review of byKikarose Jewelry

As a traveler, I love to find jewelry that can be worn during the day and then transitioned into something for evening. I was sent these beautiful earrings from byKikarose and I have not stopped wearing them. This beautiful Etsy shop has wire jewelry hand-crafted in a wide range of classic and original designs. Take a look at the beautiful earrings I got!

The earrings came in adorable cotton drawstring bags that are wonderful if you are gifting them.

DANDELION FLUFF HAND STAMPED EARRINGS

Turquoise beads with round bronze hand stamped pendant ($28)

Photo credit: byKikarose

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May 15, 2019 mytravelingkids.com

Sandy Toes: Rose Island, Bahamas

I remember when I was a kid, I was jealous of the characters on Gilligan’s Island because they had this beautiful piece of paradise all to themselves. I dreamed of being Maryanne (Ginger’s voice drove me nuts!) Well, with Sandy Toes, on Rose Island you can live that dream as you spend the day on your own private island.

Your adventure begins when you are picked up at the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal in their double decker catamaran. Since we decided to take a water taxi to cross under the bridge (huge mistake!!!) we ran to catch the ferry because it only leaves once…10:00…after that you’re out of luck. We were thrilled that we made it and with our complimentary rum punch in our hands, we settled in for our ride. Check out where my youngest got to sit.

During your 25-minute boat ride, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Bahamas coastline as the wind blows through your hair. Sit back and watch the crystal blue water soar under you as you head to Paradise.

The biggest surprise of the day was that no one else except the people on our boat would be on the island. We would have this paradise all to ourselves.

The sand was a white powder and the water was transparent. The beach was immaculately clean, which I had wondered about since I knew there were pigs that swam here. We grabbed one of the many lounge chairs and settled in for a bit before we couldn’t resist the water anymore.

The crystal-clear water was calling to us and we were so excited to spend our day basking in the sunshine and having more fun.

After a quick dip, we decided to hang out in one of the beach hammocks.

As I lounged, I stared at the rocky coastline and listened to the waves crashing onto the shore.

It really was Heaven…see…

I could have spent hours there and was considering taking a nap when all of the sudden I saw these cutie pies come out for a swim. I jumped up and ran over to give them a pat. We loved hanging out with these big guys!

And we fell in love with the 14-week-old piglets! Seriously…how could you not!!! They were so well-behaved and knew more tricks than my puppy…sit, stay, come, heal. It was very impressive.

My girls got to swim with them

And give them some love.

We wanted to take them home with us!! The staff loves them so much and you can see the care that they take in keeping them healthy. I love that they never make the pigs do anything they don’t want to do. These adorable pigs have been raised here since birth. They are vet checked and cared for on the regular, and only given the cleanest diet. They are given plenty of love, sunshine, shade, and even sunscreen!

Since we had brought snorkel equipment to use at the condo, we decided to bring them. We had so much fun swimming around the coral reef and felt comforted that a guide was with us. We saw huge fan coral, tons of tropical fish, and lots of brain coral. We couldn’t get enough of it, and they didn’t rush us. They have snorkel equipment for all ages and they also provide life jackets. This is where we started our snorkeling adventure.

Lunch was served from 1:00-2:00. They had a buffet that served a variety of local cuisine such as barbecue chicken, peas and rice, vegetable pasta salad, hot dogs, garden salad, and fresh rolls. There was a beautiful view from the dining area. There were also lounge chairs if you’re too full to go too far…lol.

The Beach Bar had sweeping views of the water!

I enjoyed a frozen margarita…ok ok…I enjoyed three!

And my girls loved their frozen virgin Pina coladas.

I can’t believe how inexpensive it is to spend the day here!

$119 for adults and

$75 for children ages 4-12.

Tips for a perfect day

The island offers restrooms, changing rooms, and shower facilities.

There is a gift shop on the island.

Kayaks are available to rent for $15.

Tubes are available to rent for $10

You can purchase a bus transfer from your hotel.

Boat leaves daily at 10:00 from the Paradise Island Ferry Terminal.

Boat leaves Rose Island at 3:30 to take you back.

Get there early so you don’t have to rush like we did!

Take a cab across the bridge…NOT the water taxi because they only run when they’re full.

Guests should bring:

Towels

Sunscreen

Money (Cash, Visa, or Mastercards)

Swimsuit

Camera (waterproof camera is even better)

Give them a follow!

Website: http://www.bahamasbluelagoon.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DolphinEncounters/?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlueLagnIslnd

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluelagoonisland/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/BlueLagnIslnd/

A warm THANK YOU to Sandy Toes for having us as your guest. We had an incredible last day in the Bahamas and it was the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy all the sun, sand, and water that is so unique to your lovely island. I would recommend it to anyone visiting the Nassau area. As always, all experiences and opinions are 100% that of MyTravelingKids.com.

May 1, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

2024 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Show your appreciation for the special mothers in your life with heartfelt gifts that reflect their unique personalities. Whether she loves home decor, is a fashion-forward trendsetter, or is a wellness enthusiast, our selection of thoughtful gifts is sure to make her feel cherished. Let us help you find the perfect token of gratitude to honor the extraordinary women who make the world a brighter place. Enjoy our 2024 Mother’s Day Product Roundup!

Serucell

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

Everyone wants to have great skin, but in order to do that you need to develop a good morning and nighttime routine. Serucell serum is the perfect base product for both routines. When you add it, you will immediately see a difference. So what makes it so great? Billions of cells communicate with each other to produce collagen, peptides, proteins and growth factors to maintain healthy skin. But dehydration, stress, age, and other factors can hinder that communication, and you’re left with skin that can look dull, damaged, and dehydrated. Serucell’s KFS supports those layers to signal and rebuild. The bond between the layers grows stronger, helping your skin stay radiant and resilient. The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles reduced, skin tone and texture improved and smoother, skin is firmer, more radiant skin revealed.

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

KFS Cellular Protein Complex Serum

You know I am a firm believer in using serums during both my morning and evening skincare routine. I have been using this serum for 2 weeks now and I have already seen a drastic improvement in my skin. It feels firmer and fine lines have disappeared. I can’t wait to see what my skin is like after a month of using it. I’ll keep you updated.

GIVE THEM A FOLLOW!

WEBSITE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

Simple Painting

One of the most relaxing things to do when I’m stressed is pour a glass of red wine, light a candle, and do a craft. Simple Painting introduced me to a new craft that anyone (even me) can do…paint by numbers. Painting allows you to tune out negative thinking and allows you to spend peaceful time with yourself. They have so many projects you can choose from so there’s something for everyone. I love that you can choose your painting by project length (evening, weekend, one-week, multi-week). They give you everything you need to create your own work of art, so no excuses.

WHAT PRODUCT DID WE GET?

Delightful Flowers

What’s included? Numbered linen canvas, Numbered paint pots, Set of 3 brushes, Color guide.

Size: 16”x20”

Project Length: One-week project

WHY DO TRAVELERS LIKE THEM?

One of the coolest things you can do with Simple Painting is turn a photo of yours into a paint by number piece. Turn your travel memories into a unique piece of art.

WE ALL LOVE A DEAL!!

Use code Christine15 for 15% off

GIVE THEM A FOLLOW!

WEBSITE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

Diamond Candles

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

Everyone loves a good love story and this one is so romantic! David, their founder, had just bought an engagement ring with the intention of proposing to Brenda. Without anything to put the ring in, he bought a candle knowing how much she loved them. With the ring in one hand and the candle in the other, the idea for Diamond Candles was born.

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April 16, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

Creating Our Own Candle at Sky Candle Co

Creating Our Own Candle at Sky Candles Company

Boston, MA

At Sky Candle Co custom candle bar, you are able to create one of a kind candles and diffusers from over 50 fragrance choices! It is such a fun, unique experience that would be perfect for date night, a girls’ night, solo day, and more. Since there was no school that day, we turned it into a mother/daughter day in Boston. Creating our own candle at Sky Candle Co was a great experience to do with a teenager!

Let me show you how much fun we had!

First step was to smell all the scents they have on display and choose a few that you love. The choices were endless!

You can decide which scents (up to 3) you would like to have blended. After your scent is created, they give you a sample. If you think it’s perfect then you can move on but if it’s not quite right you can play around with it some more. The staff is super helpful at giving suggestions and helping you find an amazing blend. We ended up choosing Frosé, Currant, and Grapefruit Zest.

You can then create a label for your candle. My youngest daughter chose our name…lol.

Next, you get to choose your jar.

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February 12, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

40 Valentine Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! This is the perfect day to show someone you love them. Looking for something different than roses and a restaurant? This is a great year to be creative and try something new. There are many romantic things you can do together to make memories.

Here are 40 Valentine Date Ideas:

Fondue dinner at home

Plan your next trip

Online paint your own canvas class

Massage night

Go skiing

Do a guided meditation

Do a couple’s yoga class

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February 5, 2024 mytravelingkids.com

30 Valentine’s Gift Idea

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and we all need some pampering and displays of love from the special people around us. Is your gift going to remind them of a special memory you have, an inside joke, something flirty, something you can do together? Whatever it is, they will love that you took the time to think of them and show them you care. Need some inspiration? Here are 30 Valentine Gift Ideas…

Chocolate Roses

Madelaine Chocolate One Dozen Sweetheart Roses: Premium 1/2 OZ Solid Milk Chocolate Roses Wrapped in Italian Foils – Chocolate Flower Bouquet (Pink, 12 Pack) I like that the roses are separated so you can give it as a bouquet or spread them out.

100 Dates Scratch Off Poster

100 Dates Scratch Off Poster: creates fun and powerful memories; Fun Indoor and adventurous outdoors dates will make you step out of your comfort zone and bring you and your partner closer together. This cute couple gift will ensure that you keep things fresh whether you have been married for years or in a new relationship.

Music Box

VACTER Can’t Help Falling in Love Wood Music Box: High-quality hand-operated music box toys. It is small and you can put it in the palm of your hand. The surface of the box is hand carved.

Folded Book Art

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Hampton Inn & Suites

Photo Credit: Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth NH

Hampton Inn & Suites

Portsmouth, NH

Every year the holiday season seems to get more and more hectic. After a fun, energetic last two months, I thought it would be the perfect time to take a step back and have some one-on-one time with my youngest daughter. We wanted to relax, eat some good meals, shop in small boutiques, and spend some time in a pool. We decided to head to Portsmouth, one of our favorite New Hampshire towns. Portsmouth, is a charming destination that blends history, culture, and coastal beauty. It holds a special place in my heart since my husband and I were married there and we have so many fond memories attached to it. I love bringing our daughters there and reminiscing. We chose Hampton Inn & Suites as our home base for two nights, and it was a fabulous choice!

Such a pretty lobby

It was freezing outside, so the cozy couches surrounding the fireplace was a welcomed sight.

There are many personal touches in the lobby that help create a comfortable atmosphere. There was an area serving water, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate throughout the day. (In the evening they even put out a selection of cookies, which was a nice treat.) There are places to sit and relax and also spots to have meetings and get work done. Unlike some hotels where people simply walk through the lobby, here people feel comfortable gathering and utilizing the space to eat, read, and work.

This wall was one of my favorites!

Let me show you around our room.

But first, can we talk about how cute these room number plaques are? Each room has a different New England scene.

We stayed in room 534 a

Two Queens Room

Our room had two comfortable queen beds and the pillows were amazing. There was a flat-screen tv, a coffeemaker, an ironing board and iron. The free Wi-Fi worked really well and we never had any problems with it.

The room had a beautiful piece of furniture that contained three spacious drawers, and plenty of counter space. It also had a movable desk that was a great place to get some work done while I was here.

The room had a mini refrigerator so you can store snacks and beverages. It also had a microwave.

The room had modern decor while still paying homage to the nautical history of Portsmouth. The artwork included popular sights such as Memorial Bridge, downtown, and the local fishing boats..

Our bathroom was large and the shower had lots of water pressure, which is always a plus.

It also had full size shower amenities of Zero% Collection toiletries, which smelled lovely.

After checking in and unpacking, we walked next door to Stroll, a cafe that has it all…coffee, wine, and tasty treats. Grab their famous Stroll Maple Latte before exploring Portsmouth.

We couldn’t wait for dinner since we were heading to a restaurant that had been on the top of my list for months!

Rooftop at the Envio

Only a five-minute walk from the hotel, Rooftop at the Envio is perched high above the AC Hotel Portsmouth. It is a picturesque rooftop bar and restaurant featuring signature hand crafted cocktails, craft beers and an eclectic seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients fresh from the farm and sea. Guests are invited to dine in this casually sophisticated indoor/outdoor sanctuary while taking in panoramic waterfront views of the Piscataqua River and the iconic bridges that cross it. Take a peek at their menu. I can’t wait to return this summer to sit outside and enjoy the sunset as we dine.

I started with a wonderful cocktail called a Chai Chai Again. It had Smirnoff Vanilla, cold brew, and chai simple.

For an appetizer we had the Cheese and Crostini, with French Bread, Lavender Goat Cheese, Granny Smith, Maple Reduction.

For my main course, I enjoyed the Cast Iron Pepper Seared Manhattan Sirloin, with Aged Manhattan Sirloin, Rainbow Peppercorns, Wild Mushroom Demi-Glace, Rosemary & Gorgonzola.

My daughter has the Lobster Mac & Cheese, with Fresh Maine Lobster, Pipette Pasta, Aged Cheddar Cream, Cask Sherry, Onion Chives, Buttered Crumbs, Roasted Winter Vegetables.

And finally, as if we needed anything else, we couldn’t resist the Spiced Apple Cider Sorbet, with Cold Fusion Apple Cider Sorbet, Angel Food Cake, Maldon Salted Caramel.

Want a real treat? Reserve one of their Fire & Ice Igloos!

Fitness Center

After that amazing meal last night, We decided to start our day in the gym. The hotel has a fitness center with cardio, strength and balance equipment.

Time for Breakfast

breakfast at Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth NH

Photo Credit: Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth NH

Our workout left us starving so we headed downstairs to get some breakfast. They serve a complimentary breakfast that consisted of waffles, French toast, eggs, sausage, pastries, fruit, oatmeal, and more.

Amazing Location!

Located an hour from both Boston and Portland, Portsmouth is a great choice for a getaway. The Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown is situated in the perfect location for tons of fun activities. There is so much within walking distance: adorable boutiques to do some shopping, delicious restaurants, museums, theaters, and fun nightlife. You are only a few miles from Maine and the seacoast with several stunning beaches.

What could you do in the area?

Strawberry Banke

Isles of Shoals Steamship Company

The Seacoast Repertory Theatre

Portsmouth Music Hall

Water Country

Prescott Park

Seacoast Science Center

USS Albacore

Children’s Museum of NH

Odiorne State Park

Downtown Portsmouth/ Market Square

Feel like heading to the beach?

Jeness State Beach (1 mile away)

North Hampton State Beach (3 miles away)

Wallis Sands (1 mile away)

Check out these amazing things to do!

Islands & Harbor Bike Tour Best & Must See Sites of Portsmouth & New Castle 2-hr

Tea Blending Class

Gardens of Portsmouth Walking Tour

Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth

Pool Time!

We decided to end our afternoon by relaxing in the heated indoor salt water pool. We love the opportunity to go for a swim in the middle of winter and this pool was such a nice treat!

Where do you fly in to?

The closest airport is Manchester (MHT) (35 mi).

Another nearby airport is Portland (PWM) (45 mi).

And finally, Boston Logan Intl (BOS) (55 mi).

CLICK HERE TO FIND AN AMAZING FLIGHT!

Who would I recommend it to?

The hotel is casual and welcoming and is the perfect place to stay with families. Since there are many romantic things to do in the area, it would be a lovely place to stay for a couple’s getaway. The number of spas, restaurants, and bars would make it a fun place to spend a girls’ weekend.

Restaurants in the area

There are so many amazing restaurants in Portsmouth. It is quite the foodie’s town! Here are some of my favorites:

Surf Portsmouth

Row 34

Cure

The Franklin

Moxie

Flatbread Company

The Friendly Toast

Black Trumpet

Tips for Planning your Stay

Parking: There is no self-parking on-site. There is valet parking for $40

There are also parking garages in the area.

Check-in: 4:00 Check-out: 11:00

There is a 24-hour front desk.

HAMPTON INN & SUITES DOWNTOWN

23 Portwalk Pl, Portsmouth, NH 03801

(603) 430-3033

CLICK HERE TO GET TO THEIR WEBSITE

A warm thank you to the Hampton Inn & Suites for having my daughters and I as your guests. It was the perfect place to relax and have a mother/daughter getaway. The staff was kind and welcoming and will be one of the reasons we will return. As always, all experiences and opinions are 100% of MyTravelingKids.com.

November 18, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Arts & Crafts Holiday Gift Guide

Embrace the enchanting allure of the holiday season with our Christmas Arts & Craft Kit Gift Guide, where creativity meets festive cheer! The joy of giving takes center stage as we dive into a curated selection of craft kits that promise to turn this Christmas into a celebration of handmade wonders. Whether you’re an arts and crafts enthusiast or a novice looking to infuse a personalized touch into your gift-giving, these kits are your ticket to creating cherished memories and spreading holiday happiness. Enjoy our 2023 Arts & Crafts Holiday Gift Guide!

The Crafter’s Box

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

The Crafter’s Box wishes to deliver a joyful crafting experience by providing all the tools, materials, and expert instruction you need to create artisan-level projects that inspire and fulfill the creative spirit. They source the best artist instructors, high-quality tools, and materials so that you can count on the products you receive from them to build something beautiful. The process of making creates deep connections, helps us enhance our problem-solving skills, and find joy by taking time to slow down for meaningful and fulfilling activities. They are a small business supporting other small businesses, artists, and craftspersons. With every workshop they create, they make an honest effort to source project assets from local and small businesses with quality, uniqueness, and sustainability in mind

WHAT WORKSHOPS DO WE LOVE?

Acrylic Gouache Painting on S’well Water Bottles Workshop

In this workshop, watercolor instructor Cara Rosalie Olsen discusses color theory, technique, and composition before guiding you in painting delicate florals on a stainless steel S’well water bottle. As you paint, Cara encourages you to do so with a ‘gestural approach’ to capture the essence of a flower without getting too caught up in the details.

DIFFICULTY: Intermediate

MAKE TIME: A Weekend

What was included in the kit?

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November 15, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide

We all deserve moments of rejuvenation and self-indulgence, and what better way to show yourself or a loved one some appreciation than through thoughtful self-care gifts? Whether you’re searching for ways to relax, destress, or simply pamper yourself, our self-care gift guide is here to help you discover a curated selection of products and ideas that will nurture the body, mind, and soul. Enjoy our 2023 Self-Care Holiday Gift Guide!

Evolv

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Evolv delivers biology-driven, science-based, high-performance products using natural and organic ingredients—for transformative visible results in all hair types. Their products produce visible results you can see and feel. Every product in the line does multiple jobs, and is highly effective. Experience EVOLVh – and you too will describe your hair as revitalized, renewed, restored, youthful, vibrant, soft, and manageable.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

SmartColor Protecting Shampoo

This ultra-protective, anti-fade shampoo keeps color in and impurities out. Its breakthrough color-preserving formula gently cleanses, while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and other color treatments for hair that’s healthy, shiny, and vibrant. It’s a smart investment for your color—and your wallet.

SmartColor Protecting Conditioner

This innovative, color-preserving, and reparative formula deep conditions while targeted amino acids strengthen and protect against damaging dyes and treatments. Sublime hydration leaves hair soft, smooth, and shiny—with vibrant color that lasts.

UltraShine Moisture Shampoo

Their weightless color-safe shampoo gently cleanses with sulfate-free, non-stripping ingredients—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands for visibly stronger, smoother hair, and amplified shine from root to tip.

Ultrashine Moisture Conditioner

Their bestselling conditioner transforms dull, drab tresses into hair that’s free of frizz and full of shine—infusing nourishing antioxidants plus amino and fatty acids into strands to hydrate and detangle without weighing them down. Rinse out for a smooth, silky sheen you need to see to believe.

Ultimate Styling Lotion

A lightweight do-it-all styling lotion with medium hold. It smooths strands, defines curls into bouncy ringlets, eliminates frizz, boosts shine, and keeps it all together with buildable hold minus the crunch. All with heat & UV protection to boot.

SmartStart Leave-In Conditioner

A foundational step in your EVOLVh routine after shampooing and conditioning, this bestselling leave-in helps close the cuticle for brilliant shine and maximum smoothness. Plus, it nourishes and strengthens strands with plant-powered ingredients, while defending against damaging heat & UV rays.

Protect Your Color Discovery Kit

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November 13, 2023 mytravelingkids.com

2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide

Whether you’re shopping for the perfect present or just looking to treat yourself, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure trove of delicious discoveries. From cozy coffee blends that’ll have you bouncing out of bed, to teas that will comfort you on chilly nights, to unique cocktails you can share with friends, we’ve got your cravings covered. Here is our 2023 Beverage Holiday Gift Guide. Cheers!

Mouth

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

If you’re looking for a gift basket, Mouth has so many options for you. Some boxes are all about pickles, wellness, snacks, charcuterie, and more. I love that you can shop for your basket by region, diet, or occasion. They also have a great subscription box service so you can keep giving month after month!. Everything at Mouth is made in small-batches by makers from across the U.S. They’re passionate about telling their inspiring stories, bringing their Mouthwatering products to you and helping their small businesses (and your appetite) grow.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Cozy Cocktail Kit

Upgrade your bar cart to capture the best flavors of fall and celebrate the changing of seasons. Our hand-picked selection brings warmth, spice, and everything nice to your standard supply of spirits. Transform that old fashioned with a dash of apple blossom bitters, enhance that Moscow mule with the tartness of pomegranate, and add festive flair to your mocktails with a little Cranberry 5 Spice. These mixers are a must-have addition to any festive feast you have planned. Bottoms up! The ideal gift for a hostess-with-the-mostess, a bar-cart connoisseur, and lovers of libations.

WHO DOESN’T LIKE A SPECIAL DEAL? ENJOY!

Take a peek at their website. When I wrote this, there was a deal: Get 15% off when you join their mailing list. (Offer not valid if it’s not currently on their website.)

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Kolkata Chai

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

Kolkata Chai uses the same CTC Black Assam tea that’s used by chaiwallahs across India. Organically sourced from legacy tea estates, it brings that authentic, street-style chai flavor while being a better-for-you source of caffeine. Their kit comes with instructions and is easy to make in 5-7 minutes. Welcome to your new favorite drink!

They have the most amazing recipes on their blog. They have recipes for everything from desserts to oatmeal to iced drinks. Take a peek.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

Signature Masala Chai Mix

Their Signature Masala Chai mix delivers a bold, delicious cup of tea. Each packet contains 100% Organic Assam tea with generous amounts of whole cardamom, cinnamon, and spices.

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