Tuesday, October 27, 2015

evian® Facial Spray’s Bon Voyage Sweepstakes so you can travel in style #evianspray @brandbacker

Disclosure: This post is powered by Brandbacker. 



I remember using evian ®Natural Mineral Water years ago as a professional brand new to the workforce. It really helped me look and feel more sophisticated and professional. evian is a classic beauty secret that comes all the way from the French Alps. evian actually starts as rain and snow high atop the French Alps after which it filters for over 15 years through glacial rock and sand to a deep underground catchment just outside the town of Evian-Les-Bains, France. Unbelievable but true that the water contained in the spray is tested 300 times per day to insure quality and the consistent unique mineral content. I love that it is guaranteed to be the same every single time. No other water has the same mineral content as evian.



I love the feel of my skin when I spray my evian. The exquisitely fine mist produced by evian® Brumisateur® penetrates and rehydrates the upper layers of the skin naturally. Consider the source of the evian water.  It has a unique mineral balance along with exceptional purity which is perfect for sensitive, dry, normal or oily skin. It leaves skin feeling refreshed and looking radiant. This is my go-to travel beauty secret. The leak-proof canister is the ideal product to take on any trip. 


A bit of fascinating history with evian that I didn't know. evian Facial Spray was originally introduced in France in 1962 at the request of doctors for use on burn patients. It was the first facial water spray in France and was introduced as the first facial spray in the United States in 1978. I remember that!  I feel like everyone knows the evian brand name but I wasn't aware The Wilkes Group has been the exclusive worldwide distributor for 36 years. Evian is the only facial spray to be carried by many prestige retail stores and websites including Nordstrom and Sephora. If you have vacationed recently, you may have seen or restocked your supply at one of the many luxury resorts and hotels such as Four Seasons that also carry evian.


I like that I can feel confident using evian anywhere on my face or body. The French Government has extremely stringent standards for approving mineral waters as suitable to drink. Evian Facial Spray is the only mineral water spray in the USA to contain such a water and the only one with a companion drinkable bottled mineral water. The Evian brand can be found now in over 120 countries worldwide.



The Wilkes Group is giving away a Longchamp "Le Pliage" backpack, in stylish, durable, water-resistant nylon topped with a textured leather handle and logo-embossed flap, which retails at $125. It is filled with one 10 oz., one 5 oz., and a trio of travel-size evian® sprays (over $175.00 total value)

Plus, three runners-up will receive a Longchamp pochette toiletries case, with embossed leather trim in durable, water-resistant nylon, accented with goldtone hardware, which retails at $50, and filled with a trio of travel size evian sprays (over $70.00 total value) This giveaway is hosted by the Wilkes Group. Winners will be chosen at random. You can enter the giveaway here.


You can also enter the evian® Facial Spray’s Bon Voyage Sweepstakes here if you prefer.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Friday, October 23, 2015

Friendly's Single Serve Ice Cream Flavored Coffee Review & Giveaway #friendlyscoffee #giveaway #chocolatemarshmallow #butterscotch #mintchocolatechip



I love my morning cup of coffee at 6am...sometimes earlier depending on my work schedule. I really depend on it to get be going. Winter is even more of a challenge so I was glad to have the opportunity to try something different from a Two Rivers Coffee. Their new variety pack was my first introduction to this brand and I was pretty impressed. Seriously...what could be yummier than a steaming hot mug of ice cream flavored coffee from the iconic Friendly's brand? Thanks to Two Rivers and their Friendly's K-cups....I can enjoy my delicious cup of coffee in a few seconds anytime I like.

I have to say I love my Keurig too. This machine just keeps on going. Two Rivers Coffee has shared that even if you have the newer 2.0 machines these delicious Friendly's Coffee pods work perfectly. I love this! Now I can enjoy the taste of all my classic favorite ice cream flavors in my morning coffee in a few seconds. You have all the flavors from a delicious Butterscotch, a creamy Chocolate Marshmallow, decadent Vienna Mocha Chunk and even cool Mint Chocolate Chip. Each one is more decadent than the next. You can be as adventurous as you like adding cream, milk or even whipped cream. I have to watch my calories so it is skim milk for me but I use my little battery operated milk frother which makes my milk all foamy and delicious. Besides, I have my yummy Friendly's flavors.

Two Rivers Coffee just came up with a great holiday gift idea. If someone has been hoping for a K-cup machine this would go perfectly. You can really personalize a gift for a coffee lover. These flavored coffees will satisfy the biggest ice cream craving without all those pesky calories. Try the Friendly's ice cream flavored K-cup variety pack and savor the sweetness with someone special or give it as a gift this holiday season. 


You can pick up these delicious Friendly's Kcup flavored coffee pods right on Amazon for the easiest shopping ever. Don't forget to enter my Rafflecopter giveaway to win your own and see just how good they are. This giveaway includes a 40 count box of Friendly's Single Cup Coffee for Keurig k-cup brewers.  This product IS 2.0 compatible. a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

BYOU Be Your Own You Magazine for teens and tweens Review + a subscription giveaway #giveaway @byoumagazine


If you have a tween girl you know just how challenging everything can be these days. The ages from 8-14 come with so many changes for girls. Many of the role models, magazines and social networks out there have a lot of information that is just not so suitable for their consumption. What is a mama to do that is looking for some good reading material to feed to her tweens? I am not talking about food either, I am referring to information and entertainment. BYOU Magazine offers a great solution! I like that the magazine bridges a wide range of ages and the stories are great for girls from pre-teen to teenagers. Each issue of the magazine kept her occupied for hours between the articles, the B-Smart puzzles, exercises and games to work on your brain and the crafts. She really loved the crafts...each issue has a seasonally appropriate craft that is not too complicated but interesting enough to keep their attention for a while.




BYOU channels positive messages of self esteem and sprinkles them gently throughout the magazine. BYOU shares lots of great positive entertainment models and blends the stories with education, crafts and fun along with a bit of silliness to balance it all out. The ultimate goal is to empower girls to make their own decisions and to make positive choices.  I love how they seek out healthy role models that teens and tweens look up to and feature them in articles.   BYOU touches on real issues that catch the interest of girls like my daughter. They address those things that they want answers to like how to manage a bully or what to do with friendship issues.  They also focus on staying healthy and moving your body.  The whole essence of the magazine is structured around positivity but in a way that is colorful and keeps their attention.



My tween really enjoyed the issues of the magazine that we received.  Each issue featured covers with teen celebrities like Kelli Berglund. Kelli shared her experiences and positive messages about how she lives her life. My daughter recognized and knew all the celebrities. I was impressed with the stories and the positive role models. The stories and tips the celebrities shared were positive and reaffirmed the ideals we teach in our own home. They all focused on education, personal achievement and following a straight path. The stories and interviews were upbeat and lighthearted...the messages came across in a friendly manner. BYOU magazine is a great resource for tween and teen girls for fun stuff too. Issues had age-appropriate crafts that my daughter loved the B Smart puzzles and quizzes. Those are always a hit...I remember loving puzzles and quizzes in my own teen magazines. It is fun to see the results! 


You can find out more by checking out BYOU Magazine online or checking out an issue in your local bookstore. You can subscribe annually for $17.97 a year or save by getting a two year subscription. You can even choose a digital subscription for less on the BYOU site.  Meanwhile, don't forget to enter my Rafflecopter giveaway for an annual subscription to BYOU magazine.a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Valdler makes a reliable indoor rug to trap dirt and keep my home cleaner


Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for review from Giveaway Service website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. Reference ID: pm790f70042f200e878fa12440d51682cd

The cooler weather is here and that means I need a good indoor rug or floor mat to catch dirt, leaves, rain and snow from tracking into my house. This Valdler rug fits the bill perfectly. It is thin enough that the door can open but sturdy enough to prevent dirt and debris from coming in. 


It has a casual feel which is perfect for my den...the door leads out to the back screened in porch. When the kids come in the dirt lands on the mat and not in my house. I got the dark brown which is a chocolate color. It looks attractive and durable with a low key profile. It also comes in grey. It is the perfect size for my standard doorway. 

Valdler Doormat facts:

  • This door mat is perfect for indoor use 
  • Superior durability, longer lasting
  • Non-slip backing; traps dirt and moisture
  • Shoe scraping keep your floors clean
  • Dimension: 18" x 30" in ; 45 x 75 cm; material: 70% PVC/30% PET

You can pick up this attractive and durable doormat right on Amazon for easy shopping amytime. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Thyme Essential Oil has a fresh, natural scent that blends seamlessly into carrier oils




I love using essential oils and have a stash of different scents that really help to make me feel good.  I love this Simply Earth Thyme oil. It is one of my faves to use in the morning to get me going, or when I need to revive myself in the afternoon. The scent is invigorating. This thyme oil lets me get a fresh focus. The oil allows me to easily restore some balance and energy to my day naturally.  Thyme Essential Oil  has a herbaceous scent that can't help but make you smile as you think of your garden even in the winter. It has a clean scent that blends nicely with citrus oils too. You can get creative and make your own oil blends too...it is easy.

This is Thyme (red) Essential Oil that is 100% Pure. I like that it is non-toxic too. There are no additives. It is unfiltered and undiluted with no fillers.

Botanical Name: Thymus vulgaris | Aroma: Sharp, herbaceous, spicy | Origin: Spain | Benefits: Cleansing, purifying, energizing.

You can find this lovely Thyme Essential Oil right on Amazon for easy shopping anytime. 

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for review from Giveaway Service website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. Reference ID: pmffe4dce930652238d3e7bbfca0c6c112

SantaMedical Non-Contact Thermometer is effective and accurate





Time for a new non-contact kids thermometer! I am done with changing those ear covers on the old one. SantaMedical makes an accurate non-contact thermometer that is a cinch to use. Hold near to the forehead and ta-da...accurate temp in a few seconds. 

I like that I can save money and time without needing any accessories like those probe covers I needed to use with my old one.  The Santa Medical non-contact infrared (IR) clinical thermometer is fast and it will work even if my child is sleeping since I can get a temperature without touching the skin. 

The Santa Medical non-contact infrared (IR) clinical thermometer provides a simple, expedient, and accurate way for initial fever screenings by taking the temperature of areas on the face such as the forehead or tear ducts. The company shares that it obtains the body temperature reading with 0.3 degree accuracy in less than 1 second. The Santa Medical IR thermometer features an intuitive guidance system to secure positioning and confirm accurate readings. 

You can pick the SantaMedical non-contact Thermometer on Amazon for easy shopping anytime.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Sunday, October 11, 2015

Kleenex Pocket Packs helps out during cold and flu season! @Crowdtap #sponsored @kleenex #Kleenexcares #KleenexBrandBelievers

Disclosure: I am a member of the Crowdtap Kleenex Cares program and Kleenex® sent me coupons to review this product.


They are not called tissues, they are called Kleenex in my home. I have been calling them that since I was a little kid. My mom always did too and my sisters. We still all do. I know some people who would object but so be it. I love my Kleenex® Brand’s tissue products  I was recently chosen to sample newly re-designed Kleenex Pocket Packs and I was curious to see those new designs. I love the Pocket Packs.

The Kleenex brand has always been in my house from the time I was little. I rarely stray from it no matter what my friends do. The worst is when you go to someone's house and they have the cheapie brand of "tissues." Ewwww!  Nothing worse than those things. Even when I was really young and just out in the workforce I still spent a tiny bit extra for my Kleenex.  Kleenex have been part of my life for good and bad...all those broken relationships 100 years ago,  it was a real challenge that dating and who didn't cry a few tears? I was so happy when I met my husband because it was clear he was a keeper. Kleenex was even in the ladies lounge basket at our wedding...my mom made sure of that.


I couldn't wait for the samples to arrive.  My daughter always has Pocket Packs in her school backpack and I always have them in my purse and my car.
I am a huge Kleenex fan and just love these adorable Kleenex pocket packs. The messages make them even more meaningful than ever. They are the perfect size to stash in a purse or tote. The designs are totally on trend and make it easy to locate a pack in an emergency...a sneezing fit qualifies fully! The tissues are soft and strong...just what I always expect from Kleenex too. Every day we’re presented with opportunities to show we care. The Pocket Packs makes it easy. 
 
Kleenex® Brand makes it easy to never miss an opportunity to show someone you care, especially when it comes to everyday moments like a fall sneeze. Kleenex is on a mission to prove that we all care about one another. Hand a friend or a stranger a Kleenex® Facial Tissue this fall. Kleenex brand launched these cute newly designed Pocket Packs that feature caring messages that will uplift you and the ones you love. You can even write and share your own message of care on select packs! Hop on over to the nearest store and check them out. We love the new messages.

Rhodes Quick, Easy, & Delicious Party with Rhodes Microwavable Cinnamon Rolls @Tryazon @rhodesbread #Tryazon #Rhodesbread




The weather is turning chillier with the fall leaves rolling in. The time is perfect for baking and a warm cup of coffee with frothed milk. This is the time of year I enjoy having friends and family over to spend time together and bake up some warm treats in my oven or microwave. I love the scent of fresh baked cinnamon rolls but who doesn't. I was really excited when I found out that I would be working with Tryazon and Rhodes Dough to share about my experiences with a new product that is easy as 1-2-3 even for new bakers. 




There is nothing better good friends and family and yummy snacks on a Sunday morning!  Rhodes Bake ‘N Serv is a company that has been around for years and years. I remember learning how to bake years ago with my friend John using Rhodes Dough.  Even if you are a novice baker you will see they have options that make baking a real cinch. 


Rhodes Dough just launched something new--Microwavable Cinnamon Rolls--these are perfect for busy mamas. They are slowly making their way into stores like Walmart and Stop & Shop so keep checking your locations....I bet you will be seeing them soon. If you have a tiny bit more time they have an oven baked version of gooey cream cheese frosted Cinnamon Rolls as well. Rhodes make more than just Cinnamon Rolls though....If you are looking for a special roll to accompany a more formal dinner they make my favorite traditional soft and buttery dinner rolls which add a special touch to any table. They have a variety of dough that you can use to create all kinds of delicious recipes. Rhodes has dough that works for all kinds of meals, appetizers and seasons. The best part is how simple all their products are to bake whether you are using a microwave or traditional oven. I love how Rhodes Dough can be incorporated in hundreds of great recipes from appetizers to desserts. Take a peek at this yummy Blueberry Coffee Cake below!
 

Rhodes Bread believes that special does not need to be complicated unless you really want it to!  You can find all kinds of recipes on their websites that will fit perfectly into your holidays from Halloween to Christmas and even Hanukkah and New Years Eve. Rhodes understands that busy moms like me enjoy cooking and baking but we are sometimes limited with time between work, kids, activities and life.  Rhodes Bread make it easy to be a gourmet cook and host family, friends and even colleagues anytime with delicious treats that are ready in a flash. Take a peek at all the recipes and you can share the goodness with friends like I did. 


We had so much fun at my brunch today! I was surprised at how easy it was. I could not locate their newest innovation the microwave version of the Cinnamon Rolls but It was a pleasure to make the traditional Rhodes  Cinnamon Rolls since they came together so quickly. My guests were impressed and thought it would be fun to do around the holidays. I am excited to find the microwave version over the next few weeks in stores by me. I like the traditional one though...it gave us more time to catch up and chat. Clean up was a breeze as well. You can do so much with these Cinnamon Rolls and add your own special touch. 


Here is what I received for my party: 
  • Free coupon for Rhodes Microwavable Cinnamon Rolls
  • 10 $1.00 off Rhodes coupons for my guests
  • Rhodes Oven Mitt
I spent some time on the Rhodes Bread Pinterest pages and on their website. I have looked there before and found recipes but I was amazed this time at the variety of options that they had. All of the Rhodes Bread recipes were fairly easy to replicate even if you were a novice baker. The instructions were simple and straight forward for all the recipes. You don't need to be running to specialty stores when you are making recipes using Rhodes Bread products because they use simple, delicious but easy to find ingredients.  The recipes call for fresh or canned fruits, dairy options like sour cream always cheat and use fat free Greek yogurt!), cream cheese, sugar, flour and grated cheeses which let you create delicious appetizers, main dishes and desserts everyone will enjoy. 

I have always found that prepping ahead makes a party so much easier. Perhaps you have more time than I do so just see what works for you when you are having guests over. Some people work great on the fly. So I prep a day or two in advance and get all my shopping done if that works for you and that way you can relax like I did on party day. The only thing I needed to do was show the guests how easy it was to make delicious cinnamon rolls with almost no work at all. Take a peek at Rhodes Bread and stock up your freezer with rolls and dough in advance of your next party or get together. The holiday season is going to be here before you know it and you will have the base for tons of quick recipes so you will never be empty handed.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Made From Earth Vitamin C Moisturizer is ideal for any skin types and feels wonderful on my skin

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above in exchange for review from Giveaway Service website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. Reference ID: pm3f9a3e956ecf0052d92f487f390dd6d6


I recently this novel skincare product from Made From Earth Vitamin C Moisturizer. I have had great luck with some natural products over the years so I was really hopeful. This vitamin C moisturizer feels light and seems to be gentle but effective for me so far.  Made From Earth Vitamin C Moisturizer has several added benefits that I like. The Vitamin C Moisturizer is a super moisturizer for all skin types. It is organic and free of harmful chemicals which is a huge bonus. An excellent daily moisturizer with no irritating chemical scents or fragrances.

My skin glows a bit and looks very fresh each time I use the Made From Earth Vitamin C Moisturizer. I have been using it under my makeup and it goes on smoothly leaves my skin with a nice finish! I feel good about using it under my makeup to keep it smoother. Look for Made From Earth Vitamin C Moisturizer online and let me know what you think.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.