Dr. Pepper Vanilla Float® milkshake

This is a sponsored post.  All opinions are my own and honest.

During those long Summer months of July and August we are often found to think of previous Summers.  These memories flow all the way back to our childhood and include all those special memories.  One in particular comes to my mind which includes a walk down a small main street while on vacation,  going into a candy shop and getting a milk shake to go along with a bag of treats.  This is exactly what my recipe recreates with just a few ingredients and a blender.  Make one yourself and take a sip of nostalgia that will unlock your summer fun. .

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Ingredients:

half cup vanilla ice cream

one can of the new Dr Pepper Vanilla Float®.  These are a new limited edition flavor of Dr Pepper available only at are Available select Safeway or Albertsons stores

half cup ice.

put the ice and can of Dr Pepper into the blender and pulse until blended.  Next add the ice cream to the blender and pulse again, until blended.  Pour into your favorite glass and enjoy.

In addition to the Dr Pepper Vanilla Float® there is also Dr Pepper Cherry® available for the Summer only, so be sure to stock up while you can.

These flavors bring me back to a time when I was little and my mother and father would bring me and my siblings to a small beach town for the day.  At the town we were walking down the Main St and saw a small candy shop which also sold ice cream.  So we went in and picked out various candies a few peices each.  Then each got ice cream treats as well.  The Dr Pepper Vanilla Float soda is the perfect reminder of an ice cream float with a kiss of Dr Pepper and when blended with the creamy ice cream dessert is served.

The new Dr Pepper flavors helps take a sip of nostalgia that will share how to unlock summer fun.

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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Dr. Pepper Snapple Group. The opinions and text are all mine.

Save With Groupon Coupons

This post was sponsored by Groupon. All opinions are my own.

Groupon has been a cultural phenomenon. It has gained even more popularity as more and more establishments use the service and pass on some incredible savings to their customers. The way a Groupon Coupons works is that Groupon has offers which the customer pays for. These deals usually double the value of their money at the particular establishment, thus getting new customers in the establishment. An example would be a new Thai restaurant opens up and offers a $20 credit toward dinner. This saves you, who wants to get Thai food anyway, significant savings and gets the Thai place new business. This has been an awesome way to save money and still go out and have fun. But buying in advance can be a bit odd for some, so Groupon has made up a new service called Groupon Coupons. The key way the new Groupon Coupons differs from Groupon is that there is no registration on the site in order to use the codes, and there is no upfront cost associated with them, either.

pic4There are tons of different types of stores with many coupons available from each. Some examples are Lord and Taylor, Old Navy, AT&T, and Norton Antivirus- just a taste of the almost 9,000 stores with almost 80,000 coupons.

It is always nice to have a new “deals” site in your arsenal when online shopping, and Groupon Coupons should definitely be added to your favorites. You never know when that savings code to chip a little bit more off that final price could be found with just a few clicks. Another nice feature of Groupon Coupons is they are curated, so you will always get the freshest coupons and less expired or non working ones (which are super annoying and take up wasted time you could be spending doing something way cooler then surfing expired deals).

Head over now and see what deals you can find in your neighborhood!

Win Disney•Pixar’s Inside Out Talking Plush

Heralded as Disney•Pixar’s best movie since the original Toy Story, Inside Out is the story of the voices in your head.  Like all of us, Riley is guided by her emotions – Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith). The emotions live in what’s known as the “Headquarters”, the control center inside Riley’s mind, where they help advise her through everyday life. As Riley and her emotions struggle to adjust to a new life in San Francisco, turmoil ensues in Headquarters. Although Joy, Riley’s main and most important emotion, tries to keep things positive, the emotions conflict on how best to navigate a new city, house, and school.

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TOMY Toys is bringing the rich characters and colorful personalities of Inside Out to life in the real world with its line of magical toys including Riley’s five emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust. The toys (available NOW) are character-driven, each showcasing the diverse personalities and distinct qualities of the characters in the animated film.

One of you can win TWO of the Talking Plush (which feature the voices of the actual talent).  Feel free to enter using the RC code below.  Ends July 20, 2015.  Good luck!

Each household is only eligible to win 3 TOMY product prize packages, via blog reviews and giveaways, each calendar year. Only one entrant per household per giveaway. If you have won the same product prize package on another blog, you will not be eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

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Top 10 Lesser Known European Destinations for Less

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European cities can be costly, especially if you’re traveling with the family. However, if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to navigate lesser known destinations, you’re sure to find the following places to visit an adventure.

Prague

You may think that all child-friendly destinations are out your monetary reach when it comes to showing your family Europe. However, lesser known places such as Prague are just as entertaining. Fortunately, you won’t break the bank if you want to explore this enchanted land. Whether you venture there in the freezing cold or wait until the thaw, you’ll find the attractions, meals and lodging an inexpensive way to navigate the globe.

Valencia

Valencia is an easy to reach location that sits near the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. The vibrancy of the city boasts a number of things to see and do such as festivals, museums, sandy beaches, parks and gardens. The actual perk when visiting Valencia is that the prices are significantly lower than what you would find in other coastal cities throughout Europe. If you’re looking to plan your next adventure, Image Tours has been around for years, and they can help put together your next excursion.

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the hippest cities to visit. Guests to the region will find a variety of daytime attractions to tour such as markets, museums and churches. If you’re looking for night life, the area holds an assortment of entertaining venues. While Barcelona’s popularity has caused the prices to increase over the years, it’s still considerably lower than the other better known regions throughout Europe.

Budapest

If you’re looking to share a city that’s rich in architecture and history, Budapest is ranked as one of the most beautiful. From affordable hotels and inexpensive eateries, guests will get to enjoy sampling a taste of Hungarian life without maxing out your credit cards.

Istanbul

Istanbul promises an array of attractions for culture hounds and history buffs. Visitors to the region can also find affordable lodging choices and eateries. However, if you plan on taking advantage of the night life, it may cost you significantly more because of the price of alcohol.

Krakow

Krakow is an area of Europe that beckons to history revelers. With over 750 years of stories to tell, travelers on a budget can wade through the many tales without having to spend a fortune. In addition to magnificent palaces and churches, visitors can also take advantage of the many budget-friendly restaurants and hotels throughout the city.

Berlin

This German capital may seem like a gold mine to wander through with its culture, modern science and art. However, the region is so efficiently run and easily accessible by subway that it makes navigating through the various sites an affordable option for travelers.

Riga

The capital city of Latvia is a bargain for travelers who are looking to escape to Europe. With historical monuments, palate pleasing eateries and lively nightlife, it’s an adventurous summer excursion. In addition to the history, the beaches of Riga are great for families with children.

Bucharest

Known as the “little Paris,” Bucharest has been known to possess some of the same unique charms that its western sister holds. From the urban parks to the wide selection of museums, visitors can delight in the sights and sounds of this charming city. While it’s similar to Paris, France in scenery, travelers won’t have to worry about losing their shirt when it comes to costs. Meals, lodging and beverages are outrageously affordable.

Crete

Crete may sound like a far off land, but its offerings are plentiful. From breathtaking scenery to sandy beaches, the riches that unfold in this unique city are highly affordable. History buffs will enjoy exploring the many museums and palaces. If your personality is more outdoorsy, you won’t want to miss hiking the Samoria Gorge.

WIN! New Pirate’s Booty Marvel’s Avengers @piratesbooty

Are your kids as obsessed with superheros as mine is?  Combine snacking with superheros, and you get to be supermom  🙂  My son really enjoys Pirate Booty, and I like that it doesn’t make his fingers all orange, LOL.
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Pirate Brands has released a Pirate’s Booty® limited-edition, themed multipack featuring Marvel’s® Avengers characters. Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor and Black Widow all join the Superhero Pirate’s Booty Pirate to bring smarter snacking to kids of all ages.

“Pirate’s Booty is thrilled to team up with Marvel,” said Ron Young, Senior Brand Manager of Pirate Brands. “Full of adventure and action, these characters embody the same characteristics that our smart snackers have—kids of all ages looking to have fun and jump into life’s next adventure.”

Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar is a deliciously baked (never fried) snack made from puffed rice and corn, and blended with real aged white cheddar cheese. Made without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, it is a snack that kids and parents agree on. Additionally, it is gluten-free and has 0 grams of trans fat per serving.

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The limited-edition Marvel’s Avengers–themed Pirate’s Booty comes in seven ounce packs and 12-packs of half-ounce Pirate’s Booty Aged White Cheddar. For more information and our store locator, please visit www.piratebrands.com.

About Pirate Brands
Pirate Brands has been creating deliciously baked snack treasures since 1987. Pirate Brands was founded on the belief that you shouldn’t have to “snackrifice” taste and fun for products made with goodness. Pirate Brands’ snacks, which include Pirate’s Booty, Smart Puffs and Original Tings, are free from fryers and ingredients you can’t pronounce, Arrr. For more information, please visit www.piratebrands.com.

One of you can win some Pirates Booty of your own- feel free to enter using the RC form below.  Good luck!
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Win a ZippySack Bedding Set

Disclosure- We received the below in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are our own and honest.

It’s a bright shiny day, and the best way for a little one to start that day is by making their bed, right?  This is how it happens in your house isn’t it?  A nice straightened out bed room with bed made with perfect corners on it?  Yeah, mine too.  In reality, mornings are a point in time when we all need some help sometimes- those days when little ones who just won’t move.  Any way to make their morning go a bit smoother is a step in the right direction, and this is just one of the wonderful attributes of a ZippySack.  This is a fun way to get kids to help-  it’s a fitted sheet which also acts as a cover/thin blanket, and is easy to “make” in the morning.  The easy way to make your bed with a ZippySack is by zipping it up.  With a simple zip up your bed is made.  Not only is it easy to make your bed, but it also adds some fun to bed time by being able to sleep as a plush.

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We were still able to use his breathe-right pillow under his zippy sack, which is great for us.

 

There are 8 different patterns available including robot, puppy, dino, and kitten.  Each has a colorful character on it and a bright background.  For those who don’t want a character, there are 2 without. One which sports a camo pattern in blue and the other, a pink floral design.  As an added bonus, there is also a pocket big enough for a tablet or a book by the side of the bed.

The little guy loves his zippy sack.  His main reason is that is has a huge puppy on it.  He also likes the pocket on the side, a perfect spot for a small plush of course.  The reason I like it because its an easy way to keep him sleeping in one spot without his nightly sleep around the bed.

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ZippySacks are available online at ZippySack.com and at fine retail stores everywhere.  The twin size retails for $29.99, and the full $39.99.

One of you can win one of your own- feel free to use the RC form below. Ends July 15, 2015. Good luck!
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WIN Entenmann’s Little Bites S’mores

Disclosure- I will recive the same prize package as the winner.  This contest is not run by Entenmann’s. The prize will be shipped to you directly from the sponsor.

Entenmann’s Little Bites pouches of baked snacks have been making people smile for 15 years. Now it’s time to gather ‘round the campfire with this summer’s hottest snack flavor, NEW! Little Bites® S’mores! They deliver a delicious combo of chocolate chips, marshmallows and graham flavor, leaving everyone wanting S’more.

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And that’s not all! In addition to the summer s’mores madness, Little Bites will be hosting a Summer Fun Campaign on its Little Bites Facebook page from June 15th through August 14th! Consumers will be asked to post comments on the Little Bites Facebook page of how their families have summer fun. Each week, one (1) winner will receive a month of Little Bites snacks awarded in the form of four (4) $5 coupons and an adorable Little Bites Puppy plush toy! Consumers can also complete an entry form on the Facebook page for a chance to win one of five $100 grand prize gift cards or one of 25 first prizes of a one (1) month supply of Little Bites snacks!

Little Bites S’mores are a part of the Entenmann’s Little Bites Seasonal Favorites® line and are available only June through August 2015. We wanted to make sure you got a bite of the new yummy trend just in time for summer! Wherever your family is headed, Little Bites Snacks are #GoodToGo and the perfect choice to take with you!

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One of you can win a great S’mores prize pack- The Little Bites S’mores Summer Prize Package will include:

Two boxes of NEW Little Bites S’mores

Two Entenmann’s coupons valued at $5 each

One adorable Entenmann’s Little Bites Plush Dog valued at $8

Ends July 6, 2015. Good luck!
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HARTZ LAUNCHES YEAR-ROUND FLEA & TICK CONSUMER EDUCATION CAMPAIGN #NOFT

Hartz, experts in flea and tick solutions for over 55 years, announced the release of a national consumer ‘No F&T’ campaign to educate pet owners on the importance of year-round flea and tick protection.  Protect your pet all year long- and don’t wait until you sea fleas to make sure your pet doesn’t get them.  Remember- they can be super hard to get rid of, and you might have to “flea bomb” the whole house to kill them- which is really, really expensive and a pain to boot, not to mention that it is terrible for your pets.

The primary flea and tick season in the United States is April – September; however fleas survive throughout the year.  Hartz is committed to educating consumers that a consistently protected pet mounts a stronger defense against flea infestation; an infestation that cannot only pose a threat to the animals, but also to the home.  Hartz has a complete line of flea and tick products, including collars, shampoos, home and garden sprays, and its best prevention product; Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® Flea & Tick Drops for cats and dogs.

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“Only 5% of the problem is addressed when consumers treat the adult fleas they can actually see,” states Lance Hemsarth, Senior Director, Research & Development at Hartz. “That means the remaining 95% of larvae and eggs left untreated can cause re-infestation. It is our duty as a trusted pet care brand to educate families regarding the health benefits of consistent flea prevention treatment for their pets.”  Like personal health exams and smoke alarm battery checks, establishing preventative behavior aids in overall health.  Implementing interactive and engaging tactics to augment this behavior is the goal of this campaign.

Renowned veterinarian, Dr. Bernadine Cruz, will contribute to the ‘No F&T’ messaging through her practice based in Laguna Woods, California, as well as through her internet based radio show ‘The Pet Doctor’ heard on www.PetLifeRadio.com.  States Dr. Cruz, “I have a special interest in flea and tick care for dogs and cats.  When applied consistently, pet owners can safeguard their animals and their homes year-round; eliminating costly veterinary office visits for infestation and help protect the health of their pets and family. I am thrilled to be a part of this educational campaign.”
The ‘No F&T’ approach will target consumers with the hashtag #NOFT to create community among pet owners and establish a prevention lifestyle.  Digital ads and social media messaging, including monthly care reminders, will be communicated via Facebook starting this month.  For more information, please visit www.hartz.com/brands/hartzultraguard.aspx, and @HartzPets on Facebook.