Gourmet Mom Family

Flamenco Shower Curtain

2011-02-28T06:07:00.000-08:00

I am so in love with this flamenco shower curtain from Anthropologie!

The problem is that there's no way I would spend $100 on a shower curtain. That is craziness!

However, if you can sew, Elle Apparel made a tutorial for you to sew your own!
I can't sew to save my life, so I'll just keep drooling...:)

Hidden Animal Teacups

2011-01-25T08:53:00.001-08:00

My friend Annie (who has marvelous taste!) found these adorable Hidden Animal Teacups.

Love. Them.

You can buy them on Amazon. I'm crossing all my fingers that they go on sale soon. :)
The same company also makes this adorable juicer. It's definitely on my kitchen wish list!

Cinnamon Burst Cheerios

2010-12-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

Wow, did we have the most amazing early Christmas present! The folks at General Mills let us have a sneak peek of their latest addition to the Cheerios family: Cinnamon Burst Cheerios®!New Cinnamon Burst Cheerios will blow your mind! These little treasures aren't hitting the shelves until Januray but be sure to keep an eye out for them. I love that they combine the delicious flavor of real cinnamon and the perfect balance of whole grain goodness. Check out my kids musical tribute to their newest favorite cereal...

FYI, Cinnamon Burst Cheerios contains 20% of the daily value of fiber (or 5g per serving), has 9g of sugar, is low in fat, and is free of saturated fat and cholesterol*. Made with real cinnamon, Cinnamon Burst Cheerios delivers a surprisingly wholesome eating experience, providing your family with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that is sure to kick-start any morning!

Keep your eyes peeled! They'll be hitting your grocery store shelves this January!

Disclosure: Cinnamon Burst Cheerios and Flip camera were all given to me from Cheerios through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions as always, are my own.

Sausage and Cabbage Skillet

2010-12-14T12:20:00.000-08:00

If you're like me, I am in a cookie and treat coma right now...I'm ready to be done with the Holiday goodies!
This time of year I'm always on the lookout for good comfort food that fits in my family's budget. We also like to have pork and sauerkraut to celebrate the New Year (it comes from our years in Pennsylvania near the PA Dutch!).

I was thrilled to come across this recipe for Sausage Cabbage Skillet from Johnsonville. At $1.79 per serving, it's a delicious and frugal meal that's perfect for a cold day!

Sausage Cabbage Skillet from Johnsonville
2 packages (24 ounces each) prepared mashed potatoes
1 package (16 ounces) Johnsonville® smoked Polish sausage, halved
1 large onion, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium head cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
¼ teaspoon pepper

Heat potatoes according to package directions; keep warm. In a large skillet, sauté sausage and onion in butter until onion is tender. Add cabbage and pepper. Cover skillet; cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until cabbage is tender. Serve with potatoes.
6 servings.

Total Time: 30 min.
Cost per serving $1.79

Pastaville!

2010-12-13T17:34:00.000-08:00

Are you through with your Holiday Cookies yet? Let's talk about what everyone really loves...sausage!

Did you know your recipe using Johnsonville Italian Sausage could win you $10,000?
That's right! Go visit johnsonville.com/pastaville and upload a recipe featuring Johnsonville Italian Sausage. Each entry gives you a chance to win the $10,000 grand prize to fulfill your culinary dream – whether that’s a kitchen remodeling project, new appliances, a trip to Italy or something else.

“Using Italian Sausage instead of another protein like chicken or beef can add great flavor to your favorite recipes,” said Bob Fitzgerald, Johnsonville brand manager. “The great thing about our Italian Sausage is that it has the perfect blend of spices and seasonings right in the meat, so it’s a really easy way to take your favorite dishes to the next level.”

According to Fitzgerald, the Pastaville contest is simple and easy to enter. All folks need to do is start with a favorite recipe of theirs – or create a new one – and use Johnsonville Italian Sausage instead of another protein, such as ground beef or chicken, adding great flavor to the dish. People can enter as many recipes as they’d like in the contest, as there is no limit to the number of chances each person can have to win. Also, to help showcase the appeal of their recipes, contestants are invited to upload a photo or short video featuring the recipe.

Contest entries will be narrowed to six finalists, which will then be evaluated on their overall taste, visual appeal and ease of preparation. To determine the winners, the final recipes will be professionally prepared and judged by the experts at Johnsonville Sausage. The grand prize winner will receive $10,000 in cash, the second-place finisher will receive $3,000 and the third-place winner will receive $2,000.

“We recognize everyone has a unique culinary dream,” said Fitzgerald. “We’re excited to give a few lucky people the chance to realize their specific dreams, whether it’s something for their home, the chance to travel and taste some of the best food in the world or something completely different, through our Pastaville recipe contest.”

To help get the creativity flowing, Fitzgerald encourages at-home chefs to try one of his favorite Johnsonville recipes, “Old Fashioned Italian Meatballs.”

Old Fashioned Italian Meatballs
Makes: 6 Servings

WHAT YOU NEED
1 medium egg
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup
dry breadcrumbs
1 pkg. (16 oz.) Johnsonville® Italian All Natural Ground Sausage
2 Tbsp. olive oil

PREPARATION
In a large bowl, combine the egg, milk and breadcrumbs.
Let stand for 3-4 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Add sausage; mix well.
Shape into meatballs.
In a large skillet, sauté meatballs in olive oil until golden brown and no longer pink.

SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve meatballs with your favorite sauce and pasta.

For more recipe ideas and inspiration, visit johnsonville.com/recipes.
For full details, rules and regulations for the Pastaville recipe contest, visit johnsonville.com/pastaville.

Seventh Generation Giveaway

2010-11-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

As a mom, I'm always worrying about my kids' health. My middle child has very sensitive skin and I have to be careful with my laundry detergent. So, I'm always on the lookout for ways to help her and learned something interesting...did you know that the laundry detergent you may be using could contain little-known chemicals called optical brighteners?

According to scientific research, these can cause allergic reactions, are toxic to small fish and other aquatic life, and can pollute your waterways.

When ultraviolet light hits optical brighteners coating your clothing, the brighteners convert UV rays into visible light to create an optical illusion. This tricks the eye into thinking the clothing is whiter and brighter, and therefore cleaner than it really is.

So how can you avoid these optical brighteners? Seventh Generation makes it easy because their laundry detergents are not only free of optical brighteners, but they´re also non-toxic.
In addition, because Seventh Generation liquid laundry detergents are both hypo-allergenic and biodegradable, you can rest easy knowing you made a considerate choice for your family and the environment. When washed in a conventional laundry detergent that contains optical brighteners, clothes appear to glow under a black light. When you use Seventh Generation liquid laundry products, you won´t see the same glow on your clothing.
Take a look at the above photo. Two identical organic cotton shirts were washed: one in a conventional laundry detergent that contains optical brighteners and the other in Seventh Generation laundry detergent which does not use optical brighteners.

I am in totally in love with the Seventh Generation products and my daughter's skin loves them, too! Good news for all of us!

How would you like your OWN set of Seventh Generation Products?
Well, we're giving some away because I know you'll love them just as much as I do! One Gourmet Mom reader will receive a set of products as seen below...

TO ENTER:
Time's up! We have a winner!

Erickson Family who said...
"We Always have hand sanitizer on hand before we do anything hands need to be washed some way or another."

Please contact me within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you!

Disclosure: the prize packs and information were all given to me from Seventh Generation through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions are my own.

As an extra bonus, you can click here to save $1 on the purchase of any Seventh Generation Laundry Product.

For more information about Seventh Generation laundry products, please visit www.seventhgeneration.com/no-glow, or sign up for their newsletter at http://www.seventhgeneration.com/community. Be sure to visit Seventh Generation on Facebook and on Twitter, so that you can keep up with the latest product news.

Scribblish Giveaway

2010-11-22T20:32:00.000-08:00

We love playing games as a family, I especially associate Thanksgiving with sitting around as a family playing something together. Our latest favorite is Cranium's new game, Scribblish. It's a hot gift this year and we're going to give one away!

Cranium Scribblish is a hilarious new game that’s like a cool mashup of the old schoolyard favorite, “The Telephone Game” and Pictionary. Simple, outrageous, and a ton of fun. Everybody grabs a card, chooses a caption, and then tries their best to draw it in 45 seconds. From there you pass on your drawing (now with the original caption concealed in a cool Cranium scroll) to another player, who has to write a caption for your sketch. This mayhem continues around the room with more sketches and captions until the end when everyone tries to figure out how “this” became “that”. Oh, and if you’re not exactly a Picasso, no problem. Stick figures work just fine.

How would you like to have your own Cranium Scribblish game? Well, we want to give you one!

TO ENTER:
Time's up! We have a winner!
LF who said...
"We have several Cranium games and enjoy them all. I like that they allow you to be creative."
Please contact me within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you.

Open to US Residents. We'll choose one winner via random.org on 11/30. The Scribblish game, product information and additional game to give away were all given to me by Hasbro through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions are my own.

Chex and Kroger GC Giveaway

2010-11-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

For some reason I totally associate the Holidays with...Chex Mix! Tis the season for all the fabulous varities that you can whip up!
There are so many great tasting Chex Party Mix recipes that you can make in the microwave in only 15 minutes! Try The Original Chex® Party Mix or Chex® Ginger-Honey Crunch for sure crowd pleasers.

Looking for an easy gift idea for friends, family or co-workers? Try wrapping your favorite Chex Party Mix in a colorful tin or bag and personalize it with your own recipe card.

To make things even sweeter, Kroger Family of Stores will have Chex cereal on sale so you can impress your guests without stressing your wallet. For 3 weeks, from December 2nd - December 25th, Kroger will offer Chex cereal at their lowest prices of the year!

To celebrate, we're giving one Gourmet Mom reader a Chex Holiday Recipes Gift Pack that includes:
-two samples of Chex cereal
-a $25 gift card valid at the Kroger Family of Stores

TO ENTER:
Time's up! We have a winner!
LAMusing who said...
"I like Corn Chex! Crunchy good!"
Please contact me within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you.

We'll chose one winner via random.org on 11/30. Open to US Residents. The prize pack, information and giveaway were all provided by Chex and Kroger through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post.

Don´t forget to visit Kroger and Chex on Facebook to"Like" their pages and keep up with recipes, news and their latest and greatest products. While you´re there, take a minute to share photos of your Chex creations and link to your blog post!

Mozaik Giveaway

2010-11-21T21:41:00.001-08:00

I have a confession to make--I'm a total Mozaik junkie! I love nice looking dinnerware but Gourmet Dad HATES doing all the dishes after a party. So, I stock up on Mozaik and we're both happy. For under $10, Mozaik´s new Service for Eight kit will help you stop scrambling for extra place settings when your guest list is larger than your china and flatware collection. The 40-piece "party in a box" adds eight place settings (forks, knives and spoons, salad plates and dinner plates) and is great for every holiday gathering from a small cocktail party to a large holiday buffet. Designed to look like real permanent ware, Mozaïk is actually plastic party ware that can be washed and reused, or simply disposed of. It provides a fashionable, affordable alternative to paper plates and fine china. Available in both Classic and Contemporary styles, Mozaïk products range from round and square plates, to silver-look cutlery and serving items to mini appetizer ware, creating a nicer impression at any occasion.

Want some? You will seriously love it!! We're giving one Gourmet Mom reader a Mozaik prize pack that includes:
-Mozaik´s new Service for 8 kit (full 40 piece set)
-Serving utensils
-Platter
-Bowl with lid
TO ENTER:
Time's up! We have a winner!
Frieda who said...
"Ooh, fancy, yet practical! I could use these to give goodies away~ "

Please contact me within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you.

Open to US Residents. We'll choose one winner via random.org on 11/30.

Disclosure: The Mozaik products, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me from Mozaik through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Progresso & Michael Chiarello Giveaway!

2010-11-21T21:21:00.000-08:00

The chef´s secret is out - panko is in! A longtime secret of Japanese cuisine, panko is now a pantry staple for creating perfect crispiness in any dish. I actually use Panko all the time and was so excited when Progresso started selling them! Well, guess what? They have a new flavor in the lineup, Lemon Pepper! If you haven't used Panko before, it combines the perfect crunch with effortless flavor to give any dish that extra punch. The large, flaky crumb has a coarser texture than traditional bread crumbs, delivering a lighter, crunchier coating or topping.

A chef known for his emphasis on creating delicious dishes with fresh, premium ingredients, Chef Michael Chiarello uses panko as his go-to bread crumb for a crunch that won´t quit. An Emmy-award winning TV chef and cookbook author, Chef Chiarello is the tastemaker behind Bottega Napa Valley Restaurant, NapaStyle and Chiarello Family Vineyards, and appears on The Cooking Channel and Top Chef Masters only on Bravo.

Visit the Progresso website for additional recipes, tips for cooking with panko, video and a coupon for $1 off any panko flavor.

To Celebrate, we're giving away a gift pack that includes:
-one package of Progresso Lemon Pepper Panko
-an autographed copy of chef Chiarello´s new cookbook: Michael Chiarello´s Bottega

TO ENTER:
Time's up! We have a winner!
vickdn who said...
"I would use it on fish, or as coating for chicken fingers."

Open to U.S. Residents. We'll choose one winner via random.org on 11/30.

Additionally, be sure to check out the Progresso's Wine & Dine with Chef Michael Chiarello Sweepstakes. Now through December 31st, participants can enter for the chance to win a trip for two to Napa Valley to attend the Spring Bud Break Party, an annual dinner and wine tasting event taking place on May 7, 2011. In addition to two tickets to the party, the grand prize also includes roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations. Visit http://www.progressobroth.com/ for the sweepstakes rules and entry form.

Disclosure: the information and giveaway were all given to me from General Mills through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions, as always, are my own.

Fiber One Prize Pack & Safeway GC

2010-11-19T21:08:00.000-08:00

It´s time for a wake-up crunch! The delicious Fiber One taste you know and love has just gotten even better! Now getting the fiber that you need can be the most delicious part of your day with Fiber One cereals and bars!

Gourmet Sister & her family are huge fans! We sent them some to try & here's their reaction:
"Wow! What a hit with the 4 year-old. We are big sugared cereal fans and usually shy away from ones that sound too healthy. But, both of my kids loved the Fiber One Shredded Wheat. You know it tastes good when they ask to have cereal for lunch. Another new favorite are the Fiber One Oats and Strawberry bars. The kids got hungry while we were playing at the park and the bars made a great snack to tide them over for another hour. I love those filling snacks that keep kids and mom happy."

When hunger strikes and you need to satisfy your sweet tooth, Fiber One has you covered with at least 35% of your daily value of fiber in every serving of their cereals and bars. Check out the great new taste of three Fiber One favorites.

Fiber One Honey Clusters have a brand new flake! Every one-cup serving is full of tasty honey clusters, antioxidant vitamins A and E, and 13 grams of fiber.

Fiber One Raisin Bran Clusters now contain crispier, lightly sweetened whole grain flakes. With plump, juicy raisins and crunchy clusters it packs 11 grams of fiber and antioxidant vitamins A and E into every serving.

With rich chocolate chips and a new and improved taste, Fiber One Oats & Chocolate chewy bars are a good source of calcium and contain 9 grams of fiber in each bar.

Your Fiber One favorites are all available at your local Safeway family of stores, so be sure to stop by your local Safeway (or Dominick´s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, and Genuardi´s) to try the great new taste of Fiber One today!

We are sure that you'll love these new Fiber One Products and we're giving one Gourmet Mom reader a Prize Pack that includes:
-VIP coupons good for one free box of Fiber One cereal
and one free box of Fiber One bars
-a $25 Safeway gift card

TO ENTER:
Time's up! We have a winner!
Mindie Hilton who said...
"I have tried all of the varieties of bars, all chewey and good. My favorite is the chocolate chip, also love the caramel bars too. I would love to try some of the cereals out. "
Please send me your contact info within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you!

We'll pick one winner via random.org on 11/30. Open to US Residents

Disclosure: the Safeway gift card, VIP coupons, information and giveaway were all given to me from Fiber One through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Egg Farm Tour & Giveaway!

2010-10-31T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone! It’s Gourmet Sister (Michelle) back from an "egg-citing trip" to Silverton, Oregon and the Willamette Egg Farm (and I brought back some goodies for you!). The folks at the Good Egg Project flew me out to tour an egg farm run by the Satrum family. I was really impressed with the cleanliness of the hen houses. It still smelled like animals, but those were some happy chickens. We got to see two different styles of organic, cage-free houses and then a traditional house. In each house the chickens were equally noisy and curious about their visitors.

After seeing the whole farm, I’m still a fan of traditional eggs. The cage-free are over-rated. The chickens all seemed happy with their different styled environments and well taken care of. Plus, in the cage-free houses the chickens often lay their eggs in the dirt and then someone comes along and picks it up. In contrast, in the traditional houses, the bottom of the cage was sloped so the egg rolls down to a conveyer belt and avoid any contact with chicken litter or dirt. Of course, each egg is cleaned and checked over for any defects. I was amazed that eggs can often be on the store shelves within 24 hours of being laid. Those are some fresh eggs. The Willamette Egg Farm reuses or sells almost everything including the litter. Broken eggs are used for animal feed while the eggs with shell defects are cracked and used in their liquid egg products. I was truly amazed with their “green” farm. After the farm we were treated to egg cooking demos with Howard Helmer and Jeffrey Saad. Howard holds the record for the World’s Fastest Omelet Maker; 427 in 30 minutes. Wow. Jeffrey Saad has a new show on the Food Network, “United Tastes of America”. I don’t cook eggs often since I didn’t used to like the taste. After talking with Jeffrey Saad, he told me that he is amazed my family even likes eggs after hearing how badly I overcook them. Ouch. But, I’ve turned over a new leaf. I made Howard’s famous omelets for my family the night I returned. They were all amazed and asked for seconds. My husband told me it was the best 0melet he had eaten in 5 years (that’s how long we’ve been married). Here’s Howard’s secret:
Heat a 10” fry pan really hot. Beat 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons water in a bowl. When the pan is hot pour in the egg mixture. You know you pan is hot enough if the eggs immediately bubble. Then, dig and fill, as Howard says. Within a minute your omelet is completely ready to eat. Big Tip I learned: the residual heat keeps cooking the egg even when it has left the pan, so you have to stop a little early. I used to cook my omelets at least a minute on each side. No wonder my husband is so relieved.

Jeffrey Saad showed us how to cook several egg dishes. (All the recipes are off his website). Then, he patiently taught me how to flip a fried egg without a spatula. He even waited through all three eggs until I finally got it right. Jeffrey really makes cooking simple. I’m a new fan of his Pan Quiche recipe. What a great 10 minute dinner. A new egg fact—Don’t throw out the yolks. Half the protein is in the yolk. I used to only cook egg white scrambled eggs thinking I was avoiding fat. But, no, I was only wasting good protein.

And, eggs provide the most budget-friendly source of protein! If you're like me, we're all on a tight grocery budget. Eggs are a fantastic and inexpensive way to get your family the nutrients and protein they need. That's "egg-celent" news!

We are such huge fans of The Good Egg Project that we want to share some of the fun with you!

TWO Gourmet Mom readers will receive an "eggcelent" prize pack that includes:
-Fusionbrands Poach Pods
-Norpro Silicone Egg/Pancake Ring Set
-Micro Egg Microwave Cooking Cup

TO ENTER:

Time's up! We have our winners!
Congrats to:

KatyCouponer who said...
"I'm more or an omelette girl myself.. with cheese, chillies, tomatoes, onions, the works!"
and
SavannahsSmiles who said...
"I love scrambled eggs with cheese on an english muffin with turkey bacon."

Disclosure: The trip, giveaway items, information and accommodations were provided by The Good Egg Project through Edelman. I was not compensated in any way for this post and all opinions, as always, are my own.

Lawry's Complete Meal Ideas Giveaway!

2010-10-31T21:26:00.000-07:00

You know how much I love Lawry's new seasoning mixes and we had so much hosting the last giveaway so we're doing ANOTHER ONE! Hooray!

As a busy mom, I know that you are probably always looking for quick ideas to serve a great tasting meal. One reason I've had so much fun using the new Lawry's mixes is that it's easy to answer my kids' question, "What´s for dinner?"

Each package is an exciting meal idea that quickly turns ordinary chicken, beef or pasta into a delicious meal the entire family will love.

The new varieties include:
Asian Style Beef & Broccoli - This easy to prepare stir fry meal will remind your family of their favorite Asian restaurant. The dish combines beef, broccoli and seasonings with a hint of garlic. Serve it over rice for a complete, satisfying meal.

Chimichurri Burrito Casserole - Lawry´s gives the Burrito casserole a new twist with this traditional Latin American sauce. With a few simple fresh ingredients, mealtime just got a lot more exciting.

Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken - Add a taste of the Mediterranean to your family´s casserole. This easy to bake casserole combines chicken, pasta, tomatoes and Feta cheese for a flavorful meal any night of the week.

Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala with Garlic & Basil -This effortless version of a restaurant favorite comes together on your stovetop with just a few fresh ingredients. Flavorful garlic and basil gives this meal its own Tuscan flair, perfect for serving over pasta or rice.

I KNOW you want to try them for yourself, so one Gourmet Mom reader will receive a Complete Meal Ideas Gift Pack that includes:
-all four of the new Lawry´s seasoning mix varieties - Asian Style Beef & Broccoli, Chimichurri Burrito Casserole, Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken, and Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala with Garlic & Basil

-a marinating dish
(see photo at top of post:))

TO ENTER:

We have a winner!
Congrats to K. Rock who said...
"I would be able to try something new for dinner the next night."

Disclosure: The Lawry´s products, information and additional gift pack to give away were all given to me from Lawry´s through MyBlogSpark. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Lawry's What's Your Flavor Prize Pack

2010-10-19T08:47:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for easy and quick dinner ideas. One thing I love to do is marinate meats and throw them on the grill or make up a quick baked dish so when I heard about these new products from Lawry’s I jumped at the chance to try them and give some away!

Lawry´s has something for you no matter what your flavor is, including two new marinades and four new Seasoning Mix packets that help create simple meals with an abundance of flavor:

Marinades
•Szechuan Sweet & Sour BBQ gives meat a delicious sweet and sour flavor with a touch of Szechuan heat
•Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato includes extra virgin olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, sweet red bell peppers and the perfect blend of herbs

Seasoning Mixes
•Asian Style Beef & Broccoli – This easy to prepare stir fry meal will remind your family of their favorite Asian restaurant. The dish combines beef, broccoli and seasonings with a hint of garlic. Serve it over rice and you have a complete, satisfying meal.
•Chimichurri Burrito Casserole – Lawry´s gives the familiar Burrito casserole a new twist with this traditional Latin American sauce. With a few simple fresh ingredients, mealtime just got a lot more exciting.
•Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken – Add a taste of the Mediterranean to your family´s casserole. This easy to bake casserole combines chicken, pasta, tomatoes and Feta cheese to easily make a flavorful meal any night of the week.
•Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala with Garlic and Basil – Chicken Marsala is a restaurant favorite, but it might not make the menu at home. This effortless version comes together on your stovetop with just a few fresh ingredients. Flavorful garlic and basil gives this meal its own Tuscan flair, perfect for serving over pasta or rice.

How would you like to win:
- a family size marinating/baking dish with lid (so great for Thanksgiving coming up!)
-6 skewers (perfect for the grill!)
-2 Lawry’s Marinades
-4 Lawry’s new seasoning packets
-Lawry’s Seasoned Salt

TO ENTER:

Time's up! We have a winner:
m.a. who said...
"OOhhh, the Tuscan Sun-dried Tomato looks so very good!"

Open to US Residents. We'll pick one winner via random.org on 10/26. I was given the product and information from Lawry's through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions, as always, are my own.

Oikos Chocolate Indulgence Giveaway

2010-10-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

I totally have a new addiction and I can't wait to share it with you! You’ve read about them, heard the buzz, maybe you’ve even given them a try – and quickly turned into an addict, too! Chocolate and Caramel Oikos have been causing a frenzy in the dairy isle! Have you tried them yet?New Chocolate and Caramel pure pleasure-on-the-bottom Oikos Organic 0% fat Greek yogurt flavors offer a healthy, yet indulgent treat all in one convenient snack-sized cup. With only 110 calories and 10 grams of protein per 4 ounce serving, it’s a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth. I also love the fact that they're organic.

So, what’s better then guilt-free, organic Chocolate and Caramel Greek yogurt?
How about a Chocolate Indulgence Prize Pack?!

One GourmetMom reader is going to receive:
- 1 coupon for a free Green & Black Organic Chocolate Bar
- 1 sample of Numi Organic Chocolate tea
- 1 Dagoba/Eco Lips Organic Chocolate chapstick
- 1 Skinnyskinny real cocoa organic soap bar
- 2 free coupons for Chocolate and Caramel Oikos multipacks
- Recipe card set featuring Chocolate Cheesecake, as well Oikos spatula

TO ENTER:

Time's up! We have a winner!
COURTNEYSTOFFEL who said...
"I love to indulge in a big bowl of Rocky Road ice cream."

We'll pick one winner via random.org on 10/21. Open to US Residents
Disclosure: Okios provided the information and prize pack, I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always are my own.

Love the Pie! Giveaway from Pillsbury

2010-10-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

It's Apple Season and you know what that means....Pie Time!
Every year we go out as a family to local orchards and pick about 100 lbs. of apples. You pay per bag and GourmetDad has scientifically figured out how to get the maxumim amount of apples in each bag, it's pretty funny. I wasn't laughing, though, when I found out he gets us apples for about .25 per pound! The girls love picking apples and I have some great memories of each of them as babies, riding in a backpack and gnawing on a fresh-picked apple.

Does Pillsbury's Cinnamon Apple Pie w/ Caramel-Pecan Sauce
get you in the mood for apple picking? (drool!)
(Click on image for recipe)
After we pick apples, I spend a weekend at home making and canning apple pie filling, apple butter, and applesauce. Then, we enjoy it all year long! In fact, I used a jar or our latest filling to make Apple Surprise Mini Pies! They're super cute and especially easy because they're made with Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts.

I have a confession, I'm terrible at making pie crusts. My super-talented friend Darlene has even tried to give me lessons to no avail. But, I honestly don't mind because Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts are fabulous and no one can tell the difference! So, I whip up pies all year long using our canned Apple Pie Filling. Every time I open a jar, it brings back great memories of our fun family times in our local orchards.

Are you ready for Pie Season?
How about a fun "Love the Pie" Gift Pack for inspiration?
One GourmetMom reader will receive a prize pack that includes:

-VIP coupon for a free sample of Pillsbury® Refrigerated Pie Crusts
-Pie Dish
-Apple-themed kitchen items
TO ENTER:
(up to 5 entries, leave a comment here for each)

-Leave a comment here telling me any fall harvest rituals your family has (such as going apple picking, jumping in leaves, baking a pie with freshly picked apples, etc.)

-Visit the "Love the Pie" Facebook page and become a fan ("Like")

-Upload a photo of your family/friends going apple picking or baking pies together on the "Love the Pie" Facebook Page (up to 2 entries)

-Tweet this Giveaway "Come over for baking ideas & to win a "Love the Pie" Prize Pack! http://ow.ly/2P0v6 @GourmetMom #myblogspark"

We will chose one winner via random.org on 10/14. Open to US Residents.

Disclosure: Pillsbury provided me with the products, information, and giveaway through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post and all opinions, as always, are my own.

Potato Buds Prize Pack Giveaway!

2010-10-04T11:16:00.001-07:00

You all know how important time around the table is with your family! There are often days I really need something quick that the whole family will enjoy. For a quick and delicious side that will complete your favorite meals, stir up Betty Crocker® Potato Buds® mashed potatoes. I know what you're thinking, "are they good?!". You will be amazed how fantastic they are!!! Gone are the days of pasty imitation potato flakes, these are made with 100% real potatoes! And, just to help you try them out, you can download a $.55 off coupon here.

Whether you prefer your mashed potatoes topped with butter, sour cream or cheese, the Betty Crocker Potato Buds that you´ve come to know and love has a new and improved taste that is sure to please even your pickiest eaters. And ready in just five minutes, they´re perfect for busy weeknights and last minute dinner ideas!

Betty Crocker would like to share a Potato Buds prize pack with one Gourmet Mom reader! You'll receive a package of Potato Buds, Betty Crocker Spoon, trivet, and wooden serving bowl (gorgeous!)

Time's up! We have a winner!
creativecookinggf who said...
"We love potatoes in this house, my favorite add ins are chives and garlic. I'm so excited that these are GLUTEN FREE!! I also really love using the dried flakes to crust either fish or chicken (of course I season the flakes first , but they make such a great crust). "

Congrats! Please contact me within 3 days to claim your prize!

We'll pick one random winner on 10/12. Open to US Residents.

If you already know the secret to these delicious and quick potatoes, how about taking them to a new level by trying Beef Pot Pie with Potato Biscuit Crust? Betty Crocker Potato Buds are gluten-free, so be sure to try the delicious gluten-free recipes, such as Cheesy Broccoli-Potato Soup and this amazing Potato Crusted Salmon:

Disclosure: Betty Crocker provided me with the free product, information, and prize pack through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Cooking for Isaiah

2010-10-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

Recently I had the chance to review Silvana Nardone's book, Cooking for Isaiah. I never used to be aware or interested in gluten-free recipes until two of my friends were diagnosed with Celiac Disease. When I heard about Silvana's book, which includes gluten and dairy-free recipes, I thought, 'There's no way these could taste good!". Well, I was wrong! Her recipes are delicious and a must-have in ANY cookbook collection, not just those people with special dietary issues. She was kind enough to share two favorite from the cookbook, enjoy!

Oven-Fried Frito Chicken Fingers w/ Honey-Mustard Dip
by Silvana Nardone,
Author of Cooking for Isaiah: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipes for Easy, Delicious Meals

You can swap tortilla chips for the Fritos and use store-bought salad dressing, barbecue sauce or just plain ketchup in place of the honey-mustard dip.

SERVES 6 PREP TIME 20 minutes COOK TIME 20 minutes

Extra-virgin olive oil, for greasing
6 cups corn chips, such as Fritos, coarsely crushed
Salt and pepper
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1½ pounds (750 g) chicken tenders
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil. In a shallow bowl, combine the corn chips, 1½ teaspoons salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Coat a chicken tender with the corn chip mixture, dip into the eggs, then coat again with the corn chip mixture; place on the baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Bake until golden and cooked through, about 20 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, mustard, honey and lemon juice; season with about ¼ teaspoon salt. Serve with the chicken ﬁngers.

The above is an excerpt from the book Cooking for Isaiah: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipes for Easy, Delicious Meals by Silvana Nardone. The above excerpt is a digitally scanned reproduction of text from print. Although this excerpt has been proofread, occasional errors may appear due to the scanning process. Please refer to the finished book for accuracy. Copyright © 2010 Silvana Nardone, author of Cooking for Isaiah: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipes for Easy, Delicious Meals

Chocolate Birthday Cake w/
Whipped Chocolate Frosting
by Silvana Nardone,
Author of Cooking for Isaiah: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipes for Easy, Delicious Meals

If you overwhip the chocolate frosting, just add water, a drizzle at a time, to make it glossy and smooth again.

SERVES 12 PREP TIME 30 minutes (plus cooling) COOK TIME 30 minutes

Cake
2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 cups Silvana's All-Purpose Flour (page 15)
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
Frosting

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1½ cups water
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch (22.5-cm) round cake pans with cooking spray; line the bottoms with parchment paper and grease the paper. To make the cake, in a small bowl, whisk together the espresso powder and boiling water; let cool slightly. Whisk in the cold water, vanilla, oil and eggs.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the ﬂour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk the egg mixture into the ﬂour mixture until just combined; divide the batter between the prepared pans. Bake until springy to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack.

3. To make the frosting, in a large microwavable bowl, melt together the chocolate chips and water on high power, about 2 minutes; stir until smooth, and let cool to room temperature. With a handheld electric mixer, beat the chocolate mixture on medium-high speed until light and whipped, about 12 minutes.

4. Run a knife around the edges of the pans to release the layers. Invert one cake layer onto a cake plate, ﬂat side facing up. Using an offset spatula or butter knife, spread about 2 cups of the whipped chocolate frosting evenly on top. Invert the remaining cake layer, rounded side up, onto the frosting. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before slicing.

The above is an excerpt from the book Cooking for Isaiah: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipes for Easy, Delicious Meals by Silvana Nardone. The above excerpt is a digitally scanned reproduction of text from print. Although this excerpt has been proofread, occasional errors may appear due to the scanning process. Please refer to the finished book for accuracy.
Copyright © 2010 Silvana Nardone, author of Cooking for Isaiah: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipes for Easy, Delicious Meals

Visit Silvana Nardone online at DishTowelDiaries.com for more gluten-free and gluten-full recipes, tips and stories.

Brickfish Social Media: Cravocado Kickers

2010-09-29T17:50:00.000-07:00

Brickfish Social Media: Cravocado Kickers
Come check out my entry for the Hass Avocado Contest! Fingers crossed we win a trip to the Rose Bowl!

California Raisins re-Do Lunch!

2010-09-23T22:56:00.001-07:00

Does your lunch deserve an A+ in nutrition? Think your healthy snack could ace a taste test? If so, then the new California Raisins’ Let’s re-Do Lunch contest may be right up your alley!
Through November 8, healthy lunch and snack photos and tips can be uploaded to the California Raisins Facebook Page for a chance to win a $5,000 cash prize, a year’s supply of California Raisins, and a donation in the contest winner’s name to the food bank of their choice. Go to http://www.loveyourraisins.com/ for access to the contest and all of the information necessary to enter.

On the site, you will also find ideas, inspirations and a yummy recipe from The Meal Makeover Moms, Janice Newell Bissex, MS, RD and Liz Weiss, MS, RD, who are partnering with California Raisins to help launch the contest and send unhealthy meals and snacks packing! California Raisins are perfect for any healthy snack or meal makeover…just a ¼ cup equals a full serving of fruit for adults, plus they are fat- and cholesterol- free and loaded with fiber and antioxidants, too!

We're working on a fun entry and hope you will, too! Come join in on the fun!

Avocado Kick Off Contest!

2010-09-23T22:44:00.000-07:00

Football season is here and the Hass Avocado Board (HAB) wants to know, “What’s the Official Avocado Recipe of Your Kick Off?” Do you have a favorite avocado recipe that gets your friends and family on their feet and cheering for more…is it your famous guacamole or your spin on an avocado salad? We're working on submitting a fun & festive favorite, I can't wait to see what you come up with!The Hass Avocado Board is inviting you to take a photo that includes a description, write a blog or create a video detailing your personal favorite original avocado recipe and submit it to the HAB’s "What’s the Official Avocado Recipe of Your Kick Off?" contest. Sharing your crowd-pleasing avocado kick off creation could win you a trip for four to the 2011 Rose Bowl Game® festivities!

Details:
· Go to Sports.AvocadoCentral.com/Contest

· Upload a photo that includes a description, write a blog or create a video detailing your personal favorite original avocado recipe

· Share your entry with your friends and family across the social Web

Lean Cuisine Market Creations

2010-09-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

With the authentic taste and texture of a freshly prepared meal, new LEAN CUISINE® Market Creations is the "it" product of the season! I was lucky enough to try a few of the varieties and they were fantastic! Even though I love to cook from scratch, I admit that several times I week I want a tasty and QUICK meal for myself.
My favorite part is that these meals steam right in the bag! AND, each entrée is 300 calories or less! Truly a dinner revolution, LEAN CUISINE® Market Creations offer a one-of-a-kind eating experience through deliciously steamed ingredients – a feel good way to end the day.

The new Lean Cuisine Market Creations varities include: Asiago Cheese Tortelloni, Chicken Alfredo, Chicken Margherita, Garlic Chicken, Mushroom Tortelloni, Shanghai-Style Shrimp, Shrimp Scampi.

I tried out the Garlic Chicken, Chicken Margherita, and Mushroom Tortelloni. All were delicious and I'll definitely get them again, but my favorite was....Garlic Chicken!

Have you tried these new meals out yet? I'd love to hear what you think!

Disclosure: I was given several Lean Cuisine Market Creations to try and review. I was not compensated in any way for this post. All opinions, as always, are my own

Sams Club & GO MOM!

2010-09-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

Sam’s Club and Molly Gold of GO MOM!, Inc. have teamed up this back-to-school season. Sam’s Club is working to help busy parents, (like yourself!) save both time and money during this hectic time of year through initiatives like offering all members access to eValues and early shopping hours over Labor Day weekend, Molly has created some tools to help simplify life even further, such as:

A time savings calendar with family-friendly meal ideas to save you money and time

A time balance sheet that highlights ways to save time and make life less hectic when shopping with your children, shopping with the masses on the weekends, etc.

If you’d like more information on what else GO MOM!, Inc and Sam’s Club are working on the rest of this back-to-school season, please let me know! You can also follow her updates and tips here and through the Sam’s Club website!

Baking With Betty!

2010-08-28T17:58:00.001-07:00

Because of my schedule, I was going to miss the event of a lifetime but fortunately, I got to send my Senior Food Editor (aka my sister:)) to General Mills' Baking With Betty Event! These lucky ladies got to go to the General Mills headquarters for a day in the Betty Crocker Test Kitchens!
Photos courtesy of Matt Holland

She had a wonderful time and will be writing up all the excitement, sharing recipes, and more for all of you soon. We'll be featuring a bunch of this luscious food on the front page! In the meantime, she's trying to figure out how she can become the next Betty Crocker.

But first, I wanted to share with you some mouth watering photos from the day!! Can't wait to share the recipes with all of you!
Love the big sprinkles!

Did you know you can make amazing crepes with Bisquick? I had no idea!
These were her favorite treat of the day...
Are you in a fabulous sugar coma yet?...

Some of Michelle's other favorite treats of the day were the Halloween ones!

She gave this guy a tongue, but I named him the "Barfing Pumpkin"...
So glad you had fun, Michelle, and we can't wait to hear more details! She's recovering from the sugar coma but we'll hear from her soon!

A Huge, huge, huge thanks to General Mills, Coyne and MyBlogSpark for an amazing event!

Disclosure: This trip and accommodations were paid for by General Mills through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated monetarily for this post. I was not asked to blog about this event and was not compensated in any way for this post.

Fabulous Cheese at Sam's Club

2010-08-17T20:22:00.001-07:00

We looooove cheese at our house! Are you a cheesey family, too?
I've always loved buying cheese at Sam's Club because you can get so many high quality varieties at great prices.

So, you can imagine how tickled pink I was to hear that Sam's Club will be offering a whole new selection of gourmet cheeses from around the world!

And let me tell you, the folks at Sam's Club are serious about having the best cheeses you can find. Check out their adventure at the world-famous Chibas food festival in Parma (looking for the perfect parmigiana).

The talented Lori from Recipe Girl got to accompany the Sam's Club cheese buyers on their trip to Italy and you can read about her adventure here. It looks like she had an amazing time and they really listened to her opinion!

I was lucky enough to be sent the brand new varieties to try before they hit Sam's Club! We had fun eating some and also making an Ultimate Cheese Fondue (I'll be sharing the recipe soon!)Check out what will be on your local Sam's Club shelves:

Mario Batali Organic Parmigiano Reggiano
Mario Batali Mountain Gorgonzola
Provolone Stravecchio
Asiago Fresco
Fromage D’Affinois
Roquefort
Blue Stilton
Mario Batali Iberico
Parrano
Maytag Blue
DaVinci Gouda
Greek Isle Barrel Aged Greek Feta
Kerrygold Butter

You can read more details about each cheese here.

We lived in Europe when I was small, so of course I had to get the opinion of our family cheese connoisseur, Gourmet Grandpa! He was impressed--two thumbs up from this cheese lover! Here are some notes on his favorites!
Mario Batali Iberico: "definitely tangy, firm, and a little sharp aftertaste."
Favorite Blue: Mario Batali Mountain Gorgonzola! "The aging gives it a nice flavor without a sharp bite, a firmer mellower, delicious taste."
Favorite overall: Parrano! "Excellent flavor!!!" This nutty Parmesan is a winner!

A huge thanks to Sam's Club for letting us be among the first to try out these new cheeses! We're huge fans of their new cheese selections and know you will be, too!

Disclosure: I was given these cheeses to review and try. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always, are my own.

Safeway Delivery Deal!

2010-08-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd try a grocery home delivery (I'm waaaay to cheap) but after discovering Safeway Home Delivery, I've changed my tune!

Follow me....close your eyes and dream that you get all your grocery shopping done while your kids are napping or watching their favorite TV show. Possible? YES!!

With Safeway Home Delivery, you get great Safeway Club Card savings plus exclusive online offers and easy delivery—all with the click of a mouse. AND, you can load your Club Card with coupons via CouponLink for even more savings. And once you’ve completed your first order, your grocery list is saved in your account making future online shopping even easier and more of a time saver!

Still skeptical? Safeway is so sure that you'll love Home Delivery that they're offering you $7 off your order and FREE DELIVERY! Just enter code GRMTMM2G at checkout.

I've now used Safeway Home Delivery several times and each time has been great! One of my favorite features is the fact that when I pick a certain item, if it's not in stock, I have options!I can pick to substitute a similar brand or eliminate the item from my order alltogether.

Also, I've tried all kinds of produce from them and they've picked beautiful, fresh foods each time. Bravo! The delivery people have always been on time, very courteous and have carried in the bags for me. I'm hooked on Home Delivery!!

Disclosure: I was given two Safeway Gift Cards to try Safeway Home Delivery. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always, are my own.

TrueBalance

2010-07-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

Does this look like an ordinary box to you?...

Well, it's not! To me, it's a box full of possibilities!!

I was SO thrilled when I was asked if I'd like to try New Balance's new True Balance shoes! I've been working on being more healthy, have lost about 20 lbs., and this was the perfect boost I needed to continue my journey!

New Balance's new True Balance shoes have balance board technology built into the shoe, so every step you take helps strengthen your core. I'll be spending the next four weeks wearing the shoes and letting you know how they work. I'll be everywhere from Seattle to Colorado to Kauai and will be making a video each week of my adventures in wellness. I can't wait to share it with all of you! I also especially loved New Balance's video telling you about the shoes and showing how fitness can be an indulgence. I love that outlook! Check it out:

Let the adventure begin!
Disclosure: I was given the TrueBalance shoes and fitness kit to try and review. All opinions, as always, are my own. I was not compensated monetarily for this post.

Kung Zhu Party!

2010-07-18T23:35:00.000-07:00

Wow, did we feel honored to be the first to try out the new Kung Zhu Pets! My kids are huge Zhu Zhu Pet fans and we had so much fun trying them out and sharing them with our friends! They couldn't wait to get to know the Rangers and Warriors of the Kung Zhu Tribe!

Here are all our party details! It's SO EASY to have your own Kung Zhu party! You can download game and recipe ideas here as well as check out own own Zhu Zhu Pet treat here.
Everyone who came to the party got their own pet and accessories! Talk about fun! But, back to the pets! How cute is Rivit spying on enemy forces?... Little H LOVED Drayko, her favorite! Here she is showing off his battle armor... The hamsters got their physical training on the Training Wheel... Rivit in the bunker still protecting the Zhuniverse! Yama waiting for his turn to battle! The special noises they make are so funny! Yama has kind of a "ninja voice" and makes special sounds when going into battle. Drayko going through the Special Forces training center.
We've had Zhu Zhu accessories in the past and I have to admit that I was less than impressed with them. BUT, these new Kung Zhu accessories are so much better made...they fit together well, don't come apart, and were easy to set up and take down. I think they've really listened to customer feedback and made a great product this time around!! Drayko getting ready for battle! Awaiting the call to battle... Special traninng center for Alpha Forces... BUT, before the kids could join the Kung Zhu to protect the Zhuniverse, we made them EARN their hamsters!! First, Basic Training... Then an obstacle course... Fitness challenges... And a "pass the Kung Zhu" game to test their courage and heart (sharing:)). SUCCESS!!The kids went crazy setting up battles! Mr. W is very intent on getting Stone Wall battle ready! I haven't decided to had more fun yet: the kids or my husband! Talking strategy...A huge THANK YOU to Zhu Zhu Pets and MomSelect for the best party ever!
I am totally doing this for our next birthday party! So many of us spend money on renting a space or decorations and party bag toys that just get thrown away. I've been telling all my friends to buy a bunch of Kung Zhu toys, set them up for the party, and let everyone take a friend and accessories home. Serve up the Zhu Zhu Pet treats I made, grab the game/recipe ideas and your party is DONE! Plus, it will be the hit of the year! Disclosure: We were given the new Kung Zhu toys to try and revew. All opinions, as always are my own. I was not compensated for this post.

Deli Deluxe Panini Beach Party

2010-07-18T22:44:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at our Deli Deluxe Beach Party, I had to share a few more pictures here! You can get in on the fun and win your own prize pack by going here and leaving a comment. Good luck!
Everyone loved creating their own sandwiches, I finally got to make my own at the end of the night...

Big C, Little C, and Little H prepared almost everything else! Great job, girls! Going after a "Sandy Fruit Kebab"... Heather is waiting so patiently for her turn at the grill...isn't she lovely? Dishing up some yummy food and chatting... Trying to get big sister's sandwich... Finally getting his own! This picture of our friend Mr. H is my favorite of the night. Look at those happy chipmunk cheeks full of a Deli Deluxe Panini!

We had about 40 guests come through and had so much fun visiting with everyone! A huge thanks to Kraft and Deli Deluxe for sponsoring this party! You can read more details, disclosure, etc., here.

Power of Fruit

2010-07-18T21:21:00.000-07:00

My kids have a new summertime (or anytime!) favorite and it's called...

We were recently given the chance to try these delicious little frozen pops and they are BY FAR the best frozen fruit pops I've ever had.

Why? Because they're actually made with WHOLE FRUIT! Not fruit juice, we're talking whole mashed fruit. Yum!

Power of Fruit is made with freshly picked, washed and immediately frozen whole fruit. What a great alternative to sugar-packed popsicles, gel snacks, and high-fructose corn syrup-drowned fruit cups.
I think their slogan sums it up pretty well:
"Fruit, Whole Fruit, and nothing but Fruit"

Well, we're huge fans! This is our new favorite summertime freezer staple. Go here to see where you can purchase Power of Fruit in your neck of the woods.

Disclosure: We were given this product to try and review. All opinions, as always, are my own. I was not compensated for this post.

Jamba All Natural Smoothies

2010-07-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

We love Jamba Juice! The girls and I will sometimes get it for a special lunch or treat. Do you have a Jambe Juice near you? If not, I have some great news! They have new "at-home" all natural smoothies!

When Jamba contacted me to review their new All Natural Smoothies, I was thrilled! They sent us all three flavors; Strawberries Wild, Razzmatazz, and Mango-a-go-go. To make the smoothie, simply add a cup of apple juice and blend, it was SO EASY! The best part is that when you open the package, there is ACTUAL FRUIT in it, not unrecognizable ingredients. And, Jamba All Natural Smoothies are fat free and contain only 120 calories or less per serving.

Other fun facts:
Each package contains two, eight-ounce smoothies each contained one full serving of fruit and 100% Daily value of Vitamin C.

As the name implies, Jamba Smoothies are all natural and contain NO high fructose corn syrup, Og trans fat, NO artificial flavors, NO artificial colors and NO preservatives.
...we have a new staple item for our freezer!! Thank you!

Disclosure: I was given this product to try and review. All opinions, as always are my own. I was not compensated monetarily for this post.

Triscuit & Urban Farming

2010-06-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

I recently heard the exciting news that Triscuit is working with Urban Farming, a non-profit organization, to create 50 new community-based home farms throughout the United States. We are huge fans of growing your own garden and trying to be more self-sufficient, so I was thrilled!

As part of the Home Farming Movement, Triscuit has included plantable herb seed cards in 4 million boxes of Triscuits to help encourage people to grow their own vegetables and herbs! Triscuit has also created a website that includes information about growing vegetables at home, a crop guide, community forums, and lots more! You can check it out here.
Triscuit was kind enough to send us two boxes to get our own family herb garden going! The original crackers have basil seeds and the reduced fat has dill seeds. It's a great project for the whole family and really helps the kids develop some life skills. Thank you & I hope y'all start your own family gardens! It can be as simple as herbs in the kitchen window or as big as a backyard full of fresh produce!

Disclosure: Triscuit provided us with two boxes of crackers and gift card to purchase planting supplies. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions, as always are my own.

SuperValu Box Tops for Education & Giveaway

2010-05-02T22:21:00.001-07:00

Do you save Box Tops for Education? We sure do--I have some great news for you and a $25 American Express Gift card to give away!!

The SuperValu family of stores (ACME, Albertsons, Cub, Farm Fresh and Jewel-Osco) joined Box Tops for Education in creating a website that not only tracks your Box Tops contribution and the school´s redemption, but also offers recipes, coupons, store promotions and more!
From now through May 31, SuperValu stores and Box Tops for Education are giving you a chance to win 50,000 bonus box tops for your school. That´s a $5,000 value! All you have to do is register at http://www.blogger.com/www.GrowingLocalLearning.com, and click the link to the 50,000 bonus box tops sweepstakes*. You will automatically receive 5 Bonus Box Tops just for signing up!

After you´ve entered the sweepstakes, be sure to stick around and browse the website where you´ll find a variety of great offers on your favorite General Mills brands including Betty Crocker®, Old El Paso®, Totino´s® Pizza Rolls® and Pillsbury®. Once you register you can also find recipes that will earn you even more Box Tops and you can access coupons for the latest deals at your local SuperValu store!

To Celebrate, we're giving away a $25 AMEX Gift Card! We used our gift card to get over 20 Box Tops!
To Enter:

Times is up! We have a winner! Congrats to:
jzagarjr who said...
"I think I could get around 25 box tops."

Please note that the sweepstakes is void in some states. Visit www.GrowingLocalLearning.com and view the sweepstakes fficial rules for more details.
Disclosure: SuperValu and General Mills provided me with a gift card, information, and giveaway through MyBlogSpark. I was not compensated in any way for this post and all opinions, as always, are my own.

Reader Recipe Photos

2010-04-26T20:19:00.001-07:00

I got the sweetest email today from a reader today...
"I am in love with your website! I am the Julie to your Julia, with trying to make every recipe on your website. :)"
Jillzy also sent some photos of a few recipes she's tried, I was impressed!

She made Apple Surprise Mini Pies to take to work....what a nice co-worker!

She made Sunshine Cupcakes...
Crab Rangoon (with rave reviews!)...

and Shamrock Cupcakes...

You go girl! It just makes my day to hear about people trying out our fun creations. Thanks for sharing!

New Lean Cuisine and Fiber!

2010-04-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to try several of the new Lean Cuisine spa-inspired entrees. I was super excited becuase lately I've been trying to incorporate more fiber into my diet and they use fresh foods and whole grains. They were amazingly delicious!

Inspired by Spa chefs around the country, each Spa Cuisine entrées from Lean Cuisine offer five to six grams of dietary fiber from natural sources, such as whole grains, fruits and veggies. New varities are: Apple Cranberry Chicken, Roasted Honey Chicken and Thai-Style Noodles with Chicken.

I also had a great chat with Mitzi Dulan, 'America's Nutrition Expert' who has worked with many pro sports teams. We talked about the importance of fiber and how most adults and kids just aren't getting enough. Not only is fiber great for your system, it makes you feel full. If you're trying to lose weight, eating plenty of fiber will help you feel satisfied.

How much fiber should you be eating?
For Adults:
20-35 grams per day.
For children:
19 grams per day ages 1-3
25 grams per ages 4-8
36 per day girls ages 9-13
31 per day boys ages 9-13

Since Lean Cuisine has 6 grams of dietary fiber from natural resources, I'm on board!

Just for fun, you can go here to enter the
Lean Cuisine Ultimate Girlfriend Getaway Sweepstakes
I certainly wouldn't turn down 6 days of fun, fitness and relaxation. :)

Disclosure: I was given the new Lean Cuisine entrees to try and review. I was not compensated in any way for this post and all opinions, as always, are my own.

PBJ Cuteness!

2010-04-19T09:42:00.001-07:00

I got this email & photo from a reader telling me she made PBJ Sushi into a little face lunch for her neice. Way to be creative Tarynne! What a cool aunt you are!

Cookie Love

2010-04-18T18:17:00.001-07:00

Guess what we received recently in the mail from Bridget at Bake at 350 to celebrate Cathe's 2nd Anniversary of Just Something I Made? Yowza! Cathe had these as a giveaway and I couldn't believe we won!

So, the big question was: We already know that the uber-talented Bridget makes cookie creations so amazing it makes grown men cry BUT do they taste as good as they look?....

Well, judging from the fact that they were devoured by my family before I could take a good picture, YES! They were amazing!!! Thank you so much, Bridget and Cathe!

Pioneer Woman Coookbook!

2010-04-17T20:50:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went with my super fun friend Linda to meet The Pioneer Woman and have our cookbooks signed. I didn't think it was possible, but she was even cuter in person! What a fun girls' night! Linda and I ate dinner, chatted, just enjoyed being out without kids, and even tried chocolate-covered prunes...way more tasty than we originally thought!:)

BABIES!

2010-04-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the amazing new movie coming out, Thomas Balmès' BABIES ?
It's coming out Mothers Day Weekend and I can't wait to see it!

A visually stunning and joyful new film simultaneously chronicles the lives of four of the world’s newest human inhabitants - in Mongolia, Namibia, San Francisco, and Tokyo, respectively -- from first breath to first steps.

Here are your cast of tiny stars:
Meet Hattie, from the United States

Meet Bayar, from Mongolia

Meet Mari, from Japan

Meet Ponijao, from Namibia

What a wonderful, creative way to celebrate life! I'd love to hear your feedback when you go see it!
I'm helping to spread the word about this movie as part of a BzzAgent project, you can join in on the fun at www.buzzagent.com

Easter Cupcake Toppers

2010-03-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

How cute are these adorable cupcake toppers from Skip to my Lou? She has them free to download/print. Thanks for sharing, Cindy!

Hellmann's Real Food Project

2010-03-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

What a great cooking resource! Celebrity chef Bobby Flay and actress/mom Lori Loughlin have teamed up with Hellmann's® and Best Foods® Mayonnaise to unveil the Real Food Project!
I went over to check it out, and it's fabulous! Not only am I big Bobby Flay fan, hellmanns.com is a comprehensive online resource offering tips and ideas on how to create real meals made with Real Food.

Because videos are great for multi-tasking moms, The Real Food Project features a series of entertaining how-to tutorials, hosted by Bobby Flay, to give you tools and techniques to prepare great-tasting, at-home meals for our families. Just by visiting http://www.hellmanns.com/, you can access a wide range of recipes, including sandwiches, entrees and side dishes, all designed to please picky palates. There are even chances to win great prizes like a kitchen essentials bundle, Bobby Flay Grill It and Hellmann's® and Best Foods® products by playing the "Wheel of Real" instant win game and entering the Real Food Sweepstakes.

Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a Hellmann's® prize package in exchange for this post. No monetary exchange took place."

Cherry Raisinets Extravaganza!

2010-03-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

When I heard NESTLÉ® announce the newest addition to the RAISINETS family, Cherry RAISINETS®, I thought, "Dang! That is a GREAT idea! Cherries...delicious! Chocolate...delicious! I'm on board!"

The folks at Nestle sent me two bags to try and is going to give FIVE Gourmet Mom on the Go readers two of their own bags! Buckle up your seat belts, they are fabulous!!!

Check out Cherry as she takes the stage in her new video!

We have our winners!
Joannie who said...
“Cheery Raisinets are a natural source of antioxidents.”
hi_joan_elliott at hotmail dot com

hbrandt6 who said...
“"I'm all about" the DARK chocolate!!”

Carolsue who said...
“This superjuicy, superfruit treat provides 1/2 serving of real fruit in every 1/4 cup and has 30% less fat than the leading chocolate brands.”

js22 who said...
“I subscribe to your blog's feed via google reader."

Jennifer who said...
“I'm now a fan of Raisinets on Facebook!”

Some more about Cherry RAISINETS:
Cherry RAISINETS contain whole dried cherries are sourced from one of the premier cherry growing regions in Michigan. For anyone looking for a better-for-you treat, Cherry RAISINETS provides a win-win option with ½ a serving of real fruit in every ¼ cup and 30 percent less fat than the leading chocolate brands.

A SWEETstakes You Can't Resist
Sweetening the launch of Cherry RAISINETS, the newest series of webisodes, featuring the sassy, fun loving crew of Raisinets, begins March 23rd. In these new adventures, the group embarks on a cross country road trip in search of a new member to add to the RAISINETS family. Starting April 1st, viewers will be able to enter for a chance to win a daily "road trip" prize, such as a GPS system, iPods and more. All who enter the daily sweepstakes will also be entered into the grand prize drawing for a chance to win the RAISINETS Ultimate Road Trip for the winner and up to three friends!

Disclosure: I was given this product for free to review. I was not compensated monetarily or in any other way for this post. As always, my opinions are honest and my own.

Fruit fun for Kids

2010-03-17T10:08:00.000-07:00

With kids still not getting their recommended daily intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, the National Mango Board is doing its part to get families to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Our new and improved ManGO! Kids section, www.mango.org/kids, has a myriad options to get your kids interested in healthy eating, creative ideas for physical activity (do you know the Mango Fandango?) and even a geography lesson with our official mango ambassador Jango Mango. My kids loved the site and it was fun to play and encourage healthy eating habits at the same time!

Here's another fun resource to help your children get the nutrients they need:
floridajuice.com has teamed up with Dr. Richard E. Collins to share some wonderful heart-healthy recipes for your family. I'm always looking for new recipes to try, so I thought I'd share!

Children Aren’t Getting Enough Fruits and Vegetables
USA Today reports that:
--French fries are the most common type of vegetable children eat and account for about one-quarter of children's vegetable intake. ACK!
--Juice makes up about 40 percent of kids' fruit intake.
--Children are consuming an average of two cups of fruits, vegetables and juice a day. Government nutritional guidelines recommend two to six and a half cups of fruits and vegetables each day.

Disclosure: I was not compensated in any way for this post. Go serve those kiddos some fruits and veggies!:)

Pssst Network

2010-03-14T20:01:00.001-07:00

Have you heard of the fun network from General Mills called Pssst...?
I joined last May and it's great! You get the inside scoop on new product launches, recipes, and they also send you free product coupons.

Well, guess what? I just heard that during the week of March 22nd, Pssst... is launching MyGetTogether, a fun way to try products and sometimes new recipes in the company of good friends, giving you a real inside look at the products, providing coupons, unique giveaways or other offers. Be sure to sign up now so that you can apply to host a get together!

In addition, as a member of the network you will get a chance to try new products, provide insight and feedback to the brands, take part in cool surveys and get exclusive, behind the scenes content. From time to time you will receive samples and coupons to give out to friends and family members you think would enjoy them.

Interested in seeing what it´s all about? Visit http://www.blogger.com/pssst.generalmills.com. Just click the Join Now tab to become a member and get in the loop on new products.

Disclosure: I was not compensated in any way for this post. I do not receive anything if you sign up. Yes, I think Pssst... is awesome.:)

Printable Easter Candy Envelopes

2010-03-14T14:40:00.001-07:00

I am in love with these adorable and easy printable easter treat envelopes from Mushy!
You can download them and get instructions here.

Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving!!

2010-03-13T07:29:00.000-08:00

St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner, and it's not the luck of the Irish that will keep the roads safe, it's planning now for a safe and sober way home.

Are you headed out with friends after work this Wednesday to celebrate the holiday? No? Well when you and your family are on the road headed to choir practice, a t-ball game, or coming home from school, you may be sharing the road with those returning from a fun St. Patrick's Day event!

Let's spread the word to those people celebrating on Wednesday!

*Designate a sober driver before you leave for your event. *

*Be ready to take alternate transportation such as a bus or taxi. Have the phone number of a taxi service stored in your phone before you leave for the party. *

Keep in mind that in 2008, 1,179 people in other vehicles were killed in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers. And for those who don't plan on over-indulging, a buzzed driving crash looks the same as a drunk driving crash.

Buzzed drivers drink and drive, but do not consider themselves a hazard on the roadway because they have had "only a few" drinks.

To learn more about the impact buzzed driving can have on a life, please watch this important video about the financial and personal repercussions of getting a DUI: http://buzzeddriving.adcouncil.org/sign.php#video

Remember: Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving. Plan ahead and ask your loved ones to do the same.

For more information, visit Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving on Facebook and Twitter (@Buzzeddriving).

Luck Bucks

2010-03-06T10:10:00.001-08:00

How cute are these printable "Luck Bucks" from Family Fun? I'm going to hide some around the house, then let the girls "buy" a few treats/prizes at Lucky Leprechaun's Store (aka Mom's stash of goodies:)).

Make Every Child Count!

2010-03-02T22:27:00.000-08:00

Every child loves a good game of hide and seek. There are the fun butterflies they get in their tummies when they're waiting to be discovered and the pride they feel when they're able to count to ten and then yelling, "Ready or not, here I come!"
But children who are hidden from the U.S. Census counts (taken only once every 10 years) are not a laughing matter. So, ready or not, here comes 2010 Census ... and you have an important role to play!

Children have been undercounted in every census since the first one in 1790. Local communities rely on census information in planning for schools, child care, health and other critical services. Babies need to be counted today, so they can benefit tomorrow from community services.

Census counts are used, in whole or in part, for more than 140 programs that distribute more than $400 billion of federal funds to states and localities, including such child-focused programs as:

•Special Education Grants to states ($10.8 billion)
•Head Start ($6.9 billion)
•State Children's Health Insurance Program ($5.9 billion)
•Foster Care Title IV-E ($4.7 billion)
•Improving Teacher Quality State Grants ($2.9 billion)

Unlike adults, who may bear some responsibility for making sure they are counted in the Census, children are dependent on others to make sure they are included. Yet in 1980, 1990, and 2000, Census Bureau data show children, particularly young children, are one of the groups most likely to be missed in the Census. In fact, in the 2000 Census, there was a net undercount of more than 1 million children under age 10.

So, please make sure when the census comes around this year, every child is counted!

Benihana Gift Card Giveaway

2010-03-01T20:59:00.000-08:00

Benihana is the leading Japanese-themed restaurant chain in the world. The restaurant’s teppanyaki chefs slice and dice guests’ meals, providing entertainment as they enjoy traditional Japanese cooking using American favorites like steak, chicken, seafood and vegetables.
For the month of March, Benihana’s Chef Special is the Hibachi Shrimp and Chicken for Two, a huge multi-course meal priced at $35!
The meal includes:
-Benihana onion soup
-Benihana salad
-hibachi shrimp appetizer
-hibachi Chicken
-hibachi vegetables
-homemade dipping sauces
-steamed rice
-Japanese hot green tea
-Häagen-Dazs ice cream, sherbert or sorbet

Personally, I don't drink alcohol, but they are also having a lot of special "green drinks" just for St. Patrick's Day as well as featured sakes.
• Emerald Punch Bowl – inspired by the classic melon ball cocktail, the 60-ounce punch bowl includes Midori Melon Liqueur, SKYY Pineapple Vodka and pineapple juice – enough for two or more guests to share.
• Kiwi Crush – a light and refreshing martini featuring fresh muddled kiwi fruit, Ketel One Citroen Vodka, St-Germain and a touch of green tea syrup.
• Green Tea Colada – a delicious Japanese twist on the pina colada with a frozen blend of Malibu Rum, ZEN Green Tea Liqueur, pineapple and coconut.

To celebrate this fabulous special, Benihana is giving one Gourmet Mom-on-the-Go reader a $35 Gift Certificate to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style!
Time's up! We have a winner!
Genny who said...
"Follower"
Please contact me within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you! Congratulations!

Disclosure: Benihana provided the gift cards for this giveaway. I was not compensated monetarily for this post.

Rainbow Brite Adventure Pack Review & Giveaway

2010-03-01T20:58:00.000-08:00

It's official! Thanks to Hallmark, Rainbow Brite is back and is just as fun as a I remember! MomSelect recently sent me a fun pack of Rainbow Brite CDs for myself and friends to help re-introduce Rainbow Brite. I let my girls pass them on to their friends to they could all join in on the fun!
I was so excited to be able to introduce my girls to something I enjoyed as a child! The CD is both Mac and PC compatible and is full of fun, Rainbow Brite Style!

Features Include:
-Rainbow Brite Animated Short
-Games
-Puzzles
-Theme Song
-Meet the Characters
-lots more!:)

The girls LOVED the coloring pages--you can customize your own and print it out! Another favorite was the Star Catcher game. You use the mouse to blow bubbles and "catch" multi-colored stars. They also enjoyed accessorizing the various characters in Picture Maker.

They also loved the intro video that showed Tickled Pink captured by the Dark Princess. Moon Glow tries to save her, but they need Rainbow Brite to come back and help!! Starlight goes to earth and helps Rainbow Brite remember who she is.

There’s a fun new interactive Rainbow Brite website with games and video shorts available, plus a new line of Rainbow Brite dolls (available at Target and soon Toys R Us).

We have Adventure Pack CD to share with one of you!

We have a winner!
lovingourlife who said...
"My sister and I played with Barbies and My little Ponies. We didn't like to play with other kids because they didn't "play" right. Did anyone else feel that way?"

congrats! Please contact me within 3 days and we'll get your prize out to you!

Wisk Pimp My Laundry Room Contest

2010-03-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

I CANNOT WAIT to make our family video for this! We have a little "closet" of a laundry room with doors falling off the hinges and scary cupboards.

If there is one chore that Moms are familiar with, it's laundry. For many of us, it's a daily occurrence that gives new meaning to the phrase "spin cycle!" That's why it's not surprising that laundry rooms are among the most frequented areas of the house for Mom....unfortunately, they tend to also be some of the most uninspired rooms in the home when it comes to design. Luckily, Wisk® Laundry Detergent understands and wants to help!

If your laundry room is plain and boring or a downright dungeon, you just might be in desperate need of a laundry room makeover. Wisk® Laundry Detergent is teaming up with TV's Designing Spaces to pimp-out one laundry room in dire need of a face-lift as part of the Wisk® Pimp My Laundry Room video contest.

Just enter a short video from March 1 to March 29, 2010 at www.LaundryHE.com explaining why you deserve a laundry room makeover and Wisk® could be on your doorstep with their partners-in-design, Whirlpool's DreamLaundry® Solutions team led by Bill Thomas and Emily Johnston, owner of the interior design firm EJ Interiors and founder of Materials Girls Blog. Together, they'll take your laundry room from drab to fab in no time thanks to a laundry room makeover complete with a new Whirlpool® High Efficiency (HE) washer/dryer set and a year's worth of Wisk® HE Laundry Detergent. Even better, she'll get to star in her very own episode of Designing Spaces!

The top Finalists will be featured on LaundryHE.com from April 12 - 19 and the Grand Prize Winner will be chosen by popular ballot so be sure to get your friends and family online and voting! Even better, a vote is an automatic entry to a sweepstakes for a year's supply of Wisk HE Laundry Detergent.

*Disclosure: I am partnering with BSM Media for a Wisk contest with product giveaway*

Adorable Recycled Scarf

2010-02-25T14:41:00.001-08:00

I can't sew to save my life, but I think even I can make this ADORALBE recycled shirt scarf from Ruffles and Stuff. Can't wait to try it!

Kelly's Cake Off

2010-02-10T10:15:00.000-08:00

When it comes to supporting ovarian cancer research, Electrolux and Kelly Ripa have proved to be an awesome combination! Whenever they get together, they bring us fantastic campaigns that are not only fun to participate in, but allow us to contribute to an extremely worthy cause. Their latest campaign,"Kelly's Cake Off For a Cause", is no exception. And since Valentine's Day is right around the corner, they've even added an element that all Moms can get on board with- Cake! My friend Bridget was at the event, you can read about her experience here! Kelly and accomplished master baker and cake decorator Buddy Valastro, from TLC's "Cake Boss," recently joined forces at a fun event to bake lavishly decorated cakes in support of The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF). To add to the excitement, five teams of baking enthusiasts were invited to take part in Kelly's Cake Off, where they used what they learned from Kelly and the Cake Boss, to decorate their own cakes.

Although you might not get to taste these virtual masterpieces, you can still weigh in on the results! By visiting Kelly-Confidential.com, you can cast a vote for your favorite cake from Kelly's Cake Off. My friend Bridget from Bake at 350 made the Take a Bow cake! So cute!

For every vote cast, Electrolux will donate $1[1] to OCRF as part of its $500,000 commitment to help fight ovarian cancer! And since love is on everyone's mind these days, you can even decorate and send a special virtual cake to a friend, family member or someone you love. For every cake sent, Electrolux will donate another $1[1] to OCRF. Plus, Buddy's top cake decorating tips are available -- sure to inspire baking enthusiasts and novices alike.

If that's not enough to get you to click over, everyone who logs on to the site and sends a virtual cake will be automatically entered for a chance to win every baker's dream: a stylish new Induction Range from Electrolux. What an amazing prize! So, go visit and have some fun voting for a good cause!

McCormick & Schmick's Valentines Dinner!

2010-02-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

We're giving away a $25 Gift Certificate to McCormick & Schmicks!

"Indulge Your Taste for Romance on Valentine's Day Weekend. Because romance deserves more than one day."

This year, make McCormick & Schmick’s your one stop shop for dinner, flowers and personalized notes – all in one place! McCormick & Schmick’s is offering an "above and beyond" service to any guest who makes a reservation for Valentine's Day. Here’s how:

· The restaurant can provide roses to be delivered to the guests table upon their arrival for dinner. Prices and exact flower arrangements vary by location, but each restaurant will be offering roses in some way. Guests will be able to have the cost included on their dinner bill or billed separately.

· Additionally, McCormick & Schmick’s will be offering guests an opportunity to have a special personalized message included on their dinner menu or a personalized note card on the table.

· This special menu and offer will be available from Friday, February 12 to Sunday, February 14th. Take a look! YUM!

Set the Mood
Pan Fried Oysters Rockefeller-Style
On a bed of anise-flavored creamy spinach, glazed with hollandaise
8.95

Create The Perfect Pair
Soup or Mixed Green Salad
Choose Filet Mignon or Lobster Tail
and
Choose a Crab Cake, Grilled Filet of Salmon or Skewer of Shrimp
Seasonal Vegetables
29.95

Delectable Desserts
Sweetheart’s Crème Brulée
Chocolate Silk Pie
6.95 each

How about a $25 Gift Certificate to enjoy a special dinner?

This giveaway is now closed.
We have a winner!
cdziuba who said...
"I wouyld try the Blackened Tuna.
Thanks for the chance to win."

Special K New Products and My Victory

2010-01-29T10:19:00.001-08:00

Declare Victory!
Six real women recently revealed what makes them feel victorious in a national Special K ad campaign that launched the morning of January 4. We got a sneek peek at the behind-the-scenes video of the six Special K women on the set of their advertising shoot, where they share what inspires them, their best piece of advice to real women just like them, and more. I was inspired, touched, and it made me want to work harder on my goals for the New Year. You can watch it here.

And to help us get 2010 started off right, we got to try the newest Special K products to be introduced to the Special K line-up— Special K™ Fruit Crisps and Special K® Low Fat Granola.
They were both delicious! My kids ate an entire box of the fruit crisps in an afternoon, I had to sneak the other one away for hubby and myself.:) The Granola is delicious and hit with the whole family. We were happy to be introduced to something tasty and nutritious to add to our family's meal lineup! Thanks, Special K!

help hearing loss in children!

2010-01-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

Did you know that when MP3 players are purchased as gifts, the majority of purchasers are moms?
But do you know about the potential risks? Kids often don't know how to use audio technology safely and they can harm their hearing as a result. In fact, hearing loss among young people is reported to be on the rise and there are strong concerns that a generation of young people could end up with prevalent hearing loss.

Whether your child received an MP3 player, gaming device, cell phone, laptop, or any other device with headphones, don't overlook the important health threat of hearing loss. Now is the time to reach out to other parents about the importance of hearing loss prevention, the damaging effects of excessive media consumption, and the resources available to them through ASHA.
Here are two simple ways to protect your children's - and your own - hearing.

· Keep the volume down. A good guide is half volume.
· Limit listening time. Give your hearing 'quiet breaks'.

Find more information and statistics at ASHA's website. You can also follow their Twitter feed or fan them on Facebook to get real time updates on their work.

Win a Blog Makeover!

2010-01-23T14:25:00.001-08:00

The Frilly Coconut is giving away a blog design!

I have to say that she's my new favorite blog designer and I'm the waitlist to have our recipe site re-done by her. Can't wait!

Go here to enter!

Great Cereal News!

2010-01-20T10:54:00.000-08:00

Last Month General Mills announced a commitment to further reduce sugar in cereals advertised to kids under 12 to single digit grams of sugar per serving!

Did you know that ready-to-eat cereal eaters consume less fat, less cholesterol and more fiber than non-cereal eaters? Cereals also deliver important vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, making cereal a top source of key nutrients in children´s diets.

For more information about kids and cereals, please visit Cereal Health and Wellness.

Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals!

*Special thanks to MyBlogSpark and General Mills for the great information and for providing four VIP Coupons for General Mills cereal.*

Frigidaire Make Time for Change

2010-01-18T12:43:00.000-08:00

Frigidaire and Jennifer Garner are teaming up once again to support Save the Children's U.S. Programs, dedicated to helping children living in poverty in the United States--plus they're encouraging all of us to spend more quality time with our little ones. We're definitely on board!

Frigidaire's new Spin & Win game gives you the opportunity to win gift cards for spending quality time with your tykes - whether it's curling up with some new books, starting a craft project or taking in a family flick! They're giving away a prize every day!

PLUS you could also win a brand new Frigidaire Affinity washer and dryer, with time-saving features that give you more time for the important things in life.
Best of all, every time you play, Frigidaire will donate $1 to Save the Children, as part of their $250,000 commitment to support Save the Children's CHANGE program, dedicated to providing nutritious snacks and promoting healthier lifestyles for children living in poverty in the United States. I've bookmarked the site so we can go and visit every day!

So what are you waiting for? It's time to make time for CHANGE. Go ahead - take a spin.

Cottonelle over or Under?

2010-01-14T17:24:00.000-08:00

Personally, I'm with "Team Over"!
You can go vote for yourself here!

By leaving a comment on this post you will be entered to win 1 of 10 Cottonelle gift baskets randomly chosen on January 29, 2010 from all entries.

Disclosure: I am entering a contest for a month's worth of Cottonelle toilet paper as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club.

Dry Cleaner's Secret

2010-01-04T22:04:00.000-08:00

Awhile ago, I was given two of these to try and share w/ friends...Dry Cleaner's Secret

It was so great! I have to admit that I try to avoid buying clothes that need dry cleaning since my children ruin most of my clothes. However, I have a few nice dresses and coats as well as hubby's dress clothes.

I was skeptical with how Dry Cleaner's Secret would work and admit that I doubted how well it would do the job, but I was really impressed, it worked espeically great on ties!! So, I'd keep this on hand, it will definitely save you a few dollars on dry cleaning bills.

True North

2009-11-19T22:12:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, True North sent me a sample of the TRUE NORTH® Apple Cinnamon Nut Clusters, the TRUE NORTH® Citrus Nut Clusters and the TRUE NORTH® Almond Cranberry Crisps. My family DEVOURED THEM!! They're 100% natural and I love their passion for thinking outside the box to bring you delicious, healthy snacks.

The nut clusters were fabulous, but I have to say that my favorite was the Almond Cranberry Crisps. I served them with this goat cheese dip and it was to-die-for. I'm grabbing some more to serve with Thanksgiving Dinner!

Michael Buble Crazy Love Review

2009-10-23T01:07:00.001-07:00

Many of you know I have a graduate degree in Vocal Performance and love all kinds of music! Well, I got the chance to listen to and review Michael Bublé's new album, Crazy Love. Wow, is this one sultry, sexy, and well-produced album with GREAT vocals. He has definitely come through again with an amazing album. These jazz standards sound fresh while keeping their smooth style, I was very impressed. The orchestration is gorgeous and not too over the top. It's just right for his smooth style. This would be a fantastic Holiday gift, I'm giving one to my mom! (Mom, if you're reading this, you heard nothing!).

Here's my rundown on the album tracks:

1. Cry Me a River- WOW! What a dramatic start to the album. I've heard this song done many ways and this one is just amazing. I love the orchestration at the beginning and this is just one sultry song!

2. All of Me- Smooth, fun, and a great contrast to the first song. It's got a terrific fox-trot beat and makes you want to dance with someone.

3. Georgia- this song isn't too overdone although I think I'd like it more with just a piano and Michael. His voice is great and should be showcased a little more in this emotional ballad. I do love how they tied in the same chord progression as the opening of Cry Me a River.

4. Crazy Love- One of my favorite songs and this version well sung and smooth. Nothing tops my favorite version by Brian McKnight, though!

5. Haven't Met You Yet-Such a fun, happy song! This one makes you tap your toes, you can't help yourself. This one is my girls' favorite.

6. All I do is dream of You-This has never been my favorite song, so for that reason I didn't really like this track. His vocals are great and I love the little scatting that he threw in. It's lighthearted and fun.

7. Hold On-a beautiful song with beautiful lyrics. This was one of my favs. "We are stronger here together, than we could ever be alone. So hold on to me, don't you ever let me go. "

8. Heartache Tonight-I love the edge he spun on this track! Really well done and another one that gets played often!

9. You're Nobody till Somebody Loves You-YES! Finally a track that has him with a piano. It's gorgeous. It slowly build to a full orchestra by the end, but the whole thing works well.

10. Baby- Sharon Jones is AMAZING on this track. I love her voice. This is a fun and funky track. I never thought I'd like someone more that Tess Williams on this song, but she was outstanding!

11. At This Moment-a heartfelt ballad and well done.

12. Stardust-this one gave me visions of sitting in a diner with a big milkshake (with two straws!) and staring into my sweeties eyes.:) Slow, smooth, lots of harmony. Naturally 7 is great on this track.

13. Whatever it Takes-a smooth an uplifting track, Ron Sexsmith is a great support on this song.

Pumpkin Suckers

2009-10-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

We are currently working on some Mummy Suckers for our homepage but look at these super-easy pumpkin suckers I found on Busy Bee Crafts!

Here's what you'll need...
•Orange and green lifesavers
(7 orange and 1 green for each lollipop)
•Popsicle stick or sucker sticks
•Tin Foil
•Baking Sheet
•Oven

1. Line your baking sheet with a piece of tin foil. Place your popsicle stick on the foil. Place 2 orange lifesavers directly on top of the stick - at one end of the stick (see picture)

2. Arrange the rest of your orange lifesavers around in circle. Break your green lifesaver in half and place at the top of your pumpkin. Make sure all of your lifesavers are touching, otherwise they won't melt together properly. 3. Bake in the oven at 250F for 12-14 minutes or until the lifesavers have melted. All ovens are different, keep checking your lollipops while they're baking!

Jungle Growth Charts

2009-10-07T07:42:00.001-07:00

There are some adorable growth charts over at Vinyl Gifts and More, I'm thinking of putting this in Little H's room!

Halloween Cupcake Collars

2009-10-06T14:54:00.000-07:00

I just found these too-cute printable Cupcake Collar templates at Chica and Jo. You can download and print there here. What a cool and easy way to make festive cupcakes!

Coolest Trunk Ever

2009-10-06T14:51:00.001-07:00

I am in love with this gorgeous trunk Alice made on Apartment Therapy!
I'm no painter, but I think you could get a similar effect with vinyl stencils.

Halloween Decor

2009-10-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

Here's what I finally came up with to have on our table this October, I'd love to see any other ideas you have!

The girls also had fun with these inexpensive removeable stickers we found at a local costume shop.

Disney Magic with Snow White!

2009-10-06T14:17:00.001-07:00

I was excited to see if Snow White was as great as I remembered as a child, and WOW were we impressed with this DVD set. As for the movie, the color is gorgeous and the HD sound is crisp and clear. The whole family enjoyed this classic tale. Just the movie and its quality would be enough to get me to purchase this DVD—however, it is loaded with bonus features that kept us busy for hours! The Karaoke Sing-a-Long and “Which Princess are You?” quiz were favorites. There are so many fun games, backstage peeks, and more…your family will love it! I also love the fact they Disney packaged this edition with Blu-Ray AND a DVD. We currently don’t own a Blu-Ray player but plan to have one in the future, so this is a perfect set. We won’t have to “re-purchase” movies once we upgrade. Disney has done it again with a magic story the whole family can enjoy!