It's time again for Friday Follow!
Week Three of Nutrisystem
I'm ending week three of my Nutrisystem program and have struggled along the way. The first time I tried Nutrisystem, it was easier and I find myself being hungry more than I was but am hoping it will pass soon enough. One of my problems is I get little sleep so that doesn't help with the hunger and the number of allowed calories. However, the number of calories allowed is more than adequate and the food is good. With any program, the food isn't always great pending on what you choose and you learn from trial and error. One of the reasons I quit the first time is they substituted a lot of my food choices with foods that I don't like such as mushrooms. I rejoined due to the guarantee clause added and much to my surprise, only a few items were substituted.
For those of you not aware of Nutrisystem, the plan isn't just their food. It does have a great online feature that allows you to track your intake, your exercise, your water intake and any journal thoughts. I love the electronic food diary as it has drop down menus allowing you to quickly choose your food you consumed while an easy way to add foods that are prepopulated. Each day is full of fruit and vegetable choices too so you get to snack and supplement the Nutrisystem food. My favorite is the desert ... grin!
With next month's shipment, I choose to pay a little more and I purchased the frozen breakfast, lunch and snack meals for one week. I decided to supplement those days where I'm more tired or just feeling blah.
For those of you not aware of Nutrisystem, the plan isn't just their food. It does have a great online feature that allows you to track your intake, your exercise, your water intake and any journal thoughts. I love the electronic food diary as it has drop down menus allowing you to quickly choose your food you consumed while an easy way to add foods that are prepopulated. Each day is full of fruit and vegetable choices too so you get to snack and supplement the Nutrisystem food. My favorite is the desert ... grin!
With next month's shipment, I choose to pay a little more and I purchased the frozen breakfast, lunch and snack meals for one week. I decided to supplement those days where I'm more tired or just feeling blah.
To date, I've lost six pounds in three weeks.
Attention Chicagoland Mommy's: Hyatt Regency All About Moms Contest
The Hyatt Regency in Chicago announces that the hotel will sponsor a 2010 All About Mom Contest in honor of Mother’s Day this year. Chicagoland children from first through fifth grade are invited to write a 100-word essay on why their mom is special to them. Five winning children will be rewarded with a weekend stay for Mom on May 7 and 8 in one of Hyatt Regency Chicago’s most exclusive premier suites.
Additionally, the child’s mother will receive a $100 spa gift certificate. To be considered, all submissions must be made by April 2, 2010 by posting it on Hyatt Regency Chicago’s Facebook Mother’s Day page (by clicking on this link: http://www.facebook.com/hyattchicago) or by emailing the essay to hrcemarketing@hyatt.com. Winners will be chosen and notified by April 9, 2010.
To make this Mother’s Day special for all area families, Hyatt Regency Chicago is offering a special rate of $129 and complimentary parking Mother’s Day weekend – May 7-9, 2010. This exclusive special is based on availability. To reserve this special offer, contact Hyatt Regency Chicago at 800.233.1234 or at www.chicagoregency.hyatt.com. Be sure to request or enter special offer code MOM. Mom’s can also leave the work to Hyatt Regency Chicago this Mother’s Day and indulge in a wonderful Mother’s Day Brunch in The BISTRO at 151. Brunch will begin at 10am on May 9th and is $39.95 per person. For brunch reservations, call 312.239.4496.
About Hyatt Regency Chicago
Hyatt Regency Chicago, the largest hotel in the Midwest and Hyatt property in the world, features 2,019 guestrooms, 228,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and six restaurants and lounges. The hotel is located at 151 East Wacker Drive, along Chicago’s Riverwalk in the heart of downtown. Hyatt Regency Chicago borders the Magnificent Mile and is only blocks away from Chicago’s premier theatre, cultural, shopping and dining districts. For reservations, visit www.chicagohyatt.com call 800.233.1234.
Once upon a time, a long time ago, I stayed at the Hyatt for work. I was able to buy the best shoes ever while staying there and so I'll never forget the Hyatt. It's a very nice hotel and I wished I still lived near Chicago but all you lucky Chicagoland mom's can try to get the creative juices in your children going to win!
* Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. Information was provided by Noreen Heron & Associates.
Additionally, the child’s mother will receive a $100 spa gift certificate. To be considered, all submissions must be made by April 2, 2010 by posting it on Hyatt Regency Chicago’s Facebook Mother’s Day page (by clicking on this link: http://www.facebook.com/hyattchicago) or by emailing the essay to hrcemarketing@hyatt.com. Winners will be chosen and notified by April 9, 2010.
To make this Mother’s Day special for all area families, Hyatt Regency Chicago is offering a special rate of $129 and complimentary parking Mother’s Day weekend – May 7-9, 2010. This exclusive special is based on availability. To reserve this special offer, contact Hyatt Regency Chicago at 800.233.1234 or at www.chicagoregency.hyatt.com. Be sure to request or enter special offer code MOM. Mom’s can also leave the work to Hyatt Regency Chicago this Mother’s Day and indulge in a wonderful Mother’s Day Brunch in The BISTRO at 151. Brunch will begin at 10am on May 9th and is $39.95 per person. For brunch reservations, call 312.239.4496.
About Hyatt Regency Chicago
Hyatt Regency Chicago, the largest hotel in the Midwest and Hyatt property in the world, features 2,019 guestrooms, 228,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and six restaurants and lounges. The hotel is located at 151 East Wacker Drive, along Chicago’s Riverwalk in the heart of downtown. Hyatt Regency Chicago borders the Magnificent Mile and is only blocks away from Chicago’s premier theatre, cultural, shopping and dining districts. For reservations, visit www.chicagohyatt.com call 800.233.1234.
Once upon a time, a long time ago, I stayed at the Hyatt for work. I was able to buy the best shoes ever while staying there and so I'll never forget the Hyatt. It's a very nice hotel and I wished I still lived near Chicago but all you lucky Chicagoland mom's can try to get the creative juices in your children going to win!
* Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. Information was provided by Noreen Heron & Associates.
Losing Weight in the Sistahood and #Mamavation
I've been trying and trying to lose weight and get healthier and ever since I hit 40 (will be 42 in July), I'm realizing the importance of getting in shape for longevity over appearance sake. I finally joined the Mamavation Sistahood to further the encouragement and success.
Since I started working on the weight loss track (again), two weeks ago, I've lost five pounds by counting calories and sticking to the Nutrisystem plan. I bought the EarthFootwear shoes and wear them everywhere to add a little extra to the weight loss and I ride my bike minimally for one hour a day.
Yahoo Health had a great article on easy ways to lose weight. After reading it, it wasn't anything new or truly informative but I considered it further reinforcement to help make little changes that will equal big chances in the long run. The summary is:
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Since I started working on the weight loss track (again), two weeks ago, I've lost five pounds by counting calories and sticking to the Nutrisystem plan. I bought the EarthFootwear shoes and wear them everywhere to add a little extra to the weight loss and I ride my bike minimally for one hour a day.
Yahoo Health had a great article on easy ways to lose weight. After reading it, it wasn't anything new or truly informative but I considered it further reinforcement to help make little changes that will equal big chances in the long run. The summary is:
- Eat hot soup before you eat lunch or dinner as hot foods forces you to slow down and eat. If you are like me, you are an unwilling marathon eater and can't control it! I multi-task so much and for so many years that I cram food in to get to the next task or I eat and task at the same time. Before I know it, I just consumed a 1700 calorie Wendy's meal in 10 minutes flat!
- Don't eat heavily before bed. In fact, I've routinely read that you shouldn't eat after 6 pm. I don't understand that one as so many people eat dinner after 7 pm but aren't overweight but then again, they probably eat less than I would at a meal.
- Live like a city dweller which means find ways to walk more. Park down further at Walmart or park and walk to get your food order. Little things add up and this is an easy way to do it.
- Try dashing chili pepper on your food as it helps to stimulate your metabolism while possibly curtailing your hunger. I also read the cinnamon does this.
- Limit your calories in drinks. You would be surprised how quickly those Starbucks or apple juices add up. I also have been wondering how calorie free the fake sugars are. Every time I quit drinking them and switch to water, I drop weight. I'm sure it's a benefit to having the water to flush the body but it still seems like there has to be something about the so-called calorie free claims.
- My biggest one: weigh yourself daily! This is so true even though many experts state you shouldn't do this. How many times have you forced yourself on the scales after a couple of weeks, trying to shift to one side over the other to trick the scale only to find you packed on a few pounds? When you weigh yourself daily, you are more accountable in ensuring the scale doesn't go up and it's motivating to see it staying put or going down. One way it's bad is when you are trying to lose weight and you see no movement. With any weight loss program when you incorporate exercise, there is a period of weight increase as you shift from fat to muscle.
Overall, I think the biggest changes are recording your intake, drinking water, exercising and weighing yourself daily. You can read the entire article here.
UPrinting 100 4 x 6 Postcard Giveaway 3/17 WINNER CLOSED
CONGRATULATIONS TO ....
MELANIE!
An e-mail has just been sent to and she will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen via random.org.
Thanks to all those who entered!
Sping is coming and along with that is Easter, communions, weddings, graduation and so much more! If you are like me, you like to have the perfect party and using formal invitations is right up on the "must have" list. Using postcards is cost effective as it's cheaper to mail, friendlier for the environment and look great.
If you are a business owner, who couldn't use some free promotional material to inform your customers of a sale or a special coming up? What about announcing something new? There are so many ways that FREE postcards can help promote your business.Celebrate or Promote Your Business
The fact that they are full color on both sides, provides free shipping with a three business day turnaround definitely catches my attention!
When you choose UPrinting, you get to use their templates or design your own and you get a free proof. I've ordered too many times in the past to receive something I was completely disappointed in so this is an excellent feature to me.
Some other great uses of postcards:
- Recipe cards to give out or to keep yourself.
- Reminder notices to send your customers.
- School PTO/PTA notices and events.
- The possibilities are endless!
UPrinting is a one stop shop for all your printing needs whether you need postcard printing, promotional printing, flyers, labels, business cards, canvas prints, vinyl banners, catalogs and so much more.
A great birthday can be planned through all the great products and a business can get all the promotional material they need!
The Giveaway:
- 100 4 x 6 Postcards
- Paper Stock: 14pt Cardstock Gloss
- Specifications: Full Color Both Sides; 3 Business Days Turnaround
- Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping
Follow my blog and tell me what you would use the postcards for if you won.
Extra Entries (two entries each unless otherwise noted):
- Subscribe to my blog
- Follow UPrinting on Twitter
- Follow me on Twitter
- Become a fan of UPrinting on Facebook
- Blog about this giveaway (five entries)
- Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily)
- Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)
Eligibility: Limited to US Residents only
Good luck!
*Disclaimer: I did not receive compensation for this post.
Expressiva Nursingwear Review & $35 GC Giveaway 3/17 WINNER CLOSED
CONGRATULATIONS TO.....
CAROLPIE!
An e-mail has just been sent to Carol and she has 48 hours to respond before choosing another winner via random.org.
Thanks to all those who entered!
If you are wiser like me (old), you remember the selections we had for purchasing nursing wear and it wasn't pretty. I have pictures wearing little bears on my shirts and all sorts of cutsie outfits that were okay at that time if I were 10 years old, which I wasn't. My oldest laughs at some of those pictures but 22 years ago, there was virtually no selection let alone good selections. I love children and as I added to my family, I found that the selections were improving and looked so good, you could wear them even post pregnancy and nursing pending the style and fit.
My oldest is now going to make me a proud (young) grandma which has greatly confused my six year old who thinks she's going to be a big sister (again). She can't comprehend her big sister having a baby but in time, she will. Nothing can be too good for my oldest so focusing a series of posts on maternity, nursing and baby products is quite fun as I love to share new products, great finds and real deals. I ventured onto Expressiva Nursingwear by another blogger, Ruminations of a Twenty-Something Mom, and I was impressed in the clothing and other items available.
Look at this adorable Feminine Retro Print Top. The pattern is special as it's multi-colored to help hide leaks which all breastfeeding moms know, it's almost impossible to stay dry. To feed, you simply lift the bodice and pull aside the material for discreet, quick feeding. The tie backs allows adjustment to your waist so it is a long wearing shirt to accommodate your changes in size from post pregnancy to whatever your weight ends up at.It's 95% cotton and 5% spandex which will allow for a shapely fit but not too huggy as we know how we dislike our little love handles that pregnancy brings on to most of us. It's machine washable thus allowing a great benefit for such a beautiful shirt that can be worn with slacks, capris, jeans or a skirt.
The Empire Tank Top in Organic Cotton is another eye catcher. Two wrap style nursing openings are accessed under the horizontal seam. It's lightweight and made of 100% organic cotton with no tags. This one is also machine washable. As with the other shirt, it is available in XS, S, M, L and XL and a variety of colors.
Expressiva Nursingwear also provides readers to read actual reviews provided by customers. To me, this shows a profound level of honesty in helping their customers choose. The reviews were helpful to read and helped shape our decision on what to choose.
Expressiva has many items to choose with a variety of clothes to organic and swimwear to covers, accessories and gifts.
I have not seen a product like this and being a new mother, it's easy to forget given the lack of sleep. Expressiva also has Mothers Minders Bracelets at only $4.99 and are available in blue or pink:
Expressiva has many items to choose with a variety of clothes to organic and swimwear to covers, accessories and gifts.
I have not seen a product like this and being a new mother, it's easy to forget given the lack of sleep. Expressiva also has Mothers Minders Bracelets at only $4.99 and are available in blue or pink:
By turning the dial, record and monitor your baby's feedings, nap schedule or medication
By using this bracelet, you will discover your baby's natural routine for eating, burping, diaper changes, sleeping, playing and the need for love and attention
Reduces stress for you and your baby! When your baby starts to fuss or cry, quickly refer to the time on the bracelet to assess and address your baby's needs
Pro's:
Great selection of all types of clothing to include a wonderful selection of nursing bras- Very reasonable prices
- Fashionable, fun choice that can be worn post breast feeding
- Ease of site
Actual buyer reviews (as applicable)- Chance to win a prize
- Ability to create a wishlist to share with family and friends
- Ability to create an account to login for future use
- Assistance in choosing maternity articles of clothing and sizes
- Organic selection
- Easy to care for (washable)
- No hassle returns/exchanges
- Gift certificates
- Ability to track orders
Con's:
None that I can identify
The Reviews:
Two panel members reviewed the Bravado Lifestyle Microfiber Bra and the Feminine Retro Print Top Purple/Black.
The Retro Print Top is made of cotton and 5% spandex which allows for a softness with a little elasticity to make it comfortable to wear. It's lightweight and will be great for the summer months but versatile enough to wear under a sweater or suit to look great. The tie backs allow the top to grow or decrease in size which is wonderful news for those that lose weight post pregnancy. Buying nursing wear can be expensive and finding nursing wear that adapts to the changes in the body is practical and desired. This top offers that great feature.
Another key feature that promotes versatility and ease is how the bodice lifts up to allow for easy feeding. This allows any mom to nurse with ease, comfort and privacy. Color variations include purple and black or red and black in a variety of sizes.
This top appears to be indicative of all the clothing options offered by Expressiva Nursingwear in terms of comfort, versatility and the ability to have the option to feed with relative obscurity. Our panel member recommends this top to any pregnant mom or nursing mom.
Bravado Lifestyle Microfiber Bra is soft and comfortable due to the silky microfiber material it's made of. The inner cup lining is made of Bravado's CottonFlex for increased comfort and breathability. The best feature of this bra is the single handed nursing clips and the ability to adjust as needed. Any convenience in nursing is wanted and this bra offers that convenience. The shapely contours of the material are also seamless and with t-shirt weather coming, that is nice.
Two panel members reviewed the Bravado Lifestyle Microfiber Bra and the Feminine Retro Print Top Purple/Black.
The Retro Print Top is made of cotton and 5% spandex which allows for a softness with a little elasticity to make it comfortable to wear. It's lightweight and will be great for the summer months but versatile enough to wear under a sweater or suit to look great. The tie backs allow the top to grow or decrease in size which is wonderful news for those that lose weight post pregnancy. Buying nursing wear can be expensive and finding nursing wear that adapts to the changes in the body is practical and desired. This top offers that great feature.
Another key feature that promotes versatility and ease is how the bodice lifts up to allow for easy feeding. This allows any mom to nurse with ease, comfort and privacy. Color variations include purple and black or red and black in a variety of sizes.
This top appears to be indicative of all the clothing options offered by Expressiva Nursingwear in terms of comfort, versatility and the ability to have the option to feed with relative obscurity. Our panel member recommends this top to any pregnant mom or nursing mom.
Bravado Lifestyle Microfiber Bra is soft and comfortable due to the silky microfiber material it's made of. The inner cup lining is made of Bravado's CottonFlex for increased comfort and breathability. The best feature of this bra is the single handed nursing clips and the ability to adjust as needed. Any convenience in nursing is wanted and this bra offers that convenience. The shapely contours of the material are also seamless and with t-shirt weather coming, that is nice. Being a past nursing mother, I also looked at the bra before passing it on to LM from our panel and also found the ease with the clasps. I remember struggling with clasps from bras but this one is so nice and convenient.
Both the shirt and the bra received glowing reviews from our two panel members. Having a choice to wear fashionable, comfortable and convenient nursing is key to being a happy mommy! The prices are very reasonable, the quality is high and the comfort is wonderful. We recommend Expressiva Nursingwear!
The Giveaway:
One lucky reader will win a $35 gift certificate to Expressiva Nursingwear!
To Enter:
Follow my blog and visit http://www.expressiva.com/ and tell me what you would use the gift certificate on.
Extra Entries (two entries each unless otherwise noted):
- 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.
Giveaway ends 3/17 at midnight (EST).
Winner will be chosen via random.org
*Disclaimer: Panel members received the two articles of clothing complimentary from the sponsor of this giveaway. No other compensation was provided.
Bummas Review & Giveaway: A Different Way to Eliminate Diaper Rash 3/16 CLOSED WINNER
CONGRATULATIONS TO ...
jakiesmom
An e-mail has just been sent and she has 48 hours to respond.
Diaper rash is such a harsh experience for little one's to endure not to mention the helplessness a parent feels watching their baby in pain. Many of us try all sorts of remedies to prevent and end diaper rash to no avail. Powders, talcs and ointments, to include organic, are a way of trying to prevent and stop diaper rash but being able to apply nothing is a choice I prefer. When I found out about Bummas, I was excited to see a product that eliminates the need to put a product directly on their skin. All the news of products containing toxic chemicals is quite scary to me and if I can do something that is better for my children, why not?
This simple way is found in Bummas which are small soft, luxurious baby-sized cloths made especially for drying baby bottoms, as well as blocking those surprise squirts. And with a little douse of water, they can also replace wet wipes for clean up of sensitive bums. They are small enough to conveniently carry on the go and durable enough to wash over and over again and won’t pill shrink or fade. Bummas are also made in the US so there are no hidden toxins lurking in the manufacturing.
Bummas are 100% cotton and the soft velour terry cloth feels wonderful against the skin. The 5" by 7" size is perfect for little bums. Since I received my complimentary Bummas set, I've even used one as a forehead cool cloth for my six year's headaches. The size couldn't have been better and it was much easier for her to handle without it hanging around her hair and over her face. They are even small enough where you can rewash them and place in a reusable diaper wash tub for easier access.
They are definitely easy to use, soft and non-irritating against the skin, absorbs and dries in no time and cost effective versus diaper wipes. I haven't tried bleaching them yet so I'm not sure how the color holds up. Bummas hold up nicely and I would recommend them over conventional diaper wipes mostly due to the chemical factor of diaper wipes and various ointments. If you are green conscious, this is so much better for the environment as well. I will definitely purchase a couple of sets for my pregnant daughter.
Pro's:
- No chemicals - all natural
- Prevents diaper rash by keeping baby's bum dry
- Easy and convenient - small sizes
- Earth friendly - reuse
- Site has a FAQ section
- Ships worldwide
- Available in an assortment of colors
- Cheaper - eliminates diaper wipes and other ointments and powders
One winner, anywhere in the world, will win their choice of color of one set of Bummas.
To Enter:
Go to Bummas and leave a comment on which color set you would choose and follow my blog.
Extra Entries (two entries unless noted otherwise):
- Follow @bummas on Twitter
- Follow me on Twitter
- Subscribe to my blog
- Blog about this giveaway (five entries)
- Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily)
- Enter any of my other on-going giveaways
Giveaway ends 3/16 at midnight (EST) and winner will be chosen by random.org.
Open to all worldwide!
New Flirty Aprons Contest Ends March 28
Who doesn't just love the new interest in aprons? They really are practical as I can't count the times I have ruined my clothes cooking and wished I had an apron. They are also pretty with the wide assortment you can choose from for the entire family!
Flirty Aprons is offering another contest! All you have to do is:
- Go to thier website and look at the resource section located at the bottom of the page
- Submit a paragraph or two that could be used in our new resource section titled "Christmas Gift"! The best/longest submission will receive a FREE APRON and the runners up will receive 50% and 25% off......respectively.
- All submissions should be sent to mail@flirtyaprons.com.
The Woombie: Swaddle, Snuggle Sleep Baby Review & Giveaway 4/7 CLOSED WINNEr
CONGRATULATONS TO ...
KATHY PEASE!
Apologies for the delay but had some computer issues.
Winner was chosen by random.org.
Thanks to all those who entered!
"The Woombie Products....Practical Yet Fabulous! " is a statement that describes Woombie and Parenting Magazine rated it a "Must Have/Buy Now." If you have a newborn, you know all about swaddling or at least heard about it. At times it can be difficult to keep a baby swaddled between not fully understanding how to swaddle as there is a correct way coupled with everyone who wants to hold the little darling. The back and forth passing makes the blanket come undone. Swaddling also helps to keep the baby asleep as there are no sudden jerks that wakes the baby in alarm.
Using a Woombie is very easy:
What is different about the Woombie is it's a blanket/sleeper in one. Once you place your baby in it, it provides a soft, stretchy fiber that allows her to move her body yet it keeps them snuggled in. The material allows the baby to lie naturally in their own comfortable position versus holding them however the swaddle ends up. Another plus with the Woombie is there is no face scratching! I love the little mittens you can buy to prevent that but they do come off and some inexperienced parents might be afraid they are on too tight. The Woombie prevents that along with overheating. Here are more of the features:
- No more worry of blankets unraveling which can lead to potential blanket suffocation.
- No face scratching or Startle Reflex to awaken baby.
- See a marked improvement in Colic symptoms.
- Effective swaddling without the need to tightly restrain baby.
- Prevents overheating due to over-wrapping. (Overheating is linked to SIDS)
- Great peanut shaped ergonomic design. Hugs the shoulders/arms, waist/abdomen, hips and feet.
- Babies sleep an average12-18 hours a day or more! Allowing movement is healthy and allows for proper motor development.
Winter Woombies are also avaliable and are made of natural ultra cuddle stretch fleece. What is nice about the Winter Woombie is it has an optional seatbelt slit for your swing or stroller. What a great idea! It even has a pacifier pocket and grosgrain ribbon with a velcro loop so no more dropped or lost pacifiers. It's available in green apple or karma.
The Review:
I found the cotton to be soft and I was pleased it's rated eco friendly. The soft, stretchy material does allow movement and in spite of the appearance, the baby is not encassed like a mummy and can move. It provided a secure wrapping without the worry of having to use blankets that might entangle. All parents are fearful of SIDS and the Woombie does follow pediatrician and SIDS guidelines which adds a greater sense of security. I especially liked the convenience of not having to reswaddle, no face scratching and how it did in fact reduce the startle, awake reflex.
I would recommend the Woombie.
Other Information:
Products such as Skidders, footwear for kids on the go, The Mo'Mo Blanket, the Winter Woombie and the Donut are also available.
You can also read the great press Woombie has received and watch a video here. To order, go here.
Woombies are available in:
- The Deluxe which is the most popular version for the baby that needs the average swaddle effect.
- The Organic Woombie has the same effect of the Deluxe but with organic material.
- The Lil'Houdini is for those tricky babies that can get out of anything.
- The Winter Woombie is for colder climates and houses in the summer where the husband has to live in an icebox (i.e. too cold!).
- The Summer is light, airy and ultra stretchy.
- Coming in June 2010: The Arms Free and Woombie with legs.
The Giveaway:
Either choice of one newborn or big baby lemon Woombie! <-- this will make a great gift or to have for your own baby!
To Enter:
Follow my blog and tell me which color you would choose by visiting Woombie.
Extra Entries (worth three entries each unless otherwise noted):
- Subscribe to my blog.
- Follow Woombie on Twitter.
- Become a fan of Woombie on Facebook.
- Become a fan of me at Facebook.
- Follow me on Twitter.
- Blog about this giveaway (five entries).
- Tweet about this giveaaway (can be done daily).
Giveaway ends 4/7 at midnight (EST). Winner will be chosen by random.org.
US only please.
My First Mamavation Post to be in the Sistahood
I'm finally doing it! Joining the great Mamation motivators and Bookieboo in realizing my goals of finally getting in shape! I have the EarthFootwear shoes, I watch the Tweets, I get the e-mails so there is nothing holding me back now ...no more excuses as it's time to do it!
I started Nutrisystem last week to regulate my caloric intake and I ride my bike six days a week for at least 30 minutes if not for an hour or two sometimes.
I lost two pounds last week and have maintained it in spite of some cheating. I'm trying to fit in fruits and vegetables but it's hard when no one else eats them with me. In spite of how I try to encourage it, it never happens. My biggest struggle is having two young children who don't sleep at night so I'm always tired. I have all the responsibilities and luckily, I have an older daughter who helps me a lot. I still work so that is a challenge too along with having my husband deploying to Kuwait next month for a month.
My ultimate goal is to lose 30 pounds in a safe, healthy manner that will change my behaviors for the long term. I want to join the Mamavation Sistahood to receive help and encouragement while giving back. I see through the events and twittering how helpful and encouraging the sistahood is.
Anyone Know of Any Unique, Adorable Easter Gifts?
I'm trying to make this Easter extra special since my husband will either be deploying to Kuwait for a year at the end of April or the very first of May. Given that, I'm busy looking for that one of a kind, unique gift to give to the younger girls. I figured I would read out to the bloggers for any ideas or suggestions!
Any and all would be greatly appreciated! Either leave a comment or contact me via staying_younger@yahoo.com.
Thanks!
Any and all would be greatly appreciated! Either leave a comment or contact me via staying_younger@yahoo.com.
Thanks!
Compact Products: Beauty on the GO Must Haves
As women, we’re constantly on-the-go, but we never leave home without a bag full of essentials: keys, phone, and of course, make-up. But Birkin or backpack, no bag is meant to hold everything. That’s why it’s important to choose compacts that are truly “compact” and grooming items that multi-task.
Here are few favorite picks that pack a beauty punch without taking up lots of real estate in your purse:
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Face Powder- Laura Mercier Pressed Setting Powder. This fine-milled French “cashmere” talc is housed in a sleek and slim compact. ($30.00)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Eyeliner and Mascara in one- Eyetini’s “Double Shot” double-ended mascara and eyeliner wand does double duty and takes your day look into evening in a flash. ($24.00)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Breath Freshener - Binaca AEROBlast for a quick blast of fresh breath after lunch in a sleek cylindrical lipstick like tube. ($2.99) www.binaca.com
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Lipstick/Gloss- Organic Glam’s Creamy Lipstick in a thin swivel-up tube is infused with healthy botanicals of green tea, grape, and shea butter to protect and prettify pouts. ($33.90)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Lip Balm- Softlips Lip Balm with SPF. Lips need suncare too and what better way to deliver it than in a svelte tube of moisturizing balm. (2 for $3.69)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Floss/Toothpicks- The Doctor’s BrushPicks. Save your smile and make your dentist proud by flossing on the go! ($3.99)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Ms. Manicure Purse Size Nail Files– Never leave home without the perfect tool for emergency repairs. Mini-emery boards should be a staple in purses and desk drawers. (For a pack of 12, $2.19)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Goody Ouchless Elastics– let you sweep your hair into a ponytail for the gym or just to cool you down on a hot day, without breakage. ($2.99)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Tissues- Kleenex Pocket Tissues – the ultimate multi-tasker. ($0.99)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Fragrance- Stella McCartney’s Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-On. A sophisticated rose and amber scent delivered with no muss, fuss or spillage thanks to the .33 oz. rollerball packaging. ($20.00)
Here are few favorite picks that pack a beauty punch without taking up lots of real estate in your purse:
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Face Powder- Laura Mercier Pressed Setting Powder. This fine-milled French “cashmere” talc is housed in a sleek and slim compact. ($30.00)Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Eyeliner and Mascara in one- Eyetini’s “Double Shot” double-ended mascara and eyeliner wand does double duty and takes your day look into evening in a flash. ($24.00)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Breath Freshener - Binaca AEROBlast for a quick blast of fresh breath after lunch in a sleek cylindrical lipstick like tube. ($2.99) www.binaca.com
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Lipstick/Gloss- Organic Glam’s Creamy Lipstick in a thin swivel-up tube is infused with healthy botanicals of green tea, grape, and shea butter to protect and prettify pouts. ($33.90)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Lip Balm- Softlips Lip Balm with SPF. Lips need suncare too and what better way to deliver it than in a svelte tube of moisturizing balm. (2 for $3.69)Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Floss/Toothpicks- The Doctor’s BrushPicks. Save your smile and make your dentist proud by flossing on the go! ($3.99)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Ms. Manicure Purse Size Nail Files– Never leave home without the perfect tool for emergency repairs. Mini-emery boards should be a staple in purses and desk drawers. (For a pack of 12, $2.19)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Goody Ouchless Elastics– let you sweep your hair into a ponytail for the gym or just to cool you down on a hot day, without breakage. ($2.99)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Tissues- Kleenex Pocket Tissues – the ultimate multi-tasker. ($0.99)
Ƹ̵̡Óœ̵̨̄Æ· Fragrance- Stella McCartney’s Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-On. A sophisticated rose and amber scent delivered with no muss, fuss or spillage thanks to the .33 oz. rollerball packaging. ($20.00)
My Job Chart: Great Tool for Kids and Chores (Online)
Now, more than ever, it's crucial for us to teach our children the importance of a strong work ethic and the value of a dollar. However, sometimes real life gets in the way, and we don't reinforce these values as much as we'd like. What Mom hasn't washed the dishes herself so that they would be done sooner (and cleaner) rather than enlisting the efforts of little helpers? And with the lure of video games, online sites and interactive toys from the next room, it can be nearly impossible to engage the interest of our children.
My Job Chart is a FREE online Chore Chart that teaches kids to work in a fun and productive way. Using an easy and fun online system, My Job Chart inspires kids to do their chores on time. An interactive point system tracks your child's progress, creating excitement and enthusiasm among kids. And the fully customizable chore chart allows you and your child to decide upon mutually determined rewards, fostering communication and developing responsibility. You even get an email or text message when your kids finish their chores or they earn a reward!
Click here to see a demo: http://www.myjobchart.com/
I've been looking for something just for this purpose so I'll see how online versus a board works.
St. Patrick's Day and Buzzed Driving Reminder
Are you headed out with friends after work this Wednesday to celebrate the holiday? No? Well when you and your family are on the road headed to choir practice, a t-ball game, or coming home from school, you may be sharing the road with those returning from a fun St. Patrick;s Day event. It's time to spread the word about the dangers of buzzed driving and to remind people that Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving, and the best way to stay safe is to plan ahead.
Let's remind everyone about the importance of remembering to:
- Designate a sober driver before you leave for your event.
- Be ready to take alternate transportation such as a bus or taxi. Have the phone number of a taxi service stored in your phone before you leave for the party.
Global Influence is working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Ad Council as they continue their efforts with the "Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving PSA" campaign. Buzzed drivers drink and drive, but do not consider themselves a hazard on the roadway because they have had "only a few" drinks. The campaign hopes to educate people that consuming even a few drinks can impair driving and that "Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving."
We need your help in keeping the roads safe for everyone this St. Patrick's Day by spreading the word that buzzed driving IS drunk driving.
To learn more about the impact buzzed driving can have on a life, please watch this important video about the financial and personal repercussions of getting a DUI: http://buzzeddriving.adcouncil.org/sign.php#video
Remember: Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving. Plan ahead and ask your loved ones to do the same.
For more information, visit Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving on Facebook and Twitter (@Buzzeddriving).
Publix Customers: $10,000 Giveaway & Bonus Box Tops
I live in the good ol' south and we have Publix. I never knew what a Publix was until about two year's ago and now my daughter works there. For my couponing, Publix is a great place to go as everytime I try to use even just a few, I receive a hard time at Walmart so after two weekends in a row of disappointment, I'm sticking with Publix.
Right now and until March 17th, Publix has a $10,000 giveaway where you can enter simply by entering your name and address at http://www.clickcallmail.com/. There are also coupons and a chance to earn bonus box tops for education if you participate. If you enter 12, you get 100 bonus box tops! This is good until May 31, 2010.
Happy Shopping!
Right now and until March 17th, Publix has a $10,000 giveaway where you can enter simply by entering your name and address at http://www.clickcallmail.com/. There are also coupons and a chance to earn bonus box tops for education if you participate. If you enter 12, you get 100 bonus box tops! This is good until May 31, 2010.
Happy Shopping!
Winner of the Jenny McCarthy Wii Your Shape Game is ....
An e-mail was just sent to Jessica and she has 48 hours to respond. It took a little longer to validate entries as there were some who did not meet the mandatory requirement.
Thanks to everyone who entered and worked hard with blog entries and tweets in trying to win it as I wished I had more than one to giveaway!
Winner of the EA Active More Workouts Announced
CONGRATULATIONS TO....
An e-mail was just sent and she has 48 hours to respond. If she doesn't, I will use random.org to choose another winner.
Thanks to all those who entered!
Winner Chosen for FaBOWlous Giveaway
The original post with giveaway announcement is here: http://youthfultips.blogspot.com/2010/02/simply-fabowlous-review-and-giveaway.html
Congratulations to CouponMommy!
ThermaPak 15" Pink HeatShift Laptop Cooler Giveaway 4/1 CLOSED WINNER
CONGRATULATIONS TO....
Kathy Luman!
She's the random.org winner of this!
Thanks to all those who entered! An e-mail has just been sent to Kathy and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected by random.org.
I remember watching my oldest sit on the living room floor with her laptop on her lap as she tried to complete her homework. Every now and then, she had to put it down because it was burning her legs or just making her too hot. I have a laptop but I mostly use it in the evening as I sit on my recumbant bike and have it propped up so I can exercise as I type. I justify my blogging by making myself exercise once the girls go to sleep. I know my daughter would most likely have liked to have tried out the ThermaPak 15" Pink HeatShift Laptop Cooler.
It only weighs 23 ounces so it shouldn't weigh down the laptop and what's nicer is, there are no cords! I purchased her another one that was ran by USB and it was just another thing in the way by having to shift cords and trying to find a comfortable place. She ended up not using it which is why It hink this one is ideal.
Features:
- Performs better than USB fan cooling devices
- Cools entire laptop, not just certain sections
- Uses no fans
- Generates no noise
- Grooved channels for enhanced airflow
- Ultra slim design for mobility
- Various sizes and colors
- Fits all sizes of laptops
- Comfortable, Lightweight and portable
- No need for refrigeration
- Self-cooling
- Uses no power so laptops last longer
- Environmentally friendly
- Heavy-duty, durable, and maintenance free
In a recent CNET study the HeatShift Laptop Cooler was proven to lower laptop temperature by more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit and significantly outperformed USB cooling fans.The HeatShift cools uniformly by using organic cooling crystals that dissipate heat away from your laptop allowing it to perform at its best while keeping your laptop at a safe temperature. The superior design and performance of the HeatShift Laptop Cooler has received numerous industry awards such as the CES Innovations Design & Engineering Award and the iF Design Award.
If you want more information on how it works, just click here.
ThermaPak even has HeatShift Laptop Bags in sizes 15.4 and 17". You can buy them at a variety of retailers and for a complete list, click here.
The Giveaway:
A ThermaPak 15" Pink HeatShift Laptop Cooler.
To Enter:
Follow my blog and and visit ThermaPak and tell me which color you would choose.
Extra Entries (worth three entries each unless otherwise noted):
- Subscribe to my blog.
- Blog about this giveaway (five entries).
- Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily).
- Follow me on Twitter
- Become a follower of ThermaPak's Blog.
- Enter any of my other on-going giveaways.
*Disclaimer: I received no compensation for this giveaway post.
More about ThermaPak:
ThermaPAK Group, founded in 2004, has been a pioneering developer in laptop cooling solutions. Through comprehensive research and development, relentless attention to details, and continual evolution on design, ThermaPAK Group created a new series of cooling products.
Throughout the years, ThermaPAK Group attended a variety of venues to educate anywhere from the general public to the corporate tiers the concept of ThermaPAK and its capabilities. Word of this new product was spread at many important international trade shows, such as CES, CompuTEX, as well as many regional trade shows within the United States. ThermaPAK had also chosen to invest in many projects to assert itself into the market; one example being a project to produce a comical commercial due to the rise of video sharing websites such as YouTube.
As time progressed so did ThermaPAK, both as a company and its products. In 2006, ThermaPAK started to put more emphasis toward making itself a global player, expanding its horizon of influence while consistently growing in Northern America.
In mid 2007, ThermaPAK Group incorporated into ThermaPAK Technologies, Inc. The new incorporation takes on a broader vision and structure in business model that develops higher prudence and capability, while at the same time, keeping the original commitment to bringing quality performance products into the market.
