My Product Review of the Keurig 2.0 Brewing System

Posted on 20 August, 2015 by admin

Almost as important as all the supplies that I had to purchase for back to school, is the fuel I need to start my day. Now that the girls are a little bit older, I managed to get to sleep in several mornings during the summer. My body quickly adjusted to the down time. Getting back on track and used to getting up by 7am has been, dare I say challenging. But, with no other choice I drag myself from the bed every morning. And, run straight to the Coffee.

[Enter the Keurig 2.0.] Over the summer our house got hit by lightning and it fried our Keurig. Coffee is a HUGE part of my day. So you can imagine my dismay when I went to brew my coffee and realized that is was NO BUENO. Ugh!! My warranty was up, and I was hesitant to call Keurig. But, I thought maybe they could walk me through troubleshooting and or help me to reset it. The customer service rep was very pleasant and quickly pulled up my info and confirmed that my warranty had indeed expired. BUT….. She was willing to honor it anyway. (You can imagine me doing the Tootsie Roll, Cabbage Patch or whatever old.. dance you can think of here.) I expected her to say send it back and they would repair it or replace my existing model. NOPE… Boy, was I wrong. Instead she told me that they would be upgrading me to the Keurig 2.0 K350 Brewing System. I was super excited. And, got off the phone pleased.

But, then I remembered that I had actually looked into this model and that there had been a lot of chatter about it. I wont say that the chatter deterred me from purchasing it, as it was on My Later Wish List. But, it did give me pause. However, I certainly wasn’t going to look a gift horse in the mouth. My box came in the mail about three days later.(Fast Turn Around) The Keurig 2.0 comes with a Keurig Carafe, 6 K-Cup Packs, 6 Carafe Packs and a Water Filer Handle and Cartridge.

So, here’s my review: I actually have nothing bad to say about this model. It’s touch screen. It holds more water than the previous model. It can make a cup of a whole carafe. I never had use for the whole pot, but I imagine if I ever have overnight guests this would come in handy. Most people thought that they would not be able to use other brands of coffee since it had to have the official Keurig logo. Fact is that most brands carry the Keurig logo. I drink Foldger’s Black Silk. I haven’t found the K-Cups to be anymore expensive. They have an additional 8 K-cups in the package, so naturally it cost more but it balances out. You have more choices in how you want your coffee to brew, Strength, Size of Cups (4oz-10oz), or Carafe. You also have more choices as far as Set Up. You can choose your language, whether or not you want to keep it in Energy Saving Mode, your altitude, and even set a Water Filter Reminder.

If you are considering upgrading this Model gets the Stage Presents Stamp of Approval. For more information on this model, check it out here. Is Coffee an important part of your day too? Check out this My Blood Type is Coffee Print – Available for Instant Download in Our Etsy Store.

This is not a Sponsored Post and the Opinions contained herein are all my own.

Polka Dots …. not just for kids (Trend Alert)

Posted on 12 August, 2015 by admin

From the moment that Mom and Dad introduced me to Mickey and Minnie, Polka Dots became a big part of my life. As I matured I started to think of polka dots as being juvenile. But, over the years they have become almost as main stream as stripes. I see Polka Dots everywhere now, and I must say it thrills me. To me, they give things a classic yet playful feel, no matter what room they are in. And, if you happen to be a Kate Spade New York fan like me, you know that she throws Polka Dots around like Confetti, which is A-OK with me.

Photo Credit: In Clickable Links Below (a-d)

Polka Dots can be used to add character and personality to every room from the Bathroom to the Kitchen. You will find them in pretty much everything Home Decor Related. They can be used as a way to add pattern, texture, and color to an otherwise neutral space. With the start of the Fall Semester being around the corner, Polka Dots are a definitely on trend in dorm decor. When you have a limited amount of space, or when you are renting and don’t want to make any real changes to the property it is a way to incorporate your style into your space.

Here are some of examples:

a. PBTowels – Dottie Bath Towel

b. Anthropologie – Colossal Dots Curtain

c. Kate Spade NY – Larabee Road Collection

d. Six2Eleven.net- Graham’s Gender Neutral Nursery

I am sure you could find some Polka Dots strewn around my home, and even in my Etsy Store(pictured below)

Do you use Polka Dots to decorate your home? What is your favorite Polka Dot piece? Consider telling us all about it in the comment section below.

Conquering Day One – First Day of School 2015-2016

Posted on 11 August, 2015 by admin

You would think that as a VETERAN PARENT, (meaning I have a 19 year old son), that the First Day of School wouldn’t be so daunting for me. But, every year I get anxiety and don’t get much sleep for the days leading up to it. This year was probably a little worst than the past years, because it was my baby’s First Day of Kindergarten. I kept watching her all morning to see signs of fear, but it wasn’t until we were already in the classroom that she showed her hand. I could see the tears right on the brink, and as I put my hand on her little chest in an attempt to calm her, I could feel her heart beating soo fast. For a moment, I wanted to grab her hand and run down the length of the hallway, throw her in the car and take her home with me, where I knew she would be safe. But, I steadied myself and diverted my eyes, so as not to burst into tears myself. Lucky for me, hubby took the day off to go with, and he was his usual Cool as a Cucumber self. After I dropped her off, I walked my oldest daughter to her fifth grade class with her supplies. Shes an old pro, so she was fine. Then, I immediately doubled back to check on baby girl, and even though she was a bit withdrawn and quiet, she was ok. The hours seemed to creep by today. I kept looking at my phone and my watch, even though I am not sure why. She made it through the day, and rode the bus home with her sister, as if she had been doing this all her life. So, I suppose all is well that ends well. There’s something about your last baby. It makes the firsts also the lasts, and, I suppose that can be a little somber. Now, that we have gotten past that part, I pray that the girls both have an amazing year, and wish the same for you and your little people. Let’s Get It!!

Looking for some tips on How to Talk to Your Kids About School check out this great blog on Scholastic.com. First Days are always filled with lots of emotion, consider sharing your first day stories with us in the comments below.

It’s #freebiefriday!!

Posted on 7 August, 2015 by admin

I have spent all week getting everything in order for the First Day of School on Monday. So, I am officially pooped. But, I still manged to squeeze in (2) Printables for Freebie Friday.

Hello Printable

Capture the Moments Printable

For Personal Use Only. Do not Alter or Redistribute on Any Other Sites.

To Download > Follow the Link – Right Click – Save As – Print. They can be used ANYWHERE. But, with the start of the Fall Semester Approaching for most colleges, I thought these would be cute, framed somewhere in a Dorm Room, or a Teen/Tween Bedroom. If you choose to print and display these, consider showing us where these landed by tagging us on Instagram @stagepresents.

First Day of School Instagram Printables

Posted on 5 August, 2015 by admin

In our house, the first day of school is a big deal. So each year I try to come up with fun ways to commemorate the end of summer and kick off the school year. As the kids get older, it gets harder to come up with new and innovative things we can do together and enjoy. But lucky for me, my girls share in my love of Scrap booking and Creating Photo Books. My kids enjoy scrolling through my Instagram Feed, but they are too young to have a page of their own. So, I came up with this fun Instagram Printable that I knew they would love. It was something that they could “make their own” by adding their own words and choosing a picture and then we could add it to our Yearly Family Photo Book. You can read more about this here.

Since we enjoyed it so much, I thought I would share Our Free Editable Instagram First Day of School Printable with all you Scrap booking and Shutterbug Moms, or anyone who just wants a keepsake to remember this Special Day. And, the best part is that you don’t need any fancy Photo Editing Software, you can edit it in Microsoft Word. But, feel free to edit it in ANY Software you choose.

Here’s What You Will Need:

Some of Your Own Creativity

Your Computer

Printer

Scissors

Scrap Booking Background Pages (Optional)

Embellishments (Optional)

It’s Super Easy!! Download Your Template Here. Open Your Document. Personalize your text. Add a 4×6 Picture. Fit Picture to the Available Space and Save. Print and Voila you have a Keepsake to Remember.

There are always a host of emotions that come with the first day of school, some good, some not so good. I think I probably think about it a lot more than the kids do. They are just excited to wear their new clothes and see their friends. Here’s to a GREAT 2015-2016 School Year.

“You’re Off To Great Places. Today is Your Day. Your Mountain is Waiting, So Get On Your Way.” – Dr. Seuss

Fun Friday: Back to School Prep + The Most Amazing Back to School Printable Pack #freebiefriday

Posted on 31 July, 2015 by admin

Seems almost impossible that we are already prepping for Back to School. I feel like we just winded down at the end of the School Year. But, as much as I think it flew by, I am always glad to see it come back around. We packed a lot of fun into the summer, but not a lot of work. And, I guess that is ok, right? Well, at least that is what I am telling myself, they won’t be little forever.

Here in Georgia school starts back on August 10th. Thankfully, we managed to get a jump start on our shopping early in the month. So, I am hoping that we won’t have to be out there in the craziness that is the Back to School Rush at all. Fingers and Toes Crossed.

Are you ready for the kids to go Back to School? For me the key to being prepared is always A LIST. Check out this Back to School Back to School Checklist found over on ThreeLoudKids.com.

After you have nailed the basics when it comes to school shopping. I feel like the next thing, is to make your things your own, and to make them cute. If you are all about personalizing your things like me, and my little ones you will love this Free Back to School Printable Pack that I created with you in mind.

(2) Back to School Binder Cover Sheets

(1) Back to School Binder Spine

(1) Back to School 2015-2016 iPhone/iPad Wallpaper

Download Here

2015-2016 iPhone/iPad Back to School Wallpaper

Right Click – Save Image As – Select Picture As Your Background or For Your Lock Screen.

I hope that these Printables, make going back to school a little more special for you and yours. Here’s to an Awesome School Year!!

STAGE PRESENTS – MASTERING BALANCE – AKUA BOAKYE

Posted on 27 July, 2015 by admin

Akua, and I are members of the Group Passionistas [a group for female entrepreneurs] on Facebook. After reading many of her posts, I was amazed at all that she packs into one day. She has a thriving business, a full time career, a family (she’s very involved with), and lots of friends. And, she finds time for all of it. This interview was prompted mostly by curiosity. But, I also wondered what nuggets she could pass on to those of us who are trying to master finding balance in our every day lives. I truly enjoyed getting to know her better and getting her realistic, “tell it like it is” point of view. She doesn’t deny that it is work that demands commitment, but demonstrates that it CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED.

How long have you been committed to healthy eating and working out?

I’ve been working out and eating healthy consistently for the past 10 years. Please note that for me eating healthy is all about balance. I’ll say, I eat healthy about 80% of the time, but I also allow some “cheats” 20% of the time. I enjoy going out to eat with my family and friends. I have found that this way allows me to remain consistent and not feel deprived.

What does your routine look like and do you change it up depending on the season or your moods?

My exercise routine changes according to my goals at the time. No 2 days of working out is ever the same. I set mini goals either weekly or monthly for myself. (i.e: hold planks for more minutes, do x amount of pull ups, run a certain amount of miles, etc. )My daily workout can range from full body circuit training, treadmill interval runs with inclines, heavy lifting, Insanity (my fav…Shaun T is my MAN) bleacher circuits, boxing, and a host of others. For me it is all about constantly challenging your routine and shocking your body. A challenged body will be a changed body.!

How do you balance a full time job, your family and make time for yourself and your Boot Camp?

The balance for me took some time. I started this journey over 10 years ago as a single woman with very few responsibilities aside from my teaching career . In the process, I’ve gotten married, become a mother and owner of 2 businesses (BodybyAkua Fitness LLC and Treat You Right Foods LLC ). My balance comes from knowing that each of these aspects of my life are equally important. What I know for sure is that we MAKE time for what we really want . My family and faith are extremely important to me, but I am also aware that to sustain my family, I must work hard to provide. I MAKE time for my fitness lifestyle because without my health and a clear mind, I cannot be a good wife, mother, friend, and an entrepreneur. These elements are interconnected. I cannot succeed in one without the other. My Fitness is seriously the magic potion that powers me through the rest of my busy life.

What advice would you give to anyone who wants to make positive change for a healthier lifestyle?

My advice to anyone who wants to make a healthier lifestyle a part of their routine will be to first figure out why you want to get healthy and fit to begin with. If your reason for a healthier lifestyle is temporary, then your results will also be temporary. So for example, if you only want to exercise and get healthy because you are in a wedding, going on a vacation or trying to impress someone at a class reunion, then you are most likely not going to continue once those events come and go. Being healthy and fit should not be temporary, but rather a part of your regular routine. When you change your mind set and look at healthy living as a daily necessity, you are most likely to stick with it. Also, when starting out, start with smaller changes in order to not feel overwhelmed. (Cut out one sugary drink daily, eat one less fast food this week, go for a nice easy walk after dinner, park the car a little further and walk, take the stairs, cook one healthy meal at home). These changes, while small will eventually become habits and help with your success.

Can you share a favorite quick and easy recipe that our readers can prepare for their families?

I pride myself in being the “queen of quick meals”. With such a hectic schedule, being able to make a quick, yet healthy meal is the way to go. The trick is to have already prepared or quick steamed foods on hand. Example.: Roasted chicken, egg whites, steam ready brown rice, veggies, spices, coconut or olive oil sprays )

My favorite quick meal to prep for my family is my Healthy chicken Fried Rice with veggies. This meal is loaded with all nutrients needed to sustain a healthy body. (Good carbs, Protein, healthy fats, fiber etc.)

(Steam the rice and veggies in advance)
Heat pan with Spray of coconut or olive oil .
Add egg whites to pan and cook scramble style, add steamed veggies of choice, mix together and add your favorite spices, I also add 2 tbsp of ginger dressing, add 1 tbsp of oil as well as shredded chicken and steamed brown rice.
Mix all well and cook together for about 3 to 5 minutes. DONE
During the cold winter months I use my Crockpot to make steel cut oatmeal overnight, so by morning, it’s ready to go. just add some fruits or peanut butter.

What is your favorite exercise and the one you hate but love the results?

Currently, my favorite exercise is any variation of squats. Squats are awesome because since they incorporate such big muscles, it burn tons of calories and a proper squat can also work the core and other parts of the body besides the lower. Plus, it shapes the Glutes nicely. I seem to always find a way to add in some squats daily. I have developed a love /hate relationship with the burpees lately. Burpees are EXCELLENT for total body conditioning. There are so many variations! It works almost every single muscle in the body. I love them because I know they are effective but I hate them because they easily wear me out.

Any words of wisdom that you would like to add.

I would like to add that fitness/healthy living is a personal choice. YOUR BODY. YOUR DRIVE. YOUR RESULTS. Please know that you are and should always remain your own competition. Strive to be better each day than the day before. Set small goals for yourself and find ways to accomplish those goal. It is ok to admire and be motivated by others, but, please do not compare yourself to others in this journey. Each individual has their own story and history. Celebrate YOUR accomplishments be it small or big.

With the craze of social media and “fitness models” on the internet, people tend to want to look like these models and look for quick fixes to get there.. Well the truth is there is NO PILL, NO TEA, NO WRAP, NO CREAM OR WAIST TRAINER that can take the place of eating healthy and moving the body. The only way to a fitter body is to put in some hard a** work and a balanced clean diet. .

You can find Akua all over the web:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Emails: akua@bodybyakuafitness.com

akuaboakye79@gmail.com

Fun Friday: What’s In Your Glass?

Posted on 23 July, 2015 by admin

It’s National Tequila Day and it’s Friday. Those two things sound like fun to me. There are so many yummy cocktail recipes with tequila as the staple ingredient. And, believe it or not tequila is no longer just for drinks. After doing some research I literally found 200+ Tequila Recipes. These three made the top of my list.

Windy Kitchen’s Slow Cooker Tequila Lime Chili

Martha Stewart’s Tequila-Soaked Watermelon Wedges

All Recipe’s Tequila Sunrise

Photo Source: 1 2 3

This week’s Freebie Friday: A Printable Drink Card

What is your favorite Tequila Cocktail or Recipe?

Creating A Space You Love

Posted on 21 July, 2015 by admin

Are you anything like me? Do you spend hours pouring over the pages of Home Decor Magazines looking for ideas to make your house a home? One of the very first magazine subscriptions that I purchased was Real Simple. I received that magazine for years, before I moved into a home of my own. I loved to see how people created spaces that reflected their personalities but that were still livable and inviting. Once I had a family of my very own, it was very important to me that the home we live in was both comfortable and staged. To that end, I feel like our home is always a work in progress.

Without the funds to just walk into Haverty’s and have their stylist design rooms for us, we literally have taken our time and piece by piece have watched our vision come together. I am always on the hunt for something that looks like this, at that price. Treasure hunting on a budget, I guess. Some mornings I walk down the stairs and I’m tickled pink at just how things are working out. Some mornings, I wish I could scrap the whole thing and start over. But, it has definitely become a passion project for me. Friends and Family that pop by are always telling us how they love the way we decorate our home, and inquire as to where we got this piece or that piece. And, I have to laugh because I know how many hidden treasures we have stashed in closets that we thought were the way to go and then turned out they weren’t. I think we could probably style a small apartment with some of the things we have stored away.

I was blessed to find a hubby who seems to love this kind of thing as much as I do, or maybe he is just humoring his high brow wife. (I hope that isn’t the case.) But, I dare say that he has come home with just as many finds as me, if not more. We don’t always see each others visions, but we agree that we both have to love it, for it to find a permanent place in our home.

Apparently, even the Pro’s take this approach when designing their own homes or homes for their clients. Check out this post by three of my favorite blogs Life on Virginia Street Effortless Style and The Blissful Bee titled From the Magazine to the Pages of Your Home.

Looking for More Inspiration that literally springs from the pages of a Magazine? Elements of Style shows us how she pulled inspiration from House Beautiful to come up with A Boathouse of One’s Own.

Lastly, Destiny from Just Destiny Mag, lays down the law on how she Creates a Meaningful Home in this awesome blog featured on Jenna Burger’s Blog.

It’s definitely easy to get overwhelmed with the process, as with anything else but the rules for us are pretty simple, fill your home with things that you love and things that make you happy.

For a Glimpse Into Our World, Check Out Our Fall Home Tour here or Our Spring Mini Home Tour here.

Stage Presents

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“You’re Off To Great Places. Today is Your Day. Your Mountain is Waiting, So Get On Your Way.” – Dr. Seuss

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