Be Your Own Beautiful With Cantu Hair Products

14 Dec

I was invited to join Cantu for breakfast to celebrate their latest innovation in hair care products. I am always looking for ways to protect me and my kids hair. I don’t just put anything in it. I want products that doesn’t weigh down our hair, no harsh chemicals or ingredients, products that repair dry hair, leave in conditioner that makes hair easy to manage, oils that add shine, tames frizz and smooths fly aways.  

    
    
 Shea and coca butter, argan, castor and jojoba oils is also great to have in hair products. Leaves hair smelling great, clean and fresh while strengthening hair.  

    
 With Cantu products I love wearing my hair curly. There’s even a kid’s line which I’ve been using on my daughter and we love it. The leave in conditioner has 100% pure shea butter, coconut oil and honey formulated without harsh ingredients. It moisturizes, repairs and conditions fragile coils, curls and waves to stop breakage. Cantu Care for Kid’s Leave in Conditioner is also good to have.  

   
It’s also very important to get hot oil and deep treatments to heal/repair dry, brittle and damaged hair. Cantu’s Intensive Repair Deep Treatment Masque is perfect for that. I am not a fan of split ends so I use Cantu’s Split End Mender Conditioning Mist. I use this daily to to combat split ends caused by lack of moisture and styling.  

    
   

  

  

  
I was so happy to get a look at the new products coming to stores in 2016. Prices are amazing! 

* Cantu Smoothing Leave in Conditioning Lotion $6.99

*Cantu Dry Deny Moisture Seal Gel Oil $5.99 

*Cantu Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel $4.99

*Cantu Extreme Hold Styling Stay Glue $5.99

*Cantu Wave Whip Curling Mousse $6.99

*Cantu Split End Conditioning Mist $6.99

*Cantu Care for Kids Leave-In Conditioner 

*Cantu Intensive Repair Deep Treatment Masque Sachets $1.59 (available now)

*Cantu Hydrating Leave-In Conditioning Mist $6.99

*Cantu Frizz Fighting Leave-In Conditioning Foam $6.99

*Cantu Oil Collection $7.99 each

To learn more about Cantu products head to http://www.cantubeauty.com and on Twitter @cantubeauty 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was invited to the breakfast launch. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Majesty Gift Sets Now Available at Target Stores Nationwide

10 Dec

New Savannah Bee Gift Sets are now available in Target stores nationwide, $12.99/set. Each Queen Bee ‘Majesty’ canvas travel bag includes a Honey Body Lotion, Honey Body Wash, and Beeswax Lip Balm in three fabulous scent lines. These Luxurious products are made with all natural essential oils, no parabens, no petroleum-derived ingredients, and are never tested on animals.
I gel in love with the Tupelo Honey Set. It smells amazing and my skin felt very soft after using the body wash and lotion. The lip balm kept my lips moist throughout the day. There’s more scents to choose from. 

This week Target is doing a Bogo 50% on the gift sets until Saturday 12/12!  
I am also giving away 3 sets total:

1 Tupelo Honey Majesty Gift Set

1 Blackberry Rose Majesty Gift Set

1 Lemongrass Spearmint Majesty Gift Set 

    
 Which set would you like to win? Leave a comment below letting me know which one and you just might win. Make sure you’re following me on Twitter @nilimonicky

Instagram @nilimo

Subscribed to my blog.

Like my blog page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fivelittlewords

If you’re a new follower leave me your handles as well as your answer. If you’re already a follower just let me know along with which set you want. 

Disclosure: Giveaway ends Sunday, December 20 11:59 pm and winner announced Monday, December 21st on social media. Open to US. 18 yrs and older. I was not compensated for this post. I was given a sample to review and opinions are mine 100% as always. 

BearPaw Boots #Giveaway

9 Dec

Giveaway:

BearPaw Boots size 10. 

To enter this giveaway: 

Must be subscribed to my blog.

Follow me on Twitter @nilimonicky and leave your Twitter handle below

Follow me on Instagram @nilimo and leave your Instagram handle 

Like my blog page on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/fivelittlewords

Answer this question: How would you style these boots?

Disclosure: Giveaway ends December 17 11:59 pm. Winner announced December 18 on social media. Open to U.S. 18 years and older.  

 

NY JETS & GIANTS FACE OFF FOR 13TH TIME IN HISTORY #AD #TheClosestRivals

5 Dec

 Eric Decker and Prince Amukamara, #TheClosestRivals, face off at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, December 6, 2015 in East Rutherford, N.J.

Visit (https://www.youtube.com/user/keyfoodstores) to view their friendly rivalry and learn more about Key Food, a quick and convenient one-stop-shop where you can get your favorite P&G brands to help you prepare for & throw an unforgettable game day party!
Unlock the key to savings at Key Food. Key Food, Your Neighborhood market since 1937.Check out #TheClosetRivals videos below: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XQ7gwiVQfM  I love this video! So great to see Eric and Prince having fun with their dance moves!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KgFoM5ziLw  At the end of the day, it’s all about the championship ring! Can’t wait to see these guys face off on Sunday!

In the video above Prince mentions to Eric how Dawn dish soap is great for cleaning championship rings. Then he wrote #ohwaityouwouldntknow that was funny. Also,“I love that Prince mentions the Tide bottle that looks like a football, I always see that picture in Key Food. 

 Dawn and Tide is what I shop for when I’m at my local Key Food. I have to be prepared especially after a party to scrub all the dishes, pots & pans and do loads of laundry.  

   
Who’s watching the game on Sunday? I will be there live thanks to P&G (Proctor and Gamble). I can’t wait to see these two in action. Be sure to follow the hashtag #TheClosestRivals and if you’re not too glued to the television there will be a Twitter party from 1pm – 2pm, feel free to jump in on the conversation using #TheClosestRivals. Be sure to follow @Smiley360 for questions during the party.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Procter and Gamble. All opinions are my own.
 

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. 

Pressure Cooker XL Review

25 Nov

Tristar Products best known for The Pressure Cooker XL recently invited used and a few bloggers to attend a demo of how the 10 quart Pressure Cooker XL can cook amazing meals in no time with pitchman former WWE SuperStar Gene Snitsky a.k.a Turkey Dude. When Gene walked in the room in his turkey outfit and did the turkey call I knew this was going to be a fun day. He is very cool and funny and so are his Turkey Dude You Tube commercials. 

My mouth dropped when I saw how fast and easy it was when he made macaroni and cheese with shredded turkey. It only took 10 minutes. Yes!!! He also made risotto. I’ve never attempted to make risotto because you can’t leave that pot for a minute but now I can.The risotto came out delicious. Did I tell you it can also cook a turkey? Yes a 10-11 pound turkey. When meat is juicy and falls off the bone you know you’re doing something right. Butternut Squash was also made and I can’t believe how easy it was.  

 I’ve always wanted a Pressure Cooker XL but thought it was do difficult to use. If I knew it was this easy and cooked food as quickly as it does I would have been purchased one. I was so excited that tge first meal I made was curry chicken and rice. It was amazing!!! Once again meat falling off the bones. The whole family devoured that. The next thing on my list was macaroni and cheese. The cheesier, the better. This also turned out great and we were very happy that it was fine in 10 minutes. Just put everything in the Pressure Cooker XL and that’s it!  
There’s so many recipes included and on the website that you must try once you purchase your Pressure Cooker XL. Only for my readers here is a special discount code when ordering at http://www.PowerPressureCooker.com. Use code: TURKEYDUDE4 to receive a 25% discount. 

    
 Next thing I’m making in my Pressure Cooker XL are boiled eggs, soups, steamed corn, green beans and a pot of chili. All at different times of course. Lol. 

If you want your meat more crispy once you take it out of pressure cooker put in oven for a few minutes and it will crisp right up. Gene Snitsky (Turkey Dude) said one of his favorite foods to make in the Pressure Cooker XL is buffalo wings. I’m definitely making these too. 

This year Thanksgiving and all major cooking holidays, events and get-togethers will be a breeze. I’ll be able to relax with my and cut down on kitchen time. Also busy parents will appreciate this too. 

Please make sure to follow all social media pages:

#TurkeyDude

Facebook.com/fusionlifebrands

@fusionlifebrand

Youtube.com/user/powerpressurecooker

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. I was given a 10 quart Pressure Cooker XL to review. Opinions are mine 100% as always. 

Competition: Design A Rain Boot With Joules

25 Nov

Joules have recently launched a fun competition inviting all budding designers, doodlers and Rain Boot lovers to design some Joules Rain Boots, with tv host and fashion writer Louise Roe helping us to select the winning design.

The lucky winner will then see their design put into production (with proceeds of sales being donated to Step Up) as well as winning a trip for two to London worth $10,000! 

WIN A 5 DAY TRIP TO LONDON FOR TWO WORTH $10,000,FLIGHTS, LUXURY HOTEL, SPENDING MONEY PLUS LOTS MORE

10 runners-up will each receive a $500 Joules gift voucher
Submit a design and enter the competition here – http://getcreative.joulesusa.com/
The winning rain boot design will go on sale at joulesusa.com
Joules Rain Boots page:  (http://www.joulesusa.com/welly-collection)

   
   

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. 

Food Network Magazine Holiday Party Recap

23 Nov

Food Network Magazine held their holiday party at the Hearst Tower in NYC hosted by Food Network’s very own chef Anne Burrell. I am a big fan of Anne and was honored to finally meet her. You probably know I am a Food Network fanatic and have met quite a few chefs and hope to continue meeting more. I enjoy cooking and creating recipes so I was very excited for this event.  

   
The 44th floor of the Hearst Tower looked amazing. Hors d’oeuvres were passed and bars were fully stocked. On the menu were: Boneless Chicken Wings presented by Dean’s Dip, Mushroom Truffles in Phyllo Shells, Finochhi Gratinati on Grilled Crostini presented by the Italian Trade Comission and Prosciutto Persimmon Antipasti. 

Drinks were sponsored from Puerto Rico Rum and Stella Artois. Signature cocktails were amazing. Pompeian Extra Virgin Olive Oil was served with fresh bread. Variety of cookies and coffee was also served. 

  

    
  

Anne Burrell was very friendly and mingled with everyone and took lots of photos. You know I just had to get a picture with her.  

    
   
It turned out to be a lovely event and gift bags were given with products from sponsors mentioned. I can’t wait till the next one.  

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

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.