buzzoole code Socially Connected Consulting: 2015

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Thursday, December 31, 2015

My Top 5 Reviews of 2015!

The Elements of Review


The end of the year is a time for reflection. Looking back at 2015, I reviewed many products. Here are the top 5 reviews! 


5. Is my first review of Batter Berries! Foodie Friday: Batter & Berries Chicago Restaurant Review    It was my first visit to the B&B and I was very impressed.  I reviewed it again later in the year.  You can find that review here

4.  OneCoffee- I believe it's still only available in Canada, but it is great coffee and the company is very environmentally conscious.  Biodegradable,Organic Single Serve Coffee Review-Tuesday Tip

3.  G.H. Cretors Chicago Mix Popcorn- Being from Chicago whenever I see anything related to my hometown in Canada, I immediately want to try it.  The Chicago Mix is uniquely Chicago and some of the best popcorn you'll ever have.  Check out the review here

2.  I work out because it's good for me and I have to admit, because I love to eat too!  FitnessBlender.com has some of my favorite workouts.  I buy their plans because they are inexpensive and they work.  This year they revamped their website and made it so much better.  You can read my review here

1. Pantene Pro-V Hair Care Products- I have really done a lot of damage to my hair.  I honestly believe that these products have saved my hair.  Read the review here


There you have it.  My top 5 reviews of 2015 based on the number of views they received.  Please feel free to check out all of my other reviews!  I have plenty more reviews planned for 2016!  Have a very happy new year! 

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

The New Year Family Camping Giveaway! $270 ALP #Ohuhu

The New Year Family Camping Giveaway! ($270 ALP) #Ohuhu

camping666 
Deliciously Savvy is Hosting A New Giveaway for Ohuhu! They are Supplying one Lucky winner with $270 Worth of Fabulous Camping Products for 1 Lucky Winner! Enter Today & Good Luck!

Sponsored By ~ OHUHU

Hosted By ~ Deliciously Savvy

Co-Hosted By :

Amy & Aron's Real Life Reviews // Seasonal Family Fun // Heartbeats~ Soul Stains // Forever Dreamin' // My Silly Little Gang // IMHO Views, Reviews and Giveaways // Box Roundup // Michigan Saving and More // Capri's Coupons

PLUS a Big Shout Out To All Blogs Helping To Promote To Their Fabulous Readers and Beyond! Thank You! I Can Never Do It Without You :)

1 Lucky Winner Will Receive:

$270 ARV!

A BIG Thank You to OHUHU For All Of The Amazing Quality Products Included In This Fabulous Family Giveaway!

And Now The Giveaway!!!

Giveaway Dates ~ 12/30 9PM EST until 1/24 11:59PM EST
Entrants must be 18 years old to enter and giveaway is open to US residents only.
Any Questions Email Me At mcushing7 (at) hotmail (dot) com.
This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated or associated with Facebook,
Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site. This giveaway is valid only
in the United States. Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter.
This giveaway will end at 11:59PM (EST) on 01/24/2016.
Good Luck! Enter Below
Also we all “love it if you like us” on Facebook!

Thursday, December 24, 2015

Happy Holidays!

The Elements of Review

 

I would like to wish all of you happy holidays!  2015 has been a big year of changes for me and I'm making an effort to make 2016 my best year yet!  If you have a chance, please go to my other blog Beauty, Fitness & Health...Oh My! to see how I will be making 2016 the Year of Yes!


I will be doing a lot more traveling in 2016.  I am hoping to have more restaurant reviews for you.  Also, the usual product reviews.  If you are a brand that would like to partner with me for product reviews and/or giveaways, please don't hesitate to contact me.  Please go to my contact me page to find out how. 

I am also beginning a new career in social media marketing.  I have a few places you can buy my services.  I have gigs on Fiverr and on PeoplePerHour. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via the blog as well.

Thank you for subscribing and reading!  See you in 2016! 

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

4 ebooks To Read During Christmas Break (When You Need Some Me Time)

the elements of review 4 ebooks to read


I know Christmas break has just started, but I like to be proactive.  You know that after spending 24/7 with your children during Christmas vacation, you will need a break. You will be looking for places to relax and chill, just to get away.  Even if it is just for 10 minutes. Here are 4 ebooks to read during Christmas break, when you need some me time.   Nauman Ashraf has 4 ebooks from fiction to starting an online business for $ 0.99 each or all 4 for $2.99!



the elements of review 4 ebooks to read



The first ebook is Cold Weather. This is a short story with plenty of action! And the title is perfect for this time of year. Order it here.

The second ebook is In The Park. This is a suspense story about Ali who is sitting in the park on an ordinary day and then he hears a voice! Order it here.

The third ebook is Paper Art. This ebook shows you how to create things with paper including boats and planes.  This ebook is great for getting the kids creative juices flowing during Christmas break.  Instead of sitting in front of a screen all day. My son is always looking for ways to make the perfect paper airplane and if you have a kid like mine, this ebook is for you! Order it here.

The fourth ebook is Online Business. Looking to starting a new online business in 2016?! You are not alone. This ebook shows you how to build your new online business with just a few simple steps. I think $0.99 is a great investment for starting your new online business! Order it here.

If you would like to purchase all four ebooks, you can order them here

Nauman Ashraf works online as a professional writer. He has written ebooks on many different subjects including health, business, writing and relationships.

Disclaimer: This blog post has affiliate links.

Friday, December 18, 2015

The Promontory-Chicago Restaurant Review




When The Promontory opened a couple of years ago, I immediately wanted to go. Mainly because it's in my favorite neighborhood, Hyde Park.  Also because of the concept of a restaurant, bar and concert venue all in one place. 


While in my hometown this summer I went there with a couple of friends.  The atmosphere was laid-back. I felt comfortable sitting there chatting with my friends well after the meal was over.  They didn't rush us out.  The staff were friendly and service was excellent. 

The food was very good.  My friend had the salmon and crab cakes. My other friend and I had the lamb burger with chickpea fries.  Yes, chickpea fries!  I had never heard of chickpea fries and was nervous and excited to try them.  The meal was delicious and if I never have potato fries again that would be ok because the chickpea fries were better than I imagined they could be.  

The Promontory Review The Elements of Review
Lamb Burger with Chickpea Fries


I haven't attended a concert there yet, but it seems like every night there is someone performing there.  I like having a neighborhood place where I can just hang out and listen to music on any night.  The concert list is here


Salmon and Crab Cakes The Promontory
Salmon and Crab Cakes



The Promontory also gives back to the community with #hashtaglunchbag. On the last Saturday of every month they feed the homeless. Everyone is encouraged to come to The Promontory to help assemble and distribute 1000 lunch bags to Chicago's homeless.  When I'm there next year, I will make sure to attend #hashtaglunchbag.


Celebrate New Year's Eve at The Promontory with their NYE Tasting Menu. Find out more here.



The Promontory is located at 5311 S Lake Park, Chicago, 312-801-2100.

Hours

Dinner Nightly
Sun–Thurs: 5pm–11pm
Sat–Sun: 5pm–1am
Weekend Brunch
Sat–Sun: 9am–3pm
Weekday Lunch
Mon–Fri: 11am–3pm
Box Office
Thurs–Sat: 5-10pm

To find out more about The Promontory, go to their website.  You can also follow them on TwitterInstagram or Facebook.

Friday, December 11, 2015

Urban Herbivore:Foodie Friday

The Elements of Review-Urban Herbivore


I live in Toronto and one of the biggest malls here is the Eaton Centre.  Recently while shopping there, the family and I stopped to get something to eat.  The kids went to Subway, but the husband and I wanted something different.  He had heard good things about Urban Herbivore, so we thought we would give it a chance.

You can custom make your own bowls by choosing from these fresh ingredients!

The Urban Herbivore is not your typical restaurant.  They take pride in offering foods with no chemicals, preservatives or additives.  Everything they make is from scratch.  It's plant-based food. Their packaging is biodegradable, the cutlery and straws are made from corn. Even the lids and bowls are made from sugarcane. 


The Elements of Review-Urban Herbivore
And they have cupcakes too!

These things alone make it worth to eat at Urban Herbivore, but you know what else makes it worth it, the food. It is delicious, nutritious and amazing.  I have only had two meals from Urban Herbivore, but the next time I'm at The Eaton Centre I will go back to try more.  The bowls (Moroccan and Coconut Curry) are so good.  And they give you so much food that I split the bowl.  I have half for lunch and the other half for dinner. It is filling and makes you feel good about what you're eating.  


The Elements of Review-Urban Herbivore
Moroccan Stew

If you are in Toronto and want to have some delicious and healthy food, especially after a marathon day of holiday shopping, I highly recommend the Urban Herbivore.  You will not be disappointed. 

Here is a link to their menu

To Find out more about Urban Herbivore you can follow them on  

Twitter 

Instagram

Facebook




Monday, November 30, 2015

Random Acts of Kindness for Caregivers

When I think of great caregivers, I think of my mom and dad. Even though they have been divorced for almost 20 years, they still take care of each other. Several years ago my father lost his right leg and sight in his left eye all in one year. My mom was there to take care of him almost every day for a year.  My mom had knee surgery this past summer and my dad was there for her during her recuperation.

November is National Family Caregivers month, and the Random Acts of Kindness initiative aims to recognize and support the 40 million unpaid caregivers in the U.S. Many caregivers are boomer women, often sandwiched between the needs of their parents and their own kids.

A popular misconception is that caregivers are paid medical professionals, providing full-time care to someone in need of daily help, when in reality, most caregivers are family members or friends who are also working and managing their own families at the same time. For many, the caregiving role starts with simple things like scheduling a doctor’s visit or helping with daily errands, but gradually expands over time, until it becomes a major commitment in their lives.

Let me tell you about Random Acts of Kindness for Caregivers

All you have to do is identify someone in your life or in your community who is serving as a caregiver and do something nice for them. It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive, just a small gesture that makes a caregiver’s life a little easier. And please share your story with us. If you submit a 150 word or less summary of how you made a caregiver feel special and photo, you’ll be entered to win a cash prize from our $10,000 pot.

Almost three in ten people who are caring for someone say their life has changed with caregiving, oftentimes for the negative. More than one in five say their weight, their exercise, or their social life has/have suffered. Emotionally, one in five say they are generally unhappier and one in three say they feel sad or depressed. That’s why AARP created a community where caregivers can connect with experts and other caregivers and can find information and tools to take even better care of the person who once took care of them.


Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Element Associates and Midlife Boulevard.

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Happy Thanksgiving!


Hello!  I just wanted to wish you all a happy Thanksgiving.  Have a wonderful day wherever you are!  I'm thankful because my dad is here to celebrate the holiday with us in Toronto.  So, I have someone to watch the Bears game with! I hope you have a lovely day!

Friday, November 20, 2015

Foodie Friday: Batter & Berries Part Deux!



Batter & Berries
Batter & Berries Burger with Sweet Potato Fries




The hashtag Batter & Berries use most frequently is #comegetyousome and indeed I did!  I made a second visit there this summer.  I couldn't leave Chicago without visiting the restaurant. Read my first review of Batter & Berries here.


Batter & Berries
Scallop Omelette



As usual the restaurant was packed, but it only took us 20 minutes to get a table.  Pro tip: Go during the week, the wait for a table is better than the weekend.  I have a friend who went during the weekend and had to wait over an hour for a table.  The cool thing is that now they text you when you when a table is available.  So, you can walk around the neighborhood, but don't go too far.


Batter & Berries
Benjamin Loose-Leaf Teas


I wanted to try the French Toast Flight, but I saw the burger with onion rings and sweet potato fries on the menu and decided to try that.  I think they should offer samples of their signature dishes.  I would have gotten a sample of the French Toast Flight and then my order.  The food was delicious and the service was outstanding.  I know it was only my second time there, but I will be going back every visit to Chicago because the atmosphere is very welcoming. I felt like I was going to a friend's home to eat.  We saw our favorite server Tim there and he greeted us with a hug.

Batter & Berries Menu
Batter & Berries Menu
Check out the Batter & Berries menu here. Have you been to Batter & Berries?! Please share your experience in the comments section. To find out more about Batter & Berries follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Monday, October 5, 2015

Ramsey Lewis Take Another Look-Deluxe Edition






Back in 2011 Ramsey Lewis released Take Another Look.  It was a CD going back to his electric band roots of the 1970s.  What I like to call the 'Sun Goddess' Era.

The deluxe edition released in 2015 has three bonus songs 'Jungle Strut', 'Tambura', and 'Sharing Her Journey.' This CD takes me back to my younger days when my parents played their Ramsey Lewis records.  Below you can see Ramsey talking about how the CD Take Another Look came together.


Track  Listing:
1.  Intimacy
2.  Tambura
3.  Love  Song
4.  Living  for  the  City
5.  Betcha  by  Golly  Wow
6.  To  Know  Her
7.  The  Way  She  Smiles
8.  Jungle  Strut
9.  Sharing  Her  Journey
10.  Sun  Goddess
Bonus  Tracks:
1.  Jungle  Strut  - Dr.  John
2.  Tambura  -- Kung  Fu
3.  Sharing  Her  Journey  - TAUK



I like the mixture of  songs on this CD.  There's something for everyone. This is a great CD to listen to while relaxing or hanging out with friends and family this holiday season.  And for the Ramsey Lewis or jazz music fan in your life this would make a great gift.  It's never too early to start thinking about holiday gifts. 

Speaking of holidays, my first introduction to Ramsey Lewis was his Sound of Christmas album as a child.  It wasn't officially Christmastime until that album was played in our home  and I still feel that way.  I bet once you hear this CD it will be on heavy rotation in your home too!

Any Ramsey Lewis CD would be an excellent addition to your music library.

 
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I received this CD free for an honest review. The opinions are my own and results may vary. I received no monetary compensation for my review.



Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Repair & Protect Your Hair From Sun Damage-Tuesday Tip


Sunlight


I have done so much damage to my hair.  It became lifeless and brittle.  I could feel and hear it snap while combing.  For the past 3 weeks I've been using Pantene's Pro-V Overnight Miracle and Ultimate BB Creme haircare products.

                                                   Haircare products, Panten Pro-V



The Overnight Miracle works on my hair overnight while I sleep.  Just apply to the hair and go to sleep.  It's that simple! The Overnight Miracle dissolves in the hair quickly and doesn't leave any residue on the pillow.  Ovenight Miracle erases at least 6 months of damage.




Pantene Pro-V, Haircare Products


The Ultimate 10 BB Creme is for use during the day.  It's a 10 in 1 hair perfecter.  It strengthens hair, has frizz control, protects hair from heat styling.  It can be used on wet or dry hair.

I've noticed a lot less breakage and my hair is less dry and easier to manage.  I will continue to use these two products together.  I think these products are a must for the summer especially if you are spending a lot of time in the sun.  Use these products daily to repair and protect your hair from sun damage. Find out more about these and other Pantene products at Pantene.com



Tuesday, July 14, 2015

Summer in Chicago!

Buckingham Fountain-Chicago
Buckingham Fountain


If you follow me on Twitter (@dancingvalentin) or know me just a little bit, you know that I love Chicago.  I was born and raised there.  We are getting ready for our yearly trip there! Chicago has been in the news a lot lately because of the violence that plagues the city, but there's more to Chicago than that.  That is why I love the city so much.  It has more to offer than you may hear.

Recently, I've been inspired by Choose Chicago's campaign Beyond the Loop. Two Second City members go into various neighborhoods around the city to show that there is more to Chicago than the Loop, Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier.


Chicago
President and Mrs. Obama's home in Hyde Park




The first episode I saw was for Hyde Park.  

Hyde Park is my favorite neighborhood.  I just feel like I can exhale, be myself and enjoy the sights and sounds of the neighborhood.  Also, this is where President and Mrs. Obama's house is located.  In Beyond the Loop they visit Medici and Valoris (one of President Obams's favorites), but if you want to celebrate the diversity of Hyde Park you must go to Rajun Cajun. Rajun Cajun is a combination of soul food and Indian food restaurant. 





Beyond the Loop goes into other neighborhoods I've lived in like Lincoln Park and my second favorite neighborhood Lakeview. See a little bit about the Gay Pride Parade in Lakeview (Boystown) below.




Our Winters Are Brutal!  

We know how to do summer because of our winters.  Here are just a few things to while you are there.  Taste of Chicago is my favorite outdoor festival.  It's a chance to sample food from various restaurants and food trucks in the city and to hear some great music.  Gospel Festival and various festivals in the neighborhoods happening every weekend.  Another great way to explore the neighborhoods in Chicago.



But wait! There's more!
You should also check out the MCA Tuesdays On The Terrace, Blues Fest,  Millennium Park Summer Film Series and the Chicago Jazz Fest


There are a few things I know I'm doing once I get home to Chicago. 

The first is going to the Chicago Cultural Center  for Move Your Body:  The Evolution of House Music exhibit. and the second is to visit one of my new favorite restaurants Batter & Berries.  You can read my review for Batter & Berries here. Third I want to visit Maggie Daley Park. Named after the late wife of Mayor Richard Daley.


Taste of Chicago

I know I've missed some things.  When I lived in Chicago I felt so overwhelmed with things to do in the city, especially in the summer. Just check out the City of Chicago website and ChooseChicago.com for more things to do in this wonderful city!

Friday, June 12, 2015

G.H. Cretors Chicago Mix Popcorn Review (It's not Garrett Popcorn, but still good)




I live in Toronto, but I'm a Chicago girl. To me Chicago is a fantastic city known for its architecture, live theater, wonderful people (like me) and of course the food. When you think of Chicago food, deep dish pizza immediately comes to mine. We are also known for what's called the "Chicago Mix." That's a mixture of cheese and caramel popcorn.  If you're a Chicagoan and you hear the words "Chicago Mix" Garrett Popcorn comes to mind.

When I'm home I always try to go to Garrett Popcorn. Why?! Because it's the best popcorn ever! That's where the "Chicago Mix" was born. Recently Garrett Popcorn has had to stop using the name "Chicago Mix" because of a lawsuit by a company called Candyland. Candyland holds the trademark for "Chicago Mix." They had to change the name to "Garrett Mix". But I still call it "Chicago Mix." Shhhhh! Don't tell anyone!

I was very happy to find G.H. Cretors' "Chicago Mix" here in Toronto. I was amazed at how close it was to the "Garrett Mix." The caramel popcorn definitely reminded it me of Garrett's "CaramelCrisp."  It was sweet, buttery and just yummy.  The cheese popcorn could have been cheesier, but when you put the two together....heaven.

Chicago Mix


G.H. Cretors' "Chicago Mix" is the closest brand I've tried that tasted like Garrett's.  When I ran out of it, I made a special trip to the store to get more.  I hope that the store continues to sell it. It's like having a little piece of home with me in every bite. 

Their popcorn is gluten-free and contains non-GMO ingredients. Another reason to like them, right?! Check out G.H. Cretors' website for more flavors. You can also like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram!

Please feel free to connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and now finally I'm on Instagram!  Have you tried G.H. Cretors Popcorn?! What did you think?!

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Be Motivated To Keep Moving With Fitbit Zip-Tuesday Tip





Just want to briefly tell you about my favorite fitness tool, the Fitbit Zip. I cannot walk around or work out with out it. Fitbit Zip is a device that clips onto your clothing and keeps track of your steps and calories burned each day while moving or at rest. I have enjoyed using this product. 

I'm motivated to keep moving!

I don't want to stop moving because then the little face on the Fitbit sticks it's tongue out at me. I want to keep it smiling and the more I move the bigger the smile. It has this thing called the dongle that fits into a USB port on your computer. It syncs up with your Fitbit Zip. There you can see reports on calories burned, calories eaten and steps taken. 

 

My Myfitnesspal.com account is synced to my Fitbit account. 

So I log in the food I eat on MyFitnesspal.com and it transfers to my Fitbit account. If you are looking for a way to accurately calculate the calories you are eating and burning, the Fitbit Zip is for you. My next purchase will be the Fitbit One.  It's a step up from the Zip and also has a sleep tracker. You can purchase the Fitbit Zip or One at Amazon.com or go to Fitbit.com to find out about their other products. Fitbit makes a great Father's Day gift.


Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this post. 

Friday, June 5, 2015

FitnessBlender.com Website Review





 Published originally on February 18, 2015.

I enjoy staying fit and FitnessBlender.Com is always part of my workout routine. I've been doing their workouts since they only had 30,000 Facebook likes. Now they have over 250.000! I actually reviewed them a few years ago. Check out that review here. Fitnessblender.com recently released a new website.

The new website contains over 300 workout videos and some great new features like My Calendar.  Workouts can be added to the calendar directly. (See picture below) The days with the dots are where I've added workouts.  Just click on the day and it takes you to your workout. The thing I like the most is that you can add purchased programs to the calendar.  That makes them easier to follow. Unfortunately, none of the previously released ebook programs can be added to the calendar, it's only the FB Programs listed on the site. (see above picture)


My Calendar
You will still be able to purchase the ebook programs. I reviewed the meal programs last year.  You can find the review here. Also included on the website are recipes and a blog.  There's nothing to pay except when you buy the meal and fitness programs.  They are great at keeping prices low and the quality high. You still get over 300 workout videos for free. 

Find out more at Fitnessblender.com. You can also connect with them on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram.

Update 6/5/15:

I've been doing the FBAbs Workout Program and I have seen some great results.  I'm on my second round now.  Below is a screenshot of my schedule. This program is easily added to the calendar. All I do is click on the day and it takes me to my workout for the day.






Here's an example of a workout. This is what I did this morning!




Have you tried any of FitnessBlender.com's workouts or meal plans?! Let me know what you think.  Please go to my contact page to find out how to connect with me!



Tuesday, June 2, 2015

I'm Greek-ing Out for the New McDonald's Salad Bowls-Tuesday Tip





I don't usually go to McDonald's but I saw recently that they have added new things to the menu. Well, the first thing that honestly caught my attention was the Red Velvet Oreo McFlurry.  I have a terrible sweet tooth.  Anyway, after I drooled over the new McFlurry, I saw that McDonald's has new salad bowls 

I decided to try one out last week.  I had the I'm Greek-ing Out Salad.  I was actually surprised at how big it was.  You can have grilled or crispy chicken on the salad.  I got the grilled.  It was delicious with the Greek salad dressing. It was so filling, it's all I had for dinner.


The I'm Greek-ing Out Salad is only 280 calories.  The Greek salad dressing is 140.  There are two other salads that I will have to try, Head Over Harvest and Keep Calm, Caesar On. Find our more about the salads and other menu items by going to McDonalds.ca.

Tuesday, May 5, 2015

The Best Retinol Moisturizer Review:Tuesday Tip

OZ Naturals Moisturizer Retinol


OZ Naturals products are cruelty free, vegan and contain no parabens or sulfates. The Super Youth Retinol Moisturizer is a clinical strength anti-aging, anti-wrinkle cream.  It contains Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E and B5 and 2.5 % Retinol Cream. The cream is rich but not heavy or greasy.   It doesn't irritate the skin.

I have been using OZ Naturals products for the past three months and I'm always happy with the results.  I use the Super Youth Retinol Moisturizer after washing my face with the  OZ Naturals Vitamin C Cleanser.  I then apply the  Vitamin C Serum or  Hyaluronic Acid Serum. You can read the review of the Vitamin C Serum here. I also use the Super Youth Eye Gel and you can read review here.

After using the Super Youth Retinol Moisturizer for the past two weeks I have noticed less acne breakouts and scars. My skin stays moisturized for many hours and it looks more youthful.

This is definitely the best retinol moisturizer I have ever used. OZ Naturals proves that you don't have to spend a lot of money to have quality products. OZ Naturals products are made in the USA!

OZ Naturals products can be purchased directly through Amazon.com. And feel free to connect with them on Facebook and Twitter.


Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.  OZ Naturals provided me with a free sample of Super Youth Retinol Moisturizer for an honest review. The opinions are my own and results may vary. I received no monetary compensation for my review.

Monday, May 4, 2015

Peepoc.com (Social Polling Website) Review


opinions, social polling website



I was asked to review a new social polling website called Peepoc.comPeepoc.com is where you can post a question, vote on polls and share your opinion.  When I signed in I found out I was already following six people.



I like that there are different communities to join and trending polls. There are still a few things for them to work out. I wasn't able to register with Facebook or Twitter, but did register with my email address.

Be warned if you're a procrastinator like me Peepoc.com is a definite time suck.  I found myself exploring, reading and answering polls.  I enjoyed my time on Peepoc.com and meeting people from around the world.  I even created my own poll. It was very easy to do! Check it out below.


Is it more important to eat right or work out every day to lose weight?
— asked by

Go to Peepoc.com to find out more. Or you can download the app on Google Play or iTunes.

 
Disclaimer:  Peepoc.com is free to join. I am under no obligation to provide a positive review.  The opinions and experience are my own and results may vary.

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

Silk Creamy Cashew Milk: Tuesday Tip


vegan cashew milk


As soon as I saw the commercial for Silk Creamy Cashew Milk, I wanted to try it.  I love cashews and thought it was great to have another non-dairy milk to choose from.  I bought it and was pleasantly surprised how creamy it was.  It's  low in calories, the taste was great and even my son liked it. As a matter of fact he used it in all of his smoothies.  

I used it in my smoothies too and made a smoothie for the DailyBurn's #ShowUsYourShake campaign using the cashew milk. Get the recipe here.


#showusyourshake
My #showusyourshake Chocolately Goodness
Have you tried Silk Creamy Cashew Milk?! Let me know what you think in the comments below!

Monday, April 27, 2015

Celebrating My Favorite Year In Music 1985:April




At the beginning of this project I wrote down my favorite albums released in 1985.  As I was going through the list right now I noticed that none of them were released in April.  I went to the Wikipedia page to see what albums were released during that month and found a few by some great artists.

"Around the World in a Day" isn't one of my favorite Prince albums, but it does have one of my favorite songs by him called "Pop Life." It's very difficult to find Prince's music on the internet. I did find this clip from American Bandstand of the kids dancing to Pop Life. check it out here. The biggest hit to be released from this album was "Raspberry Beret". Every time I hear that song, I think of summer 1985.

"Be Yourself Tonight" by the Eurhythmics was a huge success in 1985.  This album released four great singles "Would I Lie to You?" which is now the theme song to one of my favorite shows "Border Security." "There Must Be An Angel (Play With My Heart)", "Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves" a duet with the phenomenal Aretha Franklin and (It's Alright) Baby's Coming Back."  I believe this is the album that made them a household name. Even my mother knew who they were.

A few more notable albums to be released in April 1985 were "Nervous Night" by The Hooters. This was their second studio album and probably the most successful. "Mr Bad Guy" was the first solo record released by Freddy Mercury, the lead singer of Queen. It only peaked at 159 on the chart in the US. That's probably why I don't remember it. Another album I don't remember is "Two Hearts" by Men At Work.  That one peaked at 50 on the Billboard 100.

April was kind of a slow month.  Looking ahead to May and it looks like there were two times the albums released in April. Do you have a favorite album from April 1985?! Let me know in the comments below.

 Disclaimer: This post does contain affiliate links.



Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Biodegradable,Organic Single Serve Coffee Review-Tuesday Tip

Biodegradable organic coffee
I was walking past the Skytrain Commercial/Broadway stop in Vancouver while running errands.  I saw these people giving away boxes.  That's nothing new in that area because I've been there before and received free samples. This time they were giving away full boxes of OneCoffee.

I had never heard of OneCoffee before and I was kind of skeptical, but I took a box anyway.  Especially after I saw that I could use it in my Keurig.

OneCoffee is organic single-serve coffee. 

Tried some immediately when I got home and was pleasantly surprised.  The coffee is delicious.  It's strong, but not overpowering.  Very smooth as well.  Great flavor!  The cups are biodegradable. Each cup is individually wrapped to ensure freshness. Then I realized it was Earth Day.  That's why they were giving out the free samples.  Perfect.

I will buy more OneCoffee when I'm done with this box.  You can buy OneCoffee at stores across Canada including Whole Foods, London Drugs and Buy-Low Foods.

Update 4/21/15-OneCoffee's website says that it will be available in the US soon!

Thursday, April 16, 2015

GungHo Energy Drink Review


Energy Drink



GungHo is an energy drink that is for people who want a ninga-like focus.  

When I saw that in the ad I was like...really?!  I don't usually drink energy drinks.  The side effects scare me and I'm pretty skeptical about them working for me.  I decided to try GungHo anyway because it's has natural ingredients that help improve endurance and cognition. 

It also has vitamin B3 which converts fats, proteins, carbohydrates and starches into usable energy. Like most energy drinks it has caffeine.  GungHo has about as much caffeine as a cup of coffee. It has just enough to help with physical and mental fatigue.



I tried GungHo for 3 days.  

Firstly it tastes like a mild version of cough medicine. I drank it down quickly followed with a glass of water.  I didn't notice any bitter aftertaste. I don't recall having ninga-like focus, but I do remember having a lot of energy to get through my morning workouts and throughout the day.  I was fully expecting to have a crash in the afternoon.  That didn't happen. No jitters, shakes or palpitations.  Check out how GungHo stacks up to other energy drinks
 




I recommend you try GungHo.  It's a great product if you want to have energy all day without the nasty side effects usually found in other energy drinks. You can connect with GungHo on Facebook or just go to their website GoGungHo.com.


  
Disclaimer: GungHo sent me a sample of their energy drink to review.  I am under no obligation to provide a positive review.  The opinions are my own and results may vary. I received no monetary compensation for this review.