Food & Drink Archives
It's OK to eat chocolate for breakfast
I like yogurt, but I reaaaaallly loooooove Stonyfield Farm's Fat Free Chocolate Underground Yogurt. Chocolate yogurt?! Tell me you're not surprised!
I'm not a huge milk fan, so it can sometimes be a struggle to get my daily dose of calcium. At least that was the case until I discovered this little piece of heaven on earth. Stonyfield Farm's yogurt is smooth and creamy and distinctly chocolatey, and the best part is that it's all natural so there's none of the nasty sweetener aftertaste. And did I mention it's fat-free?
I pick up a supply during my weekly shopping trip, it's carried at most grocery stores. But a word of warning to you - this stuff goes pretty fast. There has been more than one time I had to threaten Jimbo not to come home until he found it. Can't find it where you are? No worries. Amazon will ship it to you. Awesome!
Posted by megan on September 6, 2006
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The Ultimate Chocolate "Bar"
Located just steps away from shopping at Fanueil Hall and Downtown Crossing, this decadent "Chocolate Bar," located in the luxurious Langham Hotel, is the perfect place to rest your peds and indulge before stepping out for more shopping.
The Chocolate Bar is an endless buffet stacked with chocolate mousse, cakes, made-to-order chocolate crepes, ice cream, cookies, milk chocolate passion fruit tarts, miniature s’more cups, truffles, waffles with chocolate fondue and more. And for those ladies watching their weight, The Chocolate Bar also offers special low-calorie and low-carb options.
Though I haven't yet experienced this extravagance, it is at the tippity-top of my must-do list this year. I cannot wait to experience what has been voted "Best Indulgence" by Boston Magazine.
The Chocolate Bar is open Saturdays, from September through June, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Adults are $28, and Children 12 and under are $14.
Posted by megan on September 11, 2006
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Make Tea Time Into "Me" Time with Aveda Comforting Tea Bags
It's that time of year again--the leaves are turning and there's a little chill in the air. That can mean only one thing: time for tea! I'm a huge tea fan, so when I stepped into Aveda while on a shopping trip with Janet, and was offered a cup of tea, I immediately accepted and fell in love. This tea is a soothing, organic combination of licorice root and peppermint. I know what you're thinking (or what I was thinking!). Licorice??? Eww! But let me tell you - there was no obvious licorice flavor, but a sweetness along with the peppermint that stayed in your mouth and was ultimately very comforting.
As I said, I was immediately in love and this soon became my favorite tea of all time. I'm a huge fan of tea bags, but they also offer a loose form that Janet recommended, and she swears it gives a richer flavor.
Now I must warn you that it's a bit more expensive than your typical teas, at $14 for 20 tea bags or $24 for 4.9 oz of loose tea, but I find it's totally worth it. If you want to try before you buy, just hop into any Aveda store and grab a sample - they always have tea brewing for customers. And while you're there, grab a ritual. The last time Janet and I were there we got free hand and head massages and they were fantabulous!
They also have a marvelous birthday program. All you have to do is sign up and you get a free gift (I got a full-sized custom fragrance) on your birthday. A great way to celebrate!
Posted by megan on September 21, 2006
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Guiltless Tea Indulgence
I'm always on the lookout for new tea flavors, especially sweet ones. I definitely hit the jackpot when I discovered this Strawberry Vanilla tea by Island Rose at TJ Maxx of all places. So yesterday when I was working from home and the house the had a bit of a chill, I made myself a cup of tea. Oh my goodness, what heaven! Not only is it the perfect combination of strawberry and vanilla combined giving it a perfect strawberries and cream flavor, but the smell was positively delightful. I kept getting a whiff of it and couldn't believe that the scent was coming from my tea cup. It's hard to believe that something so good is has zero calories, fat, sugar, carbs, and caffeine. What could be better!?
Posted by megan on September 27, 2006
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Dark Chocolate M&Ms
I have always loved m&m's. When I was a kid it was definitely my candy of choice. Since I've grown up I've fallen for high-quality dark chocolate, leaving m&m's behind for the most part. Then my coworker introduced me to special edition dark chocolate m&m's as part of the Star Wars campaign. Of course I was hooked and had as many as I could until the campaign dwindled. I have missed my dark chocolate m&m's. Recently another coworker of mine told me they were back and I ran out to get my very own bag. Run out and get yours! Quick! before they're gone again.
Now, if they'd only bring back dark chocolate Kit Kat and my life would be complete.
Posted by megan on September 29, 2006
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Toast to a Cause!
Have I mentioned that I love the bubbly? There's nothing better, I tell ya. So, when I heard about these little cans of sparkling wine, I just had to try it myself. The people at Francis Ford Coppola were kind enough to send me a sample and boy was I surprised when I opened an entire bottle. Of course I couldn't devour the whole bottle by myself (which is why I love the idea of the single-serving can), so I brought the bottle to a party and shared it with the girls. It was a huge hit, even with girls who don't normally care for white wine or Champagne! I found it light with a touch of sweetness and just the right amount of sparkle.
'Scuse me, I'm off to pick me up a four-pack. The boys have beer - I'll have my bubbles! And since cans can be unsightly, I've discovered these adorable limited edition, Riedel Pink 'O' Champagne glasses. Not only are these cute as can be, but they're for a cause - 15% of all proceeds will be donated to the Living Beyond Breast Cancer Foundation and shipping is free!
Posted by megan on October 22, 2006
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It was a dark and stormy night...
When I was in Portland, ME recently, I popped into a pub for a pint...of pumpkin ale! It was by the Shipyard Brewery, quite delicious AND was served in the most awesome pint glass! On the front is the pumpkinhead, on the back a VERY scary jack-o-lantern...and the bottom of the glass is orange, to give the pumpkin ale a nice glow. I forgot to pick up a couple of the glasses while I was there, so I ordered some on Monday. Tuesday, they arrived at my house in the mail! Great customer service, and quick too!
Posted by Janet on October 28, 2006
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Guzman's Blueberry Salsa
Some people LOVE salsa. Me? I like it. Occasionally I'll sit down with salsa and a bowl of chips, but not often. But, when my sister brought home Guzman's Blueberry Salsa from a trek to Maine, I instantly became an addict and quickly depleted my sister's supply. She travels up to Maine a few times a summer and sometimes she'll bring me a jar and I'll be in heaven for a week until the jar is finished and then I begin to suffer from withdrawal.
Well, withdrawal no more! I just discovered that Guzman's Blueberry Salsa can now be purchased on the internet. Not only that, but they have a ton of different flavors. Go ahead, treat yourself. But a word to the wise - grab more than one jar - otherwise you'll be hit with the worst case of withdrawal you've ever know. What a great gift idea, too!
Posted by megan on October 31, 2006
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Blow some bubbles for New Year!
New Year's Eve. The time to say good-bye to another year and celebrate the the new. The time for partying and dancing and drinking champagne! Many of you already know that I love champagne! I think it's the combination of sweet white wine with bubbles and the fancy, sophistication of holding a flute. There, I said it! I drink champagne because I like the flute.
If you're like most people, you drink champagne on special occasions, but rarely ever indulge in a glass any other time of the year. This proves difficult when you have the task of choosing a bottle of champagne for a party or as a gift. Here's a little primer for you:
I'm a huge fan of Pommery. These single-serving bottles are perfect for a small gathering or a little treat.
A few other bubblies that I recommend:
The finest (read most expensive) Champagne ever tasted: Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Brut
Bargain buy; the best inexpensive bubble out there: Korbel
The happy medium: Moet & Chandon White Star
For those who like the red with a little sweetness: Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto d'Acqui 2005
Posted by megan on December 31, 2006
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Chicken soup for the sniffles
It's that time of the year, isn't it? Sniffle, cough... it's cold season! Mom always said that the best thing for a cold is chicken soup! Not just any old soup will do, either. That stale can of Campbell's Chicken Noodle in the back of the pantry just won't cut it. Grandma's Chicken Soup is in order! Grandma sent me this soup gift package with a half gallon of chicken soup and it was hands-down the best chicken soup ever. Well, except for my mom's chicken soup!
Makes a perfect gift for that out of town friend who needs some chicken soup!
Posted by megan on January 2, 2007
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You wouldn't wear em together ... or WOULD you?
The second I saw this Choco-licious Bracelet at the Pixelgirl Shop I wanted to just eat it up. That could become a problem, but a problem i'm willing to face.
This lovely Green Olive Bracelet is perfect for those nights where only a dirty martini will do! I think I shall!
Posted by megan on January 3, 2007
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Where else can you get eight entrees in two hours?
Well I have to say (without trying an entrée yet) Lets Dish was awesome. Let's Dish is an innovative store where you can make (or pick up) dishes designed to be frozen and cooked when you need them. It's set up like buffet stations but with ingredients, there were 20 stations (dinners). The recipe is there and you put it all together in bags to freeze. They allow you to split the meals and even give you the recipe split (after a long day at work, I was grateful). This is especially good considering there are six servings per dinner.
My friend Erin and I both chose four meals, we split them and now we both have 8 dinners that serve 3 (i.e. two portions for the boys cos they eat a lot). The portions sizes are really decent, not what I expected. They also give you a few cooking options like grilling, baking, crocking etc. Everything was fresh, clean and the people that worked there were super nice and wicked helpful. I thought it was a little pricey at first when we paid $96 each, but now that I realize that we have two weeks worth of dinners, that's just $48 a week, which is about the same if not less than I would spend on a normal week for entrées. And you can make 4, 8 or 12 dinners! Oh and if you can get a big enough group together you can have a private party.
Posted by Krista on March 15, 2007
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An entirely different type of Chocolate chip
While shopping at Whole Foods the other day, I pointed out a bag of chocolate tortilla chips to Megan, a self-avowed chocoholic. I must admit I was scoffing a bit. Chocolate flavored tortilla chips? Yuck! But! I decided I must try them.
Boy am I glad I did! Um, not yuck at all! Extremely yum!!! These tortillas chips are made with Dutch cocoa, cane sugar and sea salt, as well as stone ground white corn, non-hydrogenated canola oil and sugarcane fiber. They have no trans fat, no cholesterol, no preservatives, no artificial colors or flavors...and man are they good! Just plain, out of the bag, chocolately, salty crunchy goodness.
Check them out the next time you're at Whole Foods. You won't be disappointed!
Posted by Janet on May 2, 2007
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Yours, Mine, or His?!
I can't tell you how many times I have had company over and I have had to ask, "Is this drink yours or is it mine? Multiply that x10 and what you end up with is a bunch of half-filled glasses at the end of the night. Thanks to the people at Clingy Thingy Labels this drink abuse affliction has been stomped out! Why hadn't I thought of this? Each label has has a neat design and it comes in two colors. I call the Palm tree!!!!!!!!!
The people at Clingy Thingy Labels were kind enough to send us a sample and we'd like to pass it on to one of you. Just leave a comment below and I'll choose one random commenter to receive the package of labels.
Good luck!!
Posted by Darlene on May 14, 2007
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Grilling Season is Here
I 
It reminds me very much of the hibachis used in Japan. In fact, there's a whole bunch of restaurants there that just serve Yakitori; which is basically any type of grilled meat on a stick. Paired with a nice cold beer on a hot summer day - heaven!
Click below for a typical Yakitori recipe:
Continue reading "Grilling Season is Here" »
Posted by Janet on May 24, 2007
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Mr. Who?
Mr. Bento! Thats
Not sold yet? The cold stays cold and the hot stays hot!
The Mr. Bento Stainless Lunch Jar contains 4 microwaveable inner bowls and includes chopsticks, chopsticks holder and an easy-carry bag. The outer container features durable stainless steel construction and vacuum insulation with excellent heat retention.
Posted by Krista on July 6, 2007
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Try Alcyone Tannat Dessert Wine, you'll never forget it!
I took the ever lovely Megan (this site's founder), out to dinner for her birthday last Monday night. Our first stop was Ivy, a lovely new casual Italian place near Downtown Crossing in Boston. Unfortunately, Megan and I have been spoiled by a most delicious cheese plate at Todd English's Tuscany and by Cobblestone's macaroni and cheese, so what we ordered, while good, wasn't "as good as"!
Never fear, we headed to The Four Seasons Hotel for drinks and dessert at The Bar at Aujourd'hui and, as always, were warmly welcomed (and we weren't dressed to the nines either). The service is no less than spectacular, as you would probably expect AND it's quiet, no annoying ringtones (except, unfortunately, mine, but only for a second!) or loud voices.
The birthday girl ordered a Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé, accompanied by Grand Marnier Crème Anglaise, with a glass of Alcyone Tannat Dessert Wine. Oh, were we in for a surprise! That wine has the most incredible taste!!! It's sweet, yes, but not cloyingly so. It tastes of cocoa, honey, cinnamon, cloves and herbs; after you have a glass, you will feel calm and content! We both immediately fell in love with it and in fact, I'll be off looking for a bottle of it tonight! Order a bottle of it online at corpwines.com
Do give it a try if you can find a bottle...if you don't like it, you can mail it directly to me :-) For those of you lucky enough to live near Boston, give The Bar at Aujourd'hui a try, if you haven't already...you'll be pleasantly surprised!
Editors Note: I just had a brilliant idea - an A Girl Must Shop get together at The Bar at Aujourd'hui! Who's in?
Posted by Janet on August 20, 2007
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Sweet Heat spices from tsp spices! Handy and yummy!
I read about tsp spices in Gourmet Magazine; you must try these! These spices are organic and each teaspoon of spice is packaged in it's own little sleeve! Stays fresh and delicious! Katie and Sara, co-founders of tsp spices, nicely sent along their "Sweet Heat" twin set - cinnamon and ancho chili - for me to try and try I did in the following recipe:
Barbecue Roasted Chicken
1/4 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 chicken breast halves (or 2 breasts and half them yourself!)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
4 teaspoons ancho chile powder
2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon true (Saigon) cinnamon
Cooking spray
Lemon slices (optional)
Put chicken breast halves between sheets of waxed paper and gently flatten to an even thickness, between 1/4 and 1/2-inch thick.
Combine chicken with pineapple and lemon juice in a zip-top plastic bag; seal and marinate in refrigerator 1 hour, turning occasionally.
Preheat oven to 400°...or better yet, get your grill ready!
Remove chicken from bag; discard marinade. Combine sugar through cinnamon in a bowl. Rub over chicken. If using your oven, place in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray and bake for 20-25 minutes; if using your grill, start grilling!
You can also use salmon in place of the chicken. Use four 6-ounce fillets, and cook in oven for 12 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork, or on your grill. Serve with lemon slices and some roasted asparagus...YUM!
Next up will be spicy fudgy brownies...stay tuned!
Posted by Janet on August 23, 2007
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True Blue baby I love you!
We've all had blueberry muffins, blueberry pancakes, and some of us have even had blueberry salsa. But, have you tried blueberry juice? No? Oh you must!
TrueBlue blueberry juice is an amazing concoction. Not only is it yummy, it's full of those all-important antioxidants and since blueberries are naturally sweet and tasty, TrueBlue is only lightly sweetened with cane sugar (NOT High Fructose Corn Syrup) and has 25% fewer calories per serving than most cranberry-based products. And if that's not light enough for you, they even have a lite version of TrueBlue.
Aaaaaaaand! It makes for amazing blueberry martinis.
I found this one on the Recipes">TrueBlue recipe page.
TrueBluetini:
1 oz. TrueBlue Blueberry Cocktail
1 oz. Triple Sec
1/2 oz. Amaretto
1/2 oz. Cointreau.
Combine TrueBlue Blueberry Cocktail, Triple Sec, Amaretto, Cointreau and ice.
Shake and strain into a martini glass.
Here's what I came up with:
A Girl Must Shop Bluetini:
1 oz. TrueBlue Blueberry Cocktail
1 oz. Blueberry-flavored vodka (I like Stoli)
1/2 oz. Godiva chocolate liqueur
1/2 oz. Irish cream
Pour it all over ice. Shake 'til you can't shake no more! Pour (sans ice) into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with blueberries if you want to look cool!
Whatcha waiting for? Find TrueBlue at a store near you.
AND sign up for the TrueBlue email list and get a coupon for $1 off.
Posted by megan on August 30, 2007
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True Lime; Truly Helpful
This weekend, on the spur of the moment, I decided to throw together a freezer pie as a last minute dessert because of an impromptu family gathering.
I am partially through the recipe when I notice that it called for lime juice. I didn't have anymore lime juice and I didn't feel like going back to the grocery store. Then I remembered that I had some True Lime that I had purchased to add flavor to my water - I had read on the box it can be used as a lime juice substitute. I was leery, but I used the True Lime and let me tell you no one could tell the difference. I was saved by a little packet. Also available are True Lemon and True Orange.
Want to try it? Get a free sample of True Lemon, Lime and Orange. Now, you can't purchase direct from their website, but check out their handy list of online retailers. Bonus! They even give you special offer codes. Check it out!
Posted by Amy on September 27, 2007
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Oodles of Noodles!
I'm always on a mission to find the best noodles; I can't get enough. I know this is terrible to admit, but I really like the Ramen noodles that are 6 for $1.00 from the grocery store.
I also love to use chopsticks, it's so much fun, but I am no expert and eating noodles with the chops is for experienced users.
I came across the Peaceful Company's site and fell in love with these noodle bowls - they are the perfect way so showcase my noodle creations!
I am thinking it's time to grab some water chestnuts, pea pods, straw mushroom and get to boiling up a noodle concoction. Just perfect for a chilly fall evening!
Udon Noodle Bowl $28.00
This chopstick dinnerbowl is simple, stylish and ergonomic.
Complete with chopsticks.
Each bowl is individually hand-thrown.
Winner of the 2003 Gourmet Gold Award!
from The Peaceful Company
Posted by Denise on October 11, 2007
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Hard Rockin' to Stop Breast Cancer For Life
Anyone who knows me knows I am a rocker chick at heart...give me some fast guitars and long haired boys and I am all over it. In planning a trip to Los Angeles, I wanted to see if anything cool was going on at The Hard Rock Cafe this month and was happy to find that the Hard Rock Cafe is joining the fight to stop breast cancer with Rocktober: Think Pink To Find a Cure. If you stop in at your local Hard Rock you can have a drink from the Think Pink drink collection (there is even a non-alcoholic one- for the designated driver of the group) and a portion of the proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
However- the coolest thing about Rocktober's Think Pink To Find A Cure? Is the limited edition Hard Rock Breast Cancer Awareness Pin. The Hard Rock is famous for their pins...and this one is perfect! Not only is it cute (a pink guitar? I am all over that!) but 100% of the net profits go to the Breast Cancer Research Fund. That is right...100%- you can't go wrong there. I am picking up one of these today online today before they run out!
Posted by Amy on October 13, 2007
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Take a hint - have a mint. Hint Mint for breast cancer
I always had the feeling that if someone is offering me a mint then I should take it as a hint. Hint Mint agrees.
I adore this pretty pink limited-edition Hint Mint tin and the majority of its profits (about 25 cents) will go to the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.
Curing your fresh breath and helping to cure breast cancer. All in a day's work!
Posted by megan on October 21, 2007
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Adagio tea-fection
Adagio teas are the bees knees (I should be a poet). Adagio offers a HUGE variety of flavors and they are full of wonderful aroma and taste. The best way to try their tees is by purchasing a starter set. It comes equipped with a easy-to-use 16oz teapot, four tea samples, and Adagios exclusive 'guide to tea' for only $19. This is a fabulous indulgent for yourself or a great gift for that hard to buy for person.
Posted by Krista on November 6, 2007
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Stash this tea!
We've talked about licorice flavored tea here before (9/21/06: Make Tea Time Into "Me" Time With Aveda Comforting Tea Bags). I still love this tea but it's quite expensive, so I've kept my eye open for something a bit less expensive, and last week I found it!
Stash Licorice Spice Herbal Tea...ooh my! I was a bit apprehensive about the "spice" part, but my fears were unfounded. This tea is GOOD, caffeine free and delicious; it's naturally sweet from the licorice and needs no additional sweetening. I picked it up a local grocery store. Check out the list of retail stores or pick up your Stash online. If you like Aveda Comforting Tea, give this a try. You won't be sorry!
Posted by Janet on November 2, 2007
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FREE GIVEAWAY! Sipping Beauty tea
Tea that makes you beautiful? Sign me up!I recently tried Sipping Beauty's (Beau-tea?) Forever Young tea and I already feel 10 years younger!
Loaded with antioxidants, Forever Young has the smooth flavor of chocolate with the refreshing touch of peppermint - infused in an exclusive pick of organic red tea.
Chocolate? Mint? My favorite things in the universe! And it does not let down - sipping Forever Young was like having an after-dinner mint, yet much less sinful.
Check out Sipping Beauty's other teas:
- beauty sleep
Organic linden tree leaf, licorice and chamomile helps you unwind while renewing your skin cells.Organic linden tree leaf, licorice and chamomile - puritea
Caffeine free ingredients like hibiscus, rosehips and blood oranges provide you with the full beauty cleanse you've been looking for. Enjoy the rejuvenating and tangy citrus flavor. - whiff
Keeps your body and breath smelling fresh with peppermint, along with other natural odor enhancing ingredients like chlorophyll and lemon - multibeautimin
Fruit mélange tea that contains a good dose of skin renewing vitamin C along with other vital skin nutrients. - weightless
The tropical taste of pineapple and papaya infused with the powerful properties of green tea. A few sips and you will be carried away.
Check out Sipping Beauty's web site and leave a comment about which tea you'd love to try. We'll send three lucky winners a full-size package of weightless, whiff or puritea. Good luck! All entries must be received by Wednesday, October 31, by 11:59pm EST. Good luck!
Posted by megan on October 29, 2007
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Perfect Gift: Design a Custom Starbucks Card for your Coffee Lover!
Here is the perfect gift for that Starbucks lover you know - design a personalized Starbucks gift card. The process is simple. You start out by picking the basic look of the card from three basic looks (soon to be four). You then can customize the card to the specific person you are giving it to. I love this idea. I have already ordered a couple. You must order the custom cards online- however you can purchase a voucher in-store if you would rather let the recipient to personalize their own card.
To extend the magic of the season year-round you could make your new personalized card a "magic" Starbucks card by setting it up with an auto-reload! I got a card for my birthday that is set to auto-reload on the 14th of every month by my friend. It is the yummy gift that keeps on giving all year!!
Posted by Amy on December 10, 2007
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Warm the cold winter with Harpoon Winter Warmer!
I had the BEST beer last night, Harpoon Winter Warmer. Listen to this description:
When you bring a glass of this dark copper ale to your lips to take
your first sip you will notice the aroma of cinnamon. There is no
aromatic hop added that might overpower the distinct spice scent. The
medium body of this beer is formed from caramel and pale malts. These
create enough body to support the spices without making the beer
excessively rich. Bittering hops are added to counter the sweetness of
the malt and spice. The finish of the beer is a blend of cinnamon and
nutmeg. The combination of these two spices results in a balanced,
pumpkin-pie flavor.
It's being offered at the Macaroni Grill, but I'm sure you can also find a six- or 12-pack for that special someone on your list at any store that sells beer in the MA area. Oh, and hurry; it's only available from November to January.
Makes a great grab gift, too! I can already see the guys fighting over it at the yankee swap this year!
Posted by Janet on December 10, 2007
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Lemon Daisies popping through the snow
I was shopping at Whole Foods the other day and noticed these adorable cookies called Lemon Daisies. 
Among my other favorites at Dancing Deer are their Maple Leaves & Gingerbread Acorns, Snickerdoodles, Molasses Clove, Chocolate Peppermint, and Sugar Cane Lime; it's the next best thing to baking your own!
Posted by Janet on December 30, 2007
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I'm a little teapot
The delicate detail on our
English Teapot Tea Infuser just puts one in the crumpet mood! A great
gift for the tea drinker, enough loose tea fits in the stainless steel
mesh ball for a pot, or use less for a cup. Giftboxed with instructions.
I was lucky enough to be gifted an oil lamp from Danforth Pewter, the craftsmanship is amazing and the designs are stunning. So I poked around the site to see what else they have. tons of unique items for home, office or gifts. I particularly like the teapot Infuser, so cute!
Posted by Krista on December 20, 2007
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Have one on me!
This is truly one of the BEST ideas I've seen in a while. Buy your friend a drink. It is as simple as it sounds. All you need to know is either their address; for a gift card, or their cell number; for a code. And there you have it, you just bought a round or few for your friend! Great way to celebrate a promotion, new job, birthday or any day, for as little or as much as you'd like!
Posted by Krista on February 7, 2008
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Chocolate good enough to drink!
Think drinking chocolate is the same as hot cocoa? Think again!
According to About.com
"Drinking Chocolates" are made from real chocolate as opposed to "Hot Cocoa" which is made from cocoa powder (the powdery remains of chocolate liquor after cocoa butter is removed). When you purchase a package of drinking chocolate it will often be in the form of chocolate shavings or chunks.As a chocolate lover, I'm pretty ashamed to admit that the first time I ever heard of drinking chocolate was either a) when Janet brought me some back from Paris or b) when Starbucks launched Chantico, a drinking chocolate-type drink. But once I did discover it I fell fast in love.
Drinking chocolates are not instant like hot cocoa. You must add hot milk, cream, or water to the chocolate in order for it to melt and be whisked together. Because of the higher cocoa butter content, drinking chocolates will also be richer and often thicker than hot cocoa.
Of course now I'm on an never-ending quest for the best drinking chocolate out there. Meet my newest best find: Schokinag drinking chocolate. I can't quite decide which is best - Triple Chocolate or Extreme Dark, although this dark-chocolate lover thinks it might just be the triple chocolate.
What does drinking chocolate taste like, you ask? It's nothing like cocoa - nope, think pure chocolate melted with milk. Not as thick as a chocolate sauce, but thicker than a hot cocoa. It's like heave n earth - the best comfort food, ever.
But don't take my word for it - head on over the Schokinag and try their award-winner line of drinking chocolates. You won't regret it!
triple chocolate
extreme dark
Posted by megan on March 6, 2008
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Starbucks and DaVinci - the best combo ever
What's in this caramel mocha you say? Sounds decadent? Well it sure is, but not too decadent! I make Starbucks® Decaf Espresso Roast Pods,
Posted by megan on April 14, 2008
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Add a little Magic to your Kitchen
I wish I had the extra time, energy, and motivation to get off my tookus and make a nice meal, but after a long day a work, it's all used up.
Usually I throw together some pasta, a veggie burger or do take out, but there's only so much of that I can take and takeout is nearly always bad for me.
I wish I had my own personal chef. Kinda like Magic Kitchen - a company that sends you home-cooked meals that you pop into the microwave and they're ready within 10 minutes. The difference between this stuff and supermarket dinners? This stuff is GOOD and good for you - much healthier than that other stuff.
They offer desserts as well. Makes a great gift, too!
Coupon Codes!
SC10 gives 10% off your order, and CP5G gives 5% off gift certificates.
Posted by megan on April 3, 2008
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Crack for dark chocolate lovers: Royal Dark Cadbury Mini Eggs
I bought one of the big bags once. Once! I opened the bag up, ate one, then another, and I swear next thing I knew the bag was gone! They are dangerous! One on my many guilty pleasures.
But you know what I found yesterday when I hit the local CVS for an emergency chocolate fix? ROYAL DARK Cadbury Mini Eggs! I swear the heavens opened up, angels sang, and sunlight shown down through the drop ceiling and lit upon these babies. They were mine!
I was good - I only got one bag (on top of some Reece's Peanut Butter Cups, Lindt extra dark chocolate truffles, Baked Lays and a Caffeine-free Diet Coke. Yes. I did.).
The bag was empty before I got home. Delicious!
Posted by megan on March 12, 2008
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FREE GIVEAWAY! Bossa Nova: The Official Superfruit juice
I don't know what an acai is, nor do I know how to pronounce it. Well, I didn't until I happened upon Bossa Nova.
What is açai? Açai (ah-sci-ee) is a rainforest berry - a small, dark purple fruit that grows on palm trees on the floodplains of the Amazon basin. Recent scientific study has earned it the enviable title of “world’s healthiest fruit” in part, because it is likely to be the world’s highest antioxidant fruit.Well, we all know that antioxidants are great (you know, the stuff that helps to inhibit premature aging,heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer disease by neutralizing free radicals?).
And this stuff is full of it. So it's good for you. But it also tastes great. The blueberry is my favorite. Check 'em out - you can find them in most grocery stores (I've seen them in Hannaford) or visit the Bossa Nova website for a list of retailers near you.
FREE GIVEAWAY!
Leave a comment (don't be shy, your information is kep private) and tell us which flavors you'd like to try. Five random readers will receive two FREE bottles of Bossa Nova. Hurry! Last day for entries is Friday, 7am EST.
Posted by megan on May 6, 2008
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Purely Decadent coconut milk "ice cream"
I've got "ice cream" in quotes up there because this Purely Decadent non-dairy frozen dessert isn't ice cream. No milk, baby. No soy, either! Say hello to ice cream and bye-bye to lactose intolerance!How can that be? Easy! It's made with coconut milk instead of cow's milk, which gives it a taste of coconut that blends well with the main flavor. It's also decadently creamy with a consistency even smoother than ice cream and half the fat and contains only 65% of the calories in "regular" ice cream. It wins over my frozen yogurt any day.
Other great stuff about it?
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Dairy Free
- Lactose Free
- Cholesterol Free
- No Trans Fats
- Certified Vegan
- Certified Made with Organic Ingredients
It's so easy to find, there's no reason not to try it out on this July 4th weekend! You'll be the hit of the BBQ!
Posted by megan on July 4, 2008
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Go nuts for nuts
Most people will tell you that I'm a little nutty. Nuts about nuts, they mean. I eat them every day.
I actually just started with a trainer at the gym and she's included them as part of my nutritional plan.
Every day I count out and eat 28 almonds.
I recently tried oven-baked Snacktrition Calcuim Sea Salt Almonds and they are fabulous and so much better than regular the typical oil-baked ones I typically buy. Even better? Calcium and fiber are baked into the almonds, making it much easier to achieve my recommended daily requirements.
But when I really want to treat myself, I grab the Snacktrition Calcium and Fiber Fruit & Nut Mix. It's super yummy!
Posted by megan on August 20, 2008
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Bee M.D. to the rescue!
As luck would have it, I woke up with a bit of a sore throat this morning. Why luck, you might ask? Well, recently, Megan gave me a package or organic honey throat drops by Bee M.D. to review, so I popped one in and noticed two things: 1) they taste WONDERFUL!!! and 2) my sore throat is gone! 
They claim the product soothes: fiery throat, sore mouth, stuffy mind. I have to say...it does and tastes VERY good while it's at it. The drops are made from menthol, organic brown rice syrup, organic eucalyptus oil, organic evaporated cane juice, organic flavors and organic honey and are 10 calories per drop.
The packaging is adorable, and it also gives you the chance to name your own bee, via www.SponsorABee.com! With each purchase, a donation will aid research and protection of bees. Yay!
Posted by Janet on September 23, 2008
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Spicy, Fruity or Sweet?
No, I'm not talking about perfumes or candles or even a spice rack. I'm talking chicken sausage. Yummy, juicy, tasty and HEALTHY chicken sausage (most have less than 10 grams of fat). Food to me is an experience. Eating healthy is a lifestyle. Putting the two together is very important to me. So when I stumbled upon a package of Apple Chicken Sausage at a local supermarket, I was hooked! 
I'm not a fan of regular sausage (you'll never find me at an Oktoberfest celebration), but when I saw that the sausage was made from chicken AND had an apple flavor, I knew I had to give it a try.
OK so you're not a sweet fan. There are plenty of varieties depending on the brand. Here are just a few to sample (including the sweet ones):
- Aidells: Artichoke Garlic
- Aidells: Spicy Mango and Jalapeno
- Applegate Farm: Chicken and Apple Sausage
- **Stonewall Kitchen: Variety Pack of Apple Gouda, Mexican Chipotle Pepper, Cranberry & Cognac, Sun-Dried Tomato Basil, and Apple Maple and Sage
- Al Fresco Natural: Teriyaki Ginger, Roasted Garlic, Buffalo Style, and more
** Stonewall Kitchen Sausages would make a great holiday gift for someone who enjoys their food too!
Posted by Hilary on November 12, 2008
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My new favorite restaurant - Saffron Bistro
Jimbo and I headed out to a fairly new restaurant in Nashua, NH for his birthday - Saffron Bistro. My mom had mentioned it quite a while ago and we finally got around to trying it out. It was fabulous. A little fancier than the average restaurant with white tablecloths and a big ol' wine list. The food? Amazing!
Posted by megan on November 9, 2008
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Just say "yes" to bread!
Have you tried these Arnold Sandwich Thins? They are delicious! And low calorie, or for you Weight Watchers out there, just 1 point! Put a slice of low fat cheese (1 point), two slices of low fat roast turkey (1 point), a bit of mayo, some lettuce, maybe a slice of tomato between two pieces and voila, a low fat, healthy lunch!
Check out all three types: whole wheat, whole grain white and multi-grain (my favorite!).
Posted by Janet on November 12, 2008
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Turkey soup - it's good for the soul
Progresso Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth and the smell has filled the whole house. Yum!
And it's not only good, it's good for me too. Progresso's broths are 99% fat free and contain no preservatives, artificial flavors, or MSG! They even come in convenient, re-sealable 32oz cartons.
Posted by megan on December 3, 2008
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