Every week we like to take a moment to introduce a mom who is working hard and doing what we do! Moms have the toughest jobs of all – finding fun things to do, raising kids, planning birthday parties, making sure homework is done and that everyone gets through with a smile on their face (well, that’s the goal, anyway!)

This week, we are happy to introduce to you: Karen Hastings

Welcome to the Tots2Tweens family.

Where do you call home? Smithsburg MD

Definite “Must Do’s” in your home town: The Smithsburg Market for some amazing food and/or baked goods. They’re known for their cakes! Misty Meadows Creamery – so many free things for the kids to do and as an added bonus, their ice cream is amazing! They also offer lunch type food too.

Meet the Family: Married with four amazing kids – three boys and a girl ages 6, 5, 3 & 2. No pets in our house; we seem to stay pretty busy with activities and travel so we wouldn’t want a pet to feel left out.

Passions and Interests: I absolutely love to cook and bake! Once the kids are all in school I hope to return to a commercial kitchen or bakery.

Biggest Pet Peeve: People who don’t follow through on their word.

One Major Goal You’re Striving For: Trying to keep things organized with 4 kids

Video’s I like to watch: Tasty. The kids love watching the recipe videos, too.

Best advice you’ve ever received: Never give up.

Favorite Kid Friendly Restaurant: Buffalo Wild Wings – 2 words…KID’S NIGHT! $1.49 kid meals plus drinks are included (limit 2 meals per kid) Double kid club card punches, so after 3 kid night visits you’ve earned a free kids meal valid on any day. Free Game play use!! Yes, you read that right. BWW will give each of your kiddos a tablet to use while you’re there. (Assuming they aren’t all in use) In additional to all of this, they offer an extensive menu with healthy to comforting food options for Mom and Dad while you’re also able to either have a conversation without “Hey Mom” every two seconds or you’re able to watch that game you’ve been waiting to see on one of their many many TVs.

Go-To Family Meal: Homemade Pierogis with Keilbasa! Spaghetti – kids favorite, BLT’s, Spinach pizza. Dessert favorite would have to be my homemade baklava. The kids go crazy for it.

What types of activities do you like to do as a family? Going to the park, hiking, swimming, traveling, kids team sporting events. We really go everywhere as a family. The kids really enjoy cooking with me as well.

Find Karen on Twitter: @chefmommyk

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