Pollen Have Mercy on Us

It's snowing yellow and green pollen so small that you can't see it until it accumulates on something or you go outside to see the supermoon and see it in the flash.   The Augusta area is number 10 on the list for worse places for allergies which is not good news for my severe asthmatic with severe allergies.  This is partly why she crashes and requires so many hospitalizations.  

I can't wait to move away from here on May 21st and hope our new location in Texas is much kinder to both of my children's conditions.  I love how they are such troopers and nothing really phases them.  My youngest who will be four at the end of June has such a great sense of humor in spite being in the NICU for a week when she was born prematurely, a near death experience down in Savannah for two weeks over two year's ago and her intermittent health woes since then.  Today, as we were watching Sponge Bob, the theme song came on and she was singing with it but changed the words to "Sponge Bob Poopy Pants."  This caused quite the laugh to come out of her and she looked at me and said, "get it Mom?  Sponge Bob Poopy Pants?" She started cracking up laughing again.  I know she's not alone in the kid department for stating that but she just has such an incredible sense of humor that I think has been key with her defying the odds and overcoming what baffles the doctors time and time again.

I just hope she continues down the road of laughter and always shines with her silliness.

Allay Menstrual Pain Therapy (No Drugs) Review

My oldest has horrible menstrual pains and I was hoping with the birth of her first child, it would help like it did with me but no luck.  Her cycles are so bad that she even passes out from time to time.  She's also a person who prefers to not opt for pain killers of any kind.  When I was presented the opportunity to review Allay Menstrual Pain Therapy, I thought it was ideal for her since it's drug free and safe.  Allay works by an innovative delivery system which emits low-level energy pulses that delivers quick relief for edema, inflammation and pain.



Benefits of Allay:

• Drug free
• 24/7 constant relief
• Easy to use
• Proven clinical trial for efficacy
• Treats pain and swelling at the source
• Sensation and heat free
• Inexpensive compared to over-the-counter pain relievers
• Choice in purchasing a single device or a 10 month supply
• Toll free customer service number

How Allay Works:

The device is small and consists of a small loop that fits into a little protective pouch.  The very small electronics and battery are housed at the top (image above) and is flat which allows comfort.  A red light will illuminate depicting the device is on and the therapeutic area is contained inside the loop.  Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) is a long established medical therapy that is proven and used by healthcare professionals around the world.  PEMF therapy has been shown in clinical studies to stop the relief of inflammatory mediators and accelerate the body's healing process.

My daughter stated it worked and it was easy to use.  She found no discomfort in wearing the device and stated she would prefer Allay over prescription or over-the-counter medications for her periods.  She would recommend Ally.

To purchase, click here or to read more about Allay in the news, click here.

Stay up to date by becoming a fan of Allay on Facebook here.

My Nutella MommyParties Fun

I had never heard of Nutella® (pronounced "new-tell-uh") until a few year's ago and never really tried it in spite of it being available in the US since the 1980's.  I never took the time to look into the ingredients but figured it was something gross.  At some point, I think during travels to Europe, I discovered hazelnuts and chocolate.  I was in love ... the birds were chirping, the sun was shining ..okay, well not quite but it is heavenly.  Then about six month's ago, I finally tried my first Nutella and I was again in love.  Nutella hazelnut spread is simply delicious and it's amazing how good it tastes and it's a great way to kick off breakfast.  My personal favorite is spreading some Nutella on some whole wheat toasts so I get some flavorful treat and something really good for me.


Nutella has a great taste and is a blend of hazelnuts, sugar, skim milk, and a hint of cocoa which is the right recipe for wonderful.  Each 13 ounce jar contains more than 50 hazelnuts.


Nutella does not contain any hydrogenated oil or trans fat and is also low in sodium compared to other nut butters.  It also does not contain any ingredient derived from gluten containing cereal:  wheat, barley, rye, oats or triticale.  It is a kosher product.  People with peanut allergies can enjoy this tasty alternative as well.  


Nutella isn't just for toast:

1. English muffins
2. Toaster waffles
3. Mini-bagels
4. Crackers

Click here for a $1 off coupon.

Nutella can be part of a wholesome, healthy breakfast when consumed in the right menu.  Nutella on two pieces of whole wheat toast, skim milk and a serving of fruit is a good, tasty and right way to start the morning for yourself or your kids.  My kids love the taste as do I.

My party consisted of 10 of my neighbors and friends and we learned about Nutella and what it has to offer.  Surprisingly, only three others had heard of Nutella and tried it.   It was a fun learning event and everyone loved the flavor.

We tried a couple of recipes I found on the net but this was our favorite:

Nutella Granola

*(compliments of http://lunchfitforakid.blogspot.com/2011/01/recipe-nutella-granola.html)
4 c rolled oats
1/2 c wheat germ
1/2 c dry milk
1/4 c ground flax seeds

1/2 c Nutella
1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c vegetable oil

1 1/2 c dried fruit (I used raisins)

Combine dry first four ingredients in a bowl.

Heat the nutella, brown sugar, and oil in a bowl in the microwave until they can be easily stirred together (about 30 seconds).

Pour nutella mixture into dry ingredients and combine well.

Spread into large baking pans and cook at 250 F for about 45 minutes to an hour, stirring every 15 minutes.  If you don't stir it, it could burn, and there is little more tragic in the kitchen than burnt granola.  Consider yourself warned.

Once the granola is well toasted, let cool and stir in dried fruit.

Transfer to an air tight container and enjoy!

*Disclosure:  I received a complimentary MommyParties Nutella kit for the purposes of my party and this post.

Help a School & Vote for a Pepsi Refresh Project

I'm a big fan of the Pepsi Refresh projects especially since my daughter's non-profit for epilepsy won last year.  I think it's a great initiative for so many wonderful projects that wouldn't have a chance without the generous funding from Pepsi.  Schools are becoming the source of many budget woes and with so many projects getting cut, extra funding could make the difference in something that not only teaches but is enjoyable.  The LaSalle Public School wants to build an outdoor classroom to help and inspire and motivate children to learn about the natural environment.  They are ranked 8th and need to finish in the top two to win a grant for $25,000.

It's a great project and it's free to vote so please head over and vote daily and spread the word!  Thank you!

Click here to vote.

March Madness Basketball and Boboli Recipes

Compliments of FrankinSight.wordpress.com

Most everyone knows that Hoosiers love their basketball and don't ask what a Hoosier is because I forgot but it's a person from Indiana which is me!  I never knew how much I loved my state until I moved away but I do.  I don't know if it's so much the state or more so because my family is mostly there.  Indiana even had a basketball movie called Hoosiers named after the state so you can be sure it's a big thing.  With the basketball season comes lots of tournaments and get togethers.  Even offices get in the act with the office pools and parties trying to figure out which college team will win it all.  I don't think the Indiana teams have faired so well post the Bobby Knight days but there is always a chance!

If you read my blog regularly, there are a few brands that I'm very loyal to and Boboli is one of them.  My family loves the crust and the sauce and whenever we make pizza, it's the brand we choose.  I used to buy the dough from our local Publix but we prefer the taste of Boboli and with all the great recipes, we can make quite a feast out of it.  Whether we want healthy or just plain ol' tasty and maybe not-so-healthy, we have a choice.  Boboli has come together again with some great recipes in honor of March madness that I opted to share with you all.

Spinach & Artichoke Pizza 

Ingredients

1 12" Boboli® Whole Wheat Pizza Crust
1 c. part-skim Ricotta cheese
5 oz. frozen spinach, thawed, drained and chopped
4–5 artichoke hearts in water, drained and chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/8 tsp. hot pepper flakes
2 tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Preheat oven to 450° F.

In a small mixing bowl, combine part-skim Ricotta cheese, frozen spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and hot pepper flakes. Place the crust on a baking sheet. Spread the cheese mixture onto the crust, leaving a 1/2" border around the pizza. Sprinkle the top with the Parmesan cheese and bake 10 – 12 minutes until bubbly and light brown on the edges. Add 1/4 pound cooked, diced chicken breast for a heartier version.

Alternate Methods

For 8" pizza crust, use 2/3 ingredients.

Chicken Parmesan Pizza 

Ingredients

1 12" Boboli® Original Pizza Crust
1 5-oz. pkg. Boboli® Pizza Sauce
3/4 lb. skinless, boneless, chicken breasts, cut into strips
1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 c. (4 oz.) part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 black olives, pitted, halved (optional)
1 tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves

Directions

Preheat oven to 450° F.
Bake time: 8 – 10 minutes

Dredge chicken in flour and fry in 1" hot oil in skillet until golden brown. Drain. Return to pan. Add 1/2 of the pizza sauce to chicken and spread mixture on pizza crust, leaving a 1" border. Sprinkle with Mozzarella cheese, remaining pizza sauce, and olives. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and oregano. Bake 8 – 10 minutes on a baking sheet in the lower third of the oven. Cool slightly and serve.

Alternate Methods

For 8" pizza crust, use 2/3 ingredients.

Pretty Neat: The Buttoned-Up Way to Get Organized and Let Go of Perfection by Alicia Rockmore and Sarah Welch Review & Giveaway 3/20 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Operation Sweet Dreams said...

I'm a follower. I have trouble with my craft area that has no spilled over to random parts of my apartment (oops). Thank you for sharing The Buttoned-Up Way! I love the site and the downloads are perfect and useful!!

March 20, 2011 1:13 PM 

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

Thanks to all those who entered!

The number of television programs showcasing organized homes and living spaces is everywhere.  There aren't many places you can look that doesn't have some organization desire or theme.  We are a society of perceived perfection.  One of which you either fit in or you don't and how you react to that is a personal matter.  I know that I sometimes feel bad for not being organized like Martha Stewart or that I feel less because I don't have a spotless home with a home for everything.  I would love to have a home that looks like a model home but I just can't.  I'm slowly accepting that but it's hard.  This is where Pretty neat: The Buttoned-Up Way to Get Organized and Let Go of Perfection couldn't have arrived at a better time.

I'm in the process of selling a home.  With that came a lot of responsibility of making my home look perfect per my agent.  Unfortunately, with two young children and a baby, it's a tad bit hard for me as my husband is in Kuwait and won't return until the first week of May.  We then have to move to El Paso by June 1st.  Trying to keep the mail, the homework, the school notices, the doctor appointments and referrals as I have two children with chronic medical conditions coupled with my seven year old's non-profit of helping children with epilepsy, I have struggles!  What I do like is how the authors define what is going on with our society, "org porn."  It's so true in that everywhere you look, it's there.  Organizational products, ideas, articles and so forth are pushed in our faces constantly along with that nagging lesson that if we aren't organized, we are imperfect.

The authors come up with great ways to add organization to your life that doesn't require fancy products or endless hours of driving everyone crazy to conform.  A great chapter in this book is also how to say no.  If you are like me, saying no is like giving up chocolate or Johnny Depp movies, IMPOSSIBLE.  This chapter was key in giving me the resources to start saying no.  There are an abundance of great tips and suggestions on so many facets of our daily lives.  It's more than just a book as it's a handbook to help curtail some of the chaos.  The authors present in an entertaining way that makes the book come alive as who wants to read something dull and boring?

There are even some cool and helpful free tools and downloads here.

The Giveaway:

One lucky winner will receive their very own copy of this indispensable book.

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me one area that you have trouble organizing.

Giveaway ends 3/20 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Winner chosen via random.org

SpellQuizzer Review: Perfect Way to Teach Spelling Words

I have just made the leap in a new homeschooling decision.  After my middle child finishes this year in a public school system, I've decided to homeschool her and her younger sister mostly because we are an Army family and we keep moving around.  I feel the disruption of moving around every three or four years is a lot to take on and with both my children having chronic medical conditions, I also want to be able to help control their absences since the schools have definite policies on it.  I don't want to have to encourage my child to go to school when she's not at her best because I'm afraid of her falling further behind or catching grief over her attendance.  As I proceed with preparation, I'm looking for tools that will help and this great online software called SpellQuizzer is perfect!

My daughter currently has weekly spelling tests and had I had this before now, it would have helped her study so much better.  SpellQuizzer is a great tool for parents in teaching their children how to spell.  With the use of a microphone and speakers, you can set up the spelling lists you need and the child can practice on their own or with your help however you choose is best for your child.  My children love computers so this is a great way to continue in their education with computer software and programs as well as learning fundamental skills like spelling that is crucial to their success.

Priced at only $29.95 with a guarantee your child will improve their test scores, you can't lose.  I've tried flashcards, memorization and repeat writing of each word.  We have struggled this whole year with trying to get 100%.  Now when she practices, SpellQuizzer will check the word as she types in from the audio recording, if incorrect, it notifies her and it will retest that word after the first pass of the spelling list.  The intro screen is easy to maneuver and if you need to add or delete a word, it's just as easy as creating the list.  You can click here to see a demonstration of the child using SpellQuizzer.

SpellQuizzer runs on any PC using Windows to include Vista and Windows 7.  I've had problems with other software using Vista and Windows 7 but had no issues.  The software loaded effortlessly and everything ran so smoothly.  The software is easy enough for a child to use which is ideal as you don't want to spend as much time teaching how to use the software as to teach the lesson.  You can even download a free trial here.

SpellQuizzer is a company that I feel is for parents in helping children achieve success.  They even have a page of resources to other educational software and more.

Overall, I love SpellQuizzer and now I want a MathQuizzer (please)!

Keep up to date with SpellQuizzer on Facebook and follow on Twitter.

If you want to win a copy, go over to MamaBuzz and enter now!

I was provided a SpellQuizzer software license free of charge for the sole purpose of this review; no other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are my own.

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by TedCo Software for this review.

Monkey Made Dream by Tom Listul and Heather Listul Hewitt Review

We love books!  I don't know who is more excited about the Scholastic order form from school, myself or the kids.  I think books are so important to developing minds and my children enjoy writing their own books. They have so many books that I had to collect them in a box.  The good great thing is the books they read inspire them to write more.  When this month's book came up to review, I already liked the cover.  Monkey Made Dream was a large book with a shiny cover.  The size is good for my smaller daughter and the cover allows clean up in case there was a spill or messy hands on it.


The book itself is a clever little tale about a girl who wakes up her brother in the morning only to find out that he's gone and there is a monkey in his place!  She is amazed throughout the day that no one really seems to care that there is a monkey with her.   I enjoy books that rhyme because it just seems to flow well and they are more fun to read to my kids.  The book is also short enough for my seven year old to read to her sister.  The illustrations by Jenna Hildahl are colorful and inviting.  I also prefer the large pictures that cover every page.  It's a cute entertaining story that's sure to entertain your children as it did with mine!

You can even fan Monkey Made Dream on Facebook here.

About the Authors:


Tom Listul wrote this story with his daughter, Heather Listul Hewitt, when she was eight years old. A farmer from southwest Minnesota, he is also a singer/songwriter. Listul made Monkey Made Dream into a children’s song and has sang it at numerous coffee houses and children’s classrooms.

_______________________________________________

Interview Q/A:

What inspired you to write?

Tom: I started writing just as an outlet to express myself through story telling.  Song writing is the same way for me. I enjoy telling a story that takes a person somewhere that they can relate to.

Heather: I enjoy writing as a way to escape to a different place and look at ideas in different ways. It is fun to see where a story can go.

Do you consider yourself a born writer?

Tom: Not really.  I think once you get past that I have an idea moment, that’s when the writing process kicks in.  It can be frustrating, but rewarding at the same time.  I am just glad I get ideas to work with.

Heather: No. I think everyone has some type of creativity that can be expressed in many ways. Writing is one way that I feel I can use to express creativity. However, I just graduated with my Master’s degree in August 2010, so I have not had much time to be writing recently.

Do your children inspire any of books, characters, or plots?

Tom: Yes they have.  Their personalities and their uncanny way of looking at life inspire me every day.

What is the most difficult part of writing?

Tom: Coming up with an idea for a story is the easy part.  Finishing the story is the hard part.

Heather: I think organizing thoughts and fully developing a story can be difficult.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

Tom: Just keep writing every day.

Heather: Enjoy the process!

I thank you for taking the time to share with me and my readers about being an author.

*Disclosure:  I received a complimentary copy of Monkey Made Dream.

$50 Apothica SkinCareRX.com Gift Card Giveaway 3/30 - International - WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Belinda M had stated she won already and graciously allowed me to choose a new winner:

I tweeted on 3/13 - http://twitter.com/#!/PurpleLarkspur/status/47049872821583872

entry 2

larkspurpurple (at) gmail.com

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

When I hear Hourglass Cosmetics I think timeless, feminine and sophistication.  Hourglass Cosmetics is all that and more to me.  It include a full line of products that not only leave you with a great look but they are products created with functional purposes.  From cruelty-free, made from PETA-friendly synthetic fiber brushes to compacts with 360 degree swivel top mirrors, the products were made ideally for us women.  One of the products I plan to try is the Hourglass Cosmetics Extreme Sheen Lip Gloss - Origami mostly because the key ingredient is Vitamin E which is an antioxidant that protects and moisturizes.  It also has titanium dioxide which helps to protect against UVA/UVB rays and sunflower seed oil to provide the shine.  I like the idea of wearing make up that makes me look good but is also good for me.  The other feature I like is with each product description, the key ingredients are noted along with the feature the ingredient provides.  This is great knowing ahead of time what the make up does to help me look beautiful.

Apothica.com is a great beauty store to get all the wonderful products you love and ones you don't quite know you love.  If you are like my oldest daughter and I, we like to try many products until we find the ones we love.  Apothica is not just for women as there are an array of products for men as well as products for home and laundry.  Here are some more great name brands that Apothica carries:

• Napoleon Perdis
• Becca Makeup
• Laura Geller
• Oscar Blandi
• Bobbie Brown
• Clinique
• Yves Saint Laurent
• Estee Lauder

 

Here is the part you have been waiting for:

The Giveaway:

One reader will receive a $50 Apothica gift card

To Enter:

Follow my blog and go to Apothica.com, then tweet something about Apothica (must leave the tweet url date stamp) in your comment. 

Extra Entries:

• Visit Apothica.com and write something about a brand you like on your blog and link it to Apothica - please leave url link in your comment - worth five entries
• Tweet about this giveaway - can be done daily - worth two entries per day
• Blog about this giveaway- can be done once - worth five entries
• Like Apothica on Facebook- worth 2 entries

Giveaway ends March 30th at midnight (EST) - Winner selected by random.org.

Please note the following information:

• Apothica will contact the winner chosen from eligible entries via random.org to verify the information.
• After verification, Apothica will e-mail the code for the gift card to be used at SkinCareRx.com, Apothica.com or SkinBotanica.com
• Contest is open internationally but Apothica does not ship to all countries
• Save SkinCareRx as a contact in your e-mail so the mail will not go to the spam folder.

New bareMinerals Skincare: Cleansers

I'm sure you have heard of bareMinerals and if not, you probably will due to the overwhelming popularity of the products.  My mom used bareMinerals and I have also.  I just ended using a product for my adult prone acne due to a customer service issue so I'm in the market for a new cleanser.  This time I want a cleanser that not only will clean my face but also help make it smoother and reduce the size of my pores.  bareMineral is introducing a new products called bareMinerals Skincare and within this line of new products are the Purifying Facial Cleanser, Deep Cleansing Foam and Exfoliating Treatment Cleanser.

 

Powered by 100% RareMinerals Active Soil Complex thus aiding in increasing cell turnover, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and producing that known naturally luminous glow.  From everything that I have researched and read, cell turnover is essential is helping to reduce the signs of aging and to give skin that great feel, look and glow.

The Purifying Facial Cleanser was already tested in a prelaunch even and received great reviews.  It removes make up, dissolved impurities and rebalances skin for a soft and smooth complexion.  It's reported to leave skin feeling hydrated and renewed and gentle enough to be used to remove eye make up. That's a tricky one for me as I have sensitive eyes so the more gentle a product is, the better for me.  The cleanser can be used day and night for best performance.  Priced at only $20 for a 6 ounce botter.

The Deep Cleansing Foam deep cleans pores and lifts away impurities.  It's reported to be a non-drying formula that "bursts into a rich lather when activated by water."   As with the Purifying Facial Cleanser, it's sulfate free.  Priced at only $20 for a 4.2 ounce bottle.

The Exfoliating Treatment Cleanser or also known as the original mineral cleanser is reported to be an effective powder formula that delivers a brighter, smoother complexion with noticeably smaller pores.  This can be used both morning and night and can be used as an exfoliating mask twice a week.  Priced at $26 for 2.5 ounces.

Check out more on bareMinerals Facebook page, on Twitter, their website or to find a boutique near you, click here.


*Disclosure: I was not paid nor compensated for this post.  I may participate in a product and/or review at a future date.

Panstoria Digital Scrapbooking Review & Giveaway 3/25 (International) - WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

cristina said...

followed via GFC. No, i have never tried digital scrap booking.
cristina_sunga(at)ymail(dot)com

March 11, 2011 3:23 AM 

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

I have tons and tons of pictures and have not done anything creative with them in a long time.  I worry that I'll lose these pictures since the only copies I have are digital.  Now, thanks to Panstoria, I have a great way of making memories last.

Using Panstoria is easy:

• The first thing I experienced with Panstoria is downloading the software.  You have to choose the correct version for your system and what I liked, they explained very easily how to tell what your system is (i.e. 64 or 32 bit).  Installation was quick and easy with just a few clicks and I was ready to go.
• Registration was quick and easy by supplying some basic information and I was ready to go.
• There are two choices to start:  1. Basic Mode;  2. Advanced Mode.  Since I haven't used this software before, I chose Basic Mode.
• I chose to create a photo book although there are many other choices such as posters, postcards, business cards, envelopes and more.  This will be great for my daughter's non-profit.  There are also various sizes you can select from to ensure you get that perfect look you want.  I chose the photo book, 11 x 8.5.
• Your output choices can be saved in various formats for uploading or e-mailing, printing on your printer or uploading to web based printing retailers.
• When uploading your photos, you can select Flickr, Facebook, Picasa or your own files.  It's very easy with select and click and you can choose multiple photos at once.  The software is not slow at all!
• As you move through with your memorable creation, there are hints and tip windows that pop up to help you which is a nice feature for someone new to the software as well as tutorials here.
• There are even free kits to download in addition to ones you can purchase.
• The many functions you can perform such as editing photos, adding embellishments, adding shapes, text and so much more makes the possibilities endless.

I have tried other programs that are photo related and have to say that this was the easiest and quickest program I have used to date.  I didn't spend a lot of time creating this as it's an example to use for my daughter's non-profit but here it is:

I made this too:

My middle child is having a Taylor Swift party so I'm going to make stickers to cover the plastic cups:

I'm definitely getting the hang of the program although I know there is so much more to learn and I can really expand by adding to the kits for more options.  Overall, I really like this program and next, I'm going to have my oldest try it out with her baby.

__________________________________________

The Giveaway:

One reader will receive a copy (electronic) of Panstoria Digital Scrapbooking.

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me if you have ever tried a digital scrapbook program.

Extra Entries:

• Like Panstoria on Facebook
• Follow Panstoria on Twitter
• 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 3/25 at midnight (EST) - Winner chosen via random.org

Opened internationally.

*Disclosure: I was provided a complimentary copy to review and giveaway by the sponsor.

UPrinting Business Card Giveaway 3/12: WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

My name is Patricia said...

Great Giveaway! Enter Please :)

GFC Follower

I would use these business cards as I am a Young Adult and Childrne's Book Reviewer and have a blog.

PelicanJL@hotmail.com

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

Thanks to all those who entered!

 

Business cards just aren't for business as they are versatile for so many other events or needs.  I use business cards as gift tags and for my daughter's non-profit.  I'm a regular at UPrinting and to date, I'm satisfied and very pleased especially with the review and approval process to ensure that my product is exactly what I want.  I've had trouble with other businesses delivering whatever they printed without verifying so this is why I'm partial to UPrinting.

If you aren't familiar with UPrinting, there are many advantages such as:

• Variety of products
• Print Quality Assurance
• Live Chat Assistance
• 24 Hour Phone Support
• Templates or Create Your Own Design
• Free Samples
• Fast Delivery
• Member of the BBB

____________________________

If you haven't tried out UPrinting, now is your chance to win a free set of business cards!

Prize Details: 250 Die Cut Business Cards for One (1) Winner:

• 1.75” x 3.5”, 2” x 3.5”, or 2” x 2”; 2.5” Diameter (Circle)
• Die Cut Business Cards (Rounded Corners, Leaf, Rounded Single-Corner, Half-Circle Side, Circle);
• 14pt Cardstock Gloss / Matte / High Gloss (UV), or 13pt Cardstock Uncoated on a 6 Business Days Turnaround; Front Only or Front and Back printing
• Restriction: Limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.
• Product image: Please see attached image

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me what you would use the business cards for whether your business, gift tags, mommy cards, etc.

Extra Entries:

• Like UPrinting on Facebook
• 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 once for five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 3/12 at midnight (EST) 

Please note that winners are allowed to win only once over a six-month period.

*Disclaimer: This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive business cards for hosting. For more information about business cards, please visit http://www.uprinting.com/business-cards.html.

Cool Avon Spring Fashions

I was looking through the latest campaign for Avon and can't help but to think "wow, they really have become a company for women."  In the past, many year's ago, it was mostly make up, body care and perfumes.  The choices for fashion and jewelry are incredible especially considering the price.

Here is what caught my eye:



The shirts, the shoes, the pants and scarf make such a great fashionable ensemble.  The prices are incredible too.

This is another one of my favorites:



I'm partial to those shoes although I don't think I'm young enough to wear a dress like that.  It looks amazing!

I haven't ordered any fashion items from Avon but some of my few regularly purchased products are:

• Avon Glazewear Lip Gloss which is on sale for only $2.99.
• Avon Anew Clinical Lift & Firm Pro Serum at $54.00
• Avon Anew Retexturizing Peel
• Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Dermabrasion System

I'm adding to my regular usage of Avon products but those are the four products that I'm using on a daily basis and love.