Thoroughly Enjoyed Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Tonight inPhoenix

When our first was born, one of the things Bo talked about was taking him to the circus.  We have been so fortunate the last few years to see the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus when it comes through Phoenix every summer.  We attended opening night tonight for their Legends show tonight, and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!  The show was exciting and the performers flawless!  Nate absolutely loves the motorcycles that drive around in the metal globe, so he was excited to see that they were in the show again this year.  He also spent a lot of time chuckling at the clowns.  They sure do a great job of keeping your attention and amusement while crews set up other areas of the stage!

You still have time to get tickets!  The show will be in Phoenix through Sunday, and you can check out this post for details on times and how to buy tickets.

Lydia especially enjoyed the circus tonight, and tried to video a good chunk of it on her little camera phone so she could share with Grandma tomorrow.  Here's what she had to say:

*Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.*

Del Monte Fruit Review & Giveaway

One of the things I love about camping these days is that we have the RV pretty well stocked.  When we head off on a trip, we add food to the refrigerator and pantry and pack a couple outfits.  Del Monte sent me some new fruit cups and squeezers the day before we headed out on our last camping trip.  I'm glad I snapped this picture before we left, since it was all gone by the end!

My kids enjoy fruit, and fruit cups and squeezers are a convenient thing to add to a lunch, eat while driving down the road in our RV, or added to a meal.  I actually froze the pineapple-mango cups before we left, and the kids ate the slushy treat after they thawed out a bit.

I love that there are more choices than peaches, pears and applesauce! The mango cups and the mango-pineapple were big hits with all the kids.  I'd tell you what I thought myself, but I'll have to buy some more to find out!  The FruitBurst squeezers were quickly gone as well, but I did snag one of the peach-mango flavored ones that was tasty.  My kids have already asked me to buy more mango cups!

Some nutrition and other details about the FruitBurst squeezers and cups: 

Made in the U.S.A., Del Monte® Fruit Burst®Squeezers contain 1 ½ servings of fruit or fruit and veggies and are an excellent source of vitamins A and C. In addition, Del Monte® Fruit Burst®Squeezers contain no artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup.

Fruit Burst® Fruit + Veggie Squeezers:
- Peach-Mango: Pear puree concentrate, water, pumpkin juice concentrate, peach puree concentrate, pear juice concentrate, carrot juice concentrate, carrot puree, mango puree concentrate, natural flavors, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), citric acid.
- Blueberry: Pear puree concentrate, water, pumpkin juice concentrate, pear juice concentrate, natural flavors, carrot puree, blueberry puree concentrate, fruit and vegetable extracts for color, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), citric acid.

Fruit Burst® Simply Fruit Squeezers:
- Apple Cinnamon: Pear puree concentrate, water, apple puree concentrate, pear juice concentrate, natural flavors, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), cinnamon, malic acid.
- Mixed Berry: Pear puree concentrate, water, pear juice concentrate, natural flavors, strawberry puree, red raspberry puree concentrate, blueberry puree concentrate, fruit and vegetable extracts for color, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), malic acid.
- Strawberry: Pear puree concentrate, water, pear juice concentrate, strawberry puree concentrate, natural flavors, carmine, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), malic acid.

Mango Fruit Cup® Snacks
- These rich and luscious mangos are a healthy way to add a little sweetness to your day - fat-free, cholesterol free, and high in Vitamin C - that you can enjoy anywhere.
Mango Pineapple Fruit Cup® Snacks:
- Del Monte® Mango Pineapple Fruit Cup® Snacks combine two of the world’s most popular fruits: mango and pineapple. Made with rich and luscious mangos and pineapple, they contain no high fructose corn syrup and are a rich source of vitamin C.

I know how important it is to provide plenty of healthy snacks for our kids! I'm happy that DelMonte is sponsoring a giveaway on my blog for one of my readers to receive 2 VIP coupons for DelMonte fruit, as well as a $25 WalMart gift certificate to help you out on your next grocery trip!

To enter the giveaway, FOLLOW THIS LINK and fill out the form.  The name of the giveaway is DelMonte and the mandatory question is: What is your favorite fruit?  A winner will be chosen and notified on February 27, 2014.  

*Disclosure: I received a gift pack in exchange for my review.  All opinions expressed are my own. Products for the giveaway were provided by DelMonte.*

Monster Jam Review

We were fortunate enough to be given 4 tickets (thank you Feld Entertainment!) to the Monster Jam show that recently came to Chase Field in Phoenix.  Bo took the kids, and they had a blast! I asked them to make a video review, and they were only too happy to oblige.  Nate is 11, Colin 13, and Lydia is 6.   Nate and Lydia are the big car and truck lovers of my kids, but Colin still enjoyed himself.  He looks a bit reserved, but remember -- he's 13!

My husband said the place was packed, and everyone seemed to be having a great time.  Tickets were sold out for the Phoenix show, and Chase Field is pretty big!  As the kids noted in the review, it was VERY loud, but ear plugs helped dampen the noise. 

The show is still traveling the country, and based on the fun my kids had, I highly recommend going if you have the chance.  All the venues can be found at www.monsterjam.com.  

*Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.*

Review: Disney on Ice Rockin Ever After

We just got home from Disney On Ice Rockin' Ever After.  One of our young nephews was in town, so our oldest gave up his ticket so he could go.  He's 6, like Lydia, but had never been to a show like this before.

In the car on the way there, Lydia was explaining how there were men and women who did amazing skating and dressed up like characters from princess movies.  He replied, "That's really not my style."

Once the show started, however, he was dancing in his seat and having a great time!  He admitted that he thought the show was great!  He seemed most interested in the lighting arrangement, and declared his favorite part when the fireworks went off.

Yes!  Fireworks go off during various parts of this show, and there's even real fire torches during the Beauty and the Beast scenes. It was another extremely well-done, professional, entertaining show.  I love how they come up with a different spin on stories we know so well through the use of costumes and ice dancing.

This show focuses on Ariel, Rapunzel, Merida and Belle.  It's the first show with Merida performing and I loved the way they portrayed her little brothers!

As always, the show started right on time, and lasted for 2 hours with a short intermission half way through.  I really appreciate how the show is always on time.

The show is still in Phoenix through the weekend.  Check Ticketmaster for tickets.  The show received a big "thumbs up" from our family!

I have a few pictures I took -- which aren't the best -- but give you an idea of the show. You really have to see it in person to fully appreciate the level of artistry that goes into every aspect, from lighting to costumes to choreography.

*Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.*

Disney on Ice in Phoenix -- Rockin' Ever After!

Disney on Ice is back in Phoenix with another much-anticipated show!  From January 8 - 12, 2014, you can catch Rockin' Ever After at the USAirways Center in downtown Phoenix!  My family raves about these shows, and Lydia can't wait to see the debut of an ice-skating Merida from Brave perform (as well as a collection of other Disney princesses.)  These shows are truly some of the highlights of our family outings.

WHEN will the show be in Phoenix, AZ?
Wednesday, January 8 at 7:00 PM
Thursday, January 9 at 7:00 PM
Friday, January 10 at 10:30 AM & 7:00 PM
Saturday, January 11 at 11:30 AM, 3:30 PM & 7:00 PM
Sunday, January 12 at 1:00 PM & 4:30 PM

WHERE?
US Airways Center – 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004

TICKETS? 
Ticket price levels are $20, $25, $45 (VIP) and $75 (Front Row)

Weekday Kids tickets start at only $10 each for select seating (only valid for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday shows)

Special 50% Off discount tickets available for Opening Night performance (not valid on VIP/premium seating)

Tickets available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or at the US Airways Box Office.

DISCOUNT CODE?
Yes!  I have a discount code to share with my readers!  The promo code MERIDA will save readers $4 off the $20 and $25 tickets.

Watch for our review after the show!

*Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.*

Minted Holiday Cards (Review)

Pretty much every year since we've been married, we have sent out photo holiday cards.  Especially since we now have 3 kids, and have family and friends all over the country, I like to send photo cards so everyone can see how the kids are growing.  I also love to receive photo cards!!

One site that has an amazing selection of photo cards is Minted.  A couple years ago, I ordered our cards from Minted and they were amazing!  I loved the heavy card stock they were printed on, and how our beach photo popped from the card.  Such a change from photo-paper thin cards we've sent in the past.  I also loved that they sent a proof of the card within 24 hours for my review.  This is our card from them in 2010:

I was recently looking at their new designs and was very impressed. One of the designs that I thought very clever was their minibook cards.  These cards are 5x7" and are made up of 7 pages that can be customized with both pictures and text.  One of the hardest things is choosing which pictures to include, and these minibooks would make that process so much easier.  They also don't cost any extra postage to send.  I also really like the ornament cards!

I haven't yet chosen a design or even a picture for our holiday cards this year.  I usually try to have it done by Thanksgiving, which is in just a few weeks.  I know that Minted is one of the places I'll visit to make that final decision about this year's card!

Do you send photo cards?  Have you taken your holiday photo yet? Let me know in the comments!

**Disclosure: I received credit at Minted.com in exchange for sharing information about their site with my readers.**

Time for an Oil Change

My Ford Expedition warns me when I need an oil change.  It gives me early warnings, then it tells me when I MUST change the oil.  I admit that I like that feature very much!

Recently, I learned about a site called "Motor Oil Matters" that includes a ton of great information.  I admit, Bo takes care of a lot of our car issues, but I am not helpless.  I liked the fact that the site includes an informative checklist -- which was useful last week when I had my oil changed in my truck.

One of the things I never thought about was the viscosity of the oil!  For the first time ever, in response to reading through the checklist, I looked into the owner's manual to find out what was recommended.  This time when I went to have the oil changed, I knew more about what to ask.  In the past, I just hoped they would take care of me.  Thanks to the information on the site, I knew I could take care of myself!

I felt more empowered and prepared when I took my Expedition in for an oil change.  You can, too, if you visit Motor Oil Matters!

*Disclosure: I received a gift card to get my oil changed and the information about oil changes from www.motoroilmatters.org.  No additional compensation was provided.*

Another Coppertone Summer!

I'm happy to say that we are an official Coppertone Family again this year!

Living in Arizona, sun protection is important year round!  We love the Coppertone products and I loved the selection of lotions we received.

This year, we are headed to the National Stuttering Association National Conference right here in Arizona!  We're staying at the beautiful Westin Kierland Resort, and I know we will use plenty of sunscreen enjoying those pools!  I will be packing extra to share with our NSA friends as well.

We spend plenty of time in our pool, and unless the sun is down, the kids all know to slather on the sunscreen lotion!  I like the pleasant scent of the Coppertone products and I especially love the sticks for easy application on everyone's face and tips of ears.

If you're headed out in the sun, don't forget your sunscreen! 

*Disclosure:  I'm part of the Coppertone Mom program sponsored by Coppertone and MomSelect.  In exchange for sharing information about Coppertone, I have received Coppertone products for our personal use.  No additional compensation was provided.*

Review: Built to Amaze -- Another Fun Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Show!

Last night's Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's show, Built to Amaze, was downright amazing.  I loved the construction costumes the dancers wore and thought the traffic cone stilt walkers were fantastic.

All of the Ringling shows start with a pre-access show that runs an hour before showtime. Everyone can go down onto the arena floor and interact with performers.  At least 2 performers are doing a mini-act at any time and there are opportunities to have your picture taken with clowns and even try on some costumes!  It's always very popular, and last night was no exception.

Once the show started (right on time!  I love it when things happen on time!) it was exciting and fun.  One thing that always amazes me is how they are experts at distraction.  You are always so engrossed in the performing act, that you don't notice them setting up for the next act in the darkness.

All 3 of my kids had a good time, as well as me and hubby.  We always choose our favorite acts in the car ride home.  This year, Lydia loved the act with the trained poodles and the lead clowns.  Nate enjoyed the Steel Vortex the most during this show. (2 large steel wheels that peformers spin around and climb in and out of!)  Colin said that he liked the trampoline act the most.  Bo loved the high wire act. My favorite act were the gymnasts that swung from long ribbons hanging from the ceiling.  And, I couldn't help thinking of a friend when one performer was shot from a cannon across the arena! Even though we all can choose our "favorite" act, it just reminds us of the other amazing acts we saw and it's hard to choose just one!

The show is in Phoenix through the weekend at US Airways Center.  Tickets can be found at Ticketmaster.  Even if you've been to a show in the past, you'll be amazed with the new acts and performers.  I highly recommend going!!

*Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.*

Review: Sweet Shine Dolls

A couple weeks ago, Cepia (a small toy company that we've worked with before) sent us 2 dolls that are limited in their release to the Phoenix area right now.  They have created an adorable line of dolls that are colorful and fun to play with called Sweet Shine dolls.  We received Lola Twinklepink (see her there in Lydia's backpack ready for one of our camping trips!) and Pipsy May Peachburst (which we are donating to the NSA Silent Auction to help raise funds.)

One of the fun features of these dolls is taht they light up and project secret shapes!  Twinklepink has a button on the back of her head, that when pressed, displays shapes on the wall or ceiling.  Lydia likes the fact that she's like a doll AND a flashlight!  She also likes the tiny accessories that came with her, which included hair flair, a tiny purse that looks like a cupcake and a pet bunny.

After the jump, Lydia made a video review for all my readers!

Read more »

Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus Coming to Phoenix ($5 off tickets)

We are excited that the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is headed to the Phoenix area again from June 26 - July 1, 2013 with their show "Built to Amaze!"  Every performance we have attended has been better than the last, and I'm sure that this year's show won't disappoint.  All 3 of my kids were so excited when I let them know we were going again (and it's not easy to excite Colin these days)

One of our favorite things about the circus is the all access who that starts one hour before the performance.  The kids love going down to the performance area and getting close and personal with the performers and some of the animals

As a special discount code to my readers, use MOMSAVE at Ticketmaster.com to save $5 off each ticket in the $20 range and above.  The discount is valid on all performances, EXCEPT opening night.

My kids love the clowns, and this video gives you a behind the scenes look at the clowns preparing for the Built To Amaze show!


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*Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.*

Eggland's Best Eggs - Delicious! (Sponsored Giveaway!)

I was offered the opportunity to host a brunch with Eggland's Eggs.  They sent me a gorgeous ceramic bowl, coupons for eggs, a cute cutting board and other goodies.

If you've been with me, you know the last 6 months have been long and stressful. Bo doesn't really like eggs, but when he's out of town, scrambled cheesy eggs is my go-to comfort meal for me and the kids.  It's a meal that I know will be met with agreement by all, and I know it fills their tummies. In fact, tonight was just such a night -- Bo out of town and we were feeling a bit out of sorts, so scrambled eggs with cinnamon sugar toast was dinner.  It was delicious!

I did remember the task given me, however, and last week we enjoyed a wonderful Sunday morning breakfast with french toast (made with Eggland eggs) and fresh berries.  And, later that day, I made this wonderful pineapple upside down cake (link to recipe)  In fact, there are a bunch of great recipes at the Eggland website.

One thing I learned at their website is that the polystyrene containers are recyclable, and have less environmental impact than the paper cartons!   I also like the fact that the feed they give chickens does not contain any animal byproducts,  hormones, antibiotics or other nasty stuff.

If you want to learn more about them, you can check them out in a variety of places:

• Eggland's Best Eggs website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Pinterest

I'm excited to tell you that they have a great gift pack for one of my readers!  

The gift pack includes a coupon for Eggland's Best Eggs, a ceramic bowl, a ceramic mug, a wooden cutting board, a whisk, a scraper and a reusable bag!  If you would like to enter the giveaway, please follow this link to my giveaway page and fill out the necessary information.  Entries in the comments will not count for the giveaway.  On the giveaway page, you will enter your name, email, name of giveaway and answer to mandatory question.  You will get an extra entry if you have liked my Facebook page.

Giveaway ends April 17, 2013!

Name of Giveaway: EGGS!
Mandatory Question: Which recipe from the Eggland site would you like to try?

Good Luck!!

*Disclosure: I was provided information and products from Eggland's Best Eggs to facilitate this post.  They also provided the gift pack to give away. This is a sponsored post.*

Review: CalmAid Lavendar Capsules

If you read my last post, you know that I've been under some stress lately.  I was sent a box of CalmAid (lavendar oil capsules) recently to try.  They are made by Nature's Way, a company that also makes Sambucus (an elderberry syrup we keep on hand all the time to help shorten colds) and also the Valerian Root capsules that I have used in the past to help me sleep.  So, I feel pretty confident in their products.

The lavendar capsules are meant to be taken once a day, to help reduce tension and stress.  I know that the scent of lavendar is calming, but I hadn't known that the oil could be ingested for the same effects.  When I know I am facing an especially stressful day, I have taken one in the morning and it seems to help me feel less stress.

The capsules have been tested in clinical studies, but they have not been evaluated by the FDA.  If you take any prescription medicines, always check with your physician before adding any supplements.

You can find them online, and also at local retailers.  Check out the Nature's Way website for more details.

*Disclosure: I received a box of CalmAid to facilitate this review.  No additional compensation was provided. All opinions are my own.*

NHRA Drag Racing in Phoenix (Discount!)

Have you ever been to a drag race?  We had tickets to a Monster Truck event a few weeks ago, that I had to miss because I was sick, but Bo and the kids had a blast!  I know that's not the same as a drag race, but it's close enough that I'm excited that we are going to the drag races next weekend & I am healthy enough to go!

On February 22, 2013, pro-qualifying sessions begin and run through Sunday, February 24, 2013 at the Phoenix Firebird Raceway.  Tickets can be purchased through www.NHRATix.com or calling the NHRA at 800-884-NHRA (6472).

Tickets for children 12 and under are FREE with any paid adult ticket!  Fans have the opportunity to interact with their favorite drivers with exclusive pit passes.

My kids are so excited to go!  My husband has warned me that it will be loud, but I know we'll have a ton of fun!

Thanks to my wonderful contact, I have a discount code to pass along to anyone who wants to attend.  If you visit www.FirebirdRaceway.com to purchase your tickets and use the code MOMNHRA13 you will save $10 on each ticket purchased.  You'll also find more information at www.FirebirdRaceway.com.

Let me know if you plan to attend!  We'll be there on Sunday the 24th!

*Disclosure: In exchange for this informational post and an objective review of the event, I received tickets to attend the event with my family. No additional compensation was provided.*

Pillsbury Artisan Pizza Crust Review / Giveaway

My family loves pizza.  Whether it's takeout, delivery, or homemade, I think my husband and boys would be happy to eat pizza 3 or 4 nights a week.  I know we'll have pizza this Sunday for the Super Bowl!

While sometimes Bo enjoys making pizza completely from scratch (and he makes an excellent crust & pizza sauce!), we don't always have time to wait for the dough to rise and rest.  For those nights when I really don't want to spend the extra money on delivery or takeout, premade crusts are a great way to go!

Pillsbury Artisan Pizza Crusts come in a tube available in the refrigerated section, and roll out into a beautiful crust.  Topped with our own toppings, it makes a quick meal that satisifies everyone.

If you want to try out the Artisan Pizza Crusts, Pillsbury has a $1.50 coupon available for download right now!   Pillsbury also has a ton of great recipes available to check out.  Bo likes that this crust is easy to grill, just like his own crust.

I have a fun prize pack to give away to one of my readers.  This giveaway ends on January 30, 2013, so don't delay in entering!   You will receive a pizza pan, a pizza cutter, a football shaped cutting board and a coupon for a free Pillsbury Artisan Pizza Crust. (similar to what's shown above)

To enter the giveaway, I need you to CLICK HERE TO GO TO GIVEAWAY FORM. Once you're there, fill in your information, including the information below:

Name of Giveaway: Pillsbury Pizza
Mandatory Question: What's your favorite pizza topping?

The giveaway will end on January 30, 2013You can find all my giveaway rules linked on the top right of my blog. (Giveaway open only to US addresses.) Good Luck!!

As always, if you like my blog's Facebook page, you can earn an extra entry. (Even if you've already liked it in the past you will receive an extra entry!) My blog's Facebook page is found here (www.facebook.com/mylittlepatchofsunshine)

Disclosure: The product, gift pack, information, and additional sample have been provided by Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark.

Review: Master Lock Safe

Last year, Lydia kept snitching gum from Colin.  We told him to put it away safely, but he insisted that she found it no matter where he hid it.  So, on Christmas morning, he received a Master Lock Personal Safe chock full of packs of gum.  We haven't heard a gum snitching complaint ever since

When Master Lock contacted me a couple weeks ago wondering if I wanted to learn more about any of their products, I told them that I was currently looking for something to hold small electronics.  Sometimes, punishment in our house means losing your screens -- iPod or DSi, usually.  And, sometimes, Mom completely forgets what safe place she puts those items in, so when a kid earns them back, they don't always get them right away.  Or, they will find them and think the punishment is over, so they take back their screen before the punishment is over.  I needed a safe, secure place to put small items!


Master Lock sent me a Security Chest to see if it would meet my needs.  As you can see -- it did!  It's big enough to fit all of the small screens in our house, and even game controllers, if necessary. The sturdy cam lock is secure, and the key doesn't match other Master Lock products (I tried on another lockbox I have that stores important papers.)  The keys are someplace safe (a safe place that I remember!)  I don't have to worry about forgetting where I put their electronics, and we can put a note in the chest about when they can earn them back.

The Security Chest is a good size not just for small electronics, but also important papers or any small items that you want a little extra protection for.  This box is 11" x 14" x 4.38" and retails for less than $40.

Don't tell Nate, but he'll find his own personal safe under the tree this year!

*Disclosure: All opinions, pictures and words are my own.  Master Lock sent me the product disclosed above to facilitate this review. No additional compensation was provided.*

Review: The Blessing Cup

In addition to evening prayers, when we we tuck the kids into bed at night we bless the people in our lives and ask for certain people to be watched over for certain reasons.  I like the idea of blessings, so I was interested in reading "The Blessing Cup: prayer rituals for families and groups" by Rock Travnikar.

The beginning of the book talks about blessings, and encourages the use of a special cup that can be left on display that is used during a blessing ritual.  When I read that, I started to think that I needed to purchase a special cup for this purpose, and then I remembered a beautiful, handmade cup in my cupboard.  This cup has careful roses on the handle, and while I have owned it for years, I haven't used it much because I was always afraid of breaking the roses. I realized this would be the perfect cup to use for this purpose!  Even better, I actually own a pair of them, so if one does get broken, we'll still have a backup.  (Important in a house of kids who aren't always the most careful.)

The rest of the book has a variety of prayer rituals for pretty much any occasion. There are sections for new babies, holy days and even the loss of a pet.  If it could happen in your life, chances are there is a blessing in this book that would fit.

I liked how the rituals were set up. There are prayers for a leader to recite, opportunties for everyone to participate, and call and response sections. Each one was tied to sharing the blessing cup among everyone.

We are going to incorporate some of these rituals into our daily life. I know the kids will appreciate them, and we could always use a little more blessing!

*Disclosure: This review was written as part of the Catholic book Reviewer program from The Catholic Company. I received a copy of the book to faciliate my review. No additional compensation was provided. All opinions are my own. Visit The Catholic Company to find more information on The Blessing Cup: Prayer Rituals for Families and Groups.*

Hostess Gift Ideas from Whole Foods Market

I received a fabulous basket full of goodies from Whole Food Markets in Tempe.  I love that I can find dairy-free products there for my dairy-allergic loved ones!  I also appreciate the products there are good for you and good for the people who produced them.

This basket was full of items that were not only high quality, but also had a feel-good quality because of the programs the items supported.

The sturdy, canvas L.I.F.E line bag is made by "mums in Maai Mahiu, Kenya". You can learn more about the program at www.lifeline.org.  I loved being able to see the smiling faces of the mothers who are creating these bags and earning a living for their families.

The coffee in the basket is not only high quality and delicious coffee (according to my mom - who loves coffee), but it also helps support the Whole Planet Foundation by donating 30 cents from each can to help alleviate poverty worldwide where Whole Foods sources products.

I like this beautiful scarf for a couple reasons.  My first name, Melanie, means black or dark and my middlde name is Rose.  Because of that, I have often been drawn to black roses.  This scarf is super soft, and it is made from recycled polyster derived from discarded plastics!  I know - you may be thinking what do I need a scarf for in Arizona?  But, I am actually headed to the Grand Canyon next week so this scarf will come in handy!  I can't wait to wear it.  It was made from a company called Threads for Thought.

The organic chocolate bars are not only delicous, but they also support a schoolhouse project in Tanzania.  The drinking chocolate is sourced from a co-op in Peru and has a flavor unlike any hot chocolate I've had!  It was an absolute treat.

And I have to rave about the Everyday Coconut Super Hydrating Lotion!  It is made with certified fair trade coconut oil, and it leaves my skin very soft.  The winter in Arizona is extremely dry, and it's hard to keep moisturized. I have been using this lotion for more than a week now and I am so pleased with the results.  It has a very mild scent as well, so my husband has been using it as well.   And, like so many products at Whole Foods, some of the proceeds help fund various community empowerment programs.

Even buying a Whole Foods gift card helps alleviate poverty! With each gift card purchased, you can donate a dollar to the Whole Planet Foundation.  The Foundation's mission is to empower poor women living in countries that supply Whole Foods Market with product.  They focus on developing countries by providing microcredit loans for women to start or expand home-based businesses.

I loved being able to learn more about the great organizations that these products help support. This time of year, we are all looking for special gifts for our loved ones.  Any of these items would make a lovely gift that would be wonderful not only for the recipient, but for the individuals being supported by the businesses providing the item.  All of these items can be found at Whole Foods.  The items I received came from the Whole Foods in Tempe, AZ -- which is the one that I frequent.

*Disclosure: I received a selection of products from Whole Foods Market in exchange for an honest review and post. No additional compensation was provided.*

Review: Torani Syrups

I have enjoyed Torani syrups for years.  I didn't realize until recently that they make over 120 different flavors!  I have used the syrups to flavor tea (both hot & iced) and sparkling water.  I was recently sent two bottles to try out this season, and share my thoughts. I received a bottle of Peppermint Torani syrup and a bottle of Torani Salted Caramel Syrup.

This time of year, the kids and I enjoy hot chocolate.  The first thing I tried was adding a couple tablespoons of the peppermint syrup to hot chocolate. My kids who like peppermint and chocolate thought it was delicious!  I added a couple tablespoons of the salted caramel to mine, and liked it quite well!  I am not a coffee drinker, but I know that it's a popular addition to coffee as well.

I made peppermint soda with sparkling water and the peppermint syrup.  It took me a couple tries to get the perfect amount of syrup, but the drink was very refreshing and tasted like drinking a candy cane!

Even though I've been aware of the syrups for years, I have never done anything but add them to drinks. Their website has tons of great recipes to try, and I plan on exploring more of them soon.  I used the salted caramel syrup to make candied pecans, and they turned out fantastic! The recipe is very simple, and the results make a great hostess gift (well, if you can avoid eating them all before giving them away!)  The original recipe from the website suggested plain caramel syrup, but the salted caramel was fantastic in this recipe.  It's easy to throw together, and the kids had fun helping mix the ingredients.

If you want to try them out yourself, here's the recipe from Torani's website:

Candied Pecans

INGREDIENTS:
1 egg, separated
1/4 cup Torani Caramel syrup
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups pecans (or walnuts or a mixture of both)

INSTRUCTIONS:  Preheat oven to 250 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper In a medium sized bowl whisk egg white (save yolk for another use or discard) until light in color and foamy, about 2 minutes. Add Torani syrup, sugar, and salt and continue to whisk until well mixed. Stir in nuts and mix until they are evenly coate. Spread nuts in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheet. Place baking sheet in the oven. Using a spatula, stir nuts twice during cooking time to allow the nuts to have an even candied coating and bake until nuts are a very light golden, and all of the liquid has dried, about 45 minutes. Let cool completely and store in an airtight container. Makes 3 cups.

A great idea for a hostess gift would be a bottle of the syrup and a dish of these nuts!

You can find Torani syrups at many local retailers, as well as at Amazon and the Torani website.

*Disclosure: I received 2 bottles of Torani syrup from Torani and SheSpeaks, in exchange for writing an original post about the product.  No additional compensation was provided.*

Stocking Stuffer Idea: Chuao Chocolate

Santa almost always fills my Christmas stocking with a variety of chocolates.  This year, I was sent three bars of Chuao Chocolate that are available at select Targets.

Let's just say that Santa can fill my stocking with these chocolate bars anytime!

They are definitely premium chocolate, and had a smooth texture and wonderful flavor.  I'm picky about chocolate, and I really enjoyed these.

I tried the potato chip, honeycomb and firecracker varieties.  Of the 3, the potato chip was my favorite. The chip pieces were crunchy and salty and melded wonderfully with the chocolate.  The honeycomb was a very close second, with an extra sweet flavor due to the honey and a slight crunch from the honeycomb. The firecracker wasn't at the top of my list, but I'm not a huge fan of chile and chocolate.

You can find these bars at select Target locations, or order them direct from Chuao Chocolatier's website.

*Disclosure: I received samples in order to facilitate my review post.  No additional compensation was provided.*