Cheer on Reading with Cheerios!

Hey everyone!

I love to read, I have hundreds of books stashed away in my closet, and even more on my kindle! I enjoy reading at night before bed in order to help me relax. One of my favorite memories as a child is of my mom reading me stories. It could be any story, but having time with my mom meant the world to me. Recently, I was sent a box containing two Cheerios cereals that included the book inside!  

This year, Cheerios™ is celebrating the 12th Anniversary of their commitment to literacy through such programs as Cheerios Cheer On Reading and Spoonfuls of Stories™. Cheerios created the program in 2003 to help get books into kids’ hands and encourage parents and kids to read together.
Look for specially-marked packages of original Cheerios, Multi Grain Cheerios Peanut Butter, Chocolate Cheerios, and Apple Cinnamon Cheerios for in-pack storybooks for children ages 2 to 8 years-old, specially printed in both English and Spanish. This year’s book offerings from Cheerios – all by Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing – are:

• “That’s What I’d Do” by Jewel
• “Bear Says Thanks” by Karma Wilson
• “1-2-3 Peas” by Keith Baker
• “Chicks Run Wild” by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
• “Please, Baby Please” by Spike Lee & Tonya Lewis Lee
• …and returning favorite “Jump!” by Scott M. Fischer

Check out the link below for more information:

~Cheer on Reading webpage: www.cheerios.com/cheer-on-reading

And for the second year in a row, Cheerios will also feature a chapter book for older readers inside specially-marked boxes of Honey Nut Cheerios. This year’s book, “Phineas L. MacGuire…Gets Cooking,” was written for exclusive release in Cheerios boxes by Frances O'Roark Dowell, author of the “Phineas” series. The book is written in three parts so there are three to collect. 

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Celebrate Earth Day with Publix

Hey everyone!

Spring has sprung, and what better way to welcome its arrival than by giving back to our planet?

 
Celebrate Earth Day with General Mills by incorporating new environmentally-friendly practices into your daily routine, like bringing reusable bags to the grocery store or other “green” initiatives.My family is big on giving back to the environment, and also protecting it. We recycle as many items as we can, we help our neighbors with keeping their houses clean, and we are constantly planting trees on our backyard. I definitely believe in taking care of the earth! Recently, I received a box containing some of the sale items from Publix, in order to inspire me to share. I've tried the MUIR GLEN Tomato Basil sauce, and it is fantastic!

And starting April 12, you can find great savings on brands like the Cascadian Farm, Larabar and Muir Glen, available at Publix. Be on the lookout for the “Happy Easter” booklet in stores!

Earth Day Savings! Look for coupons and details in the “Happy Easter” booklet, offers available 4/12 – 5/2.

• $2 off 2 Cascadian Farm Frozen Organic Fruit, Vegetables or Potatoes 8-16 oz.
• $2 off 2 Muir Glen Tomatoes 28 oz or Pasta Sauca 25.5 oz
• Cascadian Farm Cereal or bars on sale for $2.99 each (7.1 – 14.6 oz)
• Larabar Multi-Pack (5 ct) on sale $4.99
• Buy any 3 Cascadian Farm 7.1-14.6 oz or Muir Glen 14-18 oz or Larabar 5 ct. products and get one Publix reusable bag FREE

Digital Coupons

Save $0.75 when you buy 3 Larabars - coupon at www.everydaysaver.com/publix

How will you be helping the planet this year? Me amd my family always recycle, pick up garbage along the street, and plant trees!

XoXo,
Whitney
 
 Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Introducing Betty Crocker Watermelon Cake & Frosting!

Hey everyone!

Spring is right around the corner and summer’s not far behind, so Betty Crocker invites you to welcome the seasons with all-new Watermelon Cake & Frosting -- available only at Target!

I love to make cupcakes, I think it is one of my specialties! And, when I can make super fun and cute cupcakes for my family and friends, then I love it even more! Recently, I was sent a box containing a few items such as cake mix and frosting, so I could try making these myself. Let me just say that these look adorable, and would be great for spring/summer parties! I recommend getting a festive plastic platter (maybe with watermelon photos on it?!) and serve these cupcakes that way. 

 
Chase away the wintertime blues with this tasty watermelon-flavored cake and frosting, and create your own summertime treat with an easy-to-make watermelon slice-shaped cake or fun-to-eat cupcakes recipe. 

And beginning on March 23, you can also find great deals and savings at http://coupons.target.com/generalmills-coupons -- including a coupon for 50¢ off any 2 Betty Crocker Cake and Frosting.

Check out these links for more information:

~General Mills website - http://www.generalmills.com/
~Target Coupon Site: http://coupons.target.com/generalmills-coupons

Will you be trying out this cupcake mix?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op. 

Save on Yoplait Greek Style Yogurt at Publix

Hey everyone!

I have become a fan of Greek Yogurt these past few months, and I always keep a small supply in my fridge for a quick and easy breakfast. My favorite way to eat them is to sprinkle on top some granola for added crunch. Recently, I received a small prize box for sharing this information, including a $10 gift card to the grocery store. And, you know that will be use for Greek yogurt! 

Try Yoplait Greek Yogurt! Thick, creamy and packed with protein, Yoplait Greek Yogurt is deliciously blended with real fruit to give you the great taste you expect from Yoplait in every bite. Plus, it’s made with natural colors, flavors and sweeteners! Try all flavors Blueberry, Coconut, Pineapple and Vanilla, available at Publix. 

For a limited time, save on Yoplait Greek Yogurt: 

Print-at-home coupon

• Buy One Yoplait Greek 100 Yogurt Cup and Get One Yoplait Blended Yogurt Cup for Free
• Click here to access coupon
• **Void in Tennessee. Available while supplies last.

In-Store Savings, available at Publix

• Yoplait Greek 100 on sale 10/$10 from 3/13 – 3/19

And now trying Yoplait Greek is a better deal than ever! Because you can get one Yoplait Blended Cup for FREE when you buy one Yoplait Greek 100 Calorie Yogurt Cup. Please click link below for coupon, available while supplies last. 

Coupon Link: http://www.coupons.com/?&seg=yes&scrl=yes&PLID=MEDIAADS&CRID=GMIGREEK031014_EXT&cid=18183373.

Do you like Greek yogurt? How would you eat it in the morning?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.  

New Nature Valley Products at Target!

Hey everyone!

I am a fan of  snacks that are quick and easy to grab when I am running out the door to class. Recently, I was sent a box containing some new items from Nature Valley, and I must say these items are easy and yummy for snacks! I love to toss one of the Greek Yogurt Bars and Breakfast Biscuits into my purse before leaving, or I will grab a Greek Yogurt and sprinkle some of the granola over top for crunch!

With the goodness you’ve come to expect from Nature Valley, all-new Nature Valley Protein Granola is the perfect way to start your day in a bowl of milk, sprinkled on yogurt or as a quick snack! 

Nature Valley Greek Yogurt Protein Bars come in delicious Strawberry or Mixed Berry flavors and packs 10g of protein alongside real fruit and nuts, offering a treat your whole family will enjoy! 

And with the sustained energy from +26g of whole grains, new Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits hit the perfect trifecta: convenient, great tasting and fully satisfying. 

Check out these links for more information:

Nature Valley® website - http://www.naturevalley.com/ 

Nature Valley® Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/naturevalley

What are your favorite snacks? Are you going to try these items from Nature Valley?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Publix Big G & Fruit Breakfast Savings

Hey everyone!

As you all know, I love to eat cereal anytime of day! And, when I can combine delicious cereal with fresh fruit, I am even happier! One of my favorite combinations is Honey Nut Cheerios topped with fresh, ripe strawberries! It is like spring in your bowl!  

Cheerios and fresh fruit have always been a smart combination, and this month, you’ll find exclusive savings on both, available at Publix! Mix Cheerios and your favorite fruit for the perfect breakfast. Multi Grain Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios and traditional Cheerios are the crunch, and a little fruit on top for sweetness, delicious! Try delicious combinations such as:

• Cheerios with strawberries
• Honey Nut Cheerios with bananas
• Chocolate Cheerios with raspberries

Be on the lookout for these exclusive savings on smart-start Cheerios and fresh fruit pairings starting March 22!

In-Store Savings

• Look for coupon in the Publix® Healthy Savings grocery flyer, available 3/22/14 – 4/11/14.
• Buy any two (2) Cheerios® products and save $1.50 on Publix® Fresh Fruit. Offer available on General Mills Cereals Cheerios® (all varieties, 10.9oz or larger).

Printable Coupons

• Enjoy more savings on your favorite Big G Cereals. Visit www.Everydaysaver.com/publix to clip and print your coupons. Available while supplies last.
• Save $0.50 when you buy any ONE BOX Chex® Cereal: Rice Chex®, Corn Chex®, Wheat Chex®, Honey Nut Chex®.
• Save $0.75 on Big G Cereals® when you buy ONE BOX Golden Grahams Cereal
• Save $0.50 when you buy any ONE BOX Cinnamon Toast Crunch® cereal
• Save $1.00 ON THREE Big G Cereals® when you buy THREE BOXES any flavor General Mills Big G cereals

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

L'Occitane Collector's Offer: Shea Butter Hand Cream 20th Anniversary!‏

Hey everyone!

Now through March 30^th, L’OCCITANE is proud to share their newest Facebook collector’s offer. To celebrate L’OCCITANE’s Shea Butter Hand Cream's 20th anniversary, the brand is offering Facebook fans their three favorite hand creams in an adorable pouch for only $3! Customers who sign up via the link below will receive an automatic email they will show to redeem in L’OCCITANE retail boutiques nationwide. No additional purchase necessary. Valid in boutiques or online.

 
https://apps.facebook.com/freehandcream/pages/2adeea55d16ff840f482a085ffac2fcd

Disclaimer

 
*No additional purchase is required! Offer not valid in outlets or wholesale partners. Limit one per customer while supplies last.

Talk about a great deal!

XoXo,
Whitney

Note: Information provided by PR! 
 

The Publix March Savings Event

Hey everyone!

Publix is now holding their Fresh Savings Event! This is great, because you can purchase your fresh items such as chicken, hamburger meat, and fruit; and save on sides like rices, instant potatoes, and oatmeal! I love these types of events, because they allow me to eat fresh, while still having an easy and quick meal.

One of my absolute favorite meal combinations is a fresh piece of chicken served with a side of chicken and broccoli rice from Knorr! Easy and delicious! 

Look for ways to pair your favorite products with fresh grocery store items. Save on smart-start breakfast pairing, a great dinner combination or a spin on dessert! Find special savings on delectable meal pairings such as:

• Publix fresh fruit and Quaker Instant Oatmeal for breakfast
• Publix Deli Chicken and Betty Crocker Potatoes for dinner
• Publix bakery items and Breyer’s ice cream as a dessert

Look for coupons and details in the Publix® weekly ad, 3/12/14 – 3/19/14 (in-store start dates may vary in certain markets). Coupons valid 3/12 – 3/26.
 
·Save $1 on Publix® Deli Chicken with the purchase of Betty Crocker® Potatoes (3.7 – 6.6oz) 

·Save $2 on Publix® Fresh Fruit with the purchase of one box of Oatmeal Crisp® Raisin, Oatmeal Crisp® Almond, or Basic 4® (16-18oz)

·Save $2 on Publix® Ground Meat (any size package) with the purchase of two (2) LAY’S® Kettle Cooked Original Potato Chips (7-8.5oz)

·2 for $6 Propel items (6pk 500 ml)

·2 for $4 Betty Crocker® Helper® Ultimate Skillet Dinner

·Save $3 on Publix® Fresh Fruit with the purchase of two Quaker® Instant Oatmeal

·Save $2 on a Publix® Bakery item with the purchase of any Breyers® product (48oz)

·Save $3 on Publix® Shrimp or Chicken with the purchase of three Knorr® Sides

·Save $1 on Publix® Produce Potatoes with the purchase of one Lipton® Recipe Secrets®
 
On-Shelf Coupons. Available while supplies last.

·Save $2 on Publix® Fresh Cut Fruit (6oz or larger) with the purchase of 2 Propel items (6pk 500 ml). Find Coupon near produce.

·Save $1 on Publix® Meat with the purchase of 1 Betty Crocker® Helper® Ultimate Skillet Dinner (with in-store coupon). Find coupon near meat section.
 
Printable Coupons
 
Visit www.Everydaysaver.com/publix to clip and print your coupons. Available while supplies last.

• Save $0.75 on Big G Cereals® when you buy ONE BOX Golden Grahams Cereal

·Save $1.00 ON THREE Big G Cereals® when you buy THREE BOXES any flavor General Mills Big G cereals

Have you checked out this sale yet?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Publix Nature Valley New Products

Hey everyone!

Recently, I received a box containing samples of the new Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits in the flavors Honey and Blueberry! Now, you all know me and my love for easy breakfast items. So, I was extremely excited to try these out. I really enjoy these Breakfast Biscuits as a quick and easy way to fuel up when I'm running out the door. They are crispy, crunchy and the flavors are delicious!

 
Introducing new Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits – 4 delicious biscuits packed with 26 grams of whole grain energy to keep you going, no matter where your day takes you, available in the cookie aisle!

 
Be on the lookout for exclusive savings on Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits at Publix.

Savings, available at Publix: 

•$0.50 off when you buy one box of any Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits, follow link for coupon http://www.everydaysaver.com/nvbiscuitblog

•Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits will be on sale at Publix for $1.99. Look for details in the Lucky Savings grocery story flyer available 3/1 – 3/21 

Have you tried these new Nature Valley Breakfast Biscuits at Publix?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Celebrate Women's Day with L'Occitane‏

Hey everyone!

Saturday, March 8th marks International Women’s Day and I invite you to join L’Occitane in celebrating this special day with a limited-edition Women’s Day Soap. 

For just $3, you can commemorate this day with L’Occitane’s fund-raising, fair trade soap. The Women’s Day Soaps are produced in Burkina Faso as part of a development partnership with a local factory. The factory has been run entirely by women and supports their economic emancipation.  

About the soap:

• The 2014 Women’s Day Soap features a special design that evokes the joy of women in Burkina Faso
• Formulated with shea butter (52%) from a fair trade producer
• Made by the women in Burkina Faso
• The L’Occitane Foundation and NGO will donate 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the soap to organizations that promote women’s entrepreneurship

L’Occitane’s Woman’s Day Soap retails for $3 and is available on usa.loccitane.com

XoXo,

Whitney

Note: I was sent this product to try and feature on my blog. I am not associated with the company, nor are they paying me to feature their product. As always, my reviews and opinions are 100% my own! Product information provided by PR! 

It Cosmetics CC Your Way to Beautiful Skin 4 Piece Set!

Hey everyone!

This new collection, which is scheduled to be offered on QVC as the Today's Special Value Monday, March 10, 2014, features several must-have It Cosmetics products to help you discover your most beautiful self this spring! QVC features one item each day as a Today's Special Value, which is offered at an exceptionally low price is valid from midnight until 2:59 AM ET the following day, while supplies last.

The collection includes CC+ Lip Serum Hydrating Anti-Aging Color Correcting Creme Gloss, Tightline Waterproof Mascara Primer, Supersize Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+, and Heavenly Luxe Plus Paddle Foundation Brush. Products developed with plastic surgeons and infused with amazing ingredients, it's truly a multi-tasking miracle!

First, start off your routine right with Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+. Using the Heavenly Luxe Plush Paddle Foundation Brush, apply a smooth, even layer to clean skin or on top of moisturizer. This CC Cream combines several products in one step, include SPF 50+ UVA/UBV Broad Spectrum, Physical Only, Non-Chemical Sunscreen. This is the Supersize Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+; at 2.53 FL oz, it's more than twice the size of the original CC+ Cream! Be sure to blend this multi-tasking cream all over the face, neck and decollete to provide the look of an even, hydrating, luminous finish.

Next, prep and prime the eyelashes with a waterproof mascara primer that lasts 12 hours! Lightly and gently press the Tightline Waterproof Mascara Primer wand along the root of the lash line to fill in the gaps between the lashes to achieve the look of full volume and definition. Move along the enter upper lash line for a beautiful and natural liner effect for lashes that appear longer and fuller.

Lastly, finish off your look with hydrating vitality! Glide ultra-conditioning CC+ Lip Serum Hydrating Anti-Aging Color Correcting Creme Gloss in the Love shade over the lips for instant color correction and a lip tone that appears even. It can be worn day or night for improved hydration and a pretty flush of color that lasts!

The It Cosmetics CC Your Way to Beautiful Skin Four-Piece Collection will be a Today's Special Value on QVC. It will be offered at the exceptionally low price of $58.98, while supplies last, for ONE DAY ONLY on QVC, the QVC apps and QVC.com on March 10, 2014 from midnight to 2:59 AM ET the following day.

XoXo,
Whitney

Note: It Cosmetics sent me this set to try and feature for you! I am not associated with the company, nor are they paying me to feature their set. As always, my reviews and opinions are 100% my own! Product information is provided by the company!

THE LEADING MEN AT THE OSCAR'S: WINNING LOOKS‏

Hey everyone!

At this evening's 86th Annual Academy Awards, celebrities came out to celebrate the best in cinema, walking the red carpet, showcasing their very best in fashion and grooming. 

We all watched as the handsome list of leading men - Jared Leto, Bradley Cooper, Matthew Mcconaughey and Leo DiCaprio - walked the carpet looking dapper than ever. 

Vaughn Acord, Celebrity Grooming Stylist to the stars, says, "This is a big night for many of these men, and they all chose hairstyles that were well thought out, had a purpose and felt very classic, old-Hollywood." 

Here Vaughn shares tips on how to achieve each look: 

SHORT SIDES, LONG TOPS: Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill "Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill both chose a look that is very reminiscent of the roaring 20's. The hair is extreme with short sides and longer on top. It's a super clean hairstyle that has a purpose. The product selection becomes very important when achieving this look because you have to ensure that the longer hair on top is pressed down. Start by prepping hair with the V76 Ultralight Grooming Spray ($25) and begin to dry it into the hair with a blower. Before hair is fully dry, apply the V76 Control Balm ($28) which will add in weight to the hair and continue to use a blower to set the product in. A finishing spray will add a touch of shine to the Gatsby-ish look." 

BEARDS/FACIAL HAIR: Leo DiCaprio, Jared Leto, Bradley Cooper "I am really glad to see Bradley went with this look tonight. As predicted, his hair looks refreshing and cool. It's short on the sides but has texture on the top. It pairs well with his beard and fits his personality and style to perfection. To achieve this look at home, rub V76 Molding Paste ($26) into hands and apply it throughout, focusing on the top to get the volume you want for this look. Hit it with a blow dryer to set the product and to mold hair into the shape you want." 

"Jared's hair is down and it works. It's the red tie, white suit, light ends and it looks very polished with his beard. Hair has to be washed and ends need to be cut because his hair looks incredibly healthy. Apply V76 Well Groomed ($26) through ends on damp hair to control any flyways and set with V76 Holding Spray ($28)." 

SHORT HAIR / NO BEARD: Matthew Mcconaughey, Chiwetel Ejiofor "There are a lot of clean faces on the red carpet tonight; even in a moment of facial hair, the leading men went formal, including Matthew. His hair is short on the top and sides, and it looks very sophisticated this evening--like he's ready to accept an award! To get his look at home, start on damp hair and rub a wet gel, like V76 Conditioning Gel ($26) from roots to ends, leaving it slightly undone on top." 

All V76 by Vaughn products can be found on www.v76.co.

XoXo,
Whitney

Note: I am not associated with any brand mentioned above. All information provided by PR!

Chrissy Teigen at the 2014 Oscars - Makeup by Lauren Andersen for Avon‏

Hey everyone!

Avon Global Celebrity Makeup Artist Lauren Andersen Creates A Glamorous Look for Chrissy Teigen at the 2014 Oscars

For tonight's red carpet, Avon Global Celebrity Makeup Artist Lauren Andersen gave Chrissy a bold lip while keeping the rest of her face soft and natural to complement her gorgeous floral gown. Here's how to get the look.

1. Lauren groomed Chrissy’s brows with Votre Vu Brow Wax. 
2. Next, Lauren applied the soft pink shade (#2) from Avon True Color Eyeshadow Quad in Emerald Cut to Chrissy’s lids and then coated her lashes withAvon Mega Effects Mascara. 
3. To create Chrissy’s natural, sunkissed glow, Lauren used a YSL Le Teint Touche Eclat Illuminating Foundation and then brushed on a Lorac Bronzer.
4. To complete the look, Lauren gave Chrissy a bold lip—she applied the NEW Avon Ultra Color Absolute Lipstick in Pure Orchid on the models lips.

What did you think of her look?

XoXo,
Whitney

Note:I am not associated with any company mentioned above. Photo and information is provided by PR!

 

Old El Paso Frozen Entrees - No Way That's Frozen!

Hey everyone!

I really love to cook, but I also love to be able to throw together a quick and easy meal. Recently, my mom and I have decided that during the days we clean house and do other errands, we would enjoy an easy frozen entree for lunch. Our current favorite is from Old El Paso, and is their new dinner for 2 Frozen Entrees! We find ours in the freezer section at our local Publix grocery store. Our absolute favorite from this line is their shredded beef enchiladas! And, recently I received a box containing coupons to try out their new entrees for free! You can imagine how excited I was to get those!

You can now find premium, handcrafted, Old El Paso Frozen entrees for two in the freezer aisle of your local grocery store. With eight different flavors of fajitas, enchiladas, quesadillas and burritos, these entrees are sure to fulfill your dinner needs.

All you need is to add some chips, salsa, and guacamole and you're good to go! Talk about a quick and easy meal for two!

Check out these Old El Paso links:

~Old El Paso Website: oldelpaso.com

~Old El Paso Facebook: facebook.com/oldelpaso

Have you tried these frozen dinners yet?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by Old El Paso® through Platefull Co-Op.

Introducing NEW Fiber One Fruit Flavored Snacks

Hey everyone!

I am a total snacker during the day!  Recently, I was sent a couple boxes of the new Fiber One Fruit Flavored Snacks to try out. These fruit snacks are absolutely delicious, and they claim to have 3g of fiber in every serving! 

I do not know much about the fiber claim, but I can tell you that these snacks are delicious! They have unique fruit shapes, and their flavors range from pineapple to cherry. My personal favorite is the Assorted Fruit flavors, but the Mixed Berry is equally good. 

I know that I like to carry a snack around with me when I am out and about, and these gummies have taken over as my bag snack of choice. I think they would be great in kids lunches as well!

Check out these links for more Fiber One Fun:

Fiber One® website - http://www.fiberone.com/ 

Fiber One® Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fiberone

Have you tried these new Fiber One Fruit Snacks yet?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Target Busy Family Project

Hey everyone!

If you are like me, then you know your mornings are super busy, and breakfast is one of the last things on your mind. However, I'm planning on changing this, and Target has given me some great ideas! Recently, I received a box stuffed full of great breakfast foodies that are quick and easy! 

~Trix Cereal - This cereal is a great one for kids of all ages! I know that even 20 something me still loves it! Plus, it is super easy to pour yourself a bowl of this before heading to school or work in the morning.

~Nutella - This is one of my absolute favorite spreads out there! It is perfect on toast, fresh fruit, pretzels, and even oatmeal!

~Honey Nut Cheerios Medley Crunch Cereal - Cheerios are always a win when it comes to breakfast, and this blend is delicious!

~Nature Valley Crunchy Oats n' Honey Bars - Even if you're running late, snag one of these bars out of your cupboard, so that you can still have breakfast on the go!

~Quaker Oats Oatmeal - I have become a huge fan of oatmeal this past year, and whenever I have the time, I always make me a bowl in the morning!

~Grandma Hoerner's Big Slice Pure Apple - This little pouch is full of deliciousness, and I put a little in my oatmeal!

~Nature Valley Protein Granola - There is nothing better than crunchy granola in the morning, and I love to sprinkle this over yogurt!

~JIF Creamy Peanut Butter - You can do so much with peanut butter. My personal favorite is to spread it over warm toast or dip fresh cut apples in it!

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to have breakfast in the morning, even if you're short on time. 

You can also find special savings on these products at Target – and even more inspiration by visiting Target.com/BreakfastTwist

What goodies are you going to try for your breakfast from Target?

XoXo,
Whitney

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through Platefull Co-Op.

Florida State Fair 2014

Hey everyone!

Yesterday, my parents and I went to the 110th Florida State Fair. The last time we were there it was the fair's 100th anniversary, so this was a special treat for us. We had a lot of fun, and were there for over 6 hours. By the time we were done walking around, our feet were hurting so bad that we were happy, but sad, to head home.

I can't wait to do it all over again next year!

Once we were inside, we headed straight for the chocolate covered strawberries. Trust me, they were absolutely delicious and the best I've ever had. Unfortunately, I ate them all before I took a picture.

After the quick pit stop, we headed over to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Barn.

This is an older fire truck that was used in fighting forest fires. I actually think it looks really cool!

In Florida, they used this contraption in the early years of logging.

Next, we headed into the museum dedicated to the Florida Cracker culture. Now, if you don't know what Crackers mean, then let me explain. Original ranchers from Florida used whips that made crackling sounds during herding; henceforth, the name Crackers.

I absolutely love horse back riding. Just look at the intricate detailing in the leather.

This is an old style forge that the cowboys used in order to heat up their branding rods. These rods would leave permanent marks on the cows' hides. So that during drives, ranchers would be able to tell their cattle from the others.

Here is a look at an authentic stuffed Criollo, aka Florida Cracker Cow, aka Florida Scrub Cow. This breed was brought to the U.S. by the Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th Century, and are the oldest and rarest in the states.

The Fish & Wildlife exhibit had several different animals to see. Sadly, my photos of the Black Bear and Cougar didn't come out good due to lighting.

This is a closeup of the invasive Lionfish, which was introduced to our Florida waters. It poses a significant threat to our native marine life and ecosystem, because it has no natural predators.

After these exhibits, we went to our favorite place... Cracker Country! This section of the fair gives the sense of how life was for the families that settled Florida in the 1800's. All of the buildings are authentic, and through generous donations were relocated to their permanent location inside the fair grounds.

This is the Dry Goods Store, where you would go to purchased things such as canned goods, brooms, sugar, and like items. I've included some pictures from inside the store that I think you all will find interesting!

Coffee being weighed.

Shelves stacked with canned goods and old time Cracker Jack!

More shelves stocked full.

Barrels containing brooms and gardening supplies.

After the dry goods store, we headed on over to the Old School House!

Here you can see a teacher and student at the front telling visitors all about Florida back in the 1800's.

See these desks and chairs? I'm glad I didn't have to sit in one of them!

After the Old School House, we went by one of the highlights of the entire fair!

The Beef Jerky stand! This stand makes the best beef jerky ever, and we loaded up with 8 bags in different flavors!

There is even an old smokehouse on site, where the Beef Jerky Man makes his own smoked hams and such!

Can you tell we really like our beef jerky?

After the smokehouse, I went and toured an actual home! 

Take a look at this beautiful quilt.

A mother and daughter were demonstrating how the women spent their free time.

Cracker Country operates a quaint general store, where you can purchase items items made specifically for the area! We picked up a few things, and even something for Lauren!

This little post office use to actually function, until USPS closed it down two years ago, due to budget cuts.

Here are a few candid shots around Cracker Country, so that you can get more of a feel for the place!

This is sugarcane growing!

I couldn't leave Cracker Country without getting some delicious boiled peanuts!

After Cracker Country, we were starting to get hungry, so we headed on over to the best place (in my opinion!) for french fries!

We split the bucket of fries, but once again, I forgot to take a picture! You have to trust me, they were delicious!

Once we finished our fries and drinks, we saw that the Bear Show had a special viewing, so we went over to see!

Here is Andy relaxing in his little pool with his red ball.

This is Carol giving kisses to one of the trainers!

Carol grinning and waiting for her treats, which happened to be dog treats! Her and Andy loved them!

After watching the bears, we headed on over the the livestock area to see the horse competitions. Most of the horses were glammed up for their shows, and a few were out to be seen and photographed.

After the horses, we headed on over to the petting/feeding tent, which was called the Mooternity Ward, since most of the animals there were due to give birth! We even saw baby goats just moments after being born! We had so much fun petting the animals and feeding them!

So cute!

That goose posed so good, I just had to take its picture!

This watsui was the sweetest animal in the entire tent! All she wanted to do was relax and eat hay! Look at those horns!

Piglets!

A mama goat with her little kids!

Another fabulous pose! 

This cow was as tall as me!

Afterwards, we walked over to an exotic petting tent.

Beautiful donkeys! The grey one loved to get scratched on its cheek!

Twiggs the Giraffe stole the show for me! Look how stunning he is! 

And I got to feed him!! They had carrot sticks for sale inside, and I managed to get this amazing photo of me feeding him one! I will always remember this day! It cost my mom $5.00 in carrots. Thanks Mom!

This little guy stole my heart! He was so sweet and gentle when feeding him. And look at his coat, he's simply gorgeous! Do you see his teeth? They're pearly white!

After being dragged away from the animal tent (and washing our hands 6 times) we saw that the Sea Lion show was in full swing!

Look how tall they are!

I was lucky enough to catch this on camera! Look how cute he is!

They did stunts in the water such as flipping. 

And jumping to touch the ball with their noses.

After the Sea Lion show, we walked over to the Steam House. This area shows you parts that function off of steam.

They also have these bird houses hanging from the rafters. Look at the detail!

Out on the deck, I took this photo of the backside of Cracker Country. 

Here are a few random shots I took of the midway at the fair!

I might get me one of these hats next time I'm there!

Delicious foods as far as the eye can see!

Fruit smoothies, I'm getting one next time too!

After we got home and had dinner, I decided to show you all what we purchased and brought home with us!

Pork Rinds! These are another must have when in Cracker Country! They are nothing but crunchy, tasty, fried bits of heaven! We got 3 bags of barbeque and one plain.

Here is what they look like up close! Jealous? You should be!

Remember me talking about the Beef Jerky? Well here they are! We picked up 8 bags, but I thought I'd show you the four flavors they have: Mild & Tasty, Spicy, Hot, and Teriyaki! All of them are amazing!

Here is one of the homemade items we picked up in Cracker Country! It's Pink Grapefruit Marmalade! I can't wait to try it out!

Florida is known for its Orange Blossoms, and Orange Blossom Honey is the absolute best! So, we picked up a jar for only $6.00! Talk about a great buy!

Here are the other items we bought from the Cracker Country General Store. The stick candy is specially done for the fair, and I got the flavors Sassafras, Butterscotch, Lemon, Horehound, and Root Beer! We also got a cookie press, which helps you flatten cookies and stamp an image on them. This one has a rooster on it. Also, I got a Genuine Alligator Tooth! Very cool!

A fair day wouldn't be complete without some cotton candy!

Alessi had a large stand inside the expo hall, so mom got half a cuban sandwich to bring home! She said it was so good, she should have gotten the full one!

Look how pretty it is warmed up!

Last but not least, I dipped a candle at Cracker Country for only $1.00! It was a lot of fun, and a great souvenir!

I loved my day at the fair, and I have some great memories that I will keep with me forever! I can't wait to make more memories next year!

XoXo,
Whitney

Note: We paid for everything ourselves. We are not associated with any company mentioned above. I just wanted to share my day with ya'll!