Olivida: Outstanding Organic Olive Oil Soap

Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

Did you know that olive oil has natural anti-bacterial qualities and has been used to make soap for thousands of years? Olivida Soap makes a wide variety of pure castile virgin olive oil soaps from olives grown in the Mediterranean region. I recently had the privilege to try out Olivida’s full line of liquid soaps, bar soaps, and shampoo & conditioner bars. What I found is that in addition to having effective cleaning power, Olivida soaps also add a little luxury to your everyday life.

Olivida Castile Liquid Soap

Olivida Liquid Soaps come in the following scents:

First of all, I adore the simple and elegant packaging. These bottles would look quite attractive sitting at your kitchen or bathroom sink. In addition, each bottle weighs in at a substantial 17 fl. oz, so it will last you a while.

While I enjoyed all of the scents, the Pomegranate is my favorite. The light fruity scent is unique and fun. (Hint: both the Pomegranate and Rose scents would make a pretty and thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift.) The Jasmine and Olive Oil liquid soaps remind me of visiting a spa, even if it is just for the minute spent washing my hands. All of the soaps feel moisturizing and did not leave my hands feeling stripped of moisture as some soaps do.

Olivida Soap Bars

For those of you who are fans of bar soaps, Olivida has plenty to choose from:

  • Pomegranate: antioxidant properties (reverses signs of aging)
  • Lemon: beneficial for oily skin (brightens skin)
  • Dead Sea Mud: gives skin strength, flexibility and purity (deep cleans pores)
  • Lavender: softening and balancing (recommended for youth acne and eczema)
  • Aloe Vera: soothing (treats psoriasis and eczema)
  • Tea Tree: invigorating (helps treat youth acne)
  • Olive Oil: moisturizing (good for psoriasis and eczema)

I had my son try the soaps that help treat eczema, since he still experiences flare-ups from time to time. Olivida Soap left his skin feeling more nourished and less-irritated. I personally enjoyed using the Dead Sea Mud bar in the shower. My skin felt so refreshed and rejuvenated afterward.

Although each formulation offers different benefits specific to its ingredients, Olivida Soaps are all certified organic, cruelty-free, vegan, and contain no artificial fragrances, parabens or palm oils.

Olivida Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

Finally, Olivida also offers two types of Shampoo & Conditioner Bars:

It seems like I have been hearing about the benefits of using shampoo bars a lot lately. However, my personal experience with actually using them is limited. I know that shampoo bars are more eco-friendly, but I was eager to see what they would do for my hair as well.

The Olivida Shampoo & Conditioner bars left my hair and scalp feeling clean and healthy. The scent was light and not over-powering. It felt good to use a product for my hair that contains all-natural ingredients. Again, Olivida managed to provide me with a brief spa-like respite during an otherwise routine shower.

Where To Purchase Olivida Soap

Olivida Soap products are available for purchase through their online store.

Olivida Soap Giveaway

Enter the giveaway below for chance to win your choice of one bottle of Olivida Liquid Soap or four Olivida Bar Soaps!

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Spice Up Your Day With Chakra Spiced Coffee

Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

Enjoying a hot cup of coffee is something I look forward to almost every day. Therefore, when Chakra Spiced Coffee offered to send samples of their sustainable, single-origin coffee blended with spices, I could not wait to try them.

Chakra Spiced Coffee is available in three unique blends:

  • California Chai: Cloves, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Black Pepper, Star Anise
  • Bali Spice: Cardamom, Turmeric, Ginger
  • Moroccan Seven: Ginger, Cardamom, Nutmeg, Cloves, Turmeric, Cinnamon, Black Pepper

Spices have long been used to add flavor, but they also have many health benefits as well. (Read more about these benefits here). Since many people already consume coffee regularly, Chakra Spiced Coffee is a natural way to consume more of the superfood spices that support the brain, immunity, and digestion.

I tried out the California Chai flavor in our French Press, as suggested on the side of the bag. (This coffee can also be brewed in a Chemex or regular coffee pot). As soon as I opened the bag, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of the fresh coffee grounds, combined with the spices, was intoxicating. If you are a fan of both coffee and chai, this blend is for you.

The recommended ratio is 2.5 tablespoon of coffee grounds to 8 oz. of water. This resulted in a strong, rich cup of coffee. I shared a mug with my husband as an afternoon pick-me-up. He too enjoyed the added flavor that the spices provide.

Kickstart your brain with coffee + a jigsaw puzzle!

Another added bonus is that Chakra Spiced Coffee donates five percent of net proceeds of each bag sold to organizations that spread awareness and recovery for mental health. With mental health issues affecting an estimated 450 million people worldwide, this is an important cause to support.

Where To Purchase Chakra Spiced Coffee

Chakra Spiced Coffee is available for purchase through their online store.

Chakra Spiced Coffee Giveaway

Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win two packages of Chakra Spiced Coffee!

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Year-Round Gift Ideas

Disclosure: I received samples in partnership with Horizon Group USA. 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 holidays may be over, but it is a good to keep a running list of ideas for gift-giving occasions throughout the year. Horizon Group offers a wide range of toys that encourage discovery, exploration and creativity.

Slimy Sand Aqua Splash

Slimy Sand Aqua Splash is a mash-up between kinetic sand and slime. This slimy sand is for play both in and out of water. Kids will love being able to make their own creations using molds, or just their hands. The possibilities really are endless. This small tub holds 1.5 pounds of slimy sand and will provide hours of fun. The recommended age is 3+.

You’niverse Cosmetic Colorist

This You’niverse Cosmetic Colorist set is another toy that would be great for kids that like to create. This kit allows kids to set up their own cosmetic lab and make a cute eyeshadow palette. While I do not think young children should be wearing makeup on an everyday basis, it is fun to use cosmetics for dress-up and pretend play. The Cosmetic Colorist provides the ingredients necessary to make fifteen different color combinations. This set is recommended for ages 6+.

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Sing 2 Is Sensational!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Universal Pictures.

I have fond memories of the first Sing movie because we took a group of my daughter’s friends to watch it in the theater for her birthday. I cannot believe that was in 2016, five years ago! Now we can look forward to Sing 2 coming out soon, on December 22.


This holiday season, the new chapter in Illumination’s smash animated franchise arrives with big dreams and spectacular hit songs as the ever-optimistic koala, Buster Moon, and his all-star cast of performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …all in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by global music icon Bono, in his animated film debut—to join them. Rated PG

Watch The Sing 2 Trailer

The animation in Sing 2 is spectacular. I know that animation technology keeps improving, but it is difficult to imagine how it can become any more life-like. Everything from the massive crowd scenes to the minute facial expressions of the characters really blew me away.

As a U2/Bono fan, his participation in Sing 2 is especially exciting for me. In fact, it is kind of amazing how much star power there is behind all of the animated characters in this movie. The cast, coupled with the amazing soundtrack make for a must-see theatrical experience.

Buy Tickets To See Sing 2 Now!

Purchase tickets to see Sing 2, starting December 22. This would be a wonderful movie to watch with the family during the holiday break.

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American Underdog: An Inspirational, Uplifting Story

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kingdom Story Company for providing this product/product information for review.  Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

American Underdog is an inspirational movie biopic about quarterback Kurt Warner that is coming to theaters everywhere on December 25th.

American Underdog Synopsis

American Underdog tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi from Shazam), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player – but just when his dreams seemed all but out of reach, it is only with the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin) and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that Warner perseveres and finds the strength to show the world the champion that he already is. American Underdog is an uplifting story that demonstrates that anything is possible when you have faith, family and determination.

My Review

Before I watched American Underdog, the only thing I could tell you about Kurt Warner was that he was a quarterback. However, I am a fan of feel-good movies that revolve around sports, so I wanted to see what this movie was all about. My husband knew some of the background of Warner’s story, so we watched the movie together. Warner’s character in the movie is instantly likable. He has both charm and determination, which helps him meet the woman who eventually becomes his wife. Warner’s life revolves around football because it is the only thing he feels he is good at. When his football dreams are squashed, he has nothing left. He and his wife experience several setbacks that seem like they could only happen in a movie. The fact that these events are based on Warner’s actual life make the movie all the more compelling. There were several points in the movie where I could feel the emotional pain and desperation of the characters. Witnessing Warner and his family triumph over all of their obstacles is truly inspirational, and his underdog story is definitely one to cheer for.

Purchase Tickets Now For American Underdog

Buy tickets now for American Underdog, in theaters everywhere Christmas Day!

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A Card Game For Everyone: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

Disclosure: I received samples 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.

If you are searching for an easy, fast-paced game that everyone can play, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is your answer. This card game is simple to learn and is sure to provide lots of laughs. I have been hearing rave reviews about this game on podcasts and reading about it all over the internet. Have you come across this game with the funny name?

Dolphin Hat Games sent us four of their card games to review:

We played the original Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza card game for the first time during a recent camping trip. I immediately fell in love with the cute illustrations. How can you not have fun playing a game that features smiley tacos?

After playing a couple of rounds, I realized that my kids have faster reflexes than I do! Since the game involves racing to slap the card in the middle, be sure to cut your fingernails short before playing (once you play, you’ll understand). The expansion pack makes the game even more interesting since there are more characters and actions to keep track of.

The Halloween edition features the Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese and Pizza dressed up in Halloween costumes.

The Christmas version is also extremely adorable. It would make a terrific stocking stuffer for all ages. My fourteen year old daughter said it was the type of game she would have fun playing with her friends.

Where To Purchase Dolphin Hat Games

Dolphin Hat card games are available through their online store, as well as Amazon, Target, and other major retailers.

Dolphin Hat Games Giveaway

Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win the four Dolphin Hat Games featured in this post.

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Treat Your Legs With Vim & Vigr Compression Socks

Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

Since hearing about the benefits of compression socks, I have been wanting to try them out for myself. Vim & Vigr kindly sent me a few pairs to test, and now I am a believer!

Vim & Vigr socks use graduated compression technology to apply therapeutic pressure that starts at the ankle and gradually squeezes your leg to increase circulation. Their socks can reduce swelling, achiness, fatigue and discomfort.

One weekend morning, I had the perfect opportunity to try out these Vim & Vigr compression socks. Earlier, I had gone for my usual morning walk and also decided to do a short gym workout. My legs were not accustomed to this double dose of exercise, and they felt achy. I wore Vim & Vigr compression socks for the rest of the day, and it felt like a gentle massage! The high quality of the construction and materials is evident in every step.

Vim & Vigr socks would be especially helpful for those who are always on their feet (health care professionals, retail workers, etc.) I will definitely need to remember to pack them the next time we travel, since we always end up doing tons of walking.

In addition to being technologically advanced, Vim & Vigr socks also make a bold fashion statement. Their designs and colors are so fun and will add some pop to your wardrobe. This Window Pane design has a real fall vibe.

When I first saw this pair of Alpine socks, I literally squealed with delight. The whimsical fair isle/mountain pattern is perfect for the holidays. I just want to put these socks on, curl up on the couch, relax my legs, and watch Christmas movies.

Where To Purchase Vim & Vigr Compression Socks

Vim & Vigr socks are available for purchase through their online store.

Vim & Vigr Giveaway

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Host a #NiagaraParty With Niagara Chocolates

Disclosure: I received samples via Tryazon 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.

If you are planning on hosting a party this holiday season, a chocolate sampling activity is sure to be a hit. Niagara Chocolates offers a wide array of delectable handcrafted chocolate treats that your guests will love.

When hosting a Niagara Chocolate sampling party, it is fun to offer chocolate samples in all of their different forms: cups, bars and clusters!

Niagara Chocolate Cups

The Niagara Chocolate Cups have such a nice design. A mini muffin liner is the perfect size to hold each indivdual cup.

The Sea Salt Caramel Cups have a liquid caramel center that oozes out when you bite into them. The Peanut Butter Cups have a thick chocolate shell and the peanut butter filling is rich and satisfying.

Niagara Chocolate Bars

The Niagara Chocolate Bars are hefty and substantial. We tried the Dark Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Almond Toffee, Milk Chocolate and Salter Almond flavors. These bars would make a terrific stocking stuffer or gift topper for any chocolate fan.

Although they were all delicious, I especially enjoyed the Almond Toffee bar. I like the textural and flavor contrast going on (as can be seen in this cross-section).

Niagara Chocolate Clusters

We sampled three types of Niagara Chocolate Clusters: Peanut, Coconut and Salted Almond. My favorite of the three was the Salted Almond Clusters, as they have just the right balance of sweet and salt. However, you can not go wrong with any of the flavors. I like that these clusters come in a resealable bag so that you can pop one and save the rest for later or share with others.

Have your guests rate the different flavors and compare tasting notes…a sweet activity for everyone!

Where To Purchase Niagara Chocolates

Niagara Chocolates are available for purchase through their online store, Amazon, and retailers including Walmart and World Market.

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Gift Ideas For Pusheen Lovers

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.

Pusheen is an icon that appeals to both the young and the young at heart. The following list contains gift ideas that any Pusheen fan would enjoy!

  1. Pusheen 2022 Wall Calendar: I have bought or asked for Pusheen wall calendars as a Christmas gift for the past several years. The whimsical illustrations bring a smile to my face each time I flip the page for a new month.

2. Pusheen Thermos: This adorable thermos with a stainless steel interior can keep drinks hot or cold for up to four hours.

3. Pusheen Plush: Gund makes high quality stuffed animals, and this stuffed Pusheen is no exception. This plushie will look so cute perched on a bed, and is perfect for snuggling.

4. Pusheen Beanie: I bought this beanie for my daughter a while back, and it has held up well. This hat keeps your head warm, but is not overly thick. The winter accessory every Pusheen lover should own!

5. Pusheen 16-Month (September 2021-December 2022) Monthly/Weekly Planner: Yes, this planner starts in September 2021, but it will still provide over a year of planning and organizing with its cute Pusheen illustrations. The large spaces provided for each week appear practical and useful.

6. Pusheen Trinket Tray: It is always convenient to have a tray on your bedside table where you can keep your watch and/or jewelry. This tray is also wonderful for keeping small objects corralled on your desk.

7. Pusheen Purse: If my daughter was about seven years younger, I would definitely be buying this purse for her this Christmas. It looks so soft and is just the right size for a child to tote around.

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Gift Ideas: Rainbow Loom & Discovery Exploring Nature Kit

Disclosure: I received samples in partnership with Horizon Group USA. 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.

Rainbow Loom

I remember when the Rainbow Loom first became popular, my daughter was in kindergarten. Fast forward nine years, and it is still going strong!

This kit contains everything you need to make several colorful, stretchy bracelets, including 1200 premium rubber bands and 50 c-clips.

This kit included some upgrades from my first Rainbow Loom experience.

The included metal hook is high quality, and much easier to use than its previous plastic counterpart.

I also enjoyed using this included Mini Rainbow Loom, which allows you to make fishtail bracelets really fast.

This kit also includes 12 cute gift bags. The recommended age for this toy is 7+. I would highly recommend this reasonably priced kit for the crafty kid in your life.

Discovery Exploring Nature Kit

The Discovery Exploring Nature Kit would make a terrific gift for the outdoorsy kid. This box contains everything you need to do 11 exciting activities:

  • Make a bughouse
  • Go on a nature scavenger hunt
  • Make an ant
  • Camouflage colors
  • Make an ant farm
  • Nature’s art
  • Make your own colorful nature rubbings
  • Pressing & preserving flowers
  • Make an animal track
  • Play the animal tracks game
  • Make a flying insect

The contents include things like a butterfly net, sand, plaster powder, stickers, paint brush, powdered paint, magnifying glass, etc. I like how this kit promotes interaction with nature, rather than more screen time. This toy is recommended for ages 6+.

Where to Purchase Rainbow Loom and Discovery Kits

Horizon Group USA makes many different STEM and Art kits that are both educational and fun. Check out more of their offerings at their Amazon store here.

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