Friday, November 30, 2012

Round Up of New Chicken Soup for the Soul Releases- Perfect Gifts!


Check out some of the latest Chicken Soup for the Soul releases!  As always, these books are full of funny, inspirational and encouraging stories that are sure to warm your heart:)  These books would make great gifts this holiday season!


Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Gift of Christmas
A Special Collection of Joyful Holiday Stories
Share the magic and joy of Christmas. You'll love these heartwarming, inspirational, and fun stories of Christmas miracles, family reunions, charity, the wonder of children, the joy of giving, and family and religious traditions. Most of these stories originally appeared in a limited edition book calledChicken Soup for the Soul: Tales of Christmas that was sold exclusively by Barnes & Noble in 2010.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: I Can't Believe My Cat Did That!
101 Stories about the Crazy Antics of Our Feline Friends
We all rejoice in the simple absurdities, funny habits, and crazy antics of our cats. They make us smile every day, but sometimes they really outdo themselves. You will love reading all the heartwarming, inspirational, and hysterical stories in this book. We know after reading the stories you'll say, "I can't believe a cat did that!"



Chicken Soup for the Soul: I Can't Believe My Dog Did That!
101 Stories about the Crazy Antics of Our Canine Friends
We all rejoice in the simple absurdities, funny habits, and crazy antics of our dogs. They make us smile every day, but sometimes they really outdo themselves. You will love reading all the heartwarming, inspirational, and hysterical stories in this book. We know after reading the stories you'll say, "I can't believe a dog did that!"

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Great Health
Use Your Mind to Promote Your Own Healing and Wellness
Inspiring Chicken Soup for the Soul stories and accessible leading-edge medical information from Dr. Jeff Brown of Harvard Medical School. Dr. Brown unlocks the mysteries of the mind/body connection and shows you how you can feel better and really be better by using your mind and thinking positively. The great stories will show you how other people have used positive thinking to affect their physical and mental well-being.






Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Lunches on-the-go with StarKist!


"StarKist has a new product – a Single Serve StarKist Creations line. Ranging between 80-110 calories per pouch, these new single-serve portions are available in the same great Creations flavors we’ve all come to love. The convenient Flavor Fresh Pouch allows you to enjoy a health-conscious portion on-the-go – just tear open and toss the pre-seasoned tuna right onto a salad, eat straight out of the pouch, or add to your favorite recipe for a flavor and protein boost!

·         Flavors and Calorie Counts:
o    Herb & Garlic – 110 Calories
o    Hickory Smoked – 110 Calories
o    Sweet & Spicy – 90 Calories
o    Zesty Lemon Pepper – 80 Calories

·         Sizing:
o    2.6 oz pouch

·         Pricing:
o    $1.79 per pouch

·         Availability:
o    Walmart and grocery stores nationwide

Check out a few of the recipes the creative folks at StarKist have come up with:

Hearty Herb & Garlic Tuna Salad

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PER SERVING: (339g): 240 calories, 10g fat, 120mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 16g carbs, 4g fiber, 8g sugars, 23g protein

Ingredients:
2 pouches (2.6 oz. each) StarKist Tuna Creations® Herb and Garlic
1 hard-cooked egg, chopped
4 croutons or small crostini
2 small tomatoes cut into wedges
4 cups mixed salad greens
4 Tbsp. dressing of your choice
(Nutrition Facts based on reduced fat Italian dressing)

Directions:
1.       Set out 2 salad bowls. Place 2 cups of lettuce in each bowl. Top with tomato wedges.
2.       Mix tuna and hard-cooked eggs in a small bowl; place equal amounts on top of lettuce and tomatoes.
3.       Drizzle each salad with 2 Tbsp. dressing and place croutons on the side.

MAKES (2) SERVINGS


Southwestern Style Tuna Wrap
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PER SERVING: (177g): 390 calories, 18g fat, 70mg cholesterol, 940mg sodium, 28g carbs, 2g fiber, 3g sugars, 30g protein

Ingredients:
2 pouches (2.6 oz.) StarKist Tuna Creations® Hickory Smoked
2 flour tortillas (8-inch size)
½ cup shredded lettuce
2 slices Pepper Jack Cheese
2 Tbsp. Ranch Dressing, reduced fat
Optional: 2 slices bacon, crumbled, diced tomatoes

Directions:
1.       Place tortillas on plates. Place lettuce, cheese and tuna in the center of the tortillas.
2.       Drizzle with ranch dressing.
3.       Fold ends of the tortillas toward the center and roll tightly to form wrqps. Cut each in half

MAKES 2 SERVINGS

Tuna and White Bean Salad
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PER SERVING: (189g): 190 calories, 8g fat, 15mg cholesterol, 320mg sodium, 17g carbs, 5g fiber, 3g sugars, 13g protein

Ingredients:
2 pouches (2.6 oz.) StarKist Tuna Creations® Zesty Lemon Pepper
1 garlic clove
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 can (16 oz.) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
½ red pepper cut in cubes
¼ cup chopped red onion
Fresh basil, chopped, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:
1.       Mince garlic and mash to a paste with the back of a spoon. Mix garlic paste with lemon juice, salt and pepper, and slowly whisk in olive oil.
2.       Toss red pepper, onion, and beans together.
3.       Break apart tuna and mix into bean mixture.
4.       Add dressing and toss well. Add basil just before serving. Serve at room temperature.

MAKES 4 SERVINGS


Mediterranean Wrap
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PER SERVING: (210g): 360 calories, 15g fat, 45mg cholesterol, 1040mg sodium, 31g carbs, 4g fiber, 7g sugars, 25g protein

Ingredients:
1 pouch (2.6 oz.) StarKist Tuna Creations® Herb & Garlic
1 flatbread wrap
¼ cup fresh baby spinach leaves
2 Tbsp. feta cheese
4 thin cucumber slices
2 Tbsp. chopped roasted red peppers
2 oil-packed, sun-dried tomatoes, cut into strips
1 Tbsp. balsamic vinaigrette

Directions:
1.       Place a flatbread wrap on plate. Cover center 2/3 of wrap with spinach leaves.
2.       Top with 1 pouch of tuna, half of the cheese, cucumber, peppers and sun-dried tomatoes.
3.       Drizzle with dressing.
4.       Roll tightly and cut in half.

MAKES 1 SERVING


Sweet and Spicy Mandarin Salad
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PER SERVING: (387g): 190 calories, 2.5g fat, 30mg cholesterol, 270mg sodium, 24g carbs, 4g fiber, 15g sugars, 21g protein

Ingredients:
1 pouch (2.6oz) StarKist Tuna Creations® Sweet and Spicy
1 stalk celery, sliced
2 Tbsp. sliced green onions, white and green parts
1 4-oz. cup mandarin oranges, drained
2-3 cups salad greens
2 Tbsp. crispy chow mein noodles
Optional: Asian Style dressing – the Tuna Creations® has a nice flavor so dressing isn’t necessary unless you’d like additional flavor

Directions:
1.       Place salad greens in a large bowl.
2.       Top with tuna, celery, onions and oranges, and toss.
3.       Top with chow mein noodles.

MAKES 1 SERVING


What we thought: Yummmm!  These StarKist tuna pouches are perfect for a convenient, protein-packed and tasty lunch.  If you have a little more time you can whip up any of these mouth-watering recipes.  We really enjoyed the samples we received.  I love that the flavors are not overpowering, just simple and subtle.  These pouches are great as a sandwich, with crackers or just a fork:)  B actually takes a handful of StarKist tuna pouches to work a couple of times a month so he always has a back-up plan if a lunch break doesn't make it into his busy days:)  Now he can have quite a variety to choose from!  ABCD Diaries gives StarKist products an A+

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Gift Idea that Gives Back: Funky Chunky-Ronni's Popcorn!




"It takes amazing courage to battle breast cancer. Ronni Feuer, our founder fought like a champion.  Popcorn with Purpose honors the spirit and strength she brought to everything she did.  She lived with passion for all things good, and Ronni's Popcorn is a fitting example.  Our wish is that Popcorn with Purpose will bring hope to women who are currently fighting.  So that no woman should have the added stress of not being able to afford basic necessities while undergoing treatment. 

Popcorn with Purpose what could taste better?"

Ronni's Popcorn:
-  Artisan-crafted by people not machines.
-  Contains 20 servings.
-  Re-sealable canister.
-  Made with all-natural ingredients.
-  OU-D Kosher.
-  No artificial colors or flavors.

The Mouth-Watering Details:
-  Fresh, buttery caramel popcorn.
-  Tons of whole glazed almonds, cashews & pecans.
-  Rich layers of three chocolates: dark, milk & pink.

Promotion Details:
-  10% of all sales to be donated to the Hope Chest
-  100% of funds donated go directly to women in need.
-   Limited Edition Flavor.
-   Learn more about the Hope Chest here.


What we thought:  This would make a great gift for the person who has everything or as a special treat for the holiday hostess.  It is so delicious it would be fantastic on the appetizer or dessert tray at family get togethers or office parties.  And with part of the proceeds going to such a great cause, Funky Chunky has created a win-win holiday goodie:)  ABCD Diaries gives Ronni's Popcorn an A+!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Fantastic Stocking Stuffer Idea: Rx Timer Cap + Giveaway...

"Roughly 50% of patients don’t take their medications as directed, which leads to more than 125,000 deaths every year in the United States. It also costs close to $300 billion in increased healthcare costs. A significant factor in patients not taking their meds properly is simple - - forgetfulness. However, patients that use the Timer Cap containers show a 34% improvement in adherence.   

The cap works like a stopwatch. Every time a patient opens and closes the cap to take their medication, the timer automatically resets itself and then begins counting up the hours and minutes since medication was last taken.


 

The cap is especially helpful for those who are monitoring meds for kids, pets or parents who are on several prescriptions. As anyone who has been the caretaker of elderly parents knows, keeping track of mom or dad’s medications can be difficult. With the Timer Cap, you can easily see when the last time you gave them their meds.

The cap is available at various pharmacies throughout the country (and is being introduced to more on an ongoing basis). Some pharmacies give them away for free for customers enrolled in their auto-refill program - - some offer a free cap for first-time customers and some charge for the cap. It depends on the pharmacy. However, the caps can be purchased via the website (varying prices depending on quantities purchased).

What we thought:  I have allergies and chronic headaches so I take a variety of medicines on a daily basis.  These Rx Timer Caps were amazing!  I can't tell you how many times I would forget the last time I took such and such and wondered if I could take more safely.  This nifty gadget solves that problem immediately and effortlessly.  Most of my medications are OTC, but I just put them in the Rx Timer bottles and it works perfectly.  The caps come in a variety of sizes and using them couldn;t be easier.  These caps would make great stocking stuffers for those in your life who take several medications on a daily schedule.  ABCD Diaries gives Rx Timer Caps an A+ if our rating scale went any higher I'd give them more:)  This is honestly a life-saving product!

Keep up with the latest developments via the social networking sites for Rx Timer Caps:
Facebook
Twitter



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Alex & the Kaleidoscope Band CD Review...




"With 16 national awards in their hip pocket, Philadelphia-based  Alex & The Kaleidoscope Band step front and center on the kids' music stage with their 2012 CD, I'm So Glad.

The band's fourth release, I'm So Glad has already won a 2012 Parents' Choice Approved Award and a Tillywig Toy "Best Family Fun" Award.  The song "Kangaroo!" was an Independent Music Awards "Best Song for Children" winner.

I'm So Glad showcases the work of longtime songwriting partners Alex Mitnick (music) and Alan Bell (lyrics), who glide with ease from rock to folk/pop, from reggae to world music.  Mitnick and Bell are known for songs that engage children physically -- with strong rhythms and catchy melodies -- and mentally -- through witty, insightful, empowering lyrics about self-awareness, nature, and the importance of understanding one's role as a part of a community."

What we thought: We really enjoyed the laid back, funky grooves of Alex & the Kaleidsocope Band on I'm So Glad. This CD encompasses a variety of music including reggae, folk, and more and exposes children to music from many different cultures all on one fantastically entertaining CD.   I'm So Glad is full of songs on topics kiddos are actually interested in and presents them in a really fun way:)  ABCD Diaries gives this CD an A+!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

"Orangutan Van" by Steve Songs CD Review...



"The long wait is over!  With exuberant anticipation, award-winning kids' musician SteveSongs -- known and loved by millions of families throughout the country as "Mr. Steve," co-host of the nationally broadcast PBS KIDS preschool destination -- has set a January 29 release for his eighth CD, Orangutan Van.

Orangutan Van --  the first new SteveSongs album of full-length songs in six years -- continues the SteveSongs tradition of great melodies, catchy lyrics, and playful humor, all wrapped up into what WERS-FM's The Playground called "a lovingly created concoction of fun and smart."

"Smart" captures the essence of the respect shown to Steve's work. Steve Roslonek, who performs as SteveSongs, is committed to entertaining while educating, laughing while learning."

Check out Steve's website at www.stevesongs.com

What we thought:  We have been fans of Steve Songs since we first saw him on PBS years ago and we are so glad he is still around to make great family-friendly music for us to enjoy:)  Orangutan Van is funny and truly entertaining.  Our whole family loved it!  ABCD Diaries gives this CD an A+!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Great Holiday Gift Ideas for the Kiddos...

Okay, so here is a roundup of some really awesome kid's toys we reviewed.  All of these toys were given 2 thumbs up by both our little reviewers and Mom and Dad.  All are affordably priced and should be easy to find this holiday season.  Each one kept the kiddos sufficiently entertained for the price (I hate toys that just get thrown to the wayside after only minutes of play!)  With the exception of the plush, they all kept Dad entertained as well, which is an added bonus;)  





Gund Itty Bitty Boo plush-great for stockings!




These gifts are sure to put a smile on the face of the lucky recipients:)
ABCD Diaries gives them all an A+!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide: Clubs Galore Membership!




"Ease the stress of holiday shopping this year and find the perfect gift for that special someone who is just impossible to shop for at ClubsGalore.com!
Clubs Galore, the premier site for "Of The Month" gift clubs, eases the stress of holiday shopping when you are trying to find "just the right gift."
Moms, dads, family, friends or even a client or employee that you want to send something nice to but don't want it to be too personal,  Clubs Galore searches high and wide for top quality products at a reasonable price, and unlike any other "Of The Month" gift clubs, provides personalized messaging for each and every gift.

Clubs Galore offers selections from 33 different monthly gift clubs such as:
For Him:
·       Cigar of the Month
·       Wine of the Month
·       Sweet and Salty (snacks) of the Month
·       Hot and Spicy of the Month
·       Beer of the Month - either from our Microbrew Club or International Club 
For Her:
·       Unique Bath and Body Club
·       Gardening Club
·       Candle of the Month Club
·       Gourmet of the Month pleases any palate, providing four themed food items every month, and each month features a different theme 
Clubs Galore also originated the Variety Club, where you pick a different Club for every month of your gift-giving!

And there’s much more - visit www.ClubsGalore.com"


What we thought:  We received gift boxes from the Candle of the Month Club and the Sweet and Salty Snacks of the Month Club.  The selections were packaged beautifully.  The candle collection was so pretty and smelled lovely.  There was a variety of sizes, votives, even a jar!  The Sweet and Salty mix was fantastic!  There were pretzels, chips, nuts, candies, and a sauce!  What a great variety:)  Clubs Galore has a membership for everyone on your list and something for every price range...whether you order one month or a whole year, Clubs Galore makes a great gift idea!  ABCD Diaries gives Clubs Galore an A+!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Holiday Gift Guide: Bailey Berry Kid's Shoes...





NEW FROM BAILEY BERRY
INTRODUCING THE PERFECT KIDS’ SHOES
The first kids shoe that is Four Shoes in One with patented Reversa Strap technology
"BAILEY BERRY (www.baileyberry.com), BAILEY BERRY™ today announced the launch of its new BB STARS™ collection. BAILEY BERRY™ BB STARS™ are the latest in kids’ shoes providing both functional design and fun for children. BB STARS™ are designed to be lightweight and protective. Each pair of shoes has our patented Reversa Strap™ technology with four different strap designs that kids can mix & match. BB STARS™ are currently available at select retailers and online at www.baileyberry.com."
Features of BAILEY BERRY™ BB STARS™ kids’ shoes include:
  • Anti Microbial / Odor-Resistant
  • Closed Toes
  • Comfortable
  • Ergonomic
  • FUN
  • Lightweight
  • Non-marking Soles
  • Protective
  • Reversa Strap™
  • Washable
  • Made of Recycled Materials
What we thought:  These shoes are really cute:)  A loves mixing and matching the straps depending on her mood.  She says they are really comfortable and she wears them all the time, which is a great testament to how much she loves them:)  These are the perfect closed-toed shoes for our mild South Texas winter and they will transition great into the spring and summer months as well.  One of my favorite features is how easy they are to keep looking brand new:)  ABCD Diaries gives Bailey Berry kid's shoes an A+!

Follow Bailey Berry on Facebook to keep up with the latest news!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Holiday Entertaining: Palmolive Dish Soap!




"Now you can freshen up your kitchen while cleaning with New Palmolive® Fresh InfusionsTM Dish Liquid. These sleek and stylish bottles will look great on any kitchen counter and are great gifts for moms, cleaning product lovers and families! They make great stocking stuffers too!
This new product allows you to enhance your home and inspire freshness with the trusted Palmolive® dish liquid formula, now available in three scents – Lime Basil, Lemon Thyme, and Ginger White Tea."

What we thought:  I love the design of the new Palmolive Fresh Infusions bottle.  It is so sleek and simple and looks great on my kitchen counter.  The soaps come in beautiful colors and smell fantastic!  It's almost like getting an aromatherapy treatment while doing dishes:)  I know I'll be using Palmolive Fresh Infusions this holiday season and beyond:)  ABCD Diaries gives Palmolive Fresh Infusions an A+!


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.