Reviewing Del Destino Golden Pineapple Spears with Coconut Water

During the holidays, a friend was in charge of whipping up most of the meals. Lucky me, he enjoys grilling and prefers fresh, flavorful food. One of those meals included the Del Destino Golden Pineapple with coconut water that he was given as a gift.  We both took a bite of the pineapple to try at the same time and we were at a loss for words. The pineapples with just a hint of coconut were such a succulent, flavorful treat!

"Del Destino is Atalanta's line of Premium Quality Mediterranean products" - Atalanta Corp

Grilled steak, buttered and toasted everything bagels, and Del Destino Golden Pineapple spears were served for the holiday brunch. The combination of the perfectly grilled, warm savory steaks and cold, sweet pineapple spears was perfect. 

We immediately began imagining what else these melt-in-your-mouth pineapples could be used for. Within seconds we listed:

• decadent fruit smoothies
• baked in muffins or cakes (imagine upside-down pineapple cake!)
• side dishes or snacks
• fresh fruit salad or ambrosia salad
• served with cottage cheese
• pineapple whip
• grilled
• Pina coladas and/or infused in alcohol 

Grilling. There are a variety of recipes for grilled pineapple, adding cinnamon, brown sugar or other ingredients. However, these Del Destino pineapple spears are so delicious that I don't believe I'd add any additional ingredients for the first time. I'm not sure the flavor needs any additions at all.

Pineapple Whip. There are a variety of recipes for pineapple whip but they all generally included pineapple, some sort of milk product, orange juice, and some small amount of sweetener (such as maple syrup) - blended then briefly placed in the freezer to firm it up.

Fruit Salad.  I had lived my entire life believe that my family's marshmallow fruit salad (also known as Ambrosia salad to some) was the very best. I would have never imagined an improvement. Until now. Using the Del Destino Golden Pineapple with coconut water would make a perfect Ambrosia even better. I'm sure of it. 

We both enjoy pineapple. Sadly, we have become accustomed to the sometimes fibrous and under-ripe pineapples (in prepared fruit plates as well as when purchasing whole pineapples) or the overly-syrupy sweet of canned pineapples. The Del Destino pineapple spears were shockingly good. 

As we were so glad to learn, a jar of Del Destino Golden Pineapple with coconut water makes a perfect gift! 

The Del Destino brand seems to be available at both Costco and Aldi and is highly recommended. 

If you prefer to shop Amazon, there are brands of Pineapple in coconut water available on Amazon that are highly rated. Orchard Natural Pineapple in light syrup and coconut water is an example and at the time of this writing is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 1,000 reviews.

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Review of The Story Behind The Lyrics "Elvis Saved My Life"

 

A Lifetime of Writing Lyrics & Poems

I've been writing lyrics since 1968 — yes, since I was eight years old — and poetry has also always been a part of my life. Over the years, most of my writing has been inspired by real life: events in the world, moments with my family, feelings, hope, humor, and inspiration. 

I love capturing what's happening around me, exploring emotions, and sharing perspectives that feel universal.

But every so often, I like to challenge myself. That's how Elvis Saved My Life came to be — an entirely fictional story told through lyrics.

"Elvis Saved My Life" Was My Creative Challenge

Written in the late 1990s or early 2000s (I forget the exact date), this song started as my own personal challenge: Could I tell a complete narrative using three iconic Elvis Presley songs as milestones in a couple's life?

The songs I chose — Jailhouse Rock, Love Me Tender, and In the Ghetto — weren't just randomly picked. Each one marks a pivotal moment in the couple's journey, capturing emotions, growth, and perspective in a lyrical timeline. 

The idea was to let these songs narrate life's key moments and, metaphorically, show how Elvis "saved" their lives.

The Journey Through Song

Each song in the story plays a unique role:

• Jailhouse Rock: Represents youthful innocence and the playful, awkward beginnings of love. It's a moment of humor and formative experience — that first awakening to relationships and desire.

• Love Me Tender: Captures the deepening of love and commitment. It marks a turning point where affection grows into something lasting, tender, and life-changing.

• In the Ghetto: Reflects perspective, gratitude, and understanding of life's bigger picture. It's a moment of recognition—seeing life's joys and trials and feeling thankful for what's been built.

Together, these songs become markers along a timeline, telling a story of love, growth, and the simple beauty of shared experiences.

Why This Song Matters to Me

Usually, my lyrics come from personal experience or observation, but this project was different. It pushed me to imagine a life, create characters, and weave together a story purely through words and lyrics. 

It was a mental and emotional exercise—translating life into moments marked by song and finding meaning in the narrative of a couple's journey.

It reminded me that lyrics can be more than just words. They can be memory, reflection, and even a kind of salvation. That's the essence of this story: how life, love, and carefully chosen words can intersect to create something unforgettable.

A Personal Reflection

Looking back, Elvis Saved My Life isn't just a creative experiment — it's a celebration of storytelling through lyrics. It's about the moments that shape us, the songs that become the soundtrack of our lives, and the unexpected ways life nudges us toward growth, connection, and joy.

It's fun, it's heartfelt, and for me, it's a reminder that sometimes, fiction can tell truths as powerfully as reality ever could.

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50 Years of My Poems and Lyrics are on Amazon, Where Available.

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🎵 ©DragedaPoemsLyrics (B.T.C) - Original Lyrics. | Licensed Digital Composition (Commercial Rights Held) for Music and Vocals

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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

 If there is one dish that is always a crowd pleaser with kids and adults alike, it has to be Mac and Cheese. And thanks to the Instant Pot, this classic comfort food is fast and easy to make. Did I mention creamy and delicious?

Instant Pot Mac and Cheese - Reviewed

From start to finish, Instant Pot Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes. Everyone in our family just loves how delicious, rich, and creamy this dish is.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb. elbow macaroni
• 4 cups water (or use half water, half chicken broth for extra flavor).
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream (we use the heavy cream)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Directions:

1. Add the pasta, water, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and butter into the Instant Pot.
2. Set to manual or pressure cook for 4 minutes. When done, quick release the pressure.
3. Open the lid and stir the pasta; do not drain any remaining liquid.
4. Set the Instant Pot to Saute' (Low)
5. Slowly stir in the milk and cheeses, then continue stirring until everything melts into a smooth, velvety sauce.
6. If it's too thick, add a little more milk, and if it's too thin, stir a little longer.

This is a must-try recipe resulting in maximum flavor with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy weeknights or anyone craving comfort food. Try this Instant Pot Mac and cheese, and you may never go back to stovetop or boxed mac and cheese again.

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You will find a large selection of Instant Pots on Amazon

Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker, Warmer & Sterilizer, Includes App With Over 800 Recipes, Stainless Steel, 6 QuartBuy Now

 

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Review of Rescuing Lord Inglewood by Sally Britton

I can always rely on author, Sally Britton, to deliver a unique and entertaining Regency Romance.  

I recently started the series, "Inglewood" and was immediately drawn in by the first book, "Rescuing Lord Inglewood".  It didn't take me very long to read the book from cover to cover simply because I could not put it down.

This book is categorized as a Christian fiction on Amazon, but in fact, it is simply clean and wholesome.  I don't remember any reference in the book to Christianity, but I can easily recommend it to anyone who prefers non-salacious romantic content regardless of religious beliefs. 

You may already know that a "Regency romance" is set during the early 1800's British Regency time period and society.  It offers readers a look back in history and societal expectations.  It often makes a reader grateful that they did not live during that time period even though we admire the higher standards.

 

Synopsis of the Book, "Rescuing Lord Inglewood"

 Rescuing Lord Inglewood: A Regency RomanceCheck PriceWhile out for a leisurely walk, Esther Fox sees that a tragedy is about to unfold before her eyes.  Without even thinking about any consequences to herself, she runs straight into danger to knock a man out of the way of a falling statute.  Unfortunately, she is the one hurt and knocked unconscious. 

Lord Inglewood, Earl of Inglewood, has no idea what has just hit him and why.  All he knows is that a beautiful woman is laying on top of him on the sidewalk in front of everyone.  He is immediately concerned when he sees her head is bleeding, especially once he learns that her injury is due to her rescuing him from sure death.     

This most unusual encounter puts both of them in the center of gossip and even has wagers being written in the book of the exclusive London gentleman's club, Whites.  Fortunately for both of them, they have known each other all of their lives.  That makes the situation a little bit more tolerable, but not easily laid to rest.

________

Their next course of action may seem obvious to Regency romance readers, but the story is truly entertaining!  But, prepare yourself, there are some parts that are extremely sad.  After all, even in a Regency romance, life is not all sunshine and roses.

 

 

Books by Sally Britton Previously Reviewed on ReviewThisReviews.com

• A Haunting at Havenwood Book Review
• Her Unsuitable Match (Supposed Scandal Series) Reviewed
• Silver Dollar Duke: Hearts of Arizona Series - Book 1 Reviewed
• The Social Tutor Book Review
• The Earl and His Lady (Book 4 in Branches of Love Series) Book Review

 

Read More Book Reviews at
ReviewThisBooks.com

Rescuing Lord Inglewood by Sally Britton by:

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Merry Christmas from the Review This Team

 

Merry Christmas from the members of the Review This team.  We thank you for your support and wish you and your family a happy and joyous Christmas season.

One of my favorite holiday activities is to take photos of all the beautiful decorations.  Here are some of my favorites from this year.

Main Street St. Charles Photo Walk

One of my favorite things to do each holiday season is to go to Main Street in an area close to me.  This town, St. Charles, goes all out in decorating for the holidays.  Here are some photos I took last week.

Holiday Lights- Bokeh

I love using a bokeh effect in holiday photos.  A bokeh effect gives the background a warm soft glow and turns lights into soft balls of color.  You can achieve this by focusing on a nearby subject using a wide aperture and having Christmas lights in the background. The first photo in this post uses bokeh.  Here are a few other photos using that technique.

Here are two using the bokeh effect that I created using AI.  I enjoy playing with AI to create different effects.  The biggest challenge here is describing what you want the photo to look like.

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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