Category Archives: Review

Pot of Perfection: Petit Pot – Pot de Creme Review and Giveaway

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Ever since I embarked on the journey of physical fitness, I knew that part of making an active, gym-rat lifestyle sustainable for myself would be to find balance between going 110% and sweating all day every day and eating nothing but kale, to finding space in life for little treats and little delicacies. It’s hard finding the sweet spot between using food as a reward and just enjoying good food, but I seem to be navigating okay in the last few months. I actually stumbled upon the Munchery, a meal delivery service, thanks to a friend (pssst you get $20 free if you try it out using the link), and couldn’t resist trying a dark chocolate petit pot for dessert — an adorable little jar with an orange lid, filled with organic dark chocolate ‘pudding’. I’m a sucker for dark chocolate, and I liked that they used all organic cream, and the adorable jar was just the “take my money” end factor.

Berries & Vanilla #potdecrème: lovely pairing! ?☁️❤️ #happymothersday

A photo posted by Petit Pot (@petit_pot) on

I ordered my meal with that as dessert, and when I had my first bite, holy shiskabob. It was like the creme de la creme of chocolate lava cakes blended into a smooth, rich pudding, dancing on my tongue with each bite. It was so good I promptly tweeted them and asked if they worked with bloggers… ‘cuz I wanted to share the goodness. It was my lucky day because in exchange for this review, I got one pot of each flavor and a cute orange hat. Here are my thoughts:

  • Dark Chocolate: Still my favorite. Rich and complex without being cloyingly sweet. Made with 70% cacao and the most traditionally French recipe.
  • Vanilla Bean: A close call to be my favorite. Loved the texture of real vanilla bean specks against the creamy, milky pudding.
  • Coffee: A very subtle coffee taste, would be delicious with a light biscuit and dessert coffee.
  • Salted Caramel: Perfect for butterscotch lovers, one of the more “noticeable” flavors
  • Lemon Curd Pot de Crème: is made with organic California lemon juice to create a zesty balance of tart and sweet.

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All of the pot de cremes are gluten-free, certified organic, and made with love by real French chefs Max and Pierre in San Francisco. This is the kind of “buy local, buy real” that I love: a quick visit to their website shows very clearly that this brand isn’t being made by MegaCorp Foods, Inc. in some grim warehouse in the middle of the country.

Now: for dieters, this isn’t a treat you’re going to be able to enjoy every day simply because it is made with all natural, all delicious, high-fat cream and sugar. However, this is the type of treat you save up for and then enjoy slowwwwwly, bite by bite, perhaps in a bubble bath? In fact, I suffered the wrath of my former trainer’s anger when she saw I ate one after a good workout on Twitter, but it was totally worth it. Sorry, trainer: your anger < delicious pudding. 

#fmsphotoaday: V is for Vanilla, found in this super yummy @petit_pot that you can win soon on the #DoubleChinDiary.

A photo posted by Alyssa Curran (@lyssacurran) on

Also, each pot de creme comes in an adorable little glass jar. I’m already imagining using the jars to re-plant some of my baby succulents, so they get high marks for creativity and efficiency in packaging. In fact, a recent email of theirs states they’ve saved over 230 pounds of plastic by using glass instead. Well done!

How would you like the chance to try your own little set of Pot de Creme? The kind folks at Petit Pot are offering one lucky Double Chinner a whole set of Petit Pots, 3 boxes of French mini cookies, and a Petit Pot t-shirt. Sounds pretty good to me! Use the rafflecopter to enter below. Giveaway will end on Friday, August 5th at 12:00 a.m. and is open to those 18+ in the lower 48. Good luck!
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Wining and Dining with Grocery Outlet

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I grew up going to the Grocery Outlet with my mom. As a kid, it was just another grocery store. Now, as an adult? It’s an awesomely priced grocery store that doesn’t “feel” like a discount store – it’s a nice, clean store with tons of well-known brands like Toms of Maine, Kind Bar, Mamma Chia, Land of Lakes, Horizon Organic, Chobani, Driscoll’s, Kelloggs, and more. When Grocery Outlet offered me a chance to check out their new store in Sun Valley, Calif. in exchange for a giftcard, I was in faster than a kitten with a laser pointer.

What are some of the deals we got? Chobani Vanilla Greek Yogurts, for .59c each. A pound of bacon for $2.99. A wheel of French brie for $2.99. Bagged caesar salad kits for $2.49. A pack of 15 Health Warrior Chia Bars for $7.99 (retails for $21!). I spent $100 and came out with a packed cart – and the best part was, we had three bottles of wine, one bottle of prosecco, and two craft beers. (My husband, a homebrewer and beer enthusiast, wanted me to add that he was “very impressed” by the craft beer section.) WineMeDineMeGrocery Outlet is having a wine sale from today through July 26th – and you’ll find deals on wine 50% to 80% off. That’s a huuuuge savings, and if you’re a vino fan like myself, you’ll want to get in on this. Here’s a few notes from sommelier Spreti Valenti on a couple of the wines I picked up:

  • Masquerade Prosecco: Sparkly wine with notes of peaches, yellow apples, and pears. Make a bellini with a spoonful of freshly pureed peaches, and top with prosecco. Cheers! (I’m going to have this on a Friday night while watching Mr. Robot on Netflix.) $7.99.
  • Ol’ Red: Supports local sourcing, with notes of blackberries, raspberries, plum, and leather. Excellent for bold red wine lovers and served with hamburgers or grilled sausages. We picked up some cajun style andouille, and I think serving this with those would make for an excellent Creole night. $3.99. (That’s cheaper than my preferred drink at Starbucks.)

I also picked up a merlot from Toad Hollow, one of my favorite Northern California wineries, and a garnacha called Layer Cake that’s oh so delectable. The hubby picked out some Lagunitas IPA (gotta represent our Petaluma home-base brewery) and a Stone IPA.

As a side note, while you’re stocking up your home bar, you probably want to check out the produce section, as there were some really great prices like 6 lemons for $1.00, and many organic choices, too. They also had Essie nail polishes for $2.99 (usually 8 bucks at Target), and Kiss My Face baby sunscreen for $3.99.

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So whadda ya say? Sounds like a good deal, right? Find out if there’s a Grocery Outlet near you, and go pick up some bubbly or grown-up grape juice today!

Disclosure: I received a gift card in exchange for sharing my thoughts about the upcoming Grocery Outlet Wine Sale and my shopping experience.

Review: Great Low Carb Bread Company

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Hi DCDers! Told ya I’d be back, just in limited capacity. I hope you’ve stopped by to check out my new haunts at LaLaLyssa.com. I’ve been going strong with a low-carb eating plan the past month (no white rice, potatoes, bread, sugar, muffins, pasta, etc), and when the Great Low Carb Bread Company reached out to me with an offer to try their breads in exchange for review, I immediately said yes. When you’re following a low-carb plan, you get to a point where maybe you don’t care so much about sugar (in my case), but you’d gnaw the case off your laptop if it would taste like freshly baked bread.

Cinnamon Bagel with Strawberry Cream Cheese. So Delicious!

Cinnamon Bagel with Strawberry Cream Cheese. So Delicious!

GLCB sent me four items of my choice, and I opted for Everything Bagels, Cinnamon Bagels, Pumpkin Spice Bread, and Sourdough Bread. The minute the goodies arrived at my door, I cracked open the Everything Bagels and popped one in the toaster. You’ll notice these products feel more dense than traditional breads and bagels, and that’s because instead of carb-arific flour that does nothing for you nutritionally, these are made out of ground flaxseed, almond flour, and oat fiber. The bagel toasted up beautifully and received a hearty schmear of cream cheese. I took one bite and was so glad that I was eating a BAGEL. Now, the texture was good, how about the taste? If you bite into this expecting a Noah’s bagel, you’ll be disappointed. But if you bite into this knowing that it’s low carb, good for you, and only 120 calories and 2g net carbs? You’ll be very pleased. The taste is good, slightly nutty, with a nice chewy, finish. I loved the flavored breads most – pumpkin spice bread and the Everything bagel were my favorites out of the bunch. It’s certainly light years ahead of some other low-carb “bread” products — for example, the low carb tortilla that my friend recently said “was so bad that I felt like I was eating the bath mat.” You won’t have that problem with GLCB.

Peanut butter porn, courtesy of natural peanut butter, cacao nibs, and the Great Low Carb Bread Company

Peanut butter porn, courtesy of natural peanut butter, cacao nibs, and the Great Low Carb Bread Company

I’ve actually been having their breads for breakfast every day for nearly a week and a half, and my favorite combo is the Pumpkin Spice Bread (above) with peanut butter and cacao nibs, or the Cinnamon bagel with strawberry cream cheese. One nice thing about being on a lower carb eating plan is that you can be a little bit more liberal with dietary fat, so you’re free to top these yummy breads with delicious spreads and butters.

Let’s talk shop now, nutritionally. Sure, they taste good — but are they good for you? Let’s take a look at the nutritional stats for my fav, the Pumpkin Spice Bread.

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I’m no nutritionist, but my vote would be yes. There’s no nasty chemicals in these — no malitol, no isotols, no aspartame, no splenda – just stuff you can actually pronounce, for only 3g fat and 1 net carb per serving. I’m sold.

You can purchase these breads, bagels, and even pretzels, cakes, muffins, hot dog buns, and paleo breads online at the Great Low Carb Shop. The breads and bagels run around $7.99 per package, which might seem spendy to someone used to dropping $3 on a loaf of bread — but this is a specialty product and is worth it if you miss bread! If you try them, drop me a note and let me know what you liked best. I noticed that their bakery is a mere 7 miles from my house, so I learned I can pick up, since I’m local! Love it when companies let you do that. If you’re not local? Don’t fret — their shipping is affordable considering they’re shipping you super fresh baked goods. (PS: Don’t forget to freeze these right upon receipt. All this deliciousness holds up best in the arctic breeze of your freezer (and it thaws easily in the toaster)).

Have a lovely low-carby day!

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Mamma Chia’s Clean Energy Drinks Review and Giveaway

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Hi everyone! The day after Christmas, I started to get that too familiar tickle in my throat. The next day it got a little worse, until finally, I got a full blown cold. The cold is pretty much over (whew), but then today I woke up with a cough and sore throat….boo. Pretty sure I caught what my friend has. Gah, weakened immune system! Needless to say, my house being the equivalent of the sick bay on a ship isn’t helping me plow through my work day. What is helping is homemade chicken soup and a few well-timed boosts… like the Mamma Chia Clean Energy Drink.

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It is the FIRST beverage that combines the power of chia (remember these gummy, crunchy seeds?) with the clean energy of guayusa (gwhy-you-sa) resulting in a yummy drink. It’s made with organic fruit juices and is lightly sweetened (14g cane sugar). One bottle has:

  • More than an entire day’s worth of Omega-3s (2500 mg)
  • 25 percent of one’s daily fiber (6 grams)
  • 4 grams of complete protein
  • 90 mg of natural caffeine (about as much in an 8 oz. cup of coffee)
  • Twice the antioxidants of a cup of green tea
  • Calcium, powerful antioxidants and valuable minerals
  • 120 calories
  • The filling power to tide you over until your next meal, thanks to those jelly seeds.

These drinks, which come in four flavors, (my favorite is grape!) are Non-GMO Verified, gluten-free, vegan, Kosher and USDA Certified Organic. These will be about $2.99 and can be found at Vons, Whole Foods, Safeway and Target, starting now. Now, what good would it be if I raved about them without giving you a chance to try? Mamma Chia has kindly offered 1 Double Chin Diary reader a whole set of Mamma Chia Energy Drinks (4 drinks), a Mamma Chia Camel Bak Water Bottle, and a week supply of Mamma Chia Chia Squeezes!

Just follow the steps listed on the Rafflecopter to earn entries, and don’t forget to tell your friends. US Only, 18+. Good luck!!!

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The Epic Double Chin Diary Holiday Gift Guide

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Ah, the holidays. The smell of chestnuts roasting (really, who does that?), family fighting (now that’s more likely), and the season of sales, sales, and sales, causing us all to stress out about the perfect gift when really it doesn’t matter. However, because gifts are kind of a thing, I’ve rounded up some new favorites for your consideration for those who like relaxing, cooking, fashion, and exercise. All of these gifts were sent to me gratis in exchange for mention (but only if I really liked them – two got the axe!). This post also contains affiliate links, so if you click on something and buy it, I might make four cents (I’m rich!). Enjoy — and be sure to read carefully as you have a few chances to win some of these goodies for yourself!

1) Royal Silk Scarf by World Vision

Looking for the perfect thoughtful gift for your world conscious friend? Consider this royal silk scarf from WorldVision. Vietnam’s Ma Chau villagers weave these traditional silky smooth scarves, helping to provide them with a sustainable income. This scarf is 68″ long, and has the most incredible colors and vibrancy.  Each is unique; size and color may vary slightly. You can make a suggested donation of $95, or enter an amount that’s meaningful to you. Want to see how purchasing from WorldVision works? Click here.

Alyssa rocks the World Vision Royal Silk Scarf

Alyssa rocks the World Vision Royal Silk Scarf

You know you want one of your own… so follow the steps below for your chance to win!
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2) Tiger Tail Classic

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Foam rolling both terrifies me and delights me; the concept of massaging painful, tight muscles is initially scary, mildly painful, and then after it’s sweet relief. When I heard about Tiger Tail, I knew I would need one of these puppies (kitties?) for my post-walk soreness. I packed it along with me on my trip to San Diego, and this thing was passed among my teammates with more enthusiasm than a box of chocolates. The small, compact size and quality build make it perfect for bringing along on trips, or for stashing in your house. Our traditional foam roller is bulky and giant, and this removes a lot of heft but still packs a punch. Plus, look at how adorable the packaging is! I loved this thing post 3-Day, and am super psyched about using it to roll out my muscles post-hike. The Classic is priced at $34.95, is made in the USA, easy to clean, and has a 3 year warranty. The next thing I’ll try out is the Knotty Tiger — I can really see that sorting out the giant knots in my neck!

The cutest sticker on the packaging!

The cutest sticker on the packaging!

3) Creekside Farms Kitchen Herb Wreath

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it’s too bad smellovision doesn’t exist yet on the web!

This is the type of thing that doesn’t come across my inbox too often; a gift that simultaneously makes me go “ooh, pretty” and “Ahhh, it smells good.” While I was initially struck by the photos of how stunning Creekside Farm’s Kitchen Herb Wreath is, when I received it, it was the amazingly lush smell of lavender, dill, oregano, sage, and rosemary that won me over. It looks great outside (away from direct light) and also inside, where you can see the naughty cat that isn’t supposed to be on the table. (She argues that the wreath smelled so good she just HAD to be closer to it.) This wreath would be the perfect gift for the Foodie in your life, and if you want a different style, check out my other favorite, the Sunflower wreath. Creekside Farms grows all of their own herbs, and they dry everything on site, truly making these family-created products artisanal.

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Stunning Kitchen Herb Wreath Scents Up The Kitchen

Visit Creekside Farms on Facebook here, and on Twitter here. Want 15% off your order? Use code CURAN. I know that I personally will be making an order for one of these beauties!

Gorgeous Up Close Shot of the Kitchen Herb Wreath by Creekside Farms

Gorgeous Up Close Shot of the Kitchen Herb Wreath by Creekside Farms

4) Natracure Heated Booties

So what if these are technically for Arthritis – after walking a ton of miles this past weekend in the 3-Day, I couldn’t wait to slip these babies on my feet. With separate microwavable gel inserts, you heat up the pads, stick ’em in the bottom of the super fuzzy velour slippers, slip them on and oooh and ahh your way to toasty relaxation. Better yet, these booties are coated on the inside with a smart gel lining, with 7 botanicals. My feet did actually feel smoother and smelled like a foot that had been freshly scrubbed at a spa. One tip with these: don’t walk in them! Thankfully I Googled it online before I took a step and burst the gel packs, but these booties are meant to be worn 5-10 minutes at a time to heat up your tired tootsies, and they’re worn best when you’re relaxin’ in one spot. These retail for $49.99 and are great for people with foot pain and stiffness, and you can also find a pair designed just for the hands. Time for relaxation!

Cozy and comfy in Natracure's Heated Booties

Cozy and comfy in Natracure’s Heated Booties

5) Goody QuikStyle Brush

Ever since I got my hair cut and colored, I’ve been making an effort to actually style my hair rather than throwing it in a sloppy bun. Part of that means blow drying my hair, and since I’m lazy, I like to exert minimal effort. That’s where the Quikstyle comes in – an awesome, space age looking hair brush that has microfiber tufts between the bristles. I had actually seen this brush in stores and wanted to try it, so when it came through my inbox I figured this would be a fun one to review.

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The awesome Goody Quikstyle

While initially I was skeptical, it does actually dry your hair as you brush through it. And, it’s designed smart, so antimicrobial microfiber keeps the brush fresh and inhibits mold or mildew growth. Seeing is believing, so how about you enter to win one yourself by following the steps below? The Goody Quick Style Paddle Brush is six bucks on Amazon.com, a perfect stocking stuffer for the lady in your life who needs a darling ‘do on the go.

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I hope you’ll consider some of these goodies for the loved ones in your life this holiday season. What’s on your wishlist?

Sweet Leaf Sweet Drops Review & Giveaway: All Natural Soda Alternative

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SweetLeaf_SteviaLeaf_WaterEnhancers_DoubleChinDiaryDisclosure: I received free samples of Sweet Leaf Sweet Drops in exchange for a review.

It’s now been about a year since I gave up my dark master (Diet Pepsi) for good. I still crave it every now and then, but I find if I go for it and order a soda, the first few sips are like “Blech! Why did I used to think this stuff was good?” I now drink a ton of iced tea, perrier, and water, and occasionally I’ll splurge on something delicious and caloric, like a Mexican Coca Cola or Izze. When an announcement about Sweet Leaf ended up in my inbox, I knew I wanted to try it. The problem with so many water enhancers or flavor additives is that they’re full of garbage and chemicals, or if they’re low-cal, they’re packed with aspartame. Sweet Leaf is USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO project verified, gluten-free, and zero carb/calorie.

Upon first tasting, I thought the drops tasted good, but there wasn’t enough flavor. I was putting two drops in per 8 ounces of sparkling water. Then, I read the directions again and realized it was two drops per OUNCE of sparkling water. Duh! No wonder I wasn’t getting the flavor I wanted. I re-did it and was pleasantly surprised at the simultaneous sweet but light taste of Sweet Drops. My favorite of the four flavors I tried (Lemon, Berry, Orange, Cola) was definitely cola, followed by orange. Another small but important thing to me? No gross coloring. The Cola flavor adds a very slight caramel tint to the water, but you’re not getting any hues that will turn your tongue into a rainbow.

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These are affordable ($9.99 for a three pack), and the small size is easy to slip into your purse to have your own flavored water anywhere you go. I liked using the berry flavor in still water with a few smashed raspberries — it felt like a fancy cocktail, but with no calories and no booze. I like, I like. Sweetleaf also carries funky flavors like Pumpkin Spice, Peppermint Mocha, Chocolate Raspberry, Rootbeer, and Grape. Can you imagine baking with these, or using them as yummy flavors for coffee? My friends at Sweetleaf are giving you a chance to win a full-sized bottle of Cola drops (ARV $15.44), and all you have to do is “like” Sweetleaf on Facebook. This is on the honor system, and I will be checking that the winner has “liked” Sweetleaf on Facebook. Once you’ve “liked” them on Facebook, please leave a comment on this blog post. I’ll give you two extra entries each for sharing on Facebook or sending a tweet — let me know if you do those actions in the comment you leave. I’ll pull a winner a week from now, next Sunday at 8:50 p.m. GOOD LUCK!

Enter for a chance to win! Simply Like Sweetleaf on Facebook and leave a comment.

Enter for a chance to win! Simply Like Sweetleaf on Facebook and leave a comment.