Trick #5: 4 Things to Know about Trader Joe's

I have recently become a huge fan of Trader Joe's. I used to stay away because I assumed that it was a specialty store that charged a ton for their food - but I was wrong! (The produce is pricey, but the rest is pretty reasonable). So, as a recent convert to the franchise, I thought I would share a little testimonial with y'all that might make your lives easier.

1. Herb Goat Cheese + Rosemary Raisin Crackers = Easy, Delicious Appetizer

Now, I generally do not like Goat cheese. It's pretentious. But this cheese and cracker combo gives a 1-2 punch of flavor that I love - the sweet, cheese, and herb blend is like a holiday in your mouth. And all you have to do is buy it and put it on a plate, and you look like Martha Stewart before the jumpsuit. It's fantastic.

2. Peppermint Joe Joe's Taste Like Oreos and Thin Mints Got Married & Had a Baby.

If you have not had this seasonal TJ's treat, then get yourself there between Thanksgiving and Christmas! It's completely yummy and costs less than the Girl Scout's Thin Mints, but will totally solve your Thin Mint Fix. 

3. TJ's Dark Chocolate Deal

Alrighty, now I am a big fan of dark chocolate - and I don't mean that pretend dark chocolate. (I'm looking at you, Hershey's!). But normally any label with a cacao/cocoa content of 60% or more costs quite a bit. But not at TJ's! They have a three packs of 1.65 oz chocolate bars near the check stands that are only a couple bucks, each. They have everything from dark to white chocolate, and some even with nuts. Knock yourself out!

4. Green Cleaners & Soaps That Don't Cost an Arm & a Leg!

If you're trying to reduce the number of crazy chemicals in your house but still like that clean, fresh

smell, then TJ's "Next to Godliness"cleaner is a great solution. (Get it - solution! Ha!) The Cedar/Pine version smells like Yosemite Valley. I'm not kidding - my mom and I smelled it and had to call "Jinx!" because we said, in unison, "It smells like Yosemite!". They also have green dish soaps, hand soaps, and natural hard soaps. I'm definitely going to be giving more of them a try!