Real Mom Profile

4.15.2006


Name: Brooke R.
Age:  34
Home: Pisgah Forest, NC  

Family's Names and Ages:
James--hubby--34, Chase--11, Eve--6, Rachel--5

Occupation:
Certified Nursing Asst. hoping to become nursing student soon!

If I had a day to myself...:
Read a book cover to cover, listen to my music without having to repeat one song 20 times, lay on the couch and not get up once till I want to, miss my kids like crazy!

Money Saving Tips:
Use coupons when you can, stock up on buy one get one deals, resale shops, grocery outlet stores, make what you can at home and save that much off the grocery bill.

Bargain Hunting Strategies:
Always check the clearance racks first!  You can find amazing deals there for the next year in kids clothing.  Target has video games and dvds and cds on clearance sometimes, too!  

Products we can't live without:
Rice and noodles.  You can have them so many ways and the kids love them.  Fleece blankets.  We have at least 15!  DVD player...instant babysitter when you need a little space.

In the Kitchen:
Quesadillas are super easy.  My son makes these.  They're a great starter recipe for beginners.  One can of Southwest Style Pepper Jack Cheese soup, one can of Cheddar Cheese soup, one bag (2 cup) Mexican blend shredded cheese.  Mix together. Spread on tortillas, top with another tortilla and grill.  Great with tomato soup.

Get your kids cooking!  They eat much better when they help make it!  And its a skill they will need one day.

Organization:
My sister sells Avon and I get her extra boxes that it is shipped in.  Great size for storing out of season clothes and they fit in the closet floor nicely.