Rice n Simple {A Review}

Our family loves rice. And I love convenience. And I really love when I can feel good about giving my family something that was also convenient for me to prepare. (A busy lady will always take help where she can!) Let me introduce you to Rice n Simple, my favorite new product that falls under all of these categories!

Rice n Simple is a young company that is dedicated to providing its customers with an option for enhanced energy, flexibility and creativity by offering the highest quality rice in addition to the most deliciously flavored sauces for a healthy lifestyle. Rice n Simple was established on the philosophy that being healthy and eating healthy is essential to living a balanced, simple and harmonious life. The company strives to connect with its customers through one of the simplest things life has to offer, quality food; and with the simplest nutrient rich food in the world, rice.

Rice n Simple’s Jasmine Rice is imported from Thailand and selected for its delicious flavor, unique texture and naturally distinctive aroma. Long considered to be the most prestigious rice in the world, it was named after the sweet-smelling jasmine flower and grown in the mountain highlands of Thailand for centuries.

Now, thanks to Rice n Simple, this delicious rice can be enjoyed with just one quick minute of cooking time.  What truly sets Rice n Simple apart is their signature premium sauces that add a burst of flavor to the already flavorful Jasmine Rice. Current signature offerings include:

·         Jasmine Rice with Shoyu (Soy) Sauce

·         Jasmine Rice with Shiitake Mushroom Glaze

·         Jasmine Rice with Teriyaki Glaze

·         Brown Rice with Shoyu (Soy) Sauce

·         Brown Rice with Shiitake Mushroom Glaze

·         Brown Rice with Teriyaki Glaze

Rice n Simple products are also available in brown rice versions for a mild, nutty flavor that is rich in fiber and nutrition. All of the delicious varieties are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, contain no preservatives and are trans-fat and cholesterol free. They also require no refrigeration so they can be stored in the pantry for easy week meal option, or a great "take with you" lunch idea! 

I will tell you exactly what I did with my samples! I was in a rush, had some egg rolls in the freezer and thought "rice would be perfect." As they cooked in the oven, each one of us got to pick out the flavor of rice we wanted, and within minutes we each had a perfectly cooked side of rice for supper. 

Now, you might be thinking, "How good can rice that is cooked in the microwave be?" Well, let me tell you it was truly some of the best at home rice I've ever had! It was fluffy, tender and above all flavorful! My favorite? The Jasmine Rice with Teriyaki Glaze. Oh my word! It was so delicious! I couldn't get enough! But truthfully, you can't go wrong with any of the flavor options! Each is more tasty than the next. 

Rice n Simple products are available for purchase online at www.Amazon.com and select Kroger locations in Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Alabama and throughout the Mid-Atlantic states for $2.49-2.79. Look for availability in retailers nationwide in the coming months. As a product of Taiwan, Rice n Simple imports its Jasmine rice from Thailand and its brown rice from the USA.

Disclaimer: I received free samples in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Our family loves rice. And I love convenience. And I really love when I can feel good about giving my family something that was also convenient for me to prepare. (A busy lady will always take help where she can!) Let me introduce you to Rice n Simple, my favorite new product that falls under all of these categories!

Rice n Simple is a young company that is dedicated to providing its customers with an option for enhanced energy, flexibility and creativity by offering the highest quality rice in addition to the most deliciously flavored sauces for a healthy lifestyle. Rice n Simple was established on the philosophy that being healthy and eating healthy is essential to living a balanced, simple and harmonious life. The company strives to connect with its customers through one of the simplest things life has to offer, quality food; and with the simplest nutrient rich food in the world, rice.

Rice n Simple’s Jasmine Rice is imported from Thailand and selected for its delicious flavor, unique texture and naturally distinctive aroma. Long considered to be the most prestigious rice in the world, it was named after the sweet-smelling jasmine flower and grown in the mountain highlands of Thailand for centuries.

Now, thanks to Rice n Simple, this delicious rice can be enjoyed with just one quick minute of cooking time.  What truly sets Rice n Simple apart is their signature premium sauces that add a burst of flavor to the already flavorful Jasmine Rice. Current signature offerings include:

·         Jasmine Rice with Shoyu (Soy) Sauce

·         Jasmine Rice with Shiitake Mushroom Glaze

·         Jasmine Rice with Teriyaki Glaze

·         Brown Rice with Shoyu (Soy) Sauce

·         Brown Rice with Shiitake Mushroom Glaze

·         Brown Rice with Teriyaki Glaze

Rice n Simple products are also available in brown rice versions for a mild, nutty flavor that is rich in fiber and nutrition. All of the delicious varieties are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, contain no preservatives and are trans-fat and cholesterol free. They also require no refrigeration so they can be stored in the pantry for easy week meal option, or a great "take with you" lunch idea! 

I will tell you exactly what I did with my samples! I was in a rush, had some egg rolls in the freezer and thought "rice would be perfect." As they cooked in the oven, each one of us got to pick out the flavor of rice we wanted, and within minutes we each had a perfectly cooked side of rice for supper. 

Now, you might be thinking, "How good can rice that is cooked in the microwave be?" Well, let me tell you it was truly some of the best at home rice I've ever had! It was fluffy, tender and above all flavorful! My favorite? The Jasmine Rice with Teriyaki Glaze. Oh my word! It was so delicious! I couldn't get enough! But truthfully, you can't go wrong with any of the flavor options! Each is more tasty than the next. 

Rice n Simple products are available for purchase online at www.Amazon.com and select Kroger locations in Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Alabama and throughout the Mid-Atlantic states for $2.49-2.79. Look for availability in retailers nationwide in the coming months. As a product of Taiwan, Rice n Simple imports its Jasmine rice from Thailand and its brown rice from the USA.

Disclaimer: I received free samples in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Christmas with Zak {A Review and Giveaway}

This Christmas, for any foodies on your list, Zak! Designs is your one stop shopping answer! They have anything and everything any home chef could want! And today I've got a great new set to show you, and the change for one lucky EMM fan to win one...keep it....give it as a gift....either way it's a great deal!

The perfect gift for for any culinary lover on your gift list, who might want to add a splash of color and touch of fun to his/her kitchen, Zak's Kitchen Prep Gift Set includes a large Duo bowl, Happy Spoon, 2-piece Luna Colander set (this allows you to wash and serve fruits and veggies without worrying about dripping water), and one of their famous Garlic Peelers-- the easiest and quickest way to get a clean clove of garlic.

I LOVE this set! The purple is simply gorgeous, and really looks great with all of my other kitchen ware. The bowl and spoon are perfect for stirring and mixing all of my favorite baked holiday treats. Deep enough for a ton of ingredients, it's perfect for big recipes. The colander is simply genius and the perfect small size for easy storage. And the garlic peeler is something every home cook should have. There is no easier way to peel garlic! One of the most tedious tasks in a recipe is now quick and easy.

Any home cook would love to add this set to their kitchen. Or maybe treat yourself to a little "happy" before Christmas! Either way this set is sure to bring functionality and fun into the kitchen.

******GIVEAWAY******

To Enter to win this same set, simply leave a comment on this post. Tell me hi, wish me a Merry Christmas, anything you want! 

Contest Ends: Friday Dec. 13, 2013

Disclaimer :I was given one free set for myself and the chance to give one away in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

This Christmas, for any foodies on your list, Zak! Designs is your one stop shopping answer! They have anything and everything any home chef could want! And today I've got a great new set to show you, and the change for one lucky EMM fan to win one...keep it....give it as a gift....either way it's a great deal!

The perfect gift for for any culinary lover on your gift list, who might want to add a splash of color and touch of fun to his/her kitchen, Zak's Kitchen Prep Gift Set includes a large Duo bowl, Happy Spoon, 2-piece Luna Colander set (this allows you to wash and serve fruits and veggies without worrying about dripping water), and one of their famous Garlic Peelers-- the easiest and quickest way to get a clean clove of garlic.

I LOVE this set! The purple is simply gorgeous, and really looks great with all of my other kitchen ware. The bowl and spoon are perfect for stirring and mixing all of my favorite baked holiday treats. Deep enough for a ton of ingredients, it's perfect for big recipes. The colander is simply genius and the perfect small size for easy storage. And the garlic peeler is something every home cook should have. There is no easier way to peel garlic! One of the most tedious tasks in a recipe is now quick and easy.

Any home cook would love to add this set to their kitchen. Or maybe treat yourself to a little "happy" before Christmas! Either way this set is sure to bring functionality and fun into the kitchen.

******GIVEAWAY******

To Enter to win this same set, simply leave a comment on this post. Tell me hi, wish me a Merry Christmas, anything you want! 

Contest Ends: Friday Dec. 13, 2013

Disclaimer :I was given one free set for myself and the chance to give one away in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Kids Cooking Made Easy {A Review}

Do your kids love being in the kitchen? Do they always want to help you, or come up with their own creations? Maybe you have a little chef on your holiday gift shopping list? If any of these ring true for you, then I've got the perfect, brand new cookbook for you!

From the creators of the "Made Easy" series of cookbooks (Leah Schapira and Victoria Dwek) comes Kids Cooking Made Easy, features 60 easy-to-make kosher recipes! They are fun to make, and the instructions are simple to follow. Every recipe has a photo, and additional step by step photos.  (This is my favorite part! I like to see what the finished product is supposed to look like, and I think it's easier for kids to follow a recipe if it includes a photo!) Plus, they have also included "Cooking School" tips that teach young cooks many new techniques, like how to simmer or saute'. This takes them way beyond the stir and mix they might be used to!

Victoria says "If you are a kid and think you can't cook, you will learn very quickly that you can." For parents of picky eaters, this book could be solution. "IF your kids are too young to help, let them look at the photos and pick their favorites." Leah adds that "Once your kids are old enough, you can also bring them into the kitchen like my mother did with me. Kids feel so confident and so proud when they learn to prepare their first dishes on their own."

I always tell moms who ask me how to curb picky eaters, "Get them into the kitchen." Let them help prepare the food, touch it, smell it, "play" with it. you would be surprised at how many new things they are willing to try if they are involved in the process.

Like me, for these busy mothers, cooking with their kids is a way to spend quality time together. Sometimes those 30 minutes while supper is being made can be the most time you spend one on one with your child, talking and making memories to last a lifetime.

Recipes are categorized by sections: Dairy; Meat, Chicken, and Fish; On The Side; Snack Time; and Desserts. Just some of the tasty recipes included that your kids will love are:

* Spinach Quesadillas

*Pizza Soup

*Honey BBQ Chicken Nuggets

*Cauliflower Poppers

*Zucchini Spaghetti

*Toasted Bow Tie Chips

If you have a budding foodie on your gift list, Kids Cooking Made Easy would be the perfect gift idea! It will get kids in the kitchen creating yummy meals, snacks and desserts for the whole family to enjoy!

Disclaimer: I was given a free cookbook in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Do your kids love being in the kitchen? Do they always want to help you, or come up with their own creations? Maybe you have a little chef on your holiday gift shopping list? If any of these ring true for you, then I've got the perfect, brand new cookbook for you!

From the creators of the "Made Easy" series of cookbooks (Leah Schapira and Victoria Dwek) comes Kids Cooking Made Easy, features 60 easy-to-make kosher recipes! They are fun to make, and the instructions are simple to follow. Every recipe has a photo, and additional step by step photos.  (This is my favorite part! I like to see what the finished product is supposed to look like, and I think it's easier for kids to follow a recipe if it includes a photo!) Plus, they have also included "Cooking School" tips that teach young cooks many new techniques, like how to simmer or saute'. This takes them way beyond the stir and mix they might be used to!

Victoria says "If you are a kid and think you can't cook, you will learn very quickly that you can." For parents of picky eaters, this book could be solution. "IF your kids are too young to help, let them look at the photos and pick their favorites." Leah adds that "Once your kids are old enough, you can also bring them into the kitchen like my mother did with me. Kids feel so confident and so proud when they learn to prepare their first dishes on their own."

I always tell moms who ask me how to curb picky eaters, "Get them into the kitchen." Let them help prepare the food, touch it, smell it, "play" with it. you would be surprised at how many new things they are willing to try if they are involved in the process.

Like me, for these busy mothers, cooking with their kids is a way to spend quality time together. Sometimes those 30 minutes while supper is being made can be the most time you spend one on one with your child, talking and making memories to last a lifetime.

Recipes are categorized by sections: Dairy; Meat, Chicken, and Fish; On The Side; Snack Time; and Desserts. Just some of the tasty recipes included that your kids will love are:

* Spinach Quesadillas

*Pizza Soup

*Honey BBQ Chicken Nuggets

*Cauliflower Poppers

*Zucchini Spaghetti

*Toasted Bow Tie Chips

If you have a budding foodie on your gift list, Kids Cooking Made Easy would be the perfect gift idea! It will get kids in the kitchen creating yummy meals, snacks and desserts for the whole family to enjoy!

Disclaimer: I was given a free cookbook in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Ho Ho Ho Movies & Yummy Treats {A Holiday Feature}

We all have our favorite Christmas and holiday movies. The classics that we can watch over and over each December and can never get enough of. The animated ones from our childhood that we can't get enough of and love to share with our children. And of course, more recent ones that we have come into our home and been added to our must-watch lists.

This holiday season there are some box sets I'd love to introduce you to so you can always have your favorites right at your fingertips. 

The DreamWorks Holiday Collection and the Original Christmas Classics 

In DreamWorks Holiday Collection you can join some of your kids' favorite characters, Shrek, Po, Toothless and the rest of the DreamWorks gang in four timeless holiday specials, available for the first time in a boxed set, including: Shrek The Halls, Merry Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda Holiday, and Dragons Holiday: Gift of the Night Fury, as well as bonus features, games, music videos and more! 

In the Original Christmas Classics, your children can enjoy the same adorable animated characters you did as a kid. This cute and family friendly boxed set contains four of the most beloved holiday TV specials of all time including the Rankin/Bass classics Frosty The Snowman, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus is Coming To Town, and Frosty Returns. Watching these iconic specials have always been a part of my Christmas season, and now I love making them a part of my son's too. Talk about an American tradition! Our holiday just wouldn't be the same without them! 

And now, I'm so excited to share some holiday themed recipes to go along with these adorable, fun-to-watch-as-a-family movies! Just think, you can feed them something yummy, inspired by the movie itself, taking movie night to a whole new level!

How fun to get the kids into the kitchen to make some festive recipes before sitting down around the tv to enjoy these holiday classics! 

Be sure to look for these DVD boxed sets today and bring the holiday magic into your home!

We all have our favorite Christmas and holiday movies. The classics that we can watch over and over each December and can never get enough of. The animated ones from our childhood that we can't get enough of and love to share with our children. And of course, more recent ones that we have come into our home and been added to our must-watch lists.

This holiday season there are some box sets I'd love to introduce you to so you can always have your favorites right at your fingertips. 

The DreamWorks Holiday Collection and the Original Christmas Classics 

In DreamWorks Holiday Collection you can join some of your kids' favorite characters, Shrek, Po, Toothless and the rest of the DreamWorks gang in four timeless holiday specials, available for the first time in a boxed set, including: Shrek The Halls, Merry Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda Holiday, and Dragons Holiday: Gift of the Night Fury, as well as bonus features, games, music videos and more! 

In the Original Christmas Classics, your children can enjoy the same adorable animated characters you did as a kid. This cute and family friendly boxed set contains four of the most beloved holiday TV specials of all time including the Rankin/Bass classics Frosty The Snowman, Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Santa Claus is Coming To Town, and Frosty Returns. Watching these iconic specials have always been a part of my Christmas season, and now I love making them a part of my son's too. Talk about an American tradition! Our holiday just wouldn't be the same without them! 

And now, I'm so excited to share some holiday themed recipes to go along with these adorable, fun-to-watch-as-a-family movies! Just think, you can feed them something yummy, inspired by the movie itself, taking movie night to a whole new level!

How fun to get the kids into the kitchen to make some festive recipes before sitting down around the tv to enjoy these holiday classics! 

Be sure to look for these DVD boxed sets today and bring the holiday magic into your home!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Foodie Gift Ideas {Review of ThermoWorks}

I'm super excited to bring today's review to you, just in time for those gift giving lists you're starting to make. If you have foodies, or home chefs on your list, listen up, because I've got two things perfect for any cook in your life. 

Brought to us by ThermoWorks, the ChefAlarm with Pro-Series™ High Temp Cooking Probe, and the Splash Proof Super-Fast® Thermapen® are two of those gadgets that once someone has them, they don't know how they ever survived in the kitchen without them. 

The ChefAlarm was designed for commercial use, so it offers features not normally found in typical houseware alarms. The continuous Min/Max display tells you how hot (or cold) your food got when you weren't looking. When it reaches the preset temperature determined by you, a "high alarm" sounds, letting you know. Yep, it's like having someone in the kitchen watching your food when you're busy doing other things and then yelling at you when it's done! Plus, it has a one of a kind "low alarm" perfect for making yogurt and other cold dishes. 

Loud enough to be heard over the hustle and bustle of commercial kitchens, you know its going to get your attention. Large display numbers make it easy to glance at, read and move on. And it's available in 9 bright, beautiful colors, perfect for matching everyone's favorite. 

I'm telling you it's like having a babysitter in the kitchen. I love the fact it can alert me when I might be distracted or busy, saving dinner from being ruined! 

The Thermapen is a professional grade tool that has become the top consumer cooking thermometer for home use. Its popularity among celebrity chefs, top foodies, bloggers, etc. has made it an essential tool for the home kitchens everywhere. 

Made by hand, the Thermapen is faster and more accurate than any other cooking thermometer on the market today. If you want to experience speed and precision (traceable to National Standards) and you're on a quest for culinary perfection, you will want a Thermapen, either for yourself or the foodie in your life this holiday season. 

Also available in many colors, in fact, I got mine in pink, the perfect color for this girly, home chef!

If you are looking for great gifts for the cooks in your life, then look no further than Thermaworks. Or, maybe add them to your own wish list this year!

Disclaimer: I was provided with free samples for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

I'm super excited to bring today's review to you, just in time for those gift giving lists you're starting to make. If you have foodies, or home chefs on your list, listen up, because I've got two things perfect for any cook in your life. 

Brought to us by ThermoWorks, the ChefAlarm with Pro-Series™ High Temp Cooking Probe, and the Splash Proof Super-Fast® Thermapen® are two of those gadgets that once someone has them, they don't know how they ever survived in the kitchen without them. 

The ChefAlarm was designed for commercial use, so it offers features not normally found in typical houseware alarms. The continuous Min/Max display tells you how hot (or cold) your food got when you weren't looking. When it reaches the preset temperature determined by you, a "high alarm" sounds, letting you know. Yep, it's like having someone in the kitchen watching your food when you're busy doing other things and then yelling at you when it's done! Plus, it has a one of a kind "low alarm" perfect for making yogurt and other cold dishes. 

Loud enough to be heard over the hustle and bustle of commercial kitchens, you know its going to get your attention. Large display numbers make it easy to glance at, read and move on. And it's available in 9 bright, beautiful colors, perfect for matching everyone's favorite. 

I'm telling you it's like having a babysitter in the kitchen. I love the fact it can alert me when I might be distracted or busy, saving dinner from being ruined! 

The Thermapen is a professional grade tool that has become the top consumer cooking thermometer for home use. Its popularity among celebrity chefs, top foodies, bloggers, etc. has made it an essential tool for the home kitchens everywhere. 

Made by hand, the Thermapen is faster and more accurate than any other cooking thermometer on the market today. If you want to experience speed and precision (traceable to National Standards) and you're on a quest for culinary perfection, you will want a Thermapen, either for yourself or the foodie in your life this holiday season. 

Also available in many colors, in fact, I got mine in pink, the perfect color for this girly, home chef!

If you are looking for great gifts for the cooks in your life, then look no further than Thermaworks. Or, maybe add them to your own wish list this year!

Disclaimer: I was provided with free samples for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Come Home To Supper {A Review and Giveaway}

Three years of blogging has given me so many gifts. It has opened up entire foodie world I never even knew existed before that first post. But most of all, it has given me the opportunity to connect with so many wonderful people, both fans and fellow bloggers, that make my world better every single day. And one of those people, who is at the top of the list, is Christy Jordan, from Southern Plate.

Christy, or "CJ" as her friends call her, is by far one of the most generous, kind-hearted, God loving, funny, people I've ever had the pleasure to know. (And when I say "know" I mean through blogging and Facebook. I've never had the pleasure of meeting her in person.) Finding her positive attitude every day in my Facebook newsfeed is sometimes the only thing that makes me smile first thing in the morning. She is always there to lift us fellow bloggers up with an encouraging word, funny story or simple, but so right, advice. Basically, CJ is who I want to be when I grow up.

And now she had a brand new cookbook, Come Home To Supper; 200 Casseroles, Skillets, and Sides (Desserts, too!) to feed your family with love! That pretty much says it all!

Each page is more delicious looking than the last. I love cookbooks, but I really love the ones I can read like a novel; and this is certainly that. Sure the recipes are fantastic, but my favorite parts are the glimpses into Christy's life. The stories, the tidbits of insight, the tips, the things that make you feel like she is in the kitchen enjoying a glass of sweet tea while you cook.

There are too many recipes I am dying to try to list here, bu the VERY first that is going to debut in my kitchen will be:

Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole 

Makes 6 generous servings

My mother was a stay-at-home mom most of our lives. When we became teenagers, though, she went back to school and got her real estate license. This was her first full-time career and she excelled at it. She still made supper a priority, though, and we continued to gather around the family table every night, many times thanks to a casserole such as this.

A few nights a week Mama would put together a casserole and put it in the refrigerator covered in foil. If she ever ran late, she’d just call me and have me put the casserole in the oven so it would be ready to eat when everyone got home.

Cooking spray

1 box (6 ounces) seasoned long-grain and wild rice mix, such as Uncle Ben’s

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (see box, page 159)

1 recipe Cream of Mushroom Soup (page 282) or 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup

1 can (14 ounces) French-style green beans, drained

1 cup slivered almonds

1 cup sour cream (optional)

1 sleeve crackers (about 35), crushed (preferably buttery crackers such as Ritz)

1/4 to 1/2 cup (1/2to 1 stick) butter, melted

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a 9- by 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

2. Cook the rice according to the package directions and place it in a large bowl.

3. Add the chicken, soup, green beans, almonds, and sour cream, if using, and stir well until combined. Spoon the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cracker crumbs over the top and drizzle with the melted butter.

4. Bake the casserole until hot and bubbly, 30 minutes. Serve hot.

Does that not look scrumptious? Talk about comfort food!

And guess what! Christy is SO generous, she is offering one lucky EMM fan a chance to win Come Home To Supper!!! But I think it would also make a wonderful gift for any home cook on your shopping list this holiday season, so you can also find it on Amazon. 

Be sure to check Christy out on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram too! 

*TO ENTER GIVEAWAY* Leave a comment telling me why you want to add this cookbook to your collection. (1) Comment per person. Contest Ends Nov. 4, 2013

Disclaimer: I was given a free cookbook in exchange for this review. Plus one for a giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Three years of blogging has given me so many gifts. It has opened up entire foodie world I never even knew existed before that first post. But most of all, it has given me the opportunity to connect with so many wonderful people, both fans and fellow bloggers, that make my world better every single day. And one of those people, who is at the top of the list, is Christy Jordan, from Southern Plate.

Christy, or "CJ" as her friends call her, is by far one of the most generous, kind-hearted, God loving, funny, people I've ever had the pleasure to know. (And when I say "know" I mean through blogging and Facebook. I've never had the pleasure of meeting her in person.) Finding her positive attitude every day in my Facebook newsfeed is sometimes the only thing that makes me smile first thing in the morning. She is always there to lift us fellow bloggers up with an encouraging word, funny story or simple, but so right, advice. Basically, CJ is who I want to be when I grow up.

And now she had a brand new cookbook, Come Home To Supper; 200 Casseroles, Skillets, and Sides (Desserts, too!) to feed your family with love! That pretty much says it all!

Each page is more delicious looking than the last. I love cookbooks, but I really love the ones I can read like a novel; and this is certainly that. Sure the recipes are fantastic, but my favorite parts are the glimpses into Christy's life. The stories, the tidbits of insight, the tips, the things that make you feel like she is in the kitchen enjoying a glass of sweet tea while you cook.

There are too many recipes I am dying to try to list here, bu the VERY first that is going to debut in my kitchen will be:

Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole 

Makes 6 generous servings

My mother was a stay-at-home mom most of our lives. When we became teenagers, though, she went back to school and got her real estate license. This was her first full-time career and she excelled at it. She still made supper a priority, though, and we continued to gather around the family table every night, many times thanks to a casserole such as this.

A few nights a week Mama would put together a casserole and put it in the refrigerator covered in foil. If she ever ran late, she’d just call me and have me put the casserole in the oven so it would be ready to eat when everyone got home.

Cooking spray

1 box (6 ounces) seasoned long-grain and wild rice mix, such as Uncle Ben’s

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (see box, page 159)

1 recipe Cream of Mushroom Soup (page 282) or 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup

1 can (14 ounces) French-style green beans, drained

1 cup slivered almonds

1 cup sour cream (optional)

1 sleeve crackers (about 35), crushed (preferably buttery crackers such as Ritz)

1/4 to 1/2 cup (1/2to 1 stick) butter, melted

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a 9- by 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.

2. Cook the rice according to the package directions and place it in a large bowl.

3. Add the chicken, soup, green beans, almonds, and sour cream, if using, and stir well until combined. Spoon the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cracker crumbs over the top and drizzle with the melted butter.

4. Bake the casserole until hot and bubbly, 30 minutes. Serve hot.

Does that not look scrumptious? Talk about comfort food!

And guess what! Christy is SO generous, she is offering one lucky EMM fan a chance to win Come Home To Supper!!! But I think it would also make a wonderful gift for any home cook on your shopping list this holiday season, so you can also find it on Amazon. 

Be sure to check Christy out on her website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram too! 

*TO ENTER GIVEAWAY* Leave a comment telling me why you want to add this cookbook to your collection. (1) Comment per person. Contest Ends Nov. 4, 2013

Disclaimer: I was given a free cookbook in exchange for this review. Plus one for a giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Flavor Your Milk {A Review of Sweet Drops}

Do your kids love flavored milk? But you don't like the added sugar and calories it sometimes has? Then what I'm about to introduce you to is going to make for happy kids...and happy parents!

SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia^® Sweet Drops™  offer kids the flavored milk they crave without extra calories, sugar, fat and sodium.  

Available in more than 20 flavors, including the favorite Chocolate, but also including Vanilla Creme' and Strawberry. (We can tell you first hand the Chocolate is outstanding!!) Kid tested and Mom approved, these are the perfect way to let kids have fun flavoring their milk without any guilt or worry. 

With zero calories, zero carbs and zero glycemic index, SweetLeaf Stevia is ideal for keeping kids drinking milk without increasing calories. The stevia with the most global taste awards, including two specifically for Chocolate Sweet Drops, SweetLeaf has no bitter aftertaste. This means there is no need to add sodium, fats or sugars to mask the taste, as is often done with milk containing low-calorie sweeteners.

Just as important to moms, SweetLeaf is completely free of the artificial sweeteners that have raised alarm among parents and nutrition experts. It is made only from organic, non-GMO stevia extract and natural flavors – so kids get the nutrition their growing bodies need, and nothing else.

Available at grocery and natural food stores nationwide, Sweet Drops™ are the new best friend to a tall, cold glass of milk. Your kids will flip for all the fun and yummy flavors, and you will be thrilled to know they aren't getting extra sugar and calories...two things that aren't supposed to come with milk!

Do your kids love flavored milk? But you don't like the added sugar and calories it sometimes has? Then what I'm about to introduce you to is going to make for happy kids...and happy parents!

SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia^® Sweet Drops™  offer kids the flavored milk they crave without extra calories, sugar, fat and sodium.  

Available in more than 20 flavors, including the favorite Chocolate, but also including Vanilla Creme' and Strawberry. (We can tell you first hand the Chocolate is outstanding!!) Kid tested and Mom approved, these are the perfect way to let kids have fun flavoring their milk without any guilt or worry. 

With zero calories, zero carbs and zero glycemic index, SweetLeaf Stevia is ideal for keeping kids drinking milk without increasing calories. The stevia with the most global taste awards, including two specifically for Chocolate Sweet Drops, SweetLeaf has no bitter aftertaste. This means there is no need to add sodium, fats or sugars to mask the taste, as is often done with milk containing low-calorie sweeteners.

Just as important to moms, SweetLeaf is completely free of the artificial sweeteners that have raised alarm among parents and nutrition experts. It is made only from organic, non-GMO stevia extract and natural flavors – so kids get the nutrition their growing bodies need, and nothing else.

Available at grocery and natural food stores nationwide, Sweet Drops™ are the new best friend to a tall, cold glass of milk. Your kids will flip for all the fun and yummy flavors, and you will be thrilled to know they aren't getting extra sugar and calories...two things that aren't supposed to come with milk!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Put Away the Foil and Plastic Wrap {A Review of Plate Topper}

Do you have a bunch of leftovers sitting in your fridge right now, covered in either foil, plastic wrap, or both? Do you get frustrated when they don't stay fresh the way you wish they would? Do you wish there was a more economical, not to mention, eco-friendly, way to store leftovers? Well, now there is thanks to PlateTopper!

The world's first airtight container that works with your plates at home, PlateTopper eliminates the need for a dirty dish and keeps food fresh with a genius silicone seal placed over the plate that is was served on. Instant food storage! Go right from the table to the fridge! Simply press PlateTopper over a plate, locking it in place, and your leftovers will stay fresh and yummy.

Plus, you can take leftovers covered with the PlateTopper straight from the fridge to the microwave for reheating! And with it's unique pull tab release, it's easy and quick to remove too. I love being able to cover something on a plate, know it's going to stay fresh in the fridge, and then be able to reheat them when I need to...all without putting the food on a different plane, unwrapping it, etc. It saves me time, and money...two things I'm always look for more of!

PlateTopper is available in a variety of colors and is a practical and affordable gift idea for anyone. (Remember the holidays are right around the corner!) The convenient 10 inch size fits any standard dinner plate, including plastic, glass and ceramic plates, and even fits large wood cutting boards. There is also a 7.5 inch PlateTopper Mini that fits salad and snack plates.

Forget the hassle of plastic food storage bags, aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Get PlateTopper today and lock in freshness, and lock out bacteria for all of your food!

**From Oct. 21-24, You can purchase a PlateTopper Combo (one tall, one mini) for $11.99...down from $20. But how about a presale? You can actually get this fantastic deal, right now just by clicking here.**

Disclaimer: I was given free samples in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Do you have a bunch of leftovers sitting in your fridge right now, covered in either foil, plastic wrap, or both? Do you get frustrated when they don't stay fresh the way you wish they would? Do you wish there was a more economical, not to mention, eco-friendly, way to store leftovers? Well, now there is thanks to PlateTopper!

The world's first airtight container that works with your plates at home, PlateTopper eliminates the need for a dirty dish and keeps food fresh with a genius silicone seal placed over the plate that is was served on. Instant food storage! Go right from the table to the fridge! Simply press PlateTopper over a plate, locking it in place, and your leftovers will stay fresh and yummy.

Plus, you can take leftovers covered with the PlateTopper straight from the fridge to the microwave for reheating! And with it's unique pull tab release, it's easy and quick to remove too. I love being able to cover something on a plate, know it's going to stay fresh in the fridge, and then be able to reheat them when I need to...all without putting the food on a different plane, unwrapping it, etc. It saves me time, and money...two things I'm always look for more of!

PlateTopper is available in a variety of colors and is a practical and affordable gift idea for anyone. (Remember the holidays are right around the corner!) The convenient 10 inch size fits any standard dinner plate, including plastic, glass and ceramic plates, and even fits large wood cutting boards. There is also a 7.5 inch PlateTopper Mini that fits salad and snack plates.

Forget the hassle of plastic food storage bags, aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Get PlateTopper today and lock in freshness, and lock out bacteria for all of your food!

**From Oct. 21-24, You can purchase a PlateTopper Combo (one tall, one mini) for $11.99...down from $20. But how about a presale? You can actually get this fantastic deal, right now just by clicking here.**

Disclaimer: I was given free samples in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Gluten Free Game Day {A Review of Blue Diamond}

I love a good cracker. It must be crispy. It must have fantastic flavor. And if I choose, it must be the perfect texture to hold whatever dip or topping I choose. But for all of my gluten-free friends out there, this might not be the easiest thing to find. But thanks to Blue Diamond's new line of Artisan Nut Thins.

Thanks to the added nutrition of of beneficial seeds, Artisan Nut Thins are a cracker that you can feel good about eating! Made from brown rice, almonds and seeds, they are deliciously versatile and free of wheat and gluten.

Available in 3 yummy varieties, Multi Seeds, Flax Seed, and Sesame Seed, one is more tasty than the next. For me, my favorite was the Sesame, but that's only because I'm such a sesame seed fan. I thought all of them were delicious. They are crispy, flavorful, and hold up to dipping very well. In fact, I can't wait to try this Avocado Bean Dip from Blue Diamond at our next party!

Or use them in a completely unique application with these Nutty Ranch Chicken Tenders! The kids will love them! And you will love feeding them something you know isn't filled with a lot of ingredients you can't pronounce, but instead nutrients!

If you are looking for a new cracker to bring home, especially if you are a GF family, look for Blue Diamond Artisan Nut Things today. But honestly, even if you aren't gluten free, they are a scrumptious new snack!!

Disclaimer: I received free samples in exchange for this review. All thoughts, opinions and experiences are my own. 

I love a good cracker. It must be crispy. It must have fantastic flavor. And if I choose, it must be the perfect texture to hold whatever dip or topping I choose. But for all of my gluten-free friends out there, this might not be the easiest thing to find. But thanks to Blue Diamond's new line of Artisan Nut Thins.

Thanks to the added nutrition of of beneficial seeds, Artisan Nut Thins are a cracker that you can feel good about eating! Made from brown rice, almonds and seeds, they are deliciously versatile and free of wheat and gluten.

Available in 3 yummy varieties, Multi Seeds, Flax Seed, and Sesame Seed, one is more tasty than the next. For me, my favorite was the Sesame, but that's only because I'm such a sesame seed fan. I thought all of them were delicious. They are crispy, flavorful, and hold up to dipping very well. In fact, I can't wait to try this Avocado Bean Dip from Blue Diamond at our next party!

Or use them in a completely unique application with these Nutty Ranch Chicken Tenders! The kids will love them! And you will love feeding them something you know isn't filled with a lot of ingredients you can't pronounce, but instead nutrients!

If you are looking for a new cracker to bring home, especially if you are a GF family, look for Blue Diamond Artisan Nut Things today. But honestly, even if you aren't gluten free, they are a scrumptious new snack!!

Disclaimer: I received free samples in exchange for this review. All thoughts, opinions and experiences are my own. 

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Nutrition On The Go {A Review of Del Monte® Fruit Squeezers}

For busy moms and dads, there is nothing more important than finding healthy snacks for the little ones, while on the go, making sure they still get energy to fuel their busy little bodies. And now, Del Monte® has a brand new way of making sure it's both easy and yummy!

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.

Available at your local Walmart, these make a great snack, or even addition to a packed lunch box. They are something easy and delicious that you can feel good about giving them, any time of the day. 

As you can see, Alex is a huge fan of them. He has loved every flavor he has tried, one more than the next. They are super easy for in the car, or I can even put one in my purse. I love the fact I can keep them in the fridge, and he can grab one whenever he wants a snack.

Here is a little more info on all the varieties available: 

                Fruit + Veggie Varieties:

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.

Simply Fruit Varieties:

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.

For more info, be sure to check out Del Monte® on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter too.

And right now, the great folks at Del Monte® are offering one lucky EMM reader a $50 Walmart Gift Card!!! That's right, one of you is going to walk away with $50 bucks to spend at Walmart!! It's easy to enter, easy to win. Here is how:

********Giveaway********

Rules:

1. This contest is open to US Residents 18 and older ONLY.

2. The winner will be chosen by Random.org 

3. The winner will be notified by email. He/she will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. I will then pass on your address to the sponsor for shipping.

4. When leaving comments for entries, they MUST BE SEPARATE ones AND include an email address so it's easy for me to find the winner. If entries are together, it will only count as (1) and if no email, entry will not be considered.

5. If any of the extra entries are items you are already doing, please just remind me!

6. Contest Ends: Monday October 21, 2013

Mandatory Entry:

1. Leave a comment telling me which Fruit Squeezer you think your kids would love. 

Extra Entries:

1. Follow Del Monte on Facebook. Leave a comment when you have.

2. Follow Del Monte on Twitter. Leave a comment when you have.

That's up to 3 entries per person!

Good Luck!

Disclaimer:  The Del Monte products, information, gift pack, and gift card have been provided by Del Monte.

For busy moms and dads, there is nothing more important than finding healthy snacks for the little ones, while on the go, making sure they still get energy to fuel their busy little bodies. And now, Del Monte® has a brand new way of making sure it's both easy and yummy!

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.

Available at your local Walmart, these make a great snack, or even addition to a packed lunch box. They are something easy and delicious that you can feel good about giving them, any time of the day. 

As you can see, Alex is a huge fan of them. He has loved every flavor he has tried, one more than the next. They are super easy for in the car, or I can even put one in my purse. I love the fact I can keep them in the fridge, and he can grab one whenever he wants a snack.

Here is a little more info on all the varieties available: 

                Fruit + Veggie Varieties:

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.

Simply Fruit Varieties:

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.

For more info, be sure to check out Del Monte® on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter too.

And right now, the great folks at Del Monte® are offering one lucky EMM reader a $50 Walmart Gift Card!!! That's right, one of you is going to walk away with $50 bucks to spend at Walmart!! It's easy to enter, easy to win. Here is how:

********Giveaway********

Rules:

1. This contest is open to US Residents 18 and older ONLY.

2. The winner will be chosen by Random.org 

3. The winner will be notified by email. He/she will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. I will then pass on your address to the sponsor for shipping.

4. When leaving comments for entries, they MUST BE SEPARATE ones AND include an email address so it's easy for me to find the winner. If entries are together, it will only count as (1) and if no email, entry will not be considered.

5. If any of the extra entries are items you are already doing, please just remind me!

6. Contest Ends: Monday October 21, 2013

Mandatory Entry:

1. Leave a comment telling me which Fruit Squeezer you think your kids would love. 

Extra Entries:

1. Follow Del Monte on Facebook. Leave a comment when you have.

2. Follow Del Monte on Twitter. Leave a comment when you have.

That's up to 3 entries per person!

Good Luck!

Disclaimer:  The Del Monte products, information, gift pack, and gift card have been provided by Del Monte.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Halloween With Zak {A Review and Giveaway}

Only a little over two weeks before the ghouls, goblins and witches descend on your neighborhood on Halloween night. And if your house is the "place to be" or you are planning a fun, festive party, Zak is here to help!

Nothing sets the stage for a "ghoulishly" good time like festive serveware, and the Halloween set from Zak was put together with you, the host/hostess in mind, making sure all your bases are covered.

The set includes an orange Flare serve bowl, perfect for salads, chips, pretzels or candy, black MeeMee serve tray, perfect for carrying beverages, or simply displaying them, and an orange Surprise spoon, sure to make your guests smile!

I can tell you after using this exact set in my kitchen, it's perfect for parties! I love being able to carry beverages from one spot to another easily, without spilling. And the bowl is the perfect place for Halloween candy. My favorite part is without a doubt, the spoon. It's the perfect thing to stir all my "witches' brews" on the stove top, and is super cute too!

Get ready for your big, spooky party with a little help from Zak! This set in your kitchen not only looks festive, but is absolutely 100% functional as well!

And now, my great friends at Zak are giving you a chance to WIN this very set for your home too!
One lucky EMM reader will walk away with this very set, mailed right to your door step.

** Leave me a comment telling me the one food or treat you have to have at a Halloween party! Be sure to include a valid email address so I can find you. Contest ends Oct. 19, 2013**

Disclaimer: I was given one set to review, and the change to give another away. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

Only a little over two weeks before the ghouls, goblins and witches descend on your neighborhood on Halloween night. And if your house is the "place to be" or you are planning a fun, festive party, Zak is here to help!

Nothing sets the stage for a "ghoulishly" good time like festive serveware, and the Halloween set from Zak was put together with you, the host/hostess in mind, making sure all your bases are covered.

The set includes an orange Flare serve bowl, perfect for salads, chips, pretzels or candy, black MeeMee serve tray, perfect for carrying beverages, or simply displaying them, and an orange Surprise spoon, sure to make your guests smile!

I can tell you after using this exact set in my kitchen, it's perfect for parties! I love being able to carry beverages from one spot to another easily, without spilling. And the bowl is the perfect place for Halloween candy. My favorite part is without a doubt, the spoon. It's the perfect thing to stir all my "witches' brews" on the stove top, and is super cute too!

Get ready for your big, spooky party with a little help from Zak! This set in your kitchen not only looks festive, but is absolutely 100% functional as well!

And now, my great friends at Zak are giving you a chance to WIN this very set for your home too!
One lucky EMM reader will walk away with this very set, mailed right to your door step.

** Leave me a comment telling me the one food or treat you have to have at a Halloween party! Be sure to include a valid email address so I can find you. Contest ends Oct. 19, 2013**

Disclaimer: I was given one set to review, and the change to give another away. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Fresh Produce At Your Door {A Review of Green BEAN Delivery}

Do you love fresh fruits and vegetables? Do you struggle finding exactly what you want, or the quality you crave in your grocery store produce section? Do you like supporting local farmers? If you answered yes to all of these questions, and live in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky or Missouri...then I've got the answer for you...Green BEAN Delivery!

"Green BEAN Delivery is a year-round delivery service that brings the freshest local and organic produce and natural groceries right to your doorstep! You are able to customize your orders online, so you get exactly what you want (this is my favorite part!) and with their easy, flexible risk-free membership, you can do it with peace of mind. It truly is an affordable, convenient, and fun way for the whole family to eat healthy!" ~From their website

I had heard of Green BEAN Delivery through a few friends who were already signed up and loving their weekly deliveries, so I was so excited to try it for myself. Upon creating my membership, I was prompted to choose the size of bin I wanted. Now, I was offered the Small Produce bin (a $35 value), but for others families there is a Medium Produce, a Fruit Only, a Large Produce, and a Fruit, Vegetable and Grocery Bin. So, many options depending on the size of your family and budget.

You can also choose if you want your bin delivered weekly, or every other, which I think is super smart of them, because if you're paying for these beautiful fruits and veggies, you want to make sure you are able to use them without them going bad before you get more.

Once your membership is set up, and your bin selection is made, they actually send you an email reminder the week before your scheduled delivery, allowing you 2-3 days to customize your order. For example my delivery was set for October 4th, so I got an email on the Friday before and had until that Monday to customize and decide what I wanted. I could switch out things I didn't think I would use, I could change quantities, and their online system kept track of everything, making sure I had enough, but not too much for the bin size I chose.

I was SO excited to see that green bin on my front stoop when I came home that Friday, and boy they did not disappoint! It was full of exactly what I asked for, and everything was so fresh, beautiful and mouth watering!

Included in my bin:

1 Fresh Pineapple

1 small bag Mini Peppers

2 pounds Green Beans

4 Ears Corn

1 pound Organic Green Grapes

2 Acorn Squash

1 Medium Onion

1 box Mini Cucumbers

4 Pears

Isn't that an amazing sight? Wouldn't you love for that to be brought right to your front door? And I can tell you every single item tasted as great as it looked. Those green beans were the most delicious ones I've ever had, hands down. My husband raved about the pineapple, and the acorn squash and onion turned into a yummy fall recipe I will be sharing with ya'll soon! 

If you are trying to get your kids to appreciate, enjoy and eat more fresh fruits and veggies, I think this would be a fantastic way to help. From helping choose what comes in the bin, to watching for the delivery each week, to unpacking it, to setting out the empty bin the next week (Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, they pick up the empty bins and packing materials too!) kids would get such a kick out of the whole process!

Want more info? Want to know if Green BEAN Delivery is available in your area? Check them out online, on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. 

Plus...The wonderful folks at Green BEAN Delivery are offering 15% off your first order!! Use coupon code: 15EMMml when ordering! (For new members and reactivations only. Expires one week from today!)

*Disclaimer* I was provided with a free bin in exchange for this review. All thoughts, opinions, and experiences are my own.

Do you love fresh fruits and vegetables? Do you struggle finding exactly what you want, or the quality you crave in your grocery store produce section? Do you like supporting local farmers? If you answered yes to all of these questions, and live in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky or Missouri...then I've got the answer for you...Green BEAN Delivery!

"Green BEAN Delivery is a year-round delivery service that brings the freshest local and organic produce and natural groceries right to your doorstep! You are able to customize your orders online, so you get exactly what you want (this is my favorite part!) and with their easy, flexible risk-free membership, you can do it with peace of mind. It truly is an affordable, convenient, and fun way for the whole family to eat healthy!" ~From their website

I had heard of Green BEAN Delivery through a few friends who were already signed up and loving their weekly deliveries, so I was so excited to try it for myself. Upon creating my membership, I was prompted to choose the size of bin I wanted. Now, I was offered the Small Produce bin (a $35 value), but for others families there is a Medium Produce, a Fruit Only, a Large Produce, and a Fruit, Vegetable and Grocery Bin. So, many options depending on the size of your family and budget.

You can also choose if you want your bin delivered weekly, or every other, which I think is super smart of them, because if you're paying for these beautiful fruits and veggies, you want to make sure you are able to use them without them going bad before you get more.

Once your membership is set up, and your bin selection is made, they actually send you an email reminder the week before your scheduled delivery, allowing you 2-3 days to customize your order. For example my delivery was set for October 4th, so I got an email on the Friday before and had until that Monday to customize and decide what I wanted. I could switch out things I didn't think I would use, I could change quantities, and their online system kept track of everything, making sure I had enough, but not too much for the bin size I chose.

I was SO excited to see that green bin on my front stoop when I came home that Friday, and boy they did not disappoint! It was full of exactly what I asked for, and everything was so fresh, beautiful and mouth watering!

Included in my bin:

1 Fresh Pineapple

1 small bag Mini Peppers

2 pounds Green Beans

4 Ears Corn

1 pound Organic Green Grapes

2 Acorn Squash

1 Medium Onion

1 box Mini Cucumbers

4 Pears

Isn't that an amazing sight? Wouldn't you love for that to be brought right to your front door? And I can tell you every single item tasted as great as it looked. Those green beans were the most delicious ones I've ever had, hands down. My husband raved about the pineapple, and the acorn squash and onion turned into a yummy fall recipe I will be sharing with ya'll soon! 

If you are trying to get your kids to appreciate, enjoy and eat more fresh fruits and veggies, I think this would be a fantastic way to help. From helping choose what comes in the bin, to watching for the delivery each week, to unpacking it, to setting out the empty bin the next week (Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, they pick up the empty bins and packing materials too!) kids would get such a kick out of the whole process!

Want more info? Want to know if Green BEAN Delivery is available in your area? Check them out online, on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. 

Plus...The wonderful folks at Green BEAN Delivery are offering 15% off your first order!! Use coupon code: 15EMMml when ordering! (For new members and reactivations only. Expires one week from today!)

*Disclaimer* I was provided with a free bin in exchange for this review. All thoughts, opinions, and experiences are my own.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Indiana Made {A Review of Hurst Beans}

I am so excited to not only be bringing a fantastic recipe, perfect for fall, to you today, but also a company and their products from right here in my home state of Indiana, Hurst Beans!

The N.K. Hurst Company was established as a family business in 1938 beginning a long history in the food business with the trading and distribution of sugar. Since 1948, the Hurst name is recognized as being a first quality packager of dry edible beans; and the company is still proudly owned and operated by 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation Hurst families!!! 

This is my favorite thing about this company. Sure, the beans are tasty and easy to use, and make a fantastic meal your family will love, but knowing they are coming from a truly family owned and operated business, doing things the right way for the past 75 years is simply too hard to come by in today's world not to be appreciated, admired and respected. 

Now I am going to be completely honest with you. I have passed Hurst packaged dry beans in the supermarket a thousand times. Heck, I've probably bought a package or two, and I never knew they were being made a mere 2 hours from me in Indianapolis. So, you can imagine my excitement when I was given the opportunity to do this review.

The folks at Hurst were kind enough to send me a few varieties of their beans to try, but the minute I opened the box I knew exactly which one I was going to cook with first. The 15 Bean Soup Mix. 

Why? Because this is the one I know with a shadow of a doubt I've seen in my stores before. In fact, I even watched someone cook with them about a year ago. Oh, and let's not forget the assortment of beans you can see just by glancing at the package. That means flavor like no other! 

Plus, I found this super easy recipe on their website, that utilized my favorite friend in the kitchen, my Crock Pot! 

I made this soup on a chilly day when I knew we would be busy all day long, and I wanted supper waiting to fill us up, and warm us up...Oh did it ever!! This has deep, rich, flavor that your family will love. And, it is a no soak method...making it even easier! 

If you don't know what foods and products are coming out of your state, please do some research and find out! Locally made products are so much fun to experience, and in this case, so delicious too! You can find Hurst Beans on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for more information, tips and recipes. 

Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup From Hurst Beans

1 package Hurst Beans 15 Bean Soup Mix

1 lb. smoked sausage, chopped

8 c. water

1 large onion, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp. red pepper flake

1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes 

Juice of 1 lemon

NO SOAK METHOD. Sort and rinse beans. Drain. Place in Crock Pot with 8 cups water, sausage, red pepper, onion and garlic. Cook on HIGH for 5 hours, or until beans are tender. Stir in tomatoes, flavoring packet from bean mix, and lemon juice. Cook for 30 additional minutes and keep warm until ready to serve. *NOTE* Make sure you don't add the tomatoes until the beans are tender. The acid in them will not allow the beans to become tender if added too soon. 

Shared on The Country Cook Oct. 11, 2013

Soup at Very Good Recipes

*Disclaimer* I was provided with free product in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I am so excited to not only be bringing a fantastic recipe, perfect for fall, to you today, but also a company and their products from right here in my home state of Indiana, Hurst Beans!

The N.K. Hurst Company was established as a family business in 1938 beginning a long history in the food business with the trading and distribution of sugar. Since 1948, the Hurst name is recognized as being a first quality packager of dry edible beans; and the company is still proudly owned and operated by 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation Hurst families!!! 

This is my favorite thing about this company. Sure, the beans are tasty and easy to use, and make a fantastic meal your family will love, but knowing they are coming from a truly family owned and operated business, doing things the right way for the past 75 years is simply too hard to come by in today's world not to be appreciated, admired and respected. 

Now I am going to be completely honest with you. I have passed Hurst packaged dry beans in the supermarket a thousand times. Heck, I've probably bought a package or two, and I never knew they were being made a mere 2 hours from me in Indianapolis. So, you can imagine my excitement when I was given the opportunity to do this review.

The folks at Hurst were kind enough to send me a few varieties of their beans to try, but the minute I opened the box I knew exactly which one I was going to cook with first. The 15 Bean Soup Mix. 

Why? Because this is the one I know with a shadow of a doubt I've seen in my stores before. In fact, I even watched someone cook with them about a year ago. Oh, and let's not forget the assortment of beans you can see just by glancing at the package. That means flavor like no other! 

Plus, I found this super easy recipe on their website, that utilized my favorite friend in the kitchen, my Crock Pot! 

I made this soup on a chilly day when I knew we would be busy all day long, and I wanted supper waiting to fill us up, and warm us up...Oh did it ever!! This has deep, rich, flavor that your family will love. And, it is a no soak method...making it even easier! 

If you don't know what foods and products are coming out of your state, please do some research and find out! Locally made products are so much fun to experience, and in this case, so delicious too! You can find Hurst Beans on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for more information, tips and recipes. 

Crock Pot 15 Bean Soup From Hurst Beans

1 package Hurst Beans 15 Bean Soup Mix

1 lb. smoked sausage, chopped

8 c. water

1 large onion, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp. red pepper flake

1 (15 oz.) can diced tomatoes 

Juice of 1 lemon

NO SOAK METHOD. Sort and rinse beans. Drain. Place in Crock Pot with 8 cups water, sausage, red pepper, onion and garlic. Cook on HIGH for 5 hours, or until beans are tender. Stir in tomatoes, flavoring packet from bean mix, and lemon juice. Cook for 30 additional minutes and keep warm until ready to serve. *NOTE* Make sure you don't add the tomatoes until the beans are tender. The acid in them will not allow the beans to become tender if added too soon. 

Shared on The Country Cook Oct. 11, 2013

Soup at Very Good Recipes

*Disclaimer* I was provided with free product in exchange for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Get A Twist On Tradition {Review of Macy's Cheesesticks}

Crunchy. Sweet. Savory. Three things our taste buds crave on a daily basis. And rather it's just for snacking in front of the tv, or finding things to offer party guests, these are characteristics we all look for in snacks or appetizers. So in that spirit, I'm going to introduce you to John Wm. Macy CheeseSticks.

For three decades, John Macy has been perfecting the art of the perfect crunch. From small beginnings in his NYC apartment, to a 50,000 square foot snack factory in New Jersey, John developed his now famous savory, twisted breadstick by combining multiple layers of of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh sourdough, hand-twisting strips of the layered dough and baking it twice for a satisfying crunch that is full of texture and flavor.

With layers of sourdough and aged cheeses, John Wm. Macy’s CheeseSticks offer a superior alternative to the traditional breadstick. While the Original Cheddar CheeseSticks, made with a blend of aged Asiago and sharp Cheddar cheeses, seasoned with cayenne butter, was John’s first product and remains the company’s bestseller, John Wm. Macy’s has expanded the gourmet product line to include four additional savory CheeseSticks varieties including Romano Garlic, Dijon Swiss, Cheddar & Scallion and Melting Parmesan.

Having mastered the craft of making cheesy snacks, John Wm. Macy's, welcomed his line of SweetSticks in 1995. These crunchy, twisted, twice-baked snack sticks come in three enticing flavors including Java Cinnamon, Bourbon Vanilla and Dutch Chocolate. Made from thin layers of fresh sourdough and interwoven with the sweetness of chocolate, vanilla or cinnamon, this trans fat–free twist makes for a perfect afternoon bite or a light dessert.

I'm here to tell you, each and every flavor I have tried was more tasty than the next. Rich cheese flavor, with amazing crunch, I loved the Dijon Swiss the most (from that savory line that is.) And for a quick sweet treat, the Java Cinnamon can't be beat! 

Always all-natural and hand-rolled, CheeseSticks and SweetSticks are available through the Company’s online store in 4oz. 3-pack ($10.99), 6-pack ($19.99) and 12-pack ($35.99) retail boxes, as well as specialty gift tins starting at $13.99.

So the next time you're looking for something crunchy, something savory, or something sweet, for a little nosh for yourself, your family, or even for your next party, remember the great, delicious snacks from John Wm. Macy!

*Disclaimer* I was provided with free product for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Crunchy. Sweet. Savory. Three things our taste buds crave on a daily basis. And rather it's just for snacking in front of the tv, or finding things to offer party guests, these are characteristics we all look for in snacks or appetizers. So in that spirit, I'm going to introduce you to John Wm. Macy CheeseSticks.

For three decades, John Macy has been perfecting the art of the perfect crunch. From small beginnings in his NYC apartment, to a 50,000 square foot snack factory in New Jersey, John developed his now famous savory, twisted breadstick by combining multiple layers of of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh sourdough, hand-twisting strips of the layered dough and baking it twice for a satisfying crunch that is full of texture and flavor.

With layers of sourdough and aged cheeses, John Wm. Macy’s CheeseSticks offer a superior alternative to the traditional breadstick. While the Original Cheddar CheeseSticks, made with a blend of aged Asiago and sharp Cheddar cheeses, seasoned with cayenne butter, was John’s first product and remains the company’s bestseller, John Wm. Macy’s has expanded the gourmet product line to include four additional savory CheeseSticks varieties including Romano Garlic, Dijon Swiss, Cheddar & Scallion and Melting Parmesan.

Having mastered the craft of making cheesy snacks, John Wm. Macy's, welcomed his line of SweetSticks in 1995. These crunchy, twisted, twice-baked snack sticks come in three enticing flavors including Java Cinnamon, Bourbon Vanilla and Dutch Chocolate. Made from thin layers of fresh sourdough and interwoven with the sweetness of chocolate, vanilla or cinnamon, this trans fat–free twist makes for a perfect afternoon bite or a light dessert.

I'm here to tell you, each and every flavor I have tried was more tasty than the next. Rich cheese flavor, with amazing crunch, I loved the Dijon Swiss the most (from that savory line that is.) And for a quick sweet treat, the Java Cinnamon can't be beat! 

Always all-natural and hand-rolled, CheeseSticks and SweetSticks are available through the Company’s online store in 4oz. 3-pack ($10.99), 6-pack ($19.99) and 12-pack ($35.99) retail boxes, as well as specialty gift tins starting at $13.99.

So the next time you're looking for something crunchy, something savory, or something sweet, for a little nosh for yourself, your family, or even for your next party, remember the great, delicious snacks from John Wm. Macy!

*Disclaimer* I was provided with free product for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Modernize Your Dining Experience {A Review of Knork Flatware}

Most of us probably don't pay much attention to the flatware we use every day in our home during our meals. For most of us, as long as it gets the food from our plates to our mouths, we're okay with how it looks and feels. But that is about to change, with Knork Flatware.

Founded by Michael D. Miller, Knork Flatware was formed with a hope and vision of creating and producing products to aid in the chaos of today's on-the-go society. Knork seeks to enhance the dining experience by integrating a fork with the functionality of a knife built in. This concept has modernized flatware, producing the flatware of today...and tomorrow.

Knork Flatware has proven to be a dinner plate's best companion and ultimate game changer for the art of dining. Once you wrap your hand around a knork you'll wonder how you ever had dinner without one. We are talking about stainless steel flatware that is dishwasher safe! 

The Knork Flatware set also features the finger platform and balanced design so that each piece in the setting is slightly heavier than your average flatware, creating a more stable, balanced utensil.  Its smooth contoured handles are highlighted with a beautiful matte or glossy finish, adding a stylish addition to your table.  

Used in many acclaimed restaurants around the country, Knork can now also be seen on this season of  Bravo's Top Chef premiering Oct. 2, 2013!

So, add some function and style to your dinner table today with Knork Flatware, your hands will be so happy you did!

*Disclaimer* I was provide with free product for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Most of us probably don't pay much attention to the flatware we use every day in our home during our meals. For most of us, as long as it gets the food from our plates to our mouths, we're okay with how it looks and feels. But that is about to change, with Knork Flatware.

Founded by Michael D. Miller, Knork Flatware was formed with a hope and vision of creating and producing products to aid in the chaos of today's on-the-go society. Knork seeks to enhance the dining experience by integrating a fork with the functionality of a knife built in. This concept has modernized flatware, producing the flatware of today...and tomorrow.

Knork Flatware has proven to be a dinner plate's best companion and ultimate game changer for the art of dining. Once you wrap your hand around a knork you'll wonder how you ever had dinner without one. We are talking about stainless steel flatware that is dishwasher safe! 

The Knork Flatware set also features the finger platform and balanced design so that each piece in the setting is slightly heavier than your average flatware, creating a more stable, balanced utensil.  Its smooth contoured handles are highlighted with a beautiful matte or glossy finish, adding a stylish addition to your table.  

Used in many acclaimed restaurants around the country, Knork can now also be seen on this season of  Bravo's Top Chef premiering Oct. 2, 2013!

So, add some function and style to your dinner table today with Knork Flatware, your hands will be so happy you did!

*Disclaimer* I was provide with free product for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Gluten Free Recipes For Anyone {A Review of The Warm Kitchen}

I love cookbooks. I can flip through them, gazing at the pictures, drooling the whole time, reading each recipe, lost in the pages the same way I can get with a good novel. However,  I realize that for those out there with special diets, sometimes finding cookbooks they can enjoy is a harder task. But now there is a new cookbook on the block the makes eating gluten-free easy and delicious!

The Warm Kitchen: Gluten Free Recipes Anyone Can Make and Everyone Will Love by Amy Fothergill,  author of The Family Chef blog, is not just a cookbook-- it is so much more! Filled with 150 tasty recipes with dairy and egg substitutions, Amy has also included tips, techniques, and step by step instructions too.

So many people are choosing to live a gluten-free lifestyle, both because they find it beneficial, and because of necessity for health reasons. But eating gluten-free does not have to mean eating taste free. And in this book, the mystery is taken out of cooking gluten-free. Amy totally disproves cooking without gluten is challenging or unappetizing. From breakfast to dessert--with soups, salads, main and side dishes, and breads in between, these recipes feature real ingredients and easy to follow instructions that results in delicious meals the whole family will love. Plus, with the use of her single, easy-to-mix, gluten free flour bend, home cooks can create favorites such as bagels, fresh breads, chicken pot pie, pizza, doughnuts, cupcakes and more.

Just look at these two recipes I can not wait to try! 

Lemon Caper Sauce

I can just taste this over some grilled chicken or broiled fish. I love the flavor of lemon and capers together. 

Italian Lentil Soup

Coming home after a long cold day, this soup would warm you up and fill you up at the same time. All while being scrumptious in a bowl!

Amy understands cooking for multiple food allergies and also includes excellent substitutions for dairy, eggs and sugar. Her number one goal is that home cooks are as successful as she has been with creating dishes for any occasion any day of the week. She says "When you open up The Warm Kitchen, I want you to feel like you have come into my kitchen; the warmth comes from both the oven as well as my heart." 

If you are struggling to cook for you family's special dietary needs, this book is the perfect guide for you. Let Amy come into your kitchen and show you just how easy and tasty a gluten-free lifestyle can be. Or, with the holidays coming sooner than you think, if you have someone on your gift list that is GF, this would make a fantastic gift, showing them you understand and support their eating choices. 

Bring The Warm Kitchen into your kitchen, or a loved one's kitchen today. And fill your table with yummy, family friendly, gluten-free meals day after day!

*Disclaimer* I was provided with a free cookbook for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I love cookbooks. I can flip through them, gazing at the pictures, drooling the whole time, reading each recipe, lost in the pages the same way I can get with a good novel. However,  I realize that for those out there with special diets, sometimes finding cookbooks they can enjoy is a harder task. But now there is a new cookbook on the block the makes eating gluten-free easy and delicious!

The Warm Kitchen: Gluten Free Recipes Anyone Can Make and Everyone Will Love by Amy Fothergill,  author of The Family Chef blog, is not just a cookbook-- it is so much more! Filled with 150 tasty recipes with dairy and egg substitutions, Amy has also included tips, techniques, and step by step instructions too.

So many people are choosing to live a gluten-free lifestyle, both because they find it beneficial, and because of necessity for health reasons. But eating gluten-free does not have to mean eating taste free. And in this book, the mystery is taken out of cooking gluten-free. Amy totally disproves cooking without gluten is challenging or unappetizing. From breakfast to dessert--with soups, salads, main and side dishes, and breads in between, these recipes feature real ingredients and easy to follow instructions that results in delicious meals the whole family will love. Plus, with the use of her single, easy-to-mix, gluten free flour bend, home cooks can create favorites such as bagels, fresh breads, chicken pot pie, pizza, doughnuts, cupcakes and more.

Just look at these two recipes I can not wait to try! 

Lemon Caper Sauce

I can just taste this over some grilled chicken or broiled fish. I love the flavor of lemon and capers together. 

Italian Lentil Soup

Coming home after a long cold day, this soup would warm you up and fill you up at the same time. All while being scrumptious in a bowl!

Amy understands cooking for multiple food allergies and also includes excellent substitutions for dairy, eggs and sugar. Her number one goal is that home cooks are as successful as she has been with creating dishes for any occasion any day of the week. She says "When you open up The Warm Kitchen, I want you to feel like you have come into my kitchen; the warmth comes from both the oven as well as my heart." 

If you are struggling to cook for you family's special dietary needs, this book is the perfect guide for you. Let Amy come into your kitchen and show you just how easy and tasty a gluten-free lifestyle can be. Or, with the holidays coming sooner than you think, if you have someone on your gift list that is GF, this would make a fantastic gift, showing them you understand and support their eating choices. 

Bring The Warm Kitchen into your kitchen, or a loved one's kitchen today. And fill your table with yummy, family friendly, gluten-free meals day after day!

*Disclaimer* I was provided with a free cookbook for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

reade more... Résuméabuiyad