These easy dip recipes are packed with meat and veggies that make them a full meal

Have you ever whipped up a dip appetizer for an upcoming party that was so hearty, you could eat it for dinner? Since we rarely hear of kids (okay, except the uber-picky eaters) or adults refusing a warm dip paired with crispy bread or veggies, why not make that delicious dip into dinner? These easy dip recipes include everything from classics like artichoke and buffalo dips to new takes on the viral TikTok baked feta and tomato recipe, and each idea is a great way to spice up your dinner routine.

Creamy Hot Artichoke Dip Recipe with Garlic Toast Rounds

easy dip recipes
Boulder Locavore

This isn’t your grandma’s plain ole artichoke dip! This version is made with sour cream, three kinds of cheese, and a little hot sauce to give it a kick. While you could eat this with a fork, this recipe from Boulder Locavore also includes steps on how to make your own garlic toast rounds which makes this dip even more scoopable.

Chicken Enchilada Dip

This is definitely a dinner masquerading as a dip, what with the chicken, Rotel, cream cheese, and lots of savory spices. Did we mention it’s also low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free? Serve with veggies, chips or just spread on a tortilla and make a roll up! You can find the full recipe here.

Sweet Vidalia Onion Dip

The View from Great Island

There is absolutely nothing wrong with a tub of sour cream and a packet of onion dip mix, but this hot sweet Vidalia onion dip from The View from Great Island is for those days you want a little something extra! It’s made with aged Italian cheese, white cheddar, mozzarella, Worcestershire, and a little hot sauce. Toast up a sliced baguette and dinner is served.

Broccoli Cheese Dip

Bitz & Giggles

No, this isn’t a creamy soup—it’s your next dinner! It’s made with ingredients you likely keep on hand, like bagged broccoli, onion, garlic, and cream of celery soup. It comes together in a jiffy and per the recipe creator, pairs well with corn chips or even small pieces of bagel. Get the recipe from Bitz & Giggles.

Related: Soup and Stew Recipes To Warm You Up This Winter

Hatch Chili Corn Dip

This Hatch chili dip recipe is an Easy Dip Recipes
Family Spice

Ever wonder how to use Hatch chilis? This recipe puts this smoky veggie to good use. After roasting, combine the chili with corn, red bell pepper, green onions, and pepper jack cheese, then roast until everything is bubbly. Sure, this recipe from Family Spice is great for game day but it’s even better for dinner.

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip

Slow cooker Buffalo chicken dip is an easy dip recipe
Gimmie Some Oven

Easy dip recipe: coming right up! All you have to do is toss ingredients that include cooked chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch dressing, and a few others into a crock pot and cook on high for a few hours. Grab your favorite dippers or chips, then enjoy. Get the recipe from Gimmie Some Oven.

Hot Tandoori Chicken Dip

The best part of this easy dip recipe is you can skip making Tandoori chicken—just use rotisserie! It does use a few Indian spices so make sure you have them on hand before diving in, but the creamy recipe that’s full of flavor is completely worth an extra shopping trip. Get the full recipe here.

Fire Roasted Corn Dip

A Spicy Perspective

There is something about fire-roasting ingredients that takes them next level, and that’s exactly what this recipe does with corn. When you combine with spicy pepper cheese, cooked chorizo, bell pepper, and onion, you get a delectable dip that pairs great with chips or street-size tortillas.

Loaded Baked Potato Dip

This baked potato dip is an easy dip recipe.
Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Baked potatoes can take a while to prepare so you can skip some of the hassle with this easy dip recipe from Chelsea’s Messy Apron. It’s made with all your favorite toppings, like green onions, cheese, and bacon. You can enjoy it with veggies or pretzels, or top on a baked potato for the ultimate experience.

Philly Cheesesteak Dip

This Philly cheesteak dip is an easy dip recipe
Carlsbad Cravings

The heart of this dip from Carlsbad Cravings is beef and cheese, so you know it’s going to be hearty. It’s then combined with other Philly cheesesteak faves like onion and bell pepper then baked until bubbly. Serve with toasted bread or crackers!

Ranch Crack Dip

Ranch crack dip is an easy dip recipe
Scrambled Chefs

Ranch is always a fan favorite and this dip uses sour cream, cream cheese, cheese, onion, and bacon in a delightful combination. After baking, enjoy this hearty dip from Scrambled Chefs with pita, crackers, pretzels, or veggies.

Mississippi Sin Dip

Spend with Pennies

With a name like that, you know it’s going to be sinfully good! It’s similar to Crack Ranch Dip with its bacon, cream cheese, and chives but is served in a bread bowl which basically means it’s a meal. If you’d rather be fancy, you can serve on crisp crostini. Get the recipe from Spend with Pennies.

Healthy Taco Dip

Easy Dip Recipes
Isabel Eats

This taco dip from Isabel Eats is very reminiscent of the seven-layer dip of your youth, but a little healthier. It uses refried beans, cream cheese, tomatoes, salsa, lettuce, jalapeños, and cheese. If you want to make this dip an experience, take a stab at making your own tortilla chips to go with it!

Baked Feta Dip with Cherry Tomatoes

Baked Feta Dip is an easy dip recipe
Cookie and Kate

Great for summer dinners, this easy dip recipe from Cookie and Kate is flavorful and light. It uses feta, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, garlic, and basil and is baked until the tomatoes release all their sweet goodness. Stir and eat with pita wedges or crackers.

Texas Trash Tip

This Texas Trash dip is an easy dip recipe
Bake Me Some Sugar

We’re not entirely sure where this dip got its name, but we appreciate the simple ingredients and the amazing taste.  You probably already have a lot of the must-haves, like refried beans, Rotel, taco seasoning, cream cheese, and taco seasoning. It goes great with chopped veggies, pretzels, or chips. Get the recipe from Bake Me Some Sugar.

Pepperoni Pizza Dip

Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Dinner Then Dessert

Most kids can’t turn away pizza, and they’ll likely love this dip from Dinner Then Dessert, too. It’s made with marinara, pepperoni, cream cheese, and Italian spices and is baked for a quick 15 minutes. Scoop up with breadsticks for the full pizza experience!

 

You’re gonna love jeans all over again

If you’re anything like us, your younger years were filled with “jeans and a cute top” when faced with the “what are you wearing tonight?” text. Jeans were the default. Of course, you may still rely on jeans every day, but in the age of work-from-home being the norm, it’s more likely you’re either wearing leggings, or yoga pants or if you have to go into the office or to a job site, business-casual or a uniform. But, hear us out. Jeans have come a long way, and they’re not all stiff and skinny anymore. There are lots of options for mom jeans, and celebrities are offering a ton of inspiration.

It’s possible it’s been a hot minute since you shopped for jeans. No problem. We’re going to give you a little run-down of what to consider when you’re shopping for denim (especially online):

  • Inseam — The length from the base of the zipper to the leg opening. Especially for women’s styles, inseams vary by silhouette (skinny, cropped/capri, bootcut/flare/wide, boyfriend/mom jeans)
Women’s Inseam Guide

Naturally, this is just a guide. Your body shape, personal preferences, and, above all, what you feel best in will impact what your ideal inseam is. But it’s a handy reference and a great place to start. Also, check on fabrication details when you’re shopping online for denim. The amount of stretch (usually Spandex) jeans are made with will make a difference to how they look and feel.

Above all, though, your level of comfort comes first. So check out a few of our favorites inspired by some of our most-loved celeb moms and the wallet-friendly swaps we’ve rounded up below.

Hailey Bieber

Jeans She Might be Sporting: Re/done 90's High-Rise

Saks Fifth Avenue

Re/done 90's High-Rise ($285.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: Y2K Baggy Crossover Waist Jeans

Amazon

Although Hailey isn't a mom (yet—she's talked about having a family with hubby Justin and pregnancy rumors are circulating constantly!), these deep green jeans are perfect for the fall and winter. Add a cozy sweater, or a button-down and booties!

Y2K Baggy Crossover Waist Jeans ($37.99)—Buy Here!

 

Reese Witherspoon

Jeans She's (Probably)Wearing: Chloe Cropped Flare Jeans

Chloe/Neiman Marcus

Chloe Cropped Flare Jeans ($1,050.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: Mango Crop Flare Jeans

Macy's

If the "crop" part is giving you pause, don't worry. These beauties aren't just for summer. You can easily channel Reese all year long in this soft pair. Add some ankle booties or sneakers for the cooler months. A tee and a boyfriend blazer or cozy cardigan pull it all together.

Mango Crop Flare Jeans ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Bonus Option: Levi's Premium Middy Ankle Bootcut Jeans

Levi's

Levi's Premium Middy Ankle Bootcut Jeans ($75.60)—Buy Here!

Jennifer Garner

Jeans She Might be Wearing: Nili Lotan Taylor Straight-Leg Jeans

Bergdorf Goodman

Nili Lotan Taylor Straight-Leg Jeans ($395.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: Banana Republic The Straight Jean

Banana Republic

One of our favorite oh-so-relatable celeb moms, Jennifer Garner showed up for her dad this past Father's Day, even though it meant wearing jeans (she might not have if her luggage had shown up, too) to church. Even if they weren't her first choice for the occasion, a varsity cardigan, v-neck, white court sneakers, and adorable glasses make these slouchy straight-leg jeans a whole outfit that, of course, looks great on her.

Banana Republic The Straight Jean ($89.99)—Buy Here!

Chrissy Teigen

Jeans We're Almost Positive She's Wearing: AGOLDE Sanna Slice Cut-Out High-Rise Jeans

AGOLDE

AGOLDE Sanna Slice Cut-Out High-Rise Jeans ($255.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: PrettyLittleThing Thigh Split Baggy Boyfriend Jeans

PrettyLittleThing

Chrissy Teigen scooped up these AGOLDE jeans on a shopping trip we wish we could've gone on with her this summer. Even though we weren't, Chrissy once again reminds us that moms can still be ultra-cool. These comfy thigh-split jeans are a little edgy while still feeling chic enough to wear to school pickup or a family dinner.

PrettyLittleThing Thigh Split Baggy Boyfriend Jeans ($38.00)—Buy Here!

Beyoncé

Jeans She's Most-Likely Wearing: VETEMENTS Baggy Jeans

SSENSE

VETEMENTS Baggy Jeans ($1,510.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: AG Jeans High-Rise Ultra Wide-Leg Jeans

AG Jeans

Wide-leg jeans are back, friends, and you don't have to own a skateboard to rock them. Obviously, Queen B couldn't look bad in anything if she tried,  but these way oversized jeans look anything but sloppy when paired with a form-fitting top to balance it all out.

AG Jeans High-Rise Ultra Wide-Leg Jeans ($225.00)—Buy Here!

Bonus: Forever21 Stretch-Denim Wide-Leg Jeans

Forever21

Forever21 Stretch-Denim Wide-Leg Jeans ($44.99)—Buy Here!

Blake Lively

Jeans It's Possible She's Wearing: Toteme Classic Cut Raw Hem Ankle Jeans

Toteme/Neiman Marcus

Toteme Classic Cut Raw Hem Ankle Jeans ($320.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: Express Raw Hem Straight Ankle Jeans

Express

Blake Lively is known for being super casual (which makes her so easy to relate to), and her Puppy Bowl celebration this year was no exception to her fashion rule. A pair of classic jeans with a little bit of extra oomph thanks to the raw hem can be dressed up or down in a snap. We think there's a good chance you'll reach for these over and over.

Express Raw Hem Straight Ankle Jeans ($52.80)—Buy Here!

Ashley Graham

Jeans the Comments Confirmed She's Wearing: Good American Good '90s Jeans

Good American

Good American Good '90s Jeans ($155.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: Madewell Baggy Straight Jeans

Madewell

We seriously can't think of a decade that denim was loved more, so it's no shock 90s silhouettes are trending. Luckily, they also happen to be more relaxed and ultra-comfy. Ashley Graham is making it look easy in a tee and heels (plus, she's a mom who prefers to keep pics of her 3 kiddos' faces private—may we suggest the Tinybeans app, Ashley? We love privacy around here, too.)

Madewell Baggy Straight Jeans ($98.00)—Buy Here!

Bonus Option: nuuly AGOLDE 90's High-Rise Cropped Jeans

nuuly

nuuly lets you subscribe and rent any 6 pieces, every month, for $98.00. Fast, free shipping and returns, plus no hidden fees. If you love something? Buy it. Send back the rest by your billing date and don't even sweat cleaning or repairs. It's all included. Use code TINYBEANS25 for exclusive savings at nuuly!

nuuly AGOLDE 90's High-Rise Cropped Jeans ($98.00 with nuuly Subscription)—Get Started Here!

Halle Berry

Jeans We're 82% Confident She's Wearing: DSquared Big Brother Dean Jeans

DSquared

DSquared Big Brother Dean Jeans ($547.00)—Buy Here!

Totally Reasonable Alternative: MINGALONDON Ripped Jeans

Amazon

Leave it to Halle Berry to wear distressed jeans and look absolutely amazing. We're loving her hooded shacket and loafers, too. Try these in place of those black leggings (not all the time; just to shake things up).

MINGALONDON Ripped Jeans ($40.99)—Buy Here!

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Some of the best Amazon products don’t cost an arm and leg

The only thing better than avoiding a shopping trip with kids in tow is scoring an amazing deal. Thanks to Amazon, you can have both. We discovered the best Amazon products and deals right now (most of them are $5 or less!) that will not only make your life easier but will save you money, too. Now that’s a win. And many of them aren’t even discounted for Prime Day, meaning you’ll be able to take advantage of these deals whenever you need to rebuy.

In the market for kitchen supplies? We’ve got them. Budget beauty goodies? Found those, too. Not sure what? Just scroll our list to find some of the best Amazon products that are so wallet-friendly, you won’t even feel guilty for filling your cart (not that you ever should. But just in case.). Plus, there are several products you can set up subscriptions for and they’ll automatically shipped at an even larger discount. Saving time? Check. Saving money? Check. Check out some of the best and most affordable Amazon items we’re filling our carts with.


Amazon

NYX Butter Lipgloss in Vanilla Cream Pie

$5 BUY NOW

This viral lip color has a cult following (thanks to it's neutral-pink hue that's universally flattering and non-sticky formula). Get NYX's Vanilla Cream Pie Butter Gloss for less than $5.


Amazon

Natural Pumice Stone 2pk

$4 BUY NOW

Whether it's hot out (hello, sandals) or cold (dry heel skin catching on your socks—shudder), keeping your feet soft and smooth with these pumice stones is really easy.


Amazon

Travel Pill Organizer

$5 BUY NOW

With 8 compartments in various sizes, it's easy to organize any medications and vitamins in this handy case.


Amazon

6 Pack Large Hair Claw Clips

$6 BUY NOW

Claw clips are back in a major way, and this set has every on-trend version you keep seeing everywhere.


Amazon

Portable Mini Heating Bag Sealer

$5 BUY NOW

It's easy to keep your chips, cookies, and any other edibles fresh! All you have to do is heat the sealer and run it across the top of the bag for an airtight seal. 


Amazon

Fresh Stretch Pod for Avocados

$7 BUY NOW

Finally, a way to ensure your avocado doesn't go brown. Think of all the cash you'll save because you won't have to toss the other half. 


Amazon

Clip-On Light

$4 BUY NOW

Your partner wants to hit the hay, but you've just gotten to the good part of the book. Simply pull out this clip-on light, and everyone wins. It's also great for traveling! 


Amazon

e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation

$6 BUY NOW

Don't believe that this $6 foundation is worth it? Just check out the almost 30k Amazon reviewers who rave about it.


Amazon

2-in-1 Dustpan Groove Cleaning Brushes

$7 BUY NOW

How's this for a genius cleaning tool? You can use them on baseboards, and the little brush works wonders in door, window and shower tracks, in corners, and much more. Plus, check out the tiny dust pan.


Amazon

Ring Size Adjuster

$5/5pk BUY NOW

Are your rings too big? This set of silicon noodles will keep your baubles from swinging. They're easy to use and clean.


Amazon

Drawer Organizer

$6 BUY NOW

There are a ton of uses for these drawer organizers around the house, and with this price, you can afford to buy a few. 


Amazon

Elephant Nightlights

$3 BUY NOW

These sweet, color-changing LED lights will bring a cozy glow to a bedroom. 


Amazon

Initial Necklace

$8 BUY NOW

This is an adorable stocking stuffer for kids and tweens. Available in the whole alphabet, of course.


Amazon

Clear Ouchless Hair Elastics

$3 BUY NOW

Those clear elastics everyone uses in the hair tutorials on IG—here ya go.


Amazon

Stainless Steel Straws

$4 BUY NOW

With plastic straw bans steadily growing across the globe, you won't want to leave home without your reusable straws. With these, you can keep a set at home and put a set in your bag for when you're out and about. 


Amazon

Geometric Hair Clip

$5 BUY NOW

Dress up that mom-do with this stylish triangle hair clip that looks way more expensive than its price tag.


Amazon

Chalkboard Labels

$5 for 36 labels BUY NOW

These labels can be used on everything from mason jars to wine glasses, and as a bonus, they're reusable! Kitchen organization has never been this easy.


Amazon

Cradle Cap Brush

$4 BUY NOW

Deal with baby's cradle cap and first wisps of hair with this soft 2-in-1 brush from Safety 1st. 


Amazon

Onion Slicer

$6 BUY NOW

Never suffer from ill-chopped onions again! This stainless steel onion slicer is worth every penny.


Amazon

Travel Flossers

$4 BUY NOW

For those days when you're on the go, having micro dental flossers stashed away in your bag makes it easy to keep pesky dental debris at bay.


Amazon

Neoprene Coffee Cup Sleeves

$5 BUY NOW

Not only does your morning cup of Joe look way cuter, but you're reducing your carbon footprint with these reusable insulated cup sleeves. 


Amazon

Magic Eraser

$5/6pk BUY NOW

You can never have too many of these miracle workers when you have kids at home.


Amazon

Baby Bottle Brush

$5 BUY NOW

This handy tool makes cleaning baby bottles and sippy cups a snap.


Amazon

Sponge Caddy

$7 BUY NOW

When spills happen (it's inevitable when kids are in the picture), your sponge and scrub brush will be right at hand with this caddy.


Amazon

Plastic Bag Holder

$6 BUY NOW

Anything that clears up the clutter of bags for a few bucks, like this super-affordable organizer, is worth a shot. It comes in multiple prints, too.


Amazon

Tenacious Fabric Repair Tape

$6 BUY NOW

This handy stuff comes in seven colors and immediately bonds to nylon, mesh, vinyl, rubber and plastic, which is ideal for repairing items like tents, jackets, sleeping bags, water bottles and more. Be sure to pack a roll for your next camping trip. 

—Shahrzad Warkentin, Karly Wood, & Kate Cartia

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

These states are gearing up for Tax Free Weekend (because those school supplies aren’t going to pay for themselves)

If you’ve been putting off school supply shopping, are in the market for a big purchase, or you’re ready to stock up on clothes, it’s possible your procrastination is about to pay off (we’re right there with you!). Several states across the U.S. have tax free holidays, which means two full days (if not longer) of skipping the sales tax on your shopping trips. And, probably not-so-coincidentally, these Tax Free Weekends land right around the back-to-school rush.

It’s totally possible your state is one that’s participating. But, keep in mind that some businesses may have to collect local or city taxes, and some states don’t have sales tax to begin with (you lucky ducks!). You may also be able to find websites that offer Tax Free Weekend deals, and Amazon will honor individual states’ sales tax holidays, too. Check out the list and see if you have a big shopping weekend in your future.

Canva

 

Note: Values are listed per item. For additional information, visit the Federations of Tax Administors website.

Alabama — July 21-23

  • Clothing up to $100
  • Computers up to $750
  • School supplies up to $50
  • Books up to $30

Arkansas — August 5-6

  • Clothing up to $100
  • School supplies up to $100

Connecticut — August 20-26

  • Clothing up to $100
  • Footwear up to $100

Florida — July 24-August 6

  • School supplies up to $50
  • Clothing up to $100
  • Computers up to $1,500

Iowa — August 4-5

  • Clothing up to $100

Maryland — August 13-19

  • Clothing up to $100
  • Footwear up to $100

Missouri — August 4-6

  • Clothing up to $100
  • Computers up to $1,500
  • School supplies up to $50

New Jersey — August 26-September 4

  • School supplies
  • Art supplies
  • Instruction manuals
  • Computers up to $3,000

New Mexico — August 4-6

  • Clothing up to $100
  • Computers up to $1,000
  • Computer equipment up to $500
  • School supplies up to $30

Ohio — August 4-6

  • Clothing up to $75
  • School supplies up to $20

Oklahoma — August 4-6

  • Clothing up to $100

South Carolina — August 4-6

  • Clothing
  • School supplies
  • Computers

Tennessee — August 1-October 31

  • Food/food ingredients

Texas — August 11-13

  • Clothing up to $100
  • Backpacks up to $100
  • School supplies up to $100

West Virginia — August 4-7

  • Clothing up to $125
  • School supplies up to $20
  • Sports equipment up to $150
  • Computers or tablets up to $500

 

 

Insider tips to beat the crowds at your favorite grocery stores

Ah, grocery shopping: one of those necessary evils because hey—we all like to eat, right? It’s never easy piling the kids into the car, trying to remember if you need besides milk or bread as you wander the aisles… If only you knew when the best time to shop at the grocery store was. Well, we’ve got the answer for you!

Whether you’re all about Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Costco, Kroger or Aldi, we’ve got you covered for the best times to do your grocery shopping and save big. Get the scoop below.

Whole Foods

If you're looking to save money, Whole Foods Markets typically start their sales on Wednesdays. That means if you picked up a sale item on Monday, when you go back the following Thursday you may find it at a higher price. So take advantage of the deals when your local store has them.

When it comes to missing the rush, the best time to shop totally depends on where you live and your local store's traffic. City-based stores tend have the largest crowds at lunch-time. But suburban stores have a bigger rush in the evenings and on weekends.

If you REALLY want to beat the crowds, stay home. That is, stay home and order your groceries for delivery. Whole Foods Market is constantly expanding the list of cities that are delivery eligible.

Trader Joe's

Weekends at Trader Joe's: yes we know what it's like trying to get a prime parking space (or any space at all). Given that you probably already try to avoid TJ's on a hopping Sunday afternoon, when should you head out to get your fave fun frozen foods?

According to a store manager in a Reddit Ask Me Anything thread, Tuesday and Wednesday early mornings are the best times to shop at your local Trader Joe's.

Costco

When should you shop the mega warehouse store? That depends on where you live, but according to a Business Insider interview with Costco employees, definitely skip weekend shopping trips. These are the busiest times, making the stores the most crowded.

Even though the weekdays may equal a quicker shopping trip, there are better times than others. Evenings also tend to draw the largest crowds. In other words, weekday mornings or early afternoons are the best times to shop at Costco.

Kroger

Like Whole Foods, Kroger brand stores (including Baker's, King Soopers, Ralphs and Smith's), also start sales on Wednesdays. Kroger store employees typically stock the shelves late at night and in the early a.m. hours. That means you might want to consider shopping in the morning.

If you want to save even more, wait until Friday to shop. Kroger's free Friday download lets you download a coupon for one free item on Fridays only.

Aldi

Hmm. It looks like Wednesdays take the cake when it comes to new sales and new stuff.  Wednesdays are THE day for new items. It's also the day when the Aldi Finds section gets new additions and seasonal picks. That said, some stores don't stick to the Wednesday debut. Depending on where you live, new items may come out on Sundays.

 

Well, it looks like the best days to shop at your most-loved stores are…any day? While Wednesdays are big for savings and debuts, it all depends on where you live and when you absolutely need to shop. The milk won’t shop for itself––unless you’re doing grocery pickup.

 

A mom shared her husband’s genius hack for preventing meltdowns at the grocery store, and you’re going to want to try it ASAP

Why is it that the one place you least want your toddler to melt down is also the place they seem most likely to have their most epic meltdowns? You already know the spot I’m talking about: the grocery store. Is it the fluorescent lighting? The slightly echoey elevator music bouncing through the aisles? The constant temptation of sugary snacks you won’t buy for them?

The hard tile floors and cavernous ceilings are acoustically designed to amplify your toddler’s cries as much as humanly possible. Not to mention the fact that all you want is to get your groceries and get out. So of course there’s going to be at least one tantrum per grocery trip. It is the law. Until now, anyway. Because one mom is sharing the genius hack that has helped her all but eliminate grocery store meltdowns, and you’re going to want to try it out yourself as soon as possible.

It’s actually deceptively simple. Mom @allthingsaly shared the hack in a TikTok video where she wrote, “Now we can make it through the entire grocery shopping trip without any screaming, crying or wanting to get out.”

@allthingsaly

Now we can make it through the entire grocery shopping trip without any screaming, crying or wanting to get out out. 👌 #parentinghack #parentsoftiktok #parentsoftoddler #momtips #momtok #momsoftiktok #momsoftoddlers #momsoflittles #groceryshoppingwithtoddler

♬ I Can See You (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault) – Taylor Swift

The video shows her toddler in the seat of the shopping cart, which she’s pushing backward. The text over the video reads, “One day my husband said let her ‘drive’ & it’s a genius parenting hack.”

Is it really that simple? Let your toddler “drive” the cart and your shopping trip will be meltdown free? It seems almost too good to be true (especially since we can use this hack at any store with shopping carts), but we can’t wait to test it out on our next trip to the store.

Target’s 2023 back-to-school discount for teachers isn’t limited to just school supplies

Back-to-school time is somehow just around the corner, and teachers, it’s time to mark your calendars. Target just announced that it’s bringing back its popular Teacher Appreciation shopping event, but with some big changes this year that you’re going to love.

Last year, the event was extended to six weeks, giving teachers plenty of time to cash in in a 15% discount on select school supplies they need for their classrooms (and so often have to pay for out-of-pocket). This year, the event will once again run for six weeks—from July 16 to Aug. 26. But Target has sweetened the pot by increasing the discount to 20% and opening it up to anything in the store or online for one shopping trip. That’s right—it’s no longer limited to just school supplies, because teachers deserve to get whatever the heck they want and save money doing it.

“We’re pleased to expand our 20% teacher discount across the entire store and on Target.com, to provide teachers with even greater value on the items they need for their classrooms,” Target’s executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Jill Sando, said in a press release. “Both teachers and students can count on Target for all their school-year gear at great prices.”

The one big change is that teachers won’t be able to take advantage of the discount for the whole six-week period this year—they just get 20% off of one shopping trip, which means this will require some planning. You should also know that the discount is connected to your Target Circle account. You’ll need to show valid identification that proves you’re a teacher, but all K-12 teachers, homeschool teachers, teachers working at daycare centers and early childhood learning centers, university or college professors, and vocational/trade/technical school teachers are eligible. Happy shopping!

Is it time for a mother-son date?

If you’re overdue to spend some real QT time with your son (when aren’t we?), one of the easiest ways to make it happen is to set aside a few hours at a time for just the two of you. We asked moms of boys everywhere to share their favorite mother-son activities, and from a Sugar Rush-inspired baking session to planting a garden and playing LEGO, there’s tons of ground to cover! 

1. Go fishing. Grab a pole, and hit the local pond. It's a quiet sport that'll keep you present and in the moment.

2. Pack a picnic and find some open green space. 

3. Play a board game or a card game

4. Start a journal. There are plenty of diaries and journals for girls, but boys need a place to write down their thoughts too. Encourage him by writing in it with him. We especially love this one from Wee Society.

5. Schedule tech-free playtime. Being absolutely present with your kid, even for 20 minutes, is one of the most valuable ways to bond.

6. Run a race.
Whether it’s a 5k or a 1-mile fun run, train with your son and show him what moms (and women) can do!

7. Attend a rally for a cause you care about. It's important to teach your son how to be a good citizen.

8. Bake something.
Not a seasoned baker yourself? Try one of these easy kits that make you look like a cake boss, even when you’re not.

9. Read with him.
Especially books that show strong female role models, like Astronaut Annie, Girl Running, and Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls.

mother son activities: a mother and son crying together
Jordan Whitt via Unsplash

10. Have a good cry. Boys are often encouraged to hide their feelings and "man up." Letting your son know it's okay to have emotions will set him up to be a more empathetic adult.

11. Go surfing.
Spend an afternoon catching waves with your kid. Don’t live near the beach? Make it a vacation, and book one of these Airbnbs that are perfect for families! 

12. Plan a future vacay for just the two of you.
Wondering where to go? We scouted 48 epic spots to see before the kids get too old

13. Go geocaching together. You know your inner pirate will be stoked to follow a map and find treasure.

14. Put on a puppet show together. It's fun to be someone else for a while.

15. Do a science experiment.
Because no one knows how to invent something out of nothing like a mom and her kid!!

16. Get takeout from somewhere fancy and eat al fresco.
Support a local restaurant by grabbing takeout and hitting the open green field for an outdoor dinner. 

17. Go see a symphony or stage performance.
Sharing this experience with your son will help him appreciate the theatrical arts later in life.

18. Have an up-close encounter with animals (reptiles, giraffes, starfish, etc.) at your local zoo. We can't deny that a visit to the zoo is a favorite for everyone involved.

19. Plant something. There’s really nothing like digging in the dirt and watching the fruits of your labor grow in the sunshine.

 

Related: 15 Things You Know as a Mom of Little Boys

iStock

20. Make art/take a clay class.
Art isn’t just for girls, it’s for everyone! Schedule a class and get ready to get messy

21. Volunteer.
Compassion is a key skill in raising a strong man.

22. Pretend to be spies and create decoder messages for each other. 

23. Practice random acts of kindness.
Because it's awesome.

24. Play ninjas/dinosaurs/Star Wars/house
Whatever he’s into, he’ll love that you’re into it too.

25. Make a “lunch” out of free samples of a shopping trip to Whole Foods or Costco. Hey, those samples are worth their weight in gold!

26. Do a big puzzle together that can be framed in his room when it’s done. It'll keep everyone busy for hours! That's gotta be some kind of record. 

27. Make a surprise craft together for your partner. Do something sweet for the other person who loves him as much as you do. 

28. Ask him a question. These simple prompts will help your son feel comfortable opening up and sharing his thoughts.

29. Plan out a walking (and sampling) food tour of your favorite local foodie district. Because every kid should know exactly how the neighborhood delicacies taste. 

a fun mother son activity is hiking
iStock

30. Go on a hike together.
Because nothing goes better with bonding than the Great Outdoors.

31. Go through old family photos together and talk about your family history. To go forward, it's important to know where you've come from. 

32. Have a knock-knock joke battle. You're in luck because we've got the best ones right here.

33. Have a water balloon fight in the warmer months. Don't want to deal with the broken bits of balloons after it's all over? Try our favorite water games, instead

34. Go to a museum together. Pick a museum, any museum! From dinosaurs to cars to local history, there's something for everyone.

35. Go beachcombing for crabs and other beach critters together. Whether you live nearby, or if it's an annual trek, collecting stuff on the beach is a must.

36. Get Chinese dim sum or Spanish tapas together. You can both try new foods together in perfectly-sized portions.

37. Organize an afternoon of playing jumbo lawn games. Here are our favorites! 

38. Chaperone a Boy Scout trip. Dad doesn't always have to be the one on the campout. 

39. Go to a sporting event. Whether it's baseball, tennis, football, golf, basketball, or hockey (or anything else!), if he's into it, he'll love being able to watch it in person.

 

 

Related: 13 Compliments You Need to Give Your Son

 

 

 

 

Everything you need to know to start your eco-friendly lifestyle in Seattle

When you are ready to live greener as a family, Seattle offers many options to decrease your carbon footprint and live a more waste-free family lifestyle. Whether looking for refill stores, bulk groceries or secondhand clothes, the Emerald City has just the right low-waste living solutions for your family. Here are all the spots to shop for a sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle in Seattle. 

An Introduction to Zero-Waste Stores in Seattle

We all know we must do what we can to cut back on single-use plastic containers; zero-waste stores are a great way to start. You can positively impact the environment by bringing your container or using one from the store to refill your beauty products, household cleaners and more. In addition, shop for bulk groceries and secondhand goods to help make an even more significant difference.  

Zero-Waste Refill Stores around Seattle

 

Downtown Issaquah

Out of the Box Eco Store: This refillery and low-waste living store offers refillable, reusable household and personal care solutions. You can visit their storefront in Issaquah or shop at one of their pop-up events or educational sustainability workshops. To provide products that align with their mission to provide products that are good for you and the planet, the owner stocks beauty products such as shampoo, soaps, sunscreen, and cleaning products ready to be refilled. 

17 NW Alder Pl Suite 205
Issaquah
Online: outoftheboxecostore.com

West Seattle

Public: Start waste-free shopping by chatting with the knowledgeable owner of this refill store. After you’ve learned all the eco-friendly tips and tricks, you can refill your personal care, household and travel products. If you are in a rush, try their convenient drop-off and pickup service. In addition to the refillable products, this shop offers zero-waste, compostable packaging when you buy deodorant, natural sponges, and so much more. 

3836 California Ave SW
Seattle
Online: apublicshop.com

Crown Hill

Mimi’s Zero Waste Market: Shop at this plastic-free market that sources products from many local and BIPOC-owned, high-quality, ethical businesses. While they offer bulk groceries such as sugar and flour, they also sell zero-waste skincare and household products. You can stock your kitchen, too, with bamboo-based goods.

7749 15th Ave NW, Unit B
Seattle
Online: mimiszerowastemarket.com

Zero-Waste Groceries near Seattle

Capitol Hill

The Naked Grocer: Start your sustainable living journey in this “naked” grocery store where 95% of the products sold are plastic-free. Their products come in reusable or refillable glass, metal, or compostable paper packaging rather than plastic. The shop’s produce and natural wines cut back on waste as well. 

620 E Pine St
Seattle
Online: nakedgrocer.com

PCC Community Markets: When the building is so green it uses solar panels and a water catchment system, you know you’ve found the best place to shop sustainably in Seattle. In the bulk shopping department, you’ll find staples like teas, grains, oils, and sugars, and the shop is transitioning to compostable packaging for pre-packaged goods. Also, 95% of the products they sell are Certified Organic. 

Multiple Locations
Online: pccmarkets.com

Capitol Hill & Tacoma

Central Co-op: Plan an eco-friendly shopping trip to this bulk grocer that promises to save you money and cut back on waste at the same time. The community-owned grocery works to highlight the crucial connections between the food we all eat and the producers, farmers, and food systems that provide it. Most of the shop’s products come from local suppliers, and the seafood is sustainably harvested. And 98% of the products sold at the co-op are Certified Organic. 

1600 E Madison St
Seattle

4502 North Pearl Street
Tacoma
Online: centralcoop.coop

Zero-Waste Home Goods & Secondhand Clothes Stores near Seattle

Adams

Simple & Just: Stop by this non-profit thrift shop to pick out a designer piece at a great price. When you shop local and waste-free, an exploited woman or child gets access to mental health services, employment opportunities, life skills training, or safe housing through the shop’s partnerships with local organizations. It’s a great way to give back to the community and the planet.

5221 Ballard Ave NW Suite B
Seattle
Online: simpleandjust.org

Wallingford

Assistance League of Seattle Thrift Shop: This clean and organized Seattle secondhand shop offers barely used clothes and housewares. Your purchase helps clothe local school children and provides scholarships for summer camps and college. And, if you’d rather shop online, you can find this shop on eBay and Poshmark, too. 

1415 N 45th St
Seattle
Online: assistanceleague.org

Adams

Ballard Consignment Store: When you’re ready to sustainably and effortlessly furnish your home, head to this store to shop the enormous showroom full of beautiful vintage pieces at affordable prices. The best part, they deliver. Be sure to plan to spend lots of time exploring the unique furniture and trinkets inside what’s known to be the best consignment furniture shop in Washington.

5459 Leary Ave
Seattle
Online: ballardconsignment.com

We pity the ghoul who doesn’t snag one of these

As if the plethora of new pumpkin and fall products at Trader Joe’s wasn’t enough to lure you for a shopping trip, the grocer is notorious for stocking their garden section with one-of-a-kind finds, like the famous air plant skeleton yogis. This year, they are upping the ante.

Alex from @traderjoesnew on Instagram has spotted the newest, spooky find: ghoul air plants! The whimsically designed ghosts are the perfect blend of festive and not-too-scary, which makes them just the right pick for decorating for Halloween.

Related: The Hard-to-Get Trader Joe’s Halloween Yoga Skeletons Are Back!

Tinybeans

Currently, there are four options to choose from. Pick from a tall and skinny plant or a squat version in either black or white with opposing faces.

Related: Pumpkin Products Have Arrived at Trader Joe’s

Tinybeans
Tinybeans

Each ghastly ghoul planter is topped with an air plant that gives it a curly, messy-haired vibe. Probably the best part about the new decor is that each one is only $5.99!

Related: Fall & Halloween Products Have Arrived at Trader Joe’s

Tinybeans

This isn’t the first time Trader Joe’s has stocked their garden section with seasonal plants worth splurging over. For the last several years, you likely spotted yoga skeletons, also topped with an air plant.

They are currently available (if you can find them since they tend to sell out every year) in the lotus, lotus with hands to heart and lotus with hands above head poses. They are the perfect addition for yoga lovers!

In honor of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Trader Joe’s has dropped an updated look to its annual sugar skull plants. The skulls are available in purple, orange, white, black, blue, and yellow colors in mini sizes for $4.99.

Is anyone else suddenly craving a Trader Joe’s run?