Curiously Alisson

New Way of Eating

2020-07-29T20:43:00.000-04:00

Hi. I've decided to start up on my blog again. It's been way too long & what better time to re-commit myself to this, than now. Right?

I've been on and off Keto for the last several years and was able to drop around 15 pounds, I got below 200 punds, which was really exciting! But, once the pandemic rear up, I used it as an excuse to fall off the keto wagon-hard. I've been struggling since then to get back.

Fast forward to the beginning of July. My husband, off handedly, said he didn't think I could to Raw Vegan. I said, I'll do it for a week; and I did. That turned into me doing some strange combonation of Vegan/Vegetarian. When I "research" a new diet or way of eating I obsessively watch YouTube videos about that particular subject. All three (raw vegan, vegetarian, starch solution) are closely related.

I'm not sure how I arrived at the starch solution, but I'm glad I did. As far as I understand you eat whole foods and are vegan, but also oil free. You are to basically eat starchy veggies and cruciferous veggies at each meal. That is what it is, in the simplest form.

So, I am fumbling my way through with the help of Dr. McDougall's The Starch Solution and YouTubers. I am back over 200 pounds again, but I think once I get a handle on this way of eating, I will easily get under that.

This is my dinner for the evening. I found this bowl on Amazon. I looked for a dish that was split in half because I need to have half starchy veggies and half cruciferous veggies.

I'm going to try and be consistent with this, and am considering doing some YouTube videos. What do you think?

** My blog contains affiliate links**

The Christmas Chronicles--Now Streaming on Netflix!

2018-11-22T12:38:00.000-05:00

The Christmas Chronicles is a wishful, hilarious, family festive adventure. This is our first live action family film with a well established director and big profile actor in Kurt Russell. From producer Chris Columbus (“Home Alone”, "Harry Potter") and director Clay Kaytis ("The Angry Birds Movie"), The Christmas Chronicles, tells the story of sister and brother, Kate (Darby Camp) and Teddy Pierce (Judah Lewis), whose Christmas Eve plan to catch Santa Claus (Kurt Russell) on camera turns into an unexpected journey that most kids could only dream about. After staking out Santa’s arrival, they sneak into his sleigh, cause it to crash and nearly derail Christmas. As their wild night unfolds, Kate and Teddy work together with Santa - as you've never seen him before - and his loyal Elves to save Christmas before it's too late.

See my Facebook Post

I was able to preview The Christmas Chronicles a few days early. It was really great! There is a great surprise at the end, that I won't ruin, cause no spoilers on my blog! The acting is wonderful and the holiday message is touching. I encourage you to watch it with your whole family during the holiday season!

Learn more about The Christmas Chronicles on their social media:

Instagram, Facebook, and their website.

I received compensation for this post, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Stream Your Favorite Shows & More with Google Chromecast from Best Buy

2018-10-15T09:59:00.000-04:00

Google Chromecast has some really great features like:

You can watch movies, shows, live TV, YouTube, and photos streaming on your TV from all your family's devices.¹ Plus, you can stream directly from your phone to TV! How many times have you been looking at something on your phone that you wanted to share with the rest of your family? With the Google Chromecast, its super easy!

All you have to do is plug Chromecast into the HDMI port on your TV to power and stream your favorite entertainment right from your phone with just a tap. Watch shows, listen to playlists, and more. And while streaming, you can still use your phone as you normally do.

Works with the streaming apps you know and love! Enjoy TV shows, movies, videos, songs, games, sports and more from over 2000 apps like Netflix, YouTube, YouTube TV, and HBO NOW.

Start streaming with just your voice, all you have to do is say what you want to watch from compatible apps and control your TV hands-free, with Chromecast and Google Home working seamlessly together.²

“Ok Google, play Stranger Things from Netflix on my living room TV.” ¹

Upgrade your TV for less and expand your home entertainment without buying a new TV. It's so affordable, you can get one for every TV in the house.

The following are some key specifications to keep in mind, but also check out bestbuy.com or your local store for the newest and most up to date Google Chromecast model and information available.

High-speed wireless connectivity-Built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi connects to the Internet through your wireless home network (wireless router required and sold separately). Chromecast is compatible with your existing HDTV and easily connects to high-definition televisions with HDMI connectivity. Web-based services and content require high-speed Internet service. Some services may require a subscription.

¹ Subscriptions are required to view some content.

² Google Home, Chromecast, and compatible content required to cast to a TV using Google Home.

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

Dr. Jacobs Naturals Product Review

2018-05-21T11:23:00.000-04:00

I recently received a few of Dr. Jacobs Naturals products for review. I had never heard of them before, but am really impressed with the quality of the items. Their products are all natural, free from harsh chemicals, and safe enough to use on pets.

The first thing I took out of the box was a Castile Bar Soap in Luscious Lavender. Lavender is my favorite scent, but it is very difficult to find products that actually smell like real lavender flowers. Well, this Dr. Jacobs Castile Soap does! It smells just like the lavender that I grow in my garden. It feels and smells great when using it and rinses off cleanly without any residue.

The second thing I removed from the box was the Dr. Jacobs Naturals Castile Liquid Soap in Eucalyptus. The one I received came in a pump, making it perfect for a hand soap and face wash on our bathroom sink. I think it smells a bit like tea tree oil, but only lightly; I find it a pleasant scent. My son has a habit of still having soap suds around his wrists when he is done washing his hands, I haven't noticed that with this soap. It rinses off cleanly and is gentle enough to use on our face at bedtime too.

The final item that I took out of the box was the Dr. Jacobs Naturals Castile Liquid Soap in Almond Honey. It smells like candy or cookies! It would be a great winter scent. It also, just like the other two rinses off well, without residue left behind.

There is an offer for free shipping with a $20 purchase on their site with code FREESHIP20, check it out now; they have some wonderful products!

**Sponsored Post**

True Citrus Be Healthy Be Happy Be True Sweepstakes + 40% Off

2018-05-02T00:21:00.000-04:00

True Citrus - Be Healthy, Be Happy, Be True Sweepstakes Click to learn how to get extra entries! ENTER HERE through June 15.

The #HealthyHappyTrue Sweepstakes was created by True Citrus to celebrate how people live their healthiest, happiest and truest life possible.

Entering provides the chance to win a grand prize including a $10,000 cash prize, a Vitamix Professional Series Blender ($600 value), Fitbit watch ($200 value), a True Lemon thermal water bottle and a sampling of all True Citrus products.

Interested in trying True Citrus for yourself? Save 40% on your order at www.truelemonstore.com by entering the code TRUEFAMILY40US at checkout.

This is a sponsored post.

Divatress Crochet Braids

2018-03-28T23:14:00.000-04:00

This is a sponsored post, all opinions are mine.

Divatress is a leading online site that sells wigs and beauty products. They have over 100 different types of crochet braids to chose from. Not only that, but, within those braids there are several color choices also. I'm amazed by the variety that is available.

Divatress offers free shipping on orders over $49 in the continental United States.

The crochet braids come with a crochet hook to allow for easy hair installation. There are both synthetic and human hair options. Divatress also has so many different options like braids, large waves, smaller waves, and several others. Crochet braids are a great way to change your hairstyle and color temporary without any chemicals or other damaging products.

If you are looking for a great selection of weaves, wigs, half wigs, braiding hair, ponytails; divatress is the site for you! They also have an impressive selection of beauty products like make up, eye lashes, nails, and more. There are literally thousands of items for sale on the site at really great prices! Go check it out now, they are also having an Easter sale right now for an additional 40% off clearance items!

Cars.com Has It All

2018-01-30T19:57:00.002-05:00

Sponsored Post

Cars.com is a great tool for those looking at buying or selling a car. The site has a full range of expert reviews, comparison tools, and informative videos. Research is really important when you are thinking of buying a new car. If you know what type of vehicle you are going to buy you can search by model; such as mini van, SUV, or sedan. But, if you are partial to a specific brand there is also a search by make option. Want a new car, but not quite sure of the specific features you want? Cars.com offers side-by-side comparisons on up to four vehicles at a time.

Are you looking to sell your vehicle? Cars.com gives you the option to sell to a dealer directly or to sell it yourself. Not only that, but you can find out your cars value, to be sure that you don't get taken advantage of during the sale.

I think my favorite part of the cars.com website are the how-to videos, from changing your own oil to replacing one of your turn signal bulbs. I searched my Toyota on the site and it returned over 50 how-to videos! So, if you are in the market for pretty much anything related to cars, check out cars.com!

Colortime Crafts-Product Review and Savings!

2017-09-26T11:06:00.000-04:00

Colortime Crafts and Markers has a great variety of products. Check out their site for party supplies at reasonable prices for birthday parties and sleepovers! With Colortime Crafts and Markers coloring pillowcases, t-shirts, backpacks, permanent fabric markers, and more.

I received a tote bag and three markers to facilitate my review. I placed a shipping envelope inside the bag, so there was no bleeding. Even though the markers are damp, they didn't get on my skin while coloring the bag. I know my daughter is going to enjoy taking this cute tote with her trick-or-treating!

The glowing web in the background is really fun too!

Don't forget that Colortime has t-shirts, pillowcases, and tote bags!! You still have plenty of time to order before Halloween too!

New special glow-in-the-dark ink items available! Clean, easy, and affordable crafts activity that doubles as a unique keepsake!

For savings, join our "Birthday Club" and receive 20% off and a free backpack, with your order at http://www.colortime.com/

Click on this Link for the Latest Online Special offers and promo codes to Colortime Crafts and Markers.

15% Off Any Order at Colortime Crafts and Markers Code: FGH15

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*I received free product as compensation for sharing this offer.*

Ketogenic Diet-I Made it Through Day One!

2017-01-04T21:55:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my first day on the Ketogenic Diet! I started to start on the 1st, you know; new year new me? But, I had a migraine and didn't really prep; by prep I mean binging on carbs! Because, that day I was like but I didn't drink a cup of milk yesterday and what about these crackers I got from Trader Joe's. So, I postponed it until I felt better.

Having watched my husband on this diet for the past month or so makes it a bit easier. I kind of know what it takes, but that doesn't make my willpower any stronger. I have a really difficult time not snacking on chips, cookies, and other junk food. Plus, the prospect of not eating dessert is a little frightening. Haha. I LOVE dessert! But, with a family history of diabetes I need to get passed that. I can do it, right?

I have found that snacking on macadamia nuts and peanuts works to curb my snacking tendencies, but I can't eat more than one serving at a time. In fact, not more than a couple a day; depending on how many other carbs I have had.

What about you? Are you trying to improve your health this year? Are you on a Ketogenic Diet? Another diet? Let me know in the comments, I would love for you to share!

Happy New Year 2017

2016-12-31T22:49:00.000-05:00

I know a lot of people have been complaining about how bad of a year 2016 has been. For the most part I have to agree. The low part of the year for my family was when my husband went on strike for more than 40 days. We lost our healthcare during that time and had no income. We, still haven't fully recovered. Last month my mom ended up in the hospital with pneumonia and some other issues (at one point I was worried she might not make it.) Thankfully, she is doing better, though not 100% yet. But, there were also highlights; my oldest daughter graduated high school and started college, my son got accepted to and is attending a gifted middle school, and my youngest daughter (that is selective mute) said "trick or treat" to each person that gave her candy, she even said "thank you" or "Happy Halloween." This is the first year she has ever done that! Talk about proud! She still isn't talking at school, but I will take the small victories.

So, there is a lot of hope that 2017 will be a better year. I don't generally make New Year's resolutions, and don't have much willpower to keep up with them. However, there are two things that I would like to do this year.

First, I saw on Facebook a really great idea: you take an empty jar and each week write down something good that happened and put it in the jar. On New Years Eve read them all to look back on all of the good things that happened. This has the making of an awesome tradition that I would love for my kids to continue when they are older! I picked up my jar today along with a pack of half sized index cards and Sharpie pens, for writing down all of my family's good moments throughout the year!

And: Be healthier! I talk about this all of the time, but never really do anything to change. I have a family history of diabetes. I am overweight and have high blood pressure since giving birth to my youngest daughter (8 and a half years ago.) Really, 8 years?! What am I waiting for? A problem I have is that I don't see myself as overweight. I was always 'skinny' growing up and could eat anything. I never got back to that size since having my oldest, almost 19 years ago. But, this is the heaviest I've been. So, I need to move more and eat less junk food! I want to be healthier for myself, my husband, but most of all for my kids. My youngest is super active and loves running, all of the time. I want to be able to run around with her, she deserves it! My son is overweight. He deserves seeing that it is possible to turn your health around. I don't want him going into his teen years with serious health issues that are sure to come if we don't change.

My husband has recently started a ketogenic diet. He's eating very little carbs and filling up with protein and fats. The reason he began that diet is because he discovered that he had reactive hypoglycemia. After eating things like pasta or rice he would get very tired and out of it. I never thought he would be able to survive without carbs, but he is doing it! He hasn't had much weight loss yet, which is discouraging him. I remind him that the reason he started the diet was because of how he felt after eating carbs.

I'm not sure what I'm going to do as far as my diet, but I do know that moving more is the key to being healthier. My husband has given me courage that I can do this because if he can stop eating carbs then I can stop eating junk!

Do you have a New Years Resolution? Share with me in the comments below!

My Bathroom Makeover in Day of the Dead

2016-11-03T18:59:00.000-04:00

It all started with a shower curtain. I was shopping around at Home Goods and saw this pretty flowered shower curtain. I bought it. At the time I had the idea to do a mini make over in my bathroom, but wasn't sure what type. The shower curtain was affordable and brightly colored. It wasn't until I got up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night after putting my new shower curtain up that I realized something. It resembled the flowers on the Sugar Skulls from Dia De Los Muertos (at least to my sleepy self.) Then, the next day my eight year old daughter told me the same thing!

The shower curtain that started it all.

Thats when I realized I could decorate my bathroom in Dia De Los Muertos! It is the perfect time of year for it, since the event happens in the beginning of November. I might have gone a little nuts too. I went EVERYWHERE to find things that would compliment my decor; Michaels, AC Moore, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, Kohl's, Five Below, Kroger, Party City.... I'm sure there are others that I can't recall right now.

It was fun, but also time consuming. Each of the places that I went to had some Day of the Dead stuff, but often it wasn't what I was looking for. Eventually though, I ended up with quite a nice collection of stuff to use in my bathroom. The only thing I'm missing is a rug of some sort. Kohl's is the only place that I know of that had one, but it is sold out! I have been contemplating making one, but I wouldn't know where to start.

I bought the trash cans from the Dollar Tree and I decorated these along with the colorful containers with napkins and Mod Podge (I think its the craftiest thing I did.) You might wonder why I would do that to my cabinet? Well, there were sea life stickers on it from years ago and they wouldn't come off, so Mod Podge to the rescue!

This is behind the toilet and we use it as a night light.

Do you think I went overboard? Before this I was really drawn to the Day of the Dead decorations, my husband and I even talked about how much we liked it when we were at AC Moore. I had no idea at that point I would be able to do my bathroom in it. This really brightened up our bathroom!

If you want to know where I got something, just ask and I will be happy to let you know. Have a suggestion about where I can get a Day of the Dead rug or how to make one? Let me know in the comments!

Day of the Dead or Dia de Los Muertos is a holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died.

This is not a sponsored post, I received no compensation, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

September is National Preparedness Month #GetReadyGetSafe #PrepStep

2016-09-30T13:18:00.000-04:00

When my oldest daughter was little she was obsessed with this fire preparedness video tape (yes I said tape.) She watched it over and over again. In the video they talked about making an emergency escape plan, which is something we hadn't done. My daughter made a point to talk to me about it and we made a plan together. Thankfully, we didn't have any emergencies, but she felt more secure knowing what to do.

September is National Preparedness Month or PrepareATHON. Are you prepared? Do you have emergency rations like food, water, flashlights, etc... The thing is, you never know when an emergency is going to occur. But, you can be prepared.

Just last week there were floods in my area due to several days of rain. Last month our power went out for two days due to heavy rain and wind. Having an emergency plan with supplies is crucial. Save the Children has some great tools for helping you plan.

Of course, there are many other types of emergencies and times we need to try and prepare for. Save the Children has you covered, they have a fun PrepStep music video that will help your little ones learn what to do.

Not only that, but you can complete ICE cards for your children, for free. These In Case of Emergency cards are great! They have all of your child's information; along with a photo, allergies, and emergency contacts. There is one for you to carry and one to give to your child. Please, take the time to go to savethechildren.org and make ICE cards for your kids, it will give your family piece of mind. If you do make the card, leave a comment here letting me know.

This post is sponsored by Save the Children.

Peter and the Wolf in Hollywood Mommy Party! #PeterandtheWolfApp

2016-06-30T22:43:00.000-04:00

I was recently had the opportunity to take part in a mommy party thanks to a promotional program with MomSelect. Sharing the classic story of Peter and the Wolf with my children in a new; up-to-date way is awesome!

My first memories of Peter and the Wolf are going to the symphony with my mom while I was in elementary school. Listening to the different instruments play the parts of the characters was amazing and helped to create a life long love of music and storytelling.

The new Peter and the Wolf in Hollywood is a present day take on the classic tale. Peter is orphaned in Russia and moves to Los Angeles with his grandfather that works for a Hollywood movie star. The story is narrated by Alice Cooper and includes some fun in app games when you are on an iPad.

Here are some pictures from my party.

My kids and I had a lot of fun making pretzel flutes, I even made a pan flute with some of the broken pretzels. My kids are 8 and 11 and they both enjoyed the story and animation in the app.

Please check out the app and consider buying it! The story really does reach to all ages!

Product Review 13Clean Manual Toothbrush by ToiletTree

2016-05-03T16:34:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago ToiletTree sent me a 13Clean Manual Toothbrush to try out and get my honest opinion on it. I love the idea of this product because it helps me to be more organized, which is something I can always use help on! The fact that each head is labeled with the a different month so I always know how long I have been using the toothbrush is great! The bristles are somewhere between soft and medium and I find it very comfortable to use and experience no pain.

Also comes with a head cover.

Each head is individually wrapped.

The set together.

How the heads are stored in the holder.

If you are anything like me, you forget how long you have been using your toothbrush and can't remember when you should replace it. The 13Clean also comes with a stand to hold the toothbrush, but the most innovative part of that is the fact that it is storage for the spare toothbrush heads. Without that feature, I would undoubtedly misplace the spares. The 13Clean holder is made with a thick, sturdy plastic. What I did was arrange them in the base, with the ones I would be using last at the bottom; that way I don't have to dump them all out each month to find the correct one.

The 13Clean sells for $14.95 on Amazon and also on ToiletTree's site in two different colors; the blue that I got and a pink.

I received the product at no charge for my honest review, no other compensation was received. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

NOVICA Sodalite Stone Stretch Bracelet, 'Infinite Blue' Review

2016-03-09T14:53:00.002-05:00

My post today is about a beautiful bracelet I received to review. The bracelet is made out of blue Sodalite stones and is stretchable. You can find this and many other beautiful items under the seller, NOVICA on Amazon.

Each one of the items sold by NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, are made by artisans from around the world and are Fair Trade!

The #InfiniteBlue bracelet came in a lovely pouch with elephants embroidered on it.

The piece comes with a little booklet so you can learn more about the artist.

Me wearing the bracelet.

As you can see, the color of the stones is very vibrant. Even though the small stones are in all different shapes, it is comfortable to wear and they do not scratch or poke into my skin. It stretches to slip over the wrist. 6.0" L x 1.2" W. Sodalite stone is naturally treated.

*I received this item at a discount, no other compensation was received.*

Sign-up To Be a Healthy Baby Home Party Host!!

2016-02-27T21:31:00.001-05:00

What is a Healthy Baby Home Party?

Seventh Generation's home parties are powered by people like you who are focused on creating a healthy environment for the next generation. Developed with input from non-profit partner, Healthy Child Healthy World, they are a great way to get together with friends, share helpful information, and make an impact!

Healthy Baby Home Party kits are provided to all selected hosts and are filled with educational info about our environment, helpful tips, a fun game, and samples and coupons from Seventh Generation and other favorite family-friendly brands like bobble, Plum Organics and Zarbee's Naturals.

What is the Application Process?

Sign up at generationgood to join the Generation Good community, or log in if already a member.
Accept the Healthy Baby Home Party Application offer on your Generation Good dashboard and complete the application.
Applicants will be notified by end of March if they have been selected to host a party, via an email to the email address assigned to their Generation Good member profile.
All selected applicants will then need to confirm their participation by accepting the Healthy Baby Home Party Mission in Generation Good and confirming their shipping address.
1,900 FREE Party Kits will be distributed in this round.
Hosting spots are open to US residents only at this time. Canadian parties are planned for later in 2016!
Full terms and conditions are available within Generation Good in the "Healthy Baby Home Party Application" offer.

*I may have received something free for compensation for this post.*

Product Review Avery Easy Align Self-Laminating ID Labels

2016-02-22T16:57:00.000-05:00

Here it is, another Shoplet review! This time I received a pack of the Avery Easy Align Self-Laminating ID Labels. These labels are water resistant, UV resistant, and tear resistant! I was intrigued. It has been many years since I have printed labels, but these were a breeze. All you need to do is go to avery.com/print and look up the style number of your product and follow their steps. I found the site very user friendly.

There are 10 labels on each sheet and one pack comes with 50 labels. It is recommended that you do a test print before actually printing the labels because you need to make sure they will line up properly. After they are printed you follow the instructions that are right on back of the label sheet to complete the process.

A sample of what I printed.

As you can see, you can add symbols and photos to the labels; as well as pick different fonts and font size. You can use the labels on things such as tool boxes, electronic equipment, kitchen canisters, among SO many other things!

At Shoplet you can meet all of your office supplies, cleaning supplies, medical supplies, and office furniture needs; along with a full range of Avery products.

I received this product for free in exchange for my honest feedback, all thoughts and opinions are my own. No other compensation was provided.

Disney's The Finest Hours Movie Review

2016-01-31T13:42:00.000-05:00

The Finest Hours is a new Disney movie based on the true story of Bernie Webber, a Boatswain's Mate First Class, in the US Coastguard. He was stationed Chatham, Massachusetts in February of 1952. There was a terrible storm that caused not one, but two oil tankers to split in two. Just the idea of that fact seems fictional. Having been in the Navy myself and being stationed on an oiler also, I can't imagine a storm and seas so rough that my ship could split in two. But, in fact it did happen. Bernie and his crew of three take a 36-foot lifeboat out into the storm to try and save any survivors on board the oiler SS Pendleton.

This is a truly heroic story of not only the Coastguardsmen, but also the remaining crew of the SS Pendleton. The decisions the crew of the Pendleton made while waiting for their rescue were pivotal to their survival. The cast includes Chris Pine (Star Trek), Casey Affleck, (Interstellar) and Holiday Granger (Cinderella.) They speak with flawless Boston accents making the story even more believable. When people talk about the golden age of cinema you would only have to show them The Finest Hours to make them understand what made American movies so great. Chris Pine plays Bernie, as the protagonist brings the classic leading man role of vulnerability and strength that he haven't seen since Gary Cooper and Jimmy Stewart.

I brought my whole family to see this movie and we watched it in IMAX 3D, which made the CGI even more amazing, seeing that oiler split in half is breathtaking. It's really astounding how much of what is portrayed in the movie is actually true. I encourage you to first see the movie and then read about the inspiration behind it. It is very rare to find a movie that portrays the story that it was based on so well, but Director Craig Gillespie (Million Dollar Arm) has done just an awesome job!

After the movie was over I had a woman tell me that "the movie was good, but she was expecting the return trip to be more life threatening." Do have to say I was expecting the journey back to be a bit different too. But, that being said, it was still very satisfying. A definite two thumbs up, must see movie!

I received admission to this movie in order to write this review, all thoughts and opinions are my own. No other compensation was received.

Product Review Officemate Breast Cancer Awareness 3-Hole Punch

2015-10-27T12:31:00.000-04:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, as I'm sure most of you know. I have been given the opportunity to review the Officemate BCA 3-Hole Punch from Shoplet. This 3-hole punch has a 12-sheet capacity and a portion of every sale is donated to Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

As you can see, there is a spot for you to label it, which is nice if you use it in an office. The hole punch is comfortable to use and also has a hinged chip tray with a window so you can see when it is getting full. Even though Breast Cancer Awareness month is almost over, you can spread awareness all the time with this Officemate pink ribbon 3-hole punch.

Shoplet is a great place to find office supplies and cleaning supplies for your home or business, check them out now. I received this product at no charge in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.

Thrive Market Free Jar of Nutiva Coconut Oil!

2015-09-02T12:36:00.000-04:00

From now until my birthday, September 9th, Thrive Market is giving all new registrants a FREE 15-oz jar of Nutiva Coconut Oil, 15% off of their purchase, and a free 30 day trial membership all for only $1.95 shipping!! This a GREAT deal! I doubt you would be able to find a full size jar of organic coconut oil for under $2 anywhere else! So, as you can see, getting the first 30 days and a 15 ounce jar of coconut oil for $1.95 can't really be beat! I encourage you to checkout and compare their prices on items your normally buy or are interested in buying. I have done a couple of orders with Thrive Market so far and have not been disappointed.

Have you heard of Thrive Market yet? "Thrive Market is a membership-based online shopping club on a mission to make healthy living easy and affordable for everyone. For less than $5 a month (only $59.95 annually), Thrive Market members can buy the best-selling healthy foods and wholesome products in everyday sizes, always 25-50% below retail prices. And for every paid membership, Thrive Market donates a free membership to a family in need."

Have you heard about the many uses of coconut oil? Do you use it already? Or have you been considering it, but unsure about taking the leap? Now is the time to jump! Get your FREE jar now!

Here are just a few of the miraculous ways you can use this oh-so-versatile oil in your beauty routine:

In oil pulling
As a moisturizer
As a leave-in conditioner
As lip balm
To soothe itchy skin or bug bites
As a natural treatment for lice
To relieve the pain of a sore throat
In a DIY body butter
As a makeup remover

So, as you can see, getting the first 30 days and a 15 ounce jar of coconut oil for $1.95 can't really be beat! I encourage you to checkout and compare their prices on items your normally buy or are interested in buying. I have done a couple of orders with Thrive Market so far and have not been disappointed. Don't miss out, click on the link to get yours now before they are all gone!

I am an affiliate for Thrive Market and may receive compensation for any posts, but all thoughts and options are my own.

Product Review EcoStatic Beginner Kit Glue Free WhiteBoard Sheets & SlickyNote Note Pad Shoplet

2015-09-02T10:53:00.000-04:00

One of the most recent items I was given to review from Shoplet was EcoStatic Inc. Beginner Kit Glue Free WhiteBoardSheets and SlickyNote Note Pad.

This product adheres with electrostatic rather than tape or glue, you can write on it with dry erase markers and also use the included SlicklyNotes. The items included in the kit are made in the United States of 100% recycled content and are also 100% recyclable.

This set is useful in an office, school, or home setting. It can be used for white boarding, as a flip chart, easel pad, or bulletin board. I'm looking forward to using it as an organizational tool for when my kids start school. The fact that it came with four different SlicklyNote colors is great because I can assign a color to each of my kids and my husband and I can share a color; which will make organization much easier for our busy household.

These items along with many others are available on Shoplet.com.

I received these products at no charge in exchange for my honest blog post.

Schneider Pen Product Review

2015-07-30T20:13:00.001-04:00

I have recently received multiple Schneider pens from Shoplet to review. Schneider is a German company that has been in business for over 70 years The first ones I will talk about are the set of four Slider Memo XB, it is a multi-pack that comes in pink, green, orange, and purple. Really my favorite pens come in colorful ink and these are no exception. I had to hide these from my kids so they didn't steal them. They write very smoothly and are really comfortable to hold, plus the blue section of the barrel is slightly rubberize so it is easier to grip.

The other five pens I received are shown below. The pens, from left to right are: Slider Edge 1.0mm BallPoint Pen, Slider BallPoint Pen, Slider XB ViscoGlide Ballpoint Pen, Slider Memo XB, Xpress Porous Point Pen. This set is a sample pack, not actually sold at Shoplet. All of them, except the Slider Ball Point Pen (sold individually), are sold in packs of 10.

The Xpress Porous Point Pen has water proof ink with a fine tip for use with rulers and it lasts up to THREE days without drying out with the cap off!! The Slider Edge 1.0mm also uses waterproof ink and doesn't smear when you highlight over it. The Slider XB VscoGlide also has waterproof ink and can easily be highlighted over without issues of smearing. The Slider Ballpoint Pen also has waterproof ink and is retractable. Lastly, the Slider Memo has red ink and dries quickly allowing for easy highlighting without smearing.

Please click through and read all of the specific product descriptions for each pen, some of them have three-sided barrels and some are more narrow. I can comfortably write with each one. In my opinion the pens glide smoothly over my paper while I'm writing, I don't have any issues with them leaking or anything. I was very impressed with the quality of these writing instruments.

I received these items at no charge in exchange for my honest review.

Ocean Breeze Dive-In Movie Fridays Hampton Roads July 17th Disney's Big Hero 6!!

2015-07-02T08:20:00.001-04:00

Have you ever been to Ocean Breeze Water Park in Virginia Beach? The water park opened in 1974 and has been the perfect destination for both tourists and locals.

For the past several years they have been having "dive-in" movie Fridays, where you can come in and watch a movie at dusk. Previously, Ocean Breeze has only had them sporadically throughout the summer, but this year they are every Friday! So, you can go chill at Ocean Breeze every Friday evening in or around the Wave Pool and watch a great movie while cooling off.

This Friday, July 17th, they are playing Disney's, Big Hero 6. They are only announcing the movies weekly in case "something becomes available or if weather caused us to cancel." What might be the best part of Dive-in Movie Fridays is that they have special discount rates after 4pm. Yep, that's right! When you come to Ocean Breeze after 4pm on Fridays you can get in for $13! That means you get to watch a family friendly movie (which begins at dusk)
, have fun in their water attractions, and they are open longer!

The typical Twilight Ticket rate is $19.99 for every day besides Dive-in Movie Friday and the close earlier (generally the park closes at 9 at the latest on those days.) If you want the most bang for your buck, going for the Dive-in Movie is the way to go!

Last week they played Back to the Future, I didn't get to go because we had other plans, but this is on my summer bucket list several times now!

They are only announcing the movies weekly in case "something becomes available or if weather caused us to cancel."

Product Review Samsill Speedy Spine Round Ring View Binder & Professional Pad Holder

2015-06-24T22:17:00.005-04:00

Every year when my kids start school I get a supply list (three of them now.) My oldest is 17 and a rising senior now, I can't believe it!

Over the years I have bought her tons of binders, 3 subject notebooks, 5 subject notebooks, and folders. She has been in varying gifted programs since she was in 3rd grade and that meant more specific supply lists than what I buy for my son and youngest daughter right now. I remember shopping for school supplies being much more exciting when I was growing up. I got to pick out the designs I wanted on my notebooks (usually 1 subject) and folders; plus, back then there was colored paper too!

No one really makes fun 3 or 5 subject notebooks-the only thing you get to chose is the color. Binders are pretty much the same, but slightly different. There are certain binders that come with clear plastic on the front to allow you to place a sheet of paper identifying the binder-the binding also has this option. This allows for putting the class information, but also expressing your personality.

The Samsill Speedy Spine Round Ring View Binder is a great example of one such binder. It is sturdy, easily opened/closed, and a "patented channel construction that allows for the easy drop-in" of inserts for customizations in seconds (in fact it's 5x faster.) I can't wait for my son to be able to use this binder this school year, when he is in 5th grade! He has trouble staying organized and gets frustrated easily with binders not opening and closing properly, so I know this Samsill Speedy Round Ring View Binder will been a great tool for him!

The other product I get to review is the Samsill Professional Pad Holder. This particular item is coming in handy for me because I have two part-time jobs, not including my blogging, and it is going to help me stay organized. I'm also using it to list the colleges that my oldest is interested in (scary!) This Samsill Professional Pad Holder features a document pad, business card holder, and document holder. It looks professional and businesslike, I feel great carrying it around no matter if I am at work or visiting colleges with my daughter.

You can purchase both of these and other Samsill products at Shoplet.com.

I received these items at no charge in exchange for my honest review, no other compensation was received. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Product Review Pratisphere Ice Sphere Molds

2015-06-10T20:47:00.002-04:00

Have you noticed all of the ice sphere molds around lately? I have been seeing them for the last couple of months. Initially, I didn't get what the big deal was. Why would someone want ice balls? Then I learned the spheres of ice keep your drink cold longer and don't water your beverage down either.

The Pratisphere Ice Sphere Molds individual, unlike most I've seen that are four attached together. I like the separate ones better because it is often tough to find room in my freezer for ice molds. The fact that I can squeeze one of these ice sphere molds here and there makes them even more appealing to me. The size of the ice ball, once it's frozen is 2.5" and perfect for this extremely hot weather!

I run the mold under water for a few seconds to make it easier to get the sphere out. There is also a tab on the purple side to allow for ease of opening. The wide base prevents it from tipping over while in the freezer; and they can be stacked on top of each other.

I received these items at no charge in exchange for my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.