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An Introduction To Cabernet Sauvignon

March 11th, 2018August 24th, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry red wine that ranges from medium-bodied to full-bodied. This red wine typically has higher tannins, which help to provide structure and complexity to the dark fruit characteristics. Learn more about this incredible red wine.

An Introduction To Cabernet Sauvignon

The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is one of the most widely known red wine grape varieties, being grown in regions as disparate as Canada, the United States, Chile, Lebanon, and South Africa, among others. It is actually our favorite red wine, the one that we always grab for at the end of a long day.

Studies have shown that Cabernet Sauvignon is the product of a chance crossing between the Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc grape varieties during the 17th century in Bordeaux, in the Medoc district of Southwestern France. Though Bordeaux is widely considered the birthplace of this wine, it has a long history in the province of Piedmont in northwestern Italy as well.

The grapes are known for their thick skin, and this toughness, typical of this variety, makes it popular for cultivation, as it can withstand weather conditions from rains to frost, as well as show good resistance to disease and rot.

Cabernet Sauvignon has been established to be among the best varieties of wine-producing grapes to be developed for aging. In the aging process, its distinctive blackcurrant aroma often develops fragrances of cedar, violets, leather, vanilla, eucalyptus, mint, and even tobacco.

Additionally, the wine also typically has other fruit flavors in it, such as blackberry, blueberry, raspberry, plum, and dried fruit essences. The also typical bell pepper aroma of Cabernet Sauvignon is produced by the presence of symmetrical molecules in the grapes, called pyrazine. These molecules are present in greater concentration in under-ripened grapes of this variety and thus produce a stronger flavor at this stage.

Although historically, the wine quality of these grapes came to be known in the Bordeaux region, today, this wine is one of the most widely produced in the world. In France and elsewhere, it is traditionally known for making a fine quality French Bordeaux or Claret wine, along with other French staples of wine connoisseurs such as Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

However, wine from these grapes started being produced for a fraction of the price in regions like the Coonawarra Valley in Australia, the famed Napa Valley in California, the Maipo Valley in Chile, as well as Stellenbosch in South Africa. Thus, this grape is now one of the most popular varieties planted worldwide, and it has enhanced its reputation by lending itself to different wine-making styles, from the light, fruity flavors inherent in the Australian and South American varieties to the full-bodied, rich wines with higher alcohol levels of Bordeaux as well as the Californian wines. A few of our favorite Napa Cabernet Sauvignon wines are: Hall Wines, Caymus and Charles Krug.

As this wine generally contains a higher acidic content with a higher level of tannins, Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well as an accompaniment to richer, heavier food like a juicy piece of steak or red meat. Trying it with lighter foods like white meat or fish won’t give you the effect of the rich flavors of the wine.

Prices can vary for a bottle of Cab from $7.99 a bottle to several hundred dollars a bottle. I don’t usually get the cheapest bottle, we are usually somewhere in the middle of those two price points. Prices are typically higher for a reason: quality being one of them.

Finally, as this wine rarely comes with alcohol content less than 14%, it is better served as a warmer in cold climates or as a dinner party wine rather than something cool and refreshing to drink on a hot summer’s day. Unless you are like my husband who will almost grab for a nice glass of Cabernet Sauvignon no matter what the temperature is or what he is eating. You gotta do what you enjoy!

Do you enjoy red wine? What is your favorite Cabernet Sauvignon?

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Tips For Visiting Disney Hollywood Studios

February 28th, 2018January 11th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park combines the world of television, movies and music. You will see your favorite stars and more. Read these tips for visiting Disney Hollywood Studios.

Tips For Visiting Hollywood Studios

The Hollywood Studios Park at Disney World (formerly known as MGM Studios) is a fun time for the whole family, combining a throwback to the Golden Era of films with current entertainment attractions. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is located near Orlando, Florida. A little solid planning can allow you the opportunity to get the most out of your day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Theme Park.

Disney World Parks: Hollywood Studios FastPass Rides

As always, your best bet for getting the most bang for your buck on the rides at Disney World parks is using your FastPass+. When booking FastPass+ in advance, you can book three rides each day. Those three rides must be at the same park. At Hollywood Studios, you can book one Tier 1 attraction in advance and two Tier 2 attractions in advance (or three Tier 2 and no Tier 1). Some tier 1 rides fill up 30 to 60 days in advance, though you’ll see sporadic availability pop up even on the same day.

Hollywood Studios Park FastPass+ Tier 2 Attractions are:

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
Tower of Terror
Toy Story Mania
Alien Swirling Saucers
Star Tours
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
Disney Junior Dance Party!
Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Muppet Vision 3D
Beauty and the Beast
Fantasmic!

Hollywood Studios FastPass Tier 1 Attractions are:

Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Slinky Dog Dash

Rise of the Resistance is still not a part of FastPass+.

“Toy Story Midway Mania” is one of the hottest rides at the Disney World parks. If you want the chance to ride this one, I will make it one of your FastPass uses. “Rock N Roller Coaster” and “Tower of Terror” are also big-time attractions. This trio of rides might be the most fun and original, unique group of theme park rides you will ever find in such close proximity to one another.

Use FastPass wisely, and you can experience most of the rides.

If you are a Star Wars fan, Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios is not to be missed. In fact, even if you aren’t a Star Wars, I strongly recommend walking through this section of the park. We will feel like you walked into another land…Galaxy’s Edge. Read all the details about Galaxy’s Edge.

Disney World Parks: Hollywood Studios Places to Eat

As with all the Disney World Parks, the dining options at Hollywood Studios are varied and plentiful. The one real “must-do,” however, is “50s Prime Time Café.” This themed restaurant, dedicated to – you probably guessed it – the 50s. It really is a great time. Upon arrival, you will wait in the front room, and when your table is ready, you will be notified by a shout of “Smith (insert your surname there) kids! Time for dinner!”

During the meal, your waiter or waitress will serve as your strict aunt or uncle, scolding you for elbows on the table or other offenses and embarrassing you in front of everyone if you don’t clean your plate. This is indeed our favorite place to eat, the meatloaf and the chicken are two of our favorite dishes. It will usually have a line, so be sure to check in when you get to the park and put your name on the list.

Disney World Parks: Hollywood Studios Things Not to Miss

One of the most spectacular attractions at Hollywood Studios Park is “Fantasmic!” This show is a visually stunning blend of fireworks and celebrations on the water. The story is fast-paced and fun, and the ending is spectacular. “Fantasmic!” is no longer performed every day, so make sure and check the Hollywood Studios Park schedule to find out which evenings you can catch this awesome show.

For your kids (or adults willing to admit it) that are fans of the High School Musical series, there is a 15-minute show performed right in front of the big wizard’s hat in the center of the Hollywood Studios Park.

For you action enthusiasts, we really enjoy “Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular.” There are some awesome stunts and live special effects. These might not be great for the littlest thrill-seekers as it can get loud, but all you bigger folks will love them.

The Hollywood Studios Theme Park at Disney World is a great rush for thrill-seekers and show enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss it.

What is one of your tips for visiting Hollywood Studios?

Disclosure: During Walt Disney World’s initial reopening phase, FastPass+ service has been temporarily suspended. For all of the details to know before you head back to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, head HERE.

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What Happens To Your Florida Prepaid College Plan If You Get A Scholarship?

February 20th, 2018March 25th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Have you wondered what happens to your Florida Prepaid College Plan if you get a scholarship? Find out how you can still utilize those Florida Prepaid College Savings Plan funds. Don’t forget to use the Florida Prepaid College Plans Promo code TRACY2021 to save on the application fee. This post is sponsored by the Florida Prepaid College Board, through my role as a Believer Blogger. All thoughts are my own.

What Happens To Your Florida Prepaid College Plan If You Get A Scholarship?

It’s every parents dream for their child to get a scholarship to college. Whether it be an academic scholarship, a sports scholarship or both, there is an amazing sense of pride when your child accomplishes what they have worked so hard for.

But, what if you planned ahead for college and got a Florida Prepaid College Plan? I have Florida Prepaid College Plans for both my kids, and I am still hoping that they get scholarships. Prepaid Plans actually work great alongside scholarships, we can use them together to cover even more college expenses. Expenses that maybe you didn’t include when you purchased your Florida Prepaid College Plan. Plus, the value of your Florida Prepaid Plan benefits can also be applied to graduate or professional schools nationwide.

What if the scholarship covers everything your child needs at college? What if there aren’t any additional expenses you want to be covered thanks to your child getting a scholarship? What happens to your investment in Florida Prepaid College Plan if your child gets a scholarship?

If your student receives a scholarship to college, you also have the option to get a refund for the same amount as the Florida Prepaid College plan would pay a public college or university in Florida based on your plan type.

Do you lose your money in your Florida Prepaid College Plan if your child gets a scholarship?

No, you will NOT lose the money you invested in the Florida Prepaid College Plan if your child gets a scholarship. You have several options, including the option for a refund. And remember, every Florida Prepaid Plan is guaranteed by the State of Florida, so you can never lose what you’ve paid in.

Here are some additional questions I had when I researched Florida Prepaid College Plans:

Still have questions about how Florida Prepaid College Plans work? Or about what happens to your Florida Prepaid College Plan if your child gets a scholarship?

You can also check out Florida Prepaid College Plans FAQs

I have been customer of Florida Prepaid College Plans for over 10 years, please feel free to reach out to me. Both of my kids have Florida Prepaid College Plans and it was one of the best decisions my husband and I ever made. You can also call their amazing customer service team, the Florida Prepaid College Plans phone number is 1-800-552-4723.

Are you ready to get started on saving for your child’s future with a Florida Prepaid College Plan?

Use Florida Prepaid College Plans Promo Code TRACY2021 to save on the application fee during open enrollment

Open enrollment starts February 1st, so don’t wait to get started on saving for tomorrow. Use the Florida Prepaid College Plans coupon code SAVING20 to help you save on the application fee. And don’t forget, if your child gets a scholarship, you do not lose the money you invested in Florida Prepaid College Plans!

Starting Is Believing

What Happens To Your Florida Prepaid College Plan If You Get A Scholarship? Don’t worry, you have options…including a refund!

Follow Florida Prepaid College Plans on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to stay up to date with information on open enrollment but get tips on college and more.

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Tips For Visiting Disney World’s Animal Kingdom

February 10th, 2018January 8th, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Animal Kingdom is a Disney World theme park that is filled with animals, rides, Pandora – The World of Avatar and much more! Read these tips for visiting Animal Kingdom before planning your day.

Tips For Visiting Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is one of the four Disney World Theme Parks located in Orlando Florida. The Animal Kingdom Park at Disney World is a wonderful tribute to conservation and nature. It is the largest animal-themed park in the world. The Animal Kingdom may very well be the Disney World park with the most distinctive “feel,” as it is very easy to believe you are actually in the small villages of Africa or Asia as you stroll through certain sections. When planning to visit Animal Kingdom, be sure to take these tips into consideration.

Disney World Parks: Animal Kingdom FastPass+ Rides

Disney’s Animal Kingdom does have a tiered FastPass+ system, but the Animal Kingdom FastPass tiers are pretty straightforward. While you are planning your FastPass kids, you need to know that you are allowed to book only one Pandora — The World of Avatar attraction per day. These rides are considered Tier 1. You will have to choose if your family’s Pandora FastPass+ priority is Flight of Passage or Na’vi River Journey.

The rides at Animal Kingdom Park are not generally some of the busiest at Disney World, besides the two rides in Pandora, “Expedition Everest” and, on the really hot days, “Kali River Rapids.”

Once you’ve chosen your Pandora FastPass option when visiting Animal Kingdom, you can choose two of the following FastPass+ options finish your selections. If you chose not to ride the Pandora rides, you can book all three of your selections from this list instead:

DINOSAUR
Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
Festival of the Lion King
Finding Nemo – The Musical
It’s Tough to be a Bug!
Kali River Rapids
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Adventurers Outpost
The Animation Experience at Conservation Station
UP! A Great Bird Adventure

It’s Tough to be a Bug is a fun adventure that really shouldn’t be missed. However, it is pretty rare to need a FastPass to see the show, as the line generally isn’t much worse than 20-30 minutes or so.

Expedition Everest is a great coaster, so it would be a good idea to head there first for your initial Fast Pass of the day. If the temperature is going to be particularly steamy, your next FastPass should probably be Kali River Rapids.

Disney World Parks: Animal Kingdom Places to Eat

The dining selections at Animal Kingdom are probably the sparsest of any of the Disney World parks. That doesn’t mean you’re going to go hungry; there are plenty of places to eat; it’s just that they aren’t generally as elaborate as the eateries in other parks.

Restaurantosaurus is a cool-named, fun place to eat that has a nice, basic selection. The kids will enjoy it here, and the adults should come away with bellies fully satisfied. Outside of that, pick and choose your eating spots throughout the park. Animal Kingdom has the shortest hours of any of the parks, so you may end up eating your dinner elsewhere anyway.

Disney World Parks: Animal Kingdom Things Not to Miss

There are quite a few attractions that nicely blend learning with fun at Animal Kingdom. Make sure – particularly if you have little ones – to check out “Discovery Island Trails,” “Conservation Station,” and “The Boneyard.” These three places are extremely interesting and – in the true spirit of Disney – manage to teach while allowing for a good deal of fun.

As mentioned, the hours at Animal Kingdom are not long but do your best to try and see as many of the attractions and exhibits as possible. There are a lot of gems here.

Animal Kingdom is located at: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Bay Lake, FL 34747

Animal Kingdom’s hours are: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm (hours may vary)

Have you been to Animal Kingdom? What is one of your tips for visiting Animal Kingdom?

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Florida Prepaid Open Enrollment Ends May 31

February 5th, 2018September 1st, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Florida Prepaid College Plans is a great way to start saving for your child’s education. Be sure to enroll in Florida Prepaid before open enrollment ends and use the Florida Prepaid Promo code SAVING20 to save on the application fee. This post is sponsored by the Florida Prepaid College Board, through my role as a Believer Blogger. All thoughts are my own.

Florida Prepaid Open Enrollment Ends May 31

Use Florida Prepaid College Plan Promo Code To Save On Your Application Fee

**You can open at 529 Savings Plan at any time of the year, and RIGHT NOW you can get a FREE $50 when you do. Learn more HERE **

The time is quickly approaching. The deadline to open a Florida Prepaid College Plan is May 31st. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to start saving for your child’s education today. The 2020 pricing will only be in effect until May 31st and we don’t know what the pricing will be for next year, while Florida Prepaid College Plans offers affordable college plans for all, your plan pricing changes as your child get older.

So, for the best pricing for the plan that works best for you and your family, I recommend signing up now.

Use Florida Prepaid College Plan Promo Code SAVING20 to save $50 off the application fee during open enrollment – it takes less than 10-15 minutes to fill out the application, the process is simple and painless!

How Does Florida Prepaid College Plans Work?

A Florida Prepaid College Plan allows us families to lock in college plan prices and prepay, on a monthly or lump-sum basis, the future cost of college tuition, tuition differential fee, local fees and, optionally, dormitory housing. So, the price you pay today is it, it doesn’t change when your child goes to school!

When your child is ready for college, the Plan pays the costs covered under your plan type at any Florida College or State University, even if the cost of college is higher than anticipated when your plan prices were set. That is one of the major advantages of a Prepaid Plan, and it’s backed by a guarantee from the State of Florida. I don’t think you could ask for a better guarantee than that!

If your child decides they want to go to college out-of-state or or to a private college, the plan will pay the same amount as it would pay at a public college or university in Florida. Being from Michigan, this was very important to us…I mean what happened if we moved? But, we’re covered 🙂 Prepaid Plans also work with scholarships, and you can use them together to cover even more college expenses. If your child receives a scholarship, you can get a refund for the same amount as the plan would pay a public college or university in Florida.

Every Prepaid Plan is guaranteed by the State of Florida to pay the tuition and fees covered by your plan, and you can never lose what you have paid into the plan. Also, your child has 10 years from their projected college enrollment date to use the plan. What?! Yep, this means that by purchasing a plan for a newborn, for example, you are able to lock in the costs covered by a Florida Prepaid Plan for the next 28 years (i.e., 18 years until they can start college plus 10 years after that to finish college). (you can browse current: Publix ad, Meijer Ad and Target Ad.)

Learn more about Florida Prepaid College Plans

Still have questions?

I am a longtime customer of Florida Prepaid College Plans, please feel free to reach out to me. Both of my kids have Florida Prepaid College Plans and it was one of the best decisions my husband and I ever made. You can also call their amazing customer service team at 1-800-552-4723.

Ready to get started on saving for your child’s future?

Use Florida Prepaid College Plan Promo Code SAVING20 to save $50 off the application fee during open enrollment

Starting Is Believing

Follow Florida Prepaid College Plans on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to stay up to date with information on open enrollment but get tips on college and more.

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Blueberry Avocado Smoothie You’ll Want on Repeat

January 31st, 2018February 5th, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Creamy Blueberry Avocado Smoothie made with banana and milk. A healthy, refreshing smoothie perfect for breakfast or post-workout fuel.

Blueberry Avocado Smoothie

It’s no secret that I love starting my day with a smoothie – I have over 50 smoothie recipes here on Food Wine Sunshine! Smoothies are one of my favorite ways to pack fruits, healthy fats, and nutrients into a quick, delicious breakfast or snack.

This Blueberry Avocado Smoothie has become a go-to in our house. It’s thick, creamy, naturally sweet, and incredibly satisfying. Made with simple ingredients like ripe avocado, banana, blueberries, and milk, this smoothie is an easy way to fuel busy mornings while still focusing on nourishing, whole foods.

With warmer Florida weather, I’ve been reaching for refreshing smoothies like this one even more. It’s perfect post-workout, after a bike ride, or anytime you want something cool, creamy, and nutrient-rich without much effort.

Thick purple blueberry avocado smoothie perfect for breakfast

Health Benefits of a Blueberry Avocado Smoothie

This Blueberry Avocado Smoothie isn’t just creamy and delicious, it’s packed with ingredients that support overall wellness. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which help support heart health and fight inflammation. Avocados add healthy monounsaturated fats that help keep you full longer and give this smoothie its ultra-creamy texture.

Together, blueberries and avocado create a naturally balanced smoothie that’s great for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a simple way to enjoy more whole foods without adding refined sugars or complicated ingredients.

Love adding blueberries to smoothies? Me too! Check out all these blueberry smoothies for more smoothie recipe ideas.

Blueberry avocado smoothie with fresh blueberries, banana, and avocado

The Simple, Nutrient-Packed Ingredients in This Smoothie

Blueberries – These beautiful blue…berries…are the King of Antioxidant Foods. Antioxidants protect our bodies from damage and can even help with anti-aging.

Avocados – Besides being loaded with the “good fat”, they help heart health, lower cholesterol and lower triglycerides. Plus, they make your smoothie extra creamy 🙂

Bananas – Besides tasting great, they are loaded with potassium which helps muscles recover and relax, and they have also been known to help you sleep better.

Now, here is my Blueberry Avocado Smoothie Recipe! Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Blueberry Avocado Smoothie

This creamy Blueberry Avocado Smoothie is naturally sweet, thick, and satisfying. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or post-workout boost.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Smoothie

Keyword: avocado, blueberries, protein shake, protein smoothie, smoothie

Servings:

Calories: 331kcal

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

10 oz Blueberries fresh or frozen
1 avocado peeled and pitted
1 banana peeled
1/2 cup milk I used Florida Milk
1/2 cup ice
Fresh mint leaves for garnish if desired

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Place ingredients as listed into your favorite blending device
Blend until smooth
Enjoy!

Nutrition

I hope you enjoy this Blueberry Avocado Smoothie as much as I do!

Why Avocado Makes Smoothies Extra Creamy

If you love thick, creamy smoothies but want to skip yogurt or ice cream, avocado is the secret ingredient you need. Avocado blends smoothly into drinks without overpowering the flavor, making it perfect for fruit-forward smoothies like this one.

It adds richness and body while keeping the smoothie dairy-free and naturally smooth. Plus, avocado helps slow digestion, meaning this smoothie keeps you satisfied longer… ideal for breakfast or a light meal replacement.

Blueberry Avocado Smoothie Variations

One of the best things about smoothies is how easy they are to customize. Try one of these simple variations to keep things fresh:

Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder.
Green Smoothie Twist: Blend in a handful of fresh spinach or kale.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
Extra Sweetness: Add a drizzle of honey or a few Medjool dates if needed.

These small swaps let you adapt the smoothie for breakfast, snacks, or even a post-workout drink.

What are your opinions on frozen fruits?

Okay, lets talk about the quality of frozen foods. A University of Georgia study recently revealed that the nutritional value of many frozen fruits and vegetables are generally equivalent to that of their fresh counterparts, and levels of some nutrients in frozen fruits and vegetables, including vitamins A, C and B as well as folate are actually greater than that of fresh stored produce. Not to mention frozen foods are typically cheaper, last longer and cut down on food waste! Plus, using frozen fruits in your smoothies thicken them up 😉

So why have we all stayed away from frozen foods, or had a negative opinion of them? Perception. As a society we have been conditioned to think fresh is always better, but as noted above this is not always true.

Got fresh blueberries you need to freeze? Be sure to check out this article on how to freeze fresh blueberries. Then you can have then ready for your smoothies 😉

Blueberry avocado smoothie in a glass with fresh fruit on a wooden surface

What is one of your favorite smoothie recipes?

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Easy & Healthy Dessert Pizza

January 25th, 2018March 8th, 2022

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

If you love sweets, but not all the calories this Easy & Healthy Dessert Pizza recipe is for you! Kid-approved and absolutely delicious, this dessert pizza recipe will have you asking for another slice. While this post was created in sponsorship with Produce For Kids, all opinions and the easy dessert recipe are my own.

Easy & Healthy Dessert Pizza

Dessert and pizza. Two of my favorite things. Two things that I don’t always indulge in because….well, someone discovered that eating chocolate and/or pizza for three meals a day was a bad thing. Who knew?! My kiddos have inherited my sweet tooth and that means I try really hard to satisfy all our cravings in a healthy way. Healthy food can be delicious. Healthy options can be easy.

And that’s exactly what this Recipe for Dessert Pizza is…Easy. Healthy. Delicious. Dessert.

I was at Publix the other day and I saw DESSERT HUMMUS. I may be slow to this discovery, but I am now a HUGE fan! I also found Wish Farms Strawberries on sale and I decided a dessert pizza was in order. My family and I went to a Publix Aprons Cooking Class over the holidays and made a dessert pizza with fruit, and while it was absolutely amazing, the kids added about 55 million chocolate chips and the base was a sugar cookie 😉 So, I wanted to create that deliciousness, without all the guilt. And I succeeded.

Strawberries are juicy and sweet, making them a perfect dessert pizza topping. Strawberries also have many health benefits, making them a healthy dessert pizza topping 😉 Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, manganese and vitamin B9. Strawberries are also rich in antioxidants. That’s just a few of the reasons I use them in many of my smoothies recipes and add them to our favorite salmon salad.

I grabbed a naan for the dessert pizza crust, the dessert hummus, my beautiful berries, and Crispy Green Freeze Dried bananas for a little crunch. Freeze dried fruits have light and crispy texture, and Crispy Green adds no artificial flavors, preservatives, and they definitely don’t add any sugar. Why would you need sugar when fruit is naturally sweet on it’s own?! You may wonder if you lose any nutrients when eating freeze dried fruit, don’t worry, you don’t really! If any vitamins are lost in the freeze drying process, it’s very minimal, so you can feel good about eating freeze-dried fruit and adding it your homemade dessert pizza. You are still getting a healthy dose of potassium when you eat bananas, and they also give you a little boost of energy. Score!

Keep in mind that this is just one dessert pizza idea, feel free to add on other fresh and freeze dried fruits too.

The result of this dessert pizza recipe was nothing less than AH-MAZING.

Hungry yet? Good. Here is my Healthy Dessert Pizza Recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again. Trust me, you will want to. My kids ask for it just about daily. The good news is that since this dessert pizza recipe with fruit is so easy to make, they can make it by themselves!

Print Recipe

4.50 from 2 votes

Easy Dessert Pizza

If you love sweets, but not all the calories this Healthy Dessert Pizza recipe is for you! Kid-approved and absolutely delicious, this healthy dessert pizza will have you asking for another slice.

Prep Time2

Cook Time10

Total Time12

Course: Dessert/Snack

Author: Tracy

Ingredients

1 piece of naan bread
3 tablespoons of dark chocolate dessert hummus
4 strawberries - sliced thin
1 package of Crispy Green Freeze Dried Bananas

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Bake naan for 10 minutes or until slightly brown
Remove naan from oven
Spread on the dessert hummus
Top with strawberry slices and freeze-dried bananas
Enjoy!

I hope you and your family enjoy Easy & Healthy Dessert Pizza as much as we do!

Wish Farms and Crispy Green are both partners of the Power Your Lunchbox Promise by Produce for Kids®. The Power Your Lunchbox Promise encourages families and schools across the U.S. to promise to eat more nutritious lunches and make healthy choices. I have been talking about this awesome campaign for years now, so what are you waiting for, make the promise!

Power Your Lunchbox Promise partners collectively donate $1 for every promise taken to Feeding America® programs that impact children and families, adding to the nearly 1 million meals* provided to Feeding America in previous Power Your Lunchbox programs. Once families make the promise, they’ll be entered to win an Instant Pot, one of the most popular kitchen products of that last two years.

Make The Power Your Lunchbox Promise

Be sure to check out ProduceForKids.com for more than 250 registered dietitian-approved and family-tested recipes, meal planning tools, grocery store specific campaign details, and healthy tips from real parents and on Facebook and Pinterest for even more!

Make The Power Your Lunchbox Promise

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What is one of your favorite healthy dessert pizza recipes?

9 Tips On How To Graduate College Debt Free

January 23rd, 2018January 23rd, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

Looking to graduate college debt-free? Want your child(ren) to get out of college debt-free? Check out these Tips On How To Graduate College Debt Free. And, Florida Residents, be sure to use Florida Prepaid College Plan Promo Code SAVING20 to save on your application fee. This post is sponsored by the Florida Prepaid College Board, through my role as a Believer Blogger. All thoughts are my own.

9 Tips On How To Graduate College Debt Free

Going to college is the experience of a lifetime. Not only will you learn the things that will hopefully set you up for a successful career, you will also have life experiences that you won’t get anywhere else. I even met my husband while I was in college 🙂 And while going to college is something that many look forward to, I mean, we are technically preparing for it from the first day of Kindergarten, it can also be a scary time. One of the scariest things about college, for students and their parents, is the DEBT. Did you know that Student loan debt has reached $1 trillion of debt among Americans? The cost of one year of college is WAY more than it was when I was a student, almost triple! So, how do you get out of college debt-free? Or almost debt-free? How do we prepare our children to get out of college debt-free? Well, here are some tips that will hopefully help.

Here are 9 Tips On How To Graduate College Debt Free

1. Start saving NOW

Whether you are a high school student just now thinking about college or if you are a parent and trying to figure out how you will pay for your child’s tuition in 16 years, NOW is the time to start saving. No amount is too little, just start tucking it away. It will add up. It will make a difference. If you are a Florida resident, I strongly encourage you to look into Florida Prepaid College Plans. I can honestly say that it was the ONLY way my husband and I were able to pay for our children’s college education. Yes, I said PAY FOR. We have been Florida Prepaid College Plans customers (and Believers) for just about 13 years now. Both of our children had their college tuitions paid for before they even started middle school, and we wouldn’t have been able to do it with Florida Prepaid College Plans.

Learn more about Florida Prepaid College Plans – You can also call their amazing customer service team at 1-800-552-4723.

Use Florida Prepaid College Plan Promo Code SAVING20 to save on the application fee during open enrollment

2. Take AP courses in High School

No student really wants extra homework and harder classes, but taking a few classes in high school that would let you test out of them in college could save thousands of dollars. My son is currently taking classes in middle school that will count for high school credits, this means he can take a class in high school that will hopefully give him a jump start on college.

3. Take College Classes in High School

Yes, getting out at noon your senior year of high school because you took extra classes the other years sounds REALLY appealing, but it makes the most sense to get started on those college credits at a much cheaper price.

4. Apply for Scholarships

Do well in high school, consider playing sports. These will make scholarships for attainable. I got a scholarship for my grades in high school, it was a partial scholarship, but it helped! My husband got a scholarship for being a golf caddy in high school, his covered his tuition for four years!

5. Apply for Financial Aid/Grants

Even if you don’t plan on taking out loans, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) allows you to be considered for grants and scholarships, too.

6. Work Part-Time

I found a job on campus at a library. I was able to do my homework while I worked and I made enough to cover a few bills. Over the summer I waitressed full-time and that was always enough to cover a good chunk of my tuition each year.

7. Research Companies that Offer Tuition Assistance

Did you know there were companies out there that actually help you pay for your tuition?! Do some research and you will be pleasantly surprised. Companies like Starbucks, Walmart, Home Depot and many more offer tuition reimbursement.

8. Start at a Community College

Community colleges are lower cost and you can easily transfer your credits to the university of your choice. Florida Prepaid College Plans even has a plan for this to help you save even more, it’s called the 2 + 2 Florida Plan. The 2 + 2 Florida Plan allows your child to receive a degree from one of Florida’s prestigious State Universities for less than a typical four-year university degree. By starting your child off at one of the state’s 28 Florida Colleges (formerly Community Colleges), you’ll save money on lower-level courses before transferring to a State University to finish off their degree. Even better, students with this plan are guaranteed admission to a State University once they’ve earned their associate’s degree at a Florida College. With admission becoming ever more competitive, that can be a huge benefit.

9. Think Outside Of The Box

The ROTC offers to help with your tuition and fees in exchange for military service. If that is something you or your child has ever thought about, it’s worth a few minutes of research.

What are your tips for graduating college debt free?

Student loan debt has reached $1 trillion of debt among Americans. Don’t add to that insanely high number! Use these tips to help you graduate college free from a lifetime of debt! And let Florida Prepaid College Plans help.

Learn more about Florida Prepaid College Plans – You can also call their amazing customer service team at 1-800-552-4723.

Use Florida Prepaid College Plan Promo Code SAVING20 to save on the application fee during open enrollment

*Florida Prepaid College Plans Open Enrollment starts in February, you will save on the application fee and it should only take about 10-15 minutes to fill out the application—it is not scary or time consuming! And it’s worth every minute!

Follow Florida Prepaid College Plans on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to stay up to date with information on open enrollment but get tips on college and more.

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10 Monster Jam Tips For Ultimate Family Fun

January 16th, 2018March 7th, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

The Monster Jam is an event that the whole family will love. My family and I have been going for over 10 years now and here are my 10 Tips For Attending Monster Jam For the Ultimate Family Fun. While we were able to attend the Monster Jam Truck Show for free, all opinions and our love for the show are our own!

10 Monster Jam Live Tips For Ultimate Family Fun

The Monster Jam is one of my absolute favorite family events that comes into Tampa. Monster Jam is a popular live motorsport event featuring large, customized monster trucks that perform a variety of stunts and tricks in front of a live audience. My husband took our son for the first time 15 years ago. My son has always been a truck lover, anything with 4-wheels he just loved…and still does! The next year we decided it would be something fun to do with his friends for his birthday, the Monster Jam always rolls in the Tampa around his birthday and since the boys were young my husband asked me to tag along. I will be the first to admit, this was definitely not something I was looking forward to, loud trucks, lots of dirt, and lots of people. That just wasn’t my idea of fun. But I will tell you what, I loved it, and each year I insist on going with the boys to be a part of this family fun event too.

Now, since we have gone to the Monster Jam in Tampa for 11 years, the first time my son just a little guy and my daughter only two years old, I thought I would share some tips with you all to make your Monster Jam experience is awesome as ours. I hope these tips for attending the Monster Jam with kids help your family!

10 Tips For Attending The Monster Jam Truck Show:

Get Your Monster Jam Pit Pass and Go to the Monster Jam Pit Party. It is the only time you can get up close and personal with the drivers and the trucks. The Pit Party goes on for a few hours, get there as soon as it opens and stay there as long as you’d like, don’t get there at the tail end of it or you’re going to feel rushed and your kids or you are going to miss out on your favorite trucks. You can usually get your Monster Jam Pit Pass free at local car dealerships (this year we got ours at a local Ford Dealership and Circle K was also giving them out). Get your tickets early! Monster Jam truck shows are popular events, so it’s a good idea to buy your tickets early to ensure that you get the best seats and avoid the risk of the event selling out.
Tailgate! You’ll have some time to kill in between the Monster Jam Pit Party and the start of the show, pack a small grill if you have one or lots of snacks and bring a radio, a football, and/or frisbee and let the kids play and get some energy out between the Pit Party and the live show. I think my son looks forward to the tailgating just as much as the rest! Plus, arriving early can help you avoid traffic and parking congestion and give you time to explore the event grounds and see the trucks up close.
Get Seated. Go to your seats about 30 minutes early, this gives you time to find your seats, hit the restroom and grab any drinks or snacks that you may need before the show starts. Plus, there is always some action happening on the field before the actual Monster Truck show starts.
Yell! And yell loud! Be sure to cheer on your favorite monster truck drivers especially when you love the stunts they’ve done.
Be sure to have a sense of humor. Folks get really excited about their trucks, you might as well go along with it and yell at your favorites too. And there’s nothing wrong with a little bit of friendly competition. 🙂
It’s LOUD. These trucks are LOUD. In fact, you may wonder if the Monster Jam is too loud for toddlers and kids. That being said, if you or your kids don’t like really loud noises be sure to have headphones or earplugs. We did use these for the first and second time we attended, but we haven’t since. I did bring some earplugs in my bag for a few years and then just stopped.
Clear Bags Only. As of this year, 2018, you can’t bring in a purse to any of the stadiums so make sure whatever you want to bring in is in a clear bag. If you have medication that you need to bring in, like an EpiPen and you don’t want to put it in a clear bag, look for the disabled entrance and they will tag it for you.
Eat before the Monster Truck show. Most stadiums won’t allow you to bring food or beverages into the Monster Jam event, so if you’re not tailgating and cooking out before, fill up before the show. In fact, you may want to count on grabbing a bite to eat afterwards! All the yelling and screaming always seems to work up hunger with my crew so we end up stopping somewhere on our way home too. All stadiums, of course, serve food and drink, but it may be a little bit more expensive. So, can you bring food into the Monster Jam? Nope.
Set aside some money for souvenirs. You will find everything from hats to blankets to cups shaped like tires to Hot Wheels! And it’s hard to resist one once you’re inside 😉
Have Fun. That’s the most important tip of all. A monster truck show is unlike anything you’ve ever seen, so prepared to be in awe, laugh, yell, and just have a great time! You’ll go home hoarse, maybe a little dirty, but you’ll have fun.

The Monster Jam Tampa is in January and it rolls back into Tampa in February but they travel all over the United States so be sure to check the Monster Jam schedule for dates in your hometown. Monster Jam Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com

Overall, attending a Monster Jam truck show can be an exciting and thrilling experience. By being prepared, dressing appropriately, and arriving early, you can make the most of your experience and enjoy all of the exciting stunts and tricks performed by the monster trucks.

Have you been to a Monster Truck Show? What is one of your tips for attending the Monster Jam?

Check out Monster Jam on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and on Youtube. In fact, make sure to check out Food Wine Sunshine on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more Florida Family Fun!

Cherry Green Protein Smoothie

January 8th, 2018September 1st, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy.

This Cherry Green Protein Smoothie is loaded with fruits and vegetables and is a great addition to your healthy lifestyle.

Cherry Green Protein Smoothie

I love cherries! When they aren’t available at the store, I love getting them frozen. Not only are they delicious, but they are very good for us. I used them in my Merlot Cherry Habanero Jelly, and they make for a sweet and delicious treat just by themselves. I still enjoy making smoothies just about every day, I have yet to find any easier and more delicious way to get all those fruits and vegetables in one sitting.

If you are looking for some smoothie inspiration, be sure to check out my eBook over on Amazon, I have over 50 smoothie recipes in there. Today’s creation has a few ingredients that I don’t use very often, cherries and celery. Both of which were in abundance in my refrigerator, and that’s what is beautiful about smoothies, you can make them with just about whatever you would like! Be sure to mix in fruits and vegetables though, too many fruits = extra sugar.

You will also find various spices in my smoothies: turmeric, cinnamon, chia seeds, and protein powder. Each one is good for us, and I am all about getting in the extra nutrients while I can.

Here’s why I add each one into my protein smoothies:

Chia seeds – These little guys are nutritional powerhouses, I add them into every smoothie I make.

Turmeric – Soooo many benefits, but one of the main ones is it helps with inflammation.

Cinnamon – Also many benefits, one of my favorites is that it helps increase your metabolism.

Protein Powder – Helps keep you full longer and makes your smoothie extra creamy.

Now, here is my Cherry Green Protein Smoothie Recipe, be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make it again and again.

Print Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Cherry Green Protein Smoothie

Smoothies are an excellent additional to your healthy lifestyle. Loaded with fruits and vegetables, grab this yummy Cherry Green Protein Smoothie recipe!

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Smoothie

Keyword: cherries, protein shake, protein smoothie, smoothies

Servings:

Author: Tracy