May Book Club | Highcliffe House

I only had to glance at the cover of “Highcliffe House”, by Megan Walker, to know I wanted to lose myself between its pages.

When you see the beseechingly moody scene of a women dressed in a Regency era long skirt and bonnet, gazing up from the beach toward a formidable stone house… I know you’ll feel drawn to it as well, that’s why I chose it for my May Book Club recommendation.

It’s a Proper Romance too, so while it tells a sweet, charming story full of splendid detail, historical references, and witty repartee, it skips all the stuff that might make you uncomfortable if your young daughter were to pick it up and flip through.

“When a romantic entanglement leaves her humiliated and reeling, Anna Lane wants nothing more than for her father to whisk her away from the gossip of the ton. Unfortunately, he has obligations elsewhere, leaving her stuck in London.

Graham Everett’s financial security depends on an investment with Mr. Lane, his long-time fried and business partner. He’ll do just about anything to secure it for his family, even if it means fighting spiled, embittered Anna for her father’s attention.

Lucking, Mr. Lane concocts a plan that will give everyone what they want, with one stipulation; Anna must accompany Graham to Brighton in her father’s stead and make a decision to invest—or not—based on a thorough report.

But it will take more than a day at the beach for these two headstrong hearts to admit that they’ve been wrong about each other. If they are willing to invest a little time working out their differences, they might have a chance at real love.”

Mom’s would love to receive this on their Mother’s Day breakfast tray along with lovingly prepared french toast, orange juice, hot tea and fresh flowers.

When the last bite’s been eaten, tidy up the tray and leave her to her book and tea for a while, she deserves it.

Sweepstakes | Mother's Day Delights

Mom’s are heroes! Grandmom’s, Bonus moms, and all those who stand in the gap providing love and nurturing care deserve to be celebrated.

Mother’s Day 2024 is May 12th. I want to help make Mom’s day special, and together with some of my incredible radio sponsors, we’re giving away this collection of Mother’s Day Delights.

5 lucky winners will be selected between
Monday, April 22nd - Sunday, May 6th.

Use the ENTER button to send me a note telling me who you’d like to see blessed by these delights and why. Make sure you include a full name and shipping address, and an email too.

Winners will be selected at random, but I very much want to read all your stories of love and mothering!

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Laura Geller Modern Classic Cream Lipstick Trio

My mother rarely left the house without a swipe of lipstick. I bet you know a few moms like this too. Laura Geller does. She’s providing this lovely trio of lipsticks in a shade for every mood.

Luxurious and lightweight, this cream lipstick delivers color and moisture in one single stroke. The super-soft texture infused with Beeswax and Vitamin E, melts onto your lips and does not seep into fine lines. White Orchid Extract hydrates and soothes to help lips stay smooth, supple, and gorgeous no matter how long the wear.

Create unforgettable lip looks with these three Geller-gorgeous shades: Berry Bliss, Mauve Majesty, and Pink Passion.

Visit LAURA GELLER BEAUTY to shop a stunning array of cruelty-free makeup, made for mature skin.

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Bigelow Wooden Chest with Flavored & Herbal Tea

The Bigelow family has been blending and brewing their famous teas for three generations using only the finest ingredients, care, and passion.

Over 80 years ago, Ruth Campbell Bigelow created America’s first specialty tea, “Constant Comment,” and changed the way America enjoys tea. As a Certified B Corp and Women Owned Business, 3rd generation President and CEO, Cindi Bigelow, carries on her grandmother’s legacy by giving back to people and the planet.

Bigelow is sharing their beautifully crafted Tea Chest with us for cup after cup of delightful sipping. It contains 8 tea bags each of Lemon Lift, Earl Grey, "Constant Comment", English Teatime, Green Tea, Cozy Chamomile, Mint Medley, and Orange & Spice.

I’m of the mind that every occasion calls for a cup of tea. Take a moment just for you.

Learn the Bigelow story and find your favorite blend at BIGELOW TEA.

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“Eat Dessert First”, by Elise Thomas

Elise Thomas is known for her famous signature gourmet cookies that she started baking in her home kitchen and quickly turned into a highly successful chain of bakeries, “Cookie Co.”

But cookies isn’t all she knows… While her recently published cookbook, “Eat Dessert First”, does boast a significant collection of recipes that include cookies, bars, cakes, pies, and other sweet treats at the very front… An extensive collection of both sweet and savory offerings follow.

These include ideas for breakfasts and brunches, lunch offerings, and delicious dinners, PLUS breads, soups, salads, and all the extras. It’s a one-stop experience for recipes that any novice cook or experienced meal-maker, like Mom, will treasure.

Order additional copies of: “EAT DESSERT FIRST”.

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Lauren Daigle, The Complete Self Titled New Album

This collection marks a new creative chapter for multi-platinum selling, Lauren Daigle and features the songs, “Thank God I Do”, “These Are The Days”, and “Turbulent Skies” amongst it’s 23 tracks.

Its production is led by GRAMMY®-winning producer Mike Elizondo and features co-writes with more award-winning songwriters, including Natalie Hemby, Shane McAnally, Amy Wadge, Jason Ingram, Lori McKenna and Jon Greene.

Lauren’s colorful personality shines through in her fresh, uplifting music, delighting every mom on the receiving end of this collection.

Catch up with Lauren, order her music, merch, and find performances at
LAURENDAIGLE.COM

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Eyes of Faith®, “Reflect” Sunglasses

Eyes of Faith® creates eyewear that changes lives and reflects the hope within you. Their glasses are thoughtfully designed with Biblical scripture printed inside, and every purchase supports meaningful causes like free glasses, shelter, and support for people in need around the world.

My dear friends are contributing a sleek and sporty aviator style pair of sunglasses, in their Reflect design. The classic shape flatters every profile and is finished with high-quality, comfortable spring hinges. The 2 Corinthians 3:18 passage "...see and reflect the glory of the Lord" , is printed inside the temple to remind you to seek and show God's love throughout your day.

In addition to vision-related missions, Eyes of Faith® has helped to build several homes at Point Hope Village in Ghana, West Africa, and recently helped to build and open the Eyes of Hope Vision Centre there, where prayers are being answered!

Learn more about Eyes of Faith® Optical, and find an Eyes of Faith® Showroom near you!

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Enter the sweepstakes using the button below.
INCLUDE NAME AND MAILING ADDRESS WHERE PACKAGES CAN BE RECEIVED!

Dandelion Fluff Fairy Garlands

Looking for a fun nature craft to do with the kids this spring?(Or maybe you just want to do it for yourself!)

Give Dandelion Fluff Fairy Garlands a go!

They are made with the seed heads of dandelions, which is something we have in abundance right about now!

Head outside and look for unopened seed heads. You’ll want to pick them when the flower has died and dropped it’s yellow petals, but cypsela has not yet opened to release the seed. Gather up a bunch!

Thread a needle onto a long piece of heavy thread or twine, and push the needle through the base of each seed bud.

Pull the first through to the end of the thread, and repeat until you have a seed bud strung every few inches for the entire length of thread. (If you want to minimize the chance of tangles, work with shorter thread segments and simply tie together to form a longer garland.)

Once you have strung all your seed heads and are happy with the spacing and the length, hang the garland in a window and let the sun and nature do their trick.

Over the next several days, the buds will begin to open and become magical fairy-like little round tuffs of fluff.

Did you know? A dandelion seed is the plant's mature fruit, known as a CYPSELA to botanists, and its parachute-like structure is known as a PAPPUS.

Surprisingly, the seeds heads are NOT as fragile as one might imagine, and the friend that tried this reports that over the several weeks the garland graced her window, not a single pappus was shed.

If you try it, let me know how it turns out!

April Book Club | Eat Dessert First

EAT DESSERT FIRST

“Eat dessert first!” is a credo I live by.

I mean, if the occasion calls for dessert (and what occasion doesn’t?!) why wait until the end of the meal?

Elise Thomas seems to feel the same. The first section of her cookbook, “Eat Dessert First”, lists 15 recipes that include cookies, bars, cakes, pies, and other sweet treats. A very complete collection (135 more recipes!) of both sweet and savory offerings follow.

Elise is known for her famous signature gourmet cookies she first started baking in her home kitchen and quickly turned into a highly successful chain of bakeries, “Cookie Co.” Yes, they’re THAT good! But cookies isn’t all she knows… Her first cookbook contains delightful breakfasts and brunches, lovey lunch offerings, and delicious dinners, PLUS breads, soups, salads, and all the extras. It’s a one-stop experience for recipes that any novice cook or experienced meal-maker will treasure.

From fluffy sour cream pancakes, to wedding shower chicken pasta salad, to black beans burgers with chipotle sauce, you’re mouth will be watering and you’ll be making a long shopping list the first time you flip through the full-color glossy pages. The slow cooker ranch chicken baked potatoes look like something the kids and I could dig into after a day full of work, school and activities. But first, dessert!

Pick up your copy, and a few for friends here:
EAT DESSERT FIRST

New Movie | Unsung Hero

I’ve been a big big fan of for KING + COUNTRY, the Christian pop duo made up of brothers, Luke and Joel Smallbone, for a long long while.

They had my attention and admiration even before their huge hit “God Only Knows”, and even before I knew they were the brothers of Rebecca St. James, whose music I also adore! So of course I was excited to hear of the movie, Unsung Hero, (the title comes from a for KING + COUNTRY song of the same name), in theaters April 26th.

Based on a remarkable true story, Unsung Hero follows the father, David Smallbone, as he moves his family from Down Under to the States, searching for a brighter future after his successful music company collapses.

With nothing more than their seven children, suitcases, and their love of music, David (portrayed by his son, for KING + COUNTRY’s Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives.

Helen’s faith stands against all odds and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs. With their own dreams on hold, David and Helen begin to realize the musical prowess in their children, who would go on to become two of the most successful acts in Inspirational Music history: five-time GRAMMY Award®-winning artists for KING + COUNTRY and Rebecca St. James. 

One of the perks of my position is often getting to see sneak-peaks at as-of-yet unreleased movies, and this one did not disappoint! The Smallbone family is one-of-a-kind! Their faith, fortitude, and fierce love for one another is evident. Their talent undeniable. It’s a moving, inspirational film that you’ll want to take the whole family to when it hits theaters later this month!

The accompanying Unsung Hero: Inspired By soundtrack is also phenomenal! The 11-track collection showcases original music and reimagined versions of iconic Christian pop hits, and includes a wealth of A-list collaborators such as Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Rebecca St. James, Lee Brice, Hillary Scott, andmore. It is also available on April 26.

Pre-Order Here:
Unsung Hero: Inspired By

Spring is a time for new beginnings, and no one showcases the faith it sometimes takes to begin anew, than the Smallbone family in Unsung Hero. I hope you get an opportunity to see it, be blessed by its message, and entertained by one amazing family (and the fabulous performances by those portraying them!)

Spring Craft | "Bunny Bait"

Reprinted from 2023

Here’s a clever little spring craft using wood shims, some glue, paint, and a little faux greenery.

Make yourself a cute bundle of carrots that won’t go bad even if you forget to put them in the root cellar come fall!

Display them on your table - or wherever you think they may work to attract an Easter Bunny delivering baskets full of decorated eggs, chocolate candies, and marshmallow peeps!

Supplies:

• 1 package of wood shims (12 count)

• White (school) glue, wood glue, or hot glue

• Rubber bands

• Craft paint

• Faux greenery

• 3 small nails or tacks

• Twine or Ribbon
  
  
  

The beauty of this craft is that after you get your shims and greenery, you can use whatever you have on hand to pull the project together. The crafter that shared this with me says she had everything (including the shims) in her craft or home supplies but encourages everyone to put their own spin on things. Pastel, polka dot, or striped carrots? Yes! Make them your own!

Steps:

1. Begin by gluing four (4) shims together to make a “carrot” shape - wide portion of the shim at one end, narrow portion at the other. If you’re using a liquid glue, bind your carrot together with rubber bands or other binding until it dries. Repeat using all 12 shims to make 3 carrots.

2. Paint your carrots. Follow your own style sense here. Make ‘em traditional, modern, or whimsical. You’re in charge.

3. Add some carrot “tops”. One Dollar Tree sprig of greenery was sufficient for the 3 carrots pictured. Maybe you’d like to use dried grasses or other foliage? Again, you’re the boss.

4. Attached the tops either with hot glue, a short nail, or a long tack - however you can get them to stay in place.

5. Tie some twine or ribbon at the top if you’d like. (If you don’t want to, you don’t have to!)

6. Display and wait for Easter morning to see if Peter Cottontail took the bait!

I hope you enjoy this craft. Send me photos of your finished product to D@Delilah.com, I’d love to see what you’ve come up with!

Happy Easter, Happy Spring, Happy, Happy Everything!

Iced Lemon Loaf

Reprinted from 2022

I don’t find myself in a Starbucks drive-thru very often, but when I do, their lemon loaf is a temptation that’s difficult - correction - impossible to pass up! I love the dense moist crumb cake and the sweet bright icing!

My sister and nephew recently tried to recreate this lemony goodness in their kitchen, because apparently he loves this treat even more than I do. Their attempt turned out temptingly tasty and quite beautiful too!

Paired with a cup of Bigelow tea (might I suggest the Lemon & Echinacea?) you can’t find a more perfect spring-time mid-day pick-me-up (say that three times real fast!), or a more welcome offering at an Easter brunch table!

Here’s everything you need to make 2 full loaves, one for yourself and one to share!

Ingredients:

Loaf:

• 3 cups all purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter – softened

• 2 cups granulated ugar

• 6 large eggs

• Zest of 2 large lemons

• 4 Tablespoons of lemon juice (plus 2 more for icing)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2/3 cup sour cream

Icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons milk or water

Directions:

To make the loaves

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Grease and flour two standard bread loaf pans

3. Whisk the dry ingredients together in a medium-sized bowl: flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt

4. Now, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and the sugar together until very well combined

5. Add one egg at a time to the sugar and butter mix, then the vanilla, lemon zest and lemon juice

6. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture a little at a time, alternating with the sour cream while mixing on low speed.

7. Once fully combined, pour half the mixture into one loaf pan, and repeat with the rest of the mixture into the second loaf pan. The batter will be somewhat thicker than a cake mix

8. Bake for 45 - 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean

9. Cool on wire racks.

For icing:

1. Combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk (or water) mixing well, to make icing.

2. Ice loaves once cooled.

Slice, serve, and enjoy!

*Note - These lovely lemony loaves seem best enjoyed fresh. Left overs, though stored in a sealed baggie, became quite dry after just a few days.

** 2nd Note - My nephew solved the stale loaf issue by cutting the remaining slices into cubes, placing in a bowl, and covering with half-n-half, a la, old fashioned strawberry shortcake! He says he’ll always save a few slices to do this with from now on!

New Movie | Someone Like Yo

Oh happy day! Another incredible movie recommendation coming your way...

SOMEONE LIKE YOU, opens in theaters nationwide on April 2, 2024. Based on the popular novel of the same name by #1 New York Times Bestselling author Karen Kingsbury, it is an achingly beautiful redemptive love story. 

After the tragic loss of his best friend, London Quinn, grieving young architect, Dawson Gage, launches an impossible search for her secret twin sister, twins separated as embryos.  

With one set of parents grieving the loss of a daughter, and the other set grieving the truth they never told, only Dawson can show Andi everything she missed about her twin sister.

Now only Dawson can help Andi make her way back home, even though he has fallen desperately in love with her.

For tickets & information go to FathomEvents.Com

Spring is a time for new beginnings; a shared container of popcorn, a hand to hold, and Someone Like You sounds like a perfect way to celebrate the season!

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Author Karen Kingsbury was inspired to begin the One Chance Foundation by the memory of her father, Ted C. Kingsbury who said, "Life is not a dress rehearsal. We have one chance to love, one chance to truly live!"

The One Chance Foundation exists to supply grants to families seeking to adopt.

The Kingsbury family is passionate about seeing orphans from all over the world brought home to their forever family.

Now, readers can join Karen in the belief that all of us have one chance to make a difference in the lives of orphans.  God wants us to care for orphans. James 1:27 tells us this. The One Chance Foundation was created with that truth in mind.

You can learn all about the good works of One Chance Foundation,
the many ways one can donate, and to read Karen's personal story HERE.

Wat Kept Playing | March Book Club

“Wat Kept Playing”, by historical author, Emily Inouye Huey, is my book club pick for March!

This picture book biography about Asian American basketball hero Wataru Misaka will inspire young readers to challenge barriers and dream big.

‘The Inspiring Story of Wataru Misaka And His Rise To The NBA’, is sensationally illustrated by Kaye Kang. And whether or not those you might find yourself reading it to, (or gifting it to,) are basketball fans, they’ll love this story of “Wat” Misaka who often felt like he didn’t fully belong to the American culture he was born into, or the Japanese culture his parents had come from, and yet, “Wat Kept Playing”.

As he got older, Wat discovered he had both a love, and an amazing talent, for the game of basketball—his troubles would often disappear, or at least recede, when he had a ball in his hands.

Through a World War, when people who looked like Wat were feared in America, through college ball, when he was the shortest person on the team, and through racist heckling from referees and others, his skills expanded, the cheers kept coming, and he found his place on the court and in the world.

Wat’s undeniable talent changed history as he became the first person of color to play in the NBA when he was selected by the New York Knicks in the 1947 BAA Draft.

March Madness is upon us, and “Wat Kept Playing”, is a wonderful way to introduce young people to the game of basketball, while also delivering the important message that though finding our place in the world may not always be easy, the three-point set-up of Dream, Drill, and Determination, will get you well on your way!

Cheer Wat along by ordering copies of “Wat Kept Playing”.

Craft Project | Rustic Heart Wall Hanging

This heart happy little project was done by a family member, and it’s so pretty I had to share!

She said she can’t take credit for the idea, she saw it done and decided to give it a try herself.

Inspiration tutorial by Shades of Blue Interiors. Link can be found here: Branch Heart Wall Art.

There are a few differences in the the inspiration and her rendition; the original crafter uses fallen sticks, this one is done with driftwood collected from the beach—white string was used on the original and this uses a rustic twine—and of course the color palette is different (pink versus teal).

I’m told that creating the heart shape was in no way easy!

1. First lay it all out. Plan to spent considerable time switching different length sticks in and out until it takes on the desired shape.

2. Then, do it all over again when you tie the twine to each one and suspended it from the long rail.

Pro-tips:

• Hang the rail first and ties each stick to it while hanging. (Trying to do it on a flat surface is impossible!)

• Start with the center stick and build out each side.

3. Once you’ve got everything strung up in a heart shape, you may just decide to leave it natural… but if not, then it’s time to paint.

Choose your color palette, here it starts with white, then a light teal, and finally a dark teal. You may decide to use more or less to create an ombre effect.

Laying a ruler across the heart shape helped to know where to start the paint, each new layer was started about an inch down from the previous color.

4. Once painted, hang once again, readjust as necessary, tighten the string/twine, and clip off any excess.

5. Hang where you will enjoy!

I love both, the original and our example here! And I’m sure there are countless other ways to craft something similar using this post as your inspirational jump-off point!

What materials would you use and what color scheme?

Where would you hang this? I think a beachy cabin, a bedroom reading nook, or a bathroom would all be perfect.

Let me know if you give something similar a try!

First comes the materials collection… then arranging and hanging.

It helped to lay a ruler across the heart shape to get a general sense of where to start the ombre painting.

Cinnamon-Applesauce Hearts

Republished from 2/21

Years ago, my mom delivered a Valentine's package with a deliciously scented heart ornament dangling from the bow.

It was a cinnamon heart, strung with a satin ribbon - and even after the scent had gone, it hung from a kitchen cabinet handle for many more years delighting me with fond memories.

This old recipe, requiring only two ingredients - ground cinnamon and applesauce - might traditionally be used to make Christmas ornaments, but since my mom pressed it into heart shapes, in my mind, it's best suited to Valentine decor.

You won’t believe the incredible cinnamon smell that fills your home while these are baking - and how lovely it will be for days (weeks) to come when you walk into a room where one of them is on display!

Cinnamon can be expensive if purchased in those tiny containers at the grocery, but if you have a big-box store like Costco, WinCo or Cash & Carry nearby, you can pick it up a large container relatively inexpensively. Increase or decrease the recipe depending on how many hearts you want to make, using a 1:1 ratio.

Ingredients:
(makes about a dozen cookie cutter hearts)

• 1 cup Cinnamon

• 1 cup Applesauce

• Thin ribbon or twine

Instructions:

1. Thoroughly mix the cinnamon and applesauce together in bowl. It should have a thick, paste-like consistency and hold together well - not too dry, not too wet.

2. Place between two pieces of parchment or waxed paper, and roll out to about a 1/4 inch thickness. It will break if too thin, and will take longer to bake if too thick.

3. Take the top layer of paper off and use cookie cutters to cut into shape.

4. Use toothpicks to decorate and a straw to make the hole for hanging.

5. Move hearts onto a cookie sheet.

6. Bake at 200 degrees for about two and a half hours, until they feel dry and hard.

7. Once cooled, thread ribbon or twine through the hole and make a loop.

Dangle from a Valentine’s package, gift a grandparent, teacher, friend, or hang in your home for some Valentine’s love, some winter cheer, and a fantastic cinnamon scent!

And yes, go ahead and use the recipe during other seasons and cut out other shapes - acorns and leaves in the fall, snowmen and snowflakes for your Christmas tree… it’s all fair game!

Protecting Her Heart | February Book Club

ORDER: “Protecting Her Heart”

Ah February, the month of hearts and roses. What better book to chose to share with you than one of romance--Proper Romance that is.  Which means, that if your teen or pre-teen pick it up, you’ll have nothing to blush about!

"Protecting Her Heart", by Nancy Campbell Allen, takes us back to London, 1887.

Romance? Yes. But there is also a mystery to be sorted out and in doing so, our characters, Charlotte Duvall, who has just recently graduated from an American medical school, and her treasured friend, John Ellis, of the Metropolitan Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit, wrestle with danger and intrigue in a time and setting that is as foreign as it is familiar to us modern-day readers.

“Investigating the detais of a death was not how Charlotte imagined she would find love, bu as she and John work to unravel a dark web of secrets and lies, she finds herself relying on him more and more— and openingi her heart to him in the process.

As the danger draws ever closer, John vows to do everything in his power to protect Charlotte from harm. But he fears protection her heart might come at the cost of breaking his own.”

Come along with Charlotte and John, down dark alleyways enveloped in the foggy mists of London, it's social scene and schemes, and the tug of romantic feelings—welcome or not!

Get it HERE

Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour | Train & REO Speedwagon!

Train & REO Speedwagon, two diamond-selling bands, are hitting the road this summer for an epic co-headlining North American tour, featuring very special guest, Yacht Rock Revue.

You guys, this is going to be soo fantastic! I was spinning REO Speedwagon hits when DJ’s still spun records! Classics like Ridin’ The Storm Out, Roll With The Changes, and Take In On The Run.

And I’ll never forget when Train hit the scene with their smart, sentimental sensations, Drops of Jupiter, Hey Soul Sister, Marry Me… and the hits just keep coming!

Two incredible groups that treat their fans (of ALL ages) to a high-octane fun-filled experience! I can’t wait to join them with my family and friends when they cruise through on their Summer Road Trip!

The Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour kicks off July 8th and runs through September 11th!

General tickets go on sale Friday, February 2nd
at SaveMeSanFrancisco.com and REOSpeedwagon.com

The Summer Road Trip 2024, is bringing together Train’s critically-acclaimed catalog of global hits with REO Speedwagon’s vast collection of timeless classics for an unforgettable night of music, high energy, and fun that transcends generations.

With more than 50 million albums sold worldwide, 32 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100, and 28 albums on the Billboard 200 albums chart between them, fans nationwide will have a chance to witness epic sets from two of the hardest-working, fun-loving, non-stop touring bands as they perform hours of hits featuring chart-topping anthems and timeless fan favorites.

Produced by Live Nation, the 44-city tour kicks off on July 8 in Somerset Amphitheater, in Wisconsin, making stops in Chicago, Toronto, New York, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and more before wrapping up on September 11 in Phoenix, AZ at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre.

Train frontman Pat Monahan shared: “When I was younger I heard a band called REO Speedwagon and fell in love with their numerous, infectious hit songs. Years later I met Kevin Cronin, and thank goodness he’s as great a person as he is a songwriter.

This tour won’t just be a great time with great people, but a tour that will have a ton of familiar songs to most generations. I will be wishing I was in the audience as much as I’ll love being on the stage.”

REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin said: “Pat Monahan and I have done several benefit shows over the years, and now we get to take out our bands for a summer full of music and fun.

I love the idea of bringing together people of all ages, who share a common love for well-crafted songs and high energy live performances. The REO boys are stoked about this tour.”

Get your tickets TODAY and get plenty for the friends and family that will want to take in the experience with you. These accomplished groups know the importance of their fans and they never fail to deliver. Having both Train and REO Speedwagon on the stage is going to be epic!

Extraordinary New Movie | "Ordinary Angels"

Tickets are on sale NOW for “Ordinary Angels”, starring Hilary Swank & Alan Ritchson.

I got a sneak peek at this film and was overwhelmed with emotion. I can’t imagine the weight of the father’s sorrow after losing his wife, compounded by the worry over his daughter’s failing health, and feeling like whatever he did, it just wasn’t enough… But that’s not where the story ends.

Inspired by true events, Ordinary Angels is set in 1994 Louisville, Kentucky where a struggling hairdresser, Sharon (played by Hilary Swank), finds a renewed sense of purpose when she meets a recently widowed father, Ed (played by Alan Ritchson of Reacher ), working hard to care for his two daughters.

With his youngest critically ill and waiting for a liver transplant, the fierce woman single-handedly rallies an entire community to help his cause.

What happened in Ordinary Angels could happen in any town, and it does, because angels are all around us. In the most ordinary of people, extra ordinary courage, creativity, and care can be found.

Find your purpose. Make a difference.

Tickets for “Ordinary Angels” are on sale now!

tickets.ordinaryangels.movie 

As luck would have it, I got to interview Alan Ritchson, who plays Ed Schmitt in the film! You probably know him from his Prime series, Reacher, but you won’t confuse the two characters in this movie.

He portrays a bereaved husband, and father sick with worry, brilliantly. The LOVE SOMEONE with Delilah podcast episode with Alan will drop on February13, make sure you give it a listen!

Heartstrings | Craft Idea

Republished from 1/22

Do you decorate for Valentine’s Day? My mother always did when I was growing up, and once I had a home of my own, I continued the tradition.

Back when I was young, my mom would bring out the same red tagboard cutouts of bow toting cupids and hearts of various sizes. They were probably purchased at a Payless Drug Store about 1961 and used year after year right up until the last kid was out of the house (who knows, maybe longer!)

I’m guessing about the year of purchase, because it would have been my first birthday. Had I arrived a day earlier, the name you’d hear on the radio wouldn’t be Delilah… it would be Valerie. I think I dodged a bullet there (or maybe Cupid’s arrow!) Yet even though my birth came on the 15th of February, every birthday celebration was a red and white themed extravaganza.

Perhaps we did Valentine’s up a bit bigger than most families, but if so, I’m glad! That’s probably why I don’t necessarily equate the “holiday” with romantic love. It was a time of family celebration, of dinners that included grandparents bringing all their home-made specialties, and little gifts for everyone around the table.

My sibling and I always make a bit of a fuss over Valentine’s Day, treating our kids to heart-shaped foods, chocolates and conversation hearts, and other little gestures. I hope you do the same for your kids, or friends, yourself!. Romantic love is fantastic, but not as shelf-stable as the love of family and community.

Don’t have any tagboard Valentine’s décor? That’s ok. Do what a friend did here, cut out hearts from any sturdy paper (or in this case, thin cardboard) and string it along for a cute garland!

Materials Needed:

• card stock or card board

• pencil

• scissors

• punch (such as a skewer)

• twine

Directions:

1. Use a templet or draw a heart free-hand on sturdy paper or card stock, then cut out to make a templet.

2. Trace 24 hearts onto card stock of your choice. Use the same color or mix it up and use multiple colors.

3. Cut out all traced hearts

4. Now punch a hole near the “valley” of each heart. A shish-ka-bob skewer worked here. (It needs to be big enough to string the twine through.)

5. Measure out a length of twine about 5 - 6 feet long and cut from roll.

6. Pinch the twine about 6” in from the end, and push a loop through the hole that has been punched in the heart shape. Pull the loop through until it is large enough to reach the bottom of the heart. Now slip the heart through the loop and pull the string taught again.

7. Repeat this process stringing the hearts evenly (about every 6”) over the length of your twine.

8. Admire your handiwork and hang!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

The Chosen: Season 4, In Theaters NOW

Clashing kingdoms. Rival rulers. The enemies of Jesus close in while His followers struggle to keep up, leaving Him to carry the burden alone.

Threatened by the reality of Jesus’ growing influence, religious leaders do the unthinkable—ally with their Roman oppressors.

As the seeds of betrayal are planted and opposition to Jesus’ message turns violent, He’s left with no alternative but demand his followers RISE UP.

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Tickets are now on sale for
Season 4 of The Chosen's theatrical release,

Exclusively in Theaters Starting February 1, 2024 

www.TheChosenRiseUp.com 

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The theatrical rollout of Season 4 will begin with a two-week run of Episodes 1-3 on February 1, 2024, followed by Episodes 4-6 in theaters beginning February 15, and Episodes 7-8 beginning February 29 via Fathom Events in the U.S. and Canada.

After the full-season run in theaters concludes, The Chosen will announce the debut across streaming and linear TV platforms, as well as The Chosen TV and mobile apps.  

“Last year we dipped our toes in the water by releasing a few episodes in theaters. The response was so strong, and Season Four is so big, that we knew we and Fathom had to give viewers the theatrical experience for all eight episodes,” said The Chosen’s creator and director, Dallas Jenkins.

The Chosen is a groundbreaking historical drama based on the life of Jesus (Jonathan Roumie), seen through the eyes of those who knew him. It is an independent production written, directed, and produced by Dallas Jenkins and is distributed globally by Lionsgate. Set against the backdrop of Roman oppression in first-century Israel, the seven-season show shares an authentic and intimate look at Jesus’ revolutionary life and teachings. Season 4 premieres in theaters February 1, 2024. 

I’ve been a HUGE fan of The Chosen from the beginning, and have had the chance to visit with the creator, Dallas Jenkins, on a few different occasions. I even got to visit the filming set and meet with several of the actors! (Fan girl!) I’m really looking forward to this big screen run of Season 4 and I know you are too!

Once Upon A Climb | January Book Club

Another year behind, another year in front of us, and undoubtedly we all have goals we’d like to achieve in the coming months. My book club choice for January might help!

“Once Upon A Climb” by New York Times best-selling author, Jennifer A. Nielsen, has been called “insightful and motivating.”

It’s for anyone and everyone who might be looking for guidance on how to reach the summit of their own personal dreams.

Jennifer is a well-known novelist and keynote speaker, inspiring countless attainers. She’s compiled her hard-earned life lessons, advice, and insights for achieving individual success into five steps for all who dare to dream — and make those dreams reality!

Her five steps include:

1. Gear up. Yes, you'll need confidence and courage, but ice cream is also on the list.

2. Choose your climbing team carefully. You'll need someone to guide you, someone who can support and bolster you up during those hard stretches, someone to train you, and someone to cheer you on.

3. Choose your route. Not all trails go to the same summit, so make sure to plan accordingly.

4. Cross the crevasse. When faced with something that appears impassable, hold on, call on your climbing team, and find the courage to move forward.

5. Reach the summit. It's important to celebrate both the journey and the destination.

Once Upon a Climb is like having a heart-to-heart with your personal life coach--someone who has been there, wants the best for you, and is cheering you on. Jennifer's motivating wisdom and thought-provoking insights can inspire every dreamer to put one step in front of the other, no matter where you are in your personal quest.

ORDER: “Once Upon A Climb”

Year to year my goals change to align with my priorities, sometimes the focus is more on career, sometimes family matters take center stage, or a farm project has been conceptualized and I need to figure out how to make it happen. Often all of the above and several more challenges must be tackled!

Balance is key, and that’s where I need help. I’m going to look at “Once Upon A Climb” to help me sort through my “To-Do” list, so it becomes more of a “Ta-Da!” list by the time 2024 is in the rearview!

Meringue Cookies

Oh yum! It’s been a minute since I enjoyed these sweet, crisp, lighter-than-air treats, so it’s about time, doncha think?

Meringue cookies were once a staple at fancy little gatherings like wedding and baby showers, recitals and receptions. No wonder, they come together pretty quickly - if you don’t count the hour plus they need to spend in a warm oven - and go down very easily!

They contain no flour or nuts so good for those who are intolerant of gluten and tree nuts - a shame if one has egg allergies though - and (I’ve heard) have only about 25 calories per cookie, so not going to bust anyone’s diet or New Year’s resolution!

There’s a short list of ingredients. The only one you may not have in a reasonably stocked pantry is the cream of tartar, which is important to stablize the egg whites so you get nice peaks. Not a lot of recipes call for it these days, but it’s also used in home-made playdough, so kitchens with kiddos will find another use!

You’ll want to use a metal or glass bowl to whip the egg whites, making sure it is absolutely dry when you begin. Also, separate the yolks from the whites over one bowl then transfer to your mixing bowl, even a bit of egg yolk can wreak havoc on your meringue, and cause it not to set as firmly as needed.

This recipe calls for 4 egg whites, and fluffs up enough to pipe about 72 little clouds of yum.

Ingredients:

• 4 egg whites - room temp

• 1/2 teaspoon of Cream of Tartar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla (use clear for white meringues)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 225 degrees F

2. Line two baking trays with parchment paper (place a dollop of meringue under each before piping to hold in place.)

3. Place room-temperature egg whites in a metal or glass mixing bowl, use whip attachment on stand or hand mixer to mix into a froth.

4. Add Cream of Tartar and Salt to frothy eggs, continue whipping until soft peaks form.

5. Add Vanilla to soft peak meringue, combine well.

6. Begin adding sugar a little at a time to soft meringue, never adding more than the meringue can hold on the top (should not be heavy enough to sink) continue whipping and adding sugar until the cup is fully incorporated and the meringue is holding a stiff peak.

7. Transfer meringue to piping bag with large star piping tip. Pipe in rows leaving a little space in between for air to circulate.

8. Bake at 225 degrees for 1 hour. Leave meringues in place, turn off oven and allow to cool.

9. Meringues should be crisp all the way through. Test. If they still have moisture in the middle, return to 200 degree oven until crisp throughout.

10. Store in air-tight container until serving. (Meringues draw moisture and become chewy if left unsealed.)

You can also add flavors and colors! Try lemon or peppermint as the season or occasion calls for, or even dip your cooled meringues in chocolate. Mmmmmm.

Witnesses of Christmas | December Book Club

When it comes to holiday décor, don’t forget the books!

I love having Christmas themed books on my coffee and end tables, so everyone can enjoy them during this special time of year. That’s one of the reasons I’ve chosen “Witnesses of Christmas, A Musical Journey Through the Nativity of Jesus the Christ”, by my friend, Jason F. Wright, with Jenny Oaks Baker & Family Four as my December Book Club pick.

Witnesses of Christmas is an adaptation of the narration and music from the original stage production of Joy to the World: A Sacred Celebration, a production conceived of, performed by, and produced by Jenny, that Jason would write the script for and narrate as a shepherd named David.

This book includes the script, sheet music and QR code links to performance recordings and accompaniment track to re-create a Nativity experience for readers unlike anything they’ve seen, heard, or read before.

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them. Fear not: for, behold. I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” ~ Luke 2:8-11

The second half of the beautifully illustrated book explains how readers can adopt five of Christ’s attributes to become better people, encouraging us all to try to live the kind of life that Christ’s life exemplified.

It’s truly a treasure I know will enrich your lives and those you chose to share it with, just like the production my friendship with Jason, it’s author.

Obtain your copy, and those for gift-giving here:
Witnesses of Christmas
A Musical Journey Through the Nativity of Jesus the Christ

My 12 Stockings of Christmas 20

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It’s time for my 12 Stockings of Christmas!!!

Once again I’ve gathered together some of my favorite products that I’ll gift away to 12 lucky winners!

Be listening to my radio program each and every night between November 22nd and December 22nd, when I’ll share the KEYWORDS needed to enter.

Text the keyword to 48484
or enter it at the ENTRY page.

(Hint: If you miss the keyword, you can always use the word STOCKING.)
You can enter once a day.

I’m so grateful to my generous sponsors for providing these wonderful products. When I fall in love with something I can’t wait to pass it along to my listeners!

Here’s a run-down of everything in the prize bundle this year. Good luck my friends and tell all your family and friends about it too!!

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“The Greatest Christmas Hits”
Pentatonix

Let’s start things off on a high note with Pentatonix and an autographed copy of their newest holiday CD, “The Greatest Christmas Hits”!

Gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable holiday season, Pentatonix has unveiled a new greatest hits album, “The Greatest Christmas Hits”! The album features 23 of the band's top holiday songs and eight brand new, never-before-heard tracks - including the new holiday original, “Please Santa Please”!

One of the most innovative, inventive, and inimitable vocal groups of all time, my friends that make up Pentatonix are thrilled to be performing their 2023 North American Christmas tour right now, Pentatonix, The Most Wonderful Tour Of The Year. You’ll want to get tickets if they’re anywhere near your city - or plan a trip and meet them somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit!

In the meantime, order “The Greatest Christmas Hits” for friends and family, so they have a copy in their stockings too!

Get it here: “The Greatest Christmas Hits”

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Italian Marble Artistry Collection
Laura Geller

My besties from Laura Geller are contributing an ahhhhmazing cosmetics kit, called the Italian Marble Artistry Collection. It’ll be the second prize I drop into the bundle this year.

This sumptuous, all-in-one set includes the fan-favorite (and Delilah-favorite!) Italian Marble Lipstick for a creamy lip color that blends swirls of pigments for a unique, multidimensional finish, a coordinating Italian Marble Blush Stick to add a romantic flush. (It’s enriched with vitamin E to help soften your skin.) It also includes the show-stopping Italian Marble Baked Eyeshadow Palette, with a silky, blendable texture in five baked marbleized shades. And it even comes with an eyeshadow brush to create your perfect beauty masterpiece!

You might get lucky and win one of my bundles, but if you want to get the kit sooner rather than later, or you want to share the goodness with others…

 Order: Laura Geller, Italian Marble Artistry Collection

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“Christmas”
Cher

An autographed “Christmas” CD,  Cher’s first new studio album in five years (and her first EVER holiday album!) is the third prize I’m adding to the pile!

It  includes 13 songs - several holiday classics and four originals, and has a star-studded list of musical besties.

Christmas  includes superstar duet classics including“What Christmas Means To Me" with Stevie Wonder, and "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)"  with Darlene Love.  (Darlene first recorded the song with Phil Spector and a l7-year-old Cher singing background vocals); in addition to a haunting version of “Home" written and sung with Michael Bublé.  Other standouts include an unexpected pairing with Tyga on “Drop Top Sleigh Ride” produced by Alexander Edwards, Mike Crook and Ryan OG,  the magnificent "Angels in the Snow”, & "Put A Little Holiday In Your Heart", with Cyndi Lauper, and the disco-inspired, “DJ Play That Christmas Song”, the first single to drop from the album.

I had so much fun attending an intimate listening party at Cher’s Malibu Beach home, meeting Darlene, songwriter Sara Hudson and her crew, visiting with Cher, and listening to this incredible album. I just absolutely needed to add it to my 12 Stockings!

You can get it here: Cher, “Christmas”

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“Behold - The Complete Set”
Lauren Daigle

Lauren Daigle is a 2-time GRAMMY, 7-time Billboard Music Award, and 4-time American Music Award winner, and an artist I have adored since she hit the scene!

Without a doubt, I’m sharing her incredible Christmas CD, Behold - A Christmas Collection - The Complete Set (autographed!) with my 12 lucky winners!

This expanded edition includes Lauren’s version of “The Christmas Song” and a live version of “Noel”, all available for the first time on a double vinyl or single CD.

 “Behold plays like an audio time capsule built of saxes, trombones and other horns (even tubas!), upright bass, brushes on drums, mellow sounding hollow body guitars, and vocals that are rich and distinctive but still somehow laidback in their feel.”

I’m proud to call Lauren my friend and excited for everyone to add The Complete Set to their holiday music library!

 Behold - A Christmas Collection - The Complete Set

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“A Family Christmas (Deluxe Edition)”
Andrea Bocelli, Matteo Bocelli & Virginia Bocelli

Do you hear what I hear?! It’s a Bocelli Family Christmas! Following the runaway success of their first album together, the Bocelli family announced the deluxe edition of A Family Christmas – with the release of the brand new single ‘Let it Snow’.

“A Family Christmas (Deluxe Edition)” features four brand-new recordings, plus five additional bonus tracks. It will be released on CD and black standard vinyl. I’m definitely adding this one to the mix!

Internationally renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli teams up with his 25-year-old son Matteo Bocelli and his 10-year-old daughter Virginia Bocelli. The album captures the Bocelli’s festive spirit in full flow, with new renditions of traditional carol arrangements.

The trio of complementary voices intertwine and echo on the song ‘Do You Hear What I Hear?’, which provides a stirring opening to the album. Each of the three Bocelli performers gets a chance to shine on the album with solo tracks, duets and trios.

“A Family Christmas (Deluxe Edition”)
can be yours and all those you’d like to gift it to!

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DigitalAIRE Hair Dryer
by Conair

I’d love to have a hair and make-up team visit me every day, but since that’s not possible, I’m always on the look out for products that make me look and feel just as beautiful.

I’ve discovered the Conair DigitalAIRE blow dryer that does exactly that, and I’m adding it to my impressive pile of presents!

It’s engineered to deliver cutting-edge performance with an innovative, powerful digital motor - that doesn’t drain a lot of juice from your wallet! Accelerated drying digital circuitry (say that 3 time real fast!) spins at 90,000 times per minute generating increased speed and air pressure to make drying times faster — root-to-tip. It’s also got 9 heat and speed settings and a locking cold shot that helps to finish your style - it comes with a diffuser too!

I’m dropping this sleek and lightweight lil’ beauty into the mix, so you too can have a more comfortable drying and styling experience, even if you can’t go to the salon every day! Don’t wait to win one.

Get yours at: DigitalAIRE

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“Witnesses of Christmas”
by Jason F. Wright

I love having Christmas themed books on my coffee and end tables that everyone can enjoy during this special time of year like. I’m betting you do too so I’m including…

“Witnesses of Christmas, A Musical Journey Through the Nativity of Jesus the Christ”, by my friend, Jason F. Wright, with Jenny Oaks Baker & Family Four, in my gift-giving.

It’s an adaptation of the narration and music from the original stage production of Joy to the World: A Sacred Celebration, a production conceived of, performed by, and produced by Jenny, that Jason would write the script for and narrate—as a shepherd named David.

This first half of the book includes the script, sheet music, and QR code links to performance recordings and accompaniment tract to re-create a Nativity experience for readers unlike anything they’ve seen, heard, or read before.

The second half explains how readers can adopt five of Christ’s attributes to become better people, encouraging us all to try to live the kind of life that Christ’s life exemplified.

It will enrich your lives and those you chose to share it with, just like the production itself.

Don’t wait to order copies for gift-giving here:
”Witnesses of Christmas”
A Musical Journey Through the Nativity of Jesus the Christ

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The New Curl Secret
by Conair

My 12 Stockings Sweepstakes is all about sharing my new discoveries with you, and I can’t keep Conair’s new ceramic auto curler—The New Curl Secret®—to myself! I’ve got 12 to gift-away.

Its 3 pre-set curl settings (Wavy, Loose & Defined) and its multiple temperature settings means it will work on all types of hair. With the touch of a button, the completely redesigned Curl Secret® with tangle-free technology gently pulls your hair in to it’s peek-a-boo curl chamber and pops out a smooth perfect curl every time that will last all the day through! Buh-bye curl drama, hello curl perfection!

Reduce frizz and fly-aways and get perfect curls and waves, every time with Curl Secret®. The secret is out!

The New Curl Secret by Conair is available at your favorite retailers,
like Amazon, Ulta Beauty and Target.

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Seasonal Variety Gift Box & “Let’s Talk About Tea”
Bigelow Tea

My days begin and end with a steaming mug of tea, and in the cooler months you can add several more to this routine!

My dear friends at Bigelow Tea keep me well stocked with a variety for every occasion, whether I need a kick of caffeine in the morning, a thirst-quencher, a health-booster, or a calming digestive, they have a delicious blend perfect for the job! With their help, I’m dropping two more gifts into my generous giving piles.

An indulgent Seasonal Variety Gift Box that includes 8 tea bags each of caffeinated black teas, Pumpkin Spice, Salted Caramel, Hot Cinnamon, Eggnogg 'n Caramel Apple, and 8 tea bags each of caffeine-free herbal teas, Cranberry Harvest, Peppermint Bark and Ginger Snappish. It will be welcomed by anyone you want to show some appreciation to and it’s ideal for entertaining.

Bigelow is also providing copies of their sweet little hard-cover book, “Let’s Talk About Tea” by David and Eunice Bigelow. This book shares their knowledge of the business and offers readers a unique perspective about the history of tea.

If you are looking for the perfect hostess gift, teacher or neighbor appreciation gesture,
look no further than Bigelow Tea.

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Almond ROCA
100th Anniversary Tin and Collectors Box
Brown & Haley

It’s not a 12 Stockings gift pack without a generous helping of my favorite holiday treat, Almond ROCA. Brown & Haley, the makers of Almond ROCA (and other delicious confections) are celebrating their 100th birthday at their Tacoma, Washington factory in the shadow of magnificent Mt. Rainier.

Founded in 1912, Brown & Haley Candy Co. has been a purveyor of fine confections for over a century. The company's flagship product, Almond ROCA, has become an internationally beloved brand known for its exquisite taste and quality. Brown & Haley remains committed to its heritage of crafting premium confections that bring joy to people worldwide. 

It wasn’t quite 100 years ago when I was waking on Christmas morning to see what Santa had delivered, but close! There was always a pink tin of Almond ROCA, my mother’s favorite, to be unwrapped and enjoyed, and I’m thrilled to continue the tradition.

I’m adding a very special. large, 100th Anniversary Tin of Almond ROCA—a bar of crunchy toffee, enrobed in chocolate, and crusted with delicious almonds—that comes in a wooden Collector’s Box, as the final gift to my 12 Stockings of Christmas Sweepstakes.

Surprise all those you love by picking up a tin of Almond ROCA this holiday season,
it’s a treat that will never go out of style!

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN OR CLAIM A PRIZE. A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. THIS SWEEPSTAKES IS INTENDED FOR PLAY IN THE UNITED STATES ONLY AND WILL BE GOVERNED BY U.S. LAW. DO NOT ENTER IF YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE AND LOCATED IN THE UNITED STATES AT THE TIME OF ENTRY.