Embracing a Healthy Family

Roundabouts Cupcake Sleeves Review & Giveaway 2/23 WINNER CLOSED

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...


Kimberly said...




Daily tweet 2: http://mobile.twitter.com/kcoud33/status/36502502178299904
kcoud33 at gmail dot com

An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner has been chosen via random.org.  Thanks to all those who entered!




Who doesn't want to make gorgeous cupcakes at home?  I know I'm always striving to make the best of the best when I do and can't always achieve that level of success.  Presentation is always the first thing that draws your hungry ones to anything and especially with cupcakes, it's a bonus.  I was able to review Roundabouts Cupcake Sleeves and thought it was a great idea.  They arrived in perfect size for easy to use application.  They even have a self-sticking closure to ensure they stay together versus having to find the tape or glue to affix yourself.


Another feature I liked was the suggestion enclosed with the directions.  I thought this showed the level of customer service displayed by taking it an extra step.  I did receive the hamburger design which if you were having a cookout, this would be an optimal addition to that theme.


They are inexpensive ways to jazz up your special occasion while making your cupcakes look like a million bucks.  You can even order custom Roundabouts!


There are a host of themes to choose from with an easy to search feature with all the themes on the left side of the site.  They even offer some great ideas here.


 


Here are some of my favorites:




 

Overall, I loved them!  They were made of high quality paper that held their form, stuck together and the colors didn't run.  The price is right and I love all the ideas provided on the web.


________________________________________


The Giveaway:


One winner will receive their choice from over 70 Roundabouts!


To Enter: 


Follow my blog and tell me which Roundabouts you could choose.


Extra Entres:

  • Like Roundabouts on Facebook
  • Follow Roundabouts on Twitter
  • Subscribe to my blog
  • Follow me on Twitter
  • "Like" me on Facebook
  • Tweet about this giveaway "Health, Beauty, Children & Family: Roundabouts Cupcake Sleeves Giveaway 2/23 http://bit.ly/hFZXbM" - can be done daily for two entries
  • Blog about this giveaway (can be done once for five entries)
  • Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)



Giveaway ends 2/23 at midnight (EST) - US only please



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. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Power Rangers Samurai: EmPOWER Movement


I find it kind of neat that the same show my now 22 year old loved is still going strong and my two younger girls enjoy it too.  In fact, they were playing Power Rangers earlier and I decided to partake in the fun until my three year old started pounding on my right forearm and it still hurts!  Tonight, the Power Rangers premiered a new episode called Power Rangers Samurai on Nickeldeon.

One of the things you may not have noticed about Power Rangers is they do teach a universal message in every episode which is solving challenges through team work.  The Power Rangers emPOWER Movement provides parents and children the tools to work together to grow healthy children and support healthy communities.  The Power Rangers values include:

  • Standing for what is right
  • Teamwork and cooperation
  • Confidence
  • Health and physical fitness
  • Caring and friendship
emPOWER logo

Those are all qualities that should be developed in children and taken into adulthood.  I love each and every one of them.   You can read more about the Power Rangers emPOWER Movement here.  You can get some cool fitness tips, ways to empower schools and much more along with episodes, games and downloads.  While your at it, why not nominate your little Power Ranger as the "Ranger of the Week?"  It's free and what child doesn't like to see them spotlighted?

Every week, the emPOWER website will feature a new young person who's making a difference in their family, school or community.  I think I'll nominate my daughter for her work in helping other children with epilepsy.  At age five, she was diagnosed with epilepsy and two years later, she's still living with it along with pediatric migraines.   That hasn't stopped her as a year ago, she started a non-profit that not only provides gift bags to children in the hospital and at the local Ronald McDonald House but she also won a Pepsi Refresh Grant to move forward in her endeavor. 

There is always something available to provide children with positive messages and role models.  During January and February 2011, gym kits including fitness guides and bulletin board messages will be delivered among 4500 participating schools.  This is a great idea to motivate and give schools a chance in winning a $10,000 donation to their physical education program.  Read more at www.facebook.com/powerrangersempower.

Follow on Twitter here or Facebook here.


You can catch the trailer here:




One2One Network

* I wrote this post in my participation with the One2One Network and I may win a gift card.

PostNatural.com Recipe Challenge to Win $1000 in Groceries 3/17


Now that the holidays have come to a close and we’re all trying to eat better, Post Cereals wants to share some recipes that incorporate its Shredded Wheat, Grape Nuts and Raisin Bran, which add much needed whole grains, fiber and antioxidants to meals that you’ll love.  The Post Natural website includes delicious recipes for Grab and Go Peanut Butter Bars, Orange Crunch Grahams and even a Spoonable Raspberry Freeze, that are bound to get even the pickiest eaters excited to eat well!

Now through March 17th, Post is hosting a recipe challenge on PostNatural.com, in which you can enter a recipe for a chance to win $1,000 in groceries and to be featured on their website!   

Check out this recipe for meatloaf and click here for more:

Grape-Nuts Cereal, 24-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 4)

GRAPE NUTS MEATLOAF

For 4 to 6 people
Meatloaf is best mixed by hand, not a spoon.
Wear latex gloves if the idea of touching raw meet makes you squeamish.
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 large Spanish onion
  • 2 pounds ground beef, lean
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 cup Grape Nuts
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 2 eggs
  • 2T horseradish, prepared (strained)
  • 1t worchestershire
  • 2T kosher salt
  • 1T freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/3 cup + ¼ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup fresh chives, chopped
  • ¼ cup flat leaf parsley, chopped
  • 2T fresh thyme, chopped

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Prepare baking sheet with silpat (silicone baking mat) or parchment paper.

In large skillet over medium heat, sweat onions and garlic in canola oil until soft
and translucent (no color). Remove from heat and transfer to plate.

Cool in refrigerator.

In small mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and egg yolks.

Add Grape Nuts, milk, horseradish and worchestershire.

Stir to incorporated. Allow to set for 10-15 minutes for Grape Nuts to soften.

In large mixing bowl, mix together ground beef and ground pork with hands until
incorporated.

Add cooled onion mixture, ketchup, salt, pepper. herbs and Grape Nuts mixture.

Mix well.

Note: To test for seasoning, make a small meat

Mega Baby Juno 7 DVD, 2 CDs, 2 Sheets of Magnets & Matching Canvas Tote 2/28 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO...


wendysue said...

I entered your giveaway for roundabouts. 2

If you love Baby Juno or never heard of it, you don't want to miss this great giveaway of 7 DVDs, 2 CDs, 2 sheets of magnets and a very nice matching Baby Juno canvas tote (much better than the ordinary totes).

DVDs: 


    

   




Not pictured:  Baby Juno Juno's Rhythm Adventure, the sheets of magnets and the canvas bags.  Way to Go, Juno! has been opened.

______________________________________________

To Enter:

Follow my blog and leave a comment.

Extra Entries:


  • Subscribe to my blog
  • Follow me on Twitter
  • Like me on Facebook
  • Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries)
  • Blog about this giveaway (can be done twice at least 7 days apart for five entries)
  • Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 2/28 at midnight (EST) - US only please

UPrinting Hang Tags Giveaway 2/17: You Have to See These! WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...


Kimberly said...

Email subscriberqaaaaW
kcoud33 at gmail dot com

Photobucket


Have you checked out all the great print products available at UPrinting?  I had no idea they had custom hang tags and I love them!  The variety is amazing and I can think of many things I can use them for both personal and business.  They are made by offset printing which the process of printing using plates to transfer images into surfaces like paper.  I have had other products from UPrinting and haven't had a complaint yet.  The other thing I like about UPrinting is the proof process.  They will actually contact you if they see something that doesn't look right.  This was a bonus for me as the last time I placed an order, it was incorrect but I didn't lose money due to the great proofing process.


There are some great example designs such as these:


custom hang tags 01


custom hang tags 08 custom hang tags 02


You can also create beautiful custom hang tags through offset printing with UPrinting.com.  I can't wait to see what I can come up with!


______________________________________________________


The Giveaway:

One winner will received 250 Hang Tags
  • 2” x 2” or 2” x 3.5”
  • 14pt Cardstock Gloss
  • Front and Back printing with Hole Drilling

To Enter:
  • Follow my blog and tell me what you would use the hang tags for.

Extra Entries:
  • Like UPrinting on Facebook
  • Subscribe to my blog
  • Blog about this giveaway (can be done once - five entries)
  • Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily - two entries) - Health, Beauty, Children & Family: UPrinting Hang Tags Giveaway 2/17: You Have to See These! http://bit.ly/i4xf3Q
  • Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)
  • Follow me on Twitter
  • Like me on Facebook

Giveaway ends 2/17 at midnight (EST) - Open to US only and those over 18








*Disclosure:  I received the Hang Tags from UPrinting.com for hosting this giveaway.

H&S Candies Box of Chocolate Giveaway 2/19 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...


wendysue said...

I subscribe to your rss feed.


I know the giveaway ends after Valentine's Day but this is for those that may not have received a Valentine's Day gift or just loves chocolate like me!  Besides, who needs an occasion to indulge in chocolate???  I certainly don't and wanted to pass this on to my readers since I get a free box.  Heart & Soul Candies (H&S) is graciously giving away a free box of chocolate to one of my readers!

This is where H&S Candies is unique, they were founded with a vision to offer people the faith, hope and love that can be found in the Scriptures.  Each of their candies is inscribed with a powerful message of blessing.

 


For a limited time, you can order special Valentine's Day American Heritage Girls Boxes here.  A portion is donated.

You can order here which includes a 50 piece box.  Each selection includes the following Scripture:
  1. Milk Chocolate Meltaway - "Grace and peace to you from God the Father"  1 Corinthians 1:3
  2. Solid Dark Chocolate - "And so we know and rely on the love God has for us."  1 John 4:16
  3. Milk Chocolate Caramel - "May your unfailing love be my comfort"  Psalm 119:76
  4. Milk Chocolate Almond - "Blessed are those whose strength is in the Lord"  Psalm 84:5
  5. Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter - "Praise the Lord.  Give thanks to the Lord for He is good."  Psalm 106:1
  6. Dark Chocolate Mint (new) - "The LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace"  Numbers 6:26 
Priced at only $29 per box.

____________________________________________

The Giveaway:

One reader will receive their own box!

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me which flavor you would choose.

Extra Entries:
  • Become a fan of H&S Candies on Facebook
  • Follow H&S Candies on Twitter
  • Subscribe to my blog
  • Follow me on Twitter
  • "Like" me on Facebook
  • Tweet about this giveaway (can be done once a day for two entries) 
  • Blog about this giveaway (can be done once for five entries)
  • Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 2/19 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Winner chosen via random.org

Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion System & Retexturizing Peel Review

I have been on a mission to feel better and to look better.  I've been trying many products trying to find that magical one.  Yes, I even have had Botox.  I would like to find other means to feeling better which is where I just purchased two Avon products:  Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion System & Anew Retexturizing Peel.  Granted, I only tried them last night but I was so pleased with how good my complexion looked this morning that I had to post!

ANEW CLINICAL Advanced Dermabrasion System

The ANEW CLINICAL Advanced Dermabrasion System showed improved skin texture, clarity & tone.  After seeing my results after the first night, I agree!  It's so easy to use with application consisting of turning the dial starting at level 1, applying a small amount and then you gradually move up to levels 2-4 which lasts eight weeks before you start again.  I can't wait to see how my face looks after the eighth week.  My face was not red rather it glowed the next morning.


ANEW CLINICAL Advanced Retexturizing Peel


I also used the ANEW CLINICAL Advanced Retexturizing Peel which is also the Winner of the Allure Magazine Best of Beauty Award for Best Peel!   Now, in 1 easy step you see results which is claimed to be superior to a professional 35% glycolic peel.  It stated you might have a tingly sensation which I did but it wasn't uncomfortable.  It didn't leave my face sticky either.  


Overall, I love both products and can't wait to repost in four and eight weeks.


UPDATE:


I've been using both products for four weeks now and love it!  I even purchased my replacements since it was on sale. I feel my face looks more vibrant and alive.  The products last a long time as well which adds to the value for the price.  At four weeks, I definitely recommend both Avon products.


*Disclaimer:  I am an AVONdreamers Ambassador which is not directly affiliated with Avon.  I did purchase the products at full cost and was not paid nor compensated for this post.

Our Family Getting Healthier in 2011

I think I have posted about every diet there is or at least tried every diet.  I have tried the online diets, Atkins, soup and many more.  The three things I'm finding no matter what when one pursues an attempt to lose weight that are needed:  1.  mental state geared towards getting healthier versus dieting; 2. support from family and/or friends; and 3. ability to track food and exercise.   The key to the programs like Nutrisystem and Weight Watchers are food portions, calorie intake, exercise and tracking those calories and exercise.  You've seen all those commercials for those miracle fat loss supplements and in tiny print are the "results not typical."  No kidding .... but can they be a little more realistic and state that the few that actually did lose weight did so because they started eating better and exercising?  If any claim was that easy, everyone would be in shape.

I signed up to be a Nutrisystem Ambassador and probably won't make it because the competition is quite stiff.  I purchased my domain and lost my page rank of 3 unfortunately so that taints many in spite of my large number of followers.  Before that starting in January, I invoked a challenge to my family as I saw that many of them needed to get healthier so I started a private Facebook group and invited them to it.  There we share our struggles, our weekly weigh in and whatever else we feel like.  I have my mother, my sister, my daughter, her fiance, my cousin and my sister's husband to include myself all competing for the first prize of $100.  Money motivates them!  After being on the "whatever you choose plan," all but one has lost weight so I find this a big success.  My sister wrote me yesterday after visiting the doctor who was very happy she had lost 8 pounds since her last visit.  She thanked me for motivating her and even though I'm not looking for the kudos, it's so wonderful knowing my actions are making a difference.

4" Gold Trophy

Out of seven of us, we have lost 22 pounds since January 1st.  The power of motivation and family support are big!  Most everyone is just watching portion control, calorie intake and exercising.  Two are on Weight Watchers Online, one is on Nutrisystem and the rest are just eating healthier.  If you have a family like mine, why not try with them to see how far you can take it to get everyone feeling better and living longer!  I'll post an update with the mid results and who was using which program.

Handmade with Love Winter Giveaway 2/2 - 2/6: WINNERS CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...


TWO PAIRS OF EARRINGS:


Tabathia said...

email subscriber
tbarrettno1 at gmail dot com



ZAZZLE $25 GC WINNER:

Marsha said...

I'm a new subscriber

Both ladies have 48 hours to respond before a new winner has been chosen via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!




Welcome to Health, Beauty, Children and Family and the Handmade with Love Winter Giveaway. 
Hundreds of blogs are participating in the Handmade with Love Winter Giveaway Hop!  Each one is offering a themed giveaway - all the prizes are handmade treasures or gift certificates to shops that sell handmade items. There is a linky at the end of this post.  After you've entered here, hop on over to the next blog on the list and keep going as long as you'd like!  The more you enter, the more likely you are to win.  Good luck!

Prize (US, Canada, International):
These two sensational pairs of earrings are perfect for that night on the town or just hanging out.  I love the jewelry from CinLynn Boutique and have purchased ready made jewelry as well as custom made bracelets for my daughter and her baby.  Cindy is very talented, takes great pride in her work and goes the extra mile in delivering beautiful jewelry.  One winner (US) will win both pairs of earrings.  
Earrings -- Clear Crackle Glass Earrings -- Sweet Glass Square  -Nickel Free

Second Prize (US, Canada, International)

This one is sort of handmade as the designs are made in Zazzle.  The winner will receive a $25 Gift Certificate.

Sweet 16 Pink and Black Polka Dot Invitation 

Brown and Black Cupcake Business Cards business cards Customized Three Little Ladybug Shirt


Main Entry:
Follow Health, Beauty, Children and Family publicly on Google Friend Connect (right sidebar) and tell me what country you live in.

Bonus Entries:
  1. Follow me on Twitter
  2. Like me on Facebook
  3. Subscribe to my blog
  4. Blog about this giveaway (can be done once)
  5. Tweet this giveaway (RT 1x per day). Sample tweet: Handmade With Love Winter Giveaway @stayingyoung2 #giveaway #hwlg http://bit.ly/dPuHCR
Open to US, Canada and International.

Leave one comment for each entry. Giveaway ends February 6, 2011 at 11:59PM EST. There will be one winner chosen for each prize. The winners will be selected by random.org and notified by email to the email address provided in the winning comments.  The first winner drawn from random.org will get the first prize and the second number drawn is for the second prize.  The winners must respond within 48 hours of the notification email, or another winner will be chosen. 


Disclosure: I received no compensation and I have purchased the items listed in this giveaway.


Here is the linky for more Handmade With Love Winter Hop blogs! 




Anyone Try Avon's Anew Clinical Lift & Firm Pro Serum?


ANEW CLINICAL Lift & Firm Pro SerumAvon has a new serum in the fight against aging Avon's Anew Clinical Lift & Firm Pro Serum.  Right now, they are offering a free five piece beauty bonus ($50 value).   I haven't tried it yet but I'm always on the lookout for something to take away the wrinkles I'm getting.  As part of Health, Beauty, Children and Family, I firmly believe that when us moms take care of ourselves, it has a domino effect on our families.

According to the Avon site, 93% of women saw more lifted skin from every angle in 3 days.  97% of women agree sagging is visibly improved.

The injectable-grade PVP is a skin tightening polymer and it's formulated with pro-firming beads.  It sounds interesting and I have to admit that I am drawn to packages that look innovative and sophisticated.  I can't wait to read more reviews on the product.  If you have tried, leave a comment please!

My Review:


I've been using Avon's Anew Clinical Lift & Firm Pro Serum for two weeks now and I like it.  I do feel it's helping my face with the fine lines and wrinkles.  I'm also using it in conjunction with the Avon's ANEW CLINICAL Advanced Dermabrasion System and ANEW CLINICAL Advanced Retexturizing Peel.  I definitely like how my face looks in the morning and to me, it's more vibrant, full of color and it just looks more refreshed.  I will post an updated review in two weeks.

If you want to know about Avon's Anew Dermabrasion System and Retexturizing Peel, check out my review here.  It's a winner in my books!


* I am an AVONdreamers Ambassador.  I am not paid for my posts and the products that I'm reviewing were purchased with my own money.

Tiny Prints: What would you do/have you done for love?

An interesting question and one that conjures of images of a romantic relationship.  What would you do have done for love?  If I went through the old memory banks to explain the crazy things I have done to include loving things in relationships, you may not believe me in some instances.  Love can make you crazy and can make you do irrational things especially when you are young and naive.  Instead of focusing on the love in a relationship such as a significant other, I'm going to relate my experiences to my children.  Love is a crazy force that inspires acts sometimes out of character but it's always a result of intense feelings.

My children are my everything and I go to great lengths on so many different levels.  One of the biggest areas I can think of are birthday parties and holidays.  I don't just have a cake, presents and balloons rather I go all out.  I take months planning and preparing, researching ideas and finding the best props I need to make it the ultimate party or experience.  I spend way too much money, a lot of time but I'm met with big smiles, laughs and beautiful memories.  Not to mention, I'll leave behind a legacy for them to continue with their children.  My holidays are met with the same enthusiasm for them.  Take Valentine's Day as an example.  It's not enough to purchase a little card as I have to do it up right down to the perfect card, sweets and decor.  I spend a lot of time finding the perfect card because for me, it comes from the heart.

Tiny Prints Valentine's Day 

I have shopped at Tiny Prints for many of my celebrations and this Valentine's Day is no different.   Tiny Prints has a host of children's Valentine's Day cards, stickers and gift tags.  Check out the great selection here.

There is such a huge selection to choose from that I can spend a really long time trying to find the right card and gift.  

Tiny Prints provides simple, modern and unique stationery from Valentines Day cards to personalized greeting cards to thank you cardsbusiness cards, and even custom wedding invitations. Offering exclusive designs from the nation's top designers, easy card personalization, a powerful preview engine and top-notch customer service and paper quality, their designs have been lauded by numerous television networks, publications and celebrities. With Tiny Prints by your side commemorating every holiday and momentous occasion is a cinch! They offer perfect party invitations for every occasion and memorable personalized photo-gifts like notebooksphoto books and calendars.


*Disclaimer:  This post was written as part of a Global Influence campaign for Tiny Prints in which I will receive complimentary cards or a gift code.

Did You Know Covergirl is Celebrating 50 Years?



As part of my participation as a BzzAgent, I'm sharing the news about Covergirl's 50th anniversary and can't help but share the picture of Covergirl spokesperson Taylor Swift as we are a Taylor fan!  All my girls love her and I've even gone so far as to decorate a guitar to match her silver one and change my middle one's room to be a Taylor room.

Join Covergirl on Facebook and learn more about opportunities to save and learn more as well as find out how you can with MyCoverGirl program here.

Win a Celebrity COVERGIRL Experience
  • Enter now for a chance to win VIP tickets to The Ellen DeGeneres Show!
  • Plus, throughout the year, you'll have the chance to win special prizes with Taylor, Queen or Drew.
Get Free Products
  • Every month we're giving away 1,000 free products. To kick things off, we're giving the first 1,000 COVERGIRLs that register a chance to win a FREE LashBlast Volume Mascara!
Make a Difference
  • We're donating $1 to Make-A-Wish Foundation®for the first 50,000 COVERGIRLs who join!*

Valentine's Day Giveaway: SpaFinder $50 Gift Card Giveaway 2/11 WINNER CLOSED

Congratulations to ...



Aileen said...

Entered Roundabouts giveaway - 1.
arobimom at gmail dot com

SpaFinder - Find Spas, Spa Gifts and Spa Deals


I posted earlier about interest in a giveaway featuring a $50 gift card to SpaFinder and found out that there was an interest.  I received the gift card last July and with only having one available spa nearby, I am opting out to give it away to someone who might want it a little more than I do!

To Enter:

Follow my blog and MySoCalledHomeschoolLife and leave a comment that you follow both.

Extra Entries:

  • Subscribe to my blog
  • Follow me on Twitter
  • "Like" me on Facebook
  • Tweet about this giveaway (can be done once a day for two entries) - Health, Beauty, Children & Family: Valentine's Day Giveaway: SpaFinder $50 Gift Card Giveaway 2/11 http://bit.ly/hDVyY4
  • Blog about this giveaway (can be done once for five entries)
  • Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 2/11 at midnight (EST) - US only please