New Year New You..... SweetLeaf Stevia Water Drops Review

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The most popular New Year’s Resolutions were “stay fit and healthy” and “lose weight.” These annual personal challenges to maintain or adopt a healthier lifestyle can be some of the toughest goals to achieve. This is where SweetLeaf® can help.

Now that the holiday celebrations have passed it’s time to focus on new year resolutions, which means discussing healthy eating. With a delicious and versatile family of products, SweetLeaf has an option to suit every lifestyle … and resolution. The 35- and 70-packet boxes and convenient shaker jars of SweetLeaf and SweetLeaf Organics can replace table sugar for everyday sweetening needs with no bitterness or aftertaste. Keep SweetLeaf® Liquid Stevia Sweet Drops™ in the pantry to add award-winning sweetness and flavor to foods, beverages, and favorite recipes. With 20 flavors, the options are endless. Water Drops™ take water from boring to wow with just an easy squeeze of any of four fruit-flavored blends; and the bottles are the perfect size for backpacks and gym bags.

Hydrate deliciously.
Choose from four natural fruit flavored blends

​SweetLeaf® Water Drops™ are natural, convenient, sugar-free and gluten-free water enhancers. Squirt into water and enjoy award-winning flavor with zero calories, zero carbs, non-glycemic response and NO artificial sweeteners. Finally, a better-for-you alternative to soda and sugar-laden drinks! 

Lemon Lime 
Raspberry Lemonade
Peach Mango
Strawberry Kiwi

Most of you know iv'e been working on loosing weight for a few months now and I have lost a little over 30lbs now. 
Super proud of myself. My biggest struggle is keeping hydrated. I am horrible about drinking water. It bores me. I do drink water at home with dinner and after but I will go all day with just a cup of morning tea. 
Since receiving my SweetLeaf Raspberry Lemonade Water Drops I  have been drinking 6-8 water bottle of this YUMMY drink a day, plus all the water I drink once home. 

Usually I don't like things you add to water since I can't stand the taste of artificial sweeteners. 
But SweetLeaf's Water Drops contain NO artificial sweeteners.
 zero calories, zero carbs, non-glycemic response. 

Four yummy flavors to choose from. If your trying to loose weight or just need to drink more water, pick up some SweetLeaf Water Drops. 
You will find yourself drinking water all day. 

The bottles will fit in your purse, gym bag, work desk or counter at home. Small but lasts a long time. 
32 servings per bottle. 

The dramatic failure rate of New Year’s Resolutions makes some people skip resolutions altogether, but keeping a few simple elements in mind can turn your lists into achievable and sustainable goals that can be life changing:

1. Be specific. Rather than writing “eat less junk,” jot down “cut sugar five days a week.”
2. Make a plan. With an actionable goal, decide how best to achieve that goal. This might mean turning one resolution into more than one: cut sugar two days a week by mid-February, up that to three days by June, then to five by August. Maybe even work up to an additional step, like cutting sugar for an entire month by the end of the year.
3. Tell someone. When other people know about a person’s goals it makes them easier to achieve.
4. Review. Keep your resolutions posted somewhere they can be regularly viewed. Also, cross the steps of each goal off as they are reached.
5. Limit the number. Sure, setting twenty New Year’s Resolutions offers a better chance at success, but it also guarantees a higher rate of failure because attention is spread too thin. Pick the three most important items on your list and turn them into actual goals.

These tips can help people keep their eye on the ball this year and increase the chances of reaching those lofty expectations for 2016.

Sweet Drops™Making the world a sweeter place…™ one drop at a time.Add flavor, not calories or carbs! Made with stevia leaf extract and natural flavors, SweetLeaf® Sweet Drops™ let you add just the right amount of flavor and sweetness to food and beverages.
Since their introduction in 1996, Sweet Drops have become a favorite with consumers, who enjoy creating unique mixes and finding new ways to use the Drops. With no artificial flavorings, consumers can be confident that their water, oatmeal or yogurt remain healthy and natural. Check our recipe section for Sweet Drops ideas and inspiration.
Sweet Drops are available in three sizes: 2-ounce and 1.5-ounce dropper bottles, and 6-ml minis that are perfect on the go. With an average of 288 servings* per 2-ounce bottle, Sweet Drops™ provide great value as well as great taste.

I received the COCONUT Sweet Drops. Since I am not a fan of Coconut flavor I passed this one onto my neighbor. He loves it. He adds a few drops to every bottle of water he drinks and each cup of coffee he drinks. He has now replaced his sweet packed full of calories coffee creamer for Sweet Drops. They add the perfect flavor to any drink.

One 2 fl oz bottle gives you 228 servings. Each bottle costs $15.44. 
Excellent deal!

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I also received VANILLA CREME, it's so good in hot tea. It add's a yummy smooth vanilla taste. Especially good in darker tea's and chai.  A longtime favorite, the smooth, creamy taste of SweetLeaf® Liquid Stevia Vanilla Crème Sweet Drops™ adds rich, sweet notes to any drink or food from coffee to cereal, French toast and desserts. Fantastic in whipped cream to replace vanilla extract and sugar!

Both Water Drops & Sweet Drops are a perfect way to add flavor and sweetness without the calories. 

SweetLeaf is the award-winning, best-tasting zero-calorie, zero-carb, non-glycemic response, natural sweetener available in the U.S. market today. Its uses are endless. Add a delicious sweetness to all of your favorite foods and beverages with SweetLeaf packets. Sweeten your recipes with the SweetLeaf shaker jar. Take sweet taste on-the-go with SweetLeaf tabs.
Want to add sweetness AND flavor? SweetLeaf Liquid Stevia Sweet Drops™ flavor water, coffee, snacks, tea, and more with just a few zero-calorie, zero-carb drops!
Bake something delicious with natural SugarLeaf®. SweetLeaf Stevia bonded to cane sugar offers sweet taste plus the browning, bulking, and caramelizing qualities of sugar, but with two-thirds fewer calories than sugar.

Enter below to win some wonderful products from SweetLeaf

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Good Luck Everyone!

Westrock Coffee Review & Gift Basket Giveaway

Westrock Coffee links community to community. Their drive is to be a catalyst for real change in the lives of farmers and their families, through honest, direct trade with transparency at every stage in the supply chain, from crop to cup. The end result is strong, sustainable growth at origin and a quality product for their customers. They believe in people and the drive not only to survive but to live with dignity and achieve great things. They believe that honest, fair and efficient commerce can fuel great, positive change. Coffee is their opportunity to make that change. As a global commodity living in an extremely complex supply chain, coffee has provided them a chance to reimagine the playing field and build a stable, direct channel between farming communities and the end consumer. As an international company, their strength is in their people. Their homebase, coffee roasting and packaging facility is in Arkansas, their trading desks are in Europe, and origin export facilities are in Rwanda and Tanzania.

I received this amazing variety of coffee from Westrock to sample for myself. I was so excited when I opened the box and got a good look at everything they had sent. There are so many delicious coffees it's amazing. The first coffee we tried was the K cup Rawanda select reserve Dark roast. It captures the most desirable attributes of Rwandan coffee. With a full-bodied, long-lasting cup, it boasts the rich flavor of smoky cedar with hints of black currant. From the dry fragrance of crisp apple to the wet aroma of light lemon, the coffee is sure to delight the senses of the adventurous palate. This is a lovely coffee that will keep your motor running. We had one cup each and it kept us awake and alert without that icky jittery feel. This flavor is so good and loved by my boyfriend I decided to be nice and save the dark blend for him in the morning.

 I have been drinking the Meza Morning Blend K Cups myself and will start drinking the dark roast again once I open the bag of the ground beans or whole beans. I will save the easy to use K Cups for him while I drink the other K Cups.

The Meza Morning Blend is perfect for me. It has a unique combination of flavors that revitalize the senses. Once brewed, the initial subtle notes of fresh clove found in the dry fragrance slowly develop into a bold nutty aroma. This exceptional mix of invigorating taste is captured as the hints of vanilla mingle with the strong flavor of brown sugar. I enjoy it with a touch of cream or even black. It is smooth and delicious with no funky aftertaste or weird bite to it. It's amazing and it sells at an awesome price for that matter. You can buy this medium roast whole bean, ground or in a 12pk of kcups for $9.00 or you can find it at one of your local store for an incredible price too. I saw on Westrock facebook page that people are finding the kcups at Krogers 80ct for $29.99!!! That truly is an amazing price.

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The Meza Medium blend is my personal favorite of the Westrock coffees. It seems to be my go to now. I recommend it to anyone who loves a wonderful medium blend coffee. I just add a touch of cream. ​

The Muraho espresso Blend that I received allows the senses to indulge in the sweetness of nature by focusing on those found in both fruit and flower. Once ground, this coffee draws on the soft floral fragrance of lavender and, upon brewing, blossoms into the syrupy fullness of apricot.  Their Kivu Bold has been crafted to perfection in order to balance both the sweet and smoky attributes of this coffee. Hints of walnut are found in this dry fragrance, which nicely compliments its wet aroma of brown sugar. The complexity of flavor carries effortlessly throughout the medium-bodied cup and long-lasting finish

Westrock also has a very cool gift box that is perfect for any coffee love and really affordable for $30 it includes: Two mugs and Two 12 oz. bags of African coffee.

I think that is an amazing price. Seriously I have paid $15 just for a mug alone so to get 2 plus 2 bags if coffee is so worth it. Westrock sent me a mug with my coffee package and I LOVE it. I tend to be pick about my mugs. If you are a coffee love like me then you know what I mean. It has to be durable and have that perfect feel when it's snug in the palm of your hands. These mugs are just that and as a cherry on top it has an elephant on it. Anyone who knows me knows my favorite animals are elephants so this mug has found a special place in my heart as well as on my shelf. 

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When your purchase you coffee from Westrock you are supporting a beautiful company with a wonderful cause.  Westrock Coffee Company began with the revitalization of a neglected coffee mill in Rwanda. What started with the hope of helping a few, now provides global export opportunities and purposeful employment to numerous friends and partners at origin. By operating at origin, and working together with farming communities, Westrock is able to provide real returns for farmers and their families.

You can purchase Westrock products online straight from Westrock and if you order $25 or more shipping is FREE. So try some today ..... here is a direct link to shop http://westrockcoffee.com/products/ 

If you prefer to buy your coffee at your local store then look for Westrock at Costco, Walmart, Krogers, Winn Dixie, Food Lion, Staples, Bi Lo, Office Depot, King Scoopers, Broncos, Hannaford and Sams Club. For you amazon lovers you can find it on amazon as well.

                                                              GIVEAWAY
Simple Side of Life readers...... you are going to be soooo excited...... just for you Westrock has put together an AMAZING gift basket to win so get your entries in!!!! Good Luck!!! 

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Kinder's BBQ Review & Giveaway

Three generations of hard work and family pride began in 1946 when John Kinder opened his first meat market in the Bay Area town of San Pablo, California. In 1985 Kinder’s was relocated to Concord, California, and the business became a popular neighborhood meat market, deli and catering company - not to mention, the only place in town to get a marinated ball tip steak sandwich. After 65 years of growth, Kinder's now boasts 15 locations throughout Northern California and Nevada with both franchise and corporate locations. Kinder's is also gearing up for explosive growth in expanding their proprietary line of bbq sauces, marinades and more in retail market across the country.

Kinder's has the most amazing selection of delicious BBQ sauces. We use a ton of BBQ sauce because we are a big BBQ family. I am a .... what I call.... a dipper. I must have sauces to dip my foods in. I don't care if it has already been coated in sauce during the cooking process I still need to have a pile to dip my meat into. I am in love with Kinder's sauces so much so that I mixed it into my rice and veggies as well as dipping my meat into it.  

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Kinder's has a selection of Organic sauces as well as being gluten free so if you have a family member is sensitive to gluten or if you just want to avoid it in your diet then Kinder's is a perfect product for you.  The sauces are full of flavors and they pour on thick. I'm hooked and must try all their flavors.

Kinder's offers 2 types of marinades.  One is a garlic marinade. Devoted garlic lovers are never satisfied with just a hint of garlicky flavor. So for you, Kinder's add a lot! In fact, this recipe uses double the garlic of Kinder’s Original Marinade for a robust taste you can really sink your teeth into. Steaks, chops, ribs—before you grill them, chill them in Kinder’s and discover a gar-licious new barbecue favorite.

The second is their Original Marinade.This addictive taste sensation was made famous at Kinder’s restaurants, and you can bring it home. Grandpa Kinder developed the original recipe back in the 1950s to flavor their popular ball tip sandwich served at the family’s meat counter. A secret blend of seasonings so savory and sensational that, once you try it, you crave it! So if you’re looking for the barbecue master’s trick to big, bold, meaty flavor—just keep a bottle of Kinder’s Original Marinade in the pantry.

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You must try their seasonings and rubs. They have something for everyone. If you like it spicy, mild or you are like me and want at touch of citrus Kinder's has a perfect blend for you. I personally love their Tequila Lime BBQ Rub.  It starts with a tangy burst of lime, adds a touch of tequila to get your taste buds buzzing, then a kick of chili to bring on the perfect heat. It truly is a lip smacking blend of flavor. I rubbed it all over my chicken before it was cooked at it was delicious. I'm going to try it on a turkey next! I'm also excited to try their Lemon Herb Seasoning. The amazing people at Kinder's sent me two of their rubs and two of their BBQ sauces to try for myself. I received the Tequila

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lime rub and their brown sugar BBQ rub. They are delicious, we had such a hard time deciding which one we were going to try first. The are both soooooooo good and so different from each other.

They also sent their organic Sweet Siracha BBQ sauce where sweet meets heat! It has the perfect balance of sweetness and spicy, with a hint of 

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garlic to round everything out. ​ Last but not least I received Mild BBQ sauce....my favorite. Addictive? That’s putting it mildly! Once you try their famous sauce, you’ll know why it’s more than a delicious Mild BBQ Sauce. It’s an Awesome-Tastes-Great-on- Everything-Sauce;  slightly sweet, perfectly smoky, with a unique bite that keeps you coming back for more… try it on burgers, cooked meats, sandwiches, quesadillas. I used mine to dip my chicken in. My boyfriend likes spicy so the Sweet Siracha BBQ sauce is his personal favorite. We are having so much fun reviewing these rubs and sauces. We eat chicken almost every night and Kinder's makes it deeeeeelicious.

The flavor from this rub made such a tasty juice I decided to use the juices and pour them all over my rice as well. This Tequila Lime BBQ rub is to die for.

This company is California based so you can find then at a variety of California locations and they are expanding so keep your eyes open for this amazing brand. I buy mine at Safeway but if you can't find Kinder's at your local store then go ahead and order yours online >> http://www.kindersbbq.com/ Kinder's is currently working on updating their website so please be patient but don't be afraid to order or even message them via email or facbook. Kinder's is offering one lucky Simple Side of Life reader the chance to win some Kinder's product of their own try. So make sure to follow them on facebook, twitter and instagram. Good luck!!

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TheEpicenter.com Emergency Preparedness Food & Survival Supplies Review & Giveaway

Epicenter Supplies LLC is a small family-owned business offering a wide variety of products and they are here for your emergency preparedness, survival, and outdoor recreation needs. TheEpicenter.com was formed in 1995, and they have been operating from their current location in Eugene, Oregon since May 1999. They are a well-established business and authorized distributor and dealer for several major U.S. companies such as Oregon Freeze Dry (Mountain House products), Sopakco, AmeriQual, MREStar, Sterling Foods, Thermo-Pac, Bridgford Foods, Aquamira, and many others. TheEpicenter.com has a long history of providing excellent customer service and they have many happy repeat customers. Their knowledgeable staff is always friendly, courteous, and ready to assist you! 

MRE MEALS READY TO EAT

​TheEpicenter.com has the Best Prices and Best Variety of MRE'sMRE Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) are the ideal emergency preparedness and survival food — they are ready to eat, with no preparation required! They are also great for outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, hiking, biking, fishing, RV and motorcycle road trips, and general outdoor recreation. They have been a trusted supplier of Military Meals Ready to Eat for over 20 years! They receive their MRE products direct from U.S. military MRE manufacturers — they do not buy their MREs on eBay or Amazon. MRE packaging is extremely durable and can withstand rough conditions. They are completely precooked, self-contained foods (military meals) that require no refrigeration and can be eaten cold or heated. The shelf life of MREs is based on storage temperature, but typically one can expect an average shelf life of 5 to 7 years for most products or longer if kept in cooler conditions. Production dates are published for Civilian MREs produced by military manufacturers.

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FOOD STORAGE

They offer the top-rated, best tasting, longest storage life foods by Mountain House, Augason Farms, and others. It's reasonable to assume that you may at some point find yourself in a situation where you may not have access to a food source, sometimes for an extended length of time. Power outages, blizzards, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc. happen. But, this food is not just for emergencies — these foods, like the MRE products can also be used for camping, hunting, backpacking, hiking, RV & motorcycle road trips, family gatherings, and other outdoor recreation activities.

• Freeze Dried & Dehydrated Foods typically offer a longer shelf life — up to 25+ years or longer, when stored as recommended. Water is required for preparation, and some items require a short cooking time. Available in #10 cans, pouches, boxed kits, and buckets.
• For the best variety of emergency food storage options, they also offer shelf stable ready-to-eat Mainstay Survival Food Rations to store in your car, home, backpacks, and grab-n-go bags. You may also consider the MRE Meals Ready to Eat option if you have limited access to clean/filtered water or if you do not plan to have a heat source for cooking.
• In today's economy and with the rising cost of food, the need for self sufficiency is a popular element of preparedness planning, so TheEpicenter.com also offer long term Preparedness Seeds for homesteading, survival, and emergency gardens. And for do-it-yourself food storage needs, they now offer Oxygen Absorbers and Mylar Bags to assist you in creating your own food storage supplies.

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Outdoor Recreation and Emergency Survival Supplies

They have a good selection of popular outdoor gear for camping, hiking, backpacking, and emergency preparedness, and they are offered at low prices! Whether you are looking for camping or emergency food preparation, outdoor or emergency cooking stoves, shelter and blankets, camping tools, medical first aid, or general survival supplies, you'll find it at TheEpicenter.com.

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Essentials for your emergency preparedness supplies

We've got what you need! Water Filters, Water Treatment & Water Purification products, Emergency Drinking Water, and Water Storage Accessories.
Store or create a source for clean, drinkable water in the event of a natural disaster, water contamination, or if you have questionable drinking water. These products provide a valuable resource to ensure clean drinking water for your camping, backpacking, hiking, and international travel.

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Emergency Power Sources and Products

TheEpicenter.com offers a wide selection of emergency power supplies, generator parts, fuel stabilizers, and other helpful products. Discover all of our power-related items and supplies for your emergency power needs to keep your electronics powered up and running.

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TheEpicenter.com sent me three awesome products to review. I received Mountain House freeze dried veggies. In the past I have personally purchased Mountain House freeze dried ice cream for camping trips and I truly love it so I was super excited to try the veggies.

I was lucky enough to get a #10 can of corn, a pouch of green beans and a pouch of peas. These pouches are thee coolest products particularly for backpacking. They are super light weight making them perfect if your are packing everything you need on your back. Each pouch is 2 servings and is loaded with all the nutrients you need and would be getting if you were lugging heavy cans. 

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Cooking them is a snap and does not require much at all.

It only needs 1 and 1/2 cup boiling water.

​All you do its boil up your water over a fire or cook stove and pour it directly into the bag. I added a few spices for flavoring and then zipped up the bag. You just let it sit for 7-9 minutes and then unzip and serve. The spices that I added totally soaked into the veggies so feel free to add your very favorite spices as you wish.

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You can serve it on a plate or eat directly from the bag. I ate these with chicken and rice and they really were tasty.

I live in California so as a Cali resident I as well as everyone else must keep an emergency kit handy. As you know we here in California live through earthquakes that are constantly happening. No matter how big or small it is always best to BE PREPARED!!! So, if you need supplies for camping or to build an emergency kit for the next big earthquake, tornado or zombie take over TheEpicenter.com has EVERYTHING all in one awesome site.

During the month of February you can go to TheEpicenter.com ..... hover over "SPECIALS" and click on "DEAL OF THE MONTH" at the top of the page and The Mountain House Vegetable items with be on sale. Scoop them up fast while they're on sale.

The amazing people at TheEpicenter.com have created a fantastic giveaway just for you Simple Side of Life readers. One lucky reader will win 3 #10 cans of Mountain House Vegetables..... 1 can Corn, 1 can Green Beans and 1 can Peas. Good luck everyone!! 

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Valentines Gift Giving Idea...... Skinit Review & Discount Code

Skinit has some adorable Valentines~ love themed skins that would make a perfect gift for any girl in your life....

Of course they have skins for guys too.....

Skinit is the industry leader in consumer personalization for electronic devices. Our online ordering and customization tools allow you personalize thousands of devices. Make your cell phone, MP3 player, laptop, PDA device, camera, or gaming device as unique as you are.
Show off your style, support your favorite team, or truly express yourself with custom skins you design. Skinit has thousands of designs including top brands in sports, entertainment, and art, as well as our Customizer™ tool that lets you design your own using photos, images, text, symbols and many of our designs to create entirely personalized skins.
Show your passion or create something entirely new, and unique.
At Skinit, we invite you to transform your ordinary device and Make it Yours™.

You can choose to get your Skinit made into a CASE or SKIN. 
If you choose CASE it would be for a phone, mp3 player or tablet..
for phones there are many phones to choose from, mp3 it's just a iPod 4th & 5th GEN and for a tablet iPad 2 & 3, iPad Air, iPad Mini & Kindle Fire First Gen
If you choose Skin there are numerous choices:
Phone
Laptops
Gaming Devices
Tablets
Mp3 Players
Skins for Popular Cases (example- OtterBox, LifeProof, Incipo)
Audio
Medical
and Other ( GoPro, Ruku & Charging Pad)

I got my Skinit to cover my HP laptop. I think it's such a cute way to make my boring silver laptop case look cool. It's now covered in black and pinkish brown color stripes. 

It's a neat way to personalize your things....
With so many prints to choose from. Not just Valentines~Love prints. 
So much more....

Super Easy to install and when your done just peel it back off. 

Check them out and pick one out for someone you love. 
BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFF on Cases and Skins
 Use Code: SKINITBOGO

CLICK HERE to ORDER 

Valentines Gift Giving Idea's...... ToiletTree Products ~ Adjustable Bamboo Bathtub Caddy Review

 The Perfect Valentines Day Gift for someone that can use some relaxing bath time.
Or even just wants to beautify their bathroom. 
ToiletTree Expandable Bamboo Bathtub Caddy 
would make bath time so relaxing. 

Soak in the warm water with fragrant bubbles with a nice glass of wine, maybe even a book. 
Your Bamboo Caddy will hold the items for you. 

Or just keep the needed bath time items on it, soap, razor, shampoo, washcloth.... whatever it is you need. 
Either way you use this beautiful bamboo shower caddy it will be a great addition to bath time. 

ToiletTree Products Expandable Bamboo Bathtub Caddy will work in any tub. 
It's made from 100% natural eco-friendly bamboo. 
 ToiletTree Products turns bath time into a relaxing escape within your own home.

I don't have a bathtub in my home. Wish I did, but don't. 
But I do have the beautiful Bamboo Shower Seat from ToiletTree Products below the window ledge in my walk in shower. I thought the Expandable Bamboo Bathtub Caddy completed the look, making my shower area look beautiful. It's like being in a spa every time I step in the shower. I love it!

I store all my things on the adjustable bamboo caddy and it fit's PERFECT!
I can even make it a little smaller if I wanted more room for other things. 
But i'm happy just the way it looks. 

Product Description

• Crafted from 100% natural and eco-friendly bamboo.
• Gloss coating finish will avoid ugly water stains.
• Relax in Luxury with the Ultimate Accessory for Your Bathroom
• Measures 20.5 inches and expands to 31.5 inches when fully opened.

$27.95 for the ToiletTree Products Expandable Bamboo Bathtub Caddy , add a bottle of wine, book and some bath tub bubbles and you have the
PERFECT Valentines Day Gift. 

Valentines Day make delicious treats with Enjoy Life Foods ~ Dark Chocolate Morsels Giveaway

Taste and trust are a delicious combination.
You don’t have to sacrifice taste to have a worry-free snack. Enjoy Life Foods offers full-flavored cookies, cereals, seed and fruit mixes, baking chocolate and more, all made with love in their allergy-friendly bakery.
​Safety never tasted so good.

Enjoy life sells some wonderful products. For anyone that has allergies from things like Gluten, Wheat, Dairy, Peanut, Tree Nut, Egg, Soy, Fish, Casein, Sesame, Sulfites, Potato
& more you will find a treat for you. 
Like Soft Baked Cookies, Crunchy Cookies, Chewy Bars (my favorite),
Seed & Fruit Mixes, Baking Mixes & More. 

And now they sell this wonderful Baking Chocolate.
It comes in 3 varieties. 

Dreaming of dairy-, soy- and gluten-free cookies, blondies and cake pops?
You can have it all by using our delicious Semi-Sweet Mega Chunks.

Dairy-free, nut-free and soy-free, our
​Semi-Sweet Mini Chips are delicious in cookies or straight from the bag.

Use our dairy-free, nut-free and
​soy-free dark chocolate morsels in cookies, or make your own mole sauce!

ALL the above are free from:

Making them the perfect morsels for every household. 
Just because you take away all the above, doesn't mean you take away the great taste. 
I only sampled the Dark Chocolate Morsels and there was no difference from any other name brand dark chocolate morsel as far as taste. 
So  you or that family member that has food allergies can still enjoy something sweet. 

I know so many people that have food allergies. Including myself. 
I have a Gluten allergy.
I am still not 100% Gluten free with my eating habits, but getting close and regret when I don't follow it 100%. 
Finding food that are not only allergy free but still taste good is half the battle. 
Most allergy free foods are tasteless, dry and lack what your looking for. 
Once you true Enjoy Life Foods you won't have this problem no more. 
I have tried almost all Enjoy Life brand foods and loved each and everyone. 
​The Chewy Bars (all of them) are my favorite. Followed by the Snickerdoodle Soft Baked Cookie. 
I wish they sold the Plentils where I live, it's the only Enjoy Life item I haven't tried. 

When you buy and enjoy products from Enjoy Life you don't have to worry about cross contamination. The whole facility is allergy-friendly. 

Plus they continually perform tests to verify that our facility upholds our stringent standards, keeping you safe as you enjoy our snacks. Our ingredient suppliers are required to complete non-contamination certificates for every item that we purchase, and we additionally test for gluten, casein, peanut and soy protein. We clean our equipment thoroughly after product and flavor changes. And every Enjoy Life Foods employee understands the severity of food allergies and intolerances and takes careful precautions to protect our customers.

The recipe I used for Super Moist Chocolate Chip Cookies with
Enjoy Life dark chocolate Morsels

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup Enjoy Life dark chocolate morsels

DIRECTIONS:Preheat oven to 350°F.  In the bowl of a stand mixer, use the paddle attachment to cream together the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.  Add egg and vanilla, and mix until combined, about 1 minute.
Add in the flour, cornstarch, baking soda and salt, and beat on medium-low speed until combined. Fold in (stir in) the chocolate chips by hand until just combined.
Use a large cookie scoop (equivalent to 3 tablespoons) or a spoon to shape the dough into balls, and place them on a parchment-covered baking sheet.  Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10-20 minutes.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just set. The centers may look slightly undercooked. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Serve immediately or store in a sealed container for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3-4 months.

Enter Below to win a bag of these wonderful morsels....

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Valentines Gift Giving Ideas.... Mrs. Renfro's & Giveaway

My favorite salsa company is back again with some excellent fruit inspired salsa's. 
I have always been one to eat salsa with chips, on eggs or when I make taco salads.
But never have I added it to a recipe or meal until I started reviewing for Mrs. Renfro's. 
Now salsa is added into our weekly menu
and of course it's always
Mrs. Renfro's salsa.
OUR FAVORITE. 

For 75 years, their family's been bringing you
delicious and innovative products at affordable prices.

PEACH SALSA
Refreshingly smooth, this mild fruit salsa is a real palate pleaser. 
Ingredients
Tomatoes, Tomato Puree, Water, Peaches, Onions, Pineapple Juice, Brown Sugar, Distilled Vinegar, Corn Starch, Sweet Green Peppers, Jalapeno Peppers, Salt, Cilantro, Pear Juice Concentrate, Sugar, Garlic, Spices

NEVER would I of tried marinating my chicken in Mrs. Renfro's (or any brand) salsa overnight and grilling 
 the next day. But thanks to the AMAZING recipes on Mrs. Renfro's website, this is now a must have meal for us. Served with wild rice and grilled zucchini this was an amazing dinner. 

Grilled Peach Salsa Chicken
Posted on June 01, 2015 by Doug Renfro 

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 jar Mrs. Renfro's Peach Salsa

Place 4 boneless chicken breasts in container and pour 1 jar of Mrs. Renfro's Peach Salsa evenly over it. Let marinate overnight in refrigerator. Grill over medium heat, turning 

Since there is just 2 of us, I half the recipe, so my jar of Mrs. Renfro's Peach Salsa makes 2 meals. 

POMEGRANATE SALSA
An inspired blend of sweet and spicy, the bright flavor of pomegranate is tempered by smoky chipotle.
Ingredients
Tomatoes, Water, Brown Sugar, Onion, Tomato Puree, Sweet Green Peppers, Distilled Vinegar, Pomegranate Concentrate, Corn Starch, Chipotle Pepper, Cilantro, Salt, Spices, Natural Pomegranate Flavor, Garlic

Excellent on salad.... replace your favorite salad dressing with Mrs. Renfro's Pomegranate Salsa. 
But also excellent with chips. 
The perfect combination of sweet & spicy. Just perfect. 

PINEAPPLE SALSA
Uno, dos, tres! We're talkin' pineapple chunks, crushed pineapple and pineapple juice. Add a bit of cilantro, a hint of heat and this salsa delivers a real taste treat.
Excellent salsa. Not to sweet, this is also good as a salad dressing replacement. 
Also oddly good on eggs. 

Doesn't this sound good?
I love pineapple, Canadian bacon pizza's. 
We make homemade pizza at least once a month at home, going to add this to my menu next pizza day. 

Pineapple Salsa Pizza
Posted on April 17, 2015 by Doug Renfro 

• 1 Pizza crust
• 1/2 c. jar Mrs. Renfro's Pineapple Salsa
• 1 package precooked Canadian bacon slices
• 2 c. shredded mozarella cheese
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste
• Crushed pepper flakes

Preheat 450 degrees.
Spread Mrs. Renfro's Pineapple Salsa on pizza crust. Add pizza toppings, black pepper and cheese.
Bake 8-10 minutes. Add crushed red pepper to desired spiciness level and enjoy!

BLACK BEAN SALSA
This hearty flavor-packed salsa is an ideal topper for baked potatoes, a zesty base for southwestern-style pizzas and makes a mean Black Bean Salsa Soup.
Ingredients
Tomatoes, Water, Black Beans, Onions, Green Chile Peppers, Sweet Green Peppers, Distilled Vinegar, Jalapeno Peppers, Corn Starch, Salt, Garlic, Spices, Cilantro

The Black Bean Salsa is my boyfriends favorite, he uses this on everything. Eggs, chips, hamburgers, dip for carrots, celery and whatever else he can think of. He's addicted. 

All Mrs. Renfro's Salsa's cost only $3.95 for a 16 oz. glass jar. EXCELLENT price for something so good. 

You know a company is doing something right when they've been around for 75 years.... Congratulations Mrs. Renfro's

You can read their story here. 

You should really watch this short video, it wraps up what a great company this is. 

If you know someone that loves Salsa why not get them a few bottles of Mrs. Renfro's Salsa for Valentines Day. 

You can order ONLINE HERE or find Mrs. Renfro's in your local grocery store. 

You could make a cute Valentines Gift Basket with Mrs. Renfro's Salsa, chips and heart shaped bowls to serve your salsa in . Or make a romantic dinner for the one you love using
​Mrs. Renfro's Salsa in the recipe. (see recipe idea's here)

Enter below to win Mrs. Renfro's Products. 
Good Luck Everyone!

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New Year New You... Emeals Review & Free 14 day trial offer

Simple, Healthy
Meal Planning
Save 2 hours a week with daily
recipes and a matching grocery list.

How It Works Pick Your Plan To start getting eMeals, just choose a meal plan based on your family size and preferred eating style — or even your favorite grocery store.

The plans you can choose from are:

Best Sellers

Weight Management Plans

Family Inspired Plans

Specialty Plans

Partner Plans

After you choose your plan: 
Weekly you will get great recipes. 
They arrive in your email in box. Designed to your plan you choose. 
Seven family friendly dinner recipes, with an entree & side dish. 

Now SHOP & SAVE
with your meal plan you receive a detailed shopping list. 
The best part ( at least to me) it's even organized and has a check off area so once the items in your cart, just check it off. I used to spend up to an hour making a menu & grocery list once a week. Now it's all done for me and the meals are excellent. I love this service. It not only saves me time,
we keep having new and exciting meals I would of never thought of. 

Now Cook and Enjoy
eMeals has taken care of the rest, you get to take full
credit for the healthy and yummy meal you cooked. 

Click HERE to get a 14 day FREE TRAIL  

   12 months: $58 (save $62) Best Value! 
  6 months: $48 (save $12) 
 3 months: $30

The time you save planning a weeks worth of meals plus a grocery list is well worth the cost. 
Plus the excellent & different meals you will be making your family you will win Mom of the Day award every night. 
This is a MUST for every family to have. 

You can choose a plan for a family or just 2
Plus you can change your meal plan option as often as you want, so you can try something different all the time. 

KonaBox Coffee Review & 20% off Discount Code Plus Free Shipping in the US

KonaBox Coffee is a small boutique business located in Honolulu, HI. They aim to create awareness for 1oo% Hawaiian Kona Coffee. Each month they select and ship coffee from an independent grower to their subscribers on a subscription basis. They offer 3 simple plans that makes it easy to order for your needs.

KonaBox Coffee offers a monthly SAMPLER BOX plan that includes an 8oz bag of 100% Kona Coffee, that equals approximately 24 cups of beautiful coffee from the hands of a different local Kona grower each month. They have a no hassle cancellation so you can stop your subscription at any time. Shipping in the US is FREE, to Canada $5 and to the rest of the world $10.

They also offer the LUAU BOX that includes 1lb 100% Kona Coffee that equals approximately 48 cups of beautiful coffee from the hands of a different local Kona grower each month. This amazing LUAU BOX also includes a bonus gourmet treat from Hawaii. The same affordable shipping cost apply.

You can also just order directly from their shop without subscribing. They offer a Gold Label Coffee that you can purchase alone or in coffee gift sets.

8oz KonaBox Coffee Gold Label | 100% Kona Coffee$25.00 First class 100% Kona Coffee. We worked tirelessly with our growers and roaster to produce a coffee experience we are are so proud of. Each bag of our gold label is meticulously produced to deliver a full body with citrus notes and a buttery finish. Choose from Medium or Dark Roast. Whole Bean or Ground.

KonaBox Coffee Gold Label Gift Box $45.00 First class 100% Kona Coffee. We worked tirelessly with our growers and roaster to produce a coffee experience we are are so proud of. Each bag of our gold label is meticulously produced to deliver a full body with citrus notes and a buttery finish. Each box comes with 8oz of our Gold Label, our Stainless Steel KonaBox manual grinder and a Coffee spoon/clip. All of this is delivered in our gift box to surprise and delight your loved one.

The Gourmet Coffee Starter Kit $70.00 Did you ever want to get into making gourmet coffee but don't know where to start? The KonaBox Gourmet Coffee Starter kit includes everything you need to start make the most delectable coffee right from your house. Just add hot water. Whats even better is that even a premium cup of coffee like Kona coffee can be enjoyed for a 1/5 of what you pay at a coffee shop. In no time you will enjoying coffee on another level right from your kitchen. You starter kit includes: The KonaBox Manual Burr Grinder The KonaBox Coffee Scoop and Bag Clip The Aeropress coffee maker Filters Coffee funnel Mixer 8oz of KonaBox Gold Label 100% Kona Coffee.

Hawaiian Sun Lilikoi Passion Fruit Pancake Mix $6.00 Hawaiian Sun Lilikoi Passion Fruit Pancake Mix Natural Flavored. Just add water. 6oz (170g)

This pancake mix looks so good I ordered it with the 20% off code KonaBox has provided for our readers and because it is being shipped within the US the shipping is free. If you would like to place an order and save 20% off you can do so by entering the code SIMPLESIDEOFLIFE20 you will receive 20% off your first month of “The Growers of Kona Club” or by entering the same code in their shop you will receive 20% off your total order. My mix came to a total of $4.80 and I am suuuuuper excited to try it. I am going to try adding banana slices in it. OH MY GOSH!!!!  Yuuuuuummy!!!

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Hawaiian Host Chocolate Covered Macs 5oz Box 14pcs $14.99 Creamy, delicious milk chocolate covered macadamias. 

If you have never had Macadamia nut you don't know what you are missing. You must try these. Again you can use code SIMPLESIDEOFLIFE20 and save 20% off of this scrumptious taste of Hawaii.

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Aeropress Coffee Maker- Amazing brewing method$30.00Your morning cup of coffee is just about to get better. This is KonaBox Coffees personal favorite coffee maker. Forget your boring old French press. The Aeropress combines a press with a drip coffee maker. Utilizing air pressure it directly drips and forces more out of your coffee beans. It leaves you with an extremely rich cup with little bitterness or acidity and best of all there are no grounds at the bottom of your mug. A perfect way to start brewing gourmet coffee right at home.

​ Each Aeropress comes with: - The Aeropress - A funnel - Coffee scoop - Set of filters - Filter holder - Stirrer

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KonaBox Coffee Burr/Mill Coffee Grinder with Spoon$23.00 PREMIUM QUALITY MANUAL COFFEE GRINDER: KonaBox Coffee offer you the best value and quality coffee grinder. FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE: Receive a KonaBox Coffee scoop spoon with built in bag seal clip. WHY BUY KONABOX COFFEE GRINDER: KonaBox Coffee grinder is ceramic burr/mill that mean you will never have to experience metal or rust smell in your coffee. It can grind from espresso to french press and any size in between by simply adjust the knob. And you can also use our KonaBox Coffee grinder with AeroPress coffee and Espresso maker. KONABOX COFFEE WANTS YOU TO ENJOY YOUR FAVORITE COFFEE ANYTIME AND ANYWHERE!!

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I am so excited.......KonaBox Coffee sent me a box to review and I received

Featured Grower: Huahua Farm, North Kona, Phil and Clare Wilson 
Roast: Full City Whole Bean, 8oz
Grown, harvested, roasted and packed on farm

Since each month you get a different type of coffee from a different grower you get to learn a little about each farm and truly sample the many flavors of Kona. Inside of the box is a card with a photo of the growers and a bit of information.

The card suggested to make this coffee in a french press and drink it black. It is so delicious and has a wonderful smell to it. I love it and my man loves it too. I recommend it to any coffee drinker and I also recommend trying it black before you add any cream or sugar.

This is not only a fantastic subscription to treat yourself with but it also makes an amazing gift to give a friend or loved one that enjoys coffee. Please don't forget to take advantage of the 20% off code that KonaBox Coffee has created just for us. If you would like to place an order and save 20% off you can do so by entering the code SIMPLESIDEOFLIFE20 you will receive 20% off your first month of “The Growers of Kona Club” or by entering the same code in their shop you will receive 20% off your total order. This code is good until July 31st 2016.

Link to site: http://www.konabox.com/
KonaBox Coffee Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/konabox
KonaBox Twitter: ​https://twitter.com/konabox

Valentines Day Gift Giving Idea.... eSalon, The Match-Up Review

For just $15 the first month and $30 each month after 
TAKE YOUR PICK 
of ANY 3 PRODUCTS

MIX + MATCH
Get ready to mingle with must-haves in hair care, styling, brows and accessories.

TWO WAYS TO SHOP

Know what you want? ​Select your own mix of must-haves in Manual.

Need a little help? ​Our experts create a bundle for you in Discover.

I did the Need a little help? way....
That way I got what I really needed. 
They ask you questions to see what your hair care needs are. 
I received:
BIG LOVE ~ Color Safe Volumizing Shampoo BIG SOFTIE~
Color Safe Volumizing Conditioner and GET LIFTED ~ Root Lift Spray

They all come packaged in a cute box from  eSalon along with a cute white eSalon drawstring white bag. 
I really like the Shampoo and Conditioner, they make my hair super soft, I don't noticed much new volume to my hair, but I really like the softness I got. Only issue is the bottles are hard for me to pump. They are sort of stiff pumps. Maybe easier for others but me it's a struggle to get the stuff out. 
The get lifted spray is great to add to my roots before blow drying my hair, it does give me some lift and volume. 
I really like how the products come in the mail each month. 
Each bottle should last you the whole month. 

GET LIFTED Root Lift Spray Get increased volume for fine or limp hair. This lightweight spray gives a natural root lift and all-day body, without a sticky or crunchy finish. Infused with strengthening amino acids and silk proteins to retain moisture, leaving hair more voluminous and full of heart. Features our exclusive Vivishield Technology to keep your hair color rich and vibrant. 118 ml / 4 fl oz Body-boosting Polymer - lifts roots for increased volume Hydrolyzed Silk Protein - attracts and binds water for increased hydration Keratin Amino Acids - supplies vital proteins to protect hair structure Extracts of Sugar Cane and Lemon Zest - boost natural strength and luster Baobab Oil - vitamin-rich to promote scalp health, moisture and shine Vivishield Technology – exclusive color protect system

BIG SOFTIE Color Safe Volumizing Conditioner Step up the love with this detangling conditioner, formulated with body-boosting proteins for a softly enhanced effect in fine or limp hair, without weighing it down. Balances moistures and imparts a silky smooth finish, ready to get hearts racing. Features our exclusive Vivishield Technology to keep your hair color rich and vibrant. 251 ml / 8.5 fl oz ​ Vegetable Protein - boosts body and moisture Provitamin B5 - deeply moisturizes and imparts healthy shine Body-boosting Polymer - Lifts roots for increased volume Vivishield Technology – exclusive color protect system

BIG LOVE Color Safe Volumizing Shampoo Dial the volume up with this sulfate-free shampoo for fine or limp hair, enriched with a blend of proteins to build thickness and body into each hair strand. Color safe formula gently cleanses to remove dirt and buildup without stripping moisture, leaving hair with a breathtaking shine. Features our exclusive Vivishield Technology to keep your hair color rich and vibrant. 251 ml / 8.5 fl oz Vegetable Protein - boosts body and moisture Provitamin B5 - moisturizes and imparts healthy shine Body-boosting Polymer - lifts roots for increased volume Vivishield Technology – exclusive color protect system

eSalon has Products & Accessories for COLOR CARE, COLOR ENHANCING, VOLUME, REPAIR, SMOOTHING, STYLING, STYLING TOOLS, COLORING TOOLS & BROW

I really like eSalon, I think it's a good idea, good prices and very convenient. 
They also do personalized hair color, check it out.
At least take advantage of the first month $15 charge, you will fall in love. 

Valentines Gift Giving.....Graze, don't just snack, Graze.com Review & offer for first 4 pack box for free.

Excellent weekly subscription box you can't live without...

Graze is a great weekly subscription box that you can cancel or change at any time. 
You get 8 snacks per box for $11.99.
​You can choose the types of snacks you enjoy to make your box just perfect for you. 

our ingredients
We are always on the hunt for the tastiest ingredients - from the Keitt mango we have picked for its vibrant colour and sweet juicy flesh to our Chilean jumbo flame raisins
(we tried 29 varieties of raisin before the jumbo flame got the nod).
The hunt for juicier, crunchier, tastier and fresher ingredients is never ending.
Every box I have had has super fresh ingredients that were better than any snack box iv'e ever tried. 

You get super yummy snacks like:

Sweet and creamy in equal measure - enjoy our twist on this classic recipe.

As gooey and rich as the original but with the added benefit of essential minerals.

The tastiest way to get a serving of fruit into your day.

Graze... Once you personalize the box to your liking, ever week you will receive something geared towards you. You can change your likes at anytime by logging into your account. 

about us
our story - a new way to snack
Graze was started by seven friends sick of chips and candy, who wanted a better way to snack.
We quit our jobs and camped out in a friend’s spare room for months and after a lot of hard work, graze.com was born - snacks that show off the tasty side of health and are delivered directly to you.

the graze foundersFast forward a few years and we have developed a range of over 100 delicious snacks and designed an intelligent algorithm, that we call DaRWIN, to customize each and every box specially for you.

snacking reinvented
Amazing creations that above all taste great
We know the secret to great tasting food is creativity so our specialized Taste Team, led by Eleanor (we call her "the Taste"), are always in the kitchen. Their sole mission is to discover exciting flavors and create delicious new combinations that will delight your taste buds.
It’s not just the unique combinations and flavors that make our snacks great, it's our dedication to find the highest quality ingredients. Some people think that an almond is just an almond, but once you’ve tried our Californian almonds with our sweet yet spicy salsa mesquite seasoning, you’ll never look at an almond in the same way again.

Everyone has a chance to try Graze for free...
discover a world of
exciting snacks
Over 100 unique snack creations,
each with a nutritionist benefit.
 congratulations!
​you'll get your first 4 snack sampler box free

CLICK HERE
you will need to enter your credit card info & cancel if you no longer want to receive. 

Valentines Day Celebration....... The Mason Jar Cookie Company Review & Giveaway

The Mason Jar Cookie Company set out to create a way that anybody - master baker or complete klutz in the kitchen - could make yummy, wholesome goodies from scratch - without the work, the mess or the fuss. Cookies, Brownies, Granola, Pancakes and more - all were on their list. They wanted it to be not only natural, but naturally packaged too. So they chose a Mason Jar, 'cause for them there's nothing that says RE-USE ME more than a classic glass Mason Jar. And it's just so darn cool.

I am in love with this company!!! They have soooooo much to offer and everything is super delicious! They sell there cookie ingredients in these really cute, really fun mason jars that you can use again and again but they also give you the option of buying the ingredients in jar shaped pouches. You can decide what you prefer or need. So if you are gifting these tasty treats the glass mason jar is the best way to go in my opinion or if you are someone who can reuse these jars for canning fruits/veggies, making jams or other types of projects these jars are right up your alley. The pouches are great if you want to save a few bucks or just toss them in your pantry for easy access. Also the pouches are excellent for travel too. You can pack them up in a bag or suitcase and off you go.  The Mason Jar Cookie Company has so many interesting options. They have an

entire line to choose from and they even offer holiday specials. If you need a Christmas cookie, Easter cookie or a Valentines Day gift they have something for you to choose from. You can even create your own jar on their website.  All you need to do is select your base blend, combine with up to 3 add ins and personalize your 20oz jar with any blend name you choose. You can do that using this link >>> http://masonjarcookiecompany.com/make-a-jar-signature-singles/​ and then just follow these simple steps. 1. From the categories, first select a base flavor - oatmeal, traditional, chocolate, buckwheat, gluten-free - even their brownie or granola 2. Then, choose up to three add-ins - there are dozens and dozens from chocolates to dried fruits, nuts to festive sprinkles. 3. Finally, give your creation a name (they put this on the lid) and pen a note if you're planning on giving it to someone special.  They will hand-layer your own Mason Jar Cookie Company recipe in their Signature Glass Mason Jars, and then pack it snugly in their white presentation tube, affix the note to the outside and ship it off, typically within 3 business days* of your order.

 If you want even more customization?  Special ingredients?  Junior Jars? Front label with your art for wedding, corporate events or other occasions, then call them at 1.855.968.2536 (855.YOU BLEND).

The Mason Jar Cookie Company has 2 types of hot cocoa mix too!!!!! They are a special limited edition and also come in a mason jar. One flavor comes with mini marshmallows and semisweet chocolate chips. The second flavor is a hot mint cocoa mix with mini marshmallows, semisweet chocolate chips and candy cane pieces!!! CANDY CANE PIECES!!!! Holy cow.....yummmy!!! This is also a special limited edition cocoa. These are perfect. I would give these as gifts if they made it out of my house. They look so delicious I might just drink them up myself.

Their brownie mix is Brownie Decadence brownie mix in a mason jar with Rich Jersey Cocoa and milk, white and semisweet chocolate.  The brownie mix and granola mix come only in the mason jar option and the pancake mixes come only in the adorable jar shaped pouch options. The granola mix looks amazing. I would love to try these. One is chocolate almond granola mix with semisweet chocolate and crunchy almonds. The other is cranberry chocolate granola mix with juicy cranberries and white chocolate chips.                             

These super fun jar shaped pouches full of pancake mix are amazing and come in two flavors. Buttermilk chocolate chip pancake mix with premium chocolate and a rich buttermilk base. The second is a more citrus flavor, cranberry orange pancake mix with cranberries and orange zest. Both sound delicious, super simple to make and easy to store or bring camping because they are in the pouch.

The Mason Jar Cookie Company was super sweet and sent me two of their Valentines day cookie jars. I received the I Love You!!! Cookie Mix in a mason jar with jumbo heart sprinkles and premium white chocolate chips. I also received the Kiss Me Chocolate Drops cookie mix with red sugar, bright red kiss sprinkles and milk chocolate drops.

These cookies are so simple to make and all you need to add is some butter, 1 egg and vanilla (optional). You just dump the dry ingredients out of the jar and into a bowl and then add the wet ingredients. You mix it up with your clean hands and then drop heaping spoonfuls onto your cookie sheet. 

The Mason Jar Cookie Company cookies were so much fun and so simple to make. They are the perfect little kids project or if you are throwing a party these are easy and quick to make so that you have fresh baked, right out of the oven cookies for your guests or your kids friends. I can't express enough how delicious these cookies are. I made a batch and between myself, my man, my roommate and his kid these are gone after 2 nights. The white chocolate is creamy and sweet and the red hearts give the cookie a sweet crunch. Everyone is patting me on the back because they are so good and thanking me for the yummy cookies but I can't even take credit. The Mason Jar Cookie Company deserves all the credit...... I just tossed them in a bowl. hahahaha

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They only take 12 minutes to bake. You can pull them out sooner for a chewy cookie or leave them in longer if you prefer a more crispy treat. I tried both and personally like them a little chewy but you don't have to take my word for it, you should try them for yourself. You can order these online directly from The Mason Jar Cookie Company or you can get them at your local retailer.

Buy online:

Amazon, Bourbon & Boots, Crate & Barrel,  ETSY, Food Network, HSN, Kohls, Macys, OpenSky, Sun-Maid Market, Undiscovered Kitchen, Wayfair, Zulily

Brick & Mortar
AAFES (Army/Air Force Exchange), Balducci's Food Lover's Market, Bed, Bath & Beyond , Blue Violet Flowers and Gifts, Cabela's, Chestnut Street Kitchens, Crate & Barrel, Decicco's Family Markets, Dylan's Candy Bar, Eli Zabar's E.A.T. (Madison Avenue), Foodie Kids, Front Street Gourmet, Garden of Eden Marketplace, Gary's Wine & Marketplace, Guiggisberg Cheese, Hallmark (Crafters & Co), HEB, Home Shopping Network, Iowa Meat Farms, Kings, Kohl's, Liquor Barn, Long’s Drug (Hawaii), Lord & Taylor, Macy's, Market Street Boutique, Mud on Main, NEXCOM (Navy Exchange), Nutcracker Sweet, Olive Oil Etcetera, Onehope Wine, Publix (select premium stores), Raley’s (Nob Hill Trading Company), Sun-Maid (Factory Stores), Takoma Park Silver Spring Cooperative, Target, The Blueberry Barn, The Churney Artisan Market, The Dove's Nest, The Morgan House, Inc. and Zest!
 
The Mason Jar Cookie Company is giving away one jar of Valentine theme cookie mix to two lucky readers so enter to win, good luck and enjoy!!

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New Year New You....... Naturally More Nut Butters Review and Giveaway

                                                                   ALL NATURAL NUT BUTTERS
​Naturally More all natural peanut and almond butters are wholesome and delicious. They start with the highest quality fresh nuts and roast them to perfection to bring out the most intense nut flavors. Then they add ingredients like flaxseed and probiotics that offer beneficial nutrients that are essential for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle,  and they never add anything artificial!!!
                                                

Naturally More sent me their Almond Butter to try for myself and I LOVE it!! I am a huge peanut butter fanatic as some of you may know. Some of my friends have suggested before that I try Almond Butter since I eat so much peanut butter and so I tried it and it is delicious. I was very excited to taste this Naturally More Almond butter especially because it is all natural and has no trans fat. It's smooth and creamy and goes perfectly on sandwiches, waffles, pancakes as well as just straight out of the jar.

Nothing beats the taste of almond butter, and with their New and Improved recipe with added probiotics, it’s Naturally More delicious and nutritious now! As always, they start with the freshest, highest quality California almonds and roast them to perfection. Then they add probiotics and flaxseed to provide more essential nutrients and energy for your busy life. This is what almond butter should be …. and more, naturally! Naturally More improved nutritional benefits by adding probiotics that:• Are 10X more effective than common yogurt cultures* • Support immune and digestive health as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle* • Support better utilization of the natural proteins in the almond butter when 2 servings are eaten* They improved the flavor by:• Adding more almonds to give you more of that authentic flavor you love, and removed the plant protein. • Using more coarsely ground almonds for a filling texture • Adding a hint of coconut sugar and removing the cane sugar and molasses Benefits: 6 grams of protein, Enhanced protein utilization, High in Omega-3 ALA, GMO free, Gluten free, Vegan, All Natural Ingredients: Roasted almonds, flaxseed, coconut sugar, sea salt, bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086 (probiotics).

Naturally More also carries the most delicious and all natural peanut butters. My favorite is the Natural Creamy Peanut Butter. It is creamy, natural and delicious, it’s peanut butter bliss! Naturally More’s peanuts are grown especially for them in New Mexico. The peanuts are roasted to peanut butter perfection and then blended with plant-based protein and flax seeds to provide extra nutrients needed to help keep your body strong and naturally balanced. Enjoy it in everything from classic PB&J’s to smoothies! I love to add this peanut butter to cookies and chocolate ice cream.....YUUUUUMMMMMMY!!!! Benefits: 9 grams of protein , and again it is an excellent source of Omega-3 ALA. It's GMO Free, No Trans Fat, Gluten Free, All Natural and Vegan Ingredients: Roasted peanuts, pea protein, flax seed, evaporated cane juice, salt, molasses.

If you love crunch in your natural peanut butter, then Naturally More has the recipe for you! New Mexico-grown peanuts are slow roasted for the perfect flavor, and then blended with flaxseed and plant-based protein to provide essential nutrients that help you live your healthiest life. All natural, delicious and nutritious peanut butter. Just one taste and you might get caught licking the spoon! It has all the same benefits and ingredients as the creamy peanut butter but with a crunchy texture. This is also great for baking cookies since you can get the scrumptious flavor of peanut butter with a crunchy addition to your cookie without having to add extra nuts.

Naturally More all natural almond and peanut butters are made from more than just nuts!  Their special recipes were developed to not just taste great, but to add a boost of healthy benefits to help you live your best life. As you see all of their natural almond and peanut butters include flaxseeds, which some have called one of the most powerful plant foods on the planet.  They top off our all natural Roasted Almond Butter with probiotics to support your immune and digestive systems, and help your body better utilize the natural protein in nuts. They believe that eating well is about enjoying food that tastes good and is good for you. Inexpensive, processed food comes at a great cost to our health. Naturally More strives to create healthy, protein-packed nutritious almond and peanut butters that taste delicious. They are committed to always using the very best good-for-you ingredients.  

You can visit the Naturally More website for delicious recipes. They provide an entire page of to die for recipes that you MUST try. ​http://www.naturallymore.com/recipes/  My favorite is the Skinny Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie. I recommend you give it a try for sure.
 
You can find out where to buy Naturally More products at the locations I have posted below.  

You can even sign up for their newsletter and they will notify you when there are coupons available. Simply go to the bottom left of their coupon page and sign up http://www.naturallymore.com/coupons/ One lucky winner can save a trip to the store because the awesome people at Naturally More have decided to provide product for a Giveaway. One Simple Side of Life reader will win their own jar of Almond Butter AND peanut butter. So make sure you enter to win this delicious giveaway by using raffelcopter posted below. Good luck everyone!!!

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New Year, New You........ Raw Revolution Organic Bars Review & Giveaway

Raw Revolution was launched in Alice Benedetto’s home kitchen in 2004. A registered nurse and natural foods chef, Alice was looking for something that she could give to her kids – a healthy snack that also tasted good. Alice started slowly, feeding her delicious, natural snacks to friends and family, and then started selling small batches through local stores near her suburban home. When the first bars sold out within days, Alice knew that she was on to something. With the encouragement of her husband, Dave, Raw Revolution expanded. Alice developed new flavors and taste combinations. Dave scoured factories for used equipment, ultimately putting together a production line of equipment once used at pizzerias, chocolate factories, and bakeries. Over 10 years later Alice and Dave are producing millions of Raw Revolution bars every year. The bars are now sold through major retailers both in the United States and overseas.  Each one is still made at Alice and Dave’s family-owned factory just outside of New York City. A lot has changed in the last decade, but some things are the same as they have always been. The ingredients are fresh. The taste is revolutionary. And the story is just beginning.

Raw Revolution sent be an entire variety box of their line of Raw Rev Glo. This line of bars has 5 delicious flavor options. These bars are made with raw superfood, are totally vegan, gluten free, non GMO and are packed with protein. The Mixed Nuts Caramel & Sea Salt has 10 grams protein, 10 grams fiber and 5 grams sugar. Both the Crunchy Peanut Butter & Sea Salt and the Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt have 11 grams protein, 13 grams fiber and 3 grams sugar. The Dark Chocolate Cashew & Mint has 12 grams protein, 12 grams fiber and 5 grams sugar. The Creamy Peanut Butter & Seal salt has a whopping 15 grams protein, 14 grams fiber and only 2 grams of sugar.

                                                 What makes Raw Revolution so special?

~ Their commitment to using only organic ingredients means that the consumer, farmers, and land are not exposed to toxic chemicals or Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)... the food remains as nature intended for maximum nutritional value.
~There are sprouted Superfoods in every bite. Not only do they shun cheap, highly processed ingredients like soy protein isolate and corn derivatives, they add premium antioxidant-rich sprouted flax seeds to every bar, plus offer raw chia seeds; hemp, pea, and brown rice protein; virgin coconut oil; and luscious Italian dark chocolate -- all priced equally or less expensive, per ounce, than their closest NON-organic competitors.
~Raw Revolution bars consist of dense nutrition. Not only high quality, but densly packed, Raw Rev bars use less packaging and space during storage and transport, another huge environmental win compared to most other packaged snacks.
~They are always vegan. No animals were harmed during the making of these bars! Not only is this better for the environment (animal agriculture is the primary cause of global warming and a great deal of other pollution), they are a 100% animal-friendly choice for your diet. 
~They require minimal processing which means less heating and cooling and a lower carbon footprint from crop to table.

Aside from the Glow bars Raw Revolution has bars that come in 13 different delicious flavors. Dark Chocolate Trail Mix, Chunky Peanut Butter Chocolate, Cranberry Almond and Coconut, Double Chocolate Brownie, Spirulina Dream, Cherry Chocolate Chunk, Chocolate Coconut Bliss, Almond Butter Cup, Coconut Delight, Chocolate Crave, Chocolate Raspberry Truffle, Golden Cashew, Heavenly Hazelnut Chocolate.  You can buy all these bars on the website individually, by the case or even buy variety packs. ​http://www.rawrev.com/

You can also find these bars at your local stores using the store locator on the website  http://www.rawrev.com/#!storelocator/c1tvy Raw Revolution sent me so many Glo bars to taste and review I have decided to share with one lucky reader. I will send one of each Raw Revolution Glo bar flavors. So good luck and make sure to enter to win a sample pack of your own. ​

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Friendly Reminder to EVERYONE!

ALL Reviews are open to the U.S. ONLY unless otherwise noted. 
We will put in the subject line if it's open to other places. Sorry!

Iv'e had to disqualify many winners the last month due to them being in the UK or Canada, sorry ladies. We do have reviews time to time that you can enter, but not many. We will try and bring more too you. 
​                                                      

New Year New You....... Silverheels Outdoor Review, Discount Code & Giveaway

Starting in early 2015 Silverheels has been on a mission to Bring the American Outdoors Back to America.
They are using products made in the Greatest Country in the World. They also are setting out to have the lowest impact on the environment as possible. At Silverheels they are using products made from organic and recycled cotton, and RPET to help reduce, reuse, and recycle. 
Silverheels is on a mission and they need explorers, climbers, hikers, bikers, and any lover of the outdoors to help make this mission a reality. 

Silverheels Outdoors is a newcomer to the outdoor market but is already set on making a lasting impact.
Their goal is to "Bring the American Outdoors back to America!" They work to inspire people to go outside and breathe in the fresh air no matter where they are. They encourage all forms of exploration from your backyard to the National Parks. The entire team at HQ is supremely dedicated to the great outdoors and is not only encouraging exploration but conservation as well. We strive to make our products environmentally friendly by utilizing organically grown cotton and recycled materials. 

Silverheels has these super cool and super comfy long sleeve shirts for those colder days that you spend outdoors. Just like their other clothes this shirt is made of organic materials.

My personal favorite from Silverheels are these cozy hoodies. I LOVE hoodies and the fact that they are made here in America makes me love them even more.

Also Silverheels ensures that all of their products are manufactured in the greatest country on Earth. In a world where all companies are outsourcing their products, seeing the "Made in USA" tag is very reassuring. They strive for high quality, and this standard of quality is met by the great people that live right here in the USA. Everything they do is backed with a love of nature. A love that the team at Silverheels wants to share. A love that they want the world to feel with every hike, every ride, every climb, and everything in between.

Made of 48% RPET Polyester, 36%Organic Cotton, 12% Rayon, and 4% spandex this beanie is nice and warm and helps of the environment too! This awesome beanie is made and embroidered right here in the Good Ol' USA. Silverheels T-Shirts are made of organic and recycled materials so you know mother nature will be pleased with you when you wear these clothes. You can rest assured that when you buy anything from Silverheels you are supporting an amazing company as well as supporting our beautiful U.S.A and it's workers. I received these two really cool T-Shirts from Silverheels and I can tell you personally that they are excellent quality. They are super soft and comfortable. I totally support adventuring in the American Outdoors and traveling around in this amazing country that we are so lucky to live in. There are so many beautiful places to explore and so many states, parks and sites to see. I can't wait to continue my outdoor adventures here is the U.S.A. and I hope you all support this movement to continue "Bringing the American outdoor back to America!!!" In this day and age of gaming and reality shows I think we all need to get up and get outside. Get your adventure on and support awesome companies like Silverheels.

The generous people at Silverheels are offering our readers a killer 15% off discount PLUS free shipping !!! So now is the time to take advantage of this offer and order some Silverheels outdoor gear. When placing your order you can use coupon code: THESIMPLESIDE  >> order at >>>  http://silverheelsoutdoors.com/

In addition to their 15% off and free shipping offer you will have a chance to win this high quality, super cool Silverheels gray hat. You can now cover your sleeping bag hair with the most legit hiking cap out there! This hat is made of chino fabric with white stitching and the logo of the brand. It also has side vent holes to keep your head cool out on the trail! The slider on the back makes this cap one size fits all. Of course because it is Silverheels it is made where it should be...... in the United States of America.   Check out their instagram page:  https://www.instagram.com/silverheelsoutdoors/ ​Again the discount code is THESIMPLESIDE and don't forget to enter to win.

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SUPER BOWL PARTY TREATS: Garden Lites Review & Giveaway 10 winners.

This is right up my alley for YUMMY treats. 
Since I am not a big sweets eater and LOVE veggies it was nice to find something as good as Garden Lites.
Thanks to a nice guy named Hayden I was lucky to be introduced to this brand and before even getting something to review I ran across these in my local store, bought box and fell in love. DELICIOUS!
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Garden Lites is on a mission to create DELICIOUS foods that are truly healthy because every one of our products is veggie-rich with vegetables as its first ingredient.  Why veggies?  Because the one message on health that has never changed is “eat your vegetables”.
We offer foods made with clean/simple ingredients, but go a step further to deliver the nutrition consumers are seeking. As pioneers in this movement, Garden Lites is bringing solutions that meet the next stage in the ever evolving consumer definition of healthy food – delicious veggie-rich foods.
​
The BIG GAME is one of the biggest food holidays of the year for millions of Americans. This year, why not take charge of your nutritional health on Game Day by making smart snacking choices that are also sure to wow your friends and family? By simply swapping out some Garden Lites Muffins and Garden Lites Broccoli & Brown Rice Veggie Bites for other less healthy snacks and desserts you will guarantee a win-win for everyone on game day.
 
Great way to get your kids to eat veggies too!

Below is a list of all the wonderful products Garden Lites Sells:

Chocolate You'll never believe the first two ingredients in Garden Lites Chocolate Muffins are zucchini and carrots! Heat in the microwave to enjoy a decadent lava cake experience for only 120 calories. Deliciously moist and a good source of fiber.  Allergy-friendly! Gluten, Dairy & Nut Free

Banana Chocolate Chip You'll never believe the first ingredient in Garden Lites Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins is zucchini! Heat in the microwave to enjoy a deliciously rich experience for only 120 calorie.  This is one of the Garden Lites iv'e tried so far, so yummy, so good for you and a perfect breakfast or mid day snack.

​ Blueberry Oat You'll never believe the first two ingredients in Garden Lites Blueberry Muffins are zucchini and carrots! Heat in the microwave to enjoy a delightful Blueberry packed experience for only 120 calories. Allergy-friendly! Gluten, Dairy & Nut Free

Ninja Power Your child will love the fun characters, you’ll love the fact that zucchini is the first ingredient.  Only 80 calories each, Garden Lites Ninja Power Muffins are Allergy-friendly; Gluten, Dairy & Nut Free! Perfect for lunchboxes.

SpongeBob Chocolate Krabby Square ​Your child will love the fun characters, you’ll love the fact that zucchini and carrot are the first 2 ingredients Only 80 calories each, Garden Lites Chocolate Krabby Square Muffins are Allergy-friendly, Gluten, Dairy & Nut Free! Perfect for lunchboxes!

​Carrot Berry ​You'll never believe the first ingredient in Garden Lites Carrot Berry Muffins is carrots. Heat in the microwave to enjoy our delicious muffin for only 120 calories. Allergy-friendly! Gluten, Dairy & Nut Free

Golden Corn Garden Lites Golden Corn Muffins are delicious and good for you!

Broccoli & Brown Rice Veggie Bites Garden Lites Broccoli & Brown Rice Veggie Bites are perfectly poppable Bites that are great as a snack or appetizer. With 6 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber,  and 5 grams of whole grains per serving, you'll enjoy this fresh flavor and stay full longer. Eating veggies has never been easier or more delicious. This is another Garden Lites I tried, I love broccoli. Even if you don't you will love these bites. I could eat the whole box at once if I didn't have any discipline.

Cornbread Veggie Bites Garden Lites Cornbread Veggie Bites are perfectly poppable Bites that are great as a snack or appetizer. With 6 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber,  and 5 grams of whole grains per serving, you'll enjoy this fresh homestyle flavor and stay full longer. Eating veggies has never been easier or more delicious.

Kale & Brown Rice Veggie Bites Garden Lites Kale & Brown Rice Veggie Bites are perfectly poppable bites that are great as a snack or appetizer. With 5 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber,  and 5 grams of whole grains per serving, you'll enjoy this fresh flavor and stay full longer. Eating veggies has never been easier or more delicious.

Italian Veggie Bites Garden Lites Italian Veggie Bites are perfectly poppable bites that are great as a snack or appetizer. With 5 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber,  and 5 grams of whole grains per serving, you'll enjoy the Italian flavor and stay full longer. Eating veggies has never been easier or more delicious.

Mac & Cheese The first ingredient in Garden Lites Mac & Cheese? Vegetables! Only 240 calories, 12g protein, 5g fiber, it’s a healthier version of your favorite.  Perfect for kids school lunches.

“Garden Lites Muffins and Garden Lites Bites are always a crowd pleaser during the Big Game Day party, and now you can indulge your sweet tooth without post-game remorse,” says Julie Gould, Brand Manager for Garden Lites.  So be sure to stock your freezer now, that way you won’t have to run out for refills during halftime.

Cheddar Broccoli Bake Garden Lites Cheddar Broccoli Bake is a delicious and nutritious dish chock full of healthy broccoli, brown rice, select spices and topped off with cheddar cheese. If they had this at my local store I would of bought all of them. I LOVE BROCCOLI and baked broccoli with cheese sounds sooooooooooo gooooooood!

Butternut Squash Souffle​ Since when is indulgence supposed to be unhealthy? Why not make your food do double duty and satisfy your sweet tooth while getting two full servings of vegetables? Garden Lites Butternut Squash Souffle is so creamy and rich you’ll forget it’s low calorie, Butternut Squash can now be enjoyed year round at any meal.

Kale & Quinoa Souffle​ Get your daily dose of Superfoods with Garden Lites Kale & Quinoa Souffle! Made with hearty Kale blended with Quinoa, whipped egg whites, and select spices, it's a perfectly healthy meal option.

Roasted Vegetable Souffle When you’re known as “The Delicious Vegetable Company,” it sets the bar pretty high. Which is why Garden Lites takes 11 different veggies to craft the perfect Roasted Vegetable Souffle. If you close your eyes you can taste the select spices and time that is put into each one to slow bake and rise to greatness. Not your typical frozen meal, is it?

Two full servings of veggies in every souffle....
The souffles look so good. I hope I can find them at my local store. If I do these will be my new daily lunch to take to work. If it's got veggies in it, I will love it. I am a veggie-a-holic.... 

Superfood Veggie Cakes Packed with nutrient-rich superfood veggies like Kale & Cauliflower, Gluten Free and only 100 calories! The perfect snack or side dish! Available exclusively at Costco in the refrigerated section!

I can't wait till this weekends trip to Costco, I hope ours has these, they will be on my everyday snack list. 

Click HERE to get a coupon for Garden Lites Products....

Not only are Garden Lites products good, they would make the PERFECT snack for Super Bowl Sunday. Put them out, trust me everyone will love them. No one will think twice that there are veggies in each one.
​They are so good you can even get your picky kids to eat them. 

Garden Lites Muffins are available nationwide. The muffins come in a box of four with an SRP of $3.99 and Bites come in a single-serve package, also with an SRP of $3.99. Both can be found in the frozen section of stores nationwide, including: Walmart, Target, Publix, Foodtown, Wegmans, Whole Foods, Stop & Shop, Costco, Fresh Market, and more!

Look what you can make with the Chocolate Muffins and Marshmallows, since marshmallows are my sweets of choice I think I will need to give these a try.

Enter below, there will be 10 lucky winners. You will win Garden Lites Coupons to pick out what you want.
Good Luck Everyone!

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New Year New You...& Perfect Valentines Gift Giving for Men.... Mantry # 1 Food Subscription for Men.

The # 1 Food Subscription for Men

Mantry is a Monthly Box box of six amazing food products curated for you. Once again my boyfriend got something amazing. At least he was willing to share just about everything, but the beef jerky. The package arrived in a cardboard box with the Mantry logo on it, inside was this WONDERFUL wood crate.
​Once you open that crate you will be amazed.
This thing is packed full of six large bags, bottle, packages of GOODIES!

WE SEARCH ​We scout the country for the top artisan food makers; hitting America's cities and towns to find the best of the best.

WE SELECT ​We thoughtfully source only the highest quality products and curate them around a unique theme like "Bacon Nation", or "Bourbon BBQ"

WE DELIVER Your Mantry conveniently shows up at your door monthly, with editorial stories and recipes that any guy can master.

No matter if this is for you or a special man in your life, it's so simple to do. Just sign up for a Mantry monthly subscription and you will get 6 full sized food products from America's top artisan food makers shipped to your door in a handsome handmade wooden crate. 100% Made in the USA. Satisfaction Guaranteed.

​1 MONTH MANTRY $75 $10 Shipping Ships next day, arrives in 2-4 business days.

3 MONTH PLAN $225 Free Shipping Ships next day, arrives in 2-4 business days.

6 MONTH PLAN
$450
Free Shipping & Jerky Kit
Ships next day, jerky kit ships with 2nd month.

BUY NOW

Each Box Comes With:

MANTRY MANUAL

A high quality printed manual featuring beautiful photos and recipe ideas,for all 6 products in your box, Plus, artisan maker bios, and a map showing where every product comes from in the USA.

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THE CRATE
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Hand made in the USA, every Mantry ships in our signature wooden crate. Complete with prohibition era style wood burn, this handsome crate will be a great conversation starter in any home. Oh, and you can put stuff in it too.

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Plus the 6 products featured that month. 

Each box has a theme, like Tailgate Tour, Pizza Party, Bourbon BBQ
each is stuffed full of those 6 goodies. All neat, unusual and interesting things. 
You will be pleased. 

Our Favorite:
The burnt butter and fennel cookies were to die for. I didn't think I would like them since I am not a fan of the smell of fennel. Was I wrong, these things are so good. Perfect crisp, the best buttery flavor and whole pieces of fennel that compliment the cookie so well, I forgot about the fennel smell. YUMMY!

The Mantry makes a PERFECT Valentines Day gift for that special man in your life. Or start off the New Year with something new, try a new treat each month. 

New Year New You...... Hidden Springs Maple Review & Giveaway

Hidden Springs Maple has a proud history of making high quality maple Syrup. It’s been a tradition in their family for over fifty years.
The Cooper-Ellis family has been in the maple syrup business for over fifty years. During the 1950’s and 60’s they sold maple syrup under the Cooper-Ellis Sugar Makers label. Today, Fraser and Peter Cooper-Ellis jointly own and operate CE Maple, one of the largest and most respected Southern-Vermont maple syrup farms.
CE Maple is known for producing consistently high-quality, Vermont maple syrup. In addition to CE Maple, Fraser and Peter both individually own and operate retail, maple syrup businesses. Fraser owns and operates Fraser’s Vermont Maple. Peter owns and operates Hidden Springs Maple. 

Their maple syrup is all natural, and all locally produced. There are no additives of any kind used during the harvesting of their maple sap or during the boiling of their maple syrup. Their maple syrup is hand-packed for freshness and exceptional flavor.Hidden Springs Maple Organic maple syrup is certified as organic by Vermont Organic Farmers, LLC (VOF), which is the certification agency of Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont.* VOF is accredited by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to certify that farms and processors comply with the standards set by the USDA’s National Organic Standards Board (NOSB).

Hidden Springs Maple also makes incredible maple candies. You can buy them individually or you can buy them by the box.  Their pure maple candy with its irresistible creamy maple flavor will melt in your mouth. Their pure maple candy stores well at room temperature for up to four months. They also carry Green Mountain Fudge which is a best seller in their farm store. It is made right up the road at Ferguson Farms. Another item that they have in their store that I personally find very cool is Pure Maple Cream so if you are looking for a delicious breakfast spread for your toast, crepes or waffles I recommend you try their pure maple cream for a true maple flavor in the morning or any time of day. Made from Grade A Light Amber, 100% pure maple syrup. Weight: 3 ounces.

Hidden Springs Maple sent me a box full of their delicious syrups and pancake mix to try. I received 5 different types of Vermont Maple syrup....... the Grade A Golden Color Delicate Taste, Grade A Amber Color Rich Taste and their Grade B. I also received the Organic Grade A Amber Color Rich Taste and Organic Grade B Maple Syrup. Not only did I get to sample these 5 amazing syrups but they also sent me a bag of Hidden Springs Maple Organic Buttermilk Pancake Mix. I was super super excited when I received all this to try so we planned for that Saturday to have a pancake breakfast tasting smorgasbord. 

We made the pancakes from the mix they sent us. All you need to add is 1 3/4 cups water, 1 egg and 1 TBSP oil. Suuuuuper simple!!! The batter mixed together wonderfully and came out silky smooth and did not have any chunks like you get with other brands. It taste delicious and did not have an overwhelming buttermilk taste. Sometimes I am not a huge fan of buttermilk because it is overpowering. These buttermilk pancakes were awesome and do not have that sour flavor that some have. I think even if you are not a fan of buttermilk you should most definitely try these Hidden Springs Maple Organic Buttermilk Pancakes.

All of the syrups were delicious too. I poured a little of each into tiny cups so that we could dip into each one before deciding upon our individual favorites. I also tasted tiny spoonfuls so I could get the true flavor of each syrup. My personal favorite was the Grade A Golden Colo Delicate Taste. It has a very light and.....like the description says.... delicate taste to it. The Grade A Amber Color Rich Taste is a tiny bit darker and to me had a little bit more of a sweet taste. The Grade B is the most dark and thick and has a very earthy flavor. My man liked that one the best. He looooved the deep rich maple taste of the grade B.

These organic syrups seemed to be a pinch deeper in color that the non organic ones. The syrups are amazing and I love that they have the organic option.

We truly had so much fun sampling these products and reviewing this company we continue to think of ideas and ways that we can use the product in different recipes. My man even made Maple Candied Bacon and ohhhhhh myyyyyy gooooosh!!! It was heaven, I swear I munched it all day until it was totally gone and can not wait for more.

INGREDIENTS • 1 lb. good quality bacon, sliced • 2 to 3 tbsp. Vermont Maple Syrup from Hidden Springs Maple (we used Grade B Organic) • ¼ c. brown sugar • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard • ½ tsp. Kosher salt (optional) • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (Optional if you like a mild spice flavor)

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat your oven to 350 F.
2. Wrap a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
3. In a large bowl, mix the Vermont maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. 
4. Add the bacon to the bowl and toss with your hands. Make sure that all of the slices are evenly coated* See note below.
5. Place the bacon in a single layer onto the wire rack.
6. Bake in the center of the oven for about 20 minutes. The bacon will be a bit brown, but will most likely need to bake for another 10-15 minutes. It should look slightly dark (not burnt) and crispy. If you take it out too soon, the texture will be chewy. Be patient!
7. Remove from the oven and cool for 5 minutes on the rack. Don't let them sit too long or else they will stick.
8. Serve at room temperature.
NOTES
*Note: When using a full pound, the bacon mixture will seem a bit dry when tossing with the glaze ingredients. This is how it's supposed to be. Additional sauce is optional, but not necessary.

The wonderful people at Hidden Spring Maple are offering one of our readers a Vermont Organic Pancake Kit Set. This very popular gift includes our all organic, simple-to-make, buttermilk pancake mix and 8 ounces of our Vermont Organic Amber Rich Maple Syrup attractively presented in a simple gift box. Get your day started right with a Vermont pancake breakfast! ($30 value)

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