Wednesday, April 23, 2014

My Happy’s Playdate MommyParty #TheHappys

Disclosure:  I received a party pack of information and Happy's compliments of MomSelect and Cepia in order to share via a home party with my guests. My opinions are my own.

OOOh, I just got the big scoop on the hottest new pet toy for the spring and summer.  The Happy's are the cutest, softest little interactive pets that you will ever see.  Cepia LLC, the company that makes those super popular Zhu Zhu pets also makes The Happy’s. Even better, I was super excited to be chosen to host a "The Happy’s Playdate" MommyParty. Have you heard about The Happy's yet? 

The Happy’s interactive toys can make funny sounds, chase the ball, learn special tricks, and more. There are The Happy’s puppies and kittens and your kids will have so much fun playing with their special pet.  Mom (like me) will love that there is no work involved with this pet too!!!


MomSelect and Cepia LLC sent me an amazing kit to have a MommyParty:

  • Four (4) The Happy’s pets, featuring an interactive Happy Treat

  • One (1) The Happy’s Chase and Play Ball

  • 12 AAA Rayovac batteries

  • Werther’s Original Caramel Popcorn

  • Craft ideas and supplies

  • Information to share with my guests



We were lucky it wasn’t snowing with the weather we have had here in the mid-Atlantic but it was too cold to have the kids outside much.  I set everything up with The Happy’s for the kids in our play room and had the sandwiches, snacks and drinks along with the Werther’s Original Caramel Popcorn  and drinks by the dining room.   I also made a bowl of Puppy Chow with Rice Krispies, peanut butter, chocolate chips and a little confectionary sugar.  You know they loved that too.  The mom’s hung out by the dining room and in the living room for a little rest and relaxation.  


I started them out with some snacks and drinks and they crafted their Happy Ears headbands with the supplies that were included.  They were laughing themselves silly after they finished. They put on the headbands and started running around on all fours barking and meowing.  It was a sight to see.  I figured it was a good time to send them to the playroom to check out the The Happy’s. 


The kids burned up a bunch of energy playing and running around, they came up periodically for air and snacks.  It was nice to hear everyone having such a good time and laughing away.  Bentley the Golden Retriever was the most popular.  I had to refill the drinks they drank so much with all their running around after the Happy's. That Werther’s Original Caramel Popcorn was a quite popular too. Several of the kids were begging their moms to buy it for them when they went shopping including mine! The kids were amazed at The Happy’s and all the tricks they could do.  All of the girls (and 2 boys) had never seen The Happy’s before. My daughter had been playing with them for a day or two before the party so she showed them many of the tricks.  It was great because they actually got some darn good exercise running around after those little interactive kitties and puppies!    

The Happy’s are the an amazing line of interactive puppy and kitty plush pets that play, move and can be trained to perform tricks and make more than 25 silly sounds.  Those Happy’s never seem to get tired which means hours of fun for kids.  Those kids went cuckoo with the Chase and Play Ball.  Of course each time the kids came back to the snack area they were telling the moms which Happy’s they wanted as a special present for their good grades, birthday and whatever else they could think of.  Several were extra creative and asked for The Happy’s in their Easter basket! The mom’s loved that one and actually thought it was an easy and fun Easter gift idea. 


I liked The Happy’s because it is the kind of toy that children can play with by themselves or with a friend or friends.  Several of the moms were saying they might get one for Easter and then use the other Happy’s and the accessories as opportunities for good behavior or good grades gifts. Families can slowly build their special collection of The Happy’s.   You can learn more by going to The Happy’s website and you can see all the cutie patootie kitties and doggies up close as well as the accessories.  Target and Walmart for only $19.99 each, and an additional Chase and Play Ball for just $9.99. Let me know what you think of this cute new toy for your kids!

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."

Hyperbiotics PRO-15: The Perfect Probiotic Supplement Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically Hyperbiotics PRO-15. 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 am so busy just like you..between work, kids and trying to squeeze in time for myself. I really work hard to get my healthy meals in along with a good fitness plan but GI issues happen to the best of us. Even one of my super fit fitness instructors recently confessed to me about her frequent gut issues.  It can be very problematic and frustrating to anyone especially when you are a healthy person. I told Miss K that I have been having some good success using this new brand of Hyperbiotics Probiotic Supplement PRO-15 every day. This special probiotic is formulated with very small daily time release pearls. Hyperbiotics has shared that these pearls have the benefit of being 15X more effective than a standard capsule.  I told her that I have not been having any GI issues since I started taking them a few weeks ago.

I like that these probiotic pearls are so tiny and easy to swallow and digest. Literally the size of a pea!  I have definitely seen a difference in my energy and GI comfort. My gut feels relaxed all day even after breakfast and lunch. I eat very healthfully with a high fiber diet and drink a ton of water. Sometimes I think the fiber might be the issue. Who knows, but I know it is good for me.  I like that now that I have included the Hyperbiotics PRO-15 and I feel good all day long. No GI discomfort or bloating and I feel energetic enough to get my work done and get to the gym. That is important since my job frequently takes me on the road during the day but my evenings are still busy.


A few tidbits directly from Hyperbiotics Probiotics about PRO-15:

15 TIMES MORE RESULTS THAN WITH CAPSULES++. With superior patented technology, our living organisms reach deep into your intestinal tract where they are needed most. Our formula will even reach your large intestine. *See below to understand the Science behind the Superiority*

IMPROVE YOUR MOOD AND ENERGY LEVELS. Fatigue and irritability are often a result of poor vitamin and nutrient absorption. Hyperbiotics Probiotics help create a microenvironment inside your digestive system that promotes full mineral absorption so you can finally feel like your happy, energetic and vibrant self.

RELIEVE YOUR SENSITIVE STOMACH. Hyperbiotics PRO-15 is released at consistent levels throughout the day and throughout your Gl tract; whereas other capsules more closely resemble a bomb being dropped in your upper stomach - releasing all organisms at one time, often causing upset such as bloating, gas or diarrhea.

GET + STAY WELL. 80% of your immune system is in your gut, and when probiotics (the good guys) are abundant in your body, it’s harder for the disease causing bacteria (the bad guys) to settle in. Hyperbiotics PRO-15 restores beneficial bacteria for optimal digestive and immune health, helps control yeast and candida overgrowth and promotes daily relief from allergies, gas, bloating and constipation. Life should be easy.

LOSE WEIGHT. New studies show that gut microflora may improve your metabolism and accelerate fat loss. Let’s get your gut back into equilibrium so your waistline will follow.


To learn more, you can take a peek at the Hyperbiotics PRO-15 (2) minute video - http://vimeo.com/87541099.  You can get this high quality probiotic supplement on Amazon and you know it will be at your door in a few days...even less if you have Prime.

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."
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.

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Playing Games Online is fun for everyone from Mom to Gramma and more

Disclosure:  I was compensated by Tropicana Casinos for sharing this information with my readers. As always, my opinions are my own.
It is amazing how online games have evolved so much in the past 10 years. It seems like there are amazing new games out every single week and they all are so much fun to play. I have played tons of them from Mafia Wars to Bejeweled and more. Even my mom is a big online player. She plays Candy Crush about 5 times a day.  How about that Minecraft too? They all have their different "rewards" but there never really is the possibility of truly winning a big 'ole jackpot. It is just all in fun....up until recently! Online gambling is now legal in New Jersey.


The Tropicana in Atlantic City, NJ recently launched their online casino.  A perfect option for NJ residents and even visitors to New Jersey who are 21+. The Tropicana is a luxury resort that is world famous for bars, sizzling nightlife, fine dining, shopping and of course, gambling. This premier casino resort now has an amazing selection of challenging and fun online slot and table games including all your classics like blackjack, roulette and other faves.  Even if you can't get to Atlantic City....it can now come to you through the Tropicana casino online anywhere in New Jersey.

I was excited when I heard about it through radio advertisements over the past few months.  I work and with kids I can't always get to Atlantic City even though I am not that far.  I have so many fabulous memories of Atlantic City getaways though and big wins. I remember fun times with my Dad in Atlantic City. He was a huge blackjack player and taught me everything I know about playing the game.  The first thing he taught me was never bet more than you can afford and set limits for yourself before you start. Good rules to follow. I remember one night the two of us sat at one of those $10 blackjack tables and played into the early morning. I ended up winning over $600.00!  I was so elated. There is nothing like that winning feeling. The Tropicana online gaming option allows me to relax and wind down online and still enjoy the thrill of the opportunity of winning anytime I want. I can play on my bed or relax on the couch. It is really exciting to play online.

I have registered and checked out a bunch of the games since I am a NJ resident and over 21. It was super easy to register and get set up. They are really fun and relaxing to play....but of course totally exciting at the same time. You never know if you are really going to win big! You can even choose a "pay to play" option and maybe you will get lucky. I liked the Davinci Diamonds slots game a lot. It was fun to play and I loved the wild card....it really added to the excitement of the game. I had to try out all the versions of Blackjack too...my favorite was Atlantic City Blackjack. There are just tons of different games to play from Roulette to Baccarat so you can find a few that you really enjoy most or try them all out a few at a time.

Of course you need to be 21 and over to play. You also need to be present in New Jersey when you play but if you are visiting the state you can play while you are here. You can play from Paramus or Plainsboro or even Sparta or Flemington. Tropicana is bringing gambling fun to every corner of NJ.  Take a peek at the Tropicana Casino and give yourself the opportunity to win big and have some real fun--online!

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received information and financial compensation surrounding 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."

Elite Stevia Liquid Drops USDA Organic Healthy Zero Calorie Sweetener Review

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


Aaah, the eternal problem of trying to enjoy life and have something sweet here and there without making the scale go BOOM? Elite Gold Solution's Sweet Stevia Gold can help stop those crazy cravings for refined, simple sugars because we all know where that leads...obesity and unhealthy weight gain.

I was happy to have the opportunity to check out Elite Gold Solution's Sweet Stevia Gold which you can conveniently purchase on Amazon. This is a convenient and healthy sweetener with zero calories or carbohydrates and a low glycemic index, making it the perfect healthy and natural sweetener. You can literally say goodbye to table sugar and all those icky artificial sweeteners.  Unlike all those chemical sweeteners, Elite Gold Solutions takes special steps to protect the natural qualities of Stevia in these uniquely pure Stevia drops.  I love how easy it is to use just a bit or a few drops extra for some extra natural sweetness...either way no calories and no sugar.  Perfect for all your hot and cold drinks and even cooking and baking.  I love to add it to my hot and iced coffee drinks.

Top Stevia Benefits:
  • Delicious zero calorie sweetener*
  • A no-calorie substitute (zero carbs)*
  • Perfect for weight loss, weight maintenance, so you can reduce daily sugar intake*
  • Contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Rutin, Zinc, Magnesium, Iron*
  • Enhances food taste - heat-resistant so you can use in baking and cooking

You can use Stevia Gold in tons of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth:
  • Mix with lemon juice and water for a refreshing low calorie lemonade
  • Combine with smoothies to add sweetness without the sugar
  • Naturally sweeten your favorite drinks, desserts, sauces, yogurts, and appetizers
I love that Elite Stevia Gold is made in USA, USDA Organic and GMP Certified. It makes me feel good to use it in all my cooking and baking. It tastes great and the stevia liquid drops make it easy to use too. You can buy it on Amazon too.

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.

Serafino Double Wall 16 oz Iced Tea & Coffee Glasses - Set of 2 Insulated Drinking Glasses Review

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


Summer is coming my friends.  I don't know about you but we spend so much time in our beautiful backyard out on our spacious deck. When we aren't out there relaxing on the weekends, we are down at our beach house.  All this warm summer fun calls for Serafino Double Wall 16 oz Iced Tea and Coffee Glasses, don't you think?  I recently received a set of 2 high quality insulated drinking glasses to review for myself. I was pretty impressed.

Serafino Double Wall glasses are crafted of fine quality, durable, heat resistant, mouth-blown borosilicate glass.  They sound fancy and look fancy but they are super durable. The best of all worlds in indoor and outdoor entertainment! The 16 oz Serafino glasses are the largest in the Ozeri Artisan Series of award-winning handcrafted drinkware. One of the features I just love about these is that Borosilicate glass is so much stronger than common glass. It is shatter-resistant as well.  It makes it nice that no one has to worry whether you are hosting or a guest. Perfect for lazy summer days when you pair that with the Serafino's double-walled design.  This combination offers the ultimate insulation to maintain drinks at their ideal temperature. The Serafino's unique double wall design actually suspends drinks within an inner wall for an attention-grabbing optical effect to impress your guests.  In addition, the wraparound contour provides a natural aesthetic grip. Each glass is artfully crafted to keep your hands cool even with your hottest drinks, and free of condensation with your chilled beverages. Pretty amazing, right?

The patent-pending Serafino is great for coffee, cappuccinos, hot or iced teas, cocktails, frozen beverages and much more. The summer makes drink ideas just about endless. Whether it is an occasion for a glass of wine, coffee, or some other beverage, borosilicate glass is completely resistant to acids, and your Ozeri glasses will never lose their original sheen. Each set contains 2 handmade glasses designed for lifetime use. The Serafino glasses are completely microwave and freezer safe, and ship in an elegantly printed and carefully packaged box with a 1 year warranty. You can purchase them on Amazon and get them to your doorstep in a flash. I guess that is why it is my fave place to shop.

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."
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.

Pure Body Naturals Pure Turmeric Curcumin Extract Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically Pure Body Naturals Turmeric Curcumin supplements. 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 really try so hard to maintain my health.  I take my time every week at the gym with boot camp classes, yoga, pilates. I eat and cook healthy foods too. I am always looking for new things that can be easily added to my healthy regimen without a whole lot of extra work. I have to keep it simple. I am a mom, I work full time and often have to travel for work. I have to keep myself healthy so I can get it all done though! Sometimes my workout regimens get me so sore and my back just aches. Or my shoulder get sore. Wrists too. Those darn kettlebells...can't live with them or without them. I don't like to take medications if I don't have to but who wants to suffer? I don't have time for all that mixing of the turmeric either which I used to do. I recently found Pure Body Turmeric Curcumin Extract 1000 mg and it seems to really help. 

How Does Turmeric Work Its Magic?
Commonly used as a spice in Indian cuisine, turmeric has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for pain relief and joint health. Turmeric has been studied around the world. In pre-clinical studies, tumeric been shown to help individuals with joint and arthritis issues. It also has been shown to reduce inflammation and act as a powerful antioxidant. Numerous studies suggest that it might ease symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
But I Thought Turmeric Was a Just a Spice?
Nope! The dynamic ingredient in the Turmeric (Curcuma longa) plant is the Curcumin, which comes in the form of a yellow pigment. This precious compound has been used since ancient times as both a topical and ingestible healing treatment.

 
The Turmeric Plant
The Latin name for turmeric is Curcuma Longa. The plant does not produce seed and is actually sterile. It propagates through its roots. It is part of the ginger family of plants. Turmeric thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
 
Turmeric for Joint Health
Many pre-clinical studies have shown that Turmeric may lend serious benefits to those suffering from arthritis and joint pain. Results have shown that taking Turmeric daily, at the the correct doseages, can ease pain caused from arthritis and joint pain.

Made in the USA
Pure Body Naturals makes their Turmeric Curcumin Extract 1000 mg exclusively in the USA. These are the very best 120 capsules with no fillers, no binders, and no artificial ingredients. Pure Body shares with me that their Turmeric Curcumin Extract 1000 mg is 100% pure, and all natural too. That makes me feel confident when I purchase it on Amazon which makes it easy for me too.

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." 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.

100% PURE Raspberry Ketones Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. Always check with your physician before starting any supplement product and specifically Pure Body Naturals Raspberry Ketones. 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.


Have you heard about this little bikini season secret yet? I recently checked out Pure Body Naturals 100% PURE Raspberry Ketones with bikini season coming fast I have to use everything in my arsenal to be ready for it! 

I like that the Pure Body Naturals brand has the right dose very high quality pure raspberry ketones since the optimal dosage is supposed to be 500mg twice a day it is easy to take. I have been feeling good since I started taking it and I am pairing it with a healthy, clean diet and a good exercise regimen.  That is what I heard Dr. Oz say will get the best results and it makes sense.

Lose Weight with 1000 mg daily of High Quality Pure Raspberry Ketone
Pure Body Naturals have 1000 mg of pure raspberry ketones to help you out.

Pure Body Naturals shares that you may see benefit in a few ways:

-Start Burning Fat and Increasing Metabolism. Pure Raspberry Ketones by Pure Body Naturals can help you eliminate fat and lose weight without side effects.

- Raspberry Ketone is an organic compound that produces the smell of raspberries. It is a safe and natural product. 

The optimal dosage has been found to be 500 mg twice per day. Their Pure Body product delivers this precise amount of Pure Raspberry Ketones to ensure they help people as effectively as possible.

Boost Metabolism
- Raspberry Ketones exploded in popularity after being recommended on the popular TV show with Dr. Oz, he referred to it as the #1 miracle in a bottle for weight loss. - Dieting or increased exercise will be required for rapid weight loss.
- Pure Body Naturals Raspberry Ketone is made in the USA, manufactured under stringent quality control measures in a FDA certified facility.  All 100% Natural. No Fillers, No Binders.

It has been easy to add this supplement to my healthy diet. I already get to the gym and workout hard 4-5 times a week so I have seen results pretty fast. I feel good when I take it so I will continue. It is great to have a natural suppplement to boost my over 40 metabolism and get things kicked up. You can purchase pure raspberry ketone on Amazon to make it easy to get right to your door. Let me know how it works for you.

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.


OvenArt Bakeware Silicone Muffin Pan Review

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.
I love to bake and even cook with muffin pans but the old fashioned kind can be pesky to clean. Wow...not this BPA free high grade silicone muffin pan from OvenArt.  I can talk for hours about stress-free baking and scrub-free cleaning with this wonderful silicone muffin pan by OvenArt Bakeware.

Stuck-on food is annoying and a nightmare to cleansing those old metal pans. I used to worry so much with those chemical nonstick coatings that used to scrape off....did it go into my food?


This nonstick muffin pan is totally worth it! OvenArt shared that make this silicone muffin pan with an expensive grade of pure 100%, high quality European silicone. I have found even the stickiest and messiest recipes turn into delightful muffins, cupcakes, cornbread, egg muffins and more. Food seems to slide out effortlessly and bake perfectly every time. I feel very good about using my safe, BPA-free, filler-free, and worry-free silicone bakeware. It makes me want to cook more too!



I just love how easy this muffin pan cleans up. The magic nonstick baking cups clean with a bit of my fave detergent and water. Today I was tired after baking and I just tossed the pan in the dishwasher. The peanut butter brownie muffins came out perfectly. This muffin pan isn't just for muffins and cupcakes either. I am excited to try some delicious non-muffin recipes such as taco cups, crab cakes, mini lasagnas, and frozen desserts  that I have pinned on my Pinterest. since it's totally safe for the oven, freezer, microwave, and even the dishwasher.


The company tells me that this high quality muffin pan is protected by the OvenArt "Better Muffin" Guarantee for lifetime assurance against defects and performance issues.  That makes me very confident too.


A Bit About OvenArt Bakeware

OvenArt Bakeware is crafted from the highest quality materials and used by bakers who value time, energy, and the simple joys of baking.
All of their silicone baking products are made of premium silicone and contain zero filler material. By taking no compromises in design and construction, they have created bakeware that is nonstick, easy to clean, and will help you create enough delicious goods for a lifetime.

A Note About Floppiness

Silicone bakeware products vary in their sturdiness from one manufacturer to the next. OvenArt Bakeware products are very flexible, maybe even "floppy", compared to silicone bakeware you'll find in stores because we opt for a silicone that is free of cheaper, plastic filler material--sturdiness in a silicone pan almost always comes from the addition of plastic fibers. I don't want that and I know you sure don't either. That is why they opt for the highest quality silicone that is free of any filler materials and recommend the simple solution of placing the pan on a cookie sheet before filling with batter for easier oven transfer.  They truly only want the best baking experience for all their customers.  They have a 100% customer satisfaction priority at OvenArt Bakeware and stand behind our products with a full refund policy.

General Tips for Baking With Your Silicone Muffin Pan

  • Place the bakeware on a cookie sheet before filling the cups for easy oven transfer. For thick batters like corn bread, you may not need the help of a cookie sheet.
  • Lightly grease the cups of the muffin pan using oil, butter, or margarine.
  • Wipe away any excess batter from the top of the muffin pan for easier cleanup
  • Place the cookie sheet on the middle oven rack and bake according to the recipe. Check for doneness using a toothpick.
  • If needed, feel free to add a couple of minutes to baking times until desired browning is reached
  • The silicone cools quickly and will be cool to touch within a couple of minutes of removing from the oven. Pop out your baked goods with your fingers by pushing up from the bottom of the cups.
You can find this great silicone muffin pan on Amazon and you know it will be at your door in a flash and you can get started with your baking.



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.