Valentine's Day Gift Guide 2012

Simply Organic Beauty Review



Simply Organic was founded in 2001 by professional beauty industry visionary Gene Martignetti. After watching his five-year-old son battle childhood Leukemia, while also dealing with health issues of his own, Martignetti became inspired to create a company committed to one simple principle:

“In the pursuit of health and beauty, what you put on your hair and skin is as important as what you put in your mouth.”

While researching tirelessly to help his sick child, Gene came across information on the harmful effects of synthetic ingredients found in many of the top salon and spa brands used today. What he learned motivated him to create an alternative line of products that used only natural, organic ingredients but resulted in great-looking, healthy hair and skin. That company is Simply Organic.


Renew and re-hydrate with olive leaf extract, organic honey and nature’s essential oils. The Moisture Rich Shampoo ($28) won the Natural Solutions - Beauty with a Conscience Award in 2008, which hardly comes to no surprise since it is very gentle and effective on my hair. It's a bit hard for me the find a shampoo that's right for my hair, even if it is organic and/or the best shampoo on the market. Therefore, I am very pleased that this one doesn't strip my hair of it's natural oil and making it drier than the Sahara Desert in the process. The smell is a great pick-me-up in the morning since it has a fresh lemon scent.

The Moisture Rich Conditioner ($30) is the icing on the cake since it locks in moisture, which is really beneficial for dry and damaged hair. While it is a tad expensive, it's truly worth the price if you're looking for a high quality organic conditioner. Most shampoos and conditioners that are "budget-friendly" are swimming with chemical "muck", which can be really harsh on your hair. Plus, they have a potential to cause health problems ranging from allergies to cancer.

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. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

 

Madagascar LIVE Ticket Giveaway



Prize: Two winners will receive two tickets for the event coming to Louisville, Kentucky.

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Entry Limit: Once

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DreamWorks Theatricals and Broadway Across America announces “MADAGASCAR LIVE,” DreamWorks Theatricals’ first-ever live family touring show will play The Louisville Palace Theatre. The production is expected to visit over 70 cities across the United States beginning in January 2011. The brand new stage show aimed at family audiences stars the cast of popular characters from the beloved “Madagascar” film series, including Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo and members of the madcap Madagascar crew, King Julien and the crafty Penguins. Madagascar Live will make a stop in Louisville at The Palace Theatre from Friday, March 4 through Sunday, March 6 for six performances:

FRIDAY, MARCH 4 AT 7:00PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 5 AT 11:00AM | 3:00PM | 7:00PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 6 AT 1:00PM | 6:00PM


TICKETS [$15.00 | $25.00 | $35.00 | $40.00 plus applicable service charges] ARE ON SALE NOW AT http://www.livenation.com, http://www.ticketmaster.com, THE PALACE BOX OFFICE AND ALL TICKETMASTER OUTLETS. CHARGE BY PHONE AT 1.800.745.3000.



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The giveaway will conclude February 28th.

Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.

Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.

 

Win a $70 CSN Stores Gift Certificate Giveaway



Prize: One winner will receive a $70 gift certificate from CSN Stores.

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Entry Limit: Daily (this doesn't include bonus entries, except for tweets)

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Nexxt Tall Neat Seat in Damask and Black $39

Skyline Furniture Upholstered Storage Bench in Canary Tangerine $315

Graham & Brown - 1834X - Chinoise Wallpaper by Basso & Brooke $60
Available in Pink or Blue

Varaluz Mini Pendant in Banana Leaf $138

DwellStudio Metallic Square Pillow in Silver $48

Nextime Audrey Hepburn II Glass Wall Clock $49

Flirty Aprons Marilyn Sugar and Spice Apron $27.99

Caldo-Freddo Dreamer 3 Piece Tea Service in Pink $43



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The giveaway will conclude March 5th.

Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.

Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.

 

Felicity: An American Girl Adventure Giveaway



Prize: Three winners will receive a Felicity: An American Girl Adventure Deluxe Edition DVD and a Felicity’s Story Collection hardcover book.

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Entry Limit: Daily (this doesn't include bonus entries, except for tweets)

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Meet Felicity Merriman, a 10 year-old girl who’s as spirited and independent as the American colonies she lives in. For the first time ever, Felicity comes to life on screen in Felicity: An American Girl Adventure, a full-length live action movie based on American Girl’s best-selling books.


When Felicity meets Penny, a beautiful copper colored mare, she knows with all her heart that she must free Penny from her cruel owner. Felicity desperately wishes for that same sureness of heart about the rumors of revolution swirling through Williamsburg. Felicity’s father believes that the colonies should be free form England’s rule, but her beloved grandfather and her best friend Elizabeth both support the king. With fiercely conflicting loyalties dividing the colonists, something as simple as a cup of tea could divide Felicity from her best friend forever. As Christmastide draws near, Felicity struggles to hold her family and friends close, and to find ways for love and friendship to rise above the growing conflict.





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The giveaway will conclude March 5th.

Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.

Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.

 

Fool Proof Budget Plan For Fighting Growing Gas Prices

Gas prices are soaring closer to $100 a barrel as trouble pours out of the Middle East. It looks like transportation is going to cost us plenty for at least the near future, but there are ways to cut back on costs. Follow the following 10 frugal fuel-consumption tips so you won't have to leave the gas pump with a half-empty tank.


1. Use Your Smart Phone


There are plenty of money-saving apps dedicated to trimming everyday expenses, some of which include travel costs. The GasBuddy app will coordinate your location with the best gas prices in your area. Another app worth test driving is CheapGas, which provides precise directions to the nearest and least-expensive gas station.

2. Shop Online


According to a recent study by Carnegie Melon's Green Institute, shopping online saves an average of 35-percent in gas consumption. Next time you're seeking a new pair of trousers, shop online to cut down on fuel costs. Those who prefer to avoid delivery charges can find plenty of free shipping coupons at sites like FreeShipping.org or CouponSherpa.com, which offer deals for popular stores like JCPenney, Verizon, Home Depot & DELL.

3. Lay-off the Lead Foot


We know everyone is in a hurry, but zipping through traffic is anything but gas efficient. Stick to the speed limit and remember speeds exceeding 40 mph force your vehicle to overcome forceful wind resistance, thus consuming fuel faster. Keep an eye on your odometer for maximum fuel efficiency.

4. Leave Rapid Starts to the Jack Rabbits

Do you race away from stop lights at the speed of Br'er Rabbit? You're wasting a lot of gas just to reach the next stop light a second faster.

5. Coordinate Carpools


Carpooling simply makes sense -- or is it cents? Use the Carpicipate app to locate like-minded neighbors or community members interested in sharing rides.

6. Be Loyal to Your Reward Card

Grocery stores like King Soopers offer up to 10-cents off per gallon for buying groceries and filling up at their tanks. Some stores offer an additional savings if you pay cash, when combined with your reward card. Just make sure you save your cashier's receipt to get the full savings.

7. Buy Discount Gas Gift Cards

Did you know you don't have to pay full price for a gift card? Sites like GiftCardGranny.com offer a diverse selection of discount gas gift cards from various card vendors. Run out of cash on your card? GiftCardGranny offers an alert on newly available discount gift cards, so you'll be notified every time there's a new card available.

8. Fuel Up at Warehouse Pumps


Filling up at your local warehouse club can save you anywhere from five to 10 cents on fuel compared to surrounding gas stations.

9. Give Generic a Go


Just like pantry staples and other generics, buying "off-brand" gas gets your car from place to place in the same shape as fuel from name-brand stations. In fact, it's often the same gas, yet the price can differ by about 20 cents a gallon.

10. Use Low Octane


According to NPR's Car Talk, using a higher octane gas when your car doesn't need it is worthless. Check your vehicle's manual to determine how low you can go.

 

Extra, Extra, Read All About It! - John Galliano Kids Infant's Gazette Print Three-Piece Gift Set

John Galliano Kids Infant's Gazette Print Three-Piece Gift Set $125 at Saks Fifth Avenue


Black and white and sure to be read all over, three soft knit pieces screened with excerpts from the Galliano Gazette.

The Inspiration:



Remember Carrie Bradshaw's John Galliano newspaper dress? She donned this dress when she stalked Natasha down at lunch in Season 2 and again in Sex and the City 2.

 

Taking Time for Yourself




Thanks to Crystal Light for sponsoring this post. To learn more about how Crystal Light can flavor your day with 30 refreshing flavors, visit http://www.facebook.com/crystallight.


Whether you're juggling time with parenting and/or work, finding time for yourself isn't always an easy task for most moms. Research shows that it is major importance to make time for yourself in order to be a healthier and happier person. Plus, it will help you be a better parent and significant other. We all deserve to have time for ourselves whether it is spending a few minutes reading or pampering ourselves with a trip to the salon or spa.

Here a few things that I enjoy doing in my spare time:

Reading - Not only this is a great way to escape reality by seeing life and events of someone else, but it is also a good way to increase general knowledge and learn things you didn't in school. You can also increase language and writing skills as well.

Gardening - Doctors, physiotherapists, and psychiatrists claim that gardening is good for you. It is great for a number of things! It's therapeutic and it relieves a lot of mental stress and anxiety. Gardening will also make you much more fit and stronger, because it will strengthen all of the muscles in your body.

Listening to Music - There isn't a day that goes by that I am not listening to music. I'm a huge music lover! I honestly don't pay much attention to the charts, because most of that music is over-hyped to me. I love listening to musicians such as The Beatles, Franz Ferdinand, The Kooks, Prince, The Smiths, John Lennon, Kings of Leons, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Elvis Costello, and many more! I also love discovering unknown music gems on the Last.fm radio, which doesn't cost anything.

Remember, visit http://www.facebook.com/crystallight to learn more about how Crystal Light can flavor your day with 30 refreshing flavors. I was selected and paid for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

 

Cri​bsie Award for Layla Grayce


The Cribsie Awards will honor the top 60 products, brands, services, and websites for babies and tots. Out of 4,000 nominees, they've selected 344 finalists and it's now up to us to vote for the very best! One of my favorite sites, Layla Grayce has been nominated in the Web category as "Easiest Place to Spend a Paycheck" and with their gorgeous hand-picked products for women, home, and children, I have to agree. Check out the Cribsie Awards to find some new resources for your little ones and vote for your favorites including Layla Grayce Cribsie for the Easiest Way to Spend a Paycheck now through March 18th.

 

Moms On-The-Go Weekend Getaway Checklist

As you know, it’s that time again when everyone is tired of the cold and planning quick weekend getaways for a warm break from the harsh winds. But when it comes to beach-front weekend escapes, busy moms don’t always have time to prep for the warmer weather.

Now, moms on-the-go can shape-up their body and their wardrobe in seconds with the below checklist for items that are literally just a click away.

All-Aboard No Hassle Carry-On

Tory Burch Tatum Straw Hobo $365

This hobo spacious, lightweight, waterproof and travel-friendly carry-all takes you straight from the airport to the beach without the extra baggage.

Goodbye Gym, Hello Swim


Miraclesuit $60 - $168 at Nordstrom

Miraclesuit's purposeful styles flatter your best features, hide the flaws and maximize comfort. Its exclusive Miratex® fabric provides tummy control, molded cups and special material blend provide length while eliminating riding up at the leg.

Solution to a Lighter Load

Lisa for Donald J Pliner’s "Sameh" Platform Sandals $250

Lisa for Donald J Pliner’s Sameh platform sandal’s ultra-lightweight sole and patented comfort technology makes for a great party shoe without dealing with the extra weight while you travel.

Stylin’ Under Cover

Staring at Stars Canvas Floppy Hat $29 at Urban Outfitters

This floppy hat protects your scalp and tresses while keeping you looking beach-chic. Easy to fit into any bag, this hat is the perfect option for a sunny getaway.

Accessory Tune Up


Control Headphones by Eskuche $60 at Urban Outfitters
Available in Fawn, Avocado, or Shrimp

Listen up! Vintage-inspired headphones, as tech as they are eye-catching and stylish. Hugging, well-cushioned ear cups with a bold, engulfing sound; adjustable metal-topped headband; interchangeable cord system so you can choose a cord with audio-only functionality or a cord with audio and voice function with an in-line mic and answer function: perfect for use with your iPhone or other smart phone.

 

15% off Staff Favorites at Layla Grayce

15% off Staff Favorites at Layla Grayce with coupon code: chicfaves Exp. 2/19/11



Jessie Steele Paris Boutique Apron; $30 : Gloves; $8

Not your everyday apron, the Courtney apron in Paris Boutique includes a touch of glam with a removable flower and subtle ruffles. Coordinated with the rubber gloves, you can dress up the "dirty work" with these vintage inspired manicure savers and stay fresh for your guests.

Waxing Poetic Charms $22 - $84

Celebrate noticing – not just nostalgia, or memory, but active, right now, noticing. Make markers for sharing – for the big moments, and the tiny ones. Help pass along all our beautiful details, our milestones, love, wonder, life…and mischief…but above all, hope.

The Well Dressed Home by Annette Tatum $35

Introducing creative founder of the House Inc. brand with her first book titled The Well Dressed Home. It has been a two year journey in the making that has lead to many new people and places. The Well Dressed Home illustrates Annette's ideas of how to create dynamic interiors by allowing your personal fashion choices to be the inspiration of your home's decor. By using your own fashion style, you will be able to create beautiful rooms that reflect the real you. This book will inspire you to embrace the idea of designing your own home in the same way you choose your day's wardrobe. Your clothing and accessories mirror your unique personality and style, and so should the decor of your home. Your home will become like your wardrobe, a unique, one-of-a-kind, expression of you. Allow this book to explore your inner fashionista!

Clairebella Personalized Cell Phone Cases $52

Protect and personalize your cell phone in Clairebella's signature hip urban designs and bold colors. New cases for iPhone 3G/3GS, iPhone 4, iPod Touch, Blackberry Bold 9700 and Blackberry Curve 8520 feature a classic houndstooth pattern in navy blue topped with a monogram or initial in the font and color of your choice. Crafted by case-mate from Lexan, a plastic that's more strong and durable than typical cases. This case is developed to protect your device while complementing its design.

Petunia Pickle Bottom Cake Clutch $135
Available in Juniper Berry, French Gooseberry, Chocolate Decadence, Buttercream, or Apple Tart

Each clutch is a deliciously rich color - an absolute must-have. Restraint is out the window on this one! These bags are all decked out with the diaper bag essentials on the inside, and all the grown up bells and whistles on the outside. What a stunning holiday gift for any lady in your life (mommy or not) including yourself.

Jessie Steele Marilyn Convertible Apron in Purple Spring Botanical $32.95

This functional apron gives you two looks in one! Just unbutton the top at the waistband to create a cute half apron. The Purple Spring Botanical© print is fresh and feminine. Made from a medium-weight linen cotton. Roomy side pocket with pink cloth covered button. Lace trim at waist, pocket, and bottom ruffle. Sweetheart neckline. Adjustable ties at waist and neck.

Sophia Rosebud Headband $28

Precious to perfection - the Sophia Rosebud Headband is a keepsake to be cherished. A delicate headband that can dress up any outfit, this teal with lime highlights silk rosebuds embellished hair accessory is a beautiful piece with a unique jewel in the rosebud. Spot clean only. One size fits toddlers to adults.

PSA Essentials Personalized Embossers $40

 

Yankee Candle QuickScent Review and Giveaway



Prize: One winner will receive a QuickScent Starter Kit from Yankee Candle.

Sign the Google Spreadsheet above.

Entry Limit: Once

Note: You can list bonus entries separately or all in one entry - your choice!


Yankee Candle launched a new candle line called QuickScent. This line boasts a bevy of fragrances that will entice your senses - Vanilla Cupcake, Sun & Sand, Vanilla Lime, Beach Walk, Buttercream, Clean Cotton, Home Sweet Home, Garden Sweet Pea, Lilac Blossoms, Macintosh, Midnight Jasmine, Pineapple Cilantro, Sage & Citrus, and Strawberry Buttercream.

At less than $10, QuickScent is a fast burning candle that delivers a delightful fragrance immediately. I received the Sun & Sand fragrance. I honestly wasn't sure what this scent was going to be smell like, but it truly is a wonderful scent. Very uplifting! It is infused with sweet orange flower, lemony citrus, fresh lavender, and powdery musk. A great scent to use when you're expecting company or need an escape.




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The giveaway will conclude March 1st.

Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.

Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.

 

Kate Spade Kindle Covers

Color, charm and playful sophistication are the hallmarks of Kate Spade New York — a brand recognizable the world over for classic shapes and modern graphic elements. This spirited aesthetic carries over into a new collection specially designed for the Kindle. Bold colors and clever designs dress up covers crafted in coated canvas and patent leather. A special hinge system attaches your device to the cover, keeping it secure so that your Kindle is protected in the utmost of style.


Kate Spade New york Canvas Kindle Cover - The Great Gatsby $69.99

Kate Spade New York Canvas Kindle Cover - The Importance of Being Earnest $59.99

Kate Spade New York Canvas Kindle Cover - Great Expectations $69.99

Kate Spade New York Patent Leather Kindle Cover $69 - $89
Available in Snapdragon Pink, Fire Engine Red, or Black

Kate Spade New York Canvas Kindle Cover - Hello $69.99

 

Layla Grayce's New Fashion Lines

Just in time for spring, Layla Grayce is now offering gorgeous fashion for women! In addition to their trendsetting handbags, they have stylish cardigans, modern frock dresses and chic tops from four fabulous designers! Here are some of my absolute favorites:


The Charlotte Tarantola Chacha Ruffle Dress in Heather Grey ($68) is the perfect dress for spring! The unfinished edge ruffles take this sassy Chacha dress from day to night and the neutral color is perfect for mixing and matching with cardigans and light jackets.


The Amy Butler Sweet Rose Tote in Sun & Moon Sepia ($190) is a modern twist on the classic tote. The bag is impeccably constructed from organic cotton and its leather handles give it a sophisticated, chic feel. This tote is the ideal accessory for all your spring looks!


Whether you're globetrotting or tot-trotting, the chic Petunia Pickle Bottom Travel Train Case ($42) announces your arrival. This stylish travel case is the perfect accessory for your spring getaway!


The Ella Moss Khloe Striped Tank ($84) is an updated version of the timeless tank top. Taking the tank to a new level, the Khloe offers an easy going feminine look in stripes of spice red and heather gray. Pair this trendy tank with skinny jeans or your favorite leggings for a super stylish ensemble! Equally as appealing is the Ella Moss Khloe Striped Dress in Charcoal ($124). This jersey striped heather gray and charcoal dress is perfect for day with leggings and sandals or you can dress it up with a great pair of heels. Best of all, this dress can be hand washed!

 

Granola Gourmet Review




Granola Gourmet was founded by a diabetic and his family. These granola energy bars are made with 100% natural and wholesome ingredients; which makes it great for diabetics, athletes, and you! They don't contain wheat, dairy, or soy. Plus, they're very low in sodium (15mg per serving).

I received one of each of their Ultimate Energy Bars - Fudge Brownie, Berry, Mocha Fudge, and Cran-Orange. I honestly wasn't expecting to like the Cran-Orange, but flavor I tried out was great! My ultimate favorite was the Berry though. Having one of these energy bars are a great way to jumpstart anyone's day!

A portion of your purchase helps fight diabetes as they participate in events with the American Diabetes Association and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GranolaGourmet

Twitter: http://twitter.com/granola_gourmet

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. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

 

Kranich's Jewelers Review

Finding the perfect Valentine's Day gift for your significant other can be a bit tricky at times. There's one thing for certain though....most women love diamonds! While I'm far from being materialistic, I do enjoy wearing my fine jewelry.

Kranich's Jewelers was established in York, Pennsylvania, in 1903. Since their launch, they're well known for their beautiful collection of fine jewelry and gifts. They have the finest selection of diamond jewelry and engagement rings, including the rings in the style of the Kate Middleton Engagement Ring and Princess Diana Ring! They even have a beautiful collection of Simon G, Verragio , Everlon, Scott Kay, and Ritani jewelry.

Kranich's will also pay top dollar for your pre-owned Gold or Platinum jewelry and fine timepieces. If you have old jewelry or watches that you would like to sell, visit one of their stores or make an appointment for them to make you an offer on your items. They also purchase pre-owned Gold or Sterling silverware, tea sets and collectibles. With many years of experience, Kranich's will be able to help you get top-dollar for your jewelry.


The Exquisite Oval Garnet Ring with Diamonds ($349) features a 6x4mm oval garnet centerstone that is a stunningly beautiful deep shade of red with .03 carat total weight diamonds on either side of the centerstone. This timeless and beautiful piece is even prettier in person! Pictures or words hardly does this ring justice. It is a decent size and the stone shines beautifully. Great price and great quality, which makes it the ultimate Valentine's Day gift!


The Two-Tone Everlon Diamond Knot Ring ($205) is an exquisite and unique ring that represents strength and beauty of your love. Kranich's Jewelers offers this particular ring in different styles, but the one I received is set in sterling silver with a 14 karat yellow gold highlight. Underneath the heart of the Hercules knot is a gorgeous 1/6 carat white diamond holding the Everlon knot in place. The fire and the clarity of the stone is phenomenal! It would make the perfect engagement ring for the woman who wants something different, yet something that sparkles and that is very feminine.



The product(s) in this review was provided to the reviewer for keeps and the purpose of writing a review. This in no way effects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased.

 

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