Season-Scentational Spring Giveaway!

Disclosure:  I received the product mentioned above for free for the purpose of this review as a member of the Purex Insiders. I was not financially compensated for this post but I am entered into a giveaway for an Amazon gift card for $200.  All opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the product.  However, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Spring is finally here! I was starting to worry if it was EVER going to arrive but it has. My pretty daffodils and tulips are blooming, my roses are coming back and my azalea is going crazy with gorgeous color.  It is definitely time to celebrate.  I was all hopped up, kind of like the rabbits all over our yard that Purex just launched a great giveaway to celebrate spring. The best part is that there are 5 winners for this great giveaway too.  Scents of the Season-Scentational Spring Giveaway is going to be giving away 5 four-packs of one of my favorite products--Purex Crystals. It doesn't get much better than that so start pinning now to win this great prize.  

Inspiration is in full bloom with the freshness of spring in the air. Scents evoke emotional reactions, awaken fond memories, and enhance moments. What scents inspire you this spring?  Take a peek at the different scents of Purex Crystals and see which one is your fave.

I love the different scents of Purex Crystals.  Each one is unique and I know that they make my clothes soft and keep them fresh for weeks...even tucked away and neatly folded in the closet!  They are super easy to use, just use the handy measure in the bottle top and throw them right in the wash. I have an HE washer and they work beautifully in that machine. 

Don't forget to enter and I will cross my fingers for you to be one of the five winners. The Scents of the Season Scentational Spring Giveaway is open through May 30 at 3:00pm PST so hurry and enter now.

The French secret: MASQUELIER’s® Soléderm® After Sun Solution Soon to be featured in BuluBox!

Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post.  I received the product to evaluate for review purposes as an Ambassador for BuluBox. The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the product.  However, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 

The summer is coming! The summer is coming!  I love to spend time outside in the summer....that warm sun on your back as you bike around the trails feels so good. There is nothing like spending the day working in the garden. I always feel so good when I see how beautiful everything looks. I always make sure I have my sunscreen on but sometimes I still see signs on sun damage no matter how careful I am.  I was interested to have the opportunity to see how a new product can help.  MASQUELIER’s® Soléderm® After Sun Solution helps combat the visible signs of sun damage and premature skin aging after daily, sensible sun exposure.  It comes in two formulas one for the face and another for the the body which I love.  The Facial Creme and Body Lotion were both developed to be used on a daily basis, to help repair the effects of daily sun damage on skin.  

I don’t want any more visible skin damage...really...I did plenty back when I was a teen and we didn't know any better. Skin damage can include damage from those darn UVA and UVB rays, dehydration and dry skin, redness, photo-again and loss of skin elasticity.  I am so good with my sunscreen and hats but it is exciting to know that I can do even more now….naturally. It has been getting pretty warm and sunny here, finally, so I have been using Masquelier After Sun Solution Body Lotion and Facial Creme after working all day in the garden.  My skin feels soft and looks fresh and moisturized after using it. I notice any red spots where I missed with the sunscreen seem to go away quickly. The company shares with me that the active ingredient in Soléderm^® is clinically proven to visibly reduce redness, soothe, moisturize and hydrate, decrease UV-induced skin inflammation and to help combat the signs of sun damage thought to lead to premature skin aging.   You can apply the cream or lotion up to 3 times daily especially after having been outside.  It is an easy way to supplement your good skin care regimen all year around. I plan on taking both of these on my next tropical vacation in the fall.

The active ingredient in MASQUELIER’s^® Soléderm^® AFTER SUN SOLUTION is MASQUELIER’s^® Original OPCs. The powerful antioxidants found in MASQUELIER’s^® Original OPCs help improve the visible signs of oxidative stress from the sun and actually fight free radical damage.  What this means to you is the opportunity for fresher looking skin.  You can still enjoy a day at beach with sunscreen of course but follow that with Masquelier After Sun Solution. 

Take a peek at the ingredients:

MASQUELIER’s® Soléderm® Sun Support FACE CRÈME
INGREDIENTS:  Aqua, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin*, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol*, Propanediol Dicaprylate, Cetyl Alcohol*, Palmitoyl Grape Seed Extract, Glycine, Xanthan Gum, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Caprylic Acid, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood) Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cymbopogon Martini (Palma Rosa) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Oil, Abies Sibirica (Fir Needle) Oil, Ferula Galbaniflua (Galbanum) Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopherol, Eugenol, Amyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool. Lecithin, Tapioca Starch.
* Vegetable Derived 1.7 fl oz/50 mL

MASQUELIER’s® Soléderm® Sun Support BODY LOTION
INGREDIENTS: Aqua, Glycerin*, Glyceryl Stearate*, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol*, Canola Oil, Tapioca Starch, Glycine, Xanthan Gum, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Palmitoyl Grape Seed Extract, Caprylic Acid, Lecithin, Beeswax, Potassium Sorbate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Juniperus Virginiana (Cedarwood) Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Leaf Oil, Salvia Sclarea (Clary Sage) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil, Cymbopogon Martini (Palma Rosa) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Oil, Abies Sibirica (Fir Needle) Oil, Ferula Galbaniflua (Galbanum) Oil, Tocopherol, Eugenol, Amyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, Hydroxycitronellal, Linalool.

* Vegetable Derived 6.7 fl oz/200 ml

Another product that Masquelier shared with me is their French Pine Bark Extract. This is a unique product that works in 3 ways.  It provides powerful anti-oxidant protection, strong nutritional support and potent collagen support. It is full of anti-oxidants to help neutralize free radicals while supporting our organs with the French Pine Bark Extract with Original OPC's. That collagen support is what helps keep the skin firm. I need that seriously at this point. I was surprised to learn that Professor Jack Masquelier was the first to discover how to product an extract from the bark of the French pine tree to release the potent health benefits...this was more than 40 years ago. The French hold onto their secrets WAY too long but I am glad we have it now. I have been using this for a week or two now and I will continue to use to support my body. It is easy to take and I look great. 

The most exciting part is that these products will be available in an upcoming Bulu Box!  Bulu Box is a healthy subscription box service. You can choose your plan but the annual plan is definitely the total best value. There is no other healthy subscription box like Bulu Box out there. You can find out more by visiting their website and following them on Twitter. 

Thinking about signing up for BuluBox?  
It is as easy as 1-2-3 and you are on your way to a healthier you. 
 
1. Go to BuluBox & choose a month-to-month ($10), 3 ($30), 6 ($60) or 12 month ($110) plan.
2. Sample each vitamin or supplement and try out the fitness gear or weight loss items.
3. Earn Reward Points:  Earn 50 points ($5) or more each month for completing sample surveys, sharing and subscribing.
4.) Save by using your Reward Points to purchase your favorite products!

**Remember to use my exclusive coupon code BULUGAN989, you can get your first box totally free!

Company Site: masqueliers.us

Harlem Globetrotters Summer Skills Clinics $10 off Coupon Deal

Disclosure:  I received this information through my membership with US Family Guide. I receive a complimentary ticket for sharing this savings information with my readers.

The eternal problem:  Coming up with great activities to keep the kids occupied this summer. Even if they go to day camp you can't go to the beach EVERY weekend. It really gets old after a while. Sometimes I just rack my brains for creative ideas. Other times, I get lucky and the good ideas just come to me....like in my mailbox!  I just heard that the famed Harlem Globetrotters are doing summer skills kids clinics all over the country.  I was super excited and so were all the kids and their friends. These guys are totally legendary. Even better...you can save $10 Off 2014 Harlem Globetrotters Summer Skills Clinics with code: USFAMILY. 

If you like the Globetrotters like we do, you'll love their Summer Basketball Clinics. Inspired by their show, these two-hour clinics for kids aged 6-12 are taught by actual Globetrotter players and jam packed with games, tricks and moves. Kids at the Harlem Globetrotters Summer Basketball Clinics will:

• Spend two fun-filled hours with their friends being coached by two Globetrotter stars.

• Learn more than just Xs and Os as the Globetrotters emphasize how to be a good teammate on and off the court.

• Leave with an official certificate, personalized Globetrotter nickname and ticket voucher to the Globetrotters 2015 North American Tour valued at $40

•  Have an autograph and photograph session at the end of the clinic.

Can you believe how amazing this sounds?  Your kids are just going to go nuts when you tell them.  I would hurry though because spaces are strictly limited so register your 6-12 year old today! Register through this link and save big now. You will automatically save $10 OFF Harlem Globetrotters Summer Skills Clinics with promo code USFAMILY.

Take a peek at the complete list of cities and dates for the clinics


2014 Basketball Clinic Locations:

Arnold, MO
215 Arnold Crossing Arnold , MO 63010
5/28 to 5/31

St. Charles, MO
1095 Regency Parkway St. Charles, MO 63303
6/1 to 6/2

Shawnee, KS
11311 W. Shawnee Mission Pkwy Shawnee, KS 66203
6/5 to 6/8

Lee's Summit, MO
900 NE Deerbrook Street Lee's Summit, MO 64086
6/9 to 6/10

Overland Park, KS
12075 Metcalf Avenue Overland Park, KS 66213
6/12 to 6/15

Lewisville, TX
4866 State Highway 121 Lewisville, TX 75056
6/5 to 6/7

Fort Worth, TX
2701 Halloran Street Fort Worth, TX 76107
6/8 to 6/10

Gilbert, AZ
97 S. Val Vista Dr Gilbert, AZ 85234
6/10 to 6/12

Mesa, AZ
1844 W 8th St Mesa, AZ 85201
6/13 to 6/15

Austin, TX
12400 N IH 35 Austin, TX 78753
6/12 to 6/14

Pflugerville, TX
1401 Town Center Pflugerville, TX 78660
6/15 to 6/16

Clackamas, OR
8720 SE Sunnybrook Blvd Clackamas, OR 97015
6/12 to 6/14

Lake Oswego, OR
17942 SW McEwan Rd Lake Oswego, OR 97224
6/15 to 6/17

Beaverton, OR
11100 SW Murray Scholls Place Beaverton, OR 97007
6/19 to 6/22

San Diego, CA
6348 College Grove Way #109 San Diego, CA 92115
6/17 to 6/20

San Diego, CA
7715 Balboa Ave San Diego, CA 92111
6/21 to 6/24

Santee, CA
9906 Mission Gorge Road Santee, CA 92071
6/26 to 6/28

Aurora, CO
15900 E Briarwood Cir Aurora, CO 80016
6/17 to 6/19

Broomfield, CO
4650 W. 120th Ave Broomfield, CO 80020
6/20 to 6/22

Katy, TX
1550 S. Mason Rd Katy, TX 77450
6/19 to 6/22

Friendswood, TX
130 W. Parkwood Ave Friendswood, TX 77546
6/23 to 6/27

Houston, TX
8650 Endicott Ln Houston, TX 77096
6/28 to 6/30

Sandy, UT
10365 S 1300 E Sandy, UT 84094
6/25 to 6/27

Salt Lake City, UT
1121 E. Ashton Avenue Salt Lake City, UT 84106
6/28 to 6/30

Issaquah, WA
5712 E. Lake Sammanish Parkway Issaquah, WA 98029
6/25 to 6/28

Lynnwood, WA
18930 29th Ave W Lynnwood, WA 98036
6/29 to 7/1

Hollywood, CA
6380 West Sunset Blvd Hollywood, CA 90028
7/5 to 7/8

Carson, CA
945 E. Dominguez St Carson, CA 90746
7/10 to 7/13

Northridge, CA
19350 Nordhoff Street Unit D Northridge, CA 91324
7/15 to 7/18

Arcadia, CA
125 N 1st Ave Arcadia, CA 91006
7/19 to 7/22

San Jose, CA
1610 Crane Court San Jose, CA 95112
7/5 to 7/8

San Mateo, CA
93 Bovet Rd San Mateo, CA 94402
7/10 to 7/15

San Ramon, CA
4450 Norris Canyon Rd San Ramon, CA 94583
7/16 to 7/20

Falls Church, VA
1000 East Broad Street Falls Church, VA 22042
7/5 to 7/9

Annapolis, MD
200 Harker Place Annapolis, MD 21401
7/11 to 7/15

Vienna, VA
1500 Cornerside Blvd Vienna, VA 22182
7/17 to 7/20

Pembroke Pines, FL
8333 Pines Blvd Pembroke Pines, FL 33024
7/9 to 7/12

Miami, FL
8400 Mills Drive Miami, FL 33183
7/13 to 7/14

Sacramento, CA
8785 Center Pkwy Sacramento, CA 95823
7/22 to 7/24

Sacramento, CA
1020 7th St Sacramento, CA 95814
7/25 to 7/27

Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
459 Route 17 Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604
7/22 to 7/24

Paramus, NJ
260 E. Route 4 Paramus, NJ 07652
7/25 to 7/30

Nanuet, NY
5205 Fashion Drive Nanuet, NY 10954
7/31 to 8/3

Orange, CA
2102 N Tustin Ave Orange, CA 92865
7/24 to 7/29

Hurry and register now to reserve your spots! Don't forget to use your code USFAMILY to save $10.

QSpeed Fast-Melt CoQ10 400mg Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically QSpeed Fast Melt CoQ10. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition.  Keep out of reach of children.

I have been using CoQ10 for a few years now. I am not the spring chicken that I used to be though I work hard at keeping fit and eating healthfully.  I used to get so beat up after workouts and then one of my friends told me she takes CoQ10 and she noticed she had more energy to keep up with her workouts. We don't do granny workouts either so you need energy. I recently had the opportunity to try QSpeed Fast-Melt CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) and of course I was interested in trying it.  One of the things that was pretty diffferent about QSpeed is that it is a great alternative to pills and capsules, as no water is needed. Pretty cool because you just pop the tablet in your mouth, and it will melt immediately with a great taste.  It really does taste good....a light orange flavor.

I was impressed to hear from the company that the QSpeed Fast-Melt CoQ10 brand is clinically tested and proven to be effective. They are not shy about sharing that they are an Award Winning Heart Health Supplement and are internationally recognized for taste and quality.  I like that.  QSpeed Fast-Melt CoQ10 is from Nuline Nutritionals.  They utilize a patented formulation that creates a tablet that melts in your mouth in seconds. This is a a full dosage in just a single fast-melting tablet. They guarantee that QSpeed will always be sugar free, gluten free, caffeine free, free from artificial flavorings, coloring, and preservatives, and each ingredient is non-GMO. I was happy about that because I really try to avoid all of those but it is very hard to with supplements. They also tell me that their CoQ10 is top quality. They only utilize 100% natural CoQ10. 

QSpeed Fast-Melt CoQ10 is a great way to get the CoQ10 you know your body needs anytime. I like that I can take them anytime, anywhere. It really has been helping me make sure I get it in every day because I can take it on the run...literally. I don't need to stop for the glass of water. I haven't missed a day since I started with them either! QSpeed Fast-Melt CoQ10 is available on Amazon for easy ordering too.

*If you are allergic to corn, this product is not for you. We use sorbitol, a natural sweetener, as a substitute to sugar and sucralose. We naturally derive our sorbitol from corn. Although there is zero corn in this product, sorbitol has been known to cause digestive issues to people with sensitivity to corn.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Adovia Dead Sea Mud Shampoo Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

I have heard and tried a variety of Dead Sea products over the years and been really pleased with the skin care results but I never knew there were hair products too. Dead Sea Mud has been known for centuries for it's healing properties as you probably know. People travel from all over the world to come and experience the amazing results at the Dead Sea.  You probably are familiar with Dead Sea Salts and Mud since they have been featured in numerous magazines and on those high profile day time shows and even in nationally known newspapers. Dead Sea Mud truly contains the highest concentration of minerals found in mud anywhere in the world. It is pretty exciting that the benefits of Dead Sea mud and salt are now available in a shampoo too.

Adovia's Dead Sea Mud Shampoo is specially formulated with natural ingredients such as Dead Sea Mud, Chamomile and Olive Oil.  All of these special ingredients bring deep hydration and moisture to the scalp.  This is an excellent option to help relieve itching and flakiness.  Think about how all these essential minerals aid in proper skin function and help to regulate moisture retention and hydration. 

My thoughts and experiences:  I was surprised at how nicely this shampoo cleaned my hair and rinsed out very easily from the first time I used it.  My scalp felt refreshed and clean. My hair was super easy to style and as I continued to use it I noticed my scalp felt healthier. The winter was so long and dry I actually was experiencing flaking which was unusual for me. I noticed the flaking has stopped and my scalp looks good. I will continue to use this since it works well.

Here are the ingredients from the manufacturer's website:

Demineralised Water (Aqua) & Dead Sea Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide Dea, Fragrance (Parfum), Glycol Stearate, Propylene Glycol & Chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis) Extract & Algae Extract & Papaya (Carica Papaya) Extract & Aloe Vera (Barbadensis) Gel, Sodium Chloride, Dead Sea Salt, Polyquaternium – 7, Wheat (Triticum Vulgare) Germ Oil, Grape (Vitis Vinifera) Seed Oil, Sweet Almond (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis) Oil, Carrot (Daucus Carota) Seed Oil, Olive (Olea Europaea) Oil, Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii), Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5), Citric Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vit E), Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

DSpeed Fast-Melt Vitamin D3 1000 IU Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically DSpeed Fast Melt Vitamin D3. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare professional prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication or have a medical condition.  Keep out of reach of children.

I have been taking Vitamin D supplements for a number of years now since my Vitamin D levels tested low. I take it along with my calcium to make sure it gets absorbed properly. I don't want to have any weak or broken bones! My doctor told me the D really helps the calcium absorption. I was curious to try a new form of Vitamin D that melts in your mouth.  DSpeed™ is a delicious, natural peach- flavored, sugar free fast-melt tablet that melts in your mouth in seconds. It is formulated with only the highest quality of Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) from lanolin and helps the body replenish this nutrient to fight off possible Vitamin D deficiencies.  I love fruit flavors so I thought this was a great idea to help me make sure I got my supplement in every day.

I thought it tasted great. It melted in a few seconds in my mouth and I didn't need to take it with water. Pretty cool!  DSpeed even got a three star Superior Taste Award recently in an event organized by The International Taste and Quality Institute (iTQi) in Belgium.  DSpeed™ was tested by a taste panel of Chefs and Sommeliers within Europe's most prestigious culinary and sommelier associations. The judging process was conducted on a blind basis without any kind of labeling. I am not surprised that they got a Superior Taste Award since it really does taste great. I like that I can pop one on the go so I don't have to worry about forgetting or remembering when I am running to work for example.

If you don't know what Vitamin D is, here is a little background information from DSpeed to get you up to speed on your basic supplements:  Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) is a form of steroid that promotes normal levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body. It is commonly found in sources such as eggs, fish, cod liver oil, and whole milk and has five forms: D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5. In regard to health, the two most important forms are D2, which is called ergocalciferol, and D3, which is known as cholecalciferol. Vitamin D2 is produced in plants, while sunlight exposure causes the skin to produce vitamin D3. Both D2 and D3 are often added to nutritional supplements as it was previously thought that both forms were equally effective, but research has shown that D3 is more potent than D2 and remains active in the body longer than D2 1-3. Vitamin D3 is also converted in the body to the most biologically active form of vitamin D called calcitriol 4. (Click on References, then navigate to Science - About Vitamin D if you want to see some of the references here)

The company also shared that DSpeed™ Vitamin D3 fast-melt tablets also support bone and teeth formation, the immune system and overall cellular health.* The fast-melt technology used in DSpeed™ allows for a great-tasting tablet to dissolve in the mouth with the use of water; making it ideal for children, the elderly, athletes and those with an active lifestyle. You can pick DSpeed™ Vitamin D3 fast-melt tablets up on Amazon too.

Please Note: *If you are allergic to corn, this product is not for you. We use sorbitol, a natural sweetener, as a substitute to sugar and sucralose. We naturally derive our sorbitol from corn. Although there is zero corn in this product, sorbitol has been known to cause digestive issues to people with sensitivity to corn.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Mom' Night Out MommyParty #MNOmovie #NMNO14

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received a party pack of information and giveaways compliments of MomSelect and Mom' Night Out in order to share via a home party with my guests. My opinions are my own. 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."

Are you looking for a few good laughs over Mother's Day weekend?  No worries if you have big plans for Mother's Day weekend, Mom's Night Out will be just hitting the theatre Mother's Day weekend so you will have plenty of time to plan an excellent GNO over the next few weeks to enjoy a few drinks and lots of laughs. 

Each of us deserves a special moms' night out from time to time. We need an evening to relax and wind  down (or maybe wind it up!) with friends, socialize and enjoy some well deserved girl time.  Thanks to my friends at MomSelect and Mom's Night Out I was able to host a fun party this past weekend.  MomSelect shared a bag full of treats with us to help make our party extra fun. I am a firm believer that good friendships literally make you healthier  Experts actually say they increase your life span, boost your immune system, and make you feel generally happier as a person.  Even the moms in the movie, "Mom's Night Out" learn a lot of these important lessons. I am glad I figured them out years ago. My friends and I are stuck together like glue! 

The day before the party my daughter helped me bake some bar cookies and brownies so we could have some yummy snacks. I whipped together a few easy dips like my classic artichoke/spinach dip and my famous hummus.  I picked up a few bottles of wine and some cocktail mixes too.

The evening of the party I set my music to some great Pandora stations and turned the volume on up so we could have some good background sounds.  I set my snacks out and put the drinks and glasses on a cart so everyone could mix their own. I was so glad that most of my friends were able to come...usually someone has a sick child or something happens but not this time. We had a great night hanging out and catching up with one another. All the old shore house stories came up and we laughed about our beach house summers.  It really doesn't seem THAT long ago...boy time goes so fast.  We convinced each other that we still look great and we can totally rock those tiny little dresses we used to wear out to the clubs.  We really can...we all work hard to keep in good shape. It was a fun night and got us chatting about when we are going to see the movie, "Mom's Night Out." It is something that we can all relate to so we are going to try for the weekend after Mother's Day.  If you see it before then don't tell me how it ends, okay?

MOMS' NIGHT OUT is a fast-paced, family comedy about four moms scheduling a night out where everything can and will go wrong, yet it all turns out just fine in the end. The film features a fantastic lineup of stars like Sarah Drew (Grey's Anatomy), Sean Astin (THE LORD OF THE RINGS), and Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond, The Middle) It opens on Mother's Day Weekend.

P.S. We did get to see the movie the weekend after Mother's Day! It was a good opportunity to get together again...we did a dinner before....a glass of wine did us all good too. The movie was funny and we had a great time.

Alex Marestaing I'm Nobody: The Lost Pages Book Review

Disclosure:  I was not financially compensated for this post.  I received the product to evaluate for review purposes. 

I recently received a new book to check out and review called, I'm Nobody: The Lost Pages by Alex Marestaing. This book centers around a teenage boy named Caleb Reed.  He has a lot of issues and that is actually what draws you in and gets you hooked....fast.  His dad actually thinks he is losing his cookies altogether.  Alex Marestaing does a great job of adding really interesting elements into the story little by little to keep you engaged.  He has an older sister who died to add to the drama.

Thirteen year old Caleb watches the same episode of America's Funniest Home Videos over and over....for the past 6 years. Yes, the same episode. You know he has some issues but that is what makes the book so funny. He has a lot of kooky regimens that he follows. He hasn't even been out of the house since who knows when either to add to the drama.  The author adds an abandoned mansion across the street to get Caleb even more off kilter and adds to his daily obsessions. 

Then someone named "Emily Dickinson" leaves an odd note on his doorstep. Even freakier, it's folded perfectly and wrapped up in black ribbon.  The note says, "I'm nobody. Who are you?" it reads. "Are you nobody too?" This is just the beginning. 

Strange, poetic messages continue to arrive at his doorstep and Caleb ventures outside a little bit more and more to get them.  He wonders obsessively who these notes are from.  Are they from someone already deceased like the real Emily Dickinson or maybe his poor sister that died a few years ago?   Are the notes from Iris, the YouTube obsessed eighth grader who has begun filming an indie film on his street? Has his deceased older sister returned from the grave to deliver some sort of message?

With his sanity in question, Caleb Reed's entire existence depends on finding an answer.

My thoughts:  This is a riveting book which keeps twisting and turning as you read deeper into it. Just when you think you have an answer then you realize you don't.  I like the way the personalities develop and you gain an inside look into Caleb and his family.  I think that is why I enjoy reading so much more than tv or even movies. You can go at your own pace with a good book and let your mind take you on a fun ride wherever the author goes. This is a good book for a summer beach read or a long weekend getaway. 

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." 

Pocket Purifier Review and Giveaway

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. I was not financially compensated for this post.  I received the product to evaluate for review purposes. The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the product.  However, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 

It can be a challenge to stay healthy with all the running around we do.  We just went to a party yesterday at a buffet restaurant. Yikes. How many other people have touched those tongs?  I don't even want to think about it. What about your next cruise on that fancy ship that holds 3500 people. Well, there you go. Clean, healthy living can be like running a germ gauntlet. Pocket Purifier™ from Purely Products puts a wall of defense in your hands with its high tech handheld germicidal light. Lightweight and convenient, Pocket Purifier sanitizes surfaces and objects with the same UV-C light that hospitals use to sterilize surgical instruments.  This is such an amazing invention that literally fits in your pocket or purse.

This is the perfect option for any mom to use on kid’s toys.  This is an easy way to sanitize those germs collected at daycare, play dates and school. I used it on my child's backpack that travels to and fro to school everyday. I don't even want to think about where it has been. I feel so much better knowing that it has been sanitized properly with the Pocket Purifier. It is easy as 1-2-3 too. The unit is very light and simple to use. Think about the facts that Purely Products has shared with me:  Ultraviolet light and nanotechnology eliminate 99.9% of germs that cause colds and flu, e-coli, salmonella, mold, fungus and MRSA, also known as staph.

This is a safe and non-toxic way to eliminate germs at home, on airplanes, cruise ships and in public areas. These are the places where frequent exposure and contact to germs occurs. Pocket Purifier is the most environmentally responsible way to kill germs without chemicals...hands-down. 

The Pocket Purifier comes in black, pink or white so you can choose your favorite.
Don't forget to enter my Rafflecopter giveaway below to win your own Pocket Purifier. a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Ionic Purifier Review + Giveaway

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. I was not financially compensated for this post.  I received the product to evaluate for review purposes. The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the product.  However, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 

One of my favorite scents is the way it smells right after a big spring rain storm. That fresh clean scent is actually negative ions. I bet you didn't know that before. Purely Products created an easy to use plug to create negative ions in your own home on an everyday basis. You don't need to wait for the next rainstorm. Plug into a clean, healthy home with Ionic Purifiers from Purely Products.  These innovative negative ion generators allow you to experience the energetic benefits of negative ions at home.

They are so small and come in a variety of colors to match the decor in all the rooms of your own. It is so easy to get that fresh scent all day long.  You can experience the benefits of negative ions on all kinds of days whether the sun is out or snow is piled up high.

Negative ions are organically generated in nature. When we are surrounded by them, Purely Products shares that they have been shown to increase oxygen to the brain to help alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost daytime energy.  Plus, the company also tells me that they bond to positive particles in the air.  They can help remove household allergens, like dust, mold spores, pet dander and even tobacco smoke.  These innovative Ionic Purifiers are superior to deodorizers since they remove the source of the problem. They leave the air fresher, cleaner and healthier. 

You can buy these Ionic Purifiers on Amazon so pick up a few to keep your home fresh all year long. Enter my Rafflecopter Giveaway below to win your own!a Rafflecopter giveaway


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Healthy Night Light Review + Giveaway

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. I received the product to evaluate for review purposes. The opinions are my own, based on my personal experience with the product.  However, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

I love when a product can help me check off more than one box when I am trying to solve a need of mine. I like having a clean, fresh home and we certainly need nightlights to find our way to the bath during the night. You never know....it happens when you have children in the house.  I recently found a great little product called Healthy Night™ Light.

It is one of the most innovative night lights out there. Purely’s Healthy Night™ Light is more than a long lasting night light with a powerful LED.  It has a built in ionizer in it so it freshens the air in rooms like bathrooms with poor ventilation. It’s such a remarkable lighting solution because it generates negative ions while it’s plugged in to remove particles like tobacco smoke, dust, mold and even pet dander from the room.

Think about it. This dual action makes it the perfect light for kitchen counters to remove cooking smells too. You could pick up an extra one while you are shopping on Amazon to plug in a child’s room.  It is the perfect way to provide gentle nighttime light plus healthy negative ions.

Don't forget to enter my Rafflecopter giveaway below to win your own Healthy Night Light.a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

SuperSwizz Spiral Slicer Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Both my hubby and I enjoy cooking.  It can get to be a challenge to come up with something different all the time. You know...night after night.  I am sure you totally know what I mean. You want to keep it fun especially with the veggies. Kids so love when you make it a little bit different and it actually isn't that hard. Especially when you bring out the SuperSwizz Spiral Slicer.  This is a stainless steel vegetable spiralizer with special high quality Japanese blades. It has two different julienne sizes too. This is a perfect spiral cutter for low carb healthy vegetable dishes and fun kids pastas.  SuperSwizz is truly the best spiral julienne super cutter out there. It works really well for tons of firm veggies such as zucchini, paderno and even carrots. You may have seen a glimpse on those daytime cooking shows...now you can recreate those amazing dishes in a flash.  It is the perfect tool to create those healthy bikini friendly Low Carb Heart Healthy meals. The SuperSwizz Spiral Slicer comes with an easy to follow manual and cleaning brush too.
 

★ Top Quality Spiral Slicer - Spiralizer with Bonus Brush for Easy Cleaning

★ Feature: Special, sturdy Japanese blades made of stainless steel Create endless Julienne strips Two Julienne sizes - 2x3 mm and 3.5x5 mm Dishwasher - safe Stainless steel / plastic

★ Easy and quick to operate, small enough to fit into your kitchen drawer, and works better than expensive spiral cutter products

★ Ideally designed to make raw vegetable "pastas" with ease from carrots, zucchinis and the like, the SuperSwizz Spiral Slicer is the perfect gadget for raw foodists. From veggie spaghetti, easy stir fry, to fancy garnishes for the sushi plate, this spiral cutter makes it all so easy. It is ideal for making curly strands of firm vegetables, creating garlands of vegetables, making stunning salads and food preparations. Creating easy and healthy meals is easy as 1-2-3 now.  

★Simply use this vegetable spiralizer like a pencil sharpener. There will be a little leftover (like a pencil-sized core) which you can easily slice as normal. SuperSwizz Spiral vegetable slicer can cut spirals in 2 thicknesses (2x3mm & 3.5x5mm).

The best part about the SuperSwizz Spiral Slicer is that you don't even need to get in your car to get it. No driving to the nearest expensive culinary store. Forget that local bed bath and kitchen store. Save yourself the headache and head on over to Amazon. Let me know how your culinary creations come out!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Insta natural Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin C, Vitamin E & Wild Crafted Green Tea Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

I love when my skin looks super moisturized and healthy but I don't like using those skin care products with lots of chemicals and additives. I recently heard about an excellent skin care serum using Hyaluronic Acid Serum with Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Wild Crafted Green Tea.  It works very well to moisturize my skin and keep it looking fresh and youthful.  The ingredients are natural but have powerful benefits. Hyaluronic Acid holds up to 1000X its weight in water.  It actually draws moisture out of environment and onto the surface of the skin which is pretty amazing.

Insta natural Hyaluronic Acid Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Wild Crafted Green Tea has a ton of skin care benefits:

• Improves skin texture and brightness with intense moisture and balance

• Reduces appearances of dark circles & puffiness

• Uses the highest concentration of pharmaceutical HA

• World's Most Expensive Brands Use The Same HA

• Smooths Texture, Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Extremely Moisturizing While Plumping Up The Skin 

• Formulated with the highest concentration of pharmaceutical HA 

• Cruelty Free, No Animal Testing

It is great to have a reasonably priced skin care option that takes good care of my skin. It goes on smoothly and dries in a flash. It is easy to incorporate into my everyday skin care regimen. I love the way my skin looks and enjoy the fact that I can stock up on Amazon which makes my life easy.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Crowdtap Spring Cocktail Creations

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary cup, straws and beverage napkin set from Crowdtap. My opinions are my own.

 Crowdtap recently challenged some members to create a unique cocktail when then sent us a mission that included a cute mason jar, festive straws, branded napkins and a jar cover.

Here is what I crafted for a fun Mother's Day weekend celebration:

Mamas Special Green Tea Cocktail

8 oz fresh brewed green tea, cooled

1 tsp agave

1/2 rasp fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 shot lemon flavored vodka 

Ice to taste

Blend together gently with spoon and decorate with lemon curls. Enjoy.

Let me know your thoughts and Happy Mother's Day! 

Leather Conditioner & Cleaner Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.

Leather products are great because they really give you such joy for years and years. From leather couches to purses, shoes and even skirts, they just feel wonderful and clean up fast. It is important to care for them properly and clean and condition them with a good product. I recently was able to check out a trio of products from Leather Nova which have all my leather goods looking like new.  Leather Nova Cleaner does a great job of cleaning and freshening up any kind of leather.  I had several pairs of shoes that were in need of some serious cleaning and this had them looking great. I followed up with the Leather Nova conditioner and I was so excited to go out to work every day this week with clean, shiny shoes. I wore a different pair of heels every day so I could enjoy my clean shoes. The company shared with me that it is super for cleaning all types of leather, vinyl & plastic. It comes in a large 18 oz spray bottle so it lasts and lasts. It gently and safely cleans ALL types of leather surfaces, including purses, shoes, sofas, chairs, car seats, etc. It even comes with a free microfiber towel for cleaning.

Leather Conditioner-Apply this to restore and bring back the luster of almost any leather surface.  This works beautifully after you have first cleaned the leather. It restores your leather and it also prolongs the life of your leather surfaces. All my shoes look brand new after cleaning and conditioning them with Leather Nova. The wonderful part is that it works on all types of leather,vinyl and plastic surfaces. Leather Nova is super for shoes, saddles, purses, sofas,chairs and even leather car seats. It's made from high grade polymers and is completely non-toxic. As a bonus it comes with a free applicator pad.

Leather Conditioner and Cleaner -This is the time saving 3-in-1 product from Leather Nova. I love how it cleans, conditions and restores all your leather goods back to the original fresh, glossy look. It also comes in an 18 oz bottle so lasts forever. It's great for cleaning and conditioning your leather products in one step. It is super easy and fast to use. You just apply the product directly on the leather item or the applicator pad and wipe away.  

You can buy these great leather cleaning products on Amazon to make your life super simple.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.