Pot of Gold Giveaways

Where's the Gold Wednesday?

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 09 May 2012 02:05:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Please vote for me today!

Harriet Beamer Takes the Bus - Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 09 May 2012 02:01:00 +0000

Aging and widowed Harriet Beamer insists she’s getting along fine with her dog Humphrey in Philadelphia … until she falls for the fourth time, injuring her ankle and causing her son and daughter-in-law to cry foul.

Insisting Harriet move in with them in California, they make a bet that her ankle is broken and she foolishly promises to move if they’re right. Four X-rays later, Harriet’s ankle – and her heart – are broken. She packs up, ships her huge salt-and-pepper-shaker collection to California, and prepares to move away from the only life she knows.

The catch? She’s doing it her way. Just wait until her daughter-in-law hears Harriet will travel cross-country only by public transportation and alternate means. What follows is a hilarious, heartwarming journey by train, metro bus, taxi, and motorcycle. Along the way, Harriet discovers that although her family thinks it’s time for her to be put out to pasture, God has a different plan.

Harriet Beamer Takes the Bus is a fun, humorous book. It touches on many real issues about aging and does so in a very entertaining way. Parts of the book were pretty predictable but there were also many surprises and I kept reading because I was eager to find out if she completed the trip and how she would do it. The only this I would have changed about the book is the letters that Harriet wrote to her husband along the trip. Most of these were just a recap of what had happened so I found myself skipping over these. I thought it was a great idea from the author to have Harriet write to him, I just wish we could have gotten more insight into her thoughts or details that weren't in other parts of the book through the letters.

BUY IT: Harriet Beamer Takes the Bus is now on sale. You can purchase it at your favorite book store or online.

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The Natural Dentist Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 09 May 2012 01:45:00 +0000

Dentists estimate that 80% of us develop gum disease in our lifetimes, ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. I had very healthy gums until I became pregnant with my first child. Then I got gingivitis and my dentist told me that this is normal during pregnancy because the hormonal changes increase the sensitivity of the gums . Well, after two children, my problems have continued and recently heard that birth control, which also affects our hormones, can also cause gum disease.

I was really excited to try The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums rinse. I have started using many all natural and organic products but never thought to look for a natural mouth wash. I received a bottle of the peppermint twist flavor and the flavor was great. I was a little nervous because of the color but it smells and tastes great. I also loved that this rinse didn't have the burn that other rinses I've used have. After using this rinse for several weeks, I feel that this works just as well as the rinse I was using before but I now prefer this one because it is all natural.

The Natural Dentist line is powered by nature, proven by science. The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Anti-Gingivitis Rinse DOES NOT contain alcohol or artificial ingredients, making it natural and healthy for your mouth. However, unlike other natural products, The Natural Dentist tests its products in controlled studies. Universities, oral care experts, periodontists, and dental hygienists continually evaluate the products, ingredients and effectiveness. The Natural Dentist products are not tested on animals; research is conducted with human volunteers and laboratory tests.View research studies, publications and abstracts at http://www.stopbleedingnaturally.com/clinicalstudies.php.

BUY IT: The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Rinse is available at all several major retailers nationwide including Walgreens, Rite Aid, Whole Foods and more for an average retail price of $7.49. To see a complete list of stores and the entire line of The Natural Dentist products, visit fine retailers.

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Kushyfoot Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 19:13:00 +0000

Kushyfoot is the first hosiery brand to incorporate the ancient healing art of Reflexology in trouser and knee highs, foot covers, toe covers, athletic socks, tights and men's socks to massage with every step.

Kushyfoot Flats-to-go are light-weight, affordable, purse-packable, and elegant relief for weary feet. They're great for travel, daily wear or back up emergency relief from heals! I'm a stay at home mom so I don't wear heals often but a few times a month I do go out with my husband or friends. After a short time out, I wished I could wear my comfortable tennis shoes again. Earlier this month when I went out I packed my Kushyfoot Flats-to-go in my purse and changed my shoes halfway through the night. It was such a relief to get out of my heals and wear something that was comfortable and stylish. The only problem I had then was what to do with my uncomfortable heals. I slid them under my chair so they were out of the way and I don't think anyone noticed them.

Dress your legs in fashion - Kushyfoot Tights with 3-dimensional massaging sole adds style and flare to your wardrobe. Of the two products I received to try, this was my favorite. The comfort sole on the tights added extra comfort with any shoes I wore. I also found that these helped keep my feet from sliding to the front of my heals so my toes didn't hurt as much at the end of the night.

BUY IT: Kushyfoot products can be purchased at these retail stores.

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - February 8th

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:48:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey (3 Winners) - ends 2/17

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The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:04:00 +0000

Jack and Mabel move to Alaska to escape from the pain of not being able to have a child and to start a new life together. They make a snow child one night and the next morning the snow child is gone but they see a glimpse of a blonde-haired girl running through the trees. This little girl seems to be a child of the woods. She hunts with a red fox at her side, skims lightly across the snow, and leaves blizzards in her wake. As Jack and Mabel struggle to understand this child who seems to have stepped from the pages of a fairy tale, they come to love her as their own daughter. But in the Alaska wilderness, life and death are inextricable, and what they eventually learn about the child changes their lives forever.

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey is one of the best books I've read in a while. The story is magical and mysterious. I couldn't stop reading because I wanted to know who the child was and what was going to happen to her. The story is beautifully written and I loved the ties back to the fairy tale of the snow maiden. I did have to skim some of the sections about hunting though. Those sections were a little too detailed for me. I still highly recommend this book.

BUY IT: Click here for a list of online stores where you can purchase The Snow Child.

WIN IT: Three (3) lucky readers will each win a copy of The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - February 1st

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:22:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

Arnicare Gel - ends 2/7

Please vote for me today!

NOVICA Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:45:00 +0000

The purpose of NOVICA is to create a revolutionary system through which the artists and artisans of the world can display their fine works to a global audience of prospective customers. NOVICA does not charge artists any fees for listing their items on the website. Furthermore, artists remain fully independent--they are free to raise their prices, lower their prices, or remove their items from our website. By cutting out the long strings of middlemen, NOVICA allows both consumers and artisans to get the most out of each and every transaction.

NOVICA has so many great products that I had a hard time choosing one to review. I decided on the Cotton Tote "Earth's Gift". The fabric this bag is made from is a combination of three shades of natural cotton –ixcaco (brown), jade and ivory, or crude cotton. It is woven by hand on a backstrap loom and the fabric is transformed into a stylish handbag. The fabric is soft, the bag is well made and large, which is a must for me with my kids. This will be great as my Spring/Summer bag.

With Valentine's Day just around the corner I'm sure many men are stressing about what to get their wives. I love handmade products and gifts that my husband puts thought into. I don't want the same pair of earrings or necklace that every other woman is going to receive. Novica has a beautiful selection of Amber Earrings, target="_blank"Sterling Silver Cocktail Rings and Sterling Silver Pendant Necklaces. I also love the Cardigans and a sweater would be a nice change from the typical gift of jewelry. My favorite is the 100% Alpaca Wool Wrap (pictured below).

NOVICA has also just launched a new gifts and jewelry home party division, NOVICA Live. NOVICA Live was created for the customers who want to see the products live and in person. Visit the Home Party Opportunities page if you are interested in hosting a party or the Home Party Consultant page if home based selling is of interest. Please let them know that you heard about NOVICA Live through my blog and enter my blog address.

BUY IT: Purchase products from novica.com.

FOLLOW:
NOVICA on Facebook
NOVICA on twitter

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I received the product mentioned for the purpose of completing this review. I will also be compensated if readers become consultants for NOVICA Live.

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - January 25th

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:39:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

Arnicare Gel - ends 2/7

Please vote for me today!

Arnicare Gel Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:42:00 +0000

Whether you’re getting ready to hit the slopes, shovel snow, or lug in a cord of wood, it’s probably been nearly a year since your body performed such strenuous wintertime activities, making strains, aches, pains and bruises more likely. This season, and year-round, relieve muscle pain, stiffness, swelling and bruising—instead of just masking it—and feel better faster with Arnicare^®Arnica Gel.

Brought to you by Boiron, world leader in homeopathic medicines, Arnicare Gel, made from Arnica montana , works naturally to ease muscle pain and stiffness due to minor injuries and overexertion. It also works to reduce swelling and discoloration of bruises. Arnica, a mountain plant from the daisy family, has been commonly used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and is recommended today by doctors, plastic surgeons and pharmacists—and used by professional athletes—worldwide.

I often have back pain and have been using other topical pain relief products. I have found that Arnicare Gel works as well as other products that I have used in the past. I love that Arnicare is a natural remedy that has no risk of overdose, no contraindications, no drug interactions, and no side effects when used as directed. I didn't realize it but ingredients in my other pain relief creams can be toxic in large doses and they all have a strong smell too. Arnicare is unscented and for these reasons I will continue to use Arnicare versus other topical pain relievers.

Arnicare Gel is safe for the whole family and does not have "do not use if" warnings on the product. I wish I had know about Arnicare when I was pregnant! I'm glad that I know about it know though because as most parents know, kids get a lot of bruises. It seems my kids are always running into something in the house, falling down outside, or just bruise their legs climbing on the playground. The active ingredient in Arnicare works deep down to speed healing and reduce pain, swelling and discoloration. I tried Arnicare on a few of my children's bruises and it make the discoloration go away faster and they didn't complain about the pain as much as usual.

BUY IT: Arnicare Gel can be purchased at Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid and Whole Foods, as well as independent pharmacies and health food stores. Arnicare is also available in several other forms, including cream, ointment, oral pellets and tablets. Find out more at www.arnicare.com, and connect with Arnicare on Facebook at www.facebook.com/arnicareusa for great tips and giveaways!

For a $1 off coupon, visit http://www.arnicare.com/special-offers/.

WIN IT: Boiron has kindly offered to give one lucky reader a tube of Arnicare Gel. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I received the product mentioned for the purpose of completing this review

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - January 11th

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:46:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

Oransi Ionic Fridge Air Purifier - 1/23

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Oransi Fridge Air Purifier Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:21:00 +0000

Oransi develops green cleaning products such as air purifiers to clean the air so you and those around you can breathe easier, sleep better and feel rejuvenated. The Oransi Ionic Fridge air purifier is silent, intuitive and effective in making your refrigerator smell incredibly fresh.

Top 10 ionic fridge air purifier features that delight:

Save money – for starters there are no replacement filters and nothing to clean. The air purifier uses 2 AA batteries that require replacement approximately every 90 days. Built-in micro processor controls the operation of the air purifier so it will cycle on and off to save battery life.
Silent – no fans.
Intuitive.
Effective in the removal of odors and bacteria to keep your refrigerator smelling fresh and your food fresher.
Conveniently fits anywhere in your refrigerator.
Attractive neutral color and cool contemporary design.
Easy operating instructions.
Turn it on
Freshen your refrigerator
Patented Piezo-electric technology: allows for a high negative ion output to freshen your refrigerator without the harmful side effects of ozone that is found in standard ionizers.
Safety: The Ionic Fridge air purifier has received safety certifications from GS and CE as well as the RoHS lead free directive. Made of durable fire-resistant ABS materials. Tested for ozone production by ITI (Industrial Research Technology Institute) and found to be 0.011 ppm which is 78% below FDA limits.
Operating costs: Ionic Fridge purifier average battery costs: $1/month.

I have been using the Oransi Ionic Fridge air purifier for about 3 weeks. At first I didn't notice a difference. I guess don't have a very smelly refrigerator. I needed to make sure that this product works well before I wrote my review though so I had to create some smell. I hate the smell of fish but my husband loves to eat it so I bought some to test this product. The Ionic Fridge air purifier really eliminated the fishy smell. I unwrapped the fish a little to make sure I could smell it and a few hours later the smell was much more mild. Once I wrapped it back up, I couldn't smell it. I wouldn't normally leave something in the refrigerator unwrapped so I think the Ionic Fridge air purifier works great. I also love that the purifier is completely silent and that it is a green product.

BUY IT: You can purchase an Oransi Ionic Fridge air purifier directly from Oransi online. They're currently on sale for $29.00 (regular price $39.00). It also qualifies for FREE shipping (with purchase of $99 or more).

WIN IT: Oransi has kindly offered to give one lucky reader a Ionic Fridge air purifier. Enter using the rafflecopter form below.

Read more »

The Crossing by Serita Jakes - Book Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:28:00 +0000

Imprisoned by memories, Claudia Campbell lives each day in the shadow of a ten-year-old murder. Who can set her free?

On the way home from a football game, a decade earlier, a masked gunman opened fire on a Texas school bus. Cheerleading coach B.J. Remington was killed, but her murderer was never found. Claudia, who had a close friendship with the young, spirited teacher, constantly relives the anguish of that day, caught in one moment in time. When her husband, the assistant district attorney, becomes determined to uncover the mystery of that tragedy, the secrets buried over the years threaten to tear their family apart.

Officer Casio Hightower will never forget the day his dreams were destroyed. A star quarterback with a promising future, Casio was on top of the world—until one bullet changed everything. He is eager to help Victor Campbell find B.J.’s killer, the man who shot him. Maybe solving the case will help silence the demons driving Casio to hurt the woman he loves.

As the Campbells and Casio teeter on the brink of losing everything, will they be able to discover that what begins at the crossing ends at the cross?

The Crossing was suspenseful and kept me reading as I was trying to figure out who the killer was. I was let down by the ending though. I don't want to spoil the ending for anyone who may want to read this book so if you don't want a huge clue as to who the killer is, stop reading this review. I usually find a way to review a book without giving information about I couldn't think of a way in this case.

First, I'll tell you what I liked about the story. I liked that the beginning of every chapter was BJ's thoughts as she was dying and that those thoughts then related to the rest of the chapter. I also like the story about Casio and his girlfriend but wish that he would have lived to learn the truth about his mother. I think that would have changed him and I like happy endings better than tragedies.

What I didn't like about the book is that the killer was the cop who investigated the murder and his son was also shot. Would a cop who's son was a victim really be put on that case? And if it was the biggest case in the town's history, wouldn't there have been more than one cop investigating? I also didn't like that some of the characters seemed to change from chapter to chapter. Claudia was quiet in some parts and outspoken in others. I also thought it was strange that she left her husband when she knew that he reopened the case for her. I'm sure it would be hard to sleep next to him and have nightmares, but I would rather have those nightmares with my husband next to me rather than alone.

BUY IT: You can purchase The Crossing from Waterbrook Multnomah or at your favorite bookstore.

Rate my review and enter to win a copy of this book:

When you read and rank my review, you will automatically be entered to win a free copy of this book. WaterBrook Multnomah will select the winners and they will contact you if you win a copy.

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I received a copy of this book for the purpose of completing this review.

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - December 21st

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

Uprinting Die-Cut Business Cards - 10/28

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - December 14th

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:43:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

Uprinting Die-Cut Business Cards - 10/28

Please vote for me today!

UPrinting Die-cut Business Cards Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:38:00 +0000

If you're the type who likes standing out, then you should go for our die-cut business cards. What makes these cards different is their unique and attractive shapes. When you make your own business cards at UPrinting, you’ll have seven options available for die-cut shapes. Choose a shape and start creating your custom business cards using their Easy Design tool!

Most of the business cards I received during my working days were rectangular, white cards with black ink. Once in a while I would receive a card that stood out though and I would remember that customer or client because of their unique card. So while they do cost a little more, I believe that the unique cards are worth it. Uprinting offers 250 die-cut business cards starting at $46.53 (if you order 500 the price is only $52.52!). These prices are for the 2 x 2" Square Rounded Corners and were taken from from Uprinting.com at the time this post was written.

Die-cut business cards are available in seven shapes.

2 x 3.5" Standard Rounded Corner
1.75 x 3.5" Slim Rounded Corner
2 x 2" Square Rounded Corner
2 x 3.5" Leaf
2 x 3.5" Half-Circle Side
2 x 3.5" Rounded 1 Corner
2.5" diameter Circle

There are four paper types to choose from:

14 pt. Cardstock Gloss
14 pt. Cardstock Matte
14 pt. Cardstock High Gloss
13 pt. Cardstock Uncoated

BUY IT: Visit http://www.uprinting.com/die-cut-business-cards-printing.html to purchase die-cut business cards.

WIN IT: Uprinting has kindly offered to give one lucky reader 250 pcs Die-cut Business Cards. The winner will be able to choose the shape and paper type. US shipping is included and Uprinting will provide 6 business days turnaround time.

Links you'll need for the giveaway:
Like Uprinting Business Card Page

Follow Uprinting on twitter

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I received the product mentioned for the purpose of completing this review

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Kroger's The Truly Awesome Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 03:09:00 +0000

I was recently given the opportunity to try Kroger's The Truly Awesome Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies. I'm pretty picky when it comes to cookies so I don't usually buy packaged cookies like these. I would not say that these are just like homemade but they are good. So good that I was disappointed that there were only 8 in a package. After eating the first 4, I pulled the tray out of the box and that was when I realized there was only one more row. Of course I was given two boxes so there was another in the pantry but I still wanted there to be more. So yes, these truly are awesome!

The Truly Awesome Cookies:

Can be warmed up a few seconds in the microwave and they taste like they just came out of the oven
Free of added preservatives and artificial colors
Almost 2x the size of other chocolate chip cookies
Suggested to retail for $2.79
Exclusively available at Kroger, Fred Meyer and Ralph's stores (Kroger Family of Stores)
Sure to please and delight the entire family (I'm sure they would but I didn't share my cookies)

BUY IT: Visit your local Kroger, Fred Meyer, or Ralph's stores to purchase a box of The Truly Awesome Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I am a BzzAgent and received the product mentioned for the purpose of completing this review.

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Hotpants Review #hotinhotpants

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 01:06:00 +0000

HOTPANTS™ by Zaggora are specially designed sports shorts that contain bio-ceramic technology, which emits far infrared rays and reflects back the heat naturally generated by the body to deliver warming up of tissue deep below the skin’s surface. If worn consistently during exercise, HOTPANTS™ will dramaVcally reduce the visible appearance of cellulite.

How does it work?
Bio-ceramics emit far-infrared rays (heat waves) and reflect back the heat naturally generated by the body to promote deeper warming of tissue and breakdown of fat cells. This results in much higher levels of perspiration leading to “flushing out” of toxins and edemas that contribute to the appearance of cellulite. This enhanced body heating also promotes better circulation and lymphatic drainage, the core principle of non-surgical cellulite spa treatments (such as massages).

We don’t ask you to wear HOTPANTS™ for hours at end. 30 minutes a day while you are doing exercise and you will feel and see the results – visibly reducing the appearance of cellulite.

I was so excited to try HOTPANTS™. I'm a size 2 so people often think I don't need to worry about weight or cellulite but that's not true. I have dimples on my thighs and would love to have smooth skin again so that I can feel more comfortable in shorts and bathing suits in the summer.

I've been using HOTPANTS™ for a few weeks now. The first few days I forgot to put them on before exercising or doing work around the house so now I just put them on first thing in the morning. It's too cool to wear shorts now so I've been wearing my jeans or yoga pants over them. I wear these every morning while I'm getting my children ready for school and cleaning up around the house. HOTPANTS™ work best if used while exercising but this is the only exercise I've had for the last few weeks. After the holidays I'll wear these while doing yoga or walking.

The name of this product describes it perfectly. I felt a lot warmer while wearing HOTPANTS™. My legs were sweating even though our thermostat said it was only 64 degrees in the house. I have not lost weight or inches from wearing these pants but I do think the dimples on the back of my legs are smaller. I will definitely continue to use these and look forward to wearing a bathing suit without a skirt next year!

BUY IT: Visit http://zaggora.com/hotpants/ to purchase a pair of HOTPANTS™.

FOLLOW:
HOTPANTS™ on Facebook
HOTPANTS™ on twitter

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I received the product mentioned for the purpose of completing this review.

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Christmas Crafts & Baking

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 02:38:00 +0000

Last week I posted my Where's the Gold Wednesday giveaway linky and apologized for not blogging much. Well, it was another week of very few posts. I had very good intentions of getting a lot done and I've seen so many great Christmas decoration, craft, and baking ideas that I want to share with you. But before I knew it, it was Tuesday again and I didn't get any of those things posted.

So rather than go another week... I'm just going to post the images and links to some fun, creative Christmas crafts that I found. I may not get around to making these and posting my own pictures but maybe you can find the time to do some of these with your family.

I love this handprint Christmas tree. I think it would be really cute to have my children use their fingerprint to make ornaments on it too. Or have a younger child make the ornaments since it's often difficult to get them to open their hands up for a good hand print.

This 3D Paper Star Wreath is beautiful and perfect for scrapbookers. It looks pretty easy to make but would probably take some time to score the stars.

I also love this Ruffly Felt Rosette Wreath. I really want this wreath but I don't really want to cut out all of these circles. I need to see if I can find a package of white 3" round felt. Then this craft would be really easy and my 5 year old could help me!

I do a lot of baking this time of year, especially Christmas cookies. I have a few favorite recipes that I make every year but I always like to try one or two new recipes too.

These Melted Snowman cookies are on my list to make this year. My kids love decorating sugar cookies but they lose interest after 2 or 3 cookies and I end up icing and decorating the rest myself. My icing always looks so messy too. And that is why I love these cookies - it looks good messy!

Another easy but yummy sounding recipe I found is for Graham-Cracker Peppermint Bark. This is another "cookie" that the kids can help with. The only probably will be keeping them from licking their fingers while they dip the graham crackers in the chocolate.

Hot chocolate is a favorite of ours at Christmas so I'm going to make these Marshmallow Snowmen for the kids at our party.

What is your favorite holiday craft or recipe? Comment with a link to share your favorites. I'd love to see them!

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - December 7th

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 01:54:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Please vote for me today!

Nature's Hand Granola Review

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 02:06:00 +0000

This time of year it's hard to eat healthy. With all of the family gatherings and holiday parties we tend to over eat and eat more unhealthy foods. We're also so busy that we grab quick snacks that are high in sugar or sodium.

This Thanksgiving as I was getting ready for family visiting and cooking I had Nature's Hand Granola and yogurt as a quick healthy, snack. Granola is a delicious alternative to the high-sugar and high-sodium snacks that I would normally have eaten and it's just as quick.

Nature's Hand Granola is available in seven flavors.

Original Vanilla Almond
Cranberry Delight
French Vanilla Almond
Raisin Hazelnut
Cinnamon Apple
Maple Pecan
Wild Blueberry

I tried the Cranberry Delight and Wild Blueberry. Both flavors were delicious and were not overly sweet by themselves. I did find that they were a little too sweet in the vanilla yogurt I usually eat. I switched to the light version of that yogurt though and then it was great. My kids wanted to try the granola too and even though they thought it was too hard (not harder than other granola I've tried), they ate it all and asked for more.

BUY IT: Click here for a list of places where you can purchase Nature's Hand Granola.

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Where's the Gold Wednesday? - November 30th

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:49:00 +0000

I apologize for my lack of posts this month. There has been so much going on in my family that I just had to take some time off. I have several reviews coming for some great products I was able to try this month and I have a very long list of other information I want to share with you. I do not have any giveaways up right now but I'm working on more for you!

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Please vote for me today!

Where's the Gold Wednesday? - November 2nd

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:04:00 +0000

List your giveaways here and then take a minute to enter some of the others listed. I'd also love for you to put my button or a link on your blog somewhere to help spread the word about this linky.

Please list your giveaway with the prize and end date.

Here are my current giveaways:

See Mix Drink by Brian D. Murphy (2 Winners) - 11/2

Yoga By The Dozen DVD - 11/11

Please vote for me today!

Rodelle Vanilla Beans Review & Rodelle Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:11:00 +0000

Rodelle has created premier baking and cooking essentials since 1936. Originating from the south of France, the Rodelle family revolutionized the standard for gourmet flavors when they came to the states, bringing with them, their passion and expertise for the flavor industry. In 1984, Rodelle became part of Custom Blending Inc. where a relentless commitment to high quality continues. Today, Rodelle provides home bakers and culinary professionals alike with the finest ingredients on the market. From Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans to Dutch-processed baking cocoa and Herbs de Provence, quality comes first. The company is wind powered and has consistently given a portion of sales back to its growing regions.

Rodelle makes vanilla products, baking essentials, and spice blends. The vanilla products Rodelle Bourbon Vanilla Beans are hand selected from Madagascar vanilla growers. Boasting a rich aroma and robust vanilla flavor, Rodelle adds a smooth, creamy vanilla taste to all of your culinary endeavors.

I received vanilla beans to review. I love to bake but have never used vanilla beans before so I had to search the Rodelle website on just how to use these. I found a great video that shows you how to split a vanilla bean and scrap the beans out. Then I looked through their recipes and found this recipe for Baked Brie with Apple-Cranberry Compote. It sounded so delicious that I decided to try it with one of the vanilla beans I received. This is a dish that sounds difficult but is actually easy to make, looks elegant, and tastes fantastic! I will definitely make this again and I love the black specs the vanilla beans add to the compote and crust.

I also saw on Rodelle's website that you can make vanilla sugar with your vanilla bean after scrapping it. You simply put the used bean in 1-2 cups of sugar and let it sit for 2 weeks before using. This vanilla sugar can be used in place of regular sugar and adds vanilla flavor to desserts. One tablespoon of vanilla sugar has the flavoring power of 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

THE RODELLE CHALLENGE GETS SWEETER IN 2011

Last week I posted about the 2011 Rodelle Challenge. Share your baking moment for a chance to Win a KitchenAid® and Year-Long Supply of Baking Essentials.

About the Rodelle Challenge
Bakers share their baking moment on the Rodelle Facebook page…the most creative posts with photos or videos are more likely to stand out. The winners are selected by the Rodelle team and with a variety of criteria. Everything from creativity to sentimentality is taken into consideration. Rodelle is sweetening the pot this year by adding a KitchenAid® Mixer to the three grand prizes, which include a yearlong supply of premium Rodelle baking essentials: vanilla beans, baking cocoa, pure vanilla extract, almond/lemon/anise extracts and vanilla sugar. Three runners up will win a yearlong supply of pure vanilla extract, vanilla beans, and rich dark baking cocoa. People are invited to upload entries from October 1 through December 25, 2011. Winners will be announced New Year’s Day, 2012.

For more details on the Rodelle Challenge, visit: www.rodellekitchen.com/rodelle-challenge

BUY IT: Rodelle’s Baking Essentials are available at grocery stores nationwide. To learn more about where to buy, or for additional information, visit: www.rodellekitchen.com.

Please vote for me today!

Yoga By The Dozen Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Donna) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 23:50:00 +0000

Discover an exercise that fosters respect, coordination, and self-confidence for kids! It’s Yoga, of course! Children are natural yogis because of their “in the moment attitude”. Yoga nourishes their mind, body and spirit and paves the way for a life-long tradition of health and fitness.
Yoga By The Dozen™ promotes a healthy lifestyle for kids through their highly acclaimed ‘Yoga By The Dozen’ DVD and their complete line of lifestyle products for yoga. The top-selling DVD is a fun, interactive children’s yoga video, designed especially for kids ages 2-6. JoAnna and her 12 friends demonstrate a ‘dozen’ fundamental poses that will introduce your children into the exciting world of Yoga.

Key Benefits:

Increase Cognitive & Motor skills

Confidence, Courage and Self-Esteem

Balance & Coordination

Memory Retention and Concentration

Nurture Creativity and Self Expression

Respect for themselve and each other

Proven therapy for kids with ADHD and Autism

I have been doing yoga at home with my children for about a year now. They don't participate the entire time though and my videos often move to fast for them. I was excited to try Yoga By The Dozen so that my children can enjoy yoga more. In Yoga By The Dozen, JoAnna goes over each of the poses several times so my children we really able to see how to do the pose and practice it several times. There is a section of this video that is still too fast for my children (ages 3 and 4) but I think with a little practice they'll get it.

I really love that the children in the video are not perfect. They do the poses well but I think it has helped my children to see other kids who also loose their balance instead of seeing my yoga videos with people who are doing the poses perfectly. My children are now practicing the yoga poses even when we're not watching Yoga By The Dozen and they're so proud to show me how well they can do them. I have found this has also be great exercise for me and it's more enjoyable for me when my kids are doing yoga with me.

JoAnna Ross, founder of Yoga By The Dozen™ is a life long performer. Having danced on Broadway for years she found her natural charisma clicked with kids.

BUY IT: You can purchase the Yoga By The Dozen DVD ($17.99) and other yoga products in the Yoga By The Dozen online store.

WIN IT: Yoga By The Dozen has kindly offered to give one lucky reader a DVD ($18 ARV). Enter using the rafflecopter form below.
* Please note: This giveaway originally said it was for a DVD and T-shirt but the sponsor has changed it to a DVD only.

Disclosure: This post was written by me and was not edited by anyone. All opinions are my own. I received the product mentioned for the purpose of completing this review.

Please vote for me today!