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Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Wild Child CD Review + {Giveaway – Ends 9/12} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner listed below. Wild Child

Lyrical songs, African rhythms, and the voices of nature create environmental awareness for kids. That’s what the Wild Child CD is all about. This CD is the newest “Celebrate Earth” CD from Recess Music. This is a fun, energetic children’s music CD that your family will love.

ST. PAUL, MN (June 16, 2011)Recess Music, a company that strives to awaken kids to the magnificence of our planet through albums of earth-friendly music, looks forward to the August 16 release of Wild Child, the fourth in its award-winning “Celebrate Earth” series of CDs.   Singing the praises of Africa fauna, the 14 tracks of Wild Child showcase musical contributions by a sampling of today’s most gifted kids’ musicians, including Jack Grunsky, Anna Moo, and Danny Adlerman.

Notes Recess Music’s founder, Nancy Doan, “Of all the creatures on Earth, the animals of Africa are some of the most threatened in our world.  When I think of the children of future generations, I’m struck by how sad it will be if they never have the possibility of seeing an elephant or a tiger or a hippo in its natural habitat.  I believe that Mother Nature intended for ALL of Earth's inhabitants to share our green planet with one another.”

Wild Child opens with “Earth Lullaby,” featuring the beautiful voice of Kathy Lowe accompanied by African drums, chorus, electric guitar and bass, and continues with a gospel-tinged celebration of the Serengeti plain by the team of Aaron Glassman and Andrew Spence. Penelope Torribio gently captures the delicate beauty of a fragile environment as she sings “Rainforest By Morning.”  Exotic birdcalls at the song’s conclusion create a smooth transition to Jack Grunsky’s relaxed, Caribbean styled “Sunrise In The Jungle.”  The African day builds momentum with Ed Jordan and Alan Glass offering delightfully catchy rhymes about “Rita, the Cheetah.”  More animal calls announce the South African sounds of Danny Adlerman singing “Africa Calling,” and Anna Moo poses some provocative questions in her exotic, “Mysteries Of The Nile.” The African experience continues with evocative selections by Birdie’s Playhouse, KimmySchwimmy, Melita Doostan, Wayne From Maine, and Aaron Burnett. At the album’s close, Cosima offers a taste of authentic African language in “Thula Baba,” with Tish Steinfeld settling listeners down for the evening in “Full Moon Over Africa.”

While experiencing a multi-faceted life as a mother, wife, and minister, Nancy Doan became convinced of the need to make the world a better place through a two-fold approach: sustaining our environment and teaching kindness.  Because music held a prominent place in both her own childhood and her experiences as a mother, Nancy developed an appreciation of the power of music as an educational tool.  When the onset of systemic lupus erythematosus dictated a career change, she cast about for a way to continue to serve the causes to which she had dedicated her life.  This search ultimately led to the creation of Recess Music, a company dedicated to the twin goals of environmental awareness and social empathy.
Fulfilling its declared mission of entertaining, encouraging, and educating children and families about the wonders of our planet, Recess Music has previously released three albums in the “Celebrate Earth” series, beginning with Celebrate Earth in spring 2010. Growing Veggie Soup followed, with songs chosen for their focus on gardening and sustainable farming practices. The music of Ocean Motion, the award-winning third installment of the “Celebrate Earth” music series, is dedicated to the understanding and preservation of the world’s ocean life and its habitats.

Coming next from Recess Music, in fall 2011, will be U R Some 1, the second in the company’s “Best Foot Forward” series of albums dedicated to helping kids value a world that is wise, fair, and generous hearted.
Wild Child will be available online at www.recessmusic.com, amazon.com and its international affiliates, iTunes, and brick and mortar retailers throughout the U.S.
This is a unique addition to my son’s growing CD collection. Instead of being too cutesy and kiddy, it’s a great CD with music that is a little different. Different in a great way! I think you and your family will appreciate Wild Child.

The Wild Child CD is great for kids ages 4-12. And you can buy it at www.recessmusic.com or amazon.com. I also have one copy of Wild Child to giveaway. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below.


*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this CD for review. All opinions are my own.*

Sunday, August 28, 2011

NOVICA Review

novica

If you’re looking for a truly unique gift, be sure to check out NOVICA. They work in associate with National Geographic to give talented artisans around the world a place to express their artistic talents and provide access to the world market. They have thousands of jewelry, unique gifts and home decor on their website.

I am lucky that my husband has had opportunity to travel to Africa several times as part of a missions team from our church. Each time he’s brought home some really fun, unique items that he purchases from local crafters there. We have several African drums and instruments, wood carved figures and jewelry all hand made right there. What NOVICA does is take those things from other countries and make them available to us online. They are supporting small crafters through this, and giving the common person access to really fun, unique items.

NOVICA has a new site called NOVICA Live that uses people like you to host parties for your friends to purchase items. It’s similar to other home party businesses. You can be a consultant and make a little money selling these neat products to your friends and family. Or you can order from a show.

You can find anything from Silk scarves to Silver Cross Necklaces on NOVICA. I received a gift card to choose something from there site. There are so many items to pick from. It was really hard to decide. You can look by country that the goods came from, particular objects, or gift ideas.

I finally settled on a Christmas present for my mom. I am getting one of the Silver Charm Bracelets. I think she will really like the Pearl Charm Bracelet from India that I chose. (The picture is shown above.) I can’t wait to get it and give it to her.

If you look at the NOVICA website, it won’t take you long to find something you like. And if you decide to take advantage of the new NOVICA Live opportunity, be sure to list my blog as how you heard about it. (I’ll get a gift card in return.) You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter. Look no further for a unique gift for even those hard to buy for people. NOVICA has just the thing for you.


*Disclaimer: I received a gift card to purchase an item for this review. All opinions are my own.*

The Dirty Sock Fun Time Band CD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/11} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below. Dirty Sock Fun Time Band1

Dirty socks and music? Yep, sounds like a fun children’s music group. You have to check out the Dirty Sock Fun Time Band’s Sock-a-Delic CD. If your child has watched “Jack’s Big Music Show” on Nick Jr., they may already know who these guys are. So rock your socks off and have a little fun!

Dirty Sock Fun Time Band2
NEW YORK, NY (June 10, 2011) –Beloved by millions of families for their high-energy music videos on the Nick Jr. channel’s Jack’s Big Music Show, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band’s Sock-A-Delic CD and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD showcase the band’s “We show kids that they rock” spirit.

The outrageous popularity of The Dirty Sock Funtime Band is easy to understand from a kids’ point of view, for their shows are interactive spectacles involving rock band, dancers, comedy, and costumes.  The band’s six-to-eight members really know how to fill the stage with action: it’s better than a three-ring circus. Each member has his or her own role to play and distinctive personality to project, but they all come together like clockwork.  And what a sound!  Their music is polyphonic to the max with melodic lines and supercharged rhythms weaving in and out like a great Dixieland band with everyone wailing on the final chorus.  The action onstage is as fascinating as a perfectly timed basketball team. The stunning impact of this stage energy is balanced by the cleverness of the compositions and the smartness of lyrics that offer large words and large ideas, all seasoned with the band’s own brand of belly laugh comedy.  The singing, the comedy, the playing, the dancing … it all fits together into one big kaleidoscopic thrill.

That same “total entertainment” concept of The Dirty Sock Funtime Band’s live shows comes through loud and clear on the band’s CDs and music videos. Both their Sock-A-Delic CD and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD inhabit a world where anything can happen. Timing is everything for this band, and the timing of the humor and the smartness of the lyrics are only surpassed by the first rate quality of their singing and playing.  It seems The Dirty Sock Funtime Band must have a pipeline straight to the cleverest part of a kid’s brain. With an effortless vivacity, the group romps through every style from country and western to funk, rock, and beyond on Sock-A-DelicThe Dirty SockFuntime Band DVD combines live action comedy, animated videos, and puppetry, plus interactive dance-a-longs and sing-a-longs, to capture and maintain kids’ interest. The DVD is filled with a stunning array of music videos and also includes three pilot episodes for TheDirty Sock Funtime Band TV series.

Known as the highest energy kids’ rock band ever to break out of NYC, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band was voted “Best Kids’ Band” by readers of Time Out NY Kids. According to MTV’s Evan James, the DSFB plays “some of the most innovative and exciting children’s music EVER.”  CNN described them as “distinguished by rocking beats combined with silly, visual lyrics (think Muppets take MTV).”  FOX News declared, “Find out why kids, parents and critics alike are falling in love with the first real rock band for kids.”  Chris Barron, proud parent and lead singer of the Spin Doctors enthused, “Finally, a rock band for kids that really rocks!”

The Dirty Sock Funtime Band recently returned from their first overseas tour, performing for Navy families in Bahrain, Greece, Italy, and Spain, and they have shows scheduled throughout the summer and fall. The band’s next release, in fall 2011, will be an interactive e-book based on their song “Treasure.”  November 2011 will see the release of an all-new studio CD.

Sock-A-Delic and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD previously received “soft” releases. Sock-A-Delic is now available online atwww.dirtysockfuntimeband.com, amazon.com, and itunes.  The Dirty Sock Funtime Band DVD is available exclusively at www.dirtysockfuntimeband.com.


Dirty Sock Fun Time Band3

My son has seen this band on “Jack’s Big Music Show”. It’s always fun to get a CD from a group that you’re already familiar with. The CD is fun and energetic. And they also have a DVD, so your child can join in the dance moves and groove with the music.

The Dirty Sock Fun Time Band: Sock-a-Delic CD is perfect for children ages 2-8 years old. It sells for about $9.99, and the runtime is about 39 minutes. You can find the CD from their website -http://www.dirtysockfuntimeband.com/. And I have one copy of the CD to giveaway! Just enter in the Rafflecopter form below.


*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this CD for review. All opinions are my own.*

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Crystal Light Mocktails Review

Crystal Light

I found a great summer drink that is sure to be a great-tasting low-calorie drink. Crystal Light Mocktails are here for the summer. They are a refreshing drink that you can have without the guilt.

Crystal Light Mocktails are a low-calorie drink mix available for a limited time in Margarita, Mojito and Appletini flavors.  With just 5 calories per serving, they offer all the flavor of your favorite summertime beverage, without the compromise on calories.  New Mocktails easily mix up the perfect pitcher without the hassle of muddling limes, blending ice or using a cocktail strainer.  Just add water, mix it up and toast to summertime! 
Crystal Light Mocktails hit store shelves nationwide for a limited time in late May 2011, giving women a new reason to love summer! 
More about Crystal Light Mocktails· Contains just 5 calories per 8 fl. oz. serving, compared to leading beverages*
· Contains 0 carbohydrates per 8 fl. oz. serving
· Sweetened with a blend of non-nutritive sweeteners
· Gluten free
· Available in multi-serve canisters with five 2-quart packets so there is always enough to share 
* Leading beverages contain 70 calories








I got the chance to try the Appletini Crystal Light Mocktail. It had a great flavor- apple, sweet, and a little tartness to balance it out. It was easy to take one packet and mix it in a pitcher with water. Then you just pour and serve. This is an easy drink to have on hand for an outdoor barbecue or just a day when you have unexpected company.

I like that Kraft has several varieties of the Crystal Light Mocktail. The other two flavors, Margarita and Mojito, sound good too! They are great summer flavors. I think they would be good year round too.

Don’t miss out on this fun summertime drink. The Crystal Light Mocktails won’t be in stores for much longer! You can also find them in a few places online too.


*Disclaimer: I received a sample of Crystal Light Mocktails from Kraft Foods. All opinions are my own.*

Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD Review + {Giveaway – Ends 9/10} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner listed below. Bob the Builder The Big Dino Dig
Bob, building, digging, dirt and dinosaurs. Sounds like a great combination for most little kids. Get down and dirty with Bob the Builder in the Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD.

Program Description
Ready for a “dino”-mite new adventure? Bob and the Can-Do crew star in an all-new Jurassic-sized adventure, Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie, coming ONLY to DVD, Digital Download and ON Demand June 24, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Always on the job with a smile and a can-do attitude, Bob, Scoop, Dizzy – along with new team member Rubble – tackle every project with the power of positive thinking, problem solving, cooperation and follow-through. From start to finish, these hard workers prove the fun is in getting it done!

 Bob the Builder has paired with another building icon – LEGOLAND – to promote the DVD movie premiere. As part of a national promotion with LEGOLAND, each Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD includes a coupon for a free Child Ticket with paid Adult Ticker to any LEGOLAND attraction. In addition, the DVD includes a special offer for a free child’s admission to SplashDown Beach waterpark in Fishkill, New York featuring the new attraction, Bob the Builder Splash Works.

DVD Synopsis
Grab your shovels and join the fun as Bob the Builder and his terrific team dig up ancient surprises in this all-new movie. A new truck named Rubble joins the Can-Do Crew to help build an enormous amusement park, but when things get difficult with seagulls and impossible lumps, it’s up to the team to work together to finish the job, unearthing some prehistoric dinosaur bones along the way. Hold on to your hard hat for a roller coaster ride of thrills, discovery and fun!

DVD Bonus Features
* “Diggin It Up” Music Video Dinosaurs have been all the rage with young kids in the past few years.


I think putting Bob the Builder together with dinosaurs in a full-length movie for preschools is a great thing. They will enjoy the fun and adventure of digging for dinosaurs while seeing Bob and the crew had at work. Teamwork and learning how to function together are good lessons for us all. My son enjoyed this movie with a great story line.

 The Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD is geared towards children ages 2-5 years old and it runs about 61 minutes. I think it’s the perfect length for young ones that age. You won’t want to miss the fun! You can find Bob the Builder: the Big Dino Dig The Movie DVD in stores and online now. And you can enter to win a copy in the Rafflecopter form below!




*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this DVD for my review. All opinions are my own.*

Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls DVD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/10} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner below. Angelina Ballerina Pop Star Girls

Dancing and singing go hand in hand. When Angelina Ballerina is around, you can be sure she’ll be part of that action too. Your kids will love the energy and happiness that is in the Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls DVD.

Program Description
It’s Showtime! Join beloved mouseling Angelina Ballerina and her friends as they star in an all-new, show-stopping spectacle full of fun, friendship and dance when Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls comes to DVD, Digital Download and On Demand June 7, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Just like all aspiring stars, Angelina and her friends are always ready to dance and have a good time! When kids share in Angelina’s experiences, they’re inspired to go after their big dreams too.

DVD Synopsis
Get ready to get your groove on because it’s showtime with Angelina and her friends! While all the dancers learn to work together, Angelina realizes she loves Hip Hop, rock bands, fiddles and more! Move and groove along with Angelina as she directs a Hip Hop musical and discovers she was born to be a star. The whole family will be star-struck with delight as Angelina steps it up in her best performance yet.

Episodes * “Angelina’s Crazy Solo”
* “Angelina’s Rock Band”
* “Angelina’s Hip Hop Boys Show”
* “Angelina and the Giant”
* “Angelina and the Broken Fiddle”

DVD Bonus Features
* “Dancing Star” Memory Game


Angelina Ballerina isn’t just for girls either. In our house, she’s a pretty cool mouse. My son has always enjoyed her videos just as much as others. He likes the music and dancing most of all. There are many fun episodes with both of those things in them on this new DVD.

Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls is perfect for the little preschoolers in your life. They will enjoy the variety of music and dancing this video features. It’s not just about ballet. Angelina discovers other types of music and dancing that she and her friends enjoy. The DVD is targeted at children ages 2-7 and runs about 61 minutes long. You can purchase the Angelina Ballerina: Pop Star Girls DVD in stores and online now. And I have one copy to giveaway too. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!


*Disclaimer: I received this DVD to review. All opinions are my own.*



TracFone

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TracFone for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Is your cell phone plan getting a little outrageous with the kids using yours all summer? I'm sure they want to keep in touch with their friends while they are out of school, but all those calls and texts can add up fast. A simple and easy way to let them do this is with TracFone. They can have their own prepaid minutes that they are using, which is much cheaper than running your cell phone bill up all the time.

Having a cell phone is a great way to keep your children safe too. You might want them to have a phone in emergencies. Or maybe, like us, you don't have a home phone. So when you're away from home, they will need a phone in case they need to call you. TracFone will fit all those needs with little cost.

TracFone is the least expensive cell phone to own in the US. They won't make you sign a contract or check your credit. And there are no activation or cancelation fees. You just purchase one and use it right away. Use it a little, use it a lot, it really doesn't matter. You'll still get great national coverage and good reception for calls. And they have a variety of phones from big manufacturers that you can choose from, like Motorola, Kyocera, LG, Nokia and more. There are simple phones for under $10 that have calling and texting capabilities. And you can get phones with so many features for $29.99.

There are several plan options, which include, pay as you go, 1 year service cards, and more. You can purchase double minutes for the life of your phone with a simple fee (and some phones already include this), and you will find monthly plans with 200 minutes for under $30 and as low as $9.99 for 50 minutes.

We have a TracFone at our house for those rare occasions that neither my husband nor I are home. We don't have a home phone, so we want to make sure that there is a phone for the babysitter and our son to use. I was away last week for a day when Matt had to work. We hired a girl in our neighborhood to come over. She was able to use our TracFone to text with simple questions, and it was there if she needed to call in an emergency. Plus we had the peace of mind that they had that lifeline if needed.

There is more information about TracFone from real TracFone customers like me. And these other real TracFone customers tell you what they think too.

 

Visit Sponsor's Site

Thursday, August 25, 2011

PCPools.com

Summer is full of fun activities. Top of our list is swimming. Some years we’re able to get out and swim more than other years. Unfortunately we haven’t been able to go swimming as much this year. I sure wish we knew someone close by with a big pool.

I’ve always wanted to have a pool. Our property used to have a pool. There is electrical hookup, and you could still see where the pool sat when we bought our house. The pool had already been removed. We decided not to put the money and time into a pool for now.

With a website like PCpools.com I could see that finding products for pools would be so much easier. They have everything from fun floats to chemicals for maintaining a pool. You can find a heater to use our pool longer into the fall or solar pool covers to help as well.

I’m not sure I’ll ever have a pool, but if you do I’ll be there. Just make sure that you locate not too far from me. Thanks!


*This post was brought to you by your friends at pcpools.com.*

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Roary the Racing Car DVD Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/8} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below. Roary the Racing Car

You’ve seen him on Sprout television. You’ve seen him in bonus material on Thomas, Bob and Barney DVDs. But now, for the first time ever, you’ll see him in his own Brand-New DVD. Yes, that’s right, it’s Roary the Racing Car in his own DVD. Your kids will want to race right out and join in the fun!


Program Description
Get revved up for the red hot preschool star, Roary the Racing Car, speeding onto his very first DVD, Digital Download and On Demand release June 7, 2011 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. You have a front row ticket to Silver Hatch Racetrack to delight in the high-speed adventures of Roary, Dragga, Zizzy and Lugga, along with human pals Big Chris, Marsha, Officer Pete…and even curmudgeonly Mr. Carburettor, as they drive through lessons in doing the right thing, staying positive, helping others, staying safe, problem solving and friendship. With boundless enthusiasm and a get-up-and-go attitude, Roary is ready to race right into your heart!

Narrated in the U.S. by Indy and NASCAR racer Sam Hornish Jr., Roary the Racing Car launched on Sprout in October of 2008, airing in 54MM homes 7 days a week, but the premiere DVD has a treat for their fans featuring episodes never-before-seen on TV! This red hot engine ha performed notably well on Sprout on Demand, on average ranking in the network’s top 10 programs requested. Roary has been cross promoted on 2MM preschool DVDs, and all-new Roary toys are now available exclusively at Toys “R” Us!

Synopsis
Start your engines for fun and excitement with Roary the Racing Car and his racetrack buddies, Tin Top, Zizzy, Dragga and mischievous Maxi, as they zoom into exciting high-speed adventures. The racetrack becomes a pit stop of great times as everyone goes the extra mile for Marsha’s birthday party, Big Chris becomes a babysitter and Rusty is on a roll…without wheels! Put your pedal to the metal and buckle up for big-time fun from START to FINISH!

Episodes include:
* “Stars and Cars”  - Big Christ has been incited to appear on a TV karaoke show. The cars are worried that the success will go to his head and he’ll leave Silver Hatch forever.
* “Rusty Takes a Trip” – Rusty is fed up with sitting in one place. Roary and the other cars plan a special surprise for him, but Rusty soon decides he prefers life without wheels!
* “Big Chris Babysits” – Big Chris has been left in charge of the track and keeping an eye on Roary and Zizzy. But is Big Chris the one that needs looking after?
* “Roary Gets It Wrong” – Farmer Green has given Roary lots of packages to deliver to everybody around the track. How will Roary remember which package belongs to who?
* “Computer Calamity” – Mr. Carburettor has decided that Silver Hatch needs to move with the times and do everything with computers. But Big Chris is a traditional mechanic, so what happens when the two disagree?
* “Big Chris Forgets” – It’s Marsha’s birthday, and Big Chris is in charge of organizing a surprise for her. Why does everybody keep reminding him what he needs to do? He wouldn’t forget anything…would he?!

DVD Bonus Features
* “Roary’s Day at the Seaside” Music Video


We were excited to see Roary finally have his DVD. My son has enjoyed his videos as bonus episodes on other DVDs that he has. And the narrator, Sam Hornish Jr., in Roary the Racing Car is from my hometown area. I think Roary is a fun character that little kids will love. Preschoolers love cars and this fits that perfectly. They will love the great new characters on the Roary the Racing Car DVD.

The Roary the Racing Car DVD is made for children ages 2-5 years old. This is a great show for the preschool crowd. The DVD runs about 55 minutes long. You can check out more about Roary at www.roarytheracingcar.com. The Roary the Racing Car DVD is available in stores and online. I have one copy to give away. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below.



*Disclaimer: I received this DVD for my review. All opinions are my own.*



The Bar Method Pregnancy Workout DVD + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/7} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below! bar method2 Pregnancy Workout DVD
Master teacher Lee Potter in her third trimester with twins adds her own special wit and playfulness to the Bar Method’s pre-natal workout, a long-standing and popular class at its flagship studio in San Francisco. Lee leads you through this 45-minute long series of gentle, safe and challenging moves, including free-weight work, thigh exercises, standing seat-work, and abdominal strengthening exercises performed while propped up on pillows. Lee’s fellow performers are Hannah Blue, co-owner of the Downtown San Francisco studio and Lauren Dunning, a teacher at the Downtown San Francisco studio, both appearing in this DVD in their second trimester. As Lee puts it, this DVD “will help you feel strong during your pregnancy, will assist you in delivering your baby, and will snap you right back into shape.”

About The Bar Method
The Bar Method is full-body exercise program created by Burr Leonard. The workout utilizes a ballet bar fitness technique and draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. The result is a noticeable “Bar Method” sculpted body featuring:
· Firm, elongated muscles
· Reduced body fat
· High muscle definition in the chest
· Improved posture
· Long, narrow thighs
· A lifted seat and defined hamstrings
· Strong, flat abdominals
· Increased stamina and energy
· Extended youthfulness

About Burr Leonard, Founder of The Bar Method
Burr Leonard is the founder and creator of The Bar Method, a full-body exercise workout that utilizes a ballet bar technique. The method draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. With 19 years of experience in the fitness field, she and her business partner have turned their one Bar Method studio into a franchise operation with 30+ studios and a media company selling exercise DVDs and accessories. Huffington Post, ABC News, KUSI TV, and KUSA-TV have featured Burr Leonard’s The Bar Method. You can win your own copy of the Bar Method Pregnancy Workout DVD. Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

*Disclaimer: No review product was received. The company provided the information and product for giveaway.*

Bumbo Baby Seat Cover Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/7} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner posted below. BumboCovers

The Bumbo Baby Seat has been on the scene of baby products for a while now. It was just becoming popular (at least in my circles) just as my son was too big for it, so it’s not a product I used with my own baby. I know so many people have these on their baby registries now. I have seen friends use the Bumbo with their babies too.

So many people sing the praises of the Bumbo Baby Seat. (As with any other baby products, some kids just don’t like it though.) I love the idea of the seat. It’s made for babies who are big enough to hold their heads up, but not quite ready to sit up on their own yet. This gives them a way to see the world with a little independence.

Even though the Bumbo Baby Seat comes in several different colors, there aren’t any customizable options. At least there weren’t until now. Now there is a Bumbo Seat Cover. There are 6 new options (pictured above) that will add a little extra personality to your Bumbo Baby Seat.

The Seat Cover has convenient side-storage pockets that are great for toys, snacks, teethers or small books. And even better, the ever-popular Bumbo Play Tray fits perfectly over the Seat Cover. It is made of cotton and machine washable, which makes it so easy to clean. And it’s easy to take on and off, plus you don’t have to worry about it staying put with the elastic around the bottom.

I find the Bumbo Seat Cover to be a great addition to the successful Bumbo Baby Seat. It makes reusing the seat a little more fun too. Plus you can change it up if you get tired. I like how easy the cover was to get on and off. That makes it so simple to clean. Overall this gets my seal of approval.

So, pick out the Bumbo Seat Cover that you love the most and Cover your Bumbo! You can find these covers at your local Target store or online at www.keendistribution.com. And I have one cover to giveaway! Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.



*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Kidorable Hooded Towel Review

Kidorable pirate towel2

Many you’ve heard of Kidorable before. Or perhaps you read my last review of their products. I can’t say a negative thing about this company. Every Kidorable product I’ve ever seen has exceeded my expectations! I love their products! Everyone who sees these items always mentions how adorable they are too. And when I tried this last product, it lived up to that too.

We picked out a Pirate Hooded Towel from Kidorable. We already have a few things from the pirate collection and really like them. The Pirate Towel we received was in a size small. It fits ages newborn to 2 years. They also carry medium in towels, which will fit 3-6 year olds. We gave this towel to my nephew for his first birthday.

 Kidorable pirate towel
The Pirate Towel fits Easton nicely. It covers his head so it will stay on and dry his hair (what little he has) at the same time. The back of the towel looks like a mini treasure map. The cutest thing was the eye patch on the front hooded part. The thing I like best about Kidorable is the little details like that they think of to just put a great product over the top. This towel is sturdy and will last through many washes. You kid will wear it until they outgrow it.

To get a hooded towel for yourself just shop at www.kidorable.com. Make sure to check out all their other great products, like the Ballerina Rain Coat (perfect for a girly girl). You can also keep in touch with them on Twitter. And be sure to follow them on Facebook, where they are often posting their specials and running contests.


*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

Thursday, August 18, 2011

My Baby Clothes Boutique Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 9/1} (CLOSED)

This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner below. Baby Socks

The My Baby Clothes Boutique is a shop that has adorable baby clothing and more. Their styles are cute, functional, and affordable. They carry lots of cute girls clothing, but don’t worry there are great outfits for baby boys too! At My Baby Clothes you can also find baby hats, headbands, shoes, tutus and so much more.

My Baby Clothes has lots of personalized options for baby clothes and more. You can get a great shower gift with the baby’s initials already printed on a onesie. Or maybe a personalized blanket with the new baby’s name is perfect for you.

I chose the adorable Mud Pie Seersucker Socks Set for my little niece. She’s only a few months old, and I thought these would be adorable with any outfit. Unfortunately I haven’t seen my niece in a while, so I wasn’t able to get a picture of her wearing these. But we can just use our imaginations and see how cute they are on a baby girl.

I think My Baby Clothes is a great place for any baby gifts that you might need. You can purchase through their website- www.mybabyclothes.com.  And they are offering a $25 gift card to their store for giveaway. Be sure to check out the rafflecopter entry form below.


*Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

Women of Faith Conference



I had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a review of  a Women of Faith conference. Have you heard of Women of Faith? "Women of Faith is a faith-based women's organization encouraging women of all ages and stages in life to grow in faith and spiritual maturity through a relationship with Jesus Christ and an understanding of God’s love and grace."

I have heard of this event for years. I've known family and friends who have been fortunate enough to participate in past events. I am so excited that I am getting the opportunity to go myself.

There are Women of Faith Conferences in major cities all over the US. I am attending the Women of Faith Imagine conference in Indianapolis, IN Friday and Saturday. I am lucky that my cousin lives in Indy, and she was able to come with me to the event. We don't get to see each other that often, but this is a fun thing that we'll definitely enjoy together. Plus Sandra graciously offered to let me stay at their house, so I didn't have to book a hotel. And we could carpool to the events from her house on Friday and Saturday.

Some of the things we'll see at the conference are inspiring speakers, music, drama and more. Women from all over gather together to be inspired and grow in their faith. For the Indianapolis event the speakers include Sheila Walsh, Luci Swindoll, Lisa Harper and Angie Smith. They also list special guest Henry Cloud. A few of these I'm familiar with, and the others I can't wait to be introduced to.

Many of you may have heard about the stage collapse in Indianapolis last weekend where several people lost their lives at the state fair. Train and Maroon 5 are having a benefit concert in honor of that at the Conseco Fieldhouse in Indy tonight. The Women of Faith group was supposed to be setting up in that location tonight. But all is well. The Women of Faith event is still going to happen on Friday. They will have crews work through the night Thursday night to set up. They are willing to do this to help with this great cause for the families of the victims.

Here is a little preview of the event:


I'm looking forward to my time at the Women of Faith conference. I'll be taking pictures, tweeting with the #WoFImagine hashtag, and posting on Facebook. When I get back I'll post again about my time there. If you want to stay in touch, just follow me on Twitter and Facebook. I'll try to check in Friday afternoon and Saturday night, so I can answer any questions that you may have. And maybe I'll see you if you're going to be at this event too. I hope you have a great time!

And if you're not going, be sure to look for the nearest Women of Faith event and get your tickets now. I'm sure you won't regret it!


*Disclosure: I have received tickets to this event. I will be sharing about my experience while I'm there. All opinions are my own.*

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Back to School ... Pray!

Back to School ... Pray!
By Carla McDougal

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
- Deuteronomy 6:5,7

Excitement’s in the air! Anticipation rises. It’s that time of year when the kids go back to school.

Who can forget watching your child go to "big school" for the first time? I remember those bittersweet moments as each of my four children kissed me good-bye. I always knew that day would arrive, but nothing prepared me for the moment.

Elementary school seemed to fly by and almost overnight they were in junior high and then high school. And in a blink of an eye, they were off to college. Where did the years go?

I learned early on that when my children were away from home, praying for them comforted me. By turning them over to God I experienced a calm peace. Year after year my prayers intensified, yet remained the same…

  • Elementary School – Will he make a friend? Will he eat all his lunch, or just the cookies and chips? God help him to love You with all his heart.
  • Junior/Senior High –Will he make the right friends? Is he paying attention to the teacher? God, help him love You with all his soul.
  • College - Will he make some forever friends? Is he making the right life decisions? God, help him to love You with all his strength.

Just as our children face challenges, we as moms face our own set of challenges…

  • To pray over our children no matter where they are in life.
  • To be on our knees for those God entrusted to us.
  • To ultimately pray for each child to love Jesus with all his heart, soul, and mind!
  • Finally, to let them know we are praying for them each day! What a blessing it is to pray for our children.

    I ask you to take advantage of this new season too. Do you need a fresh start? Where are you in your relationship with God? In my Bible study, Reflecting Him – Living for Jesus and Loving It, I encourage you to find Jesus in your everyday activities. He is there for us 24 hours a day, and He wants to hear our everyday prayers!

    Author Bio

    CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom.

    Carla’s book, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It, is a 10-week study that encourages you to open your eyes to God’s daily life lessons. The more you ask God to be in your life, the more you will recognize His hand on everything you do. For more information on a growing number of products from Reflective Life Ministries, and to see about booking Carla for an event or interview, go to www.reflectivelifeministries.org.



    *This article content was provided free of charge by the author through Kathy Carlton Willis Communications.*

    Tuesday, August 16, 2011

    Endangerables Review + {Giveaway with Rafflercopter *5 winners!* – Ends 8/29} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. The winners are listed below.

    Endangerables

    The tunes are catchy and the characters are cute. It’s got to be EnDangerables. These lovable creatures were made to make children more aware of animals that are endangered or threatened. The characters are based on animals that have been or are on the endangered species list.

    The EnDangerables have a live of music and plush toys. Both are great for young children. They will enjoy the fun toys and songs, but they are learning a valuable lesson in the process.

    Endangerables1 We received the EnDangerables CD. The much is fun and very entertaining. It’s perfect for children. It contains 9 original songs written and performed by Fred Bogart. The songs include: Endangerables Theme Song, Extinction for Extinction, Absolutely Positively, Reason to Be Here, Girls Rock and Rule, Response-Ability, Puzzle, Breath of Life Island (BOLI) and Crocodile Shoes. You can see just by the titles that these are songs children will love. My son enjoyed this. It’s a CD that he’ll listen to over and over again.

    You can get a free song from the EnDangerables. All you have to do is go to their site- www.endangerables.com. You sign up to be a deputy, select “SSA” as how you heard about the site (PR company bringing you this review). You’ll receive an email with a link to the free download.

    Endangerables2
    You can purchase the EnDangerables CD and plush toys on their website http://www.endangerblesstore.com/. And 5 lucky readers will receive an EnDangerables prize pack. That includes the CD and 6 plush animals (for each winner). You can enter using the Rafflecopter form below.


    *Disclaimer: I received the CD for review. All opinions are my own.*

    Monday, August 15, 2011

    Oliver’s Labels Review


    Olivers Labels 1

    It’s back to school time. And you don’t want your child’s things to get lost or mixed up with someone else’s. Oliver’s Labels have regular sticky labels, photo labels, clothing labels, shoe labels, iron-on labels, and more. It seems they have a label for everyone. It makes finding your kids things easier and a little more fun too!

    We received a pack of the original Oliver’s Labels. Deciding what type of label you need is the easy part. Then you have to customize them. They have a good variety of child-friendly designs like sports, school, dinosaurs and more. There are also food allergy and allergy specific labels. And there are many color options for labels as well. You won’t have any problems finding something to suit you. It will just be a problem narrowing it down.

    Olivers Labels I chose the Sports design for my son. We’ve used his labels on his baseball equipment and more. It made finding his things after the game much quicker. Plus he kept better track of things on his own with the labels.

    The labels are just sticky enough to stay on just about anything. The color is vivid and appealing, and the pictures are great. My son was excited when he saw his name on labels that he likes. You can bet we’ll be putting these labels on all his Back to School items this year.

    The other thing I really liked about Oliver’s Labels is their optional Found-it Tracking System. You can choose to have tracking added to your labels when they are made. It connects your labels on items to your email address. It’s easy to choose the tracking option when you order your labels. They just simple print the text “If found visit oliverslabels.com/found” on the bottom and a unique 9 digit number on the side. If someone finds your lost item, goes to the website, and enters that code, you will receive an email notice immediately. Oliver’s Labels acts as an intermediary between you and the finder, so none of your personal information is ever shared! It’s just a little extra security for your personal belongings.

    Back to school is the perfect time to order these labels. They even have a school package that contains everything you need for your back to school labeling. All of these Oliver’s Labels products and more are available on their website www.oliverslabels.com. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter.



    *I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.*

    Friday, August 12, 2011

    New Winner Announcements & Rafflecopter Giveaway Check In (Feedback Appreciated)

    I just wanted to let everyone know about a new way I’m going to draw winners now. I think this will make it much easier for me. You will still be able to find winners, and I will still notify by email.

    With all the Rafflecopter giveaways I’m doing, they have an easy way to draw winners. They will automatically draw a winner (using random.org) on their website when I access the closed giveaway. Then I can “announce” the winner for everyone to see on that Rafflecopter form on my blog.

    So with that feature, here is what I did with the last winner:

    1- I “announced” it on the giveaway form- http://psmomreviews.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-love-toy-trains-all-aboard-dvd-review.html. (If you scroll to the Rafflecopter form, you’ll see what I mean.)

    2- I change the title to say “closed”.

    3- I wrote at the top of the post that it’s closed and listed the winner.

    4- I closed comments on the post and removed it from the giveaway list on the side of my blog.

    5- I emailed the winner and confirmed their win.

    For me this is so much easier than the winner posts I have been doing. But what do you, dear readers think about the new winner announcements?

    **********

    And since we’re talking about Rafflecopter giveaways…Do you like entering with Rafflecopter on my blog?

    I have been doing all my giveaways with Rafflecopter now. It’s so much easier to manage. And since I have lots of giveaways running all the time, this is better for me.

    I do worry that if you come to the main page, you can’t get to the Rafflecopter forms directly. But it’s easy to get to the giveaway. All you need to do is click on that blog post, or click on the “read more” link at the bottom.

    I also think that the Rafflecopter forms are so much easier to enter on. So, I need some feedback from you.

    Do you still like the Rafflecopter entry?
    Do you mind that I’m currently only offering that form of entry?
    Have you had any issues with the Rafflecopter form? If so, what?

    Thanks for your input. I care about what you think. I wouldn’t have this blog without you! Have a great weekend!

    Wednesday, August 10, 2011

    Zeelytes (a natural moisture and odor reducer) Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 8/23} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. Congrats to #36 Erin Collins!

    GEDC2404


    Zeelytes is something I’d never heard of before. But I was intrigued by it once I knew what it was. Briefly, Zeelytes is a moisture, mold and odor reducing product that is 100% non-toxic and natural. It helps reduce the spread of bacteria and cross contamination. It’s even better than putting baking soda in the fridge to keep food fresh.

    Zeelytes is a package that contains Zeolites. What are Zeolites? That’s a great question. Here is the answer from the Zeelytes website:
    Zeolite is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined from the earth. It is a very porous mineral making it the perfect material to absorb odor, mold & moisture in any area that it is placed. 
    In nature, the minerals are created when volcanic ash and rock interact with a base such as alkaline liquids. Most commonly, this is seen under the ocean in marine environments with extinct volcanic activity from thousands of years ago. Zeelytes™ uses natural Zeolites mined in the U.S.A. 
    Adsorption and Separation The shape selective properties of zeolites are also the basis for their use in molecular adsorption. The ability preferentially to adsorb certain molecules, while excluding others, has opened up a wide range of molecular sieving applications. Sometimes it is simply a matter of the size and shape of pores controlling access into zeolite. In other cases different types of molecule enter the zeolite, but some diffuse through the channels more quickly, leaving others stuck behind, as in the purification of para-xylene by silicalite. 
    Zeolites and the Environment Zeolites contribute to a cleaner, safer environment in a gret number of ways. In fact nearly every application of zeolites has been driven by environmental concerns, or plays a significant role in reducing toxic waste and energy consumption.

    Pretty interesting, aren’t they?!! You can get a Zeelytes bag to put in your refrigerator to keep food fresher. And you can use one to make your air conditioner run more efficiently. You can read more about it and answer more questions in the FAQ section of their website.

    Zeelytes are great, because they are safe in homes with pets and children especially. You can order Zeelytes through their website. They have several different sized packages that you can order. So be sure to get Zeelytes to use in your home (or car, or RV, or boat) today. There are many different uses to use this natural odor absorber and moisture controller.

    You can win a 1/2 lb package of Zeelytes to try for yourself. Just enter in the Rafflecopter form below.


    *Disclaimer: I received this product to try in my house. All opinions are my own.*

    “The Help” Prize Pack {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 8/23} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. Congrats to #139 Wendi!

    TheHelp One Sheet

    Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon,  “The Help” stars Emma Stone (“Easy A”) as Skeeter, Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) as Aibileen and Octavia Spencer as Minny—three very different, extraordinary women in Mississippi during the 1960s,  who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project that breaks societal rules and puts them all at risk. From their improbable alliance a remarkable sisterhood emerges, instilling all of them with the courage to transcend the lines that define them, and the realization that sometimes those lines are made to be crossed—even if it means bringing everyone in town face-to-face with the changing times.

    Deeply moving, filled with poignancy, humor and hope, “The Help” is a timeless and universal story about the ability to create change.

    TheHelp 5 TheHelp 2 TheHelp 3 TheHelp 4

    THE HELP opens in theaters everywhere on Wednesday, August 10th. 

    Are you going to see “The Help”? I think it looks like a great movie. I have not read the book yet, but I plan to do so soon. Then I’d like to see the movie. If you’re going this week, I hope you enjoy it!

    And I have a great “The Help” prize pack that you can sign up to win. The items are listed below. Please use the Rafflecopter entry form to enter.


    ITEMS FOR GIVEAWAY:

    - THE HELP t-shirt in adult female sizes of S, M, L, XL
    - THE HELP pocket jotter & pen
    - THE HELP fan
    - THE HELP nail file/mirror
     TheHelp Prize 1 TheHelp Prize 2 TheHelp Prize 3TheHelp-NailFileCreditCard









    *Disclaimer: These products are being provided for giveaway. I received nothing to review. All opinions are my own.*

    Kroger Cart Buster Savings Event + $25 Gift Card {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 8/23} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. Congrats to #355 Michelle!

    Kroger logo

    It’s back again! Yep, that’s right, the Kroger Cart Buster Savings Event is here! At Kroger and Kroger Company Family of Stores, you can get great deals storewide.
    • From July 31st through August 17th save on tons of brands across more than 100 categories from General Mills, PepsiCo, Unilever, Heinz, Mars, Wrigley and Kimberly Clark.
    • Look for some of your favorite participating products like, Honey Nut Cheerios, Yoplait , Pillsbury Pepsi, Doritos, Gatorade, Smart Ones, Ore-Ida, Cottonelle, Viva, Breyer´s Ice Cream, Axe , Snickers, Pedigree and Orbit.
    • Look for big savings storewide at the Kroger Family of Stores, which includes Kroger, Ralphs, King Scoopers, City Market, Dillons, Smith´s, Fry´s, QFC, Baker´s, Owen´s, Jay C Food Stores, Hilander, Gerbes, Food4Less, Fred Meyer, Pay Less Supermarkets and Scott´s food & Pharmacy.
    Don´t let the savings stop there! Make sure to follow the Cartbuster "Deal of the Day" beginning August 3rd and running through August 16th.* Download exclusive offers, on more of your favorite brands, directly to your shopper card, by visiting www.cartbuster.com, beginning Wednesday, August 3rd.

    Remember, www.cartbuster.com is your link to all of the details, savings and the special "Deal of the Day" offers for the Cart Buster Savings Event, exclusively at the Kroger Co. Family of Stores. The Cart Buster Savings event beginning July 31st. "Deal of the Day" offers begin August 3rd.

    *Please be sure to check your local Kroger Co. Family of Stores for participating dates and deals. The Deal of the Day promotion is not valid at: Fred Meyer or Food 4 Less.
    Kroger cartbuster 
    My family visited our Kroger store (in a neighboring town) last weekend. The sales they have right now are great. We got a cartload of groceries for some great deals. Plus with the $25 gift card I got for the review, we made out pretty well.

    Don’t miss out on this great Kroger Cart Buster Savings Event at a Kroger Family of Stores near you. You can find more information on the Kroger Website. And you can connect with them and keep in touch with the Kroger Facebook Page and Kroger Twitter Page.


    One lucky person will win a $25 Kroger gift card (Good at any of the Kroger Co. Family of Stores). Just enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!


    Disclosure: The Kroger gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by Kroger and General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

    Sunday, August 7, 2011

    Barielle Nail, Hand and Foot Care Line Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 8/21/11} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. Congrats to the winner #112 Gina Hamm!



    Warm weather and flip flops go hand in hand. But with flip flop and sandals comes dry, rough, cracked feet. By the end of summer, my feet usually show signs of wear and tear. I finally found a product that is a great solution to this problem. For nails, hands and feet, Barielle has products that are great for this summer.

    Barielle Total Foot Care Cream won the Allure Best of Beauty Award. It is a soft, thick cream perfect for healing your sore feet in the summer. The cream helps eliminate calluses and cracks. Plus it leaves your feet feeling soft and silky and has a pleasant baby powder fragrance. You just apply the Barielle Total Foot Care Cream once or twice a day. And you don’t have to worry about any harsh peeling ingredients, acids, or camphor.

    The Barielle Total Foot Care Cream was so easy to use and did just as promised. This was my favorite product. I like to put it on my feet at night or in the evening. I do put on a pair of cotton socks after I apply it. It gives the cream time to soak into my feet. After even one use my feet feel softer and moisturized.

    I also tried the Barielle Nail Strengthener Cream. Barielle says it’s the most popular, ground-breaking product for nail treatment. What it does it help strength nails, so they are less likely to split, peel and break. This is exactly what I need for my soft, peely nails. I’ve always hated that about my fingernails. The Barielle Nail Strengthener Cream can be used daily to maintain healthy nails. With continual use you will have noticeable improvement in 3-4 weeks. And I really like that it can be used on bare nails or right over top nail polish. You don’t have to do anything special to make use of this product.

    And of course with all the flip flop wearing I try to keep my toenails nicely painted in the summer. Barelle has a great selection of nail polish called Shades by Barielle. There are 86 unique shades listed on their product page. With that kind of selection you’re sure to find exactly what you need. Shades by Barielle nail polish has salon-strenth formula that is completely free of the chemicals dibutyl phthalate, toluene and formaldehyde. They are pregnancy safe. They provide a high-shine glossy coat and forms a protective barrier on your nails for a long-lasting finish. I like the way the polish went on my nails. Two coats was very strong and lasted a long time. They had a nice smooth finish. This is my new go-to nail polish. And right now the Shades by Barielle are on sale for buy one get one 50% off at www.barielle.com.



    Here’s a little more about Barielle:

    Their story began more than 30 years ago at the Belmont Racetrack. Husband and wife equestrian aficionados devised a breakthrough formula to condition the hooves of their million-dollar thoroughbred racehorses. Reformulated for women and men, the miracle product “Nail Strengthener Cream” was born and Barielle was founded. Their Barielle Nail Strengthener Cream, which helps nails grow healthier and stronger while resisting splits, peels, and breaks, remains a best-selling product even today. 
    Barielle products are sold exclusively at www.barielle.com, so be sure to check out their entire line to help your readers get their hands and feet ready for the summer! Also, stay connected to Barielle at their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/barielle) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/barielle) for great nail hand and foot care tips, as well as special giveaways and more! 




    Right now you can sign up to win the 6 New summer color nail polish on their website- www.barielle.com. You can purchase the Barielle products from their website. And one of you can win your own top-selling Barielle Nail Strengthener Cream. Please enter in the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!


    *Disclaimer: I received these products to review. All opinions are my own.*

    Skintimate Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter – Ends 8/21} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. Congrats to #471 Debbie Jackson!

    Skintimate

    Summer. It’s a time for sun, sand, beaches, bikinis, suntans and smooth legs. We spent a week in The Outer Banks, NC at the ocean. One of the most important things I packed was a new razor and shave gel. I wanted my legs smooth for wearing bathing suits each day we were there.

    The must have for me was the Skintimate shave gel. I loved the fruity scents that made me think of summer. The gel goes on nice and helps me shave better. I miss less and keep a little moisture in my skin with it. I like that this is a product that I can use every day.

    How about you? Do you like to use shave gel? Or are you a soap and water kind of gal? Maybe you should give the Skintimate shave gel a try. It’s available in stores everywhere.

    Here is some more from Schick and Skintimate about their products:

    It’s Always Smooth Jetsetting This Summer with Schick® and Skintimate®!

    Whether you’re planning on hitting the beach for a day, escaping to a tropic isle, or just need to slip into your favorite summer dress for the night, Schick® and Skintimate® have what you need to ensure that your legs will be smooth and stubble-free at a moment’s notice! Check out what products are best to pack for your next trip!Skintimate2Skintimate3

    Jet Setting to your long awaited vacation of the year…Finally going to spend a week or two in your dream city? As you pack your suitcases with your best outfits, don’t forget your two beauty essentials for your trip: the Schick® Quattro for Women® Disposable Razors in Limited Edition Colors, and Skintimate® Limited Edition cans created by New York Fashion Designer Mara Hoffman! Using both will keep legs smooth wherever you go, and add burst of fashion and color to your shave routine to start your travels in style!
     Skintimate4

    Looking for simple travel solutions…Do you dread the task of packing? Combine your shaving needs in one easy step and save space in your duffel bag with the Limited Edition Schick® Intuition®in three fun designs just for summer! Choose the razor that fits your skin’s needs this summer: Renewing Moisture with Pomegranate extract, Naturals with all-natural aloe and the Moisturizing Care Pack with milk and honey and shea butter.Skintimate5

    Going to a land down under! 
    Can’t wait to shed your layers and soak up the sun in Rio? If you’re escaping to warm tropical sands to enjoy the ocean breeze under the palm trees, the Schick® Quattro for Women® TrimStyle™ with Acai and Jojoba will help you stay smooth, daring and confident when breaking into your bikini. It’s the first and only razor and bikini trimmer in one, allowing women to shave, trim and transform themselves with a simple flip of the handle.
















    I think all the Schick and Skintimate products are great. And with shorts and bathing suits in season, they are a must have. You can purchase these products in stores everywhere.

    One reader here will receive a sampling of the products highlights above. You can enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

    *Disclaimer: I received this product for review. All opinions are my own.*

    Saturday, August 6, 2011

    Womens Planner by Chaos…Simplified Review + {Giveaway with Rafflecopter - Ends 8/21} (CLOSED)

    This giveaway is closed. The winner is #13 Sara Filler. Congrats!

    Women's Planner

    As a mom staying organized is a trick. I find that the older my son gets, the harder keeping our schedules straight gets. My son has more and more activities that he is involved in, and we have to find time to juggled his things with ours. Maintaining a calendar is so important for my family. Really, it helps maintain my sanity.

    I’ve kept a planner for a few years now. I need something to write things down on. I know many people rely on online calendars or their smart phones. For one, I don’t have a smart phone. We did start using an online calendar that my husband and I can both access. It helps us see what the other has going on. Plus we can set up reminders. But this hasn’t stopped me from using my planner. I still like a physical reminder of my schedule. So I open up my planner at least once a day to make sure I haven’t forgotten anything.

    To be honest I was starting to think that all planners/calendars are the same. I have a nice one, and it has some nice features. When I was introduced to the Womans Planner from Chaos Simplified, I was impressed. I was even more excited to see it in person. This planner was designed for the busy woman/mother. It is just the thing to keep your schedules in line.

    Here is a little more about Corri (the mind behind the Womans Planner) and the planner itself:

    The background on me . . . I am a homeschooling mom of 3 kids, work part time for an oil company and own my own business which has been an adventure of a lifetime!

    The background on my company. . . I have designed two day planners, a woman's and a tween/teen girls edition.  A couple of my reasons for this endeavor, first of all because life is crazy and my ultimate goal is to be organized and on top of things so I can enjoy to the fullest the freedom to enjoy the God moments in my marriage, my kids and me.  Secondly, because I have a real heart for moms and kids.

    The Womans Planner is unique in its half page design which makes it possible for you to see your entire month while having the space to plan your week. It incorporates everything your life is about, your supper plan, dreams, goals, budgeting and even pages for Christmas planning.

    A little bit about the Girls planner . . .
    Entitled 'day by day, me . . . refined', each month you have 2 planning pages, one being for budgeting the
    other for setting goals and journaling, complete with a scripture verse to uplift and encourage.  Within the week the days are laid out so that you have a spot for a top priority as well as room to plan for classes.  At the end of each week is a spot for tracking assignments, a spot for 'what I need to get done this week' as well as, 'what my mind absolutely needs to contain this week'.

    For a more detailed description of both planners you can check out my site at www.chaossimplified.com.

     
    Women's Planner2
    As you can see not only is there a great, functional Womans Planner, but she developed one just for Tween girls. (We will be reviewing that one here soon with a little help from my tweenage cousin.) These planners definitely have busy people in mind.

    In the Womans Planner there is so much space to keep track of things. You’ll find a sturdy pocket for each month to put in receipts, invitations, reminders or other things. There is a usual address book in the back, monthly and weekend calendars, budget sheets, and so much more.

    My favorite feature is the way the monthly and weekly calendars are laid out. There is a 2 page spread with the month calendar on the bottom half. The top half has half sheets with each week of that month. So very quickly you have the month at a glace along with a more specific weekly schedule. Perfect!

    The weekly sheets include a priority list that you can make each day as well as morning, afternoon, evening sections and one for supper plans too. Off to the side you can find a “things to do” area and “phone calls to make” too. This is a great way to stay organized each week.

    I would recommend the Chaos Simplified Womans Planner for any busy person, especially mothers. You can buy the planner on their website- http://www.chaossimplified.com/c_2/The-Womans-Planner.htm. Right now the planner is on sale for a great price of $15.95. That’s less than 1/2 price. The planner is for the 2011 calendar year, but it would be a good way to get your schedule and budget on track for the start of the school year. (Then you can ask for a new one for Christmas!)

    And Corri has graciously offered a Chaos Simplified Womans Planner for one of my fabulous readers. You can sign up with the Rafflecopter giveaway at the bottom of this post.

    *Disclaimer: I received this product for my review. All opinions are my own.*