MommyParties Cadbury Ice Cream High Tea

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.

"As Moms, we'd all agree that one of the best things about summer is the opportunity to spend quality time with our kids. A close second might be the cool treats that we allow ourselves to indulge in when the temperature rises!" 

Thanks to MommyParties and Blue Bunny, we were given the opportunity to host a High Tea.  We were given party supplies and a variety of Cadbury Ice Cream Bars to share with our guests.

• Cadbury Ice Cream Bars
  Blue Bunny ice cream has teamed up with Cadbury chocolate in the creation of two new premium ice cream bars; Royal Dark and English Toffee. The Cadbury Ice Cream Bar is creamy Blue Bunny ice cream dipped in thick, rich, Cadbury chocolaty coating. Filling the void between regular and super premium ice cream bars, the Cadbury Ice Cream Bar is snack size indulgence at a price and size the whole family can enjoy. The Cadbury Ice Cream Bar features the newest indulgent flavors:
• Cadbury® Royal Dark™: Creamy Blue Bunny reduced fat vanilla ice cream dipped in thick, rich Cadbury Royal Dark chocolaty coating
• Cadbury® English Toffee: Creamy Blue Bunny reduced fat toffee ice cream dipped in thick, rich Cadbury milk chocolaty coating with toffee pieces
Hosts will also receive two classic favorites including:
• Cadbury® Caramello™: Creamy Blue Bunny Reduced fat vanilla ice cream swirled with caramel sauce all dipped in thick, rich Cadbury milk chocolaty coating
• Cadbury® Vanilla Chocolate: Creamy Blue Bunny reduced fat vanilla ice cream dipped in thick, rich Cadbury milk chocolaty coating

Tea, ice cream and a reason to dress up?  You don't have to tell these girls twice!  Our party was a huge hit:) 

The girls and their moms/grandmas/aunts had a blast setting up, dressing up and enjoying our tea party as well as our Cadbury Ice Cream Bars.

What better way to cool down and enjoy some summer fun than by hanging with friends and eating delicious ice cream!

ABCD Diaries and all of our guests give Cadbury Ice Cream Bars an A+!

AquaBall Keeps Kids Hydrated This Summer!

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

"True Drinks created AquaBall™ Naturally Flavored Water, a naturally flavored,
vitamin-enhanced, zero-calorie, sugar-free alternative to juice and soda.
AquaBall™ is available in five flavors: orange, grape, fruit punch, berry and
just in time for summer strawberry lemonade!

AquaBall™ is distributed to more than 21,000 locations across the country.
True Drinks is increasing production capacity with a third facility to open midyear.
What’s in it?
Water, Vitamins B6, B12, B3, Vitamin C, and naturally flavored with Stevia.

What’s not.


Zero calories, zero sugar, no artificial colors or flavors, no high fructose corn syrup.
That’s why we always encourage moms to “Read The Label!”


Why kids like it
AquaBall is colorfully wrapped in their favorite Super Hero and Princess characters and it
tastes great! Children are thrilled with our first release flavors of grape, orange, fruit punch,
berry and strawberry lemonade."

What we thought:  A way to make drinking more water fun?  AquaBall does just that by lightly flavoring water and putting it in a fun ball-shaped water bottle and wrapping that cool bottle with images of super heroes, princesses and Disney characters.  This water bottle appeals to all ages and is a great way to keep kids cool and hydrated this summer.  We reviewed the grape and fruit punch varieites with a house full of kids ages 4-8 and they were a huge hit!  

ABCD Diaries gives AquaBall an A+!

Geraldine's Bodacious Food Co Review

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.

Um, yummy!  Geraldine's, where have you been all my life?  These snacks were a huge hit with the whole family!  They are the perfect bite-sized finger foods for snacking and we LOVE to snack!  The cheese straws are by far the best I've ever tasted. (If you've never had a cheese straw, you are missing out!)  The sweet potato sticks are crunchy and delicious.  The bite-sized cookies just melt in your mouth and have been a favorite at our regular tea parties that A hosts for the neighborhood kids.  If you are looking for some fun and tasty finger foods for snacking, look no further than Geraldine's Bodacious Food Company!! ABCD Diaries gives these delicious snacks an A+!

Beyond Bedding Review + Sweepstakes!

This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. As you may remember from our previous review, we love Beyond Bedding!  Beyond Bedding offers kids bedding. Cute, affordable kid's bedding that your kids will actually like.  And not just bedding, but everything you need to pull your bedroom theme together...you know, like window treatments, wall decor, quality sheets, hampers, tote bags, lamps and the list goes on and on.  D is still in love with his dinosaur set and was super excited to get the new sheets and hamper to match: I must say, the hamper has been the solution to the "laundry-all-over-the-bedroom-floor" problem we've been having.  The kiddos LOVE having a fun new place to put their laundry and they have actually been emptying the hamper into the laundry room BEFORE it gets full:)  Oh Happy Day!  And to be honest, I'm a little jealous of D's new sheet set.  They are so soft and cool to the touch.  He loves the bright bold colors and that they match his comforter and shams perfectly. Once again, we would have to give Beyond Bedding an A+!  Beyond Bedding toddler bedding ROCKS!

Beyond Bedding wants you to know:

• We're now holding monthly contests on Facebook where you can enter to win a new set when you review your current set on site for a chance or share a set! More details here: http://on.fb.me/10snNF9
• Beyond Bedding offers $7.95 flat rate shipping to the U.S.
• Beyond Bedding regularly releases new baby bedding sets designs, such as chevron baby bedding,  nautical baby bedding, and other modern crib bedding styles.
• We also offer made to order bedding sets and custom teen & toddler bedding designs. 

And Beyond Bedding is hosting a super cool and fun contest!!  Contest details are as follows:

• Contest will run July 24th - August 8th




5 Bedding Sets & 10 Accessories up for grabs
Contest rules and stipulations: Contest open to US/CA residents. CA winners are subject to duty fees. By entering this contest, you understand that Beyond-Bedding.com may, from time to time, send you offer and promotions related to our products. You may at any time remove yourself from our e-mail marketing list. We will never sell or distribute your information to any third party. Winners will be notified through email and must respond within 48 hours to choose a prize or a new winner will be chosen.

Sun Angels UPF 50+ Protection Gear Review

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.

"Sun Angels, maker of UPF 50+ sun protection gear for kids,
introduces a new accessory with their UPF 50+ arm sleeves. Designed with kids and parents in
mind, Sun Angels arm sleeves are kid-friendly, fashionable and offer UPF 50+ protection, the
best possible rating for protection against potentially harmful UV rays. These easy-to-slip-on
arm sleeves offer parents an instant, chemical-free alternative to the often challenging task of
lathering on and re-applying sticky sunblock to a wiggly child. No mess. No fuss. No missing out
on the fun for your little angel.
As you know, playing in the shade is best, but it isn’t always possible. When your little angels
head out into the sunshine, we hope you love the peace of mind that comes with Sun Angels
added protection.
Sun Angels. The next best thing to playing in the shade."

What we thought:  This is a really cute idea.  It is typically too hot here in Texas to wear sleeves after March, but these UPF 50+ arm sleeves are so lightweight, the kiddos don't mind playing in them.  And the sleeves come in stylish designs and look so cute on the kiddos.  This is an affordable, comfortable and fun way to keep your little one's skin safe from the harmful UV rays of the sun.  ABCD Diaries gives Sun Angels sleeves an A+!

Celebrate National Mustard Day with French's!

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.

Celebrate Summer in a New Way

Participate in National Mustard Day –sponsored by French’s Mustard

Mustard Day 2013 is Saturday, August 3rd

"French’s® Mustard has helped bring together the people we love, the moments we treasure and the food we savor ever since it first introduced its Classic Yellow Mustard in 1904 at the St. Louis World’s Fair. While mustard remains the most popular condiment for hot dogs, it’s a secret cooking ingredient that many home chefs are just now starting to share. This year, in honor of National Mustard Day, celebrate America’s #1 Mustard brand* by using a bit ofFrench’s to add more flavor to your favorite everyday recipes. So whether you prefer Classic Yellow, Spicy Brown, Dijon, Horseradish, Honey or Honey Dijon,French’s has a flavor that will take your family favorite recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.

In addition, with a new museum designed to celebrate this flavorful favorite, why not take a summer road trip to the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, just steps from downtown Madison, Wisconsin’s 2^nd largest city? On Saturday, August 3rd, visit Mustard’s “home” and experience a fun-filled day for the entire family at the annual festival that has made mustard an integral part of celebrating summer across America.

“While most of us recognize mustard for its popularity as a condiment used on hot dogs, burgers and sandwiches,  mustard is about so much more,” says Barry Levenson, Curator at the National Mustard Museum. “It’s the versatility of French’s mustard that also makes it ideal for adding a boost of flavor to everyday recipes and an added benefit of French’s Classic Yellow, Spicy Brown and Horseradish varieties, they are 100% natural and zero calories.” This year’s visitors can expect a fun-filled day for the entire family when National Mustard Day 2013 kicks off at 10 a.m. with free hot dogs, live music, games, mustard samples and more. Festivities continue all day until 4 p.m.

National Mustard Day 2013 Activities include:

·         Opening ceremonies with Dr. Mustard

·         Onsite appearances by the French’s® Mustard Man

·         Live music by the Red Hot Horn Dawgs

·         Free Hot Dogs (*mustard required)

·         Mustard Games that raise money for Restoring Hope Transplant House

·         Magic by Wayne the Wizard

·         Klements onsite grilling brats

·         Oscar Mayer Weinermobile

·         FREE Mustard sampling

Even if you can’t make it to National Mustard Day, you can celebrate the day with these great summer recipes and for more, log onto www.frenchsfoods.com.

BEEF KABOBS WITH DIJON STEAK DRESSING

Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 10 mins

¾  cup              FRENCH'S® Dijon Mustard

¼  cup              olive oil plus additional for skewers

¼  cup              honey

1 tbsp.              FRENCH'S® Extra Tenderizing™ Worcestershire Sauce

12                     bamboo skewers, soaked in water

2 lb.                  boneless sirloin steak, cut into 1-in. cubes; season to taste with salt and pepper

2                      large red bell peppers, cut into chunks

2                      large red onions, cut into chunks

1. WHISK mustard, 1/4 cup oil, honey and Worcestershire in bowl; set aside.

2.  THREAD 4 steak cubes, 4 bell pepper chunks and 3 red onion chunks on each skewer. Brush steak skewers lightly with olive oil.

3. GRILL kabobs over medium-heat for 10 min. or until desired doneness, turning frequently.

4. DRIZZLE kabobs with Dijon sauce and serve extra on the side.

Makes 6 servings, 2 skewers each

SUPER JUICY  CHICKEN A simple, classic BBQ technique that yields a moist, flavorful chicken with a subtle flavor of mustard Prep Time:0 mins        Cook Time:0 mins 3lbs        fryer chicken, cut into 8 pcs ½  cup    FRENCH’S® Classic Yellow® Mustard 3 Tsp      McCormick® Grill Mates® Montreal Spice                                           1. PREHEAT grill to medium heat 2. PLACE chicken pieces on large plate and coat both sides with FRENCH’S® Classic Yellow® Mustard. Sprinkle Montreal Spice on. 3. GRILL over medium heat for 20 minutes till juices run clear or 160F internal. Makes      4-6 servings TIP- works great on ribs, brisket and pork shoulder to protect and tenderize over low and slow barbecueing EASY CHEESY MAC & CHEESE Prep Time:10 mins     Cook Time:35 mins 8 oz.                        uncooked elbow macaroni (4 cups cooked) 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can   CAMPBELL’S® Condensed Cheddar Cheese Soup  1 ½ cups               milk  2 to 3                    tbsp.   FRENCH’S® Classic Yellow® Mustard 3                           cups (12 oz.)    shredded American or Cheddar cheese  2                           tbsp.   butter, cut into pieces 1.  COOK macaroni according to package directions using shortest cooking time. Drain and place into greased 2-qt. baking dish. 2.  MIX soup, milk and mustard. Pour over pasta and stir in 2 cups cheese. Top with butter. 3.  BAKE at 350°F for 30 min. or until hot and bubbly. Stir. Top with remaining cheese. Bake 5 min. until cheese melts. Makes 6 servings  Variation: substitute other types of shredded cheese such as Jack, Mexican blend or sharp Cheddar.     SALMON WITH DIJON SAUCE Prep Time: 5 mins            Cook Time: 15 mins       4  (6 oz.)             salmon fillets                           Salt and pepper to taste 1/3 cup               FRENCH’S® Dijon Mustard 3 tbsp.                olive oil 3 tbsp.                lemon juice 1tsp.                   minced garlic 1. SEASON salmon with salt and pepper. Place into greased baking dish, skin side down. 2. MIX remaining ingredients. Reserve 1/3 cup sauce. Spread remaining sauce over salmon pieces. 3. BAKE salmon at 400°F for 10 to 15 min. until salmon is cooked through. Serve with the reserved mustard sauce. Makes 4 servings

#NSNation Nutrisystem 5 Day Jumpstart Wrap Up Review

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.

I am so excited to be working with Nutrisystem and getting the chance to review the 5 Day Jumpstart Kit!  

I successfully completed the Nutrisystem 5 Day Jumpstart Kit!  By eating the provided foods, increasing my water intake and adding 30 minutes of activity a day, I was able to lose 5 pounds in a week!  I'm confident that by continuing these small diet and exercise changes, I will be able to continue to get closer to my weight loss goal:)
Overall, I think this kit is a great way to jumpstart your weight-loss plan.  If you've ever thought about trying Nutrisystem, this is a great way to sample their food and decide if it's right for you.

Want to lose weight and get healthy on Nutrisystem? Join today by calling 1-888-853-4689 or by visiting http://www.nutrisystem.com/nsblog

S2O All-in-One Laundry Sheets

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

Check out S2O, a pre-moistened, biodegradable, all-in-one laundry sheet.

"In most households summertime only means one thing, more laundry. Between baseball games and barbecues, chances are that by the end of the day your family’s clothes paint a pretty vivid picture. With all of that laundry piling up, you could be doing up to three loads a day - Not to mention, the amount of detergent, bleach, fabric softener, and stain remover being used which, could be costing you up to $1.40 per load!

S2O makes doing laundry a breeze. Here’s why:

·       S2O is a pre-moistened, organic, biodegradable surfactant, all-in-one laundry sheet that takes the place of detergent, fabric softener, stain sticks and booster products, saving consumers time and money – approximate savings of $1.20 per load!

·       S2O prevents the redeposition of soil from washing machine “grey water,” which means no need for caustic bleach and other products that are harmful to the environment

·       S2O retails for $19.99 for a 100-sheet tub and is sold at CVS, Bed Bath & Beyond, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Boscov's and other retailers as well as online at https://www.s2olaundrysheets.com

·       S2O is made from plant extracts as well as soy, coconut and corn which have a higher degree of efficacy in breaking down stains"

What we thought:  These sheets are so convenient!  We use two at a time because we always have a ton of laundry and the sheets really work to get our clothes clean.  The light, clean scent is really nice too, it's not crazy strong so it's great for my scent-sensitive family:)  These sheets are easy to use and you can feel good about knowing you are saving money and time while gently cleaning your clothes in a safe and effective manner.  ABCD Diaries gives S2O Laundry Sheets an A!

Bazooka Candy Brands: Despicable Me 2 Prize Pack Giveaway!

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.

"This summer, the mischievous Minions of “Despicable Me 2” are not only taking over the world, but also a candy aisle near you!  In conjunction with the highly anticipated Universal Studios sequel, “Despicable Me 2,” Bazooka Candy Brands will be introducing a line of Despicable Me 2 and Minion-themed candy at retailers nationwide.

Among their favorites, fans will find limited edition-versions of Ring Pop, Juicy Drop Pop, Jumbo Push Pop, and Baby Bottle Pop featuring movie tie-in and silly minion-themed wraps.  

In addition to the fun and tasty candy line, Bazooka Candy Brands will also feature two Despicable Me 2 promotional games at Candymania.com, a candy-centric gaming, activities, and pop-culture platform.  Mission ImPOPsible is a complex multi-level game that takes kids through the movie plot so they can live out the action for themselves. The second game, Minion Golf, lets users be as silly as the minions as they try to put their favorite candy to their excited and hungry minion friends."

Want to win?  We are giving away a Bazooka/Despicable Me 2 Prize Pack that includes Baby Bottle Pop, Juicy Drop Pop, and Push Pop Despicable Me themed candies!

Whole Fruit Sorbet & Greek Frozen Yogurt Giveaway!

ABCD Diaries may have been given samples for review purposes. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

"J&J Snack Foods' Whole Fruit Sorbet & Greek Frozen Yogurt has been nominated as one of 15 First-Half Favorite Dairy Products of 2013 in Dairy Foods Magazine!! Now it's time to show them that Whole Fruit is your favorite and we need your help!

The winner is selected by voting in a poll on the Dairy Foods website. It's our mission to get the vote out! We'd like to offer you the opportunity to host a giveaway on your website. We will send 5 Whole Fruit VIP coupons to a single giveaway winner that you select from your site. One of the requirements for entry should be voting for Whole Fruit Sorbet & Greek Frozen Yogurt in the Dairy Foods Poll. The voting is only open until Jul 31, 2013, so HURRY!"

Here's the link! First-Half Favorite Dairy Products of 2013: http://www.dairyfoods.com/polls/36

#NSNation Nutrisystem 5 Day Jumpstart Kit Mid-Week Update...

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.

I am so excited to be working with Nutrisystem and getting the chance to review the 5 Day Jumpstart Kit!  

I have completed 3 days of the 5 Day Jumpstart kit.  The first few days, I found my self pretty hungry in between meals, but by day 3, I noticed I was staying fuller longer.  I have really enjoyed the meals and snacks from the kit.  Probably my favorite aspect (other thn the food of course:) was the meal plan that was included with the kit.  It is so easy to use and pretty much plans your meals for you.  You do have to provide fresh produce and dairy products, but the plan lists several good options, so even if you are a picky eater, you are sure to find items you will like to add to your meals and snacks.  

The 5 Day Jumpstart kit is packed full of food and I haven't found anything I haven't enjoyed yet.  The portions are smaller than I'm used to, but I am getting used to it:)  I have lost some weight, (I'll reveal the final total in next week's post) but best of all, I'm feeling better, both physically and emotionally:)  

Stay tuned for my wrap-up review of the Nutrisystem 5 Day Jumpstart Kit next week!

Want to lose weight and get healthy on Nutrisystem? Join today by calling 1-888-853-4689 or by visiting http://www.nutrisystem.com/nsblog