Giveaway: Foster Farms Great Bites Chicken Cheeseburgers (Five Winners!)

I never thought that a microwaved cheeseburger on the bun would ever taste good, but DH and I tried the chicken burger Great Bites from Foster Farms and they were delicious!  There are two varieties of these flame-broiled wonders: The All-American BBQ Burger with real smoky bacon and cheddar cheese, and the Santa Fe Burger with real creamy pepper jack cheese and chipotle sauce. 

The crowd-pleaser was the All-American BBQ. 

The Santa Fe one was very good too but on the spicy side.

These burger bites are like little sliders, but much smaller – truly bite-sized.   They’re a great appetizer to serve up on game day.  Sports fans will love that they are microwaveable and ready in 2 minutes.The fact that they’re chicken instead of beef means fewer calories but the serving size is just one teeny burger – I can easily eat all six of them.  Sadly for me, these are only available in California, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Texas, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Deleward, Maryland, Virginia, Illinois and D.C. – but not New Jersey.  Shoot!

GIVEAWAY!
FIVE readers will each receive 4 free product coupons (ARV $32 for each winner!)
(US Only - Ends 11/15)

Mandatory Entry:  Visit Foster Farms and tell me another product you’d like to try.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry. 

+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect
+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Foster Farms on Facebook, leave your FB name.
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+5 Extra Entries if you post my Holiday Gift Guide button to your sidebar.  Leave link.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link to this post.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:

#Giveaway – Win four free product coupons for Foster Farms Great Bites @GirlGoneMom, 5 Winners! http://bit.ly/8YWfHO

Contest is open to US residents and closes at Midnight EST on November 15th, 2010. One main entry per household.  No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor sent me product samples and is offering the same for a lucky reader. 

Amy’s Vegetarian Burgers Available at Denny’s! (Review & Giveaway)

Now Denny's is a good place to sit and eat a healthy and delicious veggie burger.  The Amy’s burger was just added to the Denny's "Hand-Helds" menu as the “Amy’s Veggie Burger,” which is served with melted Pepper Jack cheese, fresh spinach, tomato and grilled mushrooms on a wheat bun.

You never know what you’re going to get when you order a veggie burger in a restaurant, but at Denny’s you do.  It’s nice to know that I can enjoy the same great-tasting high quality product that I already love.  For those that lead a vegan lifestyle, Amy’s burgers fit the bill.   Customers can order an Amy’s veggie burger prepared any way they like and on either a white or whole wheat bun.

Since I already have a supply of Amy’s burgers in my freezer, I decided to buy one of the pizzas, the 3-Cheese Pizza with cornmeal crust to be exact.  I wasn’t sure what to expect, but when I saw goat cheese was one of the three cheeses, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try it.  Let me tell you…it was the best frozen pizza I’d ever tasted!  Maybe someday Denny’s will include Amy’s pizza on the menu.

Until then, try out an Amy's veggie burger from your local grocery store and then stop by Denny's when you're on the road.

GIVEAWAY!
One lucky reader will win an Amy’s t-shirt and one free product coupon!
(US Only – Ends 11/2)

Mandatory Entry: Visit Amy’s and tell me the name of the product you would like to try!

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry. 
+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect
+1 Extra Entry if you follow Amy’s on twitter and leave your handle in comment.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:

#Giveaway! Win a Free coupon for any Amy’s Vegetarian product! @Amys_Kitchen @GirlGoneMom – http://bit.ly/dAfaYf

+1 Extra Entry if you subscribe to my youtube page.
+1 Extra Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Amy’s on Facebook and leave your FB name.
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave a comment on a recent non-giveaway post.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link to this post.

Contest is open to US residents and closes at Midnight EST on 11/2/2010.  One main entry per person.  No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor sent me the product sample and is offering the same for a lucky reader.

Sushi Popper (Review)

Sushi isn’t one of those meals you think of when you need a quick meal on the go.  Fast food is burgers and fries, a milkshake, maybe even a wrap sandwich.  But never a sushi roll. Until now. 

Introducing the Sushi Popper – it’s never been easier to enjoy sushi.  No chopsticks required.  The Sushi Popper works just like that popular push pop candy dispenser.  The “handle” is a tube that also holds the soy sauce.  Attach it, and a new section of sushi pops up, one slice at a time. 

My sushi poppers arrived at my home frozen; they’re shipped on dry ice to ensure that they stay fresh.  Once they arrive at your home, you can store them in your freezer for up to 30 days.  The package contained one of each variety: cucumber roll, california roll, spicy shrimp and teriyaki.  If you are a sushi eater, you’ll know that all of these rolls use cooked ingredients.

It took a little longer than the recommended 1-2 hours for my popper to defrost.  Spicy rolls are my favorite so I was eager to try the Spicy Shrimp roll.  While it was not the best version I’d ever tasted, it was still very good and convenient most of all. 

I love the idea of keeping a few pops in the freezer that I can take out when the mood strikes.

Sushi Popper is not available in rolls that are served raw like tuna or salmon…yet.  I’m happy to hear that the company is working on offering more types of rolls, raw or cooked so stay tuned!

You can buy a 6-pack of the Sushi Popper online for $34.95.  If you buy two 6-packs, they’ll be shipped right to your door free of charge.

No compensation was received for this post.  I was sent the product at no cost to me in order to provide my honest opinion.

Sahale Snacks Nut Blends (Review & Giveaway)

In July, I wrote a review and hosted a giveaway for Sahale Snacks for my summer essentials event.  Their seasoned nuts were the prefect summertime treat and aside from being absolutely scrumptious, I loved that they didn’t require even a square inch cooler space.  There was always a place for them in my beach bag.  Nuts are a great snack to enjoy each day; they’re packed with protein to supply your body with just the right amount of energy.

Just recently, Sahale Snacks made their way to Seattle’s Best Coffee shops.  The Valdosta and Sing Buri nut blends are available in convenient 2-ounce pouches so that customers can enjoy their crunchy goodness along with the morning (or afternoon or evening) coffee. 

I had the pleasure of being able to try the two brand new blends and I have to say that so far they are my favorite varieties.  The Tuscan Almonds, Southwest Cashews, and Barbeque Almonds I sampled this summer were great too, but Sahale Snacks outdid themselves with their nut blends.

The Sing Buri Cashews are a blend of cashews, pineapple, peanuts, lemongrass and Chinese chili.   Exquisite is the best word to describe them.  I love cashews, and their sweetness is complemented with the pineapple, toned down with the peanuts and spiced with the special seasonings.  What a delicious snack, and a must-try.

I like to add the Valdosta Pecans to our dinner salads.  Other than just eating them straight out of the bag, it is the perfect way to incorporate them into your meal.  The pecans are combined with sweet cranberries and are garnished with lemon zest and pepper.  Yum!

It is party-planning season at our house as we have tons of birthday events coming up.  Not to mention the approaching holidays.  I’ll be treating our guests to bowlfuls of yummy Sahale Snacks.  Aren’t they lucky?

GIVEAWAY!
One reader will win two big 15oz. bags of the Sing Buri Cashews and the Valdosta Pecans!
(US Only – Ends 10/29)

Mandatory Entry: Tell me your stinky story in your first comment below.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry. 
+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect.
+1 Extra Entry if you follow Sahale Snacks on twitter.  Leave your handle.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:

Enter to to win two 15 oz. bags of Sahale Snacks Nut Clusters!  @GirlGoneMom @SahaleSnacks - http://bit.ly/akRmYr

+1 Extra Entry if you subscribe to my youtube page.
+1 Extra Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Sahale Snacks on Facebook and leave your FB name.
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave a comment on a recent non-giveaway post.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link to this post.

Contest is open to US residents and closes at Midnight EST on October 29th, 2010. One main entry per person.  No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor sent me the product samples and is offering the same for a lucky reader.

Nestlé Toll House Back-to-School Baking Giveaway!

Closed – Congrats to #410 Amber

The hectic back-to-school schedule is upon us, and between all of the day’s classes, after-school activities and parent-teacher meetings, it can be a challenge finding the time to connect as a family.  A yummy dessert is a great way to keep the dinner table conversation going, and let’s not forget about the fun in making the treats!

With the delicious and inventive line of Nestlé Toll House products, crafting your favorite snacks can be done easily—even when you’re short on time.

It was a treat for me just to receive a Back-to-School kit from Nestlé Toll House.  I put on my apron last Sunday after a cold and rainy day and got to it.  Nestlé sent me a few great recipe cards, and when I saw the one for Chocolate Dipped Chips and Pretzels and I was inspired. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (6 oz.) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate, Milk Chocolate or Premier White Morsels
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
• Rippled potato chips, pretzel twists and/or whole-wheat pretzel sticks
• NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet or Premier White Mini Morsel Toppers

Directions:

LINE baking sheets with wax paper.

MICROWAVE morsels and vegetable shortening in small, dry, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on MEDIUM-HIGH (70%) power for 1 minute; STIR. The morsels may retain some of their original shape. If necessary, microwave at additional 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring just until morsels are melted.

DIP chips and pretzels into melted morsels, tilting bowl to easily dip. Use side of bowl to remove excess. Place on prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with Toppers. Refrigerate for 15 minutes or until set. Store in airtight container at room temperture. Potato chips are best when eaten within a few hours of preparation.

I did not use the vegetable shortening in this recipe and it still turned out great.  I also have a candy melter/fondue pot that I used to melt the morsels.  But I think that it’s great that you can also use a microwave!  The mini toppers containers have an opening at the top allowing you to either shake or pour the mini morsels onto your chocolate-dipped pretzels or chips.  Such an easy treat and delicious too – the only problem I’m having is that I can’t stop eating my chocolate-dipped pretzel twists. 

GIVEAWAY!
One lucky reader will win the Nestlé Toll House Back-to-School Baking Kit!
Includes an adult apron, a child apron, Toll House recipe cards, two containers of Nestlé Toll House mini toppers and several Free Product coupons for Nestlé Toll House morsels and cookie dough!
(US Only- Ends 10/21)

Mandatory Entry: Visit Nestlé Toll House, and find a recipe you want to make and who you want to make it with/for.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry. 

+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:

#WIN a Nestlé Toll House Back-to-School Baking Kit! @girlgonemom #giveaway - http://bit.ly/ciZF0Y

+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Nestlé Toll House on Facebook.
+1 Extra Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave a comment on a non-giveaway post.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link to this post.

No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor provided a product sample for the review. Contest is open to anyone age 18 and older who lives in the US and closes at Midnight EST on October 21st.  One main entry per person.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Latest Discovery -- Perdue Whole Grain Nuggets

When you think of chicken nuggets the terms, healthy and wholesome don’t usually come to mind.  But we just tried the new Perdue Whole Grain Chicken Nuggets.  I found them in the freezer section, and they have that resealable zipper that I love.  I was also pleased to see that they have less fat and more fiber than the other brand we were using before.

Chicken nuggets are nice and quick, and they’re something kids almost always will eat.  I gave these a test run for lunchtime.  I tasted and thought they were yummy, and then I cut them up for the taste tester, my nugget connoisseur.

She ate a few little pieces, and then nothing.  But then again, the kid didn’t eat very well today, so we’ll try again tomorrow.

No compensation was received for this post.  I received a product coupon to facilitate my candid review of the new product.  The opinions above are all mine and only mine.

Cabot Cheddar Sampler Pack Giveaway!

Closed – Congratulations to the winner, #43 cloud10277

If someone asked me to choose between cheese and chocolate, I’d have to go with cheese.  Don’t get me wrong, I do love chocolate—but cheese would win the prize if I had to choose.  My favorite of the hard cheeses is cheddar, the more sharp the better.  It’s great on crackers, melted into a main dish, or all by itself.

I’ve purchased Cabot Cheese before because they have the reduced fat versions that taste just as great as the originals.  But I never knew that Cabot Creamery was a non-profit dairy cooperative.  Each consumer purchase supports the 1,200 local farmers continuing the tradition of American dairy farming.

Last week I was sent a sampler of Cabot cheddars which included eight 8oz bricks of cheese.  Two of each of these varieties: 50% Reduced Fat, Extra Sharp, Seriously Sharp and Racer’s Edge.  I couldn’t wait to dig in, and I started with the Extra Sharp variety.  The entire thing is almost gone.  I’d really have a seriously problem if I had tried every variety already, but I know they’re all going to be delicious.

Emma on the other hand, does not have any interest in cheese besides the artificial kind used in mac n cheese.  She’s really missing out, so I am trying to incorporate this calcium rich product into her diet.  Here is a low in fat, kid-friendly recipe by Registered Dietitian and spokesperson Regan Jones.   Her resume includes being the former editor at Cooking Light and Weight Watchers Magazines.

Crispy Baked Chicken Strips
makes 6 servings
Nonstick cooking spray
1 cup King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
Pinch salt
Pinch ground black pepper
4 large egg whites
1/2 cup reduced-fat (2%) milk
1 1/2 cups crushed cornflakes
4 ounces Cabot 50 % Reduced Fat Cheddar, grated
6 boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1/2-inch-wide strips

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Coat 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In three separate bowls:
- mix together flour, salt and pepper
- beat together egg whites and milk
- mix together cornflakes and cheese
3. Dip chicken strips first into flour, then into egg white mixture, then into cornflake mixture, turning to coat. Place in baking dish. (Discard any unused mixture.)
4. Bake for 25 minutes or until nicely browned, turning over after about 12 minutes. Serve with ketchup or barbecue sauce if desired.

This is the real deal and definitely not the same as the frozen breaded nuggets in my freezer.  I can’t wait to make this healthy version using Cabot cheddar.

GIVEAWAY!  Enter to win a Cabot Cheese sampler pack (8 bricks) like the one pictured below valued at $25.00!

Mandatory Entry:  Visit with Cabot and tell me something interesting that you learned there.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each entry.
+1 Entry if you ‘Like’ Cabot Cheese on facebook, leave your fb name.
+1 Entry if after you like them, leave this comment on their wall: I entered to win a Cabot sample pack @girlgonemom! Enter here: http://bit.ly/aFBR7O
+1 Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall.
+1 Entry if you follow Cabot on twitter and leave your handle.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message.  Must leave the url to tweet in your comment.

Say cheese! WIN a sampler pack from Cabot Cheddar @GirlGonemom @CabotCoop - http://bit.ly/aFBR7O

+1 Entry if you are a public follower of this blog.
+2 Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+2 Entries if you add my Fall for Fashion button to your blog sidebar.  Leave link.
+1 Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Entry if you leave a meaningful comment on a non-giveaway post.
+5 Entries if you blog about this giveaway.

No compensation was received for this post. The sponsor provided a product sampler to facilitate my review and has generously offered one for one lucky reader. Contest is open to US residents age 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on September 24th.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Healthy Lunchbox Snack Ideas

It can be challenging trying to find nutritious snack foods that your child will enjoy.  Especially when school is in session, and you’re not present to make sure that he or she ends up eating what you packed.  Here are some great snack foods that Emma and I recently had the opportunity to try, and I think they all make great additions to bagged lunches.

Sun-Maid raisins

The same raisins I enjoyed as a kid are a treat for my daughter today.  This is one healthy fruit snack that she absolutely loves to munch on, and I’m happy to let her.

 

Kashi TLC Cereal Bars

It sounds like a breakfast option, but this is one variety of cereal bars that actually taste like a cookie.  These are so good, you forget they’re also good for you.  These baked goodies have a blend of real fruit and 7 Whole Grains with 3g of fiber and 2g of protein per serving.

 

Fruit Bits

Another Sun-Maid favorite, Fruit Bits are great mixed into a cake or cookie batters for a nice touch of all-natural sweetness.  I also love these over salads.

 

Bare Naked Double Chocolate Cookies

Oh my, these are heavenly.  It’s a rather dry cookie and makes lots of crumbs that you will want to lick off of your plate.  Seriously, they are that good!  My little one didn’t really take to them, but I had no problem eating the entire bag.

 

Stretch Island Fruit

We tried both the Original Fruit Strips as well as the All-Natural Smoooshed Rolls.  No artificial flavors here, and they are delicious treats that everyone in our family will reach for.

 

No compensation was received for this post.  I was sent the samples to try so that I could provide my honest opinion.

Breyers YoCrunch Introduces Yogurt Fruit Parfait (Giveaway)

Closed – Congratulations to all ten winners:
Jennifer T.
Bethany 
CherylS22  
Deborah Wellenstein
Amy  
EmmaPeel
Janette  
jakiesmom
Jeannine
  5webs 

I like to enjoy a yogurt for a midday snack or even after dinner when I want something sweet.  Where else can you get a yummy dessert flavor without all of the extra calories?  But I’ve been slipping a lot lately with my diet, and I haven’t been getting as much yogurt as I used to.  I need to get back on track, and I was so pleased when I saw the new Yogurt Fruit Parfait by Breyers YoCrunch.

When I pulled out the first container, I had plans to devour the thing myself.  Emma has gotten quite disinterested in yogurt in recent weeks, so I was surprised when she not only let me put a spoonful in her mouth (the big girl prefers to feed herself now), but she also proceeded to finish the entire thing!  She absolutely loved it, so much so that when she finished she told me she wanted more!

I can’t say I blame her, these new parfaits are delicious.  I had to act fast, but I did get a couple of spoonfuls. 

The layers of fruit, yogurt, and granola are genious.  This is going to help me stay within my caloric constraints as it has only 120 calories and 1.5 grams of fat.  Just enough to give me energy with zero guilt.  And for Emma, this will be a nice alternative to ice cream.

GIVEAWAY!  Ten (10) readers will each receive a coupon for one free four-pack of the new Breyers YoCrunch Parfait!

Mandatory Entry:  Comment below telling me another product you like from Breyers YoCrunch.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each entry.
+1 Entry if you ‘Like’ YoCrunch on Facebook, leave your fb name.
+1 Entry if you follow YoCrunch on twitter and leave your twitter id.
+1 Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message.  Must leave the url to tweet in your comment.

#Giveaway! 10 Winners will get a free 4-pack of the new Breyers YoCrunch Yogurt Fruit Parfait @GirlGonemom – http://bit.ly/aT8y2t

+1 Entry if you are a public follower of this blog.
+2 Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+2 Entries if you add my Fall for Fashion button to your blog sidebar.  Leave link.
+1 Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Entry if you subscribe to my You Tube page.
+1 Entry if you leave a meaningful comment on a non-giveaway post.
+5 Entries if you blog about this giveaway.

No compensation was received for this post. The sponsor provided a product sample to facilitate my review. Contest is open to US residents age 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on September 17th.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Genesis Today–Gift Basket Giveaway

Contest Closed – Congrats, Breanne!
When I find foods and beverages that are both delicious and good for you, they become staples on my grocery list.  Genesis Today is one of those brands that offers products like that.  The first few products I tried in my initial review was of the Acai and Goji berry juices.  They are thicker juices that are infused with superfruits and packed with antioxidants.  My family loves the fruit smoothies that I make using them.  And who can forget the decadent fat-free nutrient rich pudding?

Recently, I had the opportunity to try some brand new Genesis Today products.

Vitamin Chews
The only time in my life when I was good about taking a daily vitamin was when I was pregnant.  I don’t really know why I can’t seem to incorporate it into my daily routine, but now that Genesis Today has produced Vitamin chews that taste like candy, it makes it a little easier to remember.  When vitamins taste this good, you’ll remember to take them!

There are four varieties now available:
-Acai Vitamin Chews
-Vitamin C with Zinc Chews
-Resveratrol Vitamin Chews
-Omega Vitamin Chews

I’m pretty sure my husband loves them, too.  Every time he opens the refrigerator he tells me, “We have to get more of these.”

Veggie Blast
I do love my veggies, but admit that I don’t always eat the 3-5 servings recommended by the FDA.  Veggie Blast is a great way to sneak a serving in when you’re on the go.  I love anything tomato-based, and this juice is yummy.  One glass offers two whole servings of vegetables.

GIVEAWAY!
One very lucky person will win a Genesis Today Gift Basket!
It’s an Eco-friendly shopping bag filled with:
· 64oz Acai Berry Juice, Resveratrol Juice, Goji Berry Juice
· 1 of each flavor of chews
· Free coupons for pudding

 
Here are the links needed for some of the EXTRA ENTRIES.
-Like Genesis Today Facebook.
-Like my new Facebook page for Girl Gone Mom.
-Follow Genesis Today on twitter.
-Follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter.
-The tweet to use for this giveaway:
Giveaway - Win a Gift Basket packed with yummy nutrients from Genesis Today! http://bit.ly/boNgXR @girlgonemom

No compensation was received for this post. I received the product discussed in order to facilitate my candid review.  Contest is to US residents 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on August 27th.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

New restaurant items at California Pizza Kitchen (Review)

We are pizza fanatics in this house, so I was beyond excited when we received some ‘pizza dough’ in the mail to spend on some of the new menu items available at California Pizza Kitchen.  In case you don’t have a clue what I’m talking about, ‘pizza dough’ is CPK’s version of the gift card.  It’s like monopoly money, except this is actually worth more than make-believe real estate.

There were so many options on the menu – including over 30 pizzas.  Wow!  There are also salads, pasta, sandwiches, tacos and seafood items.  But this was our first time at CPK, and we were there for the pizza.

But first, we ordered the macaroni and cheese for the little one.

We had to sample it to make sure it was edible (wink, wink).   

I’m pretty sure Emma liked it too. Ya think??

The new menu items looked beyond fabulous, so that’s what we decided on.  First up, the Four Seasons.  Sorry for the missing slice – hubby was ravenous and couldn’t wait another second. It’s made with imported Italian tomatoes, oven-roasted artichoke hearts, salami, fresh mushrooms, mild onions, Mozzarella and fresh Mozzarella cheeses. Topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.  This was delicious.  I think the salami really made it.  My husband wasn’t as big a fan, but he still went back for more.

We added chicken to the Roasted Artichoke and Spinach pizza.  This was Yum with a capitol ‘Y’.  It’s our favorite of the two pizzas with oven-roasted artichoke hearts, sautéed spinach and garlic, Fontina, Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with spinach artichoke sauce.  If you were to mate pizza with spinach and artichoke dip, this is it’s baby.  Oh so good!

These are both thin crust menu items.  We love thin crust, and the fact that you can upgrade any pizza on the menu to a thin crust type.  We are in love with this place, and even though it is about 40 minutes away from our house, we’ll be back again very soon. 

I’d recommend California Pizza Kitchen as a great family-friendly restaurant for pizza lovers.  Fantastic!  You can keep up with California Pizza Kitchen on facebook and twitter.

No compensation was received for this post, but I did receive ‘pizza dough’ from California Pizza Kitchen in order to facilitate my review of their new menu items.  All of the opinions above are 100% my own.

Harry Potter Scavenger Hunt & Bake Me A Wish Giveaway!

Contest Closed
Are you familiar with Bake Me A Wish cakes?  They’re only the yummiest, most decadent cakes while also being beautifully presented.  I’ve had the pleasure of receiving a few of these cakes in the past.  They arrive in the signature purple and gold box, perfect for making the recipient feel very special.

If you’re attending any barbeques this summer, think about bringing the Triple Chocolate Enrobed Brownie Cake.   You’ll be the hit of the party and will become a staple on any guest list in town—that’s for sure!  I think that this cake is a real crowd pleaser.  I mean, who doesn’t like brownies? I love that it’s finished off with a Belgian chocolate plaque based on the occasion or sentiment. 

Other than making gorgeous, to-die-for cakes, Bake Me A Wish supports our troops.  With Operation Birthday Cake, 5% of each and every order contributes to their mission of sending cakes overseas.  How awesome is that?!

The Scavenger Hunt!
I’m participating in a fun scavenger hunt in honor of Daniel Radcliffe’s birthday this Friday!  There’s no better way to celebrate a birthday than with a Bake Me A Wish cake and Harry Potter is one of my favorite movies.  I’ve come up with a few easy questions that any true Harry Potter fan would know, and if you’re not a fan (gasp!), then you can easily find the answers on the web.

Question #1: What is the name of the first movie in the Harry Potter Series in which the image above was taken?

Question #2: Whose cabin can be seen in the background here?  (This image is from my favorite HP movie)
Question #3: Who is the bearded man standing next to Harry Potter? (the character’s name)

Now jot down your answers and visit the Bake Me a Wish blog to win their divine cake!  They’re making it super easy for you by only requiring that you know one of these answers, but the more you know, the more chances you have of winning!  For extra entries, like Bake Me a Wish on Facebook, follow them on twitter, and tweet funny cake memories on twitter with the hashtag #bakemeawish.  

GIVEAWAY!
One reader will win a delicious Bake Me A Wish cake!

Here are the links needed for some of the EXTRA ENTRIES (You may want to complete before filling out form).
-Like Bake Me A Wish on Facebook
-Like Girl Gone Mom on Facebook
-Follow Bake Me A Wish on twitter
-Follow Girl Gone Mom twitter
-If you follow us both on twitter, you’ll receive one extra entry per day for tweeting this:

#Win a delicious #bakemeawish cake @girlgonemom #Summeressentials ~ Ends 8/3 ~ http://bit.ly/dpI96N

No compensation was received for this post. I received a yummy cake to facilitate my honest review. Contest closes at Midnight EST on August 3rd. The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Barbeque with Amy’s Vegetarian Burgers this Summer (Review & Giveaway)

There are veggie burgers, and then there are Amy’s veggie burgers.  I myself am a meat eater, so when I go the vegetarian route, I want something that tastes as close to the real thing as possible.  Amy’s burgers have it.

Introducing the All American Burger: 
Firm, hearty, and perfect for grilling or barbecuing. Made from fresh organic grains, vegetables and protein rich soy. Just the thing to satisfy the most avid burger fan. Non-dairy/no cholesterol.

One of the reasons I do look to veggie burgers is because they are lower in fat, and healthier than the real thing.  I made the All American Veggie Burgers for dinner the other night.  Usually with vegetarian burgers I have to pile on all of the extras—the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, ketchup and more—to disguise the taste (or lack thereof) of the “burger” patty.  However I ate one of the burgers plain with a knife and fork and it was delicious all by itself.  Yum!

The Low-Sodium California Veggie Burger:
The unique savory flavor of Amy's California Burger comes naturally from a blend of organic grains, mushrooms, vegetables and walnuts, and contains only half the sodium of our regular California Burger.

This burger is great for people who have to restrict their salt intake, like my husband.  The burgers were just as tasty, if not more than the All-American version. 

Some important facts about Amy’s products:
-All foods are made with real ingredients, and without additives, preservatives, or GMOs.
-Products are made with organic ingredients.
-Everything is vegetarian. No meat, fish, poultry or eggs are used in any product.
-There are over 50 gluten-free options, more than 50 lactose-free products, and a vast amount of cholesterol free dishes included both burger varieties we tried.

The Amy’s website features a helpful guide explaining all of the special dietary benefits of each of their products.  Why?  Because they’re don’t need to hide a thing.  Don’t you love that?

Plainly stated, Amy’s products are good for your body and your taste buds.  Eating healthy is actually a treat.  Who knew?  Be sure to check out the namesake, Amy’s blog.  It’s an interesting read!

GIVEAWAY!
Three readers will each receive a Free Product Coupon, good for any burger, or any Amy's product!

Here are the links needed for some of the EXTRA ENTRIES (You may want to complete before filling out form).
-Like Amy’s on facebook.
-Like my new facebook page for Girl Gone Mom.
-Follow me on twitter.
-The tweet to use for this giveaway:

Three people will #WIN a coupon to buy their favorite Amy’s Vegetarian product http://bit.ly/a7fmUn @girlgonemom #summeressentials

No compensation was received for this post. I received a product sample in order to facilitate my honest review. Contest is open to U.S. residents 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on July 29th. The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

SUBWAY® Baseball DeSIGNS Tour (Review & Giveaway)

SUBWAY® is once again partnering with Little League® Baseball and hosting the second annual SUBWAY® Baseball Designs tour.  The tour will feature baseballs designed by Little Leaguers and autographed by celebrities like the cast from the popular television series “Glee,” actors from the hit “Twilight” franchise, cast from “Gossip Girl,” swimming great Michael Phelps, professional baseball players CC Sabathia and Ryan Howard, NASCAR driver Carl Edwards and four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon among many others.

Beginning on August 20, the baseballs will be auctioned off to the public with the total proceeds benefiting the Little League® Urban Initiative. In honor of the tour, SUBWAY® is offering reusable baseball-themed meal bags and trading cards with all Fresh Fit for Kids meals.  Did you know that SUBWAY had kids meals?  The Fresh Fit meals are great for showing kids that healthy meals can be just as delicious (if not more than) a burger and fries.  

There are six fun reusable lunch bags in total.

Celebrities and athletes will make stops in four U.S. cities, Los Angeles, Anaheim, and New York City with a final stop in South Williamsport, Pa., at the Little League Baseball World Series.  Be sure to visit the baseball deSIGNS tab on SUBWAY’s facebook page for more information on how you can bid!

The Fresh Fit meals are great.  I took my daughter for a turkey mini sub, which came with sliced apples and milk.  Turkey is one of the only meats she will eat that is not covered in bread crumbs (i.e. chicken nuggets), so I loved feeding her this healthy meal.  Finally, a ‘fast food’ place that is healthy and kid-friendly. Way to go, SUBWAY!

GIVEAWAY – One lucky reader will win a $25.00 SUBWAY gift card and a baseball meal bag!

Here are the links needed for some of the EXTRA ENTRIES (You may want to complete before filling out form).
-Like SUBWAY on facebook or follow them on twitter.
-Like my new facebook page for Girl Gone Mom, or follow me on twitter.
-The tweet to use for this giveaway:

#Win the $25.00 SUBWAY gift card giveaway http://bit.ly/9wVWk8 @girlgonemom #summeressentials

No compensation was received for this post. I received a product sample in order to facilitate my honest review. Contest is open to U.S. residents 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on July 27th. The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Community Coffee Company keeps me going (Review & Giveaway)

Contest Closed
Maybe I drone on about my love for coffee, but I can't help it. I can't function without my caffeine buzz, and it's a great tasting drink without too many calories.  I'm not loyal to any one brand of coffee.  There are so many great roasts and varieties, but my latest discovery is Louisiana coffee by Community Coffee Company.

Their 100% Arabica beans are selected by the Saurage family and perfectly roasted for coffee lovers like me.  Community® coffee is served in many fine New Orleans restaurants.  I visited the area about seven years ago while on a business trip, and oh how I enjoyed my Beignet with a cup of coffee.  I wonder if it was Community Coffee?

As you can imagine, I was so excited when the Rich Taste of Louisiana Coffee Sampler arrived at my home.  I only use whole bean coffee and grind it fresh before brewing, so this sampling was right up my alley.  The sampler contains a 12-ounce package each of the Evangeline Blend™, Louisiana Blend™ (Medium Dark), French Quarter Fusion™ and Crescent City Blend®.  So far, I've only tried the Whole Bean Lousiana Blend (this arrived last week - I don't drink that much coffee!) and it didn't fail to impress.  It's a nice smooth medium blend coffee, perfect for my morning rendevous with coffee.  If the other blends are half as good as this bag, I'll be happy.

The Rich Taste of Louisiana Coffee Sampler is $34.95.  I love the way it came packaged in the Community Coffee crate, making it perfect for gift giving.

WIN IT!  Community Coffee has agreed to award one lucky person with the Rich Taste of Louisiana Coffee Sampler!

Here are the links for EXTRA ENTRIES (You may want to complete before filling out form).

Like the Community Coffee on facebook.
Like my new facebook page for Girl Gone Mom.
Follow Community Coffee on twitter.
Follow me on twitter.
The tweet for this giveaway:
#Win the Rich Taste of Louisiana Whole Bean Coffee Sampler from Community Coffee! @girlgonemom http://tinyurl.com/2cxcd6v



No compensation was received for this post. I received a product sample in order to facilitate my honest review. Contest is open to U.S. residents 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on July 14th. The winner will be selected using Random.org. Please leave your email address either in your comment or make sure it is listed on your profile page so that I can reach you if you win. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!