Author: superspiderclub

Intimate friendships between single women are often the primary relationships in their lives, and in fact there is a historic precedent for these bonds being as strong as a romantic partnership. But what happens when the single ladies start pairing off? I interviewed novelist Elliot Holt about how her friendships have changed over the years in All The Single Ladies.

Elliott Holt is a novelist who lives in Washington, D.C.; she has two sisters, went to an all-girls school, and describes herself as one of those women whose most intimate relationships have been with other women. When she was in her twenties, she recalled to me, she and her friends often saw each other several times a week; they hung out and talked deep into the night. By the time they were in their thirties, some of her closest compatriots had begun to peel off into couples, saving to buy apartments and have children; they stopped going out as much. Now that she’s forty, and nearly all of her closest girlfriends have partners and children, she said, she is lucky to catch up with them every three or four months. “I feel completely out of sync with my peers,” Elliott said, “And I love them so much!”

As the only single woman in her social circle, Elliott said, “I always joke that I feel like a foreign exchange student: I do speak the language: I have nieces; I’ve been in people’s weddings! But I’m kind of shut out.” Her married friends used to invite her to social events but, eventually, she said, the invitations dwindled. She assumes that this is because her friends realized that all they talked about were kids and husbands and houses, and that they didn’t want to subject her to it. But what they don’t understand, she thinks, “is that I’m trying to figure out where the community is where I do belong. It’s tricky to confess you’re not sure where you fit without sounding like you’re whining about not having a partner.”

Elliott recently spoke to an ex-boyfriend who told her that she needed to make friends who were in their twenties or their seventies. And she’s tried. On a work visit to New York she met a group of young women who invited her out with them. She had a nice time, until, she recalled, “at eleven-thirty, they said they were going to head somewhere else and I had the sense that the night was just starting, and was going to end at two in the morning.” Elliott felt the decade and a half that separated them keenly. “I was born when Nixon was president,” she said. “And they’d go out and take smoke breaks and I thought, ‘Oh my god, you guys smoke! My friends all quit at twenty-nine!’ I had a drink and a half, but I was tired and out of sorts.” Elliott went home.

The post How Female Friendships Change over Time appeared first on Tips on Life and Love.

What is it? 

Rockin’ Wellness is a meal replacement shake made with non-GMO ingredients for increased energy, a pre or post workout drink, and weight loss benefits. The shake is available in both vanilla mocha swirl, and chocolate cacao.

It’s a certified vegan and gluten free shake, and the company mentions it can improve your focus and mood. There’s a natural amount of caffeine added due to the coffee bean as well. They also advise up to four scoops a day to make a shake. Is this truly a nutritious weight loss meal replacement? What have other customers experienced? You’ll see in this Rockin’ Wellness review just what this shake has to offer.

Do You Know the Best Diet Shakes of 2016?

Rockin’ Wellness Ingredients and Side Effects 

Here are the full ingredients to their chocolate cacao shake:

Raw Organic Non-GMO Cacao Bean
Organic Non-GMO Goji Berry
Organic Non-GMO Hulled Hemp Seed
Organic Non-GMO Brown Rice Protein
Non-GMO Lecithin

Organic Non-GMO Maca Root
Chia Seed
Organic Non-GMO Evaporated CANE Juice
Organic Non-GMO Banana fruit
Green Tea Extract

Organic Non-GMO Yerba Mate Leaf
Guar Gum
Organic Non-GMO Flaxseed
Lactobacillus, Acidophilus
Stevia Extract

Raw Organic Non-GMO Cacao Bean: The dried and fermented bean of which chocolate is made from.

It has the added stimulants theobromine and caffeine. Theobromine is a diuretic that stimulates the heart. Excess amounts can be dangerous, causing what’s known as theobromine poisoning.

Side effects from this ingredient include:

Nervousness and anxiety.
Rapid heart rate, cardiovascular damage, and jitters.
Migraine headaches.
Frequent urination.
Constipation, stomach issues, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

The natural caffeine may also produce similar symptoms.  It’s unknown how much of these stimulants are found within Rockin’ Wellness. The company claims it’s in safe amounts, but it’s always important to find out exactly how much is included. 

Organic Non-GMO Goji Berry: Bright red berry found in parts of China. It’s said to be a potent superfruit, though it’s unknown if there’s any unique benefit to this ingredient versus other berries.

It’s an expensive ingredient, and it raises the price of this shake without any proof of it offering unique benefits. 

Organic Non-GMO Hulled Hemp Seed: Easy to digest protein extract made from the same plant which marijuana is made from.

Examine.com adds that it’s:

“not yet linked to unique properties” 

This is comparison to other protein formulas. The flaws with this protein are that it’s low in the amino acid Leucine and Lysine. So supplementing with other protein sources would be needed. 

Organic Non-GMO Brown Rice Protein: Rapidly digested protein source which is low in the amino acid Lysine.

Since both protein sources in this shake are low in Lysine, it’s important to eat additional foods to make up for this deficiency. Not getting enough Lysine can potently cause problems to overall health.

This amino acid is important for providing energy, aiding metabolism, and several other necessary processes. A deficiency might cause severe problems to overall health. 

Organic Non-GMO Maca Root        Green Tea Extract:  Plant native to parts of Peru. It’s used due to its fatty acids and amino acids.

Research on this ingredient is limited, and Examine.com adds:

“Further research is needed to determine the main mechanism of maca” 

“new evidence… can be manipulated” 

They mention that because of the potential bias from sellers of maca, many of the supposed benefits have not been proven.

This ingredient may also increase hunger, and customers have expressed concern over this ingredients addition within the shake because of the increased hunger. 

Organic Non-GMO Yerba Mate Leaf: This plant is brewed as a tea, and it’s native to parts of South America.

It has stimulants inside like theobromine and caffeine. It’s used to increase energy and improve metabolism.  Though Web MD has expressed concerns over the use of it:

“POSSIBLY UNSAFE. It increase the risk of mouth, esophageal, laryngeal, kidney, bladder, and lung cancer”

 “in very large amounts, yerba mate is LIKELY UNSAFE, due to its caffeine content”

 Other possible issues include side effects such as:

Upset stomach, gas, and bloating.
High blood pressure, increased heart rate, and cardiovascular damage.
Irregular heartbeat.
Anxiety, mood swings, and restlessness.
Insomnia and feelings of paranoia. 

It’s never mentioned how much of this is included within the shake. It’s important to also find out how much caffeine is added in order to prevent possible side effects. 

Guar Gum: Thickener taken from the guar plant. It’s also used as a laxative and stabilizer.

Web MD mentions that taking this ingredient with water is important:

“because it reduces the chance of choking or developing a blockage in the intestine” 

Other possible side effects may include:

Loose and frequent stools.
Diarrhea and gastrointestinal pain.
Gas, bloating, and flatulence. 

It’s a cheap ingredient that is often found in processed foods.

EDITOR’S TIP: Combine this supplement with a proven meal replacement such as 18Shake for better results.

The Price and Quality of Rockin’ Wellness 

One 30 serving bag costs $59.97. Though the company mentions you can take up to 4 servings a day. So this breaks down to a price of $14.99 per day.

It’s an incredibly expensive shake, and the nutrient profile is lacking.

The two protein sources don’t provide the important amino acid Lysine, so extra supplementation with other proteins is need.

There’s also only 2 grams of fiber, and the nutrients are also low.

You get 0% vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E, and no traces of other important minerals.

Also, the kinds of ingredients used may cause issues since the guar gum may harm the stomach, and the added caffeine may also cause unwanted stimulant effects.

This is one of the most expensive shakes, and it’s not supported by a well-rounded nutritional profile. You have to make sure you supplement with other nutrients and protein sources to make up for the lacking amounts. 

Business of Rockin’ Wellness 

The company name is also Rockin’ Wellness; you can reach them via their contact information:

Phone Number: (855) 876-2593 

Address: 150 Oser Ave #11354

Hauppauge, New York 11788 

Email: support@rockinwellness.com

They only offer returns on unopened products within 30 days. They also have to pre-approve each return before it can be sent.

There’s currently an F rating on their Better Business Bureau page which helps track customer satisfaction.

Also, a total of 24 complaints have been filed against them on Pissed Consumer.com, which lists negative customer reviews.

Here’s what people have had to say:

“I never signed up for auto ship” 

“They do not answer their emails” 

“take your money but can’t answer calls to cancel”

 “I ordered a product and without my knowledge was put on auto delivery” 

A total of 57 complaints are listed on their Better Business Bureau page for the same reasons. Many were automatically charged each month for bags of these shakes without their consent. People were frustrated to deal with the company, since they don’t answer emails or calls.

The common complaint heard is of the company failing to allow for returns, and that they charge high prices automatically each month.

EDITOR’S TIP: For the best results with meal replacement shakes diet our experts recommend to use it at least 5 months. Save your money buying a few bags of meal replacement product.

Customer Opinions of Rockin’ Wellness 

A few reviews are available online, here’s what customers have had to say:

“very expensive and not worth the price” 

 “increased my appetite like crazy” 

“does not live up to its claims of feeling great” 

“It tastes awful!!! I was expecting more” 

Common complaints include the shake being thin and not very filling. In fact, there were quite a few customers who actually had increased appetite.

People were disappointed with the lack of weight loss results. Those that used an entire bag full of product will often say they regret the purchase.

Customers were also disappointed to find out that dealing with the company can be difficult, and they rarely answer any messages for a return.

Conclusion – Does Rockin’ Wellness Work?

Before making up your mind on Rockin’ Wellness, make sure to keep in mind that it’s been rated unfavorably by customers. Though this shake does have non-GMO ingredients and a vegan friendly ingredient list, it’s incredibly expensive and not well rounded enough to provide a true meal replacement.

This shake has stimulant ingredients, and it’s unknown exactly how much exactly is inside. People have often complained about auto billing practices, which automatically charges one’s credit card without notice. People have also had issues due to a lack of weight loss benefits, which is likely due to the low protein, minimal fiber, and the lack of amino acid rich protein.

Proper meal replacements should provide not just great customer service, but an all-natural, amino acid rich, appetite suppressing formula. The very best of these shakes is 2016’s top rated meal replacement 18Shake.

Not only have customers been consistently impressed with its weight loss benefits, but people say it’s easy to make and great tasting.

In this shake is a quality blend of whey proteins which have all the essential amino acids. You can now enjoy a great tasting, customer approved meal replacement that can help you lose weight.

18Shake is even backed by a great 30 day money back guarantee, so there’s no risk in trying this product and losing out on any money.

Fat Burning Pills CanadaDeals for Fat Loss Workouts Treadmill Order Now!!The Natural Fat Burning Aids will help you remove all of the disturbing and troublesome body weights. Dr. Charles D.C as the author of the program will provide you with much information about crash diets along with diet products, such as for example pill and drops. He shall explain that the foundation of this plan may be the

Adding a dollop of cream cheese to your pesto is the perfect way to stretch its substance. It also produces a wonderfully creamy spread. Savory roasted chopped veggies sit atop this smooth pesto crostini, and bold, syrupy reduced balsamic rounds out the flavors and makes for an elegant presentation. From Orange, Lavender & Figs.

MAKES 24 CROSTINI

½ pound zucchini,cut into ¼-inch dice
½ pound yellow squash, cut into ¼-inch dice
1 small red onion, slivered
¼ cup olive oil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
Kosher salt and coarse black pepper
1 baguette (18 inches long), cut crosswise into 24 equal slices
½ cup balsamic vinegar
Sunflower Seed–Cream Cheese Pesto (recipe follows)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini, squash, and red onion with 2 tablespoons of the oil, the oregano, and ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Roast, tossing once halfway through, until tender, 13 to 15 minutes.

Spread the baguette slices on a separate baking sheet, drizzle them with the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake until lightly golden and crunchy, 6 to 8 minutes.

In a small saucepan, heat the balsamic vinegar over medium-high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally to keep from burning, until the liquid has become thick and syrupy, 8 to 10 minutes. Immediately remove the pan from the heat.

To assemble the crostini, spread each toasted baguette slice with the pesto and arrange them on a platter. Evenly sprinkle the roasted vegetables over the crostini and then top with the crumbled feta. Drizzle the entire platter with the balsamic reduction.

FLIPPIDY-DOO
For an epic pizza night without the delivery fee, swap in buttery naan bread or pita for the crostini. Paint the flatbread with olive oil and hit it with your best shot of Italian herbs. Throw it on the grill or griddle until lightly charred and crisp and proceed with your pesto, veggies, and feta. Cut into wedges and finish with the balsamic drizzle and a round of craft beers.

Sunflower Seed-Cream Cheese Pesto

Cream cheese and pesto in the same sentence? Don’t worry, you’re not dreaming. The name may sound fancy, but just a few buzzes of the food processor and you’re on your way to whipping up this savory spreadable sauce filled with fluffy cream cheese and tart lemon.

MAKES ABOUT 1½ CUPS
¼ cup unsalted raw sunflower seeds
2 small cloves garlic
Kosher salt and coarse black pepper
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
1½ cups packed fresh basil leaves
1 teaspoon honey
Juice of 1 lemon
½ cup olive oil
½ cup whipped cream cheese

In a dry small skillet, toast the sunflower seeds over medium-low heat, tossing frequently, until lightly golden and very fragrant, about 5 minutes. Immediately remove the seeds from the pan and transfer to a bowl to stop the cooking process.

In a food processor, pulse the sunflower seeds, garlic, and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper until the seeds are broken down. Add the parmesan, basil, honey, and lemon juice and pulse until thoroughly combined. With the motor running, stream in the olive oil a little bit at a time until the pesto is velvety.

Add the cream cheese to the food processor and pulse until the pesto is very creamy and smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

FANFARE TIPS
This spreadable sauce ain’t just for spreadin’. Toss it with al dente elbow noodles and sharp cheddar, pour into a soup crock, top with parmesan, and bake until golden for the mack daddy of mac and cheese.

Sunflower seeds are the perfect substitute for pricey pine nuts—which typically go in pesto. They also work as a fantastic variation for those with nut allergies. Can’t find sunflower seeds? Roasted unsalted pumpkin seeds work like a charm.

The post Orange, Lavender & Figs Recipe: Roasted Veggie Crostini with Sunflower Seed-Cream Cheese Pesto appeared first on Tips on Life and Love.

Fat Loss Bodyweight ExercisesPurchase for Best Weight Loss Supplement For Thyroid Get NowThe Fat Burning Cabbage Soup Recipe Slow Cooker will help you remove all the troublesome and disturbing body weights. Dr. Charles D.C because the author of this program will give you much information about fad diets along with diet products, such as pill and drops. He shall describe that the foundation of

What is it?

All Day Energy Greens is a powdered energy drink claiming to offer a healthy dosage of fruits and vegetables for overall health. They mention that the benefits include increased energy, healthy digestion, improved immune function, and cell protection.

There are a total of 38 superfoods and nutrients added, and it’s claimed to have clinically studied ingredients. They also mention that over 600,000 have already used this drink to great results. It can be mixed with water or a smoothie. Is this really a good source of nutrients? What kinds of results are possible? In this All Day Energy Green review you’ll learn everything you need to know to make a decision.

Do You Know the Best Diet Shakes of 2016?

All Day Energy Greens Ingredients and Side Effects 

Alfalfa Leaf Powder
Carrot Root Juice Powder
Fibersol-2 Digestion Resistant Soluble Fiber
Spirulina Powder
Barley Grass Juice Powder

Aloe Vera Leaf Juice
Rose Hips Fruit Powder
Acerola Cherry Fruit Powder
Parsley Lead Juice
Natural Plant Enzyme Blend

Apple Fiber Fruit Powder
Apple Pectin Fruit Powder
Chlorella Cracked Cell Wall Powder
Watercress Leaf Juice Powder
Flax Seed Meal Powder

Stevia Leaf Powder
Spinach Leaf Juice Powder
Kamut Grass Powder
Strawberry Fruit Powder
Citrus Peel Bioflavonoids

Astralagus Root Powder
Eluthero Root Extract Siberian Ginseng
Artichoke Leaf Powder
Grape Seed Extract
Green Tea Leaf 60% Polyphenols decaffeinated

Red Raspberry Fruit Powder
Beet Root Powder
Blueberry Fruit Powder
Celery Seed Powder
Cocoa Bean Extract

Kale Leaf Powder
Kelp Powder
Wild Lettuce Leaf Powder
Maca Root Powder
Pumpkin  Fruit Powder

Yerba Mate Leaf Powder
Pomegranate Fruit Powder
Guar Gum
Sunflower Lecithin
Soy Lecithin Powder

Gum Arabic
Xanthan

Gum

Spirulina: A blue green algae used due to its high vitamins and minerals.  It’s recommended to limit this ingredient due to its potential for lead contamination and vitamin A toxicity.

The Oregon Health Division performed a study and showed that where this ingredient is sourced from is important. Certain bodies of waters can add many toxic chemicals to this ingredient:

“potent hepatotoxins and probable tumor promoters” 

This was seen in many common areas where spirulina is sourced from. When it is extracted from water, it can absorb any of the toxins that its body of water contains.

Chlorella: Algae found in fresh water. It contains many nutrients including proteins and fats.  Certain people may be deathly allergic to this ingredient, and it may cause asthma and breathing problems in some.

Other possible side effects may include:

Increased sensitivity to the sun.
Diarrhea, stomach discomfort, and gas.
Stomach cramping.
Increased flatulence. 

These side effects are common to first time users of this ingredient.

It’s also not advised to take this if one has a weakened immune system. This can cause damage due to it being processed as a contaminant in the body.

Chinese licorice: Plant often used to flavor foods. It’s used to help decrease swelling and cough.  Web MD mentions:

“POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used in large amounts for more than 4 weeks”

It may also promote side effects that include:

High blood pressure.
Weakness and paralysis.
Kidney and heart disease.
Brain damage. 

These side effects are even possible in those who have never had a history of these issues.

Rose Hips: A vitamin C source that is often low in this nutrient when it’s processed.

It can potentially lead to a number of side effects:

Stomach cramps constipation, diarrhea, and nausea.
Insomnia and fatigue.
Allergic reactions. 

Wild Lettuce: Plant used to help provide a calming and pain relieving effect. It may potentially lead to hallucinogenic effects.

Large amounts of it can produce side effects that include:

Ringing in the ears and dizziness.
Difficult and slow breathing.
Death.

It’s only considered safe in small amounts. It needs to be specifically dosed in order to prevent the possibility for side effects.

Yerba Mate Leaf Powder: A plant brewed as a tea to stimulate the heart and muscles.  It contains stimulants such as caffeine and theobromine.

Web MD adds that it’s:

“POSSIBLY UNSAFE. It increases the risk of mouth, esophageal, laryngeal, kidney, bladder and lung cancer” 

It may also promote side effects such as:

Nausea and vomiting.
Headaches.
Increased heart rate, tremors, and high blood pressure.
Difficulty breathing.
Ringing in the ears.

It’s unknown how much of its stimulants are left when added to this drink. When using a stimulant ingredient, it’s important to know exactly how much is included.

EDITOR’S TIP: Combine this supplement with a proven meal replacement such as 18Shake for better results.

 

All Day Energy Greens Quality of Ingredients 

Ingredients like yerba mate, wild lettuce, Chinese licorice, and chlorella have to be dosed in specific amounts in order to avoid side effects. Many of these ingredients have been shown to be potentially toxic, and depending on where they are sourced from, they may present serious health risks. The details of where they come from or how they are processed are never explained by the makers of All Day Energy Greens.

There is a low amount of sugar and calories which is good, but the lack of vitamins and minerals make this product underwhelming.  There’s also just 1 gram of protein, so it’s not a very good muscle building ingredient.

This drink has also been shown to contain 6.0 micrograms of lead per serving.  In California the limit is advised at .5 micrograms. Taking in daily amounts of lead can be potentially harmful to overall health. It can promote organ failure and lead to brain problems.

The Price and Quality of All Day Energy Greens 

A one month supply sells for $39.99.  This drink isn’t satisfying enough to be labeled a meal replacement, and there’s also not many nutrients added. This is surprising considering all the fruits and vegetables added.

Ingredients in this formula have been shown to be potentially damaging to health. Many customers have also expressed concerns over the above average amounts of lead added to this. It’s unknown what kind of an effect his may have on long term health.

This drink is greatly overpriced for what’s included. Many of the ingredients need to be taken in specific amounts, as random dosages can be damaging to health. There have also been several negative reviews from customers, as you’ll see in the “Customer Opinions of All Day Energy Greens” section. 

Business of All Day Energy Greens 

The company goes by the name of the Institute for Vibrant Living. You can reach them below: 

Phone Number: (800) 720-1245 

Address: 661 E Howards Rd Ste C

Camp Verde, Arizona 86322

They currently have a total of 35 complaints on their Better Business Bureau page. Here’s what some have had to say:

“have not received my refund as promised” 

“have called them numerous times and all they ever did was put me on hold” 

“lack of suitable response” 

“I’ve tried several times to call them” 

Many customers were frustrated with the long wait times, and the lack of a money back guarantee, even though the company promises 90 days for a return.

These same customers failed to receive an adequate response back, and they were forced to deal with the costs without a chance of a refund.

EDITOR’S TIP: For the best results with meal replacement shakes diet our experts recommend to use it at least 5 months. Save your money buying a few bags of meal replacement product.

Customer Opinions of All Day Energy Greens 

Currently 157 negative reviews exist on their Amazon.com page. Here’s what a few users have had to say:

“I’ve felt worse and worse” 

“do yourself a favor and do not waste your money” 

“taste is horribly sweet” 

“This product has made me gain weight” 

Bad taste and a lack of health benefits were the main negative opinions about this brand.

People mentioned that the taste is horribly sweet and artificial tasting. There were also issues with symptoms such as diarrhea, ill feelings, and extreme nausea.

A lack of energy or weight loss of any kind was also listed as negatives. Many felt that although this shake mixes well, it’s not well rounded enough to be a potent health drink.

Conclusion – Does All Day Energy Greens Work?

This drink may still grab your attention due to its numerous fruits and vegetables added. While getting these important foods is great for health, the way they’re processed in this drink limits their nutritional profile. Customers also agree it’s not suitable for any of the claimed benefits of energy, weight loss, or overall improved health.

This drink has also been shown to contain levels of lead that may potentially cause serious harm. Some of the ingredients in this formula also have been shown to be potentially toxic.

Instead of taking a blend of ingredients which may be dangerous, it’s important to use a wholesome solution made with ingredients you can trust. The best solution for weight loss and improved health is 2016’s best 18Shake.

Not only is this shake made with only natural ingredients, but the ingredients added have been shown to be great for improving health. There’s no lead found in this shake, and customers rave about its great taste and easy to mix formula. There are no artificial ingredients either, and it’s made with a high amount of vitamins and minerals.

18Shake is a great weight loss solution, and it’s even backed by a solid 30 day money back guarantee.

I have a dream. My dream is that just one room of my house does not have a toy car or truck in it, not even a tiny one “parked” under a dresser, as they are likely to be found. They are in the shower (a car wash, naturally). They are in the kitchen cabinets (delivery truck). They are in pockets, where they are often found as the washing machine starts making alarming banging noises. When we started with the “things that go” phase there wasn’t a lack of books… photographic, stories, interactive. The issue was there were too many and bringing them home became an exercise in trial and error.

Over my protests, one child only really liked—for a time—photographic books with labels (no story) so he could learn all the trucks’ names. (I know there is a difference between a digger and an excavator, but please don’t put me to the test about which is which—ask him). To save my sanity I tried to find as many fire truck books as I could to fan the flames (yes, pun intended) and make bedtime reading a little more enjoyable for me than labeling all the equipment on a fire truck (although it is good know that fire trucks come with axes—and here I thought they broke down doors with…. well, now that I think about it, I guess you would need something like an ax).

The road to truck books is paved with a vast array of choices. We read The Fisher-Price Little People’s Planes, Cars, Trucks, and Trains and Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things That Go, which seemed like a very good place to start. We read the photographic My First Trucks. We even read the charming, old-fashioned Lois Lenski books like The Little Train. And we moved on to other books, like Red Truck and Sheep in a Jeep.

We read them all. He seemed to love them all. I can tell you that basically all vehicle books with a plot have either an A or a B story: either the truck gets stuck and they have to get it out, or the trucks are all building something together.

I get asked a lot—and I wonder a lot, as part of my job—why some books become a phenomenon and others don’t. What made one picture book vault over the others? I was interviewing someone once who said, “I want to find the next Harry Potter book.” I didn’t hire her. Not because she wanted to find another publishing sensation (sign me up for that, please!), but because when I asked her what about that she wanted to replicate she said, “The whole magical wizard world.” Books that get replicated sometimes work… there’s a certain loose plot line that works on many a bestseller. But books that are just replicated replacing A with B most often fall flat. Good writing and good storytelling should be a requirement for something that flies out the door, but what makes a great book is that it hits on something familiar yet brings a fresh take to it.

At first glance, Goodnight Goodnight Construction Site looked like a nice construction book. I flipped through it when I saw it in the bookstore and, sighing over yet another construction book, passed it over. When it hit the bestseller lists and stayed there, I wanted to take another look. This time I brought it home and the first night we read it through three times in a row. And then I got it; sure, it was another truck book. But this one has a different, fresh take. It’s a celebration of trucks doing their special jobs, then tucking in and resting as they go to sleep. Simple. And yet, wait a sec: A truck book that didn’t end with a siren? A truck book that didn’t wind up my sleepy (ish) child? A truck book that celebrated that it was fine to dig and roll but even trucks needed to rest? A truck book that actually had a plot? Oh, this worked. This worked on so many levels, from the absolutely delightfully lovely illustrations (yes, trucks sleep with teddy bears!) to the lullaby-like verse that helps lull a truck fanatic to “Relax your wheels your stacks and backs.” It’s not trucks lite. It gets the detailed function and the movement of all the pieces of equipment, enough so that it will absolutely work on even an advanced truck enthusiast (the one who refuses to read the “baby books” about trucks, even though the baby will like reading it, too).

I met the illustrator Tom Lichtenheld once at a conference, briefly. I am always mindful in these moments to not say something idiotic like, “Hey, we get into bed with you every night.” In the end I simply introduced myself. When I went home and told my kids, my son wanted to know why I didn’t invite him over for a playdate.

The author, Sherri Duskey Rinker, according to her bio, has children and her stories were written for them. I’m going to go out on a limb that one night after reading about another stuck truck she got fed up, took pen to paper, and wrote this book. And millions of parents with trucks parked in every crevice of their homes rejoiced.

And now, our favorite toddler truck/train/vehicle books:

×

Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site

by Sherri Duskey Rinker

View Details

As the sun sets behind the big construction site, all the hardworking trucks get ready to say goodnight. One by one, Crane Truck, Cement Mixer, Dump Truck, Bulldozer, and Excavator finish their work and lie down to rest—so they’ll be ready for another day of rough and tough construction play! With irresistible artwork by best-selling illustrator Tom Lichtenheld and sweet, rhyming text, this book will have truck lovers of all ages begging for more.

×

My Car

by Byron Barton

View Details

With prose as clean as Sam’s the narrator’s shiny engine, Byron Barton, the celebrated creator of numerous picture books for very young children, including Trucks, My Bus, and Building a House, explores transportation, the parts of a car, signs and signals, night and day, community, and occupations.

Bright, graphic artwork invites readers to count, name colors and shapes, and follow Sam and his car as they drive through a bustling world from Sam’s home in the country to his job in the city. The surprise ending is a gem!

×

School Bus

by Donald Crews

View Details

What is large (or small), bright yellow, and filled with students? School Bus! Climb aboard and let Donald Crews take you to school — and home again.

×

Trashy Town

by Andrea Zimmerman and David Clemesha

View Details

I dump it in, I smash it down, I drive around the trashy town.
Meet Mr. Gilly. He cleans up Trashy Town. He does it with a big smile and a big truck–which is sure to make him a hero with all the children in the neighborhood. David Clemesha and Andrea Zimmerman have created a rhythmic, repeatable refrain that will roll off the lips of every child. Dan Yaccarino’s dynamic art puts the zip in Mr. Gilly’s stride and adds style and charm to trash collection.

×

Cars, Trucks, and Things That Go

by Richard Scarry

View Details

The station wagon, the tow truck, the garbage truck and the bulldozer. Every manner of machinery that moves is riotously depicted in this classic favorite. As the pig family head to the beach for a picnic, they encounter every vehicle known, from the forklift to the locomotive, and many vehicles that are not as common, from the pumpkin car to the broom-o-cycle. Each detailed spread provides tremendous opportunity to make up stories and describe situations. Will Officer Flossy catch Dingo? Will Rollo Rabbit catch his runaway steamroller? And with literally hundreds of things to look at, youngsters will spend hours trying to find Goldbug on every page.

×

The Little Train

by Lois Lenski

View Details

Mr. Small does it all!

In this adventure, Engineer Small drives his little train from Tinytown to the city-and back. Along the way, the little train passes tunnels and stops at stations to pick up cargo and passengers.

Presented in full color for the first time, Lois Lenski’s The Little Train will delight a whole new generation of readers as they learn all about the ins and outs of a working train.

The post Books That Go Zoom, Beep, and Woo Woo Woo appeared first on Tips on Life and Love.

Host: Kathy King

Traditionally, marathon runners eat a high carbohydrate meal before a race to maximize the storage of glycogen in their muscles. But is this the best method to ensure race endurance? Host Kathy King chats with sport nutritionist Nancy Clark about the best nutrition and diet strategies for training and running a marathon.

My favorite post-workout dinner, these really take just ten minutes to throw together and they’re so satisfying! From Deliciously Ella Every Day.

If you have lots of hungry friends coming over, then these are a lovely, easy meal that will keep everyone happy. I love serving them on a bed of sauted spinach, or with salad, with a big bowl of Sweet Potato Wedges on the side.

Makes 8

Two 15-ounce cans black beans, drained and rinsed
generous 1 cup chickpea flour
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons Apple Puree
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons tamari
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
juice of 1/2 lime
salt and pepper
coconut oil, to shallow-fry

Put the beans in a large mixing bowl. Mash them with a fork until they’re pretty mushy, but not totally smooth; there should still be some whole beans in the mixture.

Stir in all the remaining ingredients, except the coconut oil.

Heat a saucepan with a little coconut oil, then place 1 heaping tablespoon of the mixture into the center of the pan. Shape it into a round and then spread it out a little so it’s about 3/4 inch thick. Repeat to form 4 burgers in the pan. Let the burgers cook for about 1 minute on each side, flipping them so that they cook evenly.

Then do the same thing with the remaining burger mixture, keeping the cooked burgers warm while you cook the rest.

Kitchen Know-How
I know the apple puree might sound like a weird ingredient, but please don’t leave it out; it really helps the burgers stick together and it adds a delicious flavor!

The post Deliciously Ella Every Day Recipe: Black Bean Burgers appeared first on Tips on Life and Love.

You can haz this cheeseburger anytime. From The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook.

A good joke can spread throughout the Internet between the time you go to bed and the time you wake up, leading to an inbox filled with funny pictures. These viral images are often referred to as “memes” and have been a mainstay of the Internet for many years. Some of the earliest memes were jokes about cheeseburgers and have been transformed into these tasty cupcakes. You can haz as many as you’d like.

THE THINGS YOU’LL NEED
Brownie batter (recipe below)
Butter Cake batter (recipe below)
1 tub (16 ounces) buttercream frosting
Food coloring gels: yellow and red
Sweetened flaked coconut
Green liquid food coloring
White sprinkles
9 x 13-inch metal baking pan
Muffin tin(s)
Cupcake liners
2 1/3-inch round cookie cutter
2 decorating bags
#48 decorating tip
#10 decorating tip
Baking tweezers (optional)

LET’S GET STARTED!
1. Bake the Brownie batter in a 9 x 13-inch metal baking pan as directed. Let cool completely in the pan.

2. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 24 cups of 2 muffin tins with paper liners. (Or use 1 muffin tin and bake in two batches.)

3. Prepare the Butter Cake batter and divide it among the muffin cups, filling each one two-thirds full.

4. Bake until a wooden pick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean, 18 to 20 minutes.

5. Let the cupcakes cool completely before decorating.

6. Use the round cookie cutter to cut out “hamburger patties” from the brownies.

7. Halve the cupcakes horizontally with a straight edge (not serrated) knife.

8. Place the brownie burgers on the bottom halves of the cupcakes.

TIME TO DECORATE!
1. Mix half of the buttercream frosting with yellow food coloring until it is the color of cheese. Scoop the frosting into a decorating bag fitted with a #48 tip and pipe it to look like cheese slices on your patties.

2. Tint the other half of the buttercream frosting with red food coloring until you reach the desired shade of bright red. Scoop the frosting into a decorating bag fitted with a #10 tip and pipe it to look like a tomato on top of the cheese.

3. Mix the flaked coconut with liquid green food coloring until it is light green, resembling lettuce. Sprinkle the coconut flakes on top of the red frosting.

4. Place the top half of each cupcake on top.

5. Scatter white sprinkles on top of the cupcakes to look like sesame seeds. I use baking tweezers for more control.

Brownie Batter
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

2. Add the oil, milk, vanilla, and egg. Whisk until well combined.

Butter Cake Batter
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons almond meal
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 sticks (8 ounces) plus 2 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups superfine sugar (aka baker’s sugar)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, almond meal, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a second large bowl, with an electric mixer, beat the butter until softened. Add the superfine sugar and beat until light and fluffy, 3 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

3. Beat in the vanilla.

4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. On low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Tap the bottom of the pan on the work surface to get rid of any air bubbles.

The post The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook Recipe: Cheeseburger Cupcakes appeared first on Tips on Life and Love.