Nutrisystem is a popular weight loss plan. There are several options from which to choose: Basic Plans, Vegetarian Plans, and Diabetes Plans. And they are designed specifically for men or women. Once you select your plan, your food will be delivered to your doorstep. All you have to do is add some extras, like veggies and fruit, and you’re ready to eat and lose weight.

Their latest and greatest is the Turbo Takeoff. It’s designed to reset your metabolism, and it really does! This is meant to be the first week of your new weight loss plan. It includes a week of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, Turbo Shakes that give you energy and are packed with protein, and Nutricrush bars. After the initial week you begin your regular regimen.

The question most people have is “How does the food taste?” The answer is “Delicious.” I have my favorites, as you will too. The food is tasty and easy to prepare.

One of my favorite foods is pizza. With their Thick Crust Pizzas and Italian Herb Flatbread Pizzas I am in heaven. I slice up grape tomatoes, olives, and either hearts of palm or artichoke hearts. Combined with a salad, this is a dinner I actually look forward to. Seriously!

Probably the most difficult part of the plan for me to get used to was eating breakfast. So forcing myself to eat first thing was something I had to learn. Then I started to look forward to the double chocolate muffins and the granola cereal. And the breakfast bars are great to grab on the go with a cup of coffee.

For lunch my personal favorites are the black beans and rice, the chocolate peanut butter bar, the cheese tortellini, and the cheddar broccoli rice. The Mexican style tortilla soup is also tasty. And if I’m out and about, I take a lunch bar with me. I am able to eat out with friends by ordering a salad and eating my bar. And I don’t feel deprived in the least.

Besides the mouth-watering pizza, I really enjoy the Vegetarian Chili, Bean Bolognese, and the Vegetarian Lasagna.

Snacks? On a weight loss plan? Absolutely. Whether you like something salty or sweet, Nutrisystem fills your evening with a special treat: chocolate cake, peanut butter cookies, milk chocolate flavored pretzels, zesty herb snack mix, white cheddar popcorn, and chewy peanut bars are my special favorites.

The plan is to keep your metabolism at its peak so you must feed your body every few hours. The system teaches you to eat smaller portions more often. That, and their ratio of carbs and protein, is what make this program work.

The bottom line is the food is delicious and the plan is easy to follow. Every one of the products is marked with color-coded labels: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snack. Add some veggies and fruit during the day along with plenty of water, iced tea, etc., and you’re on your way.

Beets, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, kale, and spinach are good ways to supplement your day. Munching on these will help your body and aid the program.

Do I recommend Nutrisystem? Yes. I have told several friends about it and although they had concerns about the portion size, I reassured them there is plenty to eat. The first week I felt there was too much food. Imagine that. And the first week on the Turbo Takeoff I actually lost 4 pounds. If you’re not a vegetarian, you will have plenty more food options.

I wouldn’t recommend something I don’t feel good about.There is no guess work or measuring. Just open the containers. Customize the meals with your own veggies and you won’t feel deprived. Yes, the portions are small, but the food is tasty, not bland at all. If you want to spice it up with your own spices, go ahead. Enjoy eating while losing weight.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

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We all know babies grow quickly. So why do we spend a ton of money on clothes for them when they’ll outgrow them in a few weeks? juDanzy is a company that makes adorable baby and toddler clothes for a fraction of the price you normally expect to pay for a baby’s outfit.

Each one of their gift sets comes in a special box designed specifically for that outfit. And every one of their outfits comes with accessories. For instance, the “Snowy Charlotte Gift Set” includes not only a pink long-sleeved bodysuit, but also matching leg warmers and a headband.

For warmer weather there is a sweet “Martian Gift Set” that includes a short-sleeved bodysuit, leg warmers and a little knotted cap. Fashionista baby girls can get spruced up with the “Born to Sparkle Gift Set,” that includes a bodysuit, ruffled leg warmers, and a headband with a bow. Talk about making an entrance!

And when you talk about making an entrance for a baby boy, the Navy Blue Seersucker 3-Piece Set adds just the right amount of haute couture to any baby’s wardrobe. Seriously. This set includes a diaper cover, long tie, and adorable cabbie hat. Add a t-shirt and any little fellow will look like he’s ready for his photo. He’ll be the classiest baby in the room.

The 3-piece sets (with the cabbie hat, tie, and diaper cover) are not something you see every day. They are adorable and available in different colors and designs with stripes and plaids. There’s no doubt they will be what the best dressed babies will be wearing this year!

The material is quality. It doesn’t feel flimsy and the seams are tightly sewn.
Besides the gift sets juDanzy also has stand-alone rompers and accessories for babies (as well as some clothing for older kids). However if you’re looking for a different baby gift, check out their gift sets. All you have to do is add a ribbon and bow and they’re ready to give.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Have you ever looked at one of those pretty drinks on a TV show or sitting on the table next to you in a restaurant and thought that you would love to try it? For those who are on diets, well, let’s face it, they are loaded with calories. And for those who don’t drink alcohol for whatever reasons, they are simply off the menu. But how would you like to have one without all the added sugar or without the alcohol? Skinnies let’s you have your cake and eat it too, so to speak.

What are Skinnies? They are zero calorie, sugar free drink mixers. You can use them with or without alcohol.

Made from plant-based ingredients (with some stevia leaf extract and erythritol from melons), there are no artificial coloring or sugary fruit juices, or even preservatives. These all-natural mixers are delicious and come in a variety of flavors. There are no calories in them however, if you combine them with alcohol you will add the alcoholic calories, but even so, the mixers are what really add up when you’re counting calories.

Watching “Sex and the City” many viewers were introduced to the NY Cosmo. Why not make your own with one of these mixers? Combine the Skinnies Cosmo mixer with Vodka and Soda – or if you want a virgin Cosmo leave out the Vodka – and you have a great, and refreshing libation.

For a Baja Margarita, combine a Skinnies Margarita packet with water and Tequila (if you want), and serve it on the rocks in a salt-rimmed glass. It’s so much less expensive than ordering one in a restaurant – and much healthier.

Other flavors include London Gimlet and Maui Mai Tai. Each packet comes with mixing directions.

Imagine having a party and offering your guests their choice of cocktail without all the fuss of having a bartender. Combine each mixer with 4 ounces of water or soda (depending on the cocktail), and 1.5 ounces of alcohol (if desired). The flavor in the mixers is what makes them so delicious. And with the price of $6 for a box of 6, that makes them only a dollar per drink.

RSVP Skinnies are perfect for those who are watching their waistline, their wallets, and even their alcohol intake. You can have the delicious flavor of an expensive cocktail without all the added calories and cost. Whether you chose to make yours with or without alcohol, these are a nice way to change up your routine. And they go nicely with any diet. With no calories, sugars, and 1 or 2 grams of carbs, they are a dieter’s dream.

Mix, shake or stir, sit back, and enjoy a refreshing drink with far less calories than if you ordered it out!

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

In 1991 Disney’s animated feature film Beauty and the Beast quickly became an audience favorite among all ages. On March 17, 2017 the live-action version of the Disney classic hits theaters. All the characters we have loved for 26 years are back, albeit just a little different.

To celebrate this new film the Disney Store has two great tea sets – one for kids and one for adults, each designed with the live-action film in mind.

The Enchanted Objects Tea Set ($24.95) is for ages 3 and up and includes Mrs. Potts, Chip, and one other cup along with two teaspoons, saucers, and a sugar bowl with lid.

This enchanted set is made of plastic so it is not meant to be used with real tea. It is meant to be played with at a pretend tea party. Two BFFs, a girl and her favorite stuffed animal or doll, or a mother and child can have fun with this set.

Not only does it encourage imagination and play with the adorable objects, but also, as the name implies, there are some “enchanted” features about the items. First, Mrs. Potts’ eyes close when she is tilted. And second, Chip wobbles on his saucer. So, with Mrs. Potts opening and closing her eyes and little wobbly Chip, a lot of fun play is in store for a child’s tea party.

The Limited Edition Fine China Tea Set can definitely be used for real tea parties. Included in this set are Mrs. Potts, Chip, two additional teacups and four saucers. Having tea with this set is a memorable experience.

Because it is usable, it is an entertaining way to enjoy an afternoon with friends. Invite over your gal pals for tea and cake. Or, for special mother/daughter time, bring out this set to enjoy with your child.

It comes in a special box for gift giving. Perhaps for Mothers Day? With the edition limited to 2000 units, it is something you cannot wait to purchase. It sells for $249.95.

Many people collect tea sets. This is wonderful item someone who collects sets and also loves the story of Belle and the Beast. And let’s face it, that’s pretty much most of us.

So whether you are looking for a play tea set for a child or an exquisite fine china tea set for an adult, these two fit the bill.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Zagg is a unique company created out of ingenuity and necessity. When the founder, Phillip Chipping, wanted to find a way to protect his new watch from scratches and chips, he discovered a film the military used to protect their helicopter blades. Well, if it was good enough for the military, it was good enough for him. He founded a company that produced lightweight shields to protect all our devices: iPhones, iPads, iPods. The company is now Zagg and this company produces an array of products to keep our devices safe as well as help users get the most convenience out of all our expensive devices.

First of all, they have several Invisible Shields for various products, made out of a variety of elements. Their newest is called the “Sapphire Defense” and is applied easily to your iPhone to keep the screen safe. Why sapphire? Jewelry aficionados know that sapphires are second only to diamonds in hardness. This Invisible Shield is smudge resistant and easy to apply, leaving your screen with the clarity that all users demand. There is no distortion. Once applied, the screen is clear, resists smudges, and absorbs impacts that would damage it without the protection.

This Sapphire Defense Invisible Shield protects your screen from shattering 7 times more than without it. The sapphire infused crystals make all the difference in this product. Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but in this case, girls and boys alike will agree sapphires are number one.

The Sapphire Defense is not currently available for the iPad Pro 12.9 inch so you’ll have to wait just a little longer. In the meantime, if you purchase one of these new large iPad Pros, protect it with the Invisible Shield Glass. This is good protection for this device repelling skin oils and keeping the screen clear and safe.

If you do have an iPad Pro 12.9 inch, so far the largest on the market, you’ll discover this is like a laptop without all the ports and some of the convenience. However that is easily fixed with Zagg’s Slim Book. The Slim Book is a combination keyboard, case, and stand.

Using the iPad Pro 12.9 inch without an additional keyboard is fine for some circumstances, but the keyboard on the screen takes up valuable screen real estate. And it’s not as easy to use for those of us who are used to typing on keys. This keyboard uses Bluetooth technology so there are no wires connecting it to your tablet. Just pair it with your device and you’re ready to start typing on real keys. The entire keyboard is convenient and comfortable for your palms to rest and your fingers to reach the keys.

Another great aspect of this keyboard is the keys are backlit. So when you are in a dark ballroom listening to a lecture and want to type notes, just press a button and a soft colors light backlights the keys. I have found this aspect extremely handy, not only in ballrooms, but in other situations as well.

The Slim Book also serves as a case to keep your tablet safe. Line up your tablet and click it into the case. Now, if you have your Invisible Screen on and your tablet secured in the case, you can feel comfortable knowing you have a safe tablet to carry as is. However, there is more.

The case now can connect to your keyboard. To pair the keyboard to your device, simply make sure your Bluetooth is turned on, press the fn button on the keyboard and either 1, 2, or 3. Your device will automatically find the keyboard and a blue light will flash telling you you’re all set. Now, if you want to pair your iPhone or another device to the keyboard, repeat this process (using a different number.) How cool is that? You can have several devices paired to use the keyboard. The easy Quick Start guide will help you set everything up in just a minute or two, including instructing you how to use the backlight and other options.

There is more to this Slim Book. With the hinges that connect the case to the keyboard, you have the ability to angle the screen to suit your needs. And, hold onto your hats, you can turn it around to “book mode” so you can read without the keyboard in your way. And the “video mode” lets you also view your screen without the keyboard in front of the screen. This is courtesy of the magnetic hinge that lets users flip the case.

If you get the idea that I am excited about this product, you are correct. I have been using it and it is amazing. It turns your iPad into a laptop, and it’s easily convertible to various modes. And when you just want to carry your screen without the keyboard, just pop it off. It’s that easy.

The Slim Book for iPad Pro 12.9 inch sells for $139.99. The Invisible Shield Glass for iPhone 6/6s Plus sells for $34.99. The Invisible Shield Sapphire Defense for iPhones sells for $49.99. The Invisible Shield Glass for iPad Pro 12.9 inch sells for $64.99.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

If you’re thinking about buying a new mattress, the MyPillow Mattress Topper might be the way to go instead of purchasing a completely new mattress. This high-density foam topper could save you thousands of dollars on a new mattress.

The MyPillow Mattress Topper is three inches thick. That’s a lot of foam. It supports your body with what they call “zero gravity” so the foam cradles your entire body. Pressure points are caressed.

With their “ThermaPhase Gel Technology,” the topper is meant to keep your body at the right temperature all year long. There is a removable cover that comes with the topper so it’s easily washable. The topper is made from CertiPure-US flexible polyurethane foam. With the attached straps, it is easy to place on top of your existing mattress and won’t shift or move during the night.

This is a nice little – or not so little if you select the king size – product for campers, camping, and those mostly-uncomfortable RV beds.

I tried this topper and although I love my regular air mattress, this added additional support. This is exactly what I would want in an RV. Those mattresses are quite uncomfortable, but when you purchase an RV you really don’t have any choice. You get what it comes with. But now with this MyPillow Mattress Topper, you can make your RV as comfortable as your home bed.

And this is something that college students will embrace. Dorm beds are awful. I remember mine. If I had this mattress topper when I went to college, my nights would have been much more comfortable.

With the 60-day money-back guarantee, there is no reason not to try this topper. And it comes with a five-year warranty.

Families might get extra benefit from this topper by putting it in minivans or station wagons. That way your child has a comfortable mattress for long road trips.

The company says this product is portable; however if you do get the king size, remember it is large so in my experience that size is really not portable. However the smaller sizes could easily be transported from one place to another.

My suggestion is to try the MyPillow Mattress Topper if you want to save money and not purchase a brand new mattress. Also, I highly suggest this for college students.

The MyPillow Mattress Topper is available in sizes Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, RV Queen, King, and California King. Check their website for prices and promo codes.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Have you heard that beer is good for your hair? When I was young my mom often poured beer on my hair after shampooing. Sounds strange, but for generations beer has been used to get shiny hair. BROO is a company with three different versions of beer-infused shampoos and conditioners.

If you have thin or fine hair, try the “Pop your Top” BROO shampoo and conditioner. For dry or damaged hair, there is the “Drench your Do” and for an invigorating experience they have “Feel the Buzz.” Each one is safe for color treated hair, so you don’t have to worry about it taking the color out of your hair.

So, why beer? First of all, it contains B vitamins and minerals. It’s protein-rich. Beer nourishes your hair however you won’t smell any alcohol in the products. Don’t worry about getting pulled over for driving intoxicated because you smell like beer!

According to Brad and Sarah, the founders of BROO Craft Beer Hair, the first ingredient in each of their products is beer because it “has all the amazing B vitamins, minerals and proteins that make hair strong, shiny and healthy.” As soon as I heard about this company I thought about my mom drenching my long hair with beer. She was right. And both Brad and Sarah’s moms rinsed their hair with beer too.

I tried the “Feel the Buzz” Shampoo and Conditioner. It’s not flowery or sweet smelling, but it does make your scalp tingle. And, as I expected (and hoped it would do), my hair is shiny and healthy looking.

They use pure ingredients that moisturize, cleanse, and put a shine in your hair. Your hair will be clean and soft. The products are pH balanced, and –yay – they are made in the USA! Plus, they are vegan, so you know they are created with the utmost care and purest ingredients, free of dyes, parabens, and other things you don’t understand but know can’t be good for you!

BROO is a product that lives up to the hype. Beer is good for your hair. Mom knew best!

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter