Thrifty and Frugal Living

Target: Possible Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn- Part 1 Blu-Ray for $8.26 !?!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:18:00 +0000

Hubby has a Valentine's Day tradition of buying me the current Twilight DVD (they always release right before Vday). This year I asked him not to buy me anything since we had TONS of plans Vday week. I am glad we waited!

Well, today we were in Target and I was looking at ELF Makeup (duh!) and he was browsing the electronics section when he saw an employee marking down a special Target edition of Breaking Dawn Part 1 Blu-Ray Collector's gift set! This set is originally $32.99 and they had it marked down to $8.26!! It includes a limited edition prop flower from the actually wedding with a certificate of authenticity. Kind of ridiculous, but I absolutely love it! It is enclosed in a frame and really pretty. The Blu-Ray has tons of bonus features too (Edward and Bella's personal wedding video...yes please!).

I don't know if all Target's will have this deal, or just mine. So, you may want to call before you go. It does say "Online Item" on the sticker so it may be shipped special to certain stores (it says out of stock online). Good luck and if you live in the Tampa area: I got it at the Pinellas Park Target at Parkside Mall.

Register to Try New Goody Products for Free!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 07:59:00 +0000

Goody has a survey available here where you can sign up to get free new Goody products if you are selected. The survey only took me about 5 minutes and it looks like I qualified. It does state that just because you complete the survey it does not mean you will be selected. They will email you at a later date if you are picked. I figured it is worth a shot for 5 minutes of time.

Free Sample of Tide Pods!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 07:45:00 +0000

Go here to sign up for a free sample of the new Tide Pods. (Facebook may be required, but I am not sure. I was already logged in when I went to the page).

Free Sample of Origins Dr. Weil Mega Bright Skin Tone Correcting Serum

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 07:39:00 +0000

Origins has a freebie on Facebook. Go here and like them and then scratch off one of the circles to reveal your "extra prize". Mine was an entry into a giveaway. You will receive a free sample of their Dr. Weil Mega Bright Skin Tone Correcting Serum in 2 to 4 weeks.

How to Score Three Julep Nail Polishes for $1 Shipped!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:22:00 +0000

Have you heard of Julep Maven yet? It is a monthly box of Julep nail polish. I actually joined over a month ago. I have been meaning to post this deal for awhile and I keep forgetting. Opps. Forgive me! The Julep nail polish retails for $14 a bottle. It is pretty good nail polish, but I would never pay that much for a bottle of nail polish (particularly these thinner bottles). If you join Julep Maven then you can get three bottles of nail polish (or two bottles of nail polish with something else like an oil) for only $19.99 per month. The boxes retail about $40-$45 each, so it is a decent deal.

The GREAT news is that they have been releasing codes to get your first box for $1 shipped!! I received the January "It Girl" box and I actually received three nail polishes and a top coat. love two of the colors and the top coat. I wish I had waited though, because the colors are prettier this month. Go here and either take the style quiz or click on "learn more" when the second picture advertising Julep Maven pops up. Then enter code SHAREONFEB to get your box discounted to $1 (note: you will have to select your state & the tax will come off as long as you are in Washington state where they are located).

Things you should know:

*You can skip any month you want by logging into your account

*You can cancel whenever you want to by logging into your account

*You can change between the different "styles" to get whichever box you like best every month

*They do not fill up your email box with spam

*This nail polish is now my second favorite (Zoya has my heart).

*shipping is always free ($19.99 total for all your boxes after the first $1 box)

*I have never had any problems with them & my nail polish arrived well packed & in perfect shape

*If you get two friends to join, you get a box for free

*You can sign up and pay for 1, 3, 6 or 12 month subscriptions (hello Birthday and Christmas gifts!)

*Disclaimer: I did not receive anything for this post. All opinions are 100% my own. I do have my personal link in this post, so I may receive free products if you use it (pretty please!).

February Extreme Cash Giveaway (5 Prizes)! Win Cash or Kodak Easyshare Sport Camera!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the FEBRUARY EXTREME CASH GIVEAWAY!

Our last giveaway was a huge success with over 600,000 entries. This time we’re bringing you MORE PRIZES which means MORE CHANCES for YOU to win!

We are giving away:

(1) $300 Paypal Cash prize

(1) $200 Paypal Cash prize

(1) $100 Paypal Cash prize

(1) $50 Paypal Cash prize

(1) Kodak Easyshare Sport Camera

There are lots of entries available and this giveaway will go on for a whole month, so take your time! Be sure to bookmark this page so you can come back every day and claim your daily entries too.

This giveaway ends 3/15 at 11:59 pm EST and is open worldwide. There are over 100 participating blogs, but you only need to enter the giveaway on one of our blogs. Good luck!

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Running Out? Run In to Publix + Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:20:00 +0000

Publix is my favorite grocery store. They always have Buy One, Get One free deals and great promotions. Right now, they have the Running out? Run in. promotion. Publix is definitely my first choice for a quick stop if I run out of something. Well, From Feb. 9th through Feb. 14th, look for the “Running Out? Run In.”event at your local Publix store and “run in,” to take advantage of the great savings available on some of your favorite brands from General Mills and Procter and Gamble, including Yoplait yogurt, Cheerios, Charmin, and Crest.

You can also get a $5 Publix gift card to use on your next shopping trip when you purchase $30 or more in participating items during the event (2/8 – 2/25); simply mail in the rebate form found in-store or online at runningoutrunin.com along with your original receipt(s). These are everyday use products included in this rebate, so you shouldn't have to buy anything extra to get this gift card.

As an added bonus look in-stores for over $14 in coupon savings. Coupons are valid Feb. 6 through Feb. 25. My store has them hanging up at the front of the store when you first walk in.

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader will win a $25 Publix gift card

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Disclosure: The Publix gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa February Events!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:38:00 +0000

January was gone in a blink of an eye and now it is time to get into the full swing of February. Here are this months events for the The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino:

Progressive High Hand Reward Promotion

Each day from 12:01am to 11:59pm, February 1, 2012 through February 29, 2012, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa Poker Room poker players will be eligible to win each High Hand.

10 Million Point Giveaway

10 lucky winners win 1,000,000 points. Earn entries 2/1-2/27. Hourly drawings 12pm-9pm.

$50,000 Hearts are Wild

Wednesdays in February. Choose 5 cards out of 20. The better the hand, the more you win. Hourly drawings 10am-4pm. Win up to $50,000 cash. Earn entries January 26 to February 29.

His and Hers Fiat 500 Giveaway

Tuesdays in February. Hourly drawings 1pm-9pm for $1,000 cash. Grand Prize drawing at 9:30pm for two Fiat 500s. Earn entries February 1 to February 28.

Everyday Features of the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa include:

Penny Slots-

All new penny slot room. From pennies to payday, You could win millions in our penny slots room. Located by the food court. Featuring hundreds of your favorite slots.

Restaurants at Hard Rock Tampa-

It all depends on your appetite. Hard Rock Café: Enjoy classic American fare from our over 50-item food menu, an authentic rock atmosphere and live music on our exciting elevated stage. Council Oak Steak and Seafood: Tampa¹s award-winning spot for prime steaks and fresh seafood. Contemporary and upscale. Fresh Harvest: 7 live-action kitchens serving everything from brick oven pizzas to dim sum and desserts to an all new breakfast buffet. Rock 'N Raw: Sushi, noodles and dim sum. Fresh and fabulous. Located on the 2nd floor next to Fresh Harvest. The Green Room: From burgers to benedicts. Open 24/7 for casual breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The Food Court: A world of familiar and exotic snacks located on the lobby level by the Poker Room.

Past Events include:

Turn 2 Foundation

9th Annual Derek Jeter Celebrity Golf Classic presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Wednesday, January 18. About the foundation: The Turn 2 Foundation, established in 1996, has awarded more than $16 million in grants to create and support signature programs and activities that motivate young people to choose healthy lifestyles. Through these ventures, the Foundation strives to create outlets for children to achieve academic excellence, develop leadership skills and remain drug and alcohol free. These programs all share the same goal of helping today¹s youth become the leaders of tomorrow.

Sephora 2012 Birthday Freebie!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:52:00 +0000

If you have been following my blog for awhile, then you know that I have posted Birthday freebies and I even did a Sephora vs. Smashbox Birthday freebie post. For both companies the freebie is with purchase, but you can normally find something cheap. Anyways, I recently received an email from Sephora with 2012's Birthday gift. They are giving us a Sugar Kisses Mini Lip Duo. I just literally did the happy dance! I have been DYING to try this stuff, but I don't really want to pay for it. I have already splurged enough in Sephora recently ($20 Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow Pencil in Narc...omg..still can't believe I paid that. Yes, it was/is worth it!). So, check out my Birthday comparison post and make sure you go here to sign up to be a Sephora Beauty Insider and get your freebie!

Shadora Diamond Accent Silver Plated Heart Pendant Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:28:00 +0000

Are you looking for a great Valentine's Day gift for your loved one that won't empty your pockets? You need Shadora. I have done several reviews and giveaways for Shadora in the past and they continue to be one of my favorite places to buy jewelry.

Today I am going to review and giveaway Shadora's Diamond Accent Silver Plated Heart Pendant. This necklace has silver and black twisted swirls to create two intertwined hearts (this would be great symbolism for Valentine's Day!). The silver is silver plating and the black is black accent diamonds. This necklace comes on an 18 inch chain and packaged in a Shadora gift box.

This necklace is really pretty and would make a great gift for someone. The word "diamond" in the title and description is a little misleading since there are not any diamonds as far as I can tell. It looks like a silver plated and a black plated heart intertwined. I still think that it is definitely worth the $14.99 Shadora asking price. I would not pay the original price of $89.99 (but I am a cheapy..lol).

The chain that the necklace comes on is 18 inches long and has an odd zigzag closure. When I first saw this, I was afraid that the necklace might fall off. I have worn this necklace many times and have not had a problem yet. It seems like the weight of the necklace is enough to hold it taut and keep it from falling off.

While this is not my favorite Shadora piece, it is still one that I like to wear. It is fun, pretty and best of all only $14.99. Visit Shadora to see their current selection. If you are unfamiliar with Shadora, they only post so many items for sale at a time & they don't sell an item for more than 2 weeks. If you find something you want, but it right away.

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader will win the Diamond Accent Silver Plated Heart Pendant.

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Disclaimer: I received the mentioned product(s) in exchange for this review. I was not compensated in any other way. All opinions stated here are 100% my own.

Obsessed

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:42:00 +0000

Sorry that I have been kind of absent recently. I have been having a lot of pain and I also started school again (Yay!). So, I am trying to get into the swing of things. I wanted to share with you guys some of my recent obsessions.

Zoya

I have been extremely obsessed with nail polish recently and Zoya is definitely my favorite brand. It seems to last longer and go on smoother than most brands I have. Sally Hansen and Julep are runners up.

Urban Decay

Not only did I recently get the Naked palette, but I have also purchased quite a few 24/7 sticks and a few bottles of eyeshadow primer. All three of these products are the absolute best makeup products I have ever bought. With the primer and the Naked Palette or even the 24/7 stick my eyeshadow lasts all day As a result I am not buying any more eyeshadow (at least that is my goal). I have finally satisfied my makeup craving Thanks to Urban Decay.

Paradise by Coldplay

I actually could not stand Coldplay a few years ago. When I heard Paradise that changed. I am crazy about this song. It even inspired me to listen to more of Coldplay and I must say that I adore them now.

Foster The People- Torches

I am sure that you have all heard "Pumped up Kicks" by now, but you really need to listen to the entire Torches cd. It is amazing. Mark Foster is also fun and incredibly flawless live. Within the last year they have passed up many bands to become one of my top 5.

Target Flats

I recently bought these babies in black and they are so comfortable and cute. I can not wear high heels and I have to be careful how I walk due to some past ankle/foot injuries. So, comfortable dress shoes are a must.

What are you current obsessed with?

$500 Extreme Cash Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:29:00 +0000

It’s time for an EXTREME CASH GIVEAWAY! I have teamed up with my blogger friends to bring you an extreme cash prize. One lucky winner will receive $500 in their Paypal account at the end of this giveaway!

To enter, simply follow each of our blogs via Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and any other way you’d like! All the links are provided for you and you can do as many as you choose. This giveaway ends 2/12/12 at 11:59 pm EST and is open worldwide.

You only need to enter this giveaway on one of our blogs -- good luck!

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Super by Dr. Nicholas Perricone Astaxanthin Skin Care Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 07:06:00 +0000

Great news! There is a new line of products out from Dr. Nicholas Perricone: Super. He has developed lots of new innovative products like Night Recharge. Night Recharge is Astaxanthin Skin Care product (Astaxanthin is a natural skin protector that improves skin elasticity and increases moisture retention) that will brighten, smooth and renew your skin.

Then there is the Hyper Hydrator which contains medium chain triglycerides coconut oil to help moisturize, balance and soften your skin.

I am personally really excited about Supermodel Legs which is a tinted body lotion that shimmers, hydrates and smooths. My pale legs could really use this! It had Capsaicin in it which is supposed to be great for skin radiance.

Have Acne? Try the Acne Solution which contains Quercetin (an antioxadant from green apples) so calm sensitive skin and Salicylic Acid to prevent breakouts. The Acne Solution exfoliates, brightens and balances.

There are a lot of other great products too, so visit their website and glance around. Just like the regular Perricone website, the Super website is set up to be extremely user friendly. You can search for the products you want based on concern (Acne, Fine Lines and Wrinkles, etc), category (Cleanser, Activator, etc) or even search by Sciences (Gingerol, Probiotics, etc.).

GIVEAWAY:

One very lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader is going to win a Super product of their choice!

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Disclaimer: I am not receiving anything in exchange for this post, it is for my readers only. All opinions are 100% my own. I will receive a free Super product of my choice in exchange for a link on my website. I am not being compensated in any other way.

Welcome 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I know I am a little late on this, but I hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year's! I had to work through both Holiday's, so I didn't get to do the posts I wanted to. I personally am very happy to see 2011 go. It was a year of tragedy, disasters and pain for me and a lot of the people that I know. I have heard people say that they thing it is lame when someone complains about the past year and that if they want change, they have to make the change themselves. It is not always that easy. My personal misfortunes/ tragedies were due to bad luck. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time (several times throughout the year). Unfortunately, I am not able to share details with you. Needless to say, I am still trying to recover and that is why I have been more absent on blogging. The same is true for many of my friends, lots of bad luck. There were a lot of unnecessary deaths and hardships in 2011. One of my coworkers even had her Husband murdered in a robbery 3 days after Christmas! Another friend lost his wife to breast cancer. The point is, I am ready to move beyond 2011. I am hoping 2012 will be better for a lot of people (including me, pretty please!).

It's funny because when I searched Google Pictures for a "2012" picture I was expecting to find lots of happy people from New Year's with funny 2012 glasses. What did I find? All Doomsday pictures...eekk. My personal opinion is that people like drama and create things like this to keep themselves amused. Didn't they say the world was going to end in 2000? No one mentions that anymore. 25 years from now there will be a new date and new worries. Do I think our planet is in trouble? Absolutely. However, I don't think it is going to blowup or collide with an asteroid or anything on a particular date. If mother nature were that predictable then the so called "Meteorologists" would at least be able to tell us if it was going to rain. Let's face it, they don't know crap.What is your opinion on 2012?

On to merrier news....I did have a VERY good Christmas gift wise. Hubby really surprised me by taking notes at a mall trip. He went to Sephora and picked me up some gifts:

pureDKNY Verbena

Urban Decay's Naked Palette

Have I mentioned how much I love my Husband? : ) I have been obsessed with this pureDKNY perfume since I received a sample a few months ago. It smells better than any other perfume I have ever had. It also smells incredible on my skin and lasts a decent amount of time.

The Urban Decay Naked Palette is something that I have drooled over for YEARS. I was telling my Husband about it when we were in the store and I kept looking at it. I could have bought it for myself, but I just could NOT bring myself to pay $48 for it. I am SO glad that Hubby did though. This is hands down the best eyeshadow I have ever used. I tested it out with the primer potion and 14 hours after putting it on, it looked just like it did when I first put it on. I don't know if it is the primer potion, the eyeshadow or both. All I know is that I now think this is completely worth the $48. Splurge on it Ladies! If you can't afford the Palette just yet, at least pick up the primer potion. Since I am so awesome, I will tell you that you can pick it up cheap ($10 for 10ml bottle..great deal) at Urban Decay right now. They also have some palettes on sale and a 24/7 shadow pencil set (that I just bought with some Christmas money...Thanks Mom) on Urban Decay's website.

I also scored an Amazon Kindle, iPod, lot's of Bath and Body Works, a Cheesecake Factory gift card (YUM!) and more! Thanks to all my amazing family members! What did you get?

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa January Events + Water Bottle Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 04:22:00 +0000

Just because the Holidays are over, doesn't mean that you have to stop partying and having a good time. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is always open! Here are the highlights for January:

Live Tribute to Elvis

Wednesday, January 8th from 9pm to 12:30am in the Hard Rock Cafe.

2012 SHR Girls Calendar on Sale

Calendars are available for $14.99 and are sold exclusively at the Seminole Hard Rock Retail Shop and Hard Rock Cafe Store, while supplies last. SHRT donated net proceeds from the first week of calendar sales to The Spring of Tampa Bay, a domestic violence prevention and emergency shelter agency.

Legendary Cadillac Giveaway

Tuesdays in January. Hourly drawings from 1pm to 9pm for $1,000 cash. Grand prize drawing at 9:30pm for a Cadillac SRX. Earn entries December 28, 2011- January 31, 2012

Pirate Treasure Giveaway

Wednesdays in January. Win up to $5,000 Cash. Hourly drawings from 10am to 4pm. Earn entries December 29, 2011- January 25, 2012.

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader will win a Seminole Hard Rock of Tampa water bottle:

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Disclaimer: I did not receive anything in exchange for this post. I occasionally get perks and invites from the Hard Rock in exchange for me blogging for them. There is no monetary compensation. All opinions are 100% my own.

December Events at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa + Giveaway (3 winners!!)

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 01:28:00 +0000

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is one of the best places to hang out in Tampa. It seems like every other day I hear of a new celebrity citing there. There are also a lot of celebrity "after parties". For example, Rome Ramirez from Sublime with Rome held a Rockstar Party at the beginning of the month (12/03) after he played at the 1-800-Ask-Gary Amphitheater. How cool is that? Anyways, there are a lot of great events this month (and every month). Here are the highlights:

New Years Eve Event DJ Spider at the Hard Rock Café

Friday, December 30, 2011. 12am-4am. Tickets available at the door. $20 cover for guys all night. Ladies free until 1am, $10 cover 1am-4am. Bust Out Your New Year¹s Eve Dance Moves to the Sounds of LA¹s Hottest Spinmaster DJ Spider as He Kicks-Off Hard Rock Cafe Tampa¹s Weekend of Parties. SHRT (Seminole Hard Rock Tampa) is the ONLY place in Tampa Bay open late night, so everyone can party all night and all day long.

Santa¹s Sleigh Mercedes-Benz Giveaway

Win a Mercedez-Benz or $1,000 cash. Hourly Drawings 1pm 9pm for $1,000 Cash. Grand Prize Drawing at 9:30pm. Earn Entries 11/30 -12/27.

Flurries of Cash

December 1st- December 28th, 2011. Win up to $10,000 cash or electronics including a laptop, TV, digital camera and Playstation 3.

Hard Rock Girls Calendar

On sale beginning December 8th.

WHY HUNGER/ IMAGINE

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa will collect food for the local Metropolitan Ministries this holiday season as part of the Imagine There¹s No Hunger campaign, a global campaign to raise awareness and funding for the fight against childhood hunger and poverty. Now - Dec. 13: Bags of Joy program collection of toys, strollers, shoes, books and other essential items for children. November-December: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Tampa employees will volunteer at the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent. They will sort donations and prepare and serve food. Throughout the year: Lost and found items including clothing and eyeglasses are donated to Metropolitan Ministries. Hotel linen and terry are also donated. Now through Dec. 31, visitors and other supporters can text the word IMAGINE to 50555 to donate $10 to WhyHunger and help feed a hungry child.

For the full list of events visit the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa website!

GIVEAWAY:

Three lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living readers will win a prize this month! The first winner that is picked will win a grey Hard Rock Tampa 40th Anniversary T-shirt in Large. The second winner will receive a Hard Rock Tampa USB Keychain. The third winner will get a Hard Rock keychain. Good luck!

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load. If you are reading this via RSS or Email, please visit the website to enter**

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Maggies Direct Feather/Down Pillow Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 03:25:00 +0000

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to sleep on a cloud? With the right bedding you can achieve that feeling. Maggies Direct can help you with that! They have down comforters, pillows, featherbeds, blankets and more (they even have a pet section!).

I received the 95/5 Feather/Down Cuddledown pillow:

Maggie's Direct description:

"Bestow your parents with this traditional feather pillow that is softer, yet has the same structured support you expect from an old fashioned pillow. Made with 95% Small Goose Feathers and 5% Goose Down and 100% cotton fabric, this feather pillow is double stitched, downproofed, Oeko-Tex® certified to be free of all harmful chemicals, and made in USA using fine imported materials. This complements well with quilted sateen pillow protectors, also available at Maggie's.

Care Instructions: Fluff on a daily basis. Air outside to keep smelling fresh. Spot clean small stains with a mild detergent and thoroughly dry area with a hand held hairdryer. Machine wash warm with a mild detergent. Thoroughly dry on low to prevent mildew. To keep down from clumping during the drying process, we recommend using fluffer-uppers in the dryer."

This pillow came in a really nice reusable plastic bag. I am currently using it to protect another pillow I have that I am not using. It would also be great to use when taking your pillow on vacation with you. The pillow itself is fantastic. My Husband is obsessed with feather pillows and stole this one from me after my first night of using it. I love him a lot...so I let him. Now he is feeling guilty and might buy me my own. : )

This pillow is really soft and comfortable. It has the perfect amount of filling in it. It is not overfilled like some pillows are. The pillow feels like it is 100% feather even though it is 95% feather and 5% down. I think the extra down gives it a little bit more fluffiness and makes the pillow perfect. The best part about this pillow is that it is double stitched! There will not be any pesky feathers poking out of this pillow.

You may be wondering why the Maggies Direct picture and website say "Social Network Shopping". Well, it is because they have an amazing awards system called 'Social Bucks". You get a Social Buck just for signing up and then you can earn more by completing tasks and buying products. If you invite friends then you even get Social Bucks for the items that they buy. You get Social Bucks for voting in the weekly poll, inviting friends, reviewing a product, signing up for Maggie's Direct newsletter, liking Maggie's Direct on Facebook and more. These Social Bucks can then be used to purchase items on Maggies Direct. They even work on clearance (which has quite a few $10 items)!

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky reader will win a pair of the 95/5 Feather/Down pillows.

**TO ENTER- Click READ MORE (below or click here to view full post) and enter using the Rafflecopter. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load.**

Disclaimer: I received the mentioned product(s) in exchange for this review. I was not compensated in any other way. All opinions stated here are 100% my own.

Holiday Gift Guide: Memory on Hand Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:42:00 +0000

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a teenager who is hard to buy for? What about a computer savy male? I have the perfect gift for you to buy. Memory on Hand bands are innovative and hip. They were created by Andrew Kitzenberg when he was an undergraduate at Babson College. What exactly are Memory on Hand bands? They are bracelets with built in flash drives. According to Memory on Hand, they are not fashion. They are "flashion".

The MoH Bands come in 24 colors including solid colors and tie-dye. There are 2 different sizes you can get 2gb or 4gb. I would recommend getting the 4gb since it can hold more data and it is only a few dollars more. I received the 2gb MoH Band in Jade Turquoise:

The first thing I noticed was the nice packaging. This packaging is apparently new for Memory on Hand and it not only protects the bracelet, but it makes it look nice for a gift. When I tried on the band I was very impressed. I had a few worries about these bands: 1) that they would fall off and my information would be in jeopardy. 2) that the band would not fit my large wrist (I am from a big boned family and my wrist bones are literally "man sized"). 3) that the band would look cheap. All of my concerns were quickly erased the day I received my MoH band. While the fit is a little snug on me, it is comfortable. This size should be perfect for most adults and teenagers. The USB drive fits snugly into the bracelet & I have not had it fall off at all. You actually have to tug a little bit to get it out, so I don't think you would need to worry about this at all. The band is also nice looking. It fits right in with my other silicone bracelets and I even wear it upside down so that people don't see the "2gb" and know it has a USB drive.

This would be a fantastic gift. There are so many plain and boring flash drives out there, but nothing like this. It is also a great way for people that normally lose small flash drives to keep track of their information.

BONUS: If you like Memory on Hand on Facebook you will get free shipping (hint: it is on the left hand side underneath their picture).

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader will win a 2gb Memory on Hand band!

**TO ENTER- Click READ MORE (below or click here to view full post) and enter using the Rafflecopter. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load.**

Disclaimer: I received the mentioned product(s) in exchange for this review. I was not compensated in any other way. All opinions stated here are 100% my own.

Holiday Gift Guide: Gourmet Gift Baskets Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 22:29:00 +0000

You may remember Gourmet Gift Baskets from some previous reviews and giveaways I have done (see here and here). They are an amazing company that has both traditional and unique (garden or golf?) gift baskets. They are bound to have something for everyone in your family. They also have all sizes of baskets so that the price can accommodate you too. One of the great things about gift baskets is that you can purchase one basket for an entire family to share and not have to worry about individual gifts. However, if you want individual gift baskets you can find those on Gourmet Gift Baskets also.

GIVEAWAY:

Gourmet Gift Baskets has graciously offered up a Christmas Gift Basket Classic (pictured above) for one lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader. This $59.99 basket would make a great gift or a yummy treat for your own family. This basket includes:

· Almond Pecan-dy Crunch by Morley Candy Makers
· Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies by J and M Foods
· Dipping Pretzels by East Shore Specialty Foods
· Robert Rothschild Farm Raspberry Honey Mustard Pretzel Dip
· Salted Peanuts in Box by Feridie's
· Signature Dark Chocolate Bar by Lake Champlain
· Buttered Peanut Crunch by Old Dominion Peanut Company
· Metropolitan Trail Mix by GourmetGiftBaskets.com
· Parmesan Artichoke and Garlic Cheese Biscuits by Salem Baking Company
· Chocolate Covered Cherries by Marich

If you read my Veteran's Day post, then you will also remember that Gourmet Gift Baskets donates a lot to charity. They have currently been donating to soldiers overseas. For one more day, if you have a blog you can help them to donate:

HOW BLOGGERS CAN DONATE FOR FREE (LAST DAY IS 12/09):

Gourmet Gift Baskets is also sponsoring a campaign for Bloggers. For every qualifying blog post Gourmet Gift Baskets will donate TWO Care Packages! Here are the details:

*Review their selection of Christmas Gift Baskets on your Blog.

*The topic of the Blog Post should discuss their Christmas gift selection and how they can be a great gift for someone.

*Leave your link ON THIS POST or email it to me: Latsyrc728@yahoo.com with Gourmet Gift Baskets as the subject

*The Military Donation Blog Posts should be posted between November 21st and December 9th

**TO ENTER- Enter using the Rafflecopter. If you are reading this via email or reader you will need to visit the website to enter. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load.**

Disclaimer: I did not receive anything in exchange for this post. This is for my readers only. I was not compensated in any way. All views and opinions are 100% my own.

The Ultimate Christmas Giveaway: Wilton Ultimate Decorating Set

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:13:00 +0000

Welcome to The Ultimate Christmas Giveaway Event!

You have a chance to win the Wilton Ultimate Decorating Set worth $199.99!

If bought separately, the items in the kit would cost $250!

The Ultimate Decorating Set contains the following: 9-inch and 11-inch Straight Black Handle Spatulas, 9-inch and 13-inch Angled Black Handle Spatulas, 10-inch Featherweight Bags - 2 Pack, 12-inch Disposable Bags - 50 Pack, Practice Board with Patterns 4 - Standard Couplers, 6 Pc Forming Cups, Large Lily Nail, - 2 Pack 15-inch Parchment, Triangles Round Tips: #1, #3, #5, #12 Star Tips: #14, #16, #18, #21, #1M Petal Tips: #59s, #101, #104 Leaf Tips: #352 and #366 Bismarck Tip #230 Drop Flower Tip #2D Multi Opening Tip #233 Thin and Thick Foams Flower Nail Templates Brush Set, Gold Foil Cut, and Press Button Flower Pansy Cutter, Wave Flower Former, 2 Pack 2 Pc Mum Cutter Set, Calla Lily Cutter, Calla Lily Former, Scallop Ruffle Cutter, Lily Stamen Set Tip, Dishwasher Pouch, Dusting Pouch, Green Ball Tool, Green Veining Tool, Fondant Smoother Ribbon Cutter/Embosser, 12-inch Dowel Rods, Round Cut Out Set, Rose Cutter Set, 5 pc 8-inch Cake Circle, Silicone Tip Covers, 9-inch Rolling Pin Thin, and Thick Modeling Sticks, 4 Pc Decorating Nail Set, and The Ultimate Tool Caddy!

There are 28 blogs participating in this event. To not make the Rafflecopter entry list too long - all entries are MANDATORY (worth 5 entries each) with JUST ONE optional entry (to Tweet about the giveaway - worth 5 points as well)! Going through 28 blogs to win a $199.99 prize is not hard to do at all! I went through the list myself and didn't run into any problems - I was done in less than half an hour. :)

The giveaway is December 7 till the 14th (ending at 11:59PM EST on 12/14) but the winners will not be announced until December 16, 2011 so we can make sure that everyone who entered followed all the rules.

I know Google Friend Connect widgets can do disappearing acts so please give all of the pages time to fully load or refresh a page to see if the widget shows up.

This giveaway is open to U.S. and Canada readers only – we wish we could include international readers as well but we hope you guys understand. (If you're in Canada, please check our Giveaway Policy to make sure you qualify to enter You may be asked to answer a question if you win.)

Must be 18 years old and older to enter. Winner will be chosen using Random.org. Winner will be e-mailed and will have 48 hrs. to reply or we have no choice but to pick another winner.

Below are the following blogs participating in this giveaway along with the Rafflecopter! It’s only 28 blogs total so not a lot of work on your part! We all have the same Rafflecopter code so just as long as you enter in one blog, it’s okay – as long as you make sure to visit each blog to follow them according to the Rafflecopter form below (we check for duplicate entries)! Happy linking and Good Luck!

(Make sure you have Javascript enabled to see this giveaway!)

**TO ENTER- Click READ MORE (below or click here to view full post) and enter using the Rafflecopter. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load.**

Tubular Tunes on Tuesday 00's Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:21:00 +0000

It is time for Tubular Tunes on Tuesday again with my friends Krystal and Jen! If you have been wanting to link up, you are running out of time to join. These are the dates left (including today):

November 22nd *** 00s
November 29th *** Current
December 6th *** Bonus Week: Soundtracks

I have to admit that a lot of these songs I thought were in the 90's. It is hard to believe that some of my favorite bands that I have been listening to FOREVER were started in the 2000's. Ohh and just to warn you, my 00 list is NOT very mainstream. : )

BLINK-182 - Always
Of course, my favorite band has to be listed first. Would you expect anything less? Although my favorite album is definitely Dude Ranch, Blink had a lot of great music in the 2000's. Always is definitely one of my top 5 Blink-182 songs. I Miss You was a runner-up.

Lucky Boys Confusion- Bossman
Krystal and myself were obsessed with this band in High School (and early college for me). We have seen them live together about 4-5 times. They are very talented and sweet. Unfortunately, LBC only plays occasionally in Chicago now. I miss them like crazy and still listen to their stuff quite often. You should also listen to Fred Astaire and Hey Driver.

Something Corporate - Punk Rock Princess
This was my theme song my freshman year of college! It was even the song I had to play on repeat on my first website. I was REALLY into Punk and Emo. I have always loved Something Corporate and secretly hope for them to ditch their side projects and focus on a new cd (even though I also like Andrew's current band Jack's Mannequin.). Cool fact: Krystal, my step brother Brandon (RIP) and myself were at a huge local concert (97x's Next Big Thing) where Something Corporate was playing. I made a really awful homemade shirt that said "I will be your Punk Rock Princess (front) and you can be my garge band king (back)" and one of the band members came up to me and said "love your shirt".

Jimmy Eat World- A Praise Chorus
Jimmy Eat World is another band that I have seen with Krystal. I discovered them when I was about 12 or 13 and obsessed with Mark Hoppus. I read an interview where he said that Jimmy Eat World was his favorite band. I ordered the CD and fell in love with the band. Bleed American (retitled as "Jimmy Eat World" after 9-11) is my second all time favorite album after Blink-182's Dude Ranch. The "Crimson and Clover" chorus in this song puts me into a good mood regardless of what has happened in my life. You may know Sweetness and The Middle...listen to them.

Midtown- Just Rock and Roll
Did I mention that I loved punk? I was obsessed with a lot of Drive-Thru Records bands including these guys. If you are a fan of Cobra Starship, this is where Gabe Saporta started.

The Starting Line - Leaving
Another Drive-Thru Records band that I was crazy about and still love.

Rise Against - Swing Life Away
Rise Against is my 2nd favorite band. Their songs are always so beautiful and have so much meaning to them. Swing Life Away is definitely my favorite Rise Against song.

30 Seconds to Mars - The Kill
Jared Leto is not just gorgeous, he is super talented. He not only writes and sings the songs, he directs the videos too. Did I mention that he is dreamy? Ohh...and he looks good in black eyeliner. : )

I'm going to stop there, but some other bands that are honorable mentions are:
*Panic at the Disco!
*Saves the Day
*Ludo
*Franz Ferdinand
*Modest Mouse
*The White Stripes
*Three Days Grace
*Breaking Benjamin
*New Found Glory
*Story of the Year
*Good Charlotte

Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 10:31:00 +0000

Tiny Prints is having their 3^rd annual Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest! You can can enter for a chance to win the grand prize of $1,000 cash, plus a $500 Tiny Prints gift certificate. They are looking for the cutest photos in the following categories:

* Cutest Baby (From ages of 0-24 months)

*Cutest Kid (From ages of 25 months - 10 years old)

*Cutest Family

*Cutest Couple

*Cutest Pet and Owner

After the entry period is over, Tiny Prints will open up the contest to the entire Community to vote for their favorites and determine the winners!

Hurry! The entry deadline has been extended to November 21

You can enter the Tiny Print Talent Search Contest via Facebook or on the Tiny Prints website. For Official Rules, click here.

Disclaimer: I will receive 25 personalized Thank You notes from Tiny Prints in exchange for this post. Tiny Prints really is a great company and you should definitely enter this contest!

Holiday Gift Guide Stocking Stuffer: Carmex Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 09:56:00 +0000

I love that a lot of brands are starting to branch out and make multiple products and not just the products that they are best known for. Carmex is one of these brands. Did you know that they now make healing lotion, healing cream and healing ointment? It only makes sense since they have perfected their lip products.

For this review Carmex sent me both the Healing Cream and the Healing Lotion in full size and travel size bottles. They even packaged it up in a cute little gift bag:

I have to admit that I love both the Healing Lotion and the Healing Cream. They are both white, thick and non-greasy. The non-greasy part is really important to me. I hate when a lotion/ cream feels greasy when you put it on. Then, you normally try to wash it off and you are stuck with the yucky and greasy feeling for the rest of the day. They also both smell really good. The scent is a little bit stronger on the Cream. While I can't determine exactly what the scent is, it is sweet but not over-powering.

The Healing Cream and Healing Lotion do have some differences. The Lotion has Aloe and Vitamin E is meant to be used daily to soothe and protect dry skin. The Cream has 9 Healing Ingredients and is to be used to help repair your driest and roughest skin. I really had a hard time deciding which is my favorite. In the end, the Healing Cream won because it is slightly thicker and makes my skin feel more moist.

Carmex Healing Lotion and/or Healing Cream would be great as stocking stuffers for the entire family. The Suggested Retail Price is just $5.99 for the full size and $.99 for the travel size tubes! At that price you can afford to buy Carmex for everyone. They would also make great gifts for teachers, co-workers, neighbors, etc.

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky winner will receive the same gift set I received. This includes:

*One 5.5 oz Carmex Healing Lotion
*One 4oz Carmex Healing Cream
*One 1oz Carmex Healing Lotion
*One .75oz Carmex Healing Cream

Disclaimer: Carmex provided me with the mentioned products in exchange for this unbiased review. I was not compensated in any other way. All views and opinions are 100% my own.

**TO ENTER- Click READ MORE (below or click here to view full post) and enter using the Rafflecopter. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load.**

Holiday Gift Guide: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:20:00 +0000

If you are a huge Harry Potter fan like myself, than this newly released DVD is definitely on your Christmas Wish List! There is also a cool new Harry Potter widget where you can take a trivia quiz, like your favorite characters on Facebook and follow all things Harry Potter. Check it out:

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky Thrifty and Frugal Living reader is going to win a Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 DVD!

**TO ENTER- Click READ MORE (below or click here to view full post) and enter using the Rafflecopter. Note: It may take a moment for the Rafflecopter to load.**

Disclaimer: I did not receive anything in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own.

Tubular Tunes on Tuesday Music Link Up 90's Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Crystal H.) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:44:00 +0000

Two of my amazing real life friends Krystal and Jen have been hosting a music link up on Tuesdays. I have missed the first two weeks because Tuesday is THE WORST day of the week for me to post. I really regretted missing out on last weeks 80's post (I love 80's music!) and decided I could NOT miss this week. Note: If you are reading this via email or RSS, visit the website for the videos!

Here are the Tubular Tunes on Tuesday that are left (including today):

November 15th *** 90s
November 22nd *** 00s
November 29th *** Current
December 6th *** Bonus Week: Soundtracks

**WARNING: There will be some cussing involved in these videos.**

On to the music....

Blink 182- Apple Shampoo (1997)
My all time favorite song from my all time favorite cd by my all time favorite band. This song actually never had a video made, so here is a random Youtube video with the song playing in the background:

Of course, I could do this whole post on Blink 182, but I am limiting myself to one vote per band. : )

Sublime- Badfish (1992)
I have always loved this band. It was hard to pick one song, but I decided to pick an under-appreciated and not overplayed song. RIP Brad Nowell. I am also really excited to see Sublime with Rome next month (Rome Ramirez replaced Brad Nowell and they sound pretty dang good)!

Nirvana- Come As You Are (1991)
Does this song really need commentary? This will still be playing when my future children are senior citizens. RIP Kurt Cobain.

Foo Fighters- Everlong (1997)
Of course the end of Nirvana allowed David Grohl to come to the front and truly shine. The Foo Fighters are to this day one of my favorite live bands.

Oasis- Wonderwall (1995)
This is one of my favorite "guilty pleasure" songs. I have heard it a million times and it never gets old.

Live- Lightening Crashes (1994)
This is another guilty pleasure song that I blast at full volume and sing until my lungs hurt. Such a beautiful and sad song. Random story: My Mom won tickets to see Live when I was younger and I didn't realize who they were. I told her to give them away. I have regretted it my entire life. Ugg.

The Offspring- The Kids Aren't Alright (1998)

Weezer- Undone (The Sweater Song) (1994)
LOVE Weezer! It was a toss up between this and 'Say It Ain't So".

These last video is for Krystal. Something I have never told you is that despite my hatred of Boy Bands (and your love for them), I actually loved them when I was younger. I even had a NKOTB sleeping bag, sheet set and dolls. Ugg. The shame. : ) My favorite boy band song was:

Backstreet Boys- Everybody (Backstreets Back) (1997)

Some honorable mentions include:

*The Real Mccoy- Another Night
*Ace of Base- The Sign
*Metallica- Enter Sandman
*Nine Inch Nails- Closer (I was actually going to post the video, but it is SO inappropriate that I decided not to).
*Counting Crows- Mr. Jones
*Rage Against the Machine- Killing in the Name
*Faith No More- Epic
*Will Smith- Getting Jiggy With It
*Ja Rule and Jennifer Lopez- Ain't That Funny
*Coolio- Gangster's Paradise
*Montell Jordan- This is How We Do It

See? I could go on forever. I Love music! Thanks for the fun link up and hopefully I will remember next week too. I hope everyone will join us.

Thrifty and Frugal Living

Target: Possible Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn- Part 1 Blu-Ray for $8.26 !?!

Register to Try New Goody Products for Free!

Free Sample of Tide Pods!

Free Sample of Origins Dr. Weil Mega Bright Skin Tone Correcting Serum

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February Extreme Cash Giveaway (5 Prizes)! Win Cash or Kodak Easyshare Sport Camera!

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Seminole Hard Rock Tampa February Events!

Sephora 2012 Birthday Freebie!

Shadora Diamond Accent Silver Plated Heart Pendant Review and Giveaway

Obsessed

$500 Extreme Cash Giveaway!

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Welcome 2012!

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa January Events + Water Bottle Giveaway!

December Events at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa + Giveaway (3 winners!!)

Maggies Direct Feather/Down Pillow Review and Giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: Memory on Hand Review & Giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: Gourmet Gift Baskets Giveaway

The Ultimate Christmas Giveaway: Wilton Ultimate Decorating Set

Welcome to The Ultimate Christmas Giveaway Event!

You have a chance to win the Wilton Ultimate Decorating Set worth $199.99!

Tubular Tunes on Tuesday **00's Edition**

Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest!

Holiday Gift Guide Stocking Stuffer: Carmex Review and Giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 Giveaway!

Tubular Tunes on Tuesday Music Link Up **90's Edition**

Tubular Tunes on Tuesday 00's Edition

Tubular Tunes on Tuesday Music Link Up 90's Edition