Ultimate Pet Nutrition Review and Giveaway

 

I consider my pets more than just furry friends that live in our home; they are part of my family, and with all my family members, I want them to eat a healthy diet that they enjoy. Recently, I was introduced to Ultimate Pet Nutrition and their mission to bring good nutrition to our four-legged family members. Ultimate Pet Nutrition offers high-quality food, treats, and supplements made with the freshest ingredients and free of fillers and artificial preservatives.  We were sent a bag of their Nutra Complete premium pork freeze-dried raw dog food as well as their Nutra Bites wild salmon treats for review. Relic was licking his lips at the sight. 

Their Freeze-dried Raw dog food comes in 7 different varieties. They are a blend of protein, packed with seeds, minerals, fruits, vegetables, and vitamins. It helps support healthy digestion, a healthy immune system, and a healthy coat. 

Per the bag's directions, I added some Nutra Complete to his existing dog food since he is not used to eating a nutrient-dense raw food. You can add water to soften the food or serve it as is. Relic prefers eating food with a crunch, so I left it as is. You can gradually start feeding less of the former food and more of Nutra Complete for about 10 days.  Relic is absolutely loving it! 

He is also a huge fan of these wild salmon treats. 

You can purchase Ultimate Pet Nutrition products on their website and also on Amazon. If there is a feline in your family, you are in luck because they also carry a few products for all the cat lovers. 

The people at Ultimate Pet Nutrition are generously allowing me to host a giveaway. One of our readers will get the chance to win the same 2 products I received, a bag of Nutra Complete and a bag of Nutra Bites. 

The featured product (s) in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by anyone.

Royal Canin Digestive Supplement Review

 

Recently, I was given, or rather, Relic was given the opportunity to try Royal Canin Digestive Supplement Chews. For over 50 years, Royal Canin has been in the business of nutrition for cats and dogs. They have a variety of different foods available, as well as supplements with their most recent line of probiotics for cats and dogs, because our furry friends need healthy guts too. 

Relic was eager to give these chewable supplements a try. They come in an 8.5 oz. pouch with 60 supplements inside. Depending on your dog's size, it is advised to give 1 to 4 of these chews a day. Relic weighs about 70lbs., so 3 chews are recommended for him. 

He actually really enjoys these. They are a treat for him, but I know that they are also aiding in his health. Developed by a veterinarian, these supplements for adult dogs promote a balanced gut biome, healthy digestion, and good stool quality. Now, I don't make it a habit to check out dog poop, but I have noticed that when I am cleaning the yard, Relics' poops are much firmer and easier to pick up, meaning they don't squish when I pick them up with the pooper scooper. This is definitely a good thing. I've also noticed fewer stinky toots, another good thing. Relic and I both agree that these digestive chews are a win. 

You can purchase some at PetSmart, Petco, or online at Chewy. They also have a Digestive and Immunity variety.  Relic says, "Go check them out!"  Woof Woof!

The featured product (s) in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by anyone.

Tamalitoz Review

Growing up in southern California I grew up eating Mexican candy. That delicious combination of spicy, sweet and salty. It is a flavor I crave and always gives me a nostalgic feeling. I remember as a little girl walking to my grandmother's neighbor's house after school because she had a little table set up inside her home where she sold a variety of sweet and salty candy's. Saladitos, Tamarindo, Diablitos, Chamoy and my favorite Vero mango lollipops. It wasn't until years later that I learned that many of those candy's may have contained some questionable not so healthy ingredients. So, I was pretty excited to learn about Tamalitoz by Sugarox. 

The owners of Sugarox, that started out as a small candy store in Mexico making small batch hard candy, decided to create a line of candy's inspired by my favorite Mexican sweets. But, with a twist! While most Mexican candies are covered with chili on the outside. Tamalitoz contain chili on the inside. So, you get a sweet exterior with an explosion of chili flavor on the inside. 

Their Divine Watermelon hard candies are sweet watermelon on the outside, but as you continue to savor these you start to get a hint of chili lime and once you get to the middle of these little pillows that delicious chili taste fills your mouth. They are really good! So good in fact that I left an open bag on the counter while I was at work and when I got home, they were all gone. My husband devoured these. 

Their Chili Pops Chamoy are naturally flavored cucumber, coconut and tamarind flavored lollipops with swirls of chamoy. They are so tasty and remind me of my favorite Vero lollipops. I hear they also have a mango flavored one that I must try. 

In addition to these candy's, I also tried their Palomitaz Lip Smackign Mango Popcorn. I love adding Tajin to my popcorn, so I knew I was going to love this. Salty, sweet with a hint of chili this popcorn snack is addictive. I would have finished the whole bag myself it wasn't for my husband again who also enjoyed these. 

Tamalitoz has definitely found a new fan and consumer in me. I am excited to try some of the other varieties of candies and popcorn that they sell. Check them out here!

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by anyone.

Avaline Wine Review

 

Recently I was shopping at my local Target when I came across Avaline wine. What caught my eye was the bottle. It was very simple but elegant. I also liked the little tagline on the front that read "Pairs well with: The warmth of the sun and the company of your best friend."

I decided to do some quick research on it and discovered a couple of things. First off, its organic. Made from organic grapes. It also contains no added sugars or artificial colors. Second, the faces behind this wine are actress Cameron Diaz and founder of beauty brands Versed and Merit, Katherine Power. I decided to purchase a bottle of their Rose' to see what it was all about. 

I really enjoyed it! It is dry with just a slight sweetness without the bitterness. Clean and crisp is how I would describe it. It is perfect for sipping, while nibbling on cheese and fruit. You can join their online wine club or purchase single bottles online. You can also find Avaline at places like Target, Whole Foods and Total Wine & More. I will definitely be checking out some of their other wine varieties in the near future. 

Bubblegum Kids Review and Giveaway *Stocking Stuffer Idea*

Recently I was introduced to Bubblegum Kids, a sugar free gum that tastes great and brings back the nostalgia of the 1980's. When I saw this, it reminded me so much of growing up in the 80's, chewing on Bubblicious, while going through my growing stack of Garbage Pail Kids cards. In fact, the creators of Bubblegum Kids were inspired by their childhood obsession with bubblegum to create a healthier alternative while still being kid friendly. 

Bubblegum Kids has some fun flavors to choose from like Hanna's Frozen Banana or Daisy's Strawberry Field, my fave, and Popeye's Spinach. They have even launched new Care Bears inspired gum like Birthday Bear's Cake Batter and Cheer Bar's Cotton Candy. This gum is a healthier version of sugar filled kids gum. They come in 2.9 oz packs filled with 55 pieces of little gum squares. These would make great stocking stuffers for the young or young at heart. Go check out some of the other tasty flavors they carry! I am also hosting a giveaway for one lucky reader who will get the chance to win 4 pks of Bubblegum Kid's in the following flavors: Daisy's Strawberry Field, Theo's Wacky Watermelon, Hannah's Frozen Banana and Barry's Scary Berry. Please enter the giveaway below, US entries only! 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

 

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Veriphy Skincare Review and Giveaway

 

We aren't just a skincare company, we are a movement.

I was recently introduced to Veriphy skincare products. Veriphy skincare was created by a group of scientists on accident, discovering a 100% plant based form of glycogen. Glycogen is known for it's skin replenishing, anti-wrinkle properties by boosting production of elastin, collagen and hyaluronic acid. These scientists were able to formulate skincare products backed by science and containing clean ingredients. 

Veriphy skincare is available for a variety of skin concerns. Whether you are looking for ant-aging, relief for dry skin, or dealing with hyperpigmentation, they got you covered. 

 I was sent three products in their Hydrate & Glow Gift Set for review. 

• Self Absorbed Facial Moisturize- A rich moisturizer that leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated but not oily. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. My skin feels smooth to the touch. 
• Power Trip Facial Serum- A skin exfoliator that is gentle and provides hydration to the skin while removing dead skin cells and helping even out your complexion. 
• 20/20 Eye Cream- This eye cream is gentle to use around the delicate eye area. It is made to firm and smooth out the skin so your eyes appear more youthful. 

I have been using all three products for about a month now and I absolutely love them. My skin feels nourished and super soft. These are high quality products that work great. I was also sent two Triple Threat Discovery Kits. These kits include the same products mentioned above but in smaller trial sizes so you can see what the fuss is about. This kit is also perfect as an on the go kit for traveling. I would love to share my love for Veriphy skincare by giving two of my readers the chance to win a Triple Threat Discovery Kit. 

This giveaway will end on January 14. Please leave a valid email address if it is not visible in your profile. US entries only. 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

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*Gift Idea* From the Pocket of an Overcoat Children's Book

 

From the Pocket Of An Overcoat by R. Vincent is the story of a cat named Max who was living with a homeless woman named Sally. One day Max meets Farmer Buckles and is soon off to a new adventure and a new home. This children's book is a cute story about love and family. It is also based on a real life Max that was found by a homeless woman in Dallas.  She kept him safe in the pocket of her overcoat while she found a home for him. 

I read this story to my preschool class and they loved meeting Max's new family on the farm. Including a rooster and four dogs that welcomed little Max into their home. The story ends with anticipation of Max's adventures yet to come, and my preschool friends were eager to find out what happened next. We took turns using our imagination and thinking of possible mischief Max gets into on the farm. If you are looking for a heartwarming book to gift to a child this one is it. A portion of each book sale will be donated to organizations that promote animal rescue and adoption. You can purchase From The Pocket Of An Overcoat on Amazon, Target or Barnes and Noble. 

To learn more about Max Buckles visit www.maxbuckles.com or follow on Instagram and Facebook. 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

*Gift Idea* Wednesday Coloring Book Review

 

As we all await season 2 of Wednesday here is the perfect gift for the morbid Wednesday fan in your life. A Wednesday coloring book by book publishers Ulysses Press  and illustrated by Amanda Brack. 

Color your way through Wednesday’s dark and twisted world with original, hand-drawn illustrations that will pull you by your braids into Jericho, Vermont and leave your head spinning.

I have always been a fan of all things dark and weird. I loved watching old episodes of The Adams Family growing up and enjoyed watching season 1 of Wednesday. It took me back to my high school days, yes I was pretty much Wednesday back then. Although I don't look it these days, I still am a fan of the strange and unusual. 

Hence, the reason I was excited to receive a copy of this book for review. I love the illustrations and I have pretty much worn my black colored pencil. I enjoy passing the time mindlessly coloring the images of Wednesdays world while listening to Bauhaus or Siouxsie and the Banshees. I love that their is a whole new generation of Wednesday fans, even in my preschool class. Good bye Anna braids, I am now seeing 4 year old's in their Wednesday braids. 

You can get your ghoulish hands on this book on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, for yourself or as a gift.

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.   

*Gift Idea* CordBrick

 

Are you looking for a stocking stuffer that is actually useful?  What about a CordBrick? CordBrick is designed to help you keep track of your phone cord or other tech cords. Made of silicone and weighted steel this little brick gathers your cords and weighs them down so they never fall behind your nightstand table or desk. You can use it to hold cords, wrap cords, as a phone stand or stand for your earbuds. 

CordBrick comes in a variety of colors and a small size that takes up little space. The compact size is also perfect for traveling with. I can't tell you how many times I have had to search for my tablet cord in the dark because it slipped off my nightstand while I was watching a show in bed. Bonus...it also comes in a glow in the dark version. This is totally going to alleviate my frustration! 

There is currently a Black Friday deal on Amazon for CordBrick at the low price of $9.59. What a steal!

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

*Gift Idea* Dowan Butter Dish Review

 

It's Black Friday season and the perfect time to shop for those holiday gifts. I don't know if you are anything like me, but I tend to try and avoid the mad rush during this time of year by doing most of my shopping online. It's convenient, you can find some great products you wouldn't normally find in your local stores, and lets not forgot to mention the deals. 

Recently I learned about Dowan Ceramic Dinnerware they have a large variety of items that can be purchased easily on Amazon. If you are looking for the perfect gift for that foodie in your life or someone like me that loves receiving kitchen related stuff, then you got to check out all they have to offer. 

Like these colorful ceramic mixing bowls which I absolutely love. They come in this really cute pattern, are stackable and so affordable. They are oven, dishwasher and microwave safe and perfect for mixing up your baked goods. 

I am also a fan of these ramen/noodle bowls. How stylish and adorable are these?! They would make the perfect gift for any ramen lover. 

Dowan has so many products that I would love to own. I could literally fill my Christmas wish list with just products from them. One of their products that I am now an owner of is their Butter Dish for Spreadable Soft Butter. 

I love the taste of real butter but those blocks are so hard to spread. This butter crock means no more cold, hard butter. You can enjoy soft fresh butter with this French butter dish that keeps your butter fresh without refrigeration. 

You simply use a spoon to pack your butter into the butter keeper. Place water to the fill line in the butter dish and put the butter keeper upside down directly into the bowl. The water forms a seal that preserves your butter. There it is! Fresh spreadable butter at your fingertips. Change the water out every 2 to 3 days and you can also add a bit of salt to the water to keep the butter fresher longer. I love my Dowan Butter Dish! 

It comes in several different colors but the white matches perfectly with my kitchen décor. What's more this cute little butter dish is currently on sale for only $13.48!

Dowan has already started their Black Friday deals on just about all of their products. Why leave the house when you can easily shop from the comfort of your home and get some great gifts. Go check them out now! 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone

*Gift Idea* & Deal Alert: Good Chemistry

 

It's Holiday shopping season! I just learned of a company called Good Chemistry They make personal and home fragrances that are clean and made with essential oils. 

If you are starting your gift shopping, now is the perfect time to check them out because they have great promotions coming up. 

• Halloween Flash Sale, October 31 : 31% Off Sitewide

• Singles Flash Day Sale, November 11: 22% Off Sitewide

• Black Friday, November 20-26: 25% off sitewide use promo code FRIYAY23

• Cyber Monday, November 27-30: 20% off sitewide + free shipping use promo code CYBER23

• Stocking Stuffer Sale, December 7-12: 20% off sitewide use promo code STOCKING

Look at how pretty their bottles are. I bet this Sugar Berry scent smells amazing with notes of raspberry, freesia and vanilla. They also have reusable glass candles designed to be refilled over and over again with their biodegradable candle refills. Check them out on Instagram! 

Temecula Crumbl Cookies Grand Reopening!

 

Have you heard of Crumbl cookies? They are one of the fastest growing cookie companies with over 800 stores all over the United States, and if for some reason they don't have a location where you live...well guess what, they also deliver. So what is so great about Crumbl? The cookies of course! With a weekly rotating menu they have so many delicious creations to try. Their cookies are thick, chewy and baked in store so you get fresh cookies every time. This week's cookie menu includes their Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk, Guava Cake, Monster, New York Cheesecake, Cookies & Cream Milkshake and Brown Sugar Cinnamon. All served to you in their famous pink box. 

One of my favorite cookie flavors at Crumbl is their Sea Salt Toffee, salty, sweet, chewy with a crunch, it can't be beat. I was bummed when I went by the Temecula location to find out that it was closed but I just found out why. It is under new ownership and preparing to reopen this Friday, September 29. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held when doors open at 8am, and the first 100 people in line will get a FREE Crumbl t-shirt! Plus, there will be music hosted and provided by 102.5 The Vine starting from 10am to 2pm. The celebration will continue on Saturday from 1-4pm with a live DJ and a fun prize wheel where customers can win free Crumbl merch! If you live in the area be sure to stop in and join the festivities and get yourself some tasty cookies! The Temecula Crumbl location is located at 31867 Rancho California Rd. If you are not in the area, no worries! Stop in to your local Crumbl and this weekend and enjoy some cookies too! 

La Jeanell Moonlight Lume Pod Review

 

I recently learned about an an independent and woman owned brand of vegan and natural skincare products called La Jeanell. La Jeanell offers a line of makeup and anti-aging skincare products all made in the USA. Their skin care line which has products for both men and woman are formulated with natural ingredients to hydrate skin and help keep a youthful appearance. Their makeup products are vegan and organic and formulated for sensitive skin. 

I was sent a Moonlight Lume Pod for review. This is a creamy highlighter that leaves a subtle shimmer anywhere you use it. It comes with a small applicator brush perfect for applying to the eyes for a hint of sparkle. I also like to dab a small amount on my cheek bones and nose using my fingers for a dewy glow. This is really a great highlighter/ bronzer or pop of color anywhere you would like to accentuate. 

I am absolutely in love with this product which makes me want to try some other  La Jeanell cosmetics, like their Dramatic Lashes Black Mascara. Go check out their website to learn more! If you sign up with your email you will receive 10% off your order. Also be sure to follow on Instagram to stay in the loop on the latest La Jeanell news. 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone

Mode Chocolate Review

 Are you a chocolate lover? If so, then I have something to share with you! It's really tasty chocolate that's healthier for  you. Made without all the extra sugar, all natural ingredients and sweetened with monk fruit. 

Mode Chocolate  is a better option for those with a sweet tooth. These tasty chocolate bars come in both milk and dark chocolate. the dark chocolate option contains only 1g of sugar and is only 3 net carbs while the milk chocolate option contains 4g of sugar and only 4 net carbs. This is just a teeny amount compared to some other popular chocolate bars. I have to admit I was a little worried about whether or not I would like the taste of this chocolate but I did! It is creamy and taste like...well, really good chocolate. They are also about the size of a Hershey's bar so you are getting the same size snack in a better for your version.  Chris is a chocolate fiend so I knew in order to seal the deal with this chocolate I had to get his stamp of approval. His thoughts, that's really good, do you have any more? Unfortunatly I was only sent one bar of each flavor to review however, you can purchase Mode Chocolate bars online in 5, 10 and 20 packs. They even have a subscription option so you never run out of chocolate. If you practice a low carb lifestyle or are looking for healthier options for yummy treats, than give Mode Chocolate a taste! Visit their website for a chance to win a years supply of chocolate! 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

*Deal Alert* National Coconut Day!

Today is National Coconut Day and Dignity Coconuts is sharing the love with a 15% off discount today, June 26. This offer will be available for 24 hours, don't miss it. You can check out my previous post on Dignity Coconuts here. Penelope uses their raw, organic coconut oil whenever she has an eczema flare up and it helps. We also use it on our pups nose and paws that tend to get scaly. Of course, it is also great for baking!

Not only is this a great discount for you but when you purchase products from Dignity Coconuts, you are helping end modern slavery of coconut farmers in the Philippines. 

To date, Dignity Coconuts has helped 156 families escape slavery and poverty, has given 114 people get good jobs at their manufacturing plants where they also get continuing education and life-skills training. With the help of Dignity Coconuts, the community has received multiple medical clinics for thousands at a time, as well as dental clinics. They have given clean water to over 100 families and, after typhoons and COVID, 336 homes were rebuilt and relief goods and financial assistance were provided to farmers who lost crops. 

Dignity Coconuts is a great company with a great product, go check them out! 

TeeTurtle Plushie Tote Bag Review

 

Tee Turtle is a company that creates and sells pop culture and fandom apparel, toys and games. From licensed products from Capcom, Sanrio, Marvel and Disney to name a few, to just plain cute items for anyone that is into kawaii, kitsch or "nerdy" things. The latest arrival to hit their online store are these Plushie Tote Bags.  

These tote bags are hidden inside an adorable plushie. You open the velcro storage pouch on the bottom of the plushie and out comes a matching tote bag. The plushie becomes a super cute and comfy handle to hold your bag or sits comfortably on your shoulder. 

I was sent the Angel Cat Plushie Tote Bag for review, but these tote bags come in several different styles to match your personality. These sell for $20 and are just big enough to fit every day carry items or use as an overnight bag. I am a preschool teacher and I am planning to save mine for the next school year, to carry my lesson planner and important school items that I need on a daily basis in the classroom. The kids are gonna love it! Go check out more patterns and plushies as well as other charming items at Tee Turtle.

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.

We saw the Harlem Globetrotters!

 

Back in December I posted how excited I was to get the chance to see the Harlem Globetrotters in action. As an 80's kid I remember hearing all about them and watching them on TV and thinking they were the coolest. When I told my husband Chris that I had received complimentary tickets to see them he was also excited. He said when he was a kid it was his dream to go see them. He told me they had a knock off version of the Globetrotters in the small town in Oregon he grew up in, and was sad when he didn't have the $2.00 for the tickets to go see them. I thought the story was amusing, but I didn't realize how much finally seeing the Harlem Globetrotters really meant to him, until February when we hit the Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs ready to watch the show. 

Here we are ready for the show to begin. The Harlem Globetrotters don't just play basketball they put on a great show with comedy, action and tricks, all the while showing off their amazing athletic abilities. 

It was so much fun! The players interacted with the audience who were all enjoying themselves. I saw families with small children, families with older children and even groups of adults, probably fulfilling their childhood dream like my husband. Speaking of Chris, he had a blast and when it was all over he told me I had made one of his boyhood dreams come true.

If you didn't get the chance to see the Harlem Globetrotters in action during this tour be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook to stay informed of when they will be touring around the states again. I believe they are currently finishing up their international tour. You can also watch them on their show Harlem Globetrotters Play it Forward streaming on NBC. 

Gifts for the Cookbook Enthusiast!

I know I have mentioned this before but I am a collector of cookbooks. I enjoy cooking and trying out new recipes, so having an array of cookbooks at my grasp is a must. My favorites are the ones with colorful photos of food and stories behind the recipes. I received two new cookbooks to add to my collection and I absolutely loved them. From independent publishers Ulysses Press, 50 Things to Bake Before You Die and The I Love Trader Joe's Air Fryer Cookbook.

Author Allyson Reedy puts together an assortment of recipes from some of the best bakeries and bakers. Cakes, cookies, pies, crème brulee (my absolute, all time, favorite desert ever), you name it. The photos are lovely and make you want to try every single recipe in the book. 

I made these Salted Peanut Butter Cookies and they were sooo good. I am not a big baker mostly because I am not a big fan of sweets but these were yum! My daughter Penelope is really into baking so I thought she would love this cookbook. I was right! She has bookmarked several pages of recipes that she plans on baking. 

Author Rita Mock-Pike has put together over 100 recipes using foods found at Trader Joe's and my favorite kitchen appliance ever, the air fryer. Trader Joe's is so much fun to shop at and carries some delicious items. When I saw this cookbook which paired my favorite grocery store with my favorite cooking tool I was sold. The book is full of appetizers, sides and main dish recipes that are tasty and quick to make. This is a must have cookbook if you like cooking but also don't want to spend hours in the kitchen prepping and making a mess. I am so excited for my next Trader Joes shopping trip! 

Both of these cookbooks would make great additions to your collection or as a gift for someone who enjoys spending time in the kitchen. You can find copies of these and more books from Ulysses Press on Amazon. 

The featured product{s} in this post were provided to me free of charge by the manufacturer or PR company representing them. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by  anyone.