It’s Time for Back-to-School!

Delicious Muffins!

School-Safe Muffins from Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery

Price: $8.99 at local retailers.

Website: www.antoninasglutenfreebakery.com

Make packing lunchboxes easier with school-safe muffins from Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery! Their six delicious muffins are peanut-free, nut-free and gluten-free, providing children with a safe treat to enjoy as a snack or in their lunch. The moist gluten-free muffins are light, fluffy, and full of flavor making them a muffin truly everyone will enjoy. Choose from mouthwatering varieties, including Blueberry Raspberry (also soy-free), Blueberry (also soy-free), Triple Chocolate (also soy-free), Chocolate Chip, Lemon Poppyseed (also soy-free) and Cinnamon Chip (also soy-free). Learn more about Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery at Antoninas Gluten-Free Bakery – Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery (antoninasglutenfreebakery.com). To find a store near you, please visit their store locator. 

This is literally my favorite!

Sweet Chaos Popcorn

Price: $3.96 per bag

Website: https://sweetchaos.com/popcorn/

Make back-to-school season a little sweeter (and crunchier) with Sweet Chaos Popcorn—perfect for lunchboxes or as a well-earned after-school treat. Certified gluten-free and made with NON-GMO kernels popped in coconut oil, this better-for-you snack skips the artificial junk without sacrificing flavor. From the bold tang of NEW Dill Pickle (made with real dill & vinegar) to kid-approved classics like Sea Salt, Kettle Corn, Movie Theater Butter, Jalapeño Blue Cheese, and White Cheddar, there’s a flavor for everyone! Visit https://sweetchaos.com/popcorn/.

Perfect for storing fruit and snacks!

Glass Prep Jars

Price: $19.96 & up

Website: https://keababies.com/collections/baby-food-jars

Make and prep meals and snacks for your little ones with the Glass Prep Jars from KeaBabies! From perfectly portioned yogurt + fruit, applesauce or purees, and small finger foods, such as crackers, the airtight, leak-proof lids seal in freshness and prevent spills while on-the-go! The perfect homemade food storage solution for you and your children are available in an array of gorgeous colors. The jars are dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe and microwavable, too. BPA-Free. Visit https://keababies.com/collections/baby-food-jars and Amazon.com. 

My favorite First Aid Kit!

KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit

Price: $24.99 (MiniKit) and up

Website: https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/

From scraped knees on the playground to classroom mishaps, your child will be ready for anything! TSA approved, the lightweight kit is packaged in an organized, stylish water & stain-resistant case for busy school days. Created by a mom of four, the KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit is an essential for children of all ages. Four kits are available, including the SuperKit (270 pieces), NEW Adult GoKit (130 pieces), GoKit (130 pieces), and MiniKit (perfect for clipping on backpacks!). A variety of stylish, trendy patterns and colors are available, as well as sets. The kits can be found on the website https://www.keepgoingfirstaid.com/ and on Amazon.com.

Great for Toddlers going to Preschool.

My Little Dreamy Pillow: Jumbo

Price: $26.96

Website: www.keababies.com

Give your little one the comfort of home at nap time! Made from 100% organic cotton, My Little Dreamy Pillow: Jumbo is the perfect sleep companion for naps at daycare, home or away! Its soft, gentle design ensures a restful night’s sleep, while its machine-washable durability keeps it fresh and fluffy. Thoughtfully crafted with an ergonomic 14×20 size and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification, this pillow is a natural and safe choice for your child. Available in 20 vibrant colors and playful patterns to match their personality, it’s ready to be packed for preschool and beyond!

Great for adults and kids!

Parenting Must-Have: Handzies Debuts New 12-Pack Travel Wipes for Clean-Conscious Families

Whether you’re navigating preschool pickups or park playdates, Handzies has your back with their new 12-pack Travel Pack—a gentle, on-the-go cleansing solution that’s perfect for lunchboxes, diaper bags, and glove compartments. Unlike harsh alcohol-based wipes, Handzies rely on simple, natural ingredients like castile (olive oil-based) soap and essential oils for a “just-washed” feel without residue or chemical smells. The soap-and-water formula is alcohol-free, dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and free from Triclosan, parabens, artificial dyes, and perfumes—making it safe for sensitive little hands and grown-up skin alike.

Handzies were created with families and the planet in mind: they’re cruelty-free, vegan, NON-GMO, gluten-free, and crafted with 100% plant-based fiber. Manufactured in the USA in an FDA-licensed, EPA-registered, NSF-certified facility that’s also FSC and Rainforest Alliance Certified, Handzies offer a clean you can feel good about.

Learn more at handzies.com. You can also find the new Travel Pack on Amazon.

Old Trapper’s 1.8 oz Bags Are the Perfect Snack for Busy Students!

Back-to-school season means packed schedules, quick lunches, and on-the-go snacking — and Old Trapper’s 1.8 oz beef jerky bags check all the boxes for students who need smart, satisfying fuel between classes.

Made from lean cuts of real beef and naturally smoked for bold flavor, these conveniently sized bags are perfect for backpacks, lunchboxes, or locker snacks. With classic flavors like Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Peppered, and Hot & Spicy, Old Trapper gives students a high-protein snack that tastes great and keeps them focused. Absolutely delicious!

MSRP $5.99 each. Available at convenience stores nationwide. www.OldTrapper.com

Love this in Acai bowls too!

Back-to-School Just Got a Whole Lot Better with Alter Eco Granola!

Back-to-school is here…and that means parents and students everywhere are scrambling to find breakfast and snack options that are quick, healthy, and actually taste good.

Enter Alter Eco Granola: a better-for-you, better-for-the-planet option made with whole food ingredients and no refined sugars. Just like their beloved eco-conscious chocolate bars and truffles, Alter Eco’s granola delivers the same crave-worthy taste…with ingredients that are just as good for you.

This isn’t your average granola. Made with regeneratively grown oats, clean ingredients, and packed with flavor, Alter Eco Granola turns rushed mornings into moments to savor. With flavors like Dark Chocolate & Cashew Butter or Cinnamon Raisin & NEW Almond Butter, Alter Eco Granola offersa feel-good crunch that supports your body and the planet.

I love this in my Acai bowls and yogurt! But, it can also be added in other recipes such as muffins!

Happy Back-to-School!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to feature for Back-to-School! Images were also provided.

Sweeten National S’mores Day August 10th with a Bar That Cares

yummy!

National S’mores Day is coming up on August 10, and while we all love the classic gooey-goodness of graham, marshmallow, and chocolate, this year we’re upping the bar…literally.

Alter Eco makes s’mores better in every way, starting with what matters most: the chocolate. Their rich, melt-in-your-mouth bars are organic, fair trade, and climate neutral…so you can roast, stack, and snack with a little less guilt and a lot more flavor.

With bold, crave-worthy options like Brown Butter, Burnt Caramel and Classic Blackout, Alter Eco turns your backyard bonfire into an eco-conscious (and seriously elevated) indulgence. Plus, they come wrapped in compostable packaging that’s just as thoughtful as what’s inside. Brown Butter is my favorite but they all are yummy!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

More Summer Must-Haves!

This soothing magnesium-powered set includes tubes specially formulated for nerve, muscle, and foot relief. Unlike traditional Epsom salt soaks, these no-mess topical formulas make it easy to relax the body and calm the nervous system before bed, without the tub. Ideal for those with sore feet, muscle tension, or nighttime nerve discomfort. www.epsomit.com. Forget soaking in a tub…Epsom-It’s concentrated lotions and rollerballs give people an easier, mess-free, and fast-absorbing way to get the benefits of magnesium, and the internet can’t get enough.

My favorite is the Calming Foot Lotion!

These natural cacao bars aren’t just a decadent treat. It’s made with clean, organic ingredients and naturally high in magnesium, a mineral linked to deeper, more restorative sleep. Plus, the low sugar content won’t spike blood sugar before bed, making it a smart nighttime indulgence. Want pure dark chocolate? Try their Total Blackout 100% cacao bar for maximum benefits. www.alterecofoods.com.

From lush, fair trade cacao farms to compostable wrappers and regenerative agriculture, Alter Eco has been quietly leading the charge in ethical chocolate for over two decades. Their mission? A world where enjoying chocolate doesn’t come at the cost of the Earth, or the farmers who grow it.

With decadent offerings like Creamy Truffles and Truffle Thins, Decadent Dark Bars, and other offerings like Granola and Quinoa, Alter Eco proves that indulgence and integrity can coexist in every bite. I love the Cashew Butter Organic Granola! It has no added sugar and is delicious!

Self Disclosure: I received free sample products to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

Toys for Summer Fun!

These toys will be a hit this Summer!

Char-Broil Kid’s BBQ Set  (Red Toolbox | MSRP: $69.98

This BBQ set is the perfect way for kids to grill alongside their parents – or use their imagination to host their own BBQ party! Looks just like the iconic Char-Broil grill! Features realistic sounds and lights and even lets out steam, for a realistic and interactive experience!  

This is so much fun for any child ages 3+. I love that it has sounds just like a real BBQ! Kids will love pretending to grill just like Mom and Dad. Available on Amazon and Walmart.

#UpsideDownChallenge Game Backyard Edition (MSRP $29.99) by Vango.

This summer, game night is about to be flipped upside down! Players attempt to complete seemingly easy activities such as tossing a ball into a cup, stacking cups into a pyramid and even just walking through an obstacle course made out of rings while wearing googles that flip your vision upside down. Fantastic for game night, backyard barbecues and picnics that will create hours of laughter and entertainment. This will be fun for any children and is recommended for children ages 8+. I tried this one out and it is great for parties!

You can find it on Amazon.

Marvel Super Hero Trainer from Ultra PRO Entertainment.

Complete missions alongside your favorite iconic Heroes of the Marvel Universe such as Spiderman, Captain America, Black Widow, and Iron Man as they share advice to help you throughout your journey. Using its motion detection technology, Marvel Super Hero Trainer will recognize your movements as you crawl, fight and jump to victory against the villains.  Ages 6+ | Amazon & UltraPRO.com)

PLAYMOBIL Giant Shark with Pirate (MSRP $34.99)

This giant shark can swim in the water!!! Great for pool and beach fun. Pull the lever, and the huge mouth of the shark opens, capable of trapping the pirate inside. Release quickly, and the mouth snaps shut automatically. Riding through the seven seas, the shark-pirate clings to the monster shark’s net with his saber drawn. Imaginative and role play fun in the summertime! Ages 4-10 | Amazon and Playmobil)

Fun for all children!

Stratego Junior from Jumbo Group ( MSRP $19.99 | Ages 4+ | 2 Players | Available on Amazon )

The classic game of Stratego is ready for the next generation. Stratego Junior allows budding gamers to play the famous game two ways Stratego Quest (ages 4+) is a memory game where players roll the die to try and find matching colored dinosaurs on the board! In Stratego Triumph (ages 6+), players are ready for a Dino battle! Simply move and attack for command of the board and – but watch out for rocks and meteors! First to find the missing dinosaur egg wins! 

Lilo and Stitch!

Disney Stitch Sticki Rolls Capsules (MSRP $5.00 | Ages 3+ | Available at Claire’s, Five Below and Amazon) Get ready for an intergalactic adventure with the newest addition to the Sticki Rolls lineup! In collaboration with Disney, Sticki Rolls proudly introduces the Disney’s Stitch Sticki Rolls Collection. Featuring one-of-a-kind designs inspired by Stitch’s lovable antics and Hawaiian life, this collection brings wearable sticker fun to a whole new level. The limited-edition release is packed with exclusive stickers and accessories, perfect for fans of all ages to collect, wear, and share!

Enjoy the rest of Summer!

Self Disclosure: I received free products to facilitate this post. Images were also provided.

Challah Back Girls®is a Must-Try!

Sooo tasty!

Challah Back Girls® (CBG) is a mission-driven small business founded by four siblings during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a gesture of gratitude—baking challah for frontline healthcare workers—quickly evolved into a powerful social justice platform using challah, the traditional Jewish braided bread, as a tool for connection, equity, and change.

Rooted in the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world), CBG merges culture, community, and activism by delivering delicious, nut-free, dairy-free challah nationwide while raising awareness for equity-focused organizations. Whether baking loaves to support racial justice initiatives or teaming up with community leaders, brands, and nonprofits, CBG turns a beloved culinary tradition into a symbol of solidarity and impact.

Today, under the leadership of eldest sister Sara, CBG continues to “bake an impact” year-round through partnerships, pop-ups, fundraisers, and social campaigns. With every order, customers don’t just receive a challah—they join the Challah Back Squad, a movement dedicated to joy, justice, and breaking bread for a better world.

I tried samples and loved the flavor and how fresh they tasted! I highly recommend!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post.

Last Minute Father’s Day Gift Ideas

I love the Spicy BBQ!

The Saucy Sampler from Saucy Rascals

View the Line: www.saucyrascals.com

Price: $48.00

It’s time to get saucy! Saucy Rascals offers a diverse range of delicious everyday sauce and marinade flavor profiles that fit into any lifestyle. Created by a father and his two young sons, these family-friendly sauces and marinades are made for the everyday chef. Crafted with simple ingredients and made with care, Saucy Rascals offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy, from Ketchup to BBQ Sauce to Black Garlic Teriyaki. Each flavor was meticulously curated by a chef with a passion for food and flavor. Superfoods like Tamarind, Apple Cider Vinegar, Black Garlic, Capsaicin, Cinnamon, and Cocoa are infused into the high-quality, preservative-free sauces which contribute to healthier lifestyle choices overall. In addition, Saucy Rascals does not contain high fructose corn syrup. Squeezable, recyclable and made in the USA. Gone are the days of too much sauce pouring out of a glass bottle! All bottles are recyclable and made in the USA. Six varieties are available, including: Original Everyday BBQ Sauce, Spicy BBQ, Mayo-BBQ, Ketchup, Hot Sauce and Black Garlic Teriyaki. The six-pack makes a perfect gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and birthdays. Available in single bottles, 12-packs and sampler packs. Learn more at www.saucyrascals.com. 

My new favorite popcorn flavor!

Sweet Chaos Popcorn 

View the collection: https://sweetchaos.com/popcorn/

Price: $3.00 per bag

From spicy to sweet, Sweet Chaos has a gluten-free choice that Mom will love! Try the NEW Dill Pickle variety or stick to more traditional favorites like Movie Theater Butter, White Cheddar or Sea Salt. Sweet Chaos hand pops their NON-GMO kernels in coconut oil for a creamy richness while skipping the nasty, artificial stuff.  In addition to Movie Theater Butter and Sea Salt, exciting flavors include Dill Pickle (made with real dill & vinegar), Jalapeno Blue Cheese, Kettle Corn and White Cheddar. The Jalapeno Blue Cheese is sooooo good! It literally is my favorite!

Dad will love these brownies!

Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery Double Chocolate Brownies

Whether it’s a treat for your Dad, Grandfather or favorite uncle, the double chocolate brownies from Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery taste incredible. Rich cocoa combines harmoniously with semi-sweet chocolate chips to elevate these brownies to a level of pure decadence. Take one bite, and you’ll see why the company says, “You won’t believe it’s gluten-free.” Certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO). Find them online, as well as in grocery stores and bakeries nationwide. For store locations, visit www.antoninasglutenfreebakery.com. They are also available on Amazon.com.

Delicious chocolate!

Alter Eco, the pioneering brand known for its organic, Fair Trade, and regeneratively grown chocolate, has a gift-worthy lineup that’s perfect for Father’s Day…whether Dad’s a dark chocolate purist, a peanut butter fanatic, or a snack-time sustainability hero. From Deep Dark Salted Almond to smooth-as-his-dad-dancing Superdark Truffles, Alter Eco has all the dad fuel he needs.

Our Dad-Approved Favorites Include:

  • Crunchy Dark Salted Burnt Caramel – For the dad who’s a little salty, a little sweet, and totally irresistible when things get heated.
  • Crème Brûlée Truffle Thins – For the dad who’s smooth on the inside and knows how to bring the crème de la crème charm..
  • Superdark Truffles – Extra-bold with 80% cacao and a smooth, creamy ganache center…proof that Dad’s taste is as refined as ever.
  • Classic Blackout Bar (85% Cacao) – For the dad who likes it bold and beautifully bittersweet.
  • Coffee Brittle -One bite and Dad’s a whole new man. Bold dark chocolate + crunchy coffee brittle = an energizing upgrade to his usual 3 p.m. slump.

I haven’t yet decided my favorite but the Crunchy Dark Salted Burnt Caramel is soooo good! Please visit https://www.alterecofoods.com/ for more information.

Happy Father’s Day!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to feature in this holiday gift guide. Images were also provided.

My Favorite Father’s Day Gift Suggestion!

The Smart Pillow Everyone’s Talking About!

Father’s Day is almost here! This is my favorite gift suggestion:

the Lifesmart® Sleep Oasis Floating Pillow from SCS Make Life Easy.

This is not your ordinary pillow. Blending water, air, and AI-inspired design, the Sleep Oasis delivers a fully customizable, spa-like sleep experience unlike anything else on the market.

It is my new favorite pillow! I love that you can adjust the water level and that it is hypoallergenic. This pillow is a must-buy!

Why It’s a Game-Changer:

  • Cooling Pillow Technology – Adjust the water level for instant cooling and personalized firmness. The built-in air system lets users fine-tune the height for ultimate comfort.
  • AI Cradle Curve Design – A gentle gradient cradles the head, neck, and shoulders, helping to reduce tension and support spinal alignment.
  • AI-Enchanted Lullabies – Simply scan the built-in QR code to access calming white noise and lullabies for deeper, more restorative sleep.
  • Durable & Hypoallergenic – The machine-washable, sweat-resistant pillowcase is hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin.
  • Gift-Worthy – Whether for a dad who deserves better rest or a grad starting a new chapter, this smart pillow makes an unforgettable wellness gift.

On sale at $99, the Lifesmart® Sleep Oasis Floating Pillow is the perfect feature for Father’s Day!

Have a Happy Father’s Day!

Self Disclosure: I received a free sample to facilitate this holiday post. Images and video were also provided.

It’s time to get in shape! Summer is almost here!

My fave new Treadmill!

Well, Summer is almost here so I’ve been trying to eat healthier and have a goal to lose a few pounds before Summer actually is here. I used to go to the gym but now I have been just walking and going to my favorite Yoga classes. I was quite excited when the opportunity came up to try out the WalkingPad Denise Austin 2.0 Double-Fold Treadmill from SCS.

I love how it folds up and is actually fun to use! Another fact: It is pretty much already assembled and easy to use!

Have the flexibility to walk, jog or run with the WalkinPad® Denise Ausitn 2.0 Treadmill. With a fully assembled unit right out of the box, you’ll be able to enjoy a high contrast LED display, a brushless motor design, and a 4-layer cushioning system. Convenience and results are just a step away.

It is available at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

SCS Make Life Easy is dedicated to keeping you moving with innovative fitness and recovery solutions that make wellness effortless.

Self Disclosure: I received a free product to facilitate this post.