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Doing Laundry is Fast with Three Easy Steps using Downy Ball

12 Feb

For most people, when they were growing up their mother did their laundry. Putting the freshly cleaned clothes up to your nose and breathing in a scent of a spring meadow. Laundry items and tools have changed over the years but the Downy Ball has remained the same since it’s debut in 1960. It’s simple design has been saving people time by preventing them from having to wait for the rinse cycle to begin to add fabric softener. It’s also the same tool that could help you get your clothes the same way mom used to. It’s easy to use, just fill the ball, toss it on top of your clothes and let the washer work its magic.
In the past, if you wanted to use fabric softener to give your clothes the softness of a cloud, there would be the time consuming task of having to wait for the rinse cycle before adding the softener. Dryer sheets do not give your clothing the same feel or scent of liquid fabric softener. Washers today are made with a built in fabric softener dispensers but they easily get clogged and create a mess. Downy has created a simple solution called the Downy Ball. Downy Ball helps you soften your clothes in 3 simple steps. Fill to the appropriate line on Downy Ball for the wash load size, pull the ring tightly to close the ball and toss the ball on top of your clothes before starting the wash cycle.

The Downy Ball releases the fabric softener automatically so that you do not need to wait for the rinse cycle to add your fabric softener. During the rinse cycle the washer’s spinning motion opens the Downy Ball releasing the softener and creating one less hassle for laundry doers. Top loading washing machines now have a built in dispenser but they can easily get clogged and make it more difficult for the softener to reach the clothes. The Downy Ball can be used in traditional washers. It can be used in some HE machines, but may not work in all front loaders and other HE machines because the water does not fill up high enough to open the ball and release the softener. Consult your machine’s owner’s manual for information regarding use of the Downy Ball. 

I’ve used the Downy Ball at my laundromat and my clothes were smelling great and feeling very soft. Easy to use, convenient and that extra time waiting that I used to do I can now run and get an Iced Coffee. 

 The Downy Ball is sold at Target, Walmart, Amazon.com and many other grocery, drug and mass retailers. The Downy Ball is available for $2.29. For more information please visit: http://www.downy.com/en-US/product/the-downy-ball.jspx 

 Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given sample to review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Success Rice In Just Ten Minutes & New Recipe

13 Jan

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Success® Rice. Opinions expressed are mine 100%.

When I go food shopping I always walk pass the boil-in-bag rice section because I’m not an expert in cooking that type rice the way I like which is soft and fluffy. In my household we eat a variety of rices but there are still a few I would love to cook, and the one that we love when we go out to eat is Jasmine rice. It goes perfect with Asian and traditional dishes. 

For the new year I thought this would be great to finally give boil-in-bag rice a chance. That’s where Success® Jasmine Rice came in. The first thing I liked about using this rice is it only takes 10 minutes to make and the package contained 4 bags. Perfect! Gives me just the right amount of rice for my big family and extra time to spend with them as well. No more standing over a pot waiting for my rice to cook and hopefully not burn. 

Success® Jasmine Rice is the only boil-in-bag Jasmine rice available. It has a buttery, nutty fragrance, silky, smooth grains and delivers fully cooked rice in 10 minutes. It’s pre-portioned, BPA-free boil-in-bag means no mess, no measuring involved. Why haven’t I tried this before?

Success® Rice is convenient, and can be made on the stovetop or microwave without sacrificing its great taste or quality.

Here’s my quick and easy recipe using fresh veggies and Success® Jasmine Rice. 

Asian Skillet Veggies with Jasmine Rice.  

Asian Skillet Veggies with Jasmine Rice

Asian Skillet Veggies with Jasmine Rice

 
     
Follow directions on box for the rice. You can choose whatever vegetables you like but these are what I picked. 

Onions

Peppers

Mushrooms

Celery

Broccoli

Cauliflower 

Zucchini 

Carrots

Red cabbage 

After stir frying veggies I made a sauce to go on top and created a more Asian flare. Here is the sauce I created. 

Cumin

Ginger

Honey

Soy sauce

Rice vinegar

Garlic in oil

Thai paste (red curry)

Salt

Pepper

I didn’t measure any of the ingredients for the sauce so just be sure to taste as you go. I enjoyed making this dish and my family enjoyed eating it. This meal was made in no time and can be used as a main or side dish. 

With 4 varieties available including: Success® Whole Grain Brown Rice and Success® White Rice, and globally-inspired aromatic varieties of Success® Rice, including fragrant Thai Jasmine or Basmati Rice, there’s a variety everyone in your family will love. Who’s ready to try Success® Rice? What variety would you like to try? Let me know in the comments section. 

For recipe ideas, special offers and more, join the Recipe Club®


Also check out their website:

They are also on Twitter: @SuccessRice 

Disclosure: This is a compensated post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 



What’s Inside My Holiday Gift Guide? 

4 Dec

What are you looking for in a holiday gift guide? Who are you shopping for? Does price matter? Do you shop online or in stores? Favorite stores, websites, charities. 

I’m listing my favorite fashion, beauty, houseware appliances, tech, toys and food items. Take a look and see what catches your eye. Some even make great stocking stuffers. Giving you a few ideas. Enjoy! 

HOUSEWARE APPLIANCES 

1. Ninja Coffee Bar with glass or thermal carafe makes classic, rich, over ice & specialty coffees. http://www.ninjakitchen.com

  
2. Nutri Ninja Auto-IQ Compact System Blender. Auto-iQ Smooth Boost technology takes drink customization to the next level. A unique combination of powerful Ninja blades, high-torque motor, and high speeds allows you achieve an even greater level of smoothness than Ninja has ever delivered before—all at the touch of a button. http://www.ninjakitchen.com

   
 

3. Power Pressure Cooker XL. Available in 6, 8 and 10 quart models. Save time, energy and money. Prepares succulent meals with one touch of a button up to 70% faster than conventional cooking. http://www.powerpressurecooker/TurkeyDude

  
4. KitchenAid Mixer. Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer. Choose over 20 colors, 10 speeds and the power hub fits optional attachments from food grinders to pasta makers. http://www.kitchenaid.com

  
5. KitchenAid Spiralizer Attachment. Reinvent classic meals and inspire your culinary creativity with the versatile KitchenAid Spiralizer with Peel, Core and Slice Stand Mixer Attachment. Make fresh fruit and vegetable recipe options, from zucchini noodles to sweet and savory dishes.

   
 
TECHNOLOGY

1. HP Envy 5540. The HP Envy All-in-One printer is a great compact solution for your home and office printing, scanning and copying needs. Now, when you buy the HP Envy 5540 e-All-in-One printer, it comes with 3 months free of HP Instant Ink! With HP Instant Ink you select your subscription plan and HP takes care of the rest so that you never run out of ink and printing costs a lot less! Ink, shipping, and cartridge recycling are included in your monthly plan. Plans start as low as $2.99/month and are based on pages printed, not cartridges used. There’s no annual fee and you can change or cancel plans online at anytime. Link to HP Envy 5540 e-All-in-One printer: http://bit.ly/HPEnvy5540Printer  Link to HP Instant Ink: http://bit.ly/HPInstantInk6

FREE INK OFFER: Now through December 31st, when you enroll your printer in HP Instant Ink, you will receive six free months of ink! To decide which plan is right for you and to enroll, visit http://bit.ly/HPInstantInk6 but remember to do it before December 31, 2015! 

   
   
2. Monster Products. 24K Backfloat Speaker. This is a rugged Bluetooth shower speaker, a floating speaker for the pool, and one of the best portable speakers around. Sing along in the shower or tub or float this powerful speaker in the Jacuzzi. Bring it to the campsite or to the beach. BackFloat is engineered to keep pumping out high-performance Pure Monster Sound no matter how wet things get. http://www.monsterproducts.com

  
3. My Charge Razor Max Rechargeable 6000mAh battery. RazorMax delivers an extra 27 hours talk time for your smartphone. This powerbank comes equipped with 2 USB ports and is perfect for charging two devices at once. With a 2.4A output, the RazorMax portable charger is great for charging tablets and other power thirsty devices. http://www.shop.mycharge.com

  

4. Monster ClarityHD High Performance Earbuds. Advanced construction with reinforcement at critical stress points. Ergonomically designed, with multiple ear tips for a better fit. Won’t fall out of your ears like other earbuds. Premium sound quality at an incredible value. Superior noise isolation. ControlTalk Universal for clearer calls, simple music controls. Flat, tangle-resistant cable. Extremely lightweight. Low-profile right angle connector. http://www.monsterproducts.com 

For a 20% discount on all products on Monster, please use promo code ‘MonsterNation’ at checkout. Offer good until December 25.

  
5. Lumee Case. LED lighting on both sides of the case give you a soft and beautiful light for every occasion. Dimmer Switch to control light output and let you control the light. Rechargeable battery and charging cord. Long lasting battery that works independently of your phone. I use for my IPhone 6. Check website for your phone. http://www.lumee.com

  
KIDS COOKING TOOLS

Thanks to Curious Chef – which provides real cooking tools designed just for kids – little ones can be more involved in the baking and cooking process as they aspire to be the next Cake Boss or Top Chef! These cooking tools are specifically designed for kids 4+ with safety and smaller hands in mind, helping inspire curiosity in the kitchen. http://www.curiouschef.com

1. 2 Quart Mixing Bowl – Designed with a sturdy base and easy grip handles, the 2-Quart Mixing Bowl helps your child mix up family favorites like cookies, pancakes or brownies

  
2. 2 Cup Clear Measuring Cup – Help your kids practice math and measurements with the 2 Cup Clear Measuring Cup, complete with color-coded measurements in both cup and ounce increments.

  
3. Medium Nylon Plastic Knife – Put your kids to work chopping with the Medium Nylon Plastic Knife, which is designed to be tough on foods and safer on skin than a metal blade. Also featuring an ergonomically-designed handle, this knife is easier for little hands to grasp.

  
4. Nylon Cookie Turner — Cookies and kids go hand in hand, especially when it comes to baking. The Curious Chef Nylon Cookie Turner real kitchen tool lets your child have a part in the cookie baking fun.

  
5. Actus Lunch Box. These collectible lunch boxes are designed for PEANUTS lovers of all ages! Choose your favorites from our PEANUTS lunch boxes, utensils kit, plastic mugs and many more! http://www.skaterlunch.com

   
  
TOYS

1. Guitar Hero Live. This is the first ever playable music video network and has launched with two 24-hour channels and hundreds of playable songs.The all new Guitar Hero. One game. Two ways to play. GH Live, where you can rock real crowds with real reactions.With a continually updating library of hundreds of videos across genres, there’s something for everyone. 

   

 
2. Shopkins. Moose Toys collectible characters from your favorite shops. Also in plush, backpacks and accessories. Seasons 1-3 available now while Season 4 will be available in December. Shopkins Plush are an Imports Dragon product. http://www.importsdragon.com and http://www.moosetoys.com
 
 
3. Pie Face Game. Hasbro has done it agin with this board game for the whole family filled with fun and suspense. Someone is bound to get a pie in their face. http://www.hasbro.com 

  
4. Barbie Fashionistas. These dolls are ready for anything dressed in a look you’ll love that’s perfect for daytime and nighttime fun. The fabulous fashion is right on trend and fits their style and personality perfectly. With an amazing pair of shoes and the perfect bag, the sensational look is complete! Girls can try new styles and play out a variety of stories with this delightful doll. http://www.shop.mattel.com

  
5. Star Wars Episode 7 Remote Control BB-8 – Only at Target. This remote control BB-8 figure rolls in any direction and makes expressive droid sounds as you lead him into adventure. Collect and battle with this and other figures, vehicles, and Star Wars toys. http://www.target.com

  
 FASHION

1. Hanes Hoisery. Hanes Hosiery’s new Fall 2015 collection features innovative styles that are the perfect balance of beauty and comfort. Hanes is revitalizing legwear this season with the introduction of X-Temp technology and solution based sheers, tights and leggings that compliment women of every age, nationwide.

The Hanes Power Shapers collection integrates the benefits of shapewear into legwear with run resistant technology that keeps every woman looking polished with a flawless finish from day to night. Available in a variety of deniers and a no hose® slimmer, the Hanes Power Shapers collection provides a smooth, no lines appearance, even under the most body conscious styles.

X-Temp tights from Hanes are designed to adapt to your body temperature providing comfort throughout the day. X-Temp technology is designed to adjust to your body’s temperature and activity to keep you comfortable and confident. X-Temp tights are available in a variety of styles from core opaques to boot liners, convertibles and smoothing leggings that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

Website: http://www.hanes.com/onehanesplace/legwear/legwear-brands/all-hanes

2. L’eggs Tights. Introducing New L’eggs Energy Tights! By combining health & well being with fashion, L’eggs Energy delivers a true “feel good, look good” combination. By leveraging Beauty, Wellness, and Comfort macro-trends, the Energy Collection provides a compelling and affordable legwear solution. By integrating 360-degree Graduated Compression (which many millennials equate with sports/fitness), L’eggs Energy appeals across generations.

L’eggs Energy comes in Tights, Footless Tights and Trouser Sock styles in sizes S thru XL. 

Found for $7.99 or less at your local food, drug and mass merchandiser like CVS!

Website: http://www.hanes.com/onehanesplace/brands/our-brands/leggs

  
3. nicole by Nicole Miller. nicole by Nicole Miller Sleeveless Embellished Jumpsuit, $68 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com 

nicole by Nicole Miller Feather Trim Dress, $86 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com

nicole by Nicole Miller Pave Crystal Hinged Gold-Tone Cuff Bracelet, $34 available at JCPenney and jcpenney.com

  
4. Jord Wood Watches are focused on creating timepieces that are modeled after a modern lifestyle. They value sustainability, efficiency, and experiential living. They make their watches for people who don’t just have somewhere to be, they have somewhere to go. Scratch-resistant mineral glass deployment buckle with push buttons. http://www.woodwatches.com

  

5. Heavenly Touch Denim from Riders by Lee.  Slimming Stretch denim is now softer than ever! Touching is believing with Heavenly Touch denim, the innovative fabric construction that is ultra-soft. And with the right amount of stretch, these jeans are as comfortable as your favorite sweats, but are infinitely more flattering! Soft & comfortable, slimming & flattering…look good feel great. http://www.lee.com and http://www.kmart.com

  
FOOD

1. Deep River Snacks. The high quality snack brand that “Gives a Chip” is more than just a bag of chips… they pride themselves on doing right in everything they do. All snacks non-GMO, made in a nut-free facility and contain no artificial dyes, flavors or preservatives. And each bag uses its packaging real estate to raise awareness for a specific charity!
This holiday season, Deep River Snacks is offering four special edition snack packs that make the perfect gift or stocking stuffer:

Chips & Charity – an assortment of kettle chips plus a $10 charity gift certificate that the recipient can use to make a donation to their favorite non-profit
Snack Attack – 24 bags of delicious kettle chips with 12 different flavors to enjoy

Turn Up The Heat – a collection of the brand’s hottest flavors for those who love some heat: Zesty Jalapeño, NY Spicy Dill Pickle and Aged Cheddar & Horseradish

Holiday Crunch – an assortment of red, green and white bags perfect for parties, stockings, hostess of teacher gifts and combining three of the top selling kettle varieties: Original Salted, Mesquite BBQ and Zesty Jalapeño

Party Pleasers – an 80 count box of 1 oz bags of kettle chips

http://www.deepriversnacks.com

 

 
2.Woodbridge Wine. Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi is pleased to introduce the limited-edition Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend. A unique red blend with flavors of rich red berries accented with cinnamon, vanilla, and clove, this blend is the perfect accompaniment to festive gatherings with friends and family. Available for $5.99-7.99 per 750 mL bottle, the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend is delicious served at room temperature, or can also be heated on the stove with cinnamon sticks, orange slices and cloves, for a cozy mulled cocktail treat.

  
3. POM Juice. Sweet, a little tart, and a whole lot of healthy. Powered by pomegranate antioxidants, it’s authentic, delicious and 100% pure. There is no added sugar, colorants or cheap filler juices. Also Super Teas, Juice Blends, Fresh Fruit and Fresh Pomegranate Arils. There’s also loads of recipes available online: http://www.pomwonderful.com

  
    
 

4. Del Monte Fusion. Del Monte Fruit & Veggie Fusions come in 3 delicious flavors: Peach Mango, Apple Pear Watermelon, Cherry Fruit Trio. 1 snack cup = 1 combined serving of fruit & veggies, (contains 1 serving (1/2 cup) that is 75% fruit and 25% vegetables, per USDA Nutrient Data), No high fructose corn syrup, No artificial flavors or sweeteners, Excellent source of Vitamin C, Available nationwide for $2.99 for four 4oz cups. 

  
5. Military Match K-Cup Pods Variety Blends. Buy four boxes of our 18-count K-Cup pods and they will match your order with four additional boxes, plus our signature Military Match mug – FREE! They will also send all 8 boxes plus a signature military mug to the APO/FPO or military base address you provide – it’s all part of our MIlitary Match Gift Box Program! This gift set includes two 18-count boxes of each: Dark Roast, Cafe Special, Breakfast Blend and 100% Colombia Altura K-Cup pods and one Military Match mug. http://www.communitycoffee.com

 
6. Siracha2Go.  The perfect package for the Sriracha lover who needs to always be equipped with their favorite hot sauce. http://www.siracha2go.com 

    
  
BEAUTY

1. Alien by Thierry Mugler. Mysterious and fascinating, ALIEN perfume has the power to illuminate and reveal a radiant, feminine aura. ALIEN fragrance brings out the solar goddess in every women. … Thierry Mugler ALIEN perfume at the ALIEN perfume Source, or with refill bottles and ALIEN eco-refills! http://www.macys.com and http://www.muglerusa.com

  
2. Aveeno Positively Radiant Brightening Cleanser helps improve skinny one, texture and clarity.  Oil free, hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic. Luminous looking skin after removing dirt, oil and makeup. http://www.aveeno.com

3. Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 evens tone and texture in 30 days. http://www.aveeno.com

 
 
4. Younique Moodstruck 3D Fiber Lashes+ Mascara. Increase your average lash volume by up to 400%. My lashes definitely increased in length and looked full and amazing. Never seen my lashes this long before. http://www.youniqueproducts.com

 
 
5. Zest FruitBoost Shower Gel. All four Zest Fruitboost varieties revitalize with gentle moisturizers and skin-nourishing, antioxidant-rich Vitamin C. Every Zest Fruitboost 10oz tube lasts up to 40 showers, so a little quarter size amount goes a long, long way. And at a suggested retail price of $2.99, a huge boost for wallets everywhere.  Available in four luscious, fruit-filled scents — Citrus Splash, Very Berry, Peach Mango, and Pomegranate Acai. Available at Walmart stores. http://www.zest.com

  
6. Dove Hair Oxygen Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner collection, which provided 95% more volume after one wash. http://www.dove.us.com and http://www.walmart.com

  

DONATIONS:

1. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. What are you grateful for? Join our community of supporters​, patients, partners and celebrity friends and let the world know you support the kids of St. Jude.When you donate $1, you’re helping save lives. http://www.stjude.org

2. No Kid Hungry. Instead of another ugly sweater, send your family and friends beautifully designed and printed holiday cards from No Kid Hungry. 100% of the proceeds go toward the mission feeding our nation’s hungry kids. This holiday season, help us reach our holiday goal of providing 10 million meals to kids in need. http://www.nokidhungry.org

Disclosure: The HP printer/InstantInk part of this post listed under Technology is sponsored campaign with Mom Select. All opinions are mine 100% as always. All other items were either reviewed or just something I liked and added to my gift guide. 

Quaker 100th Canister Anniversary Kit and Giveaway

25 Nov

One-hundred years ago, Quaker proved that it’s hip not to be square with the introduction of the now-iconic round Quaker Oats package. A first in the industry, it was just one of many moments in Quaker’s long-standing history of innovation. While the packaging design has since been updated, the round canister can still be found on store shelves today, helping The Quaker Oats Company, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, Inc., deliver more than 350 million pounds of oatmeal and inspire countless cooking and baking oat-casions for consumers each year.
Throughout its 138-year history, Quaker has enjoyed many additional firsts. In 1891, Quaker was the first to feature a recipe on packaging – Oatmeal Bread – and in 1908, introduced the first cookie recipe on a package – Oat Cakes3. Today’s Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies recipe remains a consumer favorite, celebrating 20 years on the canister in 2015. For those seeking additional recipe inspiration for the upcoming holiday season, Quaker’s online recipe database features oat-spired recipes for all occasions, including festive treats such as Oatmeal Gingerbread Cookies, Christmas Granola and Holiday Cookie Surprises. Bonus: the Quaker Oats canister makes a great vessel for cookie gifting!
As the brand has evolved, so too have consumers’ oat-consumption habits. In 1922, the company introduced Quaker Quick Oats, one of America’s first convenience products, and also a common swap for Quaker Old Fashioned Oats in baking recipes. 

In 1966, Quaker Instant Oatmeal debuted to help people keep pace with a busy, on-the-go lifestyle. Quaker Instant Oatmeal expanded from pouches to cup packaging in 2000, making portable eating even easier. In 2015, Quaker’s Quick 3-Minute Steel Cut Oats lineup launched – cutting the traditional cooking time of 30 minutes to three minutes – while providing a hearty texture and rich, nutty taste that consumers craved. That hearty taste and texture make Quaker Steel Cut Oats perfect for savory recipes that add a fresh, festive spin to the holiday dinner table, such as Cranberry Apple and Pecan Oat Salad or Steel Cut Oatmeal with Sweet Corn, Tomato & Pancetta.

For more information about Quaker’s latest innovations and recipe ideas, visit http://www.QuakerOats.com, http://www.Facebook.com/Quaker or follow the brand on Twitter @Quaker.

*GIVEAWAY*

Quaker was kind enough to give one of my readers a Quaker 100th Canister Anniversary Kit which includes: 

Heart-Shaped Measuring Spoons – to help add a little love to your holiday baking

· Red Oven Mitt – always handy to have for baking!

· “Baked with love” Baking Tags – the perfect way to package up holiday treats for your friends and family

· Vintage Style Treat Boxes – to make a complete gift package with your baking tags

· Cookie Exchange invitations – to invite your loved ones to be part of the treat gifting!

· Red and White Baker’s Twine Spool – for a decorative gift accent

· A set of four Quaker recipe cards for holiday baking inspiration

· A variety of Quaker products to stock your pantry for holiday baking

   
 To enter answer this question: What do you enjoy baking with Quaker? Comment below. I love making Oatmeal Raisin cookies.

Must be following five little words blog. 

Make sure you follow @Quaker on Twitter 

Follow me on Twitter @nilimonicky and Instagram @nilimo

(Custom throw back Quaker Oats canister not included in giveaway)

Winner will be announced 11/30. Giveaway ends 11/29 at 11:59pm

Disclosure: I am a Quaker Q Crew blogger ambassador and I was given products to review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. Five Little Words is not responsible for sending out prize. 

WOODBRIDGE HARVEST WINE HOSTESS SET GIVEAWAY 

19 Nov

With the holidays around the corner, it’s time to thank those who do the most to bring everyone together – the hosts! This year, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi has created a gift that truly gives back, not just to your Thanksgiving hostess, but also to the community.  
 

The gift: the Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set – a limited-edition kitchen set featuring a matching apron, pot holder and wine tote, with 100% of proceeds benefitting AmpleHarvest.org, a charity working to help fight hunger in America by providing fresh food to those in need. The attractive kitchen set is ideal for Thanksgiving entertaining, serving as the perfect hostess gift he or she will use for years. Available for $35.00 via Amazon.com from now through the end of the year, the Woodbridge Harvest Wine set is a gift that gives back. 

 Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Winery is pleased to introduce the Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set, a limited-edition kitchen set including a matching apron, pot holder and wine tote, inspired by the new Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend wine and the giving spirit of the harvest and holiday seasons. The set will benefit AmpleHarvest.org, a national non-profit organization that helps food pantries provide fresh fruit and vegetables from local gardens to families in need. For the sale of every Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set this holiday season, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi will donate all proceeds (estimated at $35.00 per set) to AmpleHarvest.org, helping feed American families in need. For the sale of every Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi will donate all proceeds to AmpleHarvest.org, up to $5,000.00 nationally. 

  
 The Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set features an eye-catching seasonal design inspired by the new Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Harvest Spiced Red Blend. The set’s colorful leaf motif complements the wine’s label artwork, while the green-striped trim reflects fall foliage and traditional holiday color palettes. The three-piece set is bundled together with an attractive snap-back closure, making it an ideal holiday or hostess gift for the wine-lover or chef in your life. Helping create memorable moments with family and friends, the Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set is the perfect accompaniment to meals shared with loved ones.
“This holiday season, we are proud that the sale of the Woodbridge Harvest Wine Set supports AmpleHarvest.org and our mission of providing food pantries nationwide, and ultimately the families that rely on them, with fresh produce from millions of home and community gardeners,” says Gary Oppenheimer, Executive Director and Founder of AmpleHarvest.org.
About Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Winery

Robert Mondavi founded Woodbridge Winery near his boyhood home in Lodi, California to encourage a growing wine culture in the U.S. by making quality wines that could be enjoyed by Americans as part of daily life. Combining traditional winemaking with state-of-the-art innovation, Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi raised the standard for everyday wines in America, and has become one of America’s most loved wines. For more about Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi, including food and wine pairings and recipes ideas, please visit http://www.woodbridgewines.com. 

  About AmpleHarvest.org

AmpleHarvest.org, Inc. is a nationwide not-for-profit organization that diminishes food waste, hunger and malnutrition in America by educating, encouraging and empowering America’s 42 million home/community gardeners to easily donate their excess bounty to one of 7,500 local food pantries eager to receive and distribute the fresh food. For more information, visit http://www.AmpleHarvest.org/press or call AMPLE-6-9880 (267-536-9880).

GIVEAWAY: 3  winners will revive a Woodbridge Harvest Wine Hostess Set. 

*Must be following my blog and social media sites in order to qualify. 

*Must live in one of the 5 boroughs of NY so I can get to you before Thanksgiving. 

@nilimo on Instagram 

@nilimonicky on Twitter 

Subscriber of my blog. 

Like my page http://www.facebook.com/FiveLittleWords

Winners will be picked and announced Monday morning 11/23. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a set to review. 
 

Gerber’s BabyNes Smart Nutrition Baby Formula System 

10 Nov

As a mother of 4 I was told when I had my first born that I must breastfeed because it’s healthy for my child, he won’t get ear infections, the colostrum is what he needs, he won’t have colic, he will sleep all night, and you’re young and that’s what’s right. From doctors, parents, nutritionists, health educators, to grandparents I heard it for 9 months and after because they wanted to know did I breastfeed. In my mind I knew the benefits of it and I wanted what I thought was the best for my son and I also wanted my uterus to shrink fast, and in the other part of my mind I was saying it’s gonna hurt and visioning leaky swollen breasts and God forbid a bite from my son as the teeth come in. 

Wel I can proudly say I breastfed my son  for 3 years and quite a few of the benefits were true. Yes, 3 years oh yeah and I got bit once but right away I told my son don’t do that again. Ha. I just wasn’t into mixing powders and waiting for a bottle to heat up and cool down. Al I had to do was turn over and feed my son. I did however use a certain brand baby formula that wasn’t powder or I used my pumped breast milk for when we went out. 

I enjoyed breastfeeding so I breastfed all of my kids but my oldest was the longest. My oldest son is now 25 and then came along Gerber with their newest arrival BabyNes Advanced Nutrition: The Next Generation of  Baby Formula. 

BabyNes is a smart nutrition system that brings a range of six single-serve formula capsules for infants and toddlers during the first years of life. Wi-fi enabled to provide a perfectly mixed bottle at a temperature selected by the user with no lumps at the touch of a button. The single served formula capsules were created to ensure precise nutrition with the right amount of nutrients and water for each feeding. The formula was inspired from breast milk composition changes month after month to follow baby’s evolving nutritional needs and nourish a healthy body and mind. Can we say ooooh? 

For expecting moms and parents with kids birth to 36 months this is right up your alley. I love the fact that a filter in each capsule filters out the bacteria from the water and the formula is dissolved completely within the capsule to flow directly into the bottle. Also plus is the the BabyNes system syncs with a smartphone to allow users to track your baby’s nutrition, replenish capsules automatically or get an alert when a caregiver feeds the baby. 

There were two events I attended for BabyNes, one on November 5th with Lyss Stern of Diva Moms and one today November 10, at the Children’s Museum of the Arts with Moderator: Bobbie Thomas (new mom, style/fashion expert and Professional Girlfriend). Panelists included: Dr. Tanya Altmann (Pediatrician), Lyss Stern (Founder Diva Moms), Lance Somerfeld & Matt Schneider (Co-founders City Dads Group) and Tom Burnett ( Director of Eary Childhood Programs at WEE Arts).

There were demos shown, panelists discussed their thoughts on parenting and the BabyNes and questions were answered from the audience. Bobbie Thomas also discussed her battles with getting pregnant and treatments she had to take in order to have a baby and how supportive her family and friends were.  She is also greatly like to have the BabyNes in her life as it has helped her being this is her first child. 

If I could have more kids I would still breastfeed and give this a try. It’s very convenient and saves you a lot of time and mom or dad can use it. The BabyNes machine is available in the New York metro area at Giggle Stores, Buy Buy Baby and online at giggle.com, buybuybaby.com, Amazon.com, babiesrus.com and diapers.com at an MSRP of $249. The formula capsules are sold online at BabyNes.com or on BabyNes app ($59/box of 26 capsules). There’s also a carrying case for on the go. 

Twitter and Instagram: @BabyNes

BONUS: I will be giving away a BabyNes soon. Stay tuned!!! 

   
    
    

 

Peapod by Stop & Shop and Barilla Introduce Pasta Meal Kits to NYC

10 Nov

One of my favorite pasta brands Barilla and Peapod by Stop and Shop (online grocery shopping and delivery service) introduced Pasta Meal Kits to New York City. Does this mean  I get to save time in the kitchen and more time with my family? The answer is YES! Meal kits would make any busy parent very happy. I mean I would love to make fresh pasta every night if I could but that’s not going to happen. No more grocery shopping, prepping, measuring, and cleaning a bunch of pots and dishes. Don’t get me wrong I cook everyday but sometimes I could do without stepping into a supermarket. There were times where standing on the line took longer than making dinner. 

Barilla pasta meal kits have easy to follow recipe cards and fresh ingredients like butternut squash and mozzarella. The kit requires little prep and all vegetables are pre-washed, measured and cut. It only takes under 30 minutes. 

Variety of meal kits include: 

Baked Rotini by Barilla

Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Spaghetti by Barilla

Farfalle with Roasted Butternut Squash by Barilla

Tortellini Soup by Barilla

I love the fact that I can order these kits online and have everything waiting for me that will feed my whole family and save me time and money. The kits range in price from $15.99-$23.99 and serves 4-6 people. 

I attended a special luncheon on Thursday, November 5, hosted by Peapod.com and Barilla Pasta. Barilla’s own Chef Lorenzo prepared lunch and shared the inspiration behind the Meal Kits as well as other time saving tips for meal planning and prep.

We tried what was on the menu below and it was very delicious. 

I went online and placed an order of groceries and it was so easy. You pick a time and day you want your delivery. The Barilla meal kit I ordered was Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Spaghetti. Can’t wait to try. 

   

    
 
Peapod serves 24 U.S. markets and customers can order online or on Peapod’s free mobile app fir deliveries to homes and workplace or pick-up at many convenient locations. 

For more info about Peapod Meal Kits featuring Barilla recipes, ordering and more visit: http://www.Peapod.com and on Twitter @PeapodDelivers

Check out: http://www.barillagroup.com or http://www.barilla.com for more info. 

Disclosure: I was invited to attend this event. I was given a gift card to purchase groceries and the meal kits. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

#NationalOatmealDay With @Quaker Off You Go Campaign/Giveaway

29 Oct

I begin each morning at 4 a.m. so I can prepare a delicious healthy meal for my family. Part of that healthy meal includes Quaker Oats Old-Fashioned Oatmeal which I’ve been eating since I was a toddler. It was only right to introduce Oatmeal to my kids. With so many to choose from it keeps breakfast exciting and we like to create different recipes. From high fiber instant oatmeal cinnamon swirl, maple and brown to instant quaker oatmeal cups apples & cinnamon which is great on the go, and the real medleys oatmeal blueberry hazelnut, summer berry, and peach almond. These all are amazing. Also who doesn’t love oatmeal raisin cookies? We also like to add fresh fruit to our oatmeal. When I say Off You Go to my kids I know they’re bellies are full in a good way. 

Quaker® believes that everyone should begin each morning prepared for everything that lies ahead. That’s why as part of the company’s new “Off You Go” campaign, the Quaker Oats Company is giving away up to one million bowls of oatmeal starting on National Oatmeal Day to help provide people across the country with the best starts to their days.
As part of its new “Off You Go”campaign, Quaker is surprising people around the country with a free bowl of oatmeal – online, on their way to work, or even at their doorstep. On National Oatmeal Day, October 29, follow @Quaker on Twitter or find Quaker on Facebook to give someone – whether it’s a family member, friend or co-worker – a little good to get them going with Quaker oatmeal. Thursday, October 29 only. While Supplies Last. Terms Apply.
· Quaker kicked off the one million bowl giveaway by thanking those who help families get off to a good start.

o Appreciation breakfasts were served to select teachers and day care providers across Chicago and New York to give them a little good for all they do.

o Check out video footage captured at these events on Quaker’s Facebook, YouTube Twitter pages.

· To learn more about Quaker’s “Off You Go” campaign visit http://www.QuakerOffYouGo.com. To give someone you love a bowl of oatmeal on National Oatmeal Day, follow @Quaker on Twitter or find Quaker on Facebook.

· Don’t forget to share your Off You Go moments and love of oatmeal by using #NationalOatmealDay throughout the day!

GIVEAWAY: Quaker was so very kind to offer 10 of my readers a Off You Go Moments Kit. 

Each Quaker® Off You Go Moments Kit will include:

· A heart-shaped Off You Go Oatmeal Bowl to enjoy your favorite whole grain breakfast

· An Instant Photo Camera to capture Off You Go moments and enjoy them in real-time

· A Magnetic Cable Photo Holder to preserve and display your favorite Off You Go moments

· A Reusable Jute Tote as a stylish way to pack all your on-the-go items for the day ahead

· A set of four Quaker recipe cards for morning meal inspiration

· A variety of Quaker products to help get you and your family off to a great start with a bowl of oatmeal

 Each kit is valued at approx. $110!

To enter answer this question in the comments below: 

How does your familiy prepare each morning to take on the day ahead?

Make sure you are following @Quaker on Twitter and Facebook. 

Must be subscribed to my blog fivelittlewords.net and following me on Instagram: @nilimo and Twitter @nilimonicky and like my Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/fivelittlewords

Giveaway ends November 12, 2015 at 11:59 pm and winners will be announced November 13, 2015 on my blog and social media. Quaker will mail out the winners prize within 2-3 weeks after I submit winners info. 

Check out http://www.quakeroats.com for product info. 

Disclosure: I am a proud Quaker Q Crew amabassador and was given product for my review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

  
   
    
   
  
 

Ninja Coffee Bar Review 

23 Oct

My name is Nichol Perez and I am addicted to coffee. I love coffee (all types). I’ve been drinking since I was a teen and I’ve tried so many. Some of my favorites are iced coffees, lattes, flavored hot coffees and just a good light and sweet cup of coffee. 

I was excited to find out actress Sofia Vergara partnered with Ninja to launch the Ninja Coffee Bar. This coffee machine was meant for me. I get to brew delicious coffee at home like specialty coffees, classic or rich brew and over ice brew. I can make a carafe, half carafe, travel mug or cup size of coffee in the comfort of my home. 

I was invited to hear Sofia Vergara speak on how she partnered with Ninja and why she had to have that fresh brew of Colombian coffee in her house. Sofia showed attendees how easy it is to use the Ninja Coffee Bar and why she loves it, she told us her favorite brew, and also let us know she can’t cook but can make good coffee. She was so sweet and funny. I enjoyed meeting her and so glad she partnered with Ninja. 

I was sent the Ninja Coffee Bar to review and at first I didn’t know what I was doing when I put coffee beans in the machine because it’s been that long since I brewed coffee so once I found out the beans needed to be put through a grinder I quickly handled that and had a great rich brew half carafe pot of coffee. I also made myself a coffee on the go in my travel mug which is sold separately. I enjoyed every sip of the piping hot coffee which has a intelligent warning plate on the machine and kept my coffee hot and also I was impressed my coffee stayed hot in my travel mug for about three hours. Love that mug. 

The Ninja Coffee Bar comes with a milk frother and amazing easy recipes which I can’t wait to try and it’s available now at major retailers nationwide starting at $149 MSRP. 

My favorite features are the Auto-IQ one touch intelligence, drip stop and the multi serve cup platform. All the features are great and I’m definitely hooked and now my wallet will be happy because I will save so much money with my Ninja Coffee Bar. Also great for hosting a coffee party with your family and friends. You bring the coffee I’ll make it and serve. 

Here are some facts about the Ninja Coffee Bar:

Ninja® is transforming the way Americans brew coffee with the Ninja Coffee Bar™. Ninja® has completely reinvented traditional drip coffee makers by designing a machine to unlock coffee’s full flavor potential and provide smooth, rich and well-balanced coffee in the size and style that you want. Perfect for daily coffee drinkers and coffee lovers, with the Ninja Coffee Bar™ you can choose a cup, a travel mug or a carafe, and you can choose from a variety of brew styles. From classic rich hot coffee, to refreshing Over Ice Brew or even delicious hot milk-based and frozen blended specialty drinks, you can do it all with one machine.

 Only the Ninja Coffee Bar™ has Thermal Flavor Extraction™ technology, which is designed to unlock the full flavor potential of your coffee, using automated controls for Temperature Calibration, Pre-Infusion, and Even Coffee Saturation.

 With Auto-iQ™ One Touch Intelligence, just set the dial to your desired size, select your brew type, and the Ninja Coffee Bar™ will automatically use the correct amount of water. Whether you like it hot or over ice, smooth or extra rich, this unique brewing technology knows just the right amount of flavor to extract to achieve just the right strength. Choose from four different brew types:

 1. Classic Brew: Smooth, rich, balanced flavor from your favorite ground coffee. 

2. Rich Brew: Richer than Classic with more intense flavor that really stands up to milk, cream, or flavoring.

3. Over Ice Brew: Richer than Rich Brew, designed to brew fresh and hot over ice leaving you with the perfect ratio of ice to rich, refreshingly cold coffee that’s never watered down.

4. Specialty Brew: Super-rich concentrate allows you to create your favorite hot milk-based and frozen blended coffee-house style drinks.

 “We are bringing Ninja®’s innovative technology to create a coffee maker that will transform the industry,” says Mark Rosenzweig, CEO of SharkNinja, the company that develops Ninja® housewares products. “Designed for coffee lovers, the Ninja Coffee Bar™ enables consumers to have the best coffeehouse in town on their countertop and make flavorful — never sour, never bitter — coffee with delicious, customizable coffee drink options.”

Adding an extra layer of convenience, the Ninja® Removable Water Reservoir enables users to brew multiple cups of coffee without refilling or measuring. The Precise Temp Warming Plate, available on select models, is designed to keep your coffee at the ideal temperature without burning it, even the last cup. With a two hour Auto Shutoff, the Precise Temp Warming plate will automatically turn off two hours after brewing and has an independent “Stay Warm” button that allows you to turn off the Precise Temp Warming plate prior to the two hour Auto Shutoff. 

Additional features of the Ninja Coffee Bar™ include:

· Easy-Fill Brew Basket – Slide out to quickly and easily fill with your favorite coffee grounds or fully remove for effortless cleaning.

· Removable Water Reservoir with Auto-Metering – No need to measure or constantly refill.

· Drip Stop – Stops the flow of coffee from the brew basket, allowing you to pour a cup mid-brew.

· Multi-Serve Cup Platform – Easily pulls down so you can brew directly into your favorite mug or cup.

· Programmable Delay Brew – Pre-set to brew automatically up to 24 hours in advance in any size.

· Intelligent Clean Cycle Indicator – Alerts you when your brewer senses that it needs to be cleaned.

· Ninja Easy Frother™ – Transform milk into rich creamy foam for your favorite indulgent specialty beverage.

· Available on select models:

o 43 oz. glass carafe with no drip ergonomics; included with Precise Temp Warming Plate.

o Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Carafe keeps your coffee hot for hours, ideal for entertaining; not including Intelligent Warming Plate.

· Ninja Cup Options:

o 12 oz. insulated mug with handle

o 14 oz. insulated cup

o Stainless Steel 16 oz. Travel Mug

o Hot and Cold 18 oz. Insulated Tumbler™

I have attached a video I took of Sofia at the event. https://instagram.com/p/7_VrcNGsAE/

I also periscoped my attempt at making coffee. Hopefully it’s still available. My periscope name is @nilimonicky. If it’s not available here is my you tube link to watch the 2nd correct video on: https://youtu.be/LxeUif9QQvc

For more info about the Ninja Coffee Bar and additional Shark Ninja Products: http://www.ninjacoffeebar.com, Facebook.com/NinjaCoffeeBar and @NinjaCoffeeBar on Twitter. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was invited to event and given a Ninja Coffee Bar for review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

  

   
 

HP Instant Ink Replacement Service Added To Six New Envy Printers

7 Oct

I think anyone who works from home, have kids or owns a desktop or laptop should own a printer. I’ve been through my share of printers and it wasn’t that the printers weren’t good it was the ink was expensive or discontinued. One thing I hated doing was buying ink or forgetting to buy it when I was running errands. 

I’m so glad HP thought of a way for me to never forget or run out of ink anymore. Between homework, reports and constantly printing out work now I can be at ease. 

HP unveiled the expansion of its rapidly growing Instant Ink replacement service to six new HP ENVY, OfficeJet and DeskJet printers. With the HP Instant Ink service and enabled devices, HP is eliminating ink anxiety and cutting ink costs up to 50 percent so customers can print what matters most and never run out of ink.

 The new HP printers are HP Instant Ink ready with the sign-up experience integrated into the printer set-up out of the box, making it simple to begin the convenience and savings on day one. Customers can quickly choose the plan that works for them or choose the traditional model of purchasing ink at retail or online when they run low. Additionally, for the first time, HP is offering the choice of one or two year HP Instant Ink plans out of the box with the introduction of the HP OfficeJet 5741 and HP OfficeJet 5743.

 Smart Original HP Ink cartridges can reorder ink before it runs out and deliver it directly to the customer. Whether printing at home, for a small business or at college, customers can enjoy the lowest two year total cost of ownership available, printing high-quality photos as well as black and white or color documents for the same cost.

Recycling is simple with HP Instant Ink. The program provides prepaid envelopes to return used cartridges, lowering the carbon footprint related to ink cartridge purchase and disposal by an estimated 70 percent.

My HP printer that I owned prior to was not WI-FI enabled printer so HP was kind enough to send me the Envy 5540 All-In -One Printer. I’ve always wanted to be able to print right from my phone or tablet no matter where I was instead of waiting to get home and push a button and now I can.  Now when I get home documents and pictures are waiting for me. The Envy 5540 copies, prints and scans. Even has 2-sided printing. Easy wireless set up was a piece of cake. Only one plug to use. I downloaded the app and set up an account and viola. I was printing from my phone in no time. I was also given a gift card to order ink with the Instant Ink replacement service. I took the one year plan and within a few days I was receiving more ink way before I ran out and still haven’t opened the new ink yet. We love our new printer and this amazing new Instant Ink replacement service. Ink will always be available at my finger tips and nothing will be delayed. I enjoyed printing photos from my printer. 
Thank you HP for keeping this mom and her kids up to date with the latest in technology. 

Here’s info on the printer I have: 

HP ENVY 5540 All-in-One Printer: An affordable printer with a quick, five-minute mobile installation process so users can print from a smartphone or tablet with or without a router or local wireless network. Users can also scan, copy, and access web content directly from the color touchscreen. Starts at $129 and is available now. 

HP Instant Ink is currently available in the U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, France and Germany. Additional information about HP Instant Ink and the new generation of eligible HP printers is available at http://www.hp.com/go/instantink. More information about HP is available at http://www.hp.com.

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a printer and gift card for review purposes. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

   
   
 

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