone you love to the moon and back! Include a space-themed shirt and some fun meals or snacks. You could even theme the snacks after space, such as Milky Way bars, Mars bars, Moon Pies, Starburst candies, Cosmic brownies, and more.

Care Package for Caregiver

Do you know someone who’s a caregiver for a terminally ill or severely disabled family member? They have hearts of gold! Let them know that you’re thinking of them with a caregiver basket with some goodies, gift cards, lotion, wipes, and drink mixes. You’ll also want to include crossword puzzles, coloring books, colored pencils, pens, Sudoku, etc. to help them pass the time during some of the quieter hours. | Cook Eat Go

Care Package for Mom

Frazzled moms everywhere would love a stress relief care package that includes a heating pad, Epsom salts for a good soak, brownie mix for a sweet treat, and a stress ball to help work off some of that stress when the moment strikes. Add face masks, socks, tea bags and other thoughtful gifts too. | Cutefetti

Care Package for Her

But don’t feel that you have to go all out on an expensive care package. It’s the thought that matters. Any friend would find this Tickled Pink package delightful! Fill it with all things pink, such as notebook, hand sanitizer, gum, nail polish, pens, etc. | Life Anchored

Yellow Care Package

Send some sunshine in a box to brighten anyone’s day. Include yellow items (yellow like the sun) such as Twinkies, apple juice, Lemonheads, and other snacks, drinks, or gift cards with yellow packaging. | Creative Art Room

College Care Package Before Exam

Encourage your college student to “stick with it” with a stick-themed care package. Include pretzel sticks, beef sticks, sticks of gum, Pocky sticks, Chapstick, etc. Anything that looks like a stick is fair game! | Michelle Paige Blogs

St Patrick’s Day Care Package

For St. Patrick’s Day, you only need to stick with the usual theme—all things green, gold, or rainbow. In addition to gum, candies, and the usual fare, send some Lucky Charms cereal and a shamrock charm or necklace for good luck. | My Inspiration Corner

Easter Care Package

Who wouldn’t love this Easter care package with eggs filled with money, yummy baked treats, and delicious candy? What a fun gift! | Wondermom Wannabe

Halloween Care Package

Give someone a Spook-tacular Halloween surprise by sending an unexpected care package. This one from Kristin reads, “We Miss You a Skele-ton.” Isn’t that adorable? There are so many great Halloween snacks and candies that you can easily find some to go with the theme, but don’t forget a shirt and/or mask just in case your recipient would like to dress up for the occasion.

October Care Package

Here’s another idea for Halloween in a box! Include caramel apples, candy corn, Pop Rocks, and all your other Halloween favorites. | Smashed Peas and Carrots

Christmas Care Package

College students or anyone who just moved out on their own in the past year could probably use a holiday decorating care package with a candy wreath, ribbon, jingle bells, a decorative wreath, and a few other bits and bobs to make a room look special. Don’t forget to add some cards from family and friends as a surprise. | Organized 31

Winter Care Package

We miss you snow much! How adorable is that message from Kristin for a Christmas or winter-themed care package?

What to Put Inside Care Packages

Snacks (popcorn, chips, crackers, cookies, nuts, protein bars, jerky, dried fruit)
Powdered drink mixes
Gum or mints
Scented candles
Books and bookmarks
Gift cards
Lotion
Shaving cream
Razors
Toiletries
Tooth brush
Soap or body wash
Shampoo and conditioner
Hand sanitizer
Meds like acetaminophen or cough drops for Get Well packages
Air fresheners
Laundry detergent pods (for college kids)
Homemade baked goods
Easy prep foods
Small, inexpensive toys for kids
Lip balm
Tissues
Nail polish or manicure sets
Scarves/hats/gloves in winter
Photos
Phone accessories
Puzzles
Entertainment books like Sudoku, crosswords, word searches, adult coloring books, etc.

There’s so much more you could include, but those items will get you started with some fantastic care package ideas.

Other Care Package Tips

Here are a few more tips to make your care packages extra-special.

Wrap each item individually if it’s a package full of gifts, especially for Christmas or birthdays.
If you don’t want to wrap each item, adding printable tags with fun notes makes each piece a little more thoughtful. | Skip to My Lou
Try to create a theme around the snacks, the color, or the decor for the care package box.
Adhere to any guidelines that the organization or facility may have for incoming care packages.
Include a handwritten note—it’s just more personal that way!

Where Can I Buy Care Packages?

If crafting care packages is not your forte, it’s okay. There are plenty of places where you can buy care packages. Look on Etsy for a number of Care Package ideas, many that ship quickly and directly to the receiver!

Are you sending a care package to someone you love? Which one will you make?

Visit our Family Birthday Celebrations & Ideas – you might even see a birthday care package there! Pin to Pinterest.

Updated. Originally published 5/3/2020.

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Homemade Parmesan Crisps – Go Great with Salad!

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

September 6, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe

Parmesan Crisps

I seriously love a salad but the side of something crunchy, salty and irresistible makes it even better! You will love these Parmesan Cheese Crisps. A few suggestions I have are use good quality cheese and a splat mat to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredients:

8 ounces good quality Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
Finely grate the cheese into a bowl.
Line a large baking sheet with a non-stick pad or Parchment paper.
Add a heaping teaspoon of cheese to the pan until you have six mounds, evenly spread apart.
Lightly press the mounds out until they are flat. Push in any stray pieces that stick out.
Bake for 5-6 minutes or until the egdes are golden brown but not all the way to the center. They will look wet, and that’s ok. If you bake them until entirely brown, they will be bitter.
Remove from oven. They will begin to firm up almost immediately.
Carefully remove with a metal spatula and place on paper towels. Place another paper towel on top and gently press down to absorb the grease.
If you’d like to mold them, be sure to do it before they harden, which happens quickly. You can free hand it, or use a large wooden spoon handle to roll them up.
Once they are completely cooled and crisp, you can store them in an airtight container between layers of wax paper for up to three days. Keep them in the refrigerator.

Makes 25-30 crisps

I like to drag my Silpat (or parchment) off of the pan to speed the cooling process up and get another batch in, but it’s up to you if you want to encourage your readers to do that. The recipe works the either way, but that just makes it go quicker.

Homemade Parmesan Crisps – Go Great with Salad!

No reviews

Author: Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 mins
Total Time: 16 minutes
Yield: 25-30 crisps 1x

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces good quality Parmesan cheese
Cooking spray (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
Finely grate the cheese into a bowl.
Line a large baking sheet with a non-stick pad or Parchment paper.
Add a heaping teaspoon of cheese to the pan until you have six mounds, evenly spread apart.
Lightly press the mounds out until they are flat. Push in any stray pieces that stick out.
Bake for 5-6 minutes or until the egdes are golden brown but not all the way to the center. They will look wet, and that’s ok. If you bake them until entirely brown, they will be bitter.
Remove from oven. They will begin to firm up almost immediately.
Carefully remove with a metal spatula and place on paper towels. Place another paper towel on top and gently press down to absorb the grease.
If you’d like to mold them, be sure to do it before they harden, which happens quickly. You can free hand it, or use a large wooden spoon handle to roll them up.
Once they are completely cooled and crisp, you can store them in an airtight container between layers of wax paper for up to three days. Keep them in the refrigerator.

Notes

I like to drag my Silpat (or parcment) off of the pan to speed the cooling process up and get another batch in, but it’s up to you if you want to encourage your readers to do that. The recipe works the either way, but that just makes it go quicker.

Recipe Card powered by

We also have a Keto Approved Cheese Chips with Everything Bagel Seasoning!

Love these Parmesan Crisps? They go great with salad – pair with this Copycat Olive Garden Dressing. Pin to Pinterest.

Follow all Recipes on Frugal Coupon Living as well as FCLAsh on Pinterest.

The Busy Mom Binder – A Family Command Center Printable!

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

August 4, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Frugal Living, Hacks, Instagram, Parenting, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media 11 Comments

The Busy Mom Binder. Thirty-five printable pages that will reorganize your home, your kids and you! Consider this your family command center in one easy location, a 3-ring binder. Includes pages that can printed over and over to organize your weekly meal plans, cleaning, savings, grocery list, chore chart, notes for the baby sitter and more!

The Busy Mom Binder

I have been squatting on something. I have been so excited to share something new with you that I have been working on it (for what feels like) forever, I eventually finished with it and then I became too frozen to share.

Without further wait, here it is… The Busy Mom Binder!

This is a binder you won’t loose. It will be considered your home bible (lowercase). The place that holds all your answers and resources. A binder that you can reference frequently or lead others to reference when they have questions. You guys, it took us out of the struggle. Away from survival mode and it turned me back in to the old me I once knew – an organized woman in her home, within her family, and within her life! The woman before five kids!

Before the binder began, my favorite Busy Mom Quote actually came from a man (laughing), Ed Wiley was my spirit animal because he summed my life, best.

It’s so true, you guys. I am not sure what “it” is, but I assure you that whatever it is, it WAS NOT getting done. After our fourth and fifth children were born (twins), it was survival mode. Their first birthday party was even a survival theme. The party wasn’t for them, it was for mom and dad (my husband and I). While we didn’t hold a second birthday party, year two had us surviving, as well. Once they turned two, I felt like I began to re-organize my life… really, to reorganize our family’s life. Consider it my 2020 New Years Resolution (only I don’t typically make conscious resolutions.)

If succeeding at “it” is also something you want to do with one or one hundred kids, we have the perfect family organizer for your home. This organizer will help you achieve it, maybe not all of it, but a piece of it. The Busy Mom Planner includes organizers for the home, the family and even for mom.

I WANT TO SUCCEED AT IT WITH THE BUSY MOM BINDER

What the Busy Mom Binder Includes

I created three sections for the binder. These sections cover busy mom solutions for the home, for the kids, and of course, for mom too! It is your printable Family Command Center to organize your home.

Organization for the Home

This section covers your needs for the home.

Password Keeper
Weekly Meal Plan (with grocery list)
Monthly Declutter Challenge
Daily Cleaning Checklist
Less Than 1 Hour a Day Deep Cleaning Checklist
The Dishes are Clean/Dirty (dishwasher magnet)
Laundry is Clean/Dirty (laundry magnet or basket tag)
Daily Laundry Schedule (blank)
Daily Laundry Schedule (complete)

SHOP THE BUSY MOM BINDER

Organization for the Kids

Mom’s life becomes easier with a kids organizer. This section covers it all!

Babysitter Notes
Notes for School
Toy Storage Bin Labels (3 pages)
Daily & Weekly Chores Checklist
How to Clean My Room Checklist
Kid’s Saving Tracker
Stay-at-Home Schedule for Mom, Baby & Toddler
Family Bucket list (blank)
Weekly Lunchbox Planner

SHOP THE BUSY MOM BINDER

Organization for Mom

Lastly, all things mom.

Daily Planner
Weekly Planner
Big Goal Planner
52 Week Savings Challenge
Spending Tracker
Debt Payment Tracker
Grocery List (blank)
Birthday Tracker
Emergency Contacts
Family Medical Information

I NEED THE BUSY MOM BINDER!!!

What Others Are Saying

I gave an audience of busy moms the Busy Mom Binder to test before bringing it live to you. See what others are saying about the Busy Mom Binder.

Sarah also added how aesthetically happy her eyes were – haha! Glad it was easy on the eyes, Sarah!

More reviews on the web

This had everything I was looking for in a “Mom Manager” binder! Super cute design, simple and easy to put together. Definitely recommend! 5 out of 5 stars – Britt E.
5 out of 5 stars: I have been wanting something like this for awhile- never thought I could get all the best organization/planner things in one binder!! Thank you :) Trying to get more organized in my everyday day life and what better time than back to school for my daughter <3 thank you for helping this busy Mom out with something so practical and hey it’s super cute too- win, win all around ;) awesome price!! I will definitely purchase again!! 5 out of 5 stars – Caroline L.

Need the Busy Mom Family Organizer?

Do you need this family organizer? It was my organization solution to getting my home out of survival mode. Before you pick up your copy of the binder, hear how it changed our home – a quote from yours truly!

Through the Busy Mom Binder I was able to structure my own to dos, inspire and teach my kids to do the same, and quickly direct my husband to one resource for the home – Our Family Organizer in one place. With this new game plan, I was able to get time back in my day, bring our family out of survival mode and accomplish it (whatever it is – wink)!

Do you need to accomplish it? (whatever IT is!)

Do you need to come out of survival mode?

Our Busy Mom Binder is your Home Organizer Solution!

Free Printables

Two of the thirty-five pages in our Busy Mom Binder are free today! Pick up our 52 Week Savings Challenge and/or Monthly Declutter Challenge today. Subscribe and look for a link and password in our inbox. The password allows you to access and download all of our free printables.

With all of these printables, by downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions. I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). It takes time, effort and money to put the freebies forth and I earn when you visit. Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

I have a video and step by step instructions to show you how I print my PDF documents at Staples. After downloading, I ordered this binder twice from Staples and paid about $20 to have them print it for me.

Recommended Accessories for Your Binder:

There are a few optional accessories for your home organizer. You may want to laminate your toy bin labels. We have had this Scotch Brand Laminator for years and it has held up very well. I also used an Avery white 1.5 inch 3-ring binder with clear cover (in my video), though I would recommend a 1 inch.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your Busy Mom Binder. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

Visit our everyday Busy Mom Life Hacks. Pin to Pinterest.

Kids DIY Back to School Crafts & School Supplies

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

July 29, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Back To School, Back to School Series, Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Seasonal, Social Media, Summer

Kids DIY Back to School Crafts & School Supplies

Pin to Pinterest

It’s time to start thinking about heading Back To School. Didn’t we just get out? If you are looking for some creative things to do with the kids this summer, why not consider Back to School Crafts and DIY Activities that make the kids excited for the bell to ring! Use the time you have now to get your craft on and check out all of these fun ideas! From personalized bookmarks, pens and pencils to Teacher gifts and awesome organization ideas, this list will inspire you!

We think we have the perfect round-up of Kids’ DIY Back to School Crafts for your Homemade School Supplies.

While you collect your child’s school supplies hold off on giving them anything. Take your kids on a Back to School Scavenger Hunt. 20 fun Back to School Themed treasure hunt riddles. This at home scavenger hunt leads them through a series of clues to collect their back to school supplies.