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Top 8 Mistakes Bloggers Make with Pinterest

July 1st, 2019August 1st, 2019

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

I’ve been a professional blogger for quite some time. As a result, I often get lots of questions related to blogging for a living. One of those questions is about how I get traffic to my pages. I use Pinterest as one of my strategies to attract readers, as do many of my friends in the blogging community. But, there are sever mistakes bloggers make with Pinterest. That’s why I was so excited when Lauren McManus from Create and Go reached out and offered the guest post you’ll see below.

She let me in on a little secret – many newbie and even seasoned bloggers are using Pinterest the wrong way! Yep, it’s true, and I don’t want to see you do the same thing if you are currently a blogger or are considering becoming a blogger. So, without further ado, let’s get to Lauren’s post so you can keep from making these common mistakes on Pinterest!

Top 8 Mistakes Bloggers Make with Pinterest

Marketing your blog pages on Pinterest is one of the best methods which you can utilize to grow your traffic. If you are a blogger who has no idea how Pinterest works, then you must be definitely shocked. But Pinterest can give you the amount of traffic which you want!

All you need to do is to sign up on the Pinterest platform and create your user profile.

However, you can get stuck and fail to promote your blog pages on Pinterest. You may start wondering why your pins are not being converted into clicks.

Here are the top 8 mistakes bloggers make with Pinterest:

1. Failing to Use Quality Images or Vertical Pin Dimensions

You should utilize high-quality images for them to be well ranked on the Pinterest smart feed. As a general rule, don’t use multiple photos on a single pin since it will end up looking stuffed. Also, each pin should have one specific theme.

You can follow the most popular pinners on Pinterest and copy how they promote their websites. Moreover, make sure you utilize vertical pin dimensions instead of the horizontal ones.

Horizontal pins tend to take up more space than vertical pins. Every pin on Pinterest has to be vertical so that its feed can be user-friendly.

If you utilize horizontal pins, chances are that they won’t be ranked in the search engine – and no one will see them. This is pretty bad, right!?

Furthermore, all your pins should have a 2:3 aspect ratio. Their maximum width should be 300 pixels.

2. Failing to Optimize Your Pins Correctly

Your primary goal as a blogger should be to make your pins rank high in Pinterest’s algorithm. The best method to achieve this goal is to optimize them properly by taking the following steps:

• Utilizing long-tail keywords in your titles and descriptions
• Pinning to the right boards and during the best times
• Having interesting, catchy titles which are clickable
• Using proper pin dimensions
• Having beautiful and attractive pin design templates
If you implement all these steps, millions of potential readers may see your pins! Note that the Pinterest home feed isn’t chronological. It is the best pins which come first, and not the newest ones.

3. Utilizing Shortened Links

You should stop using shortened links in the descriptions of your pins. Never use any URL shortener in your pins, because Pinterest will flag them as spam.

What you need to do for your pin viewers to access your blog pages is to use the right links. No matter how long a link seems to be, use it as it exactly is.

4. Failing to Treat Pinterest as a Search Engine

This is one of the greatest mistakes bloggers make with Pinterest. Most bloggers regard Pinterest as a social media platform when, in reality, it is a search engine.

Pinterest is not a social media platform like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. It works as a search engine since it has an algorithm which is fondly referred to as the smart feed.

It is this algorithm which determines what Pinterest users see in their home feed. Furthermore, Pinterest possesses a search bar for a specific reason. Whenever an individual searches Pinterest, it will utilize its algorithm to determine which pins will rank first.

If you treat Pinterest as a social media platform, you will be only using it as per your whims. For example, you may post some occasional pins and hope that someone will see them. Of course, you won’t get an instant traffic rise if you utilize Pinterest this way.

Treating Pinterest as a search engine is one of the best ways to grow your blog traffic. You should incorporate everything you know about SEO when promoting your blog pages on Pinterest.

5. Being Inconsistent

Pinterest loves consistency. This platform will automatically promote your content if it feels that you provide value to its users.

One method which Pinterest uses to know if you post valuable content is determining the level of engagement of your account. If you have a growing audience and plenty of reshares and repins, then your account will be ranked high.

Pinterest can also track how often you sign in and pin. If you log in into this platform every day and pin consistently, Pinterest will recognize you. Then, it will reward you by ranking your pins high in its algorithm.

6. Failing to Create a Pinning Schedule

Often, Pinterest will favor quality pinners. You should create a pinning schedule so that you can be consistent in your pinning.

Using software tools like Tailwind will enable you to have a consistent pinning schedule. For instance, Tailwind can help you pin for up to 100 times each day! This way, your pins will get to the top of the search feeds, and many people will view them.

Note from Tracy: Score a free credit with Tailwind when you click here and use my unique link!

7. Failing to Focus on Quality

Just like other internet platforms like Google or Facebook, Pinterest will rank quality content first. Therefore, you should always focus on quality while promoting your blog pages on this platform.

Don’t underestimate how powerful Pinterest’s algorithms are. Pinterest is comparable to the results of Google, and much more visually stimulating.

Pinterest will crack down your account if you upload low-quality pins. Moreover, you should avoid ‘gaming’ its algorithm. Don’t purchase followers, spam content, or manipulate the smart feed.

Here’s an example of a high quality pin:

It’s clear what it’s about, it has a great image, and it links to the page it promises it will.

8. Failing to Create an Excellent Pinterest Profile

Your Pinterest profile should be top-notch, and it should reflect your skills as a professional blogger. Some bloggers can create Pinterest profiles in just five minutes, but they won’t be high-quality.

If you don’t have an excellent profile, Pinterest won’t give your pins the attention they need. Make sure you do the following while creating your profile:

• Claim your blog on Pinterest
• Get approval for setting up rich pins
• Have a clear profile picture
• Include keywords in your name and profile description

Final Thoughts

Pinterest can be time consuming and overwhelming. However, if you steer clear from these mistakes bloggers make with Pinterest, your marketing strategies will start paying off.
In fact, Pinterest can bring you hundreds of thousands of page views or more each month! So what are you waiting for? Get pinning today!

Lauren McManus is a traveler and blogger at Create and Go where she teaches people how to start a money making blog, the right way. Want more tips on blogging? Get My 7-Day eCourse on How to Start a Successful Blog, absolutely free by clicking here!

Zucchini and Squash Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

June 28th, 2019May 24th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This Zucchini and Squash Salad with Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette is not only absolutely delicious, but it’s easy to make and incredibly healthy.

Zucchini and Squash Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

You guys may have seen this beautiful Zucchini and Squash salad over on Instagram, and it’s just way too good to not share over here on the blog too. Between the freshly shaved zucchini and squash, the perfectly toasted pine nuts and the homemade honey mustard vinaigrette it is quickly becoming one of my favorite salad recipes. Squash is in season here in Florida October – May, so this is the perfect time to grab some at your local Farmer’s Market and make this beautiful zucchini and squash salad.

Another bonus about this Zucchini and Squash salad is that it’s easy to make and there is only a few minutes of cook time required (just for the toasted pine nuts).

Zucchini is rich in nutrients, high in antioxidants, helps aid in healthy digestion and may help improve heart and vision health. Did you know that zucchini had so many health benefits?

Squash is high in vitamins A, B6, and C, folate, magnesium, fiber, riboflavin, phosphorus, manganese and potassium. That is one seriously nutritional packed vegetable!

Did you know that pine nuts are also great for us? YEP. Pine nuts help naturally boosts energy and are loaded with vitamins, minerals, protein, iron, and monounsaturated fats.

So doesn’t the perfect salad sound like it should have all that in it? YES.

Even if you didn’t know all the health benefits hidden in this Zucchini and Squash Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette, you would still love it because it tastes amazing.

The leftover sliced zucchini and squash keeps great in the refrigerator too, making leftovers a delicious lunch option. This salad would also be great at a picnic, just add the dressing on last minute…or the greens – whichever you prefer to keep the greens from getting soggy from the honey mustard dressing.

This is everything you need to make this healthy salad and the homemade mustard vinaigrette:

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 large zucchini, thinly sliced
1 large squash, thinly sliced
1 cups baby greens – I used a kale blend
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

To make your Zucchini and Squash salad, you simply whisk all the dressing ingredients and then drizzle it on your veggies and add in the pine nuts. Pretty easy. Pretty darn yummy. I used a mandoline to slice the zucchini and squash, it made it a lot easier and also made sure that all my slices were even.

Now, here is my Zucchini and Squash Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Zucchini and Squash Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

This Zucchini and Squash Salad is so good and good for you! Top it with toasted pine nuts and the homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette.

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: Salad

Keyword: healthy, salad, zucchini

Servings:

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Ingredients

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice approx 1 large lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon soy sauce

Salad Ingredients

1 large zucchini thinly sliced
1 large squash thinly sliced
1 cups baby greens - I used a kale blend
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Instructions

Whisk lemon zest, lemon juice, oil, mustard, honey, and soy sauce in a small bowl.
Season with salt and pepper if desired.

Salad Preparation Instructions

Add zucchini and squash, baby greens to a large bowl.
Sprinkle on pine nuts
Drizzle on the Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Enjoy!

Notes

I used a mandoline to slice the zucchini and squash.

I hope you enjoy this Zucchini and Squash Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette as much as I do!

Going green in the kitchen is more than buying from local growers and producers. Try traditional ‘gathering’ to keep green in your wallet and on your table.

Only about 175 of the world’s 4% edible plant species (out of 250,000 to 300,000) are used by humans, according to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations). In this struggling era of environmental consciousness, a drive to the supermarket itself has consequences for the environment. A great, green time-saver is the ability to go into the backyard or your local produce stand and pick fresh salad ingredients. If a relaxing activity is a goal, a walk around a local green area where harvesting is permissible could yield the main ingredients for a super summer salad like this Zucchini and Squash Salad.

Frequently the vitamin content in wild-growing plants is much higher in part because of their nature and freshness, and also because many farmed vegetables are now grown on barren soil that has for many years been dressed with artificial fertilizers with no replenishing natural fertilizers like compost or aged manure, and has not accompanied nitrogen-fixing plants like clover to keep the soil rich.

Food Doesn’t Always Have To Come From the Store, but when it does, be sure to pay attention to where your food comes from. Buy local.

An assortment of interesting additions can make a memorable salad:

Pine nuts, like in this salad
Johnny Jump-up flowers
Roasted chestnuts
Wild strawberries or raspberries or other fruit

What is one of your favorite salad recipes?

Not sure how to toast pine nuts? Check out this easy method for toasting pine nuts.

Looking for another tasty salad recipe?

Heart-Healthy Salmon Salad with Homemade Strawberry Vinaigrette

Be sure to check out all my delicious recipes and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

14 Best Dessert Spots in Tampa

June 26th, 2019February 3rd, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Dessert. My favorite meal of the day. If you are looking for the best dessert spots in Tampa, I have them for you! It’s time to indulge a little and enjoy. You’re welcome.

14 Best Dessert Spots in Tampa

Photo credit: Foto Bohemia

Everyone loves a sweet treat now and again and Tampa Bay is filled with fun stops to satisfy your sweet tooth. Which dessert spots in Tampa are your favorite? Do you see them on this list? If not, be sure to email me so I can check them out too!

Best Dessert Spots in Tampa

Dough

The bakery that creates all the delicious treats for datz. Dough has homemade cupcakes, ice cream and the most incredible doughnuts you have ever seen.

Dough is located at 2602 S MACDILL AVE. TAMPA, FL 33629

Dough Nation

Amazing treats and an amazing cause. Why wouldn’t you go to Dough Nation? They have edible cookie dough, ice cream and more. Dough Nation offers classic favorites like chocolate chip, dark chocolate, and interesting mixtures like s’mores, sweet & salty caramel and more. Because Dough Nation is owned and operated by Metropolitan Ministries, one of Tampa Bay’s premiere and most trusted nonprofits, all proceeds from your purchases go directly to feed the hungry in Tampa Bay through the Ministries’ hunger relief programs.

Dough Nation is located at 11642 N. Dale Mabry Tampa, FL 33618

The Dessert Spot at Toffee to Go

The Dessert Spot at Toffee to Go invites you to sit down and enjoy a delicious cup of Kahwa coffee, delectable pastries, mouthwatering cakes, cookies, incredible ice cream, scrumptious pies and other droolworthy sweets! The toffee cheesecake and magic toffee bars look incredible!

The Dessert Spot at Toffee To Go is located at 3251 W. Bay to Bay Blvd. Tampa, FL 33629

Tiny Bites

Tiny and amazing. Perfect for just having one, to satisfy that sweet tooth…but good luck with only getting one! Tiny bites is a dessert shop where the you order dessert and then watch as the different ingredients are combined to create a fresh delicious treat. They also have iced to order cupcakes, filled cookies, cake pops, small pre-made cakes and custom order cakes. There are very limited numbers of the pre made items so that they do not go to waste.

Tiny Bites Desserts is located at 14410 North Florida ave, FL 33613

Bake’n Babes

Established in 2013, Bake’n Babes is a local Tampa bakery that prides itself on using locally sourced, preservative-free ingredients. The OREO cheesecake is calling my name! They also have paleo granola and I hear they make killer freakshakes!

Bake’n Babes has two locations in Tampa:

Bake’n Babes Armature Works 1910 North Ola Avenue Tampa, FL 33602
Bake’n Babes at Gen-X Tavern 103 East Jackson Street Tampa, FL 33602

Harry Waugh Dessert Room

This dessert room located inside Bern’s Steakhouse is a Tampa icon. They have MANY of desserts to chose from in a unique setting. We usually ask the server what they recommend, you have to go to the Harry Waugh Dessert Room at least once. It’s definitely a Tampa experience.

Bern’s Steakhouse is located at 1208 S Howard Ave Tampa, FL 33606

Goody Goody

If you want a slice of one of the most incredible pies, then you have to stop at Goody Goody. With a good ole-fashioned flare, this “diner” is not to be missed. The pies are made fresh and they always have seasonal options. Come hungry and don’t leave without having dessert!

Goody Goody is located at 1601 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Parkesdale Market

During strawberry season there is no other place you want to be! From the strawberry milkshakes to the strawberry shortcake and everything in between, Parkesdale Farms is the absolute best spot in the Tampa Bay area for all things STRAWBERRY DESSERT.

Parkesdale Market is located at 3702 W. Baker Street, Plant City, FL 33563

Augustine’s Cheesecakes

Holy cheesecake Batman! If you are looking for the most delectable cheesecake, then this is where you need to go. You can get a variety of flavors, so be sure to pick up several. This is a pop up bakery, so be sure to double check locations and times before heading out to get your cheesecake fix.

Augustine’s Cheesecakes is located at 5226 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, Florida 33611.

Born & Bread Bakehouse

Located just outside of Tampa Bay, this bakery is worth the drive. From whole cakes to all your favorite pastries, you can order online, preorder and enjoy these treats. Baked with love and passion.

Born & Bread Bakehouse is located at 1113 S. Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33803

Snowrolls

Rolled Ice Cream? Yes please! Snowrolls is an ice cream and coffee shop that serves up thai-inspired rolled ice cream. They have at least 14 signature flavor combinations, but you can make your own too!

Snow Rolls To Go is located at 2223 N Westshore Blvd Suite B2 TAMPA, FL 33607

Gigi’s Cupcakes

Gigi’s offers one-of-a-kind cupcakes topped with their signature swirl with is sure to leave on a smile on your face and your sweet-tooth craving satisfied.

Gigi’s Cupcakes is located at 3810 W Neptune Ave, Ste B2 Tampa FL 33629

Nothing Bundt Cakes

All sorts of different flavors, get small bundt cakes or big bundt cakes! But you will get Nothing Bundt Cakes 😉

Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 13252 N Dale Mabry Hwy Tampa, FL 33618

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice

They have all sorts of amazing Italian Ice flavors. And don’t miss the Gelati! Gelati is the perfect layering of Italian Ice with the Soft Ice Cream. Gelati is a true indulgence.

Jeremiah’s Ice is located at 14320 N Dale Mabry Hwy. Tampa, Florida 33618

What is one of your favorite places to get desserts in Tampa? If your favorite spot to get sweet treats in Tampa Bay isn’t on my list, be sure to email me so I can check it out and get it added!

Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more things to do in Florida, healthy recipes, and more.

14 Best Things To Do With Kids in Tampa Bay

June 26th, 2019June 26th, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Looking for something to do with the kids here in the Tampa Bay area? Here are my picks for the 10 Best Things To Do With Kids in Tampa Bay. Is your favorite thing to do with kids missing from my list? Be sure to email me so I can get it added!

Best Things To Do With Kids in Tampa Bay

Welcome to Tampa! We are spoiled here in Tampa Bay, we have lots of fun and diverse things to do for families to enjoy. So, if you are wondering what to do with the kids today, I have you covered! Here are the top things to do with kids in Tampa Bay.

Best Things To Do With Kids in Tampa Florida

Busch Gardens/Adventure Island

We are huge Busch Gardens fans. Busch Gardens has some of the world’s best roller coasters, lots of animals to see, family-friends performances and they have different events going on all year. Adventure Island is right across the street from Busch Gardens and is the water park to cool down in when temperatures heat up in Tampa.

Busch Gardens is located at 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612.
Adventure Island is located at 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612.

Empower Adventures

Empower Adventures is a zipline course for adventures ages 7 and up. This is Tampa Bay’s only guided zipline course. Everyone in the family will love this 2.5 hour guided zipline experience! You will zip through 3,000 feet of aerial challenges while overlooking the wildlife and waters of the 396-acre Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve and Tampa Bay. You will also walk over the 200 foot suspension bridge over water, challenge yourself on the aerial obstacle course (which you can skip if you want) and finish with a fun rappel down. And if you want more, you can take A Leap Of Faith.

My family and I were hosted to Empower Adventures thanks to Visit Tampa Bay and had the adventure of a lifetime. We had no idea that you could find such aerial adventures here in Tampa Bay! It was so serene being in the trees, watching the birds, fish and boaters below. Well, until you stepped off and went ziplining…then it was INCREDIBLE. From start to finish your feet don’t touch the ground. We were all empowered in our own ways, I honestly never thought I would be able to complete everything and I did. I was so proud of myself 🙂 The kids loved every minute. We all did. There is something about flying through the sky and trusting something totally new to you that is good for the soul.

We did do the Leap Of Faith as well. During this empowered adventure, you climb a pole, stand up and JUMP. It was breathtaking. Literally. My husband and kids thought there was no way I would try it, but not only did I try it, I DID IT.

We all left that day excited, amazed and empowered. You never know what you can do until you try.

Empower Adventures is located at 423 Lafayette Blvd, Oldsmar, FL 34677.

TopGolf

TopGolf is an excellent way to get everyone in the family to have some fun golfing in a completely relaxed atmosphere. My kids are in their teens, but younger kids are welcome to give it a try as well! I will openly admit, I am not good at golf, but we always have a blast. TopGolf has several different game options to choose from, so if you don’t have big hitters in your group, that’s okay! There is something for everyone. TopGolf also serves food and drinks, so if you and your family get hungry, you don’t have to go far to get delicious eats. Our favorites are the wings and nachos. TopGolf does offer discounts and deals throughout the week, so be sure to check them out online before scheduling your day of family fun.

TopGolf is located at 10690 Palm River Road, Tampa, FL 33619.

Tampa Theatre

A piece of history! Originally built in 1926, this is a true Tampa landmark. Show the kids what a theatre experience used to be like, with a few modern upgrades of course. The Tampa Theatre has different events throughout the year as well, and of course, has movies!

Tampa Theatre is located at 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602.

Tampa Bay History Center

Tampa Bay History Center is a Journey through 12,000 Years of Florida History. The beautiful Tampa Bay History Center is a jewel on Florida’s west coast. Here, one can step back in time to meet the first inhabitants of the region, and learn about the Spanish Conquistadors who tried to vanquish them. Experience the moving story of the Second Seminole War as told from the viewpoint of War Chief Coacoochee. Learn why Tampa is called Cigar City, and “shop” in a 1920s-era cigar store.

Grab lunch at the Historic Columbia Cafe while you are at the Tampa Bay History Center. The award-winning Columbia Restaurant has been a Tampa institution since 1905, when the current owners’ great-grandfather immigrated to Tampa’s Ybor City and opened a small cafe to serve the cigar factory workers there. The Columbia Cafe located inside the Tampa Bay History Center serves a taste of the same fine Spanish cuisine that has made the original restaurant a beloved Tampa tradition.

The bar inside the Columbia Cafe is a replica of the Columbia Restaurant bar in Ybor City. Lunch and dinner are served daily, and visitors will be tempted to sample traditional Spanish tapas or the famous “1905 Salad.” After a trip back in time in the History Center, relax on the Columbia Cafe’s outdoor terrace with a pitcher of Sangre de Toro while watching members of the Tampa Dragon Boat Club paddle down Garrison Channel.

Tampa Bay History Center is located at 801 Water St, Tampa, FL 33602

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is an 8-acre public park located along the Hillsborough river in downtown Tampa. It’s a great place to meet and enjoy Tampa’s waterfront, and the kids will have fun splashing through the water installations in the park.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is located at 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602.

MOSI

The Museum of Science and Industry is a great way to explore and have fun out of the heat! They also have events, summer camps and movies. It is a scientific playground with over 100 hands-on activities! And admission prices are great, adults are $12.95 and kids are as low as FREE. Free entry is definitely an important consideration for me when I’m thinking about the best things to do with kids in Tampa Bay.

The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617.

George M. Steinbrenner Field – Tampa Tarpons

While this ball field is outside, catching a game here is so much fun! The prices are WAY lower than other stadiums, parking is fairly easy, and if you get there early, the players are almost always out to give autographs or give kiddos a ball.

George M. Steinbrenner Field is located at 1 Steinbrenner Dr, Tampa, FL 33614.

Glazer Children’s Museum

Glazer Children’s Museum is Tampa’s interactive, learning laboratory where children play, discover, and connect to the world around them to develop as lifelong learners and leaders. My kiddos are now a bit old for this one (ages 14 and 11), but they had a blast here when they were younger!

Glazer Children’s Museum is located at 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602.

The Florida Aquarium

This is another fabulous Tampa attraction that is mostly inside! The Florida Aquarium is One of the Top Aquariums in the World. The acclaimed Florida Aquarium features more than 20,000 aquatic plants and animals from Florida and all over the world. Designed to illustrate the journey of a drop of water from a Florida fresh-water spring to the Gulf of Mexico, the exhibits include a wetlands display inside an enormous glass atrium, a simulated beach with stingrays and nesting turtles, and a stunning coral reef in a 500,000 gallon tank.

For the children, there are touch tanks, the Penguin Promenade and the interactive new Shark Dive Adventure show. The Aquarium’s Explore a Shore is a two-acre outdoor water adventure where kids can splash and play in the summer sun, while their parents watch from the shade of the Caribbean Cantina bar and grill. You can enjoy the water views, sharks and fish without being at the beach 😉 There is an outdoor play space to enjoy as well.

The Florida Aquarium is located at 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602.

SS American Victory Memorial & Museum Ship

Pierside to the Florida Aquarium is the SS American Victory Memorial & Museum Ship, a world-class, functioning 1940s-era maritime icon. It saw service in World War II and the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and it has been lovingly restored as a museum dedicated to honoring the memories of the men and women who have served in the American Merchant Fleet since 1775.

Treehoppers

We have been here several times, and always have a hoppin good time! It’s like a jungle gym through trees! There are several obstacles and they are all rated easiest to hardest, so there is something for everyone. Plus, you can really challenge yourself if you want. It is VERY shaded, but it is all OUTDOORS so take that into account when planning your trip. Personally, we usually try to avoid visiting during the hottest summer months.

TreeHoppers is located at 27839 St Joe Rd, Dade City, FL 33525.

Tampa Riverwalk

The Tampa Riverwalk offers a plethora of activities, things to see and do. Walk the Riverwalk and watch for dolphins and manatees, stop at Armature Works and listen to some live music, jump on some Water Bikes, go kayaking and explore. There are so many things for families to do on the Tampa Riverwalk.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Who doesn’t love going to the zoo? And ZooTampa even has a few rides, a water ride and a Splash area to help you and the kids cool off. ZooTampa at Lowry Park is home to more than 1300 animals and is famous for having one of the most beautiful, tropical zoological settings.

ZooTampa at Lowry Park is located at 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604.

Oh and of course – you can head to the beach! We are surrounded by water here in Tampa Bay and the home to the #1 beach in America!

What do you consider to be the best things to do with kids in Tampa Bay? Are your choices on this list? If not, be sure to email them to me so I can check them out, and get them added!

Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for more things to do in Florida, healthy recipes, and more.

How To Toast Pine Nuts

June 24th, 2019July 9th, 2019

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Toasting pine nuts is really easy to do and it brings so much more flavor to your recipes. Find out how to toast pine nuts and enjoy!

How To Toast Pine Nuts

Do you love pine nuts? While pine nuts are expensive, they are absolutely delicious. Toasted pine nuts are the perfect addition to (and in) hummus, a great way to heighten the flavors in pesto, a nutty addition to your cheese boards, a crunchy bite to your salads and so much more!

As an added bonus, it’s super easy to toast pine nuts at home. I am talking about less than 5 minutes folks…and the only things you need are a stove, a pan and pine nuts…You don’t toast pine nuts with olive or butter or anything, you simply add a single layer of pine nuts to a pan and cook them over medium heat until they start to turn golden brown. You will have to stir them pretty consistently, and since the toasting happens fairly quickly, I recommend staying at the stove while you are toasting anyway.

There are other ways to roast pine nuts, like in the microwave or oven, but using the stove top is the easiest (in my opinion) and it gives you the opportunity to watch the process the whole time to ensure you don’t burn them.

Why toast pine nuts? As with most nuts, toasting brings out more flavor. Pine nuts are high in oil, giving them an almost buttery texture, and once mixed with other ingredients, their flavor is more mild and sweet. Since toasting pine nuts is so easy to do, why not bring out more of that flavor?!

Now, here is How To Toast Pine Nuts, be sure to print and pin the simple recipe so that you can make them again and again!

Print Recipe

How To Toast Pine Nuts

Toasting pine nuts is an easy way to add elevated flavor to so many dishes. See how to toast pine nuts at home.

Cook Time5

Total Time5

Author: tracy @ havingfunsaving.com

Ingredients

Pine nuts

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Place single layer of pine nuts in a dry frying pan
Turn heat to medium-low and cook until fragrant and golden brown, stir frequently
When the are golden brown, transfer them to a plate to stop the cooking and prevent burning
Enjoy!

Did you know it was that easy to toast pine nuts?

Toasted pine nuts (Toasted Pignolias) will last at least 6 months, if you can actually keep them around for that long 😉 Be sure to try add them to your salad recipes, like my Zucchini and Squash Salad.

Be sure to check out all my delicious recipes and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram.

Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing

June 24th, 2019July 3rd, 2019

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Enjoy this easy to make Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing on your favorite salad or as a flavorful marinade. Fresh is best!

Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing

You guys know that I love making my own salad dressings, it’s so easy to do and it’s the perfect way to customize your flavors to what you are making. And again, it’s sooooo easy! I mean, why wouldn’t you make your own dressing?! Fresh is better than store bought, I promise. When I made my Zucchini and Squash Salad with toasted pine nuts I knew I needed a simple, yet flavorful dressing to bring out all the fresh flavors. This Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing is perfect. In fact, this Honey Mustard Vinaigrette would also make for a yummy marinade.

To make your own Honey Mustard Vinaigrette, you need less than 5 minutes and 6 ingredients. In fact, you probably have all the ingredients for this Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Salad Dressing at home right now!

This is what you need to make this deliciously simple Honey Mustard Vinaigrette:

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, the juice from the lemon you just got zest from should be enough
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, I used Silver Spring Foods
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon soy sauce

Then you just whisk everything together. Done. Yum. Feel free to season with salt and pepper if you think this salad dressing recipe needs it.

Now, here is my Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Salad Dressing recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing

This Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette Dressing is way better than anything you will buy in the store, plus it's easy to make!

Prep Time3

Total Time3

Course: Condiment/Dressing

Author: Tracy @ havingfunsaving.com

Ingredients

1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice the juice from the lemon you just got zest from should be enough
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard I used Silver Spring Foods
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon soy sauce
Salt and pepper if desired

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Whisk all ingredients together
Enjoy on your favorite salad or as a marinade

I hope you enjoy this Homemade Honey Mustard Vinaigrette as much as we do!

Do you ever make your own salad dressings? What is your favorite dressing to make at home?

Looking for more tasty homemade salad dressing recipes? Here are a few more reader favorites:

Homemade Fresh Mint & Peach Vinaigrette Dressing

Homemade Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

Be sure to check out all my delicious recipes and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram.

Over The Top Orange Creamsicle Milkshake

June 18th, 2019March 11th, 2022

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

I can’t think of a better way to celebrate summer than with this Over The Top Orange Creamsicle Milkshake! Indulge in this Orange Creamsicle Freakshake deliciousness at home today. While this post is sponsored by Voortman Bakery, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Over The Top Orange Creamsicle Milkshake

Summer is here and that means it’s time for cool treats. You will notice that I don’t post a bunch of dessert recipes, and that’s simply because I love dessert a bit too much 😉 I have a serious sweet tooth, so if I am going to make dessert, it’s going to be epic or lower in fat. Today, I decided to go with epic. What better way to celebrate summer than with an over the top orange creamsicle milkshake?! Actually, I consider this work of art a FREAKSHAKE.

You have seen these right? Freakshakes are all the rage right now, you can find them in restaurants, dessert shops, all over town! In fact, the last time I was in St. Augustine, we stood in line for 30 minutes (which was one of the smaller lines I have seen) so that the kids could get a Freakshake, this ice cream parlor ONLY serves these Freakshake Masterpieces! I will tell ya that it’s a lot cheaper and a lot more fun to make one of these babies at home, I mean who doesn’t want to get messy in the kitchen with ice cream, whipped cream and all sorts of fun toppings?!

The first thing you need to make your Freakshake is a glass, I recommend one with a handle so that when you go to pick it up you don’t make your hands a sticky mess. Because these babies are messy, you are going to have ice cream and topping goodness dripping down the side. Now if you are thinking, why the heck would I want that mess in my house…the answer is simple…just LOOK at that milkshake! Doesn’t it look fun?! Can you imagine serving up this Orange Creamsicle Milkshake to the kids? They would be SO excited! How about making them for your next summer party? Guests could add their own toppings! Trust me folks, these are gonna be a hit with no matter who you serve them to, even if it’s just to you 😉

Orange Creamsicle is by far one of my favorite summertime flavors, so when I saw that Voortman Bakery had Orange Creme Wafers (baked with REAL oranges and no artificial color or flavors and no high-fructose corn syrup!), I knew that an Orange Creamsicle Milkshake was going to be in order, and it was going to be epic.

Now that you have the cool glass and Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers, it’s time to build your epic Freakshake.

For the Orange Creamsicle Milkshake you will need:

Orange sorbet
Vanilla ice cream
Milk
Vanilla extract

For the Orange Creamsicle Milkshake toppings you will need:

Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers
White Chocolate Candy Melts
Orange Candy Melts
Whipped Cream
Sprinkles
Orange Slices if desired

Now that you have everything you need, let’s build your Orange Creamsicle Freakshake. In a blender, combine orange sorbet, vanilla ice cream, milk and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.

Coat the edge and sides of glass in melted white chocolate. Drizzle on some of the melted orange candy melts. Add in some sprinkles to the melted chocolate. Fill the decorated glass with the milkshake. Top with a scoop of orange sorbet, top with whipped cream, stick in as many Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers as you can, finally top with more sprinkles and an orange slice if you would like. Serve with extra Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers. We liked dipping a few extra wafers into the milkshake as we were eating it.

Mic drop.

Hello Summer Fun in a glass!

Now, here is my Orange Creamsicle Freakshake recipe, this milkshake recipe makes two servings, so feel free to double or triple it.

Print Recipe

Over The Top Orange Creamsicle Milkshake

This Over The Top Orange Creamsicle Milkshake screams SUMMER FUN! Enjoy this Orange Creamsicle Freakshake today. Cheers!

Prep Time10

Cook Time10

Course: Dessert

Servings:

Author: Tracy Shaw

Equipment

Blender

Ingredients

3 cups orange sorbet
2 cups vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup milk - I used skim
1 tsp vanilla extract
Milkshake toppings Ingredients
Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers
White Chocolate Candy Melts
Orange Candy Melts
Whipped Cream
Sprinkles

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

In a blender, combine orange sorbet, vanilla ice cream, milk and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
Milkshake Decorating Instructions
Melt candy melts according to package instructions.
Coat the edge of glass and down the sides in melted white chocolate.
Drizzle on some orange candy melts.
Add some sprinkles onto the melted chocolate.
Fill the decorated glass with the milkshake.
Top with a scoop of orange sorbet.
Top with whipped cream.
Stick in as many Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers as you can.
Top with more sprinkles and a real orange slice if desired.
Enjoy!

Notes

Serve with extra Voortman Bakery Orange Creme Wafers for dipping.

I hope you enjoy this Orange Creamsicle Freakshake as much as we do!

Have you ever had a Freakshake before? Have you ever made a creamsicle milkshake at home before?

As you can see, my kids could not wait for me to stop taking pictures so they could start enjoying!

Be sure to stay social with Voortman Bakery by following on Instagram and Facebook. And check them out online for all the delicious bakery-goodness.

While you are at it, follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google + and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Looking for another delicious dessert recipe?

Coconut Lemon Bars

Homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette

June 17th, 2019April 13th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This Homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette is the perfect addition to your favorite salad recipe. This salad dressing is light, tangy, sweet and absolutely delicious.

Homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette

You all know that I have a love for homemade salad dressings. There is just something about creating the perfect salad dressing for the perfect salad you just made. This Homemade Raspberry Lime salad dressing is the perfect blend of tangy, citrus and sweet, making it the perfect addition to just about any salad! I made this salad dressing for my Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad, which is loaded with raspberries and blackberries making this Homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette the perfect accompaniment.

You probably have all the ingredients for this homemade vinaigrette dressing, with all the beautiful berries at the market right now I know my refrigerator is loaded up with fresh produce. I just love the bright color of this Homemade Raspberry Lime salad dressing, the raspberries made it the perfect shade of hot pink.

What you need to make this Raspberry Lime dressing:

Juice from one lime
Fresh raspberries
Extra virgin olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Honey
Salt

And to make it, you simply put all the ingredients into your food processor and blend it until smooth. Doesn’t get too much easier than that!

Now, here is my Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette Salad Dressing recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette

This vibrant homemade salad dressing is the perfect accompaniment to your summer salads. You can even use this Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette as a marinade.

Prep Time3

Total Time3

Course: Salad Dressing

Author: Tracy @ foodwinesunshine.com

Ingredients

Juice from one lime
1/2 cup fresh raspberries
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Place all ingredients into your food processor.
Blend until smooth.
Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette salad dressing as much as we do!

Don’t stop at just using this salad dressing on your salads, use it as a marinade for chicken and pork. Or drizzle it over your steaks! This homemade vinaigrette is absolutely yummy and will be fantastic on just about anything you add it to, I promise!

Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Looking for more homemade salad dressings?

Homemade Fresh Mint & Peach Vinaigrette Dressing

Homemade Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing

Wine Tasting Etiquette

June 15th, 2019August 11th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Wine tasting is a great way to discover new wines and visit the surrounding areas, but before you head off to the vineyards, be sure to review this Wine Tasting Etiquette.

Wine Tasting Etiquette

Many wineries are family-run businesses. Wine is a labor of love after all. When visiting a wine tasting room be sure to consider yourself a guest. The staff and owners are proud of their wine tasting room and their wines. It’s important to the staff that you enjoy your visit, but before you walk into the facility know that tasting rooms are different than festivals or bars.

The atmosphere in a winery tasting room is usually relaxed, a little casual, yet sophisticated. You don’t have to dress up to attend a wine tasting, shorts and athletic shoes are completely acceptable, but so is business casual, just dress respectfully. When you are getting ready to leave to visit wineries, be sure to not wear too much perfume or aftershave, if that is the only thing you can smell, it will not permit you to taste the wine effectively. Especially since one of the first things you will do is smell the wine once it is poured. Sense of taste is influenced by the sense of smell. Do not walk into the winery chewing gum, that will also distort the taste of the wine. You are wine tasting to actually taste the wine, not your gum or perfume. Be sure to be respectful of the people around you at the winery, talk in quiet conversational tones, no need to yell and be boisterous.

When you get your wine, remember these simple steps: See, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, Swish. Look at the color of the wine, it is a deep red Cabernet Sauvignon or a crisp-looking Sauvignon Blanc. Swirl the wine to help release the aromas of the wine. Sniff the wine, as I mentioned above, this will influence your taste as well. Sniff and discover the fragrance of the wine, is it earthy or are there notes of citrus. Sip, slowly sip the wine. Once it is in your mouth, it is common to swish it in your mouth, or even “chew” it to get all the complexity of the flavors. At this point, you are also welcome to spit or swallow. Cheers.

When planning your visit to a winery, or several, be aware that weekends are usually much busier than weekdays. If you go on a slower day, the wine host may have more time to talk to you about the wines and the history of the winery. If the tasting room is busy, do not force your way to the tasting bar. Walk around the winery, visit the grounds, see if there is a gift shop, there may be tables set up outside for guests to sit at and enjoy a glass of wine or patiently wait for a spot at the tasting bar. When it is tie to visit the bar, feel free to take your time and enjoy the wines and the conversation, but be mindful if people are waiting.

The tasting representative always pours the wines in a particular order based upon the style of wine. You will usually start with white wine and move on to red wine. If you choose not to drink a particular wine that’s completely okay, in fact, if you only like red wines, just let the tasting host know, their goal is for you to enjoy your wine tasting experience. You can also cover your wine glass with your fingers to let them know that would like to not taste a specific wine.

This may seem like common sense, but do not pick up a bottle and pour your own tasting. When the wine host is ready, they will pour the wine. If you really enjoyed a particular wine, many wineries will offer to sell you a glass of wine. If you would like to buy a bottle, that is always an option as well.

If you do not want to finish the wine in your glass at a tasting it is perfectly acceptable to pour it into a spit bucket. You can also spit your wine into the bucket, I know it sounds weird, but it totally acceptable. In fact, depending on how many tastings you are doing, it’s encouraged. Your wine pour may be small, but they do add up.

If you are offered a piece of cheese or a cracker at the winery, remember that these are served to help you cleanse your palate or to experience the wine paired with food, it is not meant to be a meal. If you happen to be hungry while you are out wine tasting, look for wineries that have a restaurant in them or close by. Some wineries also encourage you to bring a picnic style lunch so you can sit and enjoy their beautiful grounds. Before packing your lunch, be sure to call ahead and make sure it’s acceptable. And be sure to not bring your own wine or alcohol. Not only would it be considered rude, but laws may restrict it as well.

While you are at the winery, it they offer tours of the vineyard, be sure to not pick or even touch the grapes. Think of the saying “Take only pictures and leave only footprints.” Vineyards are a working farm and a livelihood for the family that owns it and the employees.

Wine tasting is a wonderful way to experience wines from different locations and regions, feel free to buy the wines you like when tasting, but it’s not required.

Have you been wine tasting before? Do you always follow this wine tasting etiquette? What are some of your favorite wineries?

Be sure to follow Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more wine tips and experiences, healthy recipes, and travel.

Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad

June 14th, 2019April 13th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Looking for all the tastes of summer in one bowl? This Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad is it! Healthy, yummy and easy to make! Grab this fresh salad recipe and enjoy! While this post is sponsored by Produce For Kids, all opinions and the recipe are my own.

Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad

What is the first thing that pops into your head when I say SALAD? Boring? Lots of greens? No flavor? Too healthy? NO! A salad is a blank canvas for you to add fun flavors and deliciousness into a rewarding and satisfying meal. I absolutely love a “fun salad” and with all the beautiful produce available right now, it’s really easy to create one.

I went to Publix this week and filled my cart with fresh ingredients and made an incredible salad. And do you want to know the best part about this salad? Just by purchasing the ingredients we gave back to our local food banks. Eat Good. Do Good.

How did we help our local food banks just by shopping at Publix? Produce For Kids has teamed up with Publix again to support local Feeding America® food banks. All you have to do is look for Produce for Kids signage in the produce department now through June 27 to support the participating brands giving back to your local food banks.

Now, let’s create that Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad, these are the ingredients that you will need:

Raspberries
Blackberries
Long Hothouse Cucumber
Avocado
Almonds
Chicken – I used rotisserie chicken
Bed of greens

For the homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette Dressing you will need:

Fresh lime juice, so a few limes 😉
Fresh raspberries
Extra virgin olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Honey
Salt

See why I choose to call my salad Berry Delicious? All the fresh berries, avocado, cucumber, almonds and chicken work so well together to give you fresh flavor explosion with lots of texture…resulting in a scrumptious salad that you will want to create again and again. Not to mention, this salad is loaded with protein and fresh produce…it’s everything you could possibly want in a salad.

Now, here is my Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad with homemade Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette Dressing recipe. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad

This Delicious Berry Avocado Chicken Salad is loaded with all the fresh flavors and produce that you are craving this season! Enjoy!

Prep Time10

Total Time10

Course: Salad

Keyword: easy recipe, fresh, healthy, salad

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1 6 oz. package Raspberries - I used Driscoll's
3 oz Blackberries half package - I used Driscoll's
1/2 Long Hothouse Cucumber - sliced
1/2 Avocado - sliced
10 - 12 Almonds - I used the Roasted and Salted variety by Wonderful®
4 oz shredded Chicken - I used rotisserie chicken
Bed of greens - I used Fresh Express Spring Mix

Ingredients for Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette

Juice from one lime
1/2 cup fresh raspberries
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Instructions for Salad

Layer all ingredients as desired
Drizzle homemade Vinaigrette over salad
Enjoy!

Instructions for Vinaigrette Dressing

Place all ingredients into food processor or blend, blend until smooth

I hope you enjoy this Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad with Raspberry Raspberry Lime Vinaigrette as much as we do! This fresh salad is an explosion of summer flavors in a bowl…or plate…how ever you want to serve it up!

I know I mentioned that by heading to Publix and getting the ingredients for this Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad you will also help your local food bank, so I wanted to share all the participating brands to keep a look out for.

Here are the participating brands to look out for at Publix:

CMI Orchards Hero Snack Size Gala Apples
Coast Tropical Mangos
Del Monte® Fruit Naturals® Cups
Driscoll’s® Raspberries & Blackberries
Fresh Express® Packaged Salads
Lakeside Produce Colored Bell Peppers & Long Hothouse Cucumbers
Marie’s® Dressings
SUNSET® Tomatoes on the Vine, Beefsteak and Campari® Tomatoes
Mission Avocados
RealSweet® Vidalia® Onions
Wonderful® Pistachios & Almonds

What is one of your favorite salad recipes?

Be sure to check out ProduceForKids.com for more than 250 registered dietitian-approved and family-tested recipes, meal planning tools, grocery store specific campaign details, and healthy tips from real parents and on Facebook and Pinterest for even more!

Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more tips, fabulous recipes and more!

Looking for another colorfully healthy salad recipe?

Try my Summer Cucumber Salad with Spicy Vinaigrette Dressing