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Parents Magazine Names 10 Best Children’s Books Of 2015

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

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Parents magazine today revealed its picks for the 10 Best Children’s Books of 2015. The magazine sought input from children and librarians across the country to select their favorite reads from the collection of books released this year. The full list of the 10 Best Children’s Books appears in the December 2015 issue of Parentsmagazine and online: http://bit.ly/1HoMPMA.

 

According to the Parents magazine, the 10 Best Children’s Books of 2015 are:

 

Board Book:

Hi! By Ethan Long

In this story about the ways animals and humans say hello, bouncy rhymes like “hoo” and “moo” and “chirp” and “slurp” made our toddler testers giggle. “The comic-like illustrations are just as much fun as the text,” says one mom of a 3-year-old. Birth to 3, $8

 

 

 

Fictional Picture Book:

Wolfie the Bunny, by Ame Dyckman and Zachariah O’Hora

A zany premise (a family of bunnies adopts a baby wolf left at its doorstep) leads to suspense (repeated refrains of “He’s going to eat us all up,” from his bunny sister) and a surprise ending. “This fresh take on sibling rivalry is so much fun to read aloud,” says Ginny Collier, a children’s librarian in Atlanta. Ages 3 to 6, $17

 

 

 

Number Book:

Counting Dogs, by Eric Barclay

The format won families over: Bound in a sturdy box, the book contains graduated pages and die-cut tabs. Turning each one reveals an adorable spotted dog encountering an increasing number of animals, such as three turtles, nine fish, and, finally, ten counting dogs that look just like him. Ages 1 to 4, $11

 

 

Nonfiction Picture Book:

Winnie: The True Story of the Bear Who Inspired Winnie-the-Pooh, by Sally M. Walker and Jonathan D. Voss

“No way—Winnie is real?” exclaimed one 6-year-old reviewer after hearing this sweet-as-honey account about a Canadian soldier who brought his pet bear Winnie (short for Winnipeg) to be cared for at the London Zoo while he was in battle. Christopher Robin came to visit the zoo with his family, and the rest is history. Ages 4 to 8, $18.

All of these would make great holiday gift suggestions!

 

 

 

 Sequel

The Day the Crayons Came Home, by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers

The story is funnier than the creators’ original blockbuster, The Day the Crayons Quit. Each crayon sends Duncan, the main character, a postcard highlighting what’s happened since they walked out. From neon red: “Looks like I’m almost home. … Just crossing New Jersey by camel now! New Jersey has giant pyramids, right?” Ages 4 to 8, $19

 

 

Early Reader

Ballet Cat: The Totally Secret Secret, by Bob Shea

Although the vocabulary is simple enough for early readers, the story of a cat and a pony doesn’t lack substance. “It helps children learn how they can express their desires without compromising a friendship,” says Lorie Bonapfel, children’s librarian at The Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County. Ages 4 to 6, $10

 

 

Pop-Up

Journey to the Moon, by Andy Mansfield

Kids oohed and aahed over the pop-ups (especially the spirally moon landing), but parents got a kick out of the twist ending (let’s just say it’s extraterrestrial!). Ages 4 to 8, $13

 

 

 

Beginning Chapter Book:

The Story of Diva and Flea, by Mo Willems and Tony DiTerlizzi

Fans of Willems’s Elephant & Piggie series will grow into this 80-page story about a streetwise cat and a tiny dog who explore Paris. Says one 8-year-old tester: “I liked the pencil illustrations.” Ages 6 to 9, $15

 

 

 

Graphic Novel:

Roller Girl, by Victoria Jamieson

A relatable main character, realistic dialogue, and expressive illustrations won over our tween reviewers. “Even though I can barely roller-skate, I felt like I was reading about me and a couple of my best friends,” says one 9-year-old. Ages 7+, $13

 

 

 

 Big-Kid Chapter Book

The Marvels, by Brian Selznick

Testers thrived on unraveling the mystery of how two seemingly stand-alone stories (one told entirely through nearly 400 pages of illustrations) are connected. Says children’s librarian Elizabeth Bird: “It will keep your kids guessing.” Ages 8+, $33.

 

Self Disclosure: No products were received or compensation to post. Credit: Parents magazine.

 

 

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Reindeer Romp Holiday Celebration at the Los Angeles Zoo!

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

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Photo: Los Angeles Zoo’s REINDEER ROMP, the only opportunity to see real reindeer in Los Angeles,
is featured daily from Friday, November 27, 2015, through Sunday, January 3, 2016 (except Christmas Day)

LIVE REINDEER, ICE CARVING, PUPPET SHOWS, AND VISITS WITH SANTA CLAUS ARE JUST SOME OF THE FUN AT THE LOS ANGELES ZOO’S REINDEER ROMP HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Friday, November 27, 2015, through Sunday, January 3, 2016 (daily except December 25) 10 am to 4 pm Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The Los Angeles Zoo presents a rare opportunity to see live reindeer at its Reindeer Romp Holiday Celebration, which debuts Friday November 27, 2015, and runs through January 3, 2016 (except Christmas Day),10 am to 4 pm.  Guests are invited to make the most of the season with a full day of fun and adventure at a great value highlighted by a visit with Noel, Belle, Velvet and Jingle in their wintry Reindeer Village home, the only place to view live reindeer in Los Angeles.  A flurry of other activities on weekends include holiday crafts for youngsters, ice carving demonstrations (Saturdays), Swazzle Holiday Extravaganza puppet shows (Sunday mornings), entertainment by the Satin Dollz, Los Angeles’ popular retro musical troupe (Sunday afternoons), docent talks, and a rotating schedule of animals unwrapping gifts all their own.  Visits with Santa Claus in an all-new whimsical Santa Village and photo ops (for a nominal fee) take place every weekend through December 20 plus December 21, 22 and 23 from 11 am to 3 pm.

“The Zoo is a wonderful place to spend quality time with kids and extended family during the holiday season,” says Kait Hilliard, Vice President – Marketing and Communications for the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association.  “Visitors can enjoy the seasonal weather along with an enriching experience of magical holiday fun as well as the chance to see our animals and meet our newest baby giraffe, snow leopards and giant river otter pups.”

All activities, except Santa photos, are free with paid Zoo admission, which is $20 for general admission (ages 13 to 61); $17 for seniors (ages 62+), and $15 for children (ages 2 to 12).  No ticket is required for children under age two.  Admission for Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association members is free.

The landmark Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, drawing 1.6 million visitors each year, is home to a diverse collection of 1,100 animals representing 250 different species, many of which are rare or endangered.  Its lush grounds on 113 acres feature the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles); Elephants of Asia; Campo Gorilla Reserve; Rainforest of the Americas, an extraordinary collection of endangered and exotic mammals, reptiles, fish and amphibians living in spaces that exemplify their natural habitat in the rainforest biosphere; Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel; an Indian Rhino Encounter direct-contact opportunity; Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains, home to one of the largest troops of chimpanzees in the United States; Red Ape Rain Forest, where visitors can walk among orangutans; the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo; one of the largest flocks of flamingos in any zoo in the world; a botanical collection comprising over 800 different plant species with approximately 7,000 individual plants; and much more.  Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), whose members meet rigorous professional standards for animal welfare, the Zoo has achieved renown as an international leader in the preservation of endangered species and a conservation center for the care and study of wildlife.  The private, non-profit Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA), which has supported the Zoo in partnership with the City of Los Angeles for more than five decades and provides funding for and operates seven essential Zoo departments, has 60,000 member households representing more than 240,000 adults and children.

The Los Angeles Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways.  5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA  90027.  Free parking is available.  For additional information, contact (323) 644-4200 or visit www.lazoo.org/reindeerromp.

Credit: Los Angeles Zoo. Photo Credit:  Jamie Pham.

Filed Under: Featured Content, Featured Events

TurfMutt Program is great for children in grade K-5!

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

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Parents everywhere would like to help kids learn in ways that are fun and help others. Meet a real-life rescue dog named Lucky, the inspiration behind the TurfMutt environmental education and stewardship program. Lucky can help parents teach their children how to take care of green spaces and get them outside – and has important reminders to share for families living in drought-afflicted areas.

Rescued from the side of an Indiana highway, Lucky is now “pawing it forward” by inspiring children to care for green spaces while learning science. Designed for children in grades K-5, the TurfMutt program (www.TurfMutt.com) is partnered with well-known children’s publisher SCHOLASTIC, and can be used at home – with a digital storybook, home-based learning activities and interactive games.

The TurfMutt program was created by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s Education and Research Foundation.

Check it out!

Credit: TurfMutt program/SCHOLASTIC and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s Education and Research Foundation.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Creation Station: “Gorgeous Green” Offers Old-Fashioned Yuletide Fun for Children

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

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Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site welcomes the community to an afternoon of good, old-fashioned fun for youngsters on Saturday, December 5, 2015, when children ages 6-11 can create unique seasonal crafts and participate in historically-themed activities.  This free, drop-in program is held, rain or shine, between 1-4 p.m.

 

“Gorgeous Green” celebrates Christmas! Children can choose from an array of art materials and nature supplies to make holiday cards, decorate a tree ornament, and sew a Christmas stocking. In addition to participating in Creation Station’s hands-on activities, visitors can also take a free tour of the house, decorated for the holidays, or a garden tour between 1-5 p.m.

 

Please remember to mark your calendars for our January Creation Station.  “Winter Wonders” will take place on January 2 and offer activities inspired by frosty fun. Creation Station continues every first Saturday, through June.

Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site is a public museum open for tours, programs, and special events. The Rancho is located at 4600 Virginia Road in Long Beach, northwest of the intersection of Long Beach Boulevard and San Antonio Drive. Free guided tours are offered Wednesday-Sunday from 1-5 p.m.

 

Built in 1844, the Rancho’s adobe home and grounds echo with the rich history of Spanish, Mexican, and American California and with the families who helped transform Southern California from its ranching beginnings to the modern, urban society it is today. The two-story Monterey-style adobe is primarily furnished to reflect occupants and lifestyles from the 1860s-1880s. The site, a National, State and Long Beach Historic Landmark, also includes historic gardens and a research library and archives. It is operated by the Rancho Los Cerritos Foundation in a public/private partnership with the City of Long Beach. For more information please call (562) 206-2040, or visit the website at RanchoLosCerritos.org and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rancholosc.

Credit: Rancho Los Cerritos.

Filed Under: Featured Events

Enjoy Cocoa with Santa at Rancho Los Cerritos!

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Santa Claus will be joining children for cocoa at Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site on December 15 and 19.  Designed for children ages 3-11, young guests will have an opportunity to share their holiday wishes and have their pictures taken with Santa. After enjoying hot cocoa and sweets, children will also craft a Christmas ornament to hang on their trees at home, then listen to engaging storytellers as they share popular tales of long ago.

 

All this will take place in the beautifully decorated historic adobe home, festooned with fragrant garlands and wreathes, and adorned with historically-themed Christmas trees.

 

Cocoa with Santa is offered on Tuesday, December 15 at 4pm, and again on Saturday, December 19 at 11am.  Admission is $10 per person—child or adult—and seating is limited.  For reservations, please contact Rancho Los Cerritos at (562) 206-2040.

 

 

Rancho Los Cerritos is also hosting a Holiday Tea on December 8, and two “Cocoa with Santa” events on December 15 and 19.

 

Rancho Los Cerritos is at 4600 Virginia Road in Long Beach.  The 1844 adobe home will be decorated with Victorian greenery and decorations throughout the holiday season and can be toured during public hours, Wednesday through Sunday from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.  The Rancho will be closed December 24, 25 and 31, 2015, and January 1, 2016.   For more information please call (562) 206-2040, or visit the website at www.rancholoscerritos.org and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rancholosc.

Filed Under: Announcements

Carrington Farms Stuffed Chicken Recipe for Beginning of Fall

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

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Chicken Breast with Flax and Herb Stuffing
Yield: 2 servings
Serving Size: 1 chicken breast

Ingredients

Directions

1.Heat coconut oil in fry pan over medium-low heat.

2.Add onion and red pepper. Sauté 1 minute.

3.Add cranberries. Cook 2 minutes.

4.Remove mixture from heat, let cool a few minutes.

5.In a bowl, combine bread, egg, wine, Flax Hemp Pak, parsley, onion-red pepper mixture.

6.Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

7.Between two sheets of wax paper flatten chicken breast to ¼ inch (6 mm) thickness.

8.Spread ½ cup (125 mL) stuffing mixture on breast. Roll up. Repeat with other breast.

9.Preheat oven to 350º F (180º C).

10.Place chicken rolls on a baking sheet that has been sprayed with a nonstick cooking spray.

11.Lightly brush the top of the chicken rolls with coconut oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and paprika.

12.Bake 40 to 45 minutes. Rolls should feel firm and bounce back when gently pressed on top with fingertip.

*Apple juice or chicken broth can be substituted for white wine.

I received samples of the items below and recommend both! 

Carrington Farms Organic Flax Hemp PAKS
The perfect accompaniment to your favorite recipes, yogurts, parfaits, smoothies and more, Carrington’s Organic Flax Hemp PAKS are packed in a portable and convenient single-serve packet with a pre-measured daily dosage. Each pak serves as an abundant source of Omega 3’s, protein and fiber. With no refrigeration necessary, ready-to-eat Flax Hemp Paks can be used at any time! It’s naturally gluten-free, contains no Cholesterol and is very low in carbohydrates. MSRP: $8.99 / 12 pack box, www.CarringtonFarms.com.

Carrington Farms Unflavored Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil
Carrington Farms Unflavored Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil is the first ever coconut cooking oil on the market!  All-Natural, Gluten-Free, Hexane-Free, and Non-GMO, this liquid coconut oil is a fantastic alternative to traditional oils (vegetable, olive, canola, corn, etc.). So while this liquid coconut oil retains all of the health benefits of traditional coconut oil without the odor/flavor of coconuts, it also remains liquid in form. Carrington’s Liquid Coconut Cooking Oil has a higher heat point than traditional olive oils and is a perfect addition to practically any dish – use it for cooking sautéing and even baking. MSRP: $11.99, www.CarringtonFarms.com

About Carrington Farms
Carrington Farms is dedicated to providing the absolute highest quality products to the consumer in search of a healthy way of life. With a 14 year history of developing healthy consumer packaged goods in vibrant packaging, Carrington Farms has become recognized by the health conscious consumer as the brand of choice in presenting ‘Healthy foods for a Healthy Soul’. Carrington Farms welcomes the individual focused on quality of life and longevity to a world of innovative health food products featuring exceptional quality and delicious flavors in your quest for a satisfying Healthy Living experience. All Carrington Farms products are certified organic, Star-K Kosher, gluten-free and non-GMO. From the pure whole seed flax to the chia blends and cold-pressed organic extra virgin coconut oil, all of Carrington Farms’ vitamin and mineral-full health food products are a great way to start adding a little more nutrition to your everyday life. For more information, please visit www.carringtonfarms.com.
Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Photo/Recipe Credit: Carrington Farms.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week

All – New Family Holiday Festival Winter Fest Launches at OC Fair & Event Center December 18 – January 3

November 9, 2015 By Leave a Comment

Absolute Event Solutions (AES) is pleased to introduce the all-new holiday attraction, Winter Fest at the OC Fair & Event Center opening December 18 and continuing through January 3. The festival embodies the spirit of the winter season, bringing fun and merriment to sunny Southern California. Experience ice-skating with a theater-sized screen playing holiday films in the background, ice tubing down a 130-foot, six-lane ice slide, nightly snowfall and tree lighting, festive entertainment, reindeer feedings, and more than 30 carnival rides and games. Winter Fest is filled with seasonal foods, craft cocktails, magical lights, and holiday décor including the world’s largest ornament.

“We love creating events that instantly engage and delight guests of all ages,” Mark Entner, Absolute Event Solutions CEO, says. “This is an affordable holiday experience that ensures a fantastic adventure rain or shine, for seventeen days and nights during the traditional holiday school break. The fairgrounds are the perfect venue for Winter Fest, offering both indoor and outdoor space. The majority of the main attractions and entertainment are within buildings, essentially making Winter Fest ‘El Nino-proof.’ We’re thrilled to bring a wintry sense of wonder to Orange County, and we’re inviting the community to join us for what is sure to become an annual tradition.”

Passing through Winter Fest’s icy gates reveals a whimsical wonderland where guests can stroll through the center of the world’s largest illuminated ornament. Attendees can sample holiday treats while sipping hot cocoa or specialty craft cocktails, and enjoy activities for guests of all ages. Entertainment includes roaming holiday characters, performances by singers and artists, magicians, and a nightly Christmas tree lighting ceremony with snow flurries. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for Winter Fest’s opening moment each day, and stay throughout the night to enjoy all of the festival’s attractions.

Winter Fest offers the spirit of the holiday season at an affordable price, with admission starting at only $10 online. All tickets are a fantastic value, allowing unlimited access to tube down the 130-foot, six-lane ice slide (available for guests 42” and taller). Tickets also include one complimentary carnival ride and game in the midway, and access to themed bounce houses for young attendees. Admission also grants time with the most famous couple in the North Pole, allowing guests to meet Santa Claus, enjoy heartwarming tales from Mrs. Claus during story time, and partake in the elves’ arts, crafts, and games in the North Pole building.

Winter lovers seeking a premium experience are welcome to choose from an array of upgrades. Children of all ages can opt for festive face painting, balloon art, and official photos with Santa. Guests can also enjoy more than 30 carnival rides and games, reindeer graham cracker feedings, rides on the North Pole LTD trackless train, and ice-skating.

The Hangar building inside the fairgrounds will be transformed into an elegant festival space with a massive ice skating rink, where brilliant hanging snowflakes light up the ice below. Onlookers can watch skaters circle the rink while beloved holiday films play on the theater-sized projection screen in the background. Skating is available on a first come, first serve basis; $15 per person including skates. Skate assists are available for $5. Private, rink-side VIP cabanas are also available for $99 per session, creating a Winter Fest destination for holiday office parties, birthday parties, family retreats, or couples looking for a new way to celebrate date night. Each cabana holds up to 10 guests but can be expanded to accommodate parties up to 100. All cabanas offer a special menu with holiday inspired foods and craft cocktails, and a cabana server to attend to guests’ needs.

Frolicking throughout Winter Fest can stir up an appetite, which can be satiated with tasty treats and delicious libations. Guests can visit Mrs. Claus’ Bakery for sweets while watching live fudge cutting and cinnamon roll making. Merry wanderers with a heftier hunger can enjoy seasonally and internationally inspired foods, including soups in bread bowls, potpies, tamales, Chinese food, crepes, and turkey and stuffing. Traditional SoCal fun foods will also be available, including pizza, tacos, grilled cheese, and BBQ kabobs. Kettle corn and popcorn will be offered for guests on the go, and thirsty festival-goers can indulge in a tempting hot chocolate and martini bar. The OC fairgrounds’ traditional Baja Blues Restaurant will be re-imagined as a snow-covered ski lodge, where guests can enjoy food, libations, and local bands.

Winter Fest casts its icy spell over the OC Fair & Event Center for seventeen days and nights December 18 – January 3. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Special hours of operation includeDecember 24 (Christmas Eve) 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and December 25 (Christmas Day) 2 – 11 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present at Winter Fest every day and night through Christmas Eve, December 24.

Admission starts at only $10 online (for a limited time). Ticket prices Monday through Friday are $10 online, $15 onsite for children age 4 – 11, and $20 online, $25 onsite for adults. Ticket Prices Saturday and Sunday are $15 online, $20 onsite for children age 4 – 11, and $25 online, $30 onsite for adults.  Children 3 and under are free. Tickets on sale now.

Adult season passes for unlimited access for all of Winter Fest’s dates are available for $45 advance and online (limited supply); children’s season passes are available for $25 advance and online (limited supply).

For more information on Winter Fest and to apply for your group to perform or for employment opportunities visit www.WinterFestOC.com.

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Concept rendering of the main entrance to Winter Fest 2015 and its grand Promenade beyond, including the world’s largest ornament at the OC Fair & Event Center. (C) AES – All Rights Reserved.
Credit:  AES.

 

Filed Under: Announcements

New Fall Limited Edition Snacks from Tastykake are a Must-Try!

November 9, 2015 By 1 Comment

Salted Carmel KandyKakes     Caramel Apple Mini Donuts    Pumpkin Spiced Cupkakes

Looking for some tasty snacks this Fall? Tastykake has you covered!

I received samples and they are delicious! I think that my favorite is the Kandy Kakes in the Fall Salted Caramel! Yum!

Tastykake’s Salted Carmel Kandy Kakes feature a chocolate flavored coated white cake with salted caramel filling..need I say more?

I have to say that the  Karrot Kake Kandy Kakes are pretty good too! These ones feature a white confectionary coated carrot cake with a creme filling. They were a hit in our house! Tastykake’s new limited edition Kandy Kake desserts are available in 8 oz. boxes and have an estimated retail price of $4.49.

KarrotKakes

You also have to try these other Special limited editions this Fall!

Tastykake’s new Caramel Apple and Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts capture the fall favorite flavors of pumpkin spice and caramel apple in delicious mini donuts. New Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts feature a pumpkin spice donut covered in cinnamon and the Caramel Apple Mini donuts feature apple flavored donuts with a caramel crumble coating. The Pumpkin Spiced Mini Donuts are available in 10 oz. bags and the Caramel Apple Mini Donuts are available in 11.5 oz. bags. Both mini donut flavors have an estimated retail price of $2.99.  These did not last long in my house!

Combining a pumpkin spiced flavored cupcake with cream cheese flavored icing, Tastykake’s new Pumpkin Spice Cupkakes are the perfect new treat for pumpkin spice lovers everywhere. They are available in 12.75 oz. boxes and have an estimated retail price of $4.49. Anyone who loves pumpkin spice will love these! I can’t imagine not liking pumpkin spice!

Pumpkin Spice Mini Donuts

Tastykake’s fall limited edition items are available everywhere Tastykake is sold! Look for them near you!

More About Tastykake:

A snack favorite since 1914, Tastykake offers a complete line of snack cakes, pies, cookies, and donuts available in supermarkets and other retail outlets throughout the East Coast, South, and Southwest. Celebrated for their freshness and quality, Tastykakes include such classics as Krimpets, Kandy Kakes and Juniors, and new hits like Kandy Bar Kakes. One taste of a Tastykake and you’ll know why they have been a favorite of many for more than 100 years. Tastykake is a brand of Flowers Foods, Inc. (NYSE: FLO), one of the largest baking companies in the U.S. For more information on Tastykakes or Flowers Foods visit www.tastykake.com or www.flowersfoods.com.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. No other compensation was received. Photo Credit: TastyKake.

Filed Under: Featured Products of the Week
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