Char Crust

Looking to spice up the standard chicken breast or goof-proof the cooking of that prime beef tenderloin? Professional chefs and home cooks alike are ever searching for unique, simple ways to impress guests whether in a five-star restaurant or at a home party.

Char Crust dry-rub seasonings were originally developed in 1957 to give steaks a flavorful charred-like crust while sealing in natural, succulent juices. They are now used nationwide to enhance a variety of dishes from beef, lamb, and pork, to poultry and seafood. The premium seasonings have become a popular secret ingredient at restaurants and home kitchens.

“People like to use our products because they don’t have time to cook anymore, but still want delicious meals,” said Bernard Silver, president of Char Crust, Inc. “With Char Crust rubs, at-home chefs can easily create restaurant-style entrees.”

“Likewise, professional chefs find themselves short-staffed and pressed for time, so they count on Char Crust rubs as a sure-fire way to serve juicy center-of-the plate items with flair,” said Susan Eriksen, vice president of Char Crust.

Dry-rub seasoning flavors include Original Hickory Grilled, Roasted Garlic Peppercorn, Ginger Teriyaki, Hickory & Molasses, Smoky Spicy Southwest, Amazin’ Cajun, All American Barbecue, Sun-Dried Tomato & Garlic, and Roto Roast. Chefs simply rub the blends of premium herbs, spices and other natural ingredients onto the surface of uncooked meat or fish, then broil, bake, grill, pan-sear, roast, or sauté.

Char Crust rubs also fit many food lifestyles, such as low-fat, low-carb, or low-calorie diets, as each three-gram serving contains zero fat, one or two carbs, and no more than nine calories. All Char Crust rubs are also certified kosher.

Four-ounce packages retail at $5.49 and are sold online at www.charcrust.com. Products can also be found at butcher shops, gourmet food stores, and grocery stores nationwide. The seasonings are also sold to restaurants primarily through Sysco's ChefEx program. Chefs at popular restaurants in all 50 states depend on Char Crust rubs to prepare signature menu items.

About Char Crust

Char Crust is a line of dry-rub seasonings that sear and form a beautiful crust that “Seals In The Juices” on a variety of food items specifically meat, poultry and seafood. Flavors include: Original Hickory Grilled, Roasted Garlic Peppercorn, Ginger Teriyaki, Hickory & Molasses, Smoky Spicy Southwest, Amazin’ Cajun, All American Barbecue, Sun-Dried Tomato & Garlic, and Roto Roast. The product was first developed by Nathan Silver at his legendary Al Farber's Steakhouse in Chicago in 1957. The company is still owned by Nathan’s family and headquartered in Chicago where they manufacture their retail and foodservice products and sell them throughout the USA and Canada.

I Call Bulls**t.

I Call Bulls**t by Jamie Frater

About The Book:

Astounding, myth-shattering evidence that disproves hundreds of commonly - but wrongly - held beliefs. Dissecting the myths, misconceptions, and all-out lies that almost everyone believes as “fact,” I Call Bullshit shocks and amazes readers with just how much trivia they have wrong. Author Jamie Frater puts together a riveting collection of myth-busting revelations. It includes fascinating body facts, like that the “ocean” sound you hear in a seashell is actually the sound of your own blood, and historical facts like that pirates never made prisoners walk the plank. Another section turns general knowledge on its head with doozies such as: the fax machine was invented before the telephone, and U.S. ship captains can’t perform marriage ceremonies at sea.

My Thoughts:

It's funny to learn about something that you were so sure was the truth, and then find out that it is not the truth. Though a lot of the things in the book I already knew were myths, so that was nothing new. But a good amount of them, I thought for sure were true. But then if I sat back and thought about, it makes sense why it isn't true. You learn something new everyday!

About The Author:

Jamie Frater runs the popular website listverse.com. He lives in New Zealand.

You can buy this book at I Call Bulls**t on Amazon.

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Ulysses Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Equmen Mens Compression Clothing

EQUMEN enables men of the world to be at their best. Using the latest high performance technologies and state-of-the-art designs, their garments are engineered to optimise and energise the body, from street to sport, work to weekend. EQUMEN is about looking sharp and living smart. Every man, every day, every wear.

Be at your best with the EQUMEN Singlet. Engineered compression fabrics and ergonomic design optimise health and well-being, street to sport. HELIX-MAPPING technology builds in physiotherapy techniques to:

• Improve Posture: Gently pulls the shoulders back to enable optimal alignment. Proper postural alignment is known to facilitate oxygen-flow for enhanced energy.

• Help Reduce Back Pain: By correcting posture and supporting the core, allows the muscles to exert less effort in supporting the weight of the body, thereby relieving pain in the back.

• Visibly Streamline: Second skin fit and targeted compression visibly slims for a more tailored look.

• Control Temperature: Targeted mesh, moisture-wicking fabric and anti-microbial properties ensure you stay dry and comfortable all-day.

• Enhance Circulation: Helps to support healthy blood flow, oxygen and nutrient delivery.

The Singlet is ideal:

• In any weather, for business or casual core wear

• For focused core support

Discover the ultimate in comfort and fit with EQUMEN PRECISION UNDERWEAR. Engineered compression fabrics and ergonomic design optimise health and well-being, street to sport. With HELIX-MAPPING technology:

• Precision-Fit Pouch: Double-ventilated pouch provides ultra-comfortable support.

• Streamlines & Defines: Body-defining, second skin fit. Added stretch enhances shape retention.

• Controls Temperature: Targeted mesh, moisture-wicking fabric and anti-microbial properties ensure all-day comfort.

My husband has tried the singlet and the trunks, and he loves them both. And well, he don't look half bad in them! *wink*

Check out Equmen on Facebook as well as Equmen on Twitter.

I recieved products from Equmen in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Nancy Drew Alibi In Ashes Game *Giveaway* 2 Winners!

Nancy Drew: Alibi in Ashes

Escape the Smoky Intrigue of a Hometown Inferno! A local contest turns into an arson scene and now deceit smolders among the charred ruins of the River Heights Town Hall. Police have several suspects, but well-placed incriminating evidence and poisonous local gossip compelled authorities to make only one arrest: Nancy Drew. Can you, as the teenage detective and her closest friends, catch the real arsonist and extinguish the accusations among the embers?

*Explore River Heights! Search for clues in Nancy's hometown.

*Play as Four Characters! Assume the roles of Ned, Bess, George and Nancy Drew.

*What's Next for Ned & Nancy? Will their relationship finally blossom?

*Ask Tough Questions! The answers vary depending on the character asking questions.

*Use Police Forensics! Identify fingerprints at the local police lab.

This is a very fun game. It will keep you engaged for hours! Lots of twists and turns! It's a fun challenge to solve!

Two lucky winners will each win a copy of this PC game! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC, the newsletter, or Networked Blogs.

2. "Like" Nancy Drew on Facebook.

3. Follow Her Interactive on Twitter.

4. Promote this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 22nd. Open to US only, sorry! Good luck!

I received a product from Her Interactive in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Newman's Own Organics *Giveaway*

With the commitment from his daughter Nell, Paul Newman established an organic food division of Newman’s Own in 1993. Newman’s Own Organics became an independent company in late 2001. Through the sale of its products, Newman’s Own Organics generates money for The Newman’s Own Foundation to donate to a wide range of charitable organizations. Products from the Newman's Own Organics line include: Pretzels, Cookies, Chocolate Bars, Chocolate Cups, Mints, Pop's Corn, Soy Crisps, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Dried Fruit, Coffee, Tea, Dog Food, Cat Food, and Dog Treats.

My family was lucky enough to try a wide variety of NOO's products! I was amazed at the different kinds of products! We loved them all! And these products were of such great quality that we have replaced many of regular brands for Newman's Own Organics products! Some of my favorite items from the brand are:

One super lucky reader will win all four of these products: Fig Newman's, Raisins, Licorice, and Pretzles! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC, the newsletter, or Networked Blogs.

2. "Like" Newman's Own Organics on Facebook.

3. Follow Hanging Off The Wire on Twitter.

4. Promote this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 22nd. Open to Us only, sorry. Good luck!

I received products from Shepard PR and Newman's Own Organics in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Neuro Drinks

Neuro delivers a system of drinks developed to upgrade your life. Each drink is formulated by leading experts in the areas of nutrition & food science, neurocognitive research, and clinical nutrition, to include a blend of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids and proprietary dietary ingredients to enhance specific aspects of our lives: When life is boring, NeuroPassion; When we’re mentally foggy, NeuroSonic; When we’re tossing and turning, NeuroSleep; When the clouds take over, NeuroSun; When our thirst can’t be quenched, NeuroAqua; When we’re stressed, NeuroBliss; When we sweat it all out, NeuroSport; When we slack on our diets, NeuroTrim.

I have tried all the Neuros, and I love each and every one.

NeuroPassion is a delicious, lightly carbonated drink formulated with ingredients to promote "playful" energy. So often our hectic lifestyles deprive us of the energy needed to engage in various activities. NeuroPassion provides ingredients at effective dosage levels supplying energy for all the playful activities you choose. Included in NeuroPassion is the synergistic combination of caffeine and L-theanine. Caffeine and L-theanine are ingredients found in green tea; in conjunction they provide energy without the edginess commonly associated with caffeine alone. Other NeuroPassion nutrients include Alpha GPC, Phosphatidylserine and a full range of B-vitamins. NeuroPassion provides energy for whatever activity you have in mind. 

NeuroSleep is a delicious drink formulated with ingredients to help promote restful sleep. Each ingredient contained in NeuroSleep plays a unique role in the sleep cycle. Melatonin, which is found naturally in tart cherries but also produced in the body, serves as the primary ingredient to promote restful sleep. Additionally, NeuroSleep provides 5-HTP, an ingredient structurally similar to the amino acid tryptophan, which provides structural support to neurotransmitters important for cognitive health. Magnesium is included at 300 mg per bottle (75% of the daily value), and serves as a key electrolyte that may help prevent cramping during rest. NeuroSleep is the optimal bedtime drink, providing quality rest which helps you function at your best. 

NeuroSun is a delicious drink designed to provide all the benefits of Vitamin D without the harmful UV rays of the sun. Vitamin D is so strongly associated with the sun that it’s commonly known as the “sunshine vitamin.” Besides its important role in bone health, other emerging research suggests Vitamin D plays an important role in supporting the immune system and promoting cognitive health. Maintaining proper vitamin D levels can be achieved by changes to the diet or exposure to the sun, but supplementation is a very effective and convenient way to obtain sufficient amounts of vitamin D. NeuroSun provides 1000 IU of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) in every 35 calorie serving per bottle. 

NeuroSonic is a delicious drink designed to increase high level mental functioning: better memory, alertness and concentration. NeuroSonic was formulated to help meet the demands of today’s high stress living, where it’s vital for the brain to function at top form. The unique combination of plant extracts, amino acids and unique dietary ingredients provide fuel for the brain to remain focused and alert over long periods of time. The ingredient Alpha GPC provides raw materials to the brain to help it function better, faster. Vitamins Inositol, B-6, B-12 and other B-vitamins help support the nervous system. Rounding out the formula is the ingredient resveratrol, an antioxidant found in red wine, which protects the brain and may have anti-aging benefits. Together, these ingredients provide the foundation for enhanced brain function. 

NeuroAqua is refreshing spring water sourced from the Californian Adobe Springs – thought by many to be the world’s purest source of water. What makes this water different than others on the market is its naturally high levels of magnesium and calcium. Magnesium serves as a critical electrolyte in the human body, helping to maintain bone health, hydration and nerve function. Recently, the World Health Organization recommended fortifying drinking water with magnesium due to its importance in human health. These naturally occurring minerals give NeuroAqua a high alkaline level and a higher pH level. This counters the acidity that food leaves in our bodies, and balances it out. NeuroAqua is refreshingly crisp and smooth, providing instant hydration and refreshment throughout the day. 

NeuroBliss is a delicious drink designed to promote happiness and eliminate stress without affecting your energy levels. The combination of blissful ingredients in this product is distinctly unique from any other product on the market. L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea which has been clinically proven to help reduce stress, works by altering brain waves, shifting them from the beta spectrum to the alpha spectrum — where a person is focused and alert, but calm. NeuroBliss is perfect for anyone wishing to reduce anxiety caused by every day stressors. NeuroBliss can be consumed multiple times per day and works immediately. 

NeuroSport is a delicious drink designed to replenish the body during and after exercise with the unparalleled combination of 12 minerals and 5 electrolytes. The five key electrolytes of potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride are in each bottle. Most sports drinks contain only 2 — sodium and potassium — not enough to keep the body properly hydrated. It’s scientifically proven that magnesium, calcium, and chloride significantly contribute to effective rehydration during exercise. NeuroSport also has good-for-you minerals such as chromium, copper, manganese, molybdenum and selenium, which are depleted during rigorous workouts. Quickly restoring these minerals helps improve endurance and increase fitness levels, making NeuroSport the sports drink of the next generation. 

NeuroTrim is a refreshing, non-carbonated drink formulated to help promote healthy weight loss. NeuroTrim contains a special form of fiber known as Amorphophallus konjac ("LuraLean"). Compared to other fibers, LuraLean is considerably more hygroscopic (water-absorbing) and dense, both factors contributing to its effectiveness. When consumed, LuraLean expands in the stomach to many times its original size, helping to control appetite and reduce between meal food cravings. Based on the expansion properties of LuraLean, one gram (included in each serving of NeuroTrim) is equivalent to 18-20 grams of regular fiber. In conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise program, NeuroTrim should be consumed 30 minutes prior to each major meal. 

So they are all great for you, in different ways! They are all delicious, and instead of grabbing a soda at the store, I am now reaching for a Neuro!

Check out Drink Neuro on Facebook, as well as Drink Neuro on Twitter!

I recieved products from Rogers & Cowan and Neuro in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Zaca Recovery Patch *Giveaway* 2 Winners!

Zaca Recovery Patch: A simple, all-natural recovery topical patch is infused with 11 different organic ingredients. A powerful blend of antioxidants, vitamins and amino acids. Enjoy feel-great mornings, clear-headedness and bright eyes. - Prickly Pear - Milk Thistle - Thiamine (B1) - Lipoic Acid - B5 - B3 - Taurine - Lycopene - NAC - Magnesium - Vitamin C

The topical patch is very small and lightweight (about 1 inch x 1 inch -- texture is like gauze).

A lot of people use the Zaca Patch so they can party or go to the bar, and not get hungover. But as moms, we don't always get the luxury to let loose. So, I use my patch when I know I am going to have a very stressful day. Then in the morning, I wake up refreshed and relaxed, instead of frazzled and exhausted. It works, and I love it!

Two lucky winners will receive 3 patches each! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC, the newsletter, or Networked Blogs.

2. "Like" Zaca on Facebook.

3. Follow Zaca Life on Twitter.

4. Promote this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 21st. Open to US only, sorry. Good luck!

I recieved a product from Zaca Life in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Drank: Slow Your Roll

Innovative Beverage Group Holdings, Inc. announced that the  company will add a new tropical blend aptly named, Drank Island Time, to its popular relaxation product line. The godfather of the relaxation market, IBGH CEO Peter Bianchi, developed Island Time with the end of the world in mind. The ancient Mayans, along with many other civilizations, have pointed to December 21, 2012 (12/21/12) as the end of days based upon astrological cycles and the alignment of planets. Bianchi decided that with this year as possibly our last, he would create another product to help calm and relax. “With all the talk about this topic, I would hope to be on an island somewhere with a Drank in hand, toes in the sand and a clear mind when the world comes to an end,” says Bianchi. “This product poses the question: what is your island time and how do you intend to relax in the midst of the end of the world?”

Drank is the world’s first-ever relaxation product of its kind and has developed a nationwide, cult-like following that has provided a viral movement of increased popularity. At the helm of this movement, Bianchi is a self-professed ‘Type A’ personality who realizes the need for our society to slow down and enjoy life once in a while. “Drank provides a responsible way to relax,” Bianchi adds. “Consumers who want adventure and relaxation can still enjoy an active lifestyle while unwinding from their busy schedules. Island Time is a perfect new extension of the Drank family of products.”

“As we get closer to the end of the world people are going to feel a lot more stress,” says Matthew Tuttle, CEO of Tuttle Wealth Management in Stamford, CT. “People need to come to terms with the end of everything and the fact that they can't do anything about it. Drank can't save the world but it can make people more relaxed about everything.”

About Drank:

Drank is the first extreme relaxation dietary supplement to hit the market designed to help calm and relax. With a slogan of "slow your roll," this lightly carbonated relaxation product uses melatonin, valerian root and rose hips to provide a relaxing effect. Since launching Drank to select markets in early 2008, it has become the go-to product for consumers looking to relax their mind and body.

For more information about Drank, please visit: www.itsdrank.com or follow Drank on Twitter and at The Official Drank on Facebook.

I received products from NPG PR and Drank in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Better Food For a Better You

What could be more fun in the kitchen for your daughter or son than to pop an exotic ingredient into the blender to make a fruit smoothie? The key to starting the journey of preparing and eating healthier foods is to make it an exciting group adventure. Whipping up a pink strawberry or purple blueberry smoothie is one way to gradually incorporate nutritious foods into your diet. Start with the basic items, such as milk (soy or almond milk if you’re lactose intolerant), yogurt or fruit juice and experiment away. Add mint, vanilla, cocoa powder, peanut butter, berries, bananas, kiwi, fruit juice concentrate or honey. Fresh or frozen fruits are best, but canned ones will do. Use colorful stripe straws to make it more colorful for kids and start sipping away.

Sandwiches

Allow your junior "family chef" to fix sandwiches for siblings. Start buying bread, bagels and buns that are a fiber-rich. Usually the toppings, whether it is peanut butter, cheese or egg will outweigh the newness of whole grain bread slices. Soon each family member will be anxious to put in her own cheese, turkey, lettuce and tomato slices. Encourage kids to try new items by allowing them to create faces on their sandwiches with cranberry noses and raspberry eyes.

Vegetable Salad

Dressing up vegetable salads is a great way to introduce better nutrition. Let the kids throw a salad together with a variety of greens, carrots, seeds and nuts. Sometimes if the vegetables are served in a new form, such as a carrot coin instead of a carrot stick, children are more eager to try it. Not only are vegetable salads rich in nutrients if paired with the right lettuce, it is possible one of the quick and easiest meals to prepare.

Fruits, Veggies, and Snacking

Front and center in the frig place a container that is always packed with clean, cut, ready-to-eat veggies or fruits that are easy to grab after school. Offer peanut butter as a dip and increase your kids' protein. Capitalize on our culture's snack affair by filling your cupboards with popcorn coated with a honey/peanut butter mixture. Form peanut butter balls made with one cup each of milk powder, peanut butter, honey, oats, coconut, chocolate chips and whatever else you imagine.

Other Options

Tossing in a few veggies cut up small in the chili, substituting a cup of oat flour for white in chocolate chip cookies or pancakes and using fat-free dairy products go a long way to bettering your nutrition. Many of these ideas are used by the American Cancer Society in their diet plans for patients going through chemotherapy for Pleural Mesothelioma to help boost their immune systems. Invite your kids to pitch in a few new healthy ingredients along with the original, and you have a fresh start to better health.

Kristin Wells is a recent college graduate from The University of Georgia and an aspiring writer. She wants to make a difference in people's lives through her writing. Kristin also likes competitive cycling, running, and traveling as much as possible. Kristin also collaborates on Curious Mind Musings.

Savory Summer Blog Hop

The Savory Summer Blog Hop will be featuring all things food and food-related that can be enjoyed during the summer. Basically, if it is something that a human being can eat, eat with, eat off of, cook, cook with, prepare food with…it belongs in this event!

Seeking Event Sponsors:

I am currently seeking food-related businesses (can be a business that sells food itself, appliances, food utensils, etc.) to sponsor this event. Ideally, the sponsor will provide a food-related product for me to review and a prize for my readers as part of a giveaway. If you own or work for a food-related business and are interested in sponsoring this event, please contact me at callansparents@yahoo.com. I look forward to working with you!

To participate as a blogger in this event, check out all the info at The Savory Summer Sign-up!

The Amazing Mat

Clear plastic sheets capture dirt, dust, mold and pollen! The Amazing Mat is not an ordinary rubber, fabric or grass door mat. It is constructed of separate layers of specially designed clear "sticky" sheets that collect dirt and germs when stepped on. When the top one gets dirty, simply peel it off (along with the dirt) and expose a new sheet. The mat is safe and easy to walk on for adults, children and pets.

The Amazing Mat comes in a variety of designs to go with every décor. A hard plastic 25"x31" mat is the foundation of the Amazing Mat system. It comes in a variety of designs and has a non-skid backing so it can be placed on hard surfaces or carpet. The sticky sheets attach easily on top and create a cost-effective means of keeping your home clean and sanitary.

I love our mat. I actually used it to place under the cat box and it works great for collecting the stray pieces of litter! No more sweeping or vacuuming every single day! It's awesome! The Amazing Mat ($29.95) is available in six different designs and can be purchased at www.theamazingmat.com.

Check out The Amazing Mat on Facebook as well as The Amazing Mat on Twitter. 

I received a product from Interact Marketing and The Amazing Mat in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tarte Makeup

After trying Clinique and Lancome makeup for several years, both brand names worked fine as my choice for powder, but my skin often broke out. Suffering from allergies since I was born, I’ve always struggled with finding the right products that work for my skin. Today it’s still hard to find the right type of product that doesn’t irritate my skin. Then I came across Tarte makeup. I don’t know why I never tried natural makeup, but when I finally did try their powder, my skin stopped breaking out!

With Tarte’s Amazonian clay pressed mineral powder I’ve not only had clear skin, but revitalized skin. Carrie Underwood is one big fan of Tarte and it’s easy to see why. This powder has SPF 8 in its clay combined with Vitamin A and Vitamin E. It’s formulated without mineral oil, paraben, sodium, synthetic perfumes, and more. That’s probably all of the stuff that was making my skin break out!

Another big selling point for me, besides the vitamins and the fact that it doesn’t break out my skin, is that this makeup is cruelty free. Tarte does not test their makeup on animals prior to making it available to the public. Since recently I personally don’t support cosmetic brands that perform animal testing, this is one more factor as to why I love this new brand name.

When I first put this makeup on my skin I was skeptical. I thought it wouldn’t be thick enough or smooth enough to cover the blemishes on my face. However, it not only went on smoothly, but it covers the blemishes on my face perfectly! I’m a huge fan of my Tarte pressed mineral powder and if you’ve been looking for a new powder that doesn’t break out your skin, I would definitely suggest Tarte.

Sierra is a writer and fashion blogger for JoeShopping.com. Find great deals on brands like Tarte with Beauty.com coupons and catch up with Sierra on her blog Ocean Dreams.

Macaroni Monday - Super Easy Valentine's Wreath

Supplies:

Foam heart-shaped wreath, available at hobby stores

Ribbon (1 Spool of 1.5” ribbon and six to ten spools of different colors/patterns)

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Instructions:

Wrap the 1.5 inch ribbon around the wreath form and hot glue (you made need to make some small cuts to get the ribbon around the heart form)

Cut the remaining ribbon into 4 ½ inch sections, it will take approximately 120 pieces

Fold the ribbon pieces in half and hot glue them together at the bottom

Glue the loops on the wreath, using the different colored ribbons equally

Tie a loop on the back of the wreath and hang on a wreath hanger

Macaroni Kid and its family of Publisher Moms are dedicated to delivering the scoop on all the family-friendly events and activities happening in their communities each week. Check out Macaroni Kid’s list of communities and sign up to receive your free weekly newsletter.

Valentine's Day Popcorn Sampler *Giveaway*

What better way to send your heartfelt Valentine's greetings than with a Six-Bag sampler from Dale & Thomas Popcorn? That special someone will love each delicious bag of gourmet popcorn stuffed into a beautiful Valentine's Day Six Pack! All of the popcorn is gluten free and kosher OU-D.

I recieved the Chocolate Delight Sampler! Yum yum yum!  Chocolate Delight includes:

- Peanut Butter & White Chocolate DrizzleCorn

- Twice-As-Nice Chocolate DrizzleCorn

- Cinnamon Creme DrizzleCorn

- Black & White Biscotti

- Double Chocolate DrizzleCorn

- Dark Fudge with Praline Almonds

They were all so delicious, I could not pick a favorite. The bags were the perfect size for a little snack. This is the best chocolate and sweet popcorn I have ever had! Yum yum!

One lucky lucky reader will receive a Valentine's Popcorn sampler! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC, the newsletter, or Networked Blogs.

2. "Like" Dale & Thomas Popcorn on Facebook.

3. Follow Hanging Off The Wire on Twitter.

4. Promote this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 12th. Open to the continental U.S. only, sorry. Good luck!

I received a product from Dale & Thomas Popcorn in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

K-Y Brand Date Night *Giveaway*

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we are excited to share that K-Y Brand has partnered with Moviefone.com to offer an exclusive set of DATE NIGHT Packs, which combine K-Y Brand’s portfolio of premium intimacy enhancement products with a voucher for $10 off movie tickets for two. (You will have to purchase movie tickets at a movie theater).

These Date Night Packs are a perfect way for couple’s to spend Valentine’s Day together, both inside and outside of the bedroom.

One reader will win a Date Night Pack! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC, the newsletter, or Networked Blogs.

2. "Like" K-Y Brand on Facebook.

3. Follow Moviefone on Twitter.

4. Promote this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 12th. Good luck!

I received a product from LaForce-Stevens and K-Y in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

8 Tips For Building a Marriage That Thrives

The mega-millions spent by Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries, and Katy Perry and Russell Brand, on their lavish and exotic weddings failed to guarantee a long and blissful union. But they are not alone. Recent statistics show a decline in couples getting married and staying married for more than a few months or years.

Can marriages survive in today’s culture? Long-wedded author, Poppy Smith, says “Yes.” Here are Smith’s tips for building a marriage that not only works, but thrives:

Readjust your expectations. You didn’t marry your clone. Naturally, your partner will view some things differently. Be willing to flex and accept their right to be themselves.

Appreciate your different strengths. Analyze your personalities, your backgrounds, and what’s important to each of you. Identify each other’s strengths and affirm what these add to your relationship.

 Learn to communicate so you’re heard. Women tend to explain and expand. Men tend to edit. To be heard, communicate according to your spouse’s desired style, not yours.

Understand each other’s feelings about money. Does money signal fun? Symbolize success? Guarantee security? Or ensure power? Knowing what it means to both of you helps in settling money battles.

Practice a conflict resolution style that works for both. Clarify what the conflict is about. Listen to each other’s reasoning and feelings without interrupting. Then decide what best builds your relationship.

Recognize the emotional needs of your mate. Both men and women want to be valued, admired, respected, and listened to. Discover what makes your spouse feel loved and special, then find ways to meet that need.

Prioritize romance and sexual intimacy. Sex matters. It gives physical and emotional pleasure, strengthens love, and deepens commitment. Make time to play or be silly or sensuous in bed. It pays rich dividends.

Share your Dreams. What is it each of you longs to achieve? Are there some dreams you want to accomplish together? Be encouragers to each other and discuss steps you can take now toward your goals.

About the Book:

Why Can't He Be More Like Me?

9 Secrets to Understanding Your Husband

“What do you and your husband have in common?”

“We got married on the same day.”

Do you find yourself nodding in agreement with the answer to that question? You want your marriage to be happy and honoring to God, but you wonder how when your husband baffles and sometimes irritates you. You may even wonder if you made a terrible mistake.

Poppy Smith offers you hope in this upbeat, empathetic, and biblically grounded book. Why Can’t He Be More Like Me? will help you better understand areas of conflict in your marriage as you consider your different backgrounds, expectations, needs, and reactions on a variety of topics from communication styles to finances and sex.

Each chapter provides practical tools to help you learn to accept and enjoy your mate. The result will be a stronger, happier marriage as you grow to understand and even find delight in your differences.

Endorsements:

“Poppy Smith cares about relationships! Her astute insights, garnered from time spent living in numerous locations around the globe, brings a wealth of advice packaged with her upbeat warmth and wisdom.”

—Pam Farrel, speaker and author of over 30 books, including best-selling Men Are Like Waffles—Women Are Like Spaghetti

“This book will help you love your husband even when you don’t understand him.”

—Leslie Vernick, counselor, coach, speaker, and author of How to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts Wrong and The Emotionally Destructive Relationship

About Poppy Smith:

With her fun personality and passion for communicating life-changing truths, Poppy Smith inspires believers to thrive spiritually and personally. Poppy’s practical how-to messages (in print or in person) uses colorful examples from her own struggles to be more like Jesus. She encourages others to grow in every kind of situation—whether joyful or painful! Poppy is British, married to an American, and has lived in many countries. She brings an international flair seasoned with humorous honesty as she illustrates Bible truths. A former Bible Study Fellowship lecturer, Poppy’s teaching challenges women to look at their choices, attitudes and self-talk. As a result, God’s speaks, changing hearts, changing minds, and changing lives. Watch for Poppy's upcoming book release, Why Can't He Be More Like Me: 9 Secrets to Understanding Your Husband.