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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Friday Favorites, Shay ·

Friday Favorites!


Today, I’m linking up with my friends Andrea, Erika and Narci and sharing our favorite things on this Friday.
It’s an extra fabulous Friday Favorites because I’m doing a little giveaway…which leads me to Favorite #1…
I’m giving away a $100 Erin Condren gift card to one lucky winner!  
With this gift card, you can buy whatever you like off of her fabulous site…but if it were me, I’d get a Life Planner plus some extra goodies.  My Life Planner came last week and I’m in love!!
This year, they have a new “square” photo front (which is perfect for Instagram pictures!).  Isn’t it just so happy?!?  I’ve always had pics of my family on the front of mine but this version just might be my favorite (there are so many options for covers…seriously, a bazillion options!).

A few weeks ago when these planners came out, some of you asked to see inside of mine.  I found a page in my last one (above) that I could show you and then from my new one (below).

I typically write a lot more inside of mine…but you know, that’s kind of personal, so I didn’t want to put it on my blog ;).  I picked two pages that were pretty blank so that you can see.  I write down every little detail plus cute things my kids say or do and other stuff.  I also add stickers to mine.  The planner is already happy…but when I add extra stickers, it really makes my little ole self feel even happier ;).

In the back of each planner are blank pages…
…and I love these pages too!  I use a sheet for each kids’ birthday parties, for my Christmas party, I write down every Christmas gift I buy back here…seriously, my life is in this planner.
So, enter the Rafflecopter below and maybe you’ll win!  If not, you should totally check out Erin’s site and look around.  Three years and counting and I promise you…this planner is all I use.

I also wanted to share a favorite from a reader of mine.  Sweet Tiffany sent me the link to her and her daughters’ stamp jewelry site and I thought I would share…
…so pretty, right?  If you look at Tiffany’s FB page, you’ll see that they stamp a variety of things from charms to bottle openers and more!

Many of you asked for more details about our stay in Mexico.  I guess I came home in such a relaxed and chill mode that I breezed right over that for ya.  I’ve updated the post with my thoughts on this particular resort but I’ll add them here too so you don’t have to click over…
Several friends told us to stay at the El Dorado Casitas Royale in Riviera Maya, so that’s what we did.  Some basic facts:
1. It was only an hour and 45 minute flight from Dallas to Cancun.
2. Once in Cancun, it only took about 18 to 20 minutes to drive from the airport to the resort.  It was a really easy drive straight down the highway from the airport to the resort.
3. You can purchase transfers from the hotel before you go so that when you arrive, a van or car is waiting to take you there and you don’t have to use a cab.
What we loved about the resort:
1. Friendly staff that was very helpful!
2. Our room was very nice, clean, comfortable with all of the modern amenities you would expect from a nice hotel.
3. This is an all-inclusive that is known for their spa and food…and they were both excellent.
4. There were a wide variety of restaurants to choose from plus cafes, bars, and room service.  The portions were small, but it was all you can eat everywhere you went.  I really enjoyed every meal I ate.
5. I thought the spa was very nice and affordable.  They offered a wide variety of spa services with a very knowledgeable staff.  As far as spa prices go, I think it was moderately priced.
6. They made transportation around the expansive resort easy with drivers that were located throughout that would take you places on golf carts free of charge. If you didn’t want to walk, there was always a driver nearby that would assist you.
Things I didn’t really love:
1. We ordered room service for breakfast both mornings we were there and it took forever.  The first morning, it took almost an hour and the second morning…it took 2.5 hours (YES!).
2. I hate to say this…but it wasn’t the prettiest beach.  The resort and pools were gorgeous but the actual beach and oceanfront was less than desirable (not white sandy beaches).  We overheard several people grumbling the same thing.  My kids would have been very disappointed. (And I know time of year and weather conditions play a factor…so it could be more clear and prettier other times.)
3. Andrew and I enjoy water sports and they weren’t easily accessible.  When I go to the beach, I want to be able to walk right out and paddle board, snorkel or use a jet ski, but it wasn’t convenient. 
So, there you have it!  Would I go back?  Yes!  For a weekend, it was a great pick for us because of it’s convenience.  We really just wanted a nice pool to sit by with good food and a massage…and this resort scored all three.
I hope this helps answer any of your questions!
Do you guys know who Samantha Brown is?  I’ve always wanted her job…
…sigh.  Traveling around the world and reporting back on the Travel Channel.  That would be a sweet gig :).

If you missed my July 4th recipe roundup, you can see it here.  Everything is red, white, blue and delicious!  
I received this email this week from Laura…
She’s referring to this shirt…
…it’s still on sale for only $12.90!  It comes in a variety of stripes and solids.  Best deal of the summer!  And even though they’re not on sale today…I still love my Converse too :).

I mentioned on Wednesday that I’ve been making homemade popsicles with these crazy kids of mine and several of you wanted to know which molds we used.
Last summer, I bought a Zoku and really didn’t use it very often because it was hard getting them out and hard to clean.  If you have Zoku tips, I would LOVE them!  So, this year, I bought these Norpro molds off of Amazon and have already used them several times.  They are really easy to use, freeze and wash.  I’m going to share our favorite combinations soon but for now, here are my favorite tips (gathered from the Amazon reviews and applied myself)…
1. Spray the inside of the molds with cooking spray.
2. Don’t fill the molds to the top with liquid (allow about an inch).
3. Wait 45 minutes after they’ve been in the freezer before inserting the wooden sticks.
4. I think freezing them at least 7 hours is ideal (if you remove them too soon, they get stuck).
5. run the bottom of the mold under very hot water for about 30 seconds and then the popsicles slide right out.
This has been such a fun little thing to do with my kiddos!  They have gone bananas for weird combinations and creating.  Love, love, love!
On your grill this weekend (to go with your homemade popsicles!)…
…my Jalapeno Cheddar Burgers!
Happy Friday friends!  
Don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win the $100 Erin Condren gift card!
xoxo
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Comments

  1. kimm atwood says

    Super cute t shirt and I wear my monogrammed converse all the time! love!!! Have a great weekend

  2. Anonymous says

    Hi Shay! I forgot to comment Wednesday & ask 2 things about that photo of y'all in China—1. Do your black hunter boots "bloom"? You know that white stuff that appears? What do you do to yours to keep them glossy like when they are brand new?
    2. Also, could you please tell me the name of your black northface jacket?! I'm hoping to snag that one during this years anniversary sale!
    Thanks for the help!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      I use Goo Gone (found at the grocery store or Walmart) on my boots and they shine right up! Just a quarter sized amount per boot gets them all nice and clean. And I'm going to have to get back to you on the jacket…I don't know??? I looked online but I'm not 100% sure which style it is. I'll let you know!

    • Anonymous says

      Thank you! Ill keep checking back about the jacket!
      Good to know about goo gone. I bought the pricier hunter boot rubber buffer spray, and they look ok for a couple days, but then go back to blooming again. Any thoughts on this, or how long does your goo gone give you shine for? (Anyone else out there with tips on this too?! I'd love to read….)
      Thanks for all the help!

  3. Erika Slaughter says

    A big YUM to those burgers and the Popsicles!! I completely agree on those Halogen tees so cute and so comfy!!

  4. Eileen says

    Love Erin Condren planners! I just ordered mine the other day and chose the same picture cover you did. Can't wait for mine to arrive!

  8. The Abramowski Family says

    I love the EC planners! Can you tell me how many of the lined notebook pages are in the back this year?

  9. Natalie says

    If you go back to Mexico and want a beautiful beach try Secrets Maroma Beach in the Riviera. Amazing! I hope I win the life planner. I cannot live without mine!

    • Susanne says

      I was going to suggest the same resort! Wasn't it awesome?!? Didn't want to leave.

  10. Whitney Plunkett says

    I love my EC life planner and I also put my whole life inside!! I also use the teacher lesson planner. I need to get one before August! Thanks for sharing your Friday Favs! 🙂

  11. Lindsay Otis says

    Your planner is way more organized that mine! I scribble things down constantly lol. Excited for your Popsicle post!

  13. Alaleh says

    Speaking of Samantha Brown and traveling…check out Lesley Murphy (Sean's season) Instagram page! I'm in the wronggg profession ;)) I'm a teacher and the Erin Condren planner was a life saver this year!!! Thanks for introducing!

  15. Anonymous says

    I purchased both "slim snack by Green Paxx" and "KitchCo Silicone Ice Pop/popsicle molds" form Amazon and we love them both. The set of 4 by Green Paxx are nicer, but the others come in a set of 8 for a similar price. They are push pop style so all of the mess from the melting pop stays in the mold rather than dripping on my children. Plus I'll be able to use the molds for lunchbox snacks for school once popsicle season is over. Our favs lately have been pouring any leftover breakfast smoothie in the molds or just juice. Pour in, put in my chest freezer and we have frozen pops by afternoon! So easy and fun!
    Angel

  18. Sarah says

    I have been wanting an Erin Condren life planner for like 3 years now. Maybe this year will finally be the year! Also, going to buy one of those shirts right NOW!

  19. Jersey Love says

    I loooooooved my Erin Condren life planner that I finally bought myself last year! It's such a fun way to stay organized! I haven't decided if I want to spend the money on another one just yet, but I'm leaning toward it.
    And I could EASILY have a job where I travel the world and report back what I like/don't like! Or – I always said I could be Tom Cruise in Cocktail… ahh the dream life 😉
    Happy Weekend ~ Tiffany

  20. Britton @ Southern Wife French Twist says

    Oh man, Samantha Brown… My absolute dream job. I had to stop watching her show because I was so envious!

  21. Anonymous says

    Thanks for the details on the resort! I love hearing reviews like this. It really helps me when I'm exploring vacation options! Off to buy that shirt!! $12.90 is a bargain 😉

  23. Simply Sunflour says

    AHHHH Erin Condren. Her planner makes me WAY too giddy on the inside. Definitely need one of those Halogen Tees apparently too…. Happy Friday!

  24. Liz says

    Hi, Shay! I was excited to see that you all went to the El Dorado Casitas. You sent us to El Dorado Royale for our ten year wedding anniversary. I would have to agree with everything you said, but I wonder if those two resorts are the same. Or at least close to each other. We had a fabulous time and it was so relaxing. We would love to go back again for a few days to recharge. 🙂

  25. absees123s says

    I have never commented before, but have been an avid reader for about a year. I LOVE your blog! I so would love to win that Erin Condren GC…I'm a K teacher and haven't ordered mine yet for this coming year (I have ordered for the past 4 years and some of the best money I've ever spent!) I also ordered one of those t-shirts and am sooooo excited! On sale too…SCORE!! TY so much!

  26. Claudia says

    I've been eyeing those tees and now have been convinced to finally make the purchase! Do you buy regular or petite size?

  27. kj7 says

    It's ironic that this is today's post….I was in the elevator yesterday explaining to someone that my life was logged in my paper calendar that I carry everywhere I go. The man was laughing at me for being old fashioned and not keeping it all in my iphone. I might just be compelled to purchase on now. Have a blessed and fruitful day!

  28. Candice Ibarra says

    Thank you soooo much for that giveaway Shay! I actually emailed you about the Erin Condren life planners a couple of weeks ago but unfortunately realized I couldn't afford it right now. Definitely seems like they're worth the investment!!

  32. Mysavinggrace says

    Thank you so much for including Stamp Haven in on your Friday Favorites. I appreciate it so much!

    xoxo,

    Tiffany

  33. Erin P. says

    Absolutely love reading your blog, Shay! As a young girl in college, it's so inspiring to see someone like you living such a happy and fun-filled life! I love keeping up with all of your tips and organization techniques 🙂 I just ordered my life planner too, can't wait for it to arrive! Just wanted to say that I LOVE reading your blog and hope to live a life as happy and fun as yours when I'm married and have kids one day 🙂

    Oh and I have noticed that you love Christmas – ME TOO! Can't wait for all of your Christmas blogging 🙂

  34. Erin P says

    Hi Shay! I absolutely love your blog! I have been reading it for a while now and as a college girl, I love reading all of your deals and tips on beauty and style 🙂 It's so inspiring to see someone living such a happy and fun-filled life! I only hope to live a life like yours someday! I love that you post about your faith and relationships – it helps a lot, as I am trying to grow in my faith as well! Anyways, I just wanted to let you know that I love reading your blog and keeping up with all of your posts and tips on life 🙂

    P.S. I just ordered my life planner too! I LOVE THEM!

    – Erin

  35. Anonymous says

    The planners are cute, but not enough space for my 2 teenagers activities PLUS my one year old. Lol. Hoping she corrects this at some point! I hear mom agenda is good. Do you know anything about those?

  36. Lindsay F. says

    Oh my I LOVE Erin Condren!! I am dying to get my hands on her new Teacher Lesson Planner coming out in July, this gift card would be amazing!! 🙂 xoxo

  38. Jen R says

    I have had THE HARDEST time finding Popsicle molds that actually work when you try to pull them out! and I am loving that shirt too! I think a trip to nordstrom is in order… except it's in orlando. and i don't like driving to orlando. But maybe a shopping trip is in order since I need some new work clothes when school starts back up!

  39. Jen R says

    p.s… they don't' have ANY colors in a medium in that shirt. Of course. The one one time I decide to just get it online. lol

  41. Anonymous says

    I have enjoyed reading your blog ( and several of your friends' blogs) for the last 7 months. It feels so funny to feel like I know you! Yesterday I was talking to someone about something from your blog and I said, " My friend…" and then I was embarrassed to say," well, I don't really know her…" LOL
    The giveaway sounds wonderful! asu
    asumom29@gmail.com

  42. Becky Reid says

    Thanks for sharing your fav's this week! I am in NEED of an EC life planner. You should see the calendar on my iPhone. It's starting to get too overwhelming 😉 Happy Weekend!

  43. Angela Ellingson says

    I'm in the middle of my second EC planner thanks to you… Life changing! Love the Halogen shirts, too! Looking forward to your popsicle post. My 4-year-old keeps asking to make them. 🙂

  45. Minda Kincaid says

    I tried commenting once before, but I don't think it went through for some reason. Anyways, I think that next Summer you should do a small Mix and Match edition of your Popsicle recipes! Similar to all of your different bars and bundt cake recipes, but a smaller amount obviously and specifically just for Summer time. Maybe they could be a little bonus recipe each week during your Meal Planning Monday? Just a suggestion (: Hope you have a great day!

  48. Megan Martinez says

    Shay, I bought the halogen tees in a small because I think we are the same size, but my smells feel sooo big. I washed them and they're still very big. Does yours fit baggy too?

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