As promised, here's the costume that I reviewed for Fright Catalog. I made it a bit more zombie-ish than the one pictured in the previous post.
Here Comes the Bride
50% off on NightFood
Save 50% off on NightFood by just clicking on the "share" button. Then, they will give a 50% off coupon code.
Here's an excerpt from my previous review:
I've been a night owl for years, but that's mostly due to the fact that I have trouble sleeping at night since this is when I do my most creative thinking. This usually leads to late night snacking, which isn't a good idea when you don't want to put on unnecessary pounds. This is why I was a bit skeptical about Nightfood when a friend of mine recommended it to me.
Click here to read the rest of my review.
Frugal Foreign Travel Tips for Baby Boomer Ladies
The obviously American gentleman was eating dinner while reading at a cozy French restaurant, but I just had to interrupt with a somewhat rude question: "Why do so few older men travel alone in Europe?"
I'd been on the road for two months, touring the world as a travel writer, and this was the first American male I'd seen flying solo. He responded with just one word: "Fear." I thanked him and went on my merry way, only realizing later I hadn't asked, "Fear of what?"
The flat fact, however, is that older women are more comfortable traveling to foreign countries without a partner or tour group. You see them sitting in cafés, diligently scribbling in their journals and taking in the passing scene with genuine smiles. I formed easy friendships with many of these women everywhere from Abu Dhabi to Krakow, and learned quite a few frugal foreign-travel tips, which I'm delighted to pass on to men and women alike.
1. Hostels
I can't stress strongly enough how much cheaper and more enjoyable it is to stay in a hostel. Other overnight residences are not only more expensive, they tend to segregate you from the reality of a city or region. Hostels throw you right into the mix, which nowadays includes travelers of all ages -- not just the young.
Hostels usually provide breakfast, the heftier ones yielding leftovers from which you can use for lunch. Free Wi-Fi access and front-desk workers who can point you to unique sites worth seeing round out the many benefits of staying in a hostel.
To make reservations before you leave or while you're on the road, Lonely Planet and Hostel World allow you to search by location, price and type of hostel, with photos and a description of the accommodations.
2. Food
Shopping local markets is a great way to interact with residents, learn about new foods, and how to prepare them. It's amazing how easy it is to converse about food when you don't share a common language.
You'll want several Ziplock bags of varying sizes to store bread and dry foodstuffs. In France, I'd make a to-die-for baguette sandwich with any of their hundreds of cheeses, then stuff it into a large bag for train travel.
A couple extra tips: If you're heading to Spain, I found a cheap and delicious dinner of tapas came free with sangria orders placed during "happy hour." Most stores in Arab countries will offer you a cup of coffee just for stepping across their threshold, should you need a caffeine jolt while shopping.
3. Guide Books
Thanks to online guides, there's no need to fill your luggage with heavy books. I printed out the pages I needed and created a list of vital foreign words I'd need, like "please," "thank you" and "How much does this cost?" Omniglot has an easy-to-use website that will get you started.
Lonely Planet has some great PDF guides and you can buy them by the chapter (roughly $5 each). ArrivalGuides.com and Hostel World offer free online guides, but they're not as comprehensive and the selection is limited.
If computers aren't your thing, buy a bound guidebook, read it, and cut out only the pages you'll need.
4. Trains
Boy do I love train travel. It's cheaper than renting a car or flying, helps you meet new people, and usually drops you off close to the action in major cities. The trick, if you're traveling to a rural destination, is to know the stops before your destination so you can be ready to hop off at a moment's notice.
Another couple handy phrases you should learn in each language are "How much does a ticket cost?" and "From which platform does the train depart?"
It's best to buy your Eurail train passes before leaving as it's cheaper in the United States. My pass ran out once, however, and Eurail provided free shipping on the second one.
5. Money
Rule Number One: Never, never, never exchange money at the airport. You'll pay the highest rate possible. Instead, look for an airport ATM and take out the maximum amount (usually around $200). You'll pay a fee, but not nearly as high as the airport exchange rate.
Rule Two: If you're going to travel a bit upscale, buy gift cards at a discount to purchase American services found in foreign countries. This might include airlines, hotels or car rental agencies for which you can realize up to 25-percent savings.
6. Plastic Safety
Notify all credit card companies you plan on traveling outside the U.S. so they won't place a hold on your account for unusual activity.
Finally, note your credit/debit card numbers and foreign contact phone numbers and keep this info in a safe place, separate from the cards. I stored mine in my email account with a bogus "subject" line. You might need this info should your plastic be stolen or problems arise.
That's about it, except I highly recommend you keep a journal. Traveling alone is lonely at times and writing out your thoughts and experiences helps fill in some gaps. As a bonus, you'll have a personal record of your adventures.
Kate Forgach is a Baby Boomer consumer specialist for Kinoli Inc. She has written about senior issues for 11 years and has been featured in USA Today, Detroit News, New Orleans Times-Picayune, New Yorker magazine, "ABC World News," NBC's "TODAY" show and many other media outlets.
Charitable Giving with The Paradigm Project
With the holidays around the corner, the stress of gifting your loved ones can be overwhelming. A simple and thoughtful solution during these lean economic times, is to pair your holiday with charitable giving. When gifting with The Paradigm Project, your loved one will receive the gift of knowing that a $40 rocket stove in their name will be changing the lives of an entire family, further, an entire community. By gifting with The Paradigm Project you’ll eliminate the risk of families breathing air that equals the equivalent of 40 packs of cigarettes daily. You’ll provide hours of time for families to be with their loved ones or spend more time working to produce viable results for their economy. You’ll be saving trees, helping the environment and saving income.
Are you looking to give a thoughtful gift, stress free, avoiding wrapping and shipping, all while helping a greater cause? Give a rocket stove this season, three billion of us need them.
The Paradigm Project’s mission is to implement 5 million stoves in developing countries worldwide by 2020. The answer is simple, yet powerful. One stove can save $280 of income, 1,300 hours of time, 33 trees, and reduce smoke by 60%, stopping 7.5mt CO2e from reaching our environment. Nearly half of the people in the world cook over open fire, which leads to deforestation, respiratory disease and poverty. Currently, The Paradigm Project has delivered 28,973 stoves.
Charitable Gift Options:
· Fund a Stove: one stove can change a family’s life now and create enough revenue to help two families get stoves.
· Support a Community: build towards a sustainable solution by funding the implementation of stoves for an entire community.
Don't Crank Up the Heat - 6 High-Tech Tips for Keeping Warm This Winter
As temperatures begin to drop, consumers may soon have a lot more on their minds than the coming winter chill. Since 2010, many states have seen the cost of home heating oil rise by as much as 30% or more. Depending on where you live, a particularly glacial season could put a serious freeze on your budget. So instead of just cranking up the thermostat, check out these six alternative tools for keeping costs down and the heat up. Splurging on all of these high-tech solutions could cost you a pretty penny, but pick out one or two and your wallet may thank you come Spring.
1. Cuddle Up with a USB Blanket
If you spend a lot of time at home on the computer, this USB Heated Shawl and Lap Blanket ($24.95) is perfect for keeping away the chills. It plugs into any USB port, comes with two cords and can be worn over the shoulders or across your lap. Just pour yourself a cup of tea and settle in.
2. Keep Your Toes Toasty with Battery-Powered Heating Socks
The The 12 Hour Heated Socks ($24.95) have a thin battery-powered heating element encased in the toe that won't overheat, and are made out of "moisture-wicking" material to keep you toasty, not sweaty.
3. Get Efficient with a Programmable Thermostat
This one's a no-brainer so if you don't have one, get one. A programmable thermostat will automatically lower the temperature of your home at night or while you're out and about, making the heat run less when you're not actively using it.
4. Stay Mobile with Touch-Screen Gloves
iPhone users have long known the frustration of trying to text, swipe or tap while out in the elements. Hopefully you won't need gloves in the house too often, but when Jack Frost really comes a knockin', these babies from Agloves made with a special conductive material will keep you connected.
5. Dodge the Draft with Outlet Insulation
Drafts pass in and out of the home through the outlet and outlet covers, especially the ones along exterior walls. Fortunately there are special outlet and switch gaskets specially made to reduce drafts. Ask your local hardware store or just DIY.
6. Go Old School with the Hot Water Bottle
OK, this is hardly high-tech, but this ingenious invention is still one of the best and easiest ways to stay warm in bed, as well as soothe aches and pains. It's cheap, reusable and will last forever. Tell that to your soon-to-be obsolete iPhone 4.
Halloween Flicks That We Love and Giveaway
Prize: 4 winners will receive a Redbox code.
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October is here and Halloween is creeping up quickly! Households may vary but Redbox is on the hunt to find who turns off the lights and gets scared this month!
The Midwest is running scared, with 9 of the top ten Cities in Michigan, Illinois, Iowa and Ohio. On the other hand, the south loves to be spooked, as 8 of the top ten Horror Hot Spots are south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Residents of Columbus, Mississippi are the bravest though,renting more horror films per capita than any other city across the nation.
Whether you hail from a Horror Hot Spot or a Scaredy Cat City, movies are the iconic way to celebrate this Halloween (it’s true, 75% of Americans are planning to celebrate with a horror movie).
Visit Redbox.com to find your neighborhood Redbox kiosk, or by using the iPhone or Android apps.
Lesha's Top Horror Picks - The Cheesy or Scary
The Night of the Living Dead (1968)
The Exorcist (1973)
The Video Dead (1987)
Jeepers Creepers (2001)
The Shining (1980)
The Haunting in Connecticut (2009)
An American Haunting (2005)
Return of the Living Dead (1985)
Dawn of the Dead (1978 and 2004)
Wrong Turn (2003)
Land of the Dead (2005)
The Ring (2002)
The Skeleton Key (2005)
The Others (2001)
The Sixth Sense (1999)
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The giveaway will conclude October 30th.
Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.
Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.
Calafia Gingered Mashed Yam
Charlie Ayers is now chef/owner of Palo Alto, California’s Calafia Café and author of the cookbook, Food 2.0: Secrets from the Chef Who Fed Google. He was with Google from the start – employee #56, if you’re scoring at home – having won the position in a cook-off in 1999 that was judged by the company’s then 40 employees. While with Google, the number of employees ballooned and Chef Ayers was serving up 4000 lunches a day. Under his leadership, Google earned accolades as having some of the best and healthiest at-work food around.
Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 20 mins
Serves 6
Ingredients
1/4 cup pickled ginger
salt to taste
2 tbsp butter unsalted organic
1 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 cups sour cream (organic low fat)
2 lbs organic yams, peeled and cut into even sized discs
Method
Steam yam with sliced picked ginger pieces in stove top bamboo steamer or in counter top electric steamer until tender (about 10-15 mins, depending on the size.) Drain.
Place in a large-ish bowl and mash with potato masher or pass through a vegetable mill or potato ricer, the later of the three options will produce a fluffier and smoother end result.
Add butter and sour cream. Mix well with rubber spatula or wooden spoon. Season with salt and nutmeg and fresh ground pepper blend.
Advertising Indoctrination: Tips for Avoiding Targeted Online Ads
Human beings look at the world and see a complex network of interconnected individuals, each with their own autonomy and free will. This perception is a far cry from what credit card companies see. Instead, they view individuals as big bundles of data from which they can profit.
The Wall Street Journal recently reported both MasterCard and VISA are working on plans targeting online ads to consumers based on previous credit card purchases. The idea is you pick up a bag of dog food from the store and charge it to your credit card. When you get home and go online, you start seeing ads for corresponding products and services, like dog toys and dog grooming.
Despite the massive amount of personal data we transmit every day, there are still ways to protect yourself from targeted online ads. Try a few of these tips to avoid the watchful eye of Big Brother.
1. Don't Over-Share
Countless websites and stores ask us to provide phone numbers, email addresses and ZIP codes to help them build a marketing profile. Don't bother sharing your details unless they're essential to your purchase. If the guilt of creating fake information keeps you tossing and turning at night, GuerrillaMail.com provides temporary email addresses that last for just 60 minutes.
2. Cut Down on Cookies
"Cookie" is an important keyword here. These small files are stored on your computer every time you visit a website. They're the reason you don't have to log in to Facebook 10 times a day and why you see ads for a pair of shoes viewed yesterday when you're checking your email today. Luckily, the Network Advertising Initiative can help you opt-out of advertising cookies. With just a few simple steps, you're able to block major marketers from access to your browsing habits.
3. Privatize Your Purchases
Don't forget about the main culprits in this personal information panic. All told, VISA and MasterCard process nearly 70 billion transactions each year. All the while, they're collecting and analyzing this massive amount of data. Avoid having your information inspected by opting-out of their analytics programs. MasterCard makes it especially easy; all you have to do is follow this link and opt out of programs in which you don't want to participate. VISA makes it more complicated, but look here for details.
4. Beef Up Your Browser
In response to growing discontent over privacy issues, popular Web browsers like Internet Explorer and Firefox are making it easier to protect personal information. Their latest versions include a private browsing option you can enable to keep your online habits confidential. The browser then won't store such information as cookies, passwords and files you download.
5. Leave No Paper Trail
Paperless statements are good for the environment and also good for your security. Not only does online banking eliminate the amount of personal information you dump in the trash, it also lets you track each purchase instantly. It's a smart security strategy to check your online bank accounts often. This way, you can ensure suspicious items don't slip through the cracks.
6. Get Off the Grid
Credit has practically become our official currency. If you're tired of stressing about credit card security, go old-fashioned. While cash doesn't work online, it doesn't require you share any personal details, either. Gift cards are another good way to avoid using credit. Buying gift cards at less than face value from sites will provide instant savings, plus you can use them both in-store and online. Even better, gift cards aren't attached to any of your personal info.
7. Avoid Auto-Fill
Keeping your credit card number, billing address and shipping address on file at Amazon is handy, but it also makes you more vulnerable. Something simple like forgetting to log out at the library can place your personal details in the wrong hands. Though it's tedious and takes extra time, enter your information anew with each order.
8. Ensure You're Secure
It's surprisingly easy to confirm an online merchant has secure checkout. Always look for "https" in the Web address, instead of just "http." That extra "s" shows your connection is encrypted and unauthorized users will have to go to greater measures to get your information. You can learn more about site-specific security by clicking the appropriate box near the address bar in your browser.
Beatrix New York Review
Beatrix New York is the spot to shop for the hottest lunch boxes, water bottles, big kid backpacks, little kid backpacks, wheelie bags, little eco packs and big eco packs for your child so that he/she can look chic like the celebrity kids.
Halle Berry and Nahla enjoyed a day out with Dieter, the monkey; Katie Holmes and Suri Cruise were spotted at Suri's school with Anatasia, the piggy; Maggie Gyllenhaal and Ramona hit the town with JuJu, the ladybug; Meg Ryan and Daisy headed to school with Yuka, the bee; Ashlee Simpson and Bronx were spotted with the Alister lunch box.
I'm a style obsessed parent, and when I saw the backpacks at Beatrix New York, I knew I wanted one for my son so that he can be different at school. Since my son is 5 years old, and started in kindergarten, I asked for the little kids backpack since it was for ages 2 to 5 years old. The Dieter Backpack ($42) is embroidered with a monkey holding a banana in his hands. It's seems to be a sturdy little pack, but it isn't enough height to hold his folders for school. I won't be able to zip it if I put his folders in. The interior contains a smaller zipped pocket, padded back panel and padded shoulder straps. It's PVC free, lead free, and phthalate free.
Countdown to Holiday Sale: All Fernando items 20% off! Enter code fernando20. Ends Sunday October 30th, 2011.
A different character will be on sale next week, and every week until the Holidays!
The item(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.
Celebrate Food Day with These 5 Budget-Friendly Tips
Confusing food labeling, poor nutrition and unsafe food are primary targets of the Center for Science in the Public Interest. To bring visibility to the importance of these issues, the nonprofit watchdog group named today Food Day.
The organization is helping sponsor thousands of events on Oct. 24 in homes, churches, schools, farmers markets, state capitals and city halls from Alaska to Hawaii.
Here are five frugal shopping tips to help you join in on this effort:
1. Understand Shipment Cycles
Get the freshest food for your dollar by asking about shipment arrival dates at your favorite grocery stores, then shop on the days when new produce is available. The longer food sits around, the more nutrients it loses and the less appetizing it becomes.
2. Spice Up Your Diet
Did you know some herbs and spices can boost your metabolism without caffeine or sugar? These include cayenne pepper, cumin, cinnamon and others found in this LiveStrong.com post. Buy fresh spices in bulk from ethnic food stores or your local coop for 95-percent off the pre-packaged price, but store them in airtight containers.
3. Use Gift Cards
You might think it strange to use discount gift cards for food, but you can actually purchase gift cards for grocery stores for dollars off the card's face value. These cards will cut the price of buying health foods and allow you to shop your favorite stores.
4. Coupon It Up
Thanks to the health food craze, natural and organic coupons have gone big time. Organic Valley, Silk Milks and Earth's Best are just three major manufacturers offering both print and online coupons. Supermarkets also frequently publish coupons for dairy, bakery and fresh-produce products.
5. Try Organic Store Brands
Think generic and you likely think multi-syllabic ingredients, but many major food chains now offer store brands that are both healthy and up to 30-percent less than name brands.
6 Things You Can Get for Free with Your Library Card
Don't just let your library card sit in the back of your wallet collecting dust—make the most of it by taking advantage of all that libraries have to offer. Call your public library (or visit it on the Web) to see if it provides these no-charge services.
1) Free Internet: Trying to cut back on unnecessary spending? Maybe you can ditch your Internet service. Most libraries provide access to computers and the Web—great for job seekers and kids who are researching a school project.
2) Free Delivery: Some libraries bring items to housebound, disabled and elderly cardholders at no charge.
3) Free Tech Support: Many libraries offer training on basic computer skills and how to search the Internet, and most give informal technical assistance. So before you pay a store or a manufacturer, take your questions to a trained librarian.
4) Free E-Books: If you have made the switch from print to electronic, you might be able to borrow e-books on your library’s website. Don’t have an e-reader? Before you add it to your holiday wish list, ask if you can check one out and give it a try.
5) Free Test Prep: Forget paying for a pricey tutor. The majority of libraries now offer online access to subscription databases for practice standardized tests such as the SAT and GRE, as well as other helpful online homework resources.
6) Free Entertainment: Whether it’s for a random Tuesday night or a few weeks over the holidays, when you need to entertain your children for less, head to the library. You probably can find movies and TV shows on DVD, puzzles and games — even passes to local museums.
Source: Marcia Warner, president of the Public Library Association
Gallery Direct Review
The holidays are inching closer and closer. Therefore, this is the perfect time to start thinking about what to get your loved ones if you haven't already. If you know someone that appreciates art, I highly recommend Gallery Direct. They have a broad selection of art that includes vintage, photography, still life, illustration, nature, abstract, and much more! It was hard to choose something to review, because I am in love with their vintage collection and there are too many favorites! When I came across their music collection, I immediately knew what I wanted to review!
I opted for the Sacred Heart Lennon by William Stidham (Mirror Framed; F0075 - 3" Natural and Metallic Espresso, Black with Gold), because my boyfriend appreciates art and loves John Lennon. I'd list the price like I usually do, but the price varies. The price is depended on what type of picture you want - canvas, paper, mirror, acrylic, aluminum, and wood. Mine is valued at $329, but it is currently on sale for $247. It's well worth the price! The picture above doesn't do any justice for it, because it's much more beautiful in person. It was also much bigger than I expected! I can hardly wait for the day to arrive for me to give this to my boyfriend.
This print is exclusive, part of a series of 950 prints. Each signed and numbered image is recreated from the original source material. Whether you or a loved someone is a music fan, you might also wanted to check out the Sacred Heart Elvis, Sacred Heart Johnny Cash, Sacred Heart Jimi Hendrix, and Sacred Heart Kurt Cobain.
Other artwork that is currently on my radar: Cabaret du Chat Noir , Sofie's Choice, Descent DAbsalon - French Circus Poster , and Between the Acts Cigarettes - I'm not a smoker, but I love vintage ads!
The item(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.
Pumpkin Patch Orange Pop Rocks
Edible Wizard Wands
Ingredients:
Pretzel Rods
Baking Chocolate
Pumpkin Patch Orange Pop Rocks
Extras:
Wax paper
1. Melt chocolate in deep microwave safe bowl in microwave oven according to the directions.
2. Let chocolate cool and slightly thicken for approximately one minute.
3. Pour, stir and mix desired amount of Pop Rocks into slightly thickened chocolate.
4. Dip pretzel rods midway into melted chocolate and Pop Rocks mixture.
5. Place chocolate and Pop Rocks covered pretzel rods on wax paper to let cool
6. Refrigerate until served
Drinkable Popping Potion Ingredients:
Orange and Lime Jello
Pop Rocks
Ginger ale or Lemon Lime Soda
Extras:
Clear cups
1. Prepare Jello according to the instructions on the box
2. Cut the Jello up into small cubes
3. Set cubes of each flavor in a separate own bowl
4. Allow party guests to fill their cup with Jello, alternating colors as they like
5. Pour some Pop Rocks on top (not too many, or you'll have a mess)
6. Pour Ginger ale or lemon lime soda on top, and enjoy!
LaDonna's Cinnamon Rolls
Recipe Courtesy of LaDonna Bowman
My mom's friend loves to whip up delectable recipes in her kitchen. She wanted to share this tasty recipe with our readers. I hope you enjoy it much as we did!
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water +2 tbsp. water
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 2 1/2 cups of bread flour
- 2 1/4 tsp. of active dry or bread machine yeast
If using a bread machine to mix, just mix all the ingredients in a pan and select dough and start. If you use a Kitchen-Aid, then you use the knead blade and then let it rest for one hour and a half.
Then, put it on a lightly dusted flour surface, roll it out in a 9x14 inch rectangle, brush butter on dough, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, roll it up like a jelly roll, and slice into 1 inch slices in a greased or sprayed pan. Cover and let it set for 45 minutes, or until it is double in size. Bake at 350 to 375, depending on the pan you use. If using a dark pan, 350, regular pan is 375 for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from pan and put icing if you desire.
Ease Stress with Rescue Remedy
Rescue Remedy, the natural stress relieving formula used by millions including celebs like Emma Watson, Cate Blanchett and Jennifer Aniston to stress-less and cope with life’s demands.
I'm the kind of person that doesn't like taking nerve medication when under stress or having a panic attack. I usually use Valerian Root or Passionflower supplements, but I also like to use other natural products to see how effective they are. Therefore, I jumped at the opportunity to review the Rescue Remedy when they contacted me about this line.
Rescue Remedy works almost instantly whenever I feel a bit stressed out. I've been feeling stressed out more than usual lately. Therefore, this came at a perfect time. I like that it's available in several convenient formats to fit within your busy day. I received the Spray, Gum in Elderflower (also available in Zesty Orange), and the Pastilles in Elderflower & Orange (also available in Black Currant). I preferred the gum and pastilles over the spray, because I like to have something to chew on whenever I'm feeling a little stressed or panicky. Salma Hayek Pinault recently mentioned in the September 2011 issue of InStyle Magazine that she loves to chew the Pastilles rather than gum or mints, because they help make her feel calm. She even gives them to her daughter (Valentina) on the plane.
A blend of 5 of the 38 Bach® Original Flower Remedies, RESCUE Remedy® is perfect for anyone with a "To Do" list. Keep Pastilles handy for the rush of your commute, Drops in your child's beverage before an exam, or Gum in your purse for that unexpected change in schedule.
You won't find anything but all natural ingredients in RESCUE Remedy®, so go on and Rescue your friends and family (including the four-legged kind!)
The item(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.
Hail Merry Review
I recently had the opportunity to sample Hail Merry’s gluten-free, vegan, raw macaroons. VegNews Magazine awarded their products the Best New Vegan Product at the Natural Products Expo West earlier this year. I received the Chocolate Macaroons ($4.99) and Blonde Macaroons ($4.99). Both were good, but I favored the Chocolate Macaroons since they sort of reminded me of truffles. This makes me hungry thinking about them. Too bad they're all gone! If you eat these at room temp, they will literally melt in your mouth! These are a simply delectable and healthy treat.
Merry worked hard to make these the most luxurious, best tasting raw macaroons you will ever try. Dehydrated at low temps and made with organic expeller pressed coconut oil. Their certified gluten-free vegan macaroons do not contain refined sugars. However, they are full of fiber and offer the health benefits of raw coconut oil. This company is owned by women from Dallas Texas who invite you to join our journey to higher health.
Ingredients: Made with organic shredded coconut, almond flour, organic expeller pressed coconut oil, pure maple syrup, organic Mexican vanilla and sea salt. (3.5 oz. bag, 8 pieces per bag.)
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.
Southern Living Style Review and Giveaway
Prize: One winner will receive Southern Living Style.
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Entry Limit: Daily (this excludes bonus entries, except for tweets)
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Normally, books on interior design wouldn't appeal to me, but Southern Living Style captured my attention! It's filled with beautiful pictures and offers very inspiring ideas on how to recreate your home with a southern, yet chic flavor. You can easily make your home luxurious, but approachable without going over your budget. You don't have to be highly creative or an interior designer to appreciate this book!
Instead of letting ordinary furniture become dust collectors or ending up on Freecycle, you can easily give that plain looking chest or old looking chair a make-over! For an example, that basic pine chest in your bedroom is probably the most boring piece of furniture in there. You can easily slap a fresh, thick coat of orange paint on it. This will make your bedroom look bright and cheery. And, instead of getting new knobs for it, you can use a coat of paint in a contrasting color. This is one of many ideas!
Key Features:
Defining Southern Style: From heirlooms to monograms, discover new ways to celebrate traditional icons.
Reclaim It! Tips to turn grandma’s attic finds into updated treasures.
Solutions: Top Southern designers offer solutions for design dilemmas.
Style on a Budget: Identify individual style and build a room around a single inspiration—the color of a scarf, the pattern of a fabric, even a tag-sale relic.
Why it Works?: A piece-by-piece deconstruction of rooms to show the key components required to achieve a particular look. From family friendly to classic, discover what to start with, top with and add to make a room personal, stylish and functional.
Southern Style File: A black book of editors’ favorite designers, retailers, and more.
Defining Southern Style: A glossary of helpful “decorator speak” terms.
The item(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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The giveaway will conclude November 5th.
Note: The winner will be randomly chosen through Random.org.
Winner must respond within 72 hours of notification.
Pottery Barn Kids Review
Pottery Barn Kids offers everything from costumes, including an expanded assortment for babies, to all of the décor you’ll need to create a spooktacular Halloween party both inside and out! The Pottery Barn Kids Halloween 2011 Collection is offered online and in stores.
Receive Free Shipping and save up to 40% off on Halloween Costumes and Treat Bags!
I was a bit stumped about what kind of costume that I was going to get my son this year. I like costumes that are unique. Therefore, I didn't want to just get any costume. Luckily, Pottery Barn Kids contacted me to review some of their Halloween items. While they don't have a broad selection of costumes, they do have some adorable ones to choose from. I immediately opted for the Toddler Furry Monster Costume (Reg. $59 Sale Price: $34.99), because it's one of the most adorable boy costumes I've come across so far. My son also immediately fell in love with it after we received it. It took some heavy persuasion for him to take it off!
The Toddler Furry Monster Costume is a three-dimensional costume that is stuffed with polyester padding and sewn of fleece and acrylic fur with cotton lining for warmth and comfort. Perfect for this cooler weather! It comes with a body suit and headpiece. However, it doesn't come with undergarments (i.e. a matching green shirt or pants). Considering the original price, you think they would, but alas...not! Therefore, I'm going have to find something that will match his costume, which shouldn't be too hard to do. This costume is undeniably cute and is picture perfect!
Sadly, they didn't have a treat bag that would go well with his costume. I still managed to find one that I thought was cute, which is the Skeleton Treat Bag (Reg. $14.50 Sale Price: $7.99). Personalization is available for an additional $7. The only downside is they couldn't personalize my son's name on. I didn't think 5 extra letters would have hurt, but it's still a cute treat bag. ;)
The item(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.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Holiday Weddings
The countdown to the holidays has begun. With it comes the only time of year that's simultaneously joyous and stressful. For some, this season will bring with it the event of a lifetime: a wedding. Those planning holiday winter weddings have several opportunities to save money and lessen the stress burden for themselves and their guests.
1. Deck the Halls.
Most event locations will have already decked the halls for the holidays, allowing you to piggyback their efforts for a low-cost wedding. Go with Christmas hues of gold, red and green -- or go for a silvery winter blitz. Strings of white Christmas lights will transform any room into a holiday paradise.
2. Silver Bells.
Create budget large-scale ornaments as decorations using Styrofoam balls spray-painted and covered in glitter. Or create groupings of bare branches spray-painted white and covered in silver glitter. Paper ornaments, like these ornament greeting cards, make great wedding invitations or wedding favors.
3. Seasons Eatings.
Comfort food is a popular winter wedding choice (think soups, pasta, pot pies, mac-n-cheese). Don't shy away from cost-cutting measures like serving family-style or buffet. Consider a hot chocolate, cider, eggnog or coffee bar your guests can immediately help themselves to (plus: you'll save hundreds by skipping the alcohol).
4. Marshmallow World.
Gingerbread houses make quaint table centerpieces, as do natural greenery and berries. Cocoa mixes or cookie cutters also make inexpensive wedding favors.
5. Peace on Earth and Online.
Couples are increasingly using online wedding planning tools, like creating or sending save-the-date and invitations online (40-percent increase over the last two years), personal websites and online RSVP services (23-percent and 31-percent increases respectively) and using social media to communicate wedding details (78-percent increase), according to TheKnot.com. Brides and grooms also have the option of registering online for gift cards, which is a great option for guests already overwhelmed with holiday shopping lists.
6. Jingle Bell Rock.
If you chose to have your wedding around the holidays, it's likely a favorite time of year for you. As such, incorporating favorite holiday tunes into your wedding reception is a must, and a fantastic way to get your guests into the holiday spirit. Last.fm is an excellent, economical method to pipe in some yuletide carols at the appropriate time during your reception.
When all is said and done, you'll begin your first happy new year together, and that's something to celebrate indeed.
Platinum Two and Half Inch Wood Blind
I've been working on changing my living room for the past year. After I received my tax money earlier this year, I bought a new sofa set and a coffee table. I also bought several other things for the home. I recently received a beautiful Mohawk Home Raymond Waites Sahara Rug, which has really livened up the living room.
I never thought about changing my blinds until now. Long as I've been living in my home (almost 9 years), I've had to buy blinds a few times already since they would easily tear or break due to being too flimsy.I wish I had thought of a wood blind treatment long time ago, because this could have easily nipped my "blind" problem in the bud! Even though these blinds are heavy, you can be assured that they're very sturdy. Therefore, you don't have to worry about them breaking that easily!
I received the platinum wood blind treatment in Rich Walnut (Reg. $112.86; Sale Price: $101.57) from Blinds Chalet, which fits right in with my Safari theme perfectly! It truly enhances the look of a home since wooden blinds are classy, elegant, sophisticated. These wood blinds are made from the highest quality wood and components. Forty percent thicker wood slats than conventional blinds. Blinds Chalet offers a broad selection of paints and stains that will easily accommodate the look of your home.
The blinds that I received are regularly $112.86, but you can get them on sale for $101.57. However, if you order them now, you can save even more money by entering 30% off coupon code: OCT30 at the checkout. $71.10 will be your final price - what a steal! You'll also receive Free Shipping. You must hurry, because the sale ends tonight!
They have more than 25 years of experience selling and installing window blinds & window shades throughout the southwestern United States. Each of their window blinds and window shades are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Therefore, you can be assured that you're getting the best!
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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.
STARZ Original Series BOSS
I'm honestly not much of a Kelsey Grammer fan, but his new original series looks promising. It will be airing on the STARZ network for the first time tomorrow, October 21 at 10 PM ET/PT.
Series Synopsis:
Ruthless Mayor Tom Kane (Kelsey Grammer) sits like a spider at the center of Chicago’s web of power; a web built on a covenant with the people. They want to be led, they want disputes settled, jobs dispensed, and loyalties rewarded. If he achieves all this through deception and immorality, so be it. As long as he gets the job done, they look the other way.
Yet despite being the most effective mayor in recent history, a degenerative brain disorder is ripping everything away from him. He can’t trust his memory, his closest allies, or even himself.
Kane’s wife Meredith (Connie Nielsen) knows nothing. Theirs is a marriage of convenience. Kitty O'Neil (Kathleen Robertson), Kane’s political aide, has her suspicions but stays silent. Kane’s chief of staff, Ezra Stone (Martin Donovan), has no illusions about the stakes involved and doesn’t ask questions. And State Treasurer Ben Zajac (Jeff Hephner) is too concerned with his own political ambitions to notice anything unusual.
Only Emma (Hannah Ware), Kane’s estranged daughter, has a chance of learning his secret. This is going to be the toughest term yet for the Boss.
Be sure to check out http://scandalousdirt.com for the latest scoop. They currently have a few videos on their web-site where you can go behind the scenes, view the trailer, and get a little sneak peek! The first episode can be viewed online without a Starz subscription.
Disclosure: This promotional sponsored post was made possible by Mom Spark Media. I was compensated for my time and work on this campaign. Any opinions shared are my own.
Tic Tac Pink Grapefruit Giveaway
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Limited Edition Tic Tac® pink grapefruit mints are back! Available only through November, the special color and flavor is part of the Tic Tac brand’s ongoing Shake, Share & Care campaign and support of Cancer Care®, a national organization focused on providing support for people affected by cancer, including caregivers, loved ones and the bereaved.
To help raise awareness and support for those affected by a cancer diagnosis,Tic Tac mints will once again donate $100,000 to Cancer Care and has also launched the Extraordinary Caregiver Contest on the Tic Tac USA Facebook page.
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The giveaway will conclude October 31st.
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Pregnancy & Makeup: A Beautiful, Healthy You
When a woman first learns that she is pregnant,her considerations shift from everyday worries, to what in her life is about to quickly change. With those changes comes a unique set of challenges for the skin.For the duration of a pregnancy, and as hormone levels fluctuate, makeup becomes an issue to be addressed. Should the “tried-and-true”routine change as a woman develops in her pregnancy? When it comes to skin,celebrities like Beyonce and Hilary Duff seem to have tweaked their classic makeup looks to maximize the good and conceal the bad. Here, makeup expert Gail Sagel, President and CEO of FACES Beautiful and creator of the Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup, offers readers tips to rely on for keeping skin looking and feeling its best throughout a pregnancy.
Don’t Cover Up That Natural Glow
“As a mother myself, I know the toll that pregnancy can take on the body, particularly your skin. As a makeup artist, I know that makeup can be a very effective tool for enhancing your skin or covering up some hormonal boo boo. My biggest mantra is,let your natural beauty show for all to see. Don’t cover up that natural glow – unless you are over-glowing!” says Gail.
· If your skin seems its regular self, then your best bet is to use a sheer tinted moisturizer, with sun protection, just to keep your skin supple, while enhancing your skin tones. I especially like mineral makeup during pregnancy,since it’s so good for sensitive skin and during pregnancy – everything is more sensitive.
· If your skin has taken on a new dryness or flakiness then you’ll want to use a gentle creamy cleanser, exfoliate frequently and use a moist liquid foundation that will help keep your glow. A glow highlighter applied to your upper cheekbones will also give you a moist sheen, if you’re dry.
· If your skin has become oily, then it’s time to change to a foundation that is oil-free to help absorb your extra perspiration and moisture. Also,you may be getting extra redness from using products to help dry out the acne.So to counteract the redness, use a foundation, concealer or powder in a slightly more yellow tone than normal.
· Remember;during the day, whether you are using a moisturizer, a sheer tint, a foundation, or a powder – make sure your product offers protection from the sun. You may have issues with Melasma, which is common during pregnancy. Melasma is the appearance of brown patches on your face. But, protecting your skin from the sun will also protect you against developing real hyper-pigmentation,which won’t disappear post pregnancy.
Lather Up Lashes With Vaseline
Being incredibly warm and perspiring a lot is normal during pregnancy. For those pregnant women who seem to be sweating no matter where they are or what they are doing, waterproof products can be a solution to runny makeup. And, it is a quick fix. But, Gail does not recommend staying on waterproof products, as they tend to be more drying to your skin and not especially formulated for sensitive skin.
Gail explains, “All of a pregnant woman’s nutrients are leaving her body in an effort to create this new little body. So, it’s common for pregnant women to lose some of their eyelashes. Take a break from your everyday mascara and look for one that’s super hydrating – or lightly apply a little Vaseline to lashes for a great sheen and added moisture.”
· Smudging under the eyes is one of the biggest tell-tale signs that a woman is overheated, and perhaps should switch to a waterproof liner and mascara. Also,stick to powders rather than creamy facial products underneath the powder, as the look will appear cakey.
· If you feel naked without your concealer, make sure to choose a product that is light and breathable, and be careful to use a light application. Use a concealer brush to dab areas that are reddened or irritated.
· Because everyone’s hormones are different, you will either be dealing with drier or oilier skin. Adjust accordingly; exfoliate regularly in either case,moisturize to combat dryness, and phase oily products out of your regimen if you’re dealing with added oil.
Play Up Your Favorite Feature
“Pregnancy makeup isn’t all about hiding what’s wrong with your skin. It’s also about playing up those naturally beautiful features that are enhanced with pregnancy while still having fun with your makeup routine. Celebrities don’t change their overall look too much, and neither should you. I always play up at least one feature when applying makeup to pregnant women, and you should, too!”says Gail.
· Play up your lips: Go for a bold, fun moisturizing lip gloss with lip liner so that it won’t have to be maintained throughout the day. Right now, red lips are all the rage and will enhance the natural glow that pregnancy provides.
· Perhaps you’re suffering from unsightly Melasma, which commonly appears on the upper lip. Stick with a more neutral gloss or lipstick, and play up your peepers. Go for a bold smoky eye, or if that’s too involved, go with alight gold color and add flecks to the outer corners of your eyes. Keep your eyeliner simple and defined, and it will work for either day or night.
· If your skin is positively glowing, go simple on the lips and eyes. Use a light color on eyes, with limited liner, and use a lip gloss that is close to your own lip shade. Let your skin be the star!
7 Tips to Save Big on Black Friday
1. Gather information. Follow your favorite retailers on Facebook and Twitter and subscribe to their e-newsletters — loyal customers often get first dibs on sales and special promotions. Also comb through newspaper ads on Wednesdays, and check websites that leak in-store or online sale information, such as bfads.net, theblackfriday.com, blackfriday.info and blackfriday.com.
2. Make a list. Figure out which of your must-have products are most heavily discounted and in highest demand, then give those higher priority. Then map out your route, noting what time each store will open that day.
3.Scope it out. Either visit the stores on Wednesday night or call and ask each store manager when the sale starts, how early you can get in line and where the products you’re looking for are likely to be located. (Black Friday sale items often are stocked in unusual places.)
4.Time it right. Plan your shopping trip based on your priority list and any time-specific deals. For example, if a flat-screen TV you want is 70 percent off between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., start your day at that store at least an hour early.
5. Be prepared. Carry ads with you (especially if you’re going to a store that price-matches). Dress in layers to avoid overheating, and bring water and a snack. Keep your receipts and note return deadlines (Black Friday products might not have extended return policies).
6. Snap up deals ahead of time. You can shop before Black Friday and still get the best deal on some things. Both MasterCard and Visa, for example, will reimburse you the cost difference if an advertised Black Friday price is lower than the price you recently paid for the same item; you need to send your receipt, the ad and a claim form within 60 days of the ad’s publication.
7. Skip the mall. Many retailers start Web-only sales at the end of Thanksgiving Day, at midnight. If you’re looking for a specific item, set up a price-drop alert on a site such as pricepinx.com.
Sources: Michelle Madhok, founder of Shefinds.com; and Kathy Spencer, author of How to Shop for Free: Shopping Secrets for Smart Women Who Love to Get Something for Nothing
Betty Crocker® Molasses Cookie Mix Review and Giveaway
Prize: One winner will receive a Betty Crocker® Molasses Cookie mix prize pack which includes a Betty Crocker apron, non-stick baking pan, and mixing spoon.
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With a delectably soft and chewy texture, and great spice cookie taste, new Betty Crocker® Molasses Cookie mix combines real molasses flavor with hints of cinnamon and spice for a homemade taste that you’ll love. Look for Betty Crocker Molasses Cookie mix in the baking aisle of grocery stores this fall.
In addition, you can visit http://bit.ly/cookiescoupon to download a printable coupon for $0.75 off the purchase of one (1) Betty Crocker® Molasses Cookie mix pouch today!
I wasn't sure what was in store for me since I had never tried molasses cookies prior to this. However, these cookies were surprisingly good! They're very similar to Ginger Snaps, which is one of my few favorite delectable treats, especially around this time of year. Making these cookies was a very pleasant and easy experience since the mix only required 1 stick of butter, 1 tablespoon of water, and 1 egg. I didn't think my son would like these since he's a really picky eater, but these cookies were gone in no time!
The product, information and prize pack has been provided by Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark.
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The giveaway will conclude November 5th.
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The Cutest Costume Ideas
Atutudes Breakfast at Tiffany's Little Black Dress
Smurfette Inspired Tutu Toddler Costume
Elvis Costume
Lucille Ball - I Love Lucy Costume
Alice in Wonderland Retro Apron Dress
Mad Hatter Costume - Alice in Wonderland Vintage Style
Up Costume
Ringmaster Costume
Ventriloquist Doll Baby Costume
Triscuit and Picnic Basket Baby Costume
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