Disclosure: I received this product for free from Moms Meet (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.
I have definitely been noticing an increase in plant-based convenience foods in the freezer aisle lately. We recently tried Alpha Burritos, which are 100% plant-based burritos that are packed with protein and veggies. Alpha Burritos come in four varieties:
Mexicali
Fajita Chick’n
Philly Sandwich
Pizza
Unlike most frozen burritos, Alpha Burritos are free of GMOs, cholesterol, hormones, corn syrup, artificial preservatives, and all animal products.
We enjoyed the Mexicali and Pizza burritos. They were both very flavorful and satisfying. I was surprised by how meaty and cheesy the burritos tasted, considering they do not contain any animal products. Pair one with a salad and you have a quick and healthy dinner! Click here to find where Alpha Burritos are sold near you.
Disclosure: I received a copy of these books in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Today I am reviewing three fun books for the new year from Ulysses Press. The first one is called The Big Book of 30-Day Challenges, by Rosanna Casper. The title immediately grabbed my attention because I like the idea of thirty day challenges. This book includes 60 such challenges, ranging from walking 10,000 steps to learning a foreign language. The challenges are divided into six categories:
Fitness
Food
Self-Care
Mindfulness
Organization & Productivity
Networking & Relationships
Creativity & Learning
Even though each challenge is for only thirty days, the intent is that some of these challenges will become life-long habits that improve your quality of life.
The challenges range from “do-able” to seemingly impossible. For example, “Drink 8 to 10 Glasses of Water a Day” is something I know that I should do, but has always been a personal challenge. On the other hand, “Write a Novel” is a challenge that I do not ever intend, nor do I want to take! Even though not all of the challenges will appeal to everyone, the point is to pick the ones that speak to you. I like how the author offers helpful and practical tips specific to each challenge. I would recommend The Big Book of 30 Day Challenges for anyone looking to develop good habits for the new year.
Have you heard of bullet journaling? I have seen various samples on Instagram, but I have never tried it. Beyond Bullets by Megan Rutell, gives an excellent overview of various journaling styles and encourages creativity in the process.
I like how there are many different journaling styles included in the book. I am a visual person, so lists and charts appeal to me. Beyond Bullets inspired me to create a “Water Intake” chart (related to the challenge I want to take from the first book in this review!) Journaling is a tool that can help you organize your life and also be a creative outlet. Beyond Bullets is a wonderful guide to help you get started.
Finally, Twinkle, Twinkle, Social Media Star by Kate Kennedy, is a laugh-out-loud funny picture book about a mama bear teaching her baby bear the ins and outs of social media.
As a blogger, I must admit that I tend to obsess about my Instagram account. Many of the jokes hit a little too close to home, but that’s why this book is so hilarious! As the cover indicates, this book is meant to be “A Parody for Adults”. (My son n started reading it because he was curious, but most of the humor did not translate for him. Social media savvy teens would probably get it, though!) Give a copy of Twinkle, Twinkle, Social Media Star to the blogger/influencer/social media star that you know for some good laughs!
Disclosure: I received samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
The new year has inspired me to declutter and organize. One tool that has helped me with various projects around the house is the Scrigit Scraper. If you have never heard of Scrigit Scrapers, they just might be the tool you never knew you needed!
The Scrigit Scraper is a pen-shaped tool that is made of a durable but non-scratch BPA-free plastic. It can be used to remove unwanted substances such as adhesive stickers, labels and grime, without damaging surfaces. I must admit I often use my fingernails for such tasks, and broken fingernails are usually the result! Scrigit Scrapers are much more effective and I would highly recommend them for cleaning and crafts.
I recently used Scrigit Scrapers for two home organizing projects. For the first project, I upcycled a plastic candy container into a container for office supplies.
When D brought this little plastic box of candy home from work, I immediately thought of ways I could reuse the container. I used a Scrigit Scraper to remove the label without scratching the box. Now the container is a cute way to store binder clips.
As I was working on this project, I noticed there were some grimy spots on my desk from a prior craft project. So I used my Scrigit Scraper to remove them!
My second project involved transforming a letter organizer into a charging station. It seems like our family has so many electronic devices to charge and the cords were getting out of control. A while back, my mom mentioned that she saw someone on Pinterest use a letter organizer (similar to the one I already had) to make a charging station. After putting the project on the backburner, I finally gave it a go.
The first step was to remove some yellow tape that I had put on the organizer years ago. It was stuck on there pretty well, so I used a Scrigit Scraper and saved my fingernails! I then used my brother in law’s cordless drill to drill some holes in the back for the cords to feed through. (Be smarter than me, however, and use a drill-bit extension if you are trying to go through a small opening!) I covered some chipped areas with decorative washi tape and made labels so everyone knows where their device belongs. We set up the charging station next to a power strip tower similar to this one so that we have enough outlets and USB ports to charge all of our devices.
Scrigit Scrapers can be purchased on Amazon. The 2-pack retails for $6.99 and the 5-pack retails for $11.99. Keep one handy in different rooms, or split a pack with a friend!
I am pleased to announce that the owner of Scrigit Scrapers is offering my readers the chance to win a Scrigit 2-pack, Scrigit 5-pack AND a $20 Amazon gift card!
Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.
The new year means many people are resolving to try to eat healthier, right? Personally, I am on the lookout for healthier snacks year-round since D, the kids and I are all big time snackers. When I received some CHOMPS snack sticks in the latest #NewHopeBloggerBox, they caught my attention.
Each stick contains 9-10 g of protein that is grass-fed, grass-finished, free-range and antibiotic free. CHOMPS do not contain any GMOs, added sugar, dairy, soy or other “hidden nasties” (e.g. binders, fillers, MSG, artificial ingredients). In addition, CHOMPS are Keto and Paleo-friendly and Whole 30 approved. For more information, click here.
CHOMPS snack sticks come in six delicious flavors:
Original (Beef)
Original Turkey
Crankin’ Cranberry (Beef)
Jalapeno Turkey
Hoppin’ Jalapeno (Beef)
Cracked Pepper & Sea Salt (Venison)
If you like heat, the Jalapeno Turkey or Hoppin’ Jalapeno flavors are the way to go. However, even the Original has a little kick to it. The Original Beef and Turkey flavors also come in a mini size and they are called “Chomplings”. These would be the perfect size for lunchboxes or smaller appetites.
n enjoying CHOMPS after school at the park!
CHOMPS snack sticks can be purchased online or at a store near you. (I see they are available at Trader Joe’s in my local area.) Enter to win a 12 ct. variety pack of CHOMPS snack sticks (2 of each flavor)!
Our two week-long winter break was just what my family needed to rest and recharge for the new year! I have set new goals for this blog and I am excited about continuing to learn and grow. I am in the process of lining up more reviews and giveaways for products that our family enjoys and finds useful, so be sure to check-in and visit.
We have also been doing a major clean out of clutter in our house, and it feels really good. I happened to find a $25 gift card to JCPenney and thought I would hold a reader giveaway to kick off 2019. The card can be used at any JCPenney store or online. This giveaway is hosted by me and is not sponsored by JCPenney.
I will mail out the prize via U.S. Postal Service. I am not responsible for lost, stolen, or misdirected mail, and the prize cannot be replaced if it is not received by the winner.
Be sure to check out the other giveaways featured below!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
30 Days to Understanding the Bible is one of those books that I did not realize I needed until I started reading it. The author, Max Anders, claims that if you read a chapter a day (roughly 15 minutes of reading), for 30 days, you will learn the story of the entire Bible. This includes all the major men and women, all the major events, and all the major points of geography. This claim immediately piqued my interest because even though I have been reading the Bible since I was a child, the breadth and scope of the Bible has always seemed intimidating and overwhelming to me.
I am a visual learner, but I feel like most of the Bible instruction I receive these days is audio (sermons, podcasts, etc.). I do read a lot of books about Christian living, but they are usually topical in nature. I have done Bible Study Fellowship, which provides in-depth study of certain books of the Bible. However, I have been missing a comprehensive guide to the overall story of the Bible. 30 Days to Understanding the Bible is that guide. I am not surprised that over 500,000 copies have been sold and that it is celebrating its thirtieth anniversary!
After reading just the first chapter, I could see that this book would be a valuable resource. The way Anders breaks down concepts and organizes information in charts is extremely illuminating. I also really like how there are self-tests at the end of each chapter to review and solidify the information in your head. I am looking forward to going through this book for 30 days and gaining a better grasp of the Bible in its entirety!
Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification
Disclosure: I received this game in exchange for a fair review. All opinions are my own.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Are you looking for gifts for kids that make them think? Kanoodle Head to Head is a fast-paced game that challenges players to use their puzzle skills.
Kanoodle Head to Head is designed for Ages 7 – Adult and can be played by one or two players.
My kids enjoy playing games like this. The concept is quite simple, but the different challenge cards keep it interesting. If you are the first player to solve the puzzle, you press the Kanoodle button and pop your opponent’s board. This game would also be good for keeping more “mature” brains active. Be sure to check out Educational Insights for other games and toys that encourage learning during playtime.
Disclosure: I received these games in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
I have been a Harry Potter fan since the first book came out. Both the books and the movies do such a fantastic job of creating a magical world where anything seems possible. We also recently had the opportunity to visit Harry Potter World at Universal Studios, which really brought Hogwarts and Diagon Alley to life. Now we have the opportunity to experience the world of Harry Potter by playing two games: Harry Potter Triwizard Maze game and Harry Potter Magical Beasts board game.
The Harry Potter Triwizard Maze game is for 2-4 players, ages 5+. If you know how to play Trouble, you will not have any “trouble” playing this game–ha!
Who doesn’t enjoy pressing the die popper? This is a fun, quick game that the whole family can play together for game night. The Harry Potter theme offers an original twist on a familiar game.
The Harry Potter Magical Beasts board game is a little more complex. It is designed for 2-4 players, ages 8+. In this game, you take on the role of Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, or Ginny Weasley. By moving your player around the board, you collect clues in order to capture the Magical Beasts that have broken loose at Hogwarts.
A unique feature of this game is the swinging game board that allows you to move from Hogwarts to the grounds outside and adds extra challenges.
I feel like December is such a fun month for board games, and I always try to add a family game night as one of our advent calendar activities. We will definitely be including both of these games to our rotation of games!
I am pleased to announce that Pressman Toy will be sending one of my readers a copy of each of these Harry Potter games!
Disclosure: A sample was provided in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
I have found a wonderful gift for kids who are creative, mechanically-inclined, problem-solvers, and/or tinkerers: A Tinkering Labs Electric Motors Catalyst.
This seemingly simple box contains all the parts a curious mind needs to make an infinite number of inventions. Each kit contains the following:
Electric Components:
2 Electric Motors with Detachable Wires
1 Battery Pack with Switch
2 AA Batteries
Wooden Components:
1 Wooden Chassis
12 Wooden Wheels in 6 Sizes
6 Wooden Connectors in 3 Shapes
Hardware & Connectors:
2 Metal Axles
4 Metal L-Brackets
10 Small Bolts with Wing Nuts
2 Metal Springs
12 Bushings for Motor and Axle Connections
12 Rubber Bands
Tools & Supplies:
1 Pair of Safety Glasses, Child Size
3 Washable Markers
1 Large 3-Foot Wide Paper Work Surface
1 Full-Size Phillips Head Screwdriver
Storage:
1 Cloth Storage Bag
1 Clear-Top Metal Hardware Tin
They really thought of everything when putting this kit together. As a parent, I appreciate how everything is included (even safety glasses!) and contained in one neat box.
I like how the challenge cards can be used as a springboard to inspire young minds. With many building toys, once you make the model to exact specifications, it loses its appeal. With this kit, re-thinking, re-building, and tinkering is encouraged and the possibilities are truly endless. It is recommended for ages 8 and up, and I think that is about right. Once certain basic techniques are mastered, more difficult variations can make it challenging. I can see that it would be engaging for older kids, teens and even adults to play with as well.
As you can see, there are so many ways the Electric Motors Catalyst can be used. This kit is the perfect way to incorporate STEM learning at home in a way that is interesting and fun. It is available for purchase on the Tinkering Labs website and Amazon. Keep this kit in mind when shopping for presents this holiday season!
I am excited to announce that Tinkering Labs has generously offered to give an Electric Motors Catalyst kit to one of my readers.
Disclosure: I received samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This past year I have been privileged to partner with several companies in writing reviews and holding giveaways. One of my favorite discoveries of 2018 is Pop Art Popcorn. Earlier this year I reviewed some of their savory flavors, including Hawaiian Sea Salt with Avocado Oil, White Cheddar Jalapeno, Rosemary Truffle and Nori Sesame. When Pop Art Snacks contacted me about trying out their Gingerbread Caramel Popcorn (which is only available during the holiday season), I did not hesitate to say yes!
I love how festive the bag is. Tie a ribbon around it and it is ready for giving to a neighbor, friend, teacher, or anyone else that deserves a holiday treat.
D, the kids and I will definitely be munching on this popcorn during our family Christmas movie nights. What is your favorite Christmas movie? (Comment below!) We have our favorites but we are always looking for more.
The Gingerbread Caramel flavor lives up to its name with distinct notes of ginger, molasses, cinnamon and clove. It is a more complex twist on your regular caramel popcorn–so delicious!
Click here to find Pop Art Popcorn at a store near you or order it online.
I am excited to announce that Pop Art Snacks is giving away NINE bags of their Gingerbread Caramel popcorn to one lucky reader (A $45 value!). Enough to share with friends and family this holiday season!
