DeDivahDeals

Fashion and Fun after Fifty

Taco Salad | Friday Foodie Feature

Hello Friends and Happy Fri-Yay!

Today’s Friday Foodie Feature is dedicated to  

MY BEST FRIEND FOR LIFE, KAREN!

HAPPY 53RD BIRTHDAY KAREN!

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAREN!

In the late 80’s, my hubby who at the time was my fiance and I went to Fort Lee, NJ, to visit her at her mother’s house.  She had just flown in from Cali with her first born son, RJ and for lunch she made a Taco Salad.  Neither one of us had ever had it and it was also the first time I had ever eaten an avocado.  I fell in love with the recipe and over the years, have made it during the warmer months.  Last week when I chose to make it for this week’s feature I didn’t realize that it would be on her Birthday!  Further proof that we were meant to be friends for life!

Taco Salad with Black Beans

 

This is such an easy-to-prepare salad and my men simply loves it, Malik was having a fit because he had to wait until I took the pictures!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Ground Turkey – fully cooked

  • 1 package Taco Seasoning

  • 1 Can of Black Beans

  • Iceberg Lettuce – shredded

  • 1/2 Avocado – diced

  • 1 Package of Cherry Tomatoes – halved

  • 1 Cup of Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese

  • Catalina Dressing

  • Tortilla Chips

  • OPTIONS: Cilantro, Black Pepper, Hot Sauce, Sour Cream

Ingredients for Taco Salad

Thoroughly cook the Ground Turkey then add Taco Seasoning and 1/3 cup of water – preparing according to package directions.

Wash veggies, cut tomatoes in half, shred the lettuce and dice the avocado.  Drain and rinse can of black beans.

Wash all veggies and rinse and drain black beans

 

Put lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and black beans into a bowl and top with taco seasoned ground turkey.

Add veggies and black beans into a bowl

Add taco seasoned ground beef to bowl

Pour in just enough Catalina dressing to lightly coat then mix.

Serve with Tortilla Chips and top with options - sour cream and hotsauce

Serve with Tortilla Chips and top with options, sour cream and Hot Sauce.

Thank you Karen for introducing me to this salad and thank you for being my friend!

Best Friends for Life

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Don’t forget to come back at 6:00 p.m. for the #WWDParty!

 

 


No Sag Search | Unbelievabra.com

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post for unbelievabra.com for which I will receive compensation, all opinions are 100% my own.

You think that at my age I would have been able to find the perfect bra, after all I’ve been wearing one for over 40 years. I remember my first lacy training bra, it itched to no end, but I was happy because I was wearing a bra. After training the tata’s I moved on to the real deal, a big girl’s bra, with hooks and no itchy lace. Despite that I’ve never been able to find one that fits in all areas…the front, the back, and the sides. I want one that doesn’t pinch or poke, one that has straps that won’t slide down my arm, oh, and it has to look sexy and be easy to wash.

Am I asking for too much?

Just the other day, I looked in the mirror and could have sworn that I was looking at my grandmother! The bra I had on didn’t have any support, the fabric was frayed and I was sagging – remind you of anyone?

Maxine bra shopping

You know thrifty me, I’ve gone the cheap route when purchasing bras, but I’ve also gone the expensive route getting fitted and everything but after awhile they don’t fit right. I am now on a mission to find the perfect bra before my 53rd birthday, and I’m starting online at unbelievabra.com

I checked out the website and have chosen the Silkee Short Minimizer because it’s advertised as having a smooth design, so there will be no unsightly lines, makes you look slimmer – a definite plus AND straps that will never fall down – ding…ding…ding, ladies

Silkee Short Minimizer I think we have a winner!

What about you, do you have the perfect fitting bra?

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You Choose The Shoes | Week 2

Hello Friends and Happy Hump Day!

The winner of last week’s “You Choose the Shoe” was the

Polka Dot Pumps from DSW!  

 

You Choose the Shoe

Now it’s week 2 so it’s time for you to choose this week’s shoe, and no, I haven’t gotten a pedicure yet so don’t look too hard!

Fioni Blue from Kmart

Will it be the blue Fioni Pumps from Kmart

or

Grey pump from Ross

Grey Pump from Ross Dress for Less?

You Choose the Shoe!

Both the top and skirt has been in my closet for such a long time that I can’t remember where purchased. I think the bracelet set was purchased either at Rugged Wearhouse or Burlington Coat Factory.

You choose the shoes week 2 020

Have you decided yet?

Look Down at the Shoes

Look down at the shoes…

Now look up at the outfit

…Now look up at the outfit

Which one did you choose

Okay, Which Shoes Did You Choose?

The winner will be revealed next week!

I’ll be linking up with Whitney Nic James, so come on over when you get a chance.  

Stay Blessed ~ No Stress in 2014!

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Not Officially Named Hog Heaven Thrift Shop

Who doesn’t love a good Vintage Thrift Shop?
Everytime I see a sign for one, I immediately think of Macklemore and this song.
You all know that I am a self proclaimed Goodwill frugal fashionista and I also enjoy visiting Consignment Shops however, this was my first time at a locally owned thrift shop.  “Not officially named, Hog Heaven“, recently opened and it’s less than a mile from my job but with all the bad winter weather, I never ventured out at lunch to check it out.
That changed 2 weeks ago and I am glad that I finally ventured out.  This Thrift Shop is two floors of Estate Goods at Yard Sale prices, and it just might turn into a bi-weekly outing because they get “new” stuff in all the time.
  Thrift Shop

Not offically named Hog Heaven” which by the way is what they call it because they haven’t officially named it, is located on 510 Lancaster Avenue, Frazer PA and is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10-6.  The thrift shop is so new that I had to add it to my Foursquare check in.

Upon entering this cash only shop I was immediately transported back to my “Cousin Bessie’s” house in Port Chester, NY.  It’s like walking into your grandma’s or auntie’s living room and parlor.  You remember the rooms that you were not allowed to enter because of all the glass knick knacks.

As a small child you couldn’t help but be amazed as your senses were overwhelmed by the colorful candy dishes, pictures, pottery, dolls, cups with saucers and an array of bric-a’-brac displayed throughout the room

 

Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop This shop is truly a thrifter’s paradise and as we “oohed and aahed” looking at the little trinkets on display I couldn’t keep from laughing with the thought that I too have several similar pieces at home, just not enough to open my own thrift shop. (hubby might disagree).

The living room and parlor contained so many vintage items that it brought back fond memories of my childhood growing up, there was even a scrubbing board.  The lovely shopkeeper, Donna was such a pleasant person and she introduced us to Ms. Lilly Langtry, a transplant from Jersey!

Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop
 
I only purchased a few few mason jars for an upcoming DIY, but I’ll definitely be back in search of patio decorations as well as to simply enjoy a few moments of nostalgia.
Mason Jars for a DIY
Do you enjoy thrift shops, if so, what do you look for?
Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop Hog Heaven Vintage Shop
Hog Heaven Vintage Shop
Hog Heaven Vintage Shop
What were you favorite vintage pieces?

Will You Cry If I Die? | Random Thought

I’ll admit it, I am a big cry baby, I used to cry at the drop of a hat, but then again I’ve had a lot to cry about over the years.  My husband, not so much. I can count on 1 hand just how many times I’ve seen him cry and I think the number may be close to if not zero, he said it has been more, but I’m talking about “boo hoo” crying.

Our oldest son is just like him, he would drop a few tears every now and then if he got into trouble as a young kid.  Now, my youngest son, had he been a girl, I would have dubbed him a “Drama Queen”.  Like me, he can cry in a New York minute, mostly to get out of trouble, but I’ve seen him cry at funerals so some of those tears have been genuine.

I want to ask my husband and oldest son, “will you cry if I die?”

Will You Cry If I Die?

 I guess I should go ask them…hold on…I’ll be right back…

Please Stand By

…Okay, I’m back and they both said, “yes” but not until after they looked at me as if I had two heads! I told you, it was just a random thought!

Goodnight!

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wine.com


Homelite Pressure Washer | Unsolicited Product Review

Hello Friends and Happy Saturday!

Last weekend was absolutely gorgeous, and I as well as most of the neighbors were outside working on our lawns and gardens. I also had to head over to Home Depot to replace a Pressure Washer which had been broken for years, and get new seat cushions for the patio furniture.  

Hubby isn’t fully recovered yet so I had to make the purchase as well as put it together myself.  Knowing that there are other woman who may need to do the same, I decided to do an unsolicited review on the process.

Homelite Pressure Washer Review

I purchased the Homelite Gas Pressure Washer for $299.00 and a bottle of Zep Pressure Washing Concentrate

Years of dirt and grime

This is what the concrete on the front stoop looked like due to years of neglect…a major build up of dirt and grime..not very welcoming!

Almost fully assembled

I loved the fact that the pressure washer was packaged almost fully assembled.

Remaining pieces

The remaining items in the box were the hose, wand, handle, bottle of oil, nozzles, warranty information and directions.

Nozzle instructions printed on the back

There’s also an instruction sheet adhered to the back of the pressure washer for easy reference.

Attaching water hose

It was easy to attach the handle and hose

Attach garden hose

as well as to attach the household garden hose.

Add oil  It comes with a bottle of oil and a paper funnel, which I didn’t see until after I used this Dollar store plastic funnel which we keep in the garage.

oil tank is clearly marked Location of oil tank is clearly marked.

Homelite Pressure Washer Review

After all hoses are attached, fill tank with gasoline, 

Add Zep All in One Concentrate add Zep All in One Soap Concentrate.

Turn switch to "On", slide to "Chock" and Pull Turn switch to “on”, slide to “choke” and pull the starter cord, then push switch from “choke” to “run”. It was an easy starter pull unlike the older models.

The nozzles are color coded and the reference sheet is attached to pressure washer

The nozzles are color coded and there’s a reference card attached to the handle of pressure washer.

Choose correct nozzle for the job

Always choose the correct nozzle for the job, check reference card for determination.

Once I got the hang of it, I started cleaning the brick wall

Once I got the hang of it, I used it to clean the brick wall as well.

Only complaint - cheap plastic cover ripped - not sure how because I didn't drag the pressure washer

My only complaint was the cheap plastic covering the hose, it ripped.  I am not sure how because I don’t remember dragging it across the concrete.

I give it a B grade

 

I could have done a better job, but started getting tired however, it does look much better.  Next weekend I’ll do the vinyl siding and patio furniture, then on to the pool area.  

What are your major outdoor chores for the summer?

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Weekend Wind-Down Party | Bloggers Networking

 

Hello Friends and Happy Good Fri-Yay!

I trust you all had a wonderful week despite the fact that Tuesday was Tax Day.  Unfortunately, we owe money to Uncle Sam so at 7:00 p.m. I was in line at the Post Office mailing in a payment.  Oh well, it could be worse so I am not going to complain too loudly about it.  

Saturday I went to Home Depot and purchased patio cushions for the deck furniture and a new Pressure Washer, something we desperately needed, stay tuned for an unsolicited product review.  Oh and I finally received my “Blogger” license plate – I am super excited and proud to advertise my blog daily across two states.

Blogger Tags

 

This weekend the weather won’t be as nice, but we will be outside cleaning out the garage and shoveling mulch…thank goodness it’s not snow!  

Now on to this week’s Featured Bloggers

Barbie Bieber and Beyond

Barbie Bieber and Beyond

Some of the Best Things in Life Are Mistakes

Some of the Best Things in Life Are Mistakes

Its Always Ruetten

Its Always Ruetten

Redo It Yourself Inspirations

Redo It Yourself Inspirations

Yesterfood

Yesterfood

Kennary

Kennary

Congratulations to you all, please feel free to copy and paste this button onto your blog.  Check out our Pinterest Page as you are also featured there.

I WAS FEATURED #WWDPARTY

Since this is Good Friday I know most of you are off from work and doing other things, but please take a few minutes to visit a few other blogs as well as those of your hosts.

WWDParty Rules

Weekend Wind-Down Hosts

This Simple Home

Blog/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Google+

De Divah Deals

Blog/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Google+/LinkedIn/

Instagram

Snippets of Inspiration

Blog/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Google+

A Living Sacrifice

Blog/Facebook/Pinterest/Etsy/LinkedIn

Mustard Seed Mommy

Blog/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Google+/Instagram

Moms Who Save

Blog/Facebook/Twitter/Pinterest/Google+/Instagram

Have a blessed weekend!



No Bake Mini Cherry Cheesecakes

By now, most of you know that I am a self-proclaimed “Crock Pot Queen” and very seldom do I do any baking.  I don’t have much of a sweet tooth and most of my cakes have been flops.  However, this week I decided to try a no-bake Cheesecake and I must admit that it was easy breezy good!  

Ingredients:

  • 1 package of mini Ready Crust Graham Cracker Crusts
  • 1 – 8 oz package of cream cheese – softened
  • 1 – 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/3 cup lemon juice
  • 1 can cherry pie filling

 

Ingredients for no bake cheese cake

I had hubby take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator several hours before I got home to ensure it was room temperature soft. Put the cream cheese in a bowl along with the sweetened condensed milk and beat with a hand mixer until fluffy.

Beat softened cream cheese with condensed milk

Stir in 1/3 cup of lemon juice

Add 1/3 cup of lemon juice

 

Spoon Cream Cheese mixture into Graham Cracker Crusts

Spoon mixture into crust and top with cherry filling

Chill at least 3 hours and enjoy

Chill at least 3 hours in the refrigerator, then enjoy!  Didn’t I tell you it was easy breezy!

Enjoy!

What is your favorite no-bake dessert, and no, Oreo cookies don’t count!


Thankful Thursday | Emotional Week

Hello Friends and Happy Thankful Thursday!

Last week was an emotional roller coaster filled with both highs and lows. Monday, I taught a Blogging 201 class:Monetizing Your Blog, and it was a full house despite the torrential downpour of rain.

At the Bear Library

Everyone was enthusiastic, asked questions and participated in lively discussions, it was one of the best classes to date.  Thank you again Money School of Delaware for giving me this opportunity not only to share knowledge but to sharpen my skills and expand my base.

OOTD

Teaching again is helping to lay the foundation for my 5-year plan leading up to retirement/encore entrepreneurship.

April 2014 004

 My outfit of the day was a black pencil skirt with floral embroidery thrifted from Goodwill, a sleeveless mock neck tank also thrifted from and faux snakeskin pumps via Target.

Teaching Blogging 201 at Bear Library

On Thursday, I wore another black pencil skirt but this one was from JCPenney and the striped top is from Old Navy.

Basic Black shirt doing double duty

I broke up the classic black and white combination with a pop of red in the Caliente pumps from The Shoe Dept and a red plastic bracelet from Rugged Wearhouse.

 

Scarf from Avon

The polka dot scarf was a recent purchase from Avon.  By the way, if you are looking to update your fragrances or cosmetics Avon has some great deals going on, some even includes FREE shipping, click here for more information.

Top from Old Navy

Thursday was also my sister’s birthday, had she lived, she would have been 51 – Not A Day Goes By….

I miss my sis Gloria

Although, I am thankful that I had her 29 years, I still feel that she is gone too soon – Rest in Peace Lil Sis!

Your turn, what are you thankful for this week?

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