Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser Review and Giveaway & Special Discount Code 11/23 - WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ....


atlmuzikfanzinc@gmail.com

An e-mail has been sent and he/she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!

Healthy skin requires attention and some pampering doesn't hurt.  I have a daily regiment that I follow and I'm trying to teach my girls how to care of their skin to help ensure they have healthy, youthful appearances for years to come.  My oldest, 22, has realized the importance of this and is using moisturizers and cleansing her face daily.  She had the opportunity to review the Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser.


She has sensitive skin and cannot use all products on the market.  She has had to switch around a few times due to outbreaks, redness or other irritations.  She tried the Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser for 30 days in order to provide a thorough review.


Pros:

• Gentle, non-irritating
• Easy to use pump applicator
• Mildly foams and did not dry out her face or make it peel
• Not tested on animals
• Made of pure ingredients:  Purified Water, Olive Oil Castile, Vegetable Glycerine, Rose Hip Seed Oil, Essential Oils, Seaweed Extracts.
• Reasonable priced at $24 for a four ounce bottle and it lasts a long time
• Fragrance is mild and not overpowering

Cons:

• None found

In summary, she recommends the Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser.

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Why UNDEROLOGY?

Results Oriented Skincare 

What makes us different? Our ingredients list is short... we use high levels of active ingredients that are not diluted with fillers and preservatives. Outcome... vibrant skin fast. 

"UNDEROLOGY SMART Skincare" is a SMARTalternative to cosmetic surgery or the PERFECTcompliment!  Connie’s mission with the new UNDEROLOGYSMART Skincare line is to provide products with the highest quality ingredients which women deserve, for a price equivalent to what women spend for department store brands. Result-oriented active ingredients are used from the lasted technology and research available.  Quality is the key ingredient (literally)! You will find our quality ingredients are not diluted with lots of fillers... just active ingredients, providing a vibrant and noticeable difference in your skin. The Giveaway: One bottle of Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser. To Enter: Follow my blog and leave a comment. Extra Entries: Subscribe to my blog. Follow Underology on Twitter Fan Underology on Facebook Follow me on Twitter Fan me on Facebook Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries) Blog about this giveaway (five entries) Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries) Giveaway ends 11/23 at midnight (EST) - US only please BONUS SPECIAL CODE:  Use Discount Code: LIPOBLOG 15% off anything (expires 11/23) Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

The Phd Pocket Disc Review

Live, Love, Catch ... everywhere you go is a saying by The Phd Pocket Disc and when you actually get to play with one, you'll see.  These easy to tuck away, soft disc create fun for the whole family.  There are two types to choose from:  Sports Pocket Disc or The Classic Pocket Disc.  The main difference is the weight as the sports version is intended for outdoor play to go the distance whereas The Classic is lightweight and can be played indoors.

  

Available in three categories, there should be a pattern that everyone will like:

1. Swirls
2. Sunbursts
3. Assortment

About Pocket Disc:

The Pocket Disc formed by accident by a third grader, Savanna Groft, who had a school project to make a placemat.  Savanna crocheted the placement but missed some stitches on the edge which caused it to fold under.   It sat on Savanna's table until one day two of her friends came over.  One of the friends and a dad picked it up and started throwing it and noticed how it sailed across the room .. thus the Pocket Disc was born.

Additional Information:

• Games and Uses links are available on the Phd Pocket Disc website.
• Check out videos and photos here.
• To purchase, click here.

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The Review:

My girls LOVED the Phd Pocket Disc especially since they were able to play inside with it.  I loved it because I didn't have to worry about injuries or something breaking.  It's lightweight, good quality and doesn't take up a lot of room.  Getting them to move around a little bit is nice too.  The designs are really nice as well and are appealing to kids.

Overall, my two girls definitely recommend the Phd Pocket Disc!

*Disclaimer:  I received a complimentary Phd Pocket Disc for purposes of this review.

Boiron Homeopathic Medicines Review

As a mother, I'm concerned with what I give my children and with all the growing bad press and recalls, I'm quite frankly more and more nervous about administering over the counter drugs to my children for their colds.  There are so many warnings and contraindications that it is a concern especially when two of my children have chronic medical conditions.  I turned to homeopathic medications about the same time I became interested in organic food.  Although I have not made the transition over completely, I am taking steps in the right direction.  As part of my participation in Moms Meet, I was able to receive a complimentary party pack to share with my friends from Boiron which markets over 800 homeopathic medications for a variety of conditions.

My pack included products geared towards children and it couldn't come at a better time as immediately upon receipt, my children and three other mom's who participated were able to use the products.  Our first product we tried was Oscillococcinum.  Oscillococcinum is for use in those over the age of two and over.  It is to be used to temporarily relieve flu-like symptoms such as feeling run down, headache, body aches, chills and fever.  The directions state dissolve the entire contents of one tube in the mouth every six hours up to three times a day.  There is also a children's version of Oscillococcinum.


The ingredients are meant to reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms.  There are warnings before taking and should not be given to children under two unless a doctor approves.


The Review:

• Great tasting that doesn't detract picky children from digesting the tiny pellets.  This was a bonus for me as my three year old is very picky and won't eat anything that tastes bad and vomits with liquid medicine.
• The three of us that used Oscillococcinum at the first sign of illness, felt that the duration of the cold was actually reduced.

Overall, I would recommend Oscillococcinum.  Click here for special offers.  You can also read about clinical trials and the results here.

http://www.facebook.com/BoironUSA?ref=ts

http://twitter.com/boironusa

http://blog.boironusa.com/

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The next product was Children's Chestal.  This product is for adults and children over the age of two.  Children's Chestal helps to loosen thick mucus, relieves dry and painful coughs, relieves cough associated with tickling in throat, relieves barking cough worse at night, relieves cough associated with nausea, relieves wet cough during the day becoming dry at night, relieves dry cough triggered by cold air, relieves dry, croupy and barking cough and relieves night time hacking cough.


The Review: 

• Unfortunately, I could not get my seven year to take a second dose because she dislikes honey.  Two mothers were able to administer it to their children and they thought the product helped in the croupy cough.
• Easy to use.

The two other mothers would recommend Children's Chestal.

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The final product we received was Children's Coldcalm Pellets.  For children ages three and older, these are given at the first onset of cold symptoms.  Take five pellets every two hours until symptoms are relieved. 

The Review:

• The pellets taste good which encourages digestion.
• The containers are tiny enough to take anywhere which makes it convenient.
• The twist/pop off top makes it easy to access as well adding to the convenience.
• The only con is the pellets are small so my three year old kept dropping them but due to the size, she thought they were candy and it made it easier for her to take.  It's something I could live with.

Four of us mother's recommended the Children's Coldcalm Pellets.

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Boiron has a hosts of great resources on their websites which encourages me in that I feel they are proactive in trying to give me the best resources to care for my family.

Disclaimer:  The opinions expressed in this review were not influenced by the complimentary product pack we received for this post by Boiron via my participation in Green Moms Meet.

10 great uses for Vaseline Petroleum Jelly

I bet you grew up with a jar of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly in your house if you are 30 something or above.  I don't know about the younger generations but I do remember always having a jar around our house.  The handy little jar can do some amazing things and is so versatile not to mention inexpensive and it lasts a long time.  Vaseline Petroleum Jelly reminds me of my grandmother as it's timely, tough and gets the job done.  Here are some great uses for it:

1. Winter is coming and along with the cold outside weather, the inside dry weather causes lips to crack. Vaseline is a life saver and does such a great job protecting lips.
2. Along with the blustery winter weather comes cracked hands and sore feet when they get cold and wet.  Vaseline can be applied to both your hands and feet for a short amount of time covered up in socks and mittens to help soothe those beaten up areas.
3. Vaseline is also a great mascara and make up remover.  Just a little bit takes off a lot and it leaves your eye area feeling soft.
4. My elbows get dry and cracked all the time.  I have found the Vaseline is good at protecting and provides a soothing feel.  
5. Tired of buying lip stick or gloss that doesn't really fit the bill?  Just a dab of Vaseline over your favorite lipstick provides that glossy look you love without sacrificing the color you want.
6. This is something I picked up from a friend who colors hair.  If you put some Vaseline along your hairline on the skin side, color from hair dye won't be absorbed.  Isn't that a great trick?
7. If you have old lipstick containers that you can't get anymore out, try this handy little trick.  Scoop out the leftover lipstick and place in a small container.  Add some Vaseline and now you have some great looking cream blush.
8. One thing I cannot stand is to groom my eyebrows only later to have a few strands out of place.  Vaseline is a great product to keep them in place while still making them look natural.
9. Vaseline is also a great product for your cuticles.  They provide that extra moisture to make them look healthier.
10. This is one of my favorites.  Add some sea salt to some Vaseline and any fragrance you like to make your own bath scrub.  Any craft store should have different fragrances to choose from that will make your scrub uniquely yours.

What have you used Vaseline for or heard of someone else using that is unique or different?

Disclosure:  I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Vaseline blogging program, making me eligible to get a $25 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

About Vaseline:

Vaseline products are manufactured by Unilever [NYSE: UL, UN], one of the world’s largest consumer products companies. With a 140-year heritage as America’s most trusted healthy skin expert and more than 30 years as a leading hand and body lotion, the Vaseline brand delivers products that meet the specific needs of consumers, no matter their life stage or lifestyle. The Vaseline Aloe Fresh line includes Vaseline Aloe Fresh Hydrating Lotion, Vaseline Aloe Fresh Protecting Lotion with SPF, and Vaseline Aloe Fresh Moisturizing Gel. All products in the line are designed to be light and leave skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. In addition to the Vaseline Lotions, the Vaseline family of products also features a complete line of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly and lip balm products. All Vaseline products can be purchased at drug stores nationwide. For more information, visit www.vaseline.com.

More info: www.vaseline.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaselinebrand
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/vaseline

My Favorite Christmas Card Design via Shutterfly

As a regular reader to my blog, you know that I'm very much into party and especially Christmas.  I love every aspect of Christmas and spend a considerable amount of time working on perfecting my Christmas photo cards.  The card itself is a reflection of myself and family so it has to be just right.  Being an Army family, we move often and are usually apart from our family.  The Christmas card provides a unique opportunity to provide good cheer as well as an annual pictorial of the children.  I usually shop at Shutterfly annually to purchase at least one personalize present such as a wall calender or other type of gifts.

My favorite holiday card design are the photo cards that allow for multiple photos, are timeless and elegant.  The design above, Family Wall Red Christmas card holds six photos.  I really like the traditional red background and the elegant text on the front adds to the old charm appeal.  Of course color photos could be used but I really like the look of the black and white photos for that timeless look.  Having three children and a new grandchild at home affords me the opportunity to capture so many priceless looks that one photo won't suffice.

Shutterfly's 2010 Holiday Collection is plentiful.  Here are three more examples of beautiful cards:

  

Since I've purchased cards from Shutterfly in the past, I know they are printed on quality cardstock paper and the images are beautiful.   I also like the feature that they will mail them for me if I choose for additional fees.  This card is easy to create and takes no time other than picking the photos you want to include.  One thing I also do to complete my perfect Christmas card and to add some bling is to affix a rhinestone (diamond color) sticker where it would look the best.  For me, I love the added touch.  I'll also utilize the backside to have my girls write their names to have that extra personalization step to it.

As you shop for your Shutterfly cards, also check out the potential gift ideas from photo books, framed prints, stationery, calendars, puzzles, mugs, gift tags (above), storybooks, ornaments, aprons, home decor and so much more!  If you are a shutterbug like me, you will love all the possible ways that you can turn a photo into something even more meaningful and lasting while making your Christmas shopping easier!

Disclosure:  I am participating in a Shutterfly blogger program to receive free product in exchange for this post.  The opinions noted were not influenced by this opportunity however.

eShakti Special 15% Off Code: Customized Clothing to Fit You

Have you heard or experienced eShakti?   This sums it up:

AND GOD CREATED WOMAN beautiful in every shape and size

We create clothes to match. In every design: your style, your size, your shape. Your choice.

eShakti is a unique way to shop for women's clothing in that you can alter certain aspects of the clothing available.  No longer do you have to compromise on one portion of an article of clothing because you don't fit the designer's mode.  eShakti is truly a "we design. you customize" clothing store.

  

Here are some of the key features:

• Free first time customize
• Customize style and size for just $7.50
• Ships in three business days
• Variety of designs available in sizes 0-26W
• $12 referral reward (through 11/15)
• New customers can register and save $15 on first order
• Overstock garments are usually available at a fraction of the costs
• Not only clothing but accessories too

  

You can click here to read my past review of a beautiful dress I received complimentary from eShakti and see how pleasantly pleased I was with the beautiful dress that fit my body perfectly!

Health, Beauty, Children and Family readers can use code JuV8DP to get 15% off at eShakti - valid till the end of November.

Blogmania's Dream Team on Nov 1st Marks the Day for Over $2000 in Prizes Up for Grabs

If you are a regular to my blog, you heard of Blogmania this past fall.  Well, the fun hasn't stopped as starting November 1st, all the members of the Blogmania Dream Team are hosting a Holiday Open House.  Each member's blog will post on holiday entertaining as it relates to our blog themes.  You will get an array of tips, menu ideas, party ideas, crafts, decorating ideas and so much more!  We have so many great bloggers in this group that you won't want to miss out on that coupled with the great prizes coming!

Don't forget to save the date since there will be over $2000 in prizes!

Want to enter?  Here is what you need to do:

• Write a holiday entertaining post on anything you want as long as it relates to Holiday Entertaining.
• Include the Holiday Open House button (below).
• Return to the Health, Beauty, Children and Family Guide for a Frugal Christmas from November 1st to the 10th to link up your post.

You can enter as many times as you want during the eligible time period but each entry will require a new post.

Stay tuned!

<a border="0" href="www.healthbeautychildrenandfamily.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab13/jacquiblogger/ginaparkerblinky.gif" /> </a>

Fiber One Cereal: Help Take the Hunger out of Dieting Prize Pack Giveaway 11/17 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...


mogrill@comcast.net


An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected.


Thanks to all those who entered!

If you are like me, you are dieting or if you aren't like me, you are lucky and not putting yourself through this constant behavior.  I know what my problem is and I know what I need to do but will power gets the best of me especially during stressful events.  Having two children with chronic medical conditions, a husband deployed to Kuwait, a new grandbaby and more certainly keeps me on my toes.  One thing I have found is that if I skip a meal, it makes my day rougher.  This is where my participation in MyBlogSpark has perfect timing.  I am participating in a Fiber One campaign where I am going to share my worst over-indulgence moments and how those boxes of Fiber One could help.

I usually indulge after I can't take dieting any longer.  I think the last time I indulged, I ate three cupcakes, two packages of cookies and some other things.  The hunger I had was a result of days of a low carb diet.  I know that food high in fiber is what I need to indulge in since it helps to curb hunger.  I have noticed when I eat Fiber One Original, it does fill me up and keeps the hunger away longer.  

Here are some facts I found interesting:

• One serving of Fiber One Original cereal provides more than half (57%) of the Daily Value of fiber.
• Fiber One Original cereal is a tasty way to start your morning on the right track with 0 grams of sugar, 14 grams of fiber, 60 calories and 1 gram of fat per serving.

To learn more, just click here.

As part of my participation, I will be receiving a special Fiber One "Help Take the Hunger out of Dieting" prize pack that includes Fiber One Original cereal, a cereal-on-the-go container, food scale, water bottle and notepad for tracking what you eat.

For more information or additional tips, please visit http://www.fiberone.com/. The good news is, one of my readers will win the same prize pack!  Are you ready to join in stopping the hunger and getting healthier because I know I am! Below is a Fiber One Original cereal "Help Take the Hunger out of Dieting" mini microsite that has product information, a high-value coupon and tips.  The first 15 readers will be able to sign up to receive a FREE box of cereal through this microsite so don't way and tell your friends.

The Giveaway:


Prize pack of Fiber One Original cereal, a cereal-on-the-go container, food scale, water bottle and notepad for tracking what you eat.


To Enter:


Follow my blog and tell me how you fight your indulgences when trying to not overeat.


Optional Extra Entries:

• Subscribe to my blog.
• Follow me on Twitter.
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily).
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries).
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 11/17 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Winner chosen by random.org

Disclosure:  the products, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me from Fiber One through MyBlogSpark.

Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

Luminess Air Make Up System Review

If you are like me, you get occasional insomnia and maybe indulge in a guilty pleasure every now and then in the form of an infomercial.  I can't help myself as sometimes I just want to see the latest and greatest product.  Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't.  One of the products that perked my interest was the Luminess Air Systems.  If you have seen the systems, you probably wanted one or at least wanted to try one.  


The models they use look amazing after they had their make up air brushed on and it looks so easy and flawless.  One thing that is nice with Luminess Air Systems as you can try one out for 30 days as little as $29.95 (plus shipping and handling).  The price of the systems are not cheap so trying one out might give you the peace of mind you need before making the leap.

    

About Luminess Air Systems - There are four systems plus a tan system:

1. Kelly System - $169.95 + s/h
2. iLuminess System - $229.90 + s/h
3. Professional System - $309.95 + s/h
4. Platinum System - $369.00 + s/h
5. Luminess Tan System - $149.95 + s/h

Each system has it's perks as you increase in prize.  You can see the comparison in this nice chart here.  

Pros with the System:

• Flexible terms pending the system you choose - try before you buy and multi-payments
• One year warranty
• Systems are geared towards individual needs and preferences
• Gifts with certain models
• Compact and larger models
• Accessories

iLuminess Review

I received a complimentary iLuminess System for review.  I was skeptical at first when I received it thinking I could not achieve the same results but I was wrong.  If you think that you can just turn it on and start using it, it's unlikely you will achieve the results you desire.  This is most likely a new way of applying make up which requires a short amount of time getting used to the air application.

The entire package is just perfect.  The system arrives with a nice fashionable silver bag to take it with you as well as to store it.  It has a great DVD on how to use the system along with tips, a bottle to use for cleaning, four shades of foundation, blush, bronzer and glow.  I also received a complimentary pack of shadows.  

Holding the stylus was easy and now awkward at all.  The system is a little noisy but tolerable.  I find I only need one shade of foundation so after I apply my moisturizer, I drop in four drops of foundation, spray on careful not to push the button too hard otherwise you will have an overload of foundation in one spot thus streaks will form.  After I apply my foundation, I spray on the blush followed by the bronzer.  I have no luck with traditional bronzer as it always goes on too dark or fake but this bronzer is PERFECT!  I am able to control just the right amount I want.

I'm still learning the finesse behind the shadows but love how it stays and doesn't wear off.  This holds true of the foundation.

Pros:

1. Easy to use and the how to DVDs really help
2. Convenient pouch to travel or store
3. Plugs in and no batteries which is a big plus to me
4. You control the amount you want on your face and the shade. 
5. Doesn't wear off and lasts a long time
6. Flawless and looks more natural than other make up I've tried
7. Bronzer is perfectly shaded to look natural but provides a hint of a bronzed glow
8. Comes off easily with water if you make a mistake which is very nice
9. Foundation and other products are competitively priced right
10. A little goes a long way
11. More hygienic since your hands and brushes aren't touching your face
12. It appears to minimize some of my fine lines
13. No more make up lines
14. Dermatology tested

Cons:

• As mentioned, it's a little loud but very tolerable. Besides, it feels really cool air brushing the make up that you don't really notice
• I have sensitive eyes so the air does bother them but again, very tolerable.

In summary, I cannot say enough about the Luminess Air Systems as I LOVE mine!  I'm even considering joining the team to sell the systems because I believe in them.


Stay tuned for actual before and after pictures.

Miraclebody Jeans: Does it Make You Look 10 Pounds Lighter? Review & Giveaway 11/17 ($110 Value) WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ....

Colleen said...

I would love to win these for after the baby!

An e-mail has been sent to Colleen.  Thanks to all those who entered!

Product after product on the market makes claims that it will instantly make you look lighter or smaller.  Some do and others don't.  I have a daughter who just had her first child and being 22, she's very interested in looking better post pregnancy.  She's already lost much of her pregnancy weight but is anxious.  This is where the Miraclebody Jeans come into play.  I was offered a complimentary pair and much to our luck, we both can fit into them.

The Miraclebody jeans are available in four styles and select wash (color):

1. Bootcut
2. Straight
3. Skinny 
4. Leggings

About Miraclebody:

"Since 1937, the makers of Miraclesuit^®, the #1 brand designer of control swimwear, have made women look more beautiful and shapely. Miraclebody follows the heritage of Miraclesuit by providing women of all shapes and sizes with comfortable form-flattering fashion control apparel including jeans, tops, skirts, and leggings — all designed to make you look 10lbs lighter in 10 seconds.

At the heart of the Miraclebody brand, is our premium Lycra denim which slims the thighs and lifts the rear while giving you a comfortable fit. Our handcrafted front control panel features our unique miracle fabric, Miratex, to flatten and control the tummy.  Miraclebody signature logo rivets and buttons along with our embroidered signature waistband add the finishing touch. Our premium denim jeans are available in several washes, from faded blue for a casual look to sleek black for a dressier look. Our Miraclebody premium denim gives every women and every body a shapely flawless figure with comfort and style."

  

Some key points from our review and pro's:

1. They are made of quality material and appear to be made quite well.  There were no fraying or separation after the first few washes and they fit great.  They do make you look thinner without making you feel uncomfortable.  
2. Some items squeeze everything too tightly together like a girdle but the Miraclebody Jeans fit perfectly.   
3. We are both used to the lower waisted pants so getting used to that would be the only thing that is a con.  However, it's still comfortable if you are another low waisted pants wearer.  
4. We both liked the variety of sizes available from 2 through 18 which is great for the plus sized woman.   We also liked the variety uts and colors for each personal preferences.
5. Free shipping and returns - this is important to me as I prefer to shop when I know I can get free shipping and returns.
6. Free signature tote with both offers requiring NO coupon code - it really seems that Miraclebody is committed to good customer service which is another big plus for myself.

The Miraclebody jeans are priced at $110 but it's well worth the money given the fit, the quality and how great they make you feel.  

Here is an example testimonial from their site:

“I love Miraclebody jeans!”

Miraclebody Jeans have given me confidence! Before I was introduced to this amazing brand, I didn’t own a pair of jeans for three years because I was so uncomfortable with how I looked in them. When I put on a pair of my Miraclebody Jeans, I feel sexy, look sexy and receive compliments every time. I’ve told every woman I know about these and each one now cannot live without them. Thank you so much for giving me my confidence back and changing my life! I LOVE MIRACLEBODY JEANS!
--Katie W, Tucson, AZ

Overall, we both love the Miraclebody jeans.  Whether you are trying to look slimmer post pregnancy, on a journey to lose weight or are content with where you are but just want to look sexier in your jeans, we  recommend the Miraclebody jeans which really does make you look 10 pounds in 10 seconds!

   

Jeans aren't the only clothing item available if you want to appear instantly slimmer.  There is the Slim Skirt  and various fashionable tops.


The Giveaway:


One lucky winner will win their very own pair of Miraclebody jeans!


To Enter:


Follow my blog and tell me you want to win!


Optional Extra Entries:

• Follow Miraclebody on Twitter 
• Like Miraclebody on Facebook
• Sign up for special offers on Miraclebody
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily)
• Blog about this giveaway (worth five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (worth five entries)

Giveaway ends 11/17 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

Protect Your Kids from MSRA

With fall sports in full swing, equipment cleanliness and item-sharing on and off the field may get overlooked between carpools, homework and bedtime.  But, skin infections like MRSA, a potentially life threatening antibiotic resistant Staph infection, are the cause of 56 percent of all infectious disease outbreaks in competitive sports in the U.S. 

It’s important that as parents and coaches we do our part to help prevent the spread of MRSA.  You can begin by getting involved in the Equip them Well program through three simple steps – collect, disinfect, donate.

Have a second?  Pass this on to your school as well!  I have two children with chronic medical conditions so germs are a big concern at my house.  I'm definitely going to pass on the message.

I am participating in a One2One project and I might win a gift card.

Five Tips for Making Benefits Planning Simpler

Open enrollment is probably going to be trickier this coming year with all the new changes and the unexpected changes yet to occur.  I remember open enrollment being a tricky time once my former employer started making changes in response to the high costs of health insurance.  It was a very confusing time of the year and I usually kept my previous elections or relied on a colleague who seemed to understand all of it far better than myself.  It's a tough road since it impacts your entire year of benefits and one mistake could be very costly.  

There are many ways to make it easier and to make each decision really count.  The process to get there to fully understand your choices may not be easy but it's well worth taking the time to realize what is before you.  

1. Read all the material that has been provided to you.  It may be confusing but if it is, your benefits coordinator usually will be happy to help you with any questions.  I also find looking at other resources is beneficial such as the Aetna Be Smart About Your Health website here.  Doing your homework in light of the changes with the new healthcare regulations will ensure you make an educated decision.
2. I always used the available plan comparison tools.  Reviewing individual plans can be confusing and comprehensive but when you can see a side by side comparison, it helps make the decision process simpler.  If your plan doesn't have one, create an Excel spreadsheet noting each of the prime benefits you require or would like to have.
3. Flexible spending accounts are also beneficial for those with childcare costs or numerous medical expenses.  Refer to that checklist to ensure you are making the most of your benefits but choosing the flexible accounts.  Choosing ahead and understanding your needs will simplify the planning process.  If you don't use daycare but do have medical expenses, keep a record of the prior year's expenses to see if pays off to use the spending account.  Leaving money in the account at the end of the year may not be a good idea in some situations so check all the requirements before choosing that benefit.
4. This ties into idea three above as tracking all receipts and expenditures in a reliable manner will provide a good picture of your expenses.  By using something such as a Personal Health Record, it could even save money by eliminating redundant tests or procedures you may have already had.  A PHR may be a benefit offered by your plan which can help choose the best coverage during open enrollment.
5. If you are new to a company's open enrollment, ask your colleagues what they use and collect a general consensus of opinions.  If you have pre-existing conditions that warrant specific needs, also ask your colleagues.  Getting as much information as possible will save time and hopefully eliminate confusion.

Probably the biggest area that one can simplify the open enrollment planning period is to educate on the new laws and how they are affecting existing plans and possible new plans.  Inquire what others you work with are selecting and why they choose one over another.  Tracking medical expenses is an optimal way to fully understand what your needs are.  Education, comparing, personal health records, inquiring and tracking are all great ways to simplify the benefits planning period.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Aetna blogging program, making me eligible to get a $30 Target gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.