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NEW Launch: McCafe’s First-Ever Bottled Coffee #FrappeAllDay #summAhhfriday

25 Sep

I attended a Media Party with McCafe on The Spotify Rooftop for the launch of their ready to drink Frappes.

On August 3, 2017 long time Coca-Cola business partner McDonald’s announced that it planned to expand its popular McCafe coffee drinks to the beverage aisle in 2017 with three new ready to drink McCafe Frappes- Caramel, Mocha and Vanilla.

McCafe Frappes are made with 100% Arabica coffee beans and blended with real milk, sugar, natural flavors and other ingredients.

If you know me I always have some type of Caramel coffee in my hand whether it’s iced, hot, frappe, latte or what have you. All the flavors were good but my first choice will always be caramel. These are great on the go bottles but sometimes they don’t make it out of the house because I find myself grabbing one when I come home or first thing in the morning. I can drink cold drinks all year.

The rooftop party was fun. There were loads of Frappes, summer swag – beach balls, sunglasses, hats, beverage holders, food and DJ Vashtie.

McCafe Frappes are available in 13.7 fl. oz resealable bottles at grocery, convenience and mass merchandisers nationwide.

National Coffee Day (Sept. 29th) McCafé recently conducted a national survey and published interesting insights on adults’ love of coffee. For example, if only you had just a few minutes in the morning, would you brush your teeth or drink coffee?

 

Below are some fun findings from the survey:

•Coffee over Hygiene – what do coffee lovers absolutely need in the morning? More than half (52%) of frequent coffee drinkers would prioritize drinking coffee over taking a shower

◦ More than a third (34%) of respondents said they would prioritize drinking coffee over brushing their teeth if they only had a few minutes to get ready in the morning

•Perking up or Logging on?Half (50%) of frequent coffee drinkers would be more willing to spend a day without their smartphone than abstain from coffee for a whole 24 hours.

•Better than Chocolate?More than half (55%) of Americans would give up chocolate before they’d give up coffee for 6 months

•Coffee over Cuddles?While 31% of survey respondents said cuddling their pet would help turn around a bad morning, almost half (47%) turn to coffee to get a better start to their day.

•How Much Would You Pay for the LAST Cup?New Yorkers would shell out the most $ for the last cold coffee on a hot day, they would pay $33! Chicagoan and Angelenos would pay up to $20 for the last cold coffee

Disclosure: This event was hosted. Opinions are mine 100% as always.

CARNIVAL VISTA 11-DAY CRUISE WITH MY 20 YR OLD SON. SHARING MY 20 MONEY SAVING TIPS. #hellovista #carnivalvista

31 Dec

So if you follow me on social media you’ve seen me posting pics about going on an 11-day cruise to Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Antigua, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas on Carnival’s new ship The Vista with my 20 year old son. I’ve been on a Norwegian 7-day cruise with my kids but this really felt like a vacation. 

I want to share with you my money saving tips so when you’re ready to take a cruise you will still have money left when you return. 

TIP NUMBER 1:

I am so grateful that cruises leave from New York which saves me so much money on airfare. If you live in New York take advantage of the cruises and you’ll see just how much extra money you will have. I only spent $20 to take a cab from my apartment to the port.


TIP NUMBER 2:

You do not want to be disappointed or embarrassed when you check in and they tell you birth certificates are not allowed to travel. Have a passport or get what my son and I have: An enhanced license (permit, or non-driver ID) is a New York State DMV issued document that you can use instead of a passport to return to the US by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and some countries in the Caribbean. 

TIP NUMBER 3:

The first picture that the cruise member takes before you board the ship is the best picture. Even if you think you don’t want it let them take it, then look at it on your he app andi guarantee you will want it. I also allowed cruise members to take one picture of us at each destination. I don’t care what kind of camera you have their pictures always come out perfect. I also took home one in black and white which I didn’t know they could do. They are not expensive at all. 

TIP NUMBER 4:

Eat, eat and eat. It’s all included. Why would you not want to eat? Food is available all day. Some of the restaurants charge you to eat but you don’t have to eat there if you don’t want to. Also there were times when we didn’t want to get up early to go eat so I would order free room service for basic stuff like croissants, bagels, muffins, coffee, tea, fruit, cereal, etc.. After that if we wanted the hot breakfast we had till 11am to get it. So take advantage of free room service for breakfast only. On port days it would take longer so my advice get up and go eat before leaving the ship. Also don’t forget to tip for room service!!


TIP NUMBER 5:

Excursion: a going out or forth : expedition, a usually brief pleasure trip, a trip at special reduced rates. 

For some people these excursions are planned in advance and can cost quite a bit depending how many people you are traveling with and what exactly it is you want to do. There’s lots of things to do from snorkeling, horseback riding, party boats, beaches with access to spas, scuba diving, and shopping trips. You name it they’ve got it. There was one port we couldn’t stop at because of flooding so refunds were given. 

For others they just want to stay on the boat no matter what. Then you have some who want to hop on a free trolley like we did and do your own sightseeing and shop and just be a tourist with the people you’re traveling with. All the money I could have spent on an excursion we used to shop and unless we wanted to try the local cuisine we were nearby the ship where we could go back on have lunch, drop off our bags and head back out again or stay on the boat and enjoy the pool and other rides while the ship was empty. Remember there are things going on in the ship for those that don’t want to leave. At certain ports there are roundtrip boats that take you to the beach for $7 per person and you could also do shopping there as well. 


TIP NUMBER 6:

Never leave the ship without your coupons. 

I had so many coupons to take with me during our port stops that I collected so much free jewelry and gifts I didn’t have to spend a penny. Even on the cruise there are events where you can win raffles for jewelry, pairings and even a free cruise. Make sure you always check your mail, redeem your coupons and attend the seminars to get even more coupon books and freebies. Some of the coupons can even be used when you come back so don’t throw them away. It was great to walk into a retailer and get a free gift without having to purchase anything even though they will try to get you to look at the expensive jewelry. It’s still cheaper to purchase souvenirs off the ship if you’re taking gifts home. Coupons are also good on the ship too. 

TIP NUMBER 7:

Your room key (sail and sign card) is your identification card on and off the ship, your money card and your card to turn on your lights in your room so don’t lose it. I purchased a sparkly necklace or neck rope to attach it to. If you don’t want to spend any money download the ship’s app which you’re gonna need anyway and show it to the shops and they will give you a free necklace to attach your room key to. The first day you board you can link a credit or debit card to your room card and it can be split between you and your family or you can have control of all the purchases. A minimum of $200 is what you should start with. I had mine linked with my son so he could make his own purchases. 

Drinks can be purchased at the bars, games can be played, snacks from other shops, etc.. I didn’t purchase a soda plan in advance because we don’t drink soda and it was too expensive. There is free coffee, tea, juices, cold lemonade, iced tea and water so we were fine. You must be 21 to drink alcoholic beverages . There is also a liquor package which I didn’t purchase. It was cheaper to buy a drink here and there. 

Here’s another great TIP. When you order room service ask for a pitcher of water then keep that pitcher for your entire trip and keep refilling with water to keep at the table or bring back to the room so you don’t have to make double trips carrying cups of water. Make sure you keep the pitcher in the fridge so housekeeping doesn’t take it. We stayed hydrated for 11-days. Also guests used sports bottles. 


TIP NUMBER 8:

Some people pay for tips and gratuity during  the booking of their trip. You don’t have to. You can do it 2 days before the trip ends. You can let the cruise add it on to your bill which they will do anyway. If you feel you need to dispute the price let them know in person and they will remove it and you can ask for envelopes and leave what you feel is right for each employee like housekeeping, bartenders, room service, etc.. I feel like I made personal connections with everyone so I handed enevelopes to individuals. 

TIP NUMBER 9:

If you see the prices of the spa on the cruise you might want to think again. I’m not saying don’t do it just me personally I got a better deal by bringing my own facial treatments with me. I spent less than $5 at Target and had the best peel off facials ever! I got to relax in my Carnival robe and meditate or watch tv, listen to music or just take in the ocean and didn’t have to spend hundreds of dollars. Now if you want a massage or botox or something else then I suggest you hit the spa. The hot tub is free too. 



TIP NUMBER 10:

Be sure the person you take is someone you will get along with. Believe it or not there were people arguing on vacation. 

My 20 year old son was the perfect choice. I love all my kids and it was hard to not have all of them there but I knew my son really needed this as much as I did. He’s a hard working young man and I couldn’t have asked for a better roommate. He doesn’t ask for much and he’s just the sweetest, funniest, polite, mellow person. Everyone complimented him on his manners and how he was the best dressed person they ever saw. They also asked him about how he does his hair. He really enjoyed himself and took great pictures, got on a ride with me on board and took advantage of rest and relaxation. We laughed, shopped, explored, ate our bellies full and just enjoyed every moment. He enjoyed Guy’s Burgers the most. I treated him to milkshakes, candy and video games and we also enjoyed a comedy show on board. We liked the fancy dining rooms as well. THANK YOU FOR BEING THE SON THAT YOU ARE AND HANGING WITH YOUR MOM! 


TIP NUMBER 11:

To dress or not to dress that is the question. 

There are evenings when you can choose to dress up and dine or have dinner with the Captain or just wear casual clothes and eat casually. Some people really dressed up with sparkly evening gowns, tuxedos, high heels, etc.. I knew I didn’t want to dress up so I just came with regular sundresses and opted for casual dining. There were also themed nights like where you wear all white, or 90’s party, etc.. Those were fun. You can get the scoop of that online ahead of time so you know what to pack. 

TIP NUMBER 12:

Our room was great. We had two twin beds, two bathrooms and lots of storage space, a couch and tables and tv. We also had a window view of the ocean. Didn’t need a balcony and the bottom level we were on we didn’t feel the motion of the ocean as much as other people. We were on Deck 1 , Starboard 1417 AFT-S. 

TIP NUMBER 13:

I do not like checking my luggage. I don’t like the fact that my luggage sits in front of my door while I’m not in my room. There were luggage missing from rooms days later that were never found that had wallets, medicine or electronics in. I rather we take our own luggage to our room. Nothing missing, nothing to worry about. If it’s not a hassle take your luggage yourself and don’t have your wallet, medicine, purse or electronics in it. Keep that in your carry-on.


TIP NUMBER 14:

Carry a small umbrella whether you think you need it or not. It felt like 100 degrees and I was so thankful I had that extra protection  from the sun along with my sunscreen, hats and shades. We also got some rain at a few ports. Umbrellas are your friend. Never leave home without it. 


TIP NUMBER 15:

Don’t forget your portable chargers. As a blogger I never leave home without it. You don’t want to miss that great shot or miss talking to loved ones when you dock because you didn’t fully charge your phone. 

Depending where you go on your cruise you might not  get Wifi when you dock so don’t get mad unless you’re willing to pay for it or sit somewhere where there’s free Wifi which is at a restaurant. 

On board the ship Wifi plans vary. There’spackages to choose from like social media packages or internetand email packages, etc.. When using Carnival’s app on board you will not be charged. It’s free. This app really comes in handy when you want to know what’s going on daily on board and to order your pictures, etc. We were too busy enjoying ourselves to worry about using our phones so when we did get a signal then that was a good time to speak to family and send pictures. 

TIP NUMBER 16:

Magnets, coffee mugs and postcards make great souvenirs. Inexpensive and you can find them anywhere. Also don’t forget the clothing factories like Polo Ralph Lauren which was my favorite. Amazing deals. 

TIP NUMBER 17:

There’s so much to do on board you will always be busy unless you just want to relax. There’s drive in movies, bingo, casino, comedy, seminars, spa, exercise classes, gym, pools, saunas, rides, water slides, dancing, karaoke, scavenger hunts and that’s just some of the things you can do. 


TIP NUMBER 19:

Double check before leaving for your cruise to make sure you have everything and double check before leaving the ship as well. You’d be surprised how many things get left behind. 

TIP NUMBER 20:

Always listen for announcements from the cruise director or Captain. The television also have announcements so pay attention and you can follow the map on the tv to see where your next destination is. 


HAVE FUN ON YOUR NEXT VACATION!! WE CANT WAIT FOR OUR NEXT CRUUSE!!! 

Disclosure: This is not a compensated post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 







#NintendoDisneyMagicalWorld2 

5 Dec

Family of gamers are what we are. Video games, board games, computer, app, card games you name it we love playing. Nintendo invited us to their Rockefeller  Plaza location to get a look at the new Disney game for 3DS that launched. What game is it? Disney Magical World 2. 

We had so much fun at Nintendo with Olivia Holt. The girls dressed up as their favorite princess and the boys picked their favorite Disney characters as well. Olivia Holt danced with the kids and showed us how much fun she has playing the game. She also danced with the kids. My daughter enjoyed teaching her how to do the whip and nae nae dance. My daughter had her hair and makeup done at Minnie’s Style Salon, was given accessories and also picked out Princess Elsa for her costume that she got to take home. Everyone enjoyed cupcakes and snacks. 


Ever since this game launched my kids have played non stop. They also are fans of Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros and Super Mario 3D Land. 

The Nintendo 3DS XL is one handheld  system that I don’t mind my kids faces buried in. Whether it’s at home or on the go I know their enjoying every minute of it. I also think I need to get one too, then we all can play. 

There’s so many games to choose from and they make great gifts. If you have a tween or teen or even an adult gamer that you know would love a 3DS or any of the games mentioned you should click on this website for more info or visit the Nintendo Store in Rockefeller Center in NYC. (www.nintendo.com)

The 2DS is still being sold at the incredible price of $79.99. The Disney Magical World 2 game is only $39.99. The 3DS XL is $199.99

Disclosure: My family were invited to attend this media event. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Skynergy Power Container At Liberty State Park

23 Aug

I headed to Liberty State Park to learn about solar energy through a shipping container that will serve as a bike station with the company Skynergy. It was a packed event with Assemblymen, The Mayor of Jersey City and Doctors speaking. Below you can see the schedule and how Skynergy plays a part in providing back up power. I learned so much and enjoyed my day with staff, media and invited guests. Liberty State Park is beautiful and lunch was amazing. 

11:00 – 11:20

Opening and VIP Remarks
1) Taiwan: Ambassador Lily. L. W. Hsu
2) US: Assemblyman Raj Mukherji
3) GTPO: Dr. Lihchyi Wen, Deputy Director of GTPO
4) Bike & Roll: Mr. Matt Finelli, Manager
5) UL: Ms. Catherine Sheehy, Advisory Lead of UL Environment
11:20 – 11:25
GTPO-UL MOU Exchange
1) GTPO: Dr. Lihchyi Wen, Deputy Director of GTPO
2) UL: Kurt Brengel, Director NA Engineering Operations
11:25 – 11:35
Launching Ceremony
Skynergy Introduction by Master of Ceremony
11:35 – 11:40
1) Taiwan: Ambassador Lily. L. W. Hsu
2) US: Assemblyman Raj Mukherji
3) Mayor of Jersey City, Fulop (TBC)
11:40-11:45
group photo
11:45-12:00
1) Taiwan: Ambassador Lily. L. W. Hsu
2) US: Assemblyman Raj Mukherji
3) US: Ms. Marisa Slaten, Assistant Director of the Division of Economic Development and Emerging Issues, New Jersey Board of Public Utility
4) GTPO: Dr. Lihchyi Wen, Deputy Director of GTPO
5) Bike & Roll: Mr. Matt Finelli
6) UL: Kurt Brengel, Director NA Engineering Operations
7) UL: Ms. Catherine Sheehy, Advisory Lead of UL Environment
8) Jonathan Luk, Superintendent of Liberty State Park
9) TECO – Mr. CY Ling (Director of Investment Office)
10) Gloria Energy Asset Co. Ltd.-Mr. Chih-Ku CHEN (General Manager)
11) TD Hitech Energy Inc. – Dr. Mo Hua YANG (General Manager)
12) M-Field Energy Ltd. – Mr. Bin HSU (General Manager)
13) Billion Electric Co. Ltd. – Mr. Chia-Ho JIAN (Director)
14) Taiwan Energy Saving Film Co. – Mr. Wu, Tieh- Han (General Manager)
15) Senator Cory Booker’s office: Dinesh Suryawanshi (Project Specialist) 
12:00 – 14:00
Networking & Reception


The Green Trade Project Office (GTPO), Taiwan’s leader in the promotion and integration of green products and services, was proud to announce that “Skynergy”, a self-developed, stand-alone photovoltaic power container, to be demonstrated at Liberty State Park in New Jersey, USA. This special demonstration showcased how ever-improving solar energy technologies, smart energy management and storage systems, cloud computing, and eco-friendly products are making zero-energy consumption possible.

Basically, Skynergy is an installation that has been created from a standard shipping container that will actually serve as a -bicycle station, which will be run by the US bicycle rental and tour company Bike And Roll. On July 12, 2016, a handover ceremony was held jointly with the GTPO; Bike And Roll; the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office in New York; New Jersey Board of Public Utility, project partners UL and Asolar; and major manufacturing partners from Taiwan.

As a self-contained, self-sustaining power station, Skynergy is well suited to support disaster relief and humanitarian efforts, as well as various residential, retail, or recreational purposes, in places where power is unavailable. In addition, since it is housed in a standard shipping container, Skynergy is easy to transport via land, air, or sea.

Skynergy runs on high-power photovoltaic panels. For the NJ project, it features a photovoltaic module on the rooftop area of the container. These panels feed the station’s grid with electricity, with any excess electricity then stored in the onboard batteries, which are compact chambers of lithium-ion battery packs.

The station has also installed a hydrogen fuel cell to provide reliable backup power, in case of blackouts. Under normal conditions, the hydrogen fuel cell self-refuels, when a supply is maintained through the solar-power source. In total, this fuel cell can provide more than 8 hours of back-up power while operating at its maximum output.

Additionally, with the help of a smart-energy-management system, cloud-monitoring technologies have been implemented to help ease the burden on administrators who must face the challenge of overseeing the central control of scattered equipment. This helps to create fast and more efficient workflows between devices, which boosts productivity and saves energy.

In addition to consuming zero-energy from the grid, the station also features several innovative green products of note, such as an insulation coating; an energy-saving film for windows; solar bricks; a stone-like surface coating; floor mats made of recycled tires; and luminaries made of materials from discarded computers, among many others.

 For further details, you may visit Skynergy’s webpage: skynergy.net/
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

NEW Del Monte Adult Fruit Cups (Fruit Refreshers) #TimeToRefresh

1 Aug

Del Monte introduced a new product at their NYC launch at the Gramercy Park Hotel rooftop July 28th and I was invited to see it all go down. The only thing I knew was it was their first ever Adult Fruit Cup. So what makes it an adult fruit cup you might ask? Well if you’re thinking its infused with liquor you’re wrong. Or maybe you’re an alcoholic who was praying you finally got your wish. JUST KIDDING!!!! 


I couldn’t wait to find out. Once I saw the fruit cups the first thing I noticed was the packaging which looks very grown up compared to the fruit cups in kids lunchboxes. The colors of the fruit are bold and bright and I love it! The amazing flavors was the next thing I noticed. My favorite was Pineapple in Passion Fruit flavored lightly sweetened with Fruit Water. I am a huge fan of pineapple and the passion fruit is also very delicious. I love the fact that it’s packed in fruit water. Another plus I noticed was it does not have any High Fructose Corn Syrup, Artificial Flavors or Sweeteners. If you’re around me I’m always talking about how I can’t stand high fructose corn syrup and if one of the first three ingredients in any product is sugar put it back. That goes for high fructose corn syrup too. 


The third thing I noticed was it only has 90 calories. Can you say winner? My family has always been big on fruit cups but a lot of them were flavored in heavy syrup and that wasn’t what I wanted.

These Del Monte Fruit Refreshers fruit cups already have me hooked. Another flavor introduced at the launch was Mandarin Oranges in slightly sweetened Coconut Water. Yes, that’s right Coconut Water. This flavor only have 100 calories. Another winner. 


Two more flavors coming to stores are Red Grapefruit in Guava Flavored Fruit Water and Grapefruit and Oranges in Pomegranate Flavored Fruit Water. 

Spokesperson for Del Monte Fruit Refreshers, Actress and Lifestyle Blogger, Katrina Bowden was in attendance to tell us why she supports Del Monte. “She said as a healthy person who stays fit she likes snacks that she can throw in her bag everyday to enjoy whenever she needs a moment to refresh.”


I love the adult size of these fruit cups and I can’t wait to try all the flavors. Speaking of flavors we had some pretty good refreshing drinks and amazing seafood appetizers and desserts. I felt like I was at a party Under The Sea visiting Spongebob’s pineapple house. Facials were also given if you chose to get one. 

Keep checking your local supermarkets. Hitting shelves soon. Check out @delmonte on Instagram and Twitter for more info. 


Thank you for the invite. I had a great time. 

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. Gift bags were given. 

American Girl Doll Launches Wellie Wishers At Momtrends Event

30 Jun

My daughter recently turned 9 years old and I’ve never taken her to the American Girl Store. I’ve never been there myself. We’ve passed by it plenty of times but I’ve never had the time till recently. The only problem is that she still hasn’t been there. I attended an event given by Momtrends for the launch of the new dolls Wellie Wishers. 


Wellie Wishers are a group of sweet and silly girls who each have the same bug bright wish to be a good friend. They are rocking cute colorful garden boots and are cared for by their wonderful Aunt Miranda. 

They are finding out that “good deeds” such as cooperating, sharing, taking turns, respecting feelings and making it right aren’t always the easiest things to do but they are just the right things to do to make beautiful friendships bloom. 


Walking into the American Girl Store was wonderful as I followed the footsteps up to the third floor where a tea party awaited. It was beautifully decorated and I met author Valerie Tripp who has written over 40 books for American Girl. She spoke about the Wellie Wishers and other books and also gave everyone signed copies of a Wellie Wishers book. We also got to choose a Wellie Wishers doll. I chose Ashlyn for my daughter. That was her first choice and it kind of rhymes with her name Taylinn. The description of Ashlyn is: She’s the generous soul of the social circle. Her fancy-free party themes are just the right thing to turn a friend’s frown upside down. I picked the right one. 


If Ashlyn wasn’t your choice there was Emerson, Willa, Kendall and Camille. They’re all adorable. 
The dolls are 14.5″.They retail for $60. You can also purchase matching outfits for your daughter and her doll, wellies, socks, doll houses, etc. I purchased socks and a ladybug hairbrush for my daughter. The boots (wellies) don’t come in her size. If you order online there’s free shipping through 7/31. http://www.americangirl.com/shop/dolls/


Now you know I have to take my daughter to Ametican Girl Store because I’ve been and I want her to experience it with her doll and have a tea party as well. She was very happy with her doll and accessories. 


To explore the world of the Wellie Wishers through books, online games and more check out http://www.anericangirl.com/play/welliewishers

Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. Opinions are mine 100% as always. I was given a doll and book for my daughter. Thank you Momtrends and American Girl for everything. 

Braun Helping Everyday Cooks #ConquerTheExpected in the Kitchen

27 Jun

I was very excited to attend a launch event with Braun at the German Consulate. I love kitchen appliances and gadgets as the home cook and foodie that I am this was right up my alley. The tables were decorated so lovely and the views from up above was amazing. Brunch was very good and hands on demos made me want to whip up a recipe right on the spot. I also tested out the hand blender. I’ve always been a big fan of Braun appliances and was happy to see what Braun could come up with next. It was also nice to see some of Braun’s appliances from decades ago up until now. I was beyond happy to take home the Multiquick 7. 


“Braun is known for an intuitive and reliable product design that lasts for ages – so our marketing campaign will focus on key consumer life stages, from first home purchase and weddings, to growing families and home remodeling,” said Maria Colon, Director of Marketing, De’Longhi Group North America. “We are excited to bring the Braun Household line to market with a campaign that is relevant, inspirational and exciting no matter where you are in life.”
Whether a new homeowner, recently married, a busy parent of young kids, or just looking to refresh the daily cooking regimen, Braun inspires confidence and simplicity in meal and beverage preparation, while saving time to help consumers realize their true culinary potential. Braun helps the home cook conquer the expected tasks in the kitchen, so unexpected meals can be created with amazing ingredients.

Braun closely studied the design process and evaluated the importance of ergonomics. For example, understanding how one holds handheld appliances led to developing products that are so comfortable and intuitive they seem to mimic the natural extension of one’s arm. The brand’s intuitive design is also reflected in the settings and display. They are listed left to right just like reading a book with the most important features grouped where the eye will naturally move to first. And while the new products continue the legacy of Braun’s premium and sleek look, the new line has new technologies that will change how home chefs prepare and enjoy their meals.

The new Braun line of products is available now:

The Braun Multiquick Hand Blenders come in several models and configurations for a variety of culinary creativity right in the palm of your hand.

Through its research, Braun found that many delegate two hands to control their hand blender during food preparation, gripping harder as the blender uses more power. Braun built its new hand blender to give the user more control, featuring a brand new Smart Speed variable control technology inspired by German automotive engineering – allowing you to intuitively change the speed and power of the hand blender using just your touch. The more you squeeze, the more power you get, making it easy to regulate speeds with just one

Braun also developed and applied an exclusive PowerBell Technology for the line of Multiquick hand blenders, combining durable stainless steel blades and a unique bell-shaped blending shaft for fast and finer results – pushing your mixture inside the bell instead of toward the edges of your mixing bowl. The Braun Multiquick 7 Hand Blender (model MQ777) brings premium design and power to the kitchen, complete with five attachments, along with the anti-splash shaft – including a whisk, masher, food processor and 20 fl. oz. beaker that make food preparation easier and more enjoyable, allowing its user to explore new culinary feats. The model will also include an EasyClick system, a patented design made to ensure that all attachments can be removed in one simple click. The Multiquick 7 Hand Blender (model MQ725), includes a beaker, whisk and 1.5-cup chopper for whipping up ultimate creativity in your kitchen. your kitchen. The Multiquick 5 Hand Blender (model MQ505) includes a beaker and whisk and has two speeds for easy blending, whisking or pureeing.

The Braun Multiquick series hand blenders range in price from $59.95 to $149.95 and from $89.99 to $199.99 CAD.

The Braun PureMix Countertop Blender (model JB7130BK) in stainless steel and premium black finish introduces a new level of speed and style to your countertop. Its complete blade and pitcher re-design allows you to create a range of delicious smoothies and drinks faster and with more precision than ever before.

The new PureMix blender eliminates counter mess, with its Easy Wipe Clean Panel – with no cracks between buttons for food to fall into. The 56 fl. oz. jug is BPA-free and features an imbedded measuring cup. Also available in a sleek black finish with 3 blend functions, the PureMix blender (model JB7000BKS) lets you stir, liquefy, and crush ice for nutritious smoothies, delicious fruit daiquiris and more. Additional accessories like the Smoothie2Go Blending Set features its own blade assembly that lets you fill your cup and take your favor blend with you, all with a secure stay lid with a flip drinking spout. This is sold separately. The Braun PureMix Countertop Blenders range in price from $99.95 to $129.95 USD and from $129.99 to $199.99 CAD.

The Braun BrewSense Drip Coffee Makers echoes Braun’s durable design – creating a consistently delicious cup of coffee using an inherently simple process. Braun has perfected flavor conservation in its new BrewSense coffee maker, introducing a PureFlavor Brewing System to preserve coffee’s great flavor from the first to last drop.

The 12-cup FlavorCarafe has a uniquely-designed top air filtration system to ensure coffee stays warm for longer. The lid is designed to minimize the contact between air and coffee to avoid its oxidation and loss of flavor. While your flavor and temperature stay consistent – the BrewSense coffee maker has an anti-drip system that lets you pause and pour mid-brew with virtually no mess. Its warming plate also maintains a constant temperature so your coffee won’t burn after sitting.

The BrewSense has a user-friendly control panel with LED indicators and easy-to-read buttons and functions. Among them, the Brew Strength selector allows you to enjoy your coffee regular or bold and you can choose between 1-4 cups timed to when you want to enjoy your beverage. The coffee maker also features a handy ledge on its back side that catches condensation that gathers from the brewing process and inserts it back into the machine so that water does not end up on your counter top.

The Braun BrewSense Coffee Maker comes in a variety of finishes from a stylish mix of stainless steel and premium black (model KF7150BK) and all premium black finish (model KF7000BK) and range in price from $69.95 to $99.95 USD and from $119.99 to $159.99 CAD.


For more information on Braun, visit braunhousehold.com/en-us or braunhousehold.com/en-ca. To see what other home chefs are creating with Braun products, follow the hashtag #ConquerTheExpected on Facebook and Instagram. Check out the website: http://www.braunhousehold.com/en-us

Disclosure: I was invited as press to attend this event. I was given a gift bag. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Leapfrog’s New 2016 Product Lineup

14 Jun

LeapFrog hosted their annual product showcase in New York on Tuesday, June 7th and I was invited to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at their new 2016 product lineup.

LeapFrog announced LeapStart, a new interactive workbook that helps to prepare kids for the classroom and life beyond, as well as the full 2016 toy lineup for Back to School and Holiday. 
This year’s products focus teaching 21st Century Learning Skills, which intertwines school curriculum with new ways of thinking, problem solving and collaborating, to prepare children for a quickly-evolving, globally-connected world.

 The 2016 product lineup includes:

LeapStart: A new interactive system and library of activity books that bring learning to life to teach key school and life skills. There are two platforms, one for Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten and one for Kindergarten & 1st Grade and each is compatible with the LeapStart activity books that help build key skills and challenge kids to get ready for their next step in learning. Priced at $39.99 for the LeapStart system and $12.99 for 16 additional LeapStart Activity Books.


Melody the Musical Turtle: Ten musical activities prompt toddlers aged 2 years and up to find numbers and colors, repeat sequences from memory and create tunes by pressing light-up buttons on Melody’s shell. Priced at $19.99.


Count Along Register: Budding entrepreneurs can run a store and expand their imagination through pretend play and exercise social play skills that help them build a foundation for core and life skills. The talking, interactive cash register features an adorable character that talks, sings and lights up, offering much more than typical calculator-like cash registers. Priced at $19.99


Learn & Groove Musical Mat: An interactive floor mat that develops cognitive and physical development. Kids get to move, dance, and play music while they learn foundational mathematics skills, as well as 21st century skills, such as creativity as they compose their own tunes, and collaboration as they play with friends. Priced at $29.99.

Which product catches your eye? Check out http://www.leapfrog.com for more information and @leapfrog on Twitter. 

Disclosure: I was invited to the showcase. Opinions are mine 100% as always. This post is not compensated. 
 

Olive Garden’s Never Ending Family Table Kicks Off At Highline In NYC 

6 Jun

Olive Garden Unveils New Breadstick Sandwiches and Deep Dish Spaghetti Pies.

Summer Sampling Tour Gives Families and Friends Nationwide Opportunity to Gather Around the Table. Last summer, America fell in love with Breadstick Sandwiches when they debuted in restaurants and on food trucks touring the country. Inspired by fans’ excitement and passion, Olive Garden is hitting the road again helping guests across the country create summer memories. The Olive Garden Never Ending Family Table will cross the nation to give fans the opportunity to gather together and sample the new menu items. 

Olive Garden is doubling its offering of Breadstick Sandwiches and bringing new twists on an Italian classic. Beginning this week, iconic Olive Garden menu items will transform with new varieties of the legendary Breadstick Sandwiches and brand new Deep Dish Spaghetti Pies. To celebrate, Olive Garden is giving unique and customized opportunities for families to come together around the table.

This first-of-its-kind summer-long celebration kicks off in New York City where the table will grow along the High Line. From there, the two versions of the Never Ending Family Table will continue across the country delighting guests with the new food. One will have a planned route through a new city every week. The second is dedicated to surprising guests and will continuously pop up at summer celebrations, such as birthdays, family reunions and graduation parties. To submit your summer celebration story and to learn more about the mobile tour, visit olivegarden.com/familytable. All summer, guests will be selected to receive customized Olive Garden dining experiences at the Never Ending Family Table or in restaurants.


I was invited June 2nd to the High Line for the kick off and sat at the family table where I  had great conversation, met lots of people and tried out delicious new items on the menu. Thousands of people showed their support and love of The Olive Garden. 



Available for lunch, the new Breadstick Sandwiches joining the popular Chicken Parmigiana and Italian Meatball Breadstick Sandwiches are:

**Spicy Calabrian Chicken Breadstick Sandwich: Lightly breaded chicken, fried and tossed in our spicy Calabrian sauce served with tangy gorgonzola sauce on Olive Garden’s signature breadstick.

Eggplant Parmigiana Breadstick Sandwich: Hand-breaded eggplant, fried and topped with Italian cheese and marinara served on Olive Garden’s signature breadstick.

 

Olive Garden is giving guests new ways to enjoy spaghetti throughout the day:

**Meatball Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie: Spaghetti, seven cheeses and Italian bacon baked to perfection in a flaky crust and topped with meatballs and homemade meat sauce.

**Chicken Alfredo Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie: Spaghetti, seven cheeses and Italian bacon baked to perfection in a flaky crust and topped with grilled chicken and our homemade Alfredo.

Spaghetti Rosso with Chicken & Bacon: Tomato-infused spaghetti with grilled chicken, bacon, red peppers, tomatoes and asparagus tossed in a homemade Parmesan pesto sauce.

**These are what were on the menu at the High Line along with the Italian Meatball Breadstick sandwich. 

I can’t wait to try them all. I was beyond stuffed because these were being served all day. I met the sweetest staff and chefs who took care of me throughout the day and was also informed by staff and the manager that an Olive Garden is coming to Harlem this summer. I can’t wait because as a Harlem resident this is great for my community. I am really looking forward to the ribbon cutting ceremony and maybe joining the team. Also looking forward to taking the family out to eat and try the new sandwiches and spaghetti pies. 

Disclosure: This is not a compensated post. I was invited to attend event. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 
 

Nintendo’s Disney Art Academy Game 

1 Jun

I attended a Disney Art Academy event at the Nintendo store at Rockefeller Plaza. I was among the first to play the game that was co-hosted by Sabrina Carpenter, Hollywood Records recording artist and star of the Disney Channel’s Girl Meets World. For the first time in the Art Academy series, Disney Art Academy teaches players to draw some of the most classic and recognizable Disney and Pixar characters using a variety of drawing tools like pastels, paintbrushes and markets. A new edition is the Magic Brush where you can add glitter, stars and clouds to your masterpiece. There are more than 80 characters.

 


I loved art class growing up and my kids also love drawing so I knew this was going to be a fun event. We were given a Nintendo 3DS and started with a tutorial step by step learning how to draw Olaf from Frozen and I even tried to draw Mickey Mouse. I love how easy it was and you don’t have to be a professional you just take your time and follow directions. 

Sabrina Carpenter showed us her skills and I felt like a true artist. We even had berets to wear and cute mini paint brushes and easels at our tables. There was also a Disney stuffed animal at each table as well. 

If you make a mistake that’s not a problem because you can erase and start over. At the end you can save your art work to your SD card. It’s also Rated E for Everyone. Suggested retail price is $29.99. I enjoyed this game very much and I knew my kids would also enjoy. Nintendo was kind enough to send a 3DS XL for my kids. Of course they argued about who gets it. I gave it to my 13 yr old since he’s always been a fan of Nintendo. 

Have no fear I said to my daughter since the announcement that the Nimtendo 2DS system price dropped to $79.99 on May 20. It also comes pre-installed with Mario Kart 7. Click on this link for more info: http://www.nintendo.com/2ds


My son just purchased this game for his 3DS and he loves it just as much as Disney Art Academy. My kids enjoyed drawing Disney and Pixar characters on the 3DS. I also tried to draw a few more characters like Simba from The Lion King and Elsa from Frozen. My son takes his 3DS with him when we travel and plays it everyday at home. 


Check out @NintendoAmerica on Twitter. 


Disclosure: I was invited to this event from Nintendo and given a Nintendo 3DS XL for my kids honest review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. Thank you Nintendo. This post is not compensated. 
 

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