food « The Bragging Mommy

Brag Worthy Christmas ~ Sweet Tomatoes & Souplantation Take-Home Dishes for the Holidays ~ Cobbler Review

I absolutely love Sweet Tomatoes and they have a perfect new addition to their yummy menu. Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation Take-Home Dishes for the Holidays is the perfect way to share some yummy food with your family.

I was able to pick up the Georgia Peach take home cobbler and it was YUMMY! This year we spent Thanksgiving with my husbands family and I brought the cobbler to see what everyone thought of it. All I heard from his family (and from me) was how yummy it was! I loved that I could just pick it up and stick it in the fridge till I was ready to bake it. So so easy!

SAN DIEGO– NOVEMBER 8, 2011 – Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes, the restaurant leaders in all-you-care-to-eat, made-from-scratch foods, are helping customers nationwide entertain holiday guests more easily than ever this season. Starting this month, Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes restaurants will release 15 holiday take-home items – the largest retail release in the company’s history.

The new holiday take-home items follow the success of the take-and-bake Cranberry Apple Cobbler offered for the first time last year. “Our guests responded so favorably to the Cranberry Apple Cobbler last season that we believe there’s a demand for even more delicious, made-from-scratch holiday foods that don’t require endless hours in the kitchen,” said Joan Scharff, vice president of brand and menu strategy. “All year long, our culinary team has been busy in our test kitchen developing both savory side dishes and desserts for the bake-at-home items we’re featuring this year. We’re excited to hear our guests’ reactions to these seasonal side dishes and desserts as we think they are the perfect addition to holiday meals.”

Beginning Dec. 1 through Dec. 31, the following holiday take-home dishes will be available for ordering and pick-up:

·Smoked Turkey & Spinach Tossed Salad

·Turkey Chutney Pasta Salad

·Available cobbler varieties: Caramel Apple, Cranberry Apple, Georgia Peach, Mixed Berry & Apple, Tart Cherry and Orchard Apple

Holiday take-home items can be ordered over the phone, in the restaurants or online at http://souporders.serveronline.net/ordersoup/default.aspx.

For more information about how Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes are celebrating the holidays or to purchase gift cards, visit www.souplantation.comor www.sweettomatoes.com. Guests can also receive coupons and special news year round by joining Club Veg at http://www.souplantation.com/clubveg/, becoming a fan of Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes at www.facebook.com/souplantationand following them on Twitter at http://twitter.com/souplantation.

About Garden Fresh Restaurant Corp.:

Celebrating over 30 years, Garden Fresh Restaurant Corp. is a leader in the restaurant industry, having established a unique and successful business model for casual dining that has grown since 1978. The company’s chain of Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes restaurants now totals more than 120 salad buffet-style restaurants across the western, southern and eastern portions of the United States. Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes offer an exceptional, healthful dining experience with a daily selection of eight made-from-scratch soups and salads and hand-crafted muffins, pizza focaccia, breads and warm desserts. By combining high-quality, farm-fresh and scratch-made foods for a fixed price, the restaurants provide guests with the freedom to create their own unique meals. Garden Fresh restaurant concepts are built around fresh prepared, great-tasting recipes with a salad bar full of seasonal vegetables and tossed salads prepared exhibition-style every 20 minutes. Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes restaurants are open daily for lunch and dinner and also for a special Sunday breakfast that features a variety of delicious morning favorites in addition to regular selections. For more information about Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes restaurants visit www.souplantation.com or www.sweettomatoes.com.

These take home Dishes are perfect for any Holiday dinners you have coming up!

Sweet Tomatoes & Souplantation Take Home Dishes get Bragging Rights!

Briann November 30, 2011 christmas, family, food, holiday, review

Disney D-Delightful Living: Animate Your Daily Routine ~ Week 12: Fun at Family Meals

Serve up a nutritious portion of mealtime magic with the help of this week’s video challenge.

Having parents and kids on active schedules can take a toll on time together. So it’s important to reconnect over a fun family meal.

Try these tips to help create memorable fun family moments at mealtime:

Get everyone excited about dinner, have the whole family in the kitchen to help prepare dinner and talk about their day
Let your kids pick out a favorite dish – like chicken nuggets – that they will enjoy but you will feel good about serving

Enter now for a chance to win this week’s featured products and for the ultimate grand prize – a trip for four to a special Disney Magic of Healthy Living event at a Disney resort! See the official rules for more details.

What are some entertaining topics your family likes to delve into at dinnertime?

Perdue Chicken Nuggets

A classic kid favorite just got better with Perdue chicken nuggets! The nuggets, which come in Disney·Pixar Cars-inspired shapes, are a wholesome nutritious option for dinner that will excite the entire family.

Method Hand Soap

Method’s Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse-inspired hand wash comes in unique containers shaped like Disney’s most delightful power couple, and the foaming soap will leave the whole family feeling fresh and clean.

Kraft Macaroni & Cheese

Kraft Macaroni & Cheese is sure to disappear lightning fast when your kids get to enjoy it in fun Disney·Pixar Cars character shapes like Lightning McQueen! The fun cheesy classic will have kids begging for more!

Campbell’s Soups

As the weather cools, treat your kids to a warm bowl of Campbell’s soup with their favorite Disney characters on the label..

You can print out a chart to hang in your home and your kids can check off each day as they work to achieve the goal of Fun at Family Meals.

Check out the D-Lightful Living Facebook Page to see this weeks challenge, print out a chart for your home, see the products, and enter the weekly giveaway!

Heidi November 28, 2011 child, family, food

Brag Worthy Christmas ~ Sili Squeeze Pack Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

“It’s not a bottle

It is a squeeze intended for pureed foods such as applesauce, blended berries and veggie blends.

The Sili Squeeze™ was developed out of the desire to feed my growing baby nutritious food on the go whether in the car seat, stroller, or shopping cart. The squeeze is “mommy hands free”, so your little ones can squeeze themselves silly, without the mess and wastefulness of a disposable squeeze.

Sili Squeezers can emerge as young as six months, their individual ability to squeeze will vary from month to month as they grow. Once they have found their ‘squeeze’, the yummy possibilities are limitless”

I have super picky eaters- it’s a struggle to get them to eat fruits and veggies. However, when I discovered the new trend of pureed fruits and veggies in squeezable pouches, I tried them and my boys LOVED them! What a great way to get some nutrition in my kids that doesn’t involve begging or bribing? The only problem is, those squeezable pouches are UBER expensive. They are great once in a while, but this coupon clipping mama can’t justify it every day. That is, until I found The Sili Squeeze / reusable squeeze! I was/am SO excited about this product- it is a lifesaver for us. Now I can puree my own fruits and veggies, as well as buy more reasonably priced, even organic baby food, and “pouch” them myself. It’s great for applesauce and yogurt, and it’s easy to puree some fruit, and sneak in some veggies too. It’s great for toddler feeding, because it’s spill proof. The Sili Squeeze’s website has a great recipe page, so be sure to check that out. There is a little bit of a learning curve- the boys couldn’t quite get it at first, because you have to squeeze the nipple and the pouch, but once they figured it out they were good to go. I didn’t mind it taking a little bit, because that means no spill on my carpets! =) This product is high quality, and I know it will last a while. It’s so perfect for on-the-go! Even a lunchbox. Thanks Sili Squeeze, we love eating healthier, easier!

And guess what? “The Sili Company is working on the production of: The Sili Squeeze with Eeeze nipple spout, which is the second generation of nipple spouts for our original product the Sili Squeeze. Unlike the original Sili Squeeze nipple spout with its patent-pending, spill-proof design, the Sili Squeeze with Eeeze nipple spout has no resistance valve. The Sili Squeeze with Eeeze is no longer spill-proof like the original Sili Squeeze, however, this alternative nipple spout is perfect for children or persons of any age who require easy-to-use, resistance-free feeding in the form of purees and blends. The Sili Squeeze with Eeeze nipple spouts will be available for purchase in early 2012.”

Things that are Brag Worthy:

An easy, spill proof way for your kids to eat their favorite pureed foods!
Makes a great Christmas gift / Stocking Stuffer!
Great for on-the-go
Easy to clean- 100% dishwasher safe
BPA Free
They use use minimal packaging for our products and recyclable shipping materials. Our reusable products encourage the elimination of single-use, disposable products.
They have a great recipe page

Visit www.thesilisqueeze.com to learn more!

Sili Squeeze gets Bragging Rights!

Sili Squeeze is generously giving away a Sili Squeeze pack (4 and 6oz) to one lucky reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Sili Squeeze and let us know your favorite feature!

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- “Like” Sili Squeeze on Facebook
1 entry- Follow Sili Squeeze’s Blog
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Sili Squeeze onTwitter & Tweet this giveaway using @TheSiliSqueeze & @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win a Sili Squeeze pack (4 and 6oz) from @TheSiliSqueeze & @braggingmommy! http://tinyurl.com/7u9z98f {ends 12.7}

You can enter this giveaway until December 7 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Joanna November 23, 2011 food, giveaway, review, toddler

Create a Jolly Time Popcorn "Party Night" + Popcorn Prize Pack Giveaway [CLOSED]

JOLLY TIME Pop Corn is celebrating its new Facebook Page look and energy with a Family Fun Night

JOLLY TIME Pop Corn is America’s first branded popcorn. The 97 year old, family owned company is headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa and employs 175 people.

Mission:
Family time is tops! A lot of companies say it, but JOLLY TIME lives it. Five generations of the Smith family have been making JOLLY TIME since 1914 and pop corn is our only business! We take pride in making family time fun and promise JOLLY TIME will pop perfectly and taste great.

We all have busy lives, and sometimes it’s hard to fit family time into everyday life. Jolly Time is here to help! They sent me a Jolly Time Pop Corn Party Prize Pack, which includes Good Cook bowls, clips and straws, as well as Jolly Time Pop Corn, a Pop Corn Ball Maker and kid-friendly recipes. This prize pack is awesome! All we needed was the movie {which we have plenty of} and we had ourselves a super fun family night! I had never made popcorn balls with my boys before, but we had SO much fun making them! Especially with the cool Pop Corn Ball Maker. The boys absolutely loved it! It was a great activity to do all together. Plus, they tasted fantastic. I love Jolly Time Popcorn- I’ve been eating a lot of their Healthy Pop Kettle Corn, because I’m doing Weight Watchers, and it’s only 3 points a serving, all while being DELICIOUS! Thanks Jolly Time for giving our family a fun night!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Jolly Time Healthy Pop is the only microwavable popcorn endorsed by Weight Watchers!
SO many awesome, interesting flavors- from Mallow Magic, to Sassy Salsa, and SO many more
JOLLY TIME^® Pop Corn is a fourth generation, family owned company and employs about 185 popcorn connoisseurs
Fantastic tasting Pop Corn

JOLLY TIME and Good Cook have come together to create the “Perfect Pop Corn Party” and will be launching an Instant Win game during the month of November to give over 1,000 lucky instant winners the change to win cash, FREE JOLLY TIME, or a Pop Corn Party Prize Package! Beginning November 1^stthrough November 31st.

Jolly Time Popcorn gets Bragging Rights!

Jolly Time Popcorn is generously giving away a Jolly Time Pop Corn Party Prize Pack, which includes Good Cook bowls, clips and straws, as well as Jolly Time Pop Corn, a Pop Corn Ball Maker and kid-friendly recipes to help you have a night full of great family memories to one lucky reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Jolly Time Popcorn’s Facebook page and enter their Instant Win Game! {It’s REALLY simple!}

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- Follow Jolly Time on Facebook
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway using @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win Jolly Time Pop Corn Party Prize Pack from @braggingmommy! http://tinyurl.com/8yoexnq {ends 12.1}

You can enter this giveaway until December 1 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Joanna November 17, 2011 food, giveaway, review

Want Free Milk? + $25 Kroger GC Giveaway [CLOSED]

Want to save even more when shopping at Kroger? Purchase any four participating General Mills products* that your family knows and loves and Kroger will reward you for your purchases. It’s that simple! Head to your local Kroger to take advantage of this great offer:

From November 13th through November 26th, with the purchase of any four participating General Mills products, you will either receive free milk (up to $3; limit of 2) or to receive $3 off your shopping order**
Look for some of your favorite participating General Mills products like Cheerios, Pillsbury Ready to Bake Cookies, Nature Valley Bars and Fiber One Bars
Promotion varies in different locations. Please be sure to check your local Kroger Co. Family of Stores for specific deals and offers which include Kroger, Ralphs, King Scoopers, City Market, Dillons, Smith’s, Fry’s, QFC, Baker’s, Owen’s, Jay C Food Stores, Hilander, Gerbes, Food4Less, Fred Meyer, Pay Less Supermarkets and Scott’s Food & Pharmacy

What’s better than being rewarded for buying your favorite products from your favorite store? Visit Kroger.com for more information and great ways to save and be sure to check out the Kroger Facebook page to join the conversation and share which General Mills products you’d like to stock up on during the promotion.
*Excludes General Mills meal and baking products including; Betty Crocker, Old El Paso, Progresso, Hamburger Helper, Macaroni Grill, Wanchai Ferry, Yoplait
**Promotion varies based on store location; check your local Kroger store for details (Cash Offer: Mid South, Delta, Mid Atlantic, SW Louisiana stores, Central Missouri stores and Dillons Missouri stores)

One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win a $25 Kroger Gift Card! (good at any of the Kroger. Co Family of Stores)

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit the Kroger Website and tell us something you saw or learned there.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- “Like” Kroger on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow Kroger on Twitter.
1 entry- Tell us your family’s favorite General Mills product.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway including a link to this post, @KrogerTwitter & @braggingmommy in your tweet.
You can enter this giveaway until November 28 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

The Kroger gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by Kroger and General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Heidi November 14, 2011 food, gift card, shopping

Disney D-Lightful Living: Animate Your Daily Routine ~ Week 10": The Right Road to Treat Street

Your children will “d-lite” during treat time when you take this week’s video challenge.

A long day of classes sometimes calls for a fun after-school treat! Reward your kids with snacks they are sure to be sweet on.

Try these tips to guide your kids to enjoy treats in moderation this week:

Treats in moderation are a great way to celebrate and bring smiles to the faces in your family
Kids love to use their imagination, get your kids involved with making delicious treats so they feel accomplished

For some kids, treat time comes when they clean up their toys. For others, it’s when they score an “A” on that difficult spelling test. When are tasty rewards in order at your house?

This weeks products:

Cookies by Design Cookie Arrangements

Looking for a unique way to celebrate? Edible custom cookie arrangements filled with hand-decorated cookies adorned with favorite Disney characters are a special treat for any occasion! Available at Cookies by Design stores and CookiesbyDesign.com cookies

Lofthouse Cookies

Bite-sized sugar cookies with creamy frosting and butter vanilla cookies topped with colorful sugar crystals in the shapes of Disney characters will bring smiles to your kids as they d-lite in a special treat!

Frankford Candy Dig ‘n Dips

Disney•Pixar Cars-inspired Dig ‘n Dips feature brightly-colored candy powder and sweet hard candy dipping sticks to use as eating utensils. Dig in for a sweet treat!

PEZ Dispenser

Kids can pop a classic treat with PEZ candy dispensers featuring favorite Disney characters.

I3’s – Disney•Pixar Cars -Shaped Gummies

Heading to the movie theater? Grab a box of Disney•Pixar Cars-shaped gummy candies to make the experience extra special! Snacking on the fun shapes will keep little mouths quiet as they enjoy the show.

Insignia Snack Bags

Toting treats on-the-go has never been so easy! Put fun in the palm of little hands when you pack goodies in Disney·Pixar Cars- and Disney Princess-themed snack bags.

You can print out a chart to hang in your home and your kids can check off each day as they work to achieve the goal of the Right Road to Treat Street.

Check out the D-Lightful Living Facebook Page to see this weeks challenge, print out a chart for your home, see the products, and enter the weekly giveaway!

Heidi November 14, 2011 child, food, snacks

Pei Wei Asian Diner Introduces Diner Selects and New Additions to Their Small Plates Menu

PEI WEI ASIAN DINER OFFERS MORE FLAVOR FOR LESS WITH NEW DINER SELECTS AND EXPANDED SMALL PLATES MENU

Diner Selects Delivers Smaller Portions of Favorite Pei Wei Entrees with Choice of Side; New Small Plates Inspired by Fresh Flavors of Asian Markets

Today, Pei Wei Asian Diner introduces two new ways that make enjoying unique Asian flavors even easier than ever before, with the addition of a value-focused Diner Selects menu and three new flavorful Small Plates.

“Starting at just $6.25, the Diner Selects menu offers more than 60 combinations of our most popular dishes, each prepared using market-fresh ingredients.

“Guests continually have asked for smaller portions infused with the same bold flavors they have come to love at Pei Wei. So, we have answered with this new exciting way to enjoy their favorite menu options at a lower price.”– Executive Chef Eric Justice

Guests are able to create their own combo from dishes like spicy Mandarin Kung Pao to sweet Japanese Teriyaki, paired with their choice of a hand-rolled spring roll, freshly made soup, or new Asian Slaw. Traveling the diverse flavors of Asia has never been more affordable.”

I love eating at Pei Wei Asian Diner and I was thrilled when they introduced the new Diner Selects. It is the perfect portion of food for me especially perfect for lunch time. And I love the low price of just $6.25 it is easy to take the whole family out to eat. I got the Spring Roll and the Honey Seared Chicken, and it was super yummy! My hubby got the Wonton Soup and the Kung Pao Chicken, he loved it and especially loved the portion. Normally he over eats and this was the perfect amount of food for him.

“Pei Wei also expands its Small Plates selection with three new plates perfect for a light, flavorful meal or paired with a favorite Signature Entrée. Guests can choose from Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Salad, Bangkok Noodles or Black Bean Chicken and Rice, all inspired by Executive Chef Eric Justice’s travels across Asia. Available for $3.95, these dishes offer new exotic flavors to complement Pei Wei’s diverse menu.

· Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Salad: This light, aromatic noodle salad packs a big punch of brilliant lemongrass, lime and fresh herbs

· Bangkok Noodles: Rich, tender noodles coated in a hearty sauce seasoned with a hint of brisk Thai ginger and bright aromatics

· Black Bean Chicken and Rice: A touch of robust & tangy black pepper sauce erupts with depth and bite in this modernized Chinese classic

Diner Selects are available now through December. Lemongrass Chicken Noodles, Bangkok Noodles and Black Bean Chicken and Rice will remain on the full time menu.”

Available at all Pei Wei Asian Diner locations nationwide and via online ordering at www.PeiWei.com.

Pei Wei Diner Selects and Small Plates Menu gets Bragging Rights!

Heidi November 10, 2011 dad, family, food, mommy, restaurant, review

Brag Worthy Christmas Food ~ Hellmann’s Turkey Challenge + $50 Visa or AMEX GC Giveaway! [CLOSED]

“Thanks to our friends at Hellmann’s®and Best Foods®, chicken recently got a makeover. If you participated in the first-ever Chicken Challenge, a series of head-to-head chicken dish challenges that helped moms diversify their weekly recipe repertoire, you know that Hellmann’s^®transforms chicken into a juicy, crispy, delicious meal. Well, now it’s turkey’s turn in the Turkey Challenge!

With the holidays right around the corner, Hellmann’s® is continuing their mission against mealtime monotony by encouraging moms to re-think their main dish meals and leftovers. And this time, they’ve enlisted the help of an expert on all things food, Chef Bobby Flay! Together, they are offering easy, delicious recipes, such as Turkey Casserole, that are great for the busy holiday season.

Take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle to join the Hellmann’s® Turkey Challenge each week at Hellmanns.com as Turkey Casserole goes head-to-head with other tasty, juicy turkey recipes, like Bobby Flay’s “Stuffing” Crusted Turkey Cutlet. All you have to do is cast your vote for your favorite to be entered into the sweepstakes for a chance to win one of four $250 grocery gift cards each week. If there are more than 10,000 entries, the prize value doubles to a $500 grocery gift card!”

One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win $50! (Will be in the form of a Visa or AMEX gift card).

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Hellmann’s and vote for your favorite recipe in the Turkey Challenge, then tell us you did.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted

3 entries- Like Best Foods on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow BestFoods on Twitter.
1 entry- Tell us your favorite use for Hellmann’s (condiment, in a recipe, etc…).
1 entry- Tell us your favorite Holiday Meal Main Dish (or side dish).
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry per- Enter another giveaway on our site, tell us which (no limit).
5 entries- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Facebook, Twitter subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway, you can use this:

#Win $50 from @braggingmommy & @BestFoods! Also, check out the Turkey Challenge! / http://tinyurl.com/7c8f3or / (ends 11/23)

You can enter this giveaway until November 23rd @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Heidi November 9, 2011 christmas, cooking, food, gift card, giveaway, mommy, recipes, Uncategorized

Brag Worthy Christmas ~ Romanicos Chocolate Review and Mixed Cube Giveaway ($75 Value!) [CLOSED]

I received the Romanicos Chocolate Mixed Cube to review, and oh how decadent the chocolate in these boxes are! My husband and I enjoyed all the different flavors and textures of these chocolates. While I was eating them I was in pure chocolate heaven! I was so sad when they were gone They were DIVINE and are dearly missed

“True chocoholics understand that one type of chocolate, one flavor, one tiny box, is never enough. We have taken our inspiration from these chocolate lovers and created this giant gift box of decadent chocolates containing our three lines of chocolate (Truffles, Chocolate Art, and our Truffle Bites).
This is a perfect gift for those who don’t want to choose between our delicious chocolates and want all three. This box brings together the best of our chocolates.
The Cube Box Mixed contains 36 total pieces with:
12 Chocolate Truffles (assorted flavors)
12 Chocolate Art (assorted flavors)
12 Truffle Bites (assorted flavors)”-Romanicos

We also received some of Romanicos exotic chocolate bars to review and they were amazing, just listen to some of the flavors they have: Mission Fig, Japanese Ginger, Cayenne Pepper, Salted Pistachio & Ginger, Wild Cherry and more…

I personally LOVE to receive chocolate as a gift. It is a great gift to get someone who you have no idea what to buy for them. It is perfect for Christmas. Think of gifts for your family, friends and neighbors, chocolate is the perfect choice. You can’t go wrong with the gift of chocolate. Especially if you buy it for them at Romanicos, their chocolate is DIVINE!

You can even personalize your box cover with your image and personal message. How great is that?! I don’t know a Grandparent on the planet that wouldn’t LOVE a box of chocolates with their Grandkids on them! Great gift idea!

You can see all the fabulous gourmet chocolates available at www.Romanicoschocolate.com.

Romanicos Chocolate gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky winner will receive a Mixed Cube from Romanicos Chocolate! A $75 Value!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Romanicos and tell us something you would like to buy.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted

3 entries- Like Romanicos Chocolate on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow Romanicos_Choco on Twitter.
5 entries- Join the Romanicos email list.
1 entry- Tell us your favorite Holiday Tradition.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry per- Enter another giveaway on our site, tell us which (no limit).
5 entries- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Facebook, Twitter subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway including a link to this post, @braggingmommy & @Romanicos_Choco in your tweet.

You can enter this giveaway until November 22nd @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Heidi November 8, 2011 christmas, dad, food, gifts, giveaway, mommy, review

Better’n Eggs Fight2Fit Type II Diabetes Campaign + Great Recipes

“Type II diabetes – a preventable disease that affects
25.8 million children and adults in the U.S.”

I have a friend who was recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes. It came as a shock to both of us. Since then I have learned a lot about it including it is a preventable disease. I was thrilled to learn about Crystal Farms Better’n Eggs and AllWhites because they can really help us in healthier eating habits.

“Crystal Farms® Better’n Eggs® and AllWhites® are fat-free, cholesterol-free, and low-calorie alternatives to shell eggs:
-Both products are made from real eggs
- AllWhites is 100% liquid egg whites, nothing added
- Better’n Eggs is 98% liquid egg whites, plus 2% vitamins and minerals
-Both products have half the calories of shell eggs (25 calories per serving)
-Because they are fat-free, cholesterol-free and low-calorie, both products allow those with
diabetes or those trying to prevent diabetes to enjoy eggs without having to sacrifice other
foods they love (i.e.: they can have cheese with their eggs rather than plain eggs)
-Egg whites can increase recovery time from hypoglycemia by building up adrenal glands”-Crystal Farms

I am so glad their are great products like Crystal Farms® Better’n Eggs® and AllWhites® to help us make healthy choices when cooking. Both products can be used in any recipe that calls for eggs and are very convenient and versatile. Check out a couple great recipes below.

Join the Fight2Fit Type II Diabetes Campaign today in support of Diabetes Prevention!

Also you won’t want to miss the #betterneggs twitter party with Bob Greene (Oprah’s personal trainer and health and wellness expert) on 11/16 from 8-10pm EST! Visit http://bit.ly/sa9wmC for more information.

—————————————————————————————————–

Scrambled Egg Margarita Pizza

Top a crispy whole-wheat pizza crust with fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, scrambled eggs and shredded mozzarella cheese to for a delicious breakfast pizza.

Time-To-Table: 15 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

2 cups (16 ounces) Better’n Eggs®
1 package (10 ounces) 100% whole wheat thin crust prepared Italian pizza crust
2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
1 cup (4 ounces) Crystal Farms® Reduced Fat Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 450° F. Spray 10-inch nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Cook Better’n Eggs in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. As egg starts to set use spatula to lift edge of cooked eggs letting uncooked egg flow to bottom of skillet. Cook until eggs are set but still moist.
2. Place pizza crust on large cookie sheet. Top crust with cooked Better’n Eggs, chopped tomatoes, basil and cheese.
3. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

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Mini Turkey Meatloaves

A comfort food favorite! This tasty turkey meatloaf recipe has the classic ingredients and brown sugar glaze but ground turkey makes it a healthier choice.

Preparation: 20 minutes
Time-To-Table: 1 hour
Serves: 6

Ingredients:

Meatloaves Ingredients:

4 Wasa® whole wheat crispbreads
1 package (20 oz.) lean ground turkey
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/3 cup celery, finely chopped
1/3 cup ketchup
1/4 cup (2 oz.) Better’n Eggs®
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt

Glaze Ingredients:

2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Place crispbread in resealable plastic bag. Using rolling pin, crush crackers into fine crumbs. In large bowl combine all meatloaf ingredients; mix well, using hands if necessary. Form into 6 (4×2 inch) loaves. Place on aluminum foil lined 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
2. In small bowl combine all glaze ingredients; mix well. Spread glaze over top of each loaf. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until no longer pink.

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Blueberry Oat Muffins

These hearty muffins are best served the day they are baked. If eaten the next day; microwave 10 seconds to freshen the muffins.

Preparation: 15 minutes
Time-To-Table: 35 minutes
Serves: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup oats (old fashioned or quick)
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup (4 ounces) AllWhites®
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder and cinnamon in large bowl; mix well. Stir in all remaining ingredients except blueberries just until moistened. Gently stir in blueberries.
2. Fill 12 paper lined or greased muffin tins 3/4 full with batter. Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until lightly golden brown and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

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Heidi November 1, 2011 cooking, food, health

Disney D-Lightful Living: Animate Your Daily Routine ~ Week 5: Eat More Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and vegetables will grow on your kids when you take this week’s video challenge!

“It’s always tricky getting kids to eat fruits and veggies, so how do you encourage your family to eat more nutritious foods? All helpful hints welcome!

TIPS FOR THE CHALLENGE

Presentation is everything so make a plate of fruits and veggies look attractive for kids to try
Replace traditional play date or party snacks with festive food like a Disney themed-bouquet of fruit
Grab a juice box with your kid’s favorite characters on it – they’ll have so much fun they won’t even know it is also nutritious

Many kids don’t get enough fruits and vegetables in their diet, but parents can turn the tide. Instill a penchant for produce in your kids with the help of this lineup of products featuring Disney characters.”

This weeks products:

Crunch Pak Foodles

Whether the day calls for a healthy snack or a mini-meal, Foodles are the perfect choice. The interesting combinations of fruits, veggies and sides like dips, raisins, crackers or cheese are easily transportable. Plus, the fun Mickey-shaped trays featuring colorful images of Mickey Mouse characters promise your little ones will “d-lite” in snacking on Foodles.

Crunch Pak Apple Slices

We all know how important it is for our kids to eat healthy snacks but it’s not always the easiest thing to do. These Phineas & Ferb Apple Slices are an easy snack to pack for the kids. Eating apples has never been more fun!

Brother-All-Natural Freeze Dried Fruit Crisps

These crispy 100% fruit snacks are available in an array of flavors, offering a great fruit alternative to unhealthy snacks. And the Disney-themed packaging will bring a smile to small and big alike!

Tummy Ticklers

These delicious apple and fruit juice drinks sport more than 30 different toppers ranging from classic Mickey & Friends to “Toy Story” characters. They’re the perfect solution to encourage kids to incorporate more fruit into their diets.

4 Juicy Juice

Juicy Juice features a collectable, limited-edition “Cars 2” box line featuring nine flavors of its 100% juice. Each box boasts favorite “Cars” characters, on-pack games, and an exciting online game site where kids can go to “Spy School.” Getting fruit into children’s daily routine has never been so much fun!SRP: $4.99 at grocery stores nationwide

Edible Arrangements’ Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Party Bouquet

These unique fruit arrangements boast fresh pineapple, strawberries, grapes, cantaloupe and honeydew arranged in keepsake Mickey Mouse Clubhouse or Disney Princess-themed carry-all containers. Try one of these “bouquets” at your child’s next birthday party and see how surprisingly festive fruit can be for kids!Available at Edible Arrangements stores and EdibleArrangements.com fruit

Insignia Sandwich Bags, Snack Bags, Lunch Bags and Ice Packs

It’s not just the food that keeps kids excited about lunchtime. Help animate their snacks and keep things fresh with bags and ice packs featuring their favorite Disney characters.

View Full Album

You can print out a chart to hang in your home and your kids can check off each day as they work to achieve the goal of Taking Care of Your Chompers.

Check out the D-Lightful Living Facebook Page to see this weeks challenge, print out a chart for your home, see the products, and enter the weekly giveaway!

Heidi October 10, 2011 child, food, health, toddler

Ruby Tuesdays Coupon $10 Off Any Two Adult Entrees

My husband and I love to eat out. It is so nice to be able to skip the cooking for the night and have someone serve me for a change . But unfortunately eating out can be expensive. That is why I love when I find great coupons for eating out.

Like this Ruby Tuesday Coupon for $10 Off Any Two Adult Entrees, that is a great deal! We love Ruby Tuesdays it is so yummy!

This coupon is only valid through October 16th so be sure to print your Ruby Tuesday Coupon here today.

Heidi October 7, 2011 coupons, dad, food, mommy, restaurant

Sweet Tomatoes Guest Appreciation Catering Special, Just $6.99 Per Person! + My Review

For a limited time only, Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes is making catering even more affordable by offering their catered service for just $6.99 per person through October 15, 2011! The offer includes Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes favorites and ever-so-delicious Caesar Salad Asiago, Chicken Wonton salad, two cold pasta salads, baked potato bar, assorted muffins, and chocolate chip cookies.

We were so lucky to review this catering special over the weekend. We decided to have my husbands family over for dinner to enjoy the Sweet Tomatoes Catering.

First off let me say: They deliver! How awesome is that? The Catering manager arrived on time as promised. She was super sweet and friendly (loved that!). She prepared the salads and set up all the food for us. She brought everything we needed for a DELICIOUS meal.

We all thought the food was delicious. The presentation was FABULOUS and I have to say that my favorite part was how EASY it was for me. I was able to sit back and relax (normally I am running around frantic when I throw a party). It was SO NICE!

If you are thinking about catering a party I highly recommend Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation. And right now with the $6.99 Special there is no reason not to!

For more information about Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation catering, find them online at www.souplantation.com or www.sweettomatoes.com

Sweet Tomatoes Catering gets Bragging Rights!

Heidi October 4, 2011 catering, family, food, party, restaurant, review

Learning Resources Smart Snacks Peek-a-Boo Color Muffins Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

My daughter loves to use her imagination in everything that she does. She especially loves to play with her play kitchen and make us lots of yummy food! We couldn’t wait to review the Smart Snacks Peek-a-Boo Color Muffins by Learning Resources. Leah had so much fun making us different types of muffins that she forgot she was learning her colors at the same time!

Leah has known her colors for awhile but for those younger or older that don’t know them, this is a great way in teaching children colors. While they are filling each muffin cup with the appropriate fruit, they are learning that cherries are red, blueberries are blue, oranges are orange etc.

“Pop off the muffin top and peek inside!

Reinforces color recognition as children match up fillings to put into colored cups
Encourages imaginative play, peek-a-boo play and fine motor practice
Includes 5 durable plastic 3-piece muffins that store in rotating stand
Stand measures 4.5"H x 7" in diameter
Ages 2+” (Learning Resources website)

Things that are Bragworthy:

Played with and approved by my cute 3 yr old….what more do you need!
Teaches Kids their colors
Great for Imaginative Play
Durable and Fun to play with

The Smart Snacks Peek-a-Boo Color Muffins can be purchased at www.learningresources.com

Learning Resources Smart Snacks Peek-a-Boo Color Muffins gets Bragging Rights!

One lucky winner will win a Learning Resources Smart Snacks Peek-a-Boo Color Muffins set of their own!

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Learning Resources and let us know something else you would like to have

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- “Like” Learning Resources on Facebook.
3 entries- Follow Learning Resources on Twitter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway and link it to @braggingmommy and @learningresources

You can enter this giveaway until October 18 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Briann October 4, 2011 child, educational, family, food, games, giveaway, review, toddler, toy

Help Raise $50,000 For Breast Cancer Research ~ Freschetta Pink Prize Pack Giveaway [CLOSED]

“When you purchase specially-marked FRESCHETTA® products, you’re helping us all reach our goal of donating $50,000 to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Enter your code here and we’ll be $1 closer to finding a cure.”-Freschetta

Spread the Word

Each week, Freschetta will be giving away an iPod shuffle® to 50 lucky winners. You can earn extra entries in the sweepstakes by sharing PROUD TO SUPPORT PINK® with your friends and family.

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One lucky Bragging Mommy Reader will win a Freschetta Pink Prize Pack! Includes: A coupon for a Free Freschetta Pizza, 2 Pairs of Freschetta Proud to Support Pink Ear Phones.

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Freschetta and tell us which pizza you would like to try.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

3 entries- “Like” Freschetta Pizza on Facebook
3 entries- Follow Freschetta Pizza on Twitter.
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry- Tell us another pizza you would like to try.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
10 entries- Blog about this giveaway linking to this post. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Tweet this giveaway including a link to this post & @braggingmommy in your tweet.

You can enter this giveaway until October 17 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Heidi October 3, 2011 food, giveaway, mommy, teen

Winnie The Pooh Recipes and Cooking Activities

As National Honey Month comes to a close, keep the celebration going with these WINNIE THE POOH-themed recipes and a honey-loving clip! The world’s most beloved bear spends his days in search of the naturally delicious nectar, and now you, too, can enjoy some honey-flavored treats with Pooh.

WINNIE THE POOH is Available on Blu-ray, DVD & Movie Download 10/25!

Heidi September 30, 2011 cooking, food, recipes

Organic Gluten and Vegan Free Pure Bar Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

Pure is dedicated to satisfying stretches, sunlit hikes, belly laughs,
and muddy hands.

“Pure is dedicated to helping everyone live a pure, healthy life. We are passionate about creating delicious, innovative products made with simple, wholesome ingredients. We share our knowledge and ideas to inspire people to live a purer, healthier lifestyle, and give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

Live Pure, live happy.

“We’re convinced that better eating translates to better living. That’s why we only make our Pure Bars from the best ingredients nature has to offer. For our two lines we always choose simple, whole ingredients that are full of fiber, protein, antioxidants, and omega-3’s. From outdoor adventures under sunny skies, to cramming for brain-straining exams beneath fluorescent lights, Pure Bars have the fuel to get you through your day.

Our bars provide delicious, wholesome ingredients that you can take with you while moving through your Vinyasa or simply commuting to your nine-to-five. We hope that you’ll see that a simple little thing like snacking healthier can make you stronger and happier. Everybody needs extra oomph to power through and be at their best, whether they’re tackling something minuscule or epic. Our job at Pure is to provide that oomph. Your job is to eat it.”

As a mom, my family’s nutrition is one of the top things on my “worry list” Are they getting enough nutrients? What’s in that? Is it safe? … When I come across a product that doesn’t have me asking these questions, I’m excited. I was super pumped to receive Pure Bars organic bars. They are gluten free, vegan, and… delicious! I love all the flavor options… Wild Blueberry, Chocolate Brownie, Apple Cinnamon, just to name a few. But my favorite is Cranberry Orange. Yum! But most importantly, my kids will eat it. I love grabbing one when we’re on the way to the gym- this is a time when we need something healthy and filling. The boys aren’t allowed to bring any snacks in the Child Watch, so I need to make sure their bellies are full when they go in. {Especially this month with my husband gone, I’ve been using every minute of my 2 hour time limit… =) } It’s as easy as grabbing a Pure Bar and letting them eat it in the car. Easy as pie {and just as yummy!} Guilt free. Love that. Be sure to try one soon!

“Certified organic, gluten-free, raw, and vegan, our mouth-watering fruit-and-nut bars are the ultimate pure snack bar. Pure Bars provide completely clean and balanced nutrition in an enticing and entirely delicious bar. Made with only simple, real ingredients, Pure Bar will nurture your body, mind, and spirit.”

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Gluten-free bar
Vegan bar
Delicious
So great for on-the-go- stay healthy even when you’re busy
Simple, real ingredients
Their website has full nutrition information on each bar
Pure Bar will nurture your body, mind, and spirit

Be sure to check out the wonderful recipe contest Pure Bar has going on now!

Pure Bar is offering an awesome discount coupon! Simply fill out this form for a one time use BOGO coupon.

Organic Gluten and Vegan Free Pure Bar gets Bragging Rights!

Pure Bar is generously giving away a variety pack (8 bars) to 3 lucky readers!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Pure Bar and let us know which flavor you most want to try.

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- “Like” Pure Bar on Facebook
2 entries- Subscribe to the Pure Bar’s Newsletter
2 entries- Follow Pure Bar’sBlog
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Pure Bar onTwitter & Tweet this giveaway using @thepurebar & @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win a Pure Bar variety pack (8 bars) {3 Winners!!} from @thepurebar & @braggingmommy! http://tinyurl.com/3busnlj {Ends 10.11}

You can enter this giveaway until October 11 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Joanna September 27, 2011 food, giveaway, review

D-Lightful Living: Animate Your Daily Routine ~ Week 3: School Lunch Makeover

“Bag the boring lunch and get your kids excited about their midday meal with this week’s video challenge.

Busy school days demand proper refueling at lunch. To keep kids – and moms – satisfied, our products provide an array of tasty, nutritious options and fun lunch necessities.

Try these three tips to help your kids get a healthy lunch every day this week:

Allow your kids to participate by making decisions about what to pack in their lunch
Include your kids when packing their lunch to teach your kids about the different food groups
Remember, it’s not just the food that gets kids excited – let them choose a lunch bag or container with their favorite character

It’s easy for kids to lose interest in eating right when they are at school. So that is why I make sure to always pack snacks for them even if they aren’t taking their own lunch. When they are taking lunch then I add a few extra snacks for them as well.”

image_thumb8

This weeks products:

Yoplait Go-Gurt

Go-Gurt’s portability puts yummy, low-fat yogurt in the palm of kids’ hands. “Phineas & Ferb” or “Wizards of Waverly Place” value packs sport fun trivia on every tube.

Brother’s All Natural Freeze Dried Fruit Crisps

These 100% natural fresh fruit snacks are available in an array of flavors offering a great alternative to potato chips at lunchtime. And the Disney-themed packaging will bring a midday smile!

Crunch Pak Foodles

Crunch Pak Apple Slices

We all know how important it is for our kids to eat healthy snacks but it’s not always the easiest thing to do. These Cars Apple Slices are an easy snack to pack for the kids. Eating apples has never been more fun!

Kellogg’s Fruit Snacks

Fruit snacks, a longtime favorite of kids, meets up with Phineas & Ferb to bring a fun and tasty treat that is made with real fruit and comes in all shapes and flavors.

Kellogg’s Cheezits

This classic snack has been around for years, but with your favorite Cars characters included your kids will be jumping for joy when they are in their lunch bag. This snack can leave moms feeling good about what their kids are eating. cheezits

Kellogg’s Rice Krispy Treats

These crispy marshmallow squares will bring a smile to any child’s face. With pops of red rice cereal, these Cars inspired treats will be a hit in the cafeteria. With each individually wrapped bar just 90 calories moms can feel good about giving these to their kids.

Kellogg’s Grahams Bites

Enjoy the crispy texture and cinnamon flavor of these bite-size graham crackers in fun Cars shapes. They’re a terrific snack for any time of day. SRP: $3.29 at select grocery stores nationwide

Utz’s Pretzels

These delicious pretzel snacks bring your favorite Cars characters to your kids’ lunch. These peanut-free snacks will be a hit in the lunchroom that everyone will be trading for. pretzels

Peach Tree Pocket Pack Tissues

(Princess & Toy Story) It’s never too early to teach kids about the importance of cleanliness in the lunch room. These Disney Princess & Toy Story packs are an easy backpack stuffer for wiping hands and noses.

Insignia Snack Bags, Sandwich Bags, Lunch Bags and Ice Packs

It’s not just the food that keeps kids excited about lunchtime. Help animate their midday meal and keep things fresh with bags and ice packs featuring their favorite Disney characters.

You can print out a chart to hang in your home and your kids can check off each day as they work to achieve the goal of Skin Care All Year Long.

Check out the D-Lightful Living Facebook Page to see this weeks challenge, print out a chart for your home, see the products, and enter the weekly giveaway!

Heidi September 26, 2011 child, food, school, snacks, toddler

Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation Have Gone Green

I love eating at Sweet Tomatoes. The food is always fresh and very delicious. My favorite is the salad bar, it is so good I love the variety of toppings and salads that they have. I was super happy to learn that Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation have Gone Green! Yep, that is super good news! Check it out:

carousel-green

“SAN DIEGO (Sept. 14, 2011)- Garden Fresh Restaurant Corp., parent company to Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes, announced today its sustainability initiatives and Green Restaurant Association certification. Garden Fresh is the largest restaurant chain in the nation to be certified by the Green Restaurant Association, an industry standard in restaurant sustainability.

Garden Fresh has been working toward certification for the past two years and has now completed the process. As part of the sustainability measures taken, Garden Fresh has upgraded to high-efficiency spray valves, energy-efficient lighting, Green Seal-certified cleaning products and recyclable glass, paper, aluminum, and cardboard packaging. Every year, Garden Fresh estimates it will save 2.1 million pounds of waste paper, 7.5 million gallons of water, 4.4 million kilowatts of energy and 3,194 cubic yards of landfill space because of these current changes. The company is a Styrofoam-free restaurant chain and guests at Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes restaurants already use non-disposable dishes and cutlery, diverting waste from landfills and incinerators. As part of this certification, Garden Fresh will provide sustainability educational training to its employees annually.”

With the current changes, the GRA estimates Garden Fresh will save 2.1 million pounds of waste, 7.5 million gallons of water, 4.4 million kilowatts of energy and 3,194 cubic yards of landfill space each year.

“We have always sought innovative ways to be thoughtful about our impact on the environment. I believe that attitude is consistent with our product, the wishes of our guests and our brand,” said Michael Mack, CEO of Garden Fresh Restaurant Corp. “The Green Restaurant Association provided us with a wonderful opportunity to further our efforts and we strongly value their hard work in transitioning the restaurant industry into a more environmentally responsible industry. Not only do we serve greens on our salad bars, but also all of our locations are now officially ‘green’ restaurants. We hope to set a standard among other national and large-chain restaurants to encourage them to follow suit.”

“We are pleased to see a restaurant chain of this volume be the pioneer in ‘green’ initiatives and set a standard in the restaurant industry,” said Jennifer Fleck, communications manager at the Green Restaurant Association. “The U.S. throws out 243 million tons of trash every year, 57 percent of which is buried in landfills. Garden Fresh is taking proactive steps to help reduce this number.”
The Green Restaurant Association, a nonprofit organization that seeks to promote sustainability in the restaurant industry, certified Garden Fresh restaurants as a Two-Star Certified Green Restaurant. Under the certification process, Garden Fresh underwent environmental upgrades in all of its restaurants across the nation. The GRA reviewed the following categories to ensure sustainability requirements were met:
·         Energy
·         Sustainable Food
·         Water Efficiency
·         Waste Reduction & Recycling
·         Disposables
·         Chemicals & Pollution Reduction
·         Sustainable Furnishings & Building Materials

For more information about sustainability efforts at Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes restaurants, visit http://blog.souplantation.com/green.

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Give yourself a night off from cooking and take your family to Souplantation or Sweet Tomatoes!

For more information about Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation, find them online at www.souplantation.com or www.sweettomatoes.com

Also check out their Blog, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and special offers!

Heidi September 21, 2011 eco-friendly, food, restaurant

Enter the California Raisin’s “Give Their Kids a Day in The Sun” Contest

KIDS GROW IN THE SUN. WE THINK THEIR SNACKS SHOULD, TOO!

To celebrate the natural, solar-powered goodness of this small but mighty fruit, California’s nearly 3,000 raisin growers are hosting an easy-to-enter recipe contest called: “Give Kids Their Day in the Sun.” Through October 5, healthy snack recipes can be uploaded to California Raisin’s Facebook page for a chance to win a premium playground structure (valued up to $10,000), a year’s supply of California Raisins, plus a $1,000 donation in the winner’s name to the food bank of their choice!

Five finalists will each win a $100 gift card and will be selected based on the creative use of California Raisins (25%); healthfulness (25%); ease-of-preparation (25%); and taste (25%). Finalists will be announced October 19, 2011 and then it will be up to the California Raisin Facebook fans to determine the grand prize winner. A full set of contest rules can be found here.

“Just 1/4 cup of California Raisins counts as a serving of fruit for adults and is a tasty way to help meet recommended daily fruit servings.
California Raisins are fat- and cholesterol-free, naturally low in sodium, deliver dietary fiber and potassium, and are packed with antioxidants.
Raisins are a classic sweet treat that is a wise choice for snacking or as a delicious and healthful recipe ingredient.
Perfectly Portable. California Raisins are always perfectly ripe and require no refrigeration, which makes them great for active on-the-go lifestyles!
Healthy Smiles. Research shows that raisins contain compounds that may inhibit the growth of certain bacteria associated with cavities and gum disease.
Nature’s Candy. Children love California Raisins! Raisins are great to include in kids’ lunches or for a naturally sweet after-school snack.
Fuel Up! Convenient and nutritious, a trail mix with California Raisins and nuts is smart fuel before exercise. Raisin research with 10- to 12-year-old soccer players showed that a pre-game raisin and nut snack provided a more sustained, steady source of energy than a bagel and lemonade snack.”

Visit www.LoveYourRaisins.com for more information

Heidi September 20, 2011 child, contest, family, food

Are You in American Fork Utah & Want a Super Delicious Cupcake or Treat? ~ Dippidee Review

“Dippidee, a place of sweet surprises. We offer the best in homemade desserts. Our recipes have been passed down from generation to generation. Each dessert is made with only the finest ingredients and of course a bit of Dippidee love. We specialize in made to order sugar cookies, cupcakes, specialty cakes and wedding cakes. Come into the store anytime to enjoy our regular items such as the

Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie, Chocolate Cream Cake, and Creamy Rice Pudding just to name a few. We hope to see you soon!”

I have found a super adorable bakery in American Fork Utah. It’s called Dippidee and I fell in love from the minute I walked through the door. They have a great display with all their yummy treats. It was really hard to decide what to try since they had so many things that looked so yummy.

Ultimately I chose a few cupcakes and a sugar cookie and homemade Oreo cookie. Wow were they delicious! My hubby and sister had the pleasure of taste testing along with me. Both the cookies were really good. The cupcakes were also very good, we all thought they had the best frosting we had ever tried. My favorite was their cream cheese frosting, I am salivating just thinking about it. It is so heavenly! And some of the cupcakes have filling inside, oh wow was it good! If you are looking for yummy cupcakes for a party or just because you want one, Dippidee is the place!

They will even make amazing custom cakes and cupcakes for parties. You can just tell them your vision and they will create it!

Dippidee is located at 476 North 900 West, Ste D in American Fork, Utah. Check out www.dippidee.com for additional info. You can also check out the Dippidee blog for product updates and giveaways.

Dippidee gets Bragging Rights!

Heidi September 16, 2011 food, party, review

D-Lightful Living: Animate Your Daily Routine ~ Week 1: Make Smart Morning Choices

“Through a series of weekly challenges over the course of 12 weeks, D-Lightful Living: Animate Your Daily Routine will give parents tips inspired by fun Disney-branded products on how to help motivate their families to make simple and easy changes like eating more fruits and vegetables, improving oral care habits and preparing for cold and flu season. Hosted on DCP’s official Facebook page known as Disney Living, each week DCP will feature a video challenge from the “Go-To Mom,” Kimberley Clayton Blaine – a mom blogger, child development expert and licensed child therapist. She will showcase simple tips and product suggestions to help other parents guide their kids toward a healthier lifestyle using products that feature their favorite Disney characters. The program will run weekly through the end of November.”-Disney

This weeks challenge: Make Smart Morning Choices

There are so many great and healthy and fun products out there that can help you to accomplish good morning choices for your kids. If Bug see’s his favorite Disney characters on the boxes or packaging he absolutely loves it. Here are this weeks products to help you with morning choices both you and your kids will love:

Kellogg’s Cereal featuring Disney*Pixar Cars

“For the fuel kids need to kick-start the morning, give ‘Cars’ a whirl! With more than ten daily vitamins included, this is just the ticket that families need to get their days started.”

General Mills Yogurt – Yoplait Kids

“Yoplait Kids has 25% less sugar than the leading kids yogurt, with absolutely no high-fructose corn syrup. It’s an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D and a good source of protein, packing the zip kids need for an active day!”

Langers Kids Juice

“Parents will love that Langers is made with 100% juice, and kids will love that the containers come adorned with their favorite Disney characters and fun trivia games.”

U.S. Nutrition Gummie Vitamins

“Almost 80% of children don’t eat the recommended number of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. The Disney-themed chewable vitamins, featuring character favorites, are a good source of 12 vitamins and minerals and provide a great addition to a balanced diet. Plus they’re great-tasting and fun to eat!”

Nestle Juicy Juice

“Nestle Juicy Juice has introduced a collectible limited edition Nestle Juicy Juice box line featuring Disney* Pixar Cars 2 characters with 9 flavors of 100% juice that kids are sure to love. Each juice features favorite Cars 2 characters, on-pack games, and an exciting online game site where your child can go to Spy School. These juice boxes are perfect for lunch and convenient for when your family is on the go.”

Oral B Stages – Toothbrushes & Paste

“Oral B Stages is the #1 dentist recommended manual brush for kids. They’re specially designed to address children’s needs at every stage of oral care development. And with colorful Disney characters in hand, kids are sure to experience a brush with magic!”

We have been trying out these products for about a week now and love them all. Bug has found a new favorite cereal. Juicy Juice has always been around our house and we love it. We are so happy to have discovered Langers Juice I love the convenience of both these juice products as Bug can get them out of the fridge on his own. The yogurt is also a great breakfast choice for Bug. The Gummies are great, I have tried several brands and Bug won’t eat them. With these gummies he asks for more and I have to tell him “tomorrow you can have more”. Brushing teeth can be challenging at times, having your child’s favorite characters on his toothbrush and toothpastes really helps. Now Bug gets excited when he gets to brush his teeth!

You can print out a chart to hang in your home and your kids can check off each day as they work to acheive the goal of Making Smart Morning Choices.

Check out the D-Lightful Living Facebook Page to see this weeks challenge, print out a chart for your home, see the products, and enter the weekly giveaway!

Heidi September 12, 2011 baby, child, food, health, toddler

Pillsbury Sweet Moments Ready to Eat Brownie Bites Review

“First Step: Admit you desperately need Sweet Moments.

Second Step: Have a little fun. Misbehave. Tell your to-do list it’ll have to wait. (It’ll be just a moment!)
Third Step: Take a bite and enjoy the ride into sweet indulgence. You can almost taste the tranquility!

Pillsbury Sweet Moments, are ready-to-eat, bite size brownies available nationwide in the refrigerated section with 12 bite sized brownies per bag.

They are available in five unique flavor combinations: Cocoa Fudge Escape, Cocoa Caramel Obsession and the new Raspberry Brownie Cheesecake and Caramel Brownie Cheesecake.

Pillsbury Sweet Moments are refrigerated —they are best served cool to accentuate each decadent layer and magnify each delicious texture and require zero prep time.” pillsbury2

We love Brownies at our house. In fact if we have them they are gobbled right up (so we never have them, LOL!). So we couldn’t wait to try the new flavors of Pillsbury Sweet Moments Raspberry Brownie Cheesecake and Caramel Brownie Cheesecake. I didn’t quite know what to expect with these, but I definitely didn’t expect them to be SO DELICIOUS! Seriously they are amazing! The Brownie is so moist, the cheesecake has such a great flavor, the ribbon of caramel (or rasperry) adds the perfect accent, and to top it off it’s covered in chocolate! Heaven on Earth! You have to try these!

You can get a free printable $1 off Sweet Moments Coupon. Sweet Moments are now available in the refrigerated section of your grocery store (by other Pillsbury refrigerated dough products).

Pillsbury Sweet Moments Brownie Cheesecake Bites get Bragging Rights!

Heidi September 12, 2011 food, review

KC Masterpiece Southern Style Barbecue Sauce and Buffalo Marinade Review

Today I’m going to tell you about a review my hubby was real excited about… KC Masterpiece Southern Style Barbecue Sauce and KC Masterpiece Buffalo Marinade. Both of these hit the spot with him, and of course with the rest of our family too. He puts BBQ sauce on EVERYTHING, so he’s tried the Southern Style on a few different meat items. He loved it! And I put the Buffalo Marinade on some chicken breast, and it really added a lot of great flavor! It was the perfect amount of spicy. I really want to try making their Hot and Saucy wings recipe, I think they would turn out great and would be perfect for a party. KC Masterpiece never disappoints in our house, and they did it again!

Here are a few great recipes to try!

KC Masterpiece® Southern Style Barbecue Sauce: Travel south with the tang of cider vinegar and the heat of red and black pepper! This thin-bodied sauce brings a delicious Southern flavor to chicken and is perfect for the grill and great in your slow cooker

KC Masterpiece® Pork Tenderloin Sliders Recipe

KC Masterpiece® Buffalo Marinade: Bring the heat to your barbecue with this spicy, tangy and authentic buffalo sauce made with red peppers, garlic and paprika. This marinade is perfect for chicken and adds a flavorful kick to beef or pork!

KC Masterpiece® Hot and Saucy Wings Recipe

Try these sauces with the recipes or create your own! For additional recipes from Kingsford and KC Masterpiece visit http://www.grilling.com.

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Both have great, unique flavors
KC Masterpiece’s website has great recipes to try with both the Barbeque sauce and Buffalo Marinade.
Both the Southern Style BBQ Sauce and the Buffalo Marinade are great for grilling, or the crockpot, two of the easiest ways to get to get meals on the table
Adding flavor to your meals is a breeze with KC Masterpiece!

”Like” KC Masterpiece on Facebook for more great info and recipes!

KC Masterpiece Southern Style Barbecue Sauce and Buffalo Marinade gets Bragging Rights!

Joanna August 22, 2011 cooking, food, review

Zac Bars Inc. Omega Snack Bars Review and Giveaway [CLOSED]

“Zac Bar products are natural in their entirety. We bake them with care at our family bakery in the Pacific Northwest with the goal of providing all of the convenience and good taste of an on-the-go snack, while skipping the high-fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients.

Zac Bars were created as the solution to a problem for owner Tom Fitzgerald. Tom had been providing fresh baked cookies to local public schools for almost ten years when rules regarding school meals began to rapidly change…

…Finally, the Zac Omega bar was created. Tom took the a chewy outer biscuit made of rolled oats, whole grain wheat flour and flax seed flour and filled it with all natural fruit jam.

Tom’s excitement and continual improvements to his products was contagious. Moms were elated to have a natural and wholesome snack that their children would enjoy eating. Schools, seeing the response from students, were enthusiastic about making such an easy snack option available.

Zac Bars Inc. continues at the pace that Tom has set. We continually work to evaluate and improve on the products we offer. We will always stick to what we know best – snacks that are all natural, tasty and honest.”

I’m constantly on the lookout for foods that my kids love, and that are healthy for them. I literally squealed with joy when I opened the box filled with Zac Bars Inc. Omega Snack Bars. I knew instantly that my boys would love them, and sure enough, as they started eating they couldn’t get enough. I LOVE all the great flavors {Like Peanut Butter & Strawberry Jam, and Honey Oat Raspberry} and my boys have yet find one they don’t like. These bars are SO great for on the go, because they’re quick to grab, but they are filling enough to almost be a meal. I was also impressed that they suggested refrigerating and/or freezing the bars, because the ingredients are so FRESH! How great is that? I have no reservations about feeding my kids these awesome snacks, and I know you’re little one will love them too!

Things that are Brag Worthy:

Each bar contains 6 grams of protein and more than 80% daily value of ALA Omega-3 fatty acids derived from flax seeds
Omega – 3 fatty acids are a very important component essential to normal growth in young children
Made from scratch using 100% whole grains
Zac Omega and Zac Attack Bars are filled with real fruit that is locally grown in the Northwest and processed especially for our bakery
All natural products with clean labels

Visit www.zacomega.com to see all their great products!

Zac Bars Inc. Omega Snack Bars gets Bragging Rights!

Zac Bars Inc. is generously giving away one variety pack box of 30 to 40 snack bars to one lucky reader!

How to enter: Leave comments below with your qualifying entries. Leave a Separate comment for each entry telling us which you qualify for.

MANDATORY 1st entry- Visit Zac Bars Inc. and let us know which flavor sounds the best to you!

1st Mandatory Entry must be completed before you can qualify for additional entries. All extra entries who don’t do the mandatory entry will be deleted.

1 entry- “Like” Zac Bars Inc on Facebook
2 entries- Grab The Bragging Mommy button and put it on your blog. Leave a link.
1 entry for each- Follow The Bragging Mommy via Google Friend Connect, Facebook, Twitter, subscribe to emails, subscribe in reader.
2 entries- Blog about this giveaway. Leave a link.
1 entry per day- Follow Zac Bars Inc. on Twitter & Tweet this giveaway using @zacbarsinc & @braggingmommy. You can use this:

#Win a variety pack box of 30 to 40 Zac Bars Inc. Omega Snack Bars from @zacbarsinc & @braggingmommy! http://tinyurl.com/3hvp7vr {Ends 8.30}

You can enter this giveaway until August 30 @10:00 am MST. The winner will then be chosen at random, verified and contacted via email. The winner will have 48 hours to email us back and claim the prize, if prize is not claimed within 48 hours a new winner will be chosen. By entering this giveaway you agree to The Bragging Mommy Full Disclosure. You must be over the age of 18 and live in the Contiguous US to enter.

Joanna August 16, 2011 food, giveaway, review

My Blue Bunny Personals Ice Cream Party

There is nothing better than a girls night with good friends, good ice cream and some good T.V. On Monday I had my friends over to watch the Bachelorette Season Finale and Blue Bunny sent us some delicious Frozen Yogurt to enjoy as we watched.

I was sent a Blue Bunny Personals All Natural Frozen Yogurt White Chocolate Raspberry for each of us to enjoy. The Blue Bunny Personals were a big hit. We all love that they come in individual servings (great for watching calories) and really easy clean up. Because they even come with a spoon inside the lid. You have everything you need to enjoy Blue Bunny ice cream without any clean up! Perfect for a party.

The All Natural Frozen Yogurt White Chocolate Raspberry is: “All natural white chocolate flavored frozen yogurt swirled with a raspberry ribbon and dark chocolate chunks”. It is really yummy, I love the chocolate chunks in it and the raspberry ribbon is super delicious!

We were all so happy to see that Ashley chose JP we were all rooting for him, and they make such an adorable couple. Congrats Ashley & JP!

Blue Bunny also sent us Bunny Bucks for free Blue Bunny product to hand out to all of my friends. They were all excited to go out and get their own Blue Bunny Ice Cream IMAG0553

We had a great night and enjoyed ourselves and the delicious Ice Cream. I recommend Blue Bunny Personals for your next girls night or party!

You can see all the available Blue Bunny Personals Flavors and purchase them in your local grocery store!

*I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Blue Bunny and received coupons and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Heidi August 5, 2011 food, mommy, review