Icon Flashlight Review...

Father's Day Gift Idea #1

As part of our Father's Day Gift Guide, we recently had the chance to review the Link flashlight from Icon.

About the Link:
"A high-output LED and TIR lens produce a brilliant beam that's tightly focused at the high or low setting. And Link's compact, modern body is machined from durable, high-strength aluminum and features an integrated carabiner clip that permits multiple carry options. Because how you choose to carry your light, says as much about you as the light you choose to carry.


•High-strength aluminum body with carabiner* clip provides secure carry options
•Durable power-regulated LED maximizes output and runtime; never needs replacing
•Solid Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens creates a smooth, focused beam
•Ergonomic "clickie" tailcap switch allows for easy switching between two output levels
•Sealed with O-rings; waterproof to one meter for 30 minutes
•Powered by one AA alkaline battery; included"


Specs

"light output: 50/6 lumens
runtime: 3/70 hours
length: 4 inches
weight: 3.1 ounces
waterproof: up to 1 meter
battery: one AA alkaline"


What we thought:  There are lots of great features in this one little flashlight.  We loved the portability of the Link and how easy it was to use...even the kiddos could use it.  The LED was super bright and I love that it only takes one battery and that one battery lasts a long time...we've used our Link a lot in the last month and we still haven't had to change the battery!  The Link is super durable, it even survived the toddler test:)  The bright orange color made the flashlight easy to spot in the camping gear and in the "catch-all" drawer.  The carabiner worked great to clip onto our hiking gear, backpacks, belt loop or wherever we needed the light handy and it really stayed put.  This would be a really great gift for Dad on Father's Day:)  ABCD Diaries gives the Link flashlight from Icon an A+!

Buy It: Find this awesome gift for Dad at RadioShack, Fry's and more...check the store locator for a retailer near you!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a flashlight for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Ancient Minerals Review and Giveaway...

Congrats Kolpin!!

We recently had the chance to review a few magnesium based products from Ancient Minerals.

About Ancient Minerals:
"Ancient Minerals® products are made and distributed by LL Magnetic Clay, Inc.

We produce a complete line of foundational protocols to address environmental toxicity, health, and well being, harnessing the forces of nature and the living earth.
LL Magnetic Clay is a family owned and operated company located in San Ramon, California. We are dedicated to the study of alternative medicine and healing through natural means. Our knowledge in this field is based on years of qualitative and quantitative study encompassing internal and external remedies as well as the removal of toxins from within living systems.
Although we carry other products such as our popular Nascent Iodine and Magnetic Clay Detox Baths, our Ancient Minerals magnesium line has gained a following worldwide as a household name for topical magnesium. Being the pioneers of topical magnesium products, we stand behind our high quality and provide a wealth of information to anyone seeking answers.
It is our hope that by spreading the word about the benefits of magnesium, specifically transdermal applications, that those suffering from any one of the many symptoms of magnesium deficiency will finally be brought relief."

Magnesium Flakes: "Dissolved in warm water, our magnesium chloride flakes provide the user with a medicinal bath of cell-restoring highly soluble magnesium chloride.

Soaking in magnesium salts has been shown to markedly improve skin hydration, speed wound healing, enhance skin barrier function, and decrease inflammation.
One cup contains approximately 15 g elemental magnesium.

Ancient Minerals Magnesium Chloride Flakes are:
-Ideal for children and other sensitive individuals
-Effective for stress relief and relaxation
-Great for soaking achy muscles and joints
-Highly therapeutic for psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions
-Able to deliver extensive topical and cosmetic benefits
-Available in a 6.5 lb (3 kg) and 32 lb (14.5 kg) professional size"

Magnesium Lotion: "Formulated for even the most sensitive individuals, Ancient Minerals Magnesium Lotion is designed to deliver magnesium through the skin, direct to the cells.

Rich in organic plant moisturizers including coconut oil and shea butter, this lotion soothes and hydrates without leaving your skin feeling waxy or greasy.
One teaspoon contains approximately 185mg elemental magnesium.

Ancient Minerals Magnesium Lotion is:
-Ideal for children and sensitive individuals
-Highly therapeutic for psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions
-Significant for massage applications
-Effective at encouraging healthy skin tissue
-Available in an 8 oz (237 ml) squeeze bottle"

What we thought:  Some of you may remember our previous review of the oil, gel and amazing bath flakes from Ancient Minerals last year.  This year they have an awesome new website full of super helpful information on the benefits and uses of magnesium and a super cool new product...Magnesium Lotion!  I love this stuff!  Seriously, I have pretty dry skin and sometimes while using the gel my skin would get tight and uncomfortably dry.  Now I can have the super power of the magnesium and the added benefit of moisture from the lotion.  Application is easy, as always, and the results are pretty quick.  The ailment I use my magnesium lotion most often for is sinus headaches.  I believe it really does help make the pain go away faster than just taking something over the counter.  The bath flakes are amazing for achy muscles and are helpful with skin irritations likes rashes.  I love that these products are safe for use on the kiddos too:)  If you have eczema or some form of dermatitis, Ancient Minerals lotion and bath flakes could help you get your skin ready for summer.  ABCD Diaries gives Ancient Minerals another A+!


Buy It: Find these wonderful magnesium products at Ancient Minerals!


Win It: Ancient Minerals has generously offered one ABCD Diaries reader a bottle of Magnesium Lotion and a tub of Bath Flakes! To enter, follow our blog via GFC.

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Giveaway ends Friday, June 17, 2011 at 11:59cst. Winner will be chosen via random.org and emailed. They will have 48 hours to reply. Open to US 18+




Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

flipflop wines Review...

We recently reviewed a few bottles of flipflop wines.

                              

About flipflop wines:

"With flipflop wines, we have embraced the movement toward individualistic expression, instead of manufacturing wines into some cookie-cutter style that’s all the rage. Our goal is to craft expressive, well-balanced wines that evoke just what the grapes inside intended, without being over-wrought or over-explained, and that can be enjoyed at any occasion."

 

--Reisling-- 

Appellation: Washington

Tastes like:Medium-bodied, Riesling with peach, apricot and melon which lead to a satisfying, smooth finish. It is full of

Tropical notes and sweet aromas
Eat with: Tofu stir-fry, shredded pork tacos and sake sashimi Serve: Chilled

--Pinot Grigio--

Appellation: California

Tastes like: Light-bodied, refreshing Pinot Grigio with tropical citrus, ripe pear and a zesty, clean finish.
It is full of: Balanced crisp acidity

Eat with:  Bruschetta, spaghetti carbonara, eggplant parmesan or your favorite tacos

Serve: Chilled

 

 

 

 

 

 

--Pinot Noir--

Appellation: California

Tastes like: Medium-bodied, structured Pinot Noir with bright cherry, sweet spice and a supple, velvety finish. It is full of Cola aromas and hints of vanilla

Eat with: Grilled mahi mahi, baconwrapped shrimp or chocolate chip cookies

Serve: Room temperature

 

 

 

  

What we thought:  Looking for an affordable, tasty wine to bring in the summer?  Look no further than flipflop wines:)  We reviewed the Reisling, the Pinot Grigio and the Pinot Noir and we were pretty impressed.  Sometimes the more affordable wines sacrifice taste for price in a big way.  Not flipflop wines!  If you like a sweet, fruity wine, the Reisling is for you.  If you are a fan of crisp white wines, check out the Pinot Grigio.  If you prefer a more full-bodied wine for pairing with those grilled steaks this summer try the smooth Pinot Noir.  Whatever your wine preference, flipflop wines has something pleasing for your palette!  Try flipflop wines for a great variety of adult beverages that won't break the bank!  ABCD Diaries gives flipflop wines an A+!

Buy It: Find flipflop wines at grocers and liquor stores nationwide.

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

***Please remember to drink responsibly!! NEVER drink and drive!!***

Pretzel Crisps Review...

We recently tried a variety of PRETZEL CRISPS® snacks.

"Perfectly salted ORIGINAL PRETZEL CRISPS® give you that satisfying, hearty crunch in a versatile shape that’s dippable, spreadable, and deliciously snackable. With great gourmet taste from naturally wholesome ingredients, it’s the perfect snack anytime!

Our EVERYTHING flavor, sprinkled generously with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, onions and garlic with just a pinch of salt, more than lives up to its name. Packed with flavor, baked, not fried. EVERYTHING PRETZEL CRISPS® deliver great taste without the guilt.

Deli-Style GARLIC PARMESAN PRETZEL CRISPS® are a zingy twist on an old favorite, with great gourmet taste from naturally wholesome ingredients. The best part of the pretzel – that satisfying flavor and crunch – is crispy thin and baked with a light, savory garlic flavor for big flavor in a light, crispy snack.

The brand new Sesame flavor is lightly toasted to bring out the sesame seed’s essential oils, adding a healthy kick to Pretzel Crisps®’ delicious crunch. Sesame seeds are naturally rich in iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, calcium, vitamin B1, E and a good source of lignans (phytoestrogens with antioxidant and anti-cancer properties). Health qualities aside, one bite, and you’ll be saying “Open Sesame,” again and again!

Our Buffalo Wing flavor is a crowd pleaser! Everyone loves the spicy flavor sprinkled right on top of each crisp. Try Buffalo Wing with ranch dip, blue cheese dressing, cheddar or cream cheese spreads, and as a zesty partner for celery sticks."


What we thought: We shared these with friends and family at A's birthday party and they were a huge hit!  Everyone loved them:)  The crowd favorites were the Sesame and the Garlic Parmesan.  They worked really well for dipping and for topping.  They made for a really fabulous finger food and party fare and would be great for everyday snacking as well.  They were quite delicious and probably a little healthier than some other snack options:)  ABCD Diaries gives Pretzel Crisps® an A+!


Buy It: Find these tasty snacks at grocers and mass merchandisers nationwide.   Check the locator for a retailer near you!

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

BENGAY Cold Therapy Review and Giveaway...

Congrats to TawndaM and Viva!!

 

We recently reviewed BENGAY® Cold Therapy.

About BENGAY Cold Therapy:
"Made with PRO-COOL™ technology, BENGAY® Cold Therapy contains a scientifically created formula that combines the pain relieving power of menthol with the cooling benefits of alcohol to alleviate the minor aches and pains associated with muscle strain, arthritis, backache, bruises and sprains. How does it work? BENGAY® Cold Therapy delivers a blast of cold as the menthol and alcohol in the unique formula evaporates, providing a cooling sensation and allowing you to give pain the cold shoulder!

BENGAY® Cold Therapy:
- Provides a fast-acting blast of cold and deep penetrating, long-lasting relief
- Only brand to use PRO-COOL™ technology
- A vanishing scent that starts to disappear in minutes, making it preferable for daytime use.
- Same technology used by chiropractors and physical therapists
- Available at food, drug and mass retailers nationwide.
- Suggested retail price: $8.49 - $9.99, 4 oz. tube"

What we thought:  Ahhhh, relief:)  This stuff was great!  I was lucky enough to get to review this while I had one of those colds that just wipes you out.  I mean, my whole body ached.  B offered to try out the BENGAY Cold Therapy on my neck and back.  The relief was pretty much instant.  The achiness was replaced by the awesome cooling sensation, and the smell, which I don't consider to be offensive in the first place, didn't linger for long.  I could really feel the depth of the penetration of the cream.  This is one of my new favorite go-to creams for body aches:)  ABCD Diaries gives BENGAY Cold Therapy an A+!

Buy It: Find BENGAY Cold Therapy at mass merchandisers and drug stores nationwide in June.  Print a money-saving coupon here!

Win It: BENGAY has generously offered two ABCD Diaries readers bottle of BENGAY Cold Therapy! To enter, follow our blog via GFC.

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Giveaway ends Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 11:59cst. Winner will be chosen via random.org and emailed. They will have 48 hours to reply. Open to US 18+


Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a sample for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Hawaiian Kettle Chips from Tim's Chips Review...

We recently tried a variety of the new Hawaiian line of Tim's Chips.

About Tim's:
"Tim's has been creating our famous chips in the shadow of the Cascade Mountain range since 1986 using an old family recipe. By starting with premium potatoes direct from family owned farms and only the finest blends of real seasonings, we think you'll agree that you have discovered what you have been looking for from your first satisfying crunch."


What we thought: MMM...tasty, crunchy deliciousness:)  We looove kettle chips here, so we were super excited to review the new line of Hawaiian flavors from Tim's Chips.  My personal favorite were the Sweet Maui Onion which reminded me of sour cream and onion only sweeter.  B, our resident spicy foods reviewer, preferred the wasabi chips, which did have a nice bite to them.  2 year old D was probably the biggest fan of all.  If we would have let him, he could have finished of all 4 bags in one sitting:)  As far as kettle-style chips go, these rank pretty high up there.  The perfect crunch combined with some really appealing flavors...perfect for that backyard barbecue!  ABCD Diaries gives Tim's Chips an A+!


Buy It: Find these tasty snacks at Tim's Chips.

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given samples for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.

Sew Sweet Dresses Review and Giveaway...

Congrats to mami2cjn!!

We recently had the chance to review a goregous pillowcase dress from Sew Sweet Dresses! 

About Sew Sweet Dresses:

"We provide a large variety of boutique clothing and accessories for children. Almost anything can be custom made with different fabrics/colors."

Here are some of the gorgeous designs from Sew Sweet Dresses:

What we thought: We really loved our pillowcase dress from Sew Sweet Dresses!  We were super excited to see it came with a matching bow...5 year old A has recently become obsessed with all things girly, especially hair accessories!  The dress was really well-made and fit perfectly.  We really love the style of these dresses because there is room to grow and even once they don't fit as a dress, they work great as a stylish shirt:)  Sew Sweet Dresses has an excellent variety of super cute outfits for your little princess.  ABCD Diaries gives Sew Sweet Dresses an A+!!

Buy It: Find these gorgeous dresses for your princess at Sew Sweet Dresses!

Win It: Sew Sweet Dresses has generously offered one ABCD Diaries reader any the same dress we reviewed(up to 5T)! To enter, follow our blog via GFC and "Like" Sew Sweet Dresses on Facebook.

Extra Entries:
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4.Tweet about this giveaway(leave link)+1 entry per day(1 tweet/day)
5.Blog about this giveaway(leave link) +2 entries...comment twice please
6.Enter any other current giveaways on ABCD Diaries and leave a comment saying so. +1 for each entered

Giveaway ends Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 11:59cst. Winner will be chosen via random.org and emailed. They will have 48 hours to reply. Open to US 18+

Disclosure: ABCD Diaries was given a dress for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.