JenOni

review

Foodie Review of Kumano Avocado Sauces for Different Dishes

received samples free of charge; all opinions shared are my own

I love avocados on everything. From my burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and eggs. This sauce is made from avocados in three different flavors: regular, mango, and hot. I sampled all three and love them all. The mango has a hint of sweetness while the hot flavor is a mild kick that is not overpowering.

The sauces are perfect for almost anything you add put sauce on. I added to my ground turkey tacos with my other toppings.

I also added to scrambled eggs for another flavor boost. Now, that grilling season is upon us I can’t wait to use on some of my grilled foods as well. The sauces are easily stored in the refrigerator after opening.

If You’re Planning Graduation Events, Check Out My Review of Basic Invite

My teen graduates on June 12th and I found some great ideas from Basic Invite for announcements, party invitations, and thank cards. The Basic Invite site allowed me to customize the colors, font, and font size of each sample.

Graduation Announcements, Invitations and Thank You Cards

I ordered samples of a 2019 photo card, a graduation party invitation, and a thank you card in my son’s school colors.

Why Basic Invite?

I ordered samples and they shipped within seven days. The idea of customizing my invitations makes it very unique to my style and taste. The first thing I noticed when I opened the samples was the paper quality. It was very easy to customize each item, specifically with my son’s school colors. The color palette offers a hue to fit all designs. The website is very easy to navigate for designing and editing.

I ordered the envelopes in white. Basic Invite envelopes are available in over forty different colors. Another added bonus with the envelope is they are peel and seal. There is no unpleasant taste from licking envelopes. Basic Invite will print envelope with guest information and return addresses at no charge. There is an additional charge per envelope with the return address only.

Basic Invite offers an address capturing service. The service allows the sender to share a link on social media platforms for guests to submit their addresses. Basic Invite will store the addresses under the sender’s account. During the design of the invitation, the sender can select the addresses from the list.

For an added design touch, some invitations are available with silver, gold or rose gold foil that is either flat or raised.

If you are hosting graduation festivities and in need of invitations, Basic Invite offers designs to fit every occasion. Congratulations to the Class of 2019.

Placing an Order

You can find all the links below for various invitations:

high school graduation invitations

graduation party invitation templates

graduation photo invitations

If you place an order, you can save 15% with the code 15FF51

Notecards

I could not resist designing additional stationery for my blog with notecards. My design includes my blog colors. The paper stock is great quality and I plan to order more.

Birthday Invitations and Thank You Cards

I designed birthday invitations and thank you cards for my 50th.

All the stationery is perfect for all events.

“This blog post was sponsored by Basic Invite”

Fitness Activities and Review of Body Glide Products

post has affiliate links*

received this product free for review purposes. All opinions shared are my own.

“Foot” and “For Her Products

Body Glide products are great for fitness activities and offer anti-chafing properties. The products included Foot, Skin Glide, For Her, and Body. Each product works to prevent chafing and blisters. I went to my 2nd yoga class and decided to try the “Foot” and “For Her” products.

The “Foot” product is solid and rubbed on to my feet very easily. It is fragrance-free and is white in color. It went onto my skin smooth and clear with no residue. I noticed after my class my feet were dry with no signs of perspiration. Our class is not considered hot yoga but the studio is a bit warm. Typically, I perspire around my bustline and thighs when I am working out. I used the “For Her” product on my bustline and inner thighs. My fitness activities are a reason to use these products. Both products are solid and roll on smooth, no residue, and are fragrance-free. After class, my leggings and sports bra were dry with no residue. The products are made with allergen-free, plant-derived ingredients. It is also vegan-approved and not tested on animals. The product is safe for kids.

KETTLEBELL WORKOUT

This is week six of my home workouts. Last night, I did a Kettlebell Sculpt workout with one of my favorite YouTube videos @bodyfitbyamy. I used two of the body glide products. This type of workout is a series of compound movements plus cardio. For this workout, I applied body to my feet and despite the workout, my skin stayed dry and no irritation with my socks and sneaker. I put the For Her product on my bustline and on my thighs. The product is not drying to my skin which is a plus with dry skin. It was the same results with my leggings and sports bra staying dry with no chafing. For all of my workouts, I will definitely use the products to eliminate chafing and keep my workout clothes and feet dry.

Rep Fitness

Unboxing and Review of CleverMade Crates for Organizing Your Stuff

*received free of charge for review purposes only. All opinions shared are my own.

Declutter and Organizing

January is a good month to start organizing before spring arrives. After I watched “Tidying Up” with Marie Kondo on Netflix, I learned some valuable tips for de-cluttering and organizing my living space. My first project was de-cluttering my bedroom closet with the help of my twelve-year-old. After I eliminated my excess stuff, I donated a bag to charity and consigned the rest of the items. If you are trying to de-clutter consider donating to charity or consigning for extra cash. In addition to Goodwill, there is GreenDrop and they allow you to select a charity of choice.

CleverMade Crates

Once I started de-cluttering my closet I thought about how to organize the stuff. The CleverMadeCrates are ideal for storage.

They are durable and fully collapsible for storing away. The crates assemble within seconds and are available in 15.8 L and as large as 62 L. The crate prices start at $13 or in packs of 2 or 3 starting at $30. The interlocking nesting system allows easy vertical stacking. My limited storage space makes these crates perfect for storing out of sight in bedroom closets or storage closets. The interior is deep enough to stack numerous items. For cleaning the crates hosing off or wiping down with a wet cloth is sufficient.

You can find the crates at Amazon, BedBathandBeyond, and Home Depot. Happy Organizing.

The Best Way to Prepare for a Good Night’s Sleep for My Tween

* received the mattress and accessories for review purposes only.  All opinions shared are my own.

Sleep with the Right Mattress

I was in the market for a new mattress for my tween’s twin bed.   There are so many brands and types of mattresses on the market to make shopping overwhelming.   When I was given an opportunity to review the TomorrowSleep mattress, I was so excited.   As a full-time working parent, our days start early and end late.   I knew this was the perfect surprise for my tween.   She struggles with getting a restful night’s sleep, especially after a weekend.   I have resorted to unplugging the wifi and having her remove her phone from the room.    Technology is the crux of her sleep issues.   My goal is to try to make her room as relaxing as possible.  Hopefully, the new mattress will encourage her to make her bed each morning.   A well-made bed looks more inviting than one that is unmade.   I will keep my fingers crossed.

 

Tomorrow Sleep Mattress- Unpacking

Just in time for the new year and after a long holiday break, it is perfect timing for unpacking my tween’s new mattress from Tomorrow Sleep.   The TomorrowSleep hybrid mattress is available in medium soft or medium hard, my tween wanted the medium soft.   We also received a  mattress protector and 500 thread count sheets.   I love the fact the mattress is packaged in a heavy-duty plastic so it is well protected before unpacking.   The box also includes instructions for removing the mattress and unwrapping.   There is no need to search for scissors to remove the exterior plastic because a cutter is provided to easily remove the packaging.   The mattress is inside of a vacuum-packed bag, as soon as the bag is cut open, the mattress expands to its actual size.

The mattress protector was very easy to put on and is a perfect fit for the mattress.   I love the fact it is waterproof and will protect the mattress from dust and dirt.  My tween is always complaining about being too hot or too cold.  The mattress protector helps to pull temperature from the body and work with the cooling system of the mattress to regulate body temperature.    The 500 thread count sheets are extremely soft and were really easy to put on within a few minutes.    Some of our old sheets were such a hassle to put on and none of the sets stayed on overnight.  I really like the design of the fitted sheet with the elastic on each corner to ensure the sheet fits securely on the mattress.

 

She could not wait to test it out……..

Some of our Ideas to Prepare for a Good Night’s Sleep

  1. Cozy pair of pajamas
  2. Diffuser with lavender oil
  3. Freshly laundered bed linens
  4. Comfortable pillows(replace every 6 months), I buy hypoallergenic pillows for my tween due to her asthma
  5. Eye mask if comfortable
  6. Glass of warm milk
  7. Unplug, remove all devices for the night
  8. Nightlight, adjustable
  9. Make the bed each morning

 

 

An afternoon nap on the new mattress, I guess she gives the new mattress a huge thumbs up!

What is your bedtime routine to get a good night’s sleep?

 

Book Review- Veronica and the Volcano- National STEM Day

*received the book free of charge for review purposes only.  All opinions shared are my own*

 

STEM,  is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.  As a STEM major, it is exciting to see more girls with an interest in STEM and pursuing opportunities beyond high school.

 

Book Review – Veronica and the Volcano

In observance of  National STEM day, I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Veronica and the Volcano.  The book is excellent for middle school-aged children and is filled with scientific topics that relate to volcanos.  I think girls will love Veronica’s spunk and inquisitive nature.  Veronica is the main character in this book and interestingly enough she lives on a volcano.  She wants to give her mother a birthday gift of pearls after she learns the story of her inherited pearls.  In order to get the same pearls, she sets her sights on visiting, the largest volcano, Mount Mystery.
The adventure begins with Veronica, her friend Maddy and their dads.  Every chapter is filled with suspense and the perseverance of two girls on a mission.  The trip takes the girls on numerous twists and turns before reaching Mount Mystery.  Both girls learn about their pasts through their dads.   Veronica learns how and why her parents decided to live on a volcano.  Maddy discovers the true history of her family lines and the many generations before her.   We learn Veronica’s dad relies on technological apps to provide information on volcanic behavior while Maddy’s disputes all of it.   Maddy’s dad, the Captain, is the self-appointed leader of the group and is a stickler for preserving family history and the search for the diamonds that disappeared generations ago.
The story is an imaginative adventure through some precarious events on the unpredictability of volcanos, unexpected wildlife, toxic gases, unexpected guests on the same hike, and rowdy bandits.   They are able to survive the journey, discover diamonds and pearls but return to extreme unrest in their sleepy town.   The town bands together to banish the unwanted guest and his cohorts.   Veronica learns her trip to the town jewelry store leaves her with the key to preserving the future.
The book takes the reader on a whirlwind of events with beautiful illustrations to captivate the reader from chapter to chapter.  It shows the dynamics of relationships that evolve into working together for the greater good.  All while learning about volcanoes as the story unfolds. The book contains definitions of all the terms used in the chapters for STEM enthusiasts to learn more.
For the girls who love science, enter to win a copy of the book:

http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/3974772/Veronica-and-the-Volcano-Giveaway-8

Empanada Recipe and Pastry Fork Review

*this post contains an affiliate link which means I receive commission if you click and purchase*

Empanada Recipe and Pastry Fork Review

I used this recipe a few years ago and loved the empanadas. As with a few recipes, I tweak it a bit to fit my taste. I omitted the curry powder and dried thyme. Substituted nutmeg for allspice. Also, used ground turkey instead of ground beef. The recipe credit: FoodNetwork.com

EmpanadaRecipeIngredients

 

EmpanadaPrep

 

EmpanadaRecipeCooking

Empanada Fork Review

The best part of the recipe was receiving the Empanada Fork for review from Hipatia Lopez, CEO and Inventor of HL Unico LLC. She reached out on Instagram and asked if I would be interested in reviewing her product. The Empanada Fork is very durable, the sturdy handle makes it easy to grip and seal the empanadas. In years past, I used the tines of a fork. I am so excited to have a new kitchen utensil that makes cooking easy. Find out more at www.empananadafork.com

*Product was received free of charge. All opinions shared are my own.

Empanada Fork Review

 

Recipe: Bay Ridge Empanadas

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Recipe Credit : Sunny Anderson’s Bay Ridge Empanadas

Empanada Recipe Done


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Review: Shark Rocket Powerhead- My New Favorite Household Tool!

 

 

How many of you enjoy vacuuming?  Well I have found the BEST housekeeping tool ever invented for your carpets and hard floors.    What is it? You ask, SHARK ROCKET POWERHEAD!  

UnpackingShark

I have 1400 square feet of living space the majority of it is hardwood flooring and vinyl flooring in the kitchen.   If you have hardwood floors you know the housekeeping chore of dust accumulating every other day.

My biggest pet peeve with any vacuum is the weight as you move from room to room.  It feels more like a CARDIO workout than simple housekeeping.    The POWERHEAD is only 9lbs(not including the cord), yes 9lbs!!!!!!   You can move so quickly from room to room without feeling exhausted.   Oh and the weight in your hand is only is 1lb!!!

 

UPPER AND LOWER WAND, SLEEK DESIGNSharkRocket-Take2

HOLSER WITH VELCRO STRAP TO SECURE!SharkRocket-Take3

The roller garage is so easy to pop open(SLIDE TABS AWAY FROM BODY),  PRESTO THE DOOR POPS OPEN,  and USE THE RED PULL TAB TO REMOVE THE BRUSHROLL! SharkRocket-Take6

SharkRocket-Take5

Do you have carpet and hard floors? Guess what you can change out the brush roll between either the carpet brushrool or the hard floor brushroll.
SharkRocket-Take4

 

Bye DustBunnies under the bed, it moves around, under and in between furniture!!!!
 SharkRocket-Take7

SharkRocket-Take8

 

Messy kids in my dining room……crumbs under the table….SharkRocketBeforeHardwood

 

Have no fear the SHARK ROCKET POWERHEAD here!!!!!


SharkRocketAfterHardwood

 

My new Shark Rocket Powerhead makes housekeeping EASY AND QUICK!   The one time I look forward to cleaning!

*The Shark Rocket Powerhead was received free for review purposes only.    All opinions shared are my own.

 

 

Review: FotoJet: Online Photo Editor

Are you a fan of online photo editors?   I was given the opportunity to review the  online photo editor, FotoJet.   This photo editor is free and requires no download.   It  offers a lot of possibilities for your digital photos whether you for either a Windows based or Apple based PC.

What I liked most is the ability to create your own collage or use the pre-designed templates for photos to post on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, YouTube cover and Twitter.    There is even a miscellaneous category that allows you create fun and quirky templates with your photos with fun photo, comic and magazine designs.

If you like to create photo cards for the holidays ahead there are templates for holiday cards as well.

In my review I used two pre-designed templates to create Facebook posts f0r two of my photos.  It was very easy and quick.  You choose the template and add the photos(s).  After the photos are added you position in the template.  Presto!!!!

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FoodCollage

I also used a pre-designed template for some of my photos.   The template is very clear on how many photos are needed.   You simply add photos and move photos inside of template.

Family2015

Lastly, I created my own collage with my digital photos.   The steps were pretty simple.

  1. Choose collage layout, collage ratio, layout border by the percentage(I found this was comparable to whole numbers), corner rounding, and background.  From the background you can select color, pattern or image.   If you select color you can add any color from the color wheel.
  2. You can add photos from computer or Facebook, once the photo is added you move into the collage.   You can adjust the photo placement and width to your desired preference.
  3. Click text icon, select text style with over 10 choices, then you choose the font you want.   There are two font tabs w offer a large selection of fonts to use on your collage.   There are plenty of fonts to choose from to create your uniquely designed collage.   You can resize the font(by clicking the + or -)  and use the color wheel to customize your font to your preference.
  4. Adding clipart is another option.  This gives more than enough options for adding making your collage UNIQUE.
  5.  Lastly, save as a .jpg or .png file type,  the quality has options of low, medium and high.   I’m not sure the difference as I saw no significant changes among the settings.    The size options are small, medium or large.  These pre-sized by the number of pixels per each size.
  6. If you want to share to your social media platform you can share to Facebook only.

HBdayCollage

I can see using this online photo editor in addition to my other editors.    A few things I would like to see added:

  1. the ability to size a collage, I like to create collages for my YouTube thumbnails using  1280×720 .
  2. Also offering the option of resizing photos if needed for my blog posts, over 900 pixels is too large for my template
  3. I thought offering the style of text and then the font selection was a little confusing.   If this was one option preferably just offering the fonts.

 

 

Suave Body Care Mango Mandarin Body Wash Review&Giveaway

How do I relax after a long day?  A long, warm shower is where I go to escape a long strenuous day.   I love using body washes especially when they have what I call a “yummy” fragrance.   Typically I use my body washes during a shower  but just discovered they are great in the bathtub too.   A few squirts in your bath water creates a tub full of bubbles and softens the water.

When I opened the bottle of the new Suave Mandarin Mango body wash,  the mandarin mango scent was so invigorating it smelled like  a bottle filled with fruit slices.  The body wash is very light and easy to rinse off.  There are no worries about it leaving a heavy residue on your skin.  After using you are left with a really nice fragrance on your skin.  In the morning, this will definitely give you the pep you need to start your day.   For bedtime, I would suggest lighting some candles and indulging in this wonderful fragrance  to unwind after a long day.

If you would like to enjoy the new Suave Mango Mandarin body wash, it’s really simple:

1) Become a follower on Google Friend Connect and leave a comment that you are a new follower(giveaway ends on 5/29 11:59 PM est)

Disclosure: The product was received from Mom Select free of charge for the review.

****CLOSED WINNER KENTASHA******