Our 2015 Disney Side @Home Party with Disney Villians, cool tie-dye and mani-pedis this year #disneyside

Disclosure:  I was given the opportunity to host a Disney Side @Home Celebration from Disney Parks and Mom Select.  I received complimentary products to host the party as well.  As always, my opinions are my own.

We were so lucky again this year to have the opportunity to host another Disney Side @Home Party. How is it possible to schedule your party on a blizzard twice in two years? That is what happens when you live in the Northeast or the Mid-Atlantic region these days. So we learn to reschedule and relax a little. It is all about having fun and letting down our hair a little. 

I was thrilled to be a part of the the Disney Side family again and so was my own family. We had a ton of fun last year with our Frozen them because there was a ton of snow. What could be more fun that an @Home Celebration Party no matter what the theme?   We had an amazing Disney Villians party with moms, dads and kids all joining in on the fun.   The chilly weather had all the guests running in the door to escape the cold.  It was a happy Disney Side day in my home this past weekend. Truly it was fun to get everyone together...it has been such a challenge this winter with all the snow.

Here is our cake making process. It was so neat to bake all the colors and decide how to set it up. 

My tween and I worked on the cake together.  She had so much fun using the easy to follow Duff Tie-Dye Cake Mix.  It was a blast and a fun way to work in measuring and following directions with mixing all the colors.  The end result came out very pretty and delicious too.  A totally new twist on a tie dyed Mickey Mouse cake that was all fun! Her friends were so impressed that she made that colorful cake and once everyone tried it they were totally wowed. It tasted almost as pretty as it looked. Several of the moms were asking where they could get it and I mentioned that I saw it just last week at Walmart...they had a huge display!

Prior to the party I cleaned the house and washed all the dish towels so everything would be fresh.  My laundry routine went super fast using the All Mighty Pacs that came in my party package.  I had not tried them before though I had used All detergents.  These are a nice innovation the eliminates the need for measuring.  Perfect for a busy mom like me who was running around prepping for a party but an easy option to get laundry done quickly anytime! 

While I was running around getting ready for the party I tucked my Wisk sample into my luggage. Wisk is a perfect option for everyday laundry but the sample is ideal for business trips and weekends away. You can always use it to wash lingerie in the sink or use the whole packet in the machine when you are traveling. 

The kids loved all the Cinderella pins...they have been seeing all the advertisements on TV so they were all scheming to get the moms to take them for the premiere. 

The kids were further scheming when they saw the luggage tags. Mary had a Disney trip already booked for June so her daughters were excited to use the tags on their luggage. They wanted to put them on right away when they got home! The other kids were asking when they could go back to Disney and it got all the moms chatting and reminiscing about previous visits.  We were discussing how different each visit is depending on the ages of the kids.  We were saying how fun it would be with some of the kids almost at that tween age where they are a little more independent but still can enjoy the little kid and big kid rides. Some of the moms and I were thinking it would be fun to do a group trip at the end of the summer.  We were considering a trip before school starts so we were going to talk more next month. 

We had some fun snacks and treats but we also had some hearty food.  I can't have people over without feeding them. My hubby made a big casserole and I made a lasagna. 

The kids had a great time with the Disney trivia too...they were so competitive.  We were laughing as they answered over one another in a race to get the answers out first. 

As things wound down I pulled out the final bit of fun. All the kids were tired from running around.  It was a good time to cool them down and work on a puzzle. I set it up on the dining room table and it worked out beautifully. The moms and I were able to enjoy a nice cup of coffee and chat a bit more before they rounded up everyone to head home. It was a fun time for everyone. I sure hope we can put together a Disney trip...it might be fun to do a caravan road trip down to Florida instead of flying....that would be a real adventure that the kids would remember for all time. Nothing better than finding your Disneyside.

Sommeliers Preference Wine Aerator makes a lovely gift for any wine afficianado #sommelierspreference

If you love wine like I do you probably have been looking for a good wine aerator. It can be a challenge without spending a ton of money but finding a quality option. I finally found a great one on Amazon recently. Make it simple and try the perfect Wine Aerator from Sommeliers Preference and make your life easy. Enjoy your wine to the fullest. Sommelier's Preference Wine Aerator let's you forget having to wait and wait for the wine to breathe No more waiting. This tool lets you enjoy the best wine in seconds by using the aerator. It has a beautiful classic design that is free of side vents that can cause blockage. Sometimes the most simple options are the best. This is one of those cases.

The package is totally ready for gift giving too. This aerator does not have issues with neck leaking and fits perfectly too. The  Sommeliers Preference Wine Aerator uses a multi-stage aeration process that works seamlessly and much more effectively than ones I have used previously.
Sommeliers Preferences actually uses a globally patented multi-stage apparatus to aerate the wine efficiently right as it is poured. It lets youYou experience even greater depth and range of flavor with no waiting.

This Sommeliers Preference Wine Aerator uses a unique design that actually xygenates the wine in 3 stages: First the umbrella shaped spray plate splays out the wine, then he mixture is separated further via a 32 hole Drizzle Plate. The final step has the air drawn from the top of the unit and it is infused into the mixture prior to delivery to the glass. This multi-stage aeration process allows thorough and efficient oxygenation of the wine. Tannins which give wine the bitter taste associated with un-aerated wines are softened and dissipated. In essence this Sommeliers Preference Wine Aerator provides me with a much smoother drinking experience.  The aerator provides a perfectly balanced finish while accentuating the aroma and flavor of the wine every time.

The complete Sommeliers Preference Package Includes:

• Sommeliers Preference Wine Aerator. 
• A superb, easy-fit aerator stand- Elegant High Class Gift Box
• Velveteen Transportation Bag
• Instruction Booklet. 
• Online Mystery Bonus
• LIFE TIME Complete Satisfaction Money Back Guarantee

You can pick up this wine aerator 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.

NoPeek Smart Privacy Screen Protector iPhone 5 #nopeekfilters

This has happened to me so many times. I am at a meeting or in a public place and I am reading or responding to texts and I see the person next to me reading my personal information. So irksome but you have to be stealthy and just readjust the phone tactfully...especially at a meeting. No more worries with the NoPeek Smart Privacy Screen. The screen protector uses this high-tech Microlouver manufacturing process to protect your privacy. You can clearly see your screen while people on both sides can only see a darkened surface. Hee-hee, invaders are defeated forever. What about if you really want to share something? Simply tilt your phone into landscape mode to allow others to see. A perfect solution.

The privacy screen protector lets you use your cellphone in public places and in business meetings while protecting your privacy. When you travel, keeps strangers from glancing over your screen. While you are waiting on the tarmac in your airplane seat you can catch up on work, emails and texts with no worries that your seatmate can see your data. Now you can watch that clip on the bus or text your friend at the next business meeting without worrying about nosy people peeking over your shoulder.

How do you put this NoPeek Smart Privacy Screen on the phone? They use a special Japanese glue that is very easy to apply and remove. In fact the company guarantees that you will be able to apply it yourself without getting any air bubbles. But wait, this is not just a privacy protector; it is also a screen protector, this filter will protect your screen from scratches. It actually does double duty for me so that saves me a few $$ too. Also, the matte surface makes using your cell phone in direct sun light a much easier task. Perfect for me because my eyes are not as good as they used to be and it stinks trying to use the phone in the sun. The Package includes: 1 NoPeek privacy filter, 1 Clean cloth and 1 Plastic applicator


You can pick up this NoPeek Smart Privacy Screen Protector 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.

Virgin Argan Oil is an organic beauty booster for the skin and hair #northcoastproducts

I prefer using organic beauty and health products whenever I can. There are a lot of options now unlike a few years ago. Shopping online makes it all easier to especially when you have wonderful options including moisturizers and oils like this one from Northcoast products that is 100% organic. NorthCoast Products 100% Virgin Argan Oil is a wonderful beauty tool that you can use from your head to your toes. The ancient organic oil has been used for centuries to work wonders for aging skin, brittle hair, and dry hands as well as a softener for nails.

Anyone can use this natural argan oil. Since it is 100% organic you can feel good about using it on your scalp, face, body or feet. Historically, it has been used primarily by women as a beauty or health product to add luster to their hair. More recently the men have discovered the secret.   NorthCoast shared that they are finding more and more that men using it as a beard product as well. The oil is shipped via air freight from Morocco, cold pressed, certified organic, and hand-made by the local Berber women in all-female co-ops. That makes me feel wonderful knowing I am helping local women to further their business in developing countries like Morocco.  Women need opportunities like this and it is a win-win for everyone with beautiful skin and hair.

I have been using a drop or two on my scalp when my hair is still damp to provide moisture. The winter is so harsh on my hair and scalp it seems to relieve the itch. I also put a few drops on my body after my shower to moisturize my skin from head to toe. I find my skin feels and looks so much better.  

Try it out and see for yourself. You can pick up this Virgin Argan Oil 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.

LON Little Speaker is pint sized but projects some amazing sound #lonlittlespeaker

If you are looking for the perfect little bluetooth speaker for yourself, a tween or anyone in between the LON Little Speaker is a great option. It is a cute little square that looks uniquely modern and puts out some darn good sound. It is hard to believe it because it is so compact but this 2 inch x 2 inch LON Bluetooth speaker provides crisp, wireless sound for up to 6 hours. It is so small it fits in the palm of your hand too.

The LON Little Speaker is so convenient because you can truly carry it from room to room or just throw it in your bag. It doesn't even weigh much at all either so it doesn't add bulk or weight. It gives you clean, modern lines too with no need for docks, plugs, connectors and there are no special apps required. My own tween has been repossessing it frequently especially when she has friends over since it is so adorable....they just hang out and listen to their music.

The LON Little Speaker connects up to 30 feet away to any Bluetooth enabled device including smartphones, tablets, notebooks, and desktops. That includes all your usual suspects like the iPad, iPhone, iPod, and Android devices which all pair easily with the LON Little Speaker. I enjoy using it with my ipad or iphone when I am showering or taking a bath. I set it up on the counter and enjoy my tunes while I am in the tub...that is when I can find it in my tween's room. You can pick up this LON Little Speaker 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.

Life & Food Omega-3 Supreme 1400 mg Fish Oil Concentrate 180ct +Giveaway #lifefood

Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically Omega-3 Supreme 1400mg Fish Oil Concentrate. 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 including fish oil supplements in my diet for a long time now. The quality varies among the various brands though.  Life & Food Omega-3 Supreme Advantage has some definite benefits that I like and I find it easy to digest. This fish oil is highly concentrated and pure, definitely a pharmaceutical grade product which means the Omega-3 meets GOED standard. In other words, levels are above 75% Omega-3 and  644/336 EPA/DHA levels. This is important. It is a Fish Oil concentrate made from IFOS 5-star certified fish oils for the best quality. It contains the minimum recommended 1,000 mg (1g) of Omega-3s per serving. It is sourced from wild Alaskan caught pollock.  The company confirms they use sustainable and certified operation by MSC.

It is made in the USA too. It is manufactured and laboratory tested in FDA, GMP, NSF certified facilities right here. It is molecularly distilled, clean refined and tested.  The best part is that they use easy to swallow soft gelatin capsules. That makes a huge difference for me. They are even enteric coated for max absorption and no fish burps. Thank goodness!

In case you were wondering about GOED Standard levels. GOED, The Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s, was developed to help ensure that omega-3 oils reaching consumers were both safe and of high quality.

I like that this Life & Food Supreme grade Omega-3 Fish Oil supplement can support cardiovascular health, joint support, cognitive support, circulation and helps in maintaining cholesterol levels†. Data has shown that diets high in Omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA may be beneficial. If you don't eat a diet rich in fatty acid containing fish like cold-water swimmers such as pollock, sardines and salmon this is a good option. The 180 softgels last me a while which is also great.

You can pick up this Omega 3 Supplement on Amazon for easy shopping anytime. Meanwhile, don't forget to enter my Rafflecopter giveaway to win your own Life + Food Omega-3 Fish Oil Concentrate. 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.

Klamath Blue Green Algae makes it easy to supplement anywhere or anytime #Klamathpromo

Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically Klamath Blue Green Algae. 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.

Klamath Blue Green Algae is a powerful antioxidant supplement that is easy to take every day. It is rich in a ton of vitamins like B and iron. It is a good option instead of Spirulina or Chlorella. It is in the superfood supplements that you have been hearing all about lately. I love that these are in capsule form so they are super easy to take.

There are several key benefits associated with Klamath Blue Green Algae including its use as a powerful antioxidant and dietary supplement. An easy one too...just pop the capsules. No mixing or blending required. Perfect for the frequent business traveler like me.  As well as being a powerful source of energy, it can assist with supporting many of your healthy functions like weight and managing everyday juggling.

Klamath Blue Green Algae 500 from Hampton Green Nature is a totally natural pure form of this algae, sourced directly from the Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon. As one of the most nutrient-rich foods on the planet, Klamath Blue Green algae is a high protein dietary supplement which is rich in Vitamins A, C, E and several B vitamins including thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6 and folate. It also provides small amounts of essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, iron and zinc.

This pure form of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae contains no artificial colour, flavour or sweeteners, no preservatives, sugar or starch, no milk, lactose, soy, wheat, yeast, fish or sodium and is totally gluten free. That is reassuring since many supplements have so many additions it concerns me. This is a clean product. This Klamath Blue Green Algae 500 is a highly effective alternative to spirulina and chlorella. As a phytonutrient-rich plant-based superfood and is easy to take in a preferred capsule form. It works at home or on the road because it is simple and portable.

You can pick up Klamath Blue Green Algae 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.

Natural Energy Drink Powder is a great supplement #energydrink

Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically HNL Natural Green Energy Drink. 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 get so tired in the afternoons sometimes but I can't keep drinking coffee. I prefer to boost my energy with a bit of fruit or nuts and a glass of my HNL All Natural Energy Drink Mix. It is the perfect option to energize me but keep me steady and strong. I love that I don't get worn out anymore in the late afternoon...it keeps my energy going so I can get a healthy meal ready, spend some time with my family and run over to the gym for a workout.

Some benefits of the HNL Green Energy Drink

• All Natural Ingredients
• Supports Energy, Focus, Workout, Stamina and Endurance
• Supports energy reserves
• Sugar Free
• Super charge Workouts
• Helps support healthy weight
• Supports healthy Appetite
• Just Add Water
• Delicious Grape Flavor 30 Day Supply

I always like to know exactly what I am putting into my body so I appreciate that the company shared all the ingredients that go into this super energy drink. Each Serving of Healthy Natural Lives Sugar-Free Green Energy Drink Powder contains: Vitamin, C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Proprietary Blend of Guaraná Extract, Green Coffee Bean Extract, Green tea, Ginseng Root and more. You can further read the label to get a full list of ingredients.

I really like to boost my energy with a glass of my HNL All Natural Energy Drink Mix. Sometimes I use it on the weekends too before my hard Saturday morning fitness class to get my energy revved up

It is really easy to enjoy more energy anytime you need it too. All you need to do is mix 1 scoop HNL All Natural Energy Drink Mix with 8 oz. to 16 ozs. of water. To enhance the drink you can even add some juice or add the energy powder to your favorite smoothie. But you can always just add water. Use the adorable complimentary whisk that is included to blend it perfectly. It is kind of fun to twirl the whisk back and forth between your fingers for easy mixing. You can drink this delicious energy drink 1 to 3 times per day. I always like to start out slowly once a day and see how that works. You can always work your way up to 3 times a day if you need more energy support.

As I mentioned before, you should always consult your physician before taking any kind of supplement including this HNL Natural Energy Drink Powder. You should not exceed taking this energy drink more than 3 times per day. This is a very concentrated drink and the company does not recommend more. The best part is that you can pick up this HNL Natural Energy Drink 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.

Supernova 300 Ultra Bright LED Camping Lantern is a great emergency light #Supernova300

Think about this:  You can light the way with this long lasting and high-powered lantern for up to six days of continuous use.  That is unbelievable but I know from experience you might really need it for 6 days. We have been through a few storms in the past few years.  I remember Sandy....we lost power for over a week and I just went right through all my candles and other means of keeping our house lit indoors. After that experience I knew I had to be better prepared. I decided to buy more candles and even a portable lantern.  I was excited to have an opportunity to check out this Supernova 300 Ultra Bright LED Camping Lantern because the one I had originally bought was not so bright. This is a great option to protect your family during inevitable power outages and emergencies.  This is even super useful for camping and other outdoor activities. We tested it out this weekend and it worked really well. The light output was steady and bright.

The Supernova 300 lumens LED lantern combines the latest in LED lighting technology along with an innovative design that results in high performance. 300 Lumens is a strong glow so this lantern provides the brightest LED lighting in its class. Even more important, super high-efficiency LED light generates little to no heat and can be used continuously for up to six days, making it a must have for any type of emergency and safer and longer lasting than any type of emergency candles. This lantern has state of the art convex reflector provides optimal lighting and reflection.  It is constructed of sturdy rubber and plastic molding for maximum durability and water resistance. I love that it has a removable top for focused forward lighting or for use as a hanging area light. It even has a slow pulse LED indicator light ensures that the lantern can always be found in the event of an emergency.  LED lights are guaranteed for up to 100,000 hours of use and never need replacing which means peace of mind for me. This is truly a great option that is perfect for camping, hiking, boating, emergencies or just fun and recreation at home or on the go.

The Supernova 300 Ultra Bright LED Camping Lantern combines the latest LED lighting technology along with an innovative design that really performs like a champ. I have to say the 300 Lumens torches my other lantern and provides much brighter LED lighting at a really reasonable price point.  The Supernova 300 Ultra Bright LED Camping Lantern uses super high-efficiency LED light. The best part is that it generates little to no heat and can be used continuously for up to six days. Thinking about that Hurricane Sandy nightmare makes me think this is a must have for any type of emergency. I feel that it is a safer and longer lasting than any type of emergency candles. This lantern is constructed of sturdy rubber and ABS plastic construction unlike my other one so it clearly was for crafted for maximum durability and water resistance indoors or out.

It has a removable top for focused forward lighting or you can use it as a hanging area light. I like that flexibility. It makes me feel more secure having this in my home for emergencies. This is a great option to use for recreation, safety or just peace of mind in case.

We get up to the Adirondacks at least a few times a year for hiking and camping and even hike locally so I like having this Supernova 300 Lantern on hand. I know it will be working like a champ if we have to wait out another storm or hurricane too. I think this will be fun And convenient to use in the summer out on the deck too.

Some of the many options to use the Supernova 300 Lantern:

• Camping

• Hiking

• Boating

• Emergencies

• Outdoor parties and events

• Beach BBQ's 

Don't forget to stock up on those D size batteries. This lantern uses 3 D size batteries (not included with the lantern) and I always keep extra in the house for emergencies anyway.  I was happy because I was able to pick up this super bright LED Lantern right on Amazon for easy shopping convenience. 

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.