5 Easy Salad Tricks to Make Greens Healthier More Colorful and Delicious

Good Food

Guest Post
by Jewel, Mom of 3 at What About Mommys 

All images by MommyBlogExpert

So salads... it's either you love them or you don't! Most times people lean toward the second choice. But guess what? Salad can truly not only be healthy, but also a yummy experience. Salads are excellent for proper digestion, fiber, and to aid in lowering bad cholesterol levels as well. And mommies, it's also one of the simplest and quickest ways to get your daily servings of fruits and veggies too.

Avocados, Nuts, Cranberries elevate salad, MommyBlogExpert.com

So why is it so difficult to incorporate at least one salad into your day? I'm glad you asked because I truly believe that the taste has a lot to do with it. Healthy food should not only always look appetizing, it ought to taste really good, too. 

Without further adieu, here are some super easy ways for you to get creative with your salads to add some color, texture, and plain old pizzazz.




Bell Peppers add color, health to salads, MommyBlogExpert.com

5 Ways to spruce up your salads

1. Sprinkle some cheese. Parmesan or goat cheese are our faves, but you could always select one that you like best. Cheese just gives your salad a delicious kick! 

2. Add some fruit! Whether you do fresh fruit, or dried ones. Strawberries, blueberries, citrus, and apples are some excellent choices. Fruit helps to give your salads a sweet and delicious touch. It's like a savory treat!

3. Toss in some crackers or pita chips! Healthy crackers or pita chips give you that little extra crunchy bite, that your salad might be lacking. 

4. Drizzle some grape seed oil & sprinkle some sea salt. This combo will truly take your salads to another yummy level! And it's great for any kind of salad as well.

5. Nutty it and seed it up! Almonds, pecans, walnuts, pine nuts or sunflower seeds are all great additions to your bowl of goodness. Add them for some delicious and nutritious fun! 

Fresh Herbs add a delish salad twist, MommyBlogExpert.com

Mommies, as you can see, your healthy lifestyle can also be an enjoyable experience. Be encouraged to stay on track and incorporate some salads in there too! We hope that these salad spruce up ideas truly encourage and inspire you in the times when you feel like calling it quits! Keep going because your health and fitness is super duper important not only to you personally, but also to the family that is depending on you.

About the Author
Forida-based What About Mommys gives moms encouragement as well as advice on healthy living, fashion, travel and having fun. Learn more by visiting WhatAboutMommys.com and by following this blog on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram.

FTC Disclosure:  What About Mommys provided the written content for this story. No payment or other compensation was exchanged in connection with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's home page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Wearable Tech Fashion: How to Be Stylish in the Twenty-First Century

Fashion

As technology becomes a more prevalent part of life, it’s also becoming a more prevalent part of your appearance. Staying up to date with today's trends isn't only about having the best technology and looking stylish -- it's about using the tech to benefit your family while feeling confident with your look. If you're seeking more convenience, easier multi-tasking or just more 'cool' points, the following tech accessories may help.

Smartwatch

One of the newest fads is the smartwatch. If you're tired of always checking your phone, it’s easy to wear a watch that syncs, via bluetooth, to your phone. For example, with the Samsung Gear S you can check your email and text messages and even reply with voice recognition software with just a couple commands and swipes of your finger.

However, smartwatches are still a new technology. This means that you need to find one that fits your needs. There are a lot of different options for smartwatches and smart gear, so it’s a good idea to look at the functionality of each device and make an informed decision. Some smartwatches are a little bulky on the wrist, but this may not be an issue if your normal watch is large as well. Regardless, there are enough options out there for you to find the style and functionality you’re looking for.

Edgy Laptop & Tablet Bags at Intl CES, MommyBlogExpert.com

Laptop Bag

Laptop bags come in many shapes, sizes and styles. Your kids might prefer a bag that is more like a backpack to carry books, pens, paper (yeah, some professors still require that stuff) and laptop. Laptop backpacks typically have a padded section for laptops and many have a smaller pocket for tablets, phablets and phones.

If you’re a working professional, a messenger bag might be more your style. Messenger bags are designed to be comfortable while riding bicycles with an extra strap to keep them from slipping from around your shoulder, but they also can be stylish if you walk or drive to work. Messenger bags feature slim pockets and padded compartments, but your back won’t be sweaty once you arrive at your destination like it would be with a backpack. Check for specialized bags at trusted and sturdy companies like Timbuk2 and Chrome.

Handbag Bluetooth Portable Speaker, MommyBlogExpert.com

Speakers

Bluetooth speakers are getting more and more affordable. So now, you just have to pick a style that matches your home's decor. For example, Bose has many different styles and colors of bluetooth speakers, and Sony can give you a more Zen look.

If you want to take your speakers to the next level, then you need water speakers. This type of speakers brings an instant party feel to your decor. Basically, these speakers illuminate water with LED lights over your speakers. As the music plays, the vibrations of the music make the water dance and light up in different colors. You can find water speakers at a host of different stores and websites, but, like any other product, doing some research is a good idea before you make the financial commitment.

FTC Disclosure: No payment or other compensation was exchanged in connection with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's home page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Twitter Party Calendar Feb 1-7 Schedule of Parties w/ Prizes - Continuous Updates

Twitter Parties

Constant Updates, Keep Checking Back + Sneak Peek at Future Weeks


Master Twitter Party Calendar - Including USA & Canada

Get all the details in this free constantly updated Master Twitter Chat Party Calendar listing tons of family friendly parties including specifics on prizes you can win and links to RSVP and participate. Includes Twitter Parties in the U.S. and Canada. A new weekly Twitter Party Schedule is published every Sunday at 9 am ET.

Be sure to check back often during each week as new events are added on an ongoing basis -- often with new prize-winning opportunities added several times per day. You'll also get a sneak peek at Twitter parties coming up next week and in the month ahead. Now listing Facebook, Pinterest and Google+ parties with prizes too.

Be the first to know when the latest Mommy Blog Expert Twitter Party schedule goes live by following MBE on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Google+ and/or subscribe now.

The majority of parties are for U.S. only, unless indicated otherwise. Look for highlights in pink for Twitter Parties where CANADA residents are eligible for prizes.


THIS WEEK

Sunday, February 1

Avocados from Mexico Twitter Party 2 to 4 pm ET with @avosfrommexico @fitfluential @mamavation and others. Prizes: TBA. #gno #FirstDraftEver RSVP

Monday, February 2

Crest Smile Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @smiley360. Prizes: EIGHT (8) Crest prize packs. #CrestSmile RSVP

Tuesday, February 3

Love More Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @sears @searsdeals. Prizes: $200 in prizes. #LoveMore RSVP

Weekly Cruise Chat Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @captainbirdie and others. Prizes: TBA. #CruiseChat 

DHL Rugby Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @listen2lena @brian_spanton @dhlexpresscan. Prizes: TBA - Canada residents ONLY eligible for prizes. #DHLRugby RSVP

National Cupcake Day Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @cpantazis @cupcakedayca. Prizes: Conair pet grooming kits, Cusinart stand mixers, 12-up muffin tins, Messy Bakers book - Canada residents ONLY eligible for prizes.#CupcakeDay RSVP

Skype MasterChef Junior Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @masterchefonfox @mombloggersclub @skypemoments. Prizes: ONE (1) Surface Pro 3, FIVE (5) $50 Skype vouchers. #SkypeMCJ RSVP

Disney Side Twitter Party with @momtalkradio at 8 pm ET. Prizes: TBA. #DisneySide Details

Wednesday, February 4

Muller Moment Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @mullerquaker @dawnchats @blueviolet and others. Prizes: ONE (1) $50 Walmart giftcard, FIVE (5) $100 Walmart GCs. #MullerMoment RSVP

V Day In Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @moderndaymoms. Prizes: $500 in gift cards. #VDayIn RSVP

Cold Sore Relief Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @smiley360. Prizes: Prize packs with a $25 giftcard + products. #ColdSoreRelief RSVP

We Heart FVs Twitter Party at 4 pm ET with @fruits_veggies @cannedfoodfan @nutritionjill. Prizes: TBA. #WeHeartFVs Details

Medjool Date Day Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @coryanneettiene. Prizes: $1200 in prizes, each question has a $600 prize attached - US & Canada residents eligible for prizes. No RSVP, participate in party with hashtag #MedjoolDateDay 

Seventh Son Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @mombloggersclub. Prizes: FIVE (5) movie posters signed by Ben Barnes, ONE (1) Grand Prize 3 months of MoviePass movies. #SeventhSon RSVP

Cans Get You Cooking Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @audreymcclellan @verasweeney and others. Prizes: FIVE (5) branded prize packs. Participate with hashtag #CansGetYouCooking Details 

Kay Jewelers TWitter Party at 8:30 pm ET with @dawnsandomeno @partybluprints @stacieinatlanta and others. Prizes: TWO (2) $400 Kay Jewelers giftcards, TWO (2) $200 Kay Jewelers GCs. #KayHints2Heart RSVP

SpongeBob Movie Twitter Party at 9 pm ET with @spongebobmovie @alliedhispanic @blogginmamas. Prizes: TWO (2) Grand Prize packages that include $100 American Express giftcard + Imaginext assorted character + Megabloks SpongeBob Movie assortment, ONE (1) $50 AmEx GC + Accutime Watch, ONE (1) $50 AmEx GC. #SpongeBobMovie RSVP  

Thursday, February 5

Warm Up Your Day Twitter Party at 11 am ET with @kellysluckyyou @laughwithusblog @candypo and others. Prizes: ONE (1) $50 Walmart giftcard and FIVE (5) $100 Walmart GCs. #WarmUpYourDay RSVP

SDCVDay Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @savings @debtfreespendin @inspiringsaving and others. Prizes: THREE (3) $20 giftcards from BH Cosmetics, ONE (1) $50 Shari's Berries giftcode, ONE (1) $50 Canvas on Demand giftcode, ONE (1) Topaz & Diamond heart necklace from World Jewels ARV $139,  ONE (1) gift of 2 free nights at Extended Stay America Hotels. #SDCVDay RSVP

Pull Ups Big Kid Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @pullupsbigkid @aleamilham @iamthemaven and others. Prizes: FIVE (5) prize packs that include $100 Kroger giftcard + Pull-Ups. #PUBigKid RSVP

Turbo Tax Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @clever_network @turbotax. Prizes: SIX (6) $50 VISA giftcards, ONE (1) $100 VISA GC. #Absolute0 RSVP

WWE Moms Twitter Party at 7 pm ET with @wwemoms @wegivebooks @firstbook. Prizes: FIVE (5) book bundles, ONE (1) gift of 50 books to winner's chosen state, ONE (1) Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker. #WWEMoms RSVP

Love Your Smile Twitter Party at 7 pm ET with @sunstargum @familyfocusblog. Prizes: Oral Care Products + $100 giftcard. Participate in party with hashtag #LoveYourSmile Details 

So Much More Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @johnsonsbaby @themotherhood. Prizes: FIVE (5) Johnson's Baby Gift Baskets. No RSVP, participate in party with hashtag #SoMuchMore

Our Real Strength Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @resourcefulmom. Prizes: FIVE (5) $100 Walgreens gift cards. #OurRealStrength RSVP

SpongeBob Game Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @stacieinatlanta @kellystilwell @7onashoestring and others. Prizes: TWENTY FIVE (25) SpongeBob HeroPants Games, FIVE (5) SpongeBob prize packs, FIVE (5) Deluxe SpongeBob prize packs. #SpongeBobGame RSVP

Let's Get Glam Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @moderndaymoms. Prizes: THREE (3) winners get a prize pack that includes $200 ULTA giftcard + various P&G products ARV $250. #ULTAGlam RSVP

National Mompreneurs Conference Twitter Party at 9 pm ET with @trueshieldsins @themompreneurtm @parentscanada and others. Prizes: $1500 in prizes including THREE (3) all-access passes to the National Mompreneurs Conference, ONE (1) iPod Nano and more - Canada residents ONLY eligible for prizes.  #MOMPconf RSVP

Big Lots Love Twitter Party at 9 pm ET with @biglots @amissiontosave. Prizes: THIRTY (30) $10 Big Lots giftcards, ONE (1) $200 Big Lots GC. #BigLotsLove RSVP

National Cupcake Day Twitter Party at 11 pm ET with @cpantazis @cupcakedayca. Prizes: TBA - Canada residents ONLY eligible for prizes. #CupcakeDay RSVP

Friday, February 6

Treat the Pups Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @pupperoni @milkbone @aboutamom and others. Prizes: ONE (1) $50 Walmart giftcard and FIVE (5) $100 Walmart GCs. #TreatthePups RSVP

Smartphone Photography Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @theonlinemom @robynsworld @geekbabe @thetechdad. Prizes. TBA. #VZWBuzz RSVP 

EB Chat Twitter Party at 6 pm ET with @eventbarkers @dogtipper @todogwithlove and others. Prizes: $1000 in dog friendly prizes - check out the RSVP link for details. #EBChat RSVP


NEXT WEEK

Sunday, February 8

Bio Seaweed Gel Facebook Party from 7 to 8:30 pm ET. Prizes: Over $1000 in prizes - US & Canada residents eligible for prizes. Details & RSVP

Monday, February 9

Snack Pack Mixins Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @conagrafoods @aleamilham @laughwithusblog and others. Prizes: ONE (1) $50 Walmart giftcard, FIVE (5) $100 Walmart GCs. #SnackPackMixins RSVP

Tuesday, February 10

Love Halos Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @halosfun @somedayilllearn. Prizes: $500 in VISA giftfcards. #LoveHalos RSVP

New Year Fortune Twitter Party at 1 pm ET with @taipeiasianfood @freebies4mom @iamthemaven and others. Prizes: ONE (1) $50 Walmart giftcards, FIVE (5) $100 Walmart GCs. #NewYearFortune RSVP

Weekly Cruise Chat Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @captainbirdie and others. Prizes: TBA. Participate in party with hashtag #CruiseChat

101 Dalmatians Sweeps Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @modernmom. Prizes: FIFTEEN (15) 101 Dalmatians Blu-ray DVD combos. #101DalmationsSweeps RSVP

SoFabU on the Road Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @themommyfiles @huppiemama @sofabuniversity and others. Prizes: ONE (1) $50 Johnny Rocket giftcard, FIVE (5) SoFabU on the Road passes ARV $99, ONE (1) $250 Walmart GC, ONE (1) 16 GB Mini Tablet ARV $399. #SoFabUOTR RSVP

Toppits Gluten Free Twitter Party at 8 pm ET with @toppitsfoods @mommykatandkids @momvstheboys and others. Prizes: Products, cookbooks, cooking utensils and more - Canada residents ONLY eligible for prizes. #ToppittsGlutenFree RSVP

Wednesday, February 11

Produce Hacks Twitter Party at 9 pm ET with @produceforkids @sunkist @cookthestory. Prizes: TBA. #ProduceHacks Details

Thursday, February 12

Love Day Disasters Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @momdotme. Prizes: THREE (3) $100 Amazon giftcards. #LoveDayDisasters RSVP

Pampers Primeras Veces Twitter Party at 9 pm ET with @latinamomblogs @latinomarketing @jollymom and others. Prizes: ONE (1) Canon T5 DSLR camera + Shutterfly giftware + Pampers, THREE (3) other prize packs including either a $25, $50 or $75 American Express GC + other great prizes for baby - See RSVP link for full prize details. #PampersPrimerasVeces RSVP 

Friday, February 13

Smartphone & Tablet Games Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @theonlinemom @robynsworld @geekbabe @thetechdad. Prizes. TBA. #VZWBuzz RSVP

COMING SOON

Tuesday, February 17

Weekly Cruise Chat Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @captainbirdie and others. Prizes: TBA. Participate in party with hashtag #CruiseChat

Friday, February 20

Digital Wellness Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @theonlinemom @robynsworld @geekbabe @thetechdad. Prizes. TBA. #VZWBuzz RSVP

Monday, February 23

Chosen Candy Twitter Party at 8:30 pm ET with @joyofkosher @mommyblogexpert and others. Prizes: TBA. Follow hashtag for #ChosenCandy for RSVP link soon 

Tuesday, February 24

 Weekly Cruise Chat Twitter Party at 2 pm ET with @captainbirdie and others. Prizes: TBA. #CruiseChat

Friday, February 27

Smartphone Tips & Tricks Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @theonlinemom @robynsworld @geekbabe @thetechdad. Prizes. TBA. #VZWBuzz RSVP

Friday, March 6

Mobile Music Twitter Party at 3 pm ET with @theonlinemom @robynsworld @geekbabe @thetechdad. Prizes. TBA. #VZWBuzz RSVP

About this Weekly Twitter Party List

Compiled by MommyBlogExpert.com Master Twitter Party Calendar, the most comprehensive, constantly updated Free resource of its kind online. However keep in mind that each party is run by a different brand and/or hosts and MommyBlogExpert, unless specified otherwise, is not responsible for any dealings readers have with these events including, but not limited to, prizing of any party on the calendar.

For Brands

How to Add a Twitter Party to the Calendar

Add an event to the Mommy Blog Expert Master Twitter Party Calendar free by emailing janis@janiselspas.com with Twitter Party in subject line including all details and links in the body of your message.

Hire Me to Plan, Promote and/or Host Your Twitter Party

Also available, for a nominal fee, to plan, promote, host, co-host or serve as a panelist for your own brand Twitter party. To inquire, please janis@janiselspas.com for information with "Twitter Party Consulting Query" in the subject line.

FTC Disclosure: MommyBlogExpert does attend some Twitter parties as a guest and also works as a consultant, host, co-host, and/or panelist on others. Except for the 2/23/15 #ChosenCandy Twitter Party, I am not receiving payment or compensation associated with any party on this calendar. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.