It's a day I won't forget.  The day the whole family stood at Sam's watching a demonstration on how to make tortilla soup in a souped-up blender when my husband proclaimed, "I would cook dinner with that!"  I dont know about you, but having my husband offer to cook anything that doesn't require taking it out of a box and putting it on the oven rack or flipping it with tongs on the grill is close to a miracle, so my ears perked up on this one!

This miracle-producing product was the Vitamix, which is, in simple terms, a mega-blender.  What makes the Vitamix different from a normal blender or other brands on the market, is its powerful motor and stainless steel blades.  This beauty can make smoothies, ice cream, hot soup (I said HOT SOUP-it actually heats the soup while its blending!), hummus, salad dressing, peanut butter, pasta sauce - you name it.  You'll find it used in restaurants and on the Food Network all the time.  I have personally seen it used around town at Hubbell and Hudson, Dairy Queen, Starbucks and Jamba Juice. 

I must admit, it's not cheap.  But let me tell you, my husband is an avid researcher.  He read every review, watched every You Tube video and called Vitamix a million times.  What he discovered is that Vitamix will sell certified, reconditioned models for a cheaper price (about $150 less) than a brand-new model that still comes with a warranty, cookbook and looks brand new.  Another nice option offered by Vitamix their payment plan options.  We chose to pay in two installments which was a nice way to keep the cost feel more reasonable.  

So, a few weeks later, my husband's third child arrived at the door.  I must say, this mega-blender has changed our lives and I'm happy to report that he has kept his word and does cook with it often and makes awesome, healthy smoothies for us daily. 

I would recommend this product to anyone who is interested in eating healthy, has food allergies, is trying to get away from processed foods or just wants to simplify the meal-making process.  There are tons of recipes and ideas for using the Vitamix and it's such a great way to get your family their fruits and veggies. 

To learn more about Vitamix, visit their website at www.vitamix.com or search your cable guide, theres always a great demo on the HSN!  Youll be sold!  

If your evenings are chaotic and disorganized, you and your kids need a bedtime routine. The components of a routine will vary from family to family, but being consistent is important for everyone in the family. Ultimately, you should strive to balance four important things: