The Healthy Lantern

Christmas at Disney 2016

2016-09-22T10:14:00.007-04:00

Certified Disney Travel Agent

2016-05-31T15:08:00.000-04:00

Having grown up with Disney films and parks, I have always had a major soft spot for all things Walt Disney. So it was an easy "YES" when I was asked to join Best Day Ever Vacations as a Disney travel specialist.

When people hear "Disney" they think princesses and princes, cartoons, and memorable childhood characters, but a Disney Vacation can be so much more!

Disney Travel

I have received training from the College of Disney Knowledge that allows me to
sell Disney vacation packages. I would be honored to help you plan a magical
vacation.

I will handle all your travel details so you can focus on the things that matter,
like relaxing and having fun!

Disney offers amazing, memory making vacations that range from:

From thrills, shows, and fireworks, to well appointed spas and relaxation,

to global travel specializing in family adventures to adult only travels,

Disney has it all!

Call or message me today to learn more about the exciting world of Disney Travel.

I am so excited to bring a little bit of Disney magic to your next vacation!

Christin Lilly
Best Day Ever Vacations
christinlilly@hotmail.com
804-366-9226

If Disney is not what you are looking for, call or message so we can talk about what type of vacation might better suit your vacation dream!

Tria- Age Defying Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser

2016-05-25T09:43:00.003-04:00

I was sent the Tria Age Defying Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser to try and review.

The laser is small, compact and with only one button, easy to operate. It charges via an included USB that you can plug right into your cell phone charger wall plug or other USB plug.

The operating instructions are fairly simple. Use the wipes (additional purchase outside of the laser but may be bought in a package deal) or clean your face as usual. Make sure laser surface is clean by using a soft Qtip or microfiber cloth. Push the button until you see a green light. You are ready to begin. The laser has a built in timer so you will know how long to use the laser on each side. Press gently around the eye area and move in a micro-circular motions. The laser's green light will turn purple with the correct amount of pressure is applied and you will feel a 'prick' as the laser begins to work. When the laser begins to vibrate and pulse, it means the time on that side is finished. Simply turn back on and do the other eye.

I found the laser to cause mild discomfort, but as they say "no pain, no gain". Afterwards you may notice some redness and puffiness and the eye serum they recommend you use, has a wonderfully cold metal applicator tip that soothes the area.

As far as results, I can't see any definitive results, perhaps my fine lines and wrinkles are too mild, or more likely, because I have only done the treatment every other night instead of every night. To be honest, I didn't enjoy going to be feeling like my lower eye sockets were on fire! I do feel like it it making my skin more firm around my eyes, and that is a nice benefit!

I will continue to use this until I have reached 8 weeks of use (as recommended) and if I do see results I will come back and update this review.

My over all conclusions are, this has scientific reasoning and technology that should work and be effective. It would be more affordable than seeing a laser specialist and receiving treatments and you have the benefit of doing this in the privacy and comfort of your own home. If you have the funds to splurge I say GO FOR IT! If you have mild wrinkles , I think I would just keep using retinol type serums and perhaps save your funds for when your fine lines are not so fine, who knows, even more and less intense wrinkle correcting products will be available from Tria.

Personally I am hoping they come out with a laser for broken veins. Knowing they run in my family, I would love an at-home treatment that will work for those!!

NUTSHELL....if you have $260-$300 to spend for the set or $250 for the laser, I say try it!

I was given this offer to pass along!

For a limited time, you can get an ADDITIONAL 15% OFF the Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser Deluxe Kit which features the Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser, Nourishing Eye Renewal Cream and Laser Prep Cleansing Cloths.

Simply go to www.triabeauty.com, add the Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser Deluxe Kit to your cart and enter this promo code AF193D at checkout to get the 15% additional discount.

Pantene Beautiful Lengths #8 or 8 Campaign

2015-11-02T20:52:00.000-05:00

Influenster is teaming up with Pantene's Beautiful Lengths Campaign to encourage participants to pledge 8 inches of hair or $8 to help provide FREE wigs to cancer patients.

Many hair donations companies are well known but they are often not giving away the final products, which means if you donate 8 inches of hair, you know this will be going to someone in need, free of charge. We all could use a little trim, after all what's 8 inches?!? Or are you like me and love your long tresses and not quite ready to part ways? That's fine too, you can choose to donate $8 to the campaign to help with the cause as well!

So far the campaign has received over 800,000 hair donations!! WAHOO! And has donated over 42,000 wigs through the American Cancer Society wig bank!

Thank you to all who have already made a difference! I am inspired to do my part and pledge to donate $8 dollars (going to forgo 2 coffee shop stops) to make a difference for a beautiful soul having family members and friends who have fought or are fighting cancer, I feel this is such a great way to stand with them and in support of others fighting the courageous war on cancer! I hope you will also be encouraged to cut or donate!

If you do, please let me know! #8or8 #BeautifulLengths

Here are some important links below:
TO DONATE $8
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HAIR DONATIONS

Apple and Eve Juice Review

2015-10-02T14:13:00.000-04:00

The school bells have been ringing for a number of days and let's face it....your done with packing lunches!

Your kid complains "PB&J again?!?!" and really you are struggling to find tasty, nutritious things your kid(s) will eat that you can feel good sending with them.

I was recently offered the opportunity through influenster to try and review Apple and Eve juices. I had heard of the company, but to be honest, had never tried them because I felt something healthy would not taste good and therefore be a waste of money when my kid wouldn't drink it! So with it be no cost, SURE I'll give it a whirl!

This is Apple & Eve's new product line Organics. We were sent the Orange Pineapple flavor. It comes in a great and convenient 1L package that is the perfect size for little hands to practice beverage pouring for themselves and a lot less wast then having multiple kids grabbing individual juice boxes! All the ingredients are organic and come in 2 other flavors, Tart Cherry and Natural Style Apple.

Above is a picture of the other Apple & Eve product I was sent to review, Quenchers. They are also organic and have 50% less sugar than leading kids' beverages. Available in the 3 flavors you see pictured above... Berrylicious Lemonade, Fruit Punch, and Apple Splash. These are great lunch box or snack companions! We recently moved and I couldn't find our freezer blocks for the lunch boxes...I froze these containers and they were perfectly cold and thawed by lunch time and kept the entire lunch contents nicely chilled!

Now onto the important section, my personal thoughts and reviews!

As a mom, yes, I liked them. I like the eco-friendly packaging of the larger 1L juice and I loved the ingredients/nutrition labeling on both product types. My children LOVED LOVED LOVED the Orange Pineapple juice (so did my husband, I wasn't left any to try...but the carton smelled divine!) The Quenchers were a big hit but the Apple Splash was the least favorite. I should note, we are not an apple juice family, give us apple cider all day long, but not usually fans of plain apple juice.

Overall, I give this a 4.5 out of 5 star rating. The only deduction would be that I am uncertain if these boxes and cartons are recyclable and if they are that they would promote that on their labeling to eliminate trashing these!

**Disclaimer- These products were sent to me for free to try and review and all product information was gathered directly from the company via packaging inserts and/or product website, but all opinions and reviews are my own and are truthful.**

Staying green even when moving!

2015-09-29T21:25:00.001-04:00

Here are some ways to stay green when you are moving, be it across town or cross country!

Pre-Move

gather boxes

look at big box stores, grocery stores, and department stores. Ask managers to hold some for you!
look on sites like Craigslist and Facebook yard sale sites
Ask local moving companies if they discount or giveaway used boxes

packing

pack up fragile items in towels and blankets. Handtowels are great for dishes, beach towels are great for larger items like picture frames and mirrors.
Save up newspapers or ask local papers for old discards to use to wrap items

Post-Move

Break down boxes and list them for sale or free pick up. Any boxes that are too fragile to re-use, seek out your local recycling companies for pick up or drop off locations.
Flatten out newspapers and include with boxes (if you list them) or recycle

Another great thing to keep kids occupied while you are busy packing or unpacking is give them a set of markers and let them draw on the boxes...we all know boxes are a great toy!!! Let their imaginations run wild turning a plain cardboard box into a tv, a space ship, a castle, a navy vessel, car, or a submarine! They will still be recyclable when they are finished creating and using their imaginations!

Iced Coffee

2015-05-01T09:40:00.003-04:00

Nothing says warm weather like needing to switch to iced coffee and after the winter we had here in NY, I am glad it is FINALLY time to make the switch! Below is a recipe I use during all the warm months and occasionally during cooler months if I want to reminisce about warmer days! Let me know what you think!

Easy Iced Coffee

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup ground coffee (flavored, decaf, whatever your preference)
water
1/2 gallon pitcher

DIRECTIONS:

Place grounds in the container
Add water till full and stir
Let sit overnight or up to 24 hours
Strain through a coffee filter or fine netted strainer into another pitcher.
Keep in the fridge for up to a week!

To make just pour over ice, add sweetener, flavor syrup, add milk/creamer, & whip cream if you desire!

EXTRAS:

Make 2 pitchers, pour some into ice cube trays so you don't water down your iced coffee

I like to go ahead and mix in sweetener and milk/cream so the ice cubes are the 'total package' as they melt!!

Coffee grounds ready for water.

Water and grounds, ready to stir

After chilling, mixed with Unsweetened Almond Milk, adding whip cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon!

To reuse or not to reuse...REUSE!

2015-03-12T15:22:00.000-04:00

Why use reusable bags?

I can think of many reasons and very few why nots. I know I have posted on similar topics of plastic reduction but I wanted to again touch the topic with a specific product.

Economical...not buying waste and they last, plastic baggies can add up and these bags will last a long time making their cost (if on sale) well worth the initial investment!
Environmental...saving landfills, oceans, and earth from plastic debris.

some sites claim that each reusable bag is equal to 500 plastic bags
many schools/care centers are going waste free lunches and this is a great waste reducer!

Many uses...snacks, sandwiches, toiletries, toys, crayons, legos, puzzles, etc...
Great gift... when unsure what to gift, these are great, with so many uses they will be loved
Healthy...keeps chemical components of plastic away from your food/snacks
Easy to clean (they recommend hand washing, but I wash in my washer and tumble air dry!)

For 4 years I have been using Itzy Ritzy "Snack Happens" bags for everything from snacks to holding items for restaurant entertainment to individual holders for lego sets or puzzles till we find the box! They are lined with a water resistant BPA free material that is durable, easy to clean, and did I mention the cutest outside patterns ever!

They are always running great deals from bundles to flash sales. Sign up for emails to save more and 'like' and 'follow' them on social media for giveaways and special sales.

Snacks I pack (for suggestions):

Pretzels, Chips, Goldfish, Crackers
Applesauce pouches
Cheese- slices and cubes
Veggies

carrots, tomatoes, celery (not a big hit around here LOL!), bell pepper strips

Fruits

grapes, apples, oranges, bananas, mango, pears, plums, peaches, etc..
berries were a bit tricky they can leak if smashed as the bags are not waterproof

Sandwiches

Great for traveling snacks (airplanes, cars, trains), great for activities (coloring supplies, stickers, legos, small toys), toiletries when you travel (each family member has their own bag easy to identify if you order different patterns.

Check out their other lines for even more reusable ways to save money, frustration, and be a good steward of the earth all the while!

**This is a non-sponsored blog post. I was not compensated in any fashion for this post nor am I affiliated with Itzy Ritzy other than a consumer. These honest opinions are my own**

Influenster Review- Calvin Klein Reveal for Men

2015-02-15T12:20:00.001-05:00

Calvin Klein 'REVEAL' for Men

I received a sample of Calvin Klein's new men's fragrance 'REVEAL' to try and review. Obviously this is for men, but in all reality, who appreciates it....the ladies!!!

The kit came with a small spray vial of the cologne and a card wallet. The information given stated to expect the fragrance to have "...a salty, oriental fragrance with vibrant freshness wrapped in an addictive warm heart. The combination of ginger, raw slat and vetiver offers a new signature play..."

So as I sprayed the cologne I noticed a saltiness which was uber pleasant as I look outside on feet of snow, and a fresh yet earthy tone (not musky...but a light natural note). The scent is light, but lingers and is pleasant and not overpowering.

Overall, I would suggest and recommend this fragrance for the man in your life! The cologne would be suitable for any age.

**This sample and card case/wallet were given to me through the Influenster program to try and review, the opinions in this review are my own and are honest. No further compensation is being given**

Opal Apples #Review

2015-01-22T14:13:00.001-05:00

I was given a coupons for OPAL APPLES through BZZAgent to try and review. Here are my thoughts!

Product claims (via website)

Naturally non-browning (need I say more!!!!???)
They currently come from Washington state and are a cross between a Golden Delicious and a Topaz.
They are crispy and sweet
Taste the Difference, Make a Difference campaign through the Opal® is empowering members to put their dreams into action and then serve those most in need within their community. To that end we are sponsoring the Opal Apple Youth Make a Difference initiative for 2015

Non-GMO

My thoughts

They are super sweet (and not a bad thing!)
They do not brown like regular apples
I was able to use them in baking and recipes successfully (& tastefully!)
They do cost a bit more (at least in my area) than other types of apples but they are worth it!

#FrostyVoxBox Review Part 2: The Edibles

2015-01-03T10:38:00.000-05:00

Here is my Influenster Frosty Vox Box Review of the "edible" contents

Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Tea

Product Information:

Decaffinated
Holiday season flavor ( so may not be around for long!)
All natural, no artificial flavors or colors
Gluten Free and Kosher

My Reveiw:

I normally don't like minty things but this is a mild flavor and it is refreshing, caffeine-free pick me up! I couldn't see myself drinking this year round, but as a substitute for an afternoon decaf around the holidays-ABSOLUTELY!

Red Vines Fruit Vines Bites (Strawberry)

Product Information:

Bite sized, low fat
No preservatives
Strawberry and Cherry flavors

My review:

I don't like licorice and to me this was a bit too close to a Twizzler type candy. That being said, my husband and daughter thought they were tasty, so I guess it just depends on your candy preferences! I like that there is no preservatives, but not sure if this would be a staple in our house since the dentist has chewy candies on the 'naughty list' and I like my cavity free teeth!

#FrostyVoxBox Review: Part 1- the wearables

2014-12-22T09:47:00.003-05:00

Here is my review of the 'wearable' portions of the Influenster Frosty Vox Box

ECO SMART Sleek + Shine Finisher Hair Brush

Product Information:

Synthetic Boars Hair (so humane friendly)
Unique bristle pattern allows bristles to distribute hairs natural oils
According to website it allows hair to dry up to 20% faster, meaning less heat damage to hair
Retails $10.99

My Review:

I need to preface with my hair type. I have long, thick, semi-wavy hair (you know the kind that looks to waveless to just airdry but too wavy to be straight....basically unpleasant looking without some form of tampering!!). This brush did ok, but our house is dry (it's winter) and so it made my hair very static prone. I also cannot attest to the drying because my hair takes a long time and I have never measured but I didn't have any particular issues using it to dry my hair. I do like that it is synthetic bristles so humane friendly and I suppose time will tell how healthy it enables my hair to be with the distribution of natural oils! I can't say I have ever used a brush that just wowed me, but yes as a general hairbrush I would recommend it. I personally prefer paddle shaped brushes and may splurge for the ecotools paddle version as I think they are better with long thick hair than oval brushes.

BOOTS No 7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum

Product Information:

Serum is powered by Matrixyl 3000 Plus (tm) as well as Boots patented antioxidant blend
After 2 weeks skin appears younger & by 4 weeks deep lines & wrinkles are visibly reduced

My Review:

I was only given a sample 'sachet' and so I wasn't able to squeeze out more than a few days of use so in all honesty I cannot thoroughly review this and would feel bad attempting too, but I will say that after using almost a week it is a very promising product! It is a lovely cream that applies easily, no harsh smells, no discomfort or stinging. I wish I could tell you more and I am trying to decide if I am willing/wanting to pay the retail price to further try it (MSRP of 29.99)

UPDATED: After watching several video results from the Boots website, I am going to head out and buy it!

NYC Expert Last Lip Stick in Sugar Plum

Product Information:

Claims to last for up to 6 hours

My Review:

I am a Burts Bees Original Chapstick kind of gal, but I was actually shocked when I tried this, it wasn't overly saturated color (I am a plain Jane) and it gave my winter skin (you know the nearly dead pale color?!?!) a pleasant coloring with just a swipe of lip color. I won't wear lip stick everyday, just not that kind of gal, but for church, date nights, etc... Sugar Plum color is a nice, nearly neutral color. Sadly mine did not last 6 hours, but when you are eating and drinking I didn't expect as much. I am fairly certain they are basing that claim on just wear without 'activity'.

Rimmel Scandaleyes Kohl Kajal Eyeliner

Product Information:

Waterproof, smudge proof, heat proof, sweat proof, humidity proof, & scandal proof?!?!?
Dermatologist & ophthalmologist tested, safe for sensitive eyes
Long lasting color in 10 shades

My review:

Way to dark for me. I will probably self purchase another color though. The black was just a bit much for me. As far as application, it goes on smooth and rich in color. I did find it to be smudge proof once it has set for a bit. It did fade and run a SMALL amount in the shower but it did come off easily in with the Rimmel Gentle Eye Make Up Remover. If I really wanted to keep up my appearance on a rainy day, at the gym, or otherwise, this would be a great product. Again, I am a mom and wife so I usually forgo makeup beyond blush and eyeshadow on most days but for church, dates, etc... I would probably use this product (just not in jet black!)

Rimmel Gentle Eye Make Up Remover

Product Information:

Gently removes all make up, including long lasting & waterproof make ups
No oily residue
Suitable for sensitive eyes & contact lens wearers
Dermatologist & Ophthalmologist tested

My Review:

It does what it says, it removes make up but I did have to use a few cotton pads, it seems once some makeup residue is on the cotton it doesn't want to remove anymore but rather smear it, but that aside it did work without stingy or burning and didn't leave a super oily residue, but I did feel like there was something still there so I did follow up with a face washing towelette. I would recommend this product for stubborn makeup removals such as mascar and waterproof makeups.

***These product samples and/or full sized products or coupons were complimentary in exchange for my honest opinions on the products, without further compensation. These opinions and reviews are mine alone and are honest***

Influenster #FrostyVoxBox Review

2014-12-19T12:30:00.000-05:00

I just got my Influenster Frosty VoxBox and I am excited to reveal the contents...

I will try the #FrostyVoxBox goodies throughout the weekend and review them in groups!

Contents:

Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Intense ADVANCED sachet(sample)

coupon

NYC Expert Last Lip Color (Sugar Plum)
Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Decaf Green Tea

coupon

EcoTools Hair Brush
Rimmel Gentle Eye Makeup Remover
Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner
McCormick Gourmet Thyme
Fruit Vines Bites

I am excited to try these things out and let you know my thoughts!! I think I will break these down into edible and wearable!

***I received these products for free in exchange for my honest reviews and opinions, no further compensation has or will be given, I promise that my reviews are my own and are indeed honest***

Southern Gal in a Yankee World-Renovation Part 1

2014-12-07T14:26:00.001-05:00

Here is a peek at one of the many renovations that we have done to our beloved 1880s farmhouse, which was also the summer vacation rental of John Philip Sousa (do I hear marching bands?!?!)

Main home in spring

Carriage house (my fave part of the property!)

We fell in love with our house but not the design of the the previous owners. They had immaculate and beautiful tastes but it did not match what we felt was "farmhouse" nor our own style so we set out (and are still embarking) on making it our own.

This reno is on a back servants staircase that leads from our kitchen to the upstairs. It was hidden under an asian themed red carpet (read antithesis of farmhouse carpeting!!) When we removed the carpet we found the most amazing, worn, rustic, and sadly uncared for wood stairs. They had paint and spackling carelessly splatter all over them.

I ADORED the worn centers from the thousands of steps tread upon them, and had hoped to keep that somewhat but I had to sand so much to remove the splatters that I wasn't able to keep as much of the wear as I had hoped. Below you can see the transformation from what we uncovered to what we have now.

I went with a poly blend stain and ended up mixing a few colors to get the exact color I wanted. It had a bit more red tint than the original steps but it is nearly spot on to match all the solid, 6 panel wood doors throughout the house (of which there are 5 right at the top of the stairs...we removed one to fully open up the hallway area)

Stairs after carpet removal

Top view of stairs

Difference after sanding

Sanded and ready

Finished, well almost, still need a piece of trim at bottom

Top view of finish. It matches the solid wood 6 panel antique doors we have throughout the home

Keurig 2.0 K450 and K550 Review

2014-11-25T17:47:00.002-05:00

I have had the opportunity to try both the Keurig 2.0 K450 and K550. Both have the ability to use the Kcup (but only NEWLY labeled Kcups without hacks) and/or a carafe that brews approximately 4- 8oz cups in a carafe. Both have a color touch screen, programmable clocks, and water reservoirs. They both have options to brew Hot Cocoa or to brew 'strong' (a design taken from the Keurig Vue).

DIFFERENCES:

-K450 -K550

70 oz water reservoir largest reservoir at 80oz

color touch display larger color touch display

9 brew sizes 10 brew sizes

single light color several color display lights and a night light option

with hacks, hot water hot water on demand

Honestly I have an older, no longer made Keurig Platinum that I truly adored, but I did feel limited in that I could not select the strength of the brew or brew more than one 'serving' at a time. This Keurig fits that bill perfectly.

The drawbacks are the newly integrated scanning system that detects if the Keurig Kcup is the newer models (noted by a white ring around the foil seal with imprints of the Keurig name logo and a mini coffee cup). This was done to limit off brands who do not pay royalties to the Keurig company from being used. That meant for me that the older Kcups I have sitting around will not work, nor will my 'fill my own' cups. Luckily thanks to Google and YouTube I found hacks that not only allow me to brew whatever I want from my old Kcups to my fill myself cups, but also brought on a secret menu screen that allows me to choose 6 different brew capabilities. I imagine these will later be unlocked by Keurig with future types of Kcups not readily made/available yet.

I feel bad going around the system, but most of my Kcups (minus my fill my own) are companies that pay royalties, just they were made prior to the new seals.

To sum it up. With the 'hacks' in place, YES I would recommend this system and love the K550 due to several more capabilities and larger water reservoir. Without the hacks I would really have to consider the hefty price tag and limited Kcup brands and flavors.

I suggest scoping out the Keurig website and peering through the newly labeled coffee Kcups to see if the unhacked version would work for you.

Also, until November 30, 2014 I have a coupon code good for 40% off the new K550 or 25% anything else from Keurig.com. message me if you would like the codes!

What is Influenster?

2014-11-18T11:52:00.001-05:00

I have had several people ask me what exactly Influenster is...

Influenster is a company that seeks out social media active persons to try out new products and give honest opinions.

The only catch is... you need to take surveys, which are no biggie. In fact, they are what helps Influenster know more about your interests, hobbies, passion, lifestyle, etc... so they can better match you with products you actually WANT to try!!!

Here is a link to a past Influenster Vox Box I received to review and try!

I am an on the go, active person. Influenster knows this and so every product they sent, was one I actually was excited to try!!!

There are other benefits to being an "influenster" too!!

Special offers called VoxPerks where insiders can get special offers for goods or services
an Influenster App that makes being an influenster a breeze
The Hub is a great place to stay up to date on all the latest and greatest from fashion to entertainment
Ability to promote products you like, or caution others from trying HA HA!

If you are interested message me below and I can send you a link via email to learn more!

#Influenster # InfluensterApp

Cabbage "Un-Rolled" Soup

2014-10-28T18:27:00.001-04:00

INGREDIENTS

1 package ground turkey (16-18 oz)
1 head of lettuce chopped
8 oz tomato paste (or one 15 oz tomato sauce)
15 oz tomato sauce (mine is in the tupperware)
1 carton of beef broth
1 bell pepper chopped *optional*
garlic powder- to taste (1/4 tsp)
salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp sugar (or more to taste)
3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
1 cup cooked rice (or add more)

DIRECTIONS

Slightly cook meat adding bell pepper and all seasonings at this point over medium heat till almost done
Add in cabbage and broth
Cook covered over medium-low heat for 20-30 mins stirring occasionally
Add in cooked rice when cabbage is soft and tender (use a fork take a piece out and test it)
I always do a quick taste to make sure it has enough salt and pepper before serving.

This is great served with corn bread muffins or garlic bread!

Pedigree Stackerz Review

2014-10-07T10:44:00.000-04:00

I received a bag of Pedigree Stackerz from Influenster to try and review...well for my four legged, wagging tail babies to try! For this review I received the Filet & Bacon one!

I did a bit of research and learned that Stackerz comes in a few flavors...

Filet Mignon & Bacon
Smoky Bacon & Cheddar
Grilled Chicken & NY Strip

Don't those flavors sound a bit too good for dogs?

I opened them and they smell pretty darn good, but I did hold back and refrained from trying one myself. A trial testing of dog food when I was 4 put a damper on all subsequent suspicions of what animal food tasted like!!!

Tayler Before (confused)

Suki ( knows it is food and is doing a trick
[bowing] for snack)

After (WANTING MORE)
audibly begging after I start walking away!

My review is this..... dogs love treats, these treats sound and smell good...dogs love these treats!

yes, i would probably buy these for my dogs! They currently eat pedigree large breed dog food so this wouldn't be a far stretch from the known!!! We love the pedigree brand for our Suki and Tayler babies!!!

Arla Dofino Cheese: Review and Recipe

2014-09-30T13:19:00.000-04:00

I was offered the opportunity through BzzAgent to try and review Arla Dofino cheeses.

I selected the Gouda with Black Peppercorn and Havarti with Dill. I was easily able to find them in the prepackaged gourmet cheese area near my grocer's deli department.

Both had deep rich flavors and were far advanced in flavor and texture from their processed cheese competitors more commonly purchased in the already sliced, diced, and cubed section.

My recipe:

Tuna Casserole (made easy peasy!)

INGREDIENTS

8-10 oz Arla Dofino Cheese (Havarti with Dill)
1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
1 family size tuna pouch (or can-drained)
10-12 oz pasta (your choice- we chose whole grain egg style noodles)

DIRECTIONS

Cook pasta and set aside in strainer.
Melt butter and add in cheese (I had cut it into chunks to melt faster)
Slowly add in milk to slightly thin cheese.
Stir in pasta and mix until all is coated with cheese
Add in tuna and stir until blended.
Serve!

Cheese and butter (well I added butter after this...whoops!)

There was no good way to photograph this, tuna casserole isn't
a pretty shoot, especially this type of pasta, but it tastes good!

Aveda Smooth Infusion Naturally Straight Review

2014-09-29T00:10:00.000-04:00

Through shespeaks I received Aveda Smooth Infusion Naturally Straight to try and review. The only request, try it 5 consecutive times and be honest.

Well here goes,

Before:

*note* this is after wearing in a bun, it is
not usally this 'calm'

I usually do not dry or straighten my hair. It is long, very thick, LONG and it takes forever. Usually after washing I towel dry, brush it, and put it in a bun or a braid. If I put it up correctly I can take it down the next day and wear it wavy-ish. I wear it up a lot during the summer due to the heat and I like to run 3 days a week. During the winter is where I find my problem. I can't throw a mass of wet hair into a bun and run. It is just simply too cold and now that we are the farthest geographical northern location I have ever lived in my life...I am not doing wet winter hair! But if I leave my hair down to air dry it looks greasy and flat to my head and some areas are wavy, some are straight, and the frizz, I stop there.

After first use.

I noticed it did straighten nicely with just the hair dryer. Usually I need to also do a quick once over with the straightening iron to fully flatten and de-puff the lower ends of my hair, but it looked pretty good (not flat iron good, but good enough to run out the door for dinner). My hair did feel a bit goopy but I didn't know if it was the product or if the conditioner didn't rinse well.

After second use.

Not much difference, still noticed it straightened well enough to leave the straightening iron in the closet. I made sure to wash and rinse well and noticed no sticky feeling so the first use, I must have rushed rinsing out the conditioner.

After third, fourth, and fifth uses.

No real difference in these. My hair didn't dry any faster but I did notice I didn't have to fully dry it to get the straightening effect. Usually if I leave my hair even the remotest bit damp, it curls/waves right back up and frizzes at the ends, but not so much now!!

After the trial.

please excuse my tacky shirt
just focus on the svelte hair!

I noticed that for the next one maybe even stretch and say 2 washed I could easily dry and brush out my hair to a more straight look, but by the third wash I was back to puff frizz, with some waves in the back.

Overall.

I do think this product works. It is a less chemically invasive way to straighten hair IF you have the time to use a hair dryer and if your hair is super curly you may need to use a straightener too. I think the bottom line is this, if you don't want to chemically alter and potentially damage your hair to straighten it, this is a great product if you have the 'primp' time. I think the main benefit for me, was that I didn't have to do the straightener and I had less frizz. I think I could achieve this with other anti-frizz products, but Aveda does have a reputation for hair friendly ingredients and an eco-friendly business.

Yes, I would, and probably will, buy this product. I don't think it is the miracle blow out serum, but it does have a little magic in its cute Tiffany blue squeeze tube! The scent is light but delicious and the product is not heavy, slimy, and doesn't leave a film, residue, or really any tactile presence on your hair.

I would say if you can splurge for the MSRP of $26, definitely try it out along with Aveda's line of hair care!!!

***I was given a full size product from shespeaks and Aveda to try and review, my opinion is my own and is a honest reflection of my personal experience with the product***

Silk Milk

2014-09-10T11:45:00.001-04:00

We love milk, but we all have our different taste preferences and likes and dislikes of dairy, so shopping for 'milk' products can be a challenge. Currently we buy 3...yes three different types of milks and I thought I would share about two of our loves!!

Personally I prefer..

Silk got me with this version. I love the soft subtle vanilla undertone and the rich earthiness the almonds provide. I love the calcium content and I LOVE that it is NON-GMO!!!! This is my go to in recipes, coffee and just to drink! It comes sweetened also, but I try to avoid added sugar and needless calories!

My husband loves...

He loves the flavor and consistency and also loves that it doesn't have any added sugar. He uses his in his cereals and smoothies and I add it into recipes too!

BzzAgent sent me a coupon to try a Silk Blend Coconut Almond milk. Could it be that there would be a product that would blend both worlds and eliminate one of our two Silk products?!?

We chose the unsweetened Silk Almond Coconut Blend. I wish I could say we were head over heels, but my husband and I both make donkeys look passive. I thought it tasted to coconutty and he thought it tasted to almondy. So we didn't find a happy medium, but I can say I love the tropical spin it gave my morning coffee. It still cooked and tasted well in recipes so it was well used but just as a beverage to drink, neither of us preferred it over our other Silk products.

I say if you are as stubborn as mules, you should try it, still tasty and still 35 calories per serving and still contains a good serving of calcium, so try it today!!!

***I was given a voucher via BzzAgent to obtain a free Silk Blend product to review and give my honest opinions.***

Labor Day Load Up!! {Target} review

2014-08-28T20:44:00.000-04:00

Want to send summer off in style?

Now at Target you can load up and save on delicious frozen treats! (until Aug 30, 2014)

Buy any 3 Fruttare, Klondike, or Magnum ice creams and get one free!!!

Better yet, head over to Target.com and search their coupons for savings on those brands...

wait for it...

then cartwheel each brand for even more savings!

I received, compliments of Influenster a coupon to try one free. I loaded up with 2 different Fruttare flaovrs, Oreo Klondike, and a Double Caramel Magnum....YUM!

Summer Bucket List

2014-06-04T12:21:00.000-04:00

Summer is on the way!! We have less than 20 days till we hit the road...moving that is. Going from Virginia to New York we expect some new experiences are on our horizon, but some are just plain old summer staples that are not dependent on any geographical location. Below is our summer bucket list we family traditions we have enjoyed doing during the dog days of summer. After I made it, I printed it and laminated it so that we can take a dry erase maker and mark through them as we tackle summer! Laminating it makes it usable year after year. Feel free to download and use this for yourself! What are some ways you embrace summer?

Influenster Go Vox Box Review Part 2

2014-05-30T13:34:00.001-04:00

Today I am going to finish my review of the Influenster Go Vox Box. I received all of these products to try and give my honest opinion. Look up @Influenster and find out more about great opportunities. I will break down the following products: PROFOOT Pedi-Rock and PROFOOT Triad Orthotic, Playtex Sport, and Muller Yogurt.

PROFOOT Triad Orthotic

Great, affordable insole that alleviates pressure points within the foot that may lead to knee, leg, or back pain.

PROS

Affordable
Easy to insert/use
Seem to have decent support and cushioning

CONS

Only 3/4 design not full length (I prefer full length)
Not sure how long it will maintain support and cushioning features

OVERALL

I think this is a great product and I would recommend it to people on their feet a lot or in need of additional support. I say #GoPROFOOT

PROFOOT Pedi-Rock

An easy to hold and use exfoliation 'rock' for the feet.

PROS

Seems to work and best after a shower!
Easy to clean and store for reuse
Leaves feet feeling soft and summer ready

CONS

I haven't seen these in the stores I use so I can't speak of their affordability or accessibility

OVERALL

I give this a 4 out of 5 and would recommend it. It is easy to hold and use, it works, but may not be readily available. I cannot find more information on it on the PROFOOT website either, I am guessing it is new!

Playtex Sport Fresh Balance

Feminine products geared towards the active woman.

PROS

Readily available and easy to find in various stores
Affordable
Easy to use & easy application
"Sport level protection" and "odor neutralization"

CONS

I try not to use scented items since it would be exposing me to synthetic fragrances
Difficult to remove compared to other brands

OVERALL

I give it a 3 out of 5, for the reasons of synthetic fragrances/chemicals and the string isn't very helpful for removal. Look them up on @PlaytexSportandGentleGlide

Muller Greek Corner Yogurt

Fun way to snack and packed with flavor and protein. I enjoyed it post-workout and it was also good as a after dinner dessert! #MullerQuaker

PROS

Neat design allows you to control how much fruit or other addition to incorporate
Good protein dense snack
Affordable
Tasty
Gluten Free for my gluten avoiding pals
No HFCS (corn syrup), no artificial ingredients

CONS

Like most yogurt the 'health' quotient is bogged down with added sugar

OVERALL

Great product 4 out of 5 simply for wishing they could limit additional sugars from it. It is tasty, creamy and comes in a variety of various flavor combos and I high suggest it as a snack or dessert!

Influenster Go Vox Box Review Part 1

2014-05-21T12:45:00.001-04:00

I am going to be breaking this review into two parts since it was so loaded! Here is my review of the Influenster #GoVoxBox products that I received for free to try and review: The Vitamin Shoppe NEXT STEP Jaxx Shaker and The Vitamin Shoppe NEXT STEP Fit N Full Shake, and Aqua Spa Body Creme

THE VITAMIN SHOPPE JAXX SHAKER

The Shaker is a great size, easy to transport.

PROS

good price/value
good size
no leaks
has measurements posted on container

CONS

certain products require a lot of shaking, not sure if it is 'Jaxx' design or product
may not fit in standard cup holders
although it doesn't leak, the flip top lid can be hard to seal down

OVERALL

I give this product a 4 out of 5. it is functional, affordable, and seems to be made durable.

THE VITAMIN SHOPPE FIT N FULL SHAKE (in french vanilla)

Convenient, transportable packets flavored well delivering good protein, vitamins, minerals at 140 calories a serving.

PROS

easy to use, package design is easy to open
taste is good and lacks that usual chalky flavor meal replacement powders tend to have
does curb appetite a bit

CONS

takes a long time to mix in the shaker bottle, I had a MUCH easier time in a single serve blender

OVERALL

I give this a 4 our of 5. It tastes good, easily transportable, but it is a bit tricky to get it all well blended.

AQUA SPA BODY CREME (relax scent)

An indulgent lotion/creme for the body.

PROS

no parabens or formaldehyde
not tested on animals
made in the USA
creamy and smooths on easily
light and pleasant scent

CONS

Currently on back order!!

OVERALL

I give this a 5 out of 5. I would LOVE to try the Soothe Creme (I LOVE minty lotions!!), but that aside I even found the lavender scent to be great (usually I am not a lavender fan). This is a great moisturizer and I would easily and happily recommend it!