Trader Joe's in the Hood

Ring the bells! Sound the trumpets! The Trader Joe's finally opened in my neighborhood!

 Trader Joe's #725 - Downtown Minneapolis

And it's been glorious - indeed a reason to celebrate and discover new (or new to me) products that are extra special.

Here is what I find in my cart as of late:

Seltzers With A Splash - These low or no cal beverage options remind me of Spindrift Sparkling Water with their hint of real fruit juice. Zippy and refreshing, they are a great way to shake up your sparkling water routine (except please don't actually shake them unless you want to be humans with a splash).

Blueberry Vanilla Chevre - An easy and decadent snack or essential component to any cheese board spread. The tangy and creamy goat cheese is cut by the bright acidity of blueberries. Slice a round onto a wafer and it tastes like cheesecake. Plus, the berry color is just gorgeous - ignore the bad picture and trust me!

Spatchcocked Chicken - Yes, the name might induce a giggle or two, but this is such a brilliant way to produce an evenly cooked and flavorful chicken - and they've done all the dirty work for you. The lemon rosemary packed more flavor than the BBQ version, but I think if you threw the latter on a grill, it would amplify the seasoning.

Cruciferous Crunch Collection - It's a bagful of greens that on their own, get a bad rap. They are just so darn healthy, how could they also be tasty? Well, in this combo they most definitely are. Enjoy as an extra crunchy side salad or use it as a base for a more elevated coleslaw.

Neapolitan Joe-Joe's - I'm not even a Joe-Joe fan (I know, LuRuSo=weird), but these cookies make me happy. Why choose between vanilla, chocolate and strawberry when you can have all three? They capture the dreaminess of that classic ice cream cone flavor all wrapped up into one little cookie confection.

Newton's Folly Semi-Dry Cider - We started with a beverage, so let's end on a beverage - this time for the adults. Not too sweet, not too sour, just enough fizz. To me, this may be the perfect hard cider; delicious at any time of year.

As for some TJ Trivia, did you know you can taste test in-store any product that is ready to eat? Go ahead and ask a crew member to open up a package that you are curious about.

Or if you opt for the purchase without trying it and find yourself disappointed, Trader Joe's will refund you the amount without any hassle. This policy makes it an easy decision to try something new and unknown.

Rather than copycat products, many Trader Joe's items are made by the same brands you know and love, only in disguise and at a much lower price point. For example, in Minnesota you can imbibe the Trader Joe's Art of the Still Organic Vodka and be drinking Prairie Vodka for $4 less a bottle. Or munch on popcorn that is just as addictive as local darling Angie's - because it is one and the same. Have you uncovered any hidden brand names amongst the Trader Joe's shelves?

With the downtown location being a short jaunt for me, there are sure to be more Trader Joe's-themed posts to come. Until then...

Easter Crack

If you are like me, you have a slight obsession with Cadbury Mini Eggs.

I mean, such a beautiful sight!

Every year I can't resist buying a bag - like, a big bag - and then I spend the rest of the season dreaming up ways to eat them, like HERE and HERE.

Well, this might be my favorite mini egg-themed treat thus far. I call it: Easter Crack. I know, that name sounds...wrong...but believe me, it's oh so right.

If you haven't had "crack" (well, dessert crack - the other crack is WHACK, ya hear?), it's basically saltine crackers or matzo with a layer of caramel followed by melted chocolate. Once it is all set, you break it into random bite sized pieces. And it is soooooooo addictive. Hence...crack. It can be jazzed up in all sorts of ways. The star of my Easter Crack is, of course, Cadbury Mini Eggs, but I also added pretzels and kettle corn for that perfect salty/sweet combo. 

It's quite silly saying this is a recipe as it takes almost no effort, but here ya go:

Easter Crack

1-2 sleeves saltine crackers (depending on pan size)

1 cup butter

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 package chocolate chips (I like semi-sweet, but you do you)

Cadbury mini eggs, smashed

Mini pretzels*, kettle corn, or whatever your little Easter heart desires

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange a layer of crackers so they fill your baking sheet. In a saucepan, heat the butter and brown sugar, stirring until boiling and slightly thickened and then remove from heat and add vanilla. Pour the mixture over the crackers, using a spatula or back of spoon to spread evenly over the crackers. Bake in the oven for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and as it cools, melt the chocolate chips (whatever your preferred method). Spread the melted chocolate over the entire surface. While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle any chosen toppings evenly over it, making sure they are settled into the chocolate. Cool for 2 hours in the fridge and then break into pieces. Enjoy!

*The only thing I would change is the shape of pretzels - the sticks easily popped off the surface when I broke it apart. Regular mini pretzels broken up or those round shaped ones would probably fare better.

Let's recap in pictures:

I would say how to store it, but honestly - this crack won't last. 

Friday Feels - Volume VIII

I feel like I am zigzagging to and fro for quick getaways or weekend stays quite often during this busy time of year. Wit & Delight's weekender bag fits everything I need for a couple of days away - check out the bottom compartment which is perfect for separating shoes! It's designed with a combo of utility and style. Now off you go!

Wit & Delight Weekender Duffle - Target

2017 has been a gut punch right up until the end. It will definitely be a year to remember, eh? With the #metoo movement gaining momentum and revealing some crushing realities about men that we may have even looked up to, I surveyed my friends to see whose downfall from bad behavior would be the biggest blow. The clear winner? Allen Bauer, himself:

Another Actress Steps Forward Accusing Tom Hanks of Being Nice - Blue Rock Public Radio

I've heard only good things about Lady Bird and now that I've seen that other little art house movie (hint: rhymes with car doors), this will be my next film outing.

Lady Bird

And I've watched enough talk show rounds with the leading lady to finally know how to pronounce Saoirse.

THIS couldn't be a better story (along with the accompanying and always classy Page Six photo).

Service dog causes chaos at ‘Cats’ performance - Page Six

Why are dogs just the best? A statement hoodie that reads my mind.

I Just Want To Hang With My Dog Graphic Hoodie - Target

Thanksgiving may be over, but these super savory and sage-forward salt bombs keep the thanks a flowin'. It's one of those novelty items that actually work.

Trader Joe's Turkey and Stuffing Seasoned Kettle Chips

Not sure how long this product will be on the shelves after T-Day, but if you missed them this season, you know what to add to your shopping list for next November.

Might not be the perfect pairing for the above, but the release of Beaujolais Nouveau 2017 is upon us. Fruity and affordable, I enjoy this wine year-round, but there is something festive about uncorking the new vintage this time of year.

15 things you need to know about Beaujolais Nouveau - The Local, Photo: AFP

Isn't this just lovely?

Dresden Ornament Wreath - Terrain

I realize you could buy a plane ticket to Cancun for the same price (and I advise you do that and buy one for me while you're at it - Vitamin D is important during the winter months!), but the delicately crafted wreath is just so darling and magical and Christmas-y. I even spot a dachshund! It puts me in the holiday spirit.

Are you full of Christmas cheer yet? If you are struggling to find some merriment, watch this clip from a past Billy on the Street episode featuring Amy Poehler. It's become an annual viewing tradition for me. I promise you a few fa-la-la-la-las and a lot of ha-ha-ha-ha-has.

Billy on the Street - Christmas Carol Ambush with Amy Poehler

Cyber Monday and Beyond

Cyber Monday is really beyond. Even though I know it is forthcoming every year, I still never manage to save my shekels in order to spend it on the crazy good deals a few days after Thanksgiving. Why? Why, LuRuSo? Stop buying things in August, September, and October and wait until Cyber Monday, you ding dong! 

There are many Cyber Monday steals that are worthy of your attention this year. And quite a few extend into the week.

Here is a full compilation of travel options:

The Best Cyber Monday Travel Deals of 2017 - Condé Nast Traveler
Where to Score the Best Travel Deals This Cyber Monday - Travel + Leisure
Black Friday and Cyber Monday Hotel Deals for 2017 - ThePointsGuy.com

Or beauty/apparel/home deals:
The 2017 Mega List of Cyber Monday Deals - Apartment Therapy
Every Cyber Monday Beauty Sale You Need To Shop This Year - The Zoe Report
The Only Cyber Monday Guide You Need This Year - Among Other Things

Capitalism is alive and well, my friends.

But of all the 30% off serums or 25% off TVs, I think my favorite deals this year are for DNA testing. This can be such a game changer for finding out about your health, sparking interest in your heritage, or even connecting with some relatives that you may or may not want to know (please, let them not be Trump supporters!) The two major testers, 23andMe and Ancestry.com, are both offering their best deals of the year, at $30 and $100 off, and $45 off, respectfully.

AncestryDNA: Genetic Testing - DNA Ancestry Test Kit

23andMe Ancestry and Health + Ancestry Services

Speakings of genes, this lactic acid-based serum is one of the only skin care products that has made a visibly positive difference in my skin. Problem is, it isn't cheap. So grabbing it during a Cyber Monday sale, like Dermatore's 25% off, is ideal.

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment - Dermstore.com

Beyond fabricated genes, I've been into taking collagen as of late. I know, I know, I sound loopy. I have no scientific basis for spending money on such kooky claims, but my skin, nails, and hair are supple and strong since dissolving this powder into my hot coffee each morning, so either I'm Benjamin Button or there is something to these peptides. Vital Proteins is having their own Cyber Monday deal where you can gain some free product with purchase.

Vital Proteins Marine Collagen Peptides

Before spending a whole day focused on spending, I spent a whole week focused on nature and family. My lil' nuclear family, in particular.

The Sorensens in Shadow

This year, we tooled around L.A. and the Santa Ynez wine country rather than focus on a big Thanksgiving meal for only three people and a short-legged dachshund. Unplugging from the media and plugging into the here and now of nature was a wonderful and grateful experience. It's fairly easy to do when in wine country. Who wants to look at MSNBC or Facebook when you can look at this?

Santa Ynez Valley, CA

I feel in love with the region's Pinot rosé wines. Bone dry, just like my sense of humor. I also was impressed by this gadget which tapped the wine without uncorking the bottle.

Not that I ever have trouble finishing a bottle of wine, but it's a pretty nifty concept. You can score one on sale today at Sur La Table.

Coravin Model 2 Wine System - Sur La Table

We also had a few nights in Solvang (my people!) which reminded me of the movie Sideways and what a solidly great film that is.

Solvang, CA

Sorry, Miles.

 Following wine country, we journeyed up the mountains into the Ojai Valley. There was a special kind of magic during our 24 hours in Ojai. We even witnessed "the pink moment".

Ojai, CA

Not that the trip was without consumerism. After battling major gridlock...


...we ventured to the happiest place on earth - Disneyland.

Sleeping Beauty's Castle

I was warned that Thanksgiving Day might be torture due to the crowds, but we lucked out by purchasing the MaxPass which sent us straight through to the ride each and every time. I know, so lucky! I definitely recommend it for the mere $10 extra per ticket. Also, you get to digitally save any photos captured during the day, like these gems:

Like I said, Happiest Place on Earth! (In all fairness, my dad had gotten surprisingly soaked right before the first pic and feared his iphone was going to launch out of his pocket in the second.) We never really had any awkward family photos growing up, so now we are making up for lost time.

After many years of hearing extolled virtues of the Dole Whip, I finally partook. In all honesty, this was because I thought we were in line for the Tiki Room, and after 20 minutes of waiting and approaching a cash register instead of a crooning parrot, I supposed I might as well go for it.

Disneyland's Dole Whip Float

And now I get it. Oh boy, do I get it! Now, the question is - where do I get it?!

I've been told there are actually a few Minnesota establishments who do the DW, including the State Fair. But can I wait until late August? A Google search led me to this:

Dole Soft Serve Mix, Pineapple - Amazon

Which seems slightly less magical. But, might be worth a try?

After a day at Disney, I turned to a beloved Disney character and his take on Taoism. I'm not sure I totally bought the correlations between the Chinese philosophy of living in harmony with the Way and a tubby bear that loves honey, but it did make me want to learn more about this ancient tradition. And eat honey.

The Tao of Pooh - Benjamin Hoff

Another book I've been moved by this month:

Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood - Trevor Noah

I really couldn't recommend it more. I haven't been an avid follower of Trevor Noah, previously only knowing him from snippets of The Daily Show. But, after seeing him live in Minneapolis, mark me a fan. He was uplifting, hilarious, and timely. So engaging and truthful with his comedy. If you can't see him live, at least read this intriguing book.

"Love is a creative act. When you love someone you create a new world for them."
-Trevor Noah

As proof, let's turn to a sweet note; this is just darling. It almost makes me believe in romance and true love and commitment and fairy tales again (and I'm the bitterest Betty of Bitterland). But I'm rooting for them!

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, BBC News - YouTube

One last random looking-toward-the-future note: do I need an Ugly Christmas Sweater this holiday season? Thus far, I've not been invited to any Ugly Christmas Sweater parties, but I want to be prepared...if so, which jumper should I buy?

Tipsy Elves Women's Santa Unicorn Christmas Sweater - Amazon

or

Women's Oh Snap Long Sleeve Ugly Christmas Sweater - Target

Let's bring good cheer (and ugly sweaters) to the Holiday Season!

Friday Feels - Volume VI

You know what feeling I've been craving amongst the bizarre, angsty, depressing, up and down world we've been living in lately?

Peace. It's as simple and as complicated as that.

Not easy to achieve in some senses, so we've been starting symbolically.

Seeking peace in Prior Lake

The above wreath was purchased at a local garden center, Mother Earth Gardens, but this is a similar one:

World Buyers Driftwood Peace Sign - Amazon

Here are some other variations, since we can never have too many options for peace.

Lit Boxwood Peace Wreath - Pottery Barn

Brushed Brass Wire Peace Wreath - CB2

Pinecone Peace Sign Wreath - World Market

Inner Peace Wreath - CB2

Now, just because I am preaching peace, doesn't mean that I'm all kumbaya about what's happening in our country. Not one bit. That's why I cheered when I heard that on his or her last day of work, a Twitter employee deactivated 45's account. Amazing!

Twitter Employee Celebrates Their Last Day By Deleting Trump’s Account - Scary Mommy

I like to fantasize that this is how I would go down, too. I feel a kinship with said former employee.

I also have always felt The Pioneer Woman was a kindred spirit, and now I have evidence.

Ree Drummond on the One Food She Never Eats - The Kitchn

Evil

I may loathe bananas, but I looooooove ice cream cookie sandwiches. True story. In fact, they may be my dessert of choice (I like that technically you are getting two desserts in one). So, I'll have to venture to the new Seventh Street Truck Park in my sister city in order to test out this giant 15 pound ice cream cookie sandwich. It's filled with Sebastian Joe's ice cream, so there is quality along with quantity. Who is willing to help me with this monster task?

You'll need a group of friends to down this 15-pound ice cream sandwich at new St. Paul spot - Star Tribune

Damn you, Polar Springs marketing team! You sure know how to reel me in to spend too much money on creatively packaged, mystery...water. Plus, these are mini-sized, and who can resist tiny things? The limited edition sodas were released in August, but you can still order variety packs HERE.

What's the Mystery Flavor Behind Polar's 'Unicorn Kisses' Seltzer? - Bon Appétit

Can someone please buy this stunning number and wear it to some fabulous holiday shindig? There should be the promise of romance, perhaps a jazz band, and definitely a stiff drink in a vintage glass.

MISA Carolina Dress - Shopbop

Some might be drooling in anticipation of the latest Star Wars film, but the release I'm jonesin' for is this:

I, Tonya Trailer #1 (2017) | Movieclips Trailers - YouTube

The drama! The characters! The scrunchies! I can't wait.

Fun fact: I was with my parents at the 1991 U.S. Championships when Tonya Harding became the first American woman to land a triple Axel in performance, but I was in my crabby pre-teen years and missed it because I was reading a book and refusing to watch. Luckily, there is YouTube and I can finally see the magic (starts around :55 - I keep trying to find myself in the crowd, but it whizzes by too fast).

Tonya Harding - 1991 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Ladies' Free Skate

Most of us have a love/hate relationship with Facebook and UPS, but its only love for both of them when it comes to THIS.

UPS Dogs - Facebook

Dogs are a cure-all, no? You know what else clears the head and opens the heart? Getting to see our home in the greater scheme of things (thanks to NASA's Osiris-Rex spacecraft). Weird to think about what you might have been doing at the moment this picture was taken. Hello down there!

Earth - NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center/University of Arizona

I finished a really lovely book called Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

It has been embraced as essential curriculum for middle school aged kids, but it is just as an appropriate read for us older folks. One quote that stood out to me:
“If you have a choice between being right and being kind, choose kind."

Let's all choose kind!