food - giveaway

Win Two Rivers Chocoholic Coffee Assortment

January 9, 2017

by Ann Harrison 0 Comments

This post contains affiliate links if clicked on I may receive a small commission to support this blog.

Valentine's is for Chocoholics Giveaway

This is a fun giveaway for those of us that:

Have a Keurig
Enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate-flavored coffee drinks

Yes, please! Enter below for your chance to win a box (40 count) of Two Rivers Chocoholic Assortment. The lucky winner will receive the finest 100% Arabica beans, carefully infused with rich chocolate flavors. Also, a selection of creamy hot cocoa cups. What a perfect way to stay cozy on these chilly winter nights. Enter for your chance to win Two Rivers Chocoholic Coffee Assortment!

Welcome to the 2017 Perfect Pairings Valentine’s Day Gift Guide Valentine’s is for Chocoholics Giveaway!

This contest is hosted by the Social Media Gurus Network!

Michigan Saving and More

Deliciously Savvy

Tales From A Southern Mom

Heartbeats ~ Soul Stains

Welcome To My Kitchen

My Crafty Zoo

Life in a House of Testosterone

Babushka’s Baile

Here We Go Again ready

Optimistic Mommy

My Silly Little Gang

IMHO Views, Reviews and Giveaways

Mom Are We There Yet

Java John Z’s

JamericanSpice

The Homespun Chics

Giveaway Gator

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now more about our sponsor in this giveaway!

Two Rivers Coffee

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST

Chocoholics

See the review HERE.

$24.95 total rv

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I would also like to say Thank You to all the promoting bloggers!

THE GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site.You are not eligible if you have won a prize from the sponsor in the last 12 month. This Giveaway is valid in the United States Only and Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 1/30/17. The winners will have 48 hours to email their information back to las93063 at gmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Laura Smith at las930 (at)gmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Also we all “love it if you like us” on Facebook! If you like our blogs on social media it helps us bring you only the best giveaways and more of them!

Enter below and Good Luck!

Entry -Form

children - food - holidays

Score Big Helping Centurylink & The Blazers End Hunger!

November 17, 2016

by Ann Harrison 1 Comment

heartsandhoops

You score big when you help CenturyLink and The Blazers end hunger this holiday season! A great collaboration between Portland Trail Blazers own Evan Turner and CentryLink have created Hearts & Hoops. Donate nonperishable food items at CenturyLink Hearts & Hoops food drive locations (see below) benefiting the Oregon Food Bank. They’ll be setting up local donation events featuring games, Portland Trail Blazers swag, and more! And, as a wonderful bonus, they’re offering a sweepstakes to win court-side seats, an opportunity to watch the team during the pre-game shoot-around and Portland Trail Blazers apparel (Find the link to enter at the end of this post).

Score Big Helping Centurylink & The Blazers End Hunger! - Ann Again and again Reviews

ABOUT THE OREGON FOOD BANK

The mission of the Oregon Food Bank is to eliminate hunger and its root causes, because no one should be hungry. Their goal is to be distributing 15 million pounds of produce each year by 2019. With our help, The Oregon Food Bank is building healthy, hunger-free communities!

Suggested donation items:

Shelf-stable milk (ex. Powdered Milk)
Foods high in protein: canned meats like tuna, chicken, or salmon, canned or dried beans
Foods high in nutrients: canned fruits and vegetables (preferably with reduced sodium and reduced sugar)
Whole-grain foods: brown rice, whole grain cereal and whole-wheat pasta
Soups, chilies and stews (preferably with reduced sodium and reduced fat)
100 percent fruit juice (canned, plastic or boxed)
Unsaturated cooking oils
Other nutritious foods (preferably with reduced fat, sodium and sugar)

UPCOMING DRIVES

Location

Address

Date

Time

Pioneer Courthouse Square	701 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR	12/8/16	11am-5pm
Lloyd Center	2201 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR	12/9/16	2-8pm
Lloyd Center	2201 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR	12/10/16	11am-5pm
Washington Square Mall	9585 SW Washington Square Rd, Portland, OR	12/11/16	11am-5pm
Pioneer Courthouse Square	701 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR	12/15/16	11am-5pm
Pioneer Courthouse Square	701 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR	12/16/16	11am-5pm
Washington Square Mall	9585 SW Washington Square Rd, Portland, OR	12/17/16	11am-5pm
Washington Square Mall	9585 SW Washington Square Rd, Portland, OR	12/18/16	11am-5pm

To help encourage participation, and reward those who are dedicated to making a difference in the community, CenturyLink will select one sweepstakes entrant at the end of each month as part of the CenturyLink Hearts & Hoops Sweepstakes (Nov. & Dec.). Each winner will receive a VIP Trail Blazers experience that includes two courtside tickets, opportunity to take the floor for pre-game shootaround and two Trail Blazers jerseys. Official rules and sweepstakes entry information are available at: trailblazers.com/heartsandhoops

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of CenturyLink. The opinions and text are all mine.

food - giveaway - home

Enter To Win! $1200 Thanksgiving Giveaway!

October 25, 2016

by Ann Harrison 5 Comments

This is the time of year when access to extra cash is most welcome. If you’re like me you like to decorate for Halloween, create delicious bites for Thanksgiving and treat those you hold dear to special gifts around the holidays. Wouldn’t it be fun to splurge this season? I bet $400 would help! Enter today for your chance to be one of 3 lucky winners of $400 in the $1200 Thanksgiving Cash Giveaway!

Do you have plans for Thanksgiving yet? My lovely sister is hosting our family dinner again this year and I can’t wait. Her house is so beautiful and cozy. It rests on a bank of the Columbia River, so there’s plenty of bird watching and gorgeous sunsets. And the food? Yes! I wear my stretchy-pants and work off the delicious food for weeks. It’s all good!

While meat seems to take center stage for a Thanksgiving meal, I’ve always gravitated toward the side-dishes, especially the vegetables. I found a recipe at Country Living I’d like to make this season: Spicy Lemon Cauliflower

Total Time: 0:50 Prep: 0:15 Level: Easy Serves: 8

Ingredients

2 heads cauliflower, sliced 1/2-in. thick
5 garlic cloves, chopped
3 red Fresno chiles, sliced
1 Meyer lemon, thinly sliced
5 tbsp. olive oil
Kosher salt
black pepper
Parsley, for serving

Directions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Toss together cauliflower, garlic, chiles, lemon, and oil on two rimmed baking sheets. Season with salt and pepper. Roast, stirring vegetables and rotating the pans once, until cauliflower is golden, 30 to 35 minutes.
Serve topped with parsley.

Now for the $1200 Thanksgiving Cash Giveaway:

The giveaway is open WorldWide and ends on 11/25 @11:59PM!

There will be 3 winners, each receiving $400 Cash.

Enter on the Rafflecopter below for your chance to win:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

children - deals - food

Free Pancakes For Kids At Denny’s

September 7, 2016

by Ann Harrison 1 Comment

Peace of mind Tips In September - Ann Again and again Reviews

border-1

dennys-sign

KIDS WILL FLIP FOR FREE FLUFFY PANCAKES AT DENNY’S IN SEPTEMBER

To begin my Peace of Mind theme for September I’m sharing a great opportunity to feed your children – for free and also help a very needy cause. America’s Diner, Denny’s, introduces September’s month-long “Free Pancakes for Kids” promotion – ages 10 and under from 4-10 p.m. Denny’s also kicks off the sixth annual No Kid Hungry campaign. In addition to its Free Pancakes for Kids promotion, Denny’s has partnered with No Kid Hungry® in September to raise money to help end childhood hunger.

To-date, Denny’s has been able to donate more than $3.3 million to No Kid Hungry and will look to make an even greater impact for the cause this year with the support of its team members and guests. This year, Denny’s will also donate $1 to No Kid Hungry every time the hashtag #ShareMySlam is shared on Twitter and Instagram, giving guests another way to help this important cause.

Denny’s delicious pancakes — now with 50 percent more fluffy goodness, made with fresh buttermilk, real eggs and a hint of vanilla — are featured throughout the kids menu and for the first time are offered in variety of new kid-sized signature dishes, including the Jr. Cinnamon Pancakes, Jr. Strawberries & Cream Pancakes and Chocolate Chip Pancakes. Kids ages 10 and under can enjoy Denny’s pancakes in any of these dishes for free every day in September from 4-10 p.m. with the purchase of one adult entrée at participating locations.

“With families getting back into groove of the school year, the month of September is the perfect opportunity for fans of Denny’s to take advantage of our Free Pancakes for Kids offer,” said John Dillon,@DillonJohnW, chief marketing officer for Denny’s. “Not only is this a great way for our guests, including kids, to try our new pancakes, but it is also our way of inviting families to enjoy breakfast for dinner at an affordable price.”

“Sharing ‘My Strength’s No Kid Hungry’ program is one of the most recognizable annual anti-hunger campaigns in the nation and we’re proud to have the ability to partner with this worthy organization for the sixth year in a row,” said Dillon. “At Denny’s, we know a meal is essential to a child’s well-being and can be directly linked to their academic, health and economic futures. We remain committed to working together with our team members and guests to combat childhood hunger and hope to see even more success this year.”

Now through Oct. 2, nearly 1,600 Denny’s restaurants nationwide will join the fight to end childhood hunger with all proceeds going directly to No Kid Hungry. Through No Kid Hungry, every $1 donation received provides a child with 10 healthy meals, making even the smallest of donations impactful. To thank guests for their generous donations, Denny’s will provide a discount coupon redeemable at participating locations upon their next visit.

This year, Denny’s will also donate $1 to No Kid Hungry every time the hashtag #ShareMySlam is shared on Twitter and Instagram, giving guests another way to help this important cause. Guests may also contribute to the campaign with a monetary donation of their choice at dennysnokidhungry.com.

For more information on Kids Eat Free Pancakes or to find a location near you please visit www.dennys.com. For more information on this year’s No Kid Hungry® fundraising efforts, please visit dennysnokidhungry.com or NoKidHungry.org/Dennys.

About Denny’s Corp.

Denny’s is one of America’s largest full-service family restaurant chains, currently operating over 1,700 franchised, licensed and company-owned restaurants across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, New Zealand, Mexico, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Guam, the United Arab Emirates, Chile, Curaçao, El Salvador, and Trinidad and Tobago. For further information on Denny’s, including news releases, please visit the Denny’s website atwww.dennys.com or the brand’s social channels via Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram or YouTube.

About No Kid Hungry®

No child should go hungry in America, but 1 in 5 kids will face hunger this year. Using proven, practical solutions, No Kid Hungry is ending childhood hunger today by ensuring that kids start the day with a nutritious breakfast and families learn the skills they need to shop and cook on a budget. When we all work together, we can make sure kids get the healthy food they need. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of national anti-hunger organization Share Our Strength. Join us at NoKidHungry.org.

(*Disclosure: This information is shared by permission by PR firm ERWIN PENLAND)

food - Money Management

Ice Cream Samples: Do They Cost or Pay Dividends for Shops?

July 29, 2016

by Ann Harrison 1 Comment

Ice cream - Ann Again and again Reviews — photo courtesy FreeDigitalPhotos.net

While standing in line for a cold, sweet treat my mind started to wander… this time it wasn’t about paying bills, or thinking about what to make for dinner, this time I was getting into the finance of ice cream. Odd, I know. But, what can I say? I think of when an ice cream shop has dozens of flavors to choose from, it’s difficult for customers to narrow down their choice. A manager might think that giving away free samples is too expensive but, according to Gelato Products, offering a small sample has big potential to improve profit margins. Ice cream samples: Do they cost or pay dividends for shops?

To make sampling a shop’s ice cream easier, order inexpensive tasting spoons that are designed for short-term use. The portion that an employee will serve to a customer provides only one or two bites, making samples affordable.

Fun Tasting Parties

Ice cream isn’t the only sample that a shop should offer because more customers want to taste gelato before making a purchase. To remain organized, an ice cream shop can buy gelato spoons in different sizes or colors. If customers are tasting samples of gelato and ice cream, then having spoons that look unique to the product can help them compare the flavors of the frozen desserts. With this technique, an ice cream shop can have a fun tasting party for customers to encourage sales of the desserts.

Sell More Product

Gelato or ice cream spoons for sampling might seem expensive, but the items are affordable at bulk prices from a specialty supply store. While the ice cream supplies necessary for providing samples to customers are not free for a manager, the items can help to increase profits because customers want to buy a larger container of their favorite flavor of ice cream or gelato. And with this summer heat wave? I know I want all of my cold, sweet treats in the largest container possible!

food - giveaway

Crazy Cups Crazy Jamaican Java Flavored Coffee Giveaway!

March 16, 2016

by Ann Harrison 2 Comments

Living in the Pacific Northwest puts you at the heart of great tasting coffee, ingenious beer creations and the exploding “foodie” movement. With regard to coffee, in my little neighborhood alone, we have 5 coffee shops. And get this, 2 of them are next door to each other! Bzzz Bzzz! Acquiring coffee isn’t difficult however, finding blends you enjoy can be. Recently I was invited to try Crazy Jamaican Java from Crazy Cups and I am very happy to say – it’s delicious! And I have a box of Crazy Cups Crazy Jamaican Java Flavored coffee Single Serve Cups as a giveaway for one lucky reader!

More about Crazy Cups – Crazy Sol is the coffee flavor creator and the fact that he was inspired by Willy Wonka makes me smile. He began creating coffee flavors like we’ve never seen (Frosted Oatmeal Biscotti. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich. smile for Shopify ) and then listened for customer feedback. From this feedback, he created an additional line of Crazy Decaf’s, Premium Hot Chocolate’s, Ciders and Cappuccino’s.

Not only are Crazy Sol’s creations delicious and fun, the actual Crazy Cups aren’t harmful to the environment. You can purchase a box of 4 cups for $3.40 or 22 cups for $15.90. (What a deal! That’s about .73 a cup!) Crazycups.com

Crazy Cups Are GLUTEN FREE, NUT FREE, NO CALORIES flavored coffee.
Compatible with All Keurig K Cups® Pods brewer including the Keurig 2.0 brewer.
Use cool-peel-recycle technology – The cups are recyclable.

I found the flavor of Jamaican Java to be a nice blend of hearty coffee with a slight sweetness of mocha. Not too overpowering, no bitterness. Smooth and very tasty. Combining the smooth flavor with the recyclable cups makes Crazy Cups a delicious way to begin my day. And you have a chance to win a box of Crazy Jamaican Java flavored coffee to see for yourself! Enter below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

(*Disclosure: I am an Ambassador for Crazy Cups. If I did not enjoy this product I would not be affiliated. My words and opinions are truthfully my own. Prize fulfillment is the responsibility of Crazy Cups.)

food - giveaway

Giveaway Time! Enter To Win A $200 Starbucks Gift Card!

January 19, 2016

by Ann Harrison 0 Comments

Oh boy! This should be a GOOD one! How would you feel if you won a gift card that would take care of your coffee, tea and/or breakfast, lunch or sweet tooth fix? For easily a month, any way. It’s Giveaway Time! Enter To Win A $200 Starbucks Gift Card

I’ve teamed up with some blogger friends to give you the chance to win a prize you’re going to love —

a $200 Starbucks Gift Card!

Are you a blogger who wants to participate in giveaways like these to grow your blog? Click here to join the VIP Email List for details on how to be included in the next giveaway opportunity!

Prize: $200 Starbucks Gift Card

Giveaway organized by: Oh My Gosh Beck! (Please email becky@ohmygoshbeck.com with any questions.)

Rules: Use the Rafflecopter form to enter daily. Giveaway ends 2/1 and is open worldwide. Winner will be notified via email.

Good luck lovely Ann Again and again Reviews readers!!! 🙂

a Rafflecopter giveaway

cooking - coupon codes - food

Bake Mini Caramel Apple Pies With Help From Love Cooking Company!

January 18, 2016

by Ann Harrison 0 Comments

Love Cooking Company - Ann Again and again Reviews

The Love Cooking Company is helping us create fun baked goods with their innovative line of bakeware. I am so happy I was able to try out a selection from their line through my participation with US Family Guide.com. Let’s check out the Mini Caramel Apples Pies I created with the Mrs. Field’s Mini Cupcake Pan!

Mini Caramel Apple Pie with Cutie Cakes - Ann Again and again Reviews

I decided to take the designated design of the mini cupcake pan in a different direction and see what else it was up for! How about a Mini Caramel Apple Pie! With the help of new caramel bits, this made my idea slightly easier to prepare. (The Cutie Cakes Cupcake Pan creates treats that are about as big as a quarter, so you might need to get your glasses 🙂 ).

Cutie Cakes Mini Caramel Apple Pie - Ann again and again Reviews

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Grease mini cupcake tin with your choice of cooking spray
Chop fine one tart apple

Mini Caramel Apple Pie - Ann Again and again Reviews

I chose a ready made pie crust and found a small juice glass to be just about right to cut the pastry shell. Form the shell into the tin.

Mini Caramel Apple Pie - Ann Again and again Reviews

Squeeze lemon juice over the diced apples and caramel bits
Add a dab of butter to each tartlet

Mini Caramel Apple Pies - Ann Again and again Reviews

Bake for about 10 to 13 minutes at 350 degrees. (Check on the progress. Oven temps vary. You know what baked crust looks like 😉 )

Mini Caramel Apple Pie with Cutie Cakes - Ann Again and again Reviews

Once removed from the oven place them on a rack to cool for a few moments. And hey… you know what tastes great with Caramel Apple Pie? Vanilla ice cream! Grab a little bowl, place a few cute mini caramel apple pies in and add a dollop of ice cream. Yum!

This bakeware has proven to be very easy to work with, even baking on the bottom and sides, and easy to clean. And you need to check out their various designs! A Mini Doughnut Pan (no deep-frying necessary), Bake ‘N Stuff Cupcake Pan, Mrs. Field’s “Brookie” Pan (a brownie and crunchy cookie in one! Yes please!!). There are SO many options that I’m sure you’ll find something to help you create delicious treats and new family favorites.

If you would like to try the bakeware offerings from Love Cooking Company I have a special 10% off code for my lovely readers! Please visit LoveCookingCompany.com and upon check-out enter code: LOVE10

(*Disclosure: I received bakeware in exchange for my honest review through my partnership with USFamilyGuide.com. My opinions are truthfully my own.*)

cooking - food - health

Add Vegetables To Your Meal With “Sneaky Mac And Cheese”

January 11, 2016

by Ann Harrison 0 Comments

Are vegetables a bit of a challenge for your kid(s)? Or you? They are good for the body and brain, you know that. Your children have heard it many times and so have you. But, somehow, vegetables are still a challenge during meal times. Check out the following information on the importance of vegetables in our diet along with a cool recipe – “Sneaky Mac and Cheese”. Let me know what you think!

Not all Americans have easy access to fresh vegetables. But that shouldn’t stop them from eating these delicious offerings and getting their necessary vitamins and nutrients! According to the 2016 “Canned Vegetable Nutrients Study” — a dietary analysis of 24,000 Americans conducted by Dr. Marjorie Freedman (of San Jose State University) in association with the CFA — canned food carries nearly identical nutrients to its fresh-cooked counterparts. They are also a cheaper and an easier way to get recommended daily servings of fruits and veggies — which can lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.

Consider this:

* 94% of American adults are not eating enough fruits and vegetables

* Adults who eat canned produce eat 17% more vegetables and 19% more fruit than those who don’t

* Adults who eat canned produce consume 7% more dietary fiber and 5% more potassium than those who don’t

* Canned produce includes low-sodium options and non-GMO veggies like Del Monte Blue Lake Cut Green Beans

These nutritional benefits affect our kids, too:

* 9 in 10 kids don’t eat enough vegetables and 6 in 10 kids don’t eat enough fruit

* Kids who eat canned produce eat 22% more vegetables and 14% more fruit than those who don’t

* Kids who eat canned produce consumed more protein, fiber, vitamin A, calcium, and potassium (but less fat)

I’m sure your kid(s) will never believe there’s a vegetable hidden in this creamy, cheesy comfort food. Wholesome, puréed white beans and carrots contribute to the sauce’s creaminess.

Sneaky Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: 10 min.

Cook Time: 15 min.

Ingredients

3 cups College Inn® Fat Free & Lower Sodium Chicken Broth

8 oz. dry pasta, such as whole grain elbows or rotini

1 can (14.5oz.) Del Monte® Sliced Carrots, drained

½ cup milk

1 can (15.5 oz.) white or cannellini beans, drained

2 cups (8 oz.) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided

Salt and black pepper, optional

Directions

Bring broth to a boil in a large saucepan; add pasta and reduce heat to medium-high. Cook according to package directions, stirring frequently, except DO NOT DRAIN.
Meanwhile, place carrots and milk in a blender; puree until smooth. Add beans to blender; puree until smooth, scraping down sides of blender twice. Stir pureed mixture into pasta until coated. Cook over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened.
Stir in cheese and cook until cheese is melted and season to taste with salt and pepper, if desired. Serve with toppings, as desired.

Optional Toppings:

Crumbled cooked bacon
Steamed broccoli flowerets
Chopped tomatoes
Sliced green onions

VARIATION: To make Sneaky Mac & Cheese Muffins, prepare as recipe directs, except line 18 medium muffin cups with paper or foil liners. Spoon about 1/3 cup of prepared mac and cheese into each cup and bake at 350°F until lightly browned, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Let me know what you think about this recipe! What ways do you try to incorporate more vegetables into your child’s (or heck, even your!) diet?

(*Disclaimer: Shared with permission by Cody Pittman – Del Monte Publicist.)

cooking - coupon codes - deals - food - holidays

With Love Cooking Company Your Desserts Are That Much Sweeter!

October 26, 2015

by Ann Harrison 0 Comments

Love baking

Love Cooking Company has set out with a mission to make baking a simple task. Partnered with some great names in the baking and entertainment industries, Love has crafted bakeware that helps you easily achieve the best-looking baked goods on the table, from filled cakes to bite-size desserts and more.

The PushPan is a 100% watertight and leak-proof cake pan with a patented silicone-lined removable base making it perfect for cheesecakes, pies and more! An alternative to a spring-form pan, you simply place the pan on something sturdy, press the sides down, and voila – the perfect cake! The PushPan also comes with a 25 year warranty.

The Mrs. Fields Cutie Cakes pan creates 48 bite-size cakes when you need a small amount of something sweet. It’s ideal for savory options, like mini corn dogs or potato pancakes. After you create your tiny treats, just pop the pan in the dishwasher.

The Mrs. Fields Fill N Flip is the easiest way to make a layered cake and create a surprise center that everyone will love. Once you bake your cake, add filling to the side with the large opening, place the non-filled layer on top, and enjoy! Plus, the pan is dishwasher-safe, making clean-up a breeze.

My lovely readers of Ann Again and again Reviews receive 10% off your entire order! Love Cooking is inviting you to take 10% off your entire order on lovecookingcompany.com with the promo code LOVE10. For a limited time only.
For details, and your 10% discount offer, go to: http://usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=75&bid=12246&dealid=2092 .@usfg

Happy Baking!

Stay Connected with Love
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LoveCookingCompany
Twitter: www.twitter.com/lovecookingco
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lovecookingco
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/lovecookingcor

(*Disclaimer: As a member of US Family Guide I am able to provide this information and this special discount code.)

Entertainment - food

Having Fun On Chef vs. Challenge On The Cooking Channel!

September 9, 2015

by Ann Harrison 0 Comments

Mt Hood Railroad 2015

What a fun night! My Mother, sister Kathi and I joined guests on the Mount Hood Railroad for a special dining experience being filmed for The Cooking Channel. The new series “Chef vs. Challenge” with Chef Chuck Hughes premiered last night (September 8th, 2015) and it was thrilling to see our adventure on T.V.! Before boarding the train the chef was a surprise so that added to the fun of the evening. Chuck Hughes is a chef from Montreal, Quebec, Canada. His previous shows include “Chuck’s Eat The Street” and “Chuck’s Day Off”, also on The Cooking Channel. For the Chef vs. Challenge Chuck needed to cook for 125 people on a moving train in under 6 hours. Did he do it? Check your local listings and find out! (And see me rave about the Rarebit :-> )

Now, about our starting point, Mt. Hood, Oregon. About an hours drive from Portland, following the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, which separates the states of Oregon and Washington, you arrive in the Wind Surfing Capital of the World, Hood River. This is one of my families favorite places to visit on a day trip.

Today there’s a lot of activity on this train. Our friendly wait staff is making due with camera crews being added to the mix. Train aisles are only so wide! Everyone seems to be excited and ready for anything so a little bump and bobbing around is fine. (I really don’t know how the wait staff and camera crew did it. I can barely walk on the train while it’s still!)

Mt Hood Railroad kathi and cameraman

With each course we were greeted with all local ingredients hand-picked by our Chef. The Hot Citrus Mussels were my favorite! Along with the Mt. Hood Winery Pinot Gris this was a great pairing ~

Mt Hood Railroad Muscles and pinot gris

You can’t beat the view on this railroad! With every mile you get closer and closer to our spectacular Mount Hood.

Mt Hood Railroad Moms Reflection — Can you see it Mom?

Between the delicious food courses and the ever changing scenery dining on the Mt. Hood Railroad is definitely an experience.

Mt Hood Railroad stream

And who’s been cooking for us this evening?

Mt Hood Railroad Kathi and Chuck Hughes

My lucky sister! Chuck was very charming and visited each dining car to introduce himself and describe his local food choices, some make shift cooking supplies (grocery cart as ‘smoker’? Yep, that happened) and the challenges of cooking on a moving train. I can only imagine! The delicious food was the focus of the night but at the end of the rail line we see the true star:

Mt Hood Railroad Mt Hood 2015

Ahhh. What a beauty! To check out the show – click Chef vs. Challenge

To experience dining on the Mount Hood Railroad please visit their website: https://www.mthoodrr.com/dine/

food - Review - Travel - wine

Travel To The Napa Valley And Enjoy The Wine Train!

August 9, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

Napa Valley Wine Train - Year Round Fun! Ann Again and again Reviews — Photo courtesy of Napa Valley Wine Train

When Rob and I get a chance we hop a quick flight to visit our heaven on Earth – The Napa Valley. 10 years ago we discovered the glory of the Napa Valley and almost get giddy with each return. It’s so-o-o beautiful and it’s lovely to take in the gorgeous surroundings, and history, while tasting delicious, well-crafted wines. With this trip we were treated to a lovely 3-course dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train, a staple of Napa Valley history and one of the Nation’s only active historical passenger railroads.

We began our 3 hour trip enjoying a glass of Grgigh Hills Chardonnay. While waiting for appetizers of bread and cheese, fruit and compote, our waiter gave us the OK to head to the tasting car. This turned out to be a good arrangement due to the fact that we had the Wine Educator all to ourselves! The very accommodating staff brought our appetizers to us and we nibbled, listened and learned more about wine. (While I was describing a wine as “sweet” the correct term is “fruit forward”. Good to know ;-> )

You will be steeped in Napa Valley history and surrounded by the glory of the valley while being educated on wine, wine/food pairings and meeting people from all over the world on the Napa Valley Wine Train. You have your choice of enjoying a lovely lunch, or an elegant dinner. Price packages range from $124.00 – $199.00 (per person) for a lunch package, dinner selections range from $124.00 – $199.00 per person. Or, you can choose a dinner plus winery tour package with prices ranging from $179.00 – $234.00.

The experience of a 3 hour ride on the historic Napa Valley Wine Train through the heavenly valley, multi-course meals highlighted with delicious wines and wonderful conversations with new friends. It was a vacation within a vacation! Please visit the website http://winetrain.com/ to learn more and book your experience today. Share that Ann – at Ann Again and again Reviews – recommended it!

(*Disclosure: Our Napa Valley Wine Train experience was provided by management to facilitate my review. My opinions are truthfully my own.)

food

A Perfect Treat To Please A Crowd – Gelato!

July 31, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

The logistics of putting together a fun and interesting party can be a challenge for any parent playing host or hostess. Hosts need to decide when’s the best time for everyone to gather, where shall people meet, what should you do for fun and what food will you serve your guests.

A Perfect Way To Please A Crowd - Gelato! AnnAgainAndAgainReviews.com — photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net

Planning fun food offerings that children and adults both will both enjoy brings its challenges. Gelato is a food that is yummy, safe and simple to prepare sure to please a mixed crowd’s palate and can be offered as dessert after a meal or on its own as a snack.

Gelato products can be offered to guests in a buffet of flavors to sample. It can be served singly, as an accompaniment to pastries, or as a buffet of sweet offerings to entice people to mix and match multiple flavors for a fun experience bursting with taste.

Imagine a counter, running board or temporary table set up and decorated for the party. Laid out in a long line of simple or decorated bowls nested in larger bowls of ice can become a gorgeous display of gelato colors and flavors. Since gelato comes in a variety of types, easily customized for tastes and special needs, the display of treats can even match the decorations of the party planner’s ideal.

For people pressed for time or expense, gelato can even be set out in the tubs it came in on ice rather than scooping all the food out into nested bowls. The start of a buffet can include tasting spoons, napkins and bowls. The end of the buffet can offer toppings such as whipped cream, peanuts, sprinkles, fruit and various syrups. A gelato party can be like having a frozen yogurt saloon in your own home but personalized. And the portion size of the gelato can be controlled by the size of the bowls offered.

Children and parents can both enjoy a cold creamy treat when partying or gathering at a home that offers a gelato buffet. It offers a quick, easy way to give guests a choice of yummy food variety and can be easily cleaned up by placing trash receptacles in handy spots. Lay down some plastic or decorative table cloths for quick clean up of the table or place picnic style on the floor for the children and the party’s a go with minimal mess!

food

Inspire Your Cooking Using Mary's Secret Ingredients!

June 2, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

I’m the kind of cook that needs a recipe, some kind of guidance in the food creation area. I love trying new foods, or a different take on something “tried and true”, but my mind doesn’t come up with those ideas. I admire those that can look in the fridge and whip up a fun dish. For those with the gift of cooking creativity, I salute you!

Recently I was introduced to a lovely company – Mary’s Secret Ingredients. When you join the community (as members are delightfully referred) you receive a box each season with exciting, natural food finds that will perk up your cooking with new products and flavors. Here’s the Spring 2015 box:

To guide you through your seasonal delivery full of yummy ingredients you’ll find The Little Book of Ingredients, this booklet provides a bit of background on each item along with ideas of what to do with your “Shiratake Harvest Noodles” or your “Delta Bread Cheese Straws”. But the inspiration doesn’t stop there! Each week you’ll receive e-mails from Mary with recipes featuring items from your secret ingredient box. That’s just what I need!

The Spring 2015 box included veggie Pho (pronounced ‘Fuh‘) Liquid Broth. Here’s a completed Pho creation:

Inspire Your Cooking with Mary's Secret Ingredient! Ann Again and again Reviews — photo courtesy of Mary’s Love The Secret Ingredient

Mary is a lifelong food lover. For three years she has authored the internationally recognized food blog: LOVE-the secret ingredient. Every week she shares her love of great food and her passion for creating delicious and healthy recipes to give you inspiration in answering the age-old question, “What’s for dinner?” Mary is on a mission. Two, actually: To deliver her favorite ingredients packed in seasonally themed sets to your front door, and to help hungry children across the country. When you are a part of the “Secret Ingredients” community each seasonal box you purchase helps support Feed The Children, an organization that was created 35 years ago with a mission that no child goes to bed hungry.

To become a part of Mary’s Secret Ingredients please visit: https://maryssecretingredients.com/. Each seasonal box is $25.95 and is packed with ingredients that are sure to inspire delicious meals. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

(*Disclaimer: I was provided with the Spring Seasonal box to facilitate my review. My opinions are truthfully my own.)

Entertainment - food - Review

Experience The Glory Of The Napa Valley Aboard The Napa Valley Wine Train

May 28, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

When ever Rob and I get a chance we hop a quick flight and visit our heaven on Earth – The Napa Valley. 10 years ago we discovered the glory of the Napa Valley and almost get giddy with each return trip. It’s just so-o-o beautiful and... it’s such fun tasting delicious, well-crafted wines. With this trip we were treated to a lovely 3-course dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train, a staple of Napa Valley history and one of the Nation’s only active historical passenger railroads.

We began our 3 hour trip enjoying a glass of Grgigh Hills Chardonnay. While waiting for our appetizers of bread and cheese, fruit and compote, our waiter gave us the OK to head to the tasting car. This turned out to be a good arrangement due to the fact that we had the Wine Educator all to ourselves! The very accommodating staff brought our appetizers to us and we nibbled, listened and learned more about wine. (What I was describing as “sweet” is actually “fruit forward”. Good to know ;-> )

(*Disclosure: Our Napa Valley Wine Train experience was provided by management to facilitate my review. My opinions are truthfully my own.)

cooking - food

Easy Easter Side Dishes To Pair

April 1, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

Each year my family gathers for a feast to celebrate Easter. And although certain foods are favorites and just have-to-have’s it’s fun to offer something different every once in a while. You never know, it could become the new “favorite”. If you’re looking for a new dish to bring to your Easter feast check out the recipes Del Monte has created to complement your ham, lamb or salmon main dish. Quick and easy, they’re #10MinuteWow dishes!

Del Monte Cheddar Corn

Cheddar Corn Casserole is Del Monte’s most popular Easter side dish recipe. This is a #10MinuteWow dish – less than 10 minutes to prepare and goes perfectly with Ham. With it’s blend of sweet corn, cream cheese, cheddar cheese and bacon you won’t believe how good this tastes! Check out the recipe here: Cheddar Corn Casserole

Del Monte Lemon garlic green beans

Panko bread crumbs and fresh lemon give these green beans a great taste and would make a great pairing with Salmon. Check here for the recipe for Lemon-Garlic Green Beans with Crispy Crumbs.

Del Monte Peas 5 ways

If you are serving lamb check out the ideas Del Monte shares for peas with Peas 5 Ways. Peas with chopped mint and sweet, shredded carrots complement lamb nicely.

Do you have an Easter dish that’s a family favorite? I’d love to get your recipe! I’ve been working on perfecting a lemon bar recipe that’s getting a positive response so I think I’ll be adding this to the dessert table this Sunday.

If you create an Easter side that takes under 10 minutes to make, using Del Monte products, please add it to Del Monte’s Pinterest page. Share your creativity!

(*Disclosure: I was provided with Del Monte products in exchange for this post. My opinions are truthfully my own.)

cooking - food - health

Using a Plant-Based Alternative Makes for Healthy Dinner Recipes

February 9, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

Veggies

In order to make your traditional family recipes into healthy dinner recipes, you do not need to rewrite you entire cookbook. Instead, you can opt for the much easier solution of simply substituting the meat in each recipe with a meatless, plant-based alternative. This will allow you to keep a sense of order and continuity in the foods that you and your family eat while also providing healthier options. While there may be resistance at first, the health benefits of a plant-based substitute are such that they are worth the initial hassle. Besides, these alternatives are tasty enough on their own that once your family tries them, there will be little complaint in the future.

No Need to Eliminate Your Favorite Recipes

Perhaps the best part about these plant-based alternatives is that they do not require you to make any major changes to the way you currently prepare dinner. It is often daunting for people to think about making radical changes to their diet because there is such a great deal of unfamiliarity involved. That is not the case with the plant-based substitutes, as they can be used interchangeably in your current meat-based recipes. It will also make it more likely that your family is open to the idea of trying something new, since there will be an already-established sense of familiarity in the dinner option that you present.

Vegie collage

Continue reading “Using a Plant-Based Alternative Makes for Healthy Dinner Recipes”

food - health

Let's Make The Perfect Smoothie

February 4, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

A new year has begun and, perhaps, a healthier eating plan has started for you as well. We know that smoothie’s are a great way to get your nutrition, necessary vitamins and antioxidants in one fell swoop but maybe your not sure what to put in it to get more bang for your buck. Here’s a great recipe to get you one your way!

Continue reading “Let's Make The Perfect Smoothie”

food

I've Been Won Over By Mrs. Cavanaugh's Chocolates

January 8, 2015

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

I know this is going to sound very, very odd to some of you but I am not a huge chocolate lover. When a dessert menu is passed I will look at the non-chocolate items first. I don’t know why, it’s just the way I’m wired. I will say that if I’m going to have chocolate it needs to be worth the calories and with my review tasting I received of Mrs. Cavanaugh’s chocolates I am lovin’ every bite. I even ordered when my review sample was gone! (See a history of Mrs. Cavanaugh’s in my previous review here.)

Mrs. Cavanaughs white choc almond candy bar

The White Chocolate Almond Coconut candy bar?! Oh my. Just thinking about it makes me happy. This creation is absolutely delicious! (Adding to my cart… now.) The Dark Chocolate Almond candy bar was smooth, rich and very tasty. The chocolate assortment box was filled with very tasty treats that made me question what my issue with chocolate even is. Mrs. Cavanaugh’s chocolates are smooth, rich with a true cocoa flavor. Nothing waxy or fake in my opinion.

Mrs Cavanaughs most_famous_mixed

If you enjoy chocolate your taste buds are going to be in heaven with Mrs. Cavanaugh’s chocolates. They offer milk, dark and white chocolate creations in an assortment of offerings: boxed cream filled, nuts and chews or candy bars. I’m going to add the caramel pecan log to my order. Looks great.

Mrs Cavanaughs 1 caramel pecan log

You can create a box or order their Most Famous Chocolates assortment. To see all of their delicious offerings visit: http://www.mrscavanaughs.com/

(*Disclaimer: I was given product to review from being a member of USFamilyGuide.com Blog Promotions. My opinions are truthfully my own. If you would like to become a member of USFamilyGuide.com – Blog Promotion team let me know :-> )

food - Review - Uncategorized - wine

Napa Valley Wine Train – Year Round Fun!

November 26, 2014

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

Recently Rob and I were able to visit one of our most favorite places in America, the Napa Valley in California. 10 years ago we discovered the glory of the Napa Valley and almost get giddy with each return trip. It’s just so-o-o beautiful and... it’s such fun tasting delicious, well-crafted wines. With this trip we were treated to a lovely 3-course dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train, a staple of Napa Valley history and one of the Nation’s only active historical passenger railroads.

Since this was November the sunset happened before we boarded the train however, it was a clear evening with an almost full moon. So beautiful. And though this time of year doesn’t lend itself to sunset dining on the Napa Valley Wine Train they do have special themed lunch and dinner rides year-round that should make every trip delightful. Some packages include a winery tour along with your meal. That’s a great package! The Month of December hosts the Santa Train, a nice hour and a half ride with Santa and some of his friends, a perfect family friendly way to experience this beautiful train and Valley. Click here for full information.

Napa Valley Wine Train Santa — Photo courtesy of Napa Valley Wine Train

This is such an elegant way to experience the Napa Valley and I encourage you to include it in your itinerary to complete a lovely wine tasting visit. To learn all about the Napa Valley Wine Train please visit: http://winetrain.com/

(*Disclosure: Our evening was provided by the Napa Valley Wine Train. My words, opinions and smiles are completely my own.

Christmas - coupon codes - deals - food - holidays

Enjoy Mrs. Cavanaugh's Chocolates With Buy One Get One Free Code!

November 10, 2014

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

I am so happy to share a delicious offer from Mrs. Cavanaugh’s Candies. Buy 1 Get One Free of Mrs. Cavanaugh’s chocolates! Perfect for the holiday season – or any time! Find your special savings code below. Enjoy!

Continue reading “Enjoy Mrs. Cavanaugh's Chocolates With Buy One Get One Free Code!”

food - health - wine

Beer &amp;amp;amp;amp; Wine: Surprising Facts and Interesting Trends

October 27, 2014

by Ann Again and again 2 Comments

Here’s a quiz for you…

What’s good for the heart, reduces risk of diseases and prevents sunburn?

Ready for the answer? It’s wine! I’ve heard about a glass of red wine being helpful to your heart but I didn’t know about the benefits of sunburn prevention. Flavanoids in red wine have been found to stop the skin’s chemical reaction to excessive sun exposure. There are health benefits from drinking beer too. It’s been discovered that beer boosts vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. And it contains silicone that helps increase bone density. Lovely!

Check out these facts and many more in the following infographic. Cheers! (Let’s see if you’re as surprised as I was to learn where the oldest winery was discovered.)

(*This infographic was shared by permission from CompareCamp.com and FinancesOnline.com)

food

See's Candies $25 Gift Card Giveaway! Happy National Lollypop Day!

July 15, 2014

by Ann Again and again 20 Comments

See's Candies $25 Gift Card Giveaway! Happy National Lollipop Day! Enter today for your chance to win a $25 See's gift card. Also, See's is hosting a fantastic giveaway. Check it out at Ann Again and again Reviews

July is not only the time to celebrate America’s Independence Day – July also hosts National Lollypop Day! On July 20th, 2014 enjoy a sweet treat on a stick, a lollypop, and join in the celebration. No one really knows how the modern-day lollypop was invented, but we do know how it got its name. George Smith, the owner of a small American candy store, came up with this sweet treat’s name. In the early 1900s, he called the candy a “lollipop” after his favorite racehorse — Lolly Pop. And one of my favorite candy shops, See’s Candies, is getting in on the fun of this celebration by hosting the Sugar Rush Sweepstakes! Who’s ready to take a trip to San Francisco and eat See’s Candy all day? Me! (It’s a great walking city so you should burn the calories in no time ;-> )

Grand Prize
A trip for two to San Francisco, including an exclusive in-shop tasting where you and a friend can try every flavor your taste buds desire, plus so much more!

First Prize
$50 See’s gift card awarded to 10 lucky winners.

To enter See’s Sugar Rush Sweepstakes click : http://www.sees.com/lollypopsweeps/ Quick! This ends July 20th, 2014!

And now for my sweet giveaway offering :->

My family and I consider See’s a go-to place to celebrate holidays, birthdays and anniversary’s. Visiting their bright and shiny stores is always a pleasure, especially when you are greeted with a delicious sample.

At every family get together you will see at least one box of See’s candy. And everyone has a favorite style. And you know, See’s isn’t just about chocolate! My favorites are the Pastel Bon Bon’s and the nugget filled nut bars and caramel rolls and… oh geez. It’s lunch time for me. I better stop.

Any way…

If you have a See’s in your area, what’s your favorite(s)? How would you like to have $25 of your favorite? :-> I am so happy to be able to share a $25 See’s Candies Gift Card to one lucky winner from Ann Again and again Reviews. Enter through the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck! :->

(*Disclosure: I was compensated for my time in writing this post. My opinions on this product are truthfully my own.)

cooking - deals - Family - food - giveaway - health

Ways To Stick To Your Healthier Lifestyle Resolution – And Giveaway!

May 27, 2014

by Ann Again and again 5 Comments

We’re 5 months into the year 2014. Did you make a resolution to get fit, or eat healthier this year? I was tired of the tummy flab that was taking over my middle due to menopause (yep, I said it) and I was feeling pretty weak. Enough of that I say! I’m five months into my healthier lifestyle and feel confident I can keep this up. Here are ways to stick to your healthier lifestyle resolution – and a giveaway! Ways that help me stick to my resolution:

Make a standing appointment to exercise. Try to keep it the same time every day.
If you don’t feel like moving tell yourself ‘Let’s just do a couple of minutes’. I’m sure your body will encourage your mind to stick around and do a few more reps. and you will find you’ve completed a full workout.
Remember to drink a full glass of water before eating.
You will always feel better about yourself after you exercise. Remember that!

With regard to food choices I’m enjoying the taste and long lasting full feeling I get from eating Zone Perfect bars. The taste selection is vast and my girls like them too. We’ve finally tried Quinoa (keen-wha) that we’ve been hearing about but weren’t sure how to pronounce. I really like grains so quinoa works out well for me as a smarter nutritional choice over rice. And now that grill season is here my-oh-my! My husband grilled Cauliflower and added dashes of seasoning salt, black pepper and the juice of one lemon to create a flavor I’ve never had from cauliflower. Absolutely delicious and so much better in the nutrition and calorie category over mashed potatoes. Check out this chart for side dish swap ideas: Ways To Stick To Your Healthier Life Style - And A Giveaway! Ann Again and again Reviews With my exercising routine, on one hand I’m bummed about the fact that weight is not coming off. I’ve been exercising for 4 months now, 5 to 6 days a week – a mix of cardio and area specific movements – and have lost a whopping 5 lbs. But on the other hand I am so much stronger than I was a month ago, let alone 4 months ago, and that feeling of strength is what I absolutely love about exercising. If weight doesn’t come off, well that’s a drag and it frustrates me, but I won’t stop my workouts because feeling stronger brings me joy and strength and joy is what I want in my life. (Oh and love, of course! and a delightful Pinot Gris ;->)

Become A ZonePerfect® VIP & Save up to $10*

Your first coupon will be emailed to you. Join Now – Click >> ZonePerfect VIP

*$10 in savings relates to savings spread across a one year period and may vary. Hey! I have something that will keep you “charged” while you’re on your healthy path – a portable charger for your electronic devices. I have one portable charger for one lucky reader of Ann Again and again Reviews care of ZonePerfect®. Enter through RaffleCopter below. Good luck!

Ways To Stick To Your Healthier Life Style - And A Giveaway! Ann Again and again Reviews a Rafflecopter giveaway

food

Did You Know These Big Companies Are In Your Cupboards?

May 22, 2014

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

I’m not oblivious to the fact that companies like Nestle and Kraft have a wide net over the foods that are offered in grocery stores. But I was surprised to find the reach a particular company had with regard to butter – even though the brands are different, they are all owned by the same company. Money isn’t spread around, it looks to all be going into the same pockets. When standing in the grocery aisle it appears you have many choices, but do you really?

Top Grocery Brands Comparison: Latest Research On Big Food Companies Exploiting Our Shopping Habits

Created by finances online | Alex Hillsberg | Follow our Twitter

food - giveaway

Win A $50 Winco Gift Card! Use The Ibotta App To Make Your $ Go Further!

May 3, 2014

by Ann Again and again 8 Comments

When I was very young one of my favorite things to do was be in my room and have a tea party with my stuffed animals and imaginary friends while listening to my Alice In Wonderland album. My little cups weren’t filled with tea however, they were filled with cereal. Any chance I would get I would eat cereal. Cheerios® was a favorite of mine then and it is now. How about you? do you have a favorite cereal? If so, what is it? Honestly it’s hard to me to name a favorite, I’m like that with a lot of things :->

Since my family loves cereal as much as I do I’m always looking for cost saving measures on what we eat most. Do you use a mobile phone? If so you really need to check out an app called Ibotta. This app has been helping me not only save money at the grocery store but it has also brought new items to my attention that my family has really enjoyed. When you are ready to grocery shop go to your Ibotta app and select your store. You will see items that will give you cash back after your purchase. Some items offer $1.00 cash back, and that’s on top of your coupon use! Ibotta is really a great resource to save money with your groceries.

I’m focusing on cereal here so let’s check out Ibotta on your mobile phone for weekly General Mills cereal offers at WinCo. Each week from 4/10-5/25 there will be a featured cereal of the week that you can redeem for $1.50! If you buy 5 cereals, you can redeem an additional $2.50! Cereals included in this offer are Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, Chocolate Toast Crunch, Golden Grams, Dark Chocolate Multigrain Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Lucky Charms, Fiber One Protein. Save up to $9.50 on your favorite cereals! For more information visit Ibotta’s blog – http://bit.ly/WinCoCerealoftheWeek

Lily and Katie enjoying their cereals. Hey, girls? Hey, can you look up please?

Ah yes. Thanks for taking a break with your cereal. Well, almost taking a break.

Also, I have found the best prices on my family’s daily grocery needs at WinCo. They offer fresh produce, baked goods and nice selection of meats that will go over really well for up coming holiday celebrations. Do you get creative with your holiday treats and make something using cereal? I’d love to be inspired by what you do! Please share!

Honey. Um… I’m doing something here. Can you leave Lily’s cereal alone?

Win A $50 Winco Gift Card! Use The Ibotta App To Make Your $ Go Further!

I am thrilled that I am able to offer one of my lucky readers a $50 WinCo Gift Card! Shopping at WinCo and using the Ibotta app will help the $50 Gift Card go a very long way. What a great prize!

Rob! Honey, I think it’s time you made your own bowl of cereal.

Enter today to win a $50 Gift Card from WinCo and go check out all the yummy cereals General Mills has to offer. Be sure to use the Ibotta app for great deals. Enter now. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

(*Disclaimer: This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of General Mills® via Burst Media. The opinions and text are mine.)

cooking - Family - food

Inexpensive Dinners To Take The Sting Out Of Tax Day

April 15, 2014

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

From our friends at Woman’s Day come recipes that will take the hit of Tax Day away from our pocket book and give us more with our money. In the May issue of Woman’s Day, now on newsstands nationwide, you can find the most delicious tostadas to make for your hungry family. I have one picky eater that will have me adapting one of these recipes – but it can be done easily and I’m sure you’ll find ways to add your own spin to these recipes as well. You can’t beat the cost per servings for these high protein, healthy dishes. Happy Tax Day! (ugh, did I just type that?!)

Active: 20 MIN, Total: 20 MIN, Serves: 4, Cost Per Serving: $1.35

Chili Chicken:

§ 2 tbsp olive oil

§ 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

§ 1 tsp hot paprika

§ ½ tsp ground cumin

§ ½ tsp chili powder

§ ¼ salt

§ 3 ½ cups shredded chicken

Directions – Part 1

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil and fresh lime juice.

2. Slowly stir in the hot paprika, ground cumin, chili powder and salt.

3. Add the chicken and toss to combine for the perfect taste!

Pineapple and Red Onion Relish:

§ 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

§ 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

§ ¼ salt

§ ¼ small pineapple (cored and cut into ½-in pieces)

§ ½ small red onion (thinly sliced)

§ ¼ cup small fresh cilantro leaves

§ 8 tostadas

Directions – Part 2

1. Prepare the chili chicken from above.

2. Next, in a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, cayenne pepper and salt.

3. Add the pineapple and onion and toss to combine.

4. Fold in the cilantro leaves.

5. Lastly, top the tostadas with the chili chicken, the pineapple and the red onion relish.

Enjoy!

Active: 15 MIN, Total: 15 MIN, Serves: 4, Cost Per Serving: 92 cents

Ingredients:

§ 4 plum tomatoes (cut into ¼-in. pieces)

§ 1 small jalapeño (finely chopped)

§ ½ small red onion (finely chopped)

§ 2 tbsp fresh lime juice

§ ¼ tsp salt

§ ¼ tsp pepper

§ ¼ fresh cilantro

§ 8 tostadas

§ 15-oz can refried beans (warmed)

§ Shredded romaine lettuce

Directions:

1. To start, toss together in a medium bowl the plum tomatoes, jalapeño, onion, lime juice, salt and pepper. This will serve as your delicious pico de gallo!

2. Fold in the cilantro to add a little kick.

3. Top the tostadas with the refried beans, lettuce and the fresh pico de gallo.

4. Enjoy!

If you have delicious additions to these recipes please share in the comments. I would LOVE to try your suggestions and, I’m sure, our blog friends would to!

(*Disclosure: These recipes were provided by Woman’s Day and are shared with permission.)

Beauty - children - cleaning tips - Family - fashion - food - health - home

The Mom Conference: Online and Free This Week!

April 7, 2014

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

For those of us that would enjoy connecting with other mothers, yet can’t make it to meetings and/or conferences that always seem to happen out of town, The Mom Conference is for us! This conference happens online and is FREE!

Monday, April 7th – Conference launches!

Each day of the conference, a new set of 4 presentation videos will be made available on The Mom Conference site for a FREE 24-hour viewing/listening period. The Mom Conference runs from April 7th – April 14th and highlights all areas of being a woman and mother. Speakers share information on topics ranging from healthy eating and fitness, relationships with your children, ways to nurture and care for your home and yourself. There are so-o-o-o many worthy topics being covered at this conference I honestly can not believe it’s being offered free of charge.

You can sign up for this FREE online conference here: https://tt145.infusionsoft.com/go/momreg/AnnAgain/

Check out the video below to see what’s in store for you at The Mom Conference ~

Enjoy your time at The Mom Conference. Sign up by clicking this link: https://tt145.infusionsoft.com/go/momreg/AnnAgain/

deals - food

Find Flavor at your Fingertips with Restaurant.com's Mobile App!

March 25, 2014

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

Receive a FREE $10 Restaurant.com eGift Card with Your FIRST Purchase on the Restaurant.com Mobile App!

There are nights when going out to eat sounds like a great idea but… my husband and I are at a loss for where to go. We just go blank! Sure, we can think of great restaurants when we’re running errands around town however, when the experience actually presents itself we forget about all of the places we wanted to try. With the latest app from Restaurant.com finding a place to eat won’t be a problem any more.

Using location-based technology, the Restaurant.com mobile app allows you to connect to great savings and restaurants on the go! Simply tap the “Deals Near Me” button to find restaurants near your location or type your zip code or city to locate flavor right at your fingertips.

Did you know Restaurant.com offers nearly 50,000 online dining deals at thousands of restaurants nationwide? The deals are easy to use, never expire, and are available to use right away. The best part, if you change your mind on the restaurant choice, you can exchange anytime, no questions asked.

Found a restaurant with a great deal? Present the certificate to your server on a mobile device, and voila – the savings will be deducted from your final bill.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive offer! Download the app now at Google Play or the iTunes App Store until Wednesday, April 30.

*Your first purchase via the Restaurant.com mobile application may qualify for a free $10 Restaurant.com eGift Card. You can download the Restaurant.com mobile application on iTunes App Store or Google Play. The purchase must be made between Tuesday, March 25, 2014 at 1:00AM PST and Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at 11:59PM PST to qualify, and must be your first purchase through the Restaurant.com mobile application. Restaurant.com reserves the right to change the promotional period at anytime. Previous purchasers via the Restaurant.com mobile application are not eligible. One free eGift Card per qualified purchase. The $10 Restaurant.com eGift Card will be emailed within 24-72 hours following the purchase. eGift Cards can be redeemed online at www.theidealmeal.com for a restaurant specific certificate. eGift Cards cannot be redeemed at any restaurant. Restaurant.com is not responsible for undelivered, lost or stolen eGift Cards.

(*Disclosure: I share this information with you through my participation in the US Family Guide program.)

deals - food

Your Evenings Just Got Easier – eMeals Dessert Plan

December 11, 2013

by Ann Again and again 0 Comments

Are you familiar with eMeals? The leader in online meal planning? Well, eMeals is launching their new dessert plan! Get inspired each week to make incredible desserts. My youngest just discovered her fondness for creating in the kitchen so this is a perfect pairing. What about your child? Do they like to cook and/or bake? If so, eMeals is a wonderful resource for the whole family. And I have a code for you to get 15% off! What a deal.

With mouth-watering recipes like Chocolate Pretzel Slab Pie, Buttery Toasted Vanilla Clusters or Crunchy Streusel Pumpkin Loaf, eMeals dessert plan is perfect for the dessert lover in all of us. Receive 3 indulgent dessert ideas every week including a mix of Crowd Pleasers, Quick & Easy options, and Skinny Sweets. This variety of sweet endings will fit the bill for weeknight desserts, casual entertaining and even healthy treats, which is exactly what I’m looking for with my sweet-tooth focused family.

To celebrate their dessert launch, eMeals is also offering a Target gift card giveaway and more via a Pinterest contest! Go here (http://blog.emeals.com/emeals-pinterest-contest/) to enter to win!

eMeals, the leader in online meal planning, is a comprehensive meal planning resource that helps provide healthy and delicious dinners for busy families and individuals. Endorsed by financial guru Dave Ramsey and highlighted in the Oprah Winfrey blog, the eMeals weekly dinner plans include grocery shopping lists and recipe instructions that are simple and easy to follow.

What does this mean for you, you might be asking? In my house, it means that I won’t be spending time perusing sites, magazines, or apps looking for dinner inspiration. On more nights than I care to recall I have been stumped by what to cook and my husband, who works outside the home and truly enjoys cooking, is just so exhausted when he gets through all the traffic, he can’t think of what to make either. With eMeals there’s no more stress with the meal planning! We choose our meal plan, print the shopping list and taa-daa! Cook a healthy meal for our family. Perfect!

Also… To celebrate their dessert launch, eMeals is also offering a Target gift card giveaway and more via a Pinterest contest! Go here eMeals Pinterest Contest to enter to win!

This is a fun giveaway for those of us that:

Welcome to the 2017 Perfect Pairings Valentine’s Day Gift Guide Valentine’s is for Chocoholics Giveaway!

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THE GIVEAWAY

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ABOUT THE OREGON FOOD BANK

UPCOMING DRIVES

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Ingredients

Directions

Now for the $1200 Thanksgiving Cash Giveaway:

There will be 3 winners, each receiving $400 Cash.

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KIDS WILL FLIP FOR FREE FLUFFY PANCAKES AT DENNY’S IN SEPTEMBER

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And now for my sweet giveaway offering :->

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Receive a FREE $10 Restaurant.com eGift Card with Your FIRST Purchase on the Restaurant.com Mobile App!

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