Holiday Gift Guide: Sobongo

I remember the first time I heard of Sobongo. I was channel surfing and I decided to veer away from my usual channels and try something new. When I saw the Sobongo channel, I tuned in and liked what I saw. It wasn't annoying like some shopping channels and I didn't feel like products were being pitched. I was offered a non-pushy, kind introduction to products that I may or not have been familiar with. When I found them online, I discovered an excellent selection of great name products with great prices to match! I was given the opportunity to try the Nesco Grip 'n Go Hand Blender. Nesco is a great brand, from what I've read. When I bought a coffee roaster, it was one of the brands I had seriously considered after spending weeks reading reviews. Now, I have a cordless immersion blender and I love it. I wanted to see how this corded version, which costs a lot less, stood up to my expectations. First of all, let me tell you a little more about it. The Nesco Grip 'n Go Hand Blender (HB-17P) allows you to blend soups and beverages or use it to fluff egg whites or chop onions. Equipped with a powerful variable 5-speed motor, the NESCO Grip 'n Go Blender can blend, chop, mix, whip, grind, puree, and mince quickly and efficiently. Basically, it does it all! One of my favorite features is that you can blend food  as it cooks in the original pot, saving extra dishes and clean-up. You can turn the Grip 'n Go Blender into a mini chopper and quickly chop herbs, vegetables, fruits, cooked meats, nuts and cheese with the chop and grind attachment. It includes a stainless steel blade and wonderful 3-cup measuring bowl. It also includes a whisk attachment for whisking fluffy egg whites or whipping cream, a stainless steel frother for making frothy beverages, and a mixing/measuring cup with lid. The accessories are dishwasher-safe. Plus, you can mount the hand blender on the wall so it's always handy! Putting it to the test was a lot of fun. I chopped peppermint for hot cocoa and I also chopped walnuts to use as a cake topping. I made whipping cream with the whisk for hot cocoa and I made a milkshake. I did have a little bit of a struggle making the milkshakes. My ice cream was pretty hard and I had to let it soften a little before I could create my perfect milkshake. I think the Nesco Hand Blender is a wonderful tool and it has a wonderful price too! Check out Sobongo for your holiday gifts and follow along on facebook and twitter for more holiday fun and giveaways! Wednesdays, tune in for Win It Wednesdays on facebook! All you have to do is match the picture with the right product and be the first person to submit the correct name to win!  
Disclosure: I was sent a hand blender in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Treats Made With Wonka Exceptionals!

Tomorrow, we are going to get our Christmas Tree! I don't know who's more excited, me or the kids! There's nothing like a fresh cut tree and it's unforgettable scent filling your home. When my kids are grown and they have their own Christmas Tree, I hope that scent reminds them of our special time together, celebrating Christmas all month long! Because we will spend the day getting into the holiday spirit, I will be up late tonight! I'll bake sweet treats made with Wonka Exceptionals and a few old favorites we can't do without! So tomorrow, as we put our touches on the tree, we will have treats to make the moment even sweeter!

WONKA EXCEPTIONALS TRIPLE BROWNIES


(Makes 36 servings)

These decadent brownies are a “must try” for chocolate lovers,

whether you prefer the dark, milk or white variety.

Aluminum foil

Nonstick cooking spray

1 pkg (18.5 oz) Chocolate brownie mix

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Scrumdiddlyumptious Chocolate Bar

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Domed Dark Chocolate Bar

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Chocolate Waterfall Bar

PREHEAT oven according to brownie mix package directions. Line 9-inch-square baking pan

with foil (this makes for easy brownie removal); spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

PREPARE brownie mix according to package directions. Spoon half of batter into prepared

pan; place chocolate bars in a single layer over batter. Spoon remaining batter over candy

bars, gently smoothing down top.

BAKE according to package directions for 9-inch pan. Cool completely in pan on wire rack.

To serve, lift foil from pan and peel away foil from brownies. Cut the square into 6 equal

strips; cut strips in opposite direction, making 36 bars.
 
 
WONKA SCRUMDIDDLYUMPTIOUS PANINI


(Makes 4 servings)

Who says chocolate is only for dessert?!

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Scrumdiddlyumptious Chocolate Bar

4 Slices French bread, challah or bread of choice

Nonstick cooking spray

CUT chocolate bar in half. Form two sandwiches with the bread and chocolate bar.

HEAT panini grill to medium according to manufacturer’s directions. Spray grill with

nonstick cooking spray. Transfer sandwiches to the grill and cook for 2 minutes or until

chocolate is melted and bread is golden brown (or, cook sandwiches in a hot grill pan,

turning once and pressing down frequently). Cut sandwiches in half; serve immediately.
 
 
WONKA DARK CHOCOLATE CHERRY



SUGAR COOKIES

(Makes about 3 dozen cookies)

Velvety dark chocolate combines with cherries to make what

WONKA thinks may be the best sugar cookie ever!

1 ¾ cups All-purpose flour

¾ tsp Baking soda

¼ tsp Salt

¾ cup Sugar

½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter, softened

1 Large egg

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Domed Dark Chocolate Bar, chopped

½ cup Dried tart cherries

White decorator icing (optional)

PREHEAT oven to 375° F.

COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in medium bowl.

BEAT granulated sugar and butter in large mixer bowl until combined. Beat in egg.

Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in chopped chocolate bar and cherries. Drop by

level tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

BAKE for 10 minutes or until golden around edges. Cool on baking sheets

for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Drizzle with icing.
 
 
WONKA COOKIE BRITTLE


(Makes 50 pieces)

This recipe is super easy to make, and kids will love helping you smoosh

the dough into the pan!

1 cup Granulated sugar

1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted butter, melted

1 ½ tsp Pure vanilla extract

1 tsp Salt

2 cups All-purpose flour

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Domed Dark Chocolate Bar, chopped

½ cup Chopped nuts, toasted and cooled

PREHEAT oven to 350° F.

BEAT sugar, butter, vanilla extract and salt in large mixer bowl. Gradually beat in flour.

Stir in chopped chocolate bar and nuts. Press into ungreased 15 x 10-inch jelly-roll pan.

BAKE for 23 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and set. Cool completely in pan on wire rack.

BREAK cookie into irregular pieces; store in airtight container for up to 1 week.
 
 
WONKA WATERFALL CHEESECAKE



WITH SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE

(Makes 16 servings)

This sophisticated chocolate cheesecake has a trendy sweet-salty twist.

CRUST

1 ¼ cups Graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup Granulated sugar

¼ cup (½ stick) Butter or margarine, melted

1 (3.5 oz) WONKA Exceptionals Chocolate Waterfall Candy Bar

CHEESECAKE

2 pkgs (8 oz. each) Cream cheese, at room temperature

¾ cup Granulated sugar

2 tsp Pure vanilla extract

2 Large eggs

TOPPING

1 cup Sour cream

2 tbsp Granulated sugar

1 tsp Vanilla extract

SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE

¹/3 cup Water

¾ cup Granulated sugar

2/3 cup (½ stick) Heavy whipping cream

Pinch Sea salt

PREHEAT oven to 350° F.

FOR CRUST: COMBINE graham cracker crumbs, sugar and butter in medium bowl. Press onto bottom of 9-inch springform pan or 9- to 10-inch deep-dish

pie plate. Bake for 5 minutes. Finely chop half of chocolate bar and sprinkle evenly over crust. Set aside remaining half of chocolate bar for chocolate curl

garnish.

FOR CHEESECAKE: BEAT cream cheese and sugar in large mixer bowl until fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract. Beat in eggs one at a time, beating well after

each addition. Pour filling into crust.

BAKE for 30 minutes or until center is almost set and edges just begin to crack. Remove from oven and quickly put together topping.

FOR TOPPING: COMBINE sour cream, sugar and vanilla extract in medium bowl; mix well. Spoon topping over cheesecake, starting with the edges first

and working inward toward the center. Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and cool on wire rack. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

FOR SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE: COMBINE water and sugar in medium saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently, until sugar is dissolved. Increase

heat and boil, without stirring, until syrup is deep amber in color (occasionally brush down sides of pan with wet pastry brush and swirl pan). This should

take about 8 to10 minutes. Reduce heat to low; add whipping cream and salt (mixture will bubble vigorously). Whisk until smooth, then pour into serving

pitcher; cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

TO SERVE: Gently run knife around inside of springform pan to loosen cheesecake. Remove side of springform pan. With vegetable peeler, shred remaining

chocolate bar half around perimeter of cheesecake. Cut cheesecake into 16 wedges. Drizzle bottom of dessert plates with a little caramel sauce; top

with piece of cheesecake. Drizzle with additional sauce.
 
 
WONKA EXCEPTIONALS



MINI BROWNIE BITES

(Makes 30 brownies)

For chocolate fans who like a little pick-me-up in their treats,

we created these perfectly-portioned coffee brownie bites.

30 (1 ½" - 1 ¾") Mini paper baking cups

2 (3.5 oz each) WONKA Exceptionals Chocolate Waterfall Chocolate Bars, divided

1 pkg (18.5 oz) Chocolate brownie mix

1 tbsp Coffee liqueur

1 tbsp NESCAFÉ TASTER’S CHOICE 100% Pure Instant Coffee Granules

½ cup Toasted, finely chopped pecans

PREHEAT oven according to brownie mix package directions. Line mini muffin tins

with baking cups. Finely chop 6 squares of chocolate.

COMBINE liqueur and coffee granules in small bowl; stir until coffee is dissolved.

Set aside.

PREPARE brownie mix according to package directions. Add coffee mixture.

Fold in nuts and chopped chocolate.

BAKE for 15 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in brownie comes out

with moist crumbs. Cool for 5 minutes in pan on wire rack; remove to wire rack

to cool completely.

CUT remaining chocolate into 30 pieces with a thin, sharp knife. Insert into brownie bite

just before serving.
 
 

Happy Holidays From

 

WONKA Exceptionals!!!!

Disclosure: I was under no obligation to create this post.

Holiday Gift Guide: Designers Eye

Recently, I received a few "cakes" to pass on to a lucky couple. Towel cakes make great shower gifts and they make awesome hostess gifts and holiday presents for those on your list! Cakes can be customized and they contain ZERO calories! What a great idea, especially around the holidays! One of my favorite designers is Etsy's very own Designers Eye. She made a beautiful hand towel cake and added gorgeous touches to make this cake quite the showpiece. It made a gorgeous table decoration for our party and the bride took it home afterwards! She said it would be hard to take it apart and use it because it was so pretty to look at! I know what she means. Topping the cake is a gorgeous "H" wedding cake topper. The sides of this cake have nice little details that closely resemble more formal "edible" cakes. Check out Designers Eye feel free to ask for a custom cake. She can work with any theme or color scheme, and she can work with full size towels or a set!
Disclosure: I was sent a hand towel cake to pass on to a lucky couple. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Sunfood

This holiday season, give the gift of good health. Sort of. While it may not be an instant cure all for every ailment (or maybe it is), this natural gift box can chase away winter blues and give your dry, thirsty skin some instant gratification! Sunfood's Glowing Skin Gift Package is all wrapped up and ready to give. Since it is shipped in a regular shipping box (and very well secured) I didn't have to worry about damage to the actual gift box! This gift contains all the luxuries of a gift package and all the health-giving properties of superfoods. Using a combination of amazing, skin-saving lotions, butters and soaps, this gift box vitalizes your skin, helping keep it as strong and smooth as the day you were born.

The gift box includes:

• Shea Butter, 8 oz. (raw, wild crafted/sustainably harvested)
• MSM Lotion/Cream - Pure & Natural (8 oz.)
• Soap, Avocado w/Shea Butter & Aloe, 4.5oz, Sunfood (unscented, hand-crafted) 
• MSM Facial Creme, 4 fl. oz
• Cacao Butter, 14 oz. in Glass Jar, Sunfood (raw, certified organic)

My skin loved these products and I could tell because my skin was smooth and hydrated. It wasn't just surface change, I could feel it deep down and after skipping a day or two, my skin didn't revert to it's winter dry state. It was nice knowing that I wasn't treating my skin with harsh chemicals and toxins, I was actually healing it with nature's very best. And I didn't miss the perfumes and other stuff that is loaded into my usual products. I was a new visitor to the new to Sunfood site and I was impressed with the variety of products. They have a lot of great gifts and they are a wonderful source of information. Beginning Friday (11/26) buy a Sunfood gift package, and you will automatically be entered to win another one! Check them out!
Disclosure: I was sent a package in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Masterbuilt Giveaway!

We love turkey. We love it oven roasted and smoked, but we love it deep fried the most! Crispy on the outside, juicy (not just moist!) on the inside. My dad is the one who fries the turkey for most holidays. All the men gather around the turkey fryer and wait until the bird is fried to perfection. It's a little scary to watch. The whole fryer looks a little top heavy, and knowing it is filled with hot oil, I don't even want to think about what could go wrong. Now I don't have to, thanks to Masterbuilt! Our turkeys will be fried indoors, in a Digital Electric Turkey Fryer!
It features:
An adjustable thermostat temperature control
Stainless steel construction
Porcelain-coated inner pot
Digital timer
Folding lid with window and filter
Cooking basket with drain clip
Drain Valve for easy cleaning
It saves on oil because it uses 1/3 less than conventional turkey fryers! This fryer will cook a 14 pound Butterball Turkey, which can feed up to 8 people. But it's not just for turkey! You can fry, steam, and boil! I'm already planning a fish fry and low country boil! Buy your Turkey Fryer at Amazon.com! Masterbuilt is known for making quality products. Remember my last Masterbuilt review? My Electric Digital Smoker has been smokin' ever since! I use it at least once a week because it's easy to use and the food is always amazing!

I am giving away a Digital Electric Turkey Fryer, $15 Butterball Coupon, and a copy of John McLemore's "DADGUM That's Good!" Cookbook (check out the blog!) to one of my readers! You must be a US resident! To enter, leave a comment and tell me which Masterbuilt product would be used by your family the most! Follow me on facebook/twitter/google/networked blogs for one entry, each follow. Links are on my sidebar. Follow Masterbuilt on Twitter/Facebook for two extra entries each! Giveaway ends midnight, December 5, 2010. Good Luck!
Disclosure: I was sent a Digital Electric Turkey Fryer, cookbook, and Butterball coupon. No monetary compensation provided.

Expressions Gift Factory Giveaway!

A few weeks ago, I was given the opportunity to order a really cool gift from Expressions Gift Factory. I was told to go online and customize an "arrangement" and it would be sent. I thought it sounded really neat, but when I actually went to their site, I was blown away!!! This is like Build-A-Bear, for candy and cookie arrangements!!! They even offer other fun arrangements too like Baby Lollipops and Bear in a Balloon Gifts! First, I decided on a cookie arrangement. Then, I was able to pick my container. After that, I picked out 6 cookies. The cookies were grouped together by themes, but I wanted a little something different. I picked from here and there, and ended up with a sun, flowers, bee, puppy, and a butterfly. Very spring like! I also picked out a frog dressed in a sweater. I waited patiently for my arrangement to arrive. When it did, I couldn't believe how well it was packed! If anyone had watched me unpack my arrangement, they would have sworn I was unpacking an expensive crystal vase!!! After all the wrapping was removed, I set my arrangement on the table. It was perfect! All of the cookies arrived in perfect condition and nothing had shifted! But this wasn't just another pretty arrangement, oh no! These HUGE cookies were wonderful and they reminded me of the cookie part of a MoonPie. We enjoyed every last crumb, and one of my readers will have the chance to enjoy one as well! Expressions Gift Factory is giving an arrangement to on of my readers! You must be a US resident. To enter, visit their site and tell me what you like the most. You can tell me which cookie, candy shape, container, or stuffed animal you like! For bonus entries, follow me on facebook/twitter/google/networked blogs for one additional entry for each follow. Links on sidebar. Like Expressions Gift Factory on Facebook and follow on Twitter for two extra entries each! Giveaway ends midnight, December 5, 2010. Good luck!
Disclosure: I was chosen to participate in the Expressions Gift Factory Blog Tour by MomSelect. Honest opinions given. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: CSN Stores!

Shhh....If you see Logan around, don't ask him about his new Karaoke Machine. You see, Santa bought it early, thanks to CSN Stores! But since it's not Christmas, Logan will have to wait. Recently, CSN Stores contacted me and asked if I wanted to do another review. I have always loved shopping their site because they have just about everything with some of the lowest prices too! So, with a $75 credit, I began my search. Logan wanted a microphone and I thought a karaoke machine would be much more enjoyable. I searched online for product reviews. I wanted to get the very best that I could afford and with so many machines out there, I needed a great place to start. I narrowed my search down to the Emerson Brand. For the money, their machines had great reviews and consumers seemed to be pleased. I ordered an Emerson Karaoke Peak Power 650 Complete CDG Karaoke System iPod Compatible - PP650. Now, that's a mouthful! When the unit arrived, it was a little beat up during shipping. I contacted customer service and had the most wonderful experience returning this item. They offered to send an identical replacement, but I opted to order a different machine. The Peak Power Machine was mostly silver and every scratch was obvious. I decided that if I wanted the machine to look great longer, especially with my kids using it, a black machine would be more kid friendly! I ordered the Emerson Karaoke DVD / CDG Karaoke Player, Video, Movie, Record Player with 7" TFT Screen, USB / SD Slot - GM527 shown below. It arrived in perfect condition.

It features:

•DVD / CDG karaoke player, video, movie, record player with 7" TFT screen, USB / SD slot


•CD and Graphic Karaoke System collection

•300 MP3G songs on two disc

•7" TFT color screen

•Record voice and music mix

•Microphone

•USB / SD card slot

•Balance control

•Two microphone inputs

•Digital echo

•Digital key control

•AUX input for IPod / MP3 players

•Audio outputs (RCA)

•Video outputs (RCA)

•Built-in personal player cradle

•RCA cables

•Cable for iPod

•AC 120V / DC 12V (car adaptor not included)

•Battery operated (8 ''C'' batteries not included)

•Instruction manual

•Warranty card

•0.1" to red and white RCA male cord

•Yellow, red and white RCA male to yellow, red and white RCA male cord

•Remote control

•100V-240V / 65A power adaptor

•Ages 8

•Optional Karaoke CD and Graphic Set available

•One year warranty


I've had a blast testing it out when the kids were asleep. I've watched a movie, belted out a tune, and played with the numerous buttons! The microphones are decent and I think it's perfect for Logan! I know he'll love it! The unit is lightweight and it can be moved from room to room, which is nice! The screen is great, producing a clear, sharp image when watching movies. This unit comes with 500 songs and most are very child friendly! Logan will be thrilled when he finds this under the Christmas Tree! Thanks CSN Stores!
Disclosure: I was given a $75 credit at CSN Stores. I purchased this machine with my credit and personal funds. Honest opinions given.

Thanksgiving With Teleflora!

My Thanksgiving arrangement from Teleflora is definitely the Center of Attention! Three pillar candles stand in the center, surrounded by lush greenery, flowers, and fruit! The fruit looks so real, Sam is trying to eat it! He loves grapes and more than once, I've caught him trying to snatch one! About an hour ago, my arrangement was delivered by Hadden's Flowers & Gifts. They always do such a beautiful job recreating the arrangements on Teleflora's website. While there are some variations, I love the fact that my arrangement was made just for me and it wasn't put together as a cookie cutter arrangement. It's one-of-a-kind! I love the brightness of this centerpiece. It is built using long lasting flowers and I don't see any greenery or flowers that will leave a daily mess on my table. Thank goodness! I guess that's one thing to be thankful about this Thanksgiving! Another reason to be thankful? My friends at Teleflora and Hadden's!

It's not too late to order the perfect Thanksgiving centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. They have so many to choose from, you'll probably have a hard time deciding on one! I know I did! Teleflora has never let me down, and I've used them for years. I can always count on a great arrangement and they guarantee it!
Disclosure: I have a long term relationship with Teleflora. An arrangement was provided in exchange for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Quicksilver

Recently, I read Quicksilver, by Joy Spraycar. From the beginning, the author pulls you into a world of intrigue and mystery. At some times it's predictable, but never dull. The main characters, Serry and Quinton are connected though time and it's easy to feel a strong emotional attachment to them because the author makes them so real. Beginning with the first page, you dive headfirst into the world of werewolves.

Book Overview:

A recurring nightmare holds Serry Miller in its grip and has for most of her life. In spite of her fear of the man who becomes a monster, she’s in love with him. Not only does she have nightmares while she sleeps, she’s living in one with an abusive, alcoholic husband. When, Serry’s drunken husband hit’s Quinton Worthington’s car, she sees the face of the man from her nightmares on a stretcher entering the hospital. When he looks at her and calls her by her name, she is plummeted into a life that she has only dreamed about. Quinton Worthington has suffered for over a hundred years. That’s when his evil father ripped Serenity, the love of Quinton’s life, from him. At the same time, he changed Quinton into a monster. When Quinton sees Serry’s face in the hospital, he believes that Serenity has come back, and he will do anything to be with her. There’s only one thing that stands in their way of having the life they want: Quinton’s father.

It's not your typical werewolf story which is quite refreshing, especially with so many werewolf movies out that all seem to run along the same path. This story has a twist that seamlessly marries the old and new, and leaves the reader wanting more. This book was quite an adventure and while I loved it, I would have like it more if it were broken down into two books with the first story ending with the death of the black wolf. Joy Spraycar, in my opinion, had the perfect trilogy. I am still hoping she follows up with another story to pick up where Quicksilver left off. She left herself the perfect opening! Quicksilver shows us that good still wins out over evil, even when good has a dark side of it's own. Available at Author House!

Disclosure: I received a copy of Quicksilver in order to complete this review.

Holiday Gift Guide: All-Clad!

All-Clad will definitely be part of our holidays! Last year, I received an All-Clad roasting pan and I have used it many times. It's a breeze to clean. I swear I never have to scrub it. Just a soft sponge and a little soap and water does the trick for the biggest messes! It beats my old roasting pans that were nearly impossible to clean. I've tossed a few after failed attempts, but I'm happy to say, those days are over. When I was given the opportunity to try All-Clad's newest, a Stainless Steel Food Mill, I was excited! Just think of all the sauces, jelly, and other great things I could make!!! All-Clad worked with professional chefs to develop this super-efficient food mill with the largest capacity on the market. It purées and strains ingredients at the same time, producing a perfectly smooth, uniform texture and it's ideal for processing everything from cooked fruits and vegetables to homemade soups. The Food Mill is designed to fit over a pot, pan or work bowl, and the mill has 3 expandable legs that span up to 13" wide! Setting it up is easy. To use it, just turn the crank, which causes a rotating blade to push food through a perforated disk, leaving unwanted fibers, seeds and skins behind. It features an ergonomic ball on the handle spins as you turn it, ensuring a comfortable grip. A removable wiper blade on the underside of the mill optimizes efficiency, continually scraping food into your bowl. Three interchangeable straining disks adjust consistency from coarse to superfine! Clean up is easy! Just rinse and let your dishwasher do the dirty work! I haven't tried using a lot of different foods yet, but I did make a sauce with walnuts to pour over ice cream. The food mill removed the walnut skins with ease, creating a smooth and creamy walnut drizzle! I can't wait to use it on our muscadines (southern grapes!) next year! We will be up to our elbows in jelly, thanks to All-Clad!!!

Dislosure: I was given a Food Mill in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Expressionery.com

I received Three Designing Women's Hamilton Stamp Orange & Blue Damask Box Set from Expressionery.com for a review. I wasn't really into stationary before I received it, but now I couldn't imagine not having it! The Hamilton box set, exclusively from Three Designing Women, includes a personalized address stamp, 20 folded notes and envelopes, a single initial Interchangeable stamp polymer, plus 2 ink colors, all nestled in a reusable paper box. It's nice to pull out a card whenever I need to write a note and be able to personalize it with my stamp! The matching address stamp is out all the time because I use it when I send mail! It beats writing my address every time I send a letter! When I saw that the set included an interchangeable stamp, I thought for sure that would mean I'd get ink everywhere! Not a chance. It's neat and clean and I didn't get ink anywhere! For me, that's a miracle! I also received a PSA Essentials - "Antique Cipher" Embosser. I have always wanted one and I am having so much fun with it! I love hosting dinner parties and family gatherings. I only have a dozen really nice linen napkins and about a dozen and a half good napkins. I hate using paper napkins, but now when I do, I can dress them up with my embosser! I wanted a "G" to create nicer cocktail and dinner napkins, and also turn basic stationary into really nice stationary. It works well and I am now looking forward to using paper napkins for our holiday feasts!

 When I received my embosser, I had yet another surprise! I was sent a PSA Essentials - Harrington Stamp. All PSA stamps are now Peel & Stick ™ patent-pending technology compatible. This means you can coordinate your address or message with interchangeable stamp designs for endless possibilities. My stamp is round and it fits perfectly in the palm of my hand for comfort. The stamp is very smooth and made to last! Now for the giveaway!!! One of my US readers will win a Three Designing Women Hamilton Stamp Orange & Blue Damask Box Set from Expressionery.com! To enter, leave a comment and tell me which of their products interests you the most! Bonus entries!!! Follow me on facebook/google/twitter/networked blogs for one entry each follow. Links are on my sidebar. Gain two extra entries each  for following Expressionery.com on Facebook and Twitter! Giveaway ends midnight November 30, 2010! Good Luck!
Disclosure: I received these products in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Whole Foods Market

Each and every Christmas, you are bound to get something you either don't have the space for or you just don't need or want it. No, I'm not talking about your gifts, dad. But you know the ones. This year, consider a gift that will actually be used! Whole Foods Market has created several themed gift boxes that will help you eliminate any possibility of sending such a gift. I chose the You're Zenzational Gift Box and it is filled with 365 Everyday Value® Lavender Body Lotion, 365 Everyday Value® Lavender Shower Gel, Aura Cacia Aromatherapy Mineral Bath Salts, Aura Cacia Pillow Potion Mist, Pure Body Natural Moisture Gloves, Pure Body Sleep Mask, Pure Body Terry Cloth Bath Pillow, Pacifica Mediterranean Fig Soy Candle, Tea Forte Serenade White Ginger Pear & Jasmine Green Tea, and two recycled gift bags! I've used several of the products in the past and I think Whole Foods couldn't have made better selections for this gift! They also offer other great gift boxes that are sure to please just about anyone on your list. The sad news? They are only available online! If I had one wish, I would wish that these gift boxes shipped in another box. The "gift box" arrived a little beat up and the shipping label could not be removed without making the gift look terrible. Sure, wrapping paper would cover it up, but it would be nice if it were not necessary. A wooden gift box or even a protective shipping box would have been nice. Regardless, the inside is sure to win you a title or two as giving one of the greatest gifts! It is, after all, relaxation in a box! Also, when the receiver of the gift opens the box, he/she will read a lovely message explaining that the giver thinks they are Zenzational! How nice! Whole Foods thought of just about everything! Please note: The products and flavors in each gift box represent a typical selection and are subject to change.
Disclosure: I was sent a gift box in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Calinana!

 I don't do jewelry reviews that often. I like simple and sweet, and I have a few pieces that I wear for going out and special occasions. It's not often that I find something online (in the jewelry department) that I've just "gotta" have. When I found these gorgeous Swarovski drop gold-filled earrings from Calinana, I fell for them instantly.

Guess what? They look even better in person! Calinana's stunning earrings feature an impressive Swarovski drop crystal. These 2 inch long gold-filled earrings are perfect for giving, but they are also perfect for adding glitz and glam to your holiday wardrobe!

 These handmade earrings are lightweight so they shouldn't pull or stretch your earlobes. They are comfortable to wear for extended amounts of time. If you haven't been to Calinana and browsed their unique jewelry, you're missing out. It's a definite treat for any jewelry lover, and even those who aren't!

Be sure to Follow Calinana on Twitter and Facebook for great updates!
Disclosure: I was sent a pair of earrings in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Special Giveaway From Nestle Family!

NESTLÉ Family wants to help you and your family with your holiday preparations by providing you with all the products to help with your holiday needs! They are giving one of my readers a wonderful prize pack that includes a copy of the newly released cookbook, Southern Plate: Classic Comfort Food That Makes Everyone Feel Like Family, from Christy Jordan, blogger at southernplate.com. It also includes a mix of free coupons from CARNATION® Evaporated Milk, TOLL HOUSE® Morsels, TOLL HOUSE® Refrigerated Cookie Dough, JUICY JUICE® and STOUFFER'S® for those nights when you don't feel like cooking. You must be a US resident. To enter, leave a comment and tell me how Nestle helps you celebrate the holidays! Is there any product that you rely on to help make the holidays warm (and yummy?) or do you (Ahem Santa) fill the stockings with Nestle candy? Leave your answer in a comment! Follow me on Twitter/Facebook/Networked Blogs/Google for an extra entry, each follow. Links are on my sidebar! Follow Nestle Family on Facebook! Say hello on their wall and leave two comments here! Enter their Holiday Celebrations Giveaway (details below and on their home page) for 5 extra entries! Be sure to leave comments for each entry! Giveaway ends midnight December 5, 2010. Good luck!

You can enter to win an even larger giveaway from Nestle Family! Visit nestlefamily.com, where you can enter to win a Luxury Included® Family Vacation to Beaches Resort. Also, enter each week for your chance to win weekly prizes. This is a separate giveaway!!! See Nestle Family for more details and giveaway rules!

Disclosure: I will be provided my very own package in exchange for writing this post. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Guide: Toys R Us

My day was uneventful until the package arrived from our friends at Toys R Us. As soon as I was ready to open it, my kids suddenly appeared, eager to see what was inside. I grabbed my new Kodak M530 and turned it on. Inside my box were three of the most unusual "things" I had ever seen. No kidding. At first glance, I began to wonder about this crazy item and I wondered why it was so HOT! I grabbed it and accidentally pressed the button on the tummy. Then it all made sense! Mattel's Sing-A-Ma-Jigs open their mouth when their tummy is pressed. Pressing the hand changes modes! The mouth opens to an O shape. Inside their mouth you'll find a pink tongue and little white teeth! They can bite (I tried) but not hard! Since Logan is taller than Sam, he could see into the box. He grabbed the first Sing-A-Ma-Jig and I snapped a picture.

Sam was quick to claim it and he didn't hesitate to make a grab. The struggle was on and finally, Logan gave in. Sam gave his big brother a hug and a kiss, along with a sweet thank you, for giving him the
cute little toy!

According to the Toys R Us website:

"The Sing-A-Ma-Jigs enjoy nothing more than singing together, and just to prove it, they harmonize with each other in perfect pitch every time. The more you collect, the larger the chorus! Their zany looks are unique to them, and when they sing you can't resist when their little mouths open wide for each note! Every Sing-A-Ma-Jig has three modes of play where they chatter, sing their own song, or sing in harmony with their other Sing-A-Ma-Jig friends." 

It took Sam about a minute or two to figure out the Sing-A-Ma-Jig! As soon as he began to press the button, he was dancing, spinning, and swirling! He was HAPPY! All in all, I think this is a great toy for children. It's recommended for children 3-5, but Logan enjoyed it as much as Sam. I hate to admit it, but I did too! These retail for less than $10 too! That alone had me singing along with our Sing-A-Ma-Jigs! Check out Toys R Us for great holiday gifts!
I have a Sing-A-Ma-Jig to pass on to one of my readers! US residents only. To enter, leave me a comment and tell me what Toys R Us gift Santa may leave under your tree! Follow me on Twitter/Facebook/Networked Blogs/Google for one entry each follow! Links on sidebar! Follow Toys R Us on Facebook and Twitter for two entries each follow! Giveaway ends at midnight December 1, 2010! Good luck!
Disclosure: I was sent Sing-A-Ma-Jigs in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.
 



Holiday Gift Guide: Hayneedle

I'm kicking off my Holiday Gift Guide with Hayneedle. And why not? They are giving one of my readers a little holiday cash (gift certificate/credit- it's as good as cash- at Hayneedle!). But more on that in a minute. If you are buying a present for the person who has everything, why not get them an accessory for something they already have? Hayneedle.com has great gifts and accessories to help you spread the holiday cheer! They sent me a Weber Rolling Grill Cart. It fits Weber Grills Q 100, 200, and 220 Series! This cart is pretty awesome. The Weber Grill is heavy for me and I really don't enjoy carrying it around. Now, I don't have to. The struggle is over. This cart fits the grill perfectly and I can roll it around with ease! At first, I was worried it wouldn't be sturdy. After seeing it in person, I no longer have any worries! The stand folds for storage which is convenient when you transport your grill. It fits between the luggage, tents, coolers and everything else! Check out Hayneedle for great gift ideas that are sure to fit your budget. I'm sure you can find the perfect holiday gift for that hard to buy for person on your list! Consider Gas Grills or even a Turkey Fryer for those holiday gatherings! Visit the Hayneedle Blog for more ideas! Now for the giveaway!
One lucky US reader will win a $50 gift code to spend at Hayneedle.com! To enter, visit Hayneedle and tell me how you would spend your holiday "cash". Follow me on Google/Networked Blogs/Facebook for one extra entry/each follow. Follow Hayneedle on Twitter and like them on Facebook for two extra entries each! Be sure to check out The Foundary too! Giveaway ends midnight EST, November 28, 2010. Good Luck!
Want to earn even more holiday cash? Visit The Foundary and refer your friends! They feature incredible deals on really great gift ideas! Earn Hayneedle cash for each referral, plus earn for each purchase that a friend makes! Now, sit back and relax. Before you know it, you could buy that present you really wanted!
Disclosure: I was sent a Rolling Grill Cart in order to complete this review. No monetary compensation received.

Soft Surroundings

It doesn't matter if you work inside or outside of your home. You work hard and try to maintain a balance between work and play. Usually that balance is off. If not a little, then a lot! If you are a workaholic (like my husband) you owe it to yourself to take a few moments to relax in the evenings. I do this with a long hot shower or a book and a bath. When I get out of the shower, the last thing I want is a towel that doesn't dry me off and feel great against my skin. I've spent a lot of money on towels in the past only to have them:
a. not absorb well or
b. not hold up to frequent washings, or
c. both a. and b.
If you have made the same mistakes, consider purchasing towels from Soft Surroundings. They are a little costly, but I am a firm believer that you get what you pay for. Don't try to cut corners with sheets or towels. By the time you replace your first purchase of the less expensive linens with newer towels or sheets, you have usually spent what it would have cost you if you had purchased the better linens in the first place. We received an assortment of two different towel sets to pass on to a lucky couple. The first towel set was Soft Surroundings Cloud Soft Towels. They really are "cloud soft", ring spun cotton bath towels and they feel amazing next to your skin. They are available in beautiful soft colors that are sure to compliment most decors. These towels are super soft, absorbent, non-linting and they wash beautifully. They all natural combed cotton with no chemical additives. Let me add, these are the softest, plushest towels that I have ever touched. Dreamy is an understatement! We also received Bamboo and Egyptian Cotton Towels. Wow! While they are not as soft as the Cloud Soft Towels, they work extra hard thanks to the combination of Egyptian Cotton and Bamboo. These two extraordinary fibers create one exquisite towel. Incredibly soft rayon made from bamboo is highly absorbent and fast drying, and we all know Bamboo has amazing properties making it ideal for use in towels! These towels are thick and thirsty. I know they are made to last and they are a great investment! Visit Soft Surroundings and take advantage of special pricing on towels and bath mats! Surround yourself in luxury with Soft Surroundings!

Disclosure: I was sent a variety of towels and a bath mat to pass on to a lucky couple. No monetary compensation received.

Gourmet Cake Pops!

 I was looking for something unique when I came across Pink Treasure Chest Boutique's lovely Gourmet Cake Pops. They were beautiful and they could be customized for my event! I received a generous package full of cake pops to serve at a special bridal shower. The cake pops were Butter Pecan Cake...Mmmmmm. They were filled with Cream Cheese Frosting! I was surprised by them, really. They are so small and delicate but they are packed with flavor! Each Cake Pop is more than two bites (if you are using your manners) and they have been dipped in chocolate and every sprinkle imaginable. Or so it seemed! They made a gorgeous display and the colors were perfect. They were true jewels made just for me by Pink Treasure Chest Boutique!
Disclosure: I was sent an assortment of cake pops for a very special shower. No monetary compensation received.

The Perfect Gift Basket

 I love gift baskets. I think they make wonderful gifts, especially when they're loaded with treats! Mini Menagerie Cakes offers a large Bakery Gift Basket that begs to be eaten. It contains:

• 1-4" Pecan Praline Cheesecake
• 1-4" Dark Chocolate Truffle Cheesecake
• 1-4" Spiced Butter Rum Cake with a Walnut Rum Glaze
• 1-4" Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake
• 1-4" Bourbon Pecan Tart with Shortbread Crust
• 1-4" Dark Chocolate Tart with Peanut Butter Swirl
• 1-4" Lemon Curd Tart with Toasted Almond Crust
• 1-5" Pumpkin Cranberry Loaf with Roasted Sunflower Seeds
• 1-5" Banana Walnut Crunch Loaf
• 6 Double Chocolate Mini-Muffins
•  6 Lemon Blueberry Mini-Muffins

 This would be a great wedding present for any bride and groom to take on their honeymoon. It would also be a great hostess gift or guest gift for those out of town relatives that visit during the holidays. Everything I tasted was divine. My favorite was the Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake! If you love chocolate, this is for you! I've tasted A LOT of chocolate cake but never anything quite like it! It had such a depth of flavor that can't compare to anything else I've had. It was also rich and  moist and should be enjoyed with a large glass of cold milk! I only wish it had been extra large cake! I guess if I had to have a complaint, the size would be it!  But after all, this is a sampler basket! Check out Mini Menagerie Cakes and stock up for the holidays. If you aren't looking for a gift, get one for yourself and enjoy. One can never have too much of a good thing!

Disclosure: I was sent a basket for a special event. No monetary compensation received and honest opinions given.