Embracing a Healthy Family

The Organic Pharmacy: Carrot Butter Cleanser

The more I learn about the chemicals and preservatives in all products we consume, the more I worry.  These ingredients are in our food, our drinks, oven in our beauty products and I'm sure the list goes on.


With my continuous battle of the bulge, I started reading more and more about these products that are added into everything and became concerned.  I never really thought about them being added to our beauty products and baby products until recently. 


The Organic Pharmacy has interesting and informative content on this very issue.  It states that on average, we use between 5 to 15 products a day that are full of toxins.  If you think about it, at least from a woman's perspective, it's very true.  Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, facial lotion/moisturizer, acne medication, deodorant, foundation, blush, powder and so forth.  By the time we get ready to eat more toxic products, we are already toxic.


I just recently switched and began using an organic detangler for my two younger daughters and perhaps it's a mind trick, but I definitely feel like a better mom by going the extra mile to ensure I'm taking care of them. 


Thanks to The Organic Pharmacy, I will explore many options to start detoxing mine and my children's lives from all these horrible chemicals, preservatives and flavorings and colors.




I received a full size jar of Carrot Butter Cleanser by The Organic Pharmacy for all skin types.  The 75 ml jar arrived in a small box with no extra packaging which is great when you are looking for truly organic products that take the environment into consideration.   The name "Carrot Butter" and "The Organic Pharmacy" were both in silver lettering which accentuated the large silver lid and the see-through jar provided a level of sophisication and elegance to the appearance.


I used the small spatula provided to remove a small amount (penny size) of the cleanser to massage on my dry face for about a minute.  My face had a warm sensation as I massed the Carrot Butter Cleanser all over.  It has a mixed fragrance with a menthol undertone.  After I soaked the muslim provided wash cloth in "hand-hot" water, I pressed it over my face and then wiped off the Carrot Butter.  I rinsed twice as the package directions stated.

My face had a cool sensation afterwards.  The Carrot Butter Cleanser itself is a silky smooth, non-abrasive cleanser and felt good as I massaged it all over my face.  My face felt invigorated and clean afterwards.  I waited several hours and avoided applying anything additional on my face to see how it would feel and it's smooth, non-greasy and soft.  I really like how it feels.


Carrots are a known antioxidant and great for the skin.  Shea butter, which you definitely feel, moisturizes the skin and the other ingredients offer an array of benefits  to cleanse and soothe. 


This is definitely an experience that produces spa quality feel without all the harmful chemicals, preservatives, colors and fragrances.  It will leave your face feeling soft, nurtured and glowing.  I highly recommend it.


Here is the official descriptions from The Organic Pharmacy:


For all skin types including oily.

Your skin is your canvas; a healthy glowing skin begins with a thorough but gentle cleanse. Carrot Butter Cleanser dissolves grime, dirt, pollution, make up (including eye makeup) in one easy step. Antioxidant Carrot is blended with skin softening Shea & Cocoa Butter to leave the skin incredibly soft and smooth. Chamomile, Rosemary and Lavender soothe and decongest the skin leaving it radiant.

Application:

Remove a small amount of cleanser with the spatula provided, rub the cleanser between clean hands and apply to dry skin, massaging it in well. Soak muslin or flannel in hand hot water and remove cleanser. Finish with a splash of cold water. (Do not use cotton wool as this will not remove cleanser)

The most essential cleanse should be carried out at night. If this is done properly, in the morning simply splash the face with water.

The Carrot Butter Cleanser sells for $59.90 but should last for months.

Interested in more organic, high quality products?  Check out their website.  They tout a message of only the purest and highest grade natural and organic ingredients are used.  Due to this, a little does go a long way and since they make small batches of their products, you get the best. 

The Organic Pharmacy's product line is vast:
  • Make Up
  • Books
  • Kits
  • Skin Care
  • Sun Care
  • Body Care
  • Hair Care
  • Bath
  • Gifts
  • Men (products for men ... you can't select men :))
  • Macerated Oils
  • Mother and Baby Care
  • Creams and Ointments
  • Homeopathic
  • Tinctures
  • Supplements
  • Detox at Home Program
  • Candles







NOTE:  I was not paid for this review.  I was provided a sample only to review.

Gluten Free Betty Crocker® Fruit-Flavored Snacks Gift Pack Review & Giveaway WINNER

CONGRATULATIONS!

Jinxy and Me!

An e-mail has been sent!  Please respond within 48 hours to close out this giveaway.

Thanks to all those that entered!



With more and more health concerns emerging about gluten-free products, Betty Crocker has answered the demand to offer great choices at affordable prices.  Not only are they answering the demand to add a variety of products to their line up of gluten-free, they have partnered with Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF) to further generate awareness for celiac disease.


Celiac disease, a chronic inherited digestive disorder, can cause damage to the small intestine. It is estimated that one in 133 Americans suffer from celiac disease – 3 million adults and children are living undiagnosed with this autoimmune disorder that is managed by following a gluten-free diet.

Gluten is the natural protein found in wheat, barley and rye.  It is harmful to persons with celiac disease because when they eat gluten, their immune system is triggered and it begins to attack the small intestine. This results in damage to the villi which make up the lining of the small intestine. Villi are necessary for the absorption of nutrients, and over time the damage to the villi can lead to malnutrition.

Celiac disease is a multi-system, multi-symptom autoimmune disorder that affects adults as well as children. Currently, there is no cure for celiac disease, only the lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet.

To learn more about General Mill's support for celiac disease and all the gluten-free products available, go to GeneralMills.com.

I received from MyBlogSpark a great Simple Joys pack to enjoy with my children.  It included some of the great items I played as a child with my sisters.  The yo-yo lights up and my two year old grabbed it up and said "my yo-yo" and made every attempt to make it go up and down without luck. I was able to see that I still have it when it comes to yo-yo's!

My six year old loves the classsic frisbee so that was a hit but we'll have to wait until tomorrow to try it out in the yard.  It was a pretty color which she also liked.

My six year old never heard of Pick 'em Up Sticks so it was fun teaching her that game as you can see in the picture above, she enjoyed it. 


My 21 year old, yes, I said 21 and my two year old both loved the fruit snacks!  A special bonus was not only did we get Box Tops for Education but there were bonus Box Tops on one of the boxes!

Each snack is made with real fruit and is less than 100 calories.  What a great, healthy treat!  These make great lunch time snacks or before dinner snacks.  One of the snacks, Create a Bug introduces an interesting way to spark kid's attention.  They get to put together a bug out of the different parts.  I'm not how sure it will go over with the girly-girls (like myself) but I have to predict the boys will LOVE it!  They get to play with what looks like bugs, create the bugs using their imagination and finally, they get to eat them!  A boy's dream!

I absolutely love the items I receive from MyBlogSpark since I've been fortunate to try out two prize packs that include fun for my children and now it's your turn!

The Giveaway: 

Your own prize pack of Betty Crocker Variety Pack of Fruit Roll Ups, Betty Crocker Create a Bug Fruit Snacks, a frisbee, a yo-yo and pick up sticks in a handy, wooden carrying box.
  1. Leave a comment on one of your memories from playing any of these games and follow my blog.
Extra Entries (leave a comment for each activity completed):
  1. Subscribe to my blog.
  2. Follow me on Twitter.
  3. Blog about the giveaway.
  4. Tweet about the giveaway.
  5. Leave a comment on another blog and come back here to leave a comment that you did.
Giveaway ends October 25, 2009 at 10:00 pm.

Winner chose by random.org.

Thanks and good luck!





Youthful Tips

Robin Meade Morning Sunshine! Book Review & 5 Copies for Giveaway 10/25/09


CONGRATULATIONS!

Joannie, Roseann K, Stuff Smart, LilyK & Donna444444!

An e-mail will be sent and you will have 48 hours to respond in order to provide the names to the publisher in a timely manner.
RoseannK, I need your e-mail - profile is turned off for public view.  Thanks!

Thanks to all who entered!



Book Details:
  • Hardcover: 256 pages
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1599951649
  • ISBN-13: 978-1599951645   
I never heard of Robin Meade until I received an offer from Hachette Book Group to read about this popular TV woman, Robin Meade and her journy to conquor anxiety and self confidence issues. To see such a beautiful woman admit she suffers issues of confidence was amazing to me.  Reading her book left you with a sense of "wow, this is really one down to earth, funny person."   Robin provides a background of where she started, the values instilled in her and how she never forgot them.  She also enlightens you on where "Morning Sunshine!" came from.

Robin is the Headline News morning anchor who worked hard to be in the position she has.  She's a fighter and she's real.  She introduces her four step approach to building confidence and she is proof it works.  Robin has a natural warmth and an inviting personality.

Robin adds so much laughter in the book by being able to make fun of herself that you find her real and you catch yourself wanting to read more about her.  She tells of a time in the 8th grade where she was jump roping on stage with holiday garland.  Unknown to her, the hem of her skirt was lifting up and exposing her "bum" for all to see.  Even then, she handled it with grace and dignity and was able to laugh about it. 

I think the book is very appealing because others can easily relate to what Robin is stating and have also experienced a lot of what she has.  Being able to relate to your author, makes the reading experience more enjoyable and it has more of an impact.  Not to repeat, she's beautiful, witty and intelligent.

Great book that I would recommend naturally to Robin Meade fans as well as anyone suffering from confidence and anxiety issues.  This is a must for women as you will help see you are not alone and you can overcome these obstacles.

Morning Sunshine!: How to Radiate Confidence and Feel It Too

The giveaway is FIVE lucky readers will receive a copy of Robin Meade's Morning Sunshine! book courtesy of Hachette Book group.

To enter, leave a comment and follow my blog.

Extra Entries:
  • Follow me on Twitter (leave a comment)
  • Subscribe to my blog (leave a comment)
  • Leave a comment on another post and come back (leave a comment - five allowed per day)
  • Blog about this giveaway (leave a comment)
  • Tweet about this giveaway (leave a comment with your tweet)
  • Vote for me at DivineCaroline (widget top left) and get FIVE extra entries! Just vote, return back to the each giveaway and leave five entries with what number of voter you were. Easy!

    Giveaway ends October 25, 2009 at 10 PM EST

You will enjoy this book!

Botox and Hepatitis: Case for Lawsuits?



In a news story published yesterday out of http://www.lvrj.com/, doctors are pondering a potential class action lawsuit against Allergan over single use recommended vials of Botox.  Botox vials are too large to treat a patient cost effectively so doctors utilize it on numerous patients thus exposing them to the risk of contracting hepatitis.

I never thought about the risk of hepatitis and Botox.

Read more here.

Not afraid of Botox, sign up for their specials HERE.

Anyone been using Botox long term and care to share your story on long term effects?

Giveaway 2: Fall Into Good Healthy Series Review & Giveaways CLOSED WINNER

CONGRATULATIONS TO
CHARITY!

An e-mail has been sent!  Please respond within 48 hours!

Thanks to all who entered and to Laura at Robin Leedy & Associates, Inc.!

Good health is essential with all the various strains of the flu thriving.  Not only do you have to worry about the flu, but just trying to maintain good health should be the ultimate goal.    This post is based on a series of products for your health thanks to the opportunity I had as a member of the Product Review Place and Laura.




CERTAIN DRI® FOR UNDERARM PERSPIRATION

Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant has been the leading, dermatologist-recommended product for controlling excessive underarm perspiration for more than three decades. While other products claim to be “clinical strength,” the Certain Dri formulations – 12% aluminum chloride in the roll-on and 25% aluminum sesquichlorohydrate in the new solid – are the strongest available over-the-counter formulas at stores nationwide for the control of excessive underarm sweating, providing up to 72 hours of protection with each application. While approximately seven million adults and teens are clinically diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm perspiration), more than 40 million more believe their perspiration to be a problem.

I've been using the Certain Dri® Solid Anti-Perspirant for over a week now.  Even though I have not been diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis, I still need a tough anti-perspirant and this definitely did the trick.  I tried Dove's prior to Certain Dri® and it didn't work as well as Certain Dri®.

I would recommend Certain Dri® if you require a tougher than normal anti-perspirant.  I did not have any allergic reactions or sensivity issues either.

Certain Dri® is available at any mass market retail, supermarkets and drug stores or can be purchased online at http://www.certaindri.com/.

The complete line, very reasonably priced, includes:
  • Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant Roll-on
  • NEW! Certain Dri® Solid Anti-Perspirant 
  • Certain Dri® A.M. Underarm RefresherTM
Join Certain Dri on Facebook!

Celebrity Stylist, Lauri Eisenberg, Offers Her No-Sweat Fashion Tips So Excessive Perspiration Doesn’t Control Your Wardrobe HERE.





FLORASTOR® FOR AND FLORASTOR® FOR KIDS

Did you know that there are billions of microbiota inside the intestines that keep the digestive system working properly? An upset in the balance of these microbiota, or flora, can cause intestinal problems, including diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, which can range from moderate to severe.

Florastor® is a clinically-tested, natural, yeast-based probiotic that aids in the growth of good microbiota in the intestines, while destroying and removing pathogenic (bad or disease-causing) microbiota to help maintain or restore optimal intestinal health.

Florastor has been named to the list of Approved Quality Products on ConsumerLab.com, the leading provider of independent test results and information to help consumers and healthcare professionals evaluate health, wellness and nutrition products. Previously available on a limited basis, Florastor is now available throughout the United States at many retail outlets.

The ingredients in Florastor are Saccharomyces boulardii lyo 250mg (yeast)(equivalent to 5 billion live cells).  These live cells are derived in a patented process from live, freeze-dried, yeast cells.

The ingredients used in Florastor have been involved in clinical testing for more than 50 years.  Children's Florastor states it can be given to children ages two months and up.   It's available in powder format to easily mix in other food, drinks and formula.

The information for Florastor for children include:

Florastor and Florastor Kids can be used to help prevent and manage:

  • Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD)
  • Traveler’s diarrhea
  • Clostridium difficile (C. diff, which is a severe, possibly fatal infection of the colon that can occur after healthful intestinal flora are wiped out by the use of strong antibiotics, allowing a pathogenic bacteria to thrive; currently being seen more often, as C. diff is on the rise)
  • Chronic inflammatory intestinal conditions (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
  • Acute diarrhea, such as that from Salmonella or E. coli (food poisoning)


I did not know that Florastor has been sold internationally for over 50 years and is touted as the #1 seller of probiotics worldwide.  Florastor for kids has been available since 2005 on a limited basis in the US and regular Florastor since 2003.  Both are now available at pharmacies and numerous retail outlets as well as online at http://www.florastor.com/.

To read about any of the 45 clinical studies on Florastor, click here.

I've been using Florastor for a week and have not had any adverse events or ill effects from it.  I plan on continuing to use it to promote good health.





SOFTLIPS® PURE LIP CONDITIONERS

If you never heard of SoftLips, you are missing out!  These are the best things next to chocolate.  Well, not quite but close!  I love these lip balms as they are packaged to look more sophisticated and come in so many great flavors.  When I received these in the mail to review, my oldest was beyond excited as these were her favorites I quickly learned as she grabbed nearly all of them for herself.  I did have to retrive some to her chagrin.

What you may not know about Softlips® PURE is they are organic lip conditioners designed with skin-conditioning ingredients to help keep lips soft, supple and healthy. Available in several flavors, Softlips® PURE is USDA-certified organic and 100% natural. The premium, organic ingredients provide a silky-smooth, eco-friendly lip conditioner for softer, healthier lips. The product line also contains no animal by-products and is not tested on animals.

For those that prefer organic products that are not tested on animals, you will want these!

Softlips® PURE launched pomegranate and honeydew flavors in 2008 and this year, they added peppermint, acai berry, papaya and chai tea. 





What I liked most about Softlips® PURE, is the feel.  It does not leave a heavy, waxy build up.  It feels very natural and it tastes great.  The small size allows you to easily place it in your pocket or purse. 

They are very reasonably priced and you can't just have one!  My personal favorite was Sugar and Spice.

Join Softlips® on Facebook for news, giveaways and tips!

Interested more in a sunblock? 

Softlips® SPF 20 Conditioning Lip Balm is also available in brand new flavors for 2009:  New Mint with a hint of Vanilla, Wildberry and Limited Edition Seasonal Flavors.


Softlips® has Year Round Flavors, Limited Edition Summer Flavors and Limited Edition Winter Flavors.  Go to http://www.softlips.com/ for the latest information and news!





LIPO-FLAVONOID® PLUS FOR TINNITUS/MENIER'S SYNDROME SUFFERERS


I have to admit that I've never heard of Tinnitus or Menier's Syndrome so when I received this information, I cannot provide a personal review but can relay the information in case there are some sufferers of this syndrome so they know of an available treatment option.

Meniere’s Syndrome is usually characterized by four symptoms:
  • Episodes of vertigo or dizziness 
  • Fluctuating, progressive, low-frequency hearing loss 
  • Tinnitus ("ringing" in the ears) 
  • A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
The inner ear is designed with a series of canals. “These canals separate important fluids, like endolymph and perilymph, and keep them from mixing,” explains Andrew Cheng, M.D., an ear, nose and throat physician in New York City and ear health advisor for Lipo-Flavonoid®, a clinically-proven, dietary supplement that has shown promising relief for tinnitus sufferers. “However, when these fluids do mix, as would occur if there is a rupture in these canals, the microscopic hair cells in the inner ear stiffen, or they can become bent or broken.”

These tiny hair cells play a major role in hearing and maintaining balance. “When they're healthy, these hair cells move in relation to the pressure of sound waves that come into the ear,” explains Dr. Cheng. “The movement triggers a message to the brain to interpret these signals as sound.”

Once the hair cell’s flexibility is reduced, an individual can hear ringing, lose hearing and experience loss of balance (vertigo). When these delicate hair cells are compromised, they move randomly in a constant state of irritation. “They will then send electrical impulses to the brain even if there is no actual sound wave present, which is interpreted as noise, even when there is no noise stimulus present externally,” Dr. Cheng adds. “This creates a ringing, whooshing or buzzing sound in the ear.”

Right now, no one is completely sure how a canal rupture occurs, however, damage to the hair cells and canals of the inner ear can be caused by:
  • Age-related hearing loss: This process, called presbycusis, usually begins around age 60. 
  • Trauma: Often a result of excessive exposure to loud noise over a long period of time or even one exposure. Occupational exposure, chain saws and other loud machinery, loud music and weapons (e.g., gun shots) are common sources of noise-related hearing loss. 
  • Wax build-up
  • Ear/sinus infections 
  • Cardiovascular disease
LIPO-FLAVONOID® is for adults and children 12 years or older.  Take one caplet three times a day, preferably with a meal, as a dietary supplement or as recommended by a healthcare professional.  Read the entire bottle instructions before taking.

LIPO-FLAVONOID® contains the B complex group of vitamins in a base of lipotropic agents choline, inositiol and pantothenic acid, plus vitamin C and bioflavonids.  It is available through mass market retail and drug stores as well as http://www.lipoflavonoid.com/.

For more information, click here to go to http://www.lipoflavonoid/.






Provides Pain Relief for Urinary Tract Infections Plus Antibacterial that Helps Prevent Progression of Infection While Waiting to See a Doctor;

Cystex® Survey Reports 20% of Women with UTIs Typically Wait Three Days or More to Seek Medical Attention

Did you know that a study conducted by the Mayo Clinic showed that half of all women will develop a urinary tract infection (UTI) during their lifetime?  That's a staggering number and a very painful infection to have to wait to see a doctor for.  Although I've been blessed with not having to endure an UTI, yet, my mother has and I've heard how painful these infections can be. 

The great news is that Cystex® is over the counter and is designed to help ease the pain and discomfort of UTIs.   It is the only OTC UTI medication available with an antibacterial agent that helps to contain the progression of the infection.

The easy to swallow tablets have a dual action formula.  One to help numb the pain and burning sensation with an analgesic and another that contains a urinary antiseptic methenamine that helps to control the infection until you can see a doctor.

Cystex® is for adults and children over the age of 12 years of age.  It is recommended to take with a full glass of water.  Read the package insert for all directions.

Cystex® is available at drug stores nationwide or online at http://www.cystex.com/.

* I did not personally try Cystex®

Visit Cystex® “Ladies Room” blog at http://blog.dsehealthcare.com/cystex/ for more information.






CHARCOCAPS® HOMEOPATHIC ANTIGAS FORMULA

I have not been able to try CHARCOCAPS® so I'm only providing information available to me.  I did find out that the average person passes gas about 14 times a day.  If you are one of those people, according to a recent study by Harris Interactive for CharcoCaps® Homeopathic AntiGas Formula, 72 percent of adults indicated that they’ve passed gas in public and/or in front of someone else. 

The active ingredients in CharcoCaps Homeopathic AntiGas Formula include carbo vegetablis for abdominal stress and intestinal gas; lycopodium clavatum for abdominal pain, bloated abdomen and trapped gas; cinchora officinalis for stomach cramps, bloated abdomen and flatulence; and sulphur for abdominal pains, bloating and flatulence.

If you are needing immediate relief, CgarcoCaps provides fast, natural relief of intestinal gas pain, pressure, cramping and bloating. This over-the-counter activated charcoal brand stimulates and supports the body’s own defenses against intestinal gas and comes in easy-to-swallow capsules. While most anti-gas products have simethicone, a surfactant, which breaks up bubbles, activated charcoal serves to adsorb the volume of gas.

CharcoCaps is made with pure activated charcoal (carbon) that has been treated with steam to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms. These tiny pores can then adsorb odorous substances from gases or liquids. When it adsorbs, it attaches to it by physical attraction. The huge surface area of activated charcoal gives it countless bonding sites. When certain chemicals pass next to the carbon surface, they attach to the surface and are trapped. Your body’s gas molecules are concentrated onto the surface of activated charcoal to reduce frequency and odor. It might sound bizarre, but it’s true that a spoonful of activated carbon has the same surface area as a football field.

You can purchase Charcocaps at any mass market retailer, drug store and supermarkets.

THE GIVEAWAY!


One winner will receive a pack of the products (Certain Dri, SoftLips Lip Conditioners, CharcoCaps, Florastor, Lipo-Flavonoid, Cystex) above!

To Enter:


Leave a comment and follow my blog.


Extra Entries:


  1. Follow me on Twitter
  2. Go to each of the links above to each product webpage and leave a comment on what you learned.  You can leave one comment per product on what you learn for each extra entry.
  3. Join Certain Dri on Facebook.
  4. Join SoftLips on Facebook.
Giveaway ends November 1, 2009 at midnight.

How to Roast a Lamb Book by Michael Psilakis Review



I recently received a copy of the cookbook titled How to Roast a Lamb - New Greek Classic Cooking by Michael Psilakis (Author) and Barbara Kafka (Forward) from Hachette Book Group and an opportunity from The Product Review Place.



If you don't know who Michael Psilakis is, you might have seen him on Food Network.  He also won the 2008 Food & Wine Best Chef award for redefining Greek cooking in America.

Go here to read more about this honor as well as 10 of his great recipes.

He continues to reap the rewards for top chef honors:
  • Esquire 2007 Chef of the Year
  • Bon Appetit 2008 Chef of the Year
  • Gourmet 2007: "New York City goes Greek...but no-one does it as luminously as Michael Psilakis."
  • Time Out New York:  "Michael Psilakis elevates Greek cuisine to Olympian heights."
  • New York Magazine 2008: "The cooking [at Anthos] establishes Michael Psilakis as the Mario Batali of nouvelle Aegean cuisine."

He was born the same year as me but started out in a career of accounting and then decided to pursue a law degree.  While financing that path, he waited tables and found he had a liking for the restaurant industry.

He has opened a few restaurants and is one of the more featured and sought after chef of modern times.

Product Details:

  • Hardcover: 304 pages
  • Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (October 28, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0316041211
  • ISBN-13: 978-0316041218
Book Description:

A rising star in the food world, Michael Psilakis is co-owner of a growing empire of modern Mediterranean restaurants, and one of the most exciting young chefs in America today. In How to Roast a Lamb, the self-taught chef offers recipes from his restaurants and his home in this, his much-anticipated first cookbook.

To see the inside of the book, click here.

Ten chapters provide colorful and heartfelt personal essays that lead into thematically related recipes. Gorgeous color photography accompanies many of the recipes throughout.

Psilakis's cooking utilizes the fresh, naturally healthful ingredients of the Mediterranean augmented by techniques that define New American cuisine. Home cooks who have gravitated toward Italian cookbooks for the simple, user-friendly dishes, satisfying flavors, and comfortable, family-oriented meals, will welcome Psilakis's approach to Greek food, which is similarly healthful, affordable, and satisfying to share any night of the week.


My Review:

The initial look of the book is magnificent.  It's a large book (three pounds) with a rare cover to the book outside of the jacket.  I have noticed most books only contain the print on the jacket while the book is left bare.  The photography is very inviting and draws you in.  To me, it was not just a recipe book but a family journal of inspirational ideas with a feel for getting to know who Michael was and is.

This cookbook is more than a cookbook as it's a collection of recipes on memories, emotions and insights that transpired throughout Michael's childhood and early adolescence.  The forward section thoroughly explains the recipes and how to follow them which I found very helpful as I'm a novice Greek cook.  His offerings of short cuts and optional steps/ingredients is a nice touch as you elevate up the level of being a true Greek chef.

If you aren't too familiar with ingredients used in Greek recipes, he does a superb job with describing them and providing the substitutes.


For the recipe I chose, which was difficult as there were so many wonderful choices, I went with Souvlaki:  Chicken and Pork Shish Kebab.  It looked AMAZING and mouth watering good!

I will forwarn you that the recipes are not simple or at least the one's I looked at.  They take time to read and understand and to coordinate what you need to purchase.  I photocopies the pages I needed as there was the main recipe but I also needed items for the Greek Salad, Ladolemono and Tsatziki.  All in all, it was a labored event so ensure you have the time to put forward in creating this masterpiece.
This meal was FANTASTIC and definitely worth the time it took to make.  If you love or even like Greek food and have even a small desire to cook, this book is for you! 

To purchase his book, visit Amazon:

    

AdorableBabyClothing.Com Halloween Treat Contest Expired 10/28/09




1st Annual Halloween Treat Contest!



Who doesn't love the treats at Halloween!?


AdorableBabyClothing.com is giving away a $25.00 gift certificate to the person who sends in the best Halloween treat recipe!


All entry's must be received by October 28, 2009.

Send your entry to -- customercare@adorablebabyclothing.com

To get you started here's a recipe:

Libby's Old-Fashioned Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
  • 1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Glaze (recipe follows)
Directions

PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease baking sheets.

COMBINE flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in medium bowl. Beat sugar and butter in large mixer bowl until well blended. Beat in pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto prepared baking sheets.

BAKE for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges are firm. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Drizzle Glaze over cookies.

FOR GLAZE:

COMBINE 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon melted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in small bowl until smooth.


Rules: One entry per household. Entries must be received than no later 12:00PM October 28, 2009. Winner will be drawn at random. The $50.00 gift certificate may be used for merchandise only on http://www.adorablebabyclothing.com/. (Taxes, if applicable, and shipping are the responsibility of the winner.) To win, you must include your full name, address, phone, and email with your recipe. Winner will be notified October 30, 2009.

Somber Day Today: Fallen Soldier Tasks


My somber day begins today with the horrible reality of being in the military.  My husband is on his way to deliver the remains of one of his soldiers who took his life to the family waiting. 

I've never experienced this in spite of his repeat tours in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan.  He was told he should watch the show titled Taking Chance which tells the story of the one, Kevin Bacon, who returns with the remains of a fallen soldier.

I'm organizing a fund raiser for the little two year old daughter he left behind.  This up and rising Warrant Officer was on his way to a bright military career protecting our country from harm's way.  At 29, he endured issues that he couldn't handle and tragically ended his life last Sunday.   I'm reaching out to fellow bloggers on any suggestions on raising money for this unfortunate situation.

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Better Bake Sale Party Results



We finally had our bake sell or at least baked all the goodies with I Can't Believe It's Not Butter bake sale.  We made a lot of goodies and I read to protect the cupcakes icing, it's best to place them in small cups.  It worked great but were messy so if you copy this, provide forks!

I had a variety of cupcakes and used a Halloween theme since it was so close.  Each cupcake was wrapped in plastic and most were tied with ribbon.  I also read presentation is everything to encourage people to buy.



Above is an example of pumpkin chocolate suckers. I used a Halloween ribbon to seal the plastic bags.  I smeared a light orange gel frosting to give them a hint of color.  Next to them are the dirt worm cupcakes.  Those are easy to make and if you mess up your cupcakes or cake, not a problem as you make it appear like dirt so you don't want a perfect formed cake.


This is a close up shot of all the decorated cupcaked in the decorated display box.  I used my Zazzle account to create "Thanks for Your Support" with the school mascot cards.





Those were a couple of my little helpers!  The best helpers ever and they only ate one cookie each!  More pics of the actual sale to come!

The school made a little over $300 on their sale!

Looking for a Great Designer Coat at Low Prices?



Ruelala has a GREAT selection of designer coats, sunglasses and shoes by Betsey Johnson.



CellCeuticals Versus Oil of Olay Review


I had used CellCeuticals products for aging for several weeks and wrote about those results at two weeks and again at four weeks (click here to read about the four week results).  I put CellCeuticals aside to try Oil of Olay via my assignment over at Yahoo's Shine (click here for that post).  After reviewing and writing about Oil of Olay, I decided to return to CellCeuticals as so far, it's the best product I have found. 


My favorite is still the NeoCell Micro-Resurfacing Skin Treatment due to how it makes me skin feel clean and it's not too abrasive.

I have noticed a visible change in the lines on my forehead and some diminished areas around the crows feet. I feel my face is more vibrant and supple and I wake up with a glow.

I definitely like all the products in the regiment and would recommend them to anyone.

*NOTE:  I was not paid to endorse CellCeuticals nor compensated for this review.

Miss Amy Wide Wide World Children's CD Review & Giveaway WINNER

Congratulations

An e-mail will be sent and please respond within 48 hours




Miss Amy Wide Wide World
Review & Giveaway

"Miss Amy is a spirited and lively singer/songwriter who delights in performing for children. This CD is a collection of fun songs which includes Harry Belefonte's "Turn The World Around". Miss Amy is also a Music Educator and Fitness Instructor, and she puts her talents to work at her kids shows that she performs regularly through-out the Central New Jersey and Philadelphia area."

I just received Miss Amy's Wide Wide World CD for review and an extra copy for a giveaway courtesy of Miss Amy via aMomEntrepreneur.com.  As soon as I put the CD in, my two girls perked up and started to dance.  The two year old especially LOVES it!  I wanted to hear a snippit of each song so as I skipped to the next one, she would become upset with me as she didn't want to stop listening.  After listening to the entire CD once, I finally had to move it into another room because she wanted to hear it over and over.  Miss Amy's voice reminded me of Anne Murray at times.  She really has a smooth, beautiful voice and I would love to hear her sing some adult genre.

I particularly liked Old McDonald Had a Vowel Farm and the Penguin Dance as did the girls.  All the songs have a good upbeat tempo which is extremely appealing to children.  It's a CD to keep the kids entertained on a long trip but not one right before bed as it really gets them fired up!





All the words to the song are available missamykids.com and Miss Amy has three other CDs to choose from.

I Wanna Know How It Works
Underwater
My Precious One

Click here for Miss Amy's Other CDs and to listen to sample songs.

CDbaby.com has four reviews that are all excellent!



One Miss Amy Wide Wide World CD

Go to missamykids.com and leave a comment here on what you learned about Miss Amy and follow my blog.


Extra entries:
  • Subscribe and leave two comments that you subcribed for two entries.
  • Follow me on Twitterand and leave two comments that you followed for two entries.



Giveaway ends October 15, 2009 at 10:00 PM EST.


Winner chosen by random.org

Mythic Entertainment Warhammer MMO Online Game Giveaway WINNER

Congratulations
An e-mail will be sent and please respond within 48 hours!



This one is for the dads, the boys and MOMMY GAMERS!!!!

Online games is becoming increasingly popular due to the constraints of the economy and the ease for some sit in your chair for hours entertainment.  It's a great way to kill time, have fun with your loved one's if they play or to meet new people in a fantasy world.

Never tried an online game before?  Here's your chance to try the game for FREE!

Mythic is even offering a ten day free pass to try it out but with the game itself, you will get free playtime.

If you have never heard of a MMO(RPG), it's a is a Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game, more commonly called an MMO. In MMOs (including Dark Age of Camelot ), tens of thousands of people can adventure together or separately in worlds that are created by a game company. The most successful MMORPGs to date have several hundred thousand monthly subscribers. These types of games are created by teams that can range in size from forty developers to over a hundred developers, and can cost over ten million dollars to produce a AAA title. Some games currently in development are rumored to cost many times that.

Besides the fact that tens of thousands of people can play this type of game at the same time and interact with each other, the biggest difference is that MMORPGs can be constantly updated with new content and challenges for the player. In the case of Dark Age of Camelot, Mythic creates new content and improvements for the game on a regular basis. Throw in five retail expansions, and you have a game that since it was released in 2001, has increased dramatically in size, scope and features. This type of dedication to new content is what sets online games apart from single player games.

What is Warhammer?

War is everywhere in Warhammer® Online: Age of Reckoning® (WAR), the new fantasy MMORPG from Mythic Entertainment, the creators of Dark Age of Camelot™. WAR features next generation Realm vs. Realm™ gameplay that will immerse you in a world of perpetual conflict for years to come.


Experience the glory of Realm vs. Realm! Declare your allegiance and join hundreds of thousands of mighty heroes on the battlefields of Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning to experience the epic nature of war. Enter a grim fantasy world where the armies of Order (Dwarfs, High Elves, and Empire) and Destruction (Greenskins, Dark Elves, and Chaos) collide to determine the fate of nations. Invade enemy lands, besiege imposing fortresses, and sack sprawling capital cities for the glory of your Realm. Wield devastating magic and deadly weapons, battle monstrous creatures, and join your brothers-in-arms in epic Public Quests™. Climb the Bastion Stair, carry your Guild Banner into battle, and unlock the secrets of the Tome of Knowledge as you travel the world. Sharpen your blade and prepare to unleash your inner mutation-the Age of Reckoning has begun and WAR IS EVERYWHERE!

Key Features:

•Realm vs. Realm (RvR) gameplay means you will never fight alone, but as part of an army of allied players sworn to defend your homeland and conquer enemy Realms. Your every action-every quest completed, every battle fought-contributes to the war effort and can turn the tide of battle, bringing victory to your Realm!

•Experience the camaraderie of fighting side-by-side with allied players against otherwise insurmountable odds in groundbreaking Public Quests. These cooperative PvE encounters unfold across multiple stages and allow solo players to experience the glory of RvR.

•Embark on the endless quest to complete the Tome of Knowledge and unlock Warhammer lore, detailed monster information, new abilities and rewards, and major story plotlines. The Tome is also the story of your life in the game, tracking your achievements to share and compare with others.

•Explore massive Living Cities that become more or less prosperous based on a Realm�s overall performance in the ongoing war. Navigate a maze of twisting streets, visit the local tavern, explore a dark under-city, and meet colorful personalities in a city full of adventure.

•Advanced guild features give unprecedented control to leaders and members, and make guilds an integral part of the war efforts. Guilds can create unique heraldry, capture and claim keeps, and earn Guild Tactics as they grow in power along with their members.

Drawing from a quarter century of highly detailed source material, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning brings Games Workshop's fantasy world to life in a way that will allow players to create characters destined for great deeds and glory on the field of battle.

Product Specifications

  • Publisher: EA
  • Developer: Mythic Entertainment
  • Ship Date: Fall 2008

Category: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game  - Online play requires a subscription and Internet connection.





To win, you must provide a comment and follow this blog.

Extra Entries can be obtained by performing the extra steps and commenting on each one completed:

  1. Subscribing to my blog (two entries so leave two comments).
  2. Follow me on Twitter (two entries so leave two comments).
Giveaway ends October 15, 2009 at 10:00 EST and winner will be chosen by random.org.

Good luck!


Youthful Tips

Top Toys for 2009



Zhu Zhu Pets

BestToyGuides.com is listing the Zhu Zhu Pets as being one of the tops for 2009.  I've seen other bloggers reviewing and giving these cute furry pets aways.  If you are one of those bloggers, feel free to post your giveaway here!

"Because buying a real hamster costs more and requires plenty of responsibility, Cepia, LLC has come up with a cuddly alternative. Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters are almost like the real thing. They require 2 AA batteries to function, then children can set them down, press a button, and watch them zip around in explore mode or cozy up to them and hear squeaks in loving mode. Several accessories are available, which allows children to build a veritable hamster city that their pets can explore. Each pet comes with a name, a unique personality, and sounds specially made just for them.


Why Kids Love Them
  • Its like having a real pet, but without the mess or cost.
  • Collectible accessories, and the ability to connect them all.
  • They’re Really CUTE!


Bakugan

Slightly similar to the Transformer, 7 different Bakugan can be attached together in order to form the Maxus Dragonoid. This gives children the ability to play with seven different little toys or one bigger toy. The toy is based on Cartoon Network’s television series, Bakugan Battle Brawlers where two players battle each other in an attempt to gain one another’s Bakugan warriors. A good choice for children that are fans of the show and the game, though it might confuse those who are not. Keep in mind that the small Bakugan are considered small parts and should not be purchased for children under 3 years of age.


Why Boys Love It
  • Highly collectible
  • They get 7 toys for the price of one.
  • They can take him apart and put him together over, and over, and over….
I'm interested if anyone reading this has bought this one.  My tomboy daughter would love it .. I think!



Printies

This is another one that I've wondered about with the quality:

Somewhat like a Build-A-Bear studio in your own home, Printies gives kids the chance to create stuffed pets using just a printer and an online program. Children log on to MyPrinties.com and customize their particular pet friend. Once finished, they print on the special Printies Fabric sheets. Once both sides are printed, children can open them up at the bottom, stuff, and then seal shut. A unique alternative to the usually necessary needle and thread. There is also an ocean theme and a jungle theme depending upon what animals your child will want to cuddle with. Animals can range from dogs and cats to penguins and monkeys.


Why Kids Love Them
  • Kids get to design and create their own stuffed animals from home.
Why Parents Love Them
  • There is no sewing, cutting, or ironing.
  • Affordable toy that lets kids use their imagination and design skills.

PreHistin: World’s FIRST Pre-Histamine & Giveaway 10/31/09 CLOSED WINNER

CLOSED & CONGRATULATIONS TO
AURIETTE!
AN E-MAIL HAS BEEN SENT!
THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR ENTERING!



PREHISTIN

The World’s FIRST Pre-Histamine: Helps Regulate the Over-Production of Symptom-Causing Histamines Before They are Released, and the Need to Rely on Anti-Histamines

Allergies develop as a result of hypersensitive reactions in humans to foreign substances (allergens) including airborne pollen from Mountain Cedar, Ragweed, flowers and grasses (associated with hay fever), pet and animal dander, and household molds and dust, which are introduced into the body through breathing or touch. Elevated levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) – a class of antibody – have been proven to be associated with the onset of allergy symptoms due to an increased or over-active release of histamine. Increased histamine levels in the body are responsible for creating the chemical reaction that triggers allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and throat, nasal congestion and runny nose. Those with problematic allergies (individuals considered atopic) can have up to 10 times the normal level of IgE in their blood, creating an over-response to allergens. PreHistin, The World’s FIRST Pre-Histamine, contains a proprietary, patented formula and unique delivery system of cobalamin (a pharmaceutical grade analogue of B12) to help regulate and maintain a normal immune response to allergens. In controlled clinical studies on more than 2,500 allergy patients, by leading allergists and immunologists, PreHistin has been shown to effectively regulate IgE levels while significantly increasing serum cobalamin levels, both of which are essential for proper immune function and to help maintain a healthy (and normal) response to allergens.

Additionally, PreHistin works differently than products geared toward allergy symptom relief. It provides a safe, non-sedating alternative to powerful, symptom-relief anti-histamines that can often cause unwanted drowsiness and other uncomfortable effects.

How it is Different:

Currently, top-selling allergy-relief products are for the reduction of symptoms AFTER the allergy kicks in. These anti-histamines act to block the effects of histamine only after histamine has already been released and symptoms have set in (sneezing, itchy/runny eye and nose, congestion, etc.). Additionally, anti-histamines often result in uncomfortable and irritating side effects, such as drowsiness or sedation, headache, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness and disturbed sleep.

PreHistin is totally different! It regulates the release of histamines so your body doesn’t overreact to foreign substances. PreHistin was clinically shown to effectively maintain healthy IgE levels, which have been linked to allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, nasal congestion and runny nose.

When to Use:

For best results, begin taking PreHistin 30 days ahead of and then throughout the allergy season by dissolving a great tasting cherry flavored lozenge under the tongue twice per day, every day, and then swallowing. Individuals, ages 12 and up, can begin taking PreHistin at any time, but it takes several weeks to see optimal results since it works by rebalancing the immune system to maintain a normal response to allergens. PreHistin is effective for both indoor and outdoor allergies, and is safe for long-term use year-round. It has even been shown to keep working for weeks after you stop taking it. There are no known adverse side effects; it is non-drowsy, and completely safe: there are no upper dosage limits. PreHistin does not affect any medications you may be taking.

How it Works:

PreHistin works by regulating IgE antibody levels in your body, which helps normalize histamine release. By regulating and normalizing the histamine release, your body may not overreact to foreign substances. Preventing release of histamine regulates normal immune response to allergens, which can have a positive effect on the onset of annoying symptoms.

By normalizing the production and maintaining healthy levels of IgE, histamine is NOT released from mast cells, thus allergy symptoms are abated. It is over-production of IgE antibodies that cause the eventual eruption of allergies and the cascade of symptoms. It’s NOT the pollen; it’s the histamine!

Ingredients:

PreHistin is made with a safe, natural formula that contains a proprietary, patented cyanocobalamin (a pharmaceutical grade analogue of B12).



Availability:

Suggested retail price is $29.99 for a 30-day supply; available now for $19.95 as an introductory offer for a 30-day supply, with a free additional 1-month supply added as part of the offer. Three, six and 12 month multi-packs are also available. To order, visit http://www.prehistin.com/ or call 1-877-4POLLEN.

*******
Giveaway:

One reader will receive one package of PreHistin.


To Enter:


Leave a comment that you would like to try this product.


Extra Entries:
  • Follow my blog.
  • Go to the PreHistin website and leave a comment on one thing you learned.
  • Vote for me at DivineCaroline (widget top left) and get FIVE extra entries! Just vote, return back to the each giveaway and leave five entries with what number of voter you were. Easy!

Giveaway ends 10/31/09 at midnight. Winner chosen by random.org.



*NOTE: I did not review this product and am only listing a giveaway.

Martha Stewart Coffin Treat Boxes CUTE!



I love this craft from Martha Stewart for unique coffin treat boxes.


Surprise your guests with an inventive coffin treat box, a wonderfully ghoulish party favor everyone will want to take home.


Tools and Materials:
  • Decorative paper
  • Black cardstock
  • Large glue stick
  • Printer
  • Plain printer paper
  • Stapler
  • Bone folder
  • Ruler
  • Craft knife or scissors
  • Paperclips
  • Candy
  • Halloween stickers
  • Rough twine
  • Coffin box top and bottom templates
  • Full-sheet double-sided adhesive (optional)
Coffin Treat Box How-To:
  1. Fully adhere decorative paper to black cardstock with a large glue stick or full-sheet double-sided adhesive.
  2. Print top and bottom coffin templates on regular 8 1/2-by-11-inch paper. Place one template on each sheet of lined cardstock and staple around the template to hold in place. Do not staple inside the lines of the template, as this will create holes in your finished box.
  3. Using a bone folder and ruler, score on the dotted lines of each template, pressing through to the paper and cardstock underneath.
  4. Using a craft knife or scissors, cut on solid lines of templates, working from the inside out.
  5. Fold sides and tabs of both top and bottom where scored. Using a glue stick, glue tabs to inside of box bottom and lid as shown in the template. Clamp with paperclips to secure until dry.
  6. Fill bottom of box with candy. Add stickers to top of lid and place lid on top of box. Wrap a 1-yard piece of rough twine around the coffin a few times, and tie to secure.
Resources:

The decorative paper used on today's show is available as part of a kit on QVC.com. Twine is available at hardware or craft stores. All other materials, including a variety of alternative decorative paper, and tools are from Martha Stewart Crafts.

For more great ideas, go to http://www.marthastewart.com/article/coffin-treat-box?xsc=eml_crd_2009_10_14