The Review Stew

NEW Kashi Steam Meals

2013-06-19T11:56:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

If you are like me, there are just days that you either DO NOT feel like cooking or you just don't have the time. However, I still want to provide a healthy, nutritious meal free of unnatural ingredients and preservatives. So what do I do? I turn to my favorite natural companies, like Kashi, that are kind enough to help a mother out! :)

My family has been trying Kashi's new Steam Meals...and LOVIN' them! Using steam to bring out delicious flavors from real ingredients, Kashi, the premier natural food and lifestyle company, recently announced the addition of two new mouthwatering Steam Meal varieties—Kashi® Three Cheese Ravioli and Kashi® Mushroom and Asparagus Risotto. Made with the signature Kashi® Seven Whole Grain™ blend and tasty flavor combinations, the new vegetarian Steam Meals offer two servings per bag and provide a convenient and nourishing alternative when a from-scratch meal isn't an option.

Kashi Three Cheese Ravioli Steam Meal serves up Kashi™ 7 Multigrain Pasta filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, asiago and mozzarella cheeses, combined with spinach, basil and red peppers, as well as chickpea puree—topped with a zesty garlic basil Mediterranean tomato sauce. Adding a nutritious spin to a classic dish, this meal delivers 23g of whole grains, 13g of protein and 5g of fiber per serving.

Kashi Mushroom and Asparagus Risotto Steam Meal combines rich Crimini mushrooms and crisp asparagus with Kashi Seven Whole Grains & Sesame™ pilaf, and is tossed in a flavorful parmesan cream sauce. This hearty risotto entree provides nearly a day's worth of recommended whole grains in one serving with 45g, 12g of protein and 7g of fiber per serving2.

The new flavors join Kashi's existing Steam Meal line, which includes Chicken and Chipotle BBQ and Italian Vegetable Medley Pasta for two, as well as the single-serve Steam Meal varieties—Chicken Fettuccine, Sesame Chicken, Spinach and Artichoke Pasta and Roasted Garlic Chicken Farfalle.

These new Kashi Steam Meals for two are delicious, good-for-you versions of traditional comfort dishes that deliver what people like most about a homemade meal—real, quality ingredients and incredible taste.

Our family's favorite was the Three Cheese Ravioli - we love cheese and pasta - a perfect mix for our family! They were super easy to make and could even be made on the stove instead of microwaved. They had great taste

Buy It: You can purchase the Kashi Three Cheese Ravioli and Mushroom and Asparagus Steam Meals are available in the frozen aisle of grocers and natural food retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $6.95.

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* Thank you to Kashi for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Honey Bunches of Oats Greek Honey Crunch

2013-06-19T10:10:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

I have mentioned before how I am LOVIN' Greek Yogurt right now as post-workout snacks and I have also recently gotten into the routine of having cereal every morning. (I used to HATE cereal!). So what better combination than the new Honey Bunches of Oats Greek Honey Crunch! I am a huge fan and so is my hubby! It has been his preferred cereal every morning!

With the one-of-a-kind unmistakable crunch of the traditional Post® Honey Bunches of Oats cereals, new Honey Bunches of Oats Greek Honey Crunch also mixes in the perfect combination of crispy whole grain flakes and two tasty, crunchy granola clusters made with real Greek yogurt. The original recipe of flakes and granola oat clusters, sweetened with just a touch of honey, was created in 1986. Long-time Post Foods employee Vernon J. Herzing and his daughter, Kimberly, mixed together different Post cereals, creating what would later become Honey Bunches of Oats Honey Roasted. Today, Honey Bunches of Oats is one of the top-selling cereals in America, and 50 million smiles can’t be wrong!

New Honey Bunches of Oats Greek is made with two unique granolas made with Greek yogurt, crispy whole grain flakes and a touch of honey. With 33 grams of Whole Grains, one bowl provides over two-thirds of your day's Whole Grains. Nutritionists recommend eating three or more servings of whole grain foods per day (about 16g whole grain per serving or at least 48g per day) so Honey Bunches of Oats Greek is a great source and perfect choice for breakfast!

So look forward to breakfast every morning with the Honey Bunches of Oats Greek! It makes it easy for the entire family to Rise and Smile!

To learn more, head to www.honeybunchesofoats.com, follow them on Facebook, and follow them on Twitter: @HBOats

Buy It: You can purchase Honey Bunches of Oats Greek Honey Crunch from your local retailer!

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* Thank you to Post for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Bare Fruit Snacks & Giveaway

2013-06-19T08:39:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

My absolute favorite snack (especially when I am dieting/trying to lose weight) is dried fruit! I pretty much love dried fruit of all kinds - they are sweet and are a great source of fiber to keep me full longer! So when I saw the great selection of organic dried fruit from Bare Fruit Snacks, I was so excited to try them and add them to my snack routine!

There are really several types of snacks on the market. Some are great tasting. Potato chips really do taste good. But they aren’t good for you. Some snacks are “better-for-you.” But there are very few “good-for-you” snacks out there. An apple chip, baked (not fried or freeze-dried) tastes great while still being good-for-you in every way.

Bare Fruit Snacks are all-natural and the organic chips are certified by Washington State, the hardest organic certifiers in the country. They make every effort to be environmentally friendly and will be 100% carbon neutral in 2013.

What makes them special is their exclusive process that bakes the chip in a way that the natural sugars caramelize on the outside. This provides a sweet and tart flavor combination without adding sugars or flavors. Plus, in some of their products they add organic cinnamon and other natural flavors to provide a variety to customers.

Basically, Bare Fruit Apple Chips are the perfect snack: great tasting and great for you. Made from Washington State apples (and nothing else) our apple chips are low in calories, fat free, full of fiber, and so good even your kids will love them. Just like eating an apple, only more convenient and even tastier.

Although I really love the apples, I was really happy to try their other fruit varieties: Organic Dried Mango, Organic Dried Pears and Organic Dried Apricots! They were all delicious and organic so I felt great eating them AND sharing them with my children (who also LOVED them!)

My son asks for these apple chips several times a day and always wanted more...and so did I! It felt great to want more and more of something healthy and organic! :)

If you like to snack on fruit but want an easy on-the-go snack or you are looking for a healthier snack for your busy day, look no further than Bare Fruit Snacks! They are delicious, will give a great crunch, and are so good for you!

Buy It: You can purchase all Bare Fruit Snacks from the Bare Fruit Snacks online store.

Win It: Bare Fruit Snacks is generously offering (1) Case of Bare Fruit Snacks to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(1) Case of Apple Chips
from Bare Fruit Snacks

Click here to enter the contest on the Bare Fruit Snacks Facebook page

or scan below!

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* Thank you to Bare Fruit Snacks for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

The Berenstain Bears: Golden Edition

2013-06-18T12:54:00.001-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

One of my favorite book series to read when I was younger was the Berenstein Bears! They had so many fun adventures and had so much fun as a family! So when I saw that kaboom! entertainment just released The Berenstain Bears: Golden Brother Edition and The Berenstain Bears: Golden Sister Edition, I was so excited to introduce my children to this great family and characters!

The fun-loving Berenstain Bears whose love, loyalty and humor allow them to overcome any obstacle that finds its way down their sunny dirt road, with the DVD release of The Berenstain Bears: Golden Brother Edition and The Berenstain Bears: Golden Sister Edition. The animated comedy will be available exclusively at Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in the U.S. each $19.99 and features a high-quality 10” plush Brother Bear or Sister Bear.

To celebrate this DVD release, I received a great package of Berenstain Bears goodies:

The Berenstain Bears: Golden Sister Edition
The Berenstain Bears: Golden Sister Edition
A Berenstain book
Mama Bear Plush

My son watching the Berenstain Bears movie!

My son instantly fell in love with the bears and loved the movies even more! I am so glad to know he will love the Berenstain Bears as much as I did when I was little!

And make sure to follow Kaboom Entertainment on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news and updates on all the fun products they offer.

Buy It: You can purchase The Berenstain Bears: Golden Brother Edition and The Berenstain Bears: Golden Sister Edition exclusively at Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in the U.S. for $19.99 each.

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* Thank you to kaboom! Entertainment for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Wireless Range Extender

2013-06-18T10:06:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Ever since I moved into my in-law's house, when I am trying to work on the computer in my bed, the internet is constantly cutting out and is REALLY SLOW! It absolutely drives me crazy and makes my work take twice as long! That is why I am so glad I received the Wireless Range Extender (WR300NSI) from Diamond Multimedia!

Now I don't have to stress over and get super frustrated about not receiving lightening-fast internet speed! The WR300NSI--the second generation of the best-selling wireless extender from Diamond Multimedia, extends the wireless range, creates a wireless hotspot and connects to internet ready devices such as Blu Ray Players or gaming consoles.

The 3-in1 device will help users eliminate wireless dead-spots anywhere they go, targeting a frustrating and common household issue. Eliminate the hassle of complicated extenders and software because there’s no need for plugging in the extender into your computer or setting it up with a cd -- after plugging it into the wall, opening the browser automatically takes you to the setup page. Don’t worry about anyone stealing your stellar connection as WR300NSI also extends the same security as a personal router. For more information, please watch the video here.

3 in 1 device

1. Wireless Repeater and Range Extender: Receives weak wireless signals and extends the signal range to greater distances eliminating wireless dead spots.

2: Standalone Wireless Access Point: Create a wireless network by connecting the device to a wired router/cable modem or DSL modem. This small compact portable device can create wireless connectivity where ever you go. Use in your hotel room and turn a wired internet connection into a wireless internet connection.

3. Wireless Bridge Device: Receives wireless signal from your home wireless network and convert to wired Ethernet connections for non wireless devices such as internet ready HDTV, Blue-Ray players, gaming consoles, and media players. WR300NSI is designed with RSSI indicators to determine the strength of wireless signal received from router to it. This helps users to place WR300NSI in the best possible location to repeat existing wireless signal.

So, if there are a couple rooms in your house that don't receive the wireless signal as well as the rooms closer to the wireless router, then get this Wireless Range Extender (WR300NSI) from Diamond Multimedia to eliminate frustrations! It is easy to use, has a secure network, and can even turn wired internet into wireless!

Buy It: You can purchase the Wireless Range Extender (WR300NSI) for $49.99 from Diamond Multimedia's website.

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* Thank you to Diamond Multimedia for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

New NUK & Gerber Graduates Products & Giveaway

2013-06-18T08:33:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Sometimes as parents, we get so busy and stressed living life and caring for our children that we forget that there are companies out there that are here to help and have really helpful products to make getting through each day a little easier! NUK® and Gerber® Graduates® definitely qualifies as those companies that offer really helpful, innovative products to make parenthood just a tad bit easier! From oral care and development to breastfeeding and bottles, check out (and enter to win!) the latest NUK® and Gerber® Graduates® products from 2013 that help "make the stressful time a little less stressful."

ORAL CARE:

Backed by extensive research on what pediatric dentists recommend most, we are proud to introduce an improved line of oral care products designed to aid in the healthy development of your child’s teeth and gums. This new line offers several options to help you keep your little one’s mouth clean – from products designed specifically for your newborn’s gums to products designed for your toddler’s developing teeth.

NUK® Infant Toothbrush (MSRP: $2.97)

Patented three-sided shape hugs each tooth for easy, thorough cleaning
Ergonomically designed long handle enables parent and child to hold brush together

NUK® Toddler Toothbrush (MSRP: $2.97)

Patented three-sided shape hugs each tooth for easy, thorough cleaning
Easy-grip handle is sized just right for toddler’s hands

CLEANING:

NUK® is proud to introduce a brand new line of bottle cleaning products designed for busy moms. These new, innovative products feature new technologies to make cleaning baby items fast & easy. From bottle brushes and dishwasher baskets to innovative new bottle drying solutions, NUK® cleaning products can help simplify your cleaning experience to help free up time for busy moms.

NUK® Dishwasher Basket (MSRP: $5.97)

30% more space than other dishwasher baskets
Flexibility to expand or contract in size

LEARNER CUPS:

Backed by over 55 years of developing products to foster happy, healthy smiles, NUK® Learner Cups are specifically developed to help your baby easily transition from a bottle or breast to a sippy cup. The spill-proof, soft spout is designed to be gentle on gums while teaching baby to drink from a spout. With specially designed easy-grip handles and vibrant, colorful designs, you and your little one will love NUK® Learner Cups.

NUK® 10oz Learner Cup (MSRP: $6.74)

For children who need a larger learner cup but aren’t ready for a sippy cup
Fun, bold colors!

CUPS:

Gerber® Graduates® is proud to introduce a new system of advanced sippy cups to help ease the transition from bottle or breast to cup for your little one. The ergonomic handles combined with vibrant designs make each and every cup a special one. All cups are BPA-free and come in leading designs. They feature Seal Zone™ Technology which guarantees cups are 100% leak-proof, spill-proof, and break-proof. Gerber® Graduates® sippy cups promote safe and independent drinking and are created specifically to support your child’s age-specific development needs.

Gerber® Graduates® Advance Developmental Cups Soft Silicone Spout (MSRP: $4.97)

Seal Zone™ Technology – 100% leak-proof, spill-proof, break-proof guaranteed
Angled handles – easier and more comfortable for child learning to drink
Unique transitional spout

Gerber® Graduates® Advance Developmental Cups Insulated Cup-Like Rim (MSRP: $4.97)

Seal Zone™ Technology – 100% leak-proof, spill-proof, break-proof guaranteed
Unique “U-Shaped” rim design teaches child to drink from a regular cup
Bite-resistant rim

TABLEWARE:

Gerber® has been trusted at baby’s table for more than 80 years. Today, Gerber® Graduates® offers a full line of BPA-free tableware that helps parents teach toddlers how to feed independently which fosters independence and self feeding. Gerber® Graduates® utensils and tableware are designed with little hands in mind. The bowls and plates are thoughtfully engineered to meet the development skill level of your little one.

Gerber® Graduates® Toddler Snacker (MSRP: $7.97)

Set of three interlocking containers with lids are perfectly sized for toddler snacks
100% spill-proof containers fit most cup holders
Perfect for parents on the go!

Buy It: You can purchase all NUK and Gerber Graduates products at local retailers like Walmart, Target and many more!

Win It: Little One Books is generously offering: (1) NUK(r) Infant Toothbrush, NUK(r) Toddler Toothbrush, NUK(r) Dishwasher Basket, NUK(r) 10oz Learner Cup, Gerber(r) Graduates(r) Advance Deve lopmental Cups Soft Silicone Spout, Gerber(r) Graduates(r) Advance Developmental Cups Insulated Cup-Like Rim, Gerber(r) Graduates(r) Toddler Snacker to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

NUK(r) Infant Toothbrush
NUK(r) Toddler Toothbrush
NUK(r) Dishwasher Basket
NUK(r) 10oz Learner Cup
Gerber(r) Graduates(r) Advance Deve lopmental Cups Soft Silicone Spout
Gerber(r) Graduates(r) Advance Developmental Cups Insulated Cup-Like Rim
Gerber(r) Graduates(r) Toddler Snacker

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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* Thank you to NUK and Gerber Graduates for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Book Review: Remember Me When

2013-06-17T13:50:00.000-05:00

A book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Inspired by the biblical story of Abigail in 1 Samuel, a Christian woman stands up for what is right, despite life-threatening consequences.

When Faith married her husband Roger Nolan he seemed to be an upstanding businessman, owner of a remote mercantile outside the town of Bountiful, Oregon. But Faith quickly learned the truth-that her husband is dishonest in his business practices and likes his liquor, turning mean when he indulges. When Faith discovers that Roger has yet again failed to deliver critical winter supplies to Nathan Bartlett, owner of the nearby logging camp, she takes the order up the mountain herself. Furious, Roger confronts Faith when she returns, and she is knocked unconscious. When Faith wakes, she finds Roger dead in a pool of his own blood, and she soon stands accused of murder.

Having fought in the War Between the States, Nathan has seen enough violence to last a lifetime. He has always admired Faith's quiet strength and integrity and finds it hard to believe such a gentle woman capable of harming anyone. However, Nathan begins to struggle with his instinct to protect Faith when evidence mounts against her.

As more and more people begin to think Faith is guilty, only her trust in God can give her the hope she needs to survive this trial.

My Opinion

I have always loved books that tell a more modern tale of a Bible story because it really helps me relate to what the Bible characters went through and I never look at those characters as just "Bible stories" again! Remember me when helped me really understand what Abigail went through as I watched story unfold with Faith, Nathan and Roger in Remember Me When!

I love the late 1800's setting and the story line of this book: the heartbreak, hope, love, endurance, and faith kept me glued to the pages of this book to the very end!

Buy It: You can purchase Remember Me When for $11.25 from Amazon.com.

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*Disclosure - This book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Gold Emblem Snacks from CVS/pharmacy

2013-06-17T10:21:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

I recently found out that I am now a part of the Gold Emblem Taste Makers program from CVS/pharmacy and I am so thrilled to be one of their Gold Emblem Taste Makers! From time to time, I get to sample various tasty foods from the Gold Emblem line, exclusively available at CVS/pharmacy!

Recently, they sent me my first package of Gold Emblem snacks and I was so surprised when I opened the box and found this:

What a fun surprise!

And best of all, the big car was filled with delicious Gold Emblem snacks!!! I love the packaging, my kids LOVE the car for their dolls and toys and my husband and I LOVED the snacks!

It had quite a variety of Gold Emblem snacks fit into the car and my mouth started watering with every snack that I pulled out!

My favorite snacks were the Dried Prunes (I love snacking on dried fruit!) and, of course, the Dark Chocolate bars (how did they know these are my favorite?? :) My husband LOVES the Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets and the Belgian Milk Chocolate bars! The other snacks were really good too and are perfect as a snack option to grab on your way out the door to your next beach trip, ball game or hike.

Even better, you can conveniently grab these delicious items at your neighborhood CVS/pharmacy on the way to your next activity. Never go hungry this summer at snack time with the great Gold Emblem snacks from CVS/pharmacy!

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* Thank you to CVS/pharmacy for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

SANUS TV Vuepoint Wall Mount Giveaway

2013-06-17T09:40:00.000-05:00

I will be receiving a product for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

For many Americans, a flat panel TV is a great way to enjoy family time and entertainment. However, most parents are unaware of the safety risks that flat panel TVs pose for kids. Due to increasing size and new ultra thin designs, today’s flat panel TVs can easily tip over when bumped or pulled, toppling off of furniture and causing injury or even death.

Bringing this risk to the forefront, SANUS, the leading designer and manufacturer of flat panel TV wall mounts, has partnered with Safe Kids Worldwide. By educating consumers on the risk of unsecured flat panel TV’s, SANUS and Safe Kids Worldwide offer safe solutions for families across the nation by reducing TV tip-over related injuries and fatalities.

A 2011 US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report on flat panel TV safety revealed:

· A child is killed every three weeks from an unsecured TV

· Every 45 minutes a child visits an emergency room due to a TV tip-over related injury

· Between 2000 and 2011, 215 fatalities have resulted from TV tip-over

· An estimated 17,000 people each year, the majority of which are children, are treated for injuries from TV tip-overs

· Reported cases have increased almost 25% from 2006 to 2010, and over the last 10 years, injuries have increased by 31%

Check out this great SANUS TV Safety Video:

SANUS encourages you to join their efforts and advocate mounting of flat panel TV’s in your homes. Make sure to enter the giveaway below to win a FREE wall mount and stay tuned for my review of my new SANUS wall mount soon!

Buy It: You can purchase SANUS wall mounts at Walmart stores nationwide.

Win It: SANUS is generously offering (1) SANUS TV Vuepoint Mount F180 (the winner can receive a mount that fits their respective TV) to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(1) SANUS TV Vuepoint Mount F180
(The winner can receive a mount that fits their respective TV)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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* Thank you to SANUS for their product for review! Disclosure - I will be receiving a product for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

STIHL Tools

2013-06-15T20:42:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

If your dad is like my husband, they LOVE tools as gifts! My husband is continually telling me he doesn't have enough tools...tools for working on cars, tools for fixing things around the house, tools for outdoor yard work. (even though he has tool boxes and a garage FULL of tools!) :)

So, if you are looking for great gift idea that will definitely get used, head to your local STIHL dealer and consider the PH 80 Hedge Shears! We love the pair we received from STIHL for review. They definitely are made from quality material and will keep our yard and landscape looking great...without a whole lot of effort!

The STIHL PH 80 hedge shear delivers exact precision for those delicate trimming jobs. With its 9” blade and elongated handle design, you have greater control over every cut. The blades feature a hard chrome-plated finish and are specially designed for high strength, corrosion resistance and sap resistance. When every inch counts, count on STIHL to make the cut.

You can check out their full line of affordable hand tools here: http://www.stihlusa.com/products/hand-tools/

Check out these other STIHL tools that are great gifts for dads this summer:

STIHL RMA 370 Battery Powered Mower

The new for 2013 STIHL RMA 370 battery powered, walk-behind lawnmower expands the versatility of the STIHL Battery KombiSystem, which allows you to use multiple tools with one easily interchangeable battery. With no gas or exhaust emission, you’ll enjoy less mess and no fumes. The mower starts with the push of a button and a pull of the switch lever, eliminating the headache of pulling starter cords.

The RMA is ideal for small yards and noise-restricted urban areas. If you can’t get all of the grass cut in one battery charge (can cover up to 3,200 square feet on a single charge), think of all the other activities dad can claim as “yardwork” in the 30 minutes it takes to recharge the battery with the optional rapid charger. Clean up and storage is just as simple as mowing the grass. The easy-to-empty grass catcher holds up to 10.5 gallons of clippings and the mower handle folds for easy transport and storage.

STIHL Battery KombiSystem

Mobile, quiet and powerful, the full line of STIHL Battery KombiSystem products are powered by advanced 36-volt lithium-ion battery technology for environmentally responsible landscaping with professional results. No mixing fuel, no exhaust emissions, no power cords, just pull the trigger and go. One battery powers all products: STIHL MSA 160 C-BQ chain saw, BGA 85 blower, FSA 65 and FSA 85 string trimmers, HSA 65 hedge trimmer, and HLA 65 extended reach hedge trimmer and the RMA 370 walk behind lawn mower. Packed with the power and precision to help cut job times as fast as they cut fuel costs.

STIHL FS 50 C-E trimmer

The STIHL FS 50 C-E is a great value to homeowners, because it delivers trimming power and performance that is 20 percent more fuel efficient than the previous model (STIHL FS 46). It also has a long curved shaft, which is a more comfortable fit for taller users. Ergonomic, fuel efficient and environmentally responsible, the FS 50 C-E is a great choice for those seeking an affordable, lightweight trimmer.

The STIHL FS 50 C-E also features the Easy2Start™ system that eliminates the need for a strong pull of the starting cord to make starting almost effortless. The momentary stop switch automatically returns to the start position, simplifying the starting process and reducing the chance of flooding the engine.

STIHL MS 250 Chain Saw

Packed with more than 100 features, the STIHL MS 250 is designed to give owners years of powerful, efficient performance. STIHL is the only chain saw manufacturer that makes its own saw chain and guide bars, resulting in a matched cutting system, which on the STIHL MS 250 features a .325 pitch chain that has a longer running life, is more resistant to wear, and features a STIHL ROLLOMATIC® Ematic™ guide bar providing precise, efficient oiling.

STIHL BG 86

The STIHL BG 86 handheld blower features a fuel-efficient, low-exhaust-emission gasoline-powered engine. This compact professional blower is packed with power and equipped with a four-spring anti-vibration system, a soft-grip handle and an ElastoStart™ shock-absorbing starter handle making it one of the most comfortable handheld blowers.

Both flat and round nozzle attachments come standard, and the BG 86 is compatible with other optional accessories to further increase job versatility. The STIHL gutter attachment fits quickly on the BG 86 handheld blower and can extend to more than ten feet, providing the additional extension needed to reach most residential gutters. With the STIHL Vacuum Kit, users can also convert the blower into a vacuum to pick up and empty debris.

Buy It: You can purchase all STIHL tools from your local STIHL dealer.

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* Thank you to STIHL for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Book Review: Barefoot Summer

2013-06-15T09:50:00.000-05:00

This book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

About Barefoot Summer:

Madison's heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.

In the years since her twin brother's tragic drowning, Madison has struggled with her ability to trust God--or anyone else, for that matter. It was her brother's dream to win the annual River Sail Regatta in their small harbor town of Chapel Springs, Indiana. And Madison's determined to honor his legacy by making his dream her own. Maybe then she can finally find closure.

But learning to sail means learning to swim. And her instructor is Beckett O'Reilly, a man who already has two strikes against him in Madison's eyes. Being on the water terrifies Madison. But Beckett's calming presence and unwavering confidence eases her fear. And as much as she'd like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying.

As her feelings for him grow, a fledging faith begins to take root in her soul, as well. With Beckett, Madison feels alive for the first time in years--carefree and confident she can win the regatta, maybe even find love.

But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their love and the depth of Madison's faith. Will their love survive summer's challenge? And will achieving her brother's dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks?

Meet Denise:

Denise lives in Indiana with her husband Kevin and their three sons. In 1996, Denise began her first book, a Christian romance novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books often contain a strong romantic element, and her husband Kevin says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

Learn more about Denise at http://www.denisehunterbooks.com

My Opinion

Denise Hunter is one of my favorite romance fiction authors and so I was really excited to read her newest book, Barefoot Summer! With the weather warming up (finally!), the title and description made it sound like the perfect summer read...to pull up a beach chair, soak up some rays, and go to my "happy" place!

And a very happy place it was! I love a great romance and Barefoot Summer definitely was that! But what made this book so great to read is that it went beyond just romance. I loved the underlying themes of trusting God, forgiveness, fear, faith...all emotions I go through in my own life so I could definitely relate to the characters!

This book was one I couldn't put down and I definitely recommend Barefoot Summer (as I do ALL of Denise Hunter's books!) as the book you bring on your summer vacation, trip to the beach or pool, or relaxing weekend read!

See what other readers thought of Barefoot Summer!

Buy It: You can purchase Barefoot Summer for $12.13 from Amazon.com

Denise Hunter is celebrating her new Chapel Springs Romance series with a Summer Fun Giveaway.

The first book, Barefoot Summer, is already a favorite with readers. “Hold-your-breath romance, heartache, and laugh-out-loud moments. It’s more than a good read. It’s a delight.” -- Lisa

Summer: it’s all about sunny skies, star-gazing, swimming, spending time with loved ones, and living as if a small part of the weight of the world has been lifted off your shoulders.

Get ready for some serious summer fun with Denise’s 12-Day Summer Sun giveaway. From June 10-21, keep your computer near as you head to the lake or your friend’s barbecue because Denise will be giving away a summer essential each day!

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* Disclosure - This book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Celebrate Your Dad At Outback Steakhouse!

2013-06-14T19:22:00.000-05:00

I received a gift card in exchange for posting. No other compensation was given.

Every time Father's Day rolls around, I remember a very special moment in my life with my dad...receiving a flower from my dad with a special note "Love You, From Dad" every year on Valentine's Day. Now it sounds simple but this is was a big deal in our house for two reasons 1) My dad is not one for giving flowers or gifts (I think my mom says he only gave her one bouquet in the first 25 years of marriage) and 2) There are 6 girls in my family! It was a very special moment in my year and I kept every single one of those flower cards with his signature on them because it meant so much to me!

What is your favorite moment/memory of your Dad?

If you want to thank your Dad for all those wonderful memories and moments in life, there is no greater gift than great food! Everyone knows the way to a man's heart is through his stomach -- and dads are no exception.

Your dad (and his stomach!) will definitely be satisfied if you take him to Outback Steakhouse this Father's Day! Plus, Outback has a great deal for you and dad!

When you bring dad in for a meal on Father's Day, you'll leave with an extra gift from Outback - a certificate for $10 off two dinner entrees that can be used on a future visit! Hey, maybe you can even treat Dad again for all the things he has done for you throughout the years! This Father's Day certificate will be given out in restaurant only while supplies last!

Certificate details: Valid for Dinner only June 17-June 30,2013. $10 off the purchase of 2 dinner entrees or $5 off the purchase of one dinner entree. This offer is valid for dinner only, and is not valid for the No Worries Wednesday Complete Meal for 2 or in conjunction with any other offer or discount.

Get in early and be sure to ask your server about the offer!

And check out the way Outback is also honoring all of our brave military!

Outback is offering retired and active military service members 10% off the entire check when they dine at Outback now through July 4,2013.

Content and/or other value provided by out partner, Outback Steakhouse.

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* Disclosure - I was given a gift card in exchange for posting. No other compensation was given.*

Seaside Mix-and-Match from Red Lobster

2013-06-14T17:44:00.000-05:00

A gift card was given for review of the restaurant and for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

If you have ever been to Red Lobster, you know that the star of their food (besides the amazing seafood) is their Cheddar Bay Biscuits! If you love them as much as I do, then you will be so excited to know that the beloved Cheddar Bay Biscuits are taking a home-cooked turn in Red Lobster's newest dish: the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Shrimp & Lobster Pot Pie!

This delicious new entrée is on the menu through July 7 as part of the value-focused “Seaside Mix-and-Match” promotion, which allows guests to combine two entrées with soup or salad and unlimited Cheddar Bay Biscuits for only $12.99.

With this promotion, you get to enjoy two exciting seaside dishes on one plate! Choose from dishes like the tasty NEW Cheddar Bay Biscuit® Shrimp & Lobster Pot Pie or the classic Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Plus, get salad and unlimited Cheddar Bay Biscuits®.

Choose from these tasty dishes:

Cheddar Bay Biscuit® Shrimp-&-Lobster Pot Pie: With peas and carrots in a creamy sauce, topped with a Cheddar Bay Biscuit®–our twist on a classic!
Crunchy Parmesan Ranch Shrimp
Shrimp and Scallops Linguini
Tropical BBQ Glaze Chicken: A jerk-grilled chicken breast with sweet papaya-BBQ sauce and fresh pineapple salsa.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Hand-Breaded Shrimp
Garlic-Grilled Shrimp

Also, just in time for Father's Day, check out another great limited time offer Red Lobster is offering! Through this Sunday, June 16, add a Maine Lobster Tail to any adult dinner entrée for just $7.99. You can print the coupon here or find the deal on Red Lobster's Facebook page.

This is a GREAT way to get Dad an extra treat this Father's Day without breaking the budget! So make sure to head to Red Lobster SOON before these two great offers end!

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* I received a gift card in exchange for posting. All opinions are mine! *

GRILLA Grill Pan

2013-06-14T11:44:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Sounds rather shocking, considering the other gift options out there but according to a recent survey of 2,500 U.S. customers, the majority of Americans believe that cookware is the most useful gift for the home and most say that it is a good gift to give for many occasions, like Father's Day. In fact, 44% of men say they never think to ask for cookware as a gift, even though they want it.

And why not? With the right cookware even the most casual dad can be a star in the kitchen -- and still have time to actually sit down and enjoy their culinary creation! Consider giving the GRILLA Grill Pan from IKEA this Father's Day! It is great for giving those grill lines that Dad loves on his meat and it features DuPont™ Teflon® nonstick coatings, which means foods won’t stick and cleaning is easy!

This pan features a thick base that prevents food from easily burning and sticking to the pan but the low weight makes the pan easy to handle, even when filled with food. My favorite feature is the folding handle that really saves space when stored and means it can easily travel with you too!

So on a super hot and humid day this summer, save yourself the sweat and grill INSIDE on the GRILLA Grill Pan from IKEA!

Buy It: You can purchase the GRILLA Grill Pan for $14.99 from your local IKEA store.

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* Thank you to IKEA for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

The SpeedyPlus Instant Marinater

2013-06-14T10:06:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Here is another great gift idea for the grilling Dad in your life this Father's Day: The SpeedyPlus Instant Marinater from Jaccard! I love marinating meat for the grill but I hate that I never remember to do it until the last minute so the meat doesn't really marinate long enough. The SpeedyPlus Instant Marinator eliminates that issue for me and instantly marinates in only 5 minutes! LOVE THAT!

The SpeedyPlus Instant Marinater from Jaccard is a multi-functional, complete grilling and marinade preparation system. It is a complete food preparation tool that instantly marinates, stores and transports the meat to and from the oven or grill.

The SpeedyPlus provides commercial level vacuum pressure which causes marinades to penetrate deeply and completely into the meat in as little as 5 minutes. The patent pending 10" x 14" design sports a 4.5 liter volume which can accommodate up to 14 boneless chicken breasts. The marinating chamber's locking tabs secure pre-cooked juices within the container, eliminating cross contamination potential. The uniquely designed "platter" cover tray integrated into the marinade chamber cover provides an ideal surface for transporting cooked foods from the grill back into the kitchen. It easily disassembles for quick and effortless cleaning -- and it is dishwasher safe.

Complete BBQ preparation tool that instantly marinates, stores and transports the meat to and from the grill.
Exacting manufacturing standards provide commercial level vacuum pressure which causes marinade to penetrate deeply and completely into the meat in as little as 5 minutes.
10” x 14” design provides 4.5 liter volume which can accommodate up to 14 boneless chicken breasts before, during and after marinating.
Marinating chamber’s locking tabs secure pre-cooked juices / bacteria within container, eliminating cross contamination potential.
Tray integrated into the marinade chamber cover provides ideal surface for transporting cooked foods from the grill back into the kitchen.
Tray incorporates a spill guard rim to eliminate mess.
Exclusive stability rib / hinge design eliminates tip-over potential.
Dishwasher safe; easily disassembles for quick and effortless cleaning.
Sturdy ABS construction.
Patent pending.
Backed by Jaccard’s Lifetime Rep

Marinade from now on in MINUTES with The SpeedyPlus Instant Marinater!

Buy It: You can purchase The SpeedyPlus Instant Marinater for $30 and it is available in a growing

number of stores nationally and online at: www.jaccard.com

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* Thank you to Jaccard for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Book Review: Stealing the Preacher

2013-06-14T08:23:00.000-05:00

This book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

About Stealing the Preacher:

A cowboy who wants to be a preacher. An outlaw's daughter who wants to change his mind.

On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can't believe it when he's forced off the train by an outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the preacher she requested for her birthday. He's determined to escape-which would be much easier if he could stop thinking about Joanna Robbins and her unexpected request.

For months, Joanna had prayed for a minister. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. But just when it seems her prayers have been answered, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett he ended up right where he was supposed to be?

With her signature blend of humor, history, and lively western romance, two-time RITA Award finalist and bestselling author Karen Witemeyer delivers a Texas love story sure to steal your heart.

Meet Karen:

Two-time RITA finalist and winner of the coveted HOLT Medallion and ACFW Carol Award, CBA bestselling author Karen Witemeyer writes historical romance because she believes that the world needs more happily-ever-afters. She is an avid cross-stitcher, shower singer, and bakes a mean apple cobbler. Karen makes her home in Abilene, Texas, with her husband and three children. Learn more about Karen and her books at www.karenwitemeyer.com.

Find out more about Karen at http://www.karenwitemeyer.com.

My Opinion

This book was a great mix of two of my favorite book genres: humor and historical fiction. But as I read more and more of it, it also turned into so much more: romance, forgiveness, temptation, family relationships and so much more! It is definitely a fun, lighthearted read!

You should also definitely check out the first book in the series: Short-Straw Bride to see more about Crockett. However, this book can be read as a stand alone book to!

Check out what other readers thought of this book!

Buy It: You can purchase Stealing the Preacher for $11.64 from Amazon.com

Karen Witemeyer is "kindling" the excitement for Stealing the Preacher (Bethany House) with a Kindle Fire Giveaway and connecting with readers at her June 18th Facebook Author Chat Party!

One winner will receive:

A Kindle Fire
Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at 4pm on June 18th. Winner will be announced at the "Stealing the Preacher" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 18th. Connect with Karen for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Karen will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Stealing the Preacher and join Karen on the evening of June 18th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 18th!

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* Disclosure - This book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Enchanted Home PET

2013-06-13T11:54:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

How do your dogs deal with the hot and humidity that comes with summer? If "not so well" is the answer, then check out the amazing furniture from Enchanted Home PET. They have this awesome new feature called SNOOzZzONE™ Pet Comfort System and it keeps your dog comfortable and relaxed! Plus, their furniture is helpful for owners too because they feature storage, easy washing and chic design!

With the highest quality and most innovative products, Enchanted Home PET’s attention to detail, design and functionality is a unique concept based on architecture and design. Everything created by Enchanted Home PET embodies the idea that ‘form follows function’. Enchanted Home PET recently launched their new Ultra Plush Pet Furniture which features their SNOOzZzONE™ Pet Comfort System to enhance the comfort of your pet’s bed. Special features include; storage for toys and bones, removable/washable cushion cover, elevated draft free sleeping and a full loft cushion. The SNOOzZzONE™ Pet Comfort System enhances the comfort of your pet’s bed through the use of interchangeable layers. Select from specialized layers to create an indulgent, but functional comfort that best fits your pet’s needs.

· Self-Warming Thermal Reflective Layer – Reflective technology helps preserve your pet’s temperature by reflecting the warmth his or her body generates.

· Gel Core Comfort Layer – The gel-core science provides your pet with superior pressure distribution for a more comfortable and cooler sleep.

· Memory Foam Comfort Layer – Memory foam conforms to your pet’s body position to provide ultimate support when snoozing. Perfect for pets with orthopedic needs.

· Allergen, Microbe, Dust Mite Protective Liner – The cushion liner protects your pet and his or her bed from water penetration, mold, dust mites, bed bugs, allergens and microbes.

Enchanted Home PET furniture eases your pet into a luxurious cushion that engulfs them in complete comfort and warmth. Enhanced Home PET’s top priority is designing and manufacturing products with both exquisite style and a high degree of functionality!

I generously received the Ultra Plush Lotus Bed in Mink for my sister's pet Chihuahua.

Ultra Plush Lotus Bed - Mink

· Ultra Plush Pet Bed featuring SNOOzZzONE™ Pet Comfort System
· Storage for toys and bones
· Removable/washable cushion cover
· Elevated draft free sleeping
· Full loft cushion
· Bed Size: 26.5” x 16” x 16”
· Fits pets up to 10 lbs.
· Washing Instructions: For removable cushion cover, machine wash cold – cool dryer. Remainder of bed should be spot cleaned, with mild detergent.

My sister's dog, Charlie, LOVES his new pet bed and is so cute and comfortable when he is relaxing on it! My sister loves the storage space on the back and how easy it is to wash and how comfortable and soft the material is!

Charlie definitely feels like royalty now every time he sits on his new pet bed!!

Buy It: You can purchase the Ultra Plush Lotus Bed for $169.99 from the Enchanted Home PET website.

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* Thank you to Enchanted Home PET for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Grill Daddy

2013-06-13T09:57:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for the Dad that likes to grill? Then check out the Grill Daddy! It is not only a great product that WORKS but it is a really affordable price so it makes the perfect gift idea!

Specially designed to clean and sanitize grills safely and thoroughly, the Grill Daddy easily steams away baked-on food, grease and black residue. This amazing tool re leases a measured amount of water that turns to grease-melting steam the instant it touches the preheated grill. This powerful sanitizing, liquefying action literally melts away charred buildup. Featuring replaceable heavy-gauge, stainless-steel brush heads that are dishwasher safe and guaranteed not to gunk up, the Grill Daddy keeps even the largest grills looking brand new and keeps food tasting great without the use of toxic chemicals or the need for back breaking work. Equipped with a handy hang-hook, the Grill Daddy can be conveniently stored away and ready to go whenever the grill master is. The Grill Daddy makes impromptu BBQ’s simple and easy by cleaning the grill in a matter of minutes!

How Does It Work? The amazing Grill Daddy releases a measured amount of water that turns to grease-melting steam the instant it touches your preheated grill. This powerful sanitizing, liquefying action literally melts away charred buildup. Just glide the stainless-steel brush along the grill. Use the scraper brush for tough grime and hard-to-clean areas. Unlike any other brush, the patented Grill Daddy is made from high-temperature heat-resistant ABS plastic and approved by the National Safety Foundation (NSF) for use with potable water. Brush heads are dishwasher-safe and safe to use on stainless steel, ceramic, and iron grills.

Easy to use! Simply preheat the grill, fill your Grill Daddy with water (water valve should be in the off position while filling), turn on the water valve and brush away caked on food residue and grease. As you brush, the Grill Daddy releases just the right amount of water; the water hits the hot grill, turns to steam, and rinses away burnt-on food, grease, and grime. For more steam, loosen the fill cap. For hard-to-clean areas, flip the brush over to release water from the patented scraper brush and use the scraper brush in a cross-wise direction to bust-up and melt-away even the most stubborn, baked-on residue with the power of steam. No more toxic chemical. No more back-breaking work. The Grill Daddy gives you a sparkling clean grill in minutes. Equipped with a handy hang-hook, the Grill Daddy can be conveniently stored away and ready to go when you are. Note: After each use empty excess water and leave the On/Off Valve in the on position.

Buy It: You can purchase the Grill Daddy for a MSRP $14.99 at many national retailers such as Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, True Value and Amazon or order online at www.BuyGrillDaddy.com.

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* Thank you to Grill Daddy for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Keep Kids Learning with Carson-Dellosa & Giveaway

2013-06-13T07:29:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

School may be out but it is important to keep your child's brain working and learning throughout the summer so that it isn't such a hard transition back to school in fall! If you are looking for awesome learning activities, look no fruther than Carson-Dellosa, one of my favorite educational companies and one that has really helped my son learn while having fun! Best of all, they offer great prices and a great clearance section!

I don't know about you but I looove a bargain. And so I am loving their Clearance Sales! This is a great chance for you to get a head start on those classroom and home learning supplies at really, really low prices! I'm talking pocket charts for $5.70! Bulletin board sets for under $5! Books, puzzles, learning cards and so much more! Plus - over 100 items for UNDER $2!

Two great products that we are loving this summer to keep my son's knowledge sharp are:

CenterSOLUTIONS® Thinking Mats

For K— Grade 5. Build critical thinking skills and reinforce essential math skil ls with the CenterSOLUTIONS® for the Common Core Thinking Mats for kindergarten. Each set includes 15 write-on/wipe-away mats with coordinating game cards. The cards and the mats are color coded for easy organization and cleanup. The mats can be used individually or with partners and are open-ended to be used again and again. With activities that can easily be customized to specific learning needs, the Thinking Mats are perfect learning tools for centers, learning stations, and group or individualized instruction. The set includes a 16-page resource guide with recording sheets to allow students to explain their work in the context of the Common Core Standards for Mathematical Practice.

And my son's favorite new activities are from the:

CenterSOLUTIONS® Task Cards

For K— Grade 5. Each write-on/wipe-away card contains critical thinking activities that promote active learning for Common Core success! The set contains 50 language arts cards and 50 math cards, each printed with a standard on one side for easy planning and progress tracking. The cards are perfect for centers and learning stations, individualized instruction or skill differentiation, math and reading journals, and much more. The set includes 100 4" x 6" task cards, one introduction card, and one divider. A free online resource guide provides a standards matrix, recording sheets, and an answer key.

So keep your children busy learning and having fun this summer with product from Carson-Dellosa! Plus, make sure to check out their clearance section for a great deal!

Buy It: You can purchase all Carson-Dellosa materials and products from the Carson-Dellosa website.

Win It: Carson-Dellosa is generously offering (1) CenterSOLUTIONS Task Cards & CenterSOLUTIONS Thinking Mats to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(1) CenterSOLUTIONS Task Cards
&
CenterSOLUTIONS Thinking Mats
from Carson-Dellosa
a Rafflecopter giveaway

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* Thank you to Carson-Dellosa for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Simply7 Snacks & Giveaway

2013-06-12T13:04:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Are you tired of snacking on snacks that are full of artificial, GMO filled ingredients that just don't satisfy and make you feel sick afterwards? I really have been searching for a snack that satisfies my salty cravings but also has great flavor and crunch. And then I learned about a really unique snack company: Simply7 Snacks. They are an all natural, non-GMO, gluten free ingredient company that produces a healthy alternative chip.

The creators created Simply7 because of a distressing trend they noticed in local grocery stores: food made with ingredients that most people don’t recognize and can’t even pronounce.

Go to your pantry and see if your favorite products pass this test: Can you name the natural source of each ingredient? Do you know what you are really eating? Can you pronounce the ingredients on the label?

The idea behind Simply7 was born because many favorite foods did not pass this test (and I suspect that many of yours don’t either). They decided to create a company that makes sure that every ingredient in our products is not only natural but is SIMPLE. You should be able to identify the raw vegetable, fruit, grain, or legume the ingredients in our products come from. They also wanted to show people that simple ingredients are actually exceptionally delicious. And I am so glad Simply7 was created because now I can snack happily and healthily!

Simply7 has 7 core standards that they stand behind. (Hence, their Simply7 name):

0 Grams Trans Fat and No Cholesterol: They believe in eliminating the bad stuff, so there are no trans fats or cholesterol in our snacks.
No Artificial Colors or Flavors: Nature is beautiful and it tastes great! Why mess with perfection?
No Additives or Preservatives: Preservatives add strange things to your food, things you shouldn’t have to eat. And if you can’t finish the bag before it goes bad, we are doing something wrong.
Gluten Free Ingredients: Their chips are made with gluten free ingredients to help minimize allergy symptoms so you can perform at your best.
All Natural Recipes: The closer it is to its original form, the purer it is and the better it is for you.
Simple Ingredients: They believe you should be able to read an ingredient list and actually know what you are eating. They only offer snacks that have no unrecognizable or hard-to-pronounce ingredients.
Simply Delicious: They believe you can balance healthiness with taste so they made their food taste good and be good for you. All of their snacks are deliciously wholesome. If it doesn’t taste good, why eat it?

Now if you are used to eating artifical, crappy snacks, Simply7 Snacks might take a little getting used to but I think you will love them! My husband is loving the White Cheddar Pomegranate Chips and I was a fan of the Creamy Dill lentil chips! They all have great flavor: no bland snacks here!!!

So if you are looking to make healthier snack choices but don't want to give up crunch or flavor, try the great variety of flavors from Simply7 Snacks!

Buy It: You can purchase all Simply7 Snacks from the Simply7 online store.

Win It: Simply7 Snacks is generously offering (1) Mixed Case of all the Simply7 Varieties to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(1) Mixed Case of all Simply7 Snack Varieties

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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* Thank you to Simply7 Snacks for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

bibbitec

2013-06-12T11:45:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

My daughter is just hitting the independent stage when it comes to everything...especially eating! Although she does not quite have the coordination she needs to eat by herself, she still thinks she can do it and tries at all costs...especially at the cost of her clothes, food, and face. Most meals end up with her covered head to toe in food and sometimes I wonder if more is ON her than IN her! :)

So what is saving my daughter's clothes and saving me time from changing her outfits 3+ times a day? An awesome bib called bibbitec. It is hailed as the ultimate bib that can be easily worn over the entire body protecting clothes from whatever clutter you may encounter.

Susie Taylor, the creator, has two messy boys that were giving her a run for her money on a plane with spills and stains so she set out to change the baby bib world. bibbitec is stain-resistant, fast-drying, soft, and made of lightweight material that has the strength of a Superhero, the adaptability of a Supermom. The cover up is made from certified non-toxic material.

A patented, multi-tasking Ultimate Bib that serves as the catch all in your diaper bag and at home, delivering cleanliness and ease in a single bound. bibbitec's cozy, stain-resistant, fast-drying, soft, lightweight material has the strength of a superhero, the adaptability of a Supermom. The Ultimate Bib is perfect as a soft, non-toxic burp cloth – changing pad – breast-feeding shield – full body bib – placemat – breathable stroller blanket – art smock – “lapkin” and apron. bibbitec is one product that will last for five years. The specifically engineered material does not shrink or lose its quality because the goods are in the thread! The high-tech material combined with the simple yet, dare we say, ingenious design give Moms the respect we deserve.

There are two different sizes that I received of the Ultimate Bib: the regular Ultimate Bib for my 3 year old and the Ultimate Bib Baby for my 1 year old.

The Ultimate Bib is for AGE: 9 MONTHS TO 3 YEARS OLD. The Ultimate Bib is the only bib your child will ever need and the first, the last- the only bib you will ever need. Instead of 5 bibs a day, use one bib all week that lasts all year!

Keep adorable outfits safe with the bib that covers the whole baby while eating, no more dirty, soiled clothes!
Wipes clean instantly keeping clothes fresh & clean.
While eating, no more dirty, soiled clothes!
Eating becomes fun with less stress
Machine washable
Lightweight breathable fabric
Poly/Lycra Blend
Non Toxic
No snaps, velcro or ties, easily slips over the head and through the armholes
Size: 17 in. x 28 in.
Neck Hole: 9 in.

My son loves his bibbitec Ultimate Bib and I love that it covers his cute outfits and most of his body so I don't have to clean him up after messy meals! It is a very generous size and fits him really comfortably!

The Ultimate Bib Baby is for AGE: NEWBORN TO 9 MONTHS OLD and is just a little smaller in size for younger children! I love that it has no snaps, velcro or ties, easily slips over the head and through the armholes because I usually only have one hand or need to do things quickly! I don't have time to struggle with tying or buttoning!

Best of all, it has great coverage for my daughter's outfits and most of her body so I don't have to give her a full bath after every meal! Plus, a quick wipe passed over messes, and you get a clean and instantly dry bib, ready for the next use. Baby food, formula... everything just wipes off in an instant.

I love that I now don't dread meal messes anymore with the bibbitec Ultimate Bibs!

Buy It: You can purchase the Ultimate Bib for $24.99 and the Ultimate Bib Baby for $19.99 from the bibbitec website.

And make sure to use the discount code "Stew" to receive 10% off your bibbitec purchases!

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* Thank you to bibbitec for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Grill This Summer with Laura's Lean Beef!

2013-06-12T08:58:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

One of my favorite things about summer is the smell and taste of grilling and grilled food! I love pretty much everything on the grill: chicken, potatoes, veggies, salmon, brats and, most of all, hamburgers! It is a fun, easy and tasty meal to make that the whole family loves and we try to grill out at least once a week in our house!

Summer grilling is something many people love, but some find it hard to eat healthy and still enjoy their favorite foods. This summer, consider these great tips from Laura's Lean Beef, the beef of choice this summer for our family grilling! The meat is lean, tasty and cooks up quickly!

Keep these tips in mind when crafting your burger:

Lean beef, such as Laura’s Lean Beef, can cook up to 1/3 less time than regular beef since it has less fat.
Avoid excessive amounts of sodium by using healthy seasonings, such as minced onion.
Use whole-grain bread, as whole-grains are absorbed slower by the body and help you to eat less, yet feel full.

We choose Laura's Lean Beef this summer for our grill because in a world which has seen the emergence of highly processed foods, “factory farms” and junk food, they live and work guided by an alternate set of principles:

All natural - They believe that it is best to raise cattle in the way that nature intended.
No antibiotics - It's not part of nature's plan to use antibiotics to speed growth and counter overcrowded feedlot conditions.
No added growth hormones - They don't believe in using hormones to speed the growth of their cattle.
Leaner is healthier - They raise leaner breeds of cattle like Limousin and Charolais that produce beef naturally lower in fat.
Vegetarian fed - Cattle live in pastures and graze on natural grasses and grains.
Sustainable agriculture - They believe in the responsible stewardship of land and animals.
Humane treatment - All their farmers sign on to strict standards for the raising and treatment of cattle.

Plus, Laura's Lean Beef is so easy to find right at my local Target and it is affordable!

If you are looking to spice up your hamburger this summer, check out this delicious recipe below:

STUFFED PEPPER JACK BURGER

Yield: 6 Servings

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Total time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

2 lb Laura's 92% Lean Ground Beef (or 96% Lean Ground Round)

2 t chili powder

1⁄2 t cumin

1⁄2 t salt

1⁄2 t pepper

4 slices reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese

6 whole grain buns (toasted)

6 Lettuce leaves

6 tomato slices

Topping: purple onion slices, avocado, salsa

Instructions

Broil Directions

1. Combine lean ground beef and next 4 ingredients; (shape into 12 equal-size patties for 6 servings or 16 patties for 8 servings.)

2. Top 6 patties with cheese, tearing cheese slices as needed to fit patties; cover with remaining patties, pressing edges to seal. Place on a rack of a broiler pan.

3. Broil 5 1/2 inches from heat (with electric oven door partially open) 8 to 10 minutes on each side or until beef is no longer pink. Serve on buns with lettuce, tomato and desired toppings.

Stove Top Directions

1. Place patties in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook 8 to 10 minutes on each side or until done.

Grill Directions

1. Coat grill rack with cooking spray. Grill, covered with grill lid, over medium-high heat (350 to 400 degrees) 5 to 7 minutes on each side or to desired degree of doneness.

Make sure and try this delicious recipe to spice up your burgers this summer and don't forget these tips for a healthier grilling season!

Buy It: You can purchase all Laura's Lean Beef from your local Target store nationwide.

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* Thank you to Laura's Lean Beef for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Belly Dance Maternity

2013-06-11T11:43:00.000-05:00

Let me just state right away...that I am not PREGNANT...but I really hope to be soon now that I own a super cute new maternity dress from Belly Dance Maternity that I received for review!

I remember back to the days when my mom was pregnant with my younger siblings and maternity fashion was not very cute. It was basically just the baggiest, biggest clothes you could find and it was kind of like wearing a garbage bag. But I am so glad to be having children and being pregnant in the age where you can still be stylish, comfortable and cute in maternity clothes, especially dresses because I am never very comfortable in those ever! And part of that thanks goes to great maternity clothing companies like Belly Dance Maternity! They have a great range of maternity clothing for all occasions, sizes, and stages and I love their selection and clothes I have previously received from them!

At Belly Dance Maternity they believe you shouldn't have to sacrifice your style when you're expecting. Their clothes outfit every part of your life -- work, home, formal occasions, outdoors, sleepwear and lingerie -- and they work hard to bring you the best in hip, fashion-forward maternity clothes.

As recently as a decade ago, women thought that fashion and pregnancy could not go together. This is when Belly Dance Maternity changed this notion and opened the doors of its flagship store in Chicago's fashionable Bucktown neighborhood. With an urban boutique sensibility and an eye for trend coupled with exceptional customer service, Belly Dance has generated quite a buzz among expecting fashionistas.

In addition to receiving wide-ranging media interest, including best maternity store in Chicago Magazine, exposure in national magazines such as InStyle, Us Weekly, and People, and numerous television appearances, Gwyneth Paltrow recently named Belly Dance Maternity as one of her style favorites for the mother-to-be.

Have I said yet how much I love Isabella Oliver and their maternity dresses???! I already own a Isabella Oliver dress and it was my go to dress when I was pregnant with my daughter! I knew I wanted another one for a little variety and opted for the Isabella Oliver Cobalt Olivia Dress. It is so fashionable and chic and the Cobalt color is bright and fun!

This dress is really a flattering style by Isabella Oliver. It hugs your curves in all the right places and it is a great color to spice up your wardrobe. Wear it to your shower or to a wedding and have people asking you where you got it.

I love that this dress is so versatile. It can be worn longer or shorter and I think I could even nurse in this dress! Plus, it even looks great on when I am not pregnant or right after having a baby where you might want to cover a couple extra pounds. It hugs all the right areas and is the most comfortable dress I own...and that is especially important when pregnant!

So, if you are have a special occasion coming up or just want to look cute this summer while pregnant, I definitely recommend Isabella Oliver dresses and Belly Dance Maternity has a great selection of dresses and other great summer apparel!

Buy It: You can purchase the Isabella Oliver Cobalt Olivia Dress ON SALE for $100.00 from the Belly Dance Maternity website.

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* Thank you to Belly Dance Maternity for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Stay Hydrated This Summer with Contigo! & Giveaway

2013-06-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

As summer approaches, the weather gets hotter and you do a lot of traveling, stay hydrated without the fear of spills and warm water with Contigo’s water bottles and travel mugs feature AUTOSEAL and AUTOSPOUT technologies that offer convenient, one-handed drinking solutions to make commuting or traveling easier on you, your clothes and your car.

Contigo is a leading producer of innovative travel mugs, water bottles and kids’ cups and my new favorite water bottle and travel mug company!

Check out these five awesome products I received from Contigo for review:

AUTOSEAL® Randolph Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

Contigo’s famous AUTOSEAL® technology is now available with a handle!

• Patented AUTOSEAL® lid automatically seals between sips to protect against leaks and spills
• Easy, one-handed use with no caps or spouts
• Double-wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel keeps beverages hot for 4 hours or cold for 12 hours
• Easy, comfortable handle designed for both left and right handed users
• Button slides to lock, preventing accidental opening
• Fits most single-serve brewers
• Fits most car cup holders
• Lid pivots open for easy cleaning and is top-rack dishwasher safe
• Available in a variety of colors
• 16 oz. capacity
• SRP $22.99

This is now my go to travel mug whenever I want to keep my coffee hot but need to be on the go! The bright color is so much fun and I never lose it now! :) But most of all, I love the AUTOSEAL lid that doesn't spill and is easy to open with only one hand (which is all I ever have!).

AUTOSEAL® West Loop Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Mug

Spill-proof mug retains beverage temperatures for hours!

• Patented AUTOSEAL® lid automatically seals between sips to eliminate spills and leaks
• Easy, one-handed use with no caps or spouts
• Double wall vacuum insulated stainless steel keeps beverages hot for 4 hours or cold for 12 hours
• Fits most single-serve brewers
• Fits car cup holders
• Lid is top rack dishwasher safe
• Available in a variety of colors
• 16 oz. capacity SRP $20.99
• 20 oz. capacity SRP $24.99

This mug is similar to the Randolph mug above but it is larger in size and is perfect for my husband who drinks more coffee than me and travels more! It fits perfectly in his cup holder and can be drank easily while driving and walking!

NEW AUTOSPOUT® 32 oz. Addison Water Bottle

AUTOSPOUT® one touch drink spout for quick and easy one-handed drinking!

• One-touch drink spout for quick and easy one-handed drinking
• Spout shield covers silicone spout, keeping it clean and protected when not in use
• Leak proof when in closed position
• Soft grip, two finger grip is ergonomic for comfortable use on-the-go
• Measure markings help gauge liquid intake
• No plastic odors or taste with FDA-approved, BPA-free Tritan™ materials
• Top-rack dishwasher safe
• Available in Smoke & Cobalt
• 32 oz. capacity
• SRP $14.99

This water bottle is keeping us hydrated this summer with its large size and one button drink spout! I love that it stays clean and spill free so I don't have to spend my time wiping up water messes! Plus, it can be washed easily in the dishwasher!

However, my favorite bottles from Contigo have got to be the:

AUTOSPOUT® Kids Striker Water Bottle

NEW AUTOSPOUT® one touch drink spout for quick and easy one-handed opening and drinking!

Patent pending AUTOSPOUT® lid with spill-proof valve system eliminates leaks and spills even when spout is in the open position.One-touch button for easy opening and one-handed drinking
Spout shield covers silicone spout, keeping it clean and protected when not in use
100% FDA approved, BPA free materials
Superior handle with soft, two finger grip is ergonomic for comfortable use on-the-go
Ages 3 & up
Top-rack dishwasher safe
Available in a variety of colors
14 oz. capacity
SRP $9.99

I have been searching and searching for a kids' water bottle that won't spill but can easily be drank from with my one year old AND three year old. I was tired of sticking their old bottles in my purse and then having a sopping wet purse and ruined things. So when I saw this easy to open, no spill, straw cups from Contigo, I was so excited to try them! And they are perfect! Both children can drink from them, they DON'T spill and they come in fun colors!

So no matter what you are drinking this summer, you can find a new water bottle or mug to stay hydrated this summer whether you are traveling, enjoying the sun, or enjoying your daily coffee!

Buy It: You can purchase all these bottles (and so many more!) from the Contigo website.

And make sure to use the Promo Code COMMUTERPROMO to get 20% off your purchase from GoContigo.com.

Win It: Contigo is generously offering these (5) Contigo bottles/mugs that I reviewed above (AUTOSEAL® Randolph Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Vacuum Insulated) with Button Lock - 16 oz, AUTOSEAL® West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Vacuum Insulated) - 20 oz., AUTOSPOUT® Addison Water Bottle - 32 oz, (2) AUTOSPOUT® Kids Striker Water Bottles) to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(5) Contigo Bottles/Mugs

AUTOSEAL® Randolph Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Vacuum Insulated) with Button Lock - 16 oz. in Berry
AUTOSEAL® West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Vacuum Insulated) - 20 oz. in Silver
AUTOSPOUT® Addison Water Bottle - 32 oz. in Cobalt
AUTOSPOUT® Kids Striker Water Bottle in Orange
AUTOSPOUT® Kids Striker Water Bottle in Blue

(over $80 value!)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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* Thank you to Contigo for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

RibbedTee

2013-06-11T08:05:00.000-05:00

A product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Want a comfortable but very useful gift for your Dad this year? Look no further than RibbedTee this Father's Day!

My husband absolutely LOVES the new RibbedTee shirts he received! They fit so comfortably but yet have a breathable fit and provide high comfort! My husband loves wearing these shirts under all his dress and work clothes, especially now that summer is coming and so is the heat! It is a great buffer for sweaty days! :) Plus, he LOVES the longer length so it stays tucked in!

Proudly made in the USA and constructed from the softest, most breathable natural fibers, RibbedTee undershirts are engineered to provide a close comfortable fit that keeps the body feeling cool and dry all day long. Inferior undershirts can lose their shape, begin to sag, come un-tucked and become increasingly uncomfortable from wash to wash. RibbedTee sets itself apart from these other t-shirts by improving the overall function of the undershirt for a close, comfortable fit that men truly want to wear, both as a base layer during the day for utility, and at night when worn alone for timeless style.

With its unique design, RibbedTee’s undershirts are constructed to conform to the body’s shape. The longer length ensures that they remain tucked in at all times while the streamline fit prevents them from bunching around the waistline or arms. The stylish collars remain flat without sagging or stretching and each shirt is designed to maintain their shape wash after wash, ensuring the perfect fit every time.

Proudly made in the U.S.A., RibbedTee set out to solve the problems that men have with their undershirts and design a superior collection of shirts that consistently look, fit and feel better than any others in its price class. RibbedTee undershirts are available in various styles of V-Necks, Crew Necks and Tank Tops.

RibbedTee’s stylish line of undershirts bridge the gap between function and fashion. RibbedTee has advanced into the next phase of undershirt evolution by creating an extremely comfortable line that improves its function while simultaneously increasing the stylishness of the classic undershirt for a fit that men truly want to wear.

Dads will love RibbedTee’s thin, breathable fabric that is uniquely designed to never come untucked, never bunch around the waistline and never lose its shape from wash to wash. Each shirt is constructed of a superior, breathable ribbed fabric that stays cool under pressure and will have men's torsos thanking them!

Buy It: You can purchase the RibbedTee in a wide variety of styles and white, black and grey colors ranging from $18.50/2-Pack to $29/1-Pack at www.RibbedTee.com.

Special for Father’s Day: personalized monogramming up to 7 letters on left chest or left sleeve for only $5 per shirt for a truly custom and thoughtful Father’s Day gift!

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* Thank you to RibbedTee for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*