Philadelphia Freedom & Giveaway

There are moments in life when I have to pinch myself, real hard. Because at times, I wouldn't believe the experience before me, without a short sharp shock to the senses. Today, standing in Louise Fulton Keats' lounge room, I felt so privileged for the wonderful opportunity I was participating in. Louise is the granddaughter of cookbook legend (and one of my cooking idols) Margaret Fulton. Louise, a talented cook and author of the beautiful children's book 'My Grandma's Kitchen', opened her home to myself, my boys and a collection of other lucky bloggers. Then, went on to share some absolutely divine recipes, using one of my baking favourites, Philadelphia cream cheese. Oh, this invite had my name written all over it.

Louise's passion for good food and healthy options when it comes to preparing snacks and meals for children, is so very evident in the recipes she shared with us. All amazingly simple, yet exceptionally tasty and filled with the kind of ingredients we can happily gobble more of... without the guilt. Sonia from Love, Life & Hiccups offered up two of her gorgeous boys as assistants in the preparation of carrot cupcakes, which was a treat to watch. In fact, the whole morning was a treat for the kidlets, who were welcomed with open arms and made to feel so at home the entire time we were there.

My personal highlights for the day though, firstly, meeting the incredible Margaret Fulton herself. My, I was just a wee bit in awe of this lovely lady. We even shared a hug and a couple of photos that I will treasure forever. With Louise, her Mum and her grandma present, it felt quite the family affair. Secondly, tasting a piece of Margaret's mouthwatering Bistro Cheesecake, also created a lifelong memory for me. So spectacular, it needs to be seen and tried to be believed. And finally, meeting a special group of friendly, funny, inspiring women. Such an enriching morning to be a part of and I am ever so grateful to Louise and Kraft Philadelphia for the invitation and making it all possible.

But the most exciting part I've left to the end. I have five Philadelphia prize packs to offer five of my delightful followers. Each contains a copy of 'Simply Heaven Volume 2... another 75 reasons to use Philadelphia' AND a $7.00 Woolworths gift card... which just so happens to be enough for two philly products.

To win one of the five packs:

• Please leave a comment on this post sharing your favourite recipe/use for Philly cream cheese or related Philadelphia products
• The five best will be chosen by yours truly to win a pack
• Offer available to new and old followers
• Only Australian residents may enter... apologies to my overseas contingent
• Winners will be drawn and announced on Friday 30th December

I also took home some Philadelphia goodies; 'Simply Heaven Vol 2... another 75 reasons to use Philadelphia' AND a signed personalised copy of 'My Grandma's Kitchen' by Louise Fulton Keats, for my boys. I cannot. wait. to sink my teeth into some of those delightful recipes from both books and no doubt share them right here. Thank you Louise, Peta, Margaret and everyone involved with today.