Thursday, January 26, 2012

Red's All Natural Burritos Review & Giveaway! Ends 2/8


I love delicious natural foods. When I'm not in the mood to cook, or I don't have time to make a gourmet meal, the next best thing is healthy, natural frozen foods. After checking out Red's All Natural Burritos at my Whole Foods Market for a while, I'm really excited to get to actually review them. Their company has small, honest beginnings that have turned into an up-and-coming, successful natural foods business. They now also have quesadillas which look amazing too. I bet Buddy would love to try one! We'll be looking for them on our next trip to Whole Foods. Here's the background on Red's from their Facebook page.
 
"A lifelong foodie, Mike had always been searching for the perfect meal. Finally, after tasting his wife’s burrito recipe, Mike knew he had found the answer… and his trusty mutt, Red, agreed. Realizing that we had the best burrito recipe around was only the beginning; we then had to scour the country searching for the best all-natural and organic ingredients out there. We use only antibiotic and hormone-free meats and cheeses, along with the highest quality veggies, beans and spices. We pile everything high on top of our one-of-a-kind, bakery produced tortilla, ultimately bringing our customers the best burritos and quesadillas, period. Enjoy"

My family and I were able to try their Steak, Chicken, and Beans & Rice Burritos. We thoroughly enjoyed them! We also discovered that they are best when thawed out FIRST, then cooked in the microwave, oven, or toaster oven. Otherwise we felt that the tortilla gets super crispy going straight from the freezer to the microwave (that happens with most frozen burritos though). Still delicious either way, but the last couple we had were certainly the best with a soft tortilla on the outside! 

The chicken burrito was definitely my favorite. Not only is each burrito super huge, but they're packed with fabulously natural, simple ingredients that boast big flavors. I also like how much they emphasize that they only use the highest quality ingredients in their products. It really shows in the taste factor of their final product. No fillers or junk, just REAL ingredients! I also love that one whole burrito has whopping 32 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber (the Nutrition Facts differ on their site from my packaging, not sure why). Great choice for a meal and pretty close to what a homemade burrito would taste like!

One thing about eating non-organic meats that often bugs me is hormones and antibiotics. I don't want that stuff in my body! It is so great to see that Red's makes that extra effort to keep their product as natural as possible. I see absolutely no ingredients that are even remotely artificial and their chicken is hormone and antibiotic free! Check out the label for their chicken burrito.


See? Pretty darn natural. Big, all-natural burritos with nothing to hide. Great taste and a quick meal! Yep, you'll love them, and so will your family!

Connect with Red's All Natural Burritos on Facebook and Twitter!

Price: Prices vary by location, but each burrito is approximately $3-4. I found mine for 2/$6!

Buy It: Find Red's All Natural Burritos at a store location near you!


Win It!
One winner will receive a case of Red's All Natural burritos!! That's 10 burritos!

Tropical Traditions WINNER!



Rafflecopter Entry #12, Heidi!
(Had to redraw after no response!) Rafflecopter Entry #298, Mary Beth!

Congratulations! I've sent you an email!


Monday, January 23, 2012

A Round-Up of Daily Deal Sites & Online Stores that Offer a Sign Up Credit


I love finding new daily deal sites and online stores, but what really gets me interested is when they offer an incentive to sign up and shop with them. I'm sure I'm not the only one so I thought I'd compile a list of daily deal sites that currently offer a credit or code of some sort to get started! Now I know there are lots more out there, but many are very new and aren't quite "worthy" of making my list yet!! :)

Daily Deal Sites

Plum District - $5 sign up credit! Similar to groupon, with lots of online deals.

Eversave - $2 sign up credit! Similar to groupon, with lots of online deals and some local deals.

SaveMore - $10 sign up credit! (deals are often FREE with this credit!) All online deals and products with deep discounts.

Living Social - $5 sign up credit! Similar to groupon, with lots of local and online deals. Restaurants too!

Tippr - $5 sign up credit! Online deals and products at deep discounts.

*NEW* keekoo - $10 sign up credit! This brand new site (opening in March) is for moms from pregnancy through newborn with products up to 90% off! Snag your credit now since you never know how long it will be offered!

    Online Stores

    iherb.com - $5 off your first order with code VOX120 - never expires! Orders over $20 get FREE shipping!

    Vitacost.com - $10 off your first order - Go HERE to sign up for your unique code! Over 30,000 products for healthy, natural living. Organic groceries and baby products and diapers too! Deal scenarios are endless, but check out my posts HERE, HERE and HERE. This is one of my FAVORITE places to get organic groceries at great prices shipped to my door!

      Also, a bunch of deal sites I LOVE but are not currently offering a sign up credit are the following:

      Heartsy - Handmade/Etsy shop vouchers at prices 50-80% off retail. Also, deep discounts on name-brand products like Glass Dharma, Pura Stainless, Red Leaf, and Green Toys. Deals change daily so sign up to get email alerts!

      Totsy
      - If you're a mom, you probably know about Totsy! Toys, books, clothing and lots of fun baby and kid products. I've seen big brand names like Melissa & Doug a few times! Organic brands, maternity, and active wear for moms on occasion too! AND, you should get FREE shipping on your first order too!

      Zulilly
      - I'm pretty sure you all know this one too! Another addicting site for moms where you'll find killer bargains at great prices for mom, baby and kids. Today I even see sales for maternity clothes, active wear, sunglasses, scarves and bags!

      The Clymb - For the athletes and outdoor lovers! The Clymb offers world-class apparel, footwear, and equipment at prices as low as 70% off. I've seen BIG brands on here before, including Merrell, Patagonia, New Balance and Teva.

      MamaSource
      - Deals for mom & baby online shops, magazine subscriptions, various products for the family and lots more! I've purchased a few treasures from here.

      Gilt Groupe
      - Daily deals on TONS of amazing brands each day for the entire family and your home too. Some recognizable brands recently featured include Lunch Bots, JJ Cole & Baby Chef.

      Rue La La
      - Daily deals mostly for clothes! Some recognizable brands recently featured include Amy Butler (LOVE!!), Sperry Top-Sider, Mavi Jeans and Missoni.

      Adore Me - Shop a personalized lingerie showroom, just for you! Take the quiz, sign up, and get 20% off your first purchase with code ADOREME20! ALL sets are $39.95 and are gorgeous! Also, you'll always get FREE shipping and FREE exchanges too, so there's virtually no risk!


      Sole Society - OMG, love this! Just like Adore Me, you get to shop a personalized closet of designer shoes based on your shoe style preferences. All designer shoes in your closet at $49.95 with FREE shipping and FREE return shipping so there's also no risk! I know how picky I am about the way shoes fit so this is great and the return I made was simple, easy and quick!

      Am I missing your favorite site? Leave me a comment and tell me about it!


      Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

      Friday, January 20, 2012

      Etsy Shop Giveaway & Coupon for Crazy Leggies! Ends 2/3



      There's a brand new Etsy shop out there and you've GOT to check it out! A good friend of mine is getting creative to help support her family, and she has certainly started out with a BANG! At Crazy Leggies, you'll find a fabulous selection of leg warmers for infants and kiddos age 6 months+, and she'll even create custom made baby shoes for you in sizes 0-3, 3-6, 6-12 and 12-18 months!

      Here's what my friend has to say about her shop...

      Hi, my name is Nicole. I am a work at home mom of two, Lucas who is 2 and Daniel who is 3 months. Life is busy around here, but I am getting the hang of working at home and having two children. I have been sewing for my children for quite some time and I decided that maybe I should start selling some of my creations. So far, my shoes seem to be quite the hit. I have sold many of them through facebook and to many different friends of mine. I hope to continue the journey as I reach out to more and more people through my Etsy and this facebook page.



      Totally cute!! As a cloth diapering mama (well, we're kinda potty trained now...so sad!) I totally love baby leg warmers as a quick and easy way to avoid having to undress your kid just to change their diaper. They're also fabulous for potty training since it's one less thing Buddy has to pull down!! :) These are also just so much fun to pair with a cute skirt for a girl, or you could even pair these with a short sleeved tee for little ones or big kids too. Baby shoes?! I can't get over how adorable they are! These look to be incredibly well-made, and I know she's getting tons of custom orders already. They have elastic around the heels to help them stay on, but they won't leave red marks! Nicole will work with you on getting the print you want for your baby shoes so they're exactly what you want!

      Connect with Crazy Leggies on Etsy and Facebook!


      COUPON ALERT! 
      Use code Reynolds10 at checkout on Etsy for 10% off your order! Limited time only!


      Win It!
      One winner will receive a $10 code to Crazy Leggies!

      Monday, January 16, 2012

      Burt's Bees Kits & 2 FREE Samples as low as $5.76 SHIPPED (up to $14.99 Value!)

      More HOT deals coming from Vitacost.com! They are STILL offering a FREE $10 off code to new customers, which means some really amazing deals! Although you can buy anything you want with your $10 code, this time I'm featuring some scenarios on Burt's Bees products!


      Burt's Bees Kits
      Burt's Bees® Hand Repair Kit -- 4 Pieces @ $10.99 (reg. $13.99!) - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = $5.98 SHIPPED

      Burt's Bees Essential Burt's Bees® Kit -- 5 Pieces @ $10.77 (reg. $12.99!) - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = $5.76 SHIPPED

      Burt's Bees Baby Bee® Getting Started Kit -- 5 Pieces @ $10.99 (reg. $14.99!) - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = $5.98 SHIPPED
       
      Other HOT deals include...

      (Great for cold & flu season!) Burt's Bees Natural Throat Drops - Honey OR Honey & Lemon -- 20 Drops @ $1.79 each (buy any 6) = $10.74 - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = $5.73 SHIPPED

      Burt's Bees Baby Bee Diaper Ointment -- 2 oz @ $5.08 each (buy 2) = $10.16 - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = $5.15 SHIPPED

      Burt's Bees Sugar Scrub Cranberry and Pomegranate -- 8 oz  @ $10.99 (reg. $12.99!) - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = $5.98 SHIPPED

      Sign up for your $10 off code NOW!
      It will be emailed to you within about 5 minutes! 


      (((Don't forget, you can also add 2 FREE samples per order too!))) 


      Please Note: Some of you are not getting your $10 off code in your email! If you don't receive your code (wait about 5 minutes) you can log into VitacostRewards.com and check for your code under My Rewards, then click Rewards Statement. Click where it says Referee Coupon - $10 off coupon and then find your unique $10 code under Promotion Code!  
       

      Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

      Saturday, January 14, 2012

      All-New Super WHY Episodes on PBS KIDS


      Buddy LOVES the variety of preschool-age shows on PBS. One of his favorites is Super WHY. It's a great show that really engages your kids and gets them thinking about reading and letter recognition too. It also usually involves a small conflict or problem that needs to be solved, and always ends with a resolution that it great for real life application that's easy to understand for a preschooler. New episodes are airing next week, so take a sneak peek below and read the info on each one!

      Super WHY rings in the New Year with four all-new literacy-powered episodes, premiering January 16-19, 2012 on PBS KIDS (check local listings)!  We invite you to hang onto your hat and hold onto your seat as Super Why and the Super Readers hop into their Why Flyers for exciting time travel adventures!  The reading buddies travel to the Old West, visit the age of the dinosaurs, take a trip to medieval times and then jump forward to the future.  The new shows are sure to get preschool viewers playing and singing along to help Super Why, Princess Presto, Wonder Red, Alpha Pig and Woofster change the story and save the day.  Here’s more info on each engaging episode:

      Super WHY and Jasper's Cowboy Wish – January 16:  Howdy Partner!  Whyatt and his friends are playing cowboys, but Pig can't join in because he doesn't know what cowboys do.  The super readers jump into the tale Jasper's Cowboy Wish and make the acquaintance of a cowpoke named Jasper who's desperate to become a rompin' stompin' cowboy if only he could get the hang of it!  Will Jasper be a hero...or will this be his last roundup?

      Super WHY and Baby Dino's Big Discovery – January 17:  ROAR! Pig invited his friends over to play dinosaurs, but Whyatt can't figure out which toy dinosaur he has.  So he super readers soar into Baby Dino's Big Discovery where they lend a hand to a baby dinosaur searching for his mommy.  They'll need to look closely to figure out what kind of dinosaur Baby Dino is...and be careful to avoid being eaten while they do!

      Super WHY and Princess Gwennie Saves the Day – January 18:  Princess Pea is feeling dramatic (as usual) and she and Red are staging a play. Princess is pretending she's a queen but Red doesn't know what to be!  The super readers fly into the story of a princess with a silly sense of humor and a big job to do.  They help Gwennie use her talents to save the day, and Red discovers her own special gifts.

      Super WHY and The Great Robot Race – January 19:  Whyatt and Woofster want to win the porridge race, but the bowl of breakfast cereal keeps falling off the puppy's back.  This is a super MESSY problem!  The reading friends visit The Great Robot Race and encounter a boy named Bradbury who is determined to help his robo-doggie to win a race too!  Both Bradbury and the super readers will have to use a little creative problem solving to help robo-doggie zoom to the head of the pack!

      So tell me! Do your kids watch Super WHY? What other shows do you let your children watch?



      Disclosure: This information was provided to me by a PR representative or agency. I was not compensated in any way for posting this information.

      Thursday, January 12, 2012

      (Closed) Tropical Traditions Organic Shredded Coconut Review, FREE Book Offer & Giveaway! Ends 1/22


      Wait. You're all probably thinking, "Didn't you JUST review Shredded Coconut last month?" Well, not exactly! My last review with Tropical Traditions was their Coconut Flakes. Close, but the cut is different. After receiving the Coconut Flakes, I've caught the major baking bug and I've been experimenting with various recipes using coconut. I realized I needed the more finely cut coconut for many of the recipes found on Tropical Traditions' site, so I knew I had to review their Shredded Coconut next and tell you what I think!

      I've used other brands of shredded coconut before this, but I know after all my experiences with Tropical Traditions I will not need to try or compare them with any other brand ever again. Exceptional quality, taste, texture, and value that can't be beat. Again, a fresh product, free of sulphates to whiten the coconut (yuck, who needs that stuff anyway!!), unsweetened, and best of all, certified organic. This Shredded Coconut is super finely cut, perfect for baking macaroons, adding to various baked goods and even garnishing. I also think this is the PERFECT "snow" for gingerbread houses (coconut flakes just don't give the same effect!). Here's how it looks out of the humungous 3.5 pound pail I received!
      There are a few recipes that really stand out as very unique and gotta-try-it-NOW from Tropical Traditions. Remember, they have a ton of awesome, kitchen-tested FREE recipes using coconut so be sure to check them out. I made the Classic Macaroons as soon I received this coconut in the mail and they taste AMAZING (though not photo worthy YET. Haha!). They were even better dipped in chocolate (I just used melted chocolate chips this time), and tasted like my old time favorite candy bar...I've always been a huge fan of the Almond Joy candy bar, but I can do without the almonds. This recipe is the natural, delicious version of my old favorite candy bar! I couldn't believe what I was tasting, and I was so thrilled that I made it and I know what's in it! So natural and super delicious!

      Some people don't enjoy coconut because of the texture. My hubby is one of them! With the Shredded Coconut I think you can easily hide it in recipes without the having the sometimes unpleasant texture (although I'm one that LOVES the texture of all cuts of coconut!). I'm thinking the Oatmeal Coconut Cookies Recipe is going to be a real crowd pleaser with the flavor of coconut and the texture of oatmeal! I'm totally giving it a try this weekend! Besides, coconut is SO good for you so I'm always trying to find a way to add it to everything. :)

      Shredded Coconut - Another two thumbs up for Tropical Traditions!

      Price: $17.50 (originally $25!) for a 3.5 lb. Pail

      Buy It: 
      Check out TropicalTraditions.com to buy today! 


       FREE Book Offer!
      ****When you make your first purchase (of any product) at Tropical Traditions, you will receive a this FREE book in your package when you shop through my links..."Virgin Coconut Oil: How it has changed people's lives and how it can change yours!" That's a $25 Value! Just START HERE to shop****


      Win It!
      One winner will receive a 3.5 lb. pail of Shredded Coconut!



      Wednesday, January 11, 2012

      CouponChief.com Review


      I shop online A LOT. I think that's an understatement. For example, last month I placed probably over 30 orders for Christmas gifts within a 2 week period. Yes, I enjoy doing most of my shopping in my pajamas! Having a reliable website to help me find coupon codes is obviously a big deal to me! Why pay more when you can keep some of your hard earned cash in your pocket for something else?

      That's where CouponChief.com comes in. Recognizing that digital coupon clipping is becoming more common and most online retailers have coupon codes out there, this savvy site is your one-stop shop for all the hot coupon codes. In fact, Coupon Chief is one of the fastest growing coupon sites, with over 250,000 visitors a month. They have over 50,000 coupon codes for over 15,000 stores, making them one of the largest databases of online coupons on the internet.
       
      As a stay at home mom, I contribute to my family in many ways without leaving each day to work a 9-5 job. Although some may look at this differently, one way I contribute financially is by using coupons, finding deals and utilizing sales. Sure, it's not a physical paycheck, but when I sit down and do the math I know I've saved my family hundreds of dollars each month. No, I don't mean by saving $100 off a $200 dress and crazy "deals" that aren't really deals. I mean deals on products and goods I would normally purchase, where I'm saving a good portion and not paying full price. It's what I like to call being smart. It's about using your resources and making your dollar stretch as far as you can. That means using sites like Coupon Chief to your advantage and saving a bundle.

      I think of Coupon Chief as a huge digital coupon database. But not for traditional coupon clipping! Using the search box at the top of CouponChief.com, you can quickly and easily check a particular online store or even just a particular product and see if there is a coupon code for you. If there is, just copy and paste it to the coupon code field on the checkout page on the website you're shopping at. Simple. Simple. Simple. It doesn't get any easier than that! If for some reason there isn't a coupon for a store I'm shopping at, I don't really find the need to keep searching because I know that Coupon Chief is huge and I highly doubt many coupons pass them by. Even better, you can search "Printable" in the search box to find printable coupons that can be used in-store and/or online. There are plenty of times where this comes in handy too, since I do indeed get out of my pajamas and actually shop in stores too. :)

      This is a coupon you will currently see when you search for "Macy's". This Wow! Pass for an extra 10%-15% is printable and is valid from 1/12-1/16 so head over HERE to grab this one!
      A feature I love about Coupon Chief is the ability to create your own account. By doing this I can upload my own coupons (and spread the love!), set up email alerts for coupons from my favorite retailers, and even track my browsing history. Being able to access my browsing history is a great for my family because I often get sidetracked with a busy toddler or that same busy toddler takes over the computer and closes all my windows so he can type his name. Yep, not cool. But my browsing history is saved and there's no way even my smart 3 year old can find a way to delete it!! With commenting, rating, and sharing of coupon codes, you have a whole community at Coupon Chief with a common goal of saving tons of money. Now that's a community I'd like to be a part of!

      Not that you even need another reason to love Coupon Chief, but they also have a program called Pays-2-Share. Each time someone uses a coupon that you uploaded, Coupon Chief will give you 2% of the sales (within limits of course, so read the fine print). How awesome is that? You know all those shop email subscriptions you're signed up for? Snag those promo codes you receive and upload them to Coupon Chief and voila! You're earning too!

      Next time you shop online, I highly recommend checking out CouponChief.com first!


      Connect with Coupon Chief on Facebook and Twitter!



      Disclosure: I received monetary compensation in return for posting this information and learning about CouponChief.com through their website. Still, I only post information that is honest, and I feel will interest my readers. These are my completely honest opinions above based on my own experience and may be different from yours.

      Tuesday, January 10, 2012

      Rock 'N Learn WINNER!

      The winner of the Rock 'N Learn giveaway is...

      Rafflecopter Entry #58, Paula Lee!
       
      Congratulations!
      I've sent you an email!

      Monday, January 9, 2012

      Annie's Homegrown - 5 Cans of Organic All Stars Pasta or Organic BernieO's Only $4.99 SHIPPED!

      Vitacost is my new addiction!! (haha) They have over 30,000 health and wellness products, including vitamins, supplements, herbs, personal care products, organic and natural foods, cosmetics, baby essentials and lots more, all at wholesale, discounted prices already! Even better, they are STILL offering a FREE $10 off code valid on anything they sell!

      Sign up for your $10 code NOW!
      It will be emailed to you within about 5 minutes! 

      Don't forget, you can also add 2 FREE samples per order too!
      Today only (1/9), Vitacost has all Annie's Homegrown groceries (over 70 products!) at an extra 10% off (no code needed, prices already reflect extra discount). That means the already killer prices are THAT much better! Apparently you CAN spend under the $10 and still use the code, but you CAN'T apply any of the code towards shipping. I wanted to highlight a couple really great deals today! Obviously there are WAY more scenarios than this, so look around and get what your family likes!
      Buy 5 @ $2.04 each (reg. $3.09 each) = $10.20 - $10 code + $4.99 shipping = 
      5 cans for $5.19 SHIPPED!


      Or

      Buy any 5 @ $1.97 each (reg. $3.09 each) = $9.85 - $10 code + $4.99 shipping =  
      5 cans for $4.99 SHIPPED!


      Buy 4 boxes @ $2.59 each (reg. $4.49 each) = $10.36 - $10 code + $4.99 shipping =  
      4 boxes for $5.35 SHIPPED!


      Buy 6 @ $1.66 each (reg. $2.69 each) = $9.96 - $10 code + $4.99 shipping =  
      6 boxes for $4.99 SHIPPED!



      Please Note: Some of you are not getting your code in your email! If you don't receive your code within 5 minutes, you can log into VitacostRewards.com and check for your code under My Rewards, then click Rewards Statement. Click where it says Referee Coupon  - $10 off coupon and then find your unique $10 code under Promotion Code!


      Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.

      Thursday, January 5, 2012

      Tea Collection Review & 20% off Discount!


      Tea Collection has beautiful designer baby, kids, and women's clothing. Each season their women and children's clothing lines are inspired by a new destination country. This season is Modern Mexico. They have wardrobe sets ready to purchase, or help you put an outfit together. Their collections coordinate very well, and easily mix and match.

      After recently purchasing a few boys items for Buddy, I knew then that the quality of Tea Collection clothing is exceptional and certainly appropriately priced. Sure, I love inexpensive clothes that tend to fall apart prematurely, but investing in high-quality key pieces for your wardrobe is definitely worth it!
      I had the opportunity to receive 2 women's items from Tea Collection to review. In my quest to become a Fashionista and pretend like I know how to dress stop the whole "jeans and a tee" look that I famously adorn on a daily basis, I totally went out of my comfort zone for both pieces I chose. The Chiapas Tunic Dress I received was for a Christmas party where I probably still would've worn jeans. In an effort to not feel totally uncomfortable, I chose this less dressy little number to just go slightly away from my norm. I totally love the details of this dress! It features inverted box pleats across the neckline, a drawstring drop waist, and drape pockets that are so much fun. The drawstring drop waist is perfect for many body types since it can be ties where it hangs, or tied up higher depending on your waist. The floral print is on Modal and Cotton so this dress is lightweight and also machine washable. I paired this dress with black leggings and ballet flats!


      I also received the Dona Dolman Cowl Neck top in the Dark Eggplant (I totally love the Pewter grey color too!). I would have never chosen a neckline like this in a million years, but I said HEY, time to try something new! I really like the lightweight material, and how nicely the neck drapes. It took me a couple times to get the neck right, but now that I have it figured out it's super easy and can be adjusted to your preference. The 100% Supima Cotton washes great, and definitely holds it's shape too. I generally go for form fitting tops so this is definitely a nice change for me. It's actually really nice not having to fuss with the fit since it is meant to stylishly hang, and I really like the I can go casual or semi-dressy with this top. The deep hems at the waist and cuff add more detail to this already fun style, and the dolman sleeves allow this top to accommodate many body shapes. This is also locally made in San Francisco. Yes, I paired this with jeans, BUT at least it's still nicer than a basic tee!! :) This top can also easily go with a pair of slacks to dress up just a little, or take this top from casual to dressy.

      I highly recommend trying Tea Collection from your clothing needs. I think you'll be very impressed with the high quality materials and inspirational story behind the style of their collections!

      **Discount: Sign up to get 20% off your purchase of $100 or more!!**

      Connect with Tea Collection on
      Facebook and Twitter!

      Price: Chiapas Tunic Dress - $98 $68.50, Dona Dolman Cowl Neck - $58 $29
      Both items are on sale at the time of this post was published! Also, through 1/8/2012, use promo code 25OFFSALE for an extra 25% off sale items!

      Buy It:  Check out TeaCollection.com or find a shop location near you!

       




      Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product(s) to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. This is my completely honest opinion above and may be different from yours. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

      Tuesday, January 3, 2012

      Cuisinart Griddler: Countertop Grill & Griddle Review



      I love kitchen gadgets. Especially when they are easy to use and don't take up valuable space in my kitchen. When I received the Cuisinart Griddler, I was so happy to find that this ONE appliance would replace several that are already taking up too much room. So long griddle, goodbye panini press, syonara grill! Hellllooooo amazing contraption from Cuisinart

      The Cuisinart Griddler has 5 functions in this one handy-dandy unit. With two reversible plates and two thermostat controls, you can quickly and easily turn this appliance into a contact grill, panini press, flat grill, flat griddle, or a half grill/half griddle.

      Here are the specs of the Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler:
      • Nonstick grill and griddle plates are removable and are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
      • Cooking plates drain grease for healthier meals
      • Hinged floating cover adjusts to thickness of food, so you can cook everything from paper-thin crepes to thick steaks
      • Selector knob with power indicator light lets you choose between grill or griddle
      • 2 adjustable temperature controls with indicator lights ensure your food is cooked to your taste
      • Cool-touch brushed stainless-steel housing won't burn your hands and adds a stylish look to your kitchen
      • Includes drip tray, cleaning/scraping tool and instruction/recipe book

      One of the first things we made were paninis with the two plates facing grill side up. We turned the Griddler to the Grill-Panini setting on high (it was so simple and warmed up within a few minutes!). I used sourdough bread, leftover turkey, Havarti cheese, mustard, bruschetta from Trader Joes, spinach, and "Fox Point" seasoning from Penzey's Spices. I used olive oil on the outside of the bread (one of the included booklet recipes used olive oil) and it didn't quite get the defined panini lines, but it was still crispy. I think we'd have more luck with butter next time. However, it was delicious! The one minor issue I have is that when I close the grill on top of my paninis, the top piece of bread slides forward about an inch. Purely a cosmetic issue for a panini I suppose and it's not a huge deal.
      The 2 plates remove so easily for cleaning and are pretty light too. Just press the side button for each plate and they pop out! I prefer to hand wash them once cooled to avoid any scratches on the non-stick coating, but they are dishwasher safe too. On the back of the Griddler the power cord wraps around two knobs to keep it out of the way which is very convenient. The drip tray is perfectly integrated into the design of the Griddler to store away with the whole device. I tend to loose things like that so the design is really smart. Because this product is so versatile, you can cook a large range of foods on just this one piece of equipment. I love the various options available that make it easy to bring a well-balanced meal to the table. There are also waffle plates you can purchase separately. 
      We've used the Griddler many times in the short 2 weeks we've had it. It's really spiced up the variety of meals we've made and increased our adventurous side when it comes to food. The recipe booklet included has a lot of great recipes too that are absolutely delicious. The ease of use of the Griddler is fantastic and fast cleanup makes it even better. This is an AMAZING kitchen gadget with so much versatility in a compact size! Definitely a must-have!

      Connect with Best Buy on Facebook and Twitter!

      Price: $99.99

      Buy It: 
      Check out the BestBuy.com for more fantastic products for your kitchen and home!



      Disclosure: I received the above mentioned product from Best Buy for free, to facilitate this review. No other compensation was received. This is my completely honest opinion above and may be different from yours. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

      Sunday, January 1, 2012

      Gorton's Seafood/Mega Bloks WINNERS!



      The 3 winners of the Gorton's Seafood & Mega Bloks giveaway are...

      Rafflecopter Entry #733, Carolyn C!
      Rafflecopter Entry #257, Mary F!
      Rafflecopter Entry #590, Debbie J!

      Congratulations! You have 48 hours to respond to the email I've sent or I will have to draw a new winner(s).