Waging War on Cancer book review #wagingwaroncancer

This is an interesting book that is as much a biography about a man as it is a story about politics. Cancer research has changed so much since the early part of the century. The lifelong devotion Dr. Pettit has to cancer research shines through all of the ups and downs during his career.

The book Waging War on Cancer is a fascinating biography of the life of Dr. Pettit. The true stories and experiences he shares open a little door to history and the changes that took place gradually and then more quickly in the 1960s and beyond.  Drug research moved away from government funded institutions and more towards industry. Larger pharmaceutical companies entered the playing field and politics were at hand. Competition became fierce and it was fueled by many factors. Cancer was a war to be fought by many and still is today.  Dr. Pettit was right at the center of it and still is working in an independent lab. You will be captivated by his fascinating life story and his lifelong quest for a cure which continues today.

Dr. G. Robert Pettit is a fascinating and bright man who has dedicated his life to researching cancer.  He is clearly a gifted organic chemist that has traveled the world in search of a cure. He believes that the most promise lies in naturally occurring anti-angiogenic compounds which have evolved over billions of years as part of the profound diversity of life on this planet.  His search has drawn him across deserts, into jungles, and below the surface of oceans.  He is a prolific research scientist with over 800 peer reviewed articles.  He was involved in drug discovery and development of numerous anticancer compounds some of them in trial phase and others in use now. This book tells his story. Waging War on Cancer is available on Amazon. 

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

Valentia Royal Rose Hydrating Serum keeps my skin looking gorgeous @Brandbacker

Disclosure: Powered by Brandbacker

I am very careful about my skin care regimen. I do like to try new products though and I find sometimes that a fresh start makes a difference in how my skin looks and feels. I have used products from the Valentia line of skincare in the past and I found them to be effective and gentle on the skin. I recently added the Valentia Royal Rose Hydrating Serum into my skincare regimen and I was impressed with the results. My skin looks and feels more renewed and I really like that is made with many natural & organic Ingredients.
 
I feel good about using it on my skin. I love how it seems to magically even out my skin tone and moisturize at the same time. I see that I need a higher level of moisturization now versus when I was in my 20's. This serum moisturizes but absorbs into my skin quickly. This is a great hydrating serum for dry skin like mine. I see those dark spots and skin discoloration definitely a lot less than a few weeks ago. I like waking up and looking fresh and ready to go before I even put on my makeup. That is a big ego boost for me. My skin actually looks a bit smoother too which is a big bonus.  I am really impressed with this Royal Rose Hydrating Serum. It is a lightweight serum that boosts moisture and resilience while soothing and calming the skin.

This Hydrating and Nourishing Serum works to gently:

• Deeply moisturize skin 
• Provide antioxidant protection 
• Soothe and nourish dry skin 
• Smooth skin tone and texture 
• Boost skin radiance

The Valentia Royal Rose Hydrating Serum contains a specially selected list of ingredients work together synergically to support optimum skin care. These include:

• Rose Damascena: One of the most nourishing and skin friendly natural oils, providing balance, moisture, and a variety of vitamins and minerals to the skin. 

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B): This potent vitamin has been clinically proven to support against hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and acne

• Rosehip Seed Oil: Naturally rich in Vitamins C and A, these essential fatty acids work quickly to lock in skin's moisture.

• Evening Primrose Oil: Provides light, non-oily moisture to the skin, never clogging or irritating the skin.

• Bearberry: Supports against melanin production, thereby lightening the skin, revealing a brighter complexion.

• Lavender: Supports the skin including pimples, wounds and sores. 

Did you know that the Roman Goddess of healing, Valentia, relied on nature’s gifts to heal the citizens of Umbria? I lived in Italy and didn't know this beauty fact. Valentia used a variety of berries, herbs, barks and other natural ingredients to help wealthy matriarchs keep their youthful skin. She also came to the aid of farmers looking to soothe their sun damaged skin. Today, Valentia Skin Care uses all natural ingredients in the same manner to offer their protective, preventative and corrective powers to people around the world.
I love that Valentia Skin Care products like this rose serum have been formulated with natural and organic cosmetic ingredients that will support and protect the skin from the elements.

There are many people like me and you that really seek out natural skin care. I know I feel good when I use skin care products that are natural, free of toxins and paraben-free. Natural ingredients like this rose hydrating serum with an organic base have proven to be quite effective at supporting skin damaged by sun or wind. Naturally based skin care can also be excellent supporting skin against signs of aging such as wrinkles, dark spots and oxidative stress. Try Valentia Royal Rose Hydrating Serum and see how it helps your skin. Let me know your experiences too. The best part is that you can find Royal Rose Hydrating Serum right on Amazon for easy shopping anytime. Don't forget to check out the Valentia website for all their other wonderful products.

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.

Secret Clinical Strength keeps me dry all day long @crowdtap #SecretClinicalStrength #SecretClinical #SecretCrowd #sponsored

I received a sample of Secret Clinical strength free through Crowdtap. The thing I loved most about using Secret Clinical Strength is that it really keeps me cool as a cucumber even when I am under the gun with work or obligations. I stay dry and comfortable no matter what. It feels comfortable on my skin and dries in a flash. I received the sample size Secret Clinical which is perfect for travel whether it is business or pleasure. My life is quite busy as a working mama and I frequently race from appointment to appointment and then run back home to prep dinner as I assist with homework. My hubby is great and often prepares dinner or helps with homework as well but, you know, as a mom my job never ends. Many days we have after school activities and I am squeezing those in or maybe my hubby is helping and I get to run to the gym. Either way, it is busy, busy busy. The last thing I want is to worry whether I am fresh or not. I like that I can count on Secret Clinical Strength to keep me feeling confident that I am fresh.

Secret Clinical Strength has a fresh, light scent that also provides a boost to my confidence. I notice that I only need a little bit and it does the trick. It dries very quickly so I can get dressed and wear my favorite dress or suit with confidence. Secret Clinical Strength is strong enough to hold up against the 2015 tax preparations too. That was not fun but I had to get those taxes ready for the accountant. Last week I also had an important dinner with clients and my Secret Clinical Strength kept going all day and all through the evening. Thank goodness. The timing was perfect. Now I just need to squeeze in time to get to the store to buy more...or if I am pressed for time I know I can pick up my Secret Clinical Strength right on Amazon which is my go-to for busy times. 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."

Garnier Olia Oil Powered Haircolor is a new innovation in hair color that leaves behind beautiful color #MyOliaStory

I had the opportunity to share a new and improved Garnier Olia hair color through a Crowdtap event with several of my friends recently and it was fun to have a hair color party. Garnier Olia is the first oil powered hair colour but what does that REALLY mean?  Oil powered? That is definitely different. It is actually pretty innovative.  Garnier Olia contains up to 60% Oils and no ammonia so that means that it really helps to condition and nourish your hair. That is quite different from many of the brands you will find on the shelf.  I was all for that. The high oil content helps to improve the vibrancy of your hair color too. Just so you know this is a  permanent hair dye though, so it stays in until your hair grows out or until you change the color. It is an ideal option if you have a few grays here and there.  That is how I like to refer to it if you know what I mean. Garnier Olia just covers those grays and leave fresh, pretty color. 

There are tons of gorgeous colors to try from Medium Pearl Blonde to Dark Blonde to Soft Blue Black or Dark Neutral Brown and everything in between. All the girls have different hair colors and styles ranging from light blond to black so all the colors were pretty popular.  It was fun to dye your hair with friends and chat while the whole process was going on. Usually I am in such a rush I am by myself just trying to squeeze it in. This time is was a friend fest which is so more more fun.

We liked the luxurious looking package right away.  The main applicator is shaped like a large tear drop and is designed to fit easily in your hand.  Perfect for petite ladies like me too. The Olia does not smell either. Some other brands of dyes have strong odors...not Garnier Olia. The dye itself has a light consistency and was very easy to blend.  The instructions were easy to follow as well. I liked that this product contains 60% oils and zero ammonia. Olia leaves your hair silky, shiny and totally hydrated with a fresh new color to boot.

I tried the Garnia Olia in Dark Blonde. The color was pretty vibrant and shiny.  My hair looked and felt very soft too. It felt comfortable while it was on and no one experienced any kind of scalp irritations either. Give Garnier Olia a try 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."

Garnier Whole Blends for naturally beautiful hair @crowdtap @Garnier

I recently had the opportunity with four of my friends to sample a new hair care product that was created for naturally beautiful hair.  Garnier Whole Blends is the ultimate in wholesome loving care blended for naturally beautiful hair. The shampoos and conditioners from this line are a true treat for gorgeous hair and my friends agreed. 

The Garnier Whole Blends line of shampoo and conditioner was super simple to use and there are 4 different options if you are thinking it might be time for a change. Garnier Whole Blends line of shampoos and conditioners contains the essences of ingredients like honey, royal jelly, coconut oil and more. Garnier has carefully crafted a signature natural blend of select ingredients in four different formulas. The ingredients are specially combined with amazing fragrances that were chosen to gently care for your hair. These select ingredients and unique fragrances are blended into specials formulas to support beautiful and healthy hair each time you use it.  Why waste the time with salon hair care products and all that money that you could save every single month? It is so much easier to use a reliable brand like Garnier Whole Blends and get similar results. You can even buy this hair care line online to save even more time. There are even online videos on the Garnier website to help you choose the perfect formula so there is no guesswork. Truly, what could be easier and save more time when you are a busy mama like me?

I love that Garnier Whole Blends are all Paraben-free formulas and truly gentle for everyday use. Each formula is enriched with select ingredients that give back. How? Well, the Argan, Coconut Oil and Cocoa Butter ingredients are purchased fairly and sustainably to support local farmers and communities. That is a wonderful thing--love it and truly sustainable. Even the bottles are constructed of recyclable PET plastic with 30% Post-Consumer Recycled waste. I was pretty impressed with that fact. Finally, the Garnier Whole Belnds are produced in a facility committed to sustainability, reducing its waste and water consumption per unit by approximately 58% and 47% respectively, since 2005. None of us knew that Garnier has partnered with TerraCycle® to keep beauty products out of landfills. Those are all pretty impressive and really added to our interest in this new line of shampoos. Performance is key though but the Garnier Whole Blends came through. 
 

My favorite thing about Garnier Whole Blends is how easy it is to choose the best formula for your hair. The ladies all agreed as well. There is Honey Treasures Repairing Shampoo, Smoothing Shampoo with Coconut Oil and Coconut Butter, Hydrating Shampoo with Coconut Water and Coconut Milk and Refreshing Shampoo with Green Apple and Green Tea.  Each formula has a matching Conditioner and Mask. there really is a formula for every kind of hair. We tried several of the shampoos including the Honey Treasures, the Smoothing Shampoo with Coconut Oil and Coconut Butter and the Hydrating Shampoo with Coconut Water and Coconut Milk. Each one got high ratings from all the gals. 

I was personally impressed with how beautiful my hair came out after I used the Honey Treasures Repairing Shampoo. My favorite thing about Garnier Whole Blends Honey Treasures Repairing Shampoo is the ingredients and how they worked synergistically to leave my hair soft and manageable. The Royal Jelly, Honey and Argan oil is a super combination for repairing hair. I could tell after my first use because my hair came out so nice after I used the Honey Treasures Repairing Shampoo and conditioner. It smells nice too as an added bonus. I got so many compliments on my hair this past week after using it. I also noticed how soft and manageable my hair was after using the shampoo. 

I also tried the Garnier Whole Blends Coconut Oil and Coconut Butter Shampoo on another day.  It also left my hair so soft and manageable. The coconut oil, coconut butter and argan oil is a super combination for repairing hair. My hair looked great after I used the shampoo and conditioner together. This one is a joy to use because it smells so nice while you are washing your hair and styling is very easy. I got so many compliments on my hair this past week after using it.Garnier Whole Blends is a great option for anyone since you customize the best formula for you.  You can pick it up online or in your favorite store and color your hair at your leisure. Garnier Whole Blends is the ideal solution for me and I love how many different options there are for formulas. My hair looks and feels gorgeous and that is the best of all worlds. The ladies are in total agreement as well and are already on the hunt to find it in the store.

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."

Amopé Pedi Perfect™ Wet and Dry Foot File gets my feet supersoft @crowdtap #pediperfect

Disclosure: I received this item complimentary via Crowdtap.

I workout frequently, about 5-6 days days a week so my feet take a beating. I have used a lot of different tools over the years to keep my feet pretty but this one is really a superstar. I really like a lot of the features of the  Amopé Pedi Perfect™ Wet and Dry Foot File so it is hard to choose a favorite. Let me tell you about all of them and you can decide for yourself.  It has two speeds so it lets you control the level of filing better than the standard battery powered unit I used previously. I love the fact that the Amope can be used wet or dry too. The rechargeable aspect of the Amope Pedi Perfect foot file is also wonderful. No worries about the batteries having to be replaced. It is a great foot care tool all around that works quickly to get my feet pretty.

Every once in a while I will go out and get a professional pedicure but the reality is that I don't have time to do it on a regular basis. The Amopé Pedi Perfect™ Wet and Dry Foot File makes it easy to do pedicures at home. I like the two speeds, it lets me control the level of filing just like at the salon except I am not paying those prices or waiting for the technician. I love the fact that it can be used wet or dry too so I can do it regularly and squeeze it into my routine each week. I can use it while I am in the shower or bath. That is innovative. The rechargeable aspect of the Amope foot file is also wonderful. No worries about the batteries having to be replaced is a huge benefit for me. I am such a busy mom and one less thing to have to keep stocked up is a dream.  The Amopé Pedi Perfect™ Wet and Dry Foot File is a great foot care tool for anyone that wants to keep their feet in beautiful shape at home. You can even pick it up on Amazon for the ultimate in super easy time saving shopping.

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."

Kara Tippetts' And It Was Beautiful: Celebrating Life in the Midst of the Long Good-Bye

Kara used to shrug herself off as ordinary but I know she sure wasn't at all.  She was one special mom who just did her very best to live every day to the fullest. She had quite a weight on her in her last years too. This was with the concrete knowledge that the sand was running out of the hourglass for her. Kara late stage  cancer but didn't let it rule her world while she lived. And live she did. Her world was according to G-d. She was blessed with a beautiful family and wonderful friends who supported her on her journey.  She shared herself openly in this book which truly touched my heart.  As you read, you only hope that you might have some of her grace and peace.  This is one book that you must read, I will be honest, with a box of tissues....but you must know her story and share it with others. She had wisdom that will make you think and hopefully you might take some actions to live your life more fully. I think if every reader took a tiny step back and considered some of the tidbits Kara shared, she would be so joyous if she knew that her story has touched and help others. You can learn more about Kara via her blog MundaneFaithfullness, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter as well. Her blog continues on through her husband Jason and her friends.

Kara Tippetts continued to walk in grace and faith even during her hardest days when life turned out differently than how she dreamed. In And It Was Beautiful: Celebrating LIfe in the Midst of the Long Good-Bye really shares her deepest thoughts and insights. The editors did a lovely job of taking bits and pieces from her blog and bringing it together in a book. You get to see the grace of the everyday that Kara always seemed to have no matter what life what serving her that day. It shows that she truly strived to live well even when the living was truly hard. You always get that sense of peace and grace because she knew no matter what that the Lord was right there with her. Through the editors, you see how Kara explores the hardest questions of life with rare beauty and honesty. Always, she draws you back to the G-d who is always present.

I liked how this book was organized into short chapters that really captured Kara's voice. I used to read her blog pretty faithfully and she had a unique voice that was recognizable anywhere. She was some kind of woman and mother. And It Was Beautiful offers so many practical reflections on life, family and dying well with the strength of G-d. Kara always lives with family and faith and that shines through. She always finds a way to find the beauty in everything no matter how hard it could be.

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."

Evino shatterproof elegant wine & cocktail glasses make every party fun and worry free #Evinowineglasses

I really enjoy entertaining in my home. We have a beautiful deck and we keep our yard perfectly manicured with shrubs and flowers. It is fun to share it with friends but no one wants to deal with problems. There is an easier and infinitely more fun way to prevent unnecessary drama at your next party or home event. The solution is simple with these elegant, shatterproof glasses from Evino. 

Evino shared that these beautiful glasses are virtually indestructible. It is hard to believe looking at them but the novel crystal-clear un-breakable glasses leave me free to enjoy guests without the worries. These pretty glasses move smoothly from the dining table to the pool or even to the camp ground. 

I don't have to worry now because I know I can entertain with style and my flair because I have my crystal clear glasses that provide the brilliance of a fine glass but with the secret of plastic. I don't have to be practical to get the clarity and style I love. I can't believe how many compliments I received this past weekend when I had friends over for wine and cheese.  These pretty Evino glasses are perfect for red or white wine, cocktails or any other mixed drink.

I feel great about using these Evino glasses in my home and I rest easy. These would be great for cocktail parties, picnics, bars, friendly tennis games, beach dates, camping, family dinners or even Christmas gifts. These glasses are food safe and BPA-free. They are recyclable and totally reusable. I love the clear and elegant look and they come in a set of four 16oz glasses. The Evino glasses are constructed of PET. You might not know but PET is a hard material that retains it's shape. This is unlike the commonly used Tritan which is flexible and lose it's shape quickly. The PET gives these the look and feel of luxury quality glasses without the worry. These PET-constructed glasses are also durable enough to be washed in the top rack of your dishwasher on a setting up to 40C. I love that these pretty Evinoglasses are dishwasher safe and BPA-free.

These glasses mimic the finish and style of expensive crystal glasses. They have completely smooth rims just like real wine glasses in every way. Think about it. Standard plastic wine glasses have those uncomfortable bumpy edges. Evino rims feel like a real glass. These 16 oz glasses are perfectly designed to be versatile for any drink. All I can think about is how relaxed I am going to be all summer long while I enjoy wine, cocktails, lemonade, juice, or even dessert with friends and guests and no worrying. It is easy to be creative with fun drinks even with tots around (no alcohol for the kids though!)...no worrying. These drama free wine glasses are lightweight and comfortable. You can find these handy and elegant Evino wine glasses 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.